Know Your Mom and Pop: American Pride Plumbing & Heating

Being a plumber is a seemingly thankless job. It’s the type of work no one truly appreciates until the toilet becomes so clogged that water flows over the side or a pipe bursts at 3am. Plumbers are more known for their infamous crack than their dedication to the craft. A lot of work goes into ensuring that the customer’s needs are met, and catering to those needs can sometimes be more demanding than the labor itself. It’s an important job, and American Pride Plumbing & Heating, LLC owner Greg Chihoski wears many hats being his own boss and only employee.

Though he didn’t become an incorporated business until 2011, Chihoski has been plumbing for the past 15 years. He started working for a small company and learned that he had a talent for the job. He went to school, accumulated tools and started his apprenticeship. Through the years, he has become a licensed Master Plumber, Master Pipe Fitter and a Certified Back-Flow Assembly Tester. The next logical step was to branch out on his own, building a loyal customer base and a reputation as a “reasonably priced plumber that does quality work.”

“It got to the point where I had everything I needed to go out on my own,” Chihoski said of his decision. “I already had some steady customers through the music scene.”

It was the local music scene that may have inadvertently led Chihoski to branch out on his own. Playing in bands since 1989, he made a lot of friends and acquaintances in the scene, and a few of them needed plumbing work. Whether working at the clubs themselves or the house of an employee, he gave each job the same level of quality no matter the size or cost. He has since expanded to working all over the state, all the way from big construction companies, property management companies and successful local businesses to friends who just bought a new home and want to start out on the right foot.

With so many wrenches being thrown into the plans, there is no typical work day for a plumber. Chihoski attempts to stick to the same routine, though the day usually has different plans. Working for himself, he does all of the estimating, bidding, installation and services. Once the plumbing work is done, it’s on to the billing and paperwork that every business owner must do.

“On an average day, my phone starts ringing at 6:30am,” Chihoski describes. “I usually have either billing or quotes to work on or send out. Then I drop my daughter, Devyn, off at day care, head to the supply house, then my first job.” Never quite knowing how long the day might last, he has to prepare for anything, whether it be finding raw sewage in a basement or getting an emergency call that keeps him working nearly through the night.

Being a local musician (he plays bass in Reason to Fight and guitar in Gutter Monk), Chihoski has figured out a way to combine his full-time job with his full-time passion. He uses the American Pride name to book national punk shows in Rhode Island. He has brought Sick of it All, Ignite, Gray Area and H2O to Providence; bringing the same DIY attitude that he has for his plumbing business. Chihoski uses his shows as a tool to promote his company. “Instead of taking out ads, I just put on shows sponsored by the plumbing company.”

American Pride Plumbing & Heating, LLC has a driven owner with plans for a bright future. Wanting to grow the business enough to add two or three licensed plumbers while still being able to keeps rates low and quality high, his vision is clear, and also supportive of the music scene that he grew up in. “I will try to hire experienced people from the local music scene who take pride in their work.”

American Pride Plumbing & Heating, LLC offers plumbing and heating repair, including heating systems, water heaters, faucets, toilets, showers, roof drains, sewage ejectors, gas piping, cast iron stack and pipe replacements, laundry hook-ups, winterizing and minor drain cleaning. Greg Chihoski can be contacted at 401-536-2716. Please text if it is an after hours emergency. Check them out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPridePlumbing?fref=ts.

American Pride Booking has two shows coming up at Simon’s 677, located at 677 Valley St in Providence. Madball is coming to town on December 7, with Turnstile, Death Before Dishonor, Take Offense, Downpresser, and Gutter Monk. Agnostic Front plays December 17, with Revenge, Reason to Fight, and The Struggle.

Album of the Week: Stardeath and White Dwarfs’ Wastoid

It can be a daunting to be related to a music superstar. Enter Dennis Coyne, nephew of Wayne Coyne, the insanely enigmatic frontman of acid-punk act The Flaming Lips. Dennis’ band Stardeath and White Dwarfs have a new album out called Wastoid and you can see the influence of his uncle throughout each track. What sets this act apart is the heavy fuzz from the bass and guitar distortions that can make your head spin. It can be tough living up to someone else’s fame, but Wastoid shows that Stardeath and White Dwarfs are looking to forge their own path.

If you have heard the Dark Side Of The Moon cover album Stardeath and White Dwarfs did with The Flaming Lips, Peaches and Henry Rollins back in 2009, then Wastoid should show a lot of similarities. There’s a great psychedelic presence on the album with each song taking you from one place to the next. Each track provides a different experience but each is a pleasant one. Staying true to their crazy and weird Oklahoma roots, Stardeath and White Dwarfs never cease to astound from start to finish with their new album. It’s groovy, fun and trippy with a taste for the abstract that comes together to form something unique and wonderful. So the World Cup is finally over. Since a portion of your day is all the sudden freed up, dive into my top tracks off of the Album Of The Week. Maybe it’s not as fun as watching a bunch of dudes run around for 90 minutes, but it surely won’t be boring.

