Boston-based Hannah and the Bloodlines is the engaging indie/pop juggernaut of Hannah Sumner (vocals), Stephen Gaspar (guitar), Ryan Broderick (drums), Shaun Munday (bass), Cody Sterling (bass), and Jeremy Vovcsko (saxophone).  Ear candy, for certain.

Hannah was kind enough to agree to an e-mail interview with  SHEI, below (and, yes, the “bloodlines” name  will be explained).

1. Describe your sound in less than ten words.

If Sade got a little weird

2. Okay, now the brevities are out of the way- tell us more about The Bloodlines. You’re a five piece outfit- how’d you come together?  What inspired the name, “The Bloodlines”?

We all met in college, I was writing some songs, and a friend wanted to record them so I needed to put a band together. I didn’t really know anyone, so Stephen Gaspar, the guitar player, asked some of his friends and that’s how it came together. As the band grew the members really became a family, and I decided it could no longer go under my name, as it had, and I came up with ‘The Bloodlines’. The name also tied into my belief that everyone and everything affect each other. You have to put out the energy you wish to receive.

3. What inspires your music?  You’re the lead singer, but who else pens the lyrics?

About half the songs are written by me alone, the others are collaborations with the guitar player, Stephen Gaspar, except for Raven, which was inspired by [our] drummer, Ryan Broderick.

I think our main goal when we write is to create something unique and beautiful. Something that we would want to listen to.

4. “Raven’s” a pretty infectious song to the ears (in a good way); my favorite number on your Myspace.  What’s the story behind this  catchy tune?

Well, Ryan came to Stephen and I with an idea, and we told him to bring it to rehearsal, and voila!

The lyrics were written around the time of the election, when America was going to make the decision to continue it’s path or try a different course. There was this intense energy that everyone was building. It was great! Probably one of the first times CNN competed with MTV’s reality TV.

5. Your Myspace lists your record label as “Yum, yes please!”  Any deal in the making?

No, we haven’t found anything that would work for us yet, but it would be delicious!

Photo provided by the Artist

Well, I’m not sure many artists will be going platinum, as not many people buy records anymore, but there is still much success to be had. As a group we have been able to do 50 date tours, record albums, win awards, be featured in magazines, and play on the radio all over the country. I think when we can travel the world and support ourselves comfortably with music we will have achieved our goal, but we have already done some pretty cool things.

7. The Internet’s swimming with innumerable bands.  Have you found social networking – Myspace, Facebook, etc. – as a catalyst for exposure?  Or do you find it’s even more difficult to stand out in the digital divulge?

All of those networks are necessities for any group, but they are not going to set you above anyone. They do allow you to have a connection with your true fans, and make you more accessible to them, which is very important, especially in the beginning

8. To what band would you most directly compare The Bloodlines, but what makes your sound different?

Hahah, every time I answer this question people tell me I sound like someone completely different. We mix a lot of genres, but I think we might give off a vibe of if Dave Matthews Band had a child with The Police, and Sade was it’s godmother. Take a listen and tell me what you think, I would love to have this question answered.

9.Any particular memorable moments you’d care to share?

Well, receiving two awards for best New Artist  [Appetizer Golden Fork] while beating Iron & Wine in a category was pretty sweet. Also, at one of our last shows some kids got on stage and started dancing with me. That was amazing!

1o. Publicity time: Any URLs to share?  Upcoming shows, albums you want to plug?

We are recording our new EP as we speak! You can check out and download our current music at: http://soundcloud.com/bloodlinetones get info on shows here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hannah-The-Bloodlines/42404736736.  YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFcp-IkCb2M

Official promo material. Curiosity piqued?

I’ll spare any twists and turns and get right to the point- a group of five friends is shaken when their ringleader, Alison, goes missing. All is fine and well until mysterious messages are left for the remaining four by an unidentified “A” (Take, for example, “I’m still here, bitches, and I know everything. -A”). And when Alison’s body is found, well, absurdity ensues. There’s no denying a bit of David Lynch and Marc Cherry firmly grounded in this show’s roots- the premiere even featured shots so similar to the pilot of Desperate Housewives, one couldn’t help but chuckle. But that is where it succeeds: it’s a mockery of melodrama, an often comedic depiction of all things wrong with being a teenager in America. I mean, let’s be real, you can’t help but burst out into laughter when a flask is passed down the first row of a church pew at Alison’s funeral.

