A HUGE THANK YOU!!!

I would like to personally extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped to make last Saturdays show at the Vassar Theater a success. Special thanks to Bissonette Sound, Seth Payton and Stamp'd, Chuck Harrington, Aaron Lenk, Tim James, Lavel Jackson for recording the show and Gary Bredow with Big Bang Films. Also a huge thank you to Tim O'Brian at the Vassar Theater for all his unflinching support. I also would like to extend my love to my Brothers-In-Arms in THE PROCESS, Garrick, Bill and Gabe. To all of our friends, fans and family who made it out to the show, your support meant more to us than you could ever know. Much love to everyone, David

A marque-worthy return Sunday, March 09, 2008

A marque-worthy return Sunday, March 09, 2008

SUE WHITE THE SAGINAW NEWS

Several dates stand out in the history of the Vassar Theatre, an art-deco movie house that first opened its doors on Dec. 26, 1937.
For example, a mural painted on the lobby wall recreates the long lines waiting to see its first feature, Barbara Stanwyck in ''Stella Dallas.'' Flood waters in 1986 reached more than halfway up the movie screen in the theater dubbed ''The Jewel of the Thumb,'' though you wouldn't guess it today.
''I asked why anyone would build a theater at the lowest point of a town known to flood, and people told me that in 1937, that's where everything was happening,'' said owner Tim O'Brien. ''That was the place to be.''
And in 2005, about 15 years after he purchased the movie house at 104 E. Huron, O'Brien opened the doors on a fully renovated theater with the Tom Cruise sci-fi adventure, ''War of the Worlds.''
But for The Process' David Asher, the defining moment was a night in 1990 -- or was it 1991? -- when the newly formed rock-reggae band took its show to the Vassar Theatre stage.
On Saturday, March 22, he and bandmates Garrick Owen, Bill Heffelfinger and Gabe Gonzalez will return, with psychedelic films, more than 30 music-synchronized lasers, a pig head and lots of music. The band Stamp'd, along with Aaron Link and Jim Perkins, will open the show, which begins at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $6.
''We've stayed in touch, and it was over a few beers that we thought it would be fun to do again after all these years,'' O'Brien said of the homecoming. ''And this was one of those rare beer discussions where it still sounds good the next day. We're welcoming our hometown guys back to where it all began.''
The theater was built by Howard and Stanley Smith for $50,000, though most people today remember Harry Smith as the man who kept it in operation.
''When I was a kid, coming here for movies, the film would keep breaking, and we'd yell, 'Pedal faster, Harry, pedal faster,''' Asher remembered. ''It was 'Battle for the Planet of the Apes,' and the place was dingier, but it had the same clock and the same look.''
The theater, sitting at the very bottom of the hill in downtown Vassar, has gone through a number of changes since then, not all for the good. At one point, an owner even sold it to the city of Vassar for $1, long before it came into O'Brien's possession. O'Brien scheduled a few events, such as The Process concert 18 years ago, after buying it in 1990, but his Green Acres Cinema in Saginaw and the State Theatre in Bay City took up more of his attention.
Ultimately, it was the Vassar house that paid off, though he says he still regrets not bringing the State to its full potential. While not as opulent as the Temple or as versatile as the State, the 371-seat Vassar Theatre does have its own charm, from the vintage feel of the women's bathroom to Jerry Ragg's towering murals.
''Old theaters are always a work in progress,'' O'Brien said. ''Even when you're finished redoing everything, there's something that's ready to be done over again. It's a long and exhaustive process.'' The Process' show isn't likely to launch a string of live performances -- ''First-run films are our bread and butter,'' O'Brien said -- but it is part of a trend among theater owners, of finding ways to reach new audiences.
The Saginaw 8 in Kochville Township tapped into live broadcasts of performances from the Metropolitan Opera. Fashion Square Cinemas kept the box office hopping with concert films featuring Hannah Montana and U2. Cinema Hollywood in Birch Run hosts Battle-of-the-Bands competitions, coupled with first-run movies.
On the live front, Pit and Balcony Community Theatre is looking for ways to build on the recent crowd-pleasing tribute to ''The Last Waltz,'' featuring mid-Michigan musicians.
And the Temple Theatre in Saginaw and the State in Bay City have filled schedules with a blend of live performances and films both art and classic.
''It's the first time since we reopened that we've done anything like this,'' O'Brien said. ''We're not making any money on it, of course, but if the demand is there, the potential to do more is, too. This is a good way for us to gauge the interest.''
The Process comes with a long history as well.
''Bill, Garrick and I grew up together right on top of the hill in Vassar,'' Asher said. ''Bill and I used to play in a crib together, that's how far back we go. Garrick lived around the corner; he was seven years younger, but he had a sister, Patty, who was really good-looking, so we knew the family.''
The band, with its Rastafarian roots, soon emerged from its small-town beginnings, building an audience around mid-Michigan, and in time around the country and most recently in Europe. Gonzalez replaced original drummer Arik Aneszko, who moved to Chicago, but The Process is working its way toward its 20th anniversary relatively intact.
Seth Payton from Stamp'd is one watching The Process closely, hoping to achieve the same with his own band.
''We started so young, we never took our music seriously until we were too caught up in other things to pursue it,'' said Seth Payton from Stamp'd. ''We were 14; we were just bouncing around.'' ''Life happens,'' Asher agreed. ''You can't put your life on hold. The power will take you where you should be, the power that comes from God.
''We had a showcase once with Virgin Records, and I think today, the way a major label redesigns you, that we probably wouldn't be here today if we had signed.
''The Internet has been very good for us. It's made the world smaller. We can record from all over the globe, we can write music with people in London, we can get our music to people everywhere.''
And sometimes, Payton added, it's good to get back to your roots.
''I have the greatest admiration for The Process and the way the guys are sticking it out, doing things their way,'' O'Brien said. ''I'm glad they're coming back to where it began, too. They've really pulled it all together.''
Sue White covers entertainment for The Saginaw News. You may reach her at 776-9601.

