~Juan Carlos & The Killing Floor's Blog

"Save the Gulf"

2010-06-11T08:32:00.000-05:00

Where are all the "Save the Gulf" concerts?
Where are the T.V. Benefits with celebrities and musicians giving heart
felt speeches on the poor fishermen, wildlife, beaches, loss of income
and sabotaged gulf economy? These people (including our own government)
are so quick to help Haiti and other countries, but where are they now?

Via Michael Farris

2010-04-29T12:17:00.001-05:00

YOU WANT TO GET MAD? We had eight years of Bush and Cheney, but now you get mad!

You didn’t get mad ...when the Supreme Court stopped a legal recount and appointed a President.

You didn’t get mad when Cheney allowed Energy company officials to dictate energy policy.

You didn’t get mad when a covert CIA operative got ousted.

You didn’t get mad when the Patriot Act got passed..

You didn’t get mad when we illegally invaded a country that posed no threat to us.

You didn’t get mad when we spent over 600 billion(and counting) on said illegal war.

You didn’t get mad when over 10 billion dollars just disappeared in Iraq.

You didn’t get mad when you found out we were torturing people.

You didn’t get mad when the government was illegally wiretapping Americans.

You didn’t get mad when we didn’t catch Bin Laden. You didn’t get mad when you saw the horrible conditions at Walter Reed.

You didn’t get mad when we let a major US city drown.

You didn’t get mad when we gave a 900 billion tax break to the rich.

You didn’t get mad when, using reconciliation; a trillion dollars of our tax dollars were redirected to insurance companies for Medicare Advantage which cost over 20 percent more for basically the same services that Medicare provides.

You didn’t get mad when the deficit hit the trillion dollar mark, and our debt hit the thirteen trillion dollar mark.

You finally got mad when the government decided that people in America deserved the right to see a doctor if they are sick. Yes, illegal wars, lies, corruption, torture, stealing your tax dollars to make the rich richer, are all okay with you, but helping other Americans… oh hell no.

AND NOW YOU’RE MAD !

2010-04-04T15:15:00.001-05:00

Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman? - Bryan Adams

2009-11-25T04:40:00.001-06:00

To really love a woman
To understand her - you gotta know it deep inside
Hear every thought - see every dream
N' give her wings - when she wants to fly
Then when you find yourself lyin' helpless in her arms
You know you really love a woman

When you love a woman you tell her
that she's really wanted
When you love a woman you tell her that she's the one
she needs somebody to tell her
that it's gonna last forever
So tell me have you ever really
- really really ever loved a woman?

To really love a woman
Let her hold you -
til ya know how she needs to be touched
You've gotta breathe her - really taste her
Til you can feel her in your blood
N' when you can see your unborn children in her eyes
You know you really love a woman

When you love a woman
you tell her that she's really wanted
When you love a woman you tell her that she's the one
she needs somebody to tell her
that you'll always be together
So tell me have you ever really -
really really ever loved a woman?

You got to give her some faith - hold her tight
A little tenderness - gotta treat her right
She will be there for you, takin' good care of you
Ya really gotta love your woman...

Then when you find yourself lyin' helpless in her arms
You know you really love a woman
When you love a woman you tell her
that she's really wanted
When you love a woman you tell her that she's the one
she needs somebody to tell her
that it's gonna last forever
So tell me have you ever really
- really really ever loved a woman?

Just tell me have you ever really,
really, really, ever loved a woman? You got to tell me
Just tell me have you ever really,
really, really, ever loved a woman?

Message of love to my friend... Jack Trevino

2009-11-12T01:31:00.002-06:00

We love and will dearly miss you my brother.
(RIP Jack Trevino 02-17-1960 - 11-04-2009)

What a gift it was to hold your hand and tell you, thank you and how much I love you towards the end. Your last smile as your eyes directed towards me, touched my soul profoundly in ways beyond words or images.

You lived your life with the message of love in your heart, devotion in your mind and your soul was as gentle as the smoke flowing through air from your burning incense. To love and to be loved was the muse to your karma.

As you placed your drum sticks down for the last time. The resonating hammering of your drum kit along with your heart, will now be forever miss by your family, friends and fans. I will hurt for your everything my brother.

We know as you hammer away on your drums for the Gods in the skies, your thunder will always be received with a smile... A Jack Trevino smile.

Long live Jack Trevino, The Voodoo Mojo Man!!

~Juan Carlos

Deliver it to me baby... Voodoo Mojo Man!!!

2009-11-12T01:10:00.001-06:00

Yeah that line was meant for Jack and almost every time we played "Mary Jayne" live or rehearsal, I would look at him and smile. Jack paved the road for The Killing Floor for what it is today. I'll say it one more time. If it wasn't for Jack Trevino, there would be no Killing Floor period.

Jack was a true road warrior and would give you his all regardless, packed house or not. He never bitch about money or other bands sharing the bill with us. It was about the music done our way and capturing the audience even if it was one or two new fans a night... We made sure you would never forget us. Even our bad night were memorable...lol and I'm not kidding...

We loved to rehearse during our down time and we clashed, cried and experience being in the improvise zone, the magic honey, as we used to call it (very few times with Mary Jayne). Jack was relentless and he beat, played, squeezed tones out of his cymbals anything to grab your attention. At one time, he was thinking of setting his drums on fire and looking into his eyes, he wasn't joking...

So how do you box that power... You can't and he fell madly in love and God blessed him before his calling home. Every one has a story and Jack lived his life to the fullest and with no regrets... Jack's story is a love story the showed his devotion to his family first, his bands and his passion second. Family was glue to the village, as he would called it.

Ben of Electric Ocean, on his respects to Jack and very beautifully written, painted an image of Jack and thunder. Every time you hear thunder, its Jack sitting on his kit hammering away with or for the Gods... Think of Jack when you hear thunder. Oh yeah, he would always rain dance for us too...lol

You are one of kind my brother and we love you and cherish everything you brought to the table and you left a legacy behind.

Long Live Voodoo Mojo Man... "Jack Trevino"
~Juan Carlos & The Killing Floor

Here's an update on The Killing Floor

2009-11-12T01:03:00.003-06:00

David Garza will be going back to school, so for that reason he has to retire from the band. His studies will demand much of his time and so, we wish David the best of luck and our blessing on whatever he does. We can't thank him enough for one of our busiest year The Killing Floor has ever experience.

Jango IS BACK!!! James "Jango" Sanchez will be taking over the bass duties with plenty of enthusiasm and fire and while still in school. He graduates on Dec. 17th, Jango will finish off the year with us and back to the studio we go in January...

Darren is back also on the keys... Friday was a very productive night for us and the first time in months since we've jammed with Darren. We wrote five new tunes after rehearsal... So yes he was greatly missed, and we are glad that he's back...

So here's the current line up for The Killing Floor

1. ~Juan Carlos Vocals and Guitar
2. Jango on Bass
3. Matt Wright on Drums
4. Darren Stansberry on Keyboards and pianos...
5. Roland Savverda on Drums and percussion

San Antonio top 10 bands!!

2009-10-15T02:01:00.002-05:00

San Antonio top 10 bands

June 14, 10:55 PM

San Antonio Rock Music ExaminerDonna Ruch

The San Antonio top 10 bands according to your submissions are:

1. Tension Speak

2. The Killing Floor

3. Texas Trash

4. Ruben V

5. Snake Skin Prison

6.LIONHEART

7. High Risk

8. Step Aside

9. Dark Water

10. Nonexistence

Congratulations to these 10 bands and thank you to everyone who sent in their top ten list. .

With love, rock on San Antonio!

This was a surprise!! Thank you San Antonio for second place!!! ~Juan Carlos

A Gibson Strat w/Hendrix 's name on it?? Fucking sickening and wacky!! Where's the RPM meter? Jimi's rolling in his grave.

2009-09-24T16:30:00.004-05:00

Why Gibson didn't make it a Flying -V with Hendrix style graphics, maybe with stickers instead to bring the cost down.. What's next a Fender Les Paul?? Shame on you too Gibson... You guys should know better... ~Juan Carlos

Gibson Unveils Strat-Style Jimi Hendrix Signature Line

ast week, Gibson quietly announced the development of a line of guitars with Jimi Hendrix's sister Janie Hendrix, who manages the Authentic Hendrix brand. In Gibson's online story, they call the guitar, "an entirely new and unprecedented Jimi Hendrix guitar model designed by the Authentic Hendrix and Gibson." Photos and details have now been released for the guitar packages, and it is not necessarily "entirely new." Instead, the models represent Gibson's first foray into the S-style guitar.

The combination of Gibson, Authentic Hendrix and the Strat comes on the heels of a March 2009 United States Trademark Trial and Appeal Board decision that denied Fender a trademark to the generic Tele, Strat and P-Bass body styles. The new Authentic Hendrix guitars feature a slightly sharper headstock.

Authentic Hendrix's press release, posted to Music Radar this morning, includes photos and descriptions of three entry-level packages that will be released under the Jimi Hendrix name. The packages range from $229 to $449 and include extras like a practice amp, gig bag, t-shirt and budget-level fuzz pedal.

In Gibson's interview with Janie, she said that, "This is just the tip of iceberg. We want to have a whole line of Jimi-inspired instruments." With a lukewarm (at best) reaction from most of the online community, we're wondering which direction they're planning on taking future models. Initial comments suggest that while budget packages may have shelf appeal for youngsters, Gibson might have a harder time turning experienced players on to a Gibson-produced S-style.

Trademark status denied for fender body shapes

2009-09-24T16:08:00.004-05:00

This is pure fucking greed on Fender... And yes I agree after soo many years... WTF Fender?? This IS good news for the guitar and guitar making community...~Juan Carlos

Trademark status denied for fender body shapes: trademark board calls Strat, Tele, and P-Bass "Generic": Fender management ponders appeal.

Music Trades • May, 2009 • FOREFRONT

FENDER MUSICAL Instruments' efforts to trademark the body shape outlines of its Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Precision bass models were rejected by the United States Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in a decision handed down on March 25, 2009. The Board concluded that after more than 50 years in the market, the guitar body shapes had become generic because consumers did not solely associate them with the Fender brand.

The decision was the culmination of lengthy legal proceedings that date back to 2003, when Fender initially filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office seeking trademark registration for the two-dimensional body shapes for the Strat, Tele, and P-Bass. Concerned that Fender might be granted the legal right to limit their product offerings, other guitar manufacturers banded together to oppose the application. A suit filed under the heading of Stuart Spector Designs, et al. v. Fender Musical Instruments Corp., was joined by manufacturers Jim Triggs Guitars, JS Technologies, Lakeland Musical Instruments, Levinson Musical Products, Michael Tobias Design, Peavey Electronics, Tom Anderson Guitar Works, Sadowsky Guitars, Saga Musical Instruments, Schecter Guitar Research, ESP Guitars, Tradition Guitars, U.S. Music Corp., Warmoth Guitars, and WD Music Products. The opposing guitar makers argued that in failing to legally police or protect its body shapes for 50 years, Fender had lost the fight to trademark them.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Ronald Bienstock, senior partner at Bienstock & Michael, who argued the case said, "This case is an important victory for the guitar industry as a whole. The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board has prevented Fender from gaining a monopoly on these body shapes that have been used by hundreds of manufacturers for half a century." Fender management expressed disappointment with the ruling and is currently considering whether to appeal the decision. "We believed strongly that the evidence supported our arguments," said Bill Mendello, Fender CEO. "We disagree with the conclusions reached by the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board."

My apologies and closure...

2009-09-14T01:49:00.000-05:00

My apologies for those that had to read and see a side of me that i usually don't make public...

I had a gig this weekend and just to make the gig was an act of congress. Matt got sick on me so i asked Roland S. of Chicas De Canela, to fill in on the drums duties. He said "fuck yeah, lets do it".

So that was that and just as im leaving its starts to rain and then my mother at the last minute wants to go see my dad at his house. Well by then Im just freaking out, I should be on the highway to San Marcos 30mins ago and here I am driving Ms Daisy...lol

So I'm on the road and I start making calls to make sure everyone made it and im flying in the hard rain to the gig. As soon as i get there... Starting unloading from my van to the stage... So I had no time to catch my breathe, just straight in setup and perform...

The band's performance wasn't very good due to lack rehearsals from my mates canceling rehearsals and that an issue that i will fix before the new year... You better fucking believe that... but anyways...

So here I am back home and exhausted and I receive a message via-here from Patti (Jack's girlfriend) on how Jack's feelings were hurt because I didn't ask him to perform and you know, trying to place a guilt trip and exaggerating on me being distant...

I'm going to take you back about three weeks ago from today. Jack, Jason Z.(on bass) and myself did a jam out session with Jack... Jack was a total trooper and played his ass off and took it to the furthest that he could, but you can see the pain. So I had to step back and not over do it and Patti and I would monitor Jack. We all had a blast and it felt great to play with Jack again. When it was over I hugged him and said you let me know when you wanna get together again. I have a few gigs coming up, but its on you and of course on how you are feeling. That's why Jack left his cymbals and I will return them to him.

Back to my response to Patti's (Jack's girlfriend) Myspace message of two days ago...

I was very cordial in my response back and ask for respect and consideration on my daily duties. I had a very busy week and personal issues to take care of and yes, it has taken a toll on me and has exhausted most of my time and efforts these past two weeks.

Well... History always has the tendencies of repeating its self and people will never change their ways...

FIRST OFF!!!
Had I ask Jack to perform that night... I know he'd probably would... Jack has that fearless Indian warrior in him when it comes to performing music. He'd probably take his tubes out of his body and say "lets rock the fuck out". I know Jack for seven years.

All I can say is... Jack needs to get better and he will kick the cancer's ass. I would never ask of him something that would land him in the hospital and probably even kill him.

So with that being said... If anyone has any questions on me, feel free to message me here... I know Patti is going to blog on how much of a-son-of-a-bitch I am and so forth... I'm used to it and have seen it with other people she ousted before. I think this is the tenth time we get into some shit and she starts the delete, delete, delete MySpace game. Which BTW, I find that to be so fucking hilarious. It feels like middle school again..lol

But anyways, Im soo tired of this back and forth bullshit with Patti and I am done with them and have placed my closer. My phone line and my time will always be up on a drop of a dime for Jack and the Trevino's family with much love and respect, always and forever.

Keep Jack in your prayers and that's one thing Patti can't take away from us.

