MICHAEL VAN LONDON
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MICHAEL VAN LONDON

Los Angeles, CA | SELF

Los Angeles, CA | SELF
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"An Opinionated Guide to an Exhausting Year for Oscar Songs"

Just as Chris Colfer's movie "Struck by Lightning" is a surprisingly funny and heartfelt gem, so its song, Michael Van London's "Feel Love," has more drive and punch than man of its competitors. It's a pop-rock tune that's tough instead of sugary.
- The WRAP Hollywood


"Michael Van London attends Struck By Lightning Premiere!"

Musician Michael Van London attends 'Struck By Lightning' Premiere during the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival at the Borough of Manhattan Community College on April 21, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Getty Images)
Read more at http://stars.topnews.in/237314-michael-van-london-attends-struck-lightning-premiere#fOfgu2QcrxLhF28v.99 - Top News Stars


"Michael Van London attends Struck By Lightning Premiere!"

Musician Michael Van London attends 'Struck By Lightning' Premiere during the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival at the Borough of Manhattan Community College on April 21, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Getty Images)
Read more at http://stars.topnews.in/237314-michael-van-london-attends-struck-lightning-premiere#fOfgu2QcrxLhF28v.99 - Top News Stars


"American Blood & Guts- A sit-down with out rocker Michael Van London"

Michael Van London is an L.A.-based, out singer/songwriter who has fronted the bands The Bombs and The Black Beverly Heels, and who has recently embarked on a solo career with the release of American Blood & Guts. His music has been featured on MTV, made officially available in Rock Band and he's been spotlighted as Spotify's "Artist of the Week." I sat down with Michael over an exotic sampler platter at Nobu to recap the whirlwind that 2012 was for him.

Michael, it’s been quite a year for you. Tell me about some of the highlights.
Well, I got most of my record in the movie Struck by Lightning, directed by the fabulous Brian Dannelly and written by and starring Chris Colfer, and featuring Rebel Wilson among an amazing cast. That was a really huge thing. I played the El Rey this year. That was a big deal for me.

How did the movie deal come about?
Until recently, Brian and I were neighbors. Shortly after he signed on for the movie, we were walking our dogs downtown and he asked to hear the new record I was working on. I told him I didn't think my music would fit in with a Glee-type movie and he said that the story Chris wrote was a real departure from Glee. It was way more of a black comedy than any kind of Hollywood teen flick. So I gave him the unfinished demos of American Blood & Guts, and he really liked them. He was really crazy about “Feel Love,” and he used “Sound of an Amp” for the American trailer and “Downtown” for the European trailer.

And those songs are featured in their entirety in the film, with “Sound of an Amp” extended to accommodate the crux of the film—which is highly unusual.
Is it?

Mary, please. Most people just get a snippet buried in the mix of a party scene if they’re lucky.
Yeah, they were prominently featured, which was pretty fantastic. “Feel Love” leads the film out through the credits. Plus, I got a cameo as the janitor, which was fun.

You also found yourself in the rare company of a handful of artists who were considered for an Oscar nomination this year. What was that like?
Well, kind of a major let down, but also kind of a gigantic personal validation. Like, wow, maybe I’m not crazy. I actually can do this.

You can play the game on their board.
Yeah. I actually got to that level somehow, and I just never ever thought I would. When you see your name between Jon Bon Jovi and Norah Jones and Adele, it’s hard to believe that it’s even real. I didn't expect to win, but I thought I had a chance to be nominated. God, It would have been amazing to hear an orchestra play my songs, but, well, maybe next year. I have two other films with Brian that I’m working on this year. This year my goal is to release another solo record and win that fucking Oscar!

Right on—good luck. So it’s no secret that the internet has changed the playing field for musicians. Metallica fought it, others celebrate it. How do you approach the changing industry?
Bringing your fan base directly into what you’re doing is really important. I've had great response with contests—one to design my music download card I handed out at the Tribecca premiere, and another to design the cover of the "Downtown" single. I love the winner—it was that old '70s kind of art where you’re drawn on the cover, like Air Supply or something

You've found people out there willing to loan you their talents rather than steal your product.
Absolutely. I did another contest where I asked my fans to submit a video for any of my songs from Struck by Lightning. The prize I offered was to be my date to the red carpet premiere of the film. The submissions I got were amazing, gorgeous and inspired. I was really blown away. I second-guessed myself when I was like, "Use your own resources to make me a video, and if you win you can fund your own trip here"— it took a lot of balls to do that, and I thought,"Oh God, I’m going to come across as an asshole," but then I thought, I’m doing it because it’s a cool project to put out to your listeners, and I wish somebody would have done that when I was 21.

