Tag Archives: Shoot Down The Moon

SHOOT DOWN THE MOON “MEETINGS & GREETINGS” ALBUM REVIEW

Shoot Down the Moon “Meetings and Greetings”

2012 has been a great year for Milwaukee’s audiophiles, with a wide array of quality albums released by area bands these past months. One such release is local band Shoot Down the Moon’s highly anticipated “Meetings & Greetings”. It’s difficult to categorize this band to specific genres, but the energy they provide live, their ability to jam out on stage and the raw emotion in their lyrics make this album a must listen to. Anyone who’s seen them perform at area bars knows what I mean. The follow up to their album, “Swollen Teeth”, shows a tighter, more unified sound that is showcased well by the high production quality. The members of the band (singer & lead guitarist Jake McDonald, singer & guitarist Matthew “Fizz” Flanagan, drummer Zak Ihlenfeld, guitarist Justin Cohen and bassist Jon Taglienti) all stand out as they together create a great product. Here’s my take on the album, to be released next week Wednesday (Halloween) at Yield Bar.
Continue reading

YOUPHORICLOTHING KICKSTARTER & LAUNCH PARTY FEAT. LIVE MUSIC FROM SHOOT DOWN THE MOON: A SENSORY OVERLOAD

[cincopa A0CA16KSHFo-]

Cultivating through their first set, Shoot Down the Moon, a local Milwaukee indie rock/folk band with a pleasingly rustic sounding attitude, unwrapped an evening of fashion and composition. Hosting the FREE YouphoriClothing Kick-starter Launch Party May 10th was Yield Bar, located on 1932 E. Kenilworth Place right here in Milwaukee.

This recognized tavern venue holds a sepia toned characteristic with golden dimmed lighting. Encumbered with show fliers, band photographs, and other music related arts, this relaxed hangout provides a spacious place to honor such an event. Raised above the stage floor are the main bar and lounge area fit with comfortable seating options lining the outer walls and a mini arcade, concealed near the restroom area. The bottom level and venue portion is equipped with darts, a stage, and stunted saloon region. Outside, the smoker’s station is prepared with multiple seating arrangements; and if put in plastic cups, customers are granted permission to enjoy their beverages outdoors!

Utilizing the lower bar section, the YouphoriGirls fashionably situated their merchandise including: handmade jewelry, one of a kind hula hoops, and assorted recycled clothing items. Helpers, including Hannah Barth, assisted the girls in manning the stand when the stars of the night were desired elsewhere.

Prior to the fashion show, Mary Inderrieden, Ariel Tucker-Jones and Ashleigh Fischer, these focused, humble, Wisco-hunnies displayed their Kickstarter Video highlighting their freshly embraced clothing and accessory line: YouphoriClothing. Moments later, the YouphoriCrew seamlessly installed a makeshift runway in minutes.

Keeping to a fixed agenda, this troop wasted no time sending out their first model onto the runway. Behind the scenes, fashion coaches, makeup artists, and stylists assisted in the flawless operation that evening. The procedural aspects of this event showed sound signs of preparation, organization, and genuine enthusiasm. The models all held a level of professionalism that was unquestionably noticed by the audience. Whether friends, family, or volunteers these human mannequins represented the YouphoriClothing Company quite authentically by displaying proficient strides, tranquil stances and textbook gyrations to demonstrate the items worn.

The variety of items exhibited in the recycled fashion show consisted of Hoodie-Packs (which is a condensed backpack with versatile hood), painted tights, Chilla Tops (secure, yet comfortable, breathable, swim suit-esque tops), leg and arm warmers, and a complete line of menswear incorporating tie dye and patchwork designed attire, comfy, breathable leg wear, as well as many other multi colored and textured fabric articles.

With the creators, designers and management being thoroughly involved in the music scene, their creations will more than likely find their way to countless music festivals around the nation. Perfect for various climates, these girls have an ample line of multi-seasonal attires.

The YouphoriClothing line’s style or their method of approach incorporates several wardrobe categories. They demonstrate a funky, exotically wild, outlandish characteristic in the choice of get-ups. Without labeling their distinctive inimitable practice, the general public might categorize their line of dress as modest hippie swag. My personal categorization of their design construction would be defined as: SPUN-ky.

