End of the Year blog time

Yes we have reached the end of 2013!  With this being my last post of the year I wanted to take a minute to look back and reflect on the changes we have seen in music and then look to the future and give some predictions of what we might see in 2014.  So without further ado here we go:

In 2013 we saw turmoil and upheaval in the Underground music scene.  It has been one year since Twiztid left Psychopathic.  In that time we saw them release A New Nightmare, return to the Gathering as Guest performers, go on two tours in support of their last release on Psychopathic, Abominationz, and open a new web store.  While they have yet to release an official statement about their release the speculation behind A New Nightmare is that it tells their side without a statement being needed. 
  We also saw what many of us hope is not the future of Psychopathic Records.  In the past year the label has released the following albums: Legz Diamond 9 Pistolas, DJ Clay A World Upside Down, Big Hoodoo Crystal Skull, and Zug Izland Toxicology.  Those albums all fell way short of the expectations Juggalos had.  Legz and Hoodoo were both heavily co-written and influenced by Joe Bruce and that really hurt the albums.  Clay's album was good but nothing really outstanding.  And Zug's was not really promoted and I have yet to actually hear it.  We also saw them bounce every check they wrote for the Gathering and have yet to this day not paid those people.  I firmly believe that is why the Gathering is being moved, but I don't have any evidence of that so for now it is a theory.  We saw them let Blaze leave when his contract ended, send people on the road with limited funds and little to no promotion, and have lawsuits filed against them for sexual harassment and other charges.
  We saw the Kottonmouth Kings leave Suburban Noize Records and claim Kevin Zinger was ripping them off.  Since then we have seen hateful accusations in interviews on both sides.  We also watched Johnny Richter walk away from the Kottonmouth Kings after 18 years and go solo.  He released a solo EP called FreeKING Out on Suburban Noize Records and is preparing to release his next solo LP next year.
  The highlight of the Underground music scene this year was Strange Music.  In 2013 the label released ten albums.  Releases from Brotha Lynch Hung, Kutt Calhoun, CES Cru, Rittz, Wrekonize, Mayday, Tech N9ne, Stevie Stone, Krizz Kaliko, and Prozak.  All of those albums were expertly done and will not disappoint both mainstream and underground fans.  This label has shown themselves to be the cream of the crop.  They put out top notch music throughout the year and kept the fans eager to buy the next.  This is how it should be done.

Now lets leave the past behind us and look to the future.  I am going to break this section down per record label or group and then give you my thoughts on what I expect to happen.

  First lets look at Psychopathic Records.  The release of the Joker's Cards Box Set has been delayed from it's Dec 17, 2013 release date and there is no new date given.  The speculation is this was done due to immediate backlash when pics surfaced of the product itself.  We expect Anybody Killa "Shape Shifter", a new ICP EP, Mike E Clark, Vanilla Ice, and Axe Murder Boys "Garcia Brothers" to all be released in 2014 but no release dates have been given as of the date of this post.  We also will see the Gathering of the Juggalos change venues for the first time since 2007.  We still have no information on where it will be but there is plenty of speculation on the net. 
 Now here is what I think is going to happen with them this year:

1. The ABK, Vanilla Ice, and AMB releases will all be released and do horrible due to lack of promotion or they will not be released at all and delayed.
2.  ICP and Mike Clark will be released and hopefully live up to expectations although I am skeptical they will.
3. This will be on of the last years for the Gathering.  After the events that occurred last year I think they will have a difficult time finding groups to perform, sites for the event, and money to make it happen.
4. Finally I think we will see a large number of fans drop the hatchet.  I know I will get some hate for that prediction but we have already seen a lot of old school cats walk away.  Once Twiztid left there was a huge group of fans that lost all respect for Joe and Psychopathic Records.  I expect those trends to continue as long as mediocre albums are released and horrible business decisions are made.

Next lets see what Twiztid has in store for us.  They have announced that a new album is on the way.  It will be titled "The Moment You've All Been Waiting For." They have also announced that they would like to get more TV and movie opportunities.  So let me share what I think is going to happen with the demented Duo:

1. The new album will be released.  I think it will be the beginning of their rise in mainstream as well as cementing their legacy in the underground.
2. I think they will tour for a majority of the year again.  I also think they will make a trip out of the country if legal issues permit it (Canada and maybe Australia).
3. I think we will finally see the collab most Juggalos have been demanding, Eminem and Twiztid.  If it does happen you can count on this being the year of Twiztid.

Next lets look at KMK.  I think we will see KMK really disappear.  Once the "lawsuit" gets settled I think KMK will release a new album and possibly tour in support of the album but I do not see them climbing out of the hole that Daddy X has put them in.

Let now look at Suburban Noize Records.  I think we will see them bounce back from the lawsuit well.  Once the legal issues are cleared up we will see them sign at least 2-3 more acts.  I predict we will see Potluck release a successful album and tour in support of that album.  I think it will begin the rise of Subnoize back to a respectable label.  I do think Johnny Richter will release his next album on Subnoize and it will be a huge success.

Finally here is what I think we will see from Strange Music.  I think they will continue to put out solid releases from all of their artists.  I think they will once again hold the flame for the underground.  They will be the beacon for crossover fans.  Their label is going strong and I do not see that slowing down in 2014.

Now all of these things may or may not happen.  These are just my thoughts.  I can't tell you how much I appreciate you checking out my blog as often as you guys do.  I wish you all a a Happy New Year and want to thank you for your continued support!