Yeah, when I was 21, a “Make the Video” Contest was a three-month million-dollar promotion on MTV.
Right. I wish there would have been a "Make the Video" contest to win a trip to the Grammys with the Bangles back then. I would have been like, “I’m winning this shit!”

What’s your Industry pet peeve?
Autotune. If you can’t sing, be a fucking doctor or something.

Well, congratulations on a banner year. What’s on the horizon?
Well, I’m working on a new record and writing songs for movies, I’m planning a West Coast tour in the Fall, and after that a month-long European tour.

Fantastic. Will the new record be in the same vein as American Blood & Guts?
No, no, no. You've got to keep changing. I’d like to do something totally different. I start thinking about album titles to help me create a vision, and then I can wri - Frontiers Magazine LA


"Intervista a Michael Van London, compositore delle musiche di Struck By Lightning"

Michael Van London.
Non vi dice niente questo nome? Dovrebbe…
Se avete presente “Struck By Lightning” (sub ita), il film di Chris Colfer, dovreste avere presente anche Michael Van London, il compositore delle musiche del film.

Le ragazze di Struck By Lightning (italia), Chris Colfer Appreciation Page – Italy (che ringraziamo anche per aver curato la traduzione dell’intervista) e Michael Van London Italia, sono riuscite ad avere ben due interviste esclusive per l’Italia: la prima con Michael, appunto, la seconda con Brian Dannelly, regista del film.

Se mentre per la seconda dovremo aspettare un po’ – Brian è molto occupato al momento con il film – eccovi dopo il salto l’intervista a Michael.


Com’è riuscito a far quadrare le musiche con il film? Mi spiego: ha visto il film e poi atteso che la cogliesse l’ispirazione, oppure si è lasciato andare alla composizione e ha poi in un secondo momento trovato il modo di “incastrarle” nel film?
Beh, stavo lavorando al mio nuovo disco, e io e Brian siamo amici. È da un po’ di tempo che volevamo collaborare ad un progetto. Gli sono piaciute un sacco le canzoni, e da li metà disco è finito nel film. Gli sono incredibilmente riconoscente, ho lavorato un sacco a quest’album, quindi sono felice che così tante persone abbiano potuto ascoltarlo.

C’è qualcosa in particolare che l’ha spinta ad utilizzare i vari elementi che si riconoscono nelle canzoni? Mi riferisco ad esempio al fischiettare in “Clubbing”.
I fischiettii sono opera di Jake Monaco, che ha fatto la colonna sonora. È ovviamente un tipo geniale.

Come sappiamo, Chris ha sempre un’idea molto precisa riguardo ciò che vuole, in quasi qualunque aspetto di tutto quello che fa. Per caso le è mai capitato di ricevere qualche appunto riguardo i suoi brani?
In realtà no. Chris mi ha semplicemente detto di adorare le canzoni, e che le ascolta mentre si allena. L’ho trovato fantastico.

Come si sente a rimettere le mani su quegli stessi brani con la prospettiva di presentarli per una possibile nomination agli Oscar?
Non riesco nemmeno a parlarne. La sola idea di poter avere qualcosa a che fare con riconoscimenti di quel livello mi fa girare la testa. È incredibile. Dita incrociate, no?

Che cosa porterà con sé alla fine di questo progetto? Quali sono i ricordi che resteranno con lei mentre si accinge a tuffarsi in altri progetti?
Sono molto felice di tutta la gente che nel frattempo ha cominciato ad ascoltare le mie canzoni. Devo ringraziarvi, avete fatto rinascere in me la passione per quello che faccio!
Ho imparato che posso utilizzare la mia passione per aiutare qualcuno. Per esempio, mentre rispondevo a quest’intervista, è arrivato un corriere con una scatola di libri. Io e Brian stiamo aiutando a distribuire negli ospedali il libro di Chris, “The Land of Stories”, in modo che i bambini abbiano qualcosa da leggere per le vacanze di Natale. I fantastici ragazzi della Hugs4Chris hanno organizzato tutto e ci hanno chiesto di aiutare, e amo poter fare qualcosa per aiutare una bella causa.

