2nd Video from Hip Hop Sensation Dead Poets Society (Sgt Over & Just Putt)

The 2nd video SuperFireCrackWater / Top Shottas by the duo known as Dead Poets Society (Sgt Over & Just Putt) will be released today and we have it.

About Sgt Over

SGT OVER was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ. He began freestyling in his early teen years which progressed to writing songs around the age of 18. Known for forming his concepts and the lyrics around them faster then most Sgt has a relentless work ethic in the studio and has been called a beast on stage due to high energy performances and intricate word patterns. If you have the chance to catch this man live on stage you will not be disappointed!"I am SGT OVER and my mission is to leave this world with timeless music!"

For More Videos : http://www.sgtover.com/#!videos

Also Dead Poets Society Album is available for purchase @

http://dps201.bandcamp.com/album/dead-poets-society

Festival for All Skid Row Artists Janaury 27/28

The Los Angeles Poverty Department is producing the 2nd annual Festival for All Skid Row Artists on Friday and Saturday January 27 and 28, from 12 – 4 PM in Gladys Park, at the corner of 6th and Gladys Streets in Skid Row.

The Festival for All Skid Row Artists is two afternoons of performances and visual arts activities by artists who live and work on Skid Row. Neighborhood artists will perform and Los Angeles Poverty Department will collect digital data to create an artists’ registry and an archive of artists work. We will film and photograph art, writing, song and performances of neighborhood residents in Gladys Park. This year’s festival has expanded in several ways: it will take place over 2 days, rather than one, a reflection of the depth of artistic activity on Skid Row and a select number of performers and visual artists from outside Skid Row will participate, a reflection of the existing exchange between Skid Row artists and the greater LA arts community.

You can sign up in advance by sending an email to info@lapovertydept.org or you can sign up for the open mic during the days of the Festival.

!!! When you register as an artist we will give you some menacing cool shades and we'll film your performance and give you a DVD with clips of all the performances and art works !!!

ABOUT LAPD

Los Angeles Poverty Department (LAPD) creates performances and multidisciplinary artworks that connect the experience of people living in poverty to the social forces that shape their lives and communities. LAPD’s works express the realities, hopes, dreams and rights of people who live and work in L.A.'s Skid Row.

The Skid Row Arts Fest is produced by Los Angeles Poverty Department with the support from the California Arts Council’s Creating Public Value program and The James Irvine Foundation. CAC’s CPV program is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Too Much Raunchiness

Wake up and see Miley Cyrus down on her knees doing things to a cake that looks like the male anatomy for her boyfriends birthday. Classy? I wonder what her father's thinking this morning waking up to his daughter on her knees like that. I know what I would be like with my daughter. Yet at 19 attracting controversy for her skimpy stage outfits, raunchy dance routines, bong-smoking, and party-loving lifestyle Miley Cyrus has being trashy down to an art even though this is not a way to attract attention.

The barely legal star not only  got down on her knees she suggestively was sucking her finger, dancing on a podium in a tight black dress and ripped stockings (wow nothing says class like ripped stockings), and locking lips with her boyfriend on the dance floor.

What can I say woman is music right now is the time of the skank. They do not realize you get the attention for a few minutes and then it gets boring, Not only the wrong attention sometimes the dangerous type of attention; how many stars have restraining orders on stalkers? 

I think the idea of sexy has been warped. Anorexia, sleeping around, drunkenness and revealing everything is not sexy. Confidence, self respect, a healthy woman's body, with a powerful voice is sexy. Not on your knees like Cyrus with the male anatomy cake, Keisha singing about getting drunk and sleeping around, or like any of the other artists crotches in my face while performing. Heck you type in sexy into google and you get is woman barely nude. Its just overdone period. It feels like it's a completion with female artists who can be the biggest skank and be the Raunchiest. Come on its not like its a shock value like Madonna with pointy breasts. Men I know call it cheesy and boning, plus some say things I would never want a man to say about me.

In our submissions box we get to see tons of this crap. It has been hard to find women who a little girl could look up to, or someone we could respect. At times on face book and our submission box I swear I am getting soft core porn, in some cases full porn. Yet this is put out there for woman to be like.  DON'T. Reality is talent, class and hard work goes a long ways. Look at Adele. It may be a long road but if you are truly an artist you will use your talent not your body. Yes I expect woman to use their sexy but sexy is not showing it all off and doing anything and everything that is not respectable. You can be sexy and classy and I believe a girl/woman should be classy and fabulous not on her knees.