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

Turmoil and changes

  Many long term established groups and record labels in the music business have begun to break apart this year.  We have seen Twiztid and Blaze leave Psychopathic Records, we are seeing the downfall of Psychopathic Records due to horrible business decisions, Daddy X and the Kottonmouth Kings leave Subnoize Records, and Johnny Richter leave the Kottonmouth Kings and release an album on Subnoize.  So why is this in my mind right now?  Well I got an email today and will be adding another interview to my 20 Min with.. series on Youtube with none other than Johnny Richter himself when he rolls through Tempe on Dec 15.  He did give an interview to Faygoluvers where he answered questions fans had submitted online and that cleared up a lot of his side of the story.  By doing my interview I can ask expanding questions to hopefully clarify more about that situation. 

  It is sad to me that all of these situations have to do with two things, power and money.  Let me make my points here before you guys hang me.

1. While Twiztid has been unable to say anything about why they left Psychopathic these themes seem to be universal in people that left the label.  Violent J is too controlling with production and all things involved with recording and performing, they wont pay any other act on the label what they are worth, and the only group getting 100% production and promotion time is ICP.  Violent J and Billy should have done everything to make Twiztid stay.  They should have promoted them better, gave them a bigger cut of the money off their albums, and made them bigger decision makers in the label.  But the money and power that those 2 guys couldn't let go helped make that decision easy for Jaime and Paul.  I think all of these things contributed to Twiztid deciding it was better to walk away.

2. Psychopathic's business decisions are killing the label.  We have seen them allow Twiztid leave when Twiztid was in my opinion the #1 group on the label.  They have stripped everything they built away from the "Family"  Violent J and Billy have made Psychopathic into a money machine that uses it's fans.  Sure we have seen in the past 3 different covers of albums (Melinko and Riddlebox), but those were made in small numbers and made to be a collectable for the fans.  Now we get 5 different versions of albums mass produced and each one has 1 or 2 new tracks to entice people to buy them.  Then about a year or so later they re-release the same 3-4 albums in a huge box set with another "version" to get people to buy another copy of all the albums.  In the past we saw them give away things to the fans, show love without buying the VIP pass for the shows, and basically present themselves as Juggalos themselves.  Now we see that was just a ruse to gain a huge ravenous fan base to use for profit.  They have become the big record label tycoons they told all of us they never would become.  Last year's Gathering saw them cut checks to vendors, police departments, and Hogrock that all haven't cleared.  I think this is why this year's Gathering is being moved to another place.  I predict in the next 5-7 years we will see the end of the label.

3. KMK split from Subnoize Records with Daddy X claiming that they were the first of many groups we would see leave Kevin Zinger due to his "Shady business tactics."  Since the split was released we have seen no other groups leaving the label.  On top of that we now have Johnny Richter leaving KMK and making another album with Zinger on Subnoize.  The more we hear Daddy X whine and complain the more their fans turn on the group.  We still don't have all the facts but it is becoming very clear that Daddy X is falling on the losing side of the debate.  I hope to be able to get some more clarification in the next week when I get a chance to talk with Richter and review his solo tour.

So as you can see all of these situations were because of shady business practices, refusal to give up power, or greed.  I will always be a Juggalo.  I will always love music and be willing to listen and review anything people send me.  I will always speak my mind and give a 100% honest opinion on the albums, situations, and other things in the business.  No one will ever make me tone down my honesty.  I hate coming on here and talking about negative things.  In this case I am so tired of seeing these great movements and groups dismantle and disappear while nobody is willing to stand up for the fans and say enough is enough.  We deserve a little consideration and respect.

Respect is something that is earned in this community and these things make all of us wanna walk away.  Truth is I considered it myself.  But I feel like fighting for this because it means that much to me.  I have nothing but clown love for all my Juggalos and Juggalettes.  I have mad respect for Twiztid, Johnny Richter, and Subnoize Records.

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

Peeling off the masks in the Underground

I don't think this blog will come as a surprise to most that frequent here. But in recent months, ever since Twiztid left Psychopathic Records, there have been numerous reports, interviews, emails, and lawsuits that are exposing a side of the label I think most of us didn't want to ever see. The side of the label that is focused on money, lust, and mob style tactics.

A report was released last week of a lawsuit from a former "in-house" legal Counsel/publicist claiming that many employees within Psychopathic Records engaged in prolonged sexual harassment, intimidation, and creating a hostile work environment. Having read the lawsuit here are the highlights:

1. She was consistently called a bitch by everyone around her including Billy.

2. She was consistently subject to unwanted sexual advances from Dirty Dan and others.

3. Sugar Slam created a hostile work environment due to her jealousy toward the woman suing them.

4. Dirty Dan gave a glass dildo upon finding out she had recently separated from her boyfriend.

5. She was asked to cover up wage issues being investigated by the US Labor board.

6. She was asked to act unethically in a legal capacity to cover up many things within the organization.

Now those are the major issues in the lawsuit. It is 17 pages long and filled with a ton of fluff such as "I was always being flirted with" type comments. But looking at those six issues I can say if they are true there is a serious issue within the label. Yet another sign things are sliding downhill quicker than anyone in Psychopathic wants to admit. Then a few days later it came out that many vendors from this year’s Gathering either hadn’t been paid or the checks they were given would not clear the bank. The total of those debts is around $300,000. Are we really seeing that Psychopathic is broke? Maybe or maybe not but either way it doesn't look good at this point.

