Boston music photographer Angela Owens has owned my Facebook feed this week; a welcome change from people yelling at each other about politics. Everyone I know is obsessing on this series of photos she took at a recent show (more like a fest) in Boston that reminds me of the old youth crew photos from CBGBs, only this time the bands and crowd are predominantly ladies. This was a benefit for Girls Rock Boston and it wins the award for the best thing I have seen all month.
Before you scroll down any farther, seriously check out her photos first. Get to know the photographer in this interview.
This also doubles as a backyard report because as it turns out, a lot of these bands are from my hometown of Richmond, VA.
There are a ton of videos to check out via the event page. Watch them all here.
It got me wondering who all these bands in the photos were, so I have compiled all the links here:
Guitar World has finally realized that women play guitar too and maybe should't be objectified in a shameless flesh display to spotlight music gear. The end of the bikini gear guide is here.
Nearly one year ago an inspiring multi-media artist named Roya Movafegh passed away from cancer. In her memory, mutual friend Lyle Hysen (musician, industry veteran, an all around swell dude) with the help of graphic designer John Newcomer created an inspiring children's book based on a story she had shared with them. "Princess Gallantra and the Great Race" not only depicts an exciting contest among 4 lands to reach the top of Mount Something; important lessons are learned, and mostly importantly we discover a girl is much more than just a skirt. All proceeds made from this delightful book go to Global Kids Inc, "a nonprofit educational organization for global learning and youth development - works to ensure that youth from underserved areas have the knowledge, skills, experiences and values they need to succeed in school, participate effectively in the democratic process, and achieve leadership in their communities and on the global stage." By purchasing this book in one of three formats, you are not just the proud owner of a book that teaches meaningful values to kids and highlights that girls rule, it also celebrates the vibrant spirit of Roya and helps to support a remarkable charity.
Being on the "wrong side of 30", This is an especially meaningly read to me and it is exactly why I am not sure I have it in me to keep making music as I approach my mid 40s. I thought sexism was annoying by agism is equally as demoralizing.
The most important song you will hear this week by War on Women.
Flasher is a Washington, DC three piece featuring Taylor of Priests/ Young Tyrnas, Emma of Big Hush/Young Tyrnas, and Daniel of Bless/Trouble. They are little bit goth, a little bit post-punk, and the best new music I heard all last week.
