Bomb Shelter Blog http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:30:28 GMT http://bandzoogle.com Simple Steps and Tools that will help you get A+ Results in the Recording Studio http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=338179 The audio recording market is saturated with Digital Audio Workstations, plugins, and gear that does everything except make coffee for you. In this day and age it's easy to spend a great deal of time and $$ on a recording project. It's not always about how much gear you have, or how much money you spent to purchase it. There are plenty of talented and skilled engineers out there who may not have major artist credits to their name, who can record and put out amazing product. Choose your gear, your engineer, the studio, and your songs wisely, and you can maximize your time and budget to get A+ results in the studio. Do your "homework." The old saying, practice makes perfect definitely applies. So, practice, practice, practice! This step alone will save you $ in the recording studio. Rehearsing at home, in the garage, or at a professional rehearsal studio is always cheaper than paying for time and being on the clock in a recording session while trying to figure out parts or arrangements. Let's say your band has 10 original songs, but you only want to record 5--practice those 5 songs until you can play them in your sleep. The fewer takes, and the fewer fixes you have to do in the studio can also save you big bucks on your tab! Evaluate your songwriting skills and song arrangements. This is really where your song begins. Start with a well written song and a great arrangement and it is more likely that everything else will fall into place. Not everyone is a great songwriter from the get go, and everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow into it. If you have the chance to work with a producer, they can help you fine tune what you already have as you get ready to go into the studio. If you are more of the DIY type, there are many songwriting organizations both locally and on the internet. Many have meetings where you can play and have your songs critiqued. Play your songs for friends, family, on a street corner, and ask for feedback. Reactions from people can be crucial, and can tell you if you hit the mark you were aiming for with the songs you wrote. Don't be afraid of a little constructive feedback, it will help you become a better songwriter! Find an Engineer/Producer that you "click" with. This is another crucial part of the recording equation. Meet with and interview your potential engineer. It's like a job interview, only you get to ask the questions! Listen to music they have recorded and produced. Ask if they have recorded other projects similar to yours. Remember--you might be spending a lot of time with this person, make sure it's someone you can stand to be around! Remember, nothing is perfect in the creative process. Give yourself the tools and the opportunities to create great music. We hope you find these helpful. Feel free to comment, we welcome your input! Written by: Britt-Marie Trace
The audio recording market is saturated with Digital Audio Workstations, plugins, and gear that does everything except make coffee for you. In this day and age it's easy to spend a great deal of time and $$ on a recording project. It's not always about how much gear you have, or how much money you spent to purchase it. There are plenty of talented and skilled engineers out there who may not have major artist credits to their name, who can record and put out amazing product. Choose your gear, your engineer, the studio, and your songs wisely, and you can maximize your time and budget to get A+ results in the studio.

Do your "homework."
The old saying, practice makes perfect definitely applies. So, practice, practice, practice! This step alone will save you $ in the recording studio. Rehearsing at home, in the garage, or at a professional rehearsal studio is always cheaper than paying for time and being on the clock in a recording session while trying to figure out parts or arrangements. Let's say your band has 10 original songs, but you only want to record 5--practice those 5 songs until you can play them in your sleep. The fewer takes, and the fewer fixes you have to do in the studio can also save you big bucks on your tab!

Evaluate your songwriting skills and song arrangements.
This is really where your song begins. Start with a well written song and a great arrangement and it is more likely that everything else will fall into place. Not everyone is a great songwriter from the get go, and everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow into it. If you have the chance to work with a producer, they can help you fine tune what you already have as you get ready to go into the studio. If you are more of the DIY type, there are many songwriting organizations both locally and on the internet. Many have meetings where you can play and have your songs critiqued. Play your songs for friends, family, on a street corner, and ask for feedback. Reactions from people can be crucial, and can tell you if you hit the mark you were aiming for with the songs you wrote. Don't be afraid of a little constructive feedback, it will help you become a better songwriter!

Find an Engineer/Producer that you "click" with.
This is another crucial part of the recording equation. Meet with and interview your potential engineer. It's like a job interview, only you get to ask the questions! Listen to music they have recorded and produced. Ask if they have recorded other projects similar to yours. Remember--you might be spending a lot of time with this person, make sure it's someone you can stand to be around!

Remember, nothing is perfect in the creative process. Give yourself the tools and the opportunities to create great music. We hope you find these helpful. Feel free to comment, we welcome your input!

Written by:
Britt-Marie Trace
]]> Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:30:28 GMT 114EAC9924FA7994EC7821F184D78705 2010 Here We Come! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=164433  We are pleased to announce that we have made it to our 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!  We have been open for business 10 years, and an amazing 10 years it has been.  From humble beginnings, we started with only four rooms and not many amenities.  We have since added two more rooms and are continuously improving the surroundings here at the studio.  We have lots of things planned for this year, lots of things we hope you'll like too!   A message from Britt: "I would like to take a minute and personally thank everyone who has graced the rooms and halls here over the last decade.  Wow, it really sounds major when you use the word "decade".   I have seen amazing music, met fantastic friends, and have many many stories to tell my kids (when I get around to having some!).  I wouldn't be here without musicians.  I am fortunate to be able to make a living in the music industry--a tough nut to crack into by any stretch.  I have been blessed with opportunities and am truly grateful for the experiences I have had that will carry me forth into a new decade." We will continue our successful Client Rewards Program this year, if you don't know what this is--where the heck have you been? (hurry up and ask us!) We are setting up a brand new Referral Program, designed to really reward you for telling others about Bomb Shelter.  We are making some changes, our longtime resident guitar repair tech is moving his shop to a larger one just across the parking lot.  We will be adding some basic content creation for musicians, (photo/video/design) helping you get your music and your message out to the masses, at a reasonable low cost.  We can now offer "Authorized" repairs on all major brands of guitars and basses to Bomb Shelter clients.   Need a quick fix for your axe and have a show coming up--no problem, we can offer FAST turnarounds exclusively for you.   Check back with us as we get more details up on the web site.  We hope you will like the new offerings, let us know--give us your feedback.  Here's to an absolutely amazing 2010!
A message from Britt:
"I would like to take a minute and personally thank everyone who has graced the rooms and halls here over the last decade.  Wow, it really sounds major when you use the word "decade".   I have seen amazing music, met fantastic friends, and have many many stories to tell my kids (when I get around to having some!).  I wouldn't be here without musicians.  I am fortunate to be able to make a living in the music industry--a tough nut to crack into by any stretch.  I have been blessed with opportunities and am truly grateful for the experiences I have had that will carry me forth into a new decade."

We will continue our successful Client Rewards Program this year, if you don't know what this is--where the heck have you been? (hurry up and ask us!) We are setting up a brand new Referral Program, designed to really reward you for telling others about Bomb Shelter.  We are making some changes, our longtime resident guitar repair tech is moving his shop to a larger one just across the parking lot.  We will be adding some basic content creation for musicians, (photo/video/design) helping you get your music and your message out to the masses, at a reasonable low cost.  We can now offer "Authorized" repairs on all major brands of guitars and basses to Bomb Shelter clients.   Need a quick fix for your axe and have a show coming up--no problem, we can offer FAST turnarounds exclusively for you.   Check back with us as we get more details up on the web site.  We hope you will like the new offerings, let us know--give us your feedback.  Here's to an absolutely amazing 2010!