To put it simply, Pretty Little Liars has no soul. Despite this, however, it is a piece of pop culture collage that is worth noting. And with the first season picked up for 12 more episodes, I certainly recommend a passing glance for those of us who consider ourselves TV educated. Like much of the content out there today, it requires little thinking and can best be enjoyed with a strong glass of skepticism and wit. But from the moment you meet the deviant blind girl, Jenna, who’s rattling cane sends shivers down our protagonists’ spines, it’s hard to look away. And, like many tweens, I’ll be awaiting to see if and when the mystery is wrapped up. No harm, no foul.

A suggestion for producers, however: take a note from Peaks and keep this a secret for as long as possible. One false move, and you’ll be television history.

What may ultimately seem like a lackadaisical attempt to stay afloat in the era of 3D, however, eventually transforms into a clever time capsule of sorts with the capability of capturing the world as we all see it: you, me, and just about everyone else. Kevin MacDonald poses three questions to be answered via submissions, not only to add a coherent flair but to seize an emotional and psychological image of the 2010 human. What do you fear most in your life today? What do you love? What makes you laugh? And, a final request asks for submitters to reach into their pocket and film what is there. Strange? Yes. But it has the potential to exhibit exactly how the world lives, thinks, breathes, and thrives.

Only time will tell how this project comes together. It sure does beat the altogether stomach churning mess I see as the current state of cinematic experience, but its overwhelming tinge of aggressive marketing is a huge turn off. What is to be a story of a day in the life of global mankind has been drenched with corporate and promotional excess. If Scott and MacDonald can overcome this bearing weight, infusing their own remarkable styles into the piece without filter, then Life in a Day has the opportunity to be a quirky glimpse of exactly what its title employs.

Meanwhile, Andy Warhol was right. And if you think a typical day in your life is worth watching, I say- why not? You’ve only got 15 minutes….

from Quirk Books

Film snobs are just like their visual art and music-loving brethren in that they have an aptitude for pretentious conversation. It’s the kind of discussion that would make anybody not unusually well-versed in independent and avant-garde cinema squirm like a Latter-Day Saint at a strip club. Unfortunately, finding oneself accidentally embroiled in such conversation is far more likely and much less hilarious than the latter (no pun intended…) situation:

- Average Adam, what did you think of Ingmar Bergman’s seminal Persona?

- Uh…

If this question would likely elicit a similar response from your mouth, and you generally enjoy movies (just not the “right” ones), Robert Schnakenberg’s “Secret Lives of Great Filmmakers” is the ideal tome to carry on any trips to the local coffee shop. This time, when you bump into film aficionados sipping on Earl Grey tea – because nothing subtly whispers “I am enlightened” like drinking tea in a coffee shop – the conversation might go a little something like this:

-       Average Adam, what did you think of Ingmar Bergman’s seminal Persona?

-       I will answer your question with another question, Enlightened Eddie. What do you think of Bergman’s ability to hurl his fuzzy slippers at leading lady Liv Ullman’s head, as he once did in the midst of a lovers’ spat?

Schnakenberg’s book contains all sorts of random tidbits like this about directors hailing from places all over the world and from across time, like the early twentieth-century’s D.W. Griffith to modern-day heavyweights like Tarantino. “Secret Lives of Great Filmmakers” functions as a collection of short biographies of major directors, as the author briefly summarizes their lives before delving into the more sordid parts of their existence. The book contains somewhat well-known facts like Walt Disney’s sympathies for the Nazi party, as well as trivia even the most hardened film buff likely wouldn’t know. Take, for example, Charlie Chaplin’s reputation for being well-hung.

The Not-So Little Tramp

“Secret Lives of Great Filmmakers” is organized chronologically, with a chapter for each director. It also has an index in the back, so it’s easy to find information if you’re looking for a particular director or bit of trivia. But it’s definitely not a serious reference book – which should be pretty obvious if you noticed the ad in the back matter for the new Quirk Books’ website, Irreference.com – and like a lot of things that are slightly irreverent, Schnakenberg’s book isn’t boring, either.

Although the book is chock full of facts about directors most people haven’t heard of, it’s entertaining and easy enough to read for anybody who harbors even the slightest fondness for the silver screen.  It’s also a good primer for people who want to explore great directors and don’t know where to start, as each chapter lists the director’s major works.

That’s not to say it’s dumbed down; I’m sure even the snobbiest of film critics would discover something previously-unknown with the book’s abundance of director-centric tidbits.  At the very least, they would appreciate Schnakenberg’s witty, snarky, and slightly bitter tone. In fact, “Secret Lives of Great Filmmakers” is a great read for a lot of folks. Film buffs, those who enjoy breaking awkward silences in social situations by spouting off random trivia, and people who’d rather read a book in between classes instead of checking Facebook will all find something to enjoy within its pages.

