Rising Sidewalks Productions

lalallalalalalalalalaaaaaaa

2008-07-27T21:33:00.001-06:00

Songs From Scratch Contest

2008-07-25T16:33:00.002-06:00

Hey, so I spent all day working on this song for the Current's Songs from Scratch contest. Check it out HERE and you should totally submit it to be featured on the MPR site HERE just scroll to the bottom to check out featured videos. Hope you like it! I spent all freakin' day, and forgot to eat because of it. Now I am going to go eat a lot of foodstuffs.

My absence

2008-07-22T10:30:00.002-06:00

Forgive the lack of updates recently. I have been rather distracted by a number of things - life if you will. I have been doing some sketching though. Trying to get the style I really want to use for the ARO down. I need to make sure I can keep it consistent. And the only way to accomplish this is to practice, practice...practice. But I believe I am getting closer to achieving my goal.

On top of writing countless ideas for lyrics and music for the ARO, I have also set out to enter a 89.3 the Current song contest. I have the music for it - now I just need the lyrics done. But it must be finished and recorded by the 31st. So I pretty much need to finish it this weekend. Then I would like to get started on one of the animations for the ARO - but I need to write a script and record the voice work. And I'll need Dan for that. One step at a time.

I played at one of my Director's Son's wedding reception this past weekend. Tony was out of town, so I took the job solo. There was stress galore before hand, and I almost went nuts and snapped - but I made it, and it was a beautiful reception, and I'm glad it is over. Having to learn cover songs is a totally bad idea for me. I just don't feel comfortable with it. I can't connect, and I get all nervous about screwing it up. And I only had a couple of my own songs to play (at least I had some, thank god), because lets face it - my song writing is not particularly of the happy-ever-after variety. They may be love songs, to a degree, but they are definitely...um...depressing. So I had to pick carefully - and even change some lyrics for the occasion. Anyhoo, like I said, it's done. And I think it went well, at least that was the feedback I got.

But I have a new goal with the writing process! Happy songs! =D Maybe it is something I need to expand and become more inspired. I mean, we do have some happy/fun songs too - but I need more of them. So this will be interesting.

In the mean time, I'll keep cracking away at whatever it is that I do and try to remember to post anything special that comes my way. I'll definitely add the 89.3 song on here, and I think I have some video from our release show I need to upload as well. Laters!

Here's a few...

2008-07-01T09:39:00.005-06:00

All free hand - all out of my head - obvious influences.

Thank You's in order

2008-07-01T09:16:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to thank everyone who came out to the show and made it quite a success - we couldn't continue to make music if it weren't for all of you who support us! It is turnouts like that, especially in small venues, that make every moment of running around like a chicken with my head cut off worth it. And also a big thank you to Dan Olmshenk for helping us whenever we need it. You rock man. Like I said, it was a wonderful success for planning a larger show - that keeps me very optimistic that it is possible for us to do this. We'll probably have a little break here to recuperate and get a few things in order - hopefully write some new material, and also get more of the rock opera put together. I'm also trying to throw together a showcase like show at the Acadia Cafe, with a bunch of fellow musicians - including Eli Ratner and Aaron Blum (who both did an awesome job btw).

In other news, I am also working on a series of digital drawings/paintings that will hopefully lead to some kind of gallery showing. Nothing big, just a nice little side project to show what I'm interested in (on top of every other freakin thing I'm working on). So of course there is no finish date set (although I hope it is by the end of the summer), I just can't commit enough time to side projects to ensure their completion in a timely matter. But I will throw a few preview sketches up here in a moment.

SO MUCH GOING ON! BUT THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT =)

Screen Shot!

2008-06-24T16:29:00.003-06:00

Here is a quick sneak at some of the cover art I am working on for the Rock Opera. Hope you like! =) It's all still IP

June 27th - CD RELEASE SHOW!

2008-06-17T10:09:00.002-06:00

June 13th

2008-06-02T16:26:00.002-06:00

Next Show

2008-05-28T09:15:00.002-06:00

The next show is scheduled for Friday, June 13th. Yes - that is Friday the 13th. Perhaps we should do a theme show? Hm...*scheming*

Again, this will take place at the Dunn Brothers on Franklin and Lyndale. Check our myspace page for details. A poster will be, ah, posted soon.

In other news, if you noticed the previous post, there is the mysterious "ARO" being worked on. When I stated that it would be coming soon - I meant to say that it will probably be releasing next Spring 2009 actually. It is currently in the works and only the first few songs have been completed. The basic storyline is mapped out, with details in the works. Collaboration with Dan Olmshenk in the writing process has been confirmed. It is going to be, shall we say, wicked. So if you like Sci-fi-fantasy-western-space adventures in the form of a rock opera, then I suspect you will 'dig' it. I am also doing artwork and animation shorts for the official show.

Also, I now own a cintiq. Bow before me.

Hells Yeah

2008-05-21T08:17:00.001-06:00

-- Coming Soon --

May 24th

2008-05-13T11:14:00.002-06:00

Next show! It will be held at our place of roots - Muddsuckers. Come out and have some coffee, the best belgian waffle around, and relax to the sweet melodies of RisingSide. Hope to see you there!

