Roux Black Presents the Hottest, New Recurring Production: Rise of the VLLN

November 10, 2017

What's trendier than sipping on craft cocktail while listening to the experimental genius of Sur Ellz, and getting your tarot cards read by Ru Johnson herself in a sneaker shop? Probably fucking nothing. We foresee Roux Black's freshest, curated series being your most preferred Wednesday evening attraction. Located promptly on South Broadway, the speakeasy venue attracts sneaker heads by day and swanky drinkers by night, yet Roux Black and her team, as usual, see so much more potential for illustrious evenings of music, art, and style.

Full details below!

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SneekEazy is a saloon and lounge by night and a high end sneaker shop by day boasting brands and coveted collections including Yeezy, Alexander Wang, Vans, Nike, Puma and more. On November 15th, 2017 and each Wednesday after, SneekEazy will be home to the hottest sounds, progressive art installations and beautiful people for Rise of the VLLN, a Roux Black production.

Music will be curated by DJ SIXXXD, hosted by Saint Lucif with tarot card readings by Ru Johnson and will feature vocal performances from various rotating artists. For the kick off show, Sur Ellz will add his live style to the mix as tastemakers explore and indulge in the magic of the evening in style.

The selection will be impeccable and the atmosphere ripe for dancing or just building on the good vibes in the room. Rise of the VLLN is a throw to getting outside of your comfort zone, mixing all the elements of dark and light creating the perfect connection of magic.

The ‘speakeasy’ style of the room will highlight the innovative photo and video installations, give an ethereal touch to the tarot reading and offer new artists to experiment with their sounds.

November 15, 2017

No Cover

21+up

Doors at 9pm

Rise of the VLLN

Catching Up With New, Local Act, Nightlove: Interview

November 8, 2017

Although brand new on the music scene, artist Nightlove instantly sparked our interest when we first laid ears on him. Taylor MacNicholas is the hairy, tattooed genius behind the emerging 80's synth pop project. With just a sprinkle of emo flare in his vocal belting and breaks, Taylor takes the popular techniques of the sequined jumpsuits, colossal glam hair, and parachute pants era and transforms it into current, mainstream pop. In our recent interview Taylor discusses the conception, inspiration and development behind Nightlove.

Debut show!

This Friday, November 10th at the Marquis Theatre catch Nightlove with This Broken Beat, Optyc Nerd and more!

Ultra5280: Your previous band was in the hardcore genre. Nightlove is a complete 180 from that with it’s 80’s synth pop vibe. Where did you find the inspiration for this new project?

Taylor: I’ve always really loved new wave, 80’s pop music since I was a kid. I really liked The Cars growing up and watched so much I Love The 80’s on VH1. Then I kinda fell off with it a bit until I started working at this pizza place where they played First Wave on Sirius XM. That jump started me back in. That was right as I started Forty Fathoms, the heavy band. I’ve always written songs but I never really finished anything. It was more surf/new wave/dream pop type stuff but nothing ever came to fruition because I couldn’t finish anything.

I was dating this girl and she moved to Texas. It was right around the time I was really falling out of love with the band. We had been fairly successful in Denver but we had so many failed tours that it started to get frustrating. I moved down there to work on my relationship and write more. After a few months I came back to Denver because we had a big show at The Summit and I just decided to stay in Denver and not go back to Texas. The band ended up breaking up shortly after.

Eventually I wanted to write this faux movie script for the girl I was dating. It was heavily 80’s influenced because we both really loved the 80’s. I love that it’s sort of the original avant garde pop music. That ended up turning into ‘Alright’. But we actually ended up breaking up like, immediately after. I always wanted to write this type of music. It took my life sort of… crumbling to really want to do it. I gave that song to her and she didn’t really want it. That was really sad. I started to show my friends and they gave a lot of positive feedback. I took it to my friend/roommate Rob and he was a big help. He and a lot of others close to me gave me a lot of motivation to start the project.

It was really the natural progression in my life that shaped this project. I wanted to find myself.

Ultra5280: Was there any specific band/artist that was a big influence on this new project that you’ve taken inspiration from?

Taylor: The Smiths is one of my favorite bands. I love Foxy Shazam a lot too. Someone told me the other day they related my stuff with Foxy which was really cool. Hall and Oates. The Drive soundtrack is the best thing in the world!

I guess I didn’t notice that there were a lot of current bands that have the same sort of 80’s synth vibe. The 1975, St. Lucia, LANY, Taylor Swift’s 1989, Carly Rae Jepson. I love all of their production. I never thought this would be me at all but I think it’s fun to see people have a go at new genres.

Taylor on set for "Still In Love" at Grandma's House.

Ultra5280: So the girl in Texas was who influenced ‘Still In Love’?

Taylor: Yeah it’s sort of a story. You’ll hear it in the other songs that come out with how the story progresses.

Ultra5280: You only have the two songs currently out on YouTube. Can you talk about the other music you’ll be debuting on Friday?