]]> Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:19:01 GMT 05C1A8037E136BBA99583CD3102D1DB9 Halfton is back together and they are Rockin' Out! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=62789 Shot by Britt-Marie Trace with Flip Ultra HD camcorder Showcase Room, Bomb Shelter Rehearsal Studios

Shot by Britt-Marie Trace with Flip Ultra HD camcorder Showcase Room, Bomb Shelter Rehearsal Studios]]> Mon, 17 Aug 2009 05:19:49 GMT 8BB131C94CAC21740946E7E3A7007095 Use the internet like never before...incredible opportunities for bands and businesses. http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=33819 So many things have changed in the last 10 years since I've been in the music industry.&nbsp; A relatively short amount of time, but we've seen some incredible things happen.&nbsp; I am most impressed these days by the leaps and bounds of information you can find on the internet, as well as the climbing numbers of free networking sites that are available.&nbsp; There are ways for all of us to take advantage of these opportunities, especially us musicians.&nbsp; I like finding ways to get my name out there without spending a buck!&nbsp; The way we do business has changed forever due to the internet.&nbsp; No longer a slave to our geographical locations as we once were, bands can have fans all over the world who have never seen them in person.&nbsp; Businesses can appeal to customers anywhere, I've had artists from across the US, South America, Europe, Pacific Islands, the UK--all due to the internet.&nbsp; These free sites can really work wonders for you if you take a little time to nurture them, learn how to maximize your potential on them and with them.&nbsp; I've just started to scratch the surface using some of the social networks, but there are just as many free places to just list my business.&nbsp; (and just as many places to add your band)&nbsp; I will post a list of some of the helpful sites, you may already be familiar with some.&nbsp; With some effort, determination and a &quot;can do&quot; attitude you can make amazing things happen for you, your band, your friends' band, your son/daughter's band, your business, etc.&nbsp; Good luck, happy findings and here's to a rip roarin' no holds barred, pedal to the metal, full throttle, wide open 2009! <a href="http://www.twitter.com" target="_new">www.twitter.com <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ocrehearsals" target="_new">www.twitter.com/ocrehearsals&nbsp; (our twitter page) <a href="http://www.facebook.com" target="_new">www.facebook.com <a href="http://www.yelp.com" target="_new">www.yelp.com <a href="http://www.linkedin.com" target="_new">www.linkedin.com <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com" target="_new">www.reverbnation.com <a href="http://www.purevolume.com" target="_new">www.purevolume.com <a href="http://www.myspace.com" target="_new">www.myspace.com <a href="http://www.gogirlsmusic.com" target="_new">www.gogirlsmusic.com <a href="http://www.songsalive.org" target="_new">www.songsalive.org <a href="http://www.craigslist.org" target="_new">www.craigslist.org <a href="http://www.backpage.com" target="_new">www.backpage.com <a href="http://www.wordpress.com" target="_new">www.wordpress.com (blog site) <a href="http://www.blogger.com" target="_new">www.blogger.com (blog site) <a href="http://www.femmuse.com" target="_new">www.femmuse.com <a href="http://www.loudbytes.com" target="_new">www.loudbytes.com <a href="http://www.gigmasters.com" target="_new">www.gigmasters.com <a href="http://www.sonicbids.com" target="_new">www.sonicbids.com <a href="http://www.bandzoogle.com" target="_new">www.bandzoogle.com So many things have changed in the last 10 years since I've been in the music industry.  A relatively short amount of time, but we've seen some incredible things happen.  I am most impressed these days by the leaps and bounds of information you can find on the internet, as well as the climbing numbers of free networking sites that are available.  There are ways for all of us to take advantage of these opportunities, especially us musicians.  I like finding ways to get my name out there without spending a buck! 
The way we do business has changed forever due to the internet.  No longer a slave to our geographical locations as we once were, bands can have fans all over the world who have never seen them in person.  Businesses can appeal to customers anywhere, I've had artists from across the US, South America, Europe, Pacific Islands, the UK--all due to the internet.  These free sites can really work wonders for you if you take a little time to nurture them, learn how to maximize your potential on them and with them.  I've just started to scratch the surface using some of the social networks, but there are just as many free places to just list my business.  (and just as many places to add your band) 
I will post a list of some of the helpful sites, you may already be familiar with some.  With some effort, determination and a "can do" attitude you can make amazing things happen for you, your band, your friends' band, your son/daughter's band, your business, etc.  Good luck, happy findings and here's to a rip roarin' no holds barred, pedal to the metal, full throttle, wide open 2009!

www.twitter.com
www.twitter.com/ocrehearsals  (our twitter page)
www.facebook.com
www.yelp.com
www.linkedin.com
www.reverbnation.com
www.purevolume.com
www.myspace.com
www.gogirlsmusic.com
www.songsalive.org
www.craigslist.org
www.backpage.com
www.wordpress.com (blog site)
www.blogger.com (blog site)
www.femmuse.com
www.loudbytes.com
www.gigmasters.com
www.sonicbids.com
www.bandzoogle.com
]]> Mon, 26 Jan 2009 03:27:14 GMT 19C7B76D6F5D8E16DCAE2AFDA8438839 We WON a microphone...Telefunken! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=33816 We had a great time at the NAMM show this year.&nbsp; We became members last year and finally had the opportunity to go with passes that had our own names on them!&nbsp; We took some NAMM University classes which were all offered for free during the weekend.&nbsp; We did a little walking around and visiting with people we knew.&nbsp; We didn't have an agenda or any specific place to be this time, which was really nice.&nbsp; James decided to enter as many giveaways at the booths as he could.&nbsp; We filled out a multitude of slips at the Universal Audio booth, they were giving away an expensive card for your computer that was worth several thousand dollars.&nbsp; James entered a text giveaway at the Telefunken Microphone booth, where you had to text something to a particular number to be entered to win a microphone.&nbsp; We went back to the Universal Audio booth and each won a t-shirt during the drawing, then a good friend of ours acually won the jackpot.&nbsp; Later on in the day James got a text message telling him that he had just won a microphone!!&nbsp; It said to come by the Telefunken booth to claim our prize. Way cool!&nbsp; We almost didn't believe we had actually won something.&nbsp; So, a big thanks to the guys at Telefunken--we are looking forward to using this beautiful handheld mic on lots of stuff!&nbsp; We had a great time at the NAMM show this year.  We became members last year and finally had the opportunity to go with passes that had our own names on them!  We took some NAMM University classes which were all offered for free during the weekend.  We did a little walking around and visiting with people we knew.  We didn't have an agenda or any specific place to be this time, which was really nice.  James decided to enter as many giveaways at the booths as he could.  We filled out a multitude of slips at the Universal Audio booth, they were giving away an expensive card for your computer that was worth several thousand dollars.  James entered a text giveaway at the Telefunken Microphone booth, where you had to text something to a particular number to be entered to win a microphone.  We went back to the Universal Audio booth and each won a t-shirt during the drawing, then a good friend of ours acually won the jackpot.  Later on in the day James got a text message telling him that he had just won a microphone!!  It said to come by the Telefunken booth to claim our prize. Way cool!  We almost didn't believe we had actually won something.  So, a big thanks to the guys at Telefunken--we are looking forward to using this beautiful handheld mic on lots of stuff! 