Attenzione: per questa le servirà un bel po’ d’immaginazione. Se fosse uno spettatore esterno che non ha avuto niente a che fare con la realizzazione del film e lo guardasse adesso, cosa ne penserebbe? Cambierebbe qualcosa?
Avrei dato un ruolo dominante a Bobbi il Bidello! Scherzo (NDR, Michael fa un piccolo cameo nel film, e interpreta appunto Bobbi il Bidello).

C’è un personaggio del film che l’ha impressionata più degli altri? Se si, in che modo?
Decisamente Bobbi il Bidello [sorride]. Sapete, sono rimasto molto toccato da questo film. Carson, il personaggio di Chris, mi ha davvero ricordato me stesso tempo fa. Sono cresciuto in una piccola città dove nessuno credeva davvero in me o nei miei sogni. Ero un combattente, proprio come lo è lui nel film. Quel personaggio mi ha colpito.

C’è una scena che ha trovato particolarmente divertente, qualcosa che l’abbia fatta ridere di gusto?
Più di una. Chris ha un dono per le battute comiche e un gran tempismo, dice le battute giuste al momento giusto. E Rebel fa morire dal ridere, qualunque cosa dica. In più Brian fa sembrare tutti perfetti, come si può sbagliare?

Com’è finito a lavorare con Brian? Avete già collaborato in passato o è stato il fato a farvi incontrare?
Come ho accennato prima, io e Brian siamo amici da tempo, e aspettavamo solo il progetto giusto.

Come ha congeniato l’idea di portare con sé un/una fan alla premiere di Struck By Lightning che si terrà a gennaio, e di sceglierli con un concorso?
È divertente, all’inizio volevo portarci Kate, la mia migliore amica. Ma insegna e sta studiando per un Master, e quindi non sarebbe riuscita a venire. Quindi ho pensato che se una persona se lo fosse meritato vincendo un concorso creativo, l’avrei portata con me. Ho pensato che se la gente aves - www.glee-italia.net/


"Songs of the Day: Music From the Film 'Struck by Lightning' by Michael Van London"

Michael Van London serves as the musical voice of Chris Colfer's debut feature film, "Struck by Lightning," and the out singer/songwriter does not disappoint. The songs are fresh and fun, yet have a familiar sound to them. Van London held a contest to create videos for his EP, "American Blood & Guts," and here are winner Jennifer Stuber creations for "Sound of an Amp" and "Feel Love." Learn more HERE.
- Kenneth in the (212)


"Songs of the Day: Music From the Film 'Struck by Lightning' by Michael Van London"

Michael Van London serves as the musical voice of Chris Colfer's debut feature film, "Struck by Lightning," and the out singer/songwriter does not disappoint. The songs are fresh and fun, yet have a familiar sound to them. Van London held a contest to create videos for his EP, "American Blood & Guts," and here are winner Jennifer Stuber creations for "Sound of an Amp" and "Feel Love." Learn more HERE.
- Kenneth in the (212)


"Michael Van London!"

Michael's song DOWNTOWN was picked up by director Brian Dannelly to be featured in his upcoming film Struck By Lightning(Chris Colfer/GLEE, Christina Hendricks/MAD MEN, Sarah Hyland/MODERN FAMILY).
For more info on the film, Struck By Lightning, visit www.imdb.com/title/tt1791614.

Our featured artist this week has the honor of also being the Spotify artist of the week—congratulations, Michael!

His name is Michael Van London and he is a dreamer.

Growing up in Estey, Michigan, a small town of just 500, Michael quickly developed a vibrant imagination and often used music to escape the small town formalities.

The first word out of Michael’s mouth was “tape.” When he was just a toddler his parents would throw on cassette tapes and the family would jam out on their air guitars, sing and dance. At 9 he was given his first drum set, soon after came a guitar and singing always came naturally. His musical passion and talent was evident and although Estey, Michigan was beautiful and his home, it was not the best place for a dreamer.

After high school he abandoned the small town comforts for big city hustle and moved to New York City to study music. Hovering over the cool flames of those that came before him, he dove head first into the NYC Rock n’ Roll singer/songwriter circuit. He quickly learned a great deal about himself and exactly what he was striving to accomplish.