Patti,
You do take care of Jack the best way that you can, and I commented and shown support on all of your blogs. But this redneck 6th grade attitude you have towards us and people, we just got tired of your bullshit. You are 45 years old and not sixteen, so its not cute anymore. You and I have nothing to talk about, so don't call or text me. You have already cause so much harm between Jack and I and I know your sole purpose is to make me and others look so bad. So whatever, I am done with you and you have yourself a nice life...

Darren Stansbury will be in hiatus

2009-07-23T02:27:00.002-05:00

Darren Stansbury will be in hiatus from The Killing Floor do to work related restrictions. He will make special appearances on our shows from time to time and is due to be back early 2010. He will be missed and wish him the best during his absence from The Killing Floor. ~Juan Carlos

The Killing Floor's newest member: James Perez (2nd Guitar and backing Vocals)

2009-07-23T02:06:00.003-05:00

(James Perez has joined the Killing Floor as their second guitarist)

We're definitely gonna have a heavier sound, but those are not my intentions for The Killing Floor.

I had five guitar players in mind to ask for the audition, that would compliment The Killing Floor's sound and not turning into a guitar dueling completion.

James was the first, I ask to join as a member, only because of his Latin style of playing and plus he plays and loves Gibson Les Pauls...lol He's a great guitar player, singer, musician and he even fronted his band Karnaval. The collaboration between the two of us for the future will be intense, interesting and an experience.

~Juan Carlos

July 18, 2009

2009-07-02T08:44:00.002-05:00

Jack Trevino's daily condition can be found here...

2009-06-17T17:11:00.002-05:00

Jack Trevino the original drummer for The Killing Floor, was diagnose with lymphoma cancer last year in late August. During the time of mid October thru early December 2008, a grueling treatment of kimo-therapy for eight weeks was given with great end results. Well, earlier this year on a routine check up, the doctors took notice on something unual and what turns out the cancer was back. One caner spot in one of the lungs and the other in liver. As you can imagine, this was a devastating blow to our family, friends and fans.

The first type of kimo was given, but didn't do anything to slow down or kill the new cancer, so an experimental and new type of kimo is being perform. The bad is it makes Jack very sick, and whats worse the cancer has now spread to his other lung and the other side of his lymph node in his neck.

Please befriend Jack and show him the love and let us all keep him in our prayers tonight. He's one of the most beautiful human being I ever met and the riff between Patti (Jack's girlfriend) and I, is not even an issue anymore. We have been through so much bullshit, but in the end, we have always remain as close as blood brothers.

This is everything in a nutshell sorta speak... There's so much more, but to keep up with the latest news on Jack Trevino's condition, please visit and befriend him via-here on MySpace. He's my top number on MySpace

www.myspace.com/thekillingfloor.

Show him the love or say hi, and prayers, he would certainly need and love...

http://www.myspace.com/479238788

Thank you and again please, keep him in your prayers night.

Jack, we love man and I will be speaking and seeing you soon next week bro, when you are feeling alittle better. Love you bro, ~Juan Carlos

Tom Rimes on Sax for The Killing Floor

2009-06-15T01:00:00.002-05:00

Tom Rimes ripping it up at the GOC event San Antonio, Oct. 'o8
(Jango: bass, Tom: sax, Darren: keys)

Tom has played with us before, so he's no stranger to our music and style. He'll be full time memeber and certainly bring a whole new a ray of colors to our sound. We are proud and honored to have Tom on board and thank you, Larry Rimes (TKF's percussionist) for your blessings.

When not playing for The Killing Floor, Tom and Larry Rimes do have and front their own band; Native Soul. Catch their dates here...

www.myspace.com/thenativesoulband

More info and bio on Tom Rimes soon!!

Peace, ~Juan Carlos

Our thanks also to Jon Maxwell!

2009-05-27T01:46:00.004-05:00

(The Killing Floor live @ Clicks in San Antonio; May 24, 2009)

One of the hardest working force for San Antonio's original music scene. Jon really loves everyone and can appreciate both spectrum of the cover band vs original band. Hell, I even deicated "Voodoo Child" to Jon... I played it mean and Louisiana swampy...lol

Sunday was no exception... Jon gave The Killing Floor a chance to perform with some of San Antonio's best HEAVY weights and for that we are grateful to him and the bands: The Heroine, Slurly, Destruction Evolution and Rewired... Their crowd and fans were very receptive and respectful towards us... We also want to thank THD Promotions and Clicks Billiards for that special night and what a great sound BTW!!!!

Peace, ~The Killing Floor

Thank you Manuel Mercado of EZ Street.

2009-05-27T01:02:00.004-05:00

(Set up/mics for Manuel's drums @ Clicks Billards May 24, 2009)

(Ahhh Yes!! Show TIME!!)

For your time and making a special appearance with The Killing Floor this pass Sunday at Click's Billiards for the Veterans Benefit, Memorial Day Bash. It was a great performance and this was the set list for that night:

1. Mary Jayne
2. What I Dream To Do
3. Voodoo Child
4. Hole In My Heart
5. Live

Our music's duties for the drums is not easy, but Manuel perfromed like a champ and lets not for forget Manuel's family and members of EZ Street. Thank you for the cheers and love. Much love and respect from us to you. The Killing Floor

Rehearsals posted on on our podOmatic page

2009-05-19T03:38:00.002-05:00

Just to give you an idea on Matt's playing skills... Recording taken from a rehearsal session in March of 2009. Not the best quality recording but the attitude and feel is there... BTW- Music only posted on our podOmatic page and more to come!! ~Juan Carlos

One Last Time with Jack Trevino & Larry Rimes...

2009-04-17T18:52:00.002-05:00

The Killing Floor would like to thank from the bottom of our hearts to Mind Frame, Boozehound's and Kelly Fields for making this event possible... Pulling of hair and tweaking here and there and with tears of joy, this will be a special night that will go on the books. Redemption for all of us, will come to a closer tonight... This one is for Jack Trevino, for his battle with cancer is not over. But he will fight to the end like the true Indian warrior that he is, with the support and prayers of friends, family and fans... We love you Jack and "Lets Rock the F**k Out" as you would say.

Tonight is yours to shine on your kit bro...

Our thanks to Larry Rimes for his special appearance and it feels just like old times getting ready for this gig...

~Juan Carlos

My soon to be custom string gauge

2009-04-04T06:09:00.003-05:00

My electric guitar strings setup info:

Maker: Curt Mangan Fusion Matched Strings

Gauge: 11-E, 13-B, 18-G, 28-D, 38-A, 48-E

Material: Pure Nickel

Tuning: Standard E (A:440)

I will try stainless steel soon... ~Juan Carlos

My current state of mind...

2009-04-04T05:50:00.002-05:00

Im speechless...

One thing I hate is gossip and lying... I really don't care what is said because most people know how I am and know what I capable of and not... Now, I don't claim to be perfect either, but I at least have the balls to claim my mistakes and I deal with the issues the best way possible.

Its the principle of who is doing the gossip/lying and kindness being mistaken for naive is what really fucking bugs me. If you are close to me... Fucking cherish it... Why? because, I'd be the one that would drive miles away for you if you were ever stranded or in need of help. I wouldn't blink to hesitate... Really!! I mean isn't that what true friends do?? or am I the one living in a fucking cave here...

I do hear things through the grape vines and most of the time I just brush it off, because I do have better things to do with my time. I'm living and making things happen and not just idling to the same negative ways that seems to rape you of your youth and time.

Regrets on how Im living my life and if only I could have done things differently in the past... Is what I ponder with every day when I see myself in a mirror to wash my face... That is why I am hard on myself and I make everyday count and that makes me come to terms with in myself towards the end of the day.

Some people here will read this and take it to heart, others will be oblivious and some will take it and go back to their old ways... It doesn't matter... Its your life... I feel good just writing this in my blog and feeling good here lately is what I've been lacking...

Your dime is now my pick

2009-04-04T04:48:00.002-05:00

I wrote a whole topic story on this just to have the stupid thing erase and log off just when I press post. The whole thing went fucking blank... Oh well... I'll make this brief now because Im fucking hacked and tired...

I started using a dime for a pick for two months now... I can't stress how beautifully and unique the timbre rings from my electric guitar comparing to a plastic tortext Dunlop.

It will kill your strings five times faster by waring down the windings on your E, A and D to the bare wire and not to mention, it does take time to get used to because there's no flex.

I graze to almost just scratch the string when I attack and place the
edge deeper when I need more definition.

I did try to play my dime pick on an acoustic guitar, but I would pick so hard that I would hit the wood.

So all in all plastic pick for acoustic and dime pick for electric... who knows I just might alternate between the two...

Ahh yes the quest for tone here we go again... ~Juan Carlos

STOLEN BASS GEAR. PLEASE HELP SAN ANTONIO.

2009-04-03T04:09:00.003-05:00

For some reason picture can't be made bigger... Anyways these guys from the band Mind Frame got there gear stolen and they are very good friends of mine. So keep your eyes open San Antonio and surrounding areas!!! ~Juan Carlos

Hello friends.

Last night I had the misfortune of getting robbed @ the W. Commerce Taco Cabana near Gen McMullen. We were told that the thieves were driving an orange pickup truck. I'm hoping that one some musician in the San Antonio area would come across my stolen items and please let me know.

They stoled both my black Fender Bassman Cabinets 4x10 (serial #21-1671-010) & 1x15 (serial #21-1670-010). One cab had 4 10"speakers and the other had a 15" speaker. Both cabs had the signature Fender logo on the top left corner of the speaker grill. Both cabs show signs of wear on the front left and right sides of the wooden cab from scraping of loading it in and out of my truck bed.

Also stolen was my Red 1986 American Fender Jazz Precision bass guitar. The bass guitar has embedded strap locks within the body so you would need dunlop strap locks to use a strap. The bass was stolen in it's Fender case which contained a black fender strap with the dunlop strap locks needed. The Fender case is warped from water damage. The thieves will probably try to keep these items together when trying to sell them.

If anybody comes across these items, I ask that you please let me know by contacting me on here or @ (210)310-7906.

Here are the best pics I have of my Fender Bass & Cabs. I have also put a stock photo of Fender cabinets. Thank you all for your help. It is appreciated. -andy

The State of the Music Business - by John Mellencamp

2009-04-03T04:03:00.002-05:00

Article written by Activist and Artist John Mellencamp describing the Music Biz and how he sees it...
from the Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

---------Over the last few years, we have all witnessed the decline of the music business, highlighted by finger-pointing and blame directed against record companies, artists, internet file sharing and any other theories for which a case could be made. We've read and heard about the "good old days" and how things used to be. People remember when music existed as an art that motivated social movements. Artists and their music flourished in back alleys, taverns and barns until, in some cases, a popular groundswell propelled it far and wide. These days, that possibility no longer seems to exist. After 35 years as an artist in the recording business, I feel somehow compelled, not inspired, to stand up for our fellow artists and tell that side of the story as I perceive it. Had the industry not been decimated by a lack of vision caused by corporate bean counters obsessed with the bottom line, musicians would have been able to stick with creating music rather than trying to market it as well.

During the late 80s and early 90s the industry underwent a transformation and restructured, catalyzed by three distinct factors. Record companies no longer viewed themselves as conduits for music, but as functions of the manipulations of Wall Street. Companies were acquired, conglomerated, bought and sold; public stock offerings ensued, shareholders met. At this very same time, new Nielsen monitoring systems -- BDS (Broadcast Data Systems) and SoundScan were employed to document record sales and radio airplay. Prior to 1991, the Billboard charts were done by manual research; radio stations and record stores across the country were polled to determine what was on their playlists and what the big sellers were. Thus, giving Oklahoma City, for example, an equivalent voice to Chicago's in terms of potential impact on the music scene. BDS keeps track of gross impressions through an encoded system that counts the number of plays or "spins" that a song receives. That number is, thereafter, multiplied by the number of potential listeners. SoundScan was put in place at retail centers to track sales by monitoring scanned barcodes of units crossing the counter. A formula was devised whereby the charts were based 20% on the SoundScan number and 80% on BDS results. The system had changed from one that measured popularity to one that was driven by population.

Record companies soon discovered that because of BDS, they only needed to concentrate on about 12 radio stations; there was no longer a business rationale for working secondary markets that were soon forgotten -- despite the fact that these were the very places where rock and roll was born and thrived. Why pay attention to Louisville -- worth a comparatively few potential listeners -- when the same one spin in New York, Los Angeles or Atlanta, etc., was worth so many more potential listeners? All of a sudden there were #1 records that few of us had ever heard of. At the time we asked ourselves, "Am I out of touch?" We didn't realize that this was the start of change that would grow to kill, if not the whole of the music business, then most certainly, the record companies.

Reagan's much-vaunted trickle-down theory said that wealth tricked down to the masses from the elite at the top. Now we've found out that this is patently untrue -- the current economic collapse reflects this self-serving folly. The same holds for music. It doesn't trickle down; it percolates up from the artists, from word of mouth, from the streets and rises up to the general populace. Constrained by the workings of SoundScan/BDS, music now came from the top and was rammed down people's throats.

Early in my career, I wrote and recorded a song called "I Need A Lover" that was only played on just one radio station in Washington, DC the first week it came out. Through much work from local radio reps at the record company, the song ended up on thousands of radio stations. Sing the chorus of "I Need A Lover." It's not the best song I ever wrote nor did it achieve more than much more than being a mid-chart hit, but nevertheless, you can sing that chorus. Now sing the chorus of even one Mariah Carey song. Nothing against Mariah, she's a brilliantly gifted vocalist, but the point here is the way that the songs were built -- mine from the ground up, hers from the top down.

By 1997, consumers, now long uninvolved, grew passive, radio stations had to change formats. Creative artistry and the artists, themselves, were now of secondary importance, taking a back seat to Wall Street as the record companies were going public. The artists were being sold out by the record companies and forced to figuratively kiss the asses of their corporate overlords at the time these record companies went public. In essence, the artists were no longer the primary concern; only keeping their stockholders fat and happy and "making the quarterly numbers" mattered; the music was an afterthought.

Long-tenured employees of these companies were sacrificed in the name of profitability and the culture of greed was burned into the brains of even the most serious music lovers. It seemed that paying attention sales, who had the #1 record from one week to next, and who fell or rose on the charts was all that validated music.