The jungle beats and the raw riffs of “Frequency” make it a funky number at the start and then it gets all acoustic with Dennis strumming on his six-string. It reminds me a bit of mid-90s era Blur. A wonderful example of the fuzz is “Guess I’ll Be Okay;” the guitars hit you like a stick of dynamite over a nuclear power plant and it’s my personal favorite off of the album. Cool psych-jazz goodness is all over “Sleeping Pills and Ginger Ale,” a very entrancing song that features piano chords giving it a full body.

Stardeath and White Dwarfs will be performing at The Wichita Psych Fest in Wichita, Kansas, on July 19 and at The Center Of The Universe Fest in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on July 26. If you’re willing to make the road trip to one of these festivals I highly suggest you do. Hopefully they make it up to New England soon, but until then grab yourself a copy of Stardeath and White Dwarfs’ Wastoid. It’s the perfect album for the person who lives in another state of mind.

Stardeath and White Dwarf’s Website: stardeathandwhitedwarfs.com

Cruel Hand Throws Down at Firehouse 13

By: Khrysta Ryan

Providence hardcore locals Waste of Life and Black Celebration opened up a killer show at Firehouse 13 in Providence this past Wednesday. This small three day tour headlined by Maine hardcore band Cruel Hand, who joined Swamps from Springfield MA, and Street Sweeper from Boston. Although it was a weekday show it didn’t stop people from all over New England to show up and throw down for each band. Fans from Connecticut, Mass, and NH came out and filled the place up.

Black Celebration opened the show and hyped up the crowd even without a packed floor. The first band of the night sets the mood for the rest of the show, and that is exactly what they did. This Providence band knew how to keep the crowds attention. Still new to the scene, they had a memorable performance with their opening and closing song be a tribute to a “black celebration.” Their self titled EP, released in early April, is out on Bandcamp, which you can download for free. Following was Waste of Life: only playing three previous shows, the crowd was impressed by the stage presence of the entire band along with the amount of interaction the vocalist had with the fans. Their short and sweet set gave the crowd a taste of what is to come from this local hardcore band. The only vocalist to actually get off the stage made Waste of Life’s set one of the best to watch. Their debut EP Nothing to Gain released in early April, people have been able to hear how this Providence band puts their own twist on the classic hardcore style. With each member having different musical influences they mix their ideas together to create this different take on hardcore. Playing with Cruel Hand, Rude Awakening and Capsize, all bands who are nationally known in the hardcore scene, this band is moving in the right direction; quickly in the hardcore scene.

Following Waste of Life was Street Sweeper who killed it with their Boston hardcore sound; fast paced and higher pitched vocals resembling hardcore legends Have Heart. The energy in the room picked up at the start of their set, and didn’t stop until the night ended. The crowd didn’t stop moving and was screaming along for the entire set.

Following Street Sweeper was Swamps. Their entire set was mass hysteria, the best kind of course. Firehouse was one entire pit for their whole time on stage. The entire room was on their toes for the whole show–the stage presence of the band was outrageous, you just couldn’t look away. The vocalist Andy captured the audience’s attention, constantly jumping and shoving the mic into crowd. This was the perfect way to lead into the headliners, Cruel Hand’s set.

The Maine hardcore band started off with well known songs, getting the crowd to pick up their feet and sing along. Cruel Hand is known for their crazy sets and groovy take on hardcore. The vocalist and entire band left the crowd wanting more after playing some new songs from their upcoming album. Out in early September, this will be the first album since 2010.

https://www.facebook.com/Cruel Hand https://www.facebook.com/swampsma https://www.facebook.com/pages/StreetSweeper/294644739539 https://www.facebook.com/wasteoflifehc https://www.facebook.com/blackcelebrationri https://www.facebook.com/LighthousePhotographyUS Local Band; Violent Sons Get Signed to Record Label

By: Khrysta Ryan

Newest addition to the Providence hardcore punk scene, Violent Sons got signed to Bridge Nine Records early July. In late 2013 members from local acts Verse, Raindance and Suicide Pact got together for a collaboration resulting in Violent Sons. Using their past experiences to relate to one another, the guys thought this combination of musicians would be the perfect outlet for a, “therapeutic experience.” Members of the band felt as though something was missing from their lives.

Violent Sons are veterans in the hardcore punk scene in Providence and Mass; most of the members having been in the scene since the early 2000s. The new group is paving its way with their own twist on what Verse and Raindance have already done. A more powerful punk influence creates the new sound that Violent Sons debut LP; Nothing As It Seems gets across Quoted from Bridge Nine Records, Violent Sons’ lead vocalist Sean Murphy’s “exasperated, incensed sociopolitical frustration” pulls the record together.

