Candy Coated and Explosive: Tommy London’s New Single “Sugar Red” Debuts!

Posted on by Jay

LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD HERE

In the final days of 2017, I kept seeing everyone on my social media feeds post their favorite movies of 2017. Now that’s a lot of f’n people. On Twitter alone, I follow literally thousands of actual real, non-robot accounts. Every day, I swiped by another Top 10 Movies of 2017 list. I toyed with the idea of being a basic bitch and posting my own, but instead, my brain trained in another direction.

I wondered why I hadn’t seen any Top 10 lists of music from 2017? I’m sure there were a million lists like that posted by social media users all over the world, just none that I came across. I started to really think about what music came out not only in 2017, but in the last couple of years. Did any song or album have enough of an impact on me that would’ve inspired me to compile a “best of” list? It’s pretty sad, but I’m sitting here so hard pressed to come up with even a few albums or songs that I absolutely loved in the last couple of years. I sure as hell can’t give you my Top 10 Albums or singles of 2017. 2018 on the other hand seems to have already turned the corner on two wheels!

To estimate, I’d say more than half of you think I’m absolutely crazy while the others are still listening to the Mega-Mutant-Monster-Meltdown-Mix CD they made for their car in 2002. It was killer then, probably still killer now. I don’t judge you. Either way, for both sides, I submit to you that popular music is in dire need of one of those legendary nights out…you know, the kind where you don’t get home until 6 AM and there’s a whole Mac makeup counters worth of lipstick on varying parts of your body. Don’t remember much, but at this point, who cares – it was a blast. Sometimes you need that kind of night, one that you hope never ends. The music blasting on the car stereo the whole time, in some kind of old Mustang, (probably stolen of course) is by Tommy London.

This brings me to a brand new song called “Sugar Red,” the debut single from Tommy London.

I hit play and the atmospheric, punchy build-up brought to mind AC/DC’s “TNT.” That intro sucked me right in and there was no turning back. I felt like I was flying down the highway with this baby blasting. London’s melodic vocals compare to the best solo stuff from David Lee Roth, think “Just Like Paradise.” F*ck I really dig this.

It’s infectious. Producer John Fields helped provide a retro fabric with flashes of nostalgic pop, yet it packs enough power for fans of harder edged music. It’s easy to pick up on the swagger of Tommy’s former band The Dirty Pearls, while new elements are infused flawlessly. Perhaps unintentionally, there’s even a bit of a “Blue Orchid” (The White Stripes) feel to it. Influences aside, this track is amped up and in a lean and mean 3 minutes, it single handedly resuscitated my favorite genre of music.

This is arena rock at it’s best. “Sugar Red,” is perfectly orchestrated for the crowd to clap along to its thunderous beat. It indulged the spirit of a kid like me who grew up with infectious pop, rock, hip-hop, and metal. From my own personal musical background, the songs I loved most growing up made me want to go wild, not get all mopey and introspective. We’re firing on all cylinders with this one and I can’t stop listening.

Tommy London is a magnetic guy, the cool one. If you can imagine combining the DNA of Danny Zuko, James Dean, and Arthur Fonzarelli with the musical stylings of Roth-era VH and Jesse and The Rippers, that’s him. It may sound convoluted, but I know you’re picking up what I’m laying down. With a description like that you might think he’s destined for the cover of Tiger Beat, but think more along the lines of Rolling Stone.

What I liked most about listening to “Sugar Red,” was that it made me want to get into some trouble. That kind of misbehavin’ needs a soundtrack. It’s been a while since I’ve heard new music with that vibe. The song wears it’s influences like patches and pins all over its denim vest. Infusing a cross section of party rock and roll, Tommy London and fellow writer and guitarist Matt Hogan have whipped up a tasty jam, the rock music personification of a sweet Cherry Slurpee spiked with your favorite liquor and a few surprise Red Hots at the bottom of the cup. As an introduction of what’s to come from Tommy London, “Sugar Red,” is quite a tease that’ll leave you wanting the rest of the album jammed into your earholes ASAP. BTW, I just started compiling my Top 10 Songs of 2018 list and “Sugar Red” is right on top.

The Dirty Pearls at The Brighton Bar in Long Branch, NJ

Posted on by sexyarmpit
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCyWZUz6vJw?rel=0]

My blogging time has dwindled as of late, so this recap should’ve been posted weeks ago, but it’s here now! Get ready to watch, listen, and read about The Dirty Pearls show at The Brighton Bar in Long Branch, NJ on April 11th, 2015. After their upcoming show at The Viper Room in West Hollywood on May 23rd, it’s onto their BIG New York City concert, Saturday June 20th! Tickets are available now.