However, these girls show passion and dedication in their trade, and the products aren’t your run-of-the-mill garments you can find in mass quantities in sizes ranging from: hipster through couch potato and color variants ranging from: ‘tangerine tango’ through ‘sweet pink lilac’ like at commercial clothing outlets such as American Apparel or Urban Outfitters.

With their assortment of designs being reasonably priced, for the amount of time and effort that goes into each hand-crafted article of clothing; their collection appeals to a manifold of diversified tastes in clothing. Amongst the eccentric flavor, and talented zest, these three young ladies turned a pessimistic idea into a confident production.

The fashion show was deemed a blissful success. Portraying levels of “orgasmic sensory overload,” the last of the runway models ushered themselves back to the starting blocks to engage in a group showdown before the YouphoriGirls made their final statements of gratitude to all involved and displayed emotions of triumphant achievement and welcoming back to the stage, Shoot Down the Moon, for their second and final set of the night.

Each member adjusted their settings, and assumed positions and without hesitation broke into a synchronized thrash jam with all three guitarists heavily plucking away, the bassist mercifully twanging in intense strides, and the drummer utilizing every thumping pulsation to its’ maximum potential. It was like being angst-ridden…but in a positively, pleasant manner.

Rumbling out of this forceful, yet passionate sequence came sounds similar to that of a Harley-Davidson biker gang leaving a hangout. Motorcycle-like hums and bell and horn sonatas blared through the Yield Bar sound system producing a sharply pungent array of original, out there sounds. This group’s experimentally progressive and deep toned harmonized style solidifies their independent formality in the ability to switch pace from a labeled Indie Rock tone to a naturally alternative jam-funk tenor.

Bassist Jon Taglienti booted off his shoes, and began running in place with an unconcealed smiling grin on his face as he went for the comfort approach on stage during this YOUphoric twilight! Each member essentially played their own independent portion of each song and then simultaneously brought their conglomeration of noises together without clashing. With a five piece group in a smaller venue this can be a tricky task, especially when three guitarists are playing in sync but Jake, Fizz and Justin pulled it off. The bassist mediated each segment by providing a constant picking to control the madness. Drummer Zak Ihlenfeld held a more simplified approach for certain portions of the show in order to not add complicating distractions to the already untamed emotions being conveyed by the others.

For a few breathtaking minutes it seemed as if none of the five individuals on stage ever gasped or slowed down below the ‘as fast as we can go’ speed. A non-stop steady flow of cultural melodies held this constant, almost cheery, overwhelming sense of feeling. This explosive derailing effect planed out venturing into a spacey momentum revealing a groovy transition, again highlighting their versatile experienced multi-genre abilities.

Their witty and somewhat dark form molded into a harsh surge nearing the conclusion of the performance. The steady rush filled perspective geared down to a whiny drawn out or stretched consistency with fluent, powerful vocals. The instrumentals began to tone down, and the dramatic guitar riffs and drum breakdowns seemed like distant memories. The smooth, relaxed, and harmonized vibe kept a melodic feel as there began to be longer gaps between notes. The drummer was holding a reserved one…two step on point beat patterns continuing the spacious bluegrass/folk approach.

Shoot Down the Moon showed an immense amount of sincerity on stage and transmitted an acoustically pleasing, symphony sounding presentation taking the audience through a poetic journey of musical enjoyment.

This event was held at questionably high standards, and the turnout was immaculate. The event seemed to house a variety of different crowds, which can only be positively beneficial for both the band and vendors hosting the fashion show.

A grand exposé of optimism was represented by the YouphoriClothing crew in efforts to use recycled materials to create a unique fashion statement they may share with others. Keep an eye out for Ariel, Ashleigh, and Mary this summer at local street festivals and public events for their constantly revolving and growing collection of YouphoriClothing, jewelry, and hula-toys that never goes “outdated” or has “seasonal” restrictions; they may be coming for your closet! And stay tuned to Local Playlist for upcoming show dates for Shoot Down the Moon or check them out on bandcamp!

