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Arch Enemy
By Natalie Perez

Sweden's super group Arch Enemy has made their mark upon the metal scene but all wasn't that well for these heavy metal go-getters. Like most bands Arch Enemy has taken its toll on going through the usual band line-up changes, replacement duties, constant touring the whole works is covered. 1996 brought the band a change of pace, when front man Johan Liiva was replaced by a front women known to this day as Angela Gossow.

This extraordinary vocal-ranging, deep throat growl aggressive screamer gives it her all when it comes to the arrangement of albums that aligns in their mists. The band's earlier works, "Black Earth", "Stigmata", and "Burning Bridges" have made their enormous impact on the extreme music scene of the late 90s era. With the respectable worldwide sales, highly acclaimed shows and amazing reviews there isn't anything this band cannot do. Arch Enemy is perhaps one of the finest examples of pure metal around, one that possess sheer aggression, technical wit and catchy songwriting approaches that grasps along the lines of its listeners by the throat. When it comes to the later works of 'Wages of Sin," and "Anthems of Rebellion," a mere taste of what is to become is taking its course.

This led to three more releases (Doomsday Machine, Rise of the Tyrant, The Root of All Evil) all of which to this day have brought Arch Enemy great honor and timeless classics. The band has taken root on touring all around the world doing numerous tours with a handful of acts who have befriend them along the way partaking in the headlining spotlight if not playing as the openers whichever their root they'd be sure to spread the heaviness wherever they seek bested. Now is the time for their arrival yet again when it commences come February 2010, the ninth being the day to mark its territory upon the House of Blues of Hollywood.

But what should be exactly expected out of this long filled nightlife of entertaining music what is that makes the music tick? Well as mentioned beforehand, Arch Enemy does toss out their share of timeless classics and their share of offered within the newer variety. "Ravenous," "My Apocalypse," along with "Nemesis," are indeed the usual classics that get the metal listener into the spirit of the music being portrayed. While the more newer soon to be considered classics "Blood on Your Hands", "I Will Live Again", "Revolution Begins" and then some are taking from the "Rise of the Tyrant" release.

While "The Root of All Evil" takes us back to look upon the tunes that once were and re-showcases an era that once was but has re-risen itself to brought on by a whole another generation of musicians hence "the new and improved" Arch Enemy. Even though the original line-up is back in session this newly reformed activation is surly to not disappoint this time around. Arch Enemy has paid their debts and done countless recordings, tours, meet and greets and so much more it's hard to say what else is left.

When it comes to Arch Enemy's live experiences front women Angela does not disappoint whatsoever and nor do her fellow companions as they too put it all they got to offer by interacting with its crowd of on-lookers to banging their head to the beat of their own tunes. The live presents are just the tip of what is to be expected during a live setting experience. Anything could easily happen.

Is this the ending for Arch Enemy's deeds within this music community or just a stand still? The New Year is on the horizon and February 9, 2010 will soon follow, so now only the time will tell for sure. In high hopes of rebellious attitude Arch Enemy will forever stand their guard of duty and bring forever with them the timeless deeds and classical rights they have forever cherished.

Kulak's Woodshed in Valley Village is a Singer/Songwriter's Haven
By Debra Graff

No matter what level you're at in your musical journey, Monday Open Mic at Kulak's Woodshed in Valley Village, is the place to call home. From first time performers looking for a little encouragement, exposure, and love, to seasoned musicians, pop stars, and Grammy winners, Kulak's is the place to hone your art. It's a one of a kind experience for music lovers who want to be around each other.

When you enter the cozy quarters, be prepared for an onslaught of visual and aural sensation, transporting you to a place back in time when things were free and easy. Every spot in the room is filled with museum like collectibles, knick-knacks, and antiques, surrounded by comfy beds and futons, where you'll see friendly and potty trained dogs cuddling up with their owners. Classic album covers and posters line the walls, CD's hang from clothes pins, and chandeliers from the ceiling. Two doves, an iguana, a giant frog, turtles, and fish relax in their respective habitats. You'll find shelves of books, windup toys, and other vintage items.

Among this eclectic décor, are musicians described as, "diamonds in the rough looking for a break," by Randy "Doc" Johnson, who plays TV/movie theme songs on his melodica each week with 'The Heat Seekers,' Garry Corman, guitar/vocals, J.D. Nash, bass/drums, and Rob Thomas, piano/accordion. Johnson says, "It's a tough room because there's so much talent there. You need to be at the top of your game."

Kulak's is an unforgettable and uplifting happening, but if you can't be there in person, you can still be there in spirit by watching the live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com every Monday from 7:30-10pm. At 7pm, in line with Kulak's tradition of fairness, names are put in a hat to determine the lineup. About 35 or so will perform in one evening. The club is run purely on love, volunteers, and donations. A bucket is passed to cover expenses in order to keep the club operating. There's no alcohol and you're welcome to help yourself to coffee, tea, or soft drinks.

