Concert Thu Jun 26 2008

Gonna be a Big Star

“They all hate you tomorrow when no one buys your single…”

How do you judge success in the modern era of music? Who is a star and who is not a star? One of the main concerns musicians and pr companies have when dealing with on-line media is whether or not the buzz or hype will actually translate to supportive fans. If you believe that it does, then the “Most Blogged Artists” section of Hype Machine would have more meaning then the Billboard Top 200, and we all know that Girl Talk is not out selling Coldplay. In fact, he is releasing his latest album for free. So who is the “Big Star”?

On the title track of her fourth studio album, 24 year-old, Haley Bonar takes an interesting look at the music business. She tells the tale of a musician whisked away and promised the world, only to be dropped when sales don’t meet expectations. It is this view that may explain her loyalty to the small Minnesota label, Afternoon Records, that has released each of her albums. It is clear that the main focus of this young star to make quality music that she can be proud of, and not to be launched and dropped like so many others. The quality of “Big Star” shines through on each intimate track, as she tells the stories of life and the need for substance.

[MP3] Haley Bonar - Big Star

Haley Bonar will be opening for Hayden on Saturday (June 28th) at Schubas. Tickets are $15 and the show starts at 10:30pm. This is a 21+ show. Images above courtsey Dominick Mastrangelo.

- Jason Behrends