It's my burfday

2008-05-07T10:28:00.002-06:00

You know your getting old when you get flowers instead of toys for your birthday -- but I love it ^_^ (thanks mom and dad).

I don't know what I will do, however, as softball was canceled tonight and those were my plans -- tkd, class, softball, home at 11:30pm. Soooo, not sure what to do. Will probably stop by Sally's to say hi to my "twin" who I share a birthday with. Then I don't know. I'll be officially done with class for the semester. My life is glowing with uncertainty for the next few weeks. Lalala...

Yesterday

2008-05-04T15:51:00.002-06:00

Everything went really well last night. I would like to thank everyone who came out! I was told that it was the most packed that it had ever been when they had music, and that usually people left relatively soon - but not for us ^_^. A wonderful turnout, and making a small venue work really lifted my spirits for this summer. We are going to be playing there again mid June, and are going to try and book an official CD release party (finally) at the larger Dunn Brothers in Loring Park! That way we can really get the place packed and go crazy =P. So when we figure that out (hopefully soon) I'll let everyone know the details. Ciao!

This Weekend!

2008-04-30T07:41:00.000-06:00

May 3 Updated

2008-04-21T07:35:00.002-06:00

So it is official - RisingSide will be playing at the Dunn Brothers in Uptown, off of Lyndale Avenue. Music starts at 7pm, and I have special guests Dan Olmschenk and Aaron Blum opening for us. If you want more information, check out our myspace page or you can email me at risingsidewalks(at)hotmail(dot)com. I kinda want to make an email list anyway of people not on facebook or myspace - so if you want news and updates, drop me a line.

Hope you can make it!

May 3

2008-04-18T08:56:00.002-06:00

So it looks like Tony and I will be playing our first gig of the year at Dunn Brothers in Uptown. I don't have all the complete details yet, but I'll be making some posters and stuff and probably post it up on this blog for all of you to see. So if you want to come, mark your calendars for MAY 3. It's a Saturday. My friend Dan Olmschenk and Aaron Blum might open for us, so that will be sweet. They are very in to blues and rootsy folk music. And of course, there will be more where that comes from =P. Hope to see you!

Oh, I'm supposed to update this thing?

2008-04-11T09:15:00.002-06:00

Sorry about the lack in the update information. I have been preoccupied with other things lately, so my attention to music and art has been little. I have been working on a series of drawings, however. I'm thinking of creating a gallery for them once they are all finished off. Right now I am sketching them out. Then Evan has taken some photos of them and will get me a cd with .tif files. From there, I was planning to do a little PSing then print them up big and have them framed. The are based on the disney characters from some of my favorite films, but I have tried to add my little personality take on them. It's been fun to at least be motivated to do some. There is only one drawing I have done that I'm not happy with and plan to redo it. So yeah.

The music has been on hold far too long for my liking. I have been playing a little with some new song ideas, and lately brushing up on blues rifts. I really want to bring that old sound back, when music was at it's prime (aka the 60s). It just can be difficult with all the mainstream influences everywhere, and expectations, and not having a full band to back you up - sharing ideas. It gets frustrating. I want to write deep seeded lyrics that can speak to people. I want to expand my horizons and broaden the topics I write about. This is what I want to do in my life. There's just something missing from the equation, and I need to find it. I need to be able not to rely on others to get where I want to go. So let's see what happens, shall we?

March 15th

2008-03-03T10:24:00.003-06:00

FYI, March 15th I will be doing a solo show at the Marrakesh Cafe in Dinkytown, MN. I am opening for an act called PROJECT HELVETIA for their CD release. Also playing will be CATHY BATES (no, not the actress). The show is FREE, and I'll bring some CDs as well for your pleasure. Tony will be in Vegas (the bastard), so I'm going to have to swing it on my own. 'Twill be a fun time though. Hope to see you there!

Check myspace for details.

Variety show

2008-02-21T10:08:00.001-06:00

The Whole is also putting on a variety show on March 6th. I think Tony and I should do this as well as the battle of the bands. Anything and everything is an option at this point. But we are going to get together on Saturday and record Paper Cups really well. I'm excited for that one. We also got this notice to join a compilation CD from some indie company in Massachussettes...we will see about that, got to check it out thuroughly to make sure it's worth it. Laters.

Music stuff

2008-02-14T10:11:00.002-06:00

Last night I spent some time at my friend Dan's place and we did kind of a music circle where a few of us took turns playing some of our songs. It was really fun and it felt good to play in front of people again. Dan and Jackie are some of the coolest people you would ever meet, and really good friends. When we were finished playing and everyone else left, we had a sit down. They kept telling me over and over why I should be a professional musician. That I was the only person they knew who could actually make it in the business, that I had to share my music with the world. It touched my heart to hear how enthusiastic they are about it. I really do want to make music my thing, I just find it hard to persue. Hey, I never thought it would be easy, but going it alone can be trying. I have Tony, but even with just the two of us, we focus so much on trying to play together, that we oversite how to get out there to the people. They convinced me to find out when all the open mic nights are around the twin cities so we can just go and play as much as possible in as many places as possible. We need to get people talking about us. I also saw an advertisement for a battle of the bands at the WHOLE on campus. The winner gets to open spring jam. I'm going to submit us. With that, Garrison Keelar, and hopefully Fish Day, we can get things rolling. It's time to step up the game again. I've been dormant too long. Thank you so much for the support guys, you brought that fire back in me.