The show at the Brighton Bar was basically a warm up for the band. When you’re prepping for a workout, you might want to stretch first so you don’t pull a muscle. Some people choose to contort themselves, others jog in place. Occasionally, you’ll see some crazy bastards doing thousands of jumping jacks. That’s all good if you’re exercising, but what if you’re a rock band preparing for a bunch of concerts in support of your new music? You can do all the vocal exercises you want, but you better be on point when you come to New Jersey. In this case, the crew from the lower east side of New York City, The Dirty Pearls, brought their A-game to The Brighton Bar  – no arm circles necessary.

Evaluating a band like The Dirty Pearls, who are constantly running on all cylinders, they don’t need much of a warm up. Just give ’em a stage to play on and they’ll blow the audience away, which is precisely what they did at The Brighton Bar.

On our way to the show, I realized that I hadn’t been to The Brighton Bar in about 10 or 11 years. This fact was shocking to me, and after the night was through, I already wanted to go back because it’s such an awesome place to see a show. The layout is perfect for seeing bands and the bar made me want to plant myself next to it for a few hours. I felt at ease there which is rare for me since I’d rather watch the concert via my couch at home.

Back to the DP concert!

These guys are always on, and I have no idea how they do it. Their fuel may very well be “Caffeine and Gasoline,” which happens to be one of their most potent tracks, one that will get you energized before you can even reach over and crack open that Red Bull to get you through the night. Naturally, it was included in their set list, among many of their other staple tracks, like their opener, “Whether You Like it or Not,” followed by “Bring on the Night,” “Sucker for a Sequel,” and sending it home with their signature anthem “New York City is a Drug.”
I always try to seize the opportunity to check out one of my favorite bands, The Dirty Pearls, when they’re playing merely miles away from my house. It was all the more awesome since they debuted some brand new tracks, some were never performed live previously! 
If you checked out My Top 6 Favorite Dirty Pearls Songs, you know that “Dynamite” made the list, and sure enough, they played it at the Brighton Bar! After talking with the band, that song will likely appear on their next release, along with the other tracks they premiered that night including, “Boom Boom Boom,” “Who Will Save Rock and Roll?” and “We Don’t Need Your Kind.” These new tunes planted a pop-rock punch while maintaining the booze splashed punk edge and Lower East Side attitude of their previous work. 
Smashing the kit and spinning his sticks, Mr. Marty E. looked like he was having a blast as he always is. That dude has fun whether he’s at a real estate seminar or rocking out on stage. Frontman Tommy London interacted with the crowd throughout their set. Always entertaining, London bestowed us with his definitive David Coverdale impression and even made a Friendster reference. Not many lead singers of rock and roll bands are gonna be making references to ancient social media sites, but leave it to Tommy! Along with telling amusing anecdotes about some of their popular tracks, he broke into a homage to Billy Idol with a bit of “Rebel Yell,” and also dedicated a cover of “Sheena is a Punk Rocker” to New York’s beloved Ramones.
This was merely an appetizer prior to their big New York City show at the Gramercy Theater on June 20th. Tickets are on sale NOW! GO HERE FOR MORE INFO!
www.SexyArmpit.com

My Top 6 Favorite Dirty Pearls Songs

Posted on by sexyarmpit
photo dirtypearlslogo.jpg

The Dirty Pearls are one of my favorite rock bands…ever. For me to put a band in such a prestigious category is a testament to just how damn good they are. About 8 or 9 years ago they began to pump blood into the New York City rock scene. Their kickass songs, showmanship, and rock and roll attitude elevate them from an independent band driven for success into what I consider legendary. If it sounds like I’m embellishing, I’m not. These guys have been friends of mine for many years and I’ve simultaneously been one of their biggest supporters from the very early days.

The Dirty Pearls flawlessly incorporate sleek guitar riffs and headbanging drums with pop hooks and serve it all up on a grand scale. Every time I witness them on stage it’s as if they are a masterful arena rock band who skipped a grade. To top it off they pull a Springsteen and refuse to leave the stage until you are 100% in awe.