- MCL -

Submissions to "Vandala Ezine" Short Version

Album Review Submissions

Keep it simple: Vandala Reviews tons of submissions or every month. Most of all include these LINKS not files: Epk, website, Album download link or link to preview music.

Also include in the email: Your Name, Email, Band Name, Genre, Album Name, Release Date, Music Genre. Submit via Email writers@vandalaconcepts.com

Show Review, Interview Requests &

Feature Requests

Email Show information details at least 2 weeks before the show, preferable 4 weeks in advance! Email should include Date, Time and other bands on the bill of the Show Please Note We prefer to do all interviews the same days of a show. For a feature, show or Interview email Your Name, Email, Band Name, Genre, Album Name, Release Date, Music Genre, and link where we can take a listen to your music. - Submit via Email Ezine@vandalaconcepts.com

Album Release, Video Release, & Press Release Submissions

We accept all press releases for Events, Tour Announcements , Album Releases and other music news. Please have them edited and have all contact information attached. Also please include links to photos or small photo files (web ready) and Subject Line. Releases can go on our blog, social media and Social Media. Submit via Email Ezine@vandalaconcepts.com

Event/Show and Tour Poster Submissions

Basic Event Listings will be published on our Concert Listings page.

All Tour posters the deadline for our Vandala Ezine is 25th of each month, but sooner increases the chances of publishing. We can accept posters months in advance and will publish those accepted as soon as we can. For SOCIAL MEDIA & BLOG there is no deadline. Please email all posters and events to Events@vandalaconcepts.com

For Full details visit

CLICK HERE

Live Music Bill Past: UK Music Celebrates

The UK music industry is celebrating after the Live Music Bill passed its third reading and report stage in the House Of Commons. The Bill, introduced by Lib Dem Peer Tim Clement-Jones and promoted in the Commons by Bath MP Don Foster, should now proceed to Royal Assent.

As a result, small venues wanting to host live music events will no longer need a local authority entertainment licence – cutting bureaucracy and expense, and making it easier for pubs and clubs to host live performances.

Jo Dipple, acting chief executive of UK Music, the UK commercial music industry's umbrella body, said: "This is a great day for music. The Live Music Bill will make a real and positive difference to lives of musicians. There is no doubt that the current Licensing Act has created needless layers of bureaucracy - making it complicated and expensive for pubs and other small venues to host live gigs. The entire industry would like to thank Lord Clement-Jones and Don Foster MP who have made this change possible."

John Smith, Musicians Union General Secretary, added: "We are delighted that the Live Music Bill has finally made it through Parliament. It is a real achievement for a Private Member's Bill to get through and the MU would like to thank Lord Clement-Jones, Don

Foster and all of the other MPs who helped to pass this Bill. "Over the past few years our members have been telling us that the number of gigs available to young musicians who are still perfecting their craft has gone down. This is primarily due to a reduction in the number of smaller venues which traditionally offered this level of gig, and is directly linked to the Licensing Act. The exemption that the Live Music Bill introduces will be hugely beneficial to these small venues.

Neil Young Said It Well - Music Quality

Monday morning, it's the day of the week that seems so hard to get through if there is no pot to stir up though to my surprise a interesting link was shared - Neil Young speaking out about the quality of music - a man at the age of 66 who has been though the stages of change in music has a lot to say.

“If you’re an artist and you created something and you knew the master was 100 percent great, but the consumer got 5 percent, would you be feeling good? I like to point that out to artists. That’s why people listen to music differently today. It’s all about the bottom and the beat driving everything, and that’s because in the resolution of the music, there’s nothing else you can really hear. The warmth and the depth at the high end is gone.”

“It’s like Occupy Music,” the folk-rock legend added. “The 5%, that’s who we are now. We used to be the 100%!”

I couldn't of said it any better. I grew up listening to 70's music and some early 80's since my dad always played it. Yes there are places it could be tweaked but that would not make it more real. I also remember my dad saying music was going to hell in the 90's with dance and pop crap. I fought him in the 90's saying there is music that is amazing. I would play bands such as Pearl Jam, Sound Garden, Nirvana, Alice In Chains and more. Then he then he would play some classic artist and I would sit back and listen to the instruments sing. "When you bring me a artist like that then we'll talk."  I can't deny that music had balls.

http://seanolive.blogspot.com/

The real sounding music is a  part of my memories "More than a feeling" by Boston,  Zeppelin, Clapton, Stones and more made  a huge part of the truck ride to go fishing.  It wouldn't be a fishing trip without these classic songs on a "mixed cassette". CD came along and wow. Even the 90's you have the talent and songs that will be played years from now. NOW I hear people play those songs on mp3 - Ouch. Neil Young at his age and experience should be offended! Take all the life out of his music and others as well. Not only the mp3 quility problem there are other problems also. You go see so many of today's artists they cannot perform what's on the CD, and you get what's on the mp3 the 95% of crap. So many don't even have a real voice! I just can't say I will want to play a mp3 years from now since it won't remember the artist and the talent in the proper way. Think about it when you play a couple chords of things like "Smoke on the Water" or play any Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Rolling Stones and Ozzy PEOPLE KNOW IT - THEY LIVE and can sell out stadiums in their retirement years for a reason.

