Four Years and Beyond

Last Saturday night we celebrated our fourth anniversary by hosting a party at Zeke's Rock and Roll BBQ in Ferndale. The killer lineup included Cheapshow, Young Hunger, Dirtwolf, Tart, and Ancient Language. For five dollars attendees got in the door and were entered to win one of 25 prize packs full of assorted items form some of the local companies that we love. The night was filled with great bands, cold beer, the faint smell of BBQ and a room full of amazing people. Some people say that you can judge someone on the company that they keep. If that's true, Saturday night reminded us that we are in some very good company.

Detroit has changed A LOT over the last four years. Bands have come  and gone, a booming gourmet restaurant scene has been birthed, and an amazing art scene has taken over and inspired more creatives to migrate here. There is always something new to write about every single week. We look forward to seeing what lays ahead!

For the next year we plan to dig deeper, expand our reach, and see what kinds of new adventures we can take you on. We also promise to get back to the basics. We will be making more videos, doing more interviews and conducting even more ticket giveaways. We will keep our ears to the ground and continue to bring you all things Detroit.

We would also like to take a second to thank all the companies that were part of this years bash:
Black Iris Booking, The Crofoot, Royal Oak Music Theatre, AEG Live Midwest, Camera Jesus, B. Nektar Meadery, AE Heating & Cooling, Suck It Suicide, Saffron, Incognito Inc, Brightlytwisted, Biker Bob's Harley-Davidson, Live Nation Detroit, Alley & Eye, Party Store Productions, 1592,J. Navarro & the Traitors, Gold Crayon, Blumz... by JRDesigns, Floral and Event Professionals, Ironclad Tattoo Co., PRTY Crew Collective, Dick Guitar Picks, Schwartz Therapy + Wellness, P.C., Lost Highway, Jett Plastic Recordings, Tequila Cabresto, Salon Noir, Elphie Elora: Purveyor of Fine Goods, Rocket Printing, Zander Michigan, Public House, Imperial,Dick Guitar Picks, Beggars, M-1 Studios and Studio 30 Nails!

The swag that they donate makes the evening a lot more fun for everyone. We love giving out the gifts and it seems like all of you enjoyed winning them. We would also like to thank all of the bands who played, we encourage you to check them out and follow them. They rule. We would like to give a quick shout out to Zeke's for letting us pack the place and handling it so gracefully. And finally, we would like to thank Acronym for capturing some great shots of the night so that we could kick back and relax and enjoy the show!

CHEERS TO FOUR YEARS, KEEP IT HIP!

~S

Trust the Shooter at The Inner State Gallery

This Friday, March 4th Inner State Gallery will open its next exhibit called Trust the Shooter, This show was curated by Jeremy Deputat and Rick Williams. It will feature a collective of different established photographers, including Brian Willette, Camera Jesus, Cole Younger, Insighting, Jason Peterson, Jayscale, Jeremy Deputat, Pete Williams, Misshattan, Rick Williams, Ta-ku, Steve Sweatpants and Van Styles.

We are personally excited to see that Camera Jesus aka Joe Gall is part of this run. He is one of our all time favorite artists and we cannot wait to check out his print in the show! No one takes pictures like Joe! You can see all of his work and purchase his prints here.

Photo "Flocka" by Camera Jesus 

Each of the aforementioned artists will show a single 20 x 30 inch print. These prints will be available for purchase, the first ten will be signed and numbered by the artists. The prints will also be available online after the show.

In addition to the opening, Jeremy and Rick will be hosting a Q & A from 5-7 p.m. before the show opening which runs from 7 p.m. to Midnight on the 4th. This gallery will be showing at The Inner State from March 4th through April 3rd. Visit the galleries website here for hours.

~S

Win Tickets to see Blessthefall at St.Andrew's Hall

This Wednesday, March 2nd a solid lineup of metal bands will be taking the stage at St. Andrew's  Hall in Detroit. The lineup includes blessthefall, Miss May I, The Plot In You, Sirens & Sailors and A WAR WITHIN.

Blessthefall is currently on tour in support of their 5th full length album called To Those Left Behind. You can purchase their latest album here.

The supporting lineup for this show is pretty solid. All of the bands they are on tour with have made a pretty big name on their own, so this lineup kind of feels like the metal lovers dream.

Tickets for the show are $18 in advance and they can be purchased here. We also have one pair of tickets to give away to the show courtesy of the kids over at Live Nation. If you would like to enter to win a pair of tickets, please email us at hipindetroit@gmail.com with Blessthefall in the subject line and your full name in the body. We will draw one lucky winner the day before the show and we will email them details on how to claim their prize!

