Kangaroo

Help us save the WHBQ Studio where Dewey Phillips did the very first interview with Elvis Presley!

Rachel Hurley — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:07:39 +0000

Memphis: July 8th, 1954: Sun Records owner Sam Phillips brings radio disc jockey Dewey Phillips a recording of a young singer named Elvis Presley who has just cut a song called “That’s All Right.” Dewey has a show broadcast out of the Hotel Chisca called “Red, Hot, & Blue” on WHBQ. Dewey can’t tell if this singer with the weird name is black or white. Sam explains that they created this new music two nights before over at Sun Studio – but they don’t know what to call it. As the night’s broadcast begins, a nervous Elvis goes to the movies a few blocks from his home, thinking that he will fail miserably.

He doesn’t fail. He makes music history, radio history, and American history.

Callers demand that Dewey play “That’s All Right” at least 14 times on the air in one night. Callers want to know if the kid is black or white? What kind of music is this? Is it country? Is it blues? Sam Phillips urges the Presley’s to find their son and get him down to the Hotel Chisca because Dewey Phillips is going to interview him live on the air.

Imagine a 19 year old Elvis Presley being driven to WHBQ, hearing “That’s All Right” projected from the car radios and rolled down windows of Memphis teenagers escaping the July heat. White kids listening to black music, black kids listening to white music – there was no segregation on Dewey’s “Red, Hot, and Blue.” When Elvis finally appears, he stutters to Dewey “I ain’t never been interviewed before…” Dewey makes casual conversation with him in that tiny little room at WHBQ, not informing him until after the show is over, that they have been on the air the entire time.

Elvis Presley, in being the first person to combine blues, country, pop, and gospel, changes pop culture forever, and it all occurred in that tiny room of Dewey Phillip’s on WHBQ at the Hotel Chisca. What happened that night was the birth of rock and roll.

Now I want to tell you about what’s happening today in Memphis. Why of course, it’s the the good mixed with the bad. Which is why we need a little bit of your help. In Memphis, we tear down too much history, but every once and a while something gets saved. The Hotel Chisca is now undergoing a 19 million dollar conversion into apartment living. I am extremely happy to see the repurposing of this 100 year old building.

Developers have graciously agreed to display Dewey’s radio room in the newly renovated and restored Chisca, if we raise the funds to restore the original studio and reconstruct it in a museum setting in the restaurant area that will reside in the lobby.

If funds can be raised in six weeks, Dewey’s original acoustic tiled room with original bay window recording glass will be measured, photographed, and safely removed before construction workers wipe out the mezzanine that contains WHBQ. With luck, this most-holy-of-places will also be retro-fitted with the same vintage equipment that was originally part of “Red, Hot, & Blue.”

We want you to drive down South Main in Memphis, Tennessee on a hot July night (or any night) with your destination being the Hotel Chisca. And even though the new Hotel Chisca features apartments, you will be able to step into the restaurant just down from the mezzanine where rock and roll was first broadcast, and see with your own eyes the very same acoustic tiles and machinery that Dewey used on “Red, Hot and Blue” amidst the very molecules where a 19-year-old nerve-wrecked Elvis Presley sat as Dewey asked him where he went to high school.

How much is this worth to you? Please help Memphis save it’s musical history. Future generations will thank you for your insight into the one of the greatest moments in twentieth century American history which we are calling “Red, Hot and Rescue.”

Any and all contributions, large or small, are welcome. Please help us spread the word.

The clock is ticking.

MEET MIKE MCCARTHY AND SEE THE STUDIO AS IT LOOKS TODAY!

PLEDGE NOW!

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PUBLICITY CONTACT FOR RED, HOT & RESCUE:

KANGAROO | Rachel Hurley

rachel@kang-a-roo.com | 901.619.5717

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, To Be Released on Vinyl, Second Video “(Do The) Rump” Premieres On Ryan’s Smashing Life, Releases Limited Edition Comic

Rachel Hurley — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:55:34 +0000

NEW VIDEO FROM THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED ALBUM IS DIRECTED BY CULT FILM FAVORITE MIKE McCARTHY

“One to watch in 2013.” – Ryan’s Smashing Life

“Stop the presses—it may be a little too early to finish your “Best-of” lists quite yet.” – The Vinyl District

“Freeman is a musician to watch. He is a surprisingly easygoing, down-to-earth performer with a lot of heart. ” – Liquid [Hip]

“Hex & Hell is electric, at times evoking the classic hill-country blues of the past couple of decades and at other times suggesting the Sun Studio moment when blues (the music) merged into rockabilly (Freeman’s voice).” – The Memphis Flyer

Memphis, TN January 28, 2013 – Mike McCarthy’s art is based on the three original Pop Culture contributions that America gave the world during the twentieth century: Comic Books, Rock and Roll, and Drive-In Cinema (not just the physical things themselves, but the ideas behind them). The most progressive and brilliant period of this pulp trinity occurs between 1935 to 1977 (Bride of Frankenstein to Star Wars, Will Rogers death to Punk Rock, the first comic books until the death of underground comics); and the life and death of Elvis Presley.