Tim O'Brien and The Process Roll Out the Red Carpet at THE VASSAR THEATRE

Tim O'Brien and The Process Roll Out the Red Carpet at THE VASSAR THEATRE.

REVIEW MAGAZINE

By Robert E. Martin, Photos by Rick Moreau, Band Photo: Gotts

As an aficionado of film, beauty, and the miraculous synthesis that occurs upon the silver screen when a film is viewed by a community within the wondrous walls of a restored movie palace, as opposed to the drab concrete walls of a multiplex, Tim O'Brien is decidedly in a class all his own.
A former owner of The State Theatre in Bay City and Green Acres Cinema in Saginaw, O'Brien purchased The Vassar Theatre back in 1990 with a dream of restoring it to its former glory.
After investing over $500,000 and well over 13 years of his life, O'Brien executed the restoration almost single-handedly and re-opened the theatre in November 2005, where it continues to run feature films weekly.
O'Brien believes that where you see a film is as important as the movie itself and apart from the restoration, he has seen that the venue is equipped with professional 35 mm film projection and premium Dolby Digital sound enhanced by four 18 inch JBL subwoofers and 14 surround speakers.
On Saturday, March 22nd, O'Brien will be hosting a different type of entertainment at the restored venue when he brings fellow Vassarites The Process into the theatre for a Live Concert at 7:00 PM with special guests Stamp'd for an 'all ages' show.
The Process will be filming their next live DVD 'Urban Guerrillas' at the venue and encourage everyone to become a part of history and experience the unique fusion of a 'Rock Reggae Implosion' and laser light show within the walls of this historic venue.
Recently I caught up with both Tim O'Brien and The Process' David Asher to discuss the significance of this unique fusion of performer, venue, and artistic vision.

Review: Having realized your dream of restoring such a grand old Dame' of a building to its original splendor, what does it feel like to walk through the doors each day?

O'Brien: I've been walking through these same doors for seventeen years during which time I've worn many different hats. At times I've been the designer/architect, carpenter, electrician, plumber, booth technician, dry waller and much more.
I'm now consumed with the day-to-day operations of the theatre, which doesn't leave much time to continue the restoration details that still need be addressed. When I walk through the doors on any give day, I see more work than time will allow. Of course at this point, I'd rather be selling movie tickets than sanding drywall.

Review: What's it feel like doing this show in your hometown of Vassar in this restored jewel of a theatre?

Asher: Well it is a dream venue. Tim O'Brien is a very determined man who made it his project to restore the theater over more than a dozen years. This is our first show in our hometown since our last show there in 1991. Bill Heffelfinger, Garrick Owen and I all are originally from Vassar. We have lots of friends and family I hope make it out to the show from all over!

Review: What is the most challenging component of keeping an entity like the Vassar Theatre going?

O'Brien: The biggest challenge is perhaps the same as for any small town business in a troubled economy: keeping the operation viable and competitive by offering products or services to meet your customers demands while maintaining a tight control over costs.
Unlike a restaurant whose menu may cater to many different tastes, a single screen movie theatre lives or dies according to the movie du jour. It is essential to offer a breadth of programming that is embraced by the community. It's always a challenge.

Review: Weapons of Mass Percussion was nominated for a Grammy and has received considerable attention. Do you consider it your most successful endeavor and what have The Process been up to lately? Are you back in the studio?

Asher: Weapons has been very successful but I think a lot of that has to do with the band reaching "critical mass" after nearly 20 years together. Of course all of the attention has been a great blessing. I really like all three of the albums we did with Gee Pierce producing. "Blood and Bones" has sold very well. I also like "Craven Dog" a lot and hope to reissue it again soon. "Weapons" is a very timely album, with a lot of spooky sound bytes from the so-called "War On Terror". It is a real departure in terms of the sound of the band, even though it is a remix project.
Receintly, we started out own pre-production studio and we will finish the tracks up with Gee Pierce in Saginaw. We have been working with a couple of different artists in London as well.