~S

Cientell Makes Music To Make You Dance

For the last few years we have been closely following the musical career of Tunde Olaniran. He has become a force to be reckoned with, on a local and national level. His records are flawless and his live shows are legendary. Whenever he takes the stage he is dressed to the nines and has two well trained dancers by his side. One of the ladies by his side is Cientell.

Cientell is the kind of person you cant take your eyes off of, she commands that stage and mesmerizes you with her moves. She has been a big part of Tunde's live shows for years and she is bar far my favorite dancer. But, she is much more than a side act and she is ready to take her turn at being the main attraction.

Cientell is also a solo artist who recently released a new music video for her latest single "Phenomenal".  This isn't her first music video either, you can check out more of her work here. We reached out to her to ask her a little more about herself and find out more about her music. Check out the video to get a feel for her sound and then check out our first solo interview with her!
HID- How old were you when you started dancing
C- "Wow, so long ago! I started dancing at 10. The kids at school and I used to come up with dance routines during lunch time. Training at different studios were in college were the beginning stages of my profession."

HID- When and where did you meet Tunde?
C- "In 2012, I was hired to dance for Tunde Olaniran and he was one of the first professional artists I started performing with. I was introduced to him through another dancer in Detroit. This will be going on 4 years working with Tunde. He's very humble and talented."

HID- When did you start writing and recording your own music?
C- "I always had a passion for writing ever since 3rd grade but was introduced to songwriting about 3 years ago. My grandmother inspired me to pursue music, which led me to writing songs with other artists. My first record Baddest Chick was released in 2014 on iTunes."

HID- Tell us a little about your compilation of music so far, how do you describe your sound and vibe as an artist?
C- "My music is all about love, rhythm and motivation, if that makes sense. I love to motivate others to enjoy life, stay true to oneself while dancing to my beats! My foundation is built on dance so every listener will feel intrigued to move fasho!"

HID- Do you plan to tour or play live shows?
C- "One of my main goals is to stay an independent artist and pack out shows. A good friend of mine once told me, "if you keep your shows full of dancing, you would have everyone coming to see you!" To tour the country and do live shows is definitely a yes!"

HID- Who shot all of these videos? Do you come up with the concepts yourself?
C- "I have had the pleasure of working with some talented videographers and I must say, we have come up with some cool concepts. When it comes to creative control, I love to collaborate with the film crew to make it unified. A few have been solely my concepts being used, but that's only a few though!"

HID- What does 2016 look like for you?
C- "This year has been amazing so far and it hasn't been 6 months yet. I'm definitely focusing on more artist collaborations, building a bigger fan base and releasing new music!"

HID - Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
C- "My lifestyle brand CienCity represents who I am and I'm always looking for sponsorship's for merchandising. I'm into giving away cool stuff for my fan base. Everyone can visit the site - CienCity.com and subscribe to the mailing list. There's music, videos and photos of my work as well!"

~S 

Destroy this Place Playing Back to Back Michigan Shows this Wekend

This weekend Destroy this Place is playing back to back shows in Michigan with two solid lineups this weekend.

First, they will kick off the weekend at Cafe Ollie in Ypsilanti, Michigan.  Friday nights show will feature performances by Undesirable People. Mini Horse and Congress, It's only $5 dollars to get in the door and doors open at 8 p.m.

The following night DTP will once again be performing with Undesirable people but this time Braidedveins and Haunted House will round out the lineup. Tickets are also $5 dollars for this show and doors are at 8 p.m.  

Braidedveins, Undesirable People and Ryan Allen from DTP also recently reamed up to put out a complication called Not Safe to Drink.  The compilation includes over 50+ bands and 100% of the proceeds will go to Flint Michigan. Other artists include Tunde Olaniran, The Suicide Machines. The Swellers and Craig Owens.  You can check that out and purchase a copy of it here. 

Good dudes, good bands, good music good times! 

~S 

Library Collective Group Show Featuring Ryan McGinness, REVOK, Shepard Fairey, Cleon Patterson & More Opening This Saturday

The Library Street Collective hasn't had a bad show yet, each opening is somehow better than the last. This Saturday they will unveil their latest collection of pieces and this gallery may be bigger and better than all the rest. The latest opening features a collective of amazing artists, including some of the amazing people that have showed at the space throughout the last year. The lineup of talent includes Adrian Falkner, AJ Fosik, Cleon Peterson, Faile, Hacer, Kelsey Brookes, Mars-1, POSE, REVOK, Ryan McGinness, Sam Friedman, Shepard Fairey and Swoon.