I DO have some drawings.

2008-02-01T09:59:00.000-06:00

I'm sure that any artist out there can relate that even though you draw something, it for some reason feels like an inconvenience to actually SCAN them. It takes extra time, formating, etc. and is not fun to do. I guess if the purpose was to finish the drawing in Photoshop, you would just get it over with. But when it comes to quick concept sketches, the motivation to take the time to scan is lacking. But I will try to do my best to attempt to take the 15minutes of VALUABLE time in my day to do this. See how much I would sacrifice for the fans?

Drawings to come...

2008-01-26T09:38:00.000-06:00

just an FYI. Drawing this afternoon (just concept sketches) Will upload tonight.

Here we go again

2008-01-22T12:29:00.000-06:00

Another school semester, another bummed out student. I've never been much for the schooling, but I guess it is good for me. I let my mind wander too much sometimes. I have such a powerful creative side, but very little discipline. The only way I can get through the school year now is the fear of not FINISHING school. This means, MORE school in the future. Please, god no. This semester I am going to keep everything organized and prioritized (no promises, mind you). I have attempted this way before, and it was quite...ugly. But we can always start anew. Most of my classes are film studies, so we write a few papers and watch a ton of movies. And this works just fine for me, except I loath writing papers. But I can do it. Do it well enough to get through the class anyway. My problem is the procrastination of it all. But, again, I will try to prioritize to make life easier for me. Then it is summer - my trip, training, and music gallore. I also am going to sketch up some ideas for my next animation (much more complex). This will be something worth putting in a portfolio. It will be a challenge to myself to see how good I really can be at this animation stuff. Is it really my (third) calling? I'll sketch some stuff up and post it for your input. (no promises)

More from Moonblink

2008-01-18T10:31:00.000-06:00

Doopdeedoo

2008-01-11T11:53:00.000-06:00

Here is another little promo picture from my friend Moonblink for "paper cups".

A lot to update --

2008-01-08T12:49:00.000-06:00

Updates updates updates...

Yeah, so here's the lot of them:

1. Got back from a relaxing vacation at home (I hope the lot of you had a wonderful holiday season as well). Not much got done while I was there, but it was a good hiatus as far as giving my brain a break went. The family is doing well and I was really excited to see Brad again and especially my dog Maggie ^_^. Spent the time bowling, shooting pool, and playin' ping pong, hehe. Now it's back to the grind - but on my terms.

2. The rock opera is coming along pretty well. I finished one song - now all I have to do is record a good session of it. I have the follow up song's guitar part done, but the lyrics need a go over. Tony and I have finally started playing together again, and it is nice to see some initiative in him. He wrote a beautiful part for 'Paper Cups' and I can't wait to record it. We also started playing with our friends Dan (bass) and Preston (drums). Right now they are just figuring out the basic paterns and notes, but once they get comfortable, I can see this music going in an amazing direction. It's a whole new sound to play with a full band. I still love the strait up acoustics, but sometimes having the backup is pretty rockin. We will see where this goes, and I hope it goes right. Oh, and I threw up some youtube videos of my solo workings so far. Plus the rock opera piece is on there. Just go to youtube.com and search risingside. They are crappy but, eh.

3. For those of you that know me (I mean REALLY know me, so not very many), you know that my brain works in a very sparatic way. I get an idea, and I have to work with it immediately - and then it's gone. Sometimes it comes back, but other times it's a one time thing. I take on projects and task, piling them on until it is impossible to accomplish any one of them. I am a dreams-first kind of person. I don't believe in setting them aside. If your going to live, you might as live to the fullest and do what you can with the time you have, while you have it. You have to go for what you dream about doing at the time it presents itself. Don't wait around, because it could be gone in an instant. Yes, you should always have a 'practical' backup plan - but it shoud be just that - a backup. It needs to be something that is much easier to accomplish and it has to be something you can stand to live with doing. But dreams should not be placed aside so you can work on practicality. What the hell for? So you can regret not going for what you really wanted for fear of failure? Failure is a part of life and it is meant to happen eventually in some respective way. But we can always get back on our feet. That is what the backup is for.
So why am I saying all this? Simple. Like I said before, I get an idea in my head and I go for it. My problem has always been timing. It never works out well for me - but I know that one of these times is the big one. And I won't set my intuitions aside because I think I may be kidding myself again. Because it might be the time. So here it is, my time. I can feel it in my blood. You're all going to laugh, I know, and that is totally fine. Because it is my dream. And what are dreams but silly ideas that may be the best thing that could happen to a person. So here is my dream: I want to be a professional MMA fighter. Ridiculous sounding eh? Sometimes I think so, but I've always thought I had a heart of a fighter inside of me. I've just never had the chance to prove myself, or the opening to really get down to it. I have been inspired mostly by my peer and former coach Kaitlin Young. She is my age and is now a professional fighter after a year of hard training. She has always been a hard trainer (much more than me) but her drive has inspired me to do what I never had the guts to do. So I'm going for it. Hehe, and with the American Gladiators back on the air, I can at least hope for the chance to jump on that band wagon next season. ^_^ I always wanted to compete on that show when I was a kid. And I think training for MMA is a step towards reaching that platform on the way. I want to prove myself. I don't care if I am the best (although it wouldn't hurt, hehe). I either need to kick some ass, or get my ass kicked. I'm not afraid of that. But something needs to happen. My loves in order = music, mma, and animation. Music will always be around for me, but the time is now or never for mma. So I will take the time to do both. This is my legacy, and no one will talk me out of it.