Although they are primarily known for their NYC shows, once in a while, they’ve thrown New Jersey a bone. Over the years, they’ve played down the shore in Asbury Park at The Saint, The Stone Pony, and The Wonder Bar, and even up in North Jersey at the Wellmont Theatre in Montclair. They’ve opened for KISS, and so many other giant acts, but their New York City shows are iconic.

In this post I’ll describe songs that I have memories attached to and that’s a lot to say for a modern, independent band. It’s easy to claim to have awesome memories of songs from bands you grew up listening to or discovered in your teenage years because they’ve lasted a lifetime. Those songs may have gone from the mix tape you used to play in your Walkman, to the mix CD you blasted in your car, to the iPod playlist you listened to while sharing earbuds with your favorite girl (or guy!) The impact that the ‘Pearls have had on myself and their fans is thanks to their tireless commitment to their music, and their fans. They perform unforgettable concerts and have created moments that will last a lifetime. Check this out, here’s one that I was front and center for. It was when the ‘Pearls and DMC joined together on stage for “Walk This Way.” It was insane. The place went nuts, the floor was literally shaking.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FtDIIvMwY4?rel=0]

These guys are amazing songwriters. It’s not often that modern bands get truly get commended for their songwriting abilities, but the ‘Pearls are an exception. What makes their tracks so original is that  it’s not easy to pinpoint exactly the influences because they love it all. The entire band are music fiends. You can’t call them a “junior” version of any previous band. The Dirty Pearls songs flawlessly intertwine their passion for the music they love and the music they want to hear which equates to truly original rock/pop tracks for this generation. I connect with these songs. All of The Dirty Pearls songs are staples on my iPod, but here are 6 of my absolute favorite tracks from The Dirty Pearls. 
6. “Sucker for a Sequel” The Dirty Pearls EP

There are 2 versions of this song. My preference is for the early version from the The Dirty Pearls first EP, not only because it was the one that I listened to for a long time before their full length debut album was released, but also because only some of the tweaks that were made in the latter version were better than the original. After speaking to frontman Tommy London about it, much of the changes were influenced by their debut album producer, David Kahne, but he won a Grammy so I digress.

The original version is some badass bombastic bluesy bar rock, you might pick out an early Aerosmith vibe and some booze fueled sleaze in the vein of Faster Pussycat. There’s also a brilliant breakdown that calms the mood only to leave you primed for the chorus again. The newer version, still great, lacks the natural flow of the predecessor and has a noticeable pop sheen, which is never a bad thing, but the irony here is that this song is actually a sequel to their song about being suckers for a sequel. If you understand that, then great, either way, I’m still a sucker for the original!

5. “Gimme Gimme” – The Dirty Pearls Volume 2 EP

This “oldie” from the band didn’t make the cut on their debut, Whether You Like It Or Not, but it still embodies the type of party rock with a punk streak that will blow you away at a Dirty Pearls show. This one will have your fist in the air and ready to rock out.

4. “Dynamite” – Unreleased (…so far!)

Not sure if frontman Tommy London will get mad at me for even writing about this, but they played this track at the Stone Pony back in May 2013 and I have no idea if it will surface on their upcoming sophomore full length album, but I’m really hoping it does. I recorded the song at the Pony so I’ve been able to hear the live version often, but for the masses, I’d love if you could hear a studio version! It’s a simple, energetic, hard rocking pop gem with a dash of the ’80s. Imagine a harder rock version of The Romantics if they were produced by Ric Ocasek. The result is nothing less than “Dynamite.” With the refrain “…Your love is like dynamite,” this one is sure to be the soundtrack to think about your crush, if it surfaces.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EOnzc0QgPA?rel=0]

3. “Who’s Comin Back to Who” from Whether You Like it or Not

Much of Whether You Like It Or Not was pop influenced, and I’m so on board with the pop/rock marriage, especially when The Dirty Pearls are delivering the vows. Infectious vocal harmonies, giant drums from Mary E., an insane guitar solo, and a phenomenal breakdown beat will make you clap your ass off. And a fun fact for ya: I WAS IN THE F’N VIDEO! It doesn’t get much cooler than that shit. It’s the unnominated winner of Best Video at the MTV VMAS in 2011. It’s such a kickass video directed by my friend, Jersey guy, and Starkiller lead singer, Jasin Cadic, check it out above. Finding me in the video is like Where’s Waldo. To read more about my experience in the video read this.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEgbn_OZJ9Y?rel=0]