]]> Mon, 26 Jan 2009 02:44:34 GMT E21B8C595CA9576FD4779D1F98A374D7 Follow us on the new networking site www.twitter.com...(but why??) We promise it's cool! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=32197 &nbsp;Because we will be spreading some LOVE to our friends and clients through our twitter page!!! That's why, please read on... Twitter is a new social networking site (or &quot;socnet&quot;--one of our friends coined the phrase), among the many out there these days. &nbsp;It is far easier to use and update than pages like myspace or facebook, which just add lots of clutter. &nbsp;The premise is by asking the question, &quot;What are you doing?&quot; you get a box that lets you type in a 140 character reply. &nbsp;You can create a page and find and follow other people. &nbsp;So the only thing you see is a running list of your short updates and updates of those you are following. &nbsp;Lots of people are using it, and we've found it to be really fun. &nbsp;You also have the option of getting your twitter updates on your mobile phone. &nbsp;Check out the twitter home page and let them explain it some more...<a target="_new" href="http://www.twitter.com">www.twitter.com. So, in the meantime we have created a page for the studio. &nbsp;Thought everyone would like us to share the happenings and stuff that's going on here, in small blurbs. &nbsp;But to make it really fun and cool we also wanted to create some additional stuff that we will be posting on our twitter page... <a target="_new" href="http://www.twitter.com/ocrehearsals">www.twitter.com/OCRehearsals We will be doing &quot;plug the band&quot; where we send out a short message about one of the bands here, plug an upcoming show and add a link to the band/artist's website or myspace page. &nbsp;In essence spreading the LOVE to those who choose to visit us and rehearse here, which we greatly appreciate. &nbsp;We will also be posting some general &quot;shout outs&quot; to various people and recording clients, etc. &nbsp;Possibly links to some other cool sites we like, OH and not to forget...some CRAZY specials and discounts on our services here. &nbsp;You WILL NOT FIND THESE ANYWHERE ELSE. &nbsp;We will only be posting our CRAZY specials on our twitter page. &nbsp;So, get with it and check it out. &nbsp;We will ONLY give you the special if you mention twitter when you book the time. &nbsp;You never know what else will show up on our twitter page, so make sure to create an account and follow us, heck even add us so you get our updates on your mobile phone. &nbsp; Thanks, hope you enjoy!!!
Twitter is a new social networking site (or "socnet"--one of our friends coined the phrase), among the many out there these days.  It is far easier to use and update than pages like myspace or facebook, which just add lots of clutter.  The premise is by asking the question, "What are you doing?" you get a box that lets you type in a 140 character reply.  You can create a page and find and follow other people.  So the only thing you see is a running list of your short updates and updates of those you are following.  Lots of people are using it, and we've found it to be really fun.  You also have the option of getting your twitter updates on your mobile phone.  Check out the twitter home page and let them explain it some more...www.twitter.com.

So, in the meantime we have created a page for the studio.  Thought everyone would like us to share the happenings and stuff that's going on here, in small blurbs.  But to make it really fun and cool we also wanted to create some additional stuff that we will be posting on our twitter page...

www.twitter.com/OCRehearsals

We will be doing "plug the band" where we send out a short message about one of the bands here, plug an upcoming show and add a link to the band/artist's website or myspace page.  In essence spreading the LOVE to those who choose to visit us and rehearse here, which we greatly appreciate.  We will also be posting some general "shout outs" to various people and recording clients, etc.  Possibly links to some other cool sites we like, OH and not to forget...some CRAZY specials and discounts on our services here.  You WILL NOT FIND THESE ANYWHERE ELSE.  We will only be posting our CRAZY specials on our twitter page.  So, get with it and check it out.  We will ONLY give you the special if you mention twitter when you book the time.  You never know what else will show up on our twitter page, so make sure to create an account and follow us, heck even add us so you get our updates on your mobile phone.  
Thanks, hope you enjoy!!!]]> Fri, 19 Dec 2008 05:25:00 GMT 4AAB7B5748C8DD62BA45428EB36693DA Going High Tech--New Computer System! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=28433 Help us out: You may be receiving a phone call from us here at Bomb Shelter asking you to provide us with your contact information, first and last name, band name, mailing address and email address.&nbsp; We would appreciate your help as we get everyone entered into our database.&nbsp; This information is ONLY for our use here at the studio.&nbsp; Giving you a call over the phone to get your info will save both of us time once you arrive here, getting you into your room as quickly as possible. Details: Ok, we've been doing things pretty much the same way since we opened in early 2000.&nbsp; But it's now 2008.&nbsp; We want to step things up.&nbsp; We want to provide the best possible service that we can to you, our clients.&nbsp; To do that we needed a software system that could handle a client data base, and all of our booking.&nbsp; After some lengthy searching we found what we needed.&nbsp; It's been a process to do all of the initial set up, but the results should be fantastic.&nbsp; All of our booking will be done via the computer.&nbsp; Shortly you will also be able to book your own rehearsals online through our website, 24/7.&nbsp; We will have specials and package deals with discounts also available to purchase online.&nbsp; For those of you who like a receipt you will also have the option of having us email you a copy of your receipt.&nbsp; We will also be offering gift cards, so there will be lots of ways to get more bang for your buck.&nbsp; We will be able to reduce if not eliminate any scheduling errors.&nbsp; We can easily keep track of those clients who are on a regular schedulie, (ie., coming in the same day and time each week) as well as keep track of any preferences you may have as far as room or equipment you may need when you are here. We are excited to get this all up and running and hope that you will enjoy the results as well.&nbsp; We will keep you updated as we get closer to having everything all set up.&nbsp; Keep checking back with us, hope to see you soon! Britt Help us out:
You may be receiving a phone call from us here at Bomb Shelter asking you to provide us with your contact information, first and last name, band name, mailing address and email address.  We would appreciate your help as we get everyone entered into our database.  This information is ONLY for our use here at the studio.  Giving you a call over the phone to get your info will save both of us time once you arrive here, getting you into your room as quickly as possible.

Details:
Ok, we've been doing things pretty much the same way since we opened in early 2000.  But it's now 2008.  We want to step things up.  We want to provide the best possible service that we can to you, our clients.  To do that we needed a software system that could handle a client data base, and all of our booking.  After some lengthy searching we found what we needed.  It's been a process to do all of the initial set up, but the results should be fantastic. 

All of our booking will be done via the computer.  Shortly you will also be able to book your own rehearsals online through our website, 24/7.  We will have specials and package deals with discounts also available to purchase online.  For those of you who like a receipt you will also have the option of having us email you a copy of your receipt.  We will also be offering gift cards, so there will be lots of ways to get more bang for your buck.  We will be able to reduce if not eliminate any scheduling errors.  We can easily keep track of those clients who are on a regular schedulie, (ie., coming in the same day and time each week) as well as keep track of any preferences you may have as far as room or equipment you may need when you are here.

We are excited to get this all up and running and hope that you will enjoy the results as well.  We will keep you updated as we get closer to having everything all set up.  Keep checking back with us, hope to see you soon!
Britt
]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 05:26:50 GMT 2B7B6F48CAF506DAF3B71D39B4D7F767 Stevi Madison http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=27115 We continue to be delighted to have Stevi Madison here at Bomb Shelter.&nbsp; If you haven't checked out her music you should.&nbsp; At a young age she has had some tremendous opportunities working in Nashville as well as Southern California.&nbsp; She is a talented writer and vocalist.&nbsp; She recently did a video shoot here for her song &quot;Beautiful.&quot;&nbsp; I had the pleasure of stepping in and taking a few photos of Stevi and the group of musicians she uses for her band.&nbsp; Everyone was fun to shoot and work with.&nbsp; So, check out Stevi Madison in her video, and don't forget to visit her myspace page too! <a target="_new" href="http://www.myspace.com/stevimadison">www.myspace.com/stevimadison
I had the pleasure of stepping in and taking a few photos of Stevi and the group of musicians she uses for her band.  Everyone was fun to shoot and work with.  So, check out Stevi Madison in her video, and don't forget to visit her myspace page too!
www.myspace.com/stevimadison