McCarthy has not only been a auteur underground filmmaker for the last 20 years, directing a mass of cult favorites from Elvis Meets the Beatles, to Cigarette Girl, he has been an outspoken advocate of saving Memphis landmarks such as the Hotel Chisca and the Zippin Pippin roller coaster.

It’s no secret that Memphis, TN is ground zero for American Pop Culture, not only in music history as the creation-site for rock and roll and urban proximity for Mississippi blues, but in that Elvis Presley chose to remain here and is buried here.

It’s McCarthy’s expertise in the color, the sound and the feel of this era of music that made him the perfect fit to direct the burlesque boogie on Jason Freeman’s Hex & Hell, “(Do the) Rump.”

With a rare cameo from the one and only Ross Johnson, a Memphis music staple known for not only his own outlandish performance antics but for playing with the likes of Tav Falco and Alex Chilton in the 80s, there was a university’s worth of musical knowledge and history on the set the day the video was shot.

Jason Freeman – (Do The) Rump from Jason Freeman on Vimeo.

In addition to directing the video, and in step with his pop culture roots, Mike McCarthy also wrote and created the art for a limited edition comic book that will accompany all CD and Vinyl purchases of Hex & Hell.

The comic tells the story Jason Freeman and his Voodoo Guitar! It’s a classic throwback to the early 70s complete with vintage comic book ads and the a sign-up for the Jason Freeman Fan Club and is sure to be a collector’s item.

Stay tuned for the third video release from Hex & Hell and a vinyl release in February 2013. Jason Freeman, Mike McCarthy and Craig Brewer are available for interviews.

Vinyl and CD versions of the album are available for review by request.

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PUBLICITY CONTACT FOR HEX & HELL:

KANGAROO | Rachel Hurley

rachel@kang-a-roo.com | 901.619.5717

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, Out Now Via Craig Brewer’s BR2 Music Publishing

Rachel Hurley — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:18:37 +0000

Jason Freeman’s Hex & Hell

BLUES WUNDERKIND AND FILM SOUNDTRACK DARLING RELEASES FIRST OF THREE VIDEOS DIRECTED BY MEMPHIS AUTEUR FILMMAKERS ALAN SPEARMAN, MIKE MCCARTHY AND CHRISTOPHER REYES

”Stop the presses—it may be a little too early to finish your “Best-of” lists quite yet.” - The Vinyl District

“Freeman is a musician to watch. He is a surprisingly easygoing, down-to-earth performer with a lot of heart. “ - Liquid [Hip]

Memphis, TN December 17, 2012 - Award-winning film director Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, Blacksnake Moan, Footloose) is pleased to announce the release of Jason “Hex” Freeman’s debut album via Brewer’s BR2 Music Publishing. The ten-song LP encapsulates the swampy blues sound Freeman taught Samuel L. Jackson’s “God-fearing bluesman” character in Black Snake Moan. It is available on iTunes where it is a “New & Noteworthy” release and

can be streamed in full on Spotfiy or on Kangaroo’s Soundcloud.

It’s surprising that there haven’t been more homegrown contemporary blues artists to spring forth into the mainstream from Memphis in the last decade. The city is home to Beale Street, The Blues Foundation, and The Blues Hall of Fame, plus a plethora of musicians from ZZ Top to John Mayer have dropped in temporarily to soak up the bluesy soul of the city over the years. But there has yet to be a breakout local star to cast a shining light on the mid-south’s oldest musical tradition. That could change with the release of Hex & Hell.

The album is a marriage of groove heavy blues and rock, a note-perfect juke joint soundtrack created with the help of some of Memphis’ finest players at one of Memphis’ best kept secrets, Music & Arts Studio, including Amy Lavere and Khari Wynn (Public Enemy) on bass, Adam Woodard (Harlan T. Bobo, Jack O., Star & Micey) on organ, Krista Wroten (The Memphis Dawls) on violin, Jana Misner (The Memphis Dawls) on cello, Suzy Hendrix on sax, and Daniel Farris (The Coach and Four) on drums.

Don’t let the term “debut” fool you though.

Just as in most overnight success stories, this narrative is a long time in the making.

The Memphis-born Freeman, who has been called “a walking blues encyclopedia and folk/blues wizard,” has spent the last decade honing his skills playing solo and with the jug band-inspired Bluff City Backsliders along side current Sun Studio engineer Matt Ross-Spang. Freeman also wrote the score for MTV’s Savage Country and contributed tracks to the Brewer-directed and Academy Award-winning Hustle & Flow. Not to mention, Hex & Hell’s “Magic In My Home” was included in the remake of Footloose. In the last few years, Freeman has become masterful at coupling sight and sound.

Which brings us to the video for “Magic in My Home.” With an exclusive debut today on The Vinyl District and directed by Emmy award-winning director Alan Spearman, the mesmerizing clip alludes to traditional deep south mysticism featuring barren fields, a touch of voodoo and acclaimed “jook” dancer Lashonte Anderson. It is the first of three videos to be released for the album, each created by a local noted director and executive produced by Brewer.

Jason Freeman – Magic In My Home from Jason Freeman on Vimeo.

Stay tuned for the release of two more outstanding videos and a vinyl release in early 2013. Jason Freeman, Alan Spearman and Craig Brewer are available for interviews.

