For the past several years I've had it in the back of my mind that I'd love to record a Christmas record.  Not just another CD filled with the likes of "Jingle Bells" and "Santa Baby"; What I had in mind would be something that would creatively draw the listener in and captivate them with lyrics filled with Christmas truths.  Maybe even something that on the surface didn't HAVE to be classified as a "Christmas record".   I think some of this idea sprang from listening to Austin Crane several years ago as he sang a song that he had written for Christmas time.  The song was a bit dark and haunting, yet was clearly about Christmas.  I found myself asking "why aren't more bands doing this!?"

A couple months ago I heard a rumor that some good friends of mine in The Sea Wolf Mutiny were thinking about recording a Christmas EP but didn't have much of a budget.  I quickly realized that this was my chance. The Sea Wolf Mutiny has fast become a serious musical force in Columbia.  I recorded their debut EP a few months ago and have continued to be captivated by these guys  creativity and immense talent.  I called Bobby (the lead singer) to discuss the idea of us working together on this project.  We figured out how to  work around the budget constraints and booked two full days for tracking and mixing 3 songs.  


While we ended up taking a bit longer then the two days we allotted, I think we are all very pleased with the outcome.  I know this short EP surpassed my expectations and I'm thrilled to have you listen to it. The first of these tunes is an original song and the other two are lesser known old hymns that these fellas have given their own unique spin to.  The guys in The Sea Wolf Mutiny have decided to give the EP (titled "The Apple Tree") away for a "pay-what-you-want" price.  So don't let money be an object!  Grab it now for free or give these guys a few dollars for their effort.  You can download it here. 

I also put together a short video showing some of our time together.  If you dig the EP make sure to tell your friends about it, I mean it IS free music!
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As you may (or may not) know last night was the FIRST Archer Avenue Studio showcase.  Four extremely talented bands were kind enough to join forces for this power house show.  Not only that but three of these bands were releasing records recently recorded at right here at Archer Ave. 

To start the night off right Emily McCollum and Cayla Fralick performed together and totally captivated the audience.  Both of the girls are great songwriters and excellent performers.  

Immediately following them Rejectioneers took the stage.  This band has been Ben Walker's brainchild for many years and has finally come together to record an EP and begin playing shows.  Ben has been an integral part of the columbia music scene for well over a decade and he hasn't lost a thing!  Their set was full of well crafted songs driven by  undeniable emotion.  It's good to see Ben on stage again!

Foley was the next band to take the stage.  These guys have been making  music in Columbia for a few years now and continue to churn out great songs with well thought out parts and melodies.  Jay Hendricks fronts this rock band and sells the whole show through his passionate performance.  Each of these guys performed perfectly and the set seemed flawless and powerful.

The Sea Wolf Mutiny closed the night out and we couldn't have asked for a better end for an incredible night.  These guys are quickly emerging as one of the most talked about bands in the columbia music scene.  Bobby Hatfield is at the helm of this band and it's almost impossible to take one's eyes off him as he blazes through their set with unabated energy and excitement.  

If you missed the show last night please check out each of these great bands!  Here's a few pictures from last night (pics provided by Steve Von Fange):
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