Photo provided by Casey

Being a solo artist has it’s perks. You get to set practice times whenever you want, getting to a show is a cinch, and you, of course, get all the glory. But the thing is, you also have to have talent to be alone. And that’s something Northern Virginia artist, Casey has in spades. If you needed proof, just listen and you’ll agree. The folks over at The John Lennon Songwriting Contest did and made him a finalist in their 2009 competition. We catch up Casey and get some insight into him and his  single name approach to making some of the most compelling song writing this side of the Key Bridge.

Many people know the venues and bands that play in DC, but the people behind the scenes are what make your music filled nights a success. From sound guys to bartenders it takes more than a stage to give you a great show. I had the opportunity to catch up with Andrew Bucket the booking agent for the infamous Velvet Lounge. We asked him to share  some of his knowledge and his answers did not disappoint!

Photo by Carrie Wojcik

Take a classically trained vocalist, a handful of talented musicians, and a songbook filled with entertaining lyrics and there you will have Sweet Interference. “What most characterizes [their] sound is the classical and rock fusion,” explained the band’s singer, Moira. “We are a band that likes to play around with traditional music theory and use chord progressions and harmonies that are not the standard format you hear on the radio.”

SEAS photo by Hatnim Lee

Every now and again you come across a debut album drenched (pun intended) in promise and talent. SEAS, a local music act from DC, is deserving of such categorization. The project began in 2006 and has evolved from “a collection of quiet, simple guitar-driven instrumental pieces” into vocally and instrumentally rich music that dabbles in a variety of genres including experimental, psych-folk, and indie rock. SEAS’s debut album, Now My Home Is A Beech Tree, stands tall among the many talented musicians in our fine city.

Ben Green, the core member of SEAS, explains the debut, performing solo vs. a collective, and his hardcore past to DoS readers.

Photo By Julian Vankim

The aptly-named band The Potentials originate from Virginia, but their beats are from outer space—in a good way of course. They are a dance rock electronica band, light on the rock; heavy on the dance.

In 2008, frontman Benjamin David opted to trade in the band’s live drummer for electronic beats. A wise move I’m sure after hearing songs from their EP, which has already earned them buzz, not just in my head, but throughout the DC Metro area as well. David and band mates Ryan Wagner and Mike Riddile will join local favorite DJ Lil El (KIDS) at the Velvet Lounge on January 21st.  David took some time to answer questions about the band, their beats, and their legendary moves.

Photo by Chris Svetlik

Little Bigheart & the Wilderbeast is a unique band with an unbreakable bond forged on the plains of Washington, DC. With inspired lyrics and memorable melodies, this band is making its way into the heart of DC’s music scene. Members include:  Bryn Bellomy (Bass), Russell Joye (Drums), Patrick Mulroy (Guitar), and John Russell (Guitar).