- MCL-

Why would you want to Take away From This?

Live Shows Even Though It's Cold

JANUARY 19TH SHOWS - Yes it is cold outside even here in the beautiful Okanaogan Valley but who says you can't go hide at a warm venue with live music. Indie bands are dedicated and will still rock it if there is a small crowd. Go Support Live Music Tonight!

All Kings Assembly, Contrasound, w/guests @

The Biltmore Cabaret, Vancouver, BC

Fitz and the Tantrums @

The Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC

City and Colour, The Low Anthem @

Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver, BC

The Wailers, Shane Philip @

Venue, Vancovuer, BC

SHAPRECE, Reva Devito, Zach Bruce @

Crocodile, Seattle, WA

Pirate Soul @

Baba'S Lounge, Charlottetown, PEI

Sun Zoom Sparx @

Mcnally'S Tavern, Regina, SK

Arkells @

Peter Clark Hall, Guelph, ON

WANT MORE EVENTS VISIT US @ Vandala Concepts

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_concert_listings.html

Da Lab Premiere 'Live My Life' Music Video

Last year Da Lab were rising fast on the iTunes Hip-Hop/rap charts with their debut single "Can't Cash."

As the group is getting ready to release their official debut single this year; Rizzo Gun, Blake Nolani and Scott Blaze released their first music video which was inspired by the sudden death of band's friend Danielle Rowe. Check out the music video below.

Check Them Out

Website: http://dalab.tumblr.com/

Music: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/cant-cash-single/id435776891

Sundance Film Festival - More Than Just Films

Most think of Sundance solely as a film festival but many forget music is a huge part of film. Where would many movies and films be without music to set the mood and energy. Sundance is massive for film makers but it is also a place where artists can perform and meet the film makers.

Sundance Film Festival runs from January 19-29, 2012 in that time you have tons of things going on including the Sundance Ascap Music Café. Every day at the Cafe there is a dynamic showcase of exceptional live performances of new, emerging, and established talent. A benefit of The Music Cafe it is where independent filmmakers can meet and interact with film composers and songwriters to encourage collaboration between these two creative communities. You never know who you will meet! 

Another event at the Festival is "A Celebration of Music in Film" where iconic musicians perform in an intimate setting. This year they feature some big names in rap.

“We are very lucky to have Ice T, Chuck D, and Grandmaster Caz perform,” says Peter Golub, director of the Sundance Institute Film Music Program and the composer of Black Rock. “It will be an amazing intimate night of the three of them sitting around talking, rapping, discussing their process, but also performing. It’ll be a one of a kind thing.”

Of course do not forget the Film in Music. Some of this year’s noteworthy names include Cliff Martinez (Arbitrage), Philp Glass (Elena), T. Bone Burnett and The Civil Wars (Finding North), and timeless indie rock favorites Yo La Tengo (Smashed).

Sundance ASCAP Music Cafe is open to all Festival credential holders, and you can check http://www.ascap.com/ for daily updates. And for More information on the events visit http://www.sundance.org/festival/film-events/

- MCL -

WANT MORE ARTICLES, MUSIC AND EVENTS

VISIT http://www.vandala.ca/

Fourteen Twentysix Release New FREE Single + Video

Experimental rock outfit Fourteen Twentysix has released its new single Little Diamonds today. True to tradition, the single is available for free download on Mine All Mine Records. Little Diamonds is a pop song at heart with an uplifting message. This makes it a surprisingly inviting first step into the realm of Fourteen Twentysix, previously dubbed ‘a very dark Depeche Mode’.

The single includes an official stop motion music video by UK director Ruth Barrett, underscoring the song’s hopeful overtones.

Little Diamonds is the first single from the upcoming full length album In Halflight Our Soul Glows, due for release on Mine All Mine Records (USA) February 2012.

