IWrestledABearOnce Readies to Explode



This week we’ve made some new friends; Krysta Cameron (Vocals), Steven Bradley (Guitar), John Ganey (Guitar), Mike “Rickshaw” Martin (Bass) and Mikey Montgomery (Drums). The fearless five-some Century Media recording group IWrestedABearOnce settled into Studio A for a couple of days getting ready to explode this summer.

Their new album “Ruining It For Everybody” is due for release on 7/26/2011. You’ll want to go right out and buy it. I heard the music, you’ll want it. You can preorder it here.

Every person that pre-orders the new CD at MerchNow (http://merchnow.com/iwabopresale) will be entered to win one of five prize packs featuring 2 tickets to see Iwrestledabearonce at a show of their choice on the upcoming All Stars Tour, a meet and greet with the band, and 2 merch items of their choice at the show. One grand prize winner will be chosen out of these five to win the above PLUS every Ruining It For Everybody presale merch item. Various pre-order CD packages will be available for purchase. The first 100 IWABO posters purchased as part of a pre-order package will be autographed. In addition, the first 500 pre-orders will receive a custom IWABO birthday card.

Look for Iwrestledabearonce to take their one-of-a-kind, fearless live show on the road again starting July 21. First up, they’ll join The All Stars Tour, featuring Emmure, For Today, Born Of Osiris, After The Burial, Chelsea Grin, Attila, Alesana, Bless The Fall, In This Moment, The Ghost Inside, Motionless In White, Sleeping With Sirens and For All Those Sleeping. These dates run through August 21 in Las Vegas, with another week of shows expected to be added.


Jul 21 - House of Blues - Houston, TX

Jul 22 - Las Palmas - Racepark Mcallen, TX

Jul 23 - Backstage Live - San Antonio, TX

Jul 24 - The Palladium - Dallas, TX

Jul 26 - Expo Five - Louisville, KY

Jul 27 - Agora Theater - Cleveland, OH

Jul 28 - Congress Theater - Chicago, IL

Jul 29 - Royal Oak Theatre - Detroit, MI

Jul 30 - The Rave - Milwaukee, WI

Jul 31 - Station 4 Outdoors - St Paul, MN

Aug 02 - Sound Academy - Toronto, Canada

Aug 03 - OLYMPIA - Montreal, Canada

Aug 04 - Eagle Theatre at The Sov Center - Reading, PA

Aug 05 - Mid Hudson Civic Center - Poughkeepsie, NY

Aug 06 - Central Mass Expo Center - Fitchburg, MA

Aug 07 - Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ

Aug 09 - Sonar - Baltimore, MD

Aug 10 - The National - Richmond, VA

Aug 11 - The Fillmore - Charlotte, NC

Aug 12 - House of Blues - Myrtle Beach, SC

Aug 13 - Plaza Live - Orlando, FL

Aug 14 - Seville Quarter Party Plaza - Pensacola, FL

Aug 17 - Rialto Theatre - Tucson, AZ

Aug 18 - Venue Of Scottsdale - Scottsdale, AZ

Aug 19 - Soma - San Diego, CA

Aug 20 - The Grove - Anaheim, CA

Aug 21 - Rock The Block - Las Vegas, NV

Sep 16 - Club Millenium - Anchorage, AK

Sep 17 - Chilkoot Charlies - Anchorage, AK

Out of the Box Charity
Helping Children through Music, Art and Love



Friday night Out of the Box Children’s Charity launched it fundraising activities with an awesome event, held in Studio 1 here at Hothouse Rehearsal Studios. It was inspiring to see, there are still people who care about the well being of others and do something about it on a person to person basis.

The fundraiser featured and an exhibit of local artists and their art work. A giant thank you to Chad Fuchs, Alyssa Camacho, Cindy Benson, Walter Valladares, Roxy Arana, Thomas Padilla and Melinda Martinez for sharing your artwork with us.

Our good friends in the band Messenger provided the live music entertainment for the event goers between the mission presentations by the directors of Out of the Box Children’s Charities. Big Thank yous, to the member of Messenger: Melinda Martinez- Vocals/Guitar, Fletcher Allen- Lead Guitar, Justin Jerz- Bass and Wes Hawkes-Drums.

The night would not have gone so seamlessly if not for the help of Brittany Huggins and Benny Gutierrez. Thank you both for all your efforts.