Sheppard Fairey also announced that 20% of his sales from this particular gallery will go towards Caliber Foundation in Connecticut, which funds gun buyback programs in cities across the country.

This weekends artist reception will take place from 7 p.m. 'til 9 p.m. this Saturday. The Library Street Collective is located at 1260 Library Street in Detroit, MI.

~S

Win Tickets to the SOLD OUT Where's The Band? Tour

This Friday, February 26th Fusion Shows is bringing another awesome show to The Loving Touch. It's being called the "Where's The Band?" tour and it features some of the best musicians of our generation playing solo sets. The lineup includes Chris Conley (of Saves The Day), Dan Andriano (of Alkaline Trio), Matt Pryor (of The Get Up Kids), Anthony Raneri (of Bayside) and Andy Jackson (of Hot Rod Circuit). One of these musicians on their own would be great enough, but put all five of them in one place and we guarantee it will be outstanding!

With those five names on the bill, it should be no surprise that this show is already sold out. But, thanks to our amazingly awesome friends at Fusion Shows we are still getting one person in to this show with a friend for FREE! If you would like to win a pair of tickets to this completely SOLD OUT show, please email your name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with #SoldOut in the subject line. Then keep your fingers crossed until we email you details on how to claim your prize.

All ages are welcome to enter this contest and to attend the show. Doors are set to open at 8 p.m. The Loving Touch is located at 22634 Woodward Ave. in Ferndale.

~C

Win Tickets to See Goatwhore at Small's

If you're in the mood for a great metal show, look no further than Small's this Friday night. Inside their doors Goatwhore will be hitting the stage. Black Iris Booking is bringing this band to town and they will be playing alongside Detroit's own FELL RUIN, Shit Life and Cacophonous Incantation. To get a feel for what this band is all about, check out the music video for their track "Baring Teeth For Revolt" below.

Tickets for Friday's show are only $13 in advance and they can be purchased here. The day of the show, the price will go up to $15. Thanks to our good friends at BIB we are also giving away a pair of tickets to this show! If you would like to see Goatwhore with a friend for FREE, just send your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with Goatwhore in the subject line. We will draw our lucky winner the morning of the show and will send them details on how to claim their prizes. 

All ages are welcome to attend this show and doors are set to open at 8 p.m.

~C

Win Tickets to the SOLD OUT Wolfmother Show!

Australian rockers Wolfmother just released a new album and they are currently out on the road promoting it. The album is entitled Victorius and it's the fourth studio release for the band. The album is available for purchase here, you can stream it on Spotify, or check out a couple tracks from Billboard here. The band also recently released a music video for the title track off the album, take a minute to watch it below.

This Friday, February 26th Wolfmother will be hitting the stage at St. Andrew's Hall with Deap Valley and Detroit's own Dirtwolf will be playing the after party downstairs at The Shelter. (You can also see Dirtwolf on Saturday at our 4th Anniversary show). Tickets for the Wolfmother show are already sold out, but thanks to our friends at Live Nation Detroit we are still giving away one pair of tickets to this show! If you would like to enter to win FREE tickets to this SOLD OUT Wolfmother show, please send your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with Wolfmother in the subject line. We will draw our lucky winner the morning of the show and will send them details on how to claim their prize. Good luck! 

~C

Catching Up with Coheed & Cambria Before they Play ROMT

This Thursday, February 25th Coheed and Cambria will be hitting the stage at Royal Oak Music Theatre. The band just got back to the US after touring Europe and the UK for a few weeks. Now they are out on the road with Glassjaw, I the Mighty and Silver Snakes. The tour is in support of their latest release The Color Before the Sun, which came out last October. This album is a little different for the band because it strays away from the concept that all of their previous albums have followed, but it still has the band's same iconic sound that fans love. You can check it out here. 

Before Coheed & Cambria head to town this week we had the chance to chat with guitarist and founding member Travis Stever via email. Check out what he had to say below. 

HID- You guys just got back from Europe for the first leg of The Color Before the Sun tour. How did it go? Were there any cities that stuck out from the rest?
Travis- "My favorites were Cologne and London. But they were all awesome. Everyone seemed so excited to have us over there. I hope we get back soon."

HID- Are there any dates you are especially looking forward to during the US tour?
Travis- "I always love seeing Chicago, Florida, Philly and LA peeps but NY definitely always takes the cake being home."