Taylor: Unfortunately I haven’t had a lot of time to work on everything. Preparing for the show is so much more work than I thought it would be. I’m playing four original songs and a cover with an intro cover as well. I want to keep everything a surprise!

Ultra5280: We can’t wait to see what you’ll be wearing! Is there a song that you’re most excited to debut live?

Taylor: Definitely the ballad. It’s my favorite song I’ve ever written. The versions I wrote are pretty simple but for this song live I wanted the band to do their own thing with it. They made it sound super awesome. It’s so cheesy but I can’t wait to play it.

Ultra5280: How many pieces are in the band?

Taylor: 6 total. Keys, 2 guitars, bass and synth, drums and myself. The saxophone is just on Still In Love. I got the best people. I’m so thankful.

Ultra5280: How do you think your music fits into the scene here in Denver?

Taylor: I honestly have no idea. I’m so out of it because I played hardcore for so long. I’m looking forward to meeting people in the industry. I would love to play with Rumor’s Follow. Maybe get paired together for a show.

It’s so weird, I put out the songs then everyone hit me up for shows. I had no idea it would turn into anything. I took my money that I made from art and I put it into more art.

On the set of "Alright" at Arvada Skate City.

Ultra5280: Do you have a favorite local artist/band?

Taylor: There’s a band called False Report that’s really cool. Photo Atlas, My Body Sings Electric, Optyc Nerd. There’s a lot of really cool bands.

Ultra5280: Anything else planned your excited for?

Taylor: I’m gotta work on finishing the rest of the songs. Maybe do some collabs. Definitely the next music video for the ballad. I want a music video for every song. I’ll probably release the third video when the EP is done.

Ultra5280: The two videos start with you getting out of bed. Is there any significance or symbolism to that?

Taylor: I… like to stay in bed a lot haha. The second video was going to be different. It was gonna be like “how to get over someone.” But every time you get motivated for that week when you’re really depressed you always end up back in bed. We had it set up for a different concept but I had an idea that changed it back to getting out of bed.

Ultra5280: What do you want people to know about you through your music? How do you want to connect with people?

Taylor: A part of me is still conflicted with whether I want to keep up this persona or just be me. I really just want people to dance and have fun. I think it’s so fun to be able to dance really sad lyrics and dance at the same time. I make happy music about sad things and that makes me happy.

Ultra5280: So...like, how do you think Game of Thrones will end?

Taylor: I’m a sucker for a good ending so I obviously just want Dany and Jon to be together, but it’s always really funny when people are fucked with really hard. Jeoffrey. White walker. He comes back to life. He’ll kill the white king and take over. He’ll take the snow dragon. Does it shoot fire or ice?! I don’t get into theories that much because I really fucked myself up with Star Wars theories. I can’t stay up until 4 in the morning anymore!

Ultra5280: Cake or pie?

Taylor: I don’t really like sweets. Only ice cream cake on my birthday. Mint chocolate chip. Other than that just whiskey, beer or tequila for my dessert.

Ultra5280: Sausage or bacon?

Taylor: Bacon. I don’t like breakfast sausage. The patties are gross.

Ultra5280: Cowboys or aliens?

Taylor: I thought I was an alien until like the 3rd grade. I always asked my mom where my pod was.

Director/DOP: Thomas Helvenstine (www.thvisual.com) Assistant Director: Taylor MacNicholas Producer: Gino Colletti Hair/MUA: Natalie Rene'e IG: @natariisan keep up to date on Nightlove news on: www.facebook.com/iamnightlove Instagram: i_am_nightlove LYRICS: If I hold my breath long enough will I end up in another life can I change her mind? Can I still get high?

The highly anticipated second chapter of the Nightlove story has arrived. Directed by Thomas Helvenstine Produced by Gino Colletti Additional production by $eth Munson

Mild Huh? Club

November 7, 2017

Mild High Club, an artist on Stones Throw Records, played one of our favorite venues for intimate shows, Larimer Lounge on Sunday. The band has a psychedelic pop sound reminiscent of Mac Demarco, in addition to their own stylish flares like cowbell percussion, and classic jazz sounding interludes.

I may be the only one who thinks Mild High Club is a lightly misleading name due to the fact that the band isn’t from Denver, but it definitely is misleading to the ability of front man Alex Brettin’s ability to hang with his implied fellow stoners. During the performance, after quite a few inconsistencies with his voice and missing some of his cues, Brettin admitted to being too stoned. After that, Brettin moved to keys, which appear to be his strong suit because the performance then improved significantly.

Similar to the structure of their newest album, Mild High Club played their strongest, most popular songs first, leading the crowd of fans into a sing along of “Windowpane”, “Homage”, and “Cary Me Back”. The rest kind of fell off for me, because nothing sounded nearly as good as it does on the studio version and it was a pretty forgettable set.

With two studio albums under their belt, Timeline (2015) and Skiptracing (2017) the band seems to be settling into their style and evolving, however there is always room for improvement, especially when it comes to the live performance. 6/10

Chelsea Wolfe At The Gothic, How Fitting.

