5 Miles to Midnight

(Excerpt)

We all know that local music in T&T is revered mostly at Carnival time when Soca and country’s patriotism takes over us Trinis, who proclaim to have the best Carnival in the world. However that pride quickly dies, once the last lap is taken on Carnival Tuesday night, and the remnants of the last costumed headpiece is carelessly tossed.

All will agree that we are a nation with many talented artistes and there are so many artistes in the ‘underground’ circuit, yet the pleas of that community to have their songs played on radio seems like a battle in itself. Many local music artistes have complained about airplay, and if a popular radio station DJ eh know yuh, yuh hadda suck salt…literally. Yuh might as well pack back all yuh nicely packaged demos in yuh box ah press. Plain talk.


As sad as this reality, there is quite a stirring in the local underground music, where talent abounds. Though I am familiar with many of the groups and artistes in various genres, there are many who deserve to be getting heavy rotation on the country’s best FMs. Here is a list, in no particular order, of local artistes who should get regular radio airplay, in my opinion....
5 Miles to Midnight

This eclectic, all-guy, alternative rock/ pop band consists of guitarist – Alex Ou Young, drummer – Rhys Thompson, bassist – Robert Evelyn and vocalist – Liam King. Delivering high-energy performances, they are very much present on the local, music scene, having opened up for 94.7FM’s launch last year, with one of their original songs, “Tonight”. They are set to perform on the Digicel “Outta Control Tour” soon, and have released a new song entitled “Homeless”. - www.outlish.com

(Excerpt)
...
Anthony "Chinese Laundry" Chow Lin On of Star 947 and producer of the concert told the Express that the station is aimed at the sector of the youth market that wants pop rock and alternative music. He added that Star 947 will also play locally produced music once it meets international standards.
"As I see it the youth market in Trinidad and Tobago is split between the music we feature on WEFM 96.1 and what Star 947 offers. Star 947 is a movement that will play the entire gamut of pop and alternative from around the world including music produced here. Yes Maroon 5, a foreign band is coming for the launch, but we want them to share the stage with KES and 5 Miles to Midnight, the best in local pop rock and alternative," Chow Lin On said.

... - Trinidad Express

(Excerpt)
...
Anthony "Chinese Laundry" Chow Lin On of Star 947 and producer of the concert told the Express that the station is aimed at the sector of the youth market that wants pop rock and alternative music. He added that Star 947 will also play locally produced music once it meets international standards.
"As I see it the youth market in Trinidad and Tobago is split between the music we feature on WEFM 96.1 and what Star 947 offers. Star 947 is a movement that will play the entire gamut of pop and alternative from around the world including music produced here. Yes Maroon 5, a foreign band is coming for the launch, but we want them to share the stage with KES and 5 Miles to Midnight, the best in local pop rock and alternative," Chow Lin On said.

... - Trinidad Express

It’s 5 Miles to Midnight, and the adrenaline rises as the members of the rock band take the stage. With loud music and upbeat tempo, they hold the audience’s attention. Somewhere between their punk/pop rock songs they manage to incorporate a song about love. Though the idea of love in punk rock may seem strange to many Trinis, that type of music is called “Emo.” While at Woodford Cafe Tuesday, the members said “Emo” was short for emotional music.

Their passion for their music was evident when lead vocalist, Kenneth Richards, 20, sang his heart out to the the musicians’ accompaniment. The band was formed a little more than a year ago, but these young men played together for years before they officially launched as a group. In this land of calypso and soca, 5 Miles is trying to end the stereotype that they said rock music carries. One of its founders, Rhys Thompson said, “There is a huge rock community, especially among the East Indian community in south Trinidad. “As you can see, however, we are not of East Indian descent so we are trying to end that stereotype so we can incorporate everyone,” Thompson said.

