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Spin Cycle Presents is a Los Angeles-based event promotion company founded by Keith Erickson in 2009. Keith created Spin Cycle out of a need for like-minded folks to perform, network, socialize and grow into the vibrant community it is today.
The Spin Cycle @ TRiP series is a monthly eclectic musical showcase featuring popular bands and up and coming live acts looking for exposure, adding a much-desired Northeast improvisational flavor to the West Side of LA. These shows have quickly built a loyal following and become a central hub for Los Angeles' growing jamband and experimental music community
In addition to this popular music series, Spin Cycle has been involved in other high profile events around the LA area, including everal sold out "Cosmik Playground" superjam concerts (featuring members of Umphrey's McGee, Frank Zappa, String Cheese Incident and Digital Tape Machine), Soulshine Daydream Wellness Festival, Shaky Feelin's seminal Album Release Party at the historic Crest Theatre, Mission 24 (a 24-hour underground music festival), the Shakedown Music Series at the Basement Tavern and the live TV broadcast series Birds of a Feather @ Kulaks Woodshed.
The name of the album is “Walking in Circles” by Neil Allesee, and it is a well-written chaotic reggae rock hit that I look forward to adding to my summer playlist. I listened to the recent 4/20/20 release on a stroll through my neighborhood, and I have to say, Neil’s music could be considered an uplifting soundtrack to smooth out anyone’s day, at least anyone with a good taste in alternative music.
Read MoreKnown in the Boston area for his steady blues and jazz—infused drumming, Tim Carman wows the feel-good soul scene with his second music release titled “Live at State Park”. This album follows his debut self-titled album, “Tim Carman & The Street 45s” (2019). The out-of-this- world glossy funk of the ensemble’s 2019 debut garnered much attention, securing a nomination for ‘Jazz Act of the Year’ at the Boston Music Awards.
Carman is a known percussionist in his own rite. Making a name for himself on the East Coast playing with acts such as GA-20 and Julie Rhodes. There is an easy-listening quality to his style of playing, and it really shines through with the new album. There are notes of jazz-driven melodies, blues heavy guitar, heart-filling organ, and bumping electric bass. Regarded as straight up jam-music holding space between the ensemble and audience, “Live at State Park” presents itself in an organic and raw way. “Tim Carman & The Streets 45s” accomplished this rocking sound by recording directly into the soundboard at State Park in Cambridge, MA. The album has that live-music sheen to it, rounded out with mixing done by Dave Brophy in just two days. The epitome of ‘hot off the press’.
“Live at State Park” presents itself in an organic and raw way
There are notes of jazz-driven melodies, blues heavy guitar, heart-filling organ, and bumping electric bass.
Tim’s influences play through his syncopated drumming, honoring a number of this favorite 60’s and 70’s era artists. The album begins with “Root Down and Get It - Live”, a fun and upbeat invocation into the classic days of 1972 Jimmy Smith. The lead guitar on this track is smooth with Tim’s drumming framing the groove of the song. It tells the listener, “We will be going down musical memory lane. Buckle up.” There is this sense of lifting off from one note to the next.
The second track, “Cardova - Live”, tips off with the electric bass drawing the listener in. Tim Carman & The Street 45s utilize this track to lead the listener through a stellar rendition of The Meters’ song of the same title. “Cardova - Live” has its bells and whistles, but ultimately, it remains relaxed. A good track to think things through to... The tapping notes of the organ tell a story, as the electric bass heads heavy into the pocket of Carman on the drums. A well to do second song that insures the rest of the album will be in smooth flight.
Thirdly, we hear a waxy and funk-melding original song titled, “Beard Oil - Live”. “Beard Oil” is not just gripping due to its visceral name, it is also immersive in its presentation. The electric guitar lead holds strong with Pat Faherty of the band, GA-20, on the strings. Carman mentions that this song was written the week of their “Live at State Park” show, and the true essence of a tight group of musicians is revealed. Tim explains that the band got together to rehearse just once before putting on this venue-rocking show, furthermore, the song was played with precision. Wonderful execution of a lively song with just the smallest hint of twang.