One of my best friends in life was Timothy White who had been the editor of Crawdaddy, then Rolling Stone and, finally, Billboard. As a music critic, he championed singers, songwriters and musicians of all stripes. He was a music lover, beloved in the industry and by artists. Timothy, as many of you know, died suddenly, at the age of 50, waiting for an elevator at Billboard's office in New York. Artists including Don Henley, Brian Wilson, Sheryl Crow, James Taylor, Jimmy Buffett, Roger Waters, Sting and me thought so much of him that two sold-out concerts -- one in Boston and one at Madison Square Garden -- were produced to raise money to support his widow, Judy, and family that includes their autistic son. Each of you, who care enough to read this, should ask yourself if people would be there to celebrate your life so lovingly as this.

In the early 90s, Tim started talking to me about the new service called SoundScan. Then the editor of Billboard, he was leery about the whole idea, realizing its potential to turn the record business upside down. He was pressured by his boss, publisher Howard Lander, who had warned that if Billboard didn't buy into SoundScan, its competitor, Hits, would become the premier music industry trade magazine. I remember performing at a City of Hope benefit dinner in 1996 where he and I argued with Howard on the pitfalls of SoundScan and BDS and how there would be consequences that would not be good for the music business once it was embraced. It was a very unpleasant evening.

Let's pause here to note that the record business has always been known for its colorful characters like Colonel Tom Parker, Ahmet Ertegun, John Hammond, etc. The most important thing is that different artists were able to express themselves in ways that were uniquely original, expressing their hopes and disappointments. That kind of artistic diversity and the embrace of eccentricity made the recording business great. It also made the record business horrifying in some ways. Look at what happened at Stax Records where financial finagling and skullduggery brought a great enterprise to a screeching halt that ended so many brilliant careers.

During the time of the upheaval wrought by SoundScan, BDS and the "Wall Streeting" of the industry, country music seized the opportunity and tacitly claimed the traditional music business. Country has come to dominate the heartland of America, a landscape abandoned or ignored by the gatekeepers of rock and pop. Great new country music stars came from seemingly nowhere to grow to tremendous popularity; think Garth Brooks.

While all this was going on, technology, just as it always does, progressed. That which, by all rights, should have had a positive impact for all of us -- better sound quality, accessibility, and portability -- is now being blamed for many of the ills that beset the music business. The captains of the industry it seemed, proved themselves incapable of having a broader, more long-range view of what this new technology offered. The music business is very complicated in itself so it's understandable that these additional elements were not dealt with coherently in light of the distractions that abound. Not understanding the possibilities, they ignorantly turned it into a nightmarish situation. The nightmare is the fact that they simply didn't know how to make it work for us.

The CD, it should be noted, was born out of greed. It was devised to prop up record sales on the expectation of people replenishing their record collections with CDs of albums they had already purchased. They used to call this "planned obsolesce" in the car business. Sound quality was supposed to be one of the big selling points for CDs but, as we know, it wasn't very good at all. It was just another con, a get-rich-quick scheme, a monumental hoax perpetrated on the music consuming public.

These days, some people suggest that it is up to the artist to create avenues to sell the music of his own creation. In today's environment, is it realistic to expect someone to be a songwriter, recording artist, record company and the P.T. Barnum, so to speak, of his own career? Of course not. I've always found it amusing that a few people who have never made a record or written a song seem to know so much more about what an artist should be doing than the artist himself. If these pundits know so much, I'd suggest that make their own records and just leave us out of it. Nora Guthrie, Woody's daughter, once told me a story about a reception she was at where Bob Dylan was in attendance. The business people there were quietly commenting on how unsociable Dylan seemed to them, not what they imagined an encounter with Dylan would be like. When that observation about Dylan's behavior and disposition were mentioned to Nora, the response was very profound. She said that Bob Dylan was not put on this earth to participate in cocktail chatter with strangers. Bob Dylan's purpose in life is to write great songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are A' Changin'." This sort of sums it all up for me. The artist is here to give the listener the opportunity to dream, a very profound and special gift even if he's minimally successful. If the artist only entertains you for three and a half minutes, it's something for which thanks should be given. Consider how enriched all of our lives are made by songs from "Like A Rolling Stone," a masterpiece, to "The Monster Mash," a trifle by comparison.

Now that the carnage in this industry is so deep you can hardly wade through it, it's open season for criticizing artists, present company included, for making a misstep or trying to create new opportunities to reach an audience, i.e., Springsteen releasing an album at Wal-Mart and, yes, we all know what Wal-Mart is about. The old rules and constraints that had governed what was once considered a legitimate artist are no longer valid. When you think about it, you must conclude that there really is no legitimate business; there is no game left.

Sadly, these days, it's really a matter of "every man for himself." In terms of possibilities, we are but an echo of what we once were. Of course, the artist does not want to "sell out to The Man." Left with no real choice except that business model of greed and the bean counting mentality that Reagan propagated and the country embraced, there is only "The Man" to deal with. There is no street for the music to rise up from. There is no time for the music to develop in a natural way that we can all embrace when it ripens and matures. That's why the general public doesn't really care. It's not that the people don't still love music; of course they do. It's just the way it is presented to them that ignores their humanity.

If we have any hope for survival of the music that we all love, compassion must replace name-calling, fairness must replace greed and we need to come together as a musical community and try to understand each other's problems. I once suggested to Don Henley, many years ago after I had left Polygram, that we should form an artist-driven record label, much like Charlie Chaplin did with the movies when he, more than 90 years ago, joined forces with Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks to form United Artists. Don's response was correct. He said that trying to get artists and business people together to work for the common good of everyone involved is akin to herding cats. When all is said and done, unfortunately, it's not really about the music or the artist. It's about you and your perception of yourself and how you think things ought to be. And we all know that this very rarely intersects with what actually is. Just because you think this is how it should be only makes it just that: what you think; it doesn't make it true. So let's try to put our best foot forward and remember that anyone can stand in the back of a dark hall and yell obscenities but if you want a better world it starts with you and the things you say and do.

~Juan Carlos isn't the kind of person who vents... by Kelly

2009-03-23T01:07:00.009-05:00

Carlos isn't the kind of person who vents like that, even though he has every f**king right (oops) and I'm glad he's not taking the sh*t he does. He has a very beautiful and important personal life as all of us, and it's good to stand up for yourself. Make sense? F**kers If you know him, he's driven. GOOD. But he's not PSYCHO like many of the people he mentions and have completely f**ked up. Don't put up with it Carlos...Be a DICK for once;) O wait, you already are, like I'd be his g/f, dear readers or biggest supporter of every musician you read about... by Kelly.
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Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Hear my wrath is coming...~Juan Carlos
Current mood: pissy

Ok... here it is....

I don't dwell too much on the negative stuff, much
less on the past. Yes it does f**k me up for days, when its people that I loved and considered to be true friends end up screwing me. Im choosing not to curse here, who knows after I finish writing this.... But anyways... once its done.. its done...

I'll express this...

The act of slander or even tantrums because things don't go her way and then lashing
out of spite or malice is way F**king beyond me!! But what can I do... I'm just the tip of the iceberg to their bigger issues/problems and that makes them oblivious and blind to what my cause and focus is...

She can't take away my talent and I will not be in a pre-teen-pouting-match-mentality mode to an almost middle age woman. Trying to comprehend or entertain as to why they do the things they do. No more!! Her creditability just went out the f**king door because of what I witness Friday night...

I will move on and so will Jack... Jack and I are join at the hip and I love him as my brother, always have... always will... for life!!... I'm in debt to him.
Jack and I did scuffle it out but our wounds will heal, because we have NO VENOM towards each other...

I've brushed it off as
experience... Within time,
I will always forgive my enemies but I will never forget the meanness that always scars and blemishes. I know who to place near my heart and who stays
within arm distance like a venomous serpent.

My outlook in fights between loves one... take of leave it, i don't care...

As living beings with a soul, it is impossible not to
fight among each other... It's what you do after the smoke clears that
is the core of someone's love or hatred... Do you consider redemption
and peace or do I take the daggers of your wrath into my back. Remember, I'm speaking of conflicts among friends and not spy warfare among
enemies.

I wish them the best and now they have each other with an extra eight hours a week with nothing in between to be claiming second too...

That F**KING BAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A theme so poetically said... It's been deleted, so I have been told... ~ Juan Carlos

And Jango was his name... The Story 8/25/08 - 1/01/09

2009-03-22T07:00:00.021-05:00

(Jango and his T-40 Peavey Bass)

I've experience a very bad month in late August of 2008 from my managing camp that disintegrated with my previous bass player. . . And bless their hearts, I was giving a choice as an option and a favor for me, that they would stay and perform the last three remaining shows for 2008. Now get this... Labeled by them as a back stabber, power hungry maniac, loony artist, money hungry son-of-a-bitch and lets not forget a selfish motherf**ker too... They were gonna still hang in there for me and my best interest. Especially for the Bret Micheal's "Rock of Love Tour"...

I've never flaunted my position as the leader of The Killing Floor Band because I've never felt I had too. But there is only one alpha-male in this pack and that is me... And I do things on my terms and canceling all the shows tinkered in my head and it almost happen. I had a week to determine what my next move had to be.

Well, I have my balls to take that leap of faith on what Im doing is right. I have my God given talent to fall back on to what my beliefs are in where I stand. So, I called them and said thanks but no thanks... I don't need you and I've since moved on...

And Jango was his name...

So in with Jango, he joined The Killing Floor on September 1, 2008 and played bass until the first week of Jan, 2009. During that time, he had to learn the 10 songs from The Killing Floor's CD and perform for the last three gigs of 2008. I will make no apologies on how relentless and ruthless I was for a three week period. We religiously rehearse three days out a week non-stop, so naturally our confidence level was staggering high and fearless to a fault was the theme and pace we set up for ourselves for the performances at: GOC - 09/27/08, Come and Get Festival - 10/04/08, and then The Gonzales's Thunder Rally - 10/10/08.

So Jango task was mind boggling on the amount of music material he had to learn and Jack's health was deteriorating and not in the best of state... The Jack Trevino's story is a whole saga in it self that i will explain.

Jango's bass duties/skills pulled The Killing Floor through in such a wonderful way, that we are still talking about and shaking our heads as to how we did it... We can look back and cherish the memories and experiences on those last three shows of 2008 that we will never forget. Jango is a motherf**ker bass player and I'm proud to be the first in making him sweat and nervous. Just calling out songs with no set list, extending, alternating ending and just making up music as we go, was not in the Jango style and way of doing things...lol

So long story short... We did it and everything was gravy train... Well not for long...

On late December 2008, the band was rehearsing and I presented a song "Dreams" that I used to play from my first real band Azrael from back in the early 90's. Composed from two great friends of mine that have already passed away, its a straight forward rock song. Well the conflict was set off between Jango and myself and our artistic stance crash like two rams going at each other. Jango's point on how it should be played against the way it was written. Jango storm off very upset and pissed off and his argument was the bass line should be an independent voice in the music and should not be in the same lines as the guitar. My point of view is... Certain songs can follow that rule but NOT every song and certainly not "Dreams". Its a rock song and I wasn't going to change too much from the way its written.

Jango stormed out pissed off and shouted " I'm not your bass player then!" and that I was too controlling on everything and restricting him, which was not true... I would let him have his five-minute bass solo, "Lesson One". Well that night after he left, my survival instincts kicked in and I made a few calls and by that night I had already a new bass player to replace him and another back up.

The next day, I called Jango and we talked like everything was fine and he mention he was just tired and the pressure of school was the main reason for his out-burst. I arrange to meet with Jango in person to let him know that he was not part of band anymore. I did mention I was very pissed off and I was not going to be placed in a predicament again and especially during a time when the new line-up-of-up-coming gigs for 2009, were falling on my lap.

We shook hands and Jango said it was proably for the best right now because of school and money. I had wished me the best luck and we parted ways.

Well on 3/19/09, we had lunch together at Bill Miller BBQ by SAC, and we were laughing and cracking jokes as always. We both agreed that if something happens were if bass slot for The Killing Floor ever becomes available again... He would have first dibbs and be back to fill in the bass shoes for the Killing Floor...

Much mutual artistic respect for life is what I have for my friend... Jango!

And that is his story... ~Juan Carlos

Me with THE PSYCHEDELIC JUKEBOX New Years 2004!!

2009-03-07T02:10:00.004-06:00

I remember having to learn about 30 songs in twenty days and then I was to perform in front of 5000 people, kicking into the new year of 2004, big parting in town down San Antonio right under the Hemisfair tower. It was very exciting and what a treat to play with high-caliber musicians and for the only thing I had to worry was intros and my playing...lol Easier said than done.

This was my first and last gig that I had ever perform using Line 6 Flextone II amp instead of my Peavey Classic amps. I was using the "Ranchero Special Edition" Which is basically a single 12" speaker Flextone II amp with a fancy Texas paisley style leather skin cover. What a mistake it was for me that night. As soon a s cranked the amp, the traditional transistor brittle sound came into life- lifeless without any warmth... I sold the amp on eBay two weeks later after this performance...

I want to thank the band The Psychedelic Jukebox for the great memories with much love and respect to my dear comrades!!

Ah yes my Double Clutch days playing bass!!

2009-03-06T23:34:00.004-06:00

This has to be back in early-mid 2005... I played bass for one year and almost to the day and looking back it was one of the most exciting and humbling experience in my life as a musician. My duty as a bassplayer well... Not that easy to be in the pocket and keeping a steady groove with telephone cable wires as strings...lol

I would never have played bass for anybody but this project was special. I love the honest and brutality that Double Clutch was. Spider Mike was relentless and brutal when it came to his music. He was no shredder or a trained singer but my God he had a stake to the heart attitude and a I don't give a shit aura that shove Double Clutch music down your throat.

I did write about the good, the bad and the ugly about Double Clutch back in 2005 here while I was in the band... So if you are interested in the reading by all means...

My rig at that time was:

1. Carlo Robelli 12-string bass that was a bitch to play after 15minutes and thank you Mr. Warren Hammons for the sale...
2. Ibanez ATK 4-string bass
3. Peavey Classic with 4x10 speakers (Spider Mike's Amp and not mine)
4. George Lynch signature 2x12 extension cab. I don't remember the brand- Genz Benz maybe?

My mind set for the Double Clutch sound; Lemmy Kilmister of MotorHead. Distorted heavy bass sound and what a great marriage in tone when I used the 12-string bass... Almost sounded like a rhythm guitar and bass going and playing together...

In these videos recorded at Sam's Burger Joint. I was in the band for about four months and this was maybe my 3rd - 4th gig with Double Clutch. There might be a second show that was recorded during the Ram of Tacoland benefit show at Sam's Burger Joint. We had more mileage and I played with much more conviction.