The members, who hail from west and central Trinidad, are talented musicians who write their own songs as well. Thompson said they aim to play good music and he believes that T&T likes whatever sounds good, regardless of the genre. The 22-year-old plays the drums with the band with gusto—truly the band’s heartbeat. The members are united, not only in music. They appear to have a bond beyond that. Though they showed themselves to be humble and playful at times, the young men became serious when it came to practice time. Richards said although they all have their differences, they enjoy each other’s company.

Music is their mistress, said Richards, as they have to dedicate themselves to the outside world. “When it gets to the point where we choose a full-time profession, it would be our music,” he stated. The psychology student is not the only one who has a busy schedule. In fact, the bass guitarist, Robert Evelyn is a practising pilot. The 24-year-old said, “It’s always a challenge, but it gets easier. I make time for it because I love it.” Their other guitarist, Alex Burt Ou Young, who happily flung his head of dreadlocks to be photographed, is also an entrepreneur.

“I have a little rental sound company. But I also work elsewhere and I am a student,” Ou Young said. Even if T&T does not wholeheartedly embrace their music, the members will continue to follow through with their passion for it. So far their dedication has paid off as they are called to perform at clubs and bars. Come May, they will have a chance to make a mark internationally as the T&T rock band has been invited to perform at Club Tobago in Queens, New York. This, they hope, will lead to other gigs.

- See more at: http://www.guardian.co.tt/archives/features/entertainment/2009/04/12/5-miles-midnight#sthash.KAPUjnRP.dpuf - Guardian Media Limited

ETCETERABUZZ.COM is pleased to give you the first bit of info on something major that’s set to be released by the former Road March and Soca Monarch queen by the end of this week and while Lyons-Alvarez herself wasn’t too sure of what the track would be called, she told us that she recorded the song with local rock band 5 Miles to Midnight.

“I was approached by the band’s manager at the gym and she asked me if I would consider doing a collaboration with the band and I told her sure…” said the Soca star who has already delivered three tracks ahead of the season. She said the process was simple enough as she subsequently checked out the band’s vibe at their band room, went through a few songs and they decided on one that she felt would mesh well with the Soca vibe that she’s certainly a natural at invoking. The song was done with live background instruments and it was collaboratively written by Lyons-Alvarez and the band’s lead singer, Liam King. - http://etceterabuzz.com

ETCETERABUZZ.COM is pleased to give you the first bit of info on something major that’s set to be released by the former Road March and Soca Monarch queen by the end of this week and while Lyons-Alvarez herself wasn’t too sure of what the track would be called, she told us that she recorded the song with local rock band 5 Miles to Midnight.

“I was approached by the band’s manager at the gym and she asked me if I would consider doing a collaboration with the band and I told her sure…” said the Soca star who has already delivered three tracks ahead of the season. She said the process was simple enough as she subsequently checked out the band’s vibe at their band room, went through a few songs and they decided on one that she felt would mesh well with the Soca vibe that she’s certainly a natural at invoking. The song was done with live background instruments and it was collaboratively written by Lyons-Alvarez and the band’s lead singer, Liam King. - http://etceterabuzz.com

By Tuere aka Teekay Published 17-Jul-13 2013 Events Unrated


Have you ever had an eargasm? If not, then you’ve probably never heard 5 Miles to Midnight (5M2M). The band rocked out to an enthusiastic crowd on the Woodford Café Chagaunas patio, giving us a taste of what’s to come. The show was exciting from start to finish as the band kept the audience on their toes by delivering a tight set that included electrifying original singles off their upcoming EP, vibesy covers and guest performances by other talented upcoming artists.

T & T is not at all lacking for talent and this was evidenced by the awesome line up at the show. New acoustic duo The Indoor Kites opened with a harmonious delivery of Sade’s “Sweetest Taboo” and an equally smooth original composition. This set our expectations high for a great show and we were not disappointed.

5M2M took the stage next and took the energy to a whole different level with their fusion of rock and Caribbean music influences. The band has coined this original genre of music Island Rock or iRock and it sounds just like Salted Caramel ice-cream tastes, sweet with just the right amount of salty goodness.