So I log in today and see yet another story about the business dealings in the label in the form of two anonymous emails sent to testdummy22 from someone he says is in the inner circle of the label and a very reliable source. Those 2 emails state:

ANONYMOUS MESSAGE SENT TO: TestDummy 22 from ?????, (A EMPLOYEE AT PSYCHOPATHIC RECORDS, AND A VERY RELIABLE SORCE) TESTDUMMY 22 *Some of this e-mail was cut out to protect the identity of sender* I gotta be honest man, I'm deeply disapp...ointed in this company. I had hooked up with Mike Clark down in Detroit at the fowling warehouse. We had a long conversation that night about Psychopathic and at one point Mike was almost in tears telling me about how he believed they were brothers (Him,Joe and Joey) and when it came down to it Joe tossed their friendship in the trash and chose to steal millions of dollars from him. The money he was referring to was from the first 5 cards and associated Eps that he was was tricked into signing away all his publishing on. Fucking devastating right? What if you made millions and someone stole it from you? How would you feel? I was fucking floored that they would do that to him but it doesn't surprise me because its the music business and he was naive to the workings of the music business. They fucked Mike HARD and it hurt him, he's still bitter today make no mistake. The only reason he does shit with them anymore is because he has to make money and he loves the juggalos. At the GOTJ last year and he was literally sobbing because the potential for what this movement could have been in the hands of people who cared could have been massive. Mikes just going through the motions now, his heart is not with ICP anymore. Mike isn't a problem, he's fine the way he is, its everyone else thats the problem. I mean, Joe doesn't exactly pick Mikes best stuff and at the end of the day EVERYTHING you hear out of Psychopathic is a product of Joe Bruce is some way shape or form. Mike still makes great shit, but Joe don't know how to pick it and in my opinion he actually picks some of the worst beats I have ever heard regardless of who the producer is.

And:

ANONYMOUS MESSAGE SENT TO: TestDummy 22 from ?????, (A EMPLOYEE AT PSYCHOPATHIC RECORDS, AND A VERY RELIABLE SORCE) TESTDUMMY 22 Here's the reality of Psychopathic. It's not a business, its a hustle. ... I noticed Kuma is not really talked about in the juggalo community, First of all Kuma is Joe's bitch, I don't know if you know that or not? Kuma wears all hats at psychopathic and basically fails at all of them. When I first met Kuma I thought he was a super cool genuine dude and he had me believing that for the majority of my time at psychopathic,but as time went on and I started to question his abilities is when I started seeing a drastic change in his attitude towards me. Kuma is the source of all things generic at Psychopathic. He's the reason everything comes out like watered down cheap rip offs, he's the reason the informercials suck, he's responsible for the worst videos in ICP history and thats why Joe is using outside directors and producers now, i'm not just being a dick i'm being honest, Kuma is the source of suck but they refuse to fire him because he's loyal and he rides that dick HARD. Ok, so, Eric Heiden is the only special effects guy at psychopathic and he calls Kuma out on not being able to his job in front of Billy and Rob. Billy and Rob decide instead of firing Kuma they will remove him from the video department, fire me and stick him in the lotus pod. I honestly feel deep sorrow for the fans at this point because the future of this label is pretty much completely abandoned. It obvious they don't give a fuck and honestly Big Hoodoo is just a way for Joe to make himself feel better about Twiztid leaving the label, thats all. I wouldn't be surprised if he only lasted one or two records tops. You said it yourself, when were juggalos most happy? That was when ICP, Twiztid,Lotus,Blaze were rocking out. That will never happen again bro, it's over.

Now with that out there let me just say if the first email is true, which wouldn't surprise me, I am truly disappointed they would do Mike Clark like that. I do feel that Mike Clark supports the fans and has nothing but love for the movement. I also think that we are seeing that Violent J and Billy have a firm grip on everything and everyone under Psychopathic, they have given into greed and arrogance, and they have become everything they claim to despise in the business.

I think things like this point to more and more reasons why Twiztid walked away.  Although they are unable to say anything about their release publically I would not be surprised if once the timeframe of that silence is over we see the final pieces fall from the masks J and Billy have worn for so long.

I have long said that Alex leaving changed the entire dynamic of the label. It went from a movement that meant something to a gross exploitation of a dedicated and rabid fan base. I am going to get hate mail for this post and I expect it. Don't misunderstand me, I support ICP and all other artists on the label but I do not support the business tactics that Billy and Joe have instituted to make millions. I respect what they built, what they have done independently, and the movement they started. But having done business with certain members within the label I can attest that the mob tactics are used to get things out of people. Threats are made to ensure they make money even if they do nothing to earn or deserve that money. They will threaten not only the person they have the dispute with but also their wives, husbands, and children to get paid. The reason the FBI began to investigate them was extortion, wage payment issues, and illegal activities similar to street gangs. As long as they and their fans continue to act like thugs we will never shake this stigma.

I am saddened by the state of the record label. I am even more saddened by the fact Joe has become everything he hated. I sincerely hope He and Billy realize this is the wrong path to be on and can save what all of us have come to love. If not I know Twiztid, Strange, Mad Insanity and Subnoize are poised to take over the underground and make us proud.

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

2013 Gathering of the Juggalos thoughts

So the Gathering of the Juggalos went back “Underground” this year.  The event has been going on since Wed Aug 7 as people started lining up to get into the grounds.  Well on Monday Aug 5 there were several people who overdosed and had to be taken to the hospital; mind you this was before anyone was allowed to be there except the crew setting everything up!  Having gone to the event last year I saw more drugs available than anywhere else I have ever been.  This should have been a sign of things to come.  The apparent drug causing the problems is a designer drug called 25I.  The street name for the drug is N-Bomb, Smiles, and 25I.  It is similar to LSD in its effect on people. 

News breaks Friday that someone was found dead in their tent of apparent overdose.  The cause was initially reported as 25I but has also been reported as a Heroin overdose.  No matter what the cause this is absolutely horrible news.  Why you ask?  Well it is simple, the public at large is finding any way possible to label us delinquents and shut the Gathering down.  Drugs have expanded way out of control and last year I saw people who were obviously “professional” dealers who were only there to make money off dumb ass Juggalos who did not even remember their experience at the Gathering because they were wasted the entire time.  Drugs are out of control at this event.  Why is this important to me?  I GIVE A CRAP that’s why!  People need to go out there and enjoy themselves but this is getting ridiculous.  We have now lost Family because of this problem.  I suggest we as Family get this under control.  This is our Mecca (as Violent J said today). 

