Little Rock Jams - A Music Studio Blog

Rock School - Band/Parent Meeting - Sunday, Feb 28 2010 2 p.m.

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2010-02-26T14:33:00Z

Reminder of our meeting this Sunday at 2 p.m.

We will discuss changes to the Rock School program and rehearsal schedule. Please plan to attend as we will need your input on new rehearsal times and band line-ups.

01/29/10 Inclement Weather Announcement

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2010-01-29T13:39:00Z

Little Rock Jams will be closed 01/29/10 due to the closing of the Little Rock, North Little Rock and Pulaski County school districts.

Waka Winter Classic Battle of the Bands

compton249@hotmail.com (Compton) — 2010-01-21T21:21:00Z

So this is what I read a while back on www.myspace.com/wakawinterclassic:

"Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to play in front of thousands of people? Ever imagined rubbing elbows with your musical heroes? Ever considered the possibility that your music might be the next big thing? Well, the chance to transform your dreams into reality has arrived.

The Wakarusa Music Festival will be traveling to 20 cities this winter in a quest to locate the best and brightest musicians the country has to offer. At every stop on the tour several bands will compete in a regional talent showcase. The winner of each talent showcase as decided by the fans in attendance will receive an invitation to play at Wakarusa 2010 in our new location at Mulberry Mountain in Ozark, Arkansas!"

After reading that I thought, "Well hell yes I'd like to do that!!" So I submitted a press kit for my band Interstate Buffalo and BAM!!! we're in the showcase!!!

Now I need your help because the band with the most votes on the night of the competition wins. I know this is a pretty shameless self promotion, but I don't care. Last year the Black Crowes headlined. Plus, I got to watch Warren Haynes and Jimmy Herring perform. This year they already have Blues Traveler and STS9 scheduled to play. With your help, Interstate Buffalo will be there too!!

Here's the skinny:

Interstate Buffalo at the Waka Winter Classic
Competition located at Sticky Fingerz
501 President Clinton Blvd, Little Rock AR
Tuesday Jan 26th, 2010
Competition / Voting starts at 7:00pm
Interstate Buffalo plays at 9:30
Cover at the door: $5

For more info please visit our facebook event page at:

Waka Classic in the Rock

or follow our website link below.

I look forward to seeing everyone at Sticky Fingerz tomorrow evening. Thanks for all your support.

Stephen Compton w/ Interstate Buffalo

www.Interstate Buffalo.com

Rock School Christmas Concerts - This weekend!!!

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-12-01T14:28:00Z

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It's that time again ... Rock School Christmas Concerts 2009

The kids have worked their butts off this semester and are now ready to unleash their ROCK on the world (or at least Little Rock).

We have a goal to collect 1000lbs of food for the Arkansas Food Bank. Help us reach that goal by bringing a canned or non-perishable boxed good (or a bag of them) to the concerts and see some great music played by the our future rock stars!

12-4-09 8:00 p.m. Showtime
(Students arrive @ studio 6:00pm for food then sound check)

Them
Dylan Williams
Dominique Heien
Elisa Gabella-Poisson
Stephen Best
Nic Townsend
Liam Miller
Courtney Langston

Maxwell’s Silver Hammer
Tyler Bakke
Connor Newton
Ghassan Makhoul
Nick Harrington
Max Richards
Josh Connor
Dylan Williams

40 Degrees Under
Kirby Kohler
Alex Boyd
Mike Ripa
Clayton Wright
Alex Joseph
Clay Garrard

12-5-09 8:00 p.m. Showtime
(Students arrive @ studio 6:00pm for food then sound check)

In Vain
Austin Crawford
William Campbell
Tyler Clark
Mike Ripa
Kevin Slatterly
John Schezner

3 Feet Under
Scott Robles
Matthew Carter
Robert Sullivant
Weston Schillinger
Gray Amaden
Josh Connor
Hayes Tribell
Humphrey Wanjala

Rebel 57
Thad Hickman
Devin parker
Antony Wanjala
Kagan Fletcher
Bre Baker
Matt Crockett

12-11-09 8:00 p.m. Showtime
(Students arrive @ studio 6:00pm for food then sound check)

Friction
Jordan Crites
Wilson Tharpe
Lindsey Hastings
Hampton Green
Brandon Griffin
Austin Angel

Stage Presence Workshop - Saturday 11/21/09 2:00 p.m.

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-11-19T14:42:00Z

For everyone in a band, Rock School students or those that plan to be in a band one day...

Rock School students - plan to make this workshop!

Think back to some of the "bad" shows you've seen .... the shows where the guitar player tunes, loudly, between every song, dead time where there is no music, no interaction with the audience, something breaking and the player not knowing what to do.

This Saturday, Sally will cover what you need to do when you're on stage to make the set run smoothly from start to finish. How to work the crowd - how to sell more T-Shirts and bumper stickers

Workshop starts at 2:00 p.m. See you there!