Thank you to The Music Life and here's their Myspace link for more great San Antonio bands and their videos.

www.myspace.com/livethemusiclife

Double Clutch

Double Clutch - Speed Queen

Double Clutch

Double Clutch - Pickin' And Sinnin'

Double Clutch

The Rimes Brothers!

2009-02-24T07:50:00.009-06:00

Jack Trevino & Larry Rimes at The GOC, Spring Branch , Tx: Sept. 27, 2008

Tom Rimes on Sax

I'm in debt with gratitude to the Rimes brothers, Larry and Tom, more later on why...

But first, on a post here back in early 2008 "Talk is Cheap", I had express anger towards Larry on how he departed from The Killing Floor. Yes, I was pissed, hurt and confused and just needed time to vent and make sense as to why...

I started to capitalize more of the good times playing together and Larry had always wanted to have more vocal duties than just being a backup singer. So I did understand and realized his departure. It was now his time for growth and blossoming to front projects and make his dreams happen on his terms. So his bold move to move-on was not in-vain. Two-three weeks later after I wrote "Talk is Cheap" I called Larry and gave him my blessings and we talked and let everything out of the bag and we both knew too well that friendship and forgiveness is divine.

Im so proud of him and Tom for keeping that spark of making music alive. Both started a small low volume, low key, jazz project playing Starbucks with just congas & sax with singing to a full-blown jazz band and gigging everywhere. The latest, I've heard is Larry and Tom have now started a classic rock/blues band call NATIVE SOUL and make no mistake to assume that we are not going to play together because we ARE!!!...haha...

To Larry and Tom, much love my brothers... Keep fueling the fire of your dreams... ~Juan Carlos

Gonzales Thunder Rally, October 10th 2008.

2009-02-24T01:50:00.009-06:00

(L to R: Jango, ~Juan Carlos, Jack and Larry Oct 10th 2008, Gonzales Tx, Pic: Joel Ryan)

Gonzales Thunder Rally to us, was a awesome experience... We played at the pavilion at around 2pm to 3pm. We were then asked to play the main stage at 7:00pm with Axe and Great White to close the night. We had a blast and I know things didn't pan out as expected during those three days. But we left with such wonderful experience and memories.

What I didn't like:
It was just amazing how this particular band acted so pre-Madonna when the event didn't proceed as expected and yet, they claim to have such high caliber status. I witness maybe two people cheer them on and yes I mean their girl friends... I would have been impress if they would have guarantee at least fifty people at any given time and place. That would have been impressive and something to brag about.

It can be such a cut-throat business this music biz thing... I felt helpless to a friend that I so much respect and admire. But we are musical warriors and all we can do is get up and brush off the dirt and proceed on with the fight the good fight. God bless you Ben (Electric Ocean), we love you man!! ~Juan Carlos

David Garza back on bass!

2009-02-24T01:05:00.003-06:00

(David Garza on Bass 02-21-09: pic: Joel Ryan)

I never saw this one coming in 2009! Haha... Great to have David Garza back on bass for The KIlling Floor... It feels like he had never left the band. But before we played a single note, we worked out our differences and talk about all the bullshit he and I hated about each other and why things happen they way they did back in July 2005. I've gone through a few bassplayers and no-one could really match David's playing' note-per-note. So you know it was a real teat to hear the songs sound just like the "La Danza Macabra" CD. Not to take away anyting from Miggs and Jango as bassplayers, they both pulled me out of a real bad bind at two different times and both perform with a fearless heart. ~Juan Carlos

Happy Birthday Jack!!

2009-02-17T11:21:00.003-06:00

Today is Jack Trevino's Birthday Day... We have so many more years of music to produce brother. Thank you for believing in me. You're the only one that has put up with my sh*t the longest...lol

That's why you have a special place in my heart f**ker...

~Juan Carlos

The Killing Floor are officially endorsing Curt Mangan Strings

2009-01-07T03:25:00.003-06:00

I've met with Curt Mangan and camp at Austin's NAMM back in 2005 or 2006, I forget which year and no, I won't go back a read my own blogs...lol But anyways, great people that are passionate about their product and what an honor for their consideration. From the first pack I was given, I been since hooked.

From here on until further notice, ALL STRING INSTRUMENTS you hear from us live or studio, will be Curt Mangan's FusionMatched Strings. I've send a picture of the band, so soon we'll be on their roster list of artist on Curt Mangan's website. Can't say enough how good these strings are and pure nickle is my choice of material with me!!

http://www.curtmangan.com

Here's San Antonio stores

Name:	GUITAR TEX
Address:	4330 MCCULLOUGH AVE
City:	SAN ANTONIO
State:	TX
Zip:	78212
Phone:	210-822-1595",,

Name:	TEXAS DI$COUNT MUSIC
Address:	4379 S.E. MILITARY DR #B
City:	SAN ANTONIO
State:	TX
Zip:	78222
Phone:	210-333-6100",

Thank you again Curt Mangan & FusionMatched Strings, You are the best!!
~Juan Carlos

About Vintage Fender & Gibson Guitar Tone Capacitors By:kylieluxe

2009-01-06T05:17:00.002-06:00

Out of all the expensive vintage guitar parts, capacitors are the least documented and easiest to mis-represent as a genuine Fender or Gibson part.

Before you pay for a high-dollar cap, do your research. A quick Google check will usually turn up a photo of your guitar's control cavity. Do you see the capacitor you're thinking about buying in there? Just because it is a red ceramic cap doesn't mean it came out of a Strat. If it reads SK .1X 50V it did. If it says anything else, you are looking at a 7 cent ceramic cap and you can buy yourself a whole bag of them at places like Surplus Sales of Nebraska.

Fender and Gibson used wax caps in the '50s right? Yes, they used Cornell-Dubilier brand caps, usually marked with C-D. Fender used teeny little brown, yellow or white caps that were developed for submarine missiles in WW2. These are heavily documented and easy to identify. They will bear one of these markings: ZYW1S5, ZSW1S5 or ZNW1P1. If it does not have one of these markings, it is not a factory install. For reasons known only to Leo and Forrest, Astron caps were used in the cheap guitars (Musicmaster, Duosonic, etc.) The pots and caps from these guitars are often sold as Tele, or Precision parts, (red or brown label Type AM Astrons or Yellow Scuba caps) but these are suitable only for restoring a Musicmaster or Duosonic guitar and besides, do you really want to pay $350 for a set of pots when you can get the whole guitar for $100 more? Gibson used .02mF 400v Cornell-Dubilier Grey Tiger capacitors until 1956. These are also easy to identify, they are marked with GT4S2. If it doesn't say Grey Tiger and GT4S2, it was never used in a Gibson. And lastly: those old wax caps are Terrible, it's like throwing a dirty blanket over your amp! That doesn't mean you should yank the caps out of your '51 Blackguard, but if Uncle Lou did some Groovy re-wiring back in '74, you'd be better off restoring the guitar with a new cap, and that's what Luxes are for!

Bumblebee caps. If it has stripes it's a Bumblebee and it's worth a lot of money right? Maybe. The colored stripes were the old fashioned way of marking tiny electrical components with their values. Resistors have stripes because they are too small to write on. Near as I can tell, Bumblebee capacitors (made by Sprague) were manufactured with stripes for generic use by wholesalers and other companies to market as their own. These are identical in construction to the Black Beauty. A shiny black plastic tube with little circles. In the circles will be a number 2. A circle and a 2 means Sprague! From 1956 until 1960 Gibson used Red/Red/Orange/Grey/Yellow striped Bumblebees (.022mF 400vdc). These are 1.25" long by about 3/8." They switched to junk caps when they started making SGs. In '68 and '69, when they brought back the Les Paul, they used .022uF 400v Black Beauty caps. These little caps are always expensive, but just remember that Bumblebees and Black Beauties were made from the 1940s through the '70s and that cap you're looking to buy probably came out of an old television set (they're called Telecaps in the old catalogs) and may well have a different casing and markings from the Gibson installed caps. And there isn't any fairy dust in there folks, just an old piece of wax paper and tinfoil!

There are lots of exceptions to the rules. After all, these guitars were made by little companies on tiny budgets and some days they had to make do with parts borrowed from elsewhere. But if it's a dodgy cap, and you are not looking at unbroken solder connections and it is not still in the guitar, Buyer Beware, it's just an old piece of junk!

Have fun, do your research and like the man said, don't get fooled again!

Some odd caps you may find in your old guitar include: Solar "Sealdtite" in early Fender guitars and lapsteels, Sprague Orange drops in early '60s Strats, and just about anything else that would have been available at the radio shop when somebody had to run down to the corner for parts.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-27T05:48:00.001-06:00

Joy, Happiness and Health...

All these and many more blessings are my wishes to you. Be safe and thank you for your support and love...~Juan Carlos

Hendrix drummer Mitch Mitchell dies in Portland hotel room

2008-11-13T03:18:00.002-06:00

Ross William Hamilton/The OregonianDrummer Mitch Mitchell playing at the Roseland Theater in a Jimi Hendrix tribute concert in February 2004

Mitch Mitchell, the iconic drummer who provided the explosive heartbeat of the Jimi Hendrix Experience on rock classics including "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)" and "Purple Haze," was found dead early Wednesday in a Portland hotel room.

Mitchell, 61, who pioneered a fusion style that allowed him and one of history's greatest guitar players to feed off each other, died of natural causes, the Multnomah County medical examiner said. He was found about 3 a.m. in his room at the Benson Hotel in downtown Portland.

Considered one of rock's greatest drummers, Mitchell was behind the kit at Hendrix's legendary sets at Woodstock, Monterey and the Isle of Wight.

Mitch Mitchell, from his MySpace page

Mitchell's final performance was Friday night at Portland's Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. It was the last stop on the West Coast leg of the Experience Hendrix tribute tour.

Looking pale and tired, he played only one song before the sold-out crowd, said Terry Currier, owner of the Music Millennium record shop.

"A friend who was waiting outside the Schnitz to get an autograph told me he saw a couple people helping Mitch walk into the auditorium that night," Currier said. "He didn't seem to be in great health."

Born in England in 1947, John "Mitch" Mitchell was a child actor who quickly moved on to music, becoming an accomplished jazz drummer before the age of 20. Eventually, he became Hendrix's most important musical collaborator, said Jacob McMurray, senior curator at the Experience Music Project in Seattle, Hendrix's boyhood home.

The museum's centerpiece is the world's largest collection of Jimi Hendrix artifacts and memorabilia, including the drum set Mitchell played at Woodstock in 1969.

"Jimi was an amazing guitarist and he needed somebody behind the drum kit who could hold his own," McMurray said. "That was Mitch Mitchell."

At 5-foot-5, the wild-haired Mitchell was a small guy who played "lead drums," combining meat-and-potatoes beats with rapid-fire jazz in the three-person group. He was inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Jimi Hendrix Experience in 1992.

Hendrix's manager treated both Mitchell and original bassist Noel Redding as paid employees, limiting their rights to future revenue. In the 1970s, according to Eddie Kramer's book "Hendrix: Setting the Record Straight," Mitchell was forced to sell a prized Hendrix guitar to pay the bills.

"The bonds between Jimi and Mitch kept them together," McMurray said.

Mitchell and Hendrix recorded several tracks on their own, including "Fire," "Voodoo Child" and "Manic Depression," before bringing in Redding to finish them, McMurray said. Hendrix died after a drug overdose in 1970. Redding was 57 when he died in 2003.

Bob Merlis, a publicist for the Experience Hendrix tour, said Mitchell obviously wasn't feeling well during the last couple stops on the 17-date tour.

"We thought it was the flu," Merlis said.

Mitchell told Merlis he planned to stay in Portland for a few days to wind down from the tour before heading home to his wife, Dee, in England.

Sgt. Brian Schmautz, a Portland police spokesman, said an employee at the Benson called police after discovering Mitchell's body. Since police didn't suspect any foul play, Schmautz said, "we weren't involved beyond that."

Tom Chappelle, a deputy medical examiner for Multnomah County, said Dr. Cliff Young conducted the autopsy on Mitchell's body Wednesday afternoon.

"At this point, we're still saying natural causes," Chappelle said. "Cliff wants to talk to (Mitchell's) family first before releasing additional details."

Merlis said Mitchell was a "really warm, enthusiastic guy who was a lot of fun. He didn't hold back and liked to talk about Jimi" from their first meeting in a sleazy London club in 1966 to watching Hendrix light his guitar on fire at the Monterey Pop Festival a year later.

Judging from Mitchell's MySpace page, most of his friends and fans had not heard about his death by late Wednesday. The last post was from Sept. 27. On July 9, a fan wished him happy birthday.

But at Trade Up Music in Southeast Portland, the instrument shop's 27-year-old drum specialist remembered Mitchell as a "mind-blowing" musician.

"He came along at a great time," said Joey Ficken, who also plays in the band Sea Wolf. "He came along when there weren't really rock guitarists and rock drummers, and all these styles of music came together. People were seeing something they had never seen before."

These days, drummers tend to stay in the background. They really aren't like Mitchell any more, Ficken said.

"He was a star. People still idolize him."

By Joseph Rose and Stuart Tomlinson, The Oregonian

Wednesday November 12, 2008, 8:28 PM

The Killing Floor podOmatic

2008-11-01T22:21:00.000-05:00

Undecided in this election?

2008-11-01T02:54:00.002-05:00

I think of being on an airplane. The flight attendant comes down the aisle with her food cart and, eventually, parks it beside your seat. 'Can I interest you in the chicken?' she asks. 'Or would you prefer the platter of shit with small bits of peanuts and corn?' To be undecided in this election is to pause for a moment and then ask... Depends! How's the chicken cooked, is it fried or grilled? Hmmm...

RIP Brad We love you bro...

2008-10-29T11:19:00.004-05:00

RIP: Bradley Allen Ponder 1986-2008

For Brad
This ones for the poet, and the magick he could write
This ones for the music, cause the music was his life
And this is for the young man who was took before his time
This is for the ones he loved, who were always on his mind

Know the dawn is coming
and know it bring the light
and know God's holding the Brightest Star in Heaven tonight

This ones for the good times, I sure enjoyed the ride
This ones for the whiskey, that kept us out at night
This ones for the pain, that he tried so hard to hide
This is for the Best Friend that I knew in all my life

Know the dawn is coming
and know it brings the light
and know God's holding the Brightest Start in Heaven tonight

This ones for the great man, who helped keep me alive
This ones for when he carried me, in my darkest times
This ones for the day I meet you on the other side
I'll greet you with a bottle, a guitar and a smile

I know the dawn is coming
and I know it brings the light
I know God is holding the Brightest Star in Heaven tonight.

by James Ponder
in honor of his brother Bradley Allen Ponder

Here's two MySpace link's to him and his brother James kick-ass band...

http://www.myspace.com/texasspecial

http://www.myspace.com/swampmouth

Brad passing is unmeasurable and Im still numb and shocked. My deepest condolences to Mlissa, James, family, friends and fans.