Now the other huge news everyone was waiting for was promised by Violent J to be “The biggest news we have ever released in our career!” and we were promised this life changing news at the seminar today.  Let’s briefly go over what they released at the seminar:

·         Juggalos at the Gathering are the most elite Juggalos on the planet!

·         ICP considers the Gathering the mecca of Juggalo-ism

• He gives us the epitome of news in the Juggalo world
• Psychopathic is resuming the Mighty Death Pop tour right after J’s knee surgery
• Tour will include Denver, Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Florida, Texas; Last show of the tour will be Hallowicked
• November dates for the tour in Australia
• ICP theater has 8 episodes (3 of which have aired so far).  If ratings are good, they will get 25 more episodes for season 2!
• They are starting the 3rd Joker’s card of the new deck after Hallowicked!
• Planning of the 3rd card will be more precise
• It will be available on CD!  The rumor that it would only be on digital is “straight bullshit”
• He said the difference between a physical copy of the album and a digital copy is like the difference between porn and a real neden!
• They are bringing back Psychopathic Radio after the Gathering!
• Shaggy is off probation (finally!) so they will be touring in Canada!
• On Juggalo day, they will be performing the Great Milenko in its entirety! It will be available on iPPV, and may not be in Detroit!  More Joker’s cards shows are in the works!
• Violent JJ made 3 beats (beatboxing) and they will release it on the Internet
• 6th Joker’s card box set is ready to go!
• Violent J confirmed that Blaze ya Dead Homie did officially leave
• Psychopathic isn’t trying to replace anyone who left, just trying to leave a legacy of great artists!
• They want to do more concept music like Wizard of the Hood or solo albums like Shaggy’s Fuck the Fuck Off
• They said that Twiztid told Psychopathic they were leaving via text message
• They then announced that Axe Murder Boyz and Boondox  are officially back on the label!
• Everyone was handed a ticket before the seminar started, without knowing what it was about.  They then started talking about the  Chronicles of the Dark Carnival series that was filmed for SyFy years ago.
• They said that the end product they got back had a “little twinge of suck”.  Jumpsteady said it was SO BAD that it came full circle and ended up being entertaining again!
• They said it would ONLY be available for Juggalos who were in attendance at this year’s Gathering!

Now with that in mind what could possibly have been the huge earth shattering news? 

ICP is touring Australia? 

AMB and Boondox have resigned with Psychopathic?

Blaze leaving the label?

Are any of those the Biggest news ever?   NO.  So I take this list of news as just that, news.  ICP once again pulled the wool over Juggalos eyes to sell tickets and get people in the door.  As I have discussed before ICP is all about the bottom line.  They don’t care about the Family any more.  They knew the lineup this year, while great underground acts were on the set list, was not enough to sell enough tickets.  So J tells us all they are going to drop devastating, huge, Juggalo world changing news.  And we get nothing.  Then we are told there is a mystery seminar after ICP that I think everyone including me thought would be Twiztid.  Nope Twiztid and Blaze bounced and the seminar became AMB and Boondox.  Don’t get me wrong Boondox dropping some good news that I am pumped about but really why not give Twiztid a seminar? 

How many times are we going to see the fan base abused by this label and do nothing about it.  When Twiztid left I didn’t want to “take sides” and I still support the music Psychopathic, Twiztid and Blaze put out there.  I think J and Shaggy need to seriously look at what has happened.  Alex left and it has been a steady decline into money and ego. 

People will read this and some will agree while others disagree.  I will take heat for saying these things but I know people out there who view it the same way (testdummy22 and I see eye to eye on a lot) and that is ok.  I have opinions and so does everyone else.  The one thing about me that never changes (whether it is CD reviews, Event reviews, my blog and opinions, or anything else I do) is that I am honest and will say what I believe to be the truth. 

I still rep the hatchet and will always support the underground movement.  This years Gathering has shown me that the Mecca for the Family is on life support.  Attendance was down, we had a death, and we saw a glimmer of hope that things were ok with the ending of the Lotus set (which quickly went away when J told the family Twiztid left via text. That was a low blow if you ask me), and the police getting a “financial” advance from the “organizers” (Psychopathic) which let them buy new equipment for the force.

I love my Family and hate to feel like this whole movement has been shifted in the wrong direction.  I hope things will change and we will see Juggalos return and rebuild what has been lost.  I hate to say I feel that movement is now with Twiztid but that is how I see it. 

Let’s hear your opinions people, I welcome everyone’s thoughts!

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

The more you know

  Wow has it been a month already?!  I know I have been super busy but heck I have had a ton to blog about, especially with the events happening in the underground.  Here is a quick list of topics I am going to give some thoughts on!

1. KMK vs Subnoize
2. The Gathering of the Juggalos 2013
3. Breaking the fourth wall and getting to know artists/rappers personally

So lets get at it!

A lot has been said back and forth between KMK and Zinger of Subnoize Records.  My take is this, what happens between them is really not important to fans of the label or music.  The only thing affected by all of this is who is involved in business at Subnoize and what label pays KMK.  The music is still going to be released by both entities.  Various Subnoize artists might jump ship if Daddy X does not manage to get the label and forms his own, then again they might not.  This is yet another camp diving into chaos.  A few years ago the top labels in the underground were Psychopathic and Subnoize.  Now they are both in a free fall due to internal conflict and Strange has quietly taken the top spot.  I know there are those of you who would disagree but I guess it is all a matter of opinion and since this is my blog that is my opinion!  I will continue to buy KMK albums, review KMK albums, and support their music.  I will also continue to support Subnoize and any artists associated there.  I have friends on both sides of this argument and respect everyone involved for their contributions to our music genre as a whole.  If you were a KMK fan before this stuff, you should be a fan after, period.