All of us here at Hothouse Rehearsal were glad to provide the venue for such an outstanding event and more is on the way…

Johnny Vatos’ Boingo Dance Party Band
Dress Rehearsal Contest



Our good friend and the happiest guy around, Johnny Vatos explains how you can attend a dress rehearsal of his group the Johnny Vatos Boingo Dance Party Band, on May 1, 2011 at Hothouse Rehearsal Studios.

You and a friend will be in for an experience. Think about it…you WIN a private preview concert. That’s right you, your friend and the 10 piece Boingo Dance Party Band in the auditorium here at Hothouse Studios.

Here's how...
Email us a photo of yourself with your tickets to the May 7, 2011show at the Galaxy Theater. The deadline for your emails is 9am April 28, 2011. Email your photo to studio@hothousestudios.com

Buy your tickets now click here.

JOHNNY VATOS' BOINGO DANCE PARTY / PHILOSOPHY OF SOUL / Olio

The Evening of April 28, 2011 we will pick the lucky winner from the emails we receive.
Good Luck!

Price: $20.00 In Advance $23.00 Day of Show buy tickets

Time: Doors at 6:00pm Show Starts at 8:00pm

Rehearsal TV is brought to you by Hothouse Studios.
Nicole Calvert “Nikki Marie” your host of Rehearsal TV news.

Dramarama Concert Schedule April May and June

The next Dramarama show is on Monday night; 4/18/2011 at the fabulous Crown Theater located at the Rio “All-Suites” Casino & Hotel in Las Vegas Nevada.

Do you want some free tickets to the show? What? Free Tickets. Yes we have some insider info. Click the link below and fill out the form and bang you’re in for free and a fun weekend in Vegas. http://managevhs.com/web/vhs/crown/mnr/tickets/default.asp?txtShow=dramarama

Or go to MondayNightRocks.com and click on the "Get Tickets" button under the picture of Dramarama to get in to the show for free!

Rio "All-Suites" Hotel & Casino
3700 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, Nevada, 89103
Call us Toll Free: 888.727.6966
Click here for directions

Beyond this weekend, Dramarama has a bunch of upcoming shows.

Fri 4/29 Phoenix - Phoenix Zoo
Thurs 5/12 Sparks, NV - The Alley
Fri 5/13 San Francisco, Ca - Red Devil Lounge
Sat 5/14 Orangevale, Ca - The Boardwalk
Sat 5/21 Pasadena, Ca - T Boyle's Tavern
Fri 6/03 Fresno, Ca - Starline Sat
6/04 Ramona, Ca - Ramona Main stage

A great big Thank You to the guys in Dramarama (John, Mark, Toby, Mike and Tony) for all the great music and fun times we’ve had when the band comes into rehearse.

Joven Calingo Fannatic Magazine Cover Photo Shoot with Destiny Monique

Our good friend Joven Calingo, a talented photographer and owner of Fotoconcerto was commissioned to shoot the cover of the May 2011 issue of Fannatic Magazine. Joven a man of many talents, (he plays drums too) has been immersed into photography for 2 years and this is a nice reward for his efforts. His photos of Destiny Monique were also included in the 5-page interview with Destiny. Congratulations Joven!

Photo by: Joven Calingo / Model: Destiny Monique Photo by: Joven Calingo / Model: Destiny Monique

Here is the video from the photo shoot in studio M here at Hothouse Rehearsal Studios.

Thanks to Joven Calingo (Photographer), Destiny Monique (Model), Tiffany Dang (Hairstylist/MUA), Chris Sabanpan (Photographer Assistant) and Sherwin Binguan (BTS Videographer). See more photos here.

To learn more about Joven and Fotoconcerto check out his website at http://www.fotoconcerto.com

Besides some of the best sounding and equipped music rehearsal studios Hothouse Studios was also designed to accommodate the specific studio dimensions photographers ask for. Call us at 562.945.1300 to book your next photo shoot or rehearsal.

Johnny Vatos Boingo Dance Party
Begin Show Rehearsals

Johnny Vatos and the Boingo Dance Party have begun rehearsals for their forthcoming shows at The Galaxy Theater, Santa Ana, CA on May 7, 2011 and at the The 4th & B, in San Diego CA on July 22, 2011.

Rehearsals began last night in the auditorium (studio 1) and the group is in top shape. The music is happening and the guys are having a great time joking and laughing with each other.