SHOOT DOWN THE MOON AND MYLES COYNE & THE RUSTY NICKELS BAND AT FRANK’S POWER PLANT 4/27/12

Frank’s Power Plant is a small, unassuming venue that hosts lots of great, local Milwaukee bands. With a distinctive name hard to forget and a centralized location in Bay View, Frank’s is a hidden gem. The stage and viewing area isn’t big but the sound is good and the drinks are cheap and who can argue with that? I’ve never not had a fun time and last night did not break that trend, featuring friends’ bands Myles Coyne & The Rusty Nickel Band and Shoot Down the Moon, two bands dissimilar in sound but not in talent or energy. Earlier in the night, DW of DW & Co. played a solo set and Slander Cannon performed as well. Unfortunately, we arrived late and only caught the majority of Myles’ set and all of Shoot Down the Moon.

As I’m sure you’ve guessed, Myles Coyne is the frontman of the Rusty Nickel Band and perfectly fits the role. A veritable force in Milwaukee’s music scene, Myles is everywhere around town, whether playing a show or attending in the audience. His other band, Animals in Human Attire is more alternative-rock than the Rusty Nickel with its sound that runs the gamut from folk to bluesgrass to rock but Myles’ energy is the same. The show last night was a great mix of old and new, slow and fast, a true representation of their eclectic style. Two of their band members, including their bassist (Chris Thunder and Justin Miller) were not able to make the show last night but the rest of the band carried on without them. Jack Tell was on acoustic and electric guitar and lap steel, Caley Conway on backup vocals (and one song on lead vocals) and xylophone and Tim Stone on drums. And of course Myles on lead vocal and his guitar set high on his chest, constantly keeping the crowd entertained with his exuberance on stage and banter in between songs. This is obviously a multi-talented group with many instruments and surprises up their sleeve. Their folky sound is reminiscent of Bob Dylan at times and Bright Eyes at other times. If you haven’t had a chance to check them out, I highly suggest that you catch a show soon, it’s quite a treat. Download all The Rusty Nickel Band’s releases for free at mylescoyne.bandcamp.com.

The headliner of the night was Shoot Down the Moon, a band I’ve seen many a time with a unique alternative rock style that blends classic rock with experimental jams and the occasional folk-tinged tune. They cranked up the sound level and mood of the night with their loud but not too loud, big but not too big sound. Last night’s crowd had unfortunately dwindled a bit towards the end but those left couldn’t help but sing along, dance and head bang from the first note to the last. The band is comprised of Jake McDonald and Matt “Fizz” Flanagan who both sing lead vocals and play electric guitar, Jon Taglienti on bass, Justin “Hippie” Cohen on electric guitar and Zak Ihlenfeld on drums. Three guitarists can be a gamble and sometimes a mess but not here. Jake, Fizz and Justin all contribute a different layer of sound and don’t step on each other’s toes. Last night’s set ended too early as it was but a malfunction halfway through could’ve made it even shorter when Justin’s amp broke. Luckily, Jack Tell had stuck around for their set and was more than happy to contribute his amp so the show could go on. The transition was quick, taking only half a song before Justin was back up and running, another sign of the band’s experience as musicians. Friends since childhood, they’ve all played together for years and the bond carries over to their music. Extremely talented individually, as a whole, they are a force to be reckoned with, only seeming to get tighter and tighter with each performance. With a new album in the works and many shows coming up in the near future, I personally can’t wait to see what they bring to the table next. Go to shootdownthemoon.bandcamp.com to download their last full length album “Swollen Teeth” for only $2.50 and their Live on WUWM session for free, which includes three songs that will be on the new album to be released this summer. Shoot Down the Moon’s next show is Thursday, May 10th at Yield for the YouphoriClothing Kickstarter party, check out the details here. They’ll be playing two sets, one at the beginning and one at the end of the night so you have no excuse not to be there!

NAMI SHOW AT TURNER HALL REVIEW 1/6/12

Mental illness is a topic that is oft avoided, almost as if we don’t talk about it, we can pretend it doesn’t exist. Unfortunately, it does and it affects tens of millions of people across the world, most not receiving treatment. The National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) seeks to provide a resource for those looking for more information on the issue and the Greater Milwaukee chapter put together a wonderful event Friday to raise awareness about it.

