Kris en Nele gingen reeds in 98 van start met teksten geschreven door haar broer en muziek die Kris hierop componeerde... maar jong en onervaren kwam het plan nooit tot uitvoering.

Een tweede poging kwam er enkele jaren later, toen Kris enkele muzikanten van het conservatorium (Mitchel Wolput, Tijs Laurens, Toon Moerman, Steven Ribus en Jasmijn Bamps) had uitgenodigd om mee aan het project Driver te werken. Vol ambitie ging de nieuwe groep van start met eigen materiaal. Teksten en muziek werden voornamelijk door Kris De Witte geschreven. Alles verliep naar wens tot tweede zangeres Jasmijn verhuisde... en toen werd het even stil.

Maar, er was nog hoop...

Hoewel de meeste groepsleden zich terug focusten op hun eigen projecten, gingen Kris en Nele toch op zoek naar een nieuwe zangeres... Toen kwam Catherine De Gendt op de proppen. Nieuwe samenstelling, nieuwe naam: Present Tension was geboren (de naam verwijst naar het eerste nummer dat we onder de naam Driver hadden gemaakt). Maar mooie liedjes duren niet lang en ook tweede zangeres Catherine gaf het op uit tijdgebrek.

Maar Kris gaf de moed niet op!

Ondertussen al getraind in het vinden van nieuwe zangeressen, kwamen we al snel terecht bij Karen Janssens. Mitchel Wolput die we kenden van het eerste project deed ook terug mee dus wederom nieuwe samenstelling, nieuwe naam: Mind Ctrl (de naam die Kris voordien gebruikte als DJ). Met Karen hebben we een hele tijd samengewerkt, er kwamen nieuwe nummers bij en de eerste thuisopnames werden realiteit. Ons eerste optreden bij de afsluiting van het Aikidojaar, een mijlpaal voor de groep.

Maar het noodlot sloeg weer toe, ...

De wegen scheidden tussen Karen en de rest van de band. Niet lang daarna werd ontdekt dat er op het conservatorium ook zangeresjes rondlopen met interesse in drum n bass. Ilse Stroobant werd op deze manier op een feestje opgevist en werd later onze nieuwste aanwinst. Mind Ctrl terug volledig.

In 2007 begon Mind Ctrl opnieuw met z'n drietjes. Kris, Mitchel en Nele gaan alleen verder. Nieuw talent mag zich echter altijd voorstellen!

Er worden momenteel nieuwe opnames gemaakt voor een nieuwe demo. Die zal binnenkort wel op aanvraag (en per hoogste bod) verkrijgbaar zijn. Ook wordt de site operationeel gemaakt en uitgebreid en wordt er werk gemaakt van bijkomende optredens. Hiervoor is ieders hulp uiteraard van harte welkom, er wordt dan ook gretig ingegaan op elke uitnodiging...

•  Enjoyable!

Born the summer of ‘04, the Dirty Works are a 3 piece Southern Punk/Dirty Rock n Roll band out to take over the Goddamn World.
Frogwater Injection, the Band’s first E.P. came out in the fall of their first year and even though it was never officially released the band managed to sell over 400 copies of the CD.
Taking the show on the road almost immediately the Dirty Works made friends and fans all over the South and South East managing to create a Buzz around themselves.
At an especially chaotic show in a small town in TN the Dirty Works caught the eyes and ears of Atlanta Film Makers Worldstorm (Arts Lab) Productions. Long story made short, after following The Band to hell and back for over 2 years Worldstorm has a finished documentary on The Dirty Works titled Rebel Scum The Movie.
The bands first full length C.D. Biscuits and Liquor was independently released in the spring of 2006. Independent by choice as the guys stepped away from several Indie labels because of artistic differences. The Album, still selling has sold over 800 copies to date. Their next release is expected summer/fall of ‘08.
Rebel Scum The Movie is also expected for release in late ‘08 early ‘09
The Dirty Works, Piled in their totally rebuilt Ford Econoline aptly titled the Biscuit as it’s tan with Brown trim are hitting the Rd. again this march and will hopefully rumble into your city soon. If so, get out and see them, they’re definitely an act to catch!
The Dirty Works are
Steven Crime-Guitarist/Backing Vocals
B. Riot-Drums/Backing Vocals
Christopher Scum-Bass/Lead Vocals

Ryan McMahon grew up in Ladysmith, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, where he began playing in local bars on Vancouver Island at the age of 17, under the moniker “Citizen Strange.”