Thanks Johnny for thinking about us as your rehearsal space to prepare for the shows.

We’ll have more live reports in the coming weeks and shoot a video of Johnny explaining what he’s got going on with the Boingo Dance Party. You won’t want to miss it.

Learn more about this Southern California “Party Institution”. Read here.

For an First Rate
Audio Video Rehearsal Experience
Call Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

College gigs are the stepping stones to the bigger scene. However, if you talk to a few people who have followed this path, they will eagerly tell you what a painful process it is. It is true that booking college gigs can be painful sometimes, but not if you follow the guidelines given below.

The first step is to put together a promo package or an EPK. Secondly, you need to get in touch with the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA), The Association for the promotion of campus activities (APCA) or a booking agent that is associated with the above mentioned organizations. The third option, hiring a booking agent, could be costly if you are an emerging artist or a band.

Once you submit an application form to NACA or APCA via their website for a fee, you will be granted membership. Thereafter, the journey becomes a bed of roses because these two organizations will guide you through every step of the way. If you are concerned about the financials, it is a good idea to check their official websites for membership fees, validity period and renewal fees.

Read the entire article “How to Book College Gigs” in the Band ToolBox here.

Hothouse Studios is more than a top notch rehearsal facility, we are a music career learning center and the Band Toolbox has over a 100 articles in it on various subjects relating to succeeding in your music career. Enter the Band Toolbox here.

A breakthrough live performance starts with rehearsals. So rehearse, rehearse, rehearse!

For an First Rate
Audio Video Rehearsal Experience
Call Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

Open Call Auditions for Green Day’s AMERICAN IDIOT



I got a call from Jonny at Jim Carnahan Casting in New York and he asked me to report to all the singers in the Hothouse Rehearsal Studio community about this open call in Los Angeles to audition for a part in the National Tour of Green Day’s American Idiot Broadway show. Here are the details.

Seeking Male and Female Rock Singers - Early - Late 20’s
For the upcoming National Tour of Green Day’s
AMERICAN IDIOT

Bring a recent picture and resume and prepare a short rock song.
Bring sheet music. Piano accompanist provided. Men who play
The guitar should bring one and accompany themselves.

Saturday, March 5th 2011 @ 10am
Debbie Reynolds Studio
6514 Lankershim Boulevard
North Hollywood, CA 91606

For more information visit:
http://www.facebook.com/americanidiotbroadway
or call 212-719-9393 x360

Learn more about the Broadway show of American Idiot here.
http://americanidiotonbroadway.com/

Show them what you’re made of and knock them out.

Starving for Gravity at USC’s Concert Venue - Tommy’s Place

If you haven't seen emerging rock powerhouse Starving for Gravity perform yet, then you should attend this free concert at Tommy's Place, the brand new concert venue on the USC campus, located in the Ronald Tutor Campus Center. It's also connected to Traditions Restaurant.

Two members of the band will be celebrating their birthdays as well. Happy birthday Diederich and Alex!

The venue is ALL AGES but alcohol will be served to 21+ only. ALL shows are FREE to students, faculty and non-students!

Time: Saturday, March 5 - 9:30pm - 11:30pm

Place: Tommy's Place, (located in the Ronald Tutor Campus Center.)
3607 Trousdale Pkwy, TCC 427
Los Angeles, Ca 90089

For direction click here.



Starving for Gravity is a new rock group with a passion for their music, a commitment to their fans and is dedicated to work, until they drop. They won’t let you to go home empty handed...

Music Connection Magazine reviewed Starving for Gravity and called their music “epic and exhilarating”. Their songs are on the aggressive side but still accessible. Fans say their songs look at life with a convoluted honesty. They’ve told me they just write what we feel.

Starving for Gravity has played shows from San Diego to San Francisco, including the eWorldMusic Launch Party, the Cal State Long Beach “Battle of The Bands” (they won); the Temecula Valley Film & Music Festival Showcase, where they won "Best of Fest"; Winner of the LAMM JAM "Rock Music Contest"; Winner of the Worldwide Contest: "Rock Against Diabetes" where they were honored to play with Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, guitarist for Guns 'n Roses and his All Star Band; Winner of "Best Rock Artist of 2008" at the Hollywood Music Awards; and were selected to Play the Main Stages at NAMM in 2009 and 2011.

Learn more about Starving for Gravity at their artist profile page here.