Autumn Leaves - Stanley Jordan

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-10-30T20:40:00Z

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Long time no post - things have been very busy at Little Rock Jams since school started back (and Rock School).

I'm taking lessons with our own, David Dunavant, working on my jazz chops. We're tackling Autumn Leaves every which way for a few months.

I found this video of Stanley Jordan doing Autumn Leaves - OMG - How sick is this guy? He is very inspiring!

Now, I have to go practice!

4th Annual Guitar Hero Competition - Saturday 10/10/2009 2:00 p.m.

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-10-06T20:27:00Z

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It is our 4th annual Guitar Hero Competition at Little Rock Jams!

Open to all students and friends 14 and under.

We'll have food, drinks, Guitar Hero and prizes!

The games will start at 2:00 p.m. sharp and should end somewhere in the neighborhood of 3:00 p.m.

Friends and family are welcome to attend and play!

Rock School 2009 Band Roster - Rehearsal Schedule

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-09-16T17:49:00Z

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Band - VAI

11:00 a.m.

Austin Crawford
William Campbell
Tyler Clark
Michael Ripa
Kevin Slattery
John Szenher

40 Degrees Under

12:00 p.m.

Kirby Kohler
Alex Boyd
Mike Ripa
Clayton Wright
Alex Joseph
Clay Garrard

Band - Coheed

1:00 p.m.

Jordan Crites
Wilson Tharp
Lindsey Hastings
Hampton Green
Brandon Griffin
Austin Angel

Band - Page

2:00 p.m.

Tyler Bakke
Connor Newton
Ghassan Makhoul
Nick Harrington
Kelly Dunn
Max Richards
Josh Connor

Band - Hendrix

3:00 p.m.

Scott Robles
Matthew Carter
Robert Sullivant
Weston Schillinger
Josh Connor
Hayes Tribell
Humphrey Wanjala
Gray Amaden

Band - Morello

4:00 p.m.

Thaddius Hickman
Devin Parker
Antony Wanjala
Kagan Fletcher
Bre Baker
Matt Crockett

Band - Rhoads

5:00 p.m.

Liam Miller
Nic Townsend
Stephen Best
Courtney Langston
Dominic Heran
Dylan Williams
Elisa Poisson

Hiring Full-Time Guitar Teacher

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-09-02T19:29:00Z

Little Rock Jams has a full-time position opening this month for guitar.

College degree preferred, but not required.

Ability to teach other instruments preferred, but not required.

If interested, call us at the studio 501-312-1800, ask for Jason.

Upcoming Events - Workshop - Rock School - Fall Registration

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-08-26T18:33:00Z

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Fall Registration Saturday 08/29/2009 - 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Last day to register for Fall! All current students must re-register. Any time slots not registered by the close of the day will be opened up for new students! Don't lose your slot, register throughout the week, or by Saturday at the latest!

Songwriting Workshop Saturday 08/29/2009 12:00 p.m.

Sally Snyder will cover songwriting 101 in this workshop. Whether you're new to songwriting or have some songs under your belt, come out! Just remember to give Sally some kudos in the linear notes to your album when it's released!

Rock School Auditions 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Auditions for Rock School 2009 - 2010 term. Auditions will cover the same material as last Rock School. Here is a link to what we'll cover during the auditions... Rock School Auditions

Piano Methods

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-08-19T18:30:54Z

Little Rock Jams Approved Piano Methods

Young Children

Teen / Adult Methods

Winner - Free Month of Guitar/Bass/Drum/Piano/Voice Lessons

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-08-15T20:06:00Z

Thanks to everyone that stopped by to say hi to us at Park Plaza and the Home Ed activity fair last week.

We are giving away a free month of lessons on your instrument of choice, for those of you that picked up one of our flyers at those events. Check the bottom of your flyer for the number highlighted in yellow.

And the winning number is....

1024

Bring your flyer into the studio by the end of the month and we'll get started to help you become the player you want to be!

For those of you that did not win, we still want to work with you. Come in for a free lesson to check out our studio, meet the teachers and to play. We would love to help you learn how to play!

Call us at 312-1800 to set up a time or stop by. We're conveniently located in Breckenridge Village in front of the movie theater.

August Jam!!

mike@littlerockjams.com (Mike) — 2009-08-06T22:35:00Z

Hey guys! The jam session for August is ON!! It will take place Thursday, August 13th, starting at 9:00 p.m. at Little Rock Jams. Everyone is invited!

If you would like to participate and have questions, comments, suggestions for a setlist, rants, etc. please email mike@littlerockjams.com.

We have had an awesome time at our last few jam sessions and I encourage EVERYONE to come and participate. The Jam is a great atmosphere because you can have a great time playing and learn some new tunes, techniques, etc.

We will see you at The Jam!!!