2. “Static” from Whether You Like it or Not

The video for this song was directed by Matt Weckel and filmed with an Xbox Kinect! It’s one of the coolest videos since The White Stripes were big. The sick visuals merge perfectly with this track that’s a pounding pop rock assault with some sick grooves. Put this on when you’re alone and you’ll be singing and dancing in front of your mirror like a silly asshole in no time. I know from experience.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjH_Ik4nLIw?rel=0]


1. “New York City Is a Drug” – Whether You Like it or Not

This one was originally a single released to iTunes, but was a no brainer to be included on their debut album since it captures the essence of the band. I’d say it’s gospel that this is The Dirty Pearls signature track and there’s probably not too much debate on that. Although, with two EPs, a debut album, and another whopper of an album on the way, I bet they have a couple of other classics up their sleeve.

Take Sinatra for instance, sang about New York City. Old Blue Eyes was from Hoboken, just a short swim across the river, but still, Hoboken wasn’t the pounding heart of the world. Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind” is bar none unbeatable, but it’s not inspiring any headbanging as far as I know, unless you do some serious audio editing. That brings me to KISS. They sang about Detroit, but they were from New York City, so go figure. Thanks to The ‘Pearls, we have our quintessential rock tribute to NYC. This atmospheric track will make you envision all that late night debauchery in the lower east side of Manhattan, but with a bit of drama and bombast.

This song hits home to so many people, you may not be one of them yet if you aren’t familiar with the band, but you will be soon. It’s dedicated the downtown New York scene, it’s for the crew of people at the bars who love to party, it’s for the crew at Jerome’s, it’s for their fans, the late nights, the fun, the booze etc, and conversely it’s not only for New Yorkers, it’s for anyone who loves and thrives off being with their crew on their own stomping grounds. Hell, if there was anything cool to do in New Jersey, this track would’ve inspired me to write a song about my exploits, but in the meantime I’ll just continue to live vicariously through The Dirty Pearls enjoy
The sentiments in this song and leaving a Dirty Pearls show always leave me feeling high on life. Or maybe it’s just the vitality of New York City? Sure I’m all about New Jersey, but they’re singing about a metropolis that looms over my town merely miles away in the distance – New York City is where it all goes down.

The rest of my favorites list includes tracks like “Caffeine and Gasoline,” “Whether You Like it or Not,” “Bring on the Night,” and “Love Sick Love.” Get their track on iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud, and their videos are on YouTube. Click Here for their official site!

The Dirty Pearls are LIVE! Tonight at the Brighton Bar in Long Branch, NJ

www.SexyArmpit.com

WIN Tickets for Barnstorming The Bowery in NYC!

Posted on by sexyarmpit
 
Barnstorming the Bowery is not just a concert, it’s really more of a music festival taking place on August 21st and it’s sure to be equally as entertaining as the name sounds. This jam packed night of music spawned from an innovative idea pulling together 7 local bands to make up one mammoth night in downtown New York City! On deck for this rock and roll party: The Dirty Pearls, Ten Ton Mojo, Mother, Killcode, J and the 9s, The Liza Colby Sound, and The Threads!

*What makes this show different? A lottery will take place throughout the night to determine the lineup of bands taking the stage! That’s some exciting shit right there! Who’s on first? I’m on the edge of my seat already! This approach adds an element of intrigue that you won’t get at any other concert!

This summer, why waste your time taking your significant other to the boardwalk to play a silly wheel game just to win a giant box of gum that’ll just lose its flavor in under a minute? Take your shot at winning tickets to Barnstorming the Bowery – right here…NOW!

WIN 2 tickets to see this massive merger of bands right here from The Sexy Armpit!

Contest Rules: 

All you have to do is correctly match each band to their song! It’s that simple. Send your answers to sexyarmpit@comcast.net and include your full name and the subject BOWERY. All correct answers will be pooled and a winner will be chosen at random. Winner will be notified by e-mail. Contest ends on 8/1 so get those answers in!

For more info and to purchase tickets head over to Ticketmaster:

August 21, 2014
Doors open at 7PM, show starts at 8PM
The Bowery Ballroom
6 Delancy St.
New York, NY

www.SexyArmpit.com

The Dirty Pearls Cover Springsteen’s “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” at Holiday Show

Posted on by sexyarmpit
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAEbHc6t1kw?rel=0]

Last night The Dirty Pearls began their holiday celebration early. And they didn’t do it alone. As they headlined Irving Plaza in New York City for the first time, they were joined by a packed house of their loyal fans. They threw in a few new songs, many of which they’ve played in concerts previously, but what’s a holiday concert without a Christmas song?