Winds of Plague back at Hothouse Rehearsal Studios.



The Southern California purveyors of pain and our good friends WINDS OF PLAGUE were back in the new bi-amped studio 1 here at Hothouse Rehearsal Studios thumping the new subwoofer s while rehearsing for their upcoming tour.

After annihilating the masses on the Rockstar Energy Mayhem Fest throughout the summer of 2010, WINDS OF PLAGUE now prepares to further spread their carnage across North America on The Warped Tour in the summer of 2011. This is a huge opportunity for the band to perform in front of a different crowd while definitely bringing something unique to this festival to separate themselves from the pack. Expect big circle pits and one of the most energetic performances of the day.

Winds Of Plague has become one of the frontrunners of a new breed of metal over the past few years. The band has sold nearly 100,000 records and made countless laps across the globe, building a massive fan base and earning a reputation as one of the heaviest hitting live shows around. Now, after the massive success of 'The Great Stone War,' Winds Of Plague are returning with a brand new album.

WINDS OF PLAGUE, are going to quickly change the landscape of heavy music upon the release of their much anticipated third full-length release “Against The World”,which is a perfect metallic assault of angst ridden fury. The group went back to their roots channeling the basic, urban hardcore elements, which made their debut offering,-Decimate The Weak, such a stand-out underground cult classic. The partnership with Grammy Award winning, platinum producer Matt Hyde (Slayer, Hatebreed) proved to be exact component needed to push each member's performance beyond their comfort zones to ultimately reach an unexpected plateau that is sure to create a buzz within the scene. Against The World is simply-a bare bones assault of uninhibited aggressiveness that will serve as a much needed wake up call to the masses and beat any listener into oblivion.

'Against the World' is set for release on April 19th via Century Media Records. The album features Winds Of Plague at their best and also includes guest appearances by Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed), Martin Stewart (Terror), Mattie Montgomery (For Today), and Drew York (Stray From The Path).

The track listing for 'Against the World' is as follows:

01. Raise The Dead
02. One For The Butcher
03. Drop The Match
04. Built For War
05. Refined In The Fire
06. The Warrior Code
07. Against The World
08. Monsters
09. Most Hated
10. Only Song We're Allowed To Play In Church Venues
11. California
12. Strength To Dominate

Performance footage of new WINDS OF PLAGUE song "Refined In The Fire" in Hamburg, Germany on November 17, 2010 with guest vocals by Mattie Montgomery of FOR TODAY can be viewed below.



Winds of Plague also have the following upcoming live shows:

2/12 Ft. Collins, CO @ The Aggie Theater
2/14 Fargo, ND @ The Venue
2/15 Omaha, NE @ The Slowdown
2/16 Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theater
2/17 Green Bay, WI @ Riverside Ballroom
2/18 Lansing, MI @ The Loft
2/19 Dayton, OH @ The Attic Club
2/20 Syracuse, NY @ Lost Horizon
2/21 Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground
2/22 Providence, RI @ The Met
2/24 New York, NY @ Gramercy Theatre
2/25 New York, NY @ Gramercy Theatre
2/26 Lancaster, PA @ Chameleon Club
2/27 Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theatre
2/28 Charleston, SC @ Music Farm
3/1 Wilmington, NC @ The Soapbox
3/2 Jacksonville, FL @ Freebird Live
3/3 Tampa, FL State @ Theater
3/4 Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
3/5 Gainesville, FL @ Common Grounds
3/6 Pensacola, FL @ American Legion Hall
3/7 Birmingham, AL @ Zydeco
3/9 Columbia, MO The @ Blue Note
3/10 Tulsa, OK Cain's @ Ballroom
3/11 Wichita, KS @ The Cotilion
3/12 Colorado Springs, CO @ The Black Sheep
3/13 Farmington, NM @ Top Deck
3/15 Flagstaff, AZ @ Orpheum Theatre
3/16 San Luis Obispo, CA @ SLO Brew
3/17 Oakland, CA @ Oakland Metro
3/18 Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades

New Music Seminar LA (Feb 14-16) 2-for-1 Discount



NEW MUSIC SEMINAR (NMS) HAS FINALIZED PROGRAM FOR LA EVENT

The New Music Seminar (NMS) has finalized the program for this year’s seminar, one day after the Grammys. Network with the leaders in today’s music business. It includes Presidents of major label record companies, CEO’s of major tech companies, branding and licensing companies showing artists how to best promote their music and how to get gain the most exposure to make more money.