Please Welcome Our New Drum Instructor - Michael Motley

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-08-06T21:50:00Z

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We're pleased to announce the addition of Michael Motley to our staff of teachers. Next time you're in the studio, stop by and say HI!!! Also, we're registering new students now, so pass the word to anyone that is looking for drum lessons.

Mike has been playing drums for 18 years including 8 years of formal education. He got his bachelors degree from UALR, majoring in psychology with an emphasis on learning and education, and he minored in music.

Mike has studied virtually all styles of music, including rock, jazz, country, funk, classical, and folk music, as well as non-western forms including traditional Indian, African, and Asian music.

Mike graduated from Parkview High School for the Performing Arts, were he was a member of the marching band, orchestra, and jazz band. Throughout his musical career Mike has played in various bands, with styles ranging from rock to funk to country, and has performed hundreds of concerts at various venues and festivals throughout the US, and has also performed in Canada, Mexico, and The UK.

Mike has a wide range of influences ranging from the Beatles to Beethoven to The Beastie Boys, and some of his favorite drummers are Elvin Jones, Buddy Rich, Charlie Watts, Joey Santiago, and Animal.

We have a living legend at Little Rock Jams...

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-31T15:54:00Z

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I started playing guitar in the 80's...

My Uncle Mike, who was one of the reasons I started playing, started playing in the 60's...

One thing we had in common was a love for Boyd Music on 12th street. (Mike took me to Boyd's the first time in 1985)

Yeah, we had Stonehenge and Dickson and other smaller music store around back then (remember, this was Pre-Guitar Center days) ... But Boyd Music was the best and coolest store around.

Every time I visited his store, it seems he gave me a pick to use when I tried out the guitars. Being an "always broke" teenager, free picks was like manna. I still have several of those "Did you hug your guitar today" picks.

I bought my first pedal from Boyd's, an Ibanez chorus pedal (which Brian Goins is using to this day - I can't get it back from him).

My first "real" guitar - Yep - came from Boyd's - A Miko strat copy with maple neck, two single coils and a humbucker.

Needless to say, I have many fond memories of Mr. Boyd's store and staff from back in the day.

Well, a few weeks ago, Mr. Boyd stops by to talk with Bryon Knight. Next thing you know, Mr. Boyd is now helping Bryon string and setup guitars every Tuesday and Thursday.

I'm in HEAVEN !!!

Tuesday and Thursday are my favorite days now. I go in and get to talk to a legend. He is an encyclopedia of musical knowledge (I just learned from him that musicians aren't too bright when it comes to patenting their inventions - Ask him about Rickenbaker). Plus, he is good to bounce a business idea or two off of. He has a little experience in the biz...

If you haven't seen Mr. Boyd in a while, come by and visit.

August Workshops at Little Rock Jams

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-25T14:36:00Z

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Summer is winding down and it's time to start our Fall Workshop Series.

We have two cool workshops in August. And starting in August, workshops are open to students and non-students!

Workshop - Learning to love your Floyd Rose 08/01/2009 2 p.m.

Bryon from Little Rock Frets will cover the ins and outs of setting up and maintaining guitars with Floyd Rose Trems. For those of you that do not have a Floyd, it can be a nightmare to do something as simple as change the strings. Bryon will show you the best way to do that and to make sure the guitar is set up to play as good as possible.

If you don't have a Floyd Trem, come anyway. You'll learn a lot and will have a chance to ask Bryon questions after the clinic.

Workshop - Songwriting 101 08/29/2009 12 p.m.

Our new Piano and Voice teacher, Sally Snyder, will lead this workshop. Sally has a ton of experience in the music biz and has worked for Ash Street music as a songwriter. Come in to see what goes into writing a song - harmony, melody, creativity, lyrics, inspiration and some sweat.

Also, don't forget to spread the word about Sally. If you know of anyone looking for Piano lessons in Little Rock or Voice lessons in Little Rock, give us a call at the studio.

Sally will also lead our new Pre-K program starting in September. If you, or anyone you know, has children between 3-6 years old, this program will be a great introduction to music.

Little Rock Jams is now offering Piano and Voice Lessons

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-17T22:06:00Z

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We're pleased to announce the addition of Sally Snyder to our teaching Staff! Sally will be our Piano/Vocal teacher.

Sally is moving to Little Rock from Nashville, Tennessee. She attended Belmont University and received a BA in Voice Performance. From there, she worked on Music Row until she hit the road with her band, Mustang Sally, touring nationally and internationally.

After touring, sally began focusing on her songwriting and began writing for Ash Street Music, a respected publisher in Nashville.

Sally will begin teaching in August and is now accepting new students.

To register, call Little Rock Jams at 501-312-1800.

Michael Jackson - Human Nature

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-14T22:06:00Z

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John Mayer played this tune as a tribute to Michael Jackson during his funeral.

Here is Bryan doing a great version.

If you want us to do an instruction vid on this arrangement, let us know!