Vinyl and CD versions of the album are available for review by request.

#####

PUBLICITY CONTACT FOR HEX & HELL:

KANGAROO | Rachel Hurley

rachel@kang-a-roo.com | 901.619.5717

MEANWHILE IN MEMPHIS: The Sound Of A Revolution Kickstarter Project Kicks Off

admin — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 18:41:00 +0000

Meanwhile in Memphis Kickstarter

MEANWHILE IN MEMPHIS: The Sound Of A Revolution is a documentary film about the modern Memphis DIY music community. The purpose is to show that the power of Memphis music did not stop with Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, BB King, Sun & Stax Records; the REVOLUTION has continued. After the music industry left Memphis in the late 70′s, a new Memphis music scene arose out of the underground with a true independent spirit. From the late 70′s to the present day, this film is a historical anthology that reveals many Memphis musicians as part of this independent DIY theme including:

MUD BOY & THE NEUTRONS w/ JIM DICKINSON (known for his work w/ the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Replacements, & more)
THE OBLIVIANS (one of the most influential garage rock bands of all time; admired by the Black Keys & The White Stripes)
AL KAPONE (Memphis rap legend who wrote songs for the Oscar-winning film “Hustle & Flow”)
JAY REATARD (the highly prolific punk rocker who toured the world & won the admiration of artists such as Beck & The Pixies)
THE NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS (the Grammy-nominated blues rock trio who has toured w/ Robert Plant, Black Crowes, Allmans, etc)
ALEX CHILTON (the Memphis music cult legend known for Big Star, the Box Tops, & more)
DJ SPANISH FLY (known as one of the originators of “buck / crunk” music and an early influence on Three Six Mafia)
TAV FALCO’S PANTHER BURNS (one of the first bands ever to mix roots music with an experimental edge)
THE GRIFTERS (one of the most creative lo-fi bands of the 90′s & an inspiration to Jeff Buckley)
& more!!!

The film also features commentary by longtime collaborators with the modern Memphis music scene including director CRAIG BREWER (Black Snake Moan, $5 Cover), writer/director ROBERT GORDON (It Came From Memphis), SHERMAN WILLMOTT (Shangri La Projects), director JOHN MICHAEL McCARTHY (Teenage Tupelo, Cigarette Girl), videographer CHRIS REYES (Live From Memphis), engineers DOUG EASLEY and DAVIS McCAIN (Easley McCain Studio) & many more.

For the past 6 years, ROBERT ALLEN PARKER & NAN HACKMAN have spent countless hours filming interviews, live performances, editing, and compiling a mountain of archival videos & photos. In classic DIY Memphis-style, they have worked with no budget. However, NOW they need funding to help pay for music licensing, archival video/photo clearances, and to cover multiple stages of post-production. They estimate that this will take at least $20,000 to finish the film. This Documentary is extremely important for Memphis music and we would highly appreciate your support.

Star & Micey release new Dennis Herring produced EP I Can’t Wait and launch Pledge Music Campaign to help them fund their upcoming Soul Stormin’ Tour!

admin — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 15:01:19 +0000

“Star & Micey make winsome, feel-good, old-timey-tinged pop tunes that owe as much to sea shanty-spouting indie acts like the Decemberists as they do straight-up bluegrass bands like Freakwater and Nickel Creek.” -Allmusic.com

So far, Star & Micey have had quite a year.

They kicked off their spring tour by showcasing at the Folk Alliance International to a packed house, were personally asked to play Lucero’s SXSW Family Picnic, joined Big Star‘s Third performance in Austin, playing with such heavy hitters as Jody Stephens, Mike Mills, Chris Stamey, Peter Buck, the Replacements‘ Tommy Stinson, M.Ward, and Wilco’s Pat Sansone, and spent the rest of the summer playing shows with bands like The Lumineers, Carolina Story, and The Memphis Dawls.

They were invited to play Double Decker Fest in Oxford with Mavis Staples and played a headlining slot at the Rock for Love music festival where they tore the roof off the Hi-Tone, not to mention their fantastically memorable performance in the rain at The Memphis Music & Heritage Festival. Plus, last week they were asked to be a part of the Memphis Music show at Nashville’s Americana Festival along with Booker T. Jones, North Mississippi Allstars and The Bo-Keys.

Paste Magazine put them in the number 1 slot on their 12 Tennessee Bands You Should Listen to Now, saying “…Star & Micey have crafted then steadily smoothed out a brand of folksy pop that brings to mind Memphis legends Big Star and The Avett Brothers.”

Then there were the stops at Daytrotter and Paste Studios.

So, what’s next for the folk-pop group that has everyone so enamoured?

Tearing up the lost highway from Oxford, Mississippi’s Sweet Tea Studios comes the release of the I Can’t Wait EP on October 16th, 2012. Produced by Dennis Herring (Elvis Costello, Modest Mouse, Wavves, Ben Folds), the new EP captures the band’s raw live spirit while carefully preserving the honesty of a well-crafted work of art. Since 2009, Star & Micey have delighted both fans and critics, gaining praise from a plethora of blogs and print publications alike.