The program includes 15-18 Minute segments on “How Artists Can Make More Money”, Movements on “How to Maximize fan Relationship Income” and “How to sell tickets in multiple markets” in order to make REAL Money in the music business. The industry has changed and no other conference helps artists in obtaining their goal of financial freedom.

The New Music Seminar does, in addition to the program and the networking, it includes giving away the NMS New Music Business Guidebook, with over 100 pages filled with facts, forms, promotion and marketing tips, contact information, useful websites and other valuable information.

For the best networking of any conference register now! REGISTER NOW AND GET FREE THE NMS NEW MUSIC BUSINESS GUIDEBOOK FROM NMS NYC 2009 IF YOU REGISTER BEFORE FEBRUARY 2ND IN ADDITION TO THE BOOKLET FOR NMS LA 2011.

For more information go to http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=ivtt7abab&et=1104253339857&s=6140&e=001TrHCB3rahjudvLNHTDFiwxjYaV9hlw1XYvVNx5ND7v-w5Y_3U3k1zDA_6M4mrbz_9jNyaJo4xl-0cRFwAJQP3G9-Ad8lLnjuH2dBSuXwtqm7RTVZyfTBeA==and enter secret code NMSLANMT2377 after clicking on the Partner’s discount for your 2 for 1 discount registration courtesy of The Music Tip Sheet.

Volunteer For NMS

Click here to download the volunteer form.We at the New Music Seminar are always looking for volunteers to join the revolution of the new music business with us. We are currently looking for volunteers to help out for the NMS Los Angeles conference taking place the day after the Grammys: February 14-16, 2011. These volunteers will help us immediately in coordinating promotion and organizing the production of the event by working hand-in-hand with the NMS Team. This position has been acknowledged as an internship credit by most music business universities.

Since the early 1980s, NMS volunteers have gone on to run major record companies, agencies, management companies and become leaders in the music industry for over three decades. By becoming an NMS volunteer, you are joining a legion of others before you as part of the NMS family that will help you in building your position in the industry and give you a unique advantage over others to network. There is no better way to meet your future employers or business partners than by becoming an NMS volunteer and working on an event that is creating the NEW music industry.

Please fill out and email the completed form to ella@newmusicseminar.com

NMS PROVIDES THE FOLLOWING TO ALL VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE ACCEPTED:

1. A letter from the Executive Directors Tom Silverman and Dave Lory as a reference for your future employers. Please check with your local university for internship credit as NMS has been accredited by other music business programs across the US.

2. Free admission to the New Music Seminar and the NMS New Music Business Guidebook, filled with promotional and marketing tips, dos and don’ts, useful facts, forms, web sites, blogs and other valuable information to help your career as an artist, manager, agent, label or in any other areas of the music industry you chose to enter into. Each volunteer will have time to enjoy the seminar as well as working at this important event.

3. An opportunity to learn and work as a team in putting on a successful event and showcases.

4. Each volunteer will receive a complimentary breakfast and lunch during the 2 to 3 days at NMS that you are working.

Click here to download the volunteer form.

Troy High School 2011 Battle of the Bands Fund Raiser Dramarama and Hothouse Rehearsal Studios



Hothouse Rehearsal Studio News hosted by Nikki Calvert

Friday January 21, 2011 Troy High School in Fullerton, Ca will be holding a fund raising Battle of the Bands at Plummer Auditorium in Fullerton, 201 E Chapman Ave Fullerton, CA 92832 (714) 626-3890. The show starts at 6:00pm is an all ages event and the ticket cost is $7 at door. Special guest performance by Dramarama.

All proceeds benefit the Troy Special Ed. Department. John Easdale of
Dramarama and Richard Morales owner of Hothouse Rehearsal Studios will be 2 of the 5 judges, judging the contest as well as playing a few tunes. Hothouse Studios is sponsoring the prizes for the event.

What: Troy High School Battle of the Bands - Special performance by Dramarama

When: Friday January 21, 2011 at 6:00pm

Where:
Plummer Auditorium
201 E Chapman Ave Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 626-3890

Who: Vale of Avalon, Transmission, The Sideline, Colortrap

Will Power, Brothers United, The Crowning Diamond Complex.

Cost: $7 at the door.

