Ray Micallef on Drums
Ray Schembri on Guitar/Vox
Daniel Abela on Bass/vox
Ramona C. Farrugia on vox
Ramona was born on 22nd January 1984 and is not really a one-type-of-genre person. She's almost open to quite a big variety in music and enjoys listening to any good material. One of her top favourite bands/singers is Dolores O'Riordan (The Cranberries). Since she's strongly against war and violence, the track 'Zombie' influenced her musical and lyrical style.
She considers rehearsing with Subculture as great, considering the fact that she's a bit of a shy person. She stated that “Subculture instantly put me at ease...not excluding those hilarius moments where Hamiemu and Bahri try to reason with each other on some music pieces! Sorry guys, some funny stuff has to be said. :)”. Ramona thinks that every little detail is important because everyone has to work together in order to make the band tighter. In Subculture she considers that everything is vital from drums, guitar, bass, lyrics...new ideas...and patience!
Ramona, never thought about joining a band but she states that, “You never know what awaits you in life. I couldn't actually believe it when I started rehearsing with Subculture and recording their 4th album 'Revolt' was surely something which to this very day I still cannot find the exact words to express my feelings”. 'Revolt' was her first recording experience and she admits that it felt awesome being in a recording studio among great people, with a relaxed atmosphere even though she was a little tensed before starting using the mic. She's happy and satisfied with the final product of 'Revolt' because creativity together with experience blended perfectly for this album.
When asked about Revolt (the lyrics) which is based around the track "Our Dream", she was honest to state that she is not an Anarchist. But she do believe that we should stand up for being used by others who don't believe in equality...and she certainly believe in a world full of love.
Her views/opinion on the other band mates:-
Ray Micallef (Hamiemu) - “He's the disciplined one for sure :) ...a band is always in need for a disciplined member. I love rehearsing with Hamiemu because I know where I'm standing with him. If something's done incorrectly, he'll keep on insisting about it until the results are satisfactory. Some people think that being disciplined has its' down sides. From my point of view, it's the other way round, it has its' good sides to it...and also the funny sides :) Apart of all this, he's very down-to-earth pigeon with a great sense of humour. :D”.
Ray Schembri (Il-Bahri) - “What can I say about this hard-working sailor? He keeps on paddling even when the waves are rough. He was the first member who was curious about my voice...I bet he's a very curious person. Maybe that's why he likes discovering new things and creating new ideas. He enjoys being care-free and absorbs every little good thing in life. Let's not exclude his kind heart and his love for our furry friends. :} I adore rehearsing with this sailor”.
Daniel - “This guy is the fast-learner. That's why I adore rehearsing with him. He catches the tune in a split of a second...I'm telling you, this guy right here has ability :). I have only known him for a short period of time but I can say that he's very laid-back in a positive way and he surely makes the atmosphere around him a comfortable one. One more thing I'd like to add, I really like the way he wears a shoe-lace different than the other...:)”.
On concluding this interview, Ramona is a very shy person and before she gets used to certain things she thinks that unfortunately being shy has its' down sides but Subculture made her realise that there's more to life than staying inside her own bubble. She looks forward for another CD recording and is really grateful for those who have been supporting her from the very first day she joined Subculture...She's thankful for those who have fed her knowledge and thought her courage – her Mum, sister, friends, il-Hamiema, il-Bahri...
Ray Micallef (Hamiemu) was born on 30th June 1964 and he's into rock, heavy metal, old school thrash, punk and any type of music genre which has to do with the above mentioned. His favourite bands are KISS and Pink Floyd which have definitely left a strong influence. Besides he also likes Led Zeppelin, Sex Pistols, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Stranglers, Kreator, Sepultura, Van Halen, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones amongst others.
Jon Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Peter Criss (KISS), Phil Collins and Bobbi Rondinelli (Black Sabbath, Doro & many other bands) are amongst his favourite drummers.
He's also committed with other bands namely X-Vandals and Abstrass and recently rejoined with his former band mates from Lord Adder, who had the honour to share the stage with Black Sabbath (August 1995) and his one of his favourite drummers Bobbi Rondinelli. Other bands he supported with Lord Adder are Eagles Tribute Band (1996), Iron Maiden (1996), Girlschool (1997) and Smokie (1999). Also with Lord Adder he played twice at The Marquee (1993 & 1994) and The Garage (1993) both in London, UK.