Download Little Diamonds single

Watch Little Diamonds music video

Band website: http://www.fourteentwentysix.com/

Mine All Mine Records: http://www.mamrecords.com/

WANT MORE RELEASES CHECK OUT "VANDALA EZINE"

CLICK HERE

Wanted Freelance Writer!

Calling all writers are you opinionated and love independent music? Do you have a great ear for music? Vandala Ezine has one student position available!

Requirements:
Required each month are 2 album reviews (175-200 words) and 1 Article/ show review (300 -400 words). Band interviews /cover articles and blogging maybe become possible for candidate in the future. Paid per word monthly.

Skill Requirements:

Excellent Grammar, writing and editing skills

Creative and thinks outside of the box

Loves Independent Music

Attends Live Shows

Confident

In the Toronto, Montreal Area or Eastern Canada

Ability to Research

Meets Deadlines

Excellent Computer and Internet skills

*NOTE This is a student position and could turn into more.

Please Send Resume with cover letter (include genre of music able to write about) to vandala@vandalaconcepts.com - Atten: Student Position. We do give references and copies of published works to our writers for their portfolios.

" Be Independent, Listen to Independent Music,

Read Independent News in Vandala Ezine"

Really Canada - Number 1 Single?

So I took a look at the Nielsen Sound Scan Charts as I occasionally do and today the top selling Canadian single really knocked me off my chair. I note there is some typical behaviour of popularity on those charts but for Canadian's though we tend to be varied such as having Bombay Bicycle Club, Gary Clark Jr, and others that are not the mainstreamed hyped on the list. Yet the list was topped by Lana Del Rey. Really! What happened Canada I thought we were better than this, did we really fall for the latest hyped SNL music performer?

Saturday I was thankful for having that fast forward button on the PVR with Lana Del Rey singing. Yes the SNL stage has a history of the sound and stage being horrendous for musical acts though talented artists still sound reasonably good. I think the shock goes beyond the appearance of Lana Del Rey's Botox lips and bad stage presence - straight to her voice that was absolutely hideous. Also add in the poor articulation you have pure failure. One quote I saw was " Such great haunting melodies" um... no, not even for Halloween. Still the song was bought even though so many tweeted how bad it was:

Juliette Lewis After watching Del Rey perform “Video Games” and “Blue Jeans,” Lewis tweeted

“Wow watching this ‘singer’ on SNL is like watching a 12 year old in their bedroom when they’re pretending to sing and perform. #signofourtimes

Perez Hilton, who never really bought the Del Rey hype to begin with, wrote:

“Just watched SNL. Not only was @LanaDelRey vocally WAY off, but watching her utter lack of stage presence was cringe-worthy"

I think SNL brings an artist like this on to cause talk and publicity especially since they put her on the show with Daniel Radcliffe which that alone says so much. Sadly though SNL and Canada you gave this woman a number one spot on sales and went along with all her hype!

We wonder why people say the music industry is at its worst state ever. Why? Simple - too many fall for all this hype when its fake and for the $$$. Then when it's absolutely horrible sounding people still go along with it. Why? Are we really cattle or just acting that way? There is so much independent music that is not fake or hyped and even for free. So save your pennies and don't fall for the hype. Get independent and get out of the heard. It's okay!

- MCL -

Canadian Radio Music Awards - Nothing Special Again

So The Canadian Radio Music Awards are pleased to announce the nominations for the 15th Annual Edition and I have to say it is nothing special. People wonder why Nickelback has the fame they do as the Canadian Rockers, the nominations explain why.

There is for a fact tons of amazing Canadian Talent yet so much of it does not get the exposure it needs. "A little fame goes a long ways", and to the nomination for awards. Sheep Dogs are nominated since they are the new band on the mainstream beat. The annoying Alyssa Reid, along with Shawn Desmen, Fefe Dobson and of course Hedley are also nominated. These artists get the radio play because of the little fame turning into a lot of fame or on a large label. Let's face it 15 minutes of fame lasting years is the the fad.

Radio is hard to get played on as a independent artist and even harder to get the numbers to be nominated for these awards. You are competing with labels with large budgets and most of all  they have power in radio. From my days in working in radio you are up against Nickelback, Hedley and a few others for Canadian content airplay. Then some big name like Madonna, or let's say Rhianna comes out with a new song they will get there 300 - 400 rotations because of their name and a huge label behind them. Their song maybe the worst song possible but it will get played.-  I.e. Wind up by Gwen Stefani, Music directors hated it but hat to play it. Then we cannot add in campus radio spins and many independent radio plays to the total numbers because it is not tracked through things like Nielsen BDS;  thus an artist's does not have exact number of spins. It's how radio works period. So this is how we have a poor turnout for nominations. It not a fair playing field for independent artists, maybe that's why these awards in music mean less and less every year. There just isn't much choice put out there for the nominations and a even less for the so called "fan's choice".