]]> Sun, 31 Aug 2008 09:50:00 GMT AA34AA15D0ECC985F4936D191FFC98FC Britt is interviewed for July issue of Music Connection Magazine http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=26480 I almost forgot to mention this altogether!&nbsp; I was asked to join a number of other music industry people in contributing to an article in the July 2008 Music Connection Magazine.&nbsp; The article is written by Bernard Baur, &quot;Rip Your Rehearsal Rut to Shreds.&quot;&nbsp; I was asked to participate in the section called &quot;Get a Little Knowledge.&quot;&nbsp; Here is how it turned out....(they never seem to get what you say exactly right though) Get a little knowledge-- You should also be aware of your equipment and sound.&nbsp; If you're planning to have an effective rehearsal, you must be prepared.&nbsp; Bring extra gear and make sure everything is ready to go to avoid delays.&nbsp; In that regard, Britt-Marie Trace, owner of Bomb Shelter Rehearsal Studios, suggests that artists should know something about setting up their own sound.&nbsp; &quot;We'll help when necessary, but it saves a lot of time when an act can make their own adjustments.&nbsp; A little knowledge goes a long way,&quot; she says.&nbsp; &quot;Knowing your equipment and how to use the mics and speakers can give you more time and better results.&quot; Lastly, Trace reminds artists that they should approach rehearsals in a professional manner.&nbsp; &quot;Finalize everyone's schedules before committing to the time.&quot; You can check out the article and other cool stuff by going to Music Connection Magazine's main web site.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.musicconnection.com" target="_new">www.musicconnection.com I almost forgot to mention this altogether!  I was asked to join a number of other music industry people in contributing to an article in the July 2008 Music Connection Magazine.  The article is written by Bernard Baur, "Rip Your Rehearsal Rut to Shreds." 

I was asked to participate in the section called "Get a Little Knowledge."  Here is how it turned out....(they never seem to get what you say exactly right though)

Get a little knowledge--
You should also be aware of your equipment and sound.  If you're planning to have an effective rehearsal, you must be prepared.  Bring extra gear and make sure everything is ready to go to avoid delays.  In that regard, Britt-Marie Trace, owner of Bomb Shelter Rehearsal Studios, suggests that artists should know something about setting up their own sound.  "We'll help when necessary, but it saves a lot of time when an act can make their own adjustments.  A little knowledge goes a long way," she says.  "Knowing your equipment and how to use the mics and speakers can give you more time and better results."
Lastly, Trace reminds artists that they should approach rehearsals in a professional manner.  "Finalize everyone's schedules before committing to the time."

You can check out the article and other cool stuff by going to Music Connection Magazine's main web site.  www.musicconnection.com
]]> Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:02:54 GMT D87064C86E585186BC60C8377261D143 Winners of the Rock Against Diabetes 2008 Band Competition...Starving For Gravity! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=25870 &nbsp; Congratulations to our clients and friends Starving For Gravity for winning the Opening Band Competition for Rock Against Diabetes!!&nbsp; They will be playing at the Rox Club in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Yeah Baby!&nbsp; The 3 month search to find the opening band for Rock Against Diabetes in Las Vegas August 23rd 2008 has come to an end, with Orange County's Starving For Gravity coming out on top as the winners. The band was pared down from a massive list that originally submitted their bands to take part, to a Top 45 list that was further trimmed to a Top 10. The Top 10 was then opened to a public vote that saw nearly 8,000 votes from fans made, with a final decision being handed down from the judges participating in the decision process. For show information go to... <a target="_new" href="http://www.rockagainstdiabetes.org">www.rockagainstdiabetes.org <a target="_new" href="http://www.myspace.com/starvingforgravity">www.myspace.com/starvingforgravity Other musicians playing at this event are: BUMBLEFOOT, and an amazing group of musicians such as: Constantine Maroulis, Jeff Berlin, Lez Warner, Rafael Moreira, Paul Mirkovich, Steve Brand and others put on an amazing All Star jam, Las Vegas' own Dario Lorina and his new band KARNEVAL, MAGNETICO, featuring Rafael Moreira as well as the winner of the ROCK AGAINST DIABETES Opening Band Competition,&nbsp; Starving For Gravity.

Congratulations to our clients and friends Starving For Gravity for winning the Opening Band Competition for Rock Against Diabetes!!  They will be playing at the Rox Club in Las Vegas.  Yeah Baby! 

The 3 month search to find the opening band for Rock Against Diabetes in Las Vegas August 23rd 2008 has come to an end, with Orange County's Starving For Gravity coming out on top as the winners. The band was pared down from a massive list that originally submitted their bands to take part, to a Top 45 list that was further trimmed to a Top 10. The Top 10 was then opened to a public vote that saw nearly 8,000 votes from fans made, with a final decision being handed down from the judges participating in the decision process.

For show information go to...
www.rockagainstdiabetes.org
www.myspace.com/starvingforgravity

Other musicians playing at this event are:
BUMBLEFOOT, and an amazing group of musicians such as: Constantine Maroulis, Jeff Berlin, Lez Warner, Rafael Moreira, Paul Mirkovich, Steve Brand and others put on an amazing All Star jam, Las Vegas' own Dario Lorina and his new band KARNEVAL, MAGNETICO, featuring Rafael Moreira as well as the winner of the ROCK AGAINST DIABETES Opening Band Competition,  Starving For Gravity.


]]> Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMT 8040968C8330791D2175ED0C23CE90F8 GET IN SHAPE, CHANGE YOUR LIFE--UPDATE! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=25686 In February this year I posted a blog about starting a workout routine and working with a personal trainer.&nbsp; I have to say I am thrilled with the results.&nbsp; You get out of it what you put in to it, and I've worked hard to give it 110%.&nbsp;&nbsp; I wouldn't say it's been easy, but very worth it.&nbsp; I have lost weight, gained muscle, gained endurance, gained confidance about how I think I look, am healthier (making better food choices), and generally feel much better.&nbsp; I have more energy overall.&nbsp; So, with all that said I have to give credit where credit is due.&nbsp; I have nothing but excellent things to say about the company and trainers I have had the pleasure of working with.&nbsp; They recently won MyFoxLa's OC Hotlist as OC's Best Personal Trainers, no small feat.&nbsp; Check out Innovative Results Inc. <a href="http://www.myproresults.com" target="_parent">www.myproresults.com One of the things that motivates me a great deal is the positive attitude of the trainers.&nbsp;&nbsp; They want us to succeed as much as we do, if not more.&nbsp; I am very grateful for the opportunity to train with these guys and I want to invite, no better yet I want to CHALLENGE anyone who is looking for a way to be healthier, to be in shape, to come down and do your first workout with me!&nbsp; The first one is a free consultation, you have nothing to lose--you will be hooked once you go. Email me to take me up on the CHALLENGE, come workout with me.&nbsp; The private gym is in Irvine, CA.&nbsp; I'm game if you are, you won't be disappointed! email:&nbsp; britt@bombshelterrehearsal.com put &quot;workout challenge&quot; in the subject line


In February this year I posted a blog about starting a workout routine and working with a personal trainer.  I have to say I am thrilled with the results.  You get out of it what you put in to it, and I've worked hard to give it 110%.   I wouldn't say it's been easy, but very worth it.  I have lost weight, gained muscle, gained endurance, gained confidance about how I think I look, am healthier (making better food choices), and generally feel much better.  I have more energy overall.  So, with all that said I have to give credit where credit is due.  I have nothing but excellent things to say about the company and trainers I have had the pleasure of working with.  They recently won MyFoxLa's OC Hotlist as OC's Best Personal Trainers, no small feat.  Check out Innovative Results Inc.
www.myproresults.com

One of the things that motivates me a great deal is the positive attitude of the trainers.   They want us to succeed as much as we do, if not more.  I am very grateful for the opportunity to train with these guys and I want to invite, no better yet I want to CHALLENGE anyone who is looking for a way to be healthier, to be in shape, to come down and do your first workout with me!  The first one is a free consultation, you have nothing to lose--you will be hooked once you go.