Review: How did that come about?

Asher: Well, such is the power of the Internet. One is an amazing female artist I met named Mikki who is helping out with vocals on our new single, due to be released later this year. Her parts for the single are being recorded in London. She is working on her first album, with Skip McDonald (Sugar Hill Gang, TackHead, Little Axe) producing.
We also wrote another song for the single with an incredible singer from London named Ghetto Priest. That man Ghetto Priest is so much what music needs right now to me. He does very diverse styles of music, from reggae to rock to hip hop and he tours all over Europe.We actually wrote a song together online, a duet called "The Lion Of Judah". It really turned out great. I had never worked in that way before and it felt very natural.

Review: Can you calibrate the success of the theatre since its restoration? Has it been financially successful and do you get a different form of appreciation from customers because of the work and dedication you've shown to the venue?

O'Brien: In defiance of the pundits that predicted our demise, I'm happy to say that the doors are still open and business continues to grow. Nobody gets into this business or stays in it that is not willing to live off of popcorn and peanut butter, but that's the only way it will work.
This is a different type of movie experience than can be had at the multiplex. People largely come here because of that difference. It is very gratifying when a customer returns to the theatre after many years and lights up when they describe their first date or first kiss here. One guy told me a childhood story about how the movie he was watching was interrupted so that the management could announce the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
I guess it is that history - that place in the local heritage that makes these theatres special.

Review: What is the significance of the Process event and do you anticipate doing more of these types of shows?

O'Brien: I hosted The Process first in a concert seventeen years ago when I first acquired the theatre. This is a sort of "homecoming" in that we're welcoming the band back on stage in their hometown theatre all these years later. It's interesting that we're still plying our respective crafts after all this time, although we've both benefited from the wisdom that can only come from experience.
I have an immense respect for David Asher and The Process for their passion and dedication to their music. Theirs has not been an easy road to travel, but their fresh original work continues to be recognized and appreciated in ever-larger circles. I hope that this event will help to advance that.
If this event is well received, I would certainly like to continue to explore the potential for more live entertainment and alternative programming in addition to film.

Asher: Well this is a very special show, as we are filming it for an upcoming DVD release. We have a very impressive laser light show with more than 30 lasers on a big truss and they all work together with the music. It is awesome. Plus we will be using our animated films, on the big screen, which we have not used in a long while. If all goes well, perhaps we will have the chance to bring other performers into the venue. I hope so.

Review: Having been involved in the theatre business for so long, what is your definition of a successful theatre'?

O'Brien: A successful theatre is one that continues to thrive - to entertain and enhance the culture of the community - while being self-sufficient.
Most of the old theatres are now transitioning into the public sector where they are "saved" by a 501c3 corporation comprised of people who know as much about restoring and running theatres as the local bump shop. These groups are often able to access millions in public and private monies, which finance huge restoration projects that would not be possible or practical in the private sector.
Volunteers and boards of directors who do not have a vested interest in the operation run these "community" theatres. In many cases, the theatres do not generate revenues sufficient to meet their overhead (especially where paid staff is employed) and continue to be dependent on private donations and tax dollars in the form of grants.
While none of this is a bad thing (and certainly better than the wrecking ball), it is vastly different operating a classic historic theatre in the private sector where those few that continue to exist, do so only because the owner/operator is willing to give much more than take. When people wax nostalgic about their childhood experiences seeing movies in their hometown theatre, I think this is what they have in mind.

Review; Any words to the fans?

Asher: Well I would love to thank them for the wonderful support they have given us through the last 17 or so years. Without them it would not have been possible to keep The Process going. I hope to see you all out at the show so I can tell you all in person how much we love you all!

More Pics of Vassar Theatre

Tickets for The Process Live in Concert at the Vassar Theatre are only $6.00.
The Vassar Theatre is located at 140 E. Huron in downtown Vassar.

For more details call the theatre at 989-823-4000 or go to

http://www.theprocessonline.com/

THE PROCESS IN THE METRO TIMES

THE PROCESS IN THE METRO TIMES

"Wow. A picaunt mix of arena rock and Rasta.

Jamaican soul meets Anglo Strut and its good!

Cred alert: Drummer Gabe Gonzalez pounded behind George Clinton."

