Midwest Independent

Mission Statement:

To proliferate the exposure and appreciation of the independent music scenes of the Midwest. To give a voice to the treasure chest of virtually untapped talent in the Mid-states, past and present. After all, "How do you know where you're going if you don't look back?" -Everlast.

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As I pondered on how to launch this new section of my blog, my mind immediately drew itself to the album, "Flashlights" by SoManyDynamos (St. Louis, MO). I quickly realized however, some background information may be required to make some sense of my interest in a five year old album by a St. Louis independent rock group and more specifically why I decided to launch Midwest Independent. So for your convenience and my amusement, allow me to explain.Since as early as my memory allows music has been intertwined with my soul.

The night I was given my first album, seems as though it was only a few years ago when in fact I was 5 years old in the winter of '79. It was Kiss - Rock and Roll Over. My parents got it in a "KTEL-type" Christmas 3-pack that contained a KC and the Sunshine Band album, and an album I can't recall. Even at this young age, it was obvious to me KC and the other forgotten album both SUCKED!!! They went immediately to file 13 and Kiss when straight to the turn table, and from there a monster was born.

My first concert was again Kiss, the Lick it Up Tour. Feb 9th, 1984 at the Omaha Civic Auditorium. The band Loudness opened the show. I was 9 years old and fell in love instantly with the allure of the "live show" and then the monster sprouted wings.

Dozens of hard rock and heavy metal shows later I was introduced to punk rock and hard-core around 1986 and instantly began to nest. I sank my claws into Omaha's amazing punk rock scene. There was a Great Show at least once a week, whether it be local talent or national acts. I'd go to every show I could possibly get to from about 12 years old on. While other kids were on the ball field, or settling into their Atari my friends and I were skate boarding downtown on the search for flyers for the next show. Bands like Apathy, Cellophane Ceiling, Cordial Spew, and Asphyxiation are a few of the early local Omaha acts that helped to shape my obsession with punk rock and "underground alternative music."

I've seen hundreds of shows in Omaha alone and feel truly blessed to have been a part of them. From the Power Landing, to the Raunch Bowl, to Sokol Hall, I've left my blood, sweat, and tears in those pits and wouldn't change it for the world. I've always felt a close connection towards the local music scene mostly because I've been blessed to have many talented friends who have influenced my passion for good local music and the undeniable urge to support our scene.

I'd like to credit a few of these friends in honor of their accomplishments and to acknowledge my love for what they do. Although the following band list may not be complete I've decided to list the bands that have influenced me the most.

Robin Nanfito - Asphyxiation

Pat Dieteman - Asphyxiation, Cactus Nerve Thang, Real Time Optimist, Anatomy of a Riot

Jimi Watson - 311, Fevertrees, Old Boy Network

Aaron Wills - 311

Lee Meyerpeter - Cactus Nerve Thang, Bad Luck Charm, Filter Kings

By launching Midwest Independent, I hope to shed some light on the fertile breeding grounds that are our local Midwest music scenes.

For years I've longed for clarity on the subject of my life's calling. I believe I've rediscovered this calling in writing and in Midwest Independent. I've had this idea for years and the day for stagnancy has past. So, I give to you my heart and soul for you cursed, opinionated bastards to rip to shreds... ENJOY.