There, he befriended several promoters that allowed him opening support slots for bands coming through town such as Nickelback and Wide Mouth Mason, allowing him the opportunity to hone his craft alongside those already established.

In 2003, Ryan moved to Vancouver and began playing with two musicians who would become his best friends, Mike Rogerson (who produces all of Ryan’s material) and Dustin Young, both of whom still play guitars for him to this day. Together they formed the band, “Ryan McMahon & the Dirty Five,” along with drummer Jesse Smith and bassist Thomas Dowding, and the band toured throughout British Columbia and Alberta, but was never really afforded the opportunity to take it further.

Wanting change, and a more diversified sound, Ryan, Mike, and Dustin stuck together and headed to Baker Street Studios in North Vancouver, to begin work on what would become Ryan’s first solo album, “Better Days Gone By.” They recruited several friends throughout the music industry, including Hamish Thomson (the Hermit), Jon Frederiksen (the Hermit), Doug Elliott (the Odds), Pat Steward (Bryan Adams, Matthew Good, the Odds), Jesse Smith (Jeff Johnson, the Dirty Five), Thomas Dowding (the Dirty Five), and Craig Northey (the Odds).

The result? A 12-song rock n’roll roots album that showcases Ryan’s love for playing rough, honest music, which people of all walks can easily relate to.

With themes ranging from infidelities (“Liar”) to the music industry itself (“Song Says So”), “Better Days Gone By” is a well-rounded honest album that will surely communicate well in both the rock and acoustic formats.

Rye’s dynamic, genuine personality, combined with his unique emotional style will definitely offer fans of roots rock a true kindred spirit.

For a better tomorrow, vote Ryan McMahon.

Contact Information:
Geoff Goddard @ Fronstide Promotions - 604-648-2782
Ryan McMahon - 778-892-6974

www.ryanmcmahon.com
www.myspace.com/mcmahonryan

•  Like it lots
•  just found it again
•  This scratches my musical itch
•  A wonderful song!
•  Catchy

BIOGRAPHY

There was a house in Calgary with its own name, “Rock Central"... 1997…

It was an old house; however, for the individuals living there, it was affordable. Cheap living, more beer, music - it made sense. There were pimps and hookers outside. There were crack addicts. No one complained about anything though. There wasn’t any reason to.

The Dudes played loudly and endlessly in their filthy basement.

They were in close proximity to the infamous ‘Calgary Stampede Headquarters’. Customers attending the Rodeo would park in the streets, the back alleys, and on front lawns. The Dudes realized that for one day, they’d have an attentive audience for their four rock songs (or what they called ‘songs’).

They built a stage in their backyard, and they put on a Do-It-Yourself rock show. ‘Rock Central’ was, and continued to be a yearly event. People would enjoy free pancakes. They also brought beer.

Soon after putting on the first ‘Rock Central’ show, The Dudes became the ‘fill-in’ band for a nearby pub. They would play for a pitcher of beer as payment.

In the beginning, the band’s shows would closely resemble a circus. Rubber tire tubes were harnessed around each Dude, and fastened to wherever a screw could be drilled in. The members would lean forward at an impossible angle, and be sprung back, all while rocking out on whatever was awesome.

They also had a mascot. The ‘Dude Bomb’ wore a large blimp-like creation on his head. It was constructed out of left-over couch cushions, tape, and an orange blanket. The band had fully embraced the DIY entertainment of those that had inspired them, they had no limits.

With a growing indie fan base, The Dudes began recording on an old reel-to-reel. In 2001 the band released their first limited-press CD, titled ‘This Guy’s the Limit’. They achieved University Radio airplay.

They also realized that they had an extremely well-crafted songwriter in their midst. Dan Vacon, the lead guitar player began stepping-up to the plate – and local and national indie audiences began to notice the band.

The Dudes went through an array of drummers including the host of a day-time children’s show, a country troubadour, and a ‘prince of nacho chips’. The band finally settled with Scott Ross, who has done a great deal in developing the band’s current sound.

Soon the band found themselves chosen to share the stage with bands like mudhoney, 54-40, Joel Plaskett, The Supersuckers. They had success, and great possibilities were being presented to them.

In 2005 the band signed with Load Music, and up-and-coming player on the independent music scene. Russ Broom, a Juno-nominated producer, engineer and songwriter, was contacted, and the band launched into there most promising recording they’ve made to date.

Armed with their new CD, Titled ‘Brain Heart Guitar’, The Dudes are determined to inspire and uplift their fellow humans.

Though, before that ever happens, a name change took place. (extend).

The Dudes will do whatever they can to bring the music to the people, and they mean it, honestly and sincerely.