03/07/2008 08:00 PM - Hamtramck BLOWOUT ’08 Motor City Sports Bar 9122 Jos Campau Hamtramck, US
THE PROCESS takes the stage with Gabe Gonzalez’s Old School Detroit Funk D&B Ghetto Metal Unit ENEMY SQUAD celebrating a ten year re-union performing "The Blowout" also 2007 D.M.A. winner The Process which also features Gabe Gonzalez.The performance will be dedicated to Sean Tonak a.k.a.Ojibiwa

THE PROCESS IN CONCERT AT THE VASSAR THEATER SAT MARCH 22ND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact:
Fifth Avenue Media
David Asher
davidasher6@sbcglobal.net
989-598-4122
Fifth Avenue Media Presents,
THE PROCESS Live In Concert.
Vassar, MI.
February 6, 2008 - After years of performances across North America, Internationally acclaimed Rock Reggae Band, THE PROCESS, will perform their first hometown show in over 15 years on Saturday, March 22nd at the gloriously restored Vassar Theater.
THE PROCESS, recipients of a 2007 Detroit Music Award for "Outstanding Reggae Group", is also in contention for three 2008 Grammy Award Nominations, including, "Song of the Year" (Rasta Soldier, Radio Edit),"Pop Instrumental" (Metarons Cube) and "Vocal Performance by a Group Or Duo" (Rapdown, Extended Mix).This special live performance by THE PROCESS will feature a state-of-the-art Laser Light Show and be filmed for an upcoming DVD release that highlights the band’s remarkable 17-year career.
Joining THE PROCESS for this must see performance is special guest, "Stamp'D", a band who's music features a blend of Jamaican Reggae and Ska, with a full horn section, as well as an upbeat rock sound. The beautifully restored Vassar Theater, located at 140 E. Huron Rd in Vassar, Michigan, is very excited to present THE PROCESS as the first live entertainment to grace its' stage since 1991. This will be an all ages’ show.
Tickets available in advance or at show time at the Vassar Theater Box Office.

THE VASSAR THEATER:140 E. Huron Road.
Vassar, Michigan 48768
Phone: (989) 823-4000
Date: Saturday March 22nd
Time: 7:00 PM.
Admission: $6.00

Review Of "Weapons" At Dubflash.com

Check out this review of Weapons Of Mass Percussion at Dubflash.com

Artist:
The Process
Title:
Weapons Of Mass Percussion
Rating: Four and A Half Stars

Review date:
2007-12-09
Detailed review:
The Process is a rock / reggae band from Detroit in the United States of Babylon. The first thing you notice is that this album looks anything but reggae. On the cover a drummer with a scary machine helmet and on the backside of the cover a picture from the band. And guess who’s part of the band? Gene Simmons, the singer from Kiss. Or maybe not him personally but a big fan as he’s rouged (or maybe even “rogued” (insider joke!)).
Seeing that, I thought: what the heck could this be? Sceptically I put in the CD… and was blown away! Literally, of course. The album contains several crucial live played reggae riddims with a marvellous bass sound (not very deep but extremely groovy!) and this Kiss-imitator surely knows how to play some heavy e-guitars which don’t disturb at all. In fact, this might be the first time ever that I enjoy e-guitars. Usually, I’m not a fan of guitars. Maybe, because I failed in learning to play them and instead moved to the bass. ;-)
But anyway, there are 10 tracks on the album + 4 additional remixes. These, I think, could have been left out as well because they don’t add much to the album. But the 10 original tracks are what is important.
It starts right away without any introduction or “warning” with a rough tune called “Rasta Soldier” (radio edit?) with some rock-drums and smooth guitar melodies. The vocals didn’t go to much into my head. Following is the smashing “Osama Forgotten”, one hell of a crucial riddim which I am constantly listening to for many weeks in a row now. I just love the bassline, it drives me mad (in a positive way). A special thing in this song (and also in the following ones) is that there is an extensive use of samples, most dealing with the current American Way of Life after 11th September 2001 and the following events. Listen carefully and learn. You will also have quite some good laughs when you hear Lady George Doubleu Bush speaking. It’s really fun. No, actually, it’s sad.
So, better continue with the CD: “The Logic Probe”, a fast skanky (in the reggaeish sense of the word) tune with some female vocal contribution. Reminds me of 80s reggae played by former punk bands. The good ol’ times for some… “Metatron’s Cube” is next and it’s again deeply grooving with a tough bass, heavy dubbing & FX and killer skanks.
“Tetragammatron” starts again with a nice 80s synth part and then continues with yet another deep groove plus crazy effects. I really like this mix of 80s rock and reggae here. Usually, I would think this cannot be meant serious but well, even I am proven wrong from time to time (this is meant to be a joke, just for the ones who still don’t understand my way of writing; unfortunately you’re in the majority but well…).
“Subsonic Temple”: Upliftment in full effect. Sounds like a contribution from heaven (not the religious heaven but somewhere way above the surface of our more or less blue planet). Good mood music without having to use the cliché of sunshine reggae or similar. Not here, folks. Just serious stuff!
“Vortex 4”: wow. What shall I say ? It kicks off with a heavy metal style guitar intro which is just great. Who would have guessed that I would say such once? But here, it’s true. I feel like Beavis & Butthead when they saw a (for them) good song on TV and banged their heads like madmen. The rest of the song is as groovy as the others with more crazy effects and samples. Until at the end, the guitars come in again. Woah, me love dis!
“Evildoers Stamp’d Out In Dub”: Sh*t! Now they even add celestial blazing horns to their music. I can’t believe it. As Marge Simpson would say: “Now I heard it all.” Positive madness.
And then we have the title track in two parts: “Weapons Of Mass Percussion”. This tune is in a way special because the music itself is not real music. In fact, the instrumental is quite annoying me. But I think that this is wanted because this song has a message. And therefore, the main ingredient are the vocal samples from Bush, “specialists”, TV reporters and whoever. Together, a story is told. A story about how crazy Babylon is. My favourite quotation: “It’ll take time to restore chaos.” Guess who said it? The same one who is afraid of a mushroom-cloud.
OK, this shall be enough about this album. I have to skip back to “Vortex 4” now. It’s been too long since I heard it the last time. *listentoheavyeguitarsnowandhaveawickedsmileonmyface*
The band claims about themselves: “The Process® catalog of recordings crosses barriers and breaks down stereotypes that will keep even the most discriminating listener interested.” While this sounds totally exaggerating as it should be in a self-description, I must say that this time it’s actually true. Even I like the heavy guitar parts and there couldn’t be a more discriminating person against screaming e-guitars than me. ;-)
What shall I say? Well done, mates. And folks, get this album and let it infect you like it infected me. Nuff said.
The album receives 4 and a half stars because the bonus tracks are not so good and therefore, I take off half a star. Get this album if you’re interested in a “different” kind of reggae, too.
Check http://www.theprocessonline.com/

