All Time Low's Alex Gaskarth Covers "Jumper" With Third Eye Blind

Hey Everyone!
Just wanted to share a video with you all today. Its kind of cool... shows how rock can interact even with generation gaps pushing two bands apart. While on the Bamboozle Road Show, Third Eye Blind had All Time Low vocalist, Alex Gaskarth, come out and perform Jumper with them. Classic song- makes for a great karaoke track for those of you keeping score of such suggestions at home. Anyways, the band and Alex did a great job performing the track together. Really brought a sense of community to the act, which I love. None of that pretentious "I've been doing this longer than you" stuff that sometimes happens. Sad, but true. So check out the video below, see what you think! I love it. Alex's voice is a great fit. Have to say- ATL is really starting to grow on me. Take that however you want, I'm not ashamed of my love for pop-punk boys haha.


What do you think? Not too shabby, eh? *yes, I AM CANADIAN*
Rock on,
-Girl At The Rock Show

Teenage Crowd Maced During All Time Low Performance At Six Flags

Hey Everyone!
What is this world coming to? I mean, MACE at an All Time Low concert? This isnt The Beatles, and it certainly isnt Elvis. I dont get it. Maybe, MAYBE, mace should be used in extreme cases of what I call, Bieber-itis.... aka excessive fandom of the sixteen year old youtube sensation from my neck of the woods... but even then, its harsh.

Apparently the All Time Low performance tonight at Six Flags got a little out of hand, and police decided to take some action. The show was part of this years Bamboozle road show, featuring LMFAO, Boys Like Girls, Forever The Sickest Kids, and Good Charlotte among others.

Personally, until I see proof that this was out of control, I'm going to say this is probably just another example of security being out of touch. Fans these days get rowdy, they like to have fun. I know I've started some shit at shows I've been to over the years. Moshing and circle pits are all part of the package now, even with lighter, poppier bands like ATL. Its all about generating memories... about that split second where you get to the front of that crowd, when the guitarist points you out in awe of your achievement, the way that drumstick feels as it hits the palm of your hand. I'm sure most of you know what I'm talking about. We were all 13 once, we all pulled stunts that in retospect may not have been well thought out, but the point is- They are memorable. Am I wrong?

What do you think? Did the cops take it too far? Were they right to handle it with Mace?
Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show

Video: All Time Low Play "Weightless" Acoustic

Hey Everyone!

Today I just want to share a video with you. I came across this while link clicking on Youtube and its really well done. You know how some people sound great on an album mix, and maybe not quite so great when they play live and particularly acoustic? Yeah... you know what I mean. Sadly, for some people, acoustic sets can be dangerous because the soft guitar does very little to hide flaws. In fact, it pretty much serves to emphasize your voice! Thats why I was impressed with this acoustic performance by Alex and Zach of All Time Low. They play the hit single "Weightless" and in all honesty, it shows that Alex's voice is better than I ever gave him credit for. He clearly knows how to sing. His pitch and tone are both on par... its nice to see that the band has underlying talent outside catchy songs and the label desired look. Check out the video below, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by what you hear!

Disclaimer: I actually LIKE All Time Low. I'm not trying to say that they are only in it because they are the kind of band that sells albums right now, its almost the opposite. I'm complimenting them on their ability to play very well in an acoustic set because it tends to be difficult for even the best bands these days. Just wanted to clear that up because I know it sounds like I'm being a little critical of them haha.

So what did you think? Well played or no? Share your thoughts!

Rock On,

- Girl At The Rock Show

Mark Hoppus & All Time Low Enter Studio... Welcome Trousdale Press!

Hey Everyone!

For those of you who were unaware, Mark Hoppus (Blink-182/Plus44) has been actively working in the studio with the young guys in All Time Low. The boys grew up listening to Blink albums and cite them as a major influence, so of course when given the chance to work with the producer/musician, they were eager to accept. Hoppus helped them with their latest album, Nothing Personal and even made a cameo in their video for the album's single "Weightless". They also collaborated on a song, but it failed to make the cut on the final product. However, the boys promised that this song would one day see the light of day... seems like that day is coming sooner than we thought!

Get ready for Trousdale Press! Yet another name for Hoppus to add to his already very lengthy resume. Trousdale Press will release a debut album which is nearing completion now. It will feature Hoppus and friends of his, including ATL. He's keeping the project pretty secret for now, but its definitely something to keep on the radar. Whatever Hoppus touches in the studio turns to gold, so I'm sure this will be no different!

What do you think of the combination? Its cool to see young up and comers working with their major influences... must be cool for Mark to know he played a role indirectly haha

Rock On,

- Girl At The Rock Show

It Was Just A Pop-Rock Kind Of Day...

Hey Everyone!

The weather here is just gorgeous today! Its FINALLY feeling like spring, and I'm loving it. As soon as I woke up, I opened blinds and windows to take advantage of the sunshine and fresh air. I suppose I shouldn't complain about snow and such because honestly, winter was not even that long this year. This is a relatively early spring. I just adore warmer weather though... something about it just puts me in a great mood. I went on a walk downtown this afternoon, just to get out in the sun for a few hours. I walked by a bunch of restaurants, hoping that maybe a patio somewhere would be open... not that I have any money to be spending on lunch downtown right now, but I think today is the kind of day where McDonalds in the park would totally cut it haha. Any excuse to be outside.