HID- So, you're on tour in support of your latest album The Color Before the Sun, hence the name of the tour. It's a bit different from your past albums since it's not a concept album like those before. Why did you decide to go a different route this time around?
Travis- "Really it was ultimately a decision for Claudio. It was such a personal record for him that it just made sense to be outside the realm of the Amory Wars."

HID- I also read that you guys did something else different for this album and did a live recording. How different was the overall recording experience? Did you like it more? Are you just as happy with the way this album came out as you are with past albums?
Travis- "I am just as happy if not more happy. It gave us quite a feeling of accomplishment to realize cutting a record live was something we could do. And do it well."

HID- The first video you've released for this album, "You've Got Spirit, Kid" takes place in high school and is a like your own short version of a classic teen movie. So, first question... What was your high school experience like?
Travis- "My high school experience was conflicted, and strange. It was actually very different then what people thought it was. I was considered a good looking guy, I played football, and also played music. I had a couple of different worlds I loitered in through High School. But I could never stay in a moment so I was never able to fully be one thing. If I would have centered on being more sure of myself in the one world maybe I could have been the ultimate lady killer, superstar jock. Or maybe I could have been the artistic, musical, adventurer in another world. I was really none of them and missed out on a lot being insecure and doubting myself. My only release was trying to make people laugh and being a clown. I also got hit by a car when I was 15 (as a pedestrian) and got really banged up. My scars on my torso etc always made me insecure about my body too. Wow I make it all sound so bad. It really wasn't. I did have quite a few amazing experiences as an adolescent. Many fun times. And not just because of the drugs n booze I played with. Real genuine friendships came out of that time. The people I knew and continued to be close to in life have influenced and shaped who I am. Claudio is a fine example. And look at us now."

HID- Best teen movie of all time?
Travis- 

Heathers
Just kidding
Nightmare on Elm Street (original)
Kidding again
Meatballs 2

HID- Favorite character from a high school/teen movie?
Travis- "Long Duck Dong from Sixteen Candles. The 1980s and its racist portrayal of certain cultures is quite amazing. I mean come on that character is hilarious."

HID- Alright, back to tour. What can fans expect when they come see you at Royal Oak Music Theatre on the 25th?
Travis- "We are going to cut ourselves wide open and sonically pour each of our souls to the crowd."

HID- You guys have been to the Detroit area quite a few times over the years. Do you have a favorite venue to play or any places you try to hit up when you come to town?
Travis- "[Royal] Oak Music Theatre. For real. Love that place. We have had amazing shows there. Hope this matches up ;-)"

HID- Is there anything else that you would like our readers to know?
Travis- "It's Booty time, Booty time, across the USA. It's Booty time, Booty time, hey, hey, hey."


Tickets for Thursday's show at Royal Oak Music Theatre are $29.50 and can be purchased here. All ages are welcome and doors are set to open at 6 p.m. 

~C

Video Recap of Detroit X Detroit VI

This past weekend Detroit X Detroit took over The Loving Touch in Ferndale. The event, put on by Oh Snap! PR, featured 15 Detroit act playing as other Detroit bands. The artists covered ranged from legends like The Temptations and Wilson Pickett to local favorites like Against the Grain and MPV. Check out some videos from the event below.

We were thrilled to be a part of this event again this year. All of the proceeds from DETXDET go to School of Rock, who sets up a scholarship fund with them money. This year the event raised a record amount of money for the school, helping ensure that Detroit will have great music for years to come. If you missed DETXDET this year, we urge you to go next time around. We're already counting down the days! Great job to all parties involved!

~C

Win a Pair of Tickets to the Third Man Showcase featuring Timmy's Organism, Wolf Eyes & Video!

Third Man Records has sent three of their up and coming artists out on tour together in support of the label. The bands themselves are still trying to make a name for themselves, but having the Third Man Records name on the tour has helped them get attention they would not be able to get on their own. It has also established Third Man Records as a true underground label.

This week their Audio Social Dissent Tour featuring Detroit's own Timmy's Organism, Wolf Eyes and Video are coming to town. They will be performing at the Marble Bar this Wednesday the 24th. Tickets for the showcase are $12 in advance, they can be purchased here. We also have one pair of tickets to give away to the show courtesy of Party Store Productions. If you would like to enter to win the tickets please email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #thirdman. We will draw one lucky winner the day of the show!