October 30, 2017

Gothic, neo-folk Queen, Chelsea Wolfe sold out the Bluebird and got moved to the Gothic this Halloweekend, and what a pleasure it was!

Youth Code, opener and duo from Los Angeles was an important addition to this bill, and not only because of the female front person. The group has been described as industrial music with hardcore angst, and they are on the forefront of genre EBM. EBM stands for electronic body music, which is simply a mix of the industrial and electronic genres. The group had an electric energy, and started off the show with an angsty bang.

The ambience was eerie enough for the spirit of the season, but so beautiful it could evoke tears out of those of us emo enough. Industrial, electronic, folky, and gothic, Chelsea Wolfe’s music is hard to define, and I take it she likes it that way as her albums showcase an ever changing style. With lyrics that are obviously very personal, but still somehow manage to speak to her fans, she manages to evoke her experienced emotions out of her crowd. “16 Psyche”, “Vex”, and “Carrion Flowers” were all awesome, although I can’t be the only one who wishes more of her older work had been incorporated into the set.

Local photographer Jess L. Paul said, “My highlight was definitely when Sara Taylor from Youth Code came out and did Aaron Turner’s parts for the song “Vex”. It was killer to see that song live and to see the interaction between Wolfe and Taylor.”

Chelsea Wolfe and Sara Taylor from Youth Code perform "Vex". Photo by Jess L. Paul

Hiss Spun, the album Wolfe is currently promoting on tour came out this September and showcases her beautiful voice, along with the talents of Troy Van Leeuwen (guitarist from Queens Of The Stone Age), and long-time collaborator/floating band member, Ben Chisholm. I can’t wait until this songstress seduces us once more with her melodically mashed sludge metal.

Try saying that five times fast. hehe

MCA Gala After Party Impresses

October 30, 2017

The MCA Denver Gala after party was one for the books! The festivities took place at the Sports Castle on Broadway honoring Sir David Adjaye, and celebrating 10 years since he designed MCA Denver’s current building. A Voguish dress code had everyone dressed to the nines, transported to what looked like some fancy, underground warehouse party in New York City. A multi-level layout, an open bar, a room full of human hamster balls, photo booth, and DJ set by artist Neon Indian, allowed guests to stay entertained and well spread out throughout the event.

This party was innovative, fun, and obviously very well thought out, however it was interesting to me that many of the ticket holders from the Gala, did not stay for Neon Indian’s set, or most of the after party. Which leads me to the question, could we have allowed more Denver youngsters (21+ of course) in to the set for the actual music? Because the music was worth seeing. Alan Palomo, otherwise known by his stage name of Neon Indian played a fun, upbeat set that deserved a bigger crowd. I will say that the intimacy of the performance was definitely present, especially because Palomo was just strolling through the party before playing his set, having a drink, taking in the wild party surrounding us all. His infectious energy spread through the crowd through his performance and guaranteed a good time! Keep an eye out for more of the MCA’s events, because not only do they have an eye for art, but music as well!

Wildermiss | Lost With You | Review

October 27, 2017

Denver local outfit Wildermiss has just released heir first EP and we have been waiting awhile to get our hands on it. The band consists of three former members of Red Fox Run (guitarists Joshua Hester and Seth Beamer and drummer Caleb Thoemke), the foursome is led by the soaring vocals of Emma Drae.

The first track Between Rooms has the silky smooth vocals of Emma Drae in perfect unison with what could easily be mistaken for an early The Strokes era guitar riff. It's catchy, it's fun and demands your respect.

The next track is one we have become familiar with Carry Your Heart has been circling the interwebs for a hot minute and will easily become a radio friendly hit. A definite country music influence on this one, Drae passionately sings the chorus of carry your heart with such a passion and conviction it makes you feel her pain.

Our favorite track Vivian starts off with an upbeat guitar riff straight out of the 80's. The drumbeat on this one stands out the most with influences ranging from new wave. This track would be perfect played in a dark cavernous hole in the wall venue while the locals dance with no regret.

The great thing about this album is the way it flows from song to song. On Keep It Simple, Drae channels her inner Ellie Goulding for an amazing song we can hear being a hit on the radio waves. This track has all the feels that makes us want to dance in front of the mirror from beginning to end.

Tunnel Vision is a love song that reminds us of the everyday struggles that a relationship may have with no mutual respect for either party. A darker song on the album, the song repeats the chorus of the song while making sure we get the meaning of the cry for help.

The final song Pieces is probably the best produced song on the album with an arena anthem feel. We picture a packed house holding up their lighters (iPhones) in unison making the crowd glow as the they sway back and forth. This song gives us a glimpse of the heavily Coldplay influenced pain and sorrow of Chris Martin similar to hits like The Scientist and Fix You.

The album is complete from start to end and is one of the best pieces of work we have had a chance to listen to so far this year. Get this in the hands of the right people and we have ourselves Denver's next biggest band.

The album can be found on the following: