Do you look for emotion, passion & pure energy in your choice of music?
Listen to any of Maynard’s bands? If you’re looking for blood, sweat & tears, look to “10 YEARS”.

You don’t need to look up this band, read their story, or preview their music. One live show is all you need to be convinced. This band is for real.

My boyfriend Mike is the drummer for the Cleveland, OH band, “A PUNCH’S PILOT”. Mike’s the most accurate portrayal of pure drum passion I’ve ever witnessed live. On a whim, I decided to check out this band “10 YEARS” who was opening for “HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD” on the Revolt tour. ( Ha! opening? They’ll soon be headlining their own tours!)

I arrived at the show as homework. Its always great to go see live music, especially when your other half is entering into a new chapter in his musical career. But man, was I blown away by the talent and energy this band brought to Cleveland!

Watching the passion of their live show almost make it seem as if “10 YEARS” is playing on stage for the first time. You can see their excitement racing through their veins.

“10 YEARS” certainly has their shit together and they have been at this for a while. I saw a band of brothers on stage who look like they’ve known each other since birth. Each member showcases their unique experience, musical taste, and swagger.

“10 YEARS” sounds a little like what would happen if “BREAKING BENJAMIN”, “A PERFECT CIRCLE”, and “PORCUPINE TREE” had a baby. “10 YEARS” provides a truely refreshing take on southern alternative Rock N Roll! They dished out a huge portion of pain and sorrow wrapped in a big bow to make you feel like sticking your pinky and pointer fingers high to the sky.

In closing, when this band comes to your town, if your ass doesn’t get up off the couch and drag yourself to this show, then what the Hell is your life worth to you anyway? JUST GO! And long live and Rock N Roll forever!

Review by Colleen (Cleveland, OH)

www.10YearsMusic.com

Bob strutted his stuff and his all night smile for almost two and a half hours, only slowing down to pick up a guitar or sit down at the piano. I don’t have to list everything they played, for the most part, pick up a Greatest Hits CD and there they are!
The Silver Bullet Band touring lineup has basically stabilized, featuring Mark Chatfield on lead guitar, Jim Brown on guitar and keys, Don Brewer on drums and vocals, Chris Campbell on bass, Craig Frost on keys, Alto Reed on sax vocals, percussion (including tympani), and guitar (I think he may have driven the bus also), The Motor City Horns, and backup vocalists Laura Creamer, Shaun Murphy, and Barbara Payton.

Mark and Alto did their thing crisscrossing the stage with Bob throughout the show. One highlight was watching Mark flaunt the history of guitars via his Cowtown, and Alto every conceivable version of sax including a 10’ high (or so it appeared) baritone! Both brought their chops, especially at solo time. Alto shined on his babies Turn The Page, and Old Time Rock And Roll. At one point the players lined up while playing with Bob, and later they all gathered around the piano while playing to watch Craig play his lick on C’est Le Vie. The band took a short intermission, and later the girls sang The Isley Bros., It’s Your Thing, which sounded great with the sax and MC Horns.

They added a lot of new songs to the live show play list (which after Alto said, I don’t remember nothing other than all of the new songs I had to learn!), mixed with older material, like the 1972 Get’s Ya Pumpin’ off Early Seger Vol. 1., his first single, 1968’s Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man, Her Strut, Sunspot Baby, and Shinin’ Brightly. They also did their new single, Tom Waits Downtown Train off their new release, which is vocally right in Bob’s wheelhouse (take that Rod). Tryin’ To Live My Life Without You rocked, having that great Seger soul presence. A cool Travelin’ Man/Beautiful Loser medley was done as it was on the legendary Live Bullet album. Encores included Against The Wind, Hollywood Nights, Night Moves, and Rock And Roll Never Forgets.
Always a performer who knows how to front a group and relate to a crowd, Bob shows how much fun he’s having playing live. Prior to the tour, they rehearsed tirelessly at Kid Rock’s MI domicile. His wardrobe changes included a Toledo Mudhens Jersey, a Harley shirt, and a few trademark on again off again headbands, and black cut-off T’s.
Country artist Frankie Ballard from Battle Creek opened with an energetic rock/country set, including Fogerty’s Fortunate Son as a salute to the military.
April 7, 2011