What our hearts once owned and had, shall never be lost in our minds. Brad we love you bro. ~Juan Carlos

The Seven Deadly Sins

2008-10-28T13:03:00.006-05:00

I found this interesting with no preaching intented of anything... ~Juan Carlos

The Seven Deadly Sins

1. Lust (Latin, luxuria)

Lust (or lechery) is usually thought of as involving obsessive or excessive thoughts or desires of a sexual nature. Giving in to lusts can lead to sexual or sociological compulsions and/or transgressions including (but obviously not limited to) sexual addiction, adultery, bestiality, rape, and incest. Dante's criterion was "excessive love of others," which therefore rendered love and devotion to God as secondary. In "Purgatorio", the penitent walks within flames to purge himself of lustful/sexual thoughts and feelings.

2. Gluttony (Latin, gula) "Excess"

Derived from the Latin gluttire, meaning to gulp down or swallow, gluttony is the over-indulgence and over-consumption of anything to the point of waste. In the Christian religions, it is considered a sin because of the excessive desire for food, or its withholding from the needy. Depending on the culture, it can be seen as either a vice or a sign of status. Where food is relatively scarce, being able to eat well might be something to take pride in (although this can also result in a moral backlash when confronted with the reality of those less fortunate). Where food is routinely plentiful, it may be considered a sign of self control to resist the temptation to over-indulge. Medieval church leaders (e.g., Thomas Aquinas) took a more expansive view of gluttony, arguing that it could also include an obsessive anticipation of meals, and the constant eating of delicacies and excessively costly foods.

He went so far as to prepare a list of six ways to commit gluttony, including:

* Praepropere - eating too soon.

* Laute - eating too expensively (washedly).

* Nimis - eating too much. * Ardenter - eating too eagerly (burningly).

* Studiose - eating too daintily (keenly).

* Forente - eating wildly (boringly).

3. Greed (Latin, avaritia)

Greed (or avarice, covetousness) is, like lust and gluttony, a sin of excess. However, greed (as seen by the church) is applied to the acquisition of wealth in particular. St. Thomas Aquinas wrote that greed was "a sin against God, just as all mortal sins, in as much as man condemns things eternal for the sake of temporal things." In Dante's Purgatory, the penitents were bound and laid face down on the ground for having concentrated too much on earthly thoughts. "Avarice" is more of a blanket term that can describe many other examples of greedy behavior. These include disloyalty, deliberate betrayal, or treason, especially for personal gain, for example through bribery . Scavenging and hoarding of materials or objects, theft and robbery, especially by means of violence, trickery, or manipulation of authority are all actions that may be inspired by greed. Such misdeeds can include simony, where one profits from soliciting goods within the actual confines of a church.

4. Sloth (Latin, acedia)

More than other sins, the definition of sloth has changed considerably since its original inclusion among the seven deadly sins. In fact it was first called the sin of sadness or despair. It had been in the early years of Christianity characterized by what modern writers would now describe as melancholy: apathy, depression, and joylessness — the last being viewed as being a refusal to enjoy the goodness of God and the world he created. Originally, its place was fulfilled by two other aspects, acedia and sadness. The former described a spiritual apathy that affected the faithful by discouraging them from their religious work. Sadness (tristitia in Latin) described a feeling of dissatisfaction or discontent, which caused unhappiness with one's current situation. When Thomas Aquinas selected acedia for his list, he described it as an "uneasiness of the mind", being a progenitor for lesser sins such as restlessness and instability. Dante refined this definition further, describing sloth as being the "failure to love God with all one's heart, all one's mind and all one's soul." He also described it as the middle sin, and as such was the only sin characterised by an absence or insufficiency of love. In his "Purgatorio", the slothful penitents were made to run continuously at top speed. The modern view of the vice, as highlighted by its contrary virtue of zeal or diligence, is that it represents the failure to utilize one's talents and gifts. For example, a student who does not work beyond what is required (and thus fails to achieve his or her full potential) could be labeled slothful. Current interpretations are therefore much less stringent and comprehensive than they were in medieval times, and portray sloth as being more simply a sin of laziness or indifference, of an unwillingness to act, an unwillingness to care (rather than a failure to love God and his works). For this reason sloth is now often seen as being considerably less serious than the other sins, more a sin of omission than of commission.

5. Wrath (Latin, ira)

Wrath (or anger) may be described as inordinate and uncontrolled feelings of hatred and anger. These feelings can manifest as vehement denial of the truth, both to others and in the form of self-denial, impatience with the procedure of law, and the desire to seek revenge outside of the workings of the justice system (such as engaging in vigilantism) and generally wishing to do evil or harm to others. The transgressions borne of vengeance are among the most serious, including murder, assault, and in extreme cases, genocide. Wrath is the only sin not necessarily associated with selfishness or self-interest (although one can of course be wrathful for selfish reasons, such as jealousy, closely related to the sin of envy). Dante described vengeance as "love of justice perverted to revenge and spite". In its original form, the sin of wrath also encompassed anger pointed internally rather than externally. Thus suicide was deemed as the ultimate, albeit tragic, expression of wrath directed inwardly, a final rejection of God's gifts.

6. Envy (Latin, invidia)

Like greed, envy may be characterized by an insatiable desire; they differ, however, for two main reasons. First, greed is largely associated with material goods, whereas envy may apply more generally. Second, those who commit the sin of envy resent that another person has something they perceive themselves as lacking, and wish the other person to be deprived of it. Dante defined this as "love of one's own good perverted to a desire to deprive other men of theirs." In Dante's Purgatory, the punishment for the envious is to have their eyes sewn shut with wire, because they have gained sinful pleasure from seeing others brought low. Aquinas described envy as "sorrow for another's good".

7. Pride (Latin, superbia)

In almost every list pride (or hubris or vanity) is considered the original and most serious of the seven deadly sins, and indeed the ultimate source from which the others arise. It is identified as a desire to be more important or attractive than others, failing to give compliments to others though they may be deserving of them, and excessive love of self (especially holding self out of proper position toward God). Dante's definition was "love of self perverted to hatred and contempt for one's neighbor." In Jacob Bidermann's medieval miracle play, Cenodoxus, pride is the deadliest of all the sins and leads directly to the damnation of the titulary famed Parisian doctor. In perhaps the best-known example, the story of Lucifer, pride (his desire to compete with God) was what caused his fall from Heaven, and his resultant transformation into Satan. Vanity and narcissism are prime examples of this sin. In Dante's Divine Comedy, the penitent were forced to walk with stone slabs bearing down on their backs in order to induce feelings of humility. (Graphic Pictures of The Seven Deadly Sin girls : Marta Dahlig) One of my very favorite artist. ~Juan Carlos

Associations with demons
In 1589, Peter Binsfeld paired each of the deadly sins with a demon, who tempted people by means of the associated sin. According to Binsfeld's classification of demons, the pairings are as follows:

* Lucifer: pride
* Mammon: greed
* Asmodeus: lust
* Leviathan: envy
* Beelzebub: gluttony
* Satan/Amon: wrath
* Belphegor: sloth

There are also other demons who invoke sin, for instance Lilith and her offspring, the incubi and succubi, invoke lust. The succubi sleep with men in order to impregnate themselves, so that they can spawn demons. The incubi sleep with women to lead them astray and to impregnate them with demon spawn.

Seven Virtues

which correspond inversely to each of the seven deadly sins.

Vice ↓ Virtue ↓
Lust Chastity
Gluttony Temperance
Greed Charity
Sloth Diligence
Wrath Patience
Envy Kindness
Pride Humility

A different set of deadly sins.

The Seven Deadly Sins

Politics without principle.
Wealth without work.
Pleasure without conscience.
Knowledge without character
Business without morality.
Science without humanity.
Worship without sacrifice.

The dead ARE Dancing! author: Susan M. Stone - Freelance Artist

2008-10-26T05:01:00.001-05:00

The dead ARE Dancing!
author: Susan M. Stone - Freelance Artist

As I sit here - thinking too much - listening to a storm, I'm thinking about the best way to approach this review. Sadly there are a lot of people that will probably never get a chance to hear a tight CD like "La Danza Macabra" by a truly great band - THE KILLING FLOOR. This isn’t the first album from the San Antonio locals, and it’s sure to evolve into several incarnations in the future.
I spend so much time playing and listening to music that I just feel it, and I never really take the time to define the reasons. This is one of those CD’s that move the body and soul. However, writing about what you're hearing, instead of just feeling it, requires your full attention; it moves deeper than what you hear, and how it makes you feel. So, with my full attention (and my heart), I'm just going to present my thoughts as I hear them.

THE KILLING FLOOR is: JCM - Guitars & Vocals, Jack Trevino - Drums &
Percussion, Miggs - Bass Guitar, Larry Rimes - Percussion, and Darren Stansbury -
Keyboards

"La Danza Macabra" consists of ten well-written, rhythmically pounding,
and guitar blazing songs. This CD is living proof that rock and roll
is still alive, screaming, and blazing out of Texas. Sitting in with a strong
rhythm section, JCM wails with some powerful guitar riffs and emotional
vocals sure enough to make you believe in channeling. One can only imagine the energy and magic from hearing a live gig. As the CD plays, allow me to elaborate on a few tracks.

About ten seconds into "LIVE", the strong guitar charge, along with tempo changes,
makes it perfectly clear why this was a perfect opening track. It slips into a melodic caress towards the middle, and then weaves into a slow fade. The strong vocals and ripping guitar work build in frenzy with pounding percussion. It’s all very intricate if you listen closely.

The great rhythms and guitar riffs continue through "WHAT I DREAM TO DO". It's
a straight-forward rock and roll, guitar slinging song with the whole band in a
very impressive groove moving from behind. This song defines their
unique sound most profoundly.

"DAY BY DAY" slows things down a bit with some clean guitar lines, strong lyrics,
and hypnotic rhythms. This is the kind of song that can only come from a heart
in complete communion with the instrument. In a time of speed licks, and
tricked out guitars, this song bleeds from a real place.

One of personal favorites "MARY JAYNE" grinds out right from the beginning, and
pulls you down for the count, moving into a brilliant psychedelic guitar movement
with scorching rhythms which binge, and crash back in perfect stride.

"IT'S NOT ME" creeps in slowly with a beautiful and haunting piano intro with
classic guitar softly singing. It then shakes back into a comfortable groove. It's
a lamenting piece to be sure with lyrics like "forgive my sins and have them all washed
away". It winds down with a dark and lovely dirge waiting for delivery while searching for answers. Okay, this might be my favorite!

"HOLE IN MY HEART" reminds me of Stevie Ray - screaming guitar solos and driving rhythm, but it's JCM's ride.

There are some sweet guitar riffs in "STREETS". It's sweet for the soul indeed. With the
lyrics: "If I needed a friend, would you be a friend", this song pleads to the world in the
universal language of music.

"DEVIL'S ALLEY" is a damn fine rockabilly instrumental. I love it! It still has a psychedelic haze in it, but then it rolls back into rockabilly runs and rhythms. It's a great piece.

This sweet disc comes to a close with "MANIC DEPRESSION". What can I say? It's Jimi's song, but it's done with a Texas flavor that made me smile. It's a perfect cosmic twist for the end of this CD.

If you like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmy Vaughan, or Jimi Hendrix mixed with a dash of Santana, and some San Antonio 'moxie', this is the CD for you. Do yourself a favor, and slip into the JCM experience on “La Danza Macabra”.

The Killing Floor is 'on fire', and the dead ARE dancing!

Brilliant!! FIVE STARS ***** author: Richard Scellenberger

2008-10-26T04:58:00.001-05:00

Brilliant
author: richard schellenberger

This was really a cd i bought on the few listens of the samples..This album is very very good.. Would like to thank the band for their performance on it..just brilliant

Good Times, Good Music Fr: Alex posted in 2007.

2008-10-26T04:37:00.003-05:00

(Thank you for the first graphic work in 2007 Alex!)

Through my dear friend Toni, I was introduced to this band. Now while I'm here in Myspace, I listen to them more than my regular player. So Ladies and Gentlemen, may I please introduce to you,

If you love the sound of a solid body guitar, in the style of Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn, or Robin Trower, then give these guys a fair listen. But DON'T get them F**ked Up for somebody else. While they DO have that classic sort of Stratocaster kind of sound, they are innovators, not imitators. Their music is clean, and instrument driven, and not cluttered with a bunch of studio wizardry and hype. The classic sort of blues sound (with just a dash of that wonderful Rocking Texas Flava), is mixed into Good Time Rock and Roll, experimental musings, gentle music that falls upon your ears like a spring rain, and Kick Out The Jams no holds barred rockin'. They do some covers of some classic Hendrix tunes, and it would make Jimi proud. Any band can cover a song note for note, but these guys add their own freshness, and make it all their own. That's the mark of a great band.

They are just really getting up on the ladder of the music biz, and I for one think they will climb high. Personally, I would like to see a piece of their work in the unlockable section of Guitar Hero 3, due out this fall.

They have just finished recording a new album, not sure of a possible release date, check their page for updates. When it comes out, if you like what you hear, BUY (not download on Krapzaa or Crimewire) it to support these guys. They're great musicians, and they love their fans. They have 2 pages, therefore 2 players, so you can really sample and get a feel for what they're about. Click on the links below to go to their spaces and check 'em out!

StArGaZeR

They is the shiznit fer sure.......

Posted by StArGaZeR on August 17, 2007 - Friday 8:03 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Great jams, great guys.

Posted by Alex on August 17, 2007 - Friday 10:03 PM
[Reply to this]

Toni

OH ALEX GREAT JOB !~!! YOU KNOW I LOVE THEM. THIS IS SUCH A SUPER JOB ON COVERING THIS BAND.
EVERYONE LISTEN UP THIS IS RIGHT ON THE MONEY LISTEN TO "KILLING FLOOR" YOU'LL FIND THEM ON THIS PAGE AND MY PAGE AND STARGAZER'S PAGE. JOIN US IN ROCKING OUT WITH THIS BRILLANT BAND.
THANK YOU ALEX YOUR THE MAN.
I LOVE YOU TOOTS

Posted by Toni on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 2:56 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Thanks Toots! While I wanted to write about this rocking band, I also wanted to offically kick off my membership in your group. So I was thinking of you when I wrote this, and put a piece of you in with the musical note graphic in the amp.