Anyways, I feel that days like this have a certain soundtrack to them... Its different for everyone, but I absolutely need pop-rock music for spring days like this. I need something light, happy, upbeat you know? The punk tracks on my ipod were just not cutting it... they're too angry and aggressive for days like this. We The Kings, Fall Out Boy, early Good Charlotte (very high school, I know), Something Corporate, All Time Low, Maroon 5, Rocket Summer... these are my choices for sunny spring days! They just totally reflect the happiness I feel with the warm winds and blue skies. I know they all seem somewhat juvenile and young, but maybe thats why they fit so well- Spring feels like a young season. Most of these bands sing about things like youth, love, new beginnings, and friendship- themes that I feel definitely embody my idea of spring. What do you think, is it just me or do you see my point of view here? Haha

What are your choices for the first few days of spring? Any favorites?

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Alice In Wonderland Sountrack Track Listing Revealed

Hey Everyone!

So Alternative Press has revealed the track listing for the upcoming Alice In Wonderland soundtrack, and it appears that many familiar names grace the list. We already knew that Mark Hoppus (Blink-182) and Pete Wentz (Fall Out Boy) collaborated for a song, which we now know to be called "In Transit", but they are only one notable pair of the 16 artists/groups who make an appearance. The album will be called "Almost Alice" and has been slated for a March 2nd release date. The film is set to be released the same week, on Friday March 5th.

Here is the suspected soundtrack listing:

1. "Alice (Underground)" by Avril Lavigne

2. "The Poison" by The All-American Rejects

3. "The Technicolor Phase" by Owl City

4. "Her Name Is Alice" by Shinedown

5. "Painting Flowers" by All Time Low

6. "Where's My Angel" by Metro Station

7. "Strange" by Tokio Hotel & Kerli

8. "Follow Me Down" by 3Oh!3 & Neon Hitch

9. "Very Good Advice" by Robert Smith

10. "In Transit" by Mark Hoppus & Pete Wentz

11. "Welcome To Mystery" by Plain White T's

12. "Tea Party" by Kerli

13. "The Lobster Quadrille" by Franz Ferdinand

14. "Running Out Of Time" by Motion City Soundtrack

15. "Fell Down A Hole" by Wolfmother

16. "White Rabbit" by Grace Potter & The Nocturnals

Like I said, some pretty decent names on that list... Robert Smith even! Not a bad soundtrack... this could be one to contend with the awards. Heres to hoping that the songs are as good as the artists.

What do you think of this track list?

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Road To Acceptance

Hey Everyone!

So in regards to that last post I made about the hate filled protest outside the All Time Low concert, I thought I'd post a song. Thats how I deal with emotion, I listen to music. And this song to me, is a perfect fit for the situation. Its an old Green Day song by the name of Road To Acceptance. Its off their 1991 album 1039/Smoothed Out Slappy Hours. I've always loved early Green Day material and this is no exception. Check out the song and lyrics below!

LYRICS

I always waste my time just wondering
What the next man thinks of me
I'll never do exactly what I want
And I'll sculpt my life for your acceptance

I always waste my time just wondering
What the next man thinks of me
I'll never do exactly what I want
And I'll sculpt my life for your acceptance

And I feel forgotten
Feel like rotting
(do you feel the same?)
(do you feel the same?)
Adolescence
Just can't make sense
(it's calling my name)
(it's calling my name)

I take a look around
And all the things I've found
I call it blind hatred
If you'd stop a while
And maybe if you'd smile
You would realize that
We're all the same

It's just like our brain
When it goes insane
We feel the same pain

All my life I've seemed to have this need
I think at times it even turns to greed
We all want to join some family
We'll even sacrifice a moral changing

And I feel forgotten
Feel like rotting
(do you feel the same?)
(do you feel the same?)
Adolescence
Just can't make sense
(it's calling my name)
(it's calling my name)

I take a look around
And all the things I've found
I call it blind hatred
If you'd stop a while
And maybe if you'd smile
You would realize that
We're all the same

It's just like our brain
When it goes insane
We feel the same pain

I take a look around
And all the things I've found
I call it blind hatred
If you'd stop a while
And maybe if you'd smile
You would realize that
We're all the same

It's just like our brain
When it goes insane
We feel the same pain

Its amazing how there is just a song for everything and every situation... I LOVE IT

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

All Time Low Protested By Baptist Group

Hey Everyone!

So speaking of ATL (as mentioned in my last post oddly enough), Alternative Press is reporting that the finale of their current tour was greeted by a large group of protesters. On December 6th, the buses rolled in to Philadelphia to be met by hateful messages and offensive puns. Apparently the group, Westboro Baptist Church, was protesting the  sexual ambiguity of the group. All Time Low, a band consisting of four guys in their early 20s, are often seen sporting v-neck t-shirts, tight jeans, and longer hair. The church group's website claims that they are a negative influence because they are "gender-confused, haphazard freakazoids". Signs were reported to hold messages like "All Time Perverts", "God Hates You", and "America Is Doomed". 