4. On the animation front, my project is online on my bands myspace page under videos. I think it's kinda crap, but I want to work on it more. (At least I got an A on the assignment) I can do so much more, but it was good practice with the time I had. The next project will be much more involved and beautiful. But it is going to take a while. I'll try to keep you posted.

So there we go - a mouth full. But I got it out. Now to do some actual work I get paid for. Toodleoo!

Going on #4

2007-12-17T15:01:00.000-06:00

Sooo...yeah - #4. Take THAT.

Good news, I am completely done with the Fall semester of my senior year in college. Now I have 2 weeks of vacation before back to work, followed by another 2 weeks before next semester. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be a super-senior, however. So I won't be going anywhere or doing anything extravegant for awhile.

My animation is finished, and looks quite nice I think. There are always room for improvement, but I'm happy I got the whole concept out and finished on time. I will have a video of it up hopefully tonight when I go in to the lab to present it. I might as well upload it while I'm there. My next goal is to do more detailed animation using photoshop (more traditional stuff). I want to see if I can create something really fluid and beautiful...perhaps to another song off of my brothers cd - or even one off of my own cd. I love doing music videos, because they are like little short films. And I get to skip the tedious task of lip movements for voices...that, and recording voices myself. I would like to give voice acting a try sometime...but right now I'll stick to singing. We don't want to challenge me to much do we?

ASL was finished approximately 1 hour ago as well. My partner is awsome, because she has the same mentallity as me when it came to it. We did a good job I think, but we tried to keep it light and have fun with it. So I'm happy its all over. Now I just have next semester to keep on truckin'.

Rock Opera time begins tomorrow morning. I'm going to really dig into some lyrics and some basic chord progression so H and I have a base to work with durring our session. I hope it works out well, and we have a lot of fun with it...but I want it to be incredibly awsome at the same time. So I get psyched for this vacation time that I have to work on it as well.

Anyhoo - I'm bored now, so I'm gonna jump outa here. Catch ya'll later (whoever ya'll are...if anyone, hehe)

TskTsk..

2007-12-14T21:36:00.000-06:00

This is the third time I've updated since Manticore pointed the fact out that I don't update enough either...but where is his follow up to the cookie recipe AND a response to my comment? Hm??

So a few things on the front lines right now...I am finishing up my final animation project entitled "Robots from the Moon" (credits to my brother Carl for the inspiration and awesome music). So when it is finished, you should expect to see some sort of link to it...whether Youtube or Myspace...I have to decide which is better.

Also, I have decided to devote my vacation time to working on an Acoustic Rock Opera...So far the lyrics I have spewed from the depths are ridiculously -- appropriate. We're talking story lines and plots and mayhem, with a touch of campy-ness. But I'm looking forward to coming up with the music part too. I already recruited my friend "H" from work to help out with ideas and vocal backup. Should be freakin sweet, cuz she has an amazing voice (too ^_^). So look forward to that. Tony isn't a part of it yet, because I just want to toy with the idea and make sure it pans out before he has to devote any time to it.

Finally, over the past few weeks I have commenced training for the National Collegiate Championship tournament for tae kwon do at Sanford University this April. I think I'm off to a great start, but now is the chance for me to prove myself because the club is concluded for the semester, and I will have to train on my own while I am back home in PW. At least I have access to a heavy bag and some weights in our basement. Mix with rockin' music, and I should have a routine down to keep my occupied. Now I just have to lay off too many Christmas cookie temptations, and oh-so-wonderful mashed potatoes that I KNOW will be aplenty. But the lucky thing about being home for this is I also have the opportunity to eat really healthy. Food shall be available to me in quantities I require to fuel my needs. I will succeed in my endeavor. Nothing can stop me now, I am a machine built to conquer!

Do you hear that? The sweet sound of "Eye of the Tiger" is aloft in the air...

Poster Design!

2007-12-12T08:20:00.000-06:00

So this is what our poster is going to look like for promoting the band and our current Cd "For the Lost". So I will let you know when they are available to grab one ^_^

Ya want an update eh? EH??

2007-12-10T18:43:00.001-06:00

So here you go...the lyrics to my new song "Paper Cups" available to hear on Myspace NOW.