•  Slick!
•  Thanks to Stewie
•  Good Song: Perfect Summer Tune
•  Perfect Pop

The Legend Of
Brigantine Ghost

Take heed, my friends, and listen to my tale:
An epic story far greater than most
About a ship, the best to ever sail
A vessel legends call “Brigantine Ghost”

Aboard the Ghost there stood a stalwart man
Enrobed in pants so tight the ladies stared
The bass guitar, his trade, rested in hand
A noisy beast to hear if listeners dared

His name was Alex, so the story goes
Of Portuguese and famed Irish descent
His comrade on the ship, with ring’ed nose
An earnest lad from Eastern Orient

They called him Russell, drums were what he played
His style, beset with offbeat flair and grace,
Was made much sweeter when he had the aid
Of playing with his friend Alex on bass

A grand duet they made, this hardy troupe
A rhythm section contested by few
And yet they lacked the makings of a group
That they could proudly call a winning crew

And so the lads put out a worldwide call
Across the seas, blue and aquamarine
Searching every port, both great and small
For hands to man the Ghostly Brigantine

Among the multitude of volunteers
Who tried in vain to make it on the Ghost
The crew came to a conclusion quite clear:
That only two were fit to take the post

The first, a swarthy man with vast appeal
Whose home lay near the Adriatic Sea
His talent surpassed only by his zeal:
Fond of parties and female company

Yes, Boris was his name; he played guitar
His driving melodies fit faultlessly
Yet one man still remained, a rising star:
A dapper chap named Curtis was the key

A man of Scottish blood and English style
A first-rate singer, renowned from coast to coast
A fearless front man, ever versatile:
Curtis took lead aboard Brigantine Ghost

And so the ship was set; the band rejoiced
The perfect crew to sail the Ghost afar
Russell on drums, Curtis: the leading voice
Alex on bass, Boris with lead guitar

This driven band has fair reason to boast
For they are bound to surpass one and all
These four young lads they call “Brigantine Ghost”
Set sail to rock a port near you this fall.

~end~

The Legend Of
Brigantine Ghost

Take heed, my friends, and listen to my tale:
An epic story far greater than most
About a ship, the best to ever sail
A vessel legends call “Brigantine Ghost”

Aboard the Ghost there stood a stalwart man
Enrobed in pants so tight the ladies stared
The bass guitar, his trade, rested in hand
A noisy beast to hear if listeners dared

His name was Alex, so the story goes
Of Portuguese and famed Irish descent
His comrade on the ship, with ring’ed nose
An earnest lad from Eastern Orient

They called him Russell, drums were what he played
His style, beset with offbeat flair and grace,
Was made much sweeter when he had the aid
Of playing with his friend Alex on bass

A grand duet they made, this hardy troupe
A rhythm section contested by few
And yet they lacked the makings of a group
That they could proudly call a winning crew

And so the lads put out a worldwide call
Across the seas, blue and aquamarine
Searching every port, both great and small
For hands to man the Ghostly Brigantine

Among the multitude of volunteers
Who tried in vain to make it on the Ghost
The crew came to a conclusion quite clear:
That only two were fit to take the post

The first, a swarthy man with vast appeal
Whose home lay near the Adriatic Sea
His talent surpassed only by his zeal:
Fond of parties and female company

Yes, Boris was his name; he played guitar
His driving melodies fit faultlessly
Yet one man still remained, a rising star:
A dapper chap named Curtis was the key

A man of Scottish blood and English style
A first-rate singer, renowned from coast to coast
A fearless front man, ever versatile:
Curtis took lead aboard Brigantine Ghost

And so the ship was set; the band rejoiced
The perfect crew to sail the Ghost afar
Russell on drums, Curtis: the leading voice
Alex on bass, Boris with lead guitar

This driven band has fair reason to boast
For they are bound to surpass one and all
These four young lads they call “Brigantine Ghost”
Set sail to rock a port near you this fall.

~end~

It’s been a “Short And Sweet” 12 years since three barnyard hooligans known as the MCRACKINS were hatched onto the international punk scene with the release of their official debut full-length album “What Came First?” on Shredder Records in the U.S.A. Although many were at first skeptical of Vancouver, Canada’s mysterious and strange looking pop-punk trio, the 1995 album turned out to be a surprise hit from an unknown band who claimed to have been transformed from men to 2 eggs and a dog and given super pop-punk powers as the result of a freak nuclear accident. Since then, twin eggs Bil (guitar,vocals), Fil (bass) and dog Spot (drums) have continued to amaze, astound and win over music critics and fans alike while building a cult-like following around the world due to the prolific release of 11 great full-length albums,E.P’s, singles, and compilation cd’s too numerous to mention. All told over 100,000 in sales worldwide.