Email me to take me up on the CHALLENGE, come workout with me.  The private gym is in Irvine, CA.  I'm game if you are, you won't be disappointed!

email:  britt@bombshelterrehearsal.com
put "workout challenge" in the subject line


]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:10:00 GMT 70DC6FE73C1ED396109422B0B9FEF7A9 Going GREENer! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=25684 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Recycle: We have been making some small changes here at the studios that we hope will make a difference both for us and for the environment.&nbsp; We would like to invite all of our clients to help us impliment a recycling program here.&nbsp; You will find a blue recycling bin in each of our studios for glass bottles, plastic bottles, and cans.&nbsp;&nbsp; Toss your stuff in the recycle bins and your little act of kindness will go a long way! Reuse: I have a storage area here at the studios that most people don't ever see.&nbsp; It's kind of like your garage at your house--you keep lots of things there that you think you might use sometime, just hanging on to things that you really don't need (or haven't used in forever).&nbsp; I recently decided to let some things go hoping that other people will get better use out of them than I was getting.&nbsp; It felt good to get rid of things and know that they won't end up in a landfill somewhere.&nbsp; I gave some acoustic panels and soundproofing to a friend of mine who is adding on to his mastering studio.&nbsp; He donated a new unused water heater to me to return the favor.&nbsp; (more energy efficient than my old one!)&nbsp; I had been keeping 20 or so cracked and damaged cymbals, not wanting to just throw them in the trash bin--hoping to eventually find something to use them for.&nbsp; I finally realized I wasn't going to do anything with them and decided to find them a new home.&nbsp; I put an ad on craigslist.&nbsp; One guy came by that evening to pick up about 8 of the cymbals, he was a beginning drummer who just needed some stuff to bash on.&nbsp; The second guy was also a drummer, but was an artist looking for cymbals for an art project--how cool.&nbsp; I was thrilled to have the rest of the cymbals be used in such a way that others will get to enjoy them too!&nbsp; I also got rid of a ton of used drum heads that I had been hanging on to for no good reason.&nbsp; We have traded out many of our light bulbs for the compact flourescent ones where we can.&nbsp; We are hoping to continue do do things such as putting in some additional skylights over our hallway areas, and anything else that we can think of that will help the environment.&nbsp; Would love to do solar panels!!! For tips on going green and recycling here are a couple of websites I like... <a href="http://www.planetgreen.com" target="_new">www.planetgreen.com <a href="http://www.treehugger.com" target="_new">www.treehugger.com Personal Tip on a way to go GREENer: I've already started to refuse the plastic shopping bags for things when I shop.&nbsp; Especially if I just get one item, or something(s) that is easy to carry to the car without a bag.&nbsp; If I'm out at the mall (which doesn't happen often), when I go to the first store and buy something I usually get a bag.&nbsp; Typically it's a fairly good sized bag and say I only bought 1 pair of jeans--when I go to the next store I politely ask the clerk to put my items in the bag from the first store.&nbsp; When I get done shopping instead of a single bag from each place I shopped I have one, maybe two depending on how much stuff I got.&nbsp; When I first started doing these things I got funny looks, but I get them much less now.&nbsp; More often than not I ask the clerk to save the bag for someone else!
       

Recycle:
We have been making some small changes here at the studios that we hope will make a difference both for us and for the environment.  We would like to invite all of our clients to help us impliment a recycling program here.  You will find a blue recycling bin in each of our studios for glass bottles, plastic bottles, and cans.   Toss your stuff in the recycle bins and your little act of kindness will go a long way!

Reuse:
I have a storage area here at the studios that most people don't ever see.  It's kind of like your garage at your house--you keep lots of things there that you think you might use sometime, just hanging on to things that you really don't need (or haven't used in forever).  I recently decided to let some things go hoping that other people will get better use out of them than I was getting.  It felt good to get rid of things and know that they won't end up in a landfill somewhere.  I gave some acoustic panels and soundproofing to a friend of mine who is adding on to his mastering studio.  He donated a new unused water heater to me to return the favor.  (more energy efficient than my old one!)  I had been keeping 20 or so cracked and damaged cymbals, not wanting to just throw them in the trash bin--hoping to eventually find something to use them for.  I finally realized I wasn't going to do anything with them and decided to find them a new home.  I put an ad on craigslist.  One guy came by that evening to pick up about 8 of the cymbals, he was a beginning drummer who just needed some stuff to bash on.  The second guy was also a drummer, but was an artist looking for cymbals for an art project--how cool.  I was thrilled to have the rest of the cymbals be used in such a way that others will get to enjoy them too!  I also got rid of a ton of used drum heads that I had been hanging on to for no good reason. 

We have traded out many of our light bulbs for the compact flourescent ones where we can.  We are hoping to continue do do things such as putting in some additional skylights over our hallway areas, and anything else that we can think of that will help the environment.  Would love to do solar panels!!!

For tips on going green and recycling here are a couple of websites I like...
www.planetgreen.com
www.treehugger.com

Personal Tip on a way to go GREENer:
 I've already started to refuse the plastic shopping bags for things when I shop.  Especially if I just get one item, or something(s) that is easy to carry to the car without a bag.  If I'm out at the mall (which doesn't happen often), when I go to the first store and buy something I usually get a bag.  Typically it's a fairly good sized bag and say I only bought 1 pair of jeans--when I go to the next store I politely ask the clerk to put my items in the bag from the first store.  When I get done shopping instead of a single bag from each place I shopped I have one, maybe two depending on how much stuff I got.  When I first started doing these things I got funny looks, but I get them much less now.  More often than not I ask the clerk to save the bag for someone else!
]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:40:00 GMT 6E3AE6DC26EE08B4C153077647D5B1B5 Barry Ivan White...any relation to??? http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=22626 Ok, so there's no actual relation to The Barry White...but that hasn't stopped Barry Ivan White from having a successful and long career, as a performer/entertainer/producer.&nbsp; We have been blessed with the opportunity to work with Barry here at our studios.&nbsp; Hosting his group of musicians here for a rehearsal, as well as recording a live performance at a prestigious South Laguna hotel for a corporate event.&nbsp; Barry is an International and Multicultural entertainer.&nbsp; He has performed with artists such as Al Jarreau, Huey Lewis &amp; The News, Leann Rymes, Hootie &amp; The Blowfish, and Phil Driscoll. On the Latin music scene, he has appeared with Los Panchos with Rafael Basurto Lara, Dyango, Jose Jose, Lolita Ayala, Francisco Cespedes, David Torrenz, and Amaury Gutierrez to name a few. One of BARRY&rsquo;s favorite and most memorable performances was in the Casa Arabesque in Acapulco for the Baron and Baroness Enrique and Sandra D&rsquo;Portanova where he performed for Luis Miguel, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Ricky Martin, Henry Mancini, Shecky Green, Don Johnson, Melanie Griffith, Rebecca De Alba, and other dignitaries. Barry was also a member of the legendary group, The Platters for just over 20 years. Thanks again to Barry, Stephanie and all the musicians--for giving us the opportunity to work with you! &nbsp; Britt &nbsp;


Ok, so there's no actual relation to The Barry White...but that hasn't stopped Barry Ivan White from having a successful and long career, as a performer/entertainer/producer.  We have been blessed with the opportunity to work with Barry here at our studios.  Hosting his group of musicians here for a rehearsal, as well as recording a live performance at a prestigious South Laguna hotel for a corporate event. 