PAPER CUPS:

As a Jack-of-all-trades said,
"you go to sleep to put to bed,
all of your ideas trapped in bottles,
or paper cups if you are cheap."
And though we catch our planes at night,
blood vessels erupt into Redeyes.
We see in colors not yet known,
or black and white if you just like that better.

I should have known (you were left wanting)
This tragic face (can you just smile for me)
Was built with stones that were never replaced (just promise to give it a chance)
You say I'm evil and I'll crush you,
why don't you let me have my way?
Our lives will never be the same.

So tell me how you,
seem to sleep at night,
when I'm on your mind,
Five minutes before you fall.
You look like a fool.
Searching for words that are right here on my lips.
All you have to do is take them.
Well I know it's wrong.
I said that I would stay distant.
But idol hands will be tempted (*huh huh huh huh*)
I knew one day was too long.

I should have known (you were left wanting)
This tragic face (can you just smile for me)
Was built with stones that were never replaced (just promise to give it a chance)
You say I'm evil and I'll crush you,
why don't you let me have my way?
Our lives will never be the same.

I should have stayed away (echo)
I should have known much better (echo)
[X4]

I should have known (you were left wanting)
This tragic face (can you just smile for me)
Was built with stones that were never replaced (just promise to give it a chance)
You say I'm evil and I'll crush you,
why don't you let me have my way?
Our lives will never be the same.
[X2]

Our lives will never be the same [X3]
My life will never be the same.

A note. - If you are Prof. Manticore, Do Not Read

2007-11-07T12:34:00.000-06:00

In light of the Project Hellbeast Corporation, here at RisingSidewalks Productions we believe in a free world economy. Yes, you the people are the driving force of our existance! Under my leadership, our massive hordes of the undead and genetically enhanced humans will bring upon us a new age! All I ask of you is your complete and utter compliance. Worship me as your Goddess among men, and I will lead you to the new Utopia! A Utopia built on the destruction of Big business and united under one front -- RisingSidewalks. Do not be fooled by the charisma of Professor Manticore and his promise to provide you with the means to build your own army of Mutants. His mutant kits are squirming with mind-altering hallucinagines bent to control your monsters for his own will! We must come together under MY wings and lay waste to this sesspool called Earth, and the light in our eyes will reflect the fires in which we will watch it burn.

Come! Join me! And we shall take Manticore and Project Hellbeast -- that which is rightfully mine!!

RisingSide design

2007-10-22T11:28:00.000-06:00

Check it out peoples! Here is one of the designs I've been working on for future RisingSide goodies. Hope you like ^_^.

Do you thrive in the night? Or do you shine in the sun? Choose your risingside.

Pics for you ^_^

2007-10-16T12:40:00.001-06:00

Hello again

2007-10-15T11:01:00.000-06:00

Sorry for not posting recently. I understand that some of you are requesting how to recieve one of the RisingSide debut CDs. There are a few options available to you. First, you can come to a show, we will always have them on hand. Second, if you are patient, we are trying to set up an official release show for everyone and you can get them there. And finally, if you absolutely cannot wait, if I know you, you can email or call me and we can set up a time where I can run a CD over to you, etc. Maybe even hang out a bit as well. So let me know your decision on that!

Furthermore: There is a show at the Acadia Cafe this Thursday if you are all interested. We are playing with 4 other bands, and finishing the night off. Music is from 7pm - 12pm, and we go on at 11pm. It's a late one, but totally worth it. Looks like some of the other bands are going to be a lot of fun too. You can get more information on our myspace page

email is rawsugarband@hotmail.com (for now)

CDs are in

2007-09-26T12:40:00.000-06:00

Just a heads up, that Cds are in and ready to be sold. Now, before you jump the gun and start barrading me to purchase them, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. We WILL be having a Cd release show this month, so info on that will be up this weekend, so you can come and purchase the Cd there.

2. If you cannot make it to the show, I will definitely get one to you if you are in the immediate area (ie, bring it personally, etc).

3. If you are not close to where I live, I am currently setting up a system to purchase online, and then the Cd can be shipped to you. More info on that this weekend as well.

4. No, just because you are family, does not mean you get a free cd =P. BUT! Tony and I will personally autograph your copy if you so wish.

5. PLEASE - I beg of anyone who purchases the Cd to NOT burn it for other people. Tony and I are not a big money making corporation or label. We are poor college students who have fronted the money and worked really hard on producing this Cd. The distribute it, when it is VERY affordable and would help us out, for free would just be a slap in the face...and so help me I will hunt you down and kick the living shi--ah...hehe. Yeah, just please be kind to emerging artists. That goes for all of them out there, not just us. It's already severely difficult to make it in the business. Now, if we were a huge contract signed band, getting a big paycheck anyway, we would understand if you wanted to share the music with people. Of course, we would still encourage the cd buy, or online, but we ourselves can see the temptation to get sweet sweet music for free. Thanks!

ANYHOO - sorry about the rant, but some people do like to ruin it for the rest of us. Thanks for the support everyone! You guys Rokk!