Julie Chadwick, multitalented singer/songwriter/pianist, came upon Kulak's eight years ago by happenchance, and never left. She loves the feeling of camaraderie, calling it a "family and unlike anything else in LA." She's inspired by emails from girls all over the world e.g. Thailand, who correspond after watching her live on the web. Chadwick hosts Kulak's Animal Night on the last Saturday of the month, when all proceeds go to the Pepper Foundation, a local nonprofit, dedicated to rescuing animals from shelters.

Last Monday, Chadwick captivated the audience, accompanying herself on piano while singing an original, "Here in the Real World," which showed her compelling tone and vocal control. Through her profound and meaningful lyrics, she touched the hearts of the listeners.

Chadwick also sang a duet with guitarist/vocalist Joe Hamilton, entitled "In," written by Danny Peck (another Kulak's regular). Their harmonies resonated throughout the room, and everyone was enthralled.

Hamilton has been coming to Kulaks since 2004, traveling all the way from Ventura twice a week or more, "because Kulak's is rich with incredible talent and beautiful souls." He loves the freedom and creativity at the venue and the celebration of other artists.

Ten years ago this month, Paul Kulak, a frustrated singer/songwriter, opened The Woodshed so that musicians could gather to perform and have a sense of community. Kulak told me that many musicians have found a confidence from coming there and have rediscovered their love for the art form. He's humbled by the support of the wonderful artists and knows his hard work is appreciated. Yet he's "broken hearted that more people don't come out to hear the amazing talent," and disappointed when the venue that holds only 49 seats is half empty, considering an email list of 10,000. However, Kulak won't let the apathetic audience spoil his goals and dreams saying, "I'm driven to make this venue successful." Kulak's was voted best acoustic venue of 2004 by LA Weekly.

Celebrated artists who have performed there include Jackson Browne; his brother Severin Browne; Marcy Levy, co writer "Lay Down Sally" with Eric Clapton; Dave Merenda - Grammy winning hit "I Will Remember You" sung by Sarah McLaughlin; Ian Whitcomb - top 10 hit, "You Turn Me On;" John Waite, singer/songwriter #1 pop hit "I Ain't Missin You," John McEuen, founding/current member, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; Gilby Clarke, former guitar player Guns & Roses; Laurence Juber, former lead guitarist, Paul McCartney and Wings; and Stephen Bishop, top ten singer/songwriter "On and On."

Kulak's Woodshed
5230 ½ Laurel Canyon Blvd (just north of
Magnolia)
Valley Village, CA 91607
www.kulakswoodshed.com

Fabulous Fran Drescher’s Million Dollar Revival
By Richard Kaplan

In her latest quest to help women increase their survival rate by the early detection of Stage 1 cancer. Drescher recently hosted the Million Dollar Revival event which brought together an extraordinary and eclectic range of talent and artistry all for the purpose of benefiting Drescher’s worthy foundation the Cancer Schmancer Movement.

The evenings event took place in the historical Million Dollar Theater which was originally built by the preeminent Hollywood theater mogul himself Sid Grauman back in 1918 to stand as one of the countries premier grand movie palaces. He would later build the Egyptian theater and, of course, the iconic Chinese theater.

The concept of the show was to re-create the retro era of the old-time variety shows with Drescher serving as the proverbial Ed Sullivan if you will. The audience erupted into affectionate applause when Drescher strolled out onto the stage looking like a million dollars herself ! The giant stage curtain would rise and fall over a dozen acts and performances each giving high praise to Drescher’s noble and steadfast work with her foundation. Among the standout moments of the evening were the conviction of Jackson Browne’s soaring vocals accompanied only by his guitar and electric piano. Rosie O’donnell’s hysterical sardonic comedic musings, the stirring and inspirational vocals of R & B soul artist Chris Pierce, the amazing harmonies and retro stylings of Inara George and the Living Sisters and a rare duet with Olivia Newton-John and Beth Nielson Chapman. Special kudos go to the productions director Peter Jacobson.

Drescher has established herself as a force of nature. In addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her role as The Nanny which she co-created and executive produced as well as other successful television projects and note worthy motion picture appearances. Drescher has two best selling books under her belt as well as a new FranBrand Skincare collection which is featured on HSN. And, as of 2008 as a result of Drescher’s phenomenal efforts in bringing women’s healthcare issues to the forefront of Senate legislature and empowering women across the globe with regard to early detection and patient advocacy through her Cancer Schmancer Movement. Drescher was appointed as an official Public Diplomacy Envoy from the US State Depart-ment for women’s health issues and has already made several trips around the country and abroad on behalf of the US and First Lady.

Proceeds from the concert event is helping to fund her newest project which is The Inner Images Fran Van Project which is partnered with Inner Images a mobile mammography service. The Fran Vans will provide medical information, cancer screening tests and free follow-up care to low income, uninsured women throughout Los Angeles. The project will literally be a life saver to the women who are most vulnerable and in need. However, donations are critical to achieve these goals. You can log onto CancerSchmancer.org to learn more and to donate. There is also a great product store on the website.
Drescher is a remarkable and compassionate women who is now nine years cancer free and has dedicated her life to ensuring that all women rich or poor, young or old detect cancer while in Stage 1 when it’s most curable.

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