Despite the themes of disassociation and anxiety that she explores on her recent album The Future’s Void, Erika M. Anderson—otherwise known as EMA—is looking forward to connecting with her fans in Salt Lake. Before kicking off her tour, Anderson took some time during a rainy Portland afternoon to chat with us about virtual reality, H.P. Lovecraft, and the all-seeing eye of social media. … read more
Psychostick is a heavy metal band out of Chicago, via Tempe, AZ. That doesn’t sound too strange, right? Well what sets them apart is they are a comedy heavy metal band, or, as they brand themselves, humourcore. Think System of a Down meets Insane Clown Posse meets Weird Al. Your first thoughts reading that probably closely mirror mine, “What the fuck?” … read more
“Ten years ago I was sitting exactly where you are,” said Brandon Robbins, in front of the loyal and enthusiastic crowd at the Velour Live Art Gallery. “Ten years ago I came to visit my brother here in Provo and I was so impressed with this place that I went back to Washington, packed up, and moved here to start a band.” The band he was speaking of was The Moth & the Flame, a dark brooding collaboration of rock soul that finds its way into your chest and haunts it like a song you can’t get out of your head. … read more
Allah-Las’s presence on stage invokes unanimous cheers from the assembled onlookers. They produce an aura that is calm and cool, giving their demeanor a sort of relaxed but charismatic feel. Their style incorporates a very vintage sound with clear influences of ‘60s rock n’ roll combined with the strong elements of psych-garage rock. … read more
The cult-like following behind James Merendino’s film SLC Punk! is somewhat legendary among those who participate or are even aware of the subculture. Even during my travels, whenever I mention that I live in Salt Lake City, two things are always asked. One—Am I Mormon, and two—is SLC like the movie? Needless to say it has become a classic. … read more
The Summer of Death contests have served as a springboard for countless Utah rippers to go from snot-nosed kids who anihilate local spots and parks to permanent fixtures in the skate community, including local all-star Lizard King, who earned a spot at the Tampa Am for his win at a Summer of Death Contest when he was knee-high to a grasshopper. This summer’s first installment of SLUG’s 15th annual Summer of Death skate series took place at the indoor Crossroads Skate Park in Ogden on June 21.
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Many have traveled from all over the states and even internationally to take part in something inspirational for punks. If anything, the showing of support proves that punk is not dead. Not even close. The camaraderie around this event is impressive to say the least. Even if this film is controversial for some, this gig helped put Salt Lake City back on the map for punk rockers. Exactly where it should and always be. … read more
The Utah Arts Festival draws a crowd even in less than ideal weather conditions. When I arrived, the rain soaked tents were no deterrent for the crowds cheerfully exploring the events many offerings. … read more
Despite the fact that Anderson was friendly and approachable while running their post-show merch booth, her stage presence is fantastic—and kind of terrifying. Through her live performance, she was able to capture the versatility of her music, resulting in an emotional punch to the gut that was both sincere and thought-provoking. … read more
When I stepped foot through the doors of Area 51 during the Summer Solstice, I realized that I was in store for a not so ordinary weekend at my frequent haunt. The bar was decorated like an enchanted forest and I felt as if I had fallen through the looking glass into a world of faeries, Red Queens, vampires and all creatures of the dark. It was time for the Dark Arts Festival Of Utah. … read more
“Rain does not ruin everything, unless everything is outside.” A more perfect quote could not exist to describe the opening night of the 2014 Utah Arts Festival. … read more
In addition to their respective categories, the festival has also assembled a list of nominees for Utah’s Short Film of the Year. Each of these films was made locally, and represents the wide body of cinematic talent that can be found here in the Beehive State. … read more