Free Carpal Tunnel Syndrom Screeing for all you Central Arkansas Musicians

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-14T21:27:00Z

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Free Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Screenings on Saturday, Aug. 8

The UAMS Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation will offer free Carpal Tunnel Syndrome screenings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, on the 2nd floor of the Stephens Spine Institute.

Common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:

Burning, tingling, or numbness in your fingers or the palm of your hand

Waking up in the middle of the night and feeling like you need to shake out your hand or wrist

If you think that you may be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and would like to have a free screening, please call 221-1311 for an appointment.

United Breaks Guitars - Great Video

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-07-07T21:14:00Z

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Thanks to Adam for sending this hillarious video!!!

Little Rock Jams Student Bailey - Performing "The Climb"

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-06-25T20:09:00Z

Little Rock Teen Battle of the Bands - Central Arkansas Library System

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-06-04T21:02:00Z

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Central Arkansas Library System to host teen Battle of the Bands

The Central Arkansas Library System is expanding offerings for teens as part of the annual Summer Reading Club including a Battle of the Bands program which is slated to begin at noon on Saturday, June 27 in the Cox Creative Center.

During the Battle of the Bands contest, teen musicians will perform in a “Star Search” style competition. A panel of local judges, including Ed Johnson of Alice 107.7, Jason Priest of Little Rock Jams and Ron McAdoo of Backyard Enterprise, will choose the top two performances and those musicians will perform a second time and be judged by audience members. Dana Bradley, of Power 92 Jams will serve as emcee of the event.

To participate in the event, all band members must be ages 12-19. Bands must also have three original songs. According to event organizer D.J. Jackson, there are five performance slots and alternates will also be selected. “It is not required that bands submit a demo, but it is encouraged,” he said.

Bands that perform in the Battle of the Bands competition should be prepared to bring their own amplifiers and instruments, Jackson said. The Central Arkansas Library System will provide microphones and a soundboard. Participation in the program is free and open to the public. Interested individuals can register at any branch of the Central Arkansas Library System.

For more information, contact Jackson at (501) 663-5457 or email djackson@cals.org. The Cox Creative Center is located at 120 Commerce Street in the River Market District.

Rock School Video - Purple Cows performing Pretty Woman

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-05-15T18:38:00Z

Rock School - Band Information

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-05-12T14:31:00Z

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All Bands... The night you are scheduled to perform, you should be at the studio no later than 6:45 to start sound check, relax and prepare for the performance. Family and friends should arrive starting at 7:30. The concert will start at 8:00 p.m.

Gig Bag Essentials

When you play a gig, you should have a backup for everything you use. You never know what will go wrong, so it is best to be prepared for anything.

Some items on this list are more important than others. So if you don't have everything, no big deal. Just make it a point to get it if you play/rehearse regularly. The items in BOLD are the most important.

Extra Strings
Extra Picks
Extra Instrument Cable
Extra Batteries (tuner/pedals)
Tuner
Spare Guitar Strap
Hand Towel
Duct Tape
Pencil/Pen/Sharpie
Notebook
String Winder
Surge Protector
Small Tool Kit or Multi-Tool

Rock Star Birthday Parties at Little Rock Jams

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-05-07T21:06:00Z

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Little Rock Jams is now offering Rock Star Birthday Parties for children and adults!

Lasers, fog machines, Guitar Hero, Karaoke, Music and More!

Check out our website party page for more information and download our party package form for all the details...

Pass the word!

Spring 2009 Rock School Concert Schedule

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-05-06T16:50:00Z

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Prince tearing it up on Ellen - Crimson & Clover and Wild Thing

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-24T14:02:00Z

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Here it is ... Watch it while it lasts - they pull these down quick...

It's coming....

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-23T19:34:00Z

Edgefest 2009 - Battle of the Bands - Affectus

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-23T19:12:00Z

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Next band to enter the ring for the local band slot on the Edgefest 2009 Little Rock ticket...

Affectus

Affectus is a band comprised of members from the Arkansas River Valley area that have been cutting their teeth in the local music scene for the better part of a decade. Founding members have been earning their stripes with several local acts since their early high school years. Each member of the band has been honing their craft since the ages of 13 to 15 years old. The name Affectus is derived from the Latin term meaning "emotion," "disposition of mind," or "to affect." That sums up the goal of the band, which is not to just simply put on a good show, but to tug at every human emotion and offer an unforgettable experience that could change the lives of those who listen. The music is a unique blend of modern rock, with passionate and beautiful vocals, innovative drums, dynamic and raging guitars, vigorous bass, and intoxicating harmonies.