In at number four is “Memphis - Live”. It’s like a nice little mid-afternoon cup of tea, clocking in at 2 minutes and 45 seconds. Brief, to the point, and paying lots of honor to the great, Chuck Berry, its composer. There is something so American and rock-a-billy about Chuck Berry’s music. With Tim Carman & The Street 45s adding this to the album, I think it really draws out the group’s fusion Americana vibe.
That same vibe is drawn out quite nicely with a fuzzy couple riffs on the guitar via the beginning of track 5, “9 ’Til 5 - Live”. Originally composed and recorded by The Meters, Carman & The Street 45s bring down the house with a truly captivating call to dance. It’s during this song, around 2:33, that Tim’s drum talent shines through and clicks. I hear in context why he is a sought out musician throughout Boston and beyond.
Following “9 ’Til 5 - Live” is “Soul Sanction - Live”, originally performed by Booker T. & The MG’s. I have to say this is my favorite track on the album. There’s a homegrown feel to the way the guitar and organ compliment each other. I look forward to jamming this album often, and Tim Carman & The Street 45s version of “Soul Sanction” confirms that fact.
There’s a drum lead into “The Ocean - Live”. I feel like I have heard this song a million times. It’s got a real hook to it. Its nuance and novelty proves relevant to rounding out the band with a spectacular set.
Lastly, Tim Carman & The Street 45s close out the album with “Bring it on Home To Me - Live” by Sam Cooke. I picture the audience swaying on the dance floor, happy to know honest music is alive and well. Take the time to check out “Live at State Park” by Tim Carman & The Street 45s. You will be glad you took the time.
Spin Cycle Presents
6/8/2020 - Album Review
By Kendra Muecke
CHECK OUT THE ALBUM ON SPOTIFY:
https://bit.ly/timcarman_liveatstatepark
Spin Cycle Presents coined the phrase and developed the logo above. After running Sunday residencies at the Moroccan and Harvelle’s Long Beach over the past several years, this latest installment is via live stream.
While it’s true it is best to never miss a Sunday show, what does one do in the face of a widespread pandemic? One stays at home and thanks their lucky stars that platforms like Nugs.net and Facebook live exist, because the live events that were cancelled, postponed, and rescheduled can still prevail. During this trying time, many musicians have continued to bring us joy via live-streams on their social media profiles. It’s great to see the community rally around the creative realms of life.
In the wake of current events, Spin Cycle Presents has created a live-stream jam series from their Facebook page. This new tradition began on March 22nd and will continue every Sunday at 4:20pm indefinitely. Viewers can look forward to feel good rock hits, groovy jams, and overall vibey times. I tuned in for the debut on March 22. The live-stream showcased Keith Erickson on drums and Rich Sheldon on guitar and vocals.
Sheldon performs roots rock as a singer/songwriter often around town as Rich Sheldon Band. Keith Erickson is known as the captain of the Southern California jam band centered promotional company, Spin Cycle Presents. In addition, Keith also plays for a local eclectic progressive instrumental group, Other Mother Brother Band. Their sound on Sunday was relaxed and enjoyable, something we all need during this time of pause. Fortunately, as friends and music companions, there is a benefit to the fact that the two of them live in the same apartment complex, lovingly referred to as 'The Compound'.
The duo bounced between originals and covers with a few Grateful Dead and Bob Marley tributes throughout. In-between songs, the two take time to chat with viewers, bringing a sense of community to the streaming event. By reaching people online, Keith and Rich strike up a conversation amongst everyone. They give shout outs throughout the show to fellow musicians and local businesses while providing a high quality live music experience for all to enjoy.
The live stream format also allows an avenue for shows to be mutually beneficial. Those watching are able to donate tips by Venmo and PayPal. After all, it’s the future, and for musicians, promoters, and DJs, it’s a win-win. Even though many gigs have been cancelled and postponed, artists are able to reach listeners and be compensated a bit for their time and energy.