Together with Milwaukee Odyssey, a local art curation company, NAMI brought together artists and musicians alike at Turner Hall on Friday, January 6th. The event started at 5pm and the first half centered around local artists affected by mental illness to display their work, spoken word performance and live art. The music started at 9pm with two of Milaukee’s up & coming groups, Shoot Down the Moon and Ikarus Down. It was a free event, virtually unheard of at Turner Hall, one of Milwaukee’s best venues for live music. Walking into the building Friday night, I was impressed by the large amount of artwork as well as the diversity of it all. I was excited to the see the two bands as I have seen them perform before and also eager to support NAMI in its mission.

image

Shoot Down the Moon

Shoot Down the Moon opened the night and as usual, had attracted a large crowd of fans & friends, who didn’t leave the front of the stage until the last note was played. The first time I saw this group play was last April at the Up & Under. It’s amazing to see the progression of their music, a much cleaner, tighter sound than my first experience. Their blend of laid-back tunes and guitar-driven rock pleased the entire crowd, made obvious as people migrated from the bar and exhibits to watch the band. Shoot Down the Moon recently released an album (available on Bandcamp and Team Love Library) and they’re already just about to finish their next. Judging from Friday’s show, it’s going to be something to keep your eyes out for. These guys may be young but they have been playing together for years and the closeness of their friendship is evident. They love playing music, are good at it and are hungry to succeed, what more can you ask for?

image

Ikarus Down

Closing out the night was Ikarus Down, an alternative group that has been playing less shows around town lately, having just finished an album and preparing for its March release. Having had the privilege of hearing a good chunk of the tracks as they’ve been recorded, I can’t wait to hear the final product. Friday focused more on their current release, a self-titled EP, available on ITunes. The EP is a little more chill, less of an edge than their newer stuff but they pumped up the tracks for Friday, rocking them out more than usual. Ikarus threw in a taste of the new album, performing a few new jams too, most notably my personal favorite, “Keep”. It’s an upbeat track that goes down smooth, with an amazing guitar solo near the end by lead guitarist Ryan Gardiner, which to my untrained ears is reminiscent of Radiohead’s “Paranoid Android”. Another song off the new album, “Notice” is going to be the first single, with a music video already shot by Orin Alexander.

Thank you so much to NAMI Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee Odyssey, Shoot Down the Moon, Ikarus Down and all the amazing artists who participated in this one of a kind event. Dear readers, if you missed this show, you have another chance to catch these amazing musicians at Local Playlist’s upcoming launch party at Tonic Tavern on Saturday, February 18th!!

Shoot Down the Moon review from Thursday, September 29th

Yield is one of my favorite places to drink and the fact that they often host live music makes it even better. You can see band members hanging out at the bar, playing darts or smoking a cigarette outside on any given night of the week, they are regulars, just like the rest of us. And anytime that Yield has a show, it’s the place to be. Rarely if ever charging a cover and serving up cheap cocktails, they also get some of the city’s best bands to play on a regular basis. Shoot Down the Moon is one of Milwaukee’s up and coming rock outfits and I’ve had the privilege of seeing them several times this year. Their progression both musically and performance-wise has been a pleasure to witness. Their recently released full-length album “Swollen Teeth” is available for free download at team-love.com. The show Thursday featured a mix of songs from the new album and their previous full-length and EP. For anyone whose seen them play before, you know that they put on a energetic, fun show and give it their all. The band consists of Jake McDonald on lead vocals and guitar, Matt “Fizz” Flanagan on lead guitar and vocals, Zack Ihlenfeld on drums, Justin Cohen on guitar/keys and Jon Taglienti on bass. They’re a young group but have already established an impressive repertoire of songs and an ability to play off each other well. I personally enjoy myself the most when they’re jamming out (something they do quite often) but their albums display a more laid-back, indie rock sound. When I play Shoot Down the Moon in the car, my friends all assume it’s a mainstream national band, with well-produced tracks and Jake’s soft voice over haunting guitar riffs. I look forward to seeing where they go in the future and encourage all of you to check them out when you have a chance. Download one or all of their albums at shootdownthemoon.bandcamp.com and stay tuned to localplaylist for their next show!