He considers every rehearsal as good quality time and a way of expressing new ideas and subsequently improving his musical ability. He thinks that music is very important, it has to have the right melody and tightness, though the lyrical part (usually written by Il-Bahri) should have a good message. Therefore, a good combination of music and lyrics will eventually lead to a good track. For Ray, this is his 11th CD, as for Revolt he is of the opinion that it is a melodic and powerful album with a strong message in it's lyrics too. As for recording and the final product he definitely stated that he's satisfied with Revolt.
When asked about Revolt (the lyrics) which is based around the track "Our Dream", he stated “Honestly I'm not an Anarchist, but for sure I agree and believe with the lyrics and it's strong message. Through music, I believe we can have a better world”.
His views/opinion on the other band mates:-
Ramona- “A very nice person, though a bit on the shy side, she's always saying “SORRY” during rehearsals, guess we'll built a convent (she knows what I'm talking about)!!. Joking apart, she's got a great voice and once you got to know her she's fun to be around with”.
Ray Schembri (Il-Bahri) – “He's a good rhythm guitarist and above all he's capable of writing lyrics with a strong social message. He's also a very organised person, we're like brothers, been knowing him since school days, some 35 yrs ago!! He's got a good sense of humour and a great guy to have a beer night out with”.
Daniel – “It's my first time working with him, he's a real fast learner, guess if he continues like this there's a bright future for him. He doesn't talk much during and after rehearsals, though!”
He concluded that he looks forward to continue playing with Subculture and hopefully produce another CD. A big thanks goes to all those who always believe in Subculture & their never ending support.
Daniel was born on 31st january 1991, and besides punk he's mostly into metal. He's influenced by Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) since he started following their music in 2004. He's been playing Bass for these past 3 years.
He considers rehearsing with Subculture fun but at the same time a way of learning new things through every rehearsal. He complains a bit on the location which for him is too far away from home!!
For Dan, Revolt was his first experience in recording an album, he's very happy with both “Revolt” and the progress the band made in such a small amount of time. In his opinion, Subculture managed to put out 3 really good CD's in a matter of a year and a half and he's really proud to be part of the band. When asked about Revolt (the lyrics) which is based around the track "Our Dream", Dan stated that behind every song there is a message that when thought about and reflected upon, helps one to understand better what's really happening around us and what is being covered up by the media. He said that he wouldn't be singing along if he didn't really believe in the message that Subculture are sending out.
When asked to give his views/opinion on the other band mates, he replied that they all helped him in their own particular way. He also commented that they all have a lot of experience in music and he's glad that they're giving him a chance to learn from them.
Finally, he commented that he can't wait to start working on a new album and if it is half as good as 'Revolt' he'll be very satisfied.
Ray Schembri (Il-Bahri), was born on 9th July 1964, he's into Rock, metal and Punk. Influenced by C.R.A.S.S. and Conflict – C.R.A.S.S. for the lyrics and Conflict for both lyrics and music. He started playing 26 yrs ago, way back in 1982 and at that time was influenced by KISS, Iron Maiden, Motorhead and Exploited.
He considers rehearsal with Subculture as a very important issue in view to the fact that all the ideas from all members of band are blended well to fit properly so that the final product would be what the band's aims for.
Both lyrics and music are important, although he's more into the lyrical part. He uses music as a medium to express his anarchist views. Keeps himself very well informed with current affairs and when it comes to writing down new tracks (lyrics) there's no particular mood.
Revolt is his 8th CD, which he considers as a continuation of the previous Subculture albums but with a different blend of music. The introduction of new members had a strong positive influence which contributed to new ideas and he's satisfied with the final result of Revolt. When asked about Revolt (the lyrics) which is based around the track "Our Dream", for sure he agrees because it's his political point of view.
His views/opinion on the other band mates:-
Ray Micallef (Hamiemu) – “Often disagree with him but following a short period of time, I accept his views and topics that we have discussed. In general he's the back bone of the band especially in the music sector and band promotion. Been knowing him for these past 35 yrs!! from early school days and it was him who introduced me to listen to rock music, guess it was KISS and Whitesnake, if not mistaken, and from there on we never looked back. He's too much of a perfectionist in his drumming and insists on the perfect right “TEMPO” of the tracks, which are the basics for a good track. Never ever try to fuck with him on alcohol, very hard to see him drunk :-) He's more than a brother to me”.