The ‘Pearls pounded their hits out to the audience as if it was a good ol’ fashioned Scut Farcus beat down session. They didn’t chintz out one bit as they included all the tracks they’re known for including “Who’s Coming Back To Who,” “Static,” and their big one “New York City Is a Drug.” Toward the middle of “Sucker for a Sequel,” they tore into an awesome break down which featured Tommy Mokas literally shredding his guitar while going back and forth with Tommy London and special guest Brian Newman on trumpet.

After blasting through a speeding bullet of a set, the gang, also known as The Rivington Rebels, departed the stage. Nobody in the audience moved a muscle because they knew there was a gift in store. Personally, I was positive the band would perform a Christmas tune, but which one? Would it be the rocking “Run, Run, Rudolph,” or the often covered by rock bands “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)?” Ultimately, their selection was a true gift, especially for me!

Personality plus drummer Mr. Marty E. asked the crowd if they wanted to hear more. Judging by the shrieks and applause, obviously they did! The band returned to the stage. When amped up front man Tommy London began hinting at a Christmas song, my mind started running through all the possibilities. I hoped it wasn’t just a quick bar of “Frosty the Snowman,” as a joke.

I was enthralled when guitarist Sunny Climbs started into the opening notes of Springsteen’s CLASSIC version of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” The Dirty Pearls made this song their own by adding their own rock edge while still remaining true to The Boss’ version. With little nods to the original, this was truly a phenomenal surprise gift for their fans! Of course, I loved it even more since Springsteen’s Christmas songs are legendary around these parts.

www.SexyArmpit.com

WIN TICKETS TO THE DIRTY PEARLS HOLIDAY CONCERT IN NYC!

Posted on by sexyarmpit

We’ve got a bit of a dilemma. It’s not a bad one, in fact it’s a pretty rock and roll sort of dilemma. Our friends, the New York City rockers The Dirty Pearls, called Sludgey and I backstage to help them sort this all out for them. What’s the problem? Well, their awesome fans have sent them 5 wrapped gifts for the holidays, but we don’t know what band member gets which gift because they aren’t labeled! Luckily, I used my x-ray sunglasses to see what’s inside the boxes, now all I need you to do is help me figure out what member of the band gets each gift!

The Dirty Pearls and The Sexy Armpit present…
the Whose Gift Is Going To Who? Contest
WINNER WILL RECEIVE TICKETS TO THE DIRTY PEARLS HUGE HOLIDAY SHOW!
On Saturday 12/21/13 the winner will be heading to IRVING PLAZA in New York City to see The Dirty Pearls with special guest Brian Newman and featuring Marco With Love, Ten Ton Mojo, The Bone Chimes, Breedlove, and DJ Ian Eldorado.

All you have to do is match up The Dirty Pearls band member with the gift they would want and send your answers to sexyarmpit@comcast.net with the subject DP GIFT by 12/10/13:

For example if you think Tommy wants a new Guns and Roses album then type 
1. E and if Sunny wants a box of condoms then write 4. D, you get the picture.
ALL CORRECT ENTRIES WILL BE POOLED AND A WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM!

CONTEST ENDS ON 12/10/13 !

Don’t forget to match ALL 5 of the band members!
www.SexyArmpit.com

The Dirty Pearls Scavenger Hunt

Posted on by sexyarmpit

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnDoy6yGIaw?rel=0]

Fans of NYC rockers The Dirty Pearls have the chance to win tickets to see their next live show on 12/9 at The Gramercy Theater! Watch the video above for “Who’s Coming Back To Who?” (look for the Where’s Waldo style cameos by The Sexy Armpit) which will help you answer the questions below. Only the real fans of The Dirty Pearls will be able to get the answers to these! Winner will be chosen on 11/16.

E-mail your answers to sexyarmpit@comcast.net

Questions:
1. What exact time does lead actor Jasin Cadic meet and shake hands with Kelle Calco?
2. How many bottles are on the coffee table?
3. What color is the phone that Breedlove is on?
4. Which shoulder does Tommy London have his dead Elvis tattoo on?
5. How many times does lead actor Jasin Cadic tap Jeanine Moss on her shoulder to get her attention?
6. What exact time does Brian Newman put out his cigarette?
7. Who ended up coming back to who?

www.SexyArmpit.com