by RM Engelman

www.BOBSEGER.com

SKOPE MAGAZINE

The Carnival Of Madness tour once again brought 7D in front of the metal masses, many who had the opportunity to experience one of the hardest working bands in the biz, get down to business.
RE: You started out as a drummer like Clint, Phil Collins, Dave Grohl, J. Mascis, and most importantly me. How did you make the switch from drums to guitar?
JC: Our band Piece Dogs had released one record, and weren’t going anywhere. I picked up a guitar and wrote Black. They weren’t interested in the song, and we didn’t see eye to eye on a lot of other things. I knew Morgan (Rose) as his band Snake Nation had opened for us, and he also lived in the same apartment building. We used to talk, and you know how one beer leads to another. We went into the studio, and 15-16 hours later we had a set list, no lyrics, no vocals! Morgan was already the drummer, so I started playing guitar. At first, I sang, and was God awful, but had the feeling. Since I always played guitar sitting down at home, it was weird at the first show, having to stand up and play. Vinnie (bassist Vinnie Hornsby) handed me a strap, put it around my neck, and jerked down on it!
RE: What was your personal, worst gig experience?
JC: I don’t even have to think about that one. It was a gig in San Antonio, Texas! It was a big show put on by a radio station, and Korn was headlining. They were working their own gear. When we went on, we had a local sound guy that managed to patch everything through one channel, the monitors and everything else. The more we went through the set, the weirder and weirder it got! The lights were on, and we had no gear to hide behind. It was a total nightmare. I just tried to follow Morgan. Everything they did to try and fix it, just made it worse. It was like a ball rolling downhill gaining speed. What added to the confusion was everyone buzzing around the stage.
RE: Wow! And I thought you were going to say the upstairs cigar bar in Nashville, where there was no stage and at least 50 times the occupancy with only one-way in and out!
JC: That was the show we did acoustic. It was neat, kind of like a little living room. I didn’t know it was that packed! The guy at the door checking passes disappeared for about 30 minutes, and everyone came in off of the street!
RE: What was your first guitar?
JC: I always had various cheap acoustics around. The first good electric guitar I got that actually stayed in tune was an Ibanez RG550. It was blue with a black pickguard and a whammy, which was half the reason I bought it! It was $250 and beat, it needed some TLC! Then I got a Jackson Soloist, and moved on to Les Paul’s and Explorers.
RE: What was the first concert you went to?
JC: There were so many, it’s hard to remember. The one that I was the most impressed with was Van Halen. Rush and Kiss were great live, and I love AC/DC, but Eddie Van Halen focused on technique and dedication to actually playing. Van Halen delivered technically, what Rush delivered intellectually. Eddie just knocked me on my ass! When Eddie appeared, nobody knew what that was. One moment he would be doing something, and the next moment he’d be doing something else!
RE: Are you a collector?
JC: Sort of, but not valuable stuff. I just collect things that sound good and are useful. It’s all about having players that also translate well in the studio. I have a yellowish, off white/cream Explorer, that when you plug it in, it reminds you of why you kept it! I have a 1978 Custom Shop Les Paul that’s road worn. I have a couple of import Dean’s that really crush. In videos you use the nicer looking guitars, and in the studio you use the cheap ones that work! Jack White is a perfect example of this.
RE: What amps are you using live?
JC: I’m using EVH 5150’s. On Hope And Sorrow, I used an EVH, and an original 5150, and went full circle back to EVH. With the EVH, you feel connected when you change settings. They kind of smooth the tone out. If the volume is up, the EQ is good on all positions, clean, mid, and all hell breaks loose. Live I use three channels, start with full gain, and then I back off. The cabs have the EVH Greenback speakers, which are technically 20-watt speakers.
RE: What effects are you using?
JC: I use an Ernie Ball wah, a Voodoo Lab GCX controller, and in the rack I have a TC delay and a gate compressor. I also use a Phase 90, a Fulltone Ultimate Octave, and a squeeze compressor. I spend time at the house just playing without effects. Effects are really just an afterthought that adds color.
RE: Who is your all time guitar hero?
JC: Hands down, Dimebag. He just had that fire! There are so many great guitarists out there, but he was just so confident that he’d never miss a note, even when he would stage dive. He told me there were times where he’d miss a note and screw it up once, but he’d blow it again three more times on purpose and make it sound like it fit, to “Shake the shit out of it!” He let it all hang out, and maintained control, even when he was drunk. With me, after two beers I’d have to sit down! A lot of kids try to be Dime, but without practicing 10 hours a day. For me, it was looking at Eddie and Steve Vai. Guitar World had this thing around a year ago about Steve Vai’s 10 Hour Guitar Workout. Steve Vai is like some alien that was brought to this planet to play guitar. For him, nothing is impossible! He said that Brian May was his favorite guitar player. Think about that, you can hear it in him.
RE: If you could invite anyone to play at your birthday party, who would it be?
JC: I want to say Van Halen, but I’ll pick Rush for two reasons. First, the rest of Sevendust would get the chance to participate, and second, I’ve had the chance to meet Eddie and Wolfie, but I’ve never had the chance to meet Neil Peart, and I’m a big fan!
RE: I’ve heard numerous people mention that they can hear traces of various metal and heavy rock groups in Sevendust’s material, but the band still remains unique.
JC: We all borrow from our heavy music roots. I asked Dime about that one time, about coming too close to other group’s sounds, and he said, “I took everything I know from Tony Iommi!” It’s not robbery, it’s flattery, and we all borrow from our influences. Sometimes my influences just come out in the music.
RE: What advice do you have for young musicians?
JC: Young guys think all they need to do is play faster. You don’t!
RE: Walter Trout pointed out how people idolize Jimi Hendrix’s playing, and the fact that he never shredded!
JC: That’s absolutely right. Another thing is that they shouldn’t focus on gear. A lot of players spend all kinds of money on guitars that become wall hangers. At the end of the day, you’re playing music, one note at a time. Don’t fall into the speed and gear trap. Slow down, and focus on making every note count. Learn to play music and not licks. I loaded my I-pod with classics, Aerosmith, Rocks, and Toys In The Attic, Master Of Puppets, Pantera, Zeppelin. I’ve listened to them a million times, but each time I listen to them I get a fresh perspective!
January 4, 2011