Ramona - “Been knowing her for these past 6 months, got a great character, kind & very warm hearted. She's very down to earth person, very honest, talented and loyal. She goes out of her way to help others, too many good qualities too mention and she's an important person in my life and I take this opportunity to publicly thank her. With her inclusion in Subculture and her versatile voice our music is more appealing to a different/wider audience. Her voice blends perfectly with our music and her fresh ideas are of a big help to the band”.
Daniel – “Been knowing him approximately for 2 years, very talented bass player, besides being a quick learner. He's a bit of an introvert but once you get to know him he's fun to be around. Ironically he used to be one of our fans and ended up being part of the band”.
Finally, he hopes to continue working with this current line up for another CD.
It all started back in Sept 2001, when Ray and JP, who at that time were both in local band Spirit of '77, decided to form SUBCULTURE.
Following some line up changes the band settled with Steve 'lombardo' on drums, JP- bass/vox, Ray-guitar/vox and Sim niro-vox. The band took part in various gigs (including charity events), environmental protests and also have raised money for orphanage institutions that take care of these children. Subculture also took part in leftist activities such as 'Reclaim the world', Anti racist concerts and May 1st demostrations. Besides, JP, Ray and Sim were the core members of the Maltese anarchist group AZZJONI POZITTIVA.
In 2004 Subculture released their 1st cd album titled, 'From the garage to the street', which has been well acclaimed with local punks. The musical direction was a blend of anarcho/punk rock.
In the begining of 2005, JP and then Steve left the band for personal reasons. Woody Aki replaced JP on bass and Ray Micallef replaced Steve on drums. This line up started work immediately and in about 4 months, 11 new tracks were ready and recorded in June 2006. The second CD album namely "A Lifetime Of Disappointment" tackles subjects regarding animal rights, politics, prostitution and our social daily problems. The musical direction is more raw punk.
Besides, Subculture are also involves in animal rights activities and were also one of the organisors of the latest anti animal cruelty demonstration regarding animal circus held last December 2006.
Resist The Abuse our 3rd CD album was officially launched on on Friday, 31st August at Remedy, Paceville and supported by Abstrass. CD is available for sale for only (Euros 5) and for you guys & gals, who do not live in Malta and wanna obtain a copy of our latest CD you can send us a message and we'll post you the CD for Euros 7.00 (EU countries ) & Euros 8.00 (worldwide)
All income from this CD shall be invested in another project with the aim to raise animal awareness in young children aged between 4yrs and 10yrs. More details re this project will be available in due time.
As from 1st September 2007, Subculture current line up consists of a 3 piece band with Ray Micallef (Hamiemu) on drums, Ray Schembri (il-Bahri) on guitar/Vocals and Daniel on bass. Daniel officially joined us on Friday, 31st August which was his debut gig, our CD launching gig & also the farewell gig to Woody Aki who shall be departing to UK. We would like to thank Woody Aki for dedication with the band, besides being a great musician surely a loyal friend. Best of luck mate. A big welcome goes to Daniel.
On the 29thMarch 2008 SUBCULTURE have entered the studio and recorded their 4th cd entitled "Revolt". Ramona (the cat), our new female vocalist have joined the band in early Febuary, and shall be featuring her great vox talent in this new cd. Currently Subculture have a blend of new talent such as Daniel and Ramona together with the experience of both Ray (il-Bahri) on guitar and Ray (il-Hamiemu) on drums.
Thanks very much goes to Carmen ,our 5th member,who takes care of our stuff on myspace and the merchandise during our gigs.
Current news from Subculture
On behalf of Subculture, I would like to thank the numerous crowd who litteraly didn't leave a space at Remedy during last Saturday, 20th September 2008 CD launch gig. All Revolt CD's are sold out thanks to you guys and gals. It was a great evening & no words can describe our appreciation, THANKS once again. Due to the demand we have ordered some other copies of REVOLT.
Subkult Fest 2008 shall take place on the 5th, 6th & 7th December at Remedy. More info coming up soon.