Without any merch and only one track up on their Bandcamp page that hasn’t stopped Violent Sons from playing shows. “It was nice to just get up there and blast through our set with minimal knowledge of who we are as an introduction of our band,” Murphy explained, wanting to give people a live first impression. “We started this band to write cohesive music without boundaries.” Incorporating a wide spectrum of music, Violent Sons have less interest in “sticking to any particular template.”

Bridge Nine quickly picked up this band, after having signed Verse in the past. This semi- secretive project with the record company was just released to the public only a week ago on the July 2 Although it was just recently announced, the band has been playing local shows around New England for a few months now. Bridge Nine released digital copies of the Violent Sons LP on July 8. Physical copies will be released in early September with pre order at bridge9.com.

Bridge Nine Records is a Massachusetts based record label, moving progressively in the right direction since 1995. Owner Chris Wrenn began putting out 7’ vinyl of his favorite local bands, supporting the cost by selling shirts, patches and stickers. The idea slowly expanded turning Bridge Nine into what it is today. Bridge Nine welcomes Violent sons to the label. This Providence band joins national acts, New Found Glory, H20, Have Heart and Ceremony, in the Bridge Nine family.

https://www.facebook.com/VIOLENTSONS

Hail, Hail Rock ‘n’ Roll! Prom in July

From Punk to Funk to Hard Rock at Dusk

Here’s where it’s at, kids! The Gentleman Sound System is presenting their second Prom Show, and this year it’s a little different. This year, DJs Tom Butts, Miles (aka Skunk), Suicide King and a couple TBA guest DJs will be spinning a vast collection of hits spanning more than just the ’80s music scene they usually cover. This year they will cover everything from punk, metal, OI!, funk ‘hard rock’ ska, and rap to everything in between.

But on top of this amazing group of DJs killing it as usual, also performing is Nailer, a multi-level slash textured sleaze band from RI with a couple of twists. Sleaze rock is the bastard child of heavy metal, a musical genre that has almost as much to do with attitude as music. The music itself is rebellious, aggressive and downright nasty. The PMRC hates it, as do your parents. They are at the top of their game when playing incredibly loud, abusing drugs and alcohol, and having sex with your daughters or wives. Their long hair that looks like it’s been washed with used motorcycle oil, black leather jackets and tight pants, and tattoos proudly displayed from head to toe are all trademarks of Nailer. They truly are the outlaws of rock ‘n’ roll.

Manning the engine room on drums is Brutus Gash, a longtime gun for hire in the New England music scene with a backbeat that combines the best of Krupa, Bonham and Aldridge. His favorite pastimes are Bud Light and Marlboro Reds. Bringing the Thunderous Bottom End is Marky RÖkker. This dude knows what time it is and the time calls for some serious rhythm. Coming from the Dirty South of RI, he’s looking for some cheap thrills and fast ladies. The Riffmaster General (aka Big Bad John) wailing on the lead guitar while providing some sweet backup vocals hails from the sleazy bordertown of Attleboro, Mass.. To get the true ’80s metal sound, you need an axemaster from that time period and he is the perfect time capsule! Fearless leadership is provided by the formidable Adam Bomb, bringing the outrageousness straight outta South Central Los Angeles. This tattooed wildman is a combination of David Lee Roth, Jim Dandy and Paul Stanley. With that wicked Flying V of his, he leads Nailer to slaying the New England crowds.

NAILER played their last show on August 6, 2013, and will reunite annually to decimate the crowds and show all the lesser bands how to RAWK! So clear your calenders, because on July 31, Nailer and Gentleman Sound System invade Dusk on 301 Harris Ave. in Providence to ensure that everyone who is in attendance leaves with their minds blown and a longing for the return of Gentleman Sound System and the almighty Nailer. Prepare thyself!

Interview with The Menzingers

Chatting with Tom Way

On May 29 at The Met, you have the opportunity to check out one of the most exciting punk bands out there today — The Menzingers. Hailing from The City Of Brotherly Love, they have a new album out called Rented World and have been electrifying crowds on both sides of the pond. I chatted with co- guitarist and vocalist Tom Way about the band’s current tour, working with and what it’s like for a punk band in 2014.

Rob Duguay: The Menzingers are currently on tour with Buffalo punks Lemuria, fellow Philadelphia rock act Cayetana and PUP from Toronto. Last time I saw you guys at The Met you opened for Hot Water Music last January and it was a hell of a time. What is it about The Met that makes The Menzingers want to come back? Tom Way: New England has always been a special place for us. When we first started playing out of state in high school bands, New England was on the edge of our charted territory. You can always count on a good show and a good diner. There’s something inherently comfortable about the area.