Bringing you up to speed

2007-09-19T12:45:00.000-06:00

Ah, so much going on and so much on my mind these days. I thought I should bring all of you who even bother to glance at my blog, up to speed then. First order of business:

Our band name has changed from the legendary 'RawSugar' to 'RisingSide' (and I know what your thinking), due to stupid california cover band conflicts. But, screw that, we changed our name and are good for life on this one. So with that change, we are official on our CD as well. We will be recieving our CDs from CopyCats Media this week, and then will have info on how to purchase said CDs on here, and on our myspace (I know for a fact it will be available for download on iTunes, and CDbaby). Also, an official band website is being concieved in my mind, and will be birthed hopefully soon. The CD release party and show will HOPEFULLY be on the 29th of September, but I will be able to confirm this tomorrow at some time late in the evening. Also looking to make some pages on other band/music support sites as well and will let you know about it on here.

Second:

RisingSidewalks.com has been at a standstill, yet again (many apologies), but my writer has not been getting me the script I have requested. But I can understand he has been busy as well, with new jobs and a new apartment and a new kitty (^_^). So, if I don't get one from him in the next few days, I will take over writing so I can update for next week (until he can get stuff in order and come back). I am also in the process of redesigning the site as well. I've been learning Fireworks so I can take over site tech stuff, but that might not go so well. So either the Huffman will keep up with it, or I might recruit my buddy Blake to be involved. We shall see.

Third:

I'm in advanced Animation at school this semester, and a lot of my time I suspect will go to that class. I have several small projects, as well as a large one ('bout 4.5 minutes) to work on. I am going to put my project from last year on here for you guys to laugh at very soon, as I got a webcam and can now record stuff and put it up. I still am videocameraless and also can't find the quicktime video, just the DVD of the work. ANYHOO, this will be funfunfun, but crazywork all ovah the place.

SO AS YOU CAN SEE. I am busybusy, but I'm trying to figure things out. Tony and I have to set up Fall show dates and all that jazz, and I got my other classes, and work, and tae kwon do stuff, and OMG IM GOING TO GO CRAZY. But fear not! I will still attempt to keep all of you informed on my sanity. And by all of you, I mean maybe one - or not a single freakin person who reads this - but ya know, whoteva.

CD BABEH!

2007-09-04T11:50:00.000-06:00

Alrighty, Alrighty! For all you cats that are interested, I recently finished the CD this weekend. Art is practically all finished...a tase is posted above. I need to do a little more arranging, etc on that end, but it is pretty much ready for duplication and packaging =D. I will give you all a heads up when and where you can purchase them when they are ready. So with that, I shall bid you adieu.

Arariel

2007-08-29T09:27:00.000-06:00

Here is a new poster/promo picture of Arariel in RisingSidewalks. I like her character, so I think I'll hang on to her for awhile at least. Don't know when she will make her next appearance, but we'll see. But, here it is anyway. Next week will hopefully wield a new comic, if the apartment move doesn't take up all of my time. Cheers. =)

Meh heh...

2007-08-24T12:39:00.000-06:00

So, spent 5 hours on the CD last night. Final touches, mastering, levels. I was stuck doing it alone, because Tony's stupid apartment kicks him out a week early AND he got locked out, so he couldn't move right away. Half of the songs are done done done, like really done. Like, won't be touched any more, because the are - done. The other ones just still need little things here and there, but are pretty much squared away. Tony and I are going to completely redo 'Fighting September'. We just aren't satisfied with the original take. But being anal about things can have its upside. For one, you guys will enjoy listening to it much more.

One thing is for sure, I definitely have a respect for the production aspects when it comes to music. We think playing and writing songs is hard, wait till you have a shot at recording and producing it. It's a real pain, your never satisfied, and there are a million things you have to learn (tricks and tips) and it takes FOREVAH. I mean, I wanted to be done in May, and here we are months later still rushing to finish it up so we can send it for packaging on time. I'm definitely pressed for time. Managing a band (because we don't have a manager) and putting time and money into it is a tough deal. Don't get me wrong, I actually love it - I feel so accomplished. It's like having your own business and figuring things out. It brings responsiblity to a new level, and you are kind of forced into it, so you can't get away with shirking it at all (which is important for me). But it is hard work, just like any job. I don't think people really see that side to it often. They just think it's a bunch of goofing around and having a good time.

But with the school semester getting under way. Our goal is to get the new Freshman crowd into our music. We will have to bump advertising, toss out free Demos and information. We need to get in touch with the masses. We are all about the fans. 100% at this point in our careers. We believe in doing this for the people who listen to us, and offer us their time. And we love it. So, things to do list now, and then I'm done:

1. Finish CD this weekend (including artwork)
2. Monday, send out CD for packaging
3. Practice, practice, practice
4. Run around and book shows for fall semester (RELEASE SHOW #1)
5. Advertise and sell CDs
6. Get to know people in the industry, and other bands to play with
7. Always writing new stuff =P

028: The Assignment - Part 3

2007-08-21T10:27:00.001-06:00

This one is the last of the three part series. A little extra story to feed some ideas. I don't plan on making the story line be the main part of this comic, as I enjoy randomness. It leaves room for the creative mind. But at least this way, we won't have to explain everything that happens all the time. It will make sense in some ridiculous way. Plus, this helps with the angle Evan wants to go in with the next set of comics. So have fun reading, next one is up next week.