First Place Prize: 1 Song Music video of the band.

First Runner Up: 1 Song Multi Track Audio recording.

Second Runner Up: 2 free hours of rehearsal time at Hothouse Studios in Santa Fe Springs, Ca.

Why is Hothouse sponsoring a high school event? First, Hothouse Rehearsal Studios supports education for our young people and especially the great work being done at Troy. Secondly, Hothouse Studios was established to help our local talent achieve their goals. Thirdly, Hothouse Studios is a community business and supports the community through fund raising activities such as this.

Troy High School is the alma mater of Social Distortion and what great group will emerge from this year’s Battle of the Bands is anyone’s guess. Come on down to the show and take a look for yourself.

Troy High is well known for being one of the top 30 High Schools in the country, as well as having the #1 computer science program in the world, yes, the world. What is less known is that Troy has a stellar, absolutely second-to-none Special Education Department.

The teachers, staff, and administrators not only do what they can to help make high school the rewarding academic experience it should be, but they also give an enormous amount of their hearts and time to help give the students in the Special Ed program many social and recreational opportunities--dances, parties, camping trips, Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, trips to San Diego things that typical high school kids take for granted.

In the past, the department was able to raise their own funds to pay for these adventures so that there was zero or minimal cost to students--many of whom are in foster care or group homes and would otherwise be unable
to attend--but the rules have changed and they are no longer able to
raise these funds themselves. The Troy ASB has graciously agreed to give the proceeds from the Battle of the Bands to the Special ED Dept.

If you are at all able, please come out and give your support.

What: Troy High School Battle of the Bands

Special performance by Dramarama

When: Friday January 21, 2011 at 6:00pm

Where:
Plummer Auditorium
201 E Chapman Ave Fullerton, CA 92832(714) 626-3890

Cost : $7 at the door.

For an Unrivaled
Rehearsal Experience
Go to Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

Ronny North 2011 NAMM



Our long time friend Ronny North will be all over NAMM again this year. If you are there, go say hi and tell him Hothouse Studios sent you.

I thought I'd give everyone the update on Ronny’s NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) schedule for this week. He’s looking forward to seeing everyone at his performance when he headlines the NAMM kickoff event on Jan 12^th, 2011 at the Hilton at the Anaheim Convention Center and at the show every day.

He also has some cool new RN stickers and promo 8x10's to sign... when you see him at the show just come up and ask for one, if you want him to sign a photo, not a problem. As most of you know Ronny is always up for getting his picture taken with everyone at these events so if you wanna get a shot together with Ronny, so not a problem. All you have to do is ask. It was great taking photos with everyone at the R-n-R Gangstar Pre NAMM party on Friday.

Ronny will also be doing several actual signing events at the show with special promo shots he had made especially for the sponsors he is signing for (see info below). If you are so inclined you can get all three 2011 RN NAMM promo shots at the show and have your own RN picture collection....

Here's the info for Ronny North’s NAMM appearances:

• Jan 12th - Headlining the NAMM kickoff event at 10pm at the Hilton (Open to public, free admission, No NAMM Badge needed),

In NAMM (Anaheim Convention Center) Jan 13-16th, NAMM Badge needed ):

• Dean Markley ( Hall B booth 5710) I'm signing at the booth on 1/13,1/16 (1pm),


• R-n-R Gangstar Apparel (Hall D booth 2586) I'll be signing/playing 1/13,1/14 (12 pm)


• Brace Audio ( Hall B booth 5894) playing /signing 1/13 (10am) 1/14,1/16 (11am)...

See you there.....

For an First Rate
Audio Video Rehearsal Experience
Call Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

What Is A Rehearsal? Defined and Explained


Studio 1 The Auditorium

Let's go all the way back to the academic definition of music rehearsal first: “Rehearsing a musical composition often involves repeating some passages over and over again until everyone in the ensemble (band or group of musicians) masters them.” Well that's the core of rehearsing, its main foundation... the one that no matter what, you should always comply to.

But music has changed much since these academic days, now rehearsing exceeds these acts, and combines more tasks in itself.

First you should agree that a focused band is the main requisite for a decent rehearsal.

Secondly, be aware that a group rehearsal (or ensemble rehearsal, as stated in the opening definition) is not your practice room or music instrument class! Don't go into the rehearsing studio to develop your individual skills or train your finger position and so on... that's homework mate! Musicians should be prepared for rehearsing as a group and reviewing the tracks over and over is practically the only way to achieve the sound that you want.