I Can’t Wait features guest performances by Big Star’s Jody Stephens on drums, Dennis Herring on guitars and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra’s Jessie Munson on violin. The band is excited to be releasing a limited number of blue 10” 45 RPM vinyl versions of the EP cut on the original Stax Records‘ lathe by Jeff Powell, known for his work with Bob Dylan, Alex Chilton, Afghan Whigs, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Review copies of the EP are now available by request.

The new video for the single “I Can’t Wait” debuted today on Ryan’s Smashing Life. The first time Ryan caught Star & Micey live he had this to say, “Star & Micey has an engaging combination of folk, blues and gospel with a dash of country. They also have a pop sensibility that pulls together these various influences into a musical package that is a joy to hear. When these guys play you can feel the love for the music come through and they had the crowd enthralled by the end of the first song.”

Please take moment to check out their recently launched Pledge Music Campaign. This is also where you can hear the new single. Jayce Varden of Pledge Music thinks their campaign video is one of the best that’s ever been submitted to the site and we think it will give you a special look into the heart and head of the band. Star & Micey are dedicated to bringing music, love, fun and laughter to every corner of the globe and with you’re help, they just might be able to do it.

Star & Micey will perform live at Ardent Studios on October 25th for WXPN’s World Cafe radio program. Hosted by David Dye, the session will be taped for the show’s “Sense of Place” series and broadcast at a later date on National Public Radio.

Check the band out on their fall Soul Stormin’ Tour

Oct 18, 2012 – Memphis, TN @ Hi Tone – I Can’t Wait EP Release Show w/ Carolina Story

Oct 19, 2012 – Hot Springs, AR @ Maxine’s w/ Carolina Story

Oct 20, 2012 – Fort Worth, TX @ Wild Rooster Bar w/ Carolina Story & Josh Weathers and the True Endeavors

Oct 23, 2012 – Fayetteville, AR @ Smoke and Barrel Tavern w/ Carolina Story

Oct 24, 2012 – Little Rock, AR @ Sticky Fingerz Rock-n-Roll Chicken Shack w/ Carolina Story

Oct 30, 2012 – Cleveland, OH @ Wilbert’s w/ Carolina Story

Nov 4, 2012 – New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall w/ Carolina Story

Nov 6, 2012 – Asheville, NC @ Altamont Brewing Company w/ Carolina Story

Nov 8, 2012 – Opelika, AL @ Overall Company w/ Carolina Story

Nov 9, 2012 – Fairhope, AL @ The Pub w/ Carolina Story

Nov 24, 2012 – Oxford, MS @ Proud Larry’s

We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

Rachel Hurley — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 16:09:29 +0000

What did you do this summer? Ours was pretty packed… But we’re well rested and back in the game and we’ve added another fantastic person to our staff: Ples Hampton, the son of Grammy winning engineer John Hampton and our former Ardent Studios compadre is now on board to help us with with all things video and media. Ples is a very talented editor and photographer and we couldn’t be happier to have him on the team.

So, a little house cleaning before we begin. We have decided to retire The Warm Up podcast in favor of a new, more exciting (and easier!) video series. You can still catch links to any past podcasts that you may have missed . We’ll be launching the new video series and a bunch of other new, exciting content in the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned – but for now…

Here’s a rundown of what’s happening:

1. We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

Some of you might recall that The Flaming Lips attempted to set the Guinness Book of World Records for the most shows in 24 hours over the summer. We were there for all 8 shows. It seemed like a good idea at the time… Click through to witness the epicness…

**2. Star & Micey are gearing up to release their new Dennis Herring produced EP entitled I Can’t Wait on October 16th.**

You’ll be hearing a lot about SAM over the next few weeks – with a big announcement coming next Monday September 10th. In the meantime, they’ll be headlining the annual Rock for Love concert this Friday at The Hi-Tone in Memphis with special guest Jody Stephens of Big Star on drums – and our old friends in Snowglobe will be playing too!! Amazing!! Others playing the three day festival include Booker T. Jones, Al Kapone, The Memphis Dawls, Fast Planet and many, many more…

Star & Micey will also be playing a special night filled with Memphis musicians at the Americana Festival in Nashville the weekend of September 12th – 15th.

AMERICANA MUSIC FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE CELEBRATES THE MUSIC OF MEMPHIS

Festival Showcase – Star & Micey, Luther Dickinson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Bo-Keys and

The Songs of Big Star: Jody Stephens, Mike Mills, Chris Stamey and Friends

Conference to Include Booker T. Jones & Robert Gordon Interview And “The Music of Memphis” Panel

We will be in Nashville that weekend – so if you wanna say hello – tweet us!

@iwantkangaroo

3. Kangaroo Presents: Harlan T. Bobo at Otherlands

Finally, we have ramped up our local show promotion, and we couldn’t be prouder to be involved in this show! Rachel wrote the very first cover story on Harlan back in 2005 in The Commercial Appeal and we’ve all been super fans ever since…

We have a bunch of other cool shows on the horizon – check out our events page to keep up!