027: The Assignment - Part 2

2007-08-16T09:19:00.000-06:00

Moving on to strip TWO of our three strip story line. This one introduces a new character, which may or may not, stick around for a while. Perhaps just making guest appearences when punch lines need a little extra "su'm su'm". So have fun checking it out. Next post will be probably on Tuesday morning. Cheers.

Check out my new wheels!

2007-08-15T08:49:00.000-06:00

2003 Ducati MONSTER 620ie

SICK!

The Assignment - Part 1

2007-08-13T12:11:00.000-06:00

Hm, so here we have the start of what seems to be a duh duh duhhh...storyline. I'm planning for this to be no more than 3 three panel comics. I should have the second of these 3 out by the end of this week, and then the last on Monday so we can move along to more hilarious matters. Not to say that these comics will not be funny of course. But it will give an opportunity to open more doors for comic ideas here. Plus, it gives insite to exactly what Jack and Raine have gotten themselves into. So I hope it ends up making sense, and I hope it tickles a funny bone or two in the process. Have fun kids, and I will see you later in the week!

Guest Comic

2007-08-08T13:59:00.001-06:00

My wonderful friend Chris created this comic as a guest strip for my website. His character, Pouttie, is from his comic Moonblink, which he is working on putting a website up for. I will place a link to it when he has it ready. I really love his art style, I think it is so unique - and beautiful. He does a lot of comics about philosophy and human nature, which I really dig. And he tied those ideas in to mine and Evan's story line very well, don't you think? Anyway, check out his myspace page HERE to see some more of his work. I'll probably throw up the drawing I did for him in return later tonight.

025: "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out Kid"

2007-08-06T09:15:00.000-06:00

The next comic is now up. Click on the picture to follow the link. This one developed on my bus ride back from Milwaukee to Minneapolis. It had to do with a conversation Evan and I had about throwing things in restaurants and stuff. I thought it a bit hilarious. Story arch coming up, followed by more adventures! I'm really having a lot of fun with this now. Especially since I got some layouts done so I can skip tedious steps. =P

The CD for my band is coming out soon. The release party has been delayed due to certain parental vacations. Plus, it might be a good idea to have it when everyone is back at school. But hopefully the CD will still be available online for people out of town in the next few weeks, so cross your fingers!

024: Push Over

2007-07-24T09:32:00.002-06:00

Hello Ladies and Gents. Here is the link to the new comic up on RisingSidewalks. I am actually quite proud of myself, as I have been able to stay on track with this comic business for the last 2 weeks. True, that this only means I've done two new comics, but that is a very big step for me. Especially considering I was back home in Port Washington, Wisconsin most of last week and through the weekend. And yet I still managed to update on Monday! I have to give myself a pat on the back once in a while to keep my spirits up for this project. Now, all I have to do is start rolling on my senior animation project. And THAT is going to be freakin awsome.

I'll try to have one of my old flash animations up here sometime this week for people to enjoy, and (hopefully) get some laughs out of.

New Comic!

2007-07-16T09:57:00.001-06:00

Hello everybody!

Today is a special day, because I have finally started on the reboot of my comic. The first comeback issue is available at the picture link below. Now, all I have to do is get one up for next week. *crosses fingers*. I've been trying real hard to get my priorities straight, and this is one of the things that I really want to do. Along with my music, comics and animation are my passion. I just have this horrible tendancy to...procrastinate. I'll admit it, and it has gotten me into binds before, but it is a part of who I am. But, I am attempting (yet again) to turn a new leaf. I won't make promises, because I don't want to break them, but I will try as hard as my little brain will allow to keep things on track. I hope this will also be a fun experience for me as well as my readers. Thanks for your support!

Music Update

2007-07-06T10:09:00.000-06:00

Tony and I played a show last night at the Acadia Cafe on Franklin and Nicolet. It went extremely well I thought, considering we hadn't played a live show in a month or so.

A few bands played before and after us. We didn't get a chance to stick around for the last band from Chicago, but we enjoyed the music from the ones we did see. Particularly HeatherLyn, a songwriter and activist. Her music was politically and environmentally charged. Very beautiful voice; crystal clear. I encourage you to check her website out, where you can learn about her as well as ways to get involved in some good causes. Another solo performer did very well, his name is Phil Berbig. I don't think he has a website out there, but keep an eye out if you enjoy some great pure folk music. He did a hilarious tune about Wayzata, MN and how disgustingly 'white' it is up there, haha.

This Sunday Tony and I are planning to finish recording our CD and get the damn thing over with. Hopefully it will go smoothly and we will have a kickass CD for you to take home this month.

And...another

2007-07-03T08:51:00.001-06:00

Here is another banner sent to me by meh friend Moonblink. It takes after our song "Scars" and here was the quote that he attached that apparently inspired him:

"...And we kissed and we held on with our fingers, And the shade has forgotten how our bodies had touched, And the branches will tighten and twist into knots, And our throats will echo this sometime after..."