Visit Irreference.com to purchase the book and see similar titles.

Chris Cain & Keith Murray - We Are Scientists

Our expert Photography Editor, Chelsea Brown, had a few more photos from the Tuesday night We Are Scientists concert at The Blind Pig that we wanted to share with you. Enjoy!

Keith Murray works the merch table. Chris Cain has the aesthetic of another era.

Chris Cain plays bass while Keith Murray is lead guitar and the vocals of We Are Scientists (formerly drummer).

These guys are mellow offstage but become star performers when they begin to play.

A little bit of opener. Rewards, with some back up from Lightspeed Champion.

Lightspeed Champion and yes, he was amazing.

]]> http://www.sheimagazine.com/blog/2010/we-are-scientists-the-coffee-table-photo-album/feed/ 0 http://www.sheimagazine.com/blog/2010/the-morning-after-we-are-scientists-the-blind-pig/ http://www.sheimagazine.com/blog/2010/the-morning-after-we-are-scientists-the-blind-pig/#comments Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:15:26 +0000 B.C. Bodnar http://www.sheimagazine.com/blog/?p=9641

L-R: Keith Murray, vocals & guitar; Chris Cain, bass

We Are Scientists gave an excellent performance at The Blind Pig last night in Ann Arbor.  The crowd was enthusiastic while band members, Chris Cain and Keith Murray, exchanged witty and humorous remarks in between songs.  Current fans of the band were reminded why they love these guys while future fans now know why We Are Scientists is going to be huge.

As is the way, the openers kicked off the night at promptly 9:30pm.  Aaron Pfenning of Rewards blew us away with his gorgeous voice – it’s throaty and mellow and combined with the liberal use of synthesizers, is reminiscent of The Cure.  He was accompanied on stage by Devonté Hynes, the man behind Lightspeed Champion, who followed up with his own set. After spending most of that set trying to figure out words to describe Hynes’s style, I’ve come up with “eclectic”. Sometimes a mix of Seals & Crofts and Lenny Kravitz but smoother, his music was at times soulful, then indie, then ’90s and there is no doubt he knew how to work the room.  Both of these guys are good – really good. They deserve a post unto themselves.

L-R: Rewards; Lightspeed Champion

Top: Chris Cain; Bottom: Keith Murray

By 11:15pm, We Are Scientists took the stage.  In a distinctive switch from their demeanor off stage (based on this interview with SHEI before the show), Keith Murray became extremely outgoing with no hint of timidity.  After a bit of banter, the band opened with “Nice Guys” off of their newest album, Barbara (released June 14).  After hearing a few more songs from their past albums, it was obvious that The Blind Pig is the perfect venue in which to see these guys. The intimacy of the space superbly showcased the repartee between Cain and Murray while thoroughly entertaining their audience.

There were several songs which were clear crowd pleasures, including “Great Escape” and “Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt,” as well as new material from Barbara.  But none quite compare to the closing song, “After Hours,” performed just before 12:30am.  Joined onstage by Lightspeed Champion and Rewards, this performance was the best example of why We Are Scientists should be superstars.  They have honest, unmistakable  talent and play with such eager conviction, it’s difficult to remain disconnected to their music.  Murray especially appeared in his element and the crowd clearly enjoyed the high energy the four brought to the stage for the final set.

After an encore of “Cash Cow,” the concert finished.  Well worth the $12 for admission.  While I’d like to complement the guys in saying that they should be playing The Michigan Theater the next time they’re in Ann Arbor, their ability to master the venue that is The Blind Pig has me convinced that more people should get the chance to see them under such circumstances.

Definitely worth a listen so check out their new album and I’ll be looking for their next Ann Arbor/South Eastern Michigan tour date.

Words: B.C.Bodnar, SHEI Literary Editor

Photos: Chelsea Brown, SHEI Photography Editor

After a stint in Europe where they played various venues including clubs and festivals, the two faces of We Are Scientists, Chris Cain and Keith Murray were in Ann Arbor only briefly during their American tour for a Tuesday night show at The Blind Pig.  Despite having little time to enjoy our fair city, they were kind enough to sit down with us for an interview (okay, Chris was – Keith had to deal with “the merch”).

L-R: Chris Cain, Keith Murray

Known for their sense of humor outside of their music, we think that most of this interview was ironic.  Yes, there were Ray-bans and tight white jeans (two pairs) but one can never be too sure.