List of the Day

Browse List of the Day

You don’t have to be a music scholar (or a Tennessean, at that) to appreciate the enormous contributions the Volunteer State has made to American music history. To drop a few names: Elvis, Isaac Hayes, Dolly Parton, Big Star, Justin Timberlake. From Beale Street to Opryland all the way east to Appalachia, the 400-mile-long stretch of land we call Tennessee is a thriving home to more musical genres than you could count on all your fingers and toes: from country music to southern rock, from soul to Americana, from R&B and “dirty South” rap to underground garage, and on. Needless to say, it’s all too rich and wide to be summed up comprehensively with a list so small, but here’s to hoping this selection of 12 promising up-and-comers is a start.

12. Plainclothes Tracy

Hometown:Knoxville

Band Members:Kym Hawkins, Eric Grass, Brian Kelly, Jonathan Kahler, Blake Sensenbach

Current Release:Buffalo EP

There’s some latent potential in Plainclothes Tracy, an unassuming five-piece that manages to jump from innocent She & Him crooning to all-out grunge in a moment’s notice. “Wine Tilt’s”’s rapid-fire lyrics and lurching guitars are a promising start.

11. Vinyl ThiefHometown:NashvilleBand Members: Grayson Proctor, Logan Purdom, Andrew Broadway, Sam English, Alec Carpenter

Current Release:Rebel Hill EP

Vinyl Thief bring to mind an early Cold War Kinds— back when they were fresh, loud, and willing to take some chances. On “Rebel Hill,” the real magic happens at the bridge, a funky dance break that gives the impression these guys have some tricks still waiting up their sleeves.

10. Cities AvivHometown:MemphisBand Members:Gavin Mays

Current Release:Digital Lows

Cities Aviv (a.k.a. Gavin Mays) was in a hardcore rock band before he dropped out of University of Memphis to pursue his rap ambitions at the age of 20. He earned national attention last year almost immediately after dropping his debut,Digital Lows. On last summer’s single “Coastin,” Mays schools other rappers atop some high-class violin samples.

9. GlossaryHometown:MurfreesboroBand Members:Bingham Barnes, Eric Giles, Joey Kneiser, Kelly Kneiser, Todd Beene

Current Release:Long Live All of Us

Located just 40 miles from Nashville, Murfreesboro—home ofThose Darlinsa local music scene vibrant enough to take Music City to task. Glossary has long been a part of the city’s under-recognized rock scene. All their hard work after 14 years and seven full-length albums hasn’t left them disillusioned, though. The horns and piano arrangements on —“Trouble Won’t Last Always” are gleefully optimistic and un-hip.

8. The Black CadillacsHometown:KnoxvilleBand Members:Will Horton, Matthew Hyrka, Philip Anderson, Adam Bonomo, John Phillips, Kevin Hyfantis

Current Release:Run

Five out of six members of The Black Cadillacs are Tennessee natives, and the influences of the three cities they hail from—Memphis, Knoxville and Nashville—all ring clear in their music. “Classic Fool,” a single off their brand new albumRun, melds Smoky Mountain picking with country-style delivery and a blues-inspired melody.

7.The Memphis DawlsHometown:MemphisBand Members:Holly Cole, Krista Wroten, Jana Misener, Nahshon Benford, Jonathan Mclaren

Current Release:The Memphis Dawls EP

The Memphis Dawls are a local folk “supergroup” of sorts. The trio of Holly Cole, Krista Wroten and Jana Misener have extensive experience with other projects, like Amy LaVere, in the Memphis area, but they started making music together in high school. The Dawls opened for Jack White when he stopped by Memphis this March, and he liked them so much he invited them to tour with him on a few other dates afterward. Can’t blame him for being entranced, though; the Dawls’ romantic harmonies and gothic storytelling tend to get under your skin.

6. CherubHometown:NashvilleBand Members:Jordan Kelley, Jason Huber

Current Release:Mom & Dad

Electro-funk duo Cherub could practically be the mascots for a Twang-Free Nashville Movement, if such a thing existed. Their dance tunes may be geographically off the grid, but if I had to pick names, I’d land Cherub somewhere between Prince andMGMT. Whether you decide to take them seriously or not—and “Doses and Mimosas” essentially begs you not to—Cherub has a sweaty dance party to start somewhere, and it will happen with or without you.

5. The Apache RelayHometown:NashvilleBand Members:Michael Ford Jr., Mike Harris, Ben Ford, Brett Moore, Kellen Wenrich, Aaron Early

Current Release:American Nomad

The Apache Relay were formed in a college dorm room, but they sound big enough to fill up arenas. The big, swooping chorus of “Home is Not Places” is idealistic, but so polished it’s hard not to be convinced. The guys from Mumford & Sons were apparently sold: they selected the band to appear on theirstopover tours this summer.

4. Moon TaxiHometown:NashvilleBand Members:Trevor Terndrup, Spencer Thomson, Tommy Putnam, Wes Bailey, Tyler Ritter

Current Release:Cabaret

This five-man band—formed in 2006 at Nashville’s Belmont University—treats preserving “breathing space” in their music like an art form. While they were in the studio recording their latest album,Caberet(which features a guest appearance from Matisyahu) the band says they aimed for the minimalism of bands like Radiohead. “Gunflower” hits that “less-is-more” nail right on the head, where a heart-wrenching chorus adds emotional weight to the song’s simple structure.