~S 

Hip In Detroit 4 Year Prize Pack Run Down

It's hard to believe that it has been four years since we started writing about all things hip. When we created this website we had no idea what we were getting into. There was not a lot of blogs about Metro Detroit and no one was printing anything positive about it. Needless to say, a lot has changed since we started, people from around the world perk up when they hear the name Detroit these days. There is a buzz in the air and growth is happening all around. We have recently established ourselves as a mecca for great artists and a foodie's paradise. On top of all of that, the music scene is flourishing. I discover a new artist to fall in love with every week. With so much attention on the city, it's more important then ever to stick together and support local. 

Throughout the year we talk about all of the people, places, and things that we love and once a year we ask all of the companies, artists, and entrepreneurs that we love to donate something special to help us celebrate our birthday in style. These companies are people who believe in what we believe in, a positive Detroit community that supports each other and works together.

That being said, we will be celebrating our 4 year anniversary this Saturday, February 27th. This year's music lineup includes Ancient Language, Tart, DIRTWOLF, Cheapshow, and Young Hunger. We are only charging $5 at the door and everyone who pays to get into the show gets a ticket for the raffle. If your raffle ticket gets drawn, you will get to pick a prize bag, This year we have 25 very special gift bags to give away, each one is unique and features items from local companies, people, and bands that we believe in. So, check out the list, figure out what items you would like to take home, and come out to party with us this Saturday!

1 – Joe Gall "Camera Jesus" Framed Canvas Detroit Print

2 – B. Nektar $25 Gift Card & Hoodie (XL), Zander Michigan CD, Radio Burns 7”, Dick Picks, Incognito Unisex Sunglasses, 2 Tickets to Gaelic Storm

3 – Imperial Gift Card, Candle and Outlaw Shirt (L), Alley & Eye Sunglasses (Unisex), The Beggars 7”, Dick Picks, Zander Michigan Download Card

4 – Public House Gift Card and 2 shirts (XL – Blondie & KISS), Incognito Sunglasses (Unisex), Radio Burns 7”, Zander Michigan CD, Dick Picks

5 – Brightly Twisted Scarf, Incognito Girly Heart Shaped Sunglasses, Studio 30 Nails Gift card for a Gel Manicure, 2 Tickets to O-Town @ The Crofoot, Suck it Suicide Shirt (S), Zander Michigan Download

6 – Salon Noir Gift Card (Haircut & Manicure + Product Samples), $25 Gift Card to Saffron, 2 Tickets to Chelsea Grin @ The Shelter, Incognito Girly Sunglasses, Zander Michigan CD

7 – Ironclad Tattoo Co. $60 Gift Card and Flask, One of a Kind PRTY Crew Collective Bottle Opener, 2 Tickets to Behemoth @ St. Andrew's, Ironaut CD, Dick Picks, Zander Michigan Download

8 - Ironclad Tattoo Co. $60 Gift Card, PRTY Crew Collective Flask, 2 Tickets to Bongzilla @ The Loving Touch, Ironaut CD, Dick Picks, Zander Michigan Download

9 - Ironclad Tattoo Co. $60 Giftcard, PRTY Crew Collective Flask, 2 Tickets to Blessthefall @ St. Andrew's Hall, Ironaut CD, Dick Picks, Zander Michigan Download

10 – Tequila Cabresto Basket – Cabresto Silver, Cabresto Reposado and Cabresto Anejo with Wolf Moon Mixer, Tequila Cabresto Hat, Zander Michigan Download

11 - Tequila Cabresto Basket – Cabresto Silver, Cabresto Reposado and Cabresto Anejo with Wolf Moon Mixer, Tequila Cabresto Hat, Zander Michigan Download

12 - Lost Highway Wallet, J. Navarro and the Traitors Shirt (L) , Incognito Sunglasses, Beggars CD, Radio Burns 7", Suck it Suicide Men's Tank Top ( S), Zander Michigan Download Card

13 - 2 Tickets to Any Black Iris Booking Show, Dick Picks, Radio Burns 7", 1592 Shirt (XL) and 7", Ironaut CD, Suck it Suicide Tank Top (M) and Koozie

14 - Harley Lessons at Biker Bob's, Ironaut CD, Gold Crayon 7", Radio Burns 7", Zander Michigan CD

15 - $25 Buddy's Pizza (From A & E Heating and Cooling), $25 to Cinema Detroit (From M-1 Studios), Radio Burns 7", Gold Crayon 7", Zander Michigan CD and Shirt (M), 2 Tickets to Biz Markie @ St.Andrew's