by RM Engelman

www.SEVENDUST.com

SKOPE MAGAZINE

I’ve decided that there are basically three types of music lovers/concert goers during the Christmas season. The ones that have seen TSO previously (were impressed and likely recommend and attend again), ones that make it a yearly tradition, and then there are those who are totally oblivious to having a seasonal great time!
For 12 years, this mighty ensemble has touring both coasts to sold out crowds, and plowing money back into the show to maintain a unique experience. Guitarist Chris Caffery (who at one point sported a Colt McCoy #12 jersey), was joined this year by Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger), bassist Dave Z, drummer Jeff Plate, keyboardists Luci Butler and Derek Wieland, and lead violinist Roddy Chang. A local string section complemented them as always.
Every year there are new surprises in the music and presentation. This year, I noticed two big overhead lighted ramps, extending out to the middle of the arena. At game time, there were big overhead torches above the stage with platforms behind them. As the show kicked off, these extended out and down toward the audience bearing the guitarists and violinist. Later, the two big ramps went on the move, and the guitarists, violinist, and later the dancers climbed aboard, and ended up being lowered in front of the audience in the middle of the arena. They also utilized a stage near the mixing board in the middle of the floor area. The backdrop extending from the stage ends to the walls of the arena enhanced the stage illusions. The use of the video screens showing everything from news events to an attack helicopter, extended around the arena perimeter via visual monitors. The flame pots were synched to the music, the laser light show was incredible, and an actual fireworks display complete with spinning pinwheels was launched.

The Christmas portion was done flawlessly, and the second half rock section included material from the Night Castle album. Two segments were unique to Cleveland (origin of their live show) the group did Cleveland Rocks, and later singer Kayla Reeves was accompanied acoustically by creator Paul O’ Neill, before going into a full force medley including The Beatles Help.
Want to give something unique for Christmas that will be discussed for years to come that starts in the $20 range? And guess what? When you buy your tickets or a gift for someone special, you are still helping someone, as one dollar from each ticket, from each show goes to a local charity (Plain Dealer charities in Cleveland). The performance is rock opera meets Vegas meets Broadway, with a stage set that is reminiscent of both The Wizard Of Oz, and Metropolis. They are the hardest working group in the biz, with a grueling schedule comparable to a professional sports team, except in many cases, they also perform two shows in a day! Haven’t seen them yet? Step your game up!
December 21, 2010