This years Gathering of the Juggalos has been dubbed "Rise of the Underground". I have no issue with Psychopathic giving love and some spotlight to Underground artists as long as their intention is just that.  I think Kung Fu Vampire deserves to have a slot on the main stage along with several other big names in the Underground.  But my fear is that the shift in focus is due to Psychopathic saving money either but cutting corners and not trying to get big name artists (Ice Cube, Ice T, etc) or no big name artists being willing to show some love.  As we have seen in the past few years big name artists get booked and just fail to show.  I hope it is just that, a fear of mine.  I do think Psychopathic should spotlight more Underground artists but I do feel there is a place for a few big names on the bill too.  I hope to be able to attend the Gathering again this year and hope it is as fresh as it was last year.  I would also like to see more Family love.  Last year the golf carts were rarely seen and when they were the main guys (ICP, Twiztid) were not on em.  I saw ABK, Chop, and a few other but the big guys stayed hidden away.  Maybe I just missed em I am not sure.  So that is my take on the Gathering this year.

Now with both of those topics out there let me say the past year and a half has been very eye opening to me.  I have had the oppotunity to do some great interviews for Faygoluvers and meet a lot of good guy and bad guys in the business.  That is when I discovered that breaking that fourth wall is a blessing and a curse.  Now I am not going to name people who I love as artists but really have grown to dislike as people but I will give you all a glimpse at artists who say they support the family and actually are good people on and off stage.  The first guy I can say is a down to Earth dude is Bukshot.  I contacted him about a collab for my guys in Black Project and he was nothing but professional.  We talk often and I consider him a friend in business and life.  He has nothing but respect from me.  Another is Kung Fu Vampire.  I have met and talked with him quite a bit and he is always down to chop it up.  Respect is definitely earned by me as well.  Potluck, cool dudes who always have love for the Juggalos and have earned my respect on many levels.  Liquid Assassin, great guy and I hope to work with him in the future.  Mr. Grey, met him at the KFV show in Mesa, cool dude and definitely talented.  Mars, some people hate him and some people like him, my interactions with him have been all on the positive.  He sat down for my very first interview and has done several collabs with my guys.  I consider all of these guys my friends as they have always held themselves to a higher standard and make me appreciate this business.  Now on the other side there are guys I have met and they all seem dope at first but as I have gotten to know them and how they do business I realize they are self centered, egotistical jerks who will only be cool with you as long as you can do something for them.  Unfortunately there are a ton of them in the business and they make me question being involved at all.  Luckily the guys who I mention first have made it all worth while. 

As a fan I had respect for many artists and as a reported/reviewer/interviewer I have lost respect for some.  I guess that is the real pitfall of being involved beyond the fan level.  Do I regret it, hell no!  I love what I do.  I love listening and reviewing everything submitted to me by artists and Scottie D.  I have nothing but love and respect for all artists out there grinding on a daily.  I hope to continue to provide this blog, Faygoluvers, and other media outlets positive vibes on the Family and movement.  Most of all I appreciate everyone who comes here and checks out my brain droppings and then goes over the Faygoluvers and hits up my reviews.  I have Much Family Love for life.

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

14th Annual Gathering of the Juggalos

So the 14th Annual Gathering of the Juggalos tickets went on sale today.  In looking at the costs several things came to mind.  Holy crap that is expensive and what is going to draw the Family this years.  So let's take my reaction to each individually.  I will give my experience from last years gathering in my analysis.

Here is the info directly from the most recent Hatchet Herald:

Running from February 1st until March 1st, when you purchase your Ticket from juggalogathering.com for $175 you will receive a free exclusive Gathering of the Juggalos t-shirt! That freshness can actually be seen in the picture above. This t-shirt combo will only run in the first month for the early bird ticket buyers. If you wait until after March 1st to get your ticket it will still be $175 but no t-shirt freshness. A ticket to The Gathering of the Juggalos will get you free parking in the parking lot outside of the grounds and access into The Hatchet Landings. This includes all the shows, all the concerts, all the madness, and free camping!

This was my personal experience last year with this package.  We got into the parking lot fairly quickly.  Then we realized we had to pack all our gear into Hatchet Landings, with out a cart of some kind this took us about 9 trips and a ton of lifting and hauling.  Had we known this we might have put out the $$ for a car pass.

Next is the car pass option.  Here is what it includes besides the ticket and entry:
Car Passes are available for $100. While there is free parking for everyone at The Gathering of the Juggalos outside of the grounds, if you would like to bring your vehicle into The Hatchet Landings then you will need to purchase a Car Pass.
      As a side note, once your vehicle is parked at your campsite that is where it has to stay. For the safety of your fellow ‘Los and ‘Lettes you CAN’T drive around the grounds of The Juggalo Gathering unless it is an emergency situation. This is simply so you can have the convenience of having your car at your campsite and camp out in it if you want.

So with this option and an extra $100 you get the pleasure of not hauling your gear by foot and having more security for you things (a few people got caught stealing last year).  I think $100 is excessive though.

Then we get to those who want to bring in RV's:

If you’re looking to bring in something bigger than a vehicle, an RV or a trailer, then the RV Pass for $150 is for you. It gives you the same sort of access as a Car Pass, but for a larger class vehicle. Same as before, when you park your RV or trailer at your campsite, that’s where it has to stay until you’re ready to pack up and leave The Gathering.

So $50 more on top of the car pass for a larger space.  I saw a lot of RV's getting tagged and damaged.  Nothing extra with it.