LET"S ROCK TOOTS!

Posted by Alex on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 3:10 AM
[Reply to this]

Toni

OH WOW RIGHT ON ALEX ! COULD I BE ANY BLINDER.. LOL I SAW IT BUT DID NOT CONNECT IT..ROTFLMAO I HAVE REALLY BEEN OUT OF IT.. LOVE THE KILLING FLOOR THERE GREAT. LOVE YOU BROTHER TOOTS

Posted by Toni on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 2:15 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

OK Toni, put down the bong, and step away ROTFLMMFAOPMP

Ya know I loves ya!

Posted by Alex on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 3:59 AM
[Reply to this]

Toni

OH NO "BUSTED" ROTFLMFBFAO .. I LOVE YOU BROTHER..

Posted by Toni on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 7:38 AM
[Reply to this]

THE KILLING FLOOR

I Love you all and I wish I could just reach out and give big hugs and kisses to each and every one. It just fuels us to keep going and going... I know there's a pallet for this kind of music and again wonderful people like your selfs make all worth our while.

Alex I love the wording and description of our sound. If you don't mind I will repost this on my personal blog. There's some more music on my personal MySpace and the podOmatic site too if in case you want to hear different versions of some of our tunes.

Thanks again for the awesome review and sharing our music to your inner circle of friends and family. Much love and we're blessed to cross paths with you. Stay in touch my new friend. ~JCM

Posted by THE KILLING FLOOR on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 5:08 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Certainly you may repost, if I can assist in any way, glad to do so.

My man, the music speaks for itself, I just put into words what my ears heard. Do keep up the awesome work!

Posted by Alex on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 3:15 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killer In You

Makes a girl proud of her man! ...all the guys, rock my socks.

Posted by The Killer In You on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 6:41 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

You're a lucky woman, and one day your man will be a Star!

Posted by Alex on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 3:18 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killer In You

Hehe he's a very lucky man, believe it or not :D

Posted by The Killer In You on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 9:25 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Ya know, I had kinda gathered that from reading your page and bulletins. Behind every good man...............

Posted by Alex on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 12:59 PM
[Reply to this]

StArGaZeR

...........is a crazy blonde Aussie........hehehehe

Posted by StArGaZeR on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 10:44 PM
[Reply to this]

Rhonda

Thanks for the head's up here Alex...Great sound. The Killing Floor rocks! and they now have another friend.

Posted by Rhonda on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 5:26 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

And what a truly beautiful and aweesome new friend they have!

Love and hugs

Posted by Alex on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 3:22 PM
[Reply to this]

Maude

So where's the music? Do you have a link to their page or what?

Posted by Maude on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 6:58 PM
[Reply to this]

Maude

Duh never mind.

Posted by Maude on August 18, 2007 - Saturday 6:59 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Maude, I just love you to pieces! You are one of my very best friends here! MWAH!

Posted by Alex on August 19, 2007 - Sunday 3:56 AM
[Reply to this]

MEL

Unfortunately when you posted this blog I didn't have time (at work) to read it and ol' PS3 freak at home has had the net for a while hooked up to the machine. Mum mentioned this blog to me again last night so I decided that I'd come in and have a read first thing this morning. Great blog, and fanTASTIC that they responded, girlfriends and all! I've made an executive decision to go out at lunch and buy the cd.

I repeat to you the question I asked mum last night..."How come
I haven't heard of these bands, man?????"

Posted by MEL on August 21, 2007 - Tuesday 3:05 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Men. They're all alike.

There are lots of good bands out there, just got to find them. (It's why Myspace was orginally started)

I just love the sound of a solid body guitar playin' some blues. The Killing Floor was that and much more, so I added them as a friend just to give them a good checking out. Turns out they are not only good musicians, but great folks as well, ya gotta love that.

If you like some serious shredding, check out Alluminati. Also give Transera a listen. (Both in my friends)

I'm finding so many good bands, there's a waiting list for listening!

Posted by Alex on August 21, 2007 - Tuesday 8:12 PM
[Reply to this]

Megs

Sorry so long in the comment - you know I am nuts right now. : > ) Loved this blog. It was great. Made me go to their page and listen. And I typically don't like rock so to get me to go there was a big step. I love the sound and the only word I can find to describe it is 'clean.' It was nice,

Anyway - loved the part you wrote "The classic sort of blues sound (with just a dash of that wonderful Rocking Texas Flava), is mixed into Good Time Rock and Roll, experimental musings, gentle music that falls upon your ears like a spring rain, and Kick Out The Jams no holds barred rockin'."

God you are a beautiful writer. If I can work things like that into my writing I will be a NY Times best seller in no time.

As always - it may take me a bit - but I always find time to catch up to you because you make me smile.

Loves

Posted by Megs on August 23, 2007 - Thursday 7:03 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

No worries luv, every second I get to spend with you is a treasure.

Coming from someone who is all the wonderful things you are, your comment on my writing skills is high praise indeed.

You are a dear friend, and I love you for it!

Posted by Alex on August 24, 2007 - Friday 2:48 AM
[Reply to this]

Review from Alex on The Killing Floor's "La Danza Macabra" CD.

2008-10-26T04:24:00.001-05:00

(Thank you for the graphic work Alex. You are the best brother)

Now all of you good rockers out there know about that "Little Ol' Band From Texas"

Well forget about them fools! If you want a band with some real hair, let me introduce you to........

Just about a year ago I wrote a blog about a great little band that was on their way up the ladder entitled Good Times, Good Music (Go ahead, read it, we'll wait). They were just getting around playing out on the Texas music scene, and working towards the production of their first CD. After a few technical glitches, and some music business type BS they have finally released it. It's called "La Danza Macabra" and looks like this......

After a few glitches and delays of my own I finally got ahold of a copy, and I don't think I've taken it out of my player since. The wait was worth it, they have really put together a beauty here. Now some of you might not like "hard rock", but this is hard blister raising rock and roll topped with a scoop of ice cream. The guitar work is crisp and precise, played both with passion and fire, and the gentleness of a spring rain. The bassist lays down a perfect heartbeat to the music, working seamlessly with the percussionists to build a bedrock solid foundation to every cut on the album. The keyboards polish it all to perfection. The band is tight, making it all sound effortless, the mark of a truly great band. They show influences of Hendrix, Clapton, Dick Dale, and many others.

They do a version of Hendix's "Manic Drepression" that honors Jimi's spirit without just being a rehash. They punch the tune up, breathe new life into a classic. Something that kind of bugged me about this tune however is that the Hendrix estate charged the band $3 a copy for the rights to use the song. Now granted, it is right for them to to charge for the use of the music, but I think $3 is just a bit high.

On top of all of the good music contained within this album is something even more special. The heart and soul of this band. They truly love and appreciate their fans, and will go out of their way to ensure that they pay homage to the people that like their music. It's not just lip service when they say "We love you!", they really mean it. I recommend highly that you buy a copy of "La Danza Macabre" and get to know these great individuals. You can get this CD and band merchandise directly from their Myspace page, and it is also available in retail outlets in the San Antonio/Austin TX areas (the rest of the nation soon to come!) To go and check them out, and to hear cuts from the album, here's the link to their page...

The Killing Floor

Well that's my take on "La Danza Macabre". Buy it. Play it. Love it.

Hey Alex, the link to their page, well it works but their account has been deleted.

I will see if they have their material somewhere else on the web.

Will let ya know what i think after I've listened to them.

Posted by EurodanceAddict2 on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 4:44 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

You're just too damn fast my good man! After I posted it I checked the links and they didn't work, so I went back and re-edited with a proper ID, everythings working now.

Posted by Alex on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 4:59 PM
[Reply to this]

EurodanceAddict2

I listened to 4 tracks....good lordy lordy!!

I thought I was listening to Deep Purple when I heard the keyboards and then I thought I was revisiting Triumph when I heard the percussion.
The vocals are very Jimi Hendrix but better. and the guitar is bluesy yet rocking like Steve Vai.
So here I was getting all these influences off just a few tracks, ya cant beat that!!

These guys are GREAT!!

Good taste Alex!

Posted by EurodanceAddict2 on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 6:06 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

They do show a wide range of influences in their music. I like it because it's got that classic hard body guitar sound, the Stratocaster "twang". It's old school rock, but with a freshness. I knew a true music lover such as yourself would apprieciate this one.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:06 PM
[Reply to this]

crazypeglegg

Not bad Alix, I'll have to keep an eye out for it when it gets to my part of the country. Thanks!

Posted by crazypeglegg on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 6:54 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

It's out and about, demand it at your fave music emporium, or just a quick click on their page can put it in your hands and ears.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:08 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killer In You

Holy shit Alex, that looks beautiful!!!!! :)

The cd player in my car is broken, doesn't always allow the cd to come out and this one (even before the mixing and mastering was complete) has been gladly stuck ... I love it and am so glad you got your copy!

Ahh Stonehenge! The guys are gonna love this.

((((((((((Alex))))))))))))

ps: My fave has gotta be Mary Jayne

Posted by The Killer In You on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 8:40 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

You're so lucky to be able to see these guys play live on a regular basis.

I wanted to do something in a graphic that showed the timeless quality of the TKF's music, what a better place than Stonehenge ("....the greatest Henge of them all....")

To my taste there isn't a bad cut on the album. I like "Live" quite a bit, scratches my "axe spot". "What I Dream To Do" is boisterous, with great hooks. I'm particularly fond of "Devils Alley" because of the surf sound. And of course I love "Mary Jayne".

(((((Kelly)))))

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:20 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killer In You

(((((((Alex)))))))))))

(((((I love those brackets!)))))

Forgive me for running with the graphics for a flier, I'm just so Excited (haha pun INTENDED) and of course all credit for that goes to you...

Actually I don't get to see them on a regular basis:(

Even an hour's drive anymore has gotten to be tough with gas prices and blahblahblah.

You're the best...MUAH!

Posted by The Killer In You on August 11, 2008 - Monday 5:18 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

OMG!!

An early morning kiss from Kelly!

Wooooooooooo-Hoooooooooo!

This is gonna be a great day.

Whatever you need or want just gimmee a blast, glad to help out, loves me some Killing Floor.

Posted by Alex on August 11, 2008 - Monday 6:05 AM
[Reply to this]

Sister Mary Elephant

I am a huge fan of this band!! Got a hold of the CD myself, and like you, just love it!!! My fav has to be maryjane too... Im not familiar with the entire band, but know JCM has a peaceful spirit, (the others must also) cause it comes out in the music

Posted by Sister Mary Elephant on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 8:53 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

That's one of the things I admire about you, you have great taste in music. JCM is an awesome guy and an excellent guitar player.

Let's Rock, Sister!

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:22 PM
[Reply to this]

sandyeggo

Dunno a rift from a raft or whatever lingo is used in rock bands but put me in a symphonic situation and I am right at home. But I do know when something I hear appeals to my ears and so like a variety of music. To be honest I was thinking what I was going to hear would be very very hard but took that chance and clicked over. I was extremely surprised and listened to each song liking everything about this group.

Their sound was to to me very retro and I thought I should be looking for my love beads and of course the need to squeeze back into my "authenitc" bell bottoms.

Very very good taste Alex

Posted by sandyeggo on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 8:51 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

I love good symphonic music too. Hell, if it's music I like it. They've got a great sound, and showcase it well.

Let's get on the bells and tie-dyes, put on our beads, commune in the park with a fat boy, and get our groove on.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:28 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killer In You

Alex may I use the Stonehenge graphics for a flier this weekend?

Posted by The Killer In You on August 11, 2008 - Monday 4:45 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

You most certainly may.

If you'd like I could polish it up a bit more. Or anything else I can do.

Posted by Alex on August 11, 2008 - Monday 6:01 AM
[Reply to this]

THE KILLING FLOOR

Wow thank you Alex my friend!!! Now if only I can have 100,000 more fans like youself...lol

Thank you for the high compliments to everyone here. This CD brought tears of joy and sadness, happiness and terror and it did take every bit of two years to make. Every single project from here on will be measure by this one.

Alex my dear friend... I'm going to see if I can make this picture you created into a poster and hang it in my studio wall. Don't be surprise if I ask for your autograph...haha I won't forget to supply you with the latest bootlegs and rarities.

Just a quick note that CD is available nation wide at your local record stores. Not including the big heavy hitters like Wal-Mart, Target and Best Buy ect... Our distributor is Super D, if not you can link to our MySpace site.

Much love to everyone that shared the love and God bless... ~Juan Carlos (The Killing Floor)

Posted by THE KILLING FLOOR on August 2, 2008 - Saturday 11:41 PM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Glad you liked it Carlos!

Complimenting you and the guys was easy, you all work so well together to create a really innovative sound. A project of this measure was probably a great deal like giving birth. Painful and intense, but look at the beauty you got when it was all done.

The graphic is my pleasure entirely. I wanted something that showed the many levels of TKF, but in a simple visual statement. Timeless music, pioneers of a new age, the closeness of the band, a shining star for all to see, a subtle darkness and mystery.

I knew you had a deal worked out for national distribution, but wasn't completely sure of the details. TKF, nationwide Baby! Woo-Hooo!

You're gonna get those other 100,000 fans, I know it's coming.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:41 PM
[Reply to this]

StArGaZeR

A great tribute to a great band.

Sadly, I've only heard the songs on their site, but LUV every one of them. I had them cranked up while packing today and it really motivated me, and believe me people, that takes no mean feat.....lmao.

Only one problem, I can't get the CD here, so you'll have to hurry and get here soon so we can share it.

I'd like to say to JCM, that all the blood, sweat and tears, (hey.....that'd be a GREAT name for a band...hehehe), were more than worth it. You can easily tell that you love what you do. You are such an inspiration. Keep doing what you do so well. I hope your music takes you to great heights. Peace to you my friend.

As for you my darling Alex, you have great taste in music, (not to mention women...roflmmfao). Awesome job. Maybe you should be in Public relations!!! The collage you put together is really cool. JCM is right, it would make a great poster.

Posted by StArGaZeR on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 2:45 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Thanks baby, I apprieciate all your love and support.