Lead singer Liam King’s powerful vocals were complemented by edgy music as they rocked the crowd with their recently released singles “Control” and “Don’t Regret” among other selections. The band has managed to perfectly balance the bold and even aggressive qualities of rock music with the soulful, rhythmic nature of our regional genres. This topped off with the youthful effervescence of pop music and plenty energy has resulted in a fresh, dynamic sound that is raw yet accessible, and frankly infectious.

They were joined on the stage by the talented duo Nebula868 who had the crowd jiggling and fist pumping respectively with their new song “Peep Show” and their party anthem “Amped Up”. Mark Hardy and Yung Rudd kept the vibes on high with their new release “Pumpin’”. King Kong even joined them on stage to show just how much vibes the song has.

The gig attracted a diverse crowd of music lovers who definitely got their money’s worth. Despite it being midweek, the patio was full during the show and from the look of things the audience definitely enjoyed themselves. The outdoor setting at Woodford Café provided great ambience for an exciting night.

All in all the show was the perfect example of the limitless possibility of Trini talent and what we can and will bring to the world stage in the near future. It’s extremely inspiring to see young people going after their dreams and producing a world class product. We anxiously await the release of 5M2M’s first EP.

- Tuere aka Teekay - www.trinijunglejuice.com

By Tuere aka Teekay Published 17-Jul-13 2013 Events Unrated


Have you ever had an eargasm? If not, then you’ve probably never heard 5 Miles to Midnight (5M2M). The band rocked out to an enthusiastic crowd on the Woodford Café Chagaunas patio, giving us a taste of what’s to come. The show was exciting from start to finish as the band kept the audience on their toes by delivering a tight set that included electrifying original singles off their upcoming EP, vibesy covers and guest performances by other talented upcoming artists.

T & T is not at all lacking for talent and this was evidenced by the awesome line up at the show. New acoustic duo The Indoor Kites opened with a harmonious delivery of Sade’s “Sweetest Taboo” and an equally smooth original composition. This set our expectations high for a great show and we were not disappointed.

5M2M took the stage next and took the energy to a whole different level with their fusion of rock and Caribbean music influences. The band has coined this original genre of music Island Rock or iRock and it sounds just like Salted Caramel ice-cream tastes, sweet with just the right amount of salty goodness.

Lead singer Liam King’s powerful vocals were complemented by edgy music as they rocked the crowd with their recently released singles “Control” and “Don’t Regret” among other selections. The band has managed to perfectly balance the bold and even aggressive qualities of rock music with the soulful, rhythmic nature of our regional genres. This topped off with the youthful effervescence of pop music and plenty energy has resulted in a fresh, dynamic sound that is raw yet accessible, and frankly infectious.

They were joined on the stage by the talented duo Nebula868 who had the crowd jiggling and fist pumping respectively with their new song “Peep Show” and their party anthem “Amped Up”. Mark Hardy and Yung Rudd kept the vibes on high with their new release “Pumpin’”. King Kong even joined them on stage to show just how much vibes the song has.

The gig attracted a diverse crowd of music lovers who definitely got their money’s worth. Despite it being midweek, the patio was full during the show and from the look of things the audience definitely enjoyed themselves. The outdoor setting at Woodford Café provided great ambience for an exciting night.

All in all the show was the perfect example of the limitless possibility of Trini talent and what we can and will bring to the world stage in the near future. It’s extremely inspiring to see young people going after their dreams and producing a world class product. We anxiously await the release of 5M2M’s first EP.

- Tuere aka Teekay - www.trinijunglejuice.com

By Atiba Rogers | March 29, 2013
Congratulations to 5 Miles to Midnight for winning this week’s Artist of the Week by a landslide! Fans of the Trindadian iRock band were determined to bring the crown to their country. Making Marks was trailing right behind, but that didn’t stop 5 Miles to Midnight from keeping their eyes on the Iggy trophy. The Trinidadian band can bask in glory right now, for they came out on top this week.