Barry is an International and Multicultural entertainer.  He has performed with artists such as Al Jarreau, Huey Lewis & The News, Leann Rymes, Hootie & The Blowfish, and Phil Driscoll. On the Latin music scene, he has appeared with Los Panchos with Rafael Basurto Lara, Dyango, Jose Jose, Lolita Ayala, Francisco Cespedes, David Torrenz, and Amaury Gutierrez to name a few. One of BARRY’s favorite and most memorable performances was in the Casa Arabesque in Acapulco for the Baron and Baroness Enrique and Sandra D’Portanova where he performed for Luis Miguel, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Ricky Martin, Henry Mancini, Shecky Green, Don Johnson, Melanie Griffith, Rebecca De Alba, and other dignitaries.

Barry was also a member of the legendary group, The Platters for just over 20 years.

Thanks again to Barry, Stephanie and all the musicians--for giving us the opportunity to work with you!  
Britt
 ]]> Wed, 09 Apr 2008 07:40:00 GMT 201B5E8A41DF42B6B270F54200A12574 Burst my Bubble! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=21284 This is pretty silly, but I just googled myself only to find out that there are other people with my first name!&nbsp; I'm so deflated--I really thought it was super unique.&nbsp; I mean seriously how many other people do you know with their first name hyphenated??&nbsp; I can't believe there are other people named BRITT-MARIE!!!&nbsp; Holy Cow!&nbsp; Ok, like I said pretty silly--it just hadn't crossed my mind that there was the possibility that someone else had the same idea that my parents had, &quot;hey what about Britt-Marie, that sounds like a nice name for a girl?&quot; Hmmmm, my bubble has burst! B This is pretty silly, but I just googled myself only to find out that there are other people with my first name!  I'm so deflated--I really thought it was super unique.  I mean seriously how many other people do you know with their first name hyphenated??  I can't believe there are other people named BRITT-MARIE!!!  Holy Cow! 

Ok, like I said pretty silly--it just hadn't crossed my mind that there was the possibility that someone else had the same idea that my parents had, "hey what about Britt-Marie, that sounds like a nice name for a girl?"

Hmmmm, my bubble has burst!
B]]> Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:20:00 GMT F98D8C2474C895C07602333EC514FC8C GET IN SHAPE, CHANGE YOUR LIFE http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=21214 Ok, I've decided to get my self back into working out and feeling better!&nbsp; I took action and recently signed up with a personal trainer, and no not at 24 hr. fitness or chain gym.&nbsp; I really wanted to work with someone who has a positive attitude and keeps me motivated.&nbsp; I came across a company called Innovative Results, Inc. and one of their trainers, Michael Foster.&nbsp; Michael is a former Marine and is also a musician.&nbsp; That's right up my alley, because I too am a former Marine and I work with musicians--close enough!&nbsp; I wanted to write this blog to encourage anyone, but musicians in particular to want to live a healthy and fit life.&nbsp; I also wanted to write this blog to thank everyone at Innovative Results, Inc. for their help in getting my fitness back on track.&nbsp; Though I have only completed a week of workouts so far, I have had a great time with both Aaron and Michael.&nbsp; They train out of a gym called Next Level Fitness, which is an amazing facility.&nbsp; I feel at home and comfortable, not self conscious about how I look or who is watching.&nbsp; So I'm sending some love back out into the universe, and letting everyone know what a great team everyone at Innovative Results, Inc. is.&nbsp; If you are looking to get fit and be in the best shape of your life, these guys have their sh*$# together!&nbsp; I highly recommend working with Aaron and Michael at Innovative Results, Inc.&nbsp; Here's their website for you to take a peek at what they do... Britt-Marie Trace/Owner <a href="http://www.myproresults.com"> www.myproresults.com Aaron Guyett (714) 469-9338 aguyett@myproresults.com Michael Foster (714) 655-6825 mfoster@myproresults.com Ok, I've decided to get my self back into working out and feeling better!  I took action and recently signed up with a personal trainer, and no not at 24 hr. fitness or chain gym.  I really wanted to work with someone who has a positive attitude and keeps me motivated.  I came across a company called Innovative Results, Inc. and one of their trainers, Michael Foster.  Michael is a former Marine and is also a musician.  That's right up my alley, because I too am a former Marine and I work with musicians--close enough! 

I wanted to write this blog to encourage anyone, but musicians in particular to want to live a healthy and fit life.  I also wanted to write this blog to thank everyone at Innovative Results, Inc. for their help in getting my fitness back on track.  Though I have only completed a week of workouts so far, I have had a great time with both Aaron and Michael.  They train out of a gym called Next Level Fitness, which is an amazing facility.  I feel at home and comfortable, not self conscious about how I look or who is watching. 

So I'm sending some love back out into the universe, and letting everyone know what a great team everyone at Innovative Results, Inc. is.  If you are looking to get fit and be in the best shape of your life, these guys have their sh*$# together!  I highly recommend working with Aaron and Michael at Innovative Results, Inc.  Here's their website for you to take a peek at what they do...
Britt-Marie Trace/Owner

www.myproresults.com

Aaron Guyett
(714) 469-9338
aguyett@myproresults.com

Michael Foster
(714) 655-6825
mfoster@myproresults.com]]> Sat, 16 Feb 2008 09:20:00 GMT 9C5371E71F9F81B2600F5EC60AD072E7 Artists in town for NAMM Part 2 http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=20488 So, here we are at the end of another long and busy day.&nbsp; It was a bunch of running around, but it was FUN too!&nbsp; Ken, Brian and I spent a second evening as a tag team--helping everyone get what they need.&nbsp; The guys in Evans Blue had a film crew show up to do interviews with the guitar and bass players.&nbsp; I got to snap a few pictures while the film crew was here with their enormous soft box light.&nbsp; We also had the opportunity to mic up the band and do a live recording with Evans Blue!&nbsp; Can't wait to have some of the mixes up on the site for everyone to check out.&nbsp; All of the acoustic guitars and the acoustic basses were supplied by Ibanez for the guys.&nbsp; Ibanez's Jordan Colley was here on site to interface with the film crew, band and us.&nbsp; The film crew was two of the industry's seasoned pros, Bob Patterson and James Hagopian.&nbsp; It was a pleasure to watch them work, we are definitely looking forward to seeing the finished footage. Thanks again to Ibanez (Jordan Colley) for working with us here, and for choosing Bomb Shelter.&nbsp; We look forward to keeping in touch.&nbsp; To the guys in Evans Blue--YOU ROCK!!&nbsp; You were a pleasure to have here, a pleasure to work with, you are welcome here anytime you are in town.&nbsp; Thanks for signing Ken's guitar, and for getting him in to your show in Long Beach...very cool. We also had a few very talented Artists/Musicians from PRS Guitars here tonight who rolled up here in a long gold limousine with the lettering &quot;I Love NAMM&quot; on both sides.&nbsp; Right on!!&nbsp; We were pleased to&nbsp; have David Grissom, who is a solo artist and also plays sessions as well as a current gig with the Dixie Chicks.&nbsp; If you get a chance, check out his web site and myspace...<a href="http://www.davidgrissom.com">www.davidgrissom.com, and <a href="http://www.myspace.com/davidgrissommusic">www.myspace.com/davidgrissommusic.&nbsp; Amazing guitar playing, worth checking out!&nbsp; David was joined by Michael Ault,&nbsp; as well as Gary and Greg Grainger from Acoustic Alchemy.&nbsp; Catch up with these guys at <a href="http://www.acoustic-alchemy.net">www.acoustic-alchemy.net. What an evening!&nbsp; We had a great time meeting everyone and we hope they enjoyed coming here too.&nbsp; Time to get home and GET SOME REST!&nbsp; Evans Blue had a film crew show up to do interviews with the guitar and bass players.  I got to snap a few pictures while the film crew was here with their enormous soft box light.  We also had the opportunity to mic up the band and do a live recording with Evans Blue!  Can't wait to have some of the mixes up on the site for everyone to check out.  All of the acoustic guitars and the acoustic basses were supplied by Ibanez for the guys.  Ibanez's Jordan Colley was here on site to interface with the film crew, band and us.  The film crew was two of the industry's seasoned pros, Bob Patterson and James Hagopian.  It was a pleasure to watch them work, we are definitely looking forward to seeing the finished footage.