Bio: Vocalist: John Warren, Guitarist: Blake Pendergrass, Bassist: Brandon Nolan, and Drummer: Kyle Southall are four best friends who share a common dream, music. Like so many struggling musicians, the road has been incredibly difficult, but after 6 years, it has only made them stronger. Members have come and gone. Friends and lovers were lost along the way. So much has happened. Yet, they are still here. Affectus has won and placed in several competitions, played coliseums in front of thousands, and played clubs in front of 30. Still, they drive for so much more. There are few more humble of places than Johnson County, but they do not claim to be from anywhere larger. It is there that they hold tight to their roots and inspirations. Affectus, as a group, made a decision years ago, to do this right. Each of the members is professionally trained and extremely talented. One will not find a harder working four than the boys of Affectus. Fame, the immortality of fame, a dream of a future, is what they all desire more than anything else in this world. Their hearts and souls are poured into each and every song they write. They have a sound, a powerful, beautiful sound, that promises to be New, to everyone's ears. They only beg, to be heard.

Please vote for Affectus to open Edgefest!!!!

Check out their musc at http://www.myspace.com/affectusall

If you dig what you hear, vote for them online at http://edgefest.edgelittlerock.com/pages/botb2009.html

3 Tips to get the most out of your music lessons!

brian@littlerockjams.com (Brian) — 2009-04-22T16:43:00Z

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From time to time teachers run into students that test their abilities....

I'm not talking about pushing the limits of their playing but rather their method of teaching.

Most teachers have an approach to teaching that they know works best for the majority of students that come into the studio. Every student is different of course ... adapting to the musical goals of the student is rarely a problem for a good teacher.

However, there are times when you have a student that has lost motivation and/or their desire to practice consistently. And as you all know, if you don't prepare for the lesson, you make little progress week over week.

On the other hand, there are also students that have their own idea of what they want to learn and what they are willing to practice, regardless of the material covered in the lesson or their own playing ability.

Remember the old saying ... "Mother knows best" ?

In most cases, your teacher KNOWS what you need to work on and you should trust them to have your best interest at heart. Not only that, if you are a student then you are paying your teacher to work around what YOU think is best. Not a good idea.

Guitar doesn't come easy and their is no magic pill that will give you instant gratification. If there were, we would have already bought a bottle or two of those magic pills.

With that said, here are three tips that will help you get the most out of our music lessons:

Always come prepared for your lesson. Bring all materials to your lesson and be ready to discuss the material and any problems, or success stories, you had during your practice week.
Practice the material given to you by your instructor. Trust your instructor! They have been in your shoes and are telling you what they wish someone would have told them when they were at your level. As much as you wish you could rip like Yngwie, if you can't play a minor pentatonic scale cleanly, you're not ready to tackle shred.
Stay in contact with your instructor throughout the week. A good instructor would much rather you call / email them to clarify something rather than practice incorrectly, or worse, not practice at all during the week. Get your instructors email/contact number. Find out which method is best for them and do it. If your instructor tells you they don't have time to do this or tries to charge you, move on to another teacher.

Remember this ... Learning to play music is a lifelong endeavor. There is no end point. You will always grow as a musician as long as you keep pushing yourself. Work hard every day and you will become the player you want to be!

Edgefest 2009 - Battle of the Bands - Black Suit Karma

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-22T15:42:00Z

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Black Suit Karma - Celebrating their one year anniversary May 1st and then off to tear Texas and Louisiana a new ass in May and June!!! But, they will definitely have time to play the Edgefest gig if they win the slot with your help!

They're working the Edgefest promotion hard...Giving away an XBox 360 !!!

Yes, a BRAND NEW XBOX 360 with 60gb hard drive ($300 retail value) courtesy of Black Suit Karma and ZOYC Games in Conway, AR!!! And YES - if you've already voted, you can STILL enter yourself to win, just send in the confirmation email to blacksuitkarma@gmail.com!!!

Check out their music at http://www.myspace.com/blacksuitkarma

If you dig what you hear, vote for them online at http://edgefest.edgelittlerock.com/pages/botb2009.html

Edgefest 2009 - Battle of the Bands - Drop Dead Syndicate

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-21T17:50:00Z

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As we mentioned with the WishTribe post last week, Edgefest 2009 is holding a contest for an opening slot of the concert series.

Today, I'm posting for DDS - aka Drop Dead Syndicate.

Reigning from Little Rock, Arkansas, Drop Dead Syndicate has a fanbase that reaches as far as Brazil, Germany, and The Netherlands, and is a mid-south regional favorite to all hard rockers. The group is comprised of 5 members who all came from bands that were successful in the own right. The collaboration has built a hard rock "supernova" of sorts, and branded Drop Dead Syndicate as seasoned recording artists, as well as burned their name into the list of today's top LIVE hard rock acts.

DDS's LIVE stage show can be topped by no other. With hip-hop roots turned metal, lead singer Eloe's haunting & sultry baritone verses are electrified by his ability to reach chest-rattling high & low growls that no other vocalist of the genre can achieve. Drop Dead Syndicate has shared stages with some of the nation's top ranked hard rock bands, such as Godsmack, Shinedown, The Exies, Operator, Drowning Pool, Static-X, Five Finger Death Punch and many, many more...