Good luck on everything guys! - www.mtviggy.com

By Atiba Rogers | March 29, 2013
Congratulations to 5 Miles to Midnight for winning this week’s Artist of the Week by a landslide! Fans of the Trindadian iRock band were determined to bring the crown to their country. Making Marks was trailing right behind, but that didn’t stop 5 Miles to Midnight from keeping their eyes on the Iggy trophy. The Trinidadian band can bask in glory right now, for they came out on top this week.

Good luck on everything guys! - www.mtviggy.com

By Atiba Rogers
March 22, 2013
Name: 5 Miles to Midnight

Where They’re From: Trinidad & Tobago

Genre: iRock (Island Rock)

When They Started: 2006

For Fans Of: Fall Out Boy, Machel Montano, Maroon 5

Sounds Like: Apples and oranges blended into a tasty smoothie.

Leh we max it up! Well, maybe not too much. But if you ever feel like jamming, tapping your foot and bobbing your head synchronously, then Trinidad has some sweet island vibes for you. There’s something brewing there and it’s not just any ole soca or calypso music. It’s island rock for all you cultured rockers.

5 Miles to Midnight have styled themselves as the pioneers of iRock and though I’ve never heard of rock coming out of Trinidad, I must admit that this flavor of island music is delicious.

Formerly known as A Moment of Silence, members underwent a name change to reflect their recent change in musical direction. The six-man band has opened for the likes of Maroon 5, Evanescence, Machel Montano and Stephen Marley. They also won the Trinidad & Tobago Anchorage Pop Rock Awards in 2010.

These guys need to keep doing whatever they’re doing, because it’s working. Their recent collaboration with soca queen Fay-Ann Lyons on “DIMIT” reveals just how many possibilities there are in this iRock concept. It’s extremely danceable, but you have to do a slow wine. While these guys continue to mix it up in the studio, go ahead and take a listen/gander below.



TAGS:5 Miles to MidnightAtiba RogersCalypsoCaribbeanDIMITEvanescenceFay-Ann LyonsiRockMachel MontanoMaroon 5Port of SpainsocaStephen MarleyTrinidad & Tobago
Return to All articles
- www.mtviggy.com

By Atiba Rogers
March 22, 2013
Name: 5 Miles to Midnight

Where They’re From: Trinidad & Tobago

Genre: iRock (Island Rock)

When They Started: 2006

For Fans Of: Fall Out Boy, Machel Montano, Maroon 5

Sounds Like: Apples and oranges blended into a tasty smoothie.

Leh we max it up! Well, maybe not too much. But if you ever feel like jamming, tapping your foot and bobbing your head synchronously, then Trinidad has some sweet island vibes for you. There’s something brewing there and it’s not just any ole soca or calypso music. It’s island rock for all you cultured rockers.

5 Miles to Midnight have styled themselves as the pioneers of iRock and though I’ve never heard of rock coming out of Trinidad, I must admit that this flavor of island music is delicious.

Formerly known as A Moment of Silence, members underwent a name change to reflect their recent change in musical direction. The six-man band has opened for the likes of Maroon 5, Evanescence, Machel Montano and Stephen Marley. They also won the Trinidad & Tobago Anchorage Pop Rock Awards in 2010.

These guys need to keep doing whatever they’re doing, because it’s working. Their recent collaboration with soca queen Fay-Ann Lyons on “DIMIT” reveals just how many possibilities there are in this iRock concept. It’s extremely danceable, but you have to do a slow wine. While these guys continue to mix it up in the studio, go ahead and take a listen/gander below.



TAGS:5 Miles to MidnightAtiba RogersCalypsoCaribbeanDIMITEvanescenceFay-Ann LyonsiRockMachel MontanoMaroon 5Port of SpainsocaStephen MarleyTrinidad & Tobago
Return to All articles
- www.mtviggy.com