16 - $25 Rock City Eatery (From A & E Heating and Cooling), $25 Cinema Detroit (From M-1 Studios), Zander Michigan CD and Shirt (S), Radio Burns 7", Gold Crayon 7", 2 Tickets Savages @ St.Andrew's

17 - 2 Tickets to Any Black Iris Booking Show, 1592 Shirt (L) and CD, Dick Picks, Suck it Suicide Shirt (XL), Koozie and Pin

18 - 2 Tickets to Any Black Iris Booking Show, J. Navarro and the Traitors Shirt (XL), Suck it Suicide Shirt (XL) Pin, Hat (Green), and Koozie, Radio Burns 7", Ironaut CD

19 - Just Talkin' with Sam Shirt (XL), Earbuds and Headphones, 4 Tickets to Biz Markie @ St. Andrew's, 2 Tickets to American Aquarium @ The Shelter, Zander Michigan Download, Radio Burns 7", Gold Crayon 7", 2 Tickets to Zoso @ St. Andrew's

20 - 2 Tickets to Any Party Store Productions Show, 2 Tickets to Animal Collective @ Royal Oak Music Theatre, Alley and Eye Sunglasses, Radio Burns 7", Zander Michigan CD, Dick Picks, Suck it Suicide Shirt (L), Pin and Window Decal

21 - Wellness Pack from Dr. Mallory at Shwartz Therapy & Wellness, Manicure from Studio 30 Nails, Suck it Suicide Shirt (L), 4 Tickets to Zoso @ St. Andrew's, Bacon Socks (From M-1 Studios), Incognito Sunglasses

22 - Wellness Pack from Dr. Mallory at Shwartz Therapy & Wellness, Manicure from Studio 30 Nails, Suck it Suicide Tank Top (L), Bacon Socks (From M-1 Studios), Incognito Sunglasses, 4 Tickets to Zoso @ St. Andrew's

23 - Elphie Elora Basket, Gel Manicure from Studio 30 Nails, After Dark Amusement Park 12", Radio Burns 7", Incognito Sunglassess, Zander Michigan CD

24 - Blumz by JRDesigns Made in Michigan Basket, $50 Blumz by JRDesigns gift card, Radio Burns 7", Zander Michigan CD, Ironaut CD, 4 Tickets to Biz Markie @ St.Andrew's, 2 Tickets to Dr. Dog @ St.Andrew's, 2 Tickets to Andrew Bird @ Royal Oak Music Theatre

25 - $20 Crofoot Cash and Mug, 2 Tickets to I See Stars, 2 Tickets to Junior Boys, 2 Tickets to Citizen (All at The Crofoot & Pike Room), Radio Burns 7", Ironaut CD, Incognito Sunglasses, Suck it Suicide Shirt (2X), and Koozie, Zander Michigan CD, Dick Picks


For more details on our Anniversary Celebration and to see pictures of some of the prizes, head over to the Facebook event page here.

ATG Plays Detroit Before They Head Out West

Detroit's own Against the Grain are getting ready to hit the road again! This time around the band is heading out on tour with Bongzilla, Black Cobra and Lo-Pan. The tour kicks off in Madison, Wisconsin on February 25th and makes its way to California and then to Texas. But, before the guys head across the country they are playing a tour kick off show this weekend in Detroit.

The show is happening this Saturday, February 20th at Corktown Tavern. Joining ATG on stage are The Highborn, MRSA, The Savage Seven and Ellyeahdehd. All four of these bands are relatively new, but we guarantee you will see some familiar faces playing in them. You can hear some samples from a couple of the bands on the Facebook event page here. This is one of the only times that ATG is playing in Detroit this year, so you don't want to miss it!

Admission to the show is only $7 and 21+ are welcome. Doors are set to open at 8 p.m. Corktown Tavern is located at 1716 Michigan Ave. in Detroit.

~C

Win Tickets to See Guttermouth at The Majestic Cafe

Guttermouth is currently touring along the East Coast and throughout the Midwest with The Cryptics. They will be making their way to Detroit this coming Monday, February 22nd. The California punk rockers will be hitting the stage at The Majestic Cafe and joining them and The Cryptics are Detroit's own The Hangdowns and The Randy Bastards. Tickets to the show are only $12 in advance here or $15 at the door.

Thanks to our good friends at Black Iris Booking, we are also giving away a pair of tickets for this show! If you would like to enter for a chance to get into the show with a friend for free, please email your name to hipindetroit@gmail.com. Make sure you put Guttermouth in the subject line so we know what giveaway you are entering! We will draw our lucky winner on Monday morning and will email them details on how to claim their prize.