- MCL -

Weekend Events and Shows

JANUARY 13TH (FRIDAY):

- Soundcity Hooligans, Scarebro, Men At Adventure, Siren Songs @ Funky Winkerbeans, Vancouver, BC

- Bass Warz, Winter Warfare Dance Party, w/guests @ Studio Seven, Seattle, WA

- David Rosenfield @ Hollow Body @ TRiP Santa Monica, CA

- Ian Tyson @ Horizon Stage, Spruce Grove, AB

- Ray Darren @ The Corral, Oshawa, ON

- Sound Of Lions @ Horseshoe, Toronto, ON

JANUARY 14TH (SATURDAY):

- Brauheist, Gross Misconduct, Excruciating Pain, Memorial @ Funky Winkerbeans, Vancouver, BC

- Jim Cuddy Band, Doug Paisley @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, Calgary, AB

- Teenage Kicks @ The Mansion, St. Catharines, ON

- Nether, December in Red, Eros @ Studio Seven, Seattle, WA

- Broke On Payday @ Engine Room, Truro, NS

- Phlegm Fatale @ Park Theatre, Winnipeg, MB

JANUARY 15TH (SUNDAY):

- Wolves In The Throne Room, Druden, Ahna @ Venue, Vancouver, BC

- Sidney York @ Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield, QC

- The Devil'S Half Acre @ Plan B, Moncton, ON

- Klarka Weinwurm @ Gus' Pub, Halifax, NS

MORE EVENTS @ http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_concert_listings.html

Can You Say Unusual?

I just don't know what people are thinking when naming a child though stars go all out! Maybe it's because they are stars they figure their child will not get picked on. With the recent birth of Blue Ivy Carter, I thought I would bring you some more unusual baby names of musicians and there is another "Blue" go figure.

Fifi Trixibelle - Parent: Irish singer and songwriter Geldof

Blue Angel - Parent: Edge of U2

Jermajesty -  Parent: Jermaine Jackson
Happy Hinds - Parents: Macy Grey and Tracy Hinds
Calico Dashiell - Parents: singer Alice and Sheryl CooperDenim and Diezel Braxton-Lewis - Parents: Toni Braxton & Keri Lewis
Seven Sirius - Parents: Andre Benjamin and Erykah Badu
Lyric Angel - Parents: singer Ashley Parker Angel and Tiffany Lynn

Bluebell Madonna Halliwell - Parents: Geri Halliwell and Sacha Gervasi

Ever Imre Morissette-Treadway - Parents:Alanis Morissette & Mario ‘Souleye’ Treadway

Zuma Nesta Rock - Parents: Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale
Ahmet Rodan , Moon Unit and Diva Thin Muffin - Parent: Frank Zappa

Yes go look them up, these are what they named their children. Can't say they are not creative after all they are musicians. Some of these stars have a reason while most do not. When naming a kid all I say "At least have and give a reason or story why your child has a very unique name it's tough being a kid even if you are a star." Think about it- imagine growing up with some of these names without a story to go with and I thought I had it tough with my name!

- MCL -

Bieber Vows 'Clean' Lyrics - Maybe Songs about Making Love?

Justin Bieber has vowed not to sing about partying and boozing after turning 18 - because he wants to write "clean lyrics" like his idol Michael Jackson.

With all the songs and lyrics out there about drugs, getting drunk, high, sleeping around like a rabbits and partying it's a surprise to hear any artist making a vow to keep it clean. I may not like Bieber but I can appreciate the vow. Like the N Sync, Backstreet Boys, New Kids on the Block before that he is the current fad like it or not. Those fad artists in my opinion have a high Responsibility to their fans who are young and impressionable. In some cases like sponges those kids soak it all up instantaneously. (Wonder why we have little girls dress like bar stars?)

Justin tells V magazine, "I'm not going to try to conform to what people want me to be or go out there and start partying, have people see me with alcohol... I'm never going to make myself so the kids and the parents don't respect me... I want to be able to do what Michael did - he always sang clean lyrics - and it was always that little kids loved Michael and grandparents loved Michael."

"I don't want to start singing about things like sex, drugs, and swearing. I'm into love, and maybe I'll get more into making love when I'm older. But I want to be someone who is respected by everybody."