Check out their music at http://www.myspace.com/dropdeadsyndicate

Vote for them online at http://edgefest.edgelittlerock.com/pages/botb2009.html

Edgefest 2009 - Battle of the Bands - WishTribe

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-16T17:39:00Z

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Edgefest 2009 is coming!

An opening slot is up for grabs for local bands. Starting this week until the voting is over, I'll be posting info on the local bands that are trying to win the gig. You can check out their music and their vibe ... If you dig what you hear, then send them a vote.

And you don't have to be local to vote - I'm talking to you England and Japan - good music is good music. Listen and vote even if you live far, far away!!!

For students, we'll also have some band give-aways at the studio - CD's, stickers, promo posters, T-Shirts and more!

(Take note Rock School students - it's all about Promotion, Promotion, Promotion)

The first band on the list is WishTribe ....

Kelly (bass player) is a friend of Little Rock Jams, helping us out with our jam sessions in the old days at Trellis Square. Not that I'm trying to influence you, but good guys with good music that have been working it for a long time, it meets my criteria to vote

Listen to their music at http://www.myspace.com/wishtribemusic

To vote for WishTribe, click the banner above or go to

http://edgefest.edgelittlerock.com/pages/botb2009.html

Brutal Legend featuring Jack Black

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-04-06T20:44:00Z

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Next Gen Guitar Hero with some first person thrown in. Add Jack Black and I think we have a winner here folks.

Check out the video and enjoy!!!

The April Jam is upon us!!!

mike@littlerockjams.com (Mike) — 2009-04-02T21:21:00Z

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Hey guys! The jam session for April is ON!! It will take place Thursday, April 9th at Little Rock Jams. Everyone is invited!

If you would like to participate and have questions, comments, suggestions for a setlist, rants, etc. please email mike@littlerockjams.com. I have been working on the jambook and will have something up on the net soon.

We have had an awesome time at our last few jam sessions and i encourage EVERYONE to come and participate. The Jam is a great atmosphere because you can have a great time playing and learn some new tunes, techniques, etc.

I will have a setlist up on Monday. So check the blog and we will see you at The Jam!!!

5 Things Beginners Need to Know

brian@littlerockjams.com (Brian) — 2009-03-31T19:42:00Z

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Here are some tips for beginners that may make your learning process easier.

1. Have a realistic outlook on the material that you try to learn.

- Often, I see beginners taking on material that is way too hard. Your teacher knows best!

Work on the stuff they give you and you're guaranteed to have the chops to pull of that song you really want to play. If you're not leaning what you want, your teacher may be waiting for you to finish an assignment before moving on. Remember, each week the teacher can tell how much (or how little) you have practiced.

2. Practice all of your parts slow.

- I always see students practicing way to fast. If you have a lick or a scale you want to get it right 10 times out of 10. When you practice too fast and don't get it right every time you teach your fingers how to make mistakes. It will always sound imperfect if you rush and don't take your time. Speed WILL come!!

3. Play along with the songs you are trying to learn.

- This teaches you proper rhythm and timing. It will also teach you how to listen and play at the same time. This is critical and often overlooked. If you are not doing this, chances are it will be more of a challenge when you try to play with a band.

4. Break down songs.

- I see many students take a new song and then try and play it from start to finish before they can play all of the parts correctly. Break the song into different parts and get them worked out separately. Then work on moving from part to part over and over. Then, play the song from start to finish.

5. Make sure that your guitar is in tune and set up correctly.

- I always run into beginners trying to play on guitars that are out of tune and hard to play. Bring your guitar to Little Rock Jams and have Bryon Knight check it out. Many times he can make adjustments that will make playing the guitar easier on your fingers.

Amazing Bass Duo!!!! Enjoy!!!

mike@littlerockjams.com (Mike) — 2009-03-25T23:39:00Z

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Hey Guys!! Here's an amazing bass duo featuring Christian Mcbride and Neils-Henning Orsted Pederson. They are playing Bye Bye Blackbird at The Concert for Ray Brown. Enjoy!!! Comments? Feedback? email Mike at mike@littlerockjams.com.

A Few Quick Minor Pentatonic Tricks

david@littlerockjams.com (David) — 2009-03-25T19:19:00Z

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This is a short post on some other uses for minor pentatonic scales. Try this stuff out after you get tired of always playing an A minor pentatonic sclae over an A minor chord.

Understand that chords come from scales and look for my next blog on chord construction and extensions if the numbers are confusing. Even if the numbers are a bit confusing, you can still play the scales that I'm talking about to get a different sound.

Try this over a A minor vamp.

#1. Play E minor pentatonic (or a minor pentatonic scale up a 5th from A) What you get is the 5th, 7th, root, 9, and the 11th of the A minor chord

#2. Play B minor pentatonic (or a minor pentatonic scale up a whole step from A) What you get is the 9, 11th, 5th, 13, and the root of the A minor chord

Now try it out with the play a long track!

a minor groove

Try this instead of an altered scale over an A dominant 7 chord.

