Video Interview With Happy Body Slow Brain

It's not easy to break into the music world. With the accessibility fans have to getting your music, often time for little to no money, the outrageous cost of touring and trying to hold down a solid lineup of band members, the industry can often feel like a daunting career. But inevitably, there will be some who refuse to give up trying- building their band one fan at a time.

Happy Body Slow Brain are one of those bands. The do-it-yourself outfit comprised of ex-Taking Back Sunday guitarist/vocalist Matt Fazzi, guitarist/keyboardist Isaac Bolivar and a rotating group of drummers and bassists have spent the better part of the last year and a half writing, recording and touring the entire United States in hopes of gaining a concrete fan base nationwide.

The band released their debut album, Dreams Of Water, last fall. Taking a step away from the alternative sounds of Taking Back Sunday, Fazzi and crew opted for a more synthetic mix of guitars, keyboards and experimental drum beats.

Ultimately, the decision to shy away from the norm has left the band off the beaten path, but they seem happier than ever. In a recent interview with the band, Fazzi told Backstage Press, "It's a refreshing experience to have a DIY thing and really play music that gets me excited. To have a support system like I do with my fiancée, and with my friends and being in a band with other like-minded musicians just makes the whole thing a lot easier."

"It's such a contrast going from Taking Back Sunday to kind of starting over," continued Fazzi, "but it's like the most rewarding contrast ever because I really get to forge my own path and do it the way I really want to do it."

And the hard work and determination seem to be paying off. At the end of the month, HBSB will be hitting the road with the Rx Bandits - a group that has played a vital role in influencing Fazzi along his musical career. After wrapping up that tour, Fazzi mentioned he will continue writing and hopes to get into the studio by the end of the year to begin work on the band's sophomore effort.

For more on HBSB, visit http://happybodyslowbrain.com

Dropkick's Own Ken Casey Opens New Pub In Providence

Ken Casey may be one of Boston's living legends. As the lead singer of the iconic Dropkick Murphys, Casey has long been known for his Irish-infused tunes, affinity for a good pint of beer and love of all things Boston. And having seemingly conquered the world with his band, or at least all of New England and anyone else in America with a shamrock tattoo, now seemed like the right time to do something a bit different.

Last month, Casey shipped down to Providence, Rhode Island for the opening his new pub, The Whiskey Republic. Located on the waterfront, The Whiskey Republic offers patrons a stunning view of the water and old mills in the area, a great selection of beer and liquor, and a reasonably priced menu.

But more so, Casey wanted his pub to offer Providence all that which makes New England great - music, booze and sports. Tucked away to the right of the entrance is a small corner stage, which plays host to many local and regional acts (including Dropkick on the pub's opening night). For a full list of events, click HERE.

And of course, no pub would be complete without it's fair share of alcoholic beverages. The Whiskey Republic has plenty to choose from, too. Whether it be a local brew, like Fisherman's from Gloucester, Massachusetts, or something as simple as, well... whiskey, TWR certainly has your drink of choice.

The bar area itself is huge. With seating all the way around, taps on both sides and plenty of standing room, it's no wonder this place can draw quite the crowd on weekends. This is also the place to go if you want to catch a local New England game. With TVs surrounding the bar, you'll easily be able to watch the Sox, Celtics or Bruins on any given night.

But perhaps the best part of TWR is the food. The menu is small, meaning what you're getting is fresh. Whether that be a fish plate, burger or salad, you can expect top quality. If you're unsure on what to try, ask a bartender. They've all got a pretty good handle on the food there, and are eager to let you in on their favorites.

So next time you're headed to Providence for a show at one of the city's many clubs, stop by The Whiskey Republic for a cold brew and some grub first. The atmosphere, music and prices are suited toward any punk pulling minimum wage. It's worth your while - don't miss it.

Hours:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday - Thursday & Sunday: 4 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Friday & Saturday: 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.