Fan Pics From Saturdays Show

These pics are from Saturdays show at Whites Bar in Saginaw.

Thanks to Rocky and Karla for the pics!

New CD from THE PROCESS Underway!

Work has begun on the new CD by THE PROCESS. The CD of new songs is the groups 7th studio album and the first produced in the bands own studio, as well as studios in London. The album will include collaborations with renowned UK Artist Ghetto Priest and other London based artists.

Stay tuned for more details!

http://www.theprocessonline.com/

Review: "Weapons Of Mass Percussion"

Music Review: "Weapons Of Mass Percussion" by The Process

by Michiganbands.com Mitch Phillips

The anticipation of hearing new music from The Process came loaded with expectations based entirely on 2002's "Blood & Bones", a great collection of reggae gems that I put among the best local records I've heard in the past ten years. So I couldn't help but hope for a repeat performance on their 2006 follow-up, "Weapons of Mass Percussion". And a repeat performance is pretty much exactly what I got - just not in the way I expected. -Mitch
Band: The Process
Website: http://www.theprocessonline.com/
Recording: Weapons of Mass Percussion (2006)
Members: David Asher (vocals, guitar, keyboard, programming, FX), Garrick Owen (guitars), Bill Heffelfinger (bass, keys, programming, stick), Gabe Gonzalez (drums)
Produced by: Gee Pierce & The Process
Mixed by: Gee Pierce & David Asher at UBeU Productions, Saginaw (except track 1 mixed by Lavel Jackson, tracks 12 mixed by Albadore Sound Systems, track 13 & 14 mixed by Gabe Gonzalez)
Mastered by: Horst @ Studio Germany




Expectations & Fresh Ears

Instead of a collection of entirely new songs, The Process offer only one, a gem-worthy opener (albeit a poorly mastered one) called "Rasta Soldier" which easily holds up among their best songs and has already been nominated as a Grammy contender (whatever that means). What's left are thirteen tracks of re-mixes, mash-ups, extended cuts, techno flirtations and "dubs" - almost all of which rely heavily on previously released material from "Blood & Bones" and "Craven Dog" (you can read a review of "Blood & Bones" here). I have to admit being bit confused and disappointed on first spin, but that's because I have no experience with "dub", a sub-genre of reggae that builds on instrumental versions of existing material. According to Wikipedia, dub mixes add percussion and sound effects to 'da riddim' so as to take advantage of bass-heavy sound systems. Singer David Asher says he wanted to do all that and more."I wanted to take a chance on this release and try something brave, something unique from plain old remixes, " Asher explained in a recent message. "Thats why I gave some other producers free reign on some tracks."Those other producers include Albadore Sound System (Flint's own Michael Absher) whose remix of "Run Them Down" reminds me of late-night liquid radio jams and G-Dub's back-to-back Old School and Techno remixes of "Rising Up" which are geared more to the dance-club on Ecstasy crowd.

Techno-Battery Operated Drop Machine

In addition to the various samples and synth patches on nearly every track, electronic drums are featured prominently on this record - as you might expect from the title. That theme reaches its apex on "Weapons of Mass Percussion Pt 2" (track 10) on which drummer Gabe Gonzolas unleashes a battery of synthetic steel, squishy sound-effects and pressure-relieving sighs. Geek t.v fans will appreciate the sonic americana included on this disc, such as drops from Star Trek's Jean Luc, Battlestar Galactica's vocally-challenged Cylons and even a quip from The Transformers. And where else but a dub mix could you find The Three Stooges sharing time and space with what sounds like an auto-tuned Muslim call to prayer? Probably the most unique sample on the disc (visit http://www.theprocessonline.com/ to hear it loop).