#1. Play C minor pentatonic (or a minor pentatonic a minor 3rd above A) What you get is the #9, b5, b13, 7, and the b9 of the A dominant 7 chord

The play a long track is a I-ii-V in D major so play D major over the I and the ii, and then C minor pentatonic over the V which is the A7

A dominant 7 track

Workshop Reminder - "The Care & Feeding of Your Instrument"

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-03-24T20:41:00Z

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Saturday, March 28, starting at 2:00 p.m. Led by Bryon Knight.

Topics covered will include:

Guitar Anatomy
Acoustic
Electric

What can go wrong
Causes of buzzing
Structural Issues
Electronics

How to identify potential problems

Humidity Control
Why it's important
How it affects your instrument
How to prevent issues

Fretboard Maintenance

Electronics Care

Bring your instruments and questions!

Buckethead, nunchuks and a killer solo!

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-03-19T19:50:00Z

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Check out this insane video and be awed by the coolness of Buckethead!

Let us know - World Jams - Where is everyone from?

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-03-11T17:07:00Z

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We've been blogging for a couple of years now. In looking at our web traffic, we've had visitors from over 95% of the world!

Yeah, I geek out on stuff like this...

So, let us know where you are from!

What's the music scene like where you are?

Do you play? If so, what instrument?

Let us know!

Guitar Maintenance Workshop - 03/28/09 2:00 p.m.

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-03-06T20:46:00Z

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Our resident Guitar Repair Guru (GRG), Bryon Knight, will hold a guitar mainteance workshop on Saturday March 28 at 2:00 p.m.

In the workshop, he will cover the following:

Guitar anatomy - Acoustic/Electric

What CAN go wrong

How to identify potential problems

Humidity control

Fretboard mantainance

Electronics care

And... Field questions

Funky Funky Chicken

brian@littlerockjams.com (Brian) — 2009-03-05T18:07:00Z

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Here is a cool song called "The Chicken". Try out these new chords and then take them to tunes you already know!

Dave Matthews Band playing in North Little Rock 09/29/2009 - I'll be there!

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-02-20T18:11:00Z

NORTH LITTLE ROCK - Dave Matthews Band will play at Dickey-Stephens Park on Tuesday, September 29 as part of their 2009 Summer Tour. The top-drawing American band in the world will be the first to play a major concert hosted at the home of the Arkansas Travelers.

Ticket sales will begin online on March 14 at Ticketmaster locations like Celebrity Attractions in downtown Little Rock and at ticketmaster.com. A small amount of tickets will be available for walk-up purchase at the Travs box office on March 14 at 10 a.m. No phone orders will be accepted for tickets at the Dickey-Stephens Park box office, but Ticketmaster Express will accept phone orders at 866-448-7849.

An online ticket request period begins today and continues through Monday, March 2 at http://www.warehouse.davematthewsband.com.

"We are extremely excited about the announcement that The Dave Matthews Band is coming to Dickey-Stephens Park," said Travs General Manager Pete Laven. "Since we moved to the new park in 2007 many people have been asking when we are going to have a big concert. Well, here you go. There is not a bigger touring act in the United States than the Dave Matthews Band. We are also very pleased to be working with JAM Productions again who brought Bob Dylan & Willie Nelson to Ray Winder Field in 2005."

RCA Records will release the band’s latest studio album on June 2nd. Produced by Rob Cavallo (Green Day, My Chemical Romance), the yet-to-be-titled record is the follow-up to 2005’s Stand Up, the fourth consecutive Dave Matthews Band studio album to enter The Billboard 200 at No. 1. The group has sold a collective 35 million units (CD and DVD combined and – with over 15 million tickets sold – has been named the top-drawing American band in the world by Billboard.

"Summer means two things in America: It's hot, and the Dave Matthews Band are on tour," said Rolling Stone. “Their set delivered the goods at Rothbury, and few would argue they didn’t make the festival their own,” said The Detroit News of Dave Matthews Band’s headlining performance at last summer’s first-ever Rothbury festival. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette praised the group’s show there as “nothing short of inspired and inspiring” while The Oklahoman said: “this is a band that stretches out and thrives in the open air and under the stars.” “Mr. Matthews' trade is to stir up a mélange of approaches – from rock and folksy pop to bluegrass and smooth jazz – to make doubt positive, make loss a gain, and make depression a celebration,” observed The Dallas Morning News.

Dave Matthews Band is Carter Beauford (drums), Stefan Lessard (bass), Dave Matthews (vocals, guitar) and Boyd Tinsley (violin). Joining the group on tour will be Tim Reynolds on guitar, Rashawn Ross on trumpet and Jeff Coffin on saxophone, who are also featured on the new album.

For more information about the Dave Matthews Band 2009 Summer Tour, visit the band's website at www.davematthewsband.com.