Ø Discussion and Analysis

But rehearsing isn't all about playing the part or song silently from start to stop. The meaning of rehearsing hides another concept vital in today's bands: Discussion and Analysis.

When you train a track or a part of it, let’s say from the bridge to the chorus, over and over you are perfecting it, and most of the times “perfection” is about getting it right and playing it smoothly... but there are cases in which, during rehearsal, minor changes to the tracks can happen. A slight change on a note's duration or its pitch can occur when musician calmly discuss and present their point of view on that segment of music being analyzed.

So it’s all about maturing your own product, and that comes in many shapes and flavors. As stated above you can perfect the way all of your band members play their part of the songs, you can perfect the way vocals and back vocals line up and double themselves on the chorus, and many more slight corrections like these, but another thing you can mature is the way the band performs. That’s where the stage-like rehearsal comes into play.

Ø Show Rehearsing

A common practice for bands (and a really important one for bands) is Show Rehearsing. This is, playing your entire concert song list, from start to end and even the “encore” if you’re feeling lucky. This will point out mistakes and problems in your band that you don't want to experience live and also helps you to test the concert song list.

Which problems are these you say? Just play the entire song list and you'll see.

The drummer is tired because track 3 is up tempo and is followed by another really fast tempo song. The bass player needs to switch to percussion in track 6 which leads to enormous waiting time (crowd's hate that), and it gets worst, where you find out that playing all the tracks sequentially can be hard work. So by using these practices in rehearsing you'll definitely get near to perfection, which is the purpose of it.

But remember a crucial aspect: mastery of technical skills DOES NOT replace feeling when playing.

In the other hand, besides Show Rehearsing you have several styles and types of rehearsing and some common practices.

Ø Common Practices

For drum players you should always use a metronome while rehearsing difficult songs (particularly if at the start you're not feeling the tempo, or if the signature is a composite, i.e.: 7/4, 5/4, 3/4, and so on).

Bass players and drummers should build up a strong concept of rhythm section. If need be they could take some time on their own and practice the bass lines and rhythms. And then accordingly to you own band formation, there's several ways to enhance your performance.

Lets’ divide these practices into a small list, with sub-topics:

Ø Rhythm section

As stated, both bass and percussion elements (drummers, conga players, etc...) should work considerably close. That makes a band consistent and the groove becomes solid.

Work with metronome if any of the musicians is not feeling the tempo, but be sure to disconnect it when everyone is groovin'.

Ø Keyboard players

Piano, synth, and so on... Please note that you carry a massive harmonic instrument. It lays down the tune, so be sure to keep the score in mind and practice it a lot.

To synth players or organ players, keep an eye on the tempo and the rhythm section and learn their breaks and tempo changes.

Ø Vocalists

Vocalists play a huge role in today’s music. Lyrics hold certain meaning and messages, which are important in the context of a song/album.

If you're working with vocals and background vocals be sure to reserve some rehearsing time to this. Many times the chorus needs to change because of background vocal integration.

Also, a new trend is to use effects on the voice, so if that's your case, choose some nice gear (foot pedal) and some powerful harmonizer effect machine, and rehearse that part over and over. (You don't want to mess up effects in real time).

Ø Wind instruments

Wind sections should always work together (reeds and brass), and if you have/can, work with the piano score (transposed to your instrument, of course) and keep it well rehearsed. If needed take some time to rehearse this section alone.

Ø Various instruments

It's not possible for this small list to incorporate every instrument possible, so for all of the other instruments. Take the general advises and seek more at other sources, such as maestros or music teachers or even your band members.

Just a final note for those that play solo or play solos in their band. Solos take a huge time rehearsing and should be done in your own individual studio time or at home. When rehearsing with the band be sure to have your solos worked out.

Focus and Rehearse!

Hothouse Studios is more than a top notch rehearsal facility, we are a music career learning center and the Band Toolbox has over a 100 articles in it on various subjects relating to succeeding in your music career. Enter the Band Toolbox here.

For an First Rate
Audio Video Rehearsal Experience
Call Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

Prosperity and Love for 2011

From all of us here at Hothouse Studio. May this New Year bring newly found Prosperity, Love and Happiness into your Life.