by RM Engelman

http://www.trans-siberian.com/

SKOPE MAGAZINE

Jonny started playing guitar at the ripe old age of 12, played sax in junior high, and recorded his first album Smokin’ at age 14. Talk about putting in the proverbial 110% into his work! His 2006 release Turn Around enabled him to earn his first Grammy for Best Gospel Album.
He appeared on a Drew Carey Show episode, cutting the grass while Drew was auditioning guitar players for his lounge band The Horndogs. He also did a cameo in the movie Blues Brothers 2000. Jonny has done guest shots on various releases including offerings by Hanson, The Jonas Brothers, Eric Johnson, and most recently Lee Ritenour, and Cindy Lauper. Just like a veteran major league pitcher needing to stay on top of his game, the Fargo, North Dakota native has managed to change up his delivery, sounds, style, and touring lineup to optimize his abilities. Now, at 29 the consummate road warrior has put in 15 years of touring and has just knocked out his sixth album Live At The Ryman. Always concerned about sound (especially in the cavernous HOB), Jonny’s sound check is a virtual marathon that made me tired just watching! Jonny was at the mercy of transportation to the gig, but we had a chance to sit down before it was his turn getting levels set. I need to preface my encounters with Jonny in regards to everything you see on media platforms like E and TMZ about performers. Jonny (in addition to being a great talent) is one of the most unassuming, humble, friendly, down to earth people you’ll ever meet, just a regular great guy that just happens to be able to shred both the guitar and microphone simultaneously! My first comment addresses live sound.
RE: We first met early on when you were touring to support Lie To Me. I’ve related this story to a lot of artists, especially the younger ones, concerning performing live. After we shook hands, you took on a serious look, and you asked, “How did I sound out front?” That was how concerned you were about the sound.
JL: Yeah, that’s one of the most important things in performing live. You have to try and get the sound as good as possible. JL- Have you heard this band yet? They’re great! RE- No, I’m looking forward to it!
RE: At the first Crossroads concert at the Cotton Bowl, you came on later when the crowd was pretty much worn out, and you really knocked everybody out. Three stages, morning till night for three days, it was kind of a Woodstock type event. How did you feel playing there?
JL: The first one was definitely one of a kind. I was just kind of in and out at that one. This last one was more fun as I got to hang out and talk with everybody, and to play with Buddy Guy and Ronnie Wood. It was such a great atmosphere especially with all of the fans in Chicago. It’s been such an honor to just be asked to play at these events.
RE: what was your first guitar?
JL: (Smiles) It was actually a pretty good one. My dad got if for me on my 13th birthday. It was a 62 Reissue Strat, white with the vintage green pickguard.
RE: That was a great starter! RE- What was the first song that really motivated you to play?
JL: It was Plush by STP. That was the first song I learned to play.
RE: How about your first concert?
JL: (Laughs) It was Confederate Railroad. I was around nine or ten, and I don’t remember much about it!
RE: Everybody has one or 100, what was your worst gig?
JL: Do you mean when all of the stars were perfectly aligned etc.?
RE: Yeah.
JL: (Laughs) Wow, there were so many, it’s hard to pick one out. Let me think about that one for a while!
RE: If you could pick only one guitar player from any period in time to trade licks with onstage, who would it be?
JL: Albert Collins!
RE: How about one bass player?
JL: Well, it would probably be a tie. First, the guy that is with me now, Jim Anton is great. The other guy would be Sonny Thompson. He played guitar on the new CD, and used to play bass with Prince. He’s an awesome bass player.
RE: Next fantasy choice. You won a contest, and you can pick anyone living or dead to play at your birthday party, who would you pick?
JL: Hmm. James Taylor. James Taylor and Stevie Wonder are my favorite performers!
RE: Who is your favorite composer?
JL: Do you mean classical?
RE: Rock.
JL: (Gets a serious look while thinking) Freddy Mercury. His lyrics were great, and he had mass appeal!
RE: I agree. How special was it recording live at The Ryman?
JL: It was great. Everytime we play there it’s special. It’s hard NOT to get in a zone when you play there!