In 2002 an opportunity to go to Paris presented itself and Michael set sail on a European adventure. Romanced by the Parisian culture and historical scenery, his music started to reflect this life journey.

When he returned to America, he found himself in Boston, Massachusetts, where things really picked up. Magazine features, festival gigs, new relationships with other musicians and the completion of two EP’s Je Suis (produced by Sammy James on Pedestrian Records) and Roses (produced by Scott Levine). He started receiving airplay on college radio and was even featured on a compilation of Boston based rockers. He was seeing his dreams come to volition.

In 2005 he moved to Los Angeles the creative juices started flowing. Michael completed (wrote, played, engineered and produced) his first full-length album Fortunes of Misfortunes and released it on his own label Little Beast Records.

Yearning for something more he formed a garage rock band called The Bombs and put out an album called Black Butterfly.The exposure from which put him in touch with seasoned musicians Eligh Macias, and Yuko Sano. Soon after, The Black Beverly Heels were born.

With a song picked up by video game franchise ROCKBAND and MTV award show coverage The Black Beverly Heels quickly moved on to record their album "The Heels are Alive" with Bradley Cook(Issac Hayes, Slash, Counting Crows, Foo Fighters).


While continuing to please crowds with the Black Beverly Heels, Michael wrote and recorded a solo project during the summer of 2011 called American Blood & Guts which was also produced by Bradley Cook. The album received a lot of attention from his fans and friends and to his surprise (and delight) was picked up by director Brian Dannelly to be featured in his upcoming film Struck By Lightning(Chris Colfer/GLEE, Christina Hendricks/MAD MEN, Sarah Hyland/MODERN FAMILY).

Today the story continues for Michael Van London, the buzz for his new album is quickly building momentum and earning him the attention and praise he deserves. Due out fall of 2012 (around the same time as the film) American Blood & Guts is proving to be that diamond in the rough.

For more info on the film, Struck By Lightning, visit www.imdb.com/title/tt1791614. To learn more about Michael, follow him on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Michaelvanlondonmusic and Twitter at twitter.com/MVanLondon. - Alert The Globe


"Meet Los Angeles Singer Michael Van London: Warning, You May Fall in Love!"

SINGER-SONGWRITER’S EP SERVES AS THE “MUSICAL VOICE” OF CHRIS COLFER’S DEBUT FEATURE FILM



On January 18, 2013, Michael Van London will released his new solo EP “American Blood & Guts” - produced by Brad Cook (Foo Fighters, Ben Harper) – featuring songs from the hotly anticipated film “Struck By Lightning” - to coincide with the film’s theatrical release.

Preview “American Blood & Guts” on YouTube via the links below. Van London conducted a contest for fans to create the videos for the EP. Video winner below.


Director Brian Dannelly’s (Saved!, Weeds, The United States of Tara, Pushing Daisies) personally selected Van London’s music for the film, which was written by and stars Chris Colfer of Glee alongside Allison Janney, Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Sara Hyland(Modern Family), Rebel Wilson (Bridesmaids) and Dermot Mulroney.

“The songs from ‘American Blood & Guts’ were integral to the overall tone of ‘Struck By Lightning’ and worked so beautifully with the film that Michael was the only artist we ever seriously considered.” says Dannelly. ”I love directors who have collaborated with a single artist to create the musical ‘voice’ of the film – Paul Thomas Anderson did amazing work with Aimee Mann, Sean Penn did the same thing with Eddie Vedder and of course, Hal Ashby’s work with Cat Stevens. It was a great thrill for me to have that same experience with Michael. “
The songs Van London wrote for “American Blood & Guts” are a departure from the glitter-stomp sound of his band, The Black Beverly Heels. These new songs are inspired by the infectious pop of ‘60s AM radio, classic girl groups and a touch of ‘70s glam rock.
“I think I went into the studio unintentionally trying to make this record. I honestly just followed my instincts.” saidVan London. ”Most of the bands I grew up on are harmony drenched pop bands with classic rock & roll guitars. Aside from modern production these songs are my version of late ‘60s garage rock.”
“While the songs sound contemporary, there is a very retro feel to them.” continues Dannelly. ”They reminded me of songs from my favorite teen movies. We are already talking about music for a new project.” - Accidental Bear


"Michael Van London – His Music is Struck by Lightning"

How many of you have heard of Michael Van London? In 2006 he wrote, played, engineered and produced his own album ‘Fortunes of Misfortunes’. He already has a large fan following, although I admit to only hearing his music recently after watching fan videos on YouTube and realising that Michael’s songs were being used in the film Struck by Lightning due for cinematic release in 2013.