Weaponized Planes And Misguided Aims

Perhaps the most memorable moments for casual listeners will be the haunting voices of 9-11 air-traffic controllers whose voices appear on "Osama Forgotten" (track 2) and "Evil Doer's Stamped Out In Dub" (track 8). Both tracks revive the surrealism and confusion of that strange day when our skies went quiet and our future seemed completely up in the air. But the defining moment of this disc is the title track, "Weapons of Mass Percussion", in which hypocrisy-exposing sound-bytes of George Walker Bush and Donald Henry Rumsfeld are juxtaposed to illustrate their disdain for the truth and the American people. It's a necessary reminder of how scare tactics and outright lies led to the illegal occupation of a foreign country in the name of pre-emption, or regime-change, or liberation, or promoting democracy, or whatever this week's "official" explanation is for that resource-grabbing, treasury-looting, grunt-abusing, civilian-shredding debacle in Iraq. Whatever the reason, you certainly can't pretend it had anything to do with Saudi nationals flying planes into buildings.

Conclusions In Food Metaphor (or "Gimme the usual, Mr. Phillips")

So if the music were a meal, "Weapons of Mass Percussion" would be a stew of choice ingredients borrowed from previous releases and invigorated with fresh, exotic spices, its many flavors only revealed with time and attention. But like most dishes made from leftovers, it's never quite as satisfying as the original feast (with the exception of "Rapdown" which never tasted so good). Though it may not inspire the private highway sing-a-longs I enjoyed so much with "Blood & Bones", in its proper context, say attending to some repetitive task in the privacy of your own room while enjoying your favorite controlled substance, "Weapons of Mass Percussion" will certainly keep you company and add a rebellious flavor to your buzz. So unitl The Process whip up their next fresh batch of songs, which I'm told they're already cooking up in their brand new studio, you can certainly chew on this.

Mitch Track Listing:

1. Rasta Soldier (radio) - great tune but over-driven mix challenges my ear.

2. Osama Forgotten - FAA recordings of Air Traffic Control over Rasta Soldier rhythms and Garrick Owen's shreddings.

3. The Logic Probe - Cylons dub over "Run Them Down" beats.

4. Metatron's Cube - More space-cadet samples over back beats with a promise to challenge ALL terror.

5. Tetragammatron - More Rasta Soldier rhythms under sound effects, synths and samples.

6. Subsonic Temple - Rasta' beat continues while a ghostly call to prayer is bracketed by sci-fi-ish effects.

7. Vortex 4 - Spread The Money" serves as sound bed for echoes and sound effects. Ghostly call to prayer returns.

8. Evildoers Stamped Out In Dub - Midi-trumpets by Stamp'D climb over rasta beats and various synth stabbings.

9. Weapons of Mass Percussion - Direct confrontation of The Big Lie using hypocrisy, humore & hyer-percussive beats.

10. Weapons of Mass Percussion Pt. 2 - Gabe Gonzalez plugs in and goes bananas on the Pintech Drums.

11. Rapdown - (extended mix) Gets me to dancing every single time - even if I'm sitting.

12. Run Them Down - (Albadore Sound System Mix)

13. Rising Up (G-Dub - Old School) percussive, herky-jerky robot dance mix.

14. Rising Up (G-Dub - Techno) hyper-percussive gallop propels this version along a time-lapsed technicolor freeway. Shouldn't forget to mention Michelle Shaw's amazing back-ups on this track.

©2007 Mitch Phillips, Michiganbands.com

THE PROCESS® Receives 3 Contentions in the 2008 Grammy® Awards

THE PROCESS® has received 3 Contentions in the 2008 Grammy® Awards Including:

SONG OF THE YEAR
"RASTA SOLDIER-RADIO" THE PROCESS

BEST POP INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE
"METATRON'S CUBE" THE PROCESS

BEST POP PERFORMANCE BY A DUO OR GROUP W/VOCALS
"RAPDOWN EXTENDED MIX" THE PROCESS

If you are a Grammy member please support THE PROCESS and cast your vote for us in this years awards!

In 2008 the 50th Grammy Awards will take place on February 10 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. This will be a milestone for the Grammys and the Recording Academy. Nominations will be announced on December 6, 2007.

www.grammy.com

THE PROCESS LIVE RADIO INTERVIEW ON KUCI 88.9 FM

Vocalist David Asher of THE PROCESS will be interviewed live on KUCI 88.9 FM Irvine California on the Uptown Top Rankin Show by DJ Big Jim.

The interview takes place Wednesday October 3rd at 11:00 AM Pacific Time, 2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. Be sure to tune in!