3. Dirty Guv’nahsHometown:KnoxvilleBand Members: James Trimble, Justin Hoskins, Aaron Hoskins, Michael Jenkins, Chris Doody, Cozmo Holloway

Current Release:Youth Is In Our Blood

The Dirty Guv’nahs are one of East Tennessee’s most well-loved bar acts, and they are just not the type of band you analyze. The Dirty Guv’nahs are the type of band you dance to. I’ll let you go ahead with that.

3000 Miles byDualtone Music Group, Inc

2. The Kingston SpringsHometown: NashvilleMembers: Alexander Geddes, Ian Ferguson, Matthew DeMaio, James Guldry

Current Release:The Vacation Time EP

When you hear the confidence that coats every track The Kingston Springs play, you might be shocked to learn they only recently graduatedhigh school. A certain bit of Nashville colors everything they touch, but their early work—on songs like “Weight of This World” fromThe Vacation Time EP— also shows off impressive range, incorporating bass-heavy blues (think Black Keys, sans polish, gone South) surf rock and folksy Americana.

1. Star & MiceyHometown:MemphisBand Members: Joshua Cosby, Geoff Smith, Nick Redmund

Current Release:Star & Micey

In their four-year career as a band, Star & Micey have crafted then steadily smoothed out out a brand of folksy pop that brings to mind Memphis legends Big Star and The Avett Brothers. Everylive showI’ve seen of theirs (upwards of 20 at this point) feels like an all-out energy sacrifice, complete with backflips, crowd-mingling and full-throttle “bah-dah-bah”-ing. Can you fake that kinda stuff at the rate of 100 live dates a year? “So Much Pain” was the lead single to their 2009 self-titled debut, and though the band has come a long way since then (they recorded an EP with Modest Mouse producer Dennis Herring due this October), the song still tells you the one thing you should know about Star & Micey—they got some soul.

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Ticket Incentives for Big Star Doc in Memphis, LA, NYC, New Jim Dickinson Album and Pre-Order Contest

Rachel Hurley — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 19:23:52 +0000

On Wednesday June 27th I will be spending 24 hours with The Flaming Lips as they try to set the world record for the most shows in a 24 hour period. I will be live-tweeting the shenanigans if you want to follow the fun! @rachelanthecity

Here’s a rundown of what’s happening:

1. The BIG STAR: NOTHING CAN HURT ME Kickstarter comes to a close on Thursday. Last chance to be a part of some amazing incentives!

We’re very thankful to everyone who has already pledged to help finish this film that Jim Derogatis has already called, “Brilliant!”

There is still time to pick up any of the l items: Omnivore Recording’s Alex Chilton 1970 Session CD or Vinyl, DVD of the film when available (2013), Rhino’s Handmade Chris Bell I Am the Cosmos CD, LP of #1 Record or Radio City, Big Star #1 Record / Radio City CD, Original Steve Keene painting of one of the 3 album covers (#1 Record, Radio City or Third), Rhino’s Big Star box set Keep An Eye on the Sky, a phone call from original Big Star member Jody Stephens (ask him anything you want!), 2 tickets to the NY or LA premiere and the after party! (you must get yourself there) and finally – for the super fan:

Be the first to see the nearly completed film for an exclusive test screening on July 26th in Memphis with a performance after the screening with surprise guests. (You must get yourself to Memphis) – Includes screening tickets for two guests + An once-in-a-lifetime “listening session” with original Big Star engineer John Fry and original member Jody Stephens at the famed Ardent Studios. Sit in the same studio where Big Star recorded all three of their iconic records as John mixes the individual multi-tracks and explains how these incredible records were made while Jody gives background on the recording process of the band.

BIG STAR: NOTHING CAN HURT ME Kickstarter

“Like” the Big Star Facebook Page, or Follow the @Bigstarband Twitter account!

2. New Podcasts with Kopecky Family Band, Tristen and La Guerre (Katlyn Conroy of Cowboy, Indian, Bear)

For our podcast, The Warm Up at Ardent Studios, we bring in a touring band a few hours before their show and record three stripped down versions of their songs. We chat with them about what’s going on in their world, and then we get it up on the interwebs lickity split!

You can now subscribe via iTunes!

We invite a mixture of artists to record these sessions, some are well-known, others have not had much exposure yet – but we think that they deserve more!

3. PRE-ORDER CONTEST: Jim Dickinson’s I’m Just Dead, I’m Not Gone

James Luther (Jim) Dickinson’s first and only live record with sons Luther and Cody plus Chris Chew of the North Mississippi Allstars, and Jimmy Davis on rhythm guitar is being released on July 3, 2012. The CD is called, I’m Just Dead, I’m Not Gone. It was recorded at the New Daisy Theater in Memphis. It’s probably Jim and the boys’ BEST live performance ever. Jimmy Davis puts them over the top. Great sound, pickin’, and Jim is on fire. -Mary Lindsay Dickinson

3. Kangaroo Kovers: Stream Jenny Owen Youngs Covering Neil Young’s “Tell Me Why”

We love, love, love Jenny! Check out her cover of her brother from another mother…

The Memphis Dawls, Star & Micey are part of Paste Mag’s “12 Bands In Tennessee You Need to See,” New Big Star Trailer

Rachel Hurley — Sat, 16 Jun 2012 00:37:21 +0000

1.The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey were both included in Paste Magazine’s 12 Tennessee Bands You Should Listen To Now. Star & Micey were listed at #1!