He adds, "Michael had a really bad childhood. I was blessed with a great childhood. My mum loved me. My dad loved me. I'm now a teenager and I don't feel like I've missed out on anything in my life. I've gotten to experience everything I possibly could.

"I don't look back and think, 'Ugh, I wish I would have been able to do that.' Maybe (Jackson) missed out on a lot, so he tried to (re-live) his childhood when he was older. But I've got such good people around me, I'm not worried."

I am happy Justin is going to try and keep it clean at least. I may not like him and think he is over exposed but If I have to hear his songs on the radio all the time it would be nice not to hear him singing about trash. Plus at his age to me that would be really wrong on top of it; even though he will be 18. He promises not to use swear words or sing about alcohol as he transitions into adulthood, although he's considering writing songs about "making love". I can't imagine playing Bieber in the bedroom, singing a song like Boyz to Men "I'll Make love to You". Could you imagine that?

- MCL -

 

Want More Articles? Check Out Or Monthly Ezine

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/e-zine/12_jan/vandala_ezine_12_jan.html 

EVENT - Battling Bands For Heavy MTL 2012

A total of 20 bands have been selected to take over Katakombes‘ stage every second Wednesday of the month, starting January 11. Their goal? To win one of two prized spots on the 2012 lineup of Heavy MTL, August 10 to 12!

On top of playing on the same bill as some of the most highly regarded musicians in the world at Parc Jean-Drapeau, the contenders will perform for a prestigious panel of judges. A very special guest judge hailing from the international scene will be present at each event.

January 11 – Melodic Deathcore Night

Guest judge: Jeff Waters of Annihilator

http://www.annihilatormetal.com/

Chainsaw Armageddon

www.myspace.com/chainsawarmageddon

Forbidden Sin

www.myspace.com/forbidden.sin

Dark Century

http://www.darkcentury.ca/

Spelldown

http://www.spelldown.net/

Next battle: February 8 – mark your calendar! Other dates and guest judges TBA.

Tamara Bubble Set To Release New Single “Stupid Mother” Today

Song Will Debut On The U.S. iTunes Store at Midnight, Music Video Will Premiere at 7am EST On http://www.tamarabubble.com/ And Live Concert Performance Sponsored By WRCN 103.9 FM “The Real Radio Show” Will Take Place On Monday, January 9th

Tamara’s new highly anticipated song “Stupid Mother” will premiere on the iTunes store and other major online download stores on Monday, January 9th at 12AM EST. “Stupid Mother” is produced by Epic B and is the official lead single from her forthcoming album “Unleashed”. Her debut studio album is slated for release in April, 2012.

"Stupid Mother" is a song that shakes up the industry with its powerful message. It contains a mesmerizing rhythm that is at the same time both danceable and entertaining as well as generating an eclectic melody with eerie hip hop and playful sounds.

Tamara has the capacity for unending creativity and jokingly-serious lyrics. Her inspiration knows no limits, and this allows her to move from one genre to another, depending on the sensitivity of the moment. Tamara exercises her right to unleash and does so lyrically on an a capella ballad, an acoustic party track and a techno rap production to name a few. Tamara gives a hint of her uniqueness with a “Sneak Preview” mixtape, but has geared up full throttle for her debut commercial release. Visit her Site @ http://www.tamarabubble.com/ 

For press inquiries or interview contact:

Patrick Spellman

646.730.8691 or Askthebubble@gmail.com

Aguilera Speaks Out Against Weight Crtics

Thank you! Someone is speaking out. Singer Christina Aguilera has spoken out to silence critics poking fun at her weight, revealing she's "very confident" with her body and "that's all that matters".

Aguilera came on the scene at 17 and since then has had many hits, a child and became now has a woman's body. She has been criticized by gossip in recent years for showing off a curvier figure, but Aguilera has chosen to ignore the massive media scrutiny - because she's perfectly happy in her own skin.

Speaking to reporters at a press conference for U.S. singing show The Voice on Friday, Jan. 6, she said, "I've been in this (business) for a long time. I came out on the scene when I was 17 years old. You can never be too much of anything. You can never be too perfect, too thin, too curvy, voluptuous, this, that. I've been on all sides of the spectrum as far as any female in this business..."

"As long as I'm happy in my own skin, that's all I need. I'm happy with where I'm at. I have a boyfriend that loves my body. I love my body. My son is healthy and happy. That's all that matters... I think my video works over the years have spoken to that... As you know, 'Dirty' and so on, and 'Lady Marmalade'. I've been no stranger to being very comfortable in my own skin to take those risks, to take those chances."