Click here to stream the interview live online!

UPTOWN TOP RANKING has been on the air since the spring of 1997 on KUCI 88.9fm in Irvine, CA. Every Wednesday 10a-1pm PST, U.T.R. brings you three hours of complete reggae music including Roots, Dub, Dancehall, Lover's Rock, Rock-Steady, Ska, and Rockers Riddims including many international reggae artists. The two hosts are dedicated to keeping the audience up to date on the latest releases from the Reggae music genre as well as all of the classic tracks you love.

Over the past two years they have had many crucial on-air interview sessions with reggae greats such as Apple Gabriel , Michael Rose, Donald Manning, Bunny Ruggs of Third World, Mikey Dread, Issac Haile Selassie, Garth Dennis, Selwyn Brown and David Hinds of Steel Pulse, Dr. "Cosmo" Fraser, Fire and Brimstone, Prince Buster, Pablo Moses, Clinton Fearon of the Gladiators & Boogie Brown Band, Half Pint, Lloyd "Bread" McDonald of the Wailing Souls, Lee Jaffe, the legendary producer Jah Man Swaby of 129 Beat St. fame, Ras Otis "Obey Jah" White, Ras Shiloh, Marley's Ital Chef- Gilly Gilbert,plus many Southern California reggae artists including Zema, the Isouljahs, Kurt Mahoney's Roots Foundation, Upstream, and Jah Mark and the Soul Shakers, 420 Band, Badfish, Carribean Pulse, Kyng Arthur, Rascallin and they have interviewed several authors like David Katz "People Funny Boy" Joy Harjo, Norman Stolzoff "Wake the Town", Robert Roskind "Rasta Heart", Lee Jaffe & Roger Steffens "One Love: Life with Bob Marley and the Wailers".

David Asher and Garrick Owen of THE PROCESS® have just received a 2007 ASCAP PLU$ SPECIAL AWARD. The award is given to writer members of any genre whose performances are primarily in venues not surveyed; and/or writer members whose catalogs have prestige value for which they would not otherwise be compensated. This is the 8th consecutive year Asher and Owen have received this cash/recognition award.

THE PROCESS NEWS

THE PROCESS has begun work on a new album. The new release is the groups 8th self produced album and the first produced in our own studio. The album will include collaborations with renowned UK Artist Ghetto Priest and others. Stay tuned for more details!

THE PROCESS is being featured tomight in Spain (23:00 to 01:00) on the Barcelona Guitar Experience radio show. The program in its tenth season also features a long and funny interview to the Marotta-Cides-Orleansky trio (Stick players Guillermo Cides & Irene Orleansky and the Robert Fripp-Ani di Franco-Elvis Costello-Suzanne Vega-Tony Levin-Cher-Peter Gabriel-Paul McCartney's drummer Jerry Marotta).Two songs from The Process will be on air.

Fan Pics From Fridays Show

These fan pics from Fridays show at the Kingfish on the dock were taken by friend of THE PROCESS Chuck Harrington.

Interview With THE PROCESS

Interview With THE PROCESS

Bill Petzold of the Vassar Times recently ran 20 questions by THE PROCESS
Check out Bill's interesting unedited interview in full below:

FOR DAVID:
You always advertise your band as "Detroit's Motor City Madmen of Reggae". Being a native Vassarite, are you ashamed of Vassar (wink wink) or do you just get sick of explaining where the hell Vassar is to people?

Well Bill its actually "Detroit's Rock Reggae Madmen"!
It is true that many people have no idea where Vassar is, even people here in Michigan. When you explain to someone from somewhere else that the band is from Michigan, they automatically say: "OH DETROIT", so it is just easier in terms of imprinting our identity to the world. Plus we have deep Detroit roots. Our drummer Gabe Gonzalez (of George Clinton's P-Funk All Star fame) is from Detroit. We have performed in Detroit hundreds of times and have had dozens of nominations over the last few years in the Detroit Music Awards. We have been featured on two CD compilations of Detroit Music and been members of the Detroit Musicians Alliance. THE PROCESS is also one of the very few bands from outside Detroit to actually win a Detroit Music Award.
(THE PROCESS was voted "Outstanding Reggae/Ska Group" in 2007 and Asher was voted "Outstanding World Songwriter" in 2005).


How many Process members are from Vassar? (You, Bill and Garrick, correct?)

That's correct. Gabe joined six years ago.

Did you start out playing Vassar shows quite a bit? Please give me a little background about your "salad days" in the late 80's in Vassar. If you have any good anecdotes about a good (or bad) show that occured in Vassar. Something funny that happened? PG Please!

One story I can recall is when the band played at the Vassar Theater in 1991, one of our very first shows. Tim O'Brien (the current owner), had (against his better judgment) booked THE PROCESSS and another band. To be fair to Tim, he has always been a big supporter. However, the other band he hated! I'll never forget him poised like a Mantis, standing over the power cables, ready to throw the switch and cut the power! It was a dramatic moment. He was taking care of Business, even back then. I have a lot of respect for Tim and what he has accomplished with the Theater, he has alot of discipline.