Congratulations to all of the other bands that made the list. It’s no secret that there is a lot of great music happening in Tennessee and the bands are both thrilled to be recognized.

2. New Podcasts with Elliott, Rose, Da Costa, The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey

Believe it or not, we have been planning to have both The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey back on the show for weeks… We invite a mixture of artists to record these sessions, some are well-known, others have not had much exposure yet – but we think that they deserve more!

3. Nothing Can Hurt Me: The Big Star Story‘s Kickstarter has been funded!

There are still a ton of great incentives to get your hands on though. Check out the latest trailer for the documentary if you have not seen it yet…

Big Star Doc on Sale, Sharon Van Etten, Yo La Tengo, Wilco, REM, Hot Chip, Teenage Fanclub perform Big Star’s Third in Spain

Rachel Hurley — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 19:59:41 +0000

1. New Podcasts with Shearwater, Casey Shea and William Beckett

So, a band from Austin, a New Yorker and a Chicagoan walk into a recording studio…

We invite a mixture of artists to record these sessions, some are well-known, others have not had much exposure yet – but we think that they deserve more!

**2. Big Star‘s Third will be performed tonight at Primavera Sound**

According to Ken Stringfellow, the performance will include:

…members of the Posies, Yo La Tengo, Wilco, REM, Hot Chip, Teenage Fanclub plus Jody Stephens, Chris Stamey, Sharon van Etten and more on stage.

The Big Star Documentary: Nothing Can Hurt Me is now being pre-sold.

“Like” the Big Star Facebook Page, or Follow the @Bigstarband Twitter account for all the lastest updatees on the band.

3. Lord T & Eloise released their new single “Day Drinking” this past Tuesday. The video is already an internet hit!

4. Kangaroo Kovers: Here’s another great cover from our friends in Generationals.

Get the new single “Day Drinking” from Lord T & Eloise for FREE! Plus see the new video!

Rachel Hurley — Tue, 29 May 2012 21:30:47 +0000

Lord T & Eloise’s handle on the southern hip hop scene is a unique mix of performance art, party rap, and social commentary that has landed them shows with 8ball & MJG, Al Kapone, Gangsta Boo, Micky Avalon, Yin Yang Twins, members of Three 6 Mafia, North Mississippi All-stars and spots on festival rosters like Bonnaroo, The Beale Street Music Festival and Rites of Spring .

While the band’s message is a high concept critique of popular culture, it’s their beats that garner respect from the elite of the Memphis and national rap scene. The act has received positive reviews from numerous newspapers and music publications. Accolades have included an “A” from the Memphis Flyer, “Editor’s Pick” from Blender Magazine and a review from VH1 that lauded them as “the world’s first purveyors of aristocrunk.” They have also made appearances on Ellen! and E! Fashion Police.

Their new single is the first song from their highly anticipated mixtape, Blackout Crunk Volume I (Sunset to Sunrise). The world premiere of the video happened today on Ryan’s Smashing Blog,one of the longest running and most highly lauded music blogs on the internet.

This set was different. We walked in just before the band went on and we stayed until the end. Unbelievable. Amazing skills. Costumes enhanced the thing, and didn’t distract from the set. Was THE best set I saw at SxSW 2010. Fast forward to today. I’m now serving in the court – they’re serving notice to everyone that summer is here…”

The post was linked on Lord T & Eloise’s Facebook Page. If you would like a free download of the song – just go to their page and hit the share link on the RSL post. We’ll inbox you the new song. Currently signed to booking agency, P.G.A., Lord T & Eloise are preparing to release two mixtapes this summer, Blackout Crunk Vol I and Blackout Crunk Vol II. Stay tuned.

Download the new single, “Day Drinking.”

itunes - bandcamp - amazon

Press Quotes:

“Like the Beastie Boys on some very expensive drugs” — Flagpole Magazine

“Two reasons to celebrate.” — The Hollywood Reporter

“This was perfect for the Grammy’s! Thank god somebody put on a show!” — E! Fashion Police

“Glam rap.” — The New York Times

“Their flow is seriously strong.” — The Boston Globe

“Wow.” — Ellen Degeneres

“An intoxicating spectacle.” — The Nashville Scene

“A heavy dose of satire.” — Radar Magazine

“Memphis’ most unique musical export.” — The Commercial Appeal

“A new genre of music.” — Giant Magazine

“Editor’s Pick” — William Goodman, SPIN MAGAZINE

Review Copies are available upon request!

Press Inquiries: rachel@kang-a-roo.com

Booking: hunter@pgamusic.com

Kangaroo

Help us save the WHBQ Studio where Dewey Phillips did the very first interview with Elvis Presley!

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, To Be Released on Vinyl, Second Video “(Do The) Rump” Premieres On Ryan’s Smashing Life, Releases Limited Edition Comic

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, Out Now Via Craig Brewer’s BR2 Music Publishing

MEANWHILE IN MEMPHIS: The Sound Of A Revolution Kickstarter Project Kicks Off

Star & Micey release new Dennis Herring produced EP I Can’t Wait and launch Pledge Music Campaign to help them fund their upcoming Soul Stormin’ Tour!