It's really fun to see what people can come up with for images inspired by a song. Heh, especially when it is a song you've written. Again, many thanks to Moonblink for his support.

Another Banner

2007-06-28T14:51:00.000-06:00

Meh friend on myspace made another banner inspired by the song 'Hope'. I just uploaded it to our myspace page and he had a listen and surprised me with this. I'm glad that our music is inspiring to people such as him. They are the ones that keep us going and make everything worth it. We have a gig this weekend and next at the Acadia Cafe (7/5/07). Check out our website or the Acadia website for information if you want to come check us out. =P

Let's Rocket!

2007-06-20T14:48:00.000-06:00

A friend on myspace through together a little CD cover for fun in tribut to the music from my band. I thought it was pretty sweet, and very nice of him. We are still working on cranking out the CD as we speak and are looking for a July release. I'll keep everyone informed as things progress, as well as information on how to purchase the CDs.

In the meantime, check out our page for a preview of some of our songs. =P

RisingSidewalks back in action!

2007-06-04T11:05:00.000-06:00

For anyone out there that is interested - my site RisingSidewalks is back in action starting this week. I will have the new strip up tomorrow morning. Here is a cover picture to calm those hunger pangs..

Apartment Hunting

2007-05-30T13:18:00.000-06:00

So I'm looking for a new apartment. The one I'm at currently is upping rent and doesn't have parking, which I think I desperately need. I really don't care where it is as long as it falls under these conditions:

1. Affordable
2. My own room
3. Easy transportation to campus (i.e. bus, lightrail, bike, walk, etc.)
4. Not a craphole
5. Decent enough neighborhood

I'll either have 1 or 2 roomates. I need an answer from one of them like NOW before I go check places out, cuz I'm not going to waste time on looking for 3br when all I'll need is a 2br. So, hopefully it will work out soon.

On another note, the Bella Luna Fest was a big hit. I enjoyed it very much and had a great time. The nights were pretty chilly, but the days were nice and warm, so that made up for it. Got to know some new bands, and even hung out with some of the guys from DownLo, because our neighbors new them and we shared a fire. So all in all, good weekend.

Bella Luna

2007-05-25T09:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm heading off to Bella Luna Fest in Albert Lea, MN this afternoon. It shall be a 3 day weekend of music, booze, music, and more booze. Oh, and some marshmallows. It's a camping trip, so there shall be fire and good foodstuffs cooked over said fire. I'm going with a co-worker who invited me. We are getting free entrance because we volunteered to help clean up on Sunday morning. We were lucky and got the good shift - not during any headliners AND its only 6 hours instead of 8, like everyone else. So I'm excited! I haven't been camping in forever and I really miss it. True that this isn't like the traditional style camping out in the woods and whatnot, but it works for now.

I'm also looking for people to go to 10K fest with me in July...so if I know you and you know me, and your interested, give me a heads up. We need to book tickets and a camp site ASAP. =D.

I must apologize

2007-05-22T09:54:00.000-06:00

First off, I must apologize. I found it quite Ironic that my first post was to ensure that my blog will be a happy place. Shortly thereafter, I defaced it with rantings of my unfortunate event. Yes, I was not in the best mood to learn that my motorcycle had been towed, but I should not have taken it out on this blog...that is what my deadjournal is for. And yes, sadly I have one of those things. I rarely use it at least - it started some time ago when I was a bit younger and more angst filled. Now I have actual problems, just like any adult. It really puts things in perspective. But I shall persevere (thank god for parents =P).

So, later today I will put up a make-up picture to help everyone forget about my whineyness.

In other news, check out this great comic!

God DAMN it.

2007-05-21T17:36:00.000-06:00

I get home...and my motorcycle has been towed. Shit.

$280.40

I swear to God if that doesn't include the ticket I am breaking something.

I really can't afford this. I need people to pay me back what they owe, and then I might be all right. If this didn't happen and they payed me back I would have been all right in the world. Now I'll just even out to where I am now.

My landlord is at fault, and I for being gulable. She told me that I could park there, when I told her about owning a motorcycle. Its small, and doesn't take up a parkins space, so putting it in a small area wouldn't be a big deal. I thought this was all worked out. I'm an idiot. I'm not going to get any help with it either. But I was damn nice enough to call her and tell her that she should NOT tell anyone to park there, even her boyfriend, who never had trouble before.

F@*!

Getting Started...

2007-05-21T15:08:00.000-06:00

So I guess I'm going to start up this Blog. I have owned a few blogs before, but none that I really paid any attention to. I was never for something like this because of all the bullshit that gets posted. It just seemed a reason to get obsessed that wasn't necessary in my life. Plus, all the things I've read in the past from other people sat heavily on my soul. So here I am going to try to make a (hopefully) upbeat record of all of my personal works; whether it is my web comic (RisingSidewalks) or my homemade animations, or any information on my band (RawSugar).

This is just an opportunity for me to have a little fun and share with the world just what the Hell it is I do. So stay tuned, I will throw up some pics, drawings, videos, music files, etc.

ENJOY!