RE: What guitars and amps are you using live now?
JL: Basically just two. I’m using the black Tele Thinline with two (Bill Lawrence) humbuckers and a Seymour Duncan P-90 in the middle, and a 58 Reissue Les Paul on four or five songs. I’m using two new Fender Deluxe Reverbs that have been rewired to get that vintage sound. Note: Live, he has the amps behind him turned sideways, with the speakers facing his left.
RE: What effects?
JL: I just use a basic setup. I have a RT 66 distortion pedal, kind of like a Tube Screamer, a Vox Wah, and a Boss Auto Wah.
RE: What’s your opinion on the blues today?
JL: It’s all a call to the roots music. Everything stems from there. The last pillars of the genre are the last ones, and they can’t be replicated. The rest of us just stand on their shoulders and try and bring something to it. With the decades of music that has been recorded, it’s special to be a part of this one!
RE: You’ve done blues, blues/rock, and now gospel, and you’ve touched on a bit of jazz in your work. Have you thought about working with an orchestra? Brian Setzer is one guy that’s done a good job with it.
JL: There’s an endless list of things I’d like to do, but absolutely, I’d like to work with an orchestra. We used a large string section on Red Light, and it was just cool to see those guys!
RE: I love many different kinds of music, and I’ve got to explore a few, make a few left turns!
JL: (Laughs) I’ve played “Pseudo-jazz”. I know a couple of tricks!
RE: What is your advice to the young guitar slingers out there?
JL: Man, every form of entertainment is a rat race! There’s no equation for who gets recognized and who doesn’t. There’s no sure fire prescription for success. I’d say to keep your motives pure, and always be respectful. Do it because you love to do it, and give it your best shot. There are tons of guys out there, and the ones that make it are truly lucky!
December 14, 2010

by RM Engelman

www.JONNYLANG.com

SKOPE MAGAZINE

This tour features Shinedown, Sevendust, Puddle of Mudd, Chevelle, and 10 Years. The groups are of the heavier variety that can also at times expose their softer sides. The temperature was a Carnival of Madness, a sweltering 89 degrees at show time, with humidity to match for the six-hour marathon. Remember those ugly old clothes you throw out rather than donate because you think people won’t wear them? Donate them. They were sure wearing them here! Even the singers exhibited some strange attire.
10 Years and Chevelle ran through their material with confidence and style, but were a bit laid back compared to the other stage madness that followed them. 10 Years lead singer Jesse Hasek battled the weather by coming out in a hooded sweatshirt (hood up), and was shirtless after a few songs. Duh!
Mudd front man Wes Scantlin looked like he cut his clothes of a thrift store rack with a chainsaw, resembling a cross between Kid Rock and Billy The Exterminator. POM, the storytellers that they are, regaled the crowd with an energetic mix of F-bombs and their songs of love and extreme hating, ass smacking, and Psycho observations. They do play to the crowd well and put on a good show.

Sevendust is a veteran act that hasn’t received their earned recognition. Supporting their new release Cold Day Memory, lead singer Lajon Witherspoon immediately grabbed the crowd by the throat, and didn’t let them go. Lajon also praised the Cleveland crowd for supporting the band over the years, directly the opposite of a guy that can’t sing and isn’t a frontman (anymore) named LeBron!
Shinedown proved the reason they’ve been able to build a steady following and have corresponding record sales. Front man Brent Smith came out in Captain Fantastic regalia, complete with big sunglasses, huge top hat, and a cane. Devour featured a Wild Kingdom backdrop video of, well things getting devoured. They ran through their material, while Brent roamed across the front of the stage, directly motivating the crowd. His rapport with the audience between songs is intelligent, respectful, and thankful. I was impressed with both his and the bands style. He introduced Diamond Eyes telling about getting a call from Stallone (under duress) to write a song for The Expendables. Performance wise, they rocked. They had to, headlining and following Sevendust and Mudd!

August 19, 2010

by RM Engelman

www.SHINEDOWN.com

www.SEVENDUST.com

www.PUDDLEOFMUDD.com

www.CHEVELLEINC.com

www.10YEARSMUSIC.com

SKOPE MAGAZINE