SHEI: This tour is to promote your latest album (released June 14th) – Barbara. Who is Barbara?

CC: “Barbara” is Barbara Bush. We think it’s important to be political and while we are democrats and we certainly don’t agree with the legacies of either of the Bush presidents, we recognize that Barbara is a political force unto herself and this record pays homage to her. Her contribution is frequently overlooked.

SHEI: You’ve enjoyed a lot of success in the UK and Europe, but what are your plans for conquering the United States?

CC: We pray a lot at night.  And we wait. That’s actually really important to us – the praying.

SHEI: And you’ve maintained a social media presence as well, is that part of the master plan?

CC: Well as I said, we pray a lot. There’s this theory that you should pray just in case there is a God because if there isn’t, it wouldn’t hurt but if there is, you certainly don’t want to go to end up in hell. That would be bad. So that’s what we’re doing with the social media. It couldn’t hurt.

SHEI: You even released an online video asking people to retweet you.

CC: Yes, that helped a little bit. We are basically down on our knees begging for it.

[At this point, we switched gears]

SHEI: Are you channeling Buddy Holly with your glasses? Is this part of your musical style?

CC: You know, we have a very special relationship with Ray-ban…this style is called “The Club Master” and I just like them.  They’re the type of glasses you could see in a photo of your grandfather and I like that aesthetic.

SHEI: Well, your music career is coming along and you and Keith are already video stars with your MTV series, Steve Wants His Money, as well as various forays into online videos. What’s next? Perhaps a fragrance?

CC: It is true that we are already established video stars, that is for sure.  We’re still working on cracking the nut that is the music industry.  But I think our next venture will be into fashion.

SHEI: Ah, is that why Keith is setting up the merch? Phase one of the plan complete?

CC: No, that’s just merch for our fans who like that kind of shit [ironically does not change facial expressions]. I’m hoping to branch out into high fashion and capture a new market altogether.  Something our current fans wouldn’t necessarily “get”. We’re talking couture  here.

SHEI: And do you have time to see the sights of Ann Arbor?

CC: No.

[After taking a break to get a few photos, Chris and Keith got back to the subject of Ann Arbor. Guys, all you need to know is right HERE]

SHEI: So which of you gets more girls at your shows?

CC: We both get zero.

KM: We’re a team. One picks them out, the other takes them home.  It’s based on whoever has the whiter pants. [Both of them are wearing tight white pans].

[Getting serious now]

SHEI: Okay guys, have you managed to avoid the drugs with music problem?

CC: Nope. Five years ago we went and stood in the middle of the street and we’ve been waiting for the ambulance ever since.

SHEI-Photo: So it’s all hookers and blow?

CC: Oh yeah, our priorities are hookers, blow, and family.

KM: And ghost-hunting. [you're going to have to look that up on Urban Dictionary yourself]

[Wrapping up]

SHEI: Which song from your new album most represents the direction you’d like to take We Are Scientists musically?

CC: Ambition.

Though Keith Murray wasn’t available for the interview, there are still some things we’re dying to know! If he gets the chance, maybe he’d be interested in telling us:

1. If you had patented velcro first (obviously you invented it first but have been scammed by a time machine), what would you have called it?

2. How are you able to fold that many shirts with such precision?

3. Would you answer the question “What question have you never been asked but have always wanted to have asked of you?”

Words: B.C.Bodnar, SHEI Literary Editor

Photos: Chelsea Brown, SHEI Photography Editor

Read our review of the concert HERE

Don’t make plans this Tuesday night, July 20th.  You’re going to The Blind Pig to watch these two guys play.

photo from the artists

Check out their music at MySpace, their website, and YouTube.  Stalk the guys on Twitter and Facebook. Your call.

Doors open at 9pm and you can get more details at the venue website.

See you there,

-B.C.Bodnar, SHEI Literary Editor

The Land of Nod Experiment is coming to Jackson, MI, July 23 through the 25. Much like Rothbury, the Land of Nod is a camping event and has a focus on sustainability and art.   Offering over 60 bands and performance groups including Of Montreal and local favorite My Dear Disco, the Land of Nod should be an interesting weekend.

SHEI will be there the whole weekend providing up-close and behind-the-scenes coverage. Look for a review and photos after the event.

The Details:
Where: Jackson, MI (40 miles west of Ann Arbor)
When: July 23-25, 2010
Cost: 37.50 for day passes and $119 for the weekend with camping pass

For more information on the festival and pricing, check out the official website.