Considering how busy his life has become recently, I was surprised and thankfull that he was able to talk to me. Remember his name, you will be hearing a lot from him!

Can you start by giving me some back ground information on yourself?

Well, let me see, I started playing drums and singing at an early age, I then switched to guitar and bam! I grew up in rural Michigan and I love nature.

You seem to have travelled quite a bit with your music; do you have a favourite destination?

I think most people could assume I love Los Angeles since I’ve been here for almost 8 years but frankly I’m not that keen on it, I like simple things like deer, my dogs, music and friendly faces, I love New England, I’ll probably move to Oregon eventually and grow pumpkins for a living.

That sounds quite peaceful in comparison to LA.

Yeah, the city can be a bit overwhelming at times.

You wrote, composed and produced your own album, how difficult was that to achieve?

Well I did that on my 2006 release “Fortunes of Misfortunes” it was brutal to say the least but a wonderful experience. My new record “American Blood & Guts” which comes out in January 2013 was recorded, engineered, mixed and produced by the talented Bradley Cook.

Did you write all the lyrics and music?

Of course, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I think if you can’t do that then why are you making music?

What was your inspiration for it?

My inspiration behind “American Blood & Guts” was finding my niche in Americana music. The late 60s and early 70s AM radio stuff was what I was inspired by.

You have performed songs on Chris Colfer’s film Struck by Lightning, how did that come about?

The talented Brian Dannelly (the director) is a friend of mine and knew I was working on a new album he asked if he could hear it and to my surprise everyone loved it. They ended up using 3 out of 5 songs on the record and it’s become the unofficial soundtrack to the film.

How do you think your life may change, if at all once the film is released and I assume a soundtrack? Chris has a huge following whom I am sure will all buy it.

Well honestly this last year has been crazy, I’ve gained SO many new listeners, I’ve noticed a giant change already and the film isn’t even out yet. I receive fan mail every day, album sales have shot way up, I mean, all the things a musician dreams of are happening for me. I feel extremely lucky.

Are you receiving many more job offers?

Yeah I’m actually doing another film (or two) with Brian Dannelly and a few other things so the future looks very bright. There are days though that I feel like giving up, of course, like everyone else. Everyone has those days but that’s when I have to remember why I CHOOSE to do this, it’s not something that I have to do and I’m lucky people are listening. I have a really tight grip on who I am. I do try to take time out for myself everyday even for a half an hour, just do nothing and appreciate what you have.

What has been your biggest struggle so far either personally or professionally?

I think as a musician, you deal with both of those struggles at the same time. Most often they can make great songs. I think it was important for me as a gay man to be taken seriously amongst my peers as a songwriter and a guitarist, I think I’ve accomplished that to some extent and that makes me very happy.

Do you find that your sexuality has hindered your career in any way?

Not really. I think if you allow yourself that handicap you’re going to have it, if you rise above it you won’t.

I suppose it helps that most musicians and actors are quite open, or so I believe.

You would think that’s the case but I would say it’s not.

Really? I find that sad

Me too. I used to say, “yeah I’m a musician” and people would say “do you play piano?” I would giggle. I would usually respond with, “no I play guitar and I’ll melt your face, come to my show”.

Apart from pumpkin growing, what is your biggest dream or goal?

I think I’m living it. I mean of course I want more but I am so grateful for my fans, they are so sweet and I try to say hello to each of them when they reach out. I think it’s truly important.

I actually just did a really cool project where I opened it up to fans. Basically they make a video for one of my new singles, “Downtown”, “Feel Love”, or “Sound of an Amp” and then me and a panel of judges would chose a winner. The winner would come with me as my date to the Struck by Lightning world premiere red carpet and all that jazz. I was SO impressed by all the videos.

- Success Circuit


"Michael Van London – His Music is Struck by Lightning"

How many of you have heard of Michael Van London? In 2006 he wrote, played, engineered and produced his own album ‘Fortunes of Misfortunes’. He already has a large fan following, although I admit to only hearing his music recently after watching fan videos on YouTube and realising that Michael’s songs were being used in the film Struck by Lightning due for cinematic release in 2013.

