Positive reinforcement. We all crave it and we all hope to attain it. With national tidbits covering the many outraged musicians opinion on the SB 1070 immigration bill, it seemed like it was the only music-related topic major magazines and internet entities were interested in. There was scarce mention of the many local artists who work hard every week to put on great shows for their fellow Phoenicians. Other things (granted, they were important issue), were overshadowing this great quality of music. But the terrific music scene the Valley has to offer was not a ready concern of the major media consumption.
Which is why this weekend, after opening the November issue of Nylon Magazine, I jumped emphatically for joy. It was coined the America Issue and lo and behold, Phoenix was one of the cities covered! It mentioned bands like The Whisperlights, Gospel Claws, Source Victoria and artists like Courtney Marie Andrews. Though this was only a limited snapshot of what the Valley has to offer, this was a great start! Arizona has so many terrific artists. To be honest, Phoenix could have consolidated its own issue.
This upward trend of positive publicity for the music scene only seems to be growing. Every week I get the Filter Magazine Phoenix Newsletter delivered to my inbox, so Nylon is not the only one to start taking notice. Though the newsletter is a bit sparse on information, this presents a giant step to one day having a personalized Filter Newsletter that could actually talk about local events/culture. Well one can dream. And this one is doing just that. There are many ways now even for fans to take the initiative to spread the word about AZ. Through social media alone there are countless avenues for discovery. And with all of the sites dedicated to music sharing on a legal level (like Last.fm, Soundcloud etc.), everyone can work together to spread the word. Not to mention with great innovations like relative newbie, ourvinyl.com, who take submissions from around the world about notable bands from your neck of the woods. There are so many platforms being created that Arizona bands can utilize for their deserved recognition. Considering that Arizona’s network of artists has such a large base, who knows what’s yet to come on the musical horizon? Only good things I’m sure.
If you’re looking for a great way to check out some local bands, check out Localpalooza happening on Saturday, Nov. 19 to raise awareness for human rights with Amnesty International. Show starts at 8 p.m. And proceeds go to charity! Plus be sure to make it out to the Sail Inn on Dec. 3. Local favorites Future Loves Past are having their release party and more than 13 local bands are slated to perform, with all the good fun starting at 3:45 p.m. What better ways to support the local scene? Take the initiative!
Know a great local band that I should mention? Or maybe you have a thing or two to teach me about good music? Whatever your musical concern, let me know! Email me at gmarsha2@asu.edu, or follow me at @whimsicalwookie.