Thanks again to Ibanez (Jordan Colley) for working with us here, and for choosing Bomb Shelter.  We look forward to keeping in touch.  To the guys in Evans Blue--YOU ROCK!!  You were a pleasure to have here, a pleasure to work with, you are welcome here anytime you are in town.  Thanks for signing Ken's guitar, and for getting him in to your show in Long Beach...very cool.

We also had a few very talented Artists/Musicians from PRS Guitars here tonight who rolled up here in a long gold limousine with the lettering "I Love NAMM" on both sides.  Right on!!  We were pleased to  have David Grissom, who is a solo artist and also plays sessions as well as a current gig with the Dixie Chicks.  If you get a chance, check out his web site and myspace...www.davidgrissom.com, and www.myspace.com/davidgrissommusic.  Amazing guitar playing, worth checking out!  David was joined by Michael Ault,  as well as Gary and Greg Grainger from Acoustic Alchemy.  Catch up with these guys at www.acoustic-alchemy.net.

What an evening!  We had a great time meeting everyone and we hope they enjoyed coming here too.  Time to get home and GET SOME REST! ]]> Sat, 19 Jan 2008 14:06:46 GMT 484DC1307E45DFE7FF6F185E52C13907 Artists in town for NAMM http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=20477 We have had the pleasure of hosting several companies and the artists they are working with here at Bomb Shelter during the NAMM show.&nbsp; We would like to thank Ibanez, PRS (Paul Reed Smith) Guitars, and Samson.&nbsp; We also had an independant artist in town for a few shows, Greg Sczebel, down here from Canada. Ibanez has had their artist Evans Blue here during Thursday and Friday (Jan. 17, 18.), and are going to record some live audio and video on Friday for some upcoming projects.&nbsp; Check out <a href="http://www.ibanez.com">www.ibanez.com to see some of their great equipment, and also be sure to take a listen to Evans Blue at <a href="http://www.evansblue.com">www.evansblue.com or <a href="http://www.myspace.com/evansblue">www.myspace.com/evansblue Samson had their artist Byron Miller here before some shows during NAMM.&nbsp; It was a fun evening with them here, many of the guys in this group played with the late Luther Vandross.&nbsp; This group included musicians: Byron Miller, Nat Adderly, Kenneth Crouch, Steve Kroom, Ivan Hampden, and Darryl Crooks.&nbsp; You can see all the gear Samson has available on their website, <a href="http://www.samsontech.com">www.samsontech.com.&nbsp; Don't forget to check out Byron's site at <a href="http://www.bigonemusic.com">www.bigonemusic.com. Mr. Greg Sczebel, whose last name I still can't pronounce right, traveled here from Canada with his group who will also be performing several times and places during NAMM.&nbsp; It was a pleasure to have them and I'm sure they are enjoying the weather down here!&nbsp; Greg's group included himself, as well as Dan Oldfield, Hank&nbsp; &quot;The Tank&quot; Ensell, and Steve Davis.&nbsp; Be sure to take a listen to Greg's music at <a href="http://wwww.myspace.com/gregsczebel">www.myspace.com/gregsczebel. We look forward to seeing everyone else again!&nbsp; Good luck and much success in 2008.
Ibanez has had their artist Evans Blue here during Thursday and Friday (Jan. 17, 18.), and are going to record some live audio and video on Friday for some upcoming projects.  Check out www.ibanez.com to see some of their great equipment, and also be sure to take a listen to Evans Blue at www.evansblue.com or www.myspace.com/evansblue

Samson had their artist Byron Miller here before some shows during NAMM.  It was a fun evening with them here, many of the guys in this group played with the late Luther Vandross.  This group included musicians: Byron Miller, Nat Adderly, Kenneth Crouch, Steve Kroom, Ivan Hampden, and Darryl Crooks.  You can see all the gear Samson has available on their website, www.samsontech.com.  Don't forget to check out Byron's site at www.bigonemusic.com.

Mr. Greg Sczebel, whose last name I still can't pronounce right, traveled here from Canada with his group who will also be performing several times and places during NAMM.  It was a pleasure to have them and I'm sure they are enjoying the weather down here!  Greg's group included himself, as well as Dan Oldfield, Hank  "The Tank" Ensell, and Steve Davis.  Be sure to take a listen to Greg's music at www.myspace.com/gregsczebel.

We look forward to seeing everyone else again!  Good luck and much success in 2008.]]> Sat, 19 Jan 2008 04:33:48 GMT ED6281D99400CCBECC7FC46F1BB60DDA Catching up...new cancellation policy in place, rate increase coming soon! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=18542 Well, it's almost the end of October and here we are with Halloween right around the corner, closely followed by Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's.&nbsp; It sure seems as if the time goes by even faster the older you get.&nbsp;&nbsp; Things have been going really well here at Bomb Shelter.&nbsp; I'm sure everyone is getting used to seeing our new Manager Ken Dean roaming around here and answering the phones.&nbsp; I've relinquished some of my phone answering duties, so you might not get me on the phone when you book time.&nbsp; All of my current employees are able to answer the phone and book time for you, Ken, Brian and Greg. Looks like we have decided to try out a new cancellation policy, so please check that out and get familiar with it.&nbsp; Click on this...<a href="./policies.cfm">New Bomb Shelter Cancellation Policy, to view the details. We will also be raising the rates here pretty quickly, most likely around the 15th of November.&nbsp; Please check back as we will be posting some additional information on the new rates here shortly.&nbsp; We have not raised our rates in quite some time, but need to due to increased energy costs as well as the need to continue to provide you with a quality facility, and top notch staff. We always value your input and feedback, so feel free to let us know if there is anything else we can do to make your visit to Bomb Shelter an excellent one.&nbsp;&nbsp; Thanks for your help, Britt
Things have been going really well here at Bomb Shelter.  I'm sure everyone is getting used to seeing our new Manager Ken Dean roaming around here and answering the phones.  I've relinquished some of my phone answering duties, so you might not get me on the phone when you book time.  All of my current employees are able to answer the phone and book time for you, Ken, Brian and Greg.

Looks like we have decided to try out a new cancellation policy, so please check that out and get familiar with it.  Click on this...New Bomb Shelter Cancellation Policy, to view the details.

We will also be raising the rates here pretty quickly, most likely around the 15th of November.  Please check back as we will be posting some additional information on the new rates here shortly.  We have not raised our rates in quite some time, but need to due to increased energy costs as well as the need to continue to provide you with a quality facility, and top notch staff.