What matters is she can sing and that's what matters, even if you're not a fan she can belt out those vocals. She is woman and should not be criticized for looking like one. It is better than looking like a "unhealthy" anorexic bobble head. That's our problem in society - it's all about looks and a standard that is unhealthy and not about the important things such as talent and health.

- MCL -

Music Sales Are Changing

In the last 10 years, techno came back, Facebook and Google took over the net and now digital music has taken over the market after 10 years since its release. Personally I still love the actual CD's and space is cheap on computers so why not though I am one of the "other" half now according to the numbers.

- Digital song sales grew 8.5% in 2011 to 1.27 bn downloads, (1.17 bn in 2010).

- 50.3% of all music in the US in 2011 was digital downloads

- Total US digital sales were 8.4%, while physical sales fell 5% to 228m.

- Large retailers like Wal-Mart & Target remained the most popular place to buy Music

- Online stores like Amazon and Apple's iTunes accounted for 31% of all album sales last year – with the same proportion of album sales from physical "mass merchant" stores, including Wal-Mart.

- Album sales soared to 3.9 million copies, versus 2.8 million in 2010.

- Albums, singles, music videos and digital tracks — were down 2.4% from 2009

- Total album sales — CDs, cassettes, vinyl and digital albums — were down 12.7%

- Sales of vinyl increased by 14% over the previous year, with 2.8 million units sold.

- Total album sales expanded 1.3%  percent to 330.6 million.

We are a society of convenience, though digital music has a few pit falls. Artists do not have to make a great album since they can sell just songs on ITunes. It has been a long time since I heard a full album I love. People like Lady Gaga now can sell a album for 99 cents to get her sale numbers; today a certain number of song downloads equals a album, but that alone has issues. The other aspect not many "booklets" anymore. It removes some creativity. The other the quality of mp3 vs. Cd. People are okay with a lower quality. Which says a lot about the music world. For those who care last year apple announced it was going to change the quality of downloads. We can hope.

Let's face it the digital world is taking over and people are "okay" with it since it's easy and soon Cd's will be a thing of the past like Cassettes and Video rental places. There is still a lot of great music out there on the web you have to dig a bit. The numbers say sales were down overall; one can hope that this is due to people buying more music from the independent scene. Also one can hope with digital music being so accessible it has to get better and the Lady Gaga's & Bieber's will not control the airwaves and charts. So this weekend GO see a live show, check out some of your local bands and buy a real cd, who knows they may become collector items like Old Records.( I do not see "Mp3s" being a collector item)

Check Out the Best and Worst of 2011 in Janaury's Vandala Ezine
http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/e-zine/12_jan/vandala_ezine_12_jan.html

- MCL -

Love Me or Hate Me

Questions & Comments To:

mcl1999@live.com

Some other Numbers of 2011

Top Selling Albums

1. 21 / Adele, 5.82 million.

2. Christmas / Michael Buble, 2.45 million.

3. Born This Way / Lady Gaga, 2.1 million.

Top Selling Digital Albums

1. 21 / Adele, 1.8 million.

2. Born This Way / Lady Gaga, 877,000.

3. Sigh No More / Mumford & Sons, 761,000.

Top Selling Physical Albums

1. 21 / Adele, 4 million

2. Christmas / Michael Buble, 2. 1 million.

3. My Kinda Party / Jason Aldean, 1.32 million.

Top Vinyl Artists

1. Radiohead, 64,000.

2. Black Keys, 58,200.

3. Bon Iver, 47,100.

Live Music January 6th & 7th

Live Shows This weekend:

JANUARY 6TH (FRIDAY):

Life Against Death, Cathar, Out Of The Ruins@ Funky Winkerbeans, Vancouver, BC

The Space Age @ Michael'S Bar And Grill, Halifax

David Rosenfield @ Sundara Flagstaff, AZ

Laugh At The Fakes @ Hard Luck Bar, Toronto, ON

Magnolia Buckskin, Trevor Tehir, The Ruminants @ Ironwood Stage & Grill, Calgary, AB

Urban Seeds, Bryn King, Dirty O, Tre Eight,  w/guests @ el Corazon, Seattle, WA

JANUARY 7TH (SATURDAY):

The Suave Assassins, Bullet Bill, CLIX, Sinesthetix, @ The Red Room UltraBar, Vancouver, BC The Knocks @ The Hoxton, Toronto, ON