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Interview by Carmen Micallef in June 2008 with Ray (Il-Bahri) regarding Subculture's 4th CD,REVOLT and it's concept:-
It was only natural to get a closer idea of the concept of Revolt by interviewing Ray Schembri (Il-Bahri). He is the mastermind behind all the lyrics. In fact may I take the opportunity to congrat Ray for the deep, strong message based lyrics he manages to scrabble on a piece of paper. Back to the interview Ray Schembri explained that Revolt is all based on the track "Our Dream", which is about the anarchist way of life. Ironically, the track Our Dream had it's "birth" by Lord Adder way back in 1996 from their 2nd CD entitled - Behind Closed Doors, who's drummer happens to be Ray Micallef (Il-Hamiemu). Ray Schembri stated that he wrote the lyrics and together with Ramona, who at that time, did not even think of joining a band, recorded this track as a DIY. Furthermore, Ramona's talents were successfully explored by the other band members & subsequently that was when works on Revolt initiated. Hereunder is a short description of each track and it's concept in order for people interested in Subculture's music to have a glimpse of what Revolt contains:-
Freedom of Thought - It's all in the title...... it says it all
Reclaim The World - This track is practically against the Neo Liberal Policies
The Earth Dies Screaming - From the title, one can already have an idea. This tracks deals with people and nations who do not bother any more about our planet and few is being done to avoid the worse. Besides it also deals with issues including natural disasters, climate change, etc.
Destroy Their Capital - The exploitation of workers and the urge for them to stand up for their rights is the main issue of this track.
Repression - A particular track which deals obstacles that our civil liberty deriving from States, Religions & Governments is facing. In a few words the "So called Data Protection" is practically obsolete.
Mirror On The Wall - The downfall of democracy is the main issue of this track.
I had the privilige to listen to Revolt and on a personal opinion, I think that this CD got the perfect combination of tightness musically, strong lyrical issues and the fresh ideas of Ramona & Dani together with the experience of Ray Schembri and Ray Micallef make the perfect blend. The drummin & bass line, together with Ray's guitar rhytms & Ramona's particular voice contribute to a must buy CD. Well done to you guys & girl, looking forward for sure for the launching gig on the 20th September at Remedy, Paceville.
Ska-Punk night at the Eastney Cellars featuring: Dirty Revolution, The White Coats, Robb Blake & Detached. Tickets available on the door for a fiver, hope to see ya there!!
Red Electrick live once again!! This time at Remedy, on top of Coconut in Paceville.The band will be performing their full electric set which consists of all the material for their upcoming album, which is set to be released later on this year, along with some covers.
Tickets cost 5Euro, call us on 99141141 to get yours, hurry because there is a limited amount of tickets!!
Just stopping by to say hi and give you some news. The new album 'Welcome To Murraysville' from Phil Murray and the Boys From Bury is now available worldwide from CD Baby and directly from the merchandise page of the official website. You can also get the album from Apple iTunes, MSN Music, Rhapsody, Napster, Amazon and many more.
Around 4 years ago Knockturn Alley were playing their first shows in the local metal scene and trying to find a way to get more known within the Maltese metal scene. In the past 4 years the band has gone through several line-up changes leaving the current line-up with only 2 original members. However, this has never stopped the band from focusing on their goals and the past 3 years has seen the band releasing a 3-track EP, continuous gigging and even 2 headlining dates in Greece.
The time was right for Knockturn Alley to get their music on disc again, and the band returns with Medusa, the debut full length album. Named after the female monster in Greek mythology, Medusa is a collection of 10 tracks of solid aggressive riffing and catchy melodies.
Coming from Athens as Knockturn Alley's special guests, Greek thrashers The Source will kick off the night. Fresh from releasing their self-titled album on I for an I Media, The Source will perform tracks from their new album which will also be on sale on the night.
Hey! Pardon the intrusion… just to let you know that we are playing our FIRST EVER LONDON SHOW on Easter Saturday - 11th April @ Fiddlers Elbow, Camden… entry is a mere ₤3 if you mention THE WHITE COATS on the door... please help us spread the word - hope to see you there!!
A special sunday afternoon treat....Red Electrick live at The Fortress, Xemxija, Unplugged, this Sunday 5th April! Show starts at around 4pm...FREE ENTRANCE
Nace un nuevo portal musical
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Ya disponible el nuevo CD de la banda punkcore por excelencia del Madrid de los noventa, herederos de la sacudida del RRV, criados en las okupas del sur de Madrid; vuelven los incombustibles SPIDIKFLOTES, disco nuevo, lleno de sonidos rabiosos.
PUNK + CORE = SPIDIKFLOTES
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TRADES are WELCOME. Nos gusta intercambiar y colaborar con otros grupos, sellos, fanzines…, si estas interesado, escribenos: info@wcdiscos.com
SPIDIKFLOTES en el local de ensayo, tocando el tema :PUTOS NAZIS
http://es. youtube. com/watch?v=G46zNFNgQkM
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