With the continuation of the at home status of most Americans, Spin Cycle Presents “Psychedelic Sundays” will reach out to viewers in creative ways. For example, those watching can donate to enter raffles of stellar stickers, t-shirts, books about the Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, Willie Nelson and if you are lucky, a roll of coveted toiler paper!
Throughout these times, Spin Cycle Presents is working on inventive ways to utilize their network in promoting other musicians and bands. Stay tuned to their social media for updates. Join the mailing list at spincyclepresents.com/contact and tune in next Sunday via SCP’s Facebook page: facebook.com/spincyclepresents
Spin Cycle Presents
Psychedelic Sunday Live Stream Series
3/22/2020
By Kendra Muecke
www.kendraelisabethmuecke.com
Lights were flashing and the juke box was turned up for a bright night of psychedelic jams and rock ’n roll bands. Picture the TRiP Santa Monica, local West-LA venue with a crowded room full of concert goers ready to dance and experience a little slice of westside world peace. The event was Thursday night jams brought to the community by Spin Cycle Presents. On the bill for the evening, were bands The Ashtones, Blooming Fire, and Vimanas.
Ashton Slater - The Ashtones
The Ashtones kicked off the party with a funk heavy ensemble of musicians providing guitar, bass, percussions, drums, and a distinct sounding of harmonica interludes. There’s really something revving here as they oscillate between original songs, jams, and a rendition of “New Speedway Boogie”. Behind the band, we see a pinned up background of white sheets. Atop it are looped rainbow feedback visuals like something you’d see on the television test signal of a 1960’s Twiggy and Andy Warhol photoshoot. These visual stylings were provided by Anthony Diaz of Moire Bender.
Sierra Madre & Dryden Van Cleave - Blooming Fire
Next up on the bill is longtime friends of mine, Blooming Fire. As a politically charged, sustainable-water-bottle wielding, and nature-loving group with poignant lyrics and danceable magnetic music, Blooming Fire provides a soundscape of letting go via freedom and self- expression. Through Fire’s set and by speaking with Spin Cycle Presents head honcho, Keith Erickson, I realize the relatability and cohesion prevalent in the SCP scene. Keith calls me down to Santa Monica to come write a review for Psychedelic Thursdays at TRiP, and it ends up being for a band I know from my days living in Venice Beach 4 years ago.
Adding to this sense of strangers-stopping-strangers just to shake their hand, I run into a good number of friends I hadn’t seen in years. It’s telling when a night out on the town can bring such brightly-lit people together to share in experience. Moments later, I speak with the percussionist of tonight’s first band, The Ashtones, and secure the potential that he can play drums on my upcoming album for my own group, Kendra & the Bunnies.
Vimanas
Thirdly, the audience jets into a smooth landing of upbeat rock with Vimanas. The Inland Empire group has a welcoming and unique sound, reminiscent of jam-classic Phish. With a cool presentation of guitar solos and a well-rehearsed musical catalog, Vimanas persuades the crowd to keep jiving. A truly engaging set of music reflected by an outstanding night of local talent.
An event to note is Spin Cycle Present’s upcoming 11th anniversary on Saturday, April 18, 2020. To celebrate their journey as a music and event entity in the Southern California region, SCP will be bringing together their second annual round of all-star groups to play their 11th anniversary event. To form the all-star group, the best musicians in the SoCal area are to be nominated.
The nominees will undergo a voting process in which the public will decide who makes it to the next round. Nominations are now live at this link [http://bit.ly/ nominations_scp_allstarcelebration2020]. Additionally, more information on Spin Cycle Presents and Allstar Band Nominations, can be found on their website [https:// www.spincyclepresents.com]
By Kendra Muecke
https://kendraelisabethmuecke.com
*TO VIEW THE FULL PHOTO ALBUM BY ROBERT STALEY: CLICK HERE