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The Streets of Philadelphia
Its three days before we celebrate Independence Day. The streets of Philadelphia are alive with many faces, smiling in anticipation of the festivities. Meanwhile, Just off of South Street, the historic Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA) has opened its doors in preparation for the Emergenza Rock Show that will commence. The fuse is lit; I think we’re about to see some real fireworks…
This final was set off in the perfect tone with the exciting performance of the powerful hard rock sounds of Decadence. With a sound similar to the Deftones with a more metal edge, the enthusiastic crowd at TLA dug in their heels. A Mighty Paradocs hit the stage second, and laid out a set of fresh head-noddin’ and thought provoking music, accented by in-you-face female lead vocals and a very energetic bass player. Smyth brought a new sound to Philly’s crowd with exciting stage presence from the lead singer. They were really the full package, with superb harmonies and a great original sound.
Our next band was representing Baltimore, and xDwellx really came full force with a powerful set of alternative metal with aggressive vocals and rock-solid guitars. The Difference… big sound from a Philly hip-hop megalodon. A set chock full of funky beats, tasty keys, soulful bass from the upright and spiritually enlightening lyricism burned up TLA’s stage. Our sixth band of the night was Selkow (in picture). They were a true breath of fresh air, bringing incredible stage presence, top-notch songwriting and superb tightness as a band to the show.
After the Fall followed, and came with a very professional sound. Why aren’t these guys signed yet? After the Fall was just an all-around outstanding band with a great rock sound. Plan J took the stage next, giving a very enthusiastic crowd just what they needed; a damn fine set of all-original Plan J magic. Panacea’s set was laced with very versatile vocals, backed by a very tight band that really showed their stuff.
Ainsley, one of the two bands representing D.C., brought out powerful female vocals sitting atop a solid original sound, crafted by stylish keyboard work. Altemus’ sound reminded me of Ed Kowalczyk from Live, and Altemus gave Philly a 20 minute taste of American Rock at its best! Philadelphia Slick’s set was so seamlessly done that it seemed like an hour packed into 20 minutes. It was a non-stop thrill ride on the groove train. Hype lyrics and a very full sound will be their signature, and success is definitely in the future for these guys!
Our youngest band of the night was next, in Proven Worth, but age doesn’t mean anything on this stage. With energy the size of a dump truck, they played a set of fresh pop-punk to the delight of the TLA crowd. Spanish Blue took over entertainment duties, and was an extremely talented group, with a fresh, focused set of original hip-hop. I was really impressed with the articulation of the rapper! Wrapping up the night was the other D.C. representative, Just Like Always. With a singer only 5 days into it, the natural teamwork here showed that this band clicked and the wheels haven’t stopped spinning yet.
Speaking of spinning, my head still hasn’t stopped. What an outstanding show! These bands are on the web, they’re on myspace.com, and all over the east coast. Support them, and they will definitely surprise you!
One Love,
- Bob Lablah/emergenza
Discography
" Take Me Back" was released in March 2006 and was played on 98 rock's "Noise in the Basement" in Baltimore, Maryland.
Ainsley has also been interviewed and advertised on 98 rock.
In July 2006 Ainsley was the regional winner of the Emergenza music festival at the Nine Thirty club in Washington D.C. and her music has been submitted for a nationwide compilation c.d. for upcoming artists affiliated with Emergenza.
In May 2006 Ainsley McGray scored all the music for Zhibo Gellar's Independent film entitled "The Wise Man".
In 2005 Ainsley's second e.p. received rave reviews on Taxi.
In 2005 Ainsley's second e.p. featuring the song "Killing the Queen" was released and received significant play at various dance bars throughout Maryland such as Harbour Sounds, Catamaran's, The Blue Lagoon, Sapphire's and for mixers at Messiah College in Pennsylvania.
From 2002-2004 her first e.p. received significant airplay on Florida State Univerisity's college radio station under reknowned D.J. Shahar Sapir.
In 2001, Ainsley won the opportunity to sell her song "Pink" for a nationwide compilation c.d. for new artists across America.
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Ainsley McGray is primarily a solo artist who has recently joined forces with a backup band. Her powerhouse vocals and emotionally epic lyrics have given her a universal appeal by creating music that speaks to all ages with a new edge. The juxtaposition of her music's orchestral harmonic rock with unforgettable vocal hooks yields quite a powerful performance.
Ainsley's sound has been best categorized as orchestral Progressive-pop rock; sounding like a mixture of both Pat Benatar and Dream Theater, Tori Amos and Night Wish, Kate Bush and Evanescence.
Ainsley is truly at the forefront of a new genre of music; here is where the orchestra meets rock music and Whitney Houston sings.
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