Considering how busy his life has become recently, I was surprised and thankfull that he was able to talk to me. Remember his name, you will be hearing a lot from him!

Can you start by giving me some back ground information on yourself?

Well, let me see, I started playing drums and singing at an early age, I then switched to guitar and bam! I grew up in rural Michigan and I love nature.

You seem to have travelled quite a bit with your music; do you have a favourite destination?

I think most people could assume I love Los Angeles since I’ve been here for almost 8 years but frankly I’m not that keen on it, I like simple things like deer, my dogs, music and friendly faces, I love New England, I’ll probably move to Oregon eventually and grow pumpkins for a living.

That sounds quite peaceful in comparison to LA.

Yeah, the city can be a bit overwhelming at times.

You wrote, composed and produced your own album, how difficult was that to achieve?

Well I did that on my 2006 release “Fortunes of Misfortunes” it was brutal to say the least but a wonderful experience. My new record “American Blood & Guts” which comes out in January 2013 was recorded, engineered, mixed and produced by the talented Bradley Cook.

Did you write all the lyrics and music?

Of course, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I think if you can’t do that then why are you making music?

What was your inspiration for it?

My inspiration behind “American Blood & Guts” was finding my niche in Americana music. The late 60s and early 70s AM radio stuff was what I was inspired by.

You have performed songs on Chris Colfer’s film Struck by Lightning, how did that come about?

The talented Brian Dannelly (the director) is a friend of mine and knew I was working on a new album he asked if he could hear it and to my surprise everyone loved it. They ended up using 3 out of 5 songs on the record and it’s become the unofficial soundtrack to the film.

How do you think your life may change, if at all once the film is released and I assume a soundtrack? Chris has a huge following whom I am sure will all buy it.

Well honestly this last year has been crazy, I’ve gained SO many new listeners, I’ve noticed a giant change already and the film isn’t even out yet. I receive fan mail every day, album sales have shot way up, I mean, all the things a musician dreams of are happening for me. I feel extremely lucky.

Are you receiving many more job offers?

Yeah I’m actually doing another film (or two) with Brian Dannelly and a few other things so the future looks very bright. There are days though that I feel like giving up, of course, like everyone else. Everyone has those days but that’s when I have to remember why I CHOOSE to do this, it’s not something that I have to do and I’m lucky people are listening. I have a really tight grip on who I am. I do try to take time out for myself everyday even for a half an hour, just do nothing and appreciate what you have.

What has been your biggest struggle so far either personally or professionally?

I think as a musician, you deal with both of those struggles at the same time. Most often they can make great songs. I think it was important for me as a gay man to be taken seriously amongst my peers as a songwriter and a guitarist, I think I’ve accomplished that to some extent and that makes me very happy.

Do you find that your sexuality has hindered your career in any way?

Not really. I think if you allow yourself that handicap you’re going to have it, if you rise above it you won’t.

I suppose it helps that most musicians and actors are quite open, or so I believe.

You would think that’s the case but I would say it’s not.

Really? I find that sad

Me too. I used to say, “yeah I’m a musician” and people would say “do you play piano?” I would giggle. I would usually respond with, “no I play guitar and I’ll melt your face, come to my show”.

Apart from pumpkin growing, what is your biggest dream or goal?

I think I’m living it. I mean of course I want more but I am so grateful for my fans, they are so sweet and I try to say hello to each of them when they reach out. I think it’s truly important.

I actually just did a really cool project where I opened it up to fans. Basically they make a video for one of my new singles, “Downtown”, “Feel Love”, or “Sound of an Amp” and then me and a panel of judges would chose a winner. The winner would come with me as my date to the Struck by Lightning world premiere red carpet and all that jazz. I was SO impressed by all the videos.

- Success Circuit


"LISTEN: Michael Van London's 'American Blood & Guts'"

A Michigan native turned Los Angeles resident, out indie rocker Michael Van London released his solo EP record American Blood & Guts this month, which serves as the "musical voice" of Chris Colfer's Struck By Lightning. Director Brian Dannelly (Saved!, Weeds) personally selected Van London's music for the film.