We always value your input and feedback, so feel free to let us know if there is anything else we can do to make your visit to Bomb Shelter an excellent one.  
Thanks for your help,
Britt]]> Fri, 26 Oct 2007 08:26:58 GMT 9B82E313DCDA0399777C73FF1E71B4E6 Whew!! http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=17869 Well, the month of August seemed to go on forever and September has shaped up nicely.&nbsp;&nbsp;We lost longtime employee Bobbo, and Tommy as well, so it was time to put together a new lineup of staff members here at Bomb Shelter.&nbsp; I worked additional hours to cover for the evenings that were previously covered by them.&nbsp; September has brought me relief getting back to a schedule I can count on as well as a new Manager and Assistant Manager to help cover the load.&nbsp; You may now have the pleasure of talking to one of my staff members or myself when you are booking rehearsal time.&nbsp; Everyone will be trained to answer the phone, assist customers and book rehearsal time. I've been jumping into learning some new skills as well, taking photography classes at Orange Coast College this semester.&nbsp; I'm taking the basic Photo 120, black and white film photography course, as well as &quot;Intro to Digital Photograpy.&quot;&nbsp; I am looking forward to offering Photography as an additional service to all musicians here at the studios.&nbsp; I already have my new digital camera and will soon complete my gear list (for now)&nbsp;when my new laptop computer arrives.&nbsp;&nbsp; I have a Canon Elan 7, which is a film camera.&nbsp; It has always shot great pictures. I recently bought a brand new Canon 30D digital camera with two lenses.&nbsp;&nbsp; I also have a small Canon point and shoot digital camera, a PowerShot SD800 IS My computer will be a MacBook Pro, 2.44Ghz, 15&quot; monitor Software: Adobe Creative Suite, CS3 Design Premium (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) I also have access to additional equipment and darkrooms via the Orange Coast College Photography Program. I will be putting together a package for those that rehearse here as far as the&nbsp;photography goes.&nbsp; Keep checking back for details on that one.&nbsp; I promise you won't be disappointed! Well, I'm super busy these days but I'm excited too.&nbsp; You may not see me here as much right now, but I'm still very involved in the running and operations at the studio.&nbsp; As the photography gets rolling you will see me here in the evenings more--camera in hand!! Britt
I've been jumping into learning some new skills as well, taking photography classes at Orange Coast College this semester.  I'm taking the basic Photo 120, black and white film photography course, as well as "Intro to Digital Photograpy."  I am looking forward to offering Photography as an additional service to all musicians here at the studios.  I already have my new digital camera and will soon complete my gear list (for now) when my new laptop computer arrives.  
I have a Canon Elan 7, which is a film camera.  It has always shot great pictures.
I recently bought a brand new Canon 30D digital camera with two lenses.  
I also have a small Canon point and shoot digital camera, a PowerShot SD800 IS
My computer will be a MacBook Pro, 2.44Ghz, 15" monitor
Software: Adobe Creative Suite, CS3 Design Premium (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.)
I also have access to additional equipment and darkrooms via the Orange Coast College Photography Program.

I will be putting together a package for those that rehearse here as far as the photography goes.  Keep checking back for details on that one.  I promise you won't be disappointed!

Well, I'm super busy these days but I'm excited too.  You may not see me here as much right now, but I'm still very involved in the running and operations at the studio.  As the photography gets rolling you will see me here in the evenings more--camera in hand!!
Britt]]> Sun, 23 Sep 2007 10:16:48 GMT A8101487C344F367C5FB709673806CF7 Recipe for Success... http://bombshelterrehearsal.com/blog.cfm?feature=19058&postid=16930 Ok, I like to write.&nbsp; I keep a personal journal on one of my laptop computers.&nbsp; I even bought myself a little writing desk lately.&nbsp; Last month I was at home in the evening doing some writing.&nbsp;&nbsp;My family has been a big influence in my life and we have lots of funny family stories, as well as some great advice passed on from my parents to us kids.&nbsp; In honor of the things my parents have encouraged in us kids, I came up with the following acronym.&nbsp; Now, I have to tell you a small family secret for you to understand the reason for the POOP acronym.&nbsp; We could somehow never mangage to get through a meal at the dinner table without something coming up about the backside of our anatomy--weather someone talked about it, mentioned anything anal ie. farting, etc., it would somehow come up in conversation in one way or another.&nbsp; So, now it's just a family joke.&nbsp; I thought it would be funny to have a &quot;family motto&quot; so to speak. I originally called it the POOP Recipe for Success, but I also coined the phrase the &quot;POOP Factor.&quot;&nbsp; Next...The POOP Factor revealed!! How to make your life worth a pile of POOP.&nbsp; You won't want to miss this--news live at 11. The POOP Recipe for Success... P...Possibilities O...Opportunities O...(keep your) Options Open P...&quot;Prove it!&quot; attitude So, now I've shared it with the world.&nbsp; Feel free to make jokes about it of your own, we did!&nbsp; My family got a kick out of it, so did I, and so did my husband James.&nbsp; There is a little bit more to the explanation as far as the things that it defines, if you care to read on.&nbsp;&nbsp; I always try to look at situations and see the POSSIBILITIES instead of the things I can't control.&nbsp; Always&nbsp;look to&nbsp;try new things and create OPPORTUNITIES&nbsp;for youself no matter where you are going or what you are doing.&nbsp; Keep your OPTIONS OPEN, don't close your mind or your door to anything you might miss otherwise.&nbsp;&nbsp; The &quot;PROVE IT!&quot; attitude--now, I definitely don't want this to sound like the negative kind of&nbsp; &quot;prove it.&quot;&nbsp; I want this to be a positive &quot;prove it.&quot;&nbsp; I want this to have the kind of&nbsp;&quot;I can do anything&quot; power behind it.&nbsp; An empowering kind of &quot;prove it.&quot;&nbsp; A get off your butt&nbsp; and &quot;do it&quot; kind of feel.&nbsp; So there you have it, my explanation behind The POOP Factor.&nbsp; If you like it, I'm glad.&nbsp; If you don't, I'm not offended either.&nbsp;&nbsp; It makes the saying &quot;oh POOP&quot; have a whole new meaning!&nbsp;&nbsp; Britt
I originally called it the POOP Recipe for Success, but I also coined the phrase the "POOP Factor." 

Next...The POOP Factor revealed!! How to make your life worth a pile of POOP.  You won't want to miss this--news live at 11.

The POOP Recipe for Success...
P...Possibilities
O...Opportunities
O...(keep your) Options Open
P..."Prove it!" attitude

So, now I've shared it with the world.  Feel free to make jokes about it of your own, we did!  My family got a kick out of it, so did I, and so did my husband James.  There is a little bit more to the explanation as far as the things that it defines, if you care to read on.  
I always try to look at situations and see the POSSIBILITIES instead of the things I can't control.  Always look to try new things and create OPPORTUNITIES for youself no matter where you are going or what you are doing.  Keep your OPTIONS OPEN, don't close your mind or your door to anything you might miss otherwise.   The "PROVE IT!" attitude--now, I definitely don't want this to sound like the negative kind of  "prove it."  I want this to be a positive "prove it."  I want this to have the kind of "I can do anything" power behind it.  An empowering kind of "prove it."  A get off your butt  and "do it" kind of feel.  So there you have it, my explanation behind The POOP Factor.  If you like it, I'm glad.  If you don't, I'm not offended either.  

It makes the saying "oh POOP" have a whole new meaning!  
Britt]]> Sun, 05 Aug 2007 04:40:32 GMT 1CC8D9819D31F05F4F378DF006ED230D