This is perhaps one of the saddest displays I have seen/heard of in a while. I mean, come on, its almost 2010! Cant we just learn to get along, give peace a chance? I mean, this website is so offensive that I am actually going to refuse to link to it. I don't even recommend looking it up. Personally, I am a completely heterosexual female but seriously, I don't feel the need to protest other people's beliefs, rights and choices. I read up on this group, and I am left feeling upset, angry and shocked. Apparently they are well known for protesting almost every religion, race and lifestyle, going as far as to picket at funerals and the site of the 9-11 attacks. Thats just wrong on so many levels, not to mention incredibly hateful and disrespectful. 

I have to give a lot of credit to the fans outside this show. According to some witnesses, the fans began to drown out the hate filled chants of the WBC with their own renditions of ATL songs as well as mottos like "Gay, Straight, Black, White, Same Battle, Same Fight". Frontman Alex Gaskarth took to his Twitter account as the riots raged by the bus, stating "I was just informed by picketers that I'm leading a generation of rebels to hell... no ma'am. I'm leading a generation of rebellion against the Empire!" and "If embracing all lifestyles will lead me to hell, then I'll see you all there. It's going to be one incredibly tolerant and happy inferno". Again? WELL PLAYED, ALEX! I could not have said it better myself!

The band is apparently still confused as to why they were chosen as a target, and I have to agree. I mean, they arent all that "frightening" compared to some bands out there. Marilyn Manson, that makes sense. ATL? Not so much. Why not picket your local high school, its about the same demographic as that show. In the end, the protesters were outnumbered by other groups, so they packed up and left. Not before filming this quick video.

What do you think of this story? Personally, I still cant believe all this hatred exists. Its sad, really. 

More coverage:

Alternative Press

Local News

Way to handle a difficult situation, All Time Low! Whole new level of respect for these guys!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Exam Dance Break Day 7

Hey Everyone!

So its a week into study period pretty much. So far so good, I'm holding out and I hope you all are too. Tomorrow kick starts my days at the library... I get to cram for a physics final... oh the joys of a university that demands diversity in class choices ahaha. Anyways, today I think I'm gonna go with a little All Time Low. This is a song called Weightless that I absolutely love. Its super catchy, chill and the video is pretty funny. A good combination. I saw them play this live back in May when they toured with Cobra Starship, Hey Monday and Fall Out Boy on the Believers Never Die Tour. Having never seen them play before, this is the song I walked away singing. They may be young and poppy, but they know how the business works and they know their way around a stage, instruments included. They are great at getting the crowd pumped up, so I have to give them credit. There's nothing particularly striking about the music itself... its fairly generic pop punk with a few well spoken lines and memorable riffs, but its nothing you haven't heard before for the genre. The real difference with these guys is the live performance. Its definitely something you'll be able to recall because they make you feel like you are as much a part of the performance as they are. So here we go, All Time Low's Weightless. Wicked song, some pretty sick cameos and something to hum along to in the library for the next few hours!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Bands Supporting Other Bands... How Influential Is It?

Hey Everyone!

So the other day I was flipping through some of my old magazines when I came across this issue of Alternative Press. The feature article in this issue (beyond the blatantly obvious Blink-182 reunion) is a piece called "The Band Who Changed My Life". In this multipage work, different members of popular bands take turns discussing bands or artists they admired. William Beckett (The Academy Is) cites the artistic and bold Robert Smith of The Cure as a major influence, while acts like the young All Time Low chose the 90s pop punk kings, Blink-182. The bands vary across the board... different genres, different generations, but the one thing they all have in common is an influence. 

Images Belong to Alternative Press Magazine

This got me wondering, to what level does this influence extend? If you think about it, a lot of the bands featured are inspiring the up and coming generation of musicians. I know that when I read about Green Day being fans of bands like Operation Ivy, I immediately pull up google and yahoo radio to check them out. I don't always like the bands (Operation Ivy, however, I love) but I am always curious to know what first made these people think "hey, maybe I could do that". So if I know that Green Day grew up listening to Operation Ivy, and I like them, I might wonder who had an impact on their career and so on, and so fourth.... taking artists of all kinds of genres and styles and intertwining them into one single web. 

Personally, I love this idea. It lets us all celebrate and appreciate music past and present. It brings me to bands I would have maybe never thought to dig up on my own. Its a way of bringing it to my attention. In reality, its not much different from the way a band will select an opening act for a tour. Sometimes this is done for them, but when they hand pick, there's usually a reason. Some people don't show up at a concert until just before the main acts, but if you ask me, that usually means you're missing out. As much as I love knowing who influenced them at first, its also cool to find out who they think has potential to carry the torch for a new generation.

 Its all about giving us new bands to listen to and love.  So what do you think? Does this have much influence on you? Do you care who made your favorite acts decide to pick up an instrument? Do you care who is asked to tour with your favorite acts? Does this make you approach listening to that group any differently? Let me know!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song Of The Day: Knowledge by Operation Ivy... one of the first OI songs I heard- because Green Day released a cover of it on their album 1039 Smoothed Out Slappy Hours.