Blues Lick Idea

brian@littlerockjams.com (Brian) — 2009-02-11T18:47:00Z

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Barre Chord Theory: Playing in all 12 Keys

david@littlerockjams.com (David) — 2009-02-06T21:13:00Z

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Hey guys, this is Dave Dunavant, a.k.a. the professor. I'm the creative director here at Little Rock Jams, and I am also the author of a series of books called Street Guitar that we use here at LRJams. Check out the website for my bio and keep checking the blog for new entries in my series called "The Professor". Basically I'm going to post articles on intermediate to advanced topics that are in my books.

Feel free to email me if you have any questions or requests for future articles.

Now for the first entry. Here are the two patterns for playing barre chords in any key. Roman numerals are better than letter names because everything will look the same in all 12 keys. If you want an in depth explanation of how chord progressions work for songwriting and jamming situations then just drop me a line and I'll tell you how you can get my book, Street Guitar.

                                                                                        Barre Chord Theory

                                                                        I, IV, V (same as 1,4,5) = major chords
                                                                        ii, iii, vi (same as 2,3,6)= minor chords

the roman numerals on the lowest two strings (E and A) are where the roots of the barre chords are located

you can move these two patterns around just like you can move a single barre chord shape horizontally on the guitar

learn the optional locations for the iii and the vi chord after you are comfortable with the original locations

wherever you put the I chord will be the key you are in (you can put the I chord on any fret you like)

Guitar:Impossible - Crazy Cool Video

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-02-06T17:17:00Z

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Let us know - What is your top practice tip?

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-02-05T20:48:00Z

What do you find most useful in getting yourself to the practice room?

What helps you the most in focusing and working to your potential?

What do you enjoy the most about practicing?

What do you enjoy the least?

Here are a few of mine...

First, I need to have a comfortable room to practice in. I cannot practice in the bedroom! I hunch over looking at the music, my back starts hurting and/or I lay down and take a nap LOL. Over the years, I've had really nice practice rooms and really bad practice rooms. And I've always had the best practice sessions when I've had everything I need right in front of me. If you haven't seen our studio, well, we have great practice rooms!

Have the right tools - my favorite practice tools are Band in a Box and the Boss RC-20 loop station. Both let you put a chord progression in to practice scales, soloing, writing tunes, or just jamming. And when you're practicing, if you can sound musical, the you're heading in the right direction!

So, type up - let us know what you think about this. Who knows, we might get a good idea or two from you!

January 2009 is finished - how are those New Years Resolutions holding up?

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-02-03T05:21:00Z

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Yep, one month down in 2009 - We're already into February.

How did everyone do with their musical resolutions? Have you written any new songs? Did you practice like you planned? Have you learned or transcribed any new tunes?

If your January was a musical mecca - good on you! Keep it up!

If, like my exercise plan, your musical goals fell by the wayside mid-month, then no big deal.

Really, what's the harm other than you're a little behind where you would be if you had practiced as much as you had planned? Nothing.

But...

Take a look at the big picture. If this keeps up through the end of the year, think how far behind you'll be if you don't practice consistently all year long.

All of you have heard us say it before, consistency and discipline are what it takes to keep progressing as a player. As far as I know, there will never be a time that you just wake up one morning as a great guitar player unless you have been putting the time into learning your craft.

So, get that guitar out tonight or tomorrow, get back on track and make February a killer month for your musical goals! My alarm is set for 5:30 tomorrow to get some time in before the kids go to school. Join me (figuratively - you wouldn't want to see me at 5:30 a.m.) and get a little practice in tomorrow morning. You'll be glad you did!

Inclement Weather Announcement - Little Rock Jams Closed Tuesday January 27

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-01-27T15:20:00Z

Due to the closing of the local school districts and the forecast for more icy precipitation tonight, Little Rock Jams will be closed today.

Little Rock Jams will reopen for classes Wednesday January 28 after 12:00 p.m.

Rock School Rehearsal Schedule and Band Changes

jason@littlerockjams.com (Jason) — 2009-01-26T18:48:00Z

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Based on schedule conflicts, we need to rearrange band members in a few of the bands. Listed below is the updated band list and the rehearsal schedule. For students that play in multiple bands, we've tried to arrange the schedule so that your rehearsal times are all back to back.

If you have any questions, please call the studio are discuss with your instructor.

Our first rehearsal is this Sunday, 02/01/09.

Band 1 - Rehearsal Time - 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Aaron
Courtney
Steve
Chris
Dyllan

Band 5 - Rehearsal Time - 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Liam
Connor
Jacob
Chris
Dyllan

All Star Band - Rehearsal Time - 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Ian
John
Tyler
Jordan
Clay

Band 2 - Rehearsal Time 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Scott
Cole
Sam
Adam
Jordan

Band 3 - Rehearsal Time 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Thad
Austin
Ghassan
Mike
Hayes

Band 4 - Rehearsal Time 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Kirby
Clayton
Alex
James
Parker
Mike