I won't be doing any relations with the public, only my gorgeous wife.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:45 PM
[Reply to this]

Laurie

Hi Alex,
Thanks for introducing us to this band. I love the tracks they have on their page. Like Eggo said.. they have that 'old school' sound which is very cool. My son Adam will love this music and I'll be sure to send him the link.
Best wishes to the "The Killing Floor" and congrats on the CD.
Laurie

Posted by Laurie on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 6:46 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

Thanks Laurie! Would I steer ya wrong?

Spread it around, the world needs more good music.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:46 PM
[Reply to this]

The Walking Scandal

Ahhhh . . . dear Alex. Introducing me to several men at once. Men who know how to handle an instrument, no less.

I think a trip wherein The Scandal and Alex do the groupie thing is in order. Or, the Scandal does the groupie thing and Alex watches.

Tell your friends to look out. They are about to be Scandal-ized.

Posted by The Walking Scandal on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 7:17 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

I know how to handle an instrument too. It just doesn't make great music though. Does make women sing however.

Hell yeah, Road Trip! You do the groupie thing, Kelly and I will film it. Every great rock band needs a sex tape.

Nobody is EVER the same, once they've been Scandalized.

Posted by Alex on August 3, 2008 - Sunday 12:51 PM
[Reply to this]

Fire Dog

Really really good band. I am gonna order the CD just based on what the guys have on myspace. Really tight band, great "ear-gasm"! No f'n shit!

They do a damn good jam on Voodoo Child, too.

Posted by Fire Dog on August 6, 2008 - Wednesday 10:11 AM
[Reply to this]

Alex

The stuff on Myspace is older cuts, pre-album release. The technical work on the album is awesome. Things are cleaned up, got a tight and fluid sound, very sharp.

They DO rock the ass offa "Voodoo Child".

Posted by Alex on August 6, 2008 - Wednesday 12:26 PM
[Reply to this]

The Killing Floor CD now for sale to the masses!!

2008-10-26T04:05:00.000-05:00

Click here for your copy of THE KILLING FLOOR's CD!!

Fender® Introduces Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster® Guitar Model

2008-10-26T03:58:00.001-05:00

(Click for a close-up)

For nearly twenty years Fender® and modern blues sensation Kenny Wayne Shepherd have shared a stage and they are now officially announcing the September 2008 release of his new signature model, the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster® guitar.

A sleekly elegant addition to Fender's stable of artist Strat® models, the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster is based on Shepherd's own '61 instrument (which will soon be on display at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum) and welds vintage style to modern features. Most distinctively, Shepherd's new signature model boasts a blueswailing voice of its own thanks to its three custom-voiced Kenny Wayne Shepherd pickups.

Other features include an alder-body, maple neck with 12"-radius rosewood fingerboard and 21 jumbo frets, vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge with Graph Tech® saddles and Fender vintage-style tuning machines. The guitar comes in three polyester finishes — a Black model with a three-ply black-white-black pickguard and racing stripe body graphic, and Three-color Sunburst and Arctic White models that each have a three-ply mint green pickguard (with cross graphic on the Arctic White model).

"It's an honor to be a part of the Signature Series guitar line. My goal throughout the design process was to combine top notch quality with unique appearances and road proven components at an affordable price. These guitars will help a new generation of guitarists develop their own signature sound the way Fender has helped me to develop mine.

The Louisiana-born Shepherd began recording his first album at age 16 and became a blues/rock sensation. He has sold millions of albums worldwide, including the platinum selling Ledbetter Heights (1995), the Grammy®-nominated and platinum selling Trouble Is ... (1998), Grammy® nominated Live On (1999), The Place You're In (2004) and two time Grammy® nominated 10 Days Out: Blues from the Backroads (2007). Shepherd has four No. 1 blues albums to his credit, including Billboard Magazine's # 1 Blues Album of 2007, a string of No. 1 mainstream rock singles, two Billboard Music Awards (1998's Rock Song of the Year and Blues Album of the Year), two Orville H. Gibson Awards, the Blues Foundation's Keeping The Blues Alive Award, and a Blues Music Award.

"In addition to his unique voice, unbelievable abilities and general fingerboard prowess, Kenny is one of the modern-day ambassadors for a true American art form — the blues," said Justin Norvell, Fender's marketing director for electric guitars. "His Grammy®-nominated 10 Days Out showcased a mutual respect that crosses generations. He is the real deal, and he has the entire package."

For more information, visit their web site at www.fender.com.

Fender® Custom Shop Announces David Gilmour Signature Series Stratocaster® Guitar

2008-10-26T03:53:00.002-05:00

David Gilmour and the Fender Custom Shop are extremely proud to announce the highly anticipated release of one of the most iconic musical instruments of the past 50 years — the David Gilmour Signature Series Stratocaster® guitar. Based on Gilmour's famous "Black Strat®" guitar, the instrument will be available at select Fender retailers worldwide beginning Sept. 22, 2008.

A cornerstone of Pink Floyd's incomparably revolutionary sound, Gilmour's Black Strat is featured extensively on The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Wall and his critically acclaimed 2006 solo effort, On An Island. The Fender Custom Shop worked hand-in-hand with Gilmour and his longtime guitar technician, Phil Taylor, to create this signature model, a detailed reproduction of the Black Strat — complete in its unmistakable look, sound and feel.

Gilmour bought the original instrument in May 1970 from Manny's Music in New York. The guitar's first Pink Floyd recorded appearance came on the group's fifth album, Atom Heart Mother. It subsequently became Gilmour's main guitar for live performances and studio work.

The new reproduction — the David Gilmour Signature Series Stratocaster guitar — features an alder body, black over three-color sunburst finish, a black pickguard, a one-piece straight-grain maple neck, custom pickups and Gilmour's now-infamous electronics and shortened vintage tremolo arm. Beautiful, powerful, unique and as idiosyncratic as Gilmour's playing, the guitar will be produced by the Fender Custom Shop in N.O.S. (new old stock) and Relic® versions.

The David Gilmour Signature Series Stratocaster guitar comes with a custom case, an Evidence high-end guitar cable, Gilmour's three-disc Live in Gdansk CD/DVD set and Taylor's 2007 book about the guitar's history, The Black Strat. The first 500 guitars sold in either finish option will include a limited edition, signed copy of The Black Strat book, autographed by Phil Taylor.

For more information, visit their web site at www.fender.com.

Thank you Joel Ryan!!

2008-10-24T07:34:00.004-05:00

Joel and myself jamming away on some tune.

For the "Utopian God Graphic" picture. Kick ass brother and as you can see it's now my default picture here... Check out on MySpace "Daggers" site on our links here... ~Juan Carlos

You can now download our The Killing Floor's music.

2008-10-20T04:29:00.004-05:00

You can now download The Killing Floor's music through snocap for your convenience. Spread the word and thank you for your support. ~Juan Carlos

And jango was his name...

2008-10-06T05:43:00.001-05:00

Monday, October 06, 2008

And Jango was his name...
Current mood: blessed
Category: Music

A couple of bass virtuosos such as David Garza and Matt Wicks have grazed and placed a sweet spot addition to The Killing Floor's past. But our latest addition and secret weapon of choice is...

Jango on bass!!

Is a whole and different ball of wax... or should i say different shades of color.

Jango's bass solo "Lesson One" is so evident of his skills on the bass. At the GOC gig, we all witness the mayhem and ruckus this man makes with just four strings...lol
~Juan Carlos

Currently listening :
La Danza Macabra
By The Killing Floor
Release date: By 2008-07-15

Sorry for being MIA here...

2008-10-06T05:07:00.001-05:00

Sorry for being MIA here...
Current mood: rushed

We will be blogging more and sorry for being MIA here... Doing the catch up game and more blogging news to come. The Killing Floor

Currently listening :
La Danza Macabra
By The Killing Floor
Release date: 2008-07-15

Our Farewells...

2008-10-06T04:59:00.000-05:00

Our farewells...
Current mood: confident

We appreciated having had the opportunity to work with MiGGs, Bam Bam and Aries. Thank you for the support, guidance, and encouragement you have provided during our time. We are looking forward new challenges and starting a new phase towards a new chapter in our history.

Thanks again for everything and our blessings towards your musical endeavors.

The Killing Floor

Currently listening :
La Danza Macabra
By The Killing Floor
Release date: 2008-07-15

Hiram Bullock, 52, Soulful Guitarist, Dies By NATE CHINEN

2008-08-31T02:23:00.006-05:00

This one really hits home with me. I'm very sadden to read of Hiram Bullock passing today, a month later from a guitar player magazine. His passing should have been on the news and posted everywhere. We lost one of the greatest guitar player in the world. The article below will give you an insight to this true legend. Rest in peace and long live Hiram Bullock's music. ~Juan Carlos

Hiram Bullock, 52, Soulful Guitarist, Dies By NATE CHINEN
Published: July 31, 2008

Hiram Bullock, a soulful and adaptable jazz and rock guitarist who was a member of the original band for “Late Night with David Letterman,” died last Friday in Manhattan. He was 52.

Mr. Bullock played on some blockbuster pop albums, including “The Stranger” by Billy Joel, Steely Dan’s “Gaucho” and the soundtrack to “A Star is Born” by Barbra Streisand. His best-known solo was on the 1987 Sting album “Nothing Like the Sun,” in a version of Jimi Hendrix’s “Little Wing.

But Mr. Bullock was always more than a session ace. He made his biggest impact in the realm of jazz-rock, funk and fusion, and his own albums, which often featured his singing and songwriting, never strayed far from that base. His last one, released on BHM in 2005, was “Too Funky 2 Ignore.”
He had substantial and productive relationships with other jazz musicians, including the composer and arranger Gil Evans, who served as a kind of mentor, and the bassist Jaco Pastorius, who taught him and employed him in multiple bands.

Born in Osaka, Japan, to parents serving in the United States military, Mr. Bullock grew up mainly in Baltimore, where he studied at the Peabody Conservatory of Music. He played the saxophone and bass guitar before switching to guitar at 16. Then, at the University of Miami, he studied with the guitarist Pat Metheny and Pastorius, supporting himself with steady work in local clubs. One of his gigs was with the soul singer Phyllis Hyman, who took him with her to New York. Mr. Bullock caused a stir almost immediately.

The alto saxophonist David Sanborn said he first heard him in 1975 when they were working across the street from each other. “He was the cornerstone of my band for a long time,” Mr. Sanborn said. Mr. Bullock appeared on 10 of Mr. Sanborn’s albums, starting in 1976, and on the eclectic late-night music showcase of which Mr. Sanborn was host on NBC from 1988 to 1990.

Another important early advocate was the record producer Phil Ramone, who brought him in on sessions for “The Stranger” and Paul Simon’s “One Trick Pony,” among others. “He was kind of the talk of the town,” Mr. Ramone said. In the late 1970s Mr. Bullock started the 24th Street Band with the bassist Will Lee, the keyboardist Clifford Carter and the drummer Steve Jordan. The group made three albums. “At the beginning of the Letterman show, when I needed a band, I just co-opted the 24th Street Band,” the keyboardist Paul Shaffer said, referring to “Late Night with David Letterman,” which began broadcasting on NBC in 1982. The World’s Most Dangerous Band, as Mr. Shaffer billed the group, brought particular attention to Mr. Bullock, who became known as the barefoot guitarist.

Behind the scenes, Mr. Bullock was earning a reputation for unreliability, one byproduct of a serious drug problem that persisted for years. “The relentlessness and regularity of the schedule just proved to be a little bit too much for Hiram,” Mr. Shaffer said. He left the show after two years but occasionally returned, notably in 1986 to celebrate his Atlantic release “From All Sides.” Mr. Bullock was largely open about his struggle with substance abuse. “It’s not hard to spiral down,” he sang on a song called “After the Fall,” released in 2003.

In addition to Ms. Armstrong, Mr. Bullock’s survivors include two stepsons, known as Sansho and Niko; and four sisters, Jackie Lewis, Carmen Bean, Brenda Canterbury and Margene Williams. On Monday night “Late Show with David Letterman” included a special tribute to Mr. Bullock. “As I said on the show,” Mr. Shaffer said, “I think he was the greatest guitar player ever, with the exception perhaps of Jimi Hendrix. Nobody was ever better.”

I can't wait for this gig!! Thank you Ben/ Electric Ocean!

2008-08-12T11:19:00.001-05:00

www.gonzalesthunderrally.com

Stores in San Antonio that have The Killing Floor’s CD in Stock!

2008-07-08T07:40:00.004-05:00

(Downtown San Antonio)

The Killing Floor's full-length CD finally became available ..July 1, 2008.. on the net everywhere.

Locals in San Antonio can now buy "La Danza Macabra" at these following record stores in which CDs will be in stock.

Flipside Records
1445 SW Military Dr.
San Antonio, Texas
78221
Ph: 210-923-7811

Hogwild Records
1824 N. Main Ave.
San Antonio, Texas
78212
Ph: 210-733-5354

The Rock Box
4307 Thousand Oaks
San Antonio, Texas
78217
Ph: 210-650-9095

CD Trader 10724
Perrin Beitel Rd.
San Antonio, Texas
78217
Ph 210-590-0045

Music Town
4714 Broadway Street
San Antonio, Texas 78209
ph: 210-826-2737

Waterloo in Austin will stock by the end of this week.

If you have a favorite record store in mind that you would like our CD to be. Please let us know and we will work on it right way. Thank you, ~The Killing Floor

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans....

2008-07-06T04:53:00.001-05:00

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans....

Part 3

A Commentary, by Professor Pooch

"Promotion" is the most obvious step that comes next in most people's minds. Artists promoting themselves, telling their fans and potential fans that they're playing at this venue or that venue.

But first, my question to you is, "What is it you're actually promoting?" That is, when you're promoting yourself, what will be your potential fans perception of what you're promoting? Will you just be one more "amateur artist" playing somewhere?

Let's step back to that Big Picture we discussed earlier and take it a few steps further. What is the perception that your still-in-the-closet-potential-fans will be expecting that will make them want to come out to see you?

"Well, we're playing at so & so's club or bar or venue." In other words, "Come out to our gig".

Let's face reality, if people have never heard of you, why should they come out to see you? What are you offering them that a thousand other unknowns can't [or don't] offer? Let's face it, if you perceive your appearance as "just a gig", what do you expect your potential audience to see it as!

It's useless spending lots of time, energy and money promoting something if people's preconceived perception will be, "Oh, why should I go there, never heard of them, no one's talking about them, so they must be boring, a waste of time."