Finally they offer Big Ballas campsites:

Finally, for everyone who wants the top dog experience at The Gathering of the Juggalos we suggest the Big Ballas Campsites. The Big Ballas Campsites are a designated area for you to camp that will include an electrical outlet and a water source for your convenience. A Big Ballas Campsite will run you $400. These spaces are limited and there hasn’t been a year of the Gathering when they haven’t sold out quick as shit. So, we suggest if you’re even remotely interested with goin’ in on this site with your homies that you pool your cheddar and get to gettin’ before they’re gone.

This is the most expensive and really only adds water and electric to your rv spot.  So for $400 you get an RV slot with utilities.  Thats it.  Last year many of the Ballas sites had a ton of issues with the utilities and I would say this option is not worth the money for that reason alone.  All of the last three options do not include your ticket so that makes the total cost this:

Camping no car: $175 and a lot of footwork
Car Camping: $275
RV Camping: $325
Big Ballas: $575

Now keep in mind that none of these include the gas and food money.  You are welcome to cook at your campsite but last year if you sold food to fam at a discount so they would'nt have to pay the $7-9 for a plate you were told to stop or be kicked out of the Gathering.  The vendors at the Gathering know this and charge way to much for food, ie a slice of pizza $5.  Then we get to the merch tent.  The first day the lines are insane but the deals are pretty good.  Then after that it is back to the same as buying on Hatchetgear minus shipping.  So at least they didn't raise prices there.

Now on to my second reaction, what is going to draw the Family to the event.  All the years we have had seminars from ICP, Twiztid, Blaze, ABK, etc.  This year will Twiztid be allowed that courtesy?  Perfromances have always had Twiztid headline a night.  Will they get that this year?  Will they even be at the Gathering?  I would say yes to being there but I don't know to anything else.  I guess as the lineup is announced we will see what Psychopathic will pull out of their hat. 

Please don't misunderstand, I went last year and had an absolutely kick ass time.  It was an experience I will never forget.  But that being said, Psychopathic has gotten greedy and forgotten what brought them to the dance, The Family.  In the beginning the Gathering was our yearly release and while it cost a little bit it didn't put us in debt.  I can't tell you how many Los and Lettes I saw on the way out last year with signs asking for rides to all over the US because they had spent their last dollar just to get there.  More and more people snuck in last year than ever before.  Why?  Simple most of us do not have $600-1000 to blow on the Gathering.  I hate that Psychopathic has become this way.  I love the music and principals we stand for but hate seeing the exploitation of the fans.  Twiztid left and has since stood up and reclaimed the Family.  All of their shows still have the magic.  They preach the principals I stand for.

Anyway that is my take on the big announcement today.

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

Congratulations is needed

  This past Tuesday night on Psychopathic radio there was a show called Sugar Slams Demo Jams.  Wicked Butterfly's own Draztik the Terrible had submitted a CD of his music to the show in hopes they would play some of it on air.  He received a call Tuesday they would indeed be playing one of his tracks that night!  Little did he know it was part of a track battle.  As if that wasn't pressure enough it was entered in the Semi-Pro category!  Now for those who don't know Draztik has been writing for just over 2 years but only in the studio recording since January of this year, so this was a huge deal.  His expectations were not to high but none the less he was honored just to be on Psychopathic Radio!  His competitor was a rapper named Dirt, a rapper out of Pennsylvania who has been making music for 7 years, and who released his first CD in 2012.  Both tracks were played and the in studio crew gave their predictions, all but 2 picked Dirt to win.  But the audience around the world had different ideas and Draztik absolutely crushed Dirt!  He won the battle and in the process won himself 2 tickets to this years Gathering of the Juggalos!  So you all can look for Draztik the Terrible and his manager, me Juggalotus, at this years Gathering of the Juggalos!  How is that for huge news this week!!
  All I can say is that last year I never would have imagined doing anything in music, let alone being the manager for Draztik, Black Project Productions, and Sikone.  So congratulations is due to Draztik for his huge win on Tuesday night!  He was the first artist I agreed to manage but definitely not the only!  Much love to my entire crew for their hard work and hustle. 

MMFWFL,

Juggalotus

2012 Hatchet Attacks in Farmington, NM

  So this weekend was the 4^th annual Hatchet Attacks show.  It came to Farmington, NM this year and I was lucky enough to not only be in attendance with my son for his first show but was able to take part in the setup of the show itself.  So for those that follow my blog here is everything that I saw happen at the show!

  We left our home in Clovis, NM and started our 8 hour drive across the state to Farmington, NM on Thursday.  We got in about 2 am and along the way we found plenty of Family headed to the show as well.  Friday morning we got up and went to the venue about 12 to start working with the road crew setting up everything in the venue.  When we got there the venue was completely empty.  Throughout the day we move a ton of equipment including the stage, sound and light equipment, wrestling ring, Faygo,  etc.  I worked about 13 hours that day and at the end of the day I was completely exhausted.  But the stage was setup, the lighting was done, and most of the cables were in place.  The next day we arrived at about 10 am and went to work putting the finishing touches on everything.  Throughout the day we encountered many of our favs from Psychopathic including Billy and DJ Clay.  I can say from that experience that DJ Clay is a cool dude.  He was down to earth and didn’t avoid talking to any of us.  We had a little break and then 3 pm rolled around and the doors officially opened.  There ended up being about 6800 Juggalos and Juggalettes in the crowd so the show was the largest I have ever been a part of.

  At 4 pm JCW took center stage.  There were 5 matches in total.  Here is how it broke down:

- Ryda Red, Ryda Blue and Zack Gowen defeated The Freak Squad (Dom, GQ & Joey) via pin
- The Weedman defeated Officer Colt Cabana via pin
- The Necro Butcher defeated Shawn Daivari via pin
- J.W.O. (Kevin Nash & Sean Waltman w/Scott Hall) defeated The Headbangers (Mosh & Thrasher) via pin
- 2 Tuff Tony defeated Kongo Kong via pin to become the new JCW Heavyweight Champion

All of the matches were hype and they put on a great show.  Congrats to 2 Tuff Tony for being the new JCW Champion!