~C

Lumpfest 2.5: Raising Money for Flint!

The recent tragedy in Flint, Michigan has been one of the most shocking and upsetting events to occur in recent history. My heart aches for all the people whose lives have been ruined, especially the children. The worst part is knowing that no matter what you do, it will never be enough. The injustice and pain that was caused cannot be fixed, there is not amount of water that we can send or donations that we can make to give these people back their health. But, it is important that we do not forget about these people. We have to find as many ways as possible to help out and ever little bit counts.

This weekend a bunch of local musicians have stepped up to the plate to perform together at the Trumbullplex to raise money for the The Community Foundation of Greater Flint. This organization's goal is to address the impact of the water crisis by providing health, medical and community-based services to the victims.

The fundraiser will include performances from CHARACTERISTICS, Caveman Woodman & Bam Bam Moss, Five Pound Snap vs White Bee (combined set), Market, Devinition, Earth Engine, Duck Trash (Bloomington, IN), JP From The HP, Gray/Bliss Music, River Spirit and Air is the Arche.

It's all happening this Friday, February 19th. Tickets are $5 at the door and all ages are welcome to attend. A few local vendors will also being selling their wares at the fest. Bands will start early at 6 p.m. and the Trumbullplex is located at 4210 Trumbull.  

~S 

Dance your Ass off at The Haute to Death Party this Saturday

This Saturday, February 20th Haute to Death with be taking over The Temple Bar in Detroit and throwing one of their signature dance parties. They specialize in creating nights to remember. They inspire you to let go and live the life you always wanted to. They make you forget about the bullshit and dance.

Haute to Death creators Jon Dones and Ash Nowak are well versed in the fine art of fun. Join them this Saturday and learn from the best. Give their online inspirational playlist a spin this week to get yourself ready and head out to Temple late night this weekend. 21+ are welcome, $2 before midnight, $3 after.

~S

The Detroit Subgenius Live Music Thing Takes Over Small's this Saturday!

This weekend head to Small's to see 13 great bands play for the super awesome price of FREE! It's called the Detroit Subgenius Live Music Thing and it's happening this Saturday, February 20th.

The event will feature 3 stages, with bands playing 20 minutes sets, so the music will be non-stop all night! The lineup has something for everyone, from punk rock to stoner rock. It includes TAMMI, The Counter Elites, Caveman Woodman & Bam Bam Moss, Disinformants, The Amino Acids, The Wretched Sights, Iron Belly, Cockhorse, Reptilian Brain, The Idiot Kids, Warhorses, Pretty Ghouls and Bison Machine. This is always a super fun event and this year's lineup will not disappoint!

All ages are welcome to attend this event, but only those 21+ will get in for free. If you're younger than that you will have to pay $8. Door are set to open at 8 p.m. and the music will start promptly at 9:20 p.m. Make sure you drag your ass there by 9 because you won't want to miss anyone on this bill! For more information, head to the Facebook event page here.

~C

Win a Pair of Tickets to See Cannibal Corpse

Death metal gods Cannibal Corpse have released 13 full length albums throughout their career, toured the world, and built up a unique fan base that can see past album titles like Butchered at Birth to appreciate their music. They are by far one of the most well known death metal bands in history. Their album covers have been banned from many record stores and their videos can't be played on TV. You might not be able to catch them on stage at the Grammys, but you can see them live and in person at St. Andrew's Hall this Sunday, February 21st.

Cannibal Corpse will be making a stop in Detroit with a full metal lineup of acts that includes Obituary, Cryptopsy and Abysmal Dawn. Tickets for the show are $25 in advance, they can be purchased here. We also have one pair of tickets to give away to the show courtesy of Live Nation Detroit. If you would like to enter to win a pair of tickets, please email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail,com with the subject line #CC.  We will draw the winner the day before the show and will email them details on how to claim their prize!

~S 

Win a Pair of Tickets to See Bell Witch and more at Marble Bar!!!

Most bands needs at least four members to correctly perform one of their songs. But, metal duo Bell Witch somehow makes due with drums, bass, and vocals. The Seattle based duo's latest release is their 2015 album Four Phantoms, you can check out those tunes here. Somehow they make two instruments sound metal AF!

They will be performing live in Detroit this Sunday, February 21st alongside Wrekmeister Harmonies and Cloud Rat. It has been awhile since a good metal lineup was playing at a hip place like Marble Bar. So if you're into heavier tunes, this would be a good one for you to check out!