It is a well-known joke (or yolk if you will) that their discography reads like the rap sheet of a seasoned criminal, as they have had over 200 songs released by over 30 different record labels around the planet as approximately 70 separate releases. With sporadic touring throughout their native Canada and the U.S.A up until that point, 1996 saw the band take their hilarious and fun filled live show across the pond to Europe. Dubbed the “European Eggvasion”, the MCRACKINS destroyed 7 countries and even found time to record some live electric and acoustic sessions for the BBC. The years have also seen the band make a few music videos, which have received light to medium rotation on music channels in Canada, U.S.A and Europe, an appearance in a Molson Canadian beer television commercial, a cameo role in a feature motion picture “Downhill Willy”, and various television and radio features.

Although the band has been taking somewhat of a much-needed break from the recording studio over the last few years, they have decided to get “Back To The Crack” with a vengeance. In true MCRACKINS fashion, the band have been hard at work in the studio since October 2004 and have just finished what they have self described as a world class bubblepunk masterpiece of epic proportions. With over 14 months and countless hours invested in this opus, it promises to not disappoint. Their 12th cd which will be called “Bat Out Of Shell”, will be released worldwide later this year by the fine folks at Wynona Records, Italy and will contain 12 new ear buzzin toons with enough hooks and harmonies to make even Brian Wilson smile. A full European tour will follow in Jan/Feb 2007 in support. So “Get Crackin” the MCRACKINS are back!!!!!!!!!!

•  you guys rule

If you have been waiting for a sound that is innovative and eclectic (it’s soulful… it's jazzy...it's bluesy...it’s funky…), yet savvy enough to ride the waves of popular radio, look no further. This is a dynamic artist in touch with modern culture and carrying a message that is impacting those who encounter it.

The soulful sound of singer/songwriter/musician Greg Sczebel (“suh-bell”) is steadily capturing the attention of a wide range of music enthusiasts. From the moment you first hear the rhythms of his piano you will be intrigued. His talent is obvious...but then the vocals glide onto the scene and you see that there is more to this artist than just a good beat. His lyrics are intelligent, showing a mature depth, and he doesn’t sacrifice the musicality for catchy hooks. Greg is passionately committed to making good music.

And it's obvious others are catching on. He has been recognized for his outstanding talent as an artist, having been honored with many remarkable opportunities and awards. He has shared the stage with a variety of the entertainment industries’ top performers, including Grammy Award-Winning Producer, David Foster, jazz crooner, Michael Bublé, 6–time Juno Award Winner, Colin James - as well as Casting Crowns, Jars of Clay, Leigh Nash (of Sixpence None the Richer), Bebo Norman, Carolyn Arends, Out of Eden, Shawn McDonald and more.

The end of 2004 brought Sczebel a Canadian Urban Music Award nomination, four CGMA (Covenant Award) nominations, and ultimately two CGMA awards (‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ and ‘Rap/Hip-Hop/Dance Song of the Year’), as well as an Okanagan Musician Award for ‘Gospel Artist of the Year’ for the second year in a row.

In 2005 Sczebel continued to gain momentum by picking up a JUNO AWARD (Canada’s Grammy©) for his debut album “Here to Stay” in the category of ‘Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year.’ Shortly after, Sczebel was nominated for a grand total of five Shai (“shay”) Awards (Canada’s Gospel Music People’s Choice Awards) – ultimately taking home 3 of these - ‘Pop/Contemporary Album,’ ‘Urban/Soul Album’ and ‘Song of the Year’ for his single “In the Pocket”. In addition, Sczebel was a grand prize–winner in the international 2004 John Lennon Songwriting Competition, for his title track, “Here to Stay” and more recently was a finalist in the R & B category for the 2005 John Lennon Songwriting Competition for his song “You’ve Got It”.

At the close of 2005 Greg was also privileged to sign exclusive endorsement deals with both Audix Microphones and Yamaha USA Pianos & Keyboards.

And this is just the beginning of what is quickly becoming a well-established music career. But in spite of the acclaim, Sczebel still finds the most value in the personal connection between music fans and his songs. "To be validated by the awards and opportunities is always encouraging. The most exciting thing though, is hearing that my music is connecting with people. If I can continue creating music that impacts those who listen to it, I'd love to still be doing this 40 years from now." If the present is any indication to the future, Greg Sczebel is well on his way to reaching his goal.