  After that the ring was removed and the show was about to begin.  DJ Clay was on the tables and hosting the show.  First up was Cold 187.  This was my first time to see him or hear his flavor of music.  He put it down for West Coast Gansta rap.  Since I grew up listening to that genre of the music I had a ton of respect for that guy.  He had a section of his show which was a memorial to all of the fallen West Coast rappers in the game.  He started with a cover of Boyz in the Hood by Eazy-E and ended with a combination of Tupac and Nate Dogg.  It was completely West Coast and I absolutely loved it.  After his set DJ Clay gave him a shout out and asked the Juggalos to give him another round of applause to which they booed him, which I thought was pretty shitty considering it was something new and it seemed like most really didn’t give it a chance.

  Next up was Anybody Killa.  His set was hella long and covered everything from his catalog of music.  He killed it as usual and left Juggalos seething for more.  Then came Blaze Ya dead Homie.  He brought that Detroit Gansta shit to New Mexico like never before.  He did all the favorites from Crypt Keeper to Dub Sack.  Toward the end of his set he did a track I had never heard before and can only assume is a new track from him.  It was good and was all about what he would do for a forty.  Then it was time for one of the favorites, Twiztid!  When they came out Madrox was sporting a blond Mohawk and Mono had the many tiny braids.  This should come as no surprise to anyone but they killed it!  They performed most of the favorites we have all come to know and love.  They didn’t do any new material but the energy they had on stage was unmatched all night.

  Finally it was time for the clowns, ICP!  The stage was set and the family was ready to explode.  They hit the stage with Mike E. Clark and blew the roof off of the venue.  Faygo was flying and the dirt floor slowly became a nasty mix of dirt, cow shit, and faygo.  They performed everything from Assassins to the dating game.  Then we all got a taste of the forthcoming Mighty Death Pop.  The track was really hype and I am looking forward to the album which is going to be released on 8-14-2012 at the Gathering of the Juggalos.  In the end Faygo Armageddon hit Farmington and my son was finally indoctrinated into the family.  We were front and center and I can say we both left totally soaked and sticky, and of course I wouldn’t want it any other way. 

  All in all the trip was worth the time and effort.  I got to take part in a ton of stuff most of us never get to see.  If you missed it this year I would suggest you don’t next year.  It was one of the best shows I have been to.  DJ Clay gets my respect for being the host and DJ for the entire 8 hours of music and mayhem.  To all of the fam that was in attendance it should stand as a testament to the family love.  I saw a lot of old school Juggalos there and the vibe made me remember why I love being a part of this family.  There were only 22 arrests mostly for being drunk and disorderly and fighting.  I saw juggalos picking up fallen los in the pit and making sure no one was injured there. 

  This blog is known as Juggalo support because we as a community need to support one another.  In a previous post I covered why I love being a Juggalo.  In some downer news one of our own was on his way home and got jumped by 14 young “juggalos”.  I think this kind of crap needs to stop.  The movement is about family love.  The longer I have been a part of it the more I see young Juggalos acting stupid.  Now not all of the new generation is like that but there has been a large number who have given new los and lettes a real bad name.  Let’s stop family in fighting and start showing the love again.  And for any young new gen Juggalos that were at the show remember that is what it is all about.

MMFWCL,

  Juggalotus

Low Down and Dirty Tour Review

So Sunday night we went to Lubbock, TX to see Boondox and Mars on the Low Down and Dirty tour!  It was me, my wife, one of her friends and my homies Jay, Draztik, Cosmo (I will explain his name in a second), and T.  We left around noon and were surprised when we got there and not too many people were around, it was about 3 pm.  We went inside Jakes to relax and get a few drinks.  Here is where cosmo gets his name, he introduced himself to me as dizzle, but the first drink he ordered was a Vodka/Cranberry.  When the drink arrived and was PINK looking like a cosmo his name was official.  He is a young 21 and we had to break him into more manly drinks after this.  The BS came in a few minutes later when the bartender began passing up Juggalos who wanted drinks and no waitresses would come to our side of the bar.  We kinda made a fuss and Draz talked to the manager and got it straightened out.  We finally get into Jake's Backroom where the show is going to be around 7ish.

  The first group out of the box was Multiple Personality Disorder.  I didn't much like their set but other people did.  Then a few other local groups came up and did about 15 min each, I can't really remember the names so I guess that explains what I thought of them.  During the second to last opener, Claas, I noticed Mars come into the room.  I hit him up because we had an interview scheduled at the show (review for that is coming on the blog soon.  I am cleaning up the audio and getting a transcript ready), he said to get with him after his set and we would be good to go.  The last opener before Mars was a group called Wicked Ways.  They were really good.  They started their show and then the black lights kicked on revealing Glow in the Dark paint, it was pretty sweet!  They did about 20 min and then it was time for Mars.

  Mars went on stage and absoultely killed it!  He did a ton of old songs and a few new ones.  He did his things for about 20 minutes and then turned the stage over to Cousin Cleetus.  Cleetus did amazing!  I only got to see the beginning of his set and then I had to go interview Mars.  From what I was told Cousin Cleetus announced his affiliation with Psychopathic as official, although I will wait for word from the label on that.

  I was able to interview mars for about 40 minutes.  He was super cool and down to earth.  He freely answered all of my questions and I am stoked to be able to get that interview online ASAP!  Draztik also was able to talk with him about a possible collab (but that is purely specualtion at this point, nothing official).