Driftwood Singers, Tallboys, w/guests @ Comet, Seattle, WA

Fur Eel @ The Cavern, Winnipeg, MB

The Coppertone @ Le Divan Orange, Montreal,QC

Kid Koala @ Canada Olympic Park Amphitheatre, Calgary, AB

MORE SHOW LISTINGS @ Vandala Concepts Concerts Page

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_concert_listings.html

GOT A EVENT email it to Events@vandalaconcepts.com

KC Jockey Is Looking For "A Better Jamaica"

Karl-Marx Waite of Sweet Sadie's Records announced the release of KC Jockey's new track, "A Better Jamaica." The track is a tribute to the artist's homeland, and one that he hopes will be an anthem for better days ahead. "A Better Jamaica" can be downloaded from KC Jockey's website free of charge, as it is his present to the people of Jamaica and all who love the beautiful country.

According to the CIA World Facebook, "Jamaica is currently plagued with high crime rates and corruption, large scale unemployment and under employment, and the 4th highest debt burden per capita in the world." Other sources state that, "The total life expectancy for Jamaicans has been declining since at least 2004, at which time it was 76. The rate of violence is particularly high in Kingston, and spreading to other areas. That issue is beginning to affect tourism, which accounts for one fifth of Jamaica's GDP with $4 billion/year in revenues." And with the upcoming election, the situation may become even worse.

READ FULL ARTICLE - Vandala Ezine January 2012

NYCE Release New Music Video "Final Hour Freestyle"

As HCE artist NYCE is in studio finishing up his debut album "Certified" set for release in 2012, he has revealed his latest music video "Final Hour Freestyle", which can be viewed at the following link here. (please share the link) and if you still haven't checked out the first single "Dopest On The Scene" off "Certified" it can be checked out here.

"Nyce set the semester off right with, “Dopest On The Scene,” a video-single that left audiences fiending for more. With the Hustle Cartel crew by his side, Nyce returns to follow up the success with his brand new mixtape, D’Boy Music…Nyce demonstrates his real sound skill on “MFB (Money Flippin Bricks)”, a hard-hitting rap-rock fusion, where his gritty voice fits well…dope street music.” – Urbanology Magazine

“With a sharped-tongue, yet smooth and witty lyrical execution, Montreal MC NYCE has torn the roof off the motherfucker with his latest joint.” – Abort Mag

VISO MUSIC Interview w/ NYCE
NYCE sat down with VISO Music for an exclusive video interview. Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?&v=F7rjuE7XsPc

HCE Interview with TorontoRappers.com

http://torontorappers.com/section-blog/1-latest-news/2998-hustle-cartel-interview.html

"Dopest On The Scene" on Montreal's Real City Countdown on K103FM. To vote please click the following link - http://countdown.escapemtl.ca/

Music Videos

 NYCE - Dopest On The Scene - CLICK HERE

NYCE - MFB - CLICK HERE

Black - Jamene le Feu - CLICK HERE

- Jon Asher - Music Publicist -

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

O#.514.932.1244

C#.514.581.5780

ashermedia@gmail.com

1180 St. Antoine, Suite 300

Montreal, QC

http://www.ashermediarelations.com/

Top 5 Things That Should Not Have Been

5) The domination of dub-step. I do enjoy it, but the fact that it is somewhat mainstream now is not right. What do I mean by mainstream? Skrillex being nominated for 5 Grammys….yeah.

4) Rebecca Black’s Friday music video and song. The definition of something gone viral, but just too awful and it really made the ears bleed.

3) The death of Amy Winehouse. I wasn’t a fan, but she was much too young and talented to have died.

2) Twilight taking over in the box office. Come on, what about Drive?

1) Justin Bieber and Mariah Carey duo thing for Christmas. This simply should just not exist.

- MF Greens - 

To see more choices for the Best $ worst of 2011 such as albums, singles, concerts and More

Read Januarys Vandala Ezine

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/e-zine/12_jan/vandala_ezine_12_jan.html

January's Vandala Ezine Rockin' The New Year

We are bringing in the new year with the Vandala Ezine being packed full of everything!

Je Pe sits does a interview with Gross Misconduct about Music, Life and The World. Of course we also bring you the Best & Worst of 2011 including Singles, albums concerts, even a Special Appearance "Best and Worst With Jon Asher". Don't forget all the New Releases! There are tons of them this month and with great depth information about the musicians and the songs. Plus so much More!

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/e-zine/12_jan/vandala_ezine_12_jan.html

Got a album coming out or an event?

Have a tour poster or press release?

Send it to us! Submission guidelines and what we accept at

http://vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_album_review_submissions_guidelines.html