We first played The Met a few years back with Anti-Flag and it was such a great time. A very dear friend of mine went to RISD and we ended up having one of the most memorable nights of tour yet. It’s just a great venue in an interesting place.

RD: Last month, The Menzingers came out with their fourth studio album, Rented World, off of the legendary label Epitaph Records. Being your second release off of Epitaph, how is it working with ’s Brett Gurewitz and the organization as a whole?

TW: Working with Epitaph is nothing short of fantastic. It is the label I have aspired to be on since I was a kid. Actually signing to the label and coming full circle is a lot like some kid from south Philly throwing around a baseball his whole life and signing to the Phillies. While we were starry eyed at first, we’re now a lot more comfortable with our working relationship with Epitaph. The people who work there are stand up individuals. Brett Gurewitz is Brett Gurewitz. I mean c’mon — how cool is that?

RD: Whenever I interview a punk act, I ask this question: In your opinion, what’s the state of punk in the 21st century? Do you think it’s fallen off from being out of the mainstream or do you think it’s right where it belongs with people having to look for punk albums rather than having it shoved in their faces?

TW: Ahh, to quantify the unquantifiable and label the nameless. What is punk? I have no idea, but I know whole heartedly that the idea of “mainstream” is so much different than what it was that it’s difficult to even call it “mainstream” anymore. People don’t buy records and people are leaving the radio in droves. Warped Tour may not have punk bands on it anymore, and bands that were huge punk bands in the ’90s can oftentimes barely draw anyone to shows. But why shouldn’t it be that way? That was 20 years ago. TWENTY YEARS. Twenty years before those punk bands peaked in the ’90s, punk didn’t even exist.

Has particular pigeonholed styles of aggressive rock & roll fallen off? Sure. However, the ethics of accomplishing things on your own and starting your own bands, and your own venues, and throwing your own shows are as strong as ever. Things are certainly weirder now, and the music itself has changed, but the part of “having to look for punk albums” has gotten even easier than it was when it was more mainstream. The days of the internet are here.

I’m sure that there will always be some shitkicker in a Casualties t-shirt walking around the mall causing trouble. At least I hope so.

RD: After this tour in support of Rented World, what does the rest of 2014 have in store for The Menzingers?

TW: Lots of touring! Heading to Europe in the fall with our dear friends in The Holy Mess and The Smith Street Band. We’re so excited!

It should be one hell of a show with The Menzingers, so I highly suggest you go. Tickets and showtimes available on The Met’s website at themetri.com. I’ll see you there!

The Menzingers’ website: themenzingers.com Album of the Week: Clear Plastic Masks’ Being There

Garage Rock from New York

It’s always refreshing when you stumble upon an album by a band you never heard of and it rocks your socks off. The other day I got to listen to one from a group of Nashville garage rockers by way of New York — Clear Plastic Masks. Their debut album, Being There, is hitting record store shelves and (legal) music download websites all over the globe and I can safely say it’s one of the best releases I’ve heard this year. It’s a tad bit of punk and a touch of old-school soul thrown in a rock & roll sundae, and then you have a rhythmic cherry to put on top to make one hell of an album. It’s ideal for the hopeless romantic who wears their heart on their sleeve, so scream your heart out and get ready for a wild ride.

Andrew Katz’s howls mirror an amalgamation of Iggy Pop and Tom Waits — heart-trembling sounds that will hit you like a wrecking ball to the mind. The drumming from Charlie Garmendia is on point as well; endless amounts of power and vigor pound through each track. Vintage and timeless in its own right, Being There is bound to astound you by not letting up at all in its intensity. Clear Plastic Masks and their brand new debut is definitely going to make sure that rock & roll is here to stay.

And now for my favorite tracks off the album:

Katz starts getting philosophical on “In Case You Forgot” about life realizations and broken hearts, saying that we truly are nothing and everything. The bluesy fuzzification (is that an actual word? Because I don’t care.) of “So Real” pretty much sums up this album in a nutshell — an injection of rock & roll into a musical vein will cure any ills. Getting you high and letting it fly, “Pegasus In Glue” is groovy as hell with infectious riffs and psychedelic tinges. Being There from Clear Plastic Masks is bound to have you in a trance as soon as you press play.

Opening up for Spanish Gold, which features My Morning Jacket’s Patrick Hallahan on drums, at T.T. The Bear’s in Cambridge, Mass., on May 30, Clear Plastic Masks are bound to put on one hell of a show. If you’re in the Boston area, you’d better go. While you’re there, grab a copy of Being There. It will electrify you in a way a police officer’s tazer could never do.

Clear Plastic Masks’ Website: clearplasticmasks.com