Tickets for the show are only $8 in advance, they can be purchased here. We also have one pair of tickets to give away courtesy of our friends over at Party Store Productions. If you would like to enter to win a pair of tickets to the show, please email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line Bell Witch. We will draw one lucky winner this weekend and we email them details about claiming their prize.

The metal starts at 8 p.m. this Sunday! 

~S 

Warm Up with Some Chili at Blake's this Weekend!

On these bitterly cold days what's better to warm up with at the end of the day than a big bowl of chili? This weekend you can try all of the best chilis around out at Blake's Cider Mill, the home of Blake's Hard Cider. This Saturday, February 20th they are hosting their First Annual Chili Cook Off.

The event will feature a ton of great versions of this thick soup from cooks around the area. Their chili creations will be divided up into four categories, including 4 Legged (Beef or Pork), 2 Legged (Turkey or Chicken), No Legged (Vegetarian) and Exotic (Venison, Lamb, Boar, Buffalo, Elk, etc.). There will be one winner awarded from each category as well as an overall grand prize winner. The prizes include cash and tickets to Blake's Cider Dayze Festival this summer.

If you make a killer chili that you want to enter in the contest, there are still some spots left in the No Legged Category. You can sign up here. Entry to the contest is $10 and a 5-7 quart pot of chili. The 10 bucks will also grant admission for 2 and 2 drink tickets for a delicious Blake's Hard Cider. If you don't want to make chili and you just want to eat a bunch of it, it will also cost you $10 to get in! That will get you one drink ticket and as much chili as you can get your hands on! Tickets can be purchased in advance here or you can wait and pay $12 at the door.

Blake's Chili Cook Off is set to start at Noon and will go until 5 p.m. After the chili is gone, there will be live music from 5-9 p.m. Blake's is located in Armada, Michigan at 17985 Armada Center Road. For more information on this event, head over to the Facebook event page here.

~C

Hip In Detroit Hosts Det X Det VI, Plus a Ticket Giveaway!

Detroit by Detroit is one of my favorite events of the year for one simple reason, it's an all out celebration of Detroit music. It mixes together some of Detroit's best artists to cover some of Detroit's best artists. The lineup is always jam packed with talent of all ages and the lineup showcases a variety of music styles from different decades. Sometimes, I love the band that is performing the cover and sometimes I love the band that is being covered.

This is the 6th year that Oh Snap! has brought DET X DET to the stage and they are switching a few things up this year. The show is moving from the Magic Stick to The Loving Touch in Ferndale. There will be two stages inside the venue and music will be played non stop from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. this Saturday, February 20th. They have also given us the honor of reprising our role as hostesses for the night. Christie and I will be introducing each of the acts and telling you a little but about each performer. We have had the honor of hosting the show in the past and we can't wait to return to play MC's again!

This years lineup includes:

(Headlining Main Stage) ESCAPING PAVEMENT as Madonna
(Side Stage) STEVIE SOUL & OMAR ARAGONES as The Temptations
(Main Stage) WOLF AND THE CRANE as Wilson Pickett
(Side Stage) ZANDER MICHIGAN as Rodriguez
(Main Stage) GO TIGER GO as My Pal Val
(Side Stage) THE MESSENGER BIRDS as The White Stripes
(Main Stage) SIX AND THE SEVENS as Was (Not Was)
(Side Stage) FIVE POUND SNAP as Mexican Knives
(Main Stage) JET BLACK BLONDE as The High Strung
(Side Stage) ANCIENT LANGUAGE as Sufjan Stevens
(Main Stage) JACKSON & THE POOLSHARKS as Against The Grain
(Side Stage) THE BRUISED REED as The Great Fiction
(Main Stage) WILLA RAE & THE MINOR ARCANA as Blanche
(Side Stage) JOSH, JARRETT, and J WALKER as The Gories
(Opening Main Stage) SCHOOL OF ROCK as The Stooges

Each band will be performing three songs, so things move pretty fast! Tickets to attend the show are $10 at the door and all ages are welcome to come out for this one. The official hashtag for the night is #DETxDET and you can check out the official playlist here.

We also have one pair of tickets to give away to the show. If you would like to come out and hang out with Oh Snap and Hip In Detroit this Saturday please email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail,com with the subject line #hipAF. We will draw one lucky winner the morning of the show and we will email them details on how to claim their prize!

Hope to see a lot of you at the show on Saturday! Please come up, say hello, and let us give you a sticker or a pin!

~S