When you're lonely, we wish you Love!
When you're down, we wish you Joy!
When you're troubled, we wish you Peace!
When things seem empty, we wish you Hope!
Have a Happy New Year!

Your friends at Hothouse Studios
Dedicated to Serving You!

Don, Kirk and Richard.

Merry Christmas - Let Music Fill the Air



This holiday season all of us here at Hothouse Studios want to celebrate and share our peace and joy with everyone by wishing you and all those you love the greatest holiday season ever, full of good cheer and thanksgiving.

We are thankful to all of you who supported us throughout the year and made us the #1 neighborhood rehearsal facility in Southern California. We are grateful for your allegiance and look forward to our continuing relationship.

We are committed to providing you with our time honored service and support.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Let Music Fill the Air…

Warmest Regards,
Your friends at Hothouse Studios
Don, Kirk and Richard

On Camera Rehearsal


Band: California Jammin

On Camera Rehearsal

If you are familiar with the Movie School of Rock, you can imagine how an on camera rehearsal could benefit a band. This type of rehearsal is pre-planned, with someone bringing in the video camera. If possible, a TV should be brought in as well to watch the video right afterwards. What are the benefits of doing an on camera rehearsal?

Ø It’s an official dress rehearsal which includes being dressed.
Most bands don’t do “dress rehearsals” that include being dressed for the part but if you are videotaping, even if just to review everything, the clothes should be included. You never know when you will need filler for a music video later!

Ø The moves you think are cool may not be/you think you are moving and your feet are glued to the floor.
Another big reason for the on camera rehearsal is to make sure everyone looks good jamming out. Many times, a band is into their music and it looks great but occasionally you will have that one band with that one guy that is over the top and insane compared to the rest of the band, like Jack Black’s character in School of Rock, for example.

Ø To Avoid Clichés
There are so many “rock” clichés that avoiding them all is impossible. With that said, trying to avoid some of the egregious ones is an important part of your presence.
By videotaping, you can tell whether you or your band mates are doing anything too weird and zany. Often times, you will do things and not even realize it while on stage.

Read the entire “On Carmera Rehearsal” article here in the Band Toolbox.

Hothouse Studios is more than a top notch rehearsal facility, we are a music career learning center and the Band Toolbox has over a 100 articles in it on various subjects relating to succeeding in your music career. Enter the Band Toolbox here.

For an First Rate
Audio Video Rehearsal Experience
Go to Hothouse Studios
"Where Music Grows"

Hothouse Rehearsal Studios, 11823 Slauson Ave., Unit 41, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, USA 562.945.1300

Chicano Soul Legends Little Willie G and Thee Midniters in Concert



Big shout out to our good friends Little Willie G and Thee Midniters. The guys were in rehearsing for their Christmas show “Hot 92.3 Winter Wonder Jam” at the Gibson Amphitheatre at Universal CityWalk in Universal City, CA this Saturday December 18, 2010. It is going to be a great show with Tierra, El Chicano and Malo also performing.

Indisputably the greatest Latino rock band of the '60s, Thee Midniters took their inspiration from both the British Invasion sound of the Rolling Stones and the more traditional R&B that they were weaned on in their native Los Angeles.

I got hear the entire set during rehearsal and Thee Midniters are going to blow you away. Thee Midniters will be performing all their hits “Land of a Thousand Dances”, “Whittier Blvd.” and more.

Tickets are available at a various locations click here to purchase your tickets.

Thanks guys for the fun afternoon.

Starving for Gravity Voted Top 100 Unsigned Bands in the U.S.



Starving for Gravity the Melodic Rock group out of Orange County, Ca has been one of our favorite bands since they first began rehearsing at Hothouse Studios and lit up the place.

Now Lucas (vocals), Brad (guitars), Dee (bass), Richard (keys) and Mark (drums) have been voted one of the Top 100 Best Unsigned Bands in the U.S. by Music Connection Magazine in their 19th Annual “Hot 100 Live Unsigned Artists and Bands Poll”.

In addition to the Music Connection staff, freelance journalists, club bookers and other industry professionals determine the results. This is a great accomplishment earned by Starving for Gravity and validates their talent and artistic quality.

Learn more about Starving for Gravity at their profile page here.

Congratulations from all of us in the Hothouse Studio Community.

Celebrate the Life and Music of John Lennon

It's been 30 years and John Lennon’s’ impact is still being felt around the world.

Listen to your local radio station his music is everywhere.