Career Highlights:
-2006 International Songwriting Competition Finalist for the song, “In the Pocket”
-2006 Multiple performances at the 2006 Winter NAMM Show - Anaheim, CA
-2005 Signs exclusive endorsement deal with Yamaha USA Pianos & Keyboards
-2005 Signs exclusive endorsement deal with AUDIX USA Microphones
-2005 Guest performer on CMT Canada’s “Paul Brandt & Friends: A Rocky Mountain Christmas in Banff” TV Special
-2005 Extensive touring throughout Canada; 6-week cross-country tour in April/May
-2005 John Lennon International Songwriting Contest Finalist for the song, "You’ve Got It"; R & B Category
-2005 Western Canadian Music Award – “Outstanding Christian Recording”
-2005 Covenant Award – “Urban Song of the Year” for the song, “Everybody”
-2005 4 CGMA (Covenant Award) Nominations, including “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “Producer of the Year’
-2005 Juno Award - “Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year”
-2005 3 Shai Awards – “Song of the Year” for the song “In the Pocket”, “Pop/Contemporary Album”, “Urban/Soul Album”
-2005 Okanagan Musician Award – “Gospel Artist of the Year”
-2005 5 time SHAI Award Nominee, including “Artist of the Year”, “Song of the Year” and “Male Soloist of the Year”
-2004 John Lennon International Songwriting Contest Grand Prize Winner for the song, “Here to Stay”;
Gospel/Inspirational Category
-2004 “Here to Stay” charts as the #1 selling release by an independent artist to Canadian Christian retailers in 2004.
-2004 Title track, "Here to Stay" featured on episode of UPN's hit TV series "Kevin Hill", starring Taye Diggs
-2004 Reunites with Producer, David Foster to perform at Foster Foundation charity event
-2004 Canadian Urban Music Award Nominee - "Gospel Recording of the Year"
-2004 2 CGMA (Covenant) Awards - “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “Rap/Hip-Hop/Dance” ("Lights Are Comin' On")
-2004 4 CGMA (Covenant Award) Nominations
-2004 Re-records Bee Gees' hit, "Lonely Days" for major ad campaign by Lifetime Television, New York, NY
-2004 Winner, Okanagan Musician Award – “Gospel Artist of the Year”
-2004 Featured on Sonicbids compilation CD – Chosen out of 20,000 entries
-2003 Named “Best Emerging Artist” by VIBE Gospel Music
-2003 Gospel Music Association (GMA) Song Competition Regional Winner (for the song "Perhaps")
-2002 Performs with Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster as a winner in Foster’s BC -wide talent search

QUOTES:

PAUL BRANDT, AWARD WINNING COUNTRY RECORDING ARTIST
"Greg Sczebel is just one of those artists with "It". He's got that X-factor, that undefinable thing that you need to be a successful in this business. It's undeniable that God has gifted him with an incredible talent to communicate to people's hearts and minds through music. I'm glad I got to know him before the rest of the world discovers him, because someday I'll be able to brag about how I knew him before he became a superstar."

KEVIN EDELMAN, MUSIC SUPERVISOR - METALMAN MEDIA INC.
"Greg is an incredible talent. One of the best young artists I’ve heard. His style and voice are unique and inspiring."

CAROLYN ARENDS, DOVE AND SHAI AWARD WINNING SINGER/SONGWRITER
"Greg Sczebel floors me. He sings with "soul" in every sense of the word. He writes insanely hooky, deeply moving songs about important things. It’s tempting to use phrases like "Next Big Thing", but Greg Sczebel isn’t the next anything. He’s now, and his music is truly great."

DIONNE SMITH, PRESIDENT, VIBE GOSPEL MUSIC
"I do not hesitate in the least to suggest that Greg Sczebel, will not only be one of Canada’s future leading gospel artists, but that his impact will go far beyond our borders."

HEATHER CLARK, HEATHERCLARKBAND
"Greg is an extremely gifted vocalist with a great ability to write and arrange music. His devotion to his gift is strong and undivided. His musicality along with his ability to reach an audience makes him a pleasure to both listen to and experience."

JAYLENE JOHNSON, SINGER / SONGWRITER
"When Greg Sczebel plays, joy electric runs through the crowd. Here is someone who not only inspires with a fresh lyrical approach in his songwriting, but who can also deliver the goods vocally and instrumentally. Most engaging, however, is his unassuming and humble posture...here is one to watch and watch closely, because he is going to fly..."

•  Sing It Stevie Wonder!