"The songs from American Blood & Guts were integral to the overall tone of Struck By Lightning and worked so beautifully with the film that Michael was the only artist we ever seriously considered," says Dannelly.

Van London previously fronted for his bands The Bombs and The Black Beverly Heels, while constantly recording and releasing material under his own name—his music has been featured on MTV, and made officially available in video game Rock Band.

With five songs on American Blood & Guts, the EP shines with the range of Van London's vocal talents as it provides a mix of pop, classic rock, and even blues and indie folk, which is found in "Turn Off the Lights/Turn the Radio On."

“I think I went into the studio unintentionally trying to make this record. I honestly just followed my instincts," says Van London. "Most of the bands I grew up on are harmony drenched pop bands with classic rock & roll guitars. Aside from modern production these songs are my version of late ‘60s garage rock."

The '60s garage rock can certainly be found in "Sound of an Amp," which was featured in SBL and is currently in the running for an Academy Award nom.

Listen to "Sound of an Amp" and "Feel Love" (also featured in SBL) below, and listen to more on MySpace and Vimeo. - OUT Magazine


Discography

Roses ( self released, 2005)
Je Suis (Pedestrian Records, 2005)
The Burren Project (Pedestrian Records, 2005)
Fortunes of Misfortunes (Little Beast Records 2006)
The Bombs- Black Butterfly (self released, 2008)
Black Beverly Heels- The Heels Are Alive (RankOutsider Records, 2010)
Sound of an Amp (single, 2012)
Feel Love (single, 2012)
Downtown (single, 2012)
American Blood & Guts (self released, 2013)

Photos

Bio

My name is Michael and I'm a dreamer.

I grew up in a small town in Michigan hosting about 500 people
least to say, beautiful place but not the best place to be when you're a dreamer.
I had been playing music my whole life, my first word was "tape"
strangely enough, and here i'am today, playing music.
I moved to NYC at a young age and studied my craft, hovering over the cool flames of those who came before me.
I played my ass off in the never ending New York City rock n roll and singer/songwriter circuit, learning about myself, and what it was that I was trying to covet.

I had the opportunity to go to Paris at the end of 2002 and took it,
playing Europe was an incredible experience for me. I wrote a lot about castles and blue jeans back then.

I then moved to the great land of history : Boston, Massachusetts.

Boston was a great opening for me. Being published in several magazines , playing some amazing festivals and shows, meeting some other wonderful musicians, and recording two ep's " Je Suis" produced by Sammy James on Pedestrian Records and "Roses" produced by Scott Levine.

I gained airplay on college radio and was featured on a compilation of Boston based rockers and the like, pretty exciting for a dreamer.

I love to travel. I also love animals.

I now reside in Los Angeles, California. Back in 2006 when i first moved here, I made a record called, "Fortunes of Misfortunes" on which i wrote, played, engineered and produced all of the 12 songs. I released it on my own DIY label, Little Beast Records. It got me on some TV shows, some magazines, a mini tour.

But I wanted something more. A band.

By the time 2008 rolled in, I was bored of being "me" and wanted something new. I started a little garage rock band called The Bombs. We did one record called "Black Butterfly". It got us on some MTV shows as background music, and the MTV Movie Awards. We were pretty happy about that.

The Bombs exploded, but when we did, by late 2009 i had met some great friends and musicians. Eligh Macias and Yuko Sano. We decided to form a new band called The Black Beverly Heels.
"The Heels" accomplished a lot in a short time. Providing music for the MTV Movie Awards, and having our song "Dark Beat" get picked up by the video game franchise, ROCKBAND. We recorded our first record with the ever so talented Bradley Cook producing. "The Heels Are Alive" is available on Rankoutsider Records and iTunes and all those places you look for music these days.

Although The Black Beverly Heels are still in tact and doing well there was something aching in me to write a new solo album. I wanted to get back to being "me". I went into my bedroom last November 2010 and started writing. I must've written 30 songs before i decided to record my latest album, "American Blood & Guts". I called Bradley Cook up and we got to work.

The result is this. The soundtrack to Chris Colfer/Brian Dannelly's new film, Struck By Lightning (2013). Something I'm so proud of. This record says everything I want to say right now. It covers a range of feelings for me.

I named this record American Blood & Guts because that's always what its been about for me as a songwriter. The grit, the spirit of love, the complexity of life and the wonder.