  Then it was time for the Skarcrow himself, Boondox.  He hit the stage and blew back every wig in the audience.  My boy T had his PSychopathic concert cherry popped, and lets just say he was loving life.  Boondox tore the stage with a huge selection from his discography and even dropped some new sounds on us, let's just say I can't wait for a new Boondox Album!  He hit all the classics like Seven, Toast to the Family, Freak Bitch, Color you dead, and so many more.  He truely stood alone as the Psychopathic killa that night. 

  So I wake up today and find out that the next stop on their tour was in Albuquerque and one of the opening acts jumped Cousin Cleetus 4 on 1.  No explaination other than shouting 505 and then throwing down.  He is fine and the tour rolls on.  Boondox seems quite pissed and I would hate to see what happens to the guys that did that crap.  So that is the stale news.  The hype news i s that the tour still has a ton of stops and encourage all Juggalo/Juggalettes to get your butts to the tour.  Whatever the ticket price it will be worth it.

  That's all I got right now.  But keep your eyes peeled on the blog for the interview coming with Mars.  I will do my best to get it up before next week.


MMMFWCL,
  Juggalotus

First ever CD review Twiztid Cryptic Collection Vol. 4

So here is something new from me an actual review of a newly released CD from Psychopathic Records.  I chose Twiztid's newest release Cryptic Collection Vol 4!  Here is how I am going to do this, I am going to go track by track giving my thoughts and then a short ending with my overall opinion with a score out of 10.  I plan to go back over all the releases this year and also include my review of the American Psycho tour cd.  So here we go:

Twiztid Cryptic Collection 4 Track List:

Lil Poot & Big Stank - Majik Majik Ninja- Nice way to open a cd.  Not to deep just Twiatid having fun in the studio.

Lil Poot & Big Stank - Big Money- Instant classic.  They made Big Money Hustlas and this track is no different.  Very humor filled.

My Addiction - with Mike E. Clark- Origionally on Psychopathics from outer space 3.  Great song.  A look inside the minds of the demented duo.  Add in Mike E Clark and what else could you need.

Need Some Help - with Mike E. Clark, Prozak, Tech N9ne, Krizz Kaliko- This is off the Fright Fest 05 CD.  Anything Twiztid does with Tech N9ne is devistating.  Love the track.

Speculationz - with E40- Track off the Green Book.  Not one of my favorites but still a good track

Gimme More - with ICP- First new track on this CD.  Nice track.  It is always good when the two groups team up.  Different styles of course but a nice addition.  I absolutely love the music and slow flow of this song.

Hell On Earth- Off the End of Days EP.  Great song.  A lot more Rock and metal than most Twiztid tracks but still not completely out of the scope of what they normally do.

Wild Out- Second new track this time with ROC.  Great combo.  HOK in the house on this one. 

Hold On To Me- Another End of Days tour CD pick here.  Nice song and with the Scarcrow on it it is nothing less than awesome.

Yuwannahoe- From Psychopathics from outer space part 2.  Interesting thing here is that even though Esham still does the intro he has been removed from the track.  I know they have had beef and I guess it is understandable.

Monster Inside - with Prozak- Prozak adds a nice touch here.  I like how Twiztid can rap on almost any beat.  Weird chorus but very eerie.

Wake Up - with ABK and The ROC-  From the Fright Fest 03 EP. Along the same lines as other Twiztid tracks.  Sounds like something cut from The Green Book.

If They Don't Come For Me- Slower beat.  Nice track that I have not ever heard before.

Hell Ride - with Violent J- Off the End of Days EP.  Awesome track.  Very dark sound.

Prey For Us- Fast tempo but still Twiztid.

Zombie- Ready for the Zombie Apocolypse?  This song is all about it.  Once again sounds like a song that belongs on The Green Book.

Moonlight- One of the more skitzo tracks on the album.  Great verses and very slow chorus.

  All in all this is one of the better compilation cd's they have put out.  There were enough new tracks to be worth the money.  I am a fan of actually buying the cd to support the artists so I don't download tracks.  Twiztid has made a very nice effort to give you a lot of music for the money.  If you love Twiztid you will love the cd.  If you have never heard them before check it out you wont be disappointed.

Album rating: 8.5 of 10

  I have more reviews coming so let me know if you like it or what you would like to see change.

MMFWCL,
  Juggalotus

Esham's rant on Psychopathic

  So today while checking out Faygoluvers I watched a video posted by Esham on Youtube that gives his side of why he left Psychopathic.  In this video he gives derogatory statements about the entire Psychopathic family.  How much of the video is based on fact is debateable.  So here is the video in question:




  So my feelings are this.  While watching the video I found myself questioning Esham and his motives.  He comes across like he is bitching about something and has no facts to back it up.  He makes claims of pedophilia, homosexuality, and shady money dealings.  He seems like he is a boyfriend/girlfriend who is complaining because they were hurt personally in a business dealing.  Now I know the rap game is a mix of both and there is always some reason to "beef" with someone else.  While I respect Esham as an origionator of the genre this video really hurts his credibilty.  To me Psychopathic reached out to him, due to his influence on their music, at a time when he had become irrelevent in the genre.  He was past his prime and I truely feel he used ICP and Psychopathic records to increase his fanbase.  I know the Family and know this post will kill what Juggalos and Juggalettes he has left as fans.  He does say he loves Juggalos, but in ripping Psychopathic he is not going to keep us around.

  I truely love the family and this movement.  While I have yet to read Psychopathic records official response, I do hope they will pass it off and let it go.  We as Juggalo/Juggalettes need to make sure we do not jump to conclusions.  We do not know both sides of the story and we don't know how much of the video is true.  From what I know about the music and company an official response is forthcoming, no guarantee that is going to happen.

MMFCL,
  Juggalotus