Jam stain is one of those groups that have the ability to not only express themselves in occasional lyrics and a melody, but wrap a fantastic cloak of instrumentals around the audience. With their inventive method of originating a musical melody onstage, they absolutely provide an immense stage presence pretty much entirely of a guitar, a bass, and a set of steady drums. With a blend of rock and true funk, they are an enormously awesome listen. On stage if you watch them you can identify their passion for the music in their faces. Concentrated and focused, they express every ounce of musical integrity they have in their souls.
They are not local, originating from Cali, but they travel the U.S. playing at dives with local bands of that region. They were here this past weekend, and I think it is safe to assume they will be back again. You can visit them on their website to see when they will be playing here. And just like any musician who puts heart and soul into their music, they could use your support! They have merchandise available on their site as well, so after you take a listen buy their stuff yo!
It is my pleasure, my friends, to introduce to you Jam Stain.
Jam Stain
Aiden Hubbard- The Ever Rhythmic Bass
Ryan Golob- Holy Guitar
Ainsley Hubbard- Sticks and Skins
Ryan Golob- Holy Guitar
Ainsley Hubbard- Sticks and Skins
The members of Jam Stain are three unique individuals with a dream: To share what they do with the world. Each had their own start in different avenues. Yes, Aiden and Ainsley are brothers, however despite their similar good looks and gorgeous locks, are not twins. Ryan, a passion driven individual who plays his instrument with likewise ferocity on his face, provides the band with a complex strain of awesomeness. The trio has been been playing together for 2 years; a year and few months, to be more specific. They have a fantastic set, and their drive for doing it? Just getting out there and playing. Doing what they enjoy doing.
Droppin’ a Deuce, their second album, is filled with funky bass and harmonious guitar, accented by Ainsley’s steady rhythm. It is as much of a joy to listen to as seeing them play. Which, by the way, is what seems to be their favorite thing to do. Traveling the country, playing with local bands everywhere, sharing their love for the art. They, undoubtedly, have played with hundreds of bands over the past two years. They hold no bias against or for any other band. They like each band for their own merits. “There are a couple bands in southern Cali that we have played with that we like.” The boys mentioned that they simply enjoy the company of like minded individuals. All types of music, all types of bands.
What sets these boys apart from any other band? “We are grittier, doing things that other bands wouldn’t dare to do out of fear for not being liked.” If you feel bad about not being liked, “get the fuck out. If you like us, great. If you don't... thats ok too.” Play for the fans, not for the popularity. Additionally, their music is virtually void of vocals. Its original and funky; and this is something I am sure all of you would like to know, cause I did: the name in and of itself suggests there is improvisation, jamming, playing on the fly. Do they improvise on stage? This question was met with a strong affirmative “Yes.” When Jam Stain first started, there was a lot of improvising. Continuing that tradition it makes each show incredibly unique.
Driving across country for days, even weeks, on end, can get tiring. “Its long. Boring.” What does Jam Stain do to occupy themselves during the long hauls? “Listening to the radio and the telling of the jokes.” I suggested a game to them, I Spy. My explanation of the game somewhat lacked imagination however they promised they would try it. Let me know if it takes the edge off the boredom.
There are thousands of venues and dives in the U.S. As true dive players, they said they like playing at all types of venues across the country. They did, however, give special honor to Checkpoint Charlies in New Orleans, the Troubador, and The Mint in Bakersfield. “Not to be confused with the mint in Hollywood. There is a big difference.”
As for our own scene, they gave a pause to think, and impressionably, it was small. Not very many bands. “In 2007 I played in Phoenix a lot and at the time there were a few good bands I liked… There will always be shows where not very many people show up, however you can play one night with a few people and the next night may be bigger.”
Getting a band together is easy, making it survive is the hard part. Out of the mouth of babes, the key to a successful band is the energy you put into it. Getting up there and putting their all into the shows. They couldn’t stress it enough. For those musicians who cant seem to get going their word of advice is to get out there and play!!!! People are more focused on selling tickets more so than having fans enjoy the music. “We always tell [musicians] if there are presell tickets don’t play.” So, my musically inclined Phoenicians, self promotion is best way to get out there. You can be online, pass out fliers, stick stickers in inappropriate places, however the way to get the word out is simply to play anywhere and everywhere.
In reference to their uncertain future, the boys plan on “doing what we do.” They will continue their journey of passion by making music, touring the U.S. and a desire to travel internationally, namely Canada, South America and, an emphatic EUROPE! Their next stop here in Phoenix will be in April. They told me that there would also be a new album coming out for that tour. So keep your ears open and mind even more so. Check out Jam Stain online! You can donate gas money, buy their swag or check out more of their music there.
Happy music making, my talented Phoenicians! Enjoy Jam Stain.
*Photos courtesy of Jam Stain from Facebook
*Photos courtesy of Jam Stain from Facebook
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