So far, Star & Micey have had quite a year.

Then there were the stops at Daytrotter and Paste Studios.

Review copies of the EP are now available by request.

Check the band out on their fall Soul Stormin’ Tour

We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

1. We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

**2. Star & Micey are gearing up to release their new Dennis Herring produced EP entitled I Can’t Wait on October 16th.**

3. Kangaroo Presents: Harlan T. Bobo at Otherlands

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Ticket Incentives for Big Star Doc in Memphis, LA, NYC, New Jim Dickinson Album and Pre-Order Contest

1. The BIG STAR: NOTHING CAN HURT ME Kickstarter comes to a close on Thursday. Last chance to be a part of some amazing incentives!

2. New Podcasts with Kopecky Family Band, Tristen and La Guerre (Katlyn Conroy of Cowboy, Indian, Bear)

3. PRE-ORDER CONTEST: Jim Dickinson’s I’m Just Dead, I’m Not Gone

The Memphis Dawls, Star & Micey are part of Paste Mag’s “12 Bands In Tennessee You Need to See,” New Big Star Trailer

1.The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey were both included in Paste Magazine’s 12 Tennessee Bands You Should Listen To Now. Star & Micey were listed at #1!

2. New Podcasts with Elliott, Rose, Da Costa, The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey

3. Nothing Can Hurt Me: The Big Star Story‘s Kickstarter has been funded!

Big Star Doc on Sale, Sharon Van Etten, Yo La Tengo, Wilco, REM, Hot Chip, Teenage Fanclub perform Big Star’s Third in Spain

1. New Podcasts with Shearwater, Casey Shea and William Beckett

**2. Big Star‘s Third will be performed tonight at Primavera Sound**

3. Lord T & Eloise released their new single “Day Drinking” this past Tuesday. The video is already an internet hit!

4. Kangaroo Kovers: Here’s another great cover from our friends in Generationals.

Get the new single “Day Drinking” from Lord T & Eloise for FREE! Plus see the new video!

Press Quotes:

Review Copies are available upon request!

Kangaroo

Help us save the WHBQ Studio where Dewey Phillips did the very first interview with Elvis Presley!

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, To Be Released on Vinyl, Second Video “(Do The) Rump” Premieres On Ryan’s Smashing Life, Releases Limited Edition Comic

Jason “Hex” Freeman’s Debut Album, Hex & Hell, Out Now Via Craig Brewer’s BR2 Music Publishing

MEANWHILE IN MEMPHIS: The Sound Of A Revolution Kickstarter Project Kicks Off

Star & Micey release new Dennis Herring produced EP I Can’t Wait and launch Pledge Music Campaign to help them fund their upcoming Soul Stormin’ Tour!

So far, Star & Micey have had quite a year.

Then there were the stops at Daytrotter and Paste Studios.

Review copies of the EP are now available by request.

Check the band out on their fall Soul Stormin’ Tour

We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

1. We went on tour with our friends in The Flaming Lips and all we got was this damn video

2. Star & Micey are gearing up to release their new Dennis Herring produced EP entitled I Can’t Wait on October 16th.

3. Kangaroo Presents: Harlan T. Bobo at Otherlands

List of the Day

Check out who’s been on the cover of mPlayer. Don’t miss a week!

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Ticket Incentives for Big Star Doc in Memphis, LA, NYC, New Jim Dickinson Album and Pre-Order Contest

1. The BIG STAR: NOTHING CAN HURT ME Kickstarter comes to a close on Thursday. Last chance to be a part of some amazing incentives!

2. New Podcasts with Kopecky Family Band, Tristen and La Guerre (Katlyn Conroy of Cowboy, Indian, Bear)

3. PRE-ORDER CONTEST: Jim Dickinson’s I’m Just Dead, I’m Not Gone

The Memphis Dawls, Star & Micey are part of Paste Mag’s “12 Bands In Tennessee You Need to See,” New Big Star Trailer

1.The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey were both included in Paste Magazine’s 12 Tennessee Bands You Should Listen To Now. Star & Micey were listed at #1!

2. New Podcasts with Elliott, Rose, Da Costa, The Memphis Dawls and Star & Micey

3. Nothing Can Hurt Me: The Big Star Story‘s Kickstarter has been funded!

Big Star Doc on Sale, Sharon Van Etten, Yo La Tengo, Wilco, REM, Hot Chip, Teenage Fanclub perform Big Star’s Third in Spain

1. New Podcasts with Shearwater, Casey Shea and William Beckett

2. Big Star‘s Third will be performed tonight at Primavera Sound

3. Lord T & Eloise released their new single “Day Drinking” this past Tuesday. The video is already an internet hit!

4. Kangaroo Kovers: Here’s another great cover from our friends in Generationals.

Get the new single “Day Drinking” from Lord T & Eloise for FREE! Plus see the new video!

Press Quotes:

Review Copies are available upon request!

**2. Star & Micey are gearing up to release their new Dennis Herring produced EP entitled I Can’t Wait on October 16th.**

**2. Big Star‘s Third will be performed tonight at Primavera Sound**