My point: When you go out to see a favorite star performer in the big arenas, are you going to their "gig"? Or, are you going to, what is perceived to be a "Can't-Miss EVENT???

Now, it is up to the Artist, for one, to make it appear as one! And to appear as one, it should BE one. And it CAN be one, WHEN the Artists perceive it as one!

Every performance at every venue should be thought of, and looked at as an EVENT, a SHOW, a SPECIAL OCCASION, an EXPERIENCE, an important reason for people to leave their house, put gas in their car, pay the cover charge, etc., and come see you.

You must start thinking of your performances as if you were performing at a scaled down arena show. You have to take those "extra steps" ensuring people that your performance and your "show" are special, and that you're not just another band getting up in front of a microphone and playing and singing. Lots of people can get up and sing and play – and those are the Artists who will get nowhere in today's society.

Unless you've been in a cave over the last few years, you've noticed that this is a Visual Society, inundated with multimedia that is competing with your band – and people often don't have to leave their houses anymore to be entertained.

"Hey man, I'm a serious Artist. I'm not selling out for no one!". Hey man, yourself, I'm not asking you to give up any integrity - I'm just asking you to come alive! I'm not asking you to be anyone but yourself. I'm just asking you to look at this performance as a fun and rewarding event. And if you don't see it as one, how do you expect anyone else to think it's one?

All you need to do is wake up, make a slight attitude adjustment, and take whatever extra steps that you can conceive of and afford that fits your image and makes your show stand out.

Now, it is not up to just the Artists to make your shows stand out…

Artists' Managers, street teams, representatives of every sort: What are you doing to help? Are you looking at each performance as a special one, and are you being just as creative on the biz and promotion end as your artists are on their music end? And are you making sure the Venues are on the ball?

Venues: What are you doing to make people's perception be that you're the "In Place" to go to be entertained? And, are you being just as creative on the biz and promotion and public relation's end as the Artists are [should be] on their music end.

To sum it up, the Artists, Managers and Venues must work together to create this perception: an event that people will be coming to that will be extra special.

But we're wasting a lot of time here unless everyone involved understands and takes the steps to ensure that everyone's perception doesn't become another let-down. You can't, and shouldn't even try to fool your audience. You actually have to make this event be not just another event, but an event to be remembered! And, you CAN!

To be continued…

Yes, you may repost this, and yes, please have everyone who's interested in a successful career in the Music Business, read this...

Professor Pooch

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans Part 2

2008-07-06T04:46:00.001-05:00

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans

Part 2

A Commentary, by Professor Pooch

The 2^nd main reason it's hard to draw new fans revolves around the word "Perception". Perception includes, in part, the Artist's perception or view of their "job", and how it affects the potential fans perception of the "Unsigned Artists Scene".

Note: Let me say here, the problem of perception and the answers to this problem do not lie totally on the Artist's shoulders, but also fall on the Artists' Managers, Venues and Fans, which I will also cover later and throughout…

It should be made clear here, that Artists should still care about attracting both the over 21 crowd as well as the younger potential fans. For everyone, even those over 21, there is still the need to discover something new and different, something "to do" that people will know will at least be a lot of fun; an escape.

And one main perception problem I see with Artists is that most do not see, or have a very narrow slant on: "The Big Picture". Too many Artists believe their job is to just write and learn songs, practice them, go out and sing and play them.

An Artist's actual performance aim should be to entertain people, to help people escape from reality, that is, to help them forget about their busy and/or crazy and/or problematic and/or boring life, to grab them and take them with the Artist on a mini-vacation - that both the Artists and the Fans will remember even after they leave the show…

So, I have the following questions for the Artists,

1. "Why should potential fans really want to come to your shows – even if they knew you existed?"

2. "When they DO get to see you, what will make them not only want to see you again, but also want to buy your CDs and Merchandise?" And…

3. "Will they love you so much that they will desire to tell others, through word-of-mouth, print, internet or however, "You Gotta See This Band!" ?

Yes, what are YOU, the Musical Artist/Group/Band offering them that's special and really stands out? What is so unique about you that can grab their attention and keep them as fans.

Well folks, with the advent of all this computer and networking technology, you're not only competing with a ton of other Artists, you're also competing with tons of other forms of diversions, entertainment and escapism.

Of course there's always the basics, as they say, "You can't polish shit…." You obviously have to be talented as Songwriters and Artists…

But when you practice, what else are you doing besides learning songs? Whether you know it or not, you are developing [hopefully] your own "Sound". A Sound that [hopefully] makes you sound like you, and no one else. That when you hear the first 15 seconds of a Performance, you are not just grabbed in, but they also know who you are!!

Your Sound makes up one integral part of your overall "Image". And, your image is a major point to consider and develop. Your image could be described as: What you play, the way you play it, the way you come across to people, and the way you look.

Therefore, although during practice music is usually the main area of concentration, there are other just as important considerations that most Musicians don't think about. That is, does your Group look "wasted", dead, or very much alive? What does your equipment look and sound like? What kind of relationship do you wish to develop with your audience? Are you Singing and Playing, or Performing, communicating with your audience and drawing them in to you?

Simply put what will affect your potential fans perception of you? That once they know you exist will talk about you to no end.

But there's one more very important Perception Factor that must be overcome that is necessary to draw your potential fans out of the closet, so that you actually have the chance to give them a chance to get to know and love you…

To be continued…

Yes, you may repost this, and yes, please have everyone who's interested in a successful career in the Music Business, read this...

Professor Pooch Music Business Guidance, Education & Direction Music Business Contract Services

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans – Part 1

2008-07-06T04:36:00.003-05:00

Unsigned Acts and Drawing Fans

A Commentary, by Professor Pooch

I look around the "Big City" and I see Musical Artists/Bands looking for places to play for as large an audience as possible, wanting to be heard, wanting to gain new fans, wanting to earn a living doing what they like to do – Creating and Playing their Music.

Of course, naturally, they are going to go where they can be hired, which most of the time consists of different Bars, Clubs and other drinking establishments...

Well, in theory, this should work pretty well; you have places to gather and nurture fans, and you're doing what you love to do - play Music. But, as I'm sure most of you have found out, this rarely works very well…

Why? The 1st of a couple main reasons is actually very simple when you really look at it…

I remember my pre-teen and teenage years, when I, a potential Music fan like anyone else of my generation, was introduced to, and developed a taste for Music, and the Artists who delivered it.

This Music seriously affected me in one way or another in these formidable years. Music, and the Artists who presented and represented this new music to me, appeared as one entity. And this entity, and the other influences at that time of my life really affected me and became a major part of my life during this ever-important time of my life. A time when I, this young, growing person, became ME.

That was "My Generation", but you and every other generation living and growing socially and otherwise through these same important preteen and teenage age years, accumulate[d] your own tastes, including whom you are/were influenced by, etc. You, like me, and everyone else are attracted to certain kinds of music and the lifestyle associated with it, formulate your taste, which you associate with this very important part of your life. Your social, and therefore your musical life, are formulated together – by Music, and the Performing/Recording Acts that brought this Music to you…

So, let's look at the situation and do some simple math:

On one side we have: Unsigned Acts who are usually forced to play where they can, most often in Clubs, Bars, what have you. Clubs, in most localities, equals ages 21 and above, where liquor is served.. And, of course, the establishments want you to draw lots of fans, to drink up and make them money. [A fact of life – the venues don't care often how good you are – just how many people you bring in.]

But, your potential fans, being over the age of 21, are already pretty set in their tastes. They want cover-bands and songs from their generation, or they go to arena-type concerts where the "Stars", whom they associate with these songs that made up these important years, perform.

On the other side we have: Those under 21, who are stuck listening to what ever is programmed into their head for them to hear, usually coming from the Major Labels, or their Subsidiaries. They have no idea what they are missing – they are not given the opportunity to see and hear some great local unsigned acts that they could discover and call their own, because they can't see these Artists and hear their Music - because they're not allowed in the door!!!

Yes there is, of course, a seemingly obvious answer to this problem. But, all-ages shows have there own issues, and only partly solves the overall situation even when these gigs are available… The real answers run much deeper...

To be continued…

Yes, you may repost this, and yes, please have everyone who's interested in a successful career in the Music Business, read this...

Professor Pooch Music Business Guidance, Education & Direction Music Business Contract Services

The Killing Floor's full length CD is now Available!!

2008-07-01T05:54:00.007-05:00

The Killing Floor's "La Danza Macabra" CD is finally here!

Here's the track list...

1. Live
2. What I Dream To Do
3. Day By Day
4. Mary Jayne
5. Its Not Me
6. Savvy
7. Hole In My Heart
8. Streets
9. Devil's Alley
10. Manic Depression

Go to our MySpace Page to purchase your copy, here's the link for details.

www.myspace.com/thekillingfloor

Last night things were more intense. June 6, 2008 By: Aries

2008-06-06T11:23:00.003-05:00

From: Gonzales, Texas (2-23-08)

Last night things were more intense. The guys really focused on specific areas. With the CD pre-released and orders coming in for it they want to make sure fans get a show they won't soon forget so everyone is working on perfecting their performances. There was a memorable moment when Miggs almost destroyed equipment (and could have broken some bones) with his energetic jumping around! Jack made us feel like we were in a garden with his wind chimes which both intrigued and irritated at times but leave it to Jack to come up with using them for a little extra umph to his sound. I love the guy! Carlos sounded extra clean after some tweaks to his gear, Bam Bam did his thing and shook his maracas (juvenile but -that comment made me giggle) and then there's Darren.... ahhhh Darren. The musical genius that doesn't show his true talents often enough. He had the most work to do tonight. Everyone had more than usual ups and downs during this practice but it's all for the sake of the music and their fans.

Miggs had some band tags made and they look GREAT!!! A limited amount of copies will be made available for purchase by fans. What a great way to show your support! Wear them to the shows so the guys know who their fans are! Details to come soon!

RIP: "Sid" May 23, 2008

2008-05-24T05:29:00.005-05:00

I love you and I will miss you dearly Sid... ~JCM

A night w/The Killing Floor: May 22, 2008 By: Aries

2008-05-24T04:21:00.004-05:00

Last night's practice was something else! Voodoo Mojo Man aka Jack jumped on the electronic kit, Bam Bam had his Taye set up along with his Congas, Darren on his keyboard and JCM brought out his acoustic guitar. Mr. Miggs was missed but we all understand his government spy job keeps him busy and traveling. ;-o The night started off playing around with new song endings but turned into something unexpected! There was Reggae number that emerged from the jamming then that turned to irresistible Latin grooves. Jack got back on his kit and he and Bam Bam went all out! The two compliment each other well - no egos or jealousy for these two - they fed off each other's energy and it was incredible! Darren made my jaw drop when he threw out some CUMBIA rhythms! I think that guy has some Latin in him!!! The sounds were so hot Pat couldn't resist shaking her cadera (and a couple other parts)! Jack was temporarily distracted and couldn't keep his eyes off her but eventually Pat quit torturing him and sat back down. A few shakes of the head to clear his mind and Jack was back at practice with the rest of the guys. JCM surprised me. I know he's talented but last night he laid out some Spanish, Latin, Jazz, Reggae and even Classical sounds. I was speechless! This is truly a multi talented group of musicians. I don't think there's anything they can't do!

Broadway 50/50: Review by: Aries

2008-05-24T04:15:00.001-05:00

Broadway 50/50:

There's no better place than Broadway 50/50 to spot SA celebrities, enjoy great food & music and no matter how many strangers are there - it feels like family.

The announcement was made that advance copies of their latest CD "La Danza Macabra" were available pre-release. That said the band proceeeded to rock the house playing songs from their CD, relaxed jam sessions and an unexpected cover or two. The guys put their hearts and souls into their performances and you could feel it! There were some magical moments where the guys went into unplanned jams. The flow was spiritual! In the crowd you'd see feet tapping, head shaking, singing along and shouts of how great the band is. Bam Bam rocked the night on the bongos/congas, the unstoppable beats coming from Miggs as he danced around onstage, wildman Jack almost busting out of his own skin and Darren's smooth keys took equal spotlight alongside the JCMs exciting guitar work and you couldn't help but watch each one of them in action!!! The night came to a close and I can only imagine what the TKF must have felt...... To look out, adrenaline pumping, exhausted from giving it all they had and see people yelling for them to keep going, shouts of "you f*ckin rock", "yeah baby that kicked ass", "you guys are the sh*t" and "take me home with you", to see the smiles, the hands up in the air, even a couple lighters held up - You couldn't ask for a better ending!

Special thanks to friends: Larry, the bands previous percussionist, who came out in support and even sang a few songs for old times sake! Mindframe and Mark from Rock City thanks for coming out. To the fans that were there, THANK YOU! To the ones that couldn't make it - you missed out on an amazing show at a venue where legends have graced the stage. All I can say is: you sadly missed it.....maybe next time....

The Killing Floor @ Patriot Guard Rally 4-26-08: By: Aries

2008-05-02T01:40:00.002-05:00

Patriot Guard Rally:

Things got off to a slow start. Electric Ocean and SuperCrash were unable to play. TKF and Mindframe would be playing. The guys were barely warming up through a few songs when they had to stop for a raffle and a live auction. Darren was a little too animate with his hand waving and was mistaken for a bidder - the amount $120.00! Luckily someone bid higher! After a LOOOONG while the guys started up again. Everyone was a showman! Darren danced behind his keys, Bam Bam played like a man possessed, Jack went wild - even playing behind his back, Miggs laid down the law with his bass and JCM melted the place with his string heat! The crowd didn't want them to stop! I was walking around and people kept commenting on how great the band was. Mindframe had arrived but it was late so they decided to stay and watch TKF play. I have to say MindFrame showed what being true musicians and being professional is all about. They supported TKF - no jealousy, no egos.. no hating whatsoever. I wish more bands were like them! At the end of the night most of the older Vets had retired but the ones that were still hanging in there continued to have nothing but good things to say and were cheering until the very end.

It was an honor to be in the presence of so many brave men. Men who put down their very lives for us to have the freedom we do now.

Thank you to Koyote Ranch for hosting the event. The place is something else - Cabins high up on the mountains, crystal clear water, tent camping, rustic camping, party room, bike-friendly, rv ready...the place truly is worth the long drive for! Check out their site at: www.koyoteranch.com

....ARIES

Jimmy Kimmel Roasts Simon on Idol Gives Back

2008-04-21T23:01:00.002-05:00