FOR GARRICK:
When were you featured in the guitar magazines? Dates please.

I was featured in the international music trades, Guitar World (May 2004) and Guitar Player (Oct 95).

(Owen has also been featured on the www.truefire.com website. The site includes Owen's lesson and others from GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and is also available on a CD entitled "365 Daily Doses Of Nutrition", with lessons written by B.B. King, Metallica, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Johnson, David Torn, Pat Martino, Jeff Beck, Django Reinhardt, Ry Cooder, Duane Allman, Danny Gatton to name a few of the artists featured).

Please tell a little about the Origin of Pigman?

Lots of people have asked me over time, "Whats the deal with Pigman"? "Pigman" was an old pig farmer that lived on a desolate stretch of local back road near our hometown. He was always surrounded by a pack of barking dogs, everywhere he went, which was only up and down the road. Pigman lived without electricity or running water, in an old trailer in front of his pigpens. Local rednecks from the town tormented Pigman by shooting his pigs from across the river with bows and arrows, driving by his house at all hours honking their horns and by stealing his pigs to roast. He actually was a General Motors Executive who walked away from it all, few people knew that about him."Pigman" eventually died...he was found dead in his trailer by a neighbor. When they did the autopsy, they had to actually cut the socks off of his feet...Despite this, we're sure there was still a spot for him in "Pigman Heaven".

How did the GHS sponsorship come about?

David approached GHS's Chris Walters with our current press kit. Chris took him on a tour of the facility in Battle Creek where the strings are made. The endorsement came shortly after that. GHS is our 4th corporate sponsorship. THE PROCESS is also endorsed by AXIS, PINTECH and SILVERFOX PERCUSSION. GHS/ROCKTRON is a great company to work with and we are excited about the opportunity.

FOR BILL:
How long have you been a band director?

Twelve years. Three in Davison and nine in Bad Axe.

Please tell about the awards the Bad Axe band has won under your leadership:

We have qualified for MCBA STATE MARCHING BAND FINALS for seven years in a row and finished 4th place in the state in 2004.
The Junior High and High School Concert Band have received first division honors at MSBOA District band festival for the past eight years.
The High School Wind Synphony has received superior ratings at Ovation Music Festivals in New York City, Orlando and Chicago.
Also the Marching Band was featured on WNEM TV 5 in 2004.

Magazines the band appeared in?

I, myself was selected the Michigan representative for School Band and Orchestra Magazine's "50 Directors who make a difference".
The Bad Axe Hatchet Vanguard Marching Band was featured the international magazine "Gothic Beauty" in 2005.

How does directing a HS band compare with performing/writing/programming for the Process?

Teaching 5th through through 12th grade music students can be very rewarding but it is also a challenge from day to day. I attempt to expand their musical knowledge by teaching from many different time periods in history including baroque, classical, romantic and right up to modern day rock music.
Writing and arranging original music for THE PROCESS is very rewarding and also a challenge to expand on new musical ideas. Performing our music live is always very rewarding and enjoyable.

I remember something about you working on a symphony, how did that turn out?

The symphony turned into a single symphonic suite and was performed by the Davidson High School Orchestra in 1998. The actual symphony is not yet completed but I hope to finish it in the future.


How much influence did your dad have as a Vassar band teacher on you becoming a band director?

My Father and Mother were great influences on me as a child. I remember going to many football games and band concerts at Flint Hamady High School when I was young. I got to meet a lot of his students and seeing his marching bands, with the motorcycle through the fiery hoops and the majorettes with the flaming batons! This all inspired me to explore my own creativity at an early age.


What were the dates of Mr. Heffelfinger's tenure at VHS?

He taught at Vassar High School from 1949 until 1964 and moved to Flint Hamady from 1964 to 1985.


DAVID AGAIN:
Origin of your skeleton costume:

I've been told it is Ethiopian Coptic Priest robe. I found it at a shop called Akebulan on Greenfield Rd. and Seven Mile in Detroit many years ago.

What is the significance of the "military-style" outfits you've worn in the past?

Army clothing is comfortable and utilitarian. I respect the soldier so I wear his clothes.

What kind of charity work has the band done?

Not as much as you might think. We have done Relay For Life Cancer Benefits and we did a benefit for the Red Cross after September 11th 2001. We have also done events against Civil Forfeiture. However, we are open to ideas, so let us know what you have in mind.

Your lyrics are rife with socio/political themes, how has 9/11 and the War on Terror affected what you do?

Well, to be frank, "Weapons Of Mass Percussion" would never had turned out the way it did had 9/11 not happened. I found that I really did not have to comment too much myself. I just let the ghostly voices from the radio and television tell the story of what is happening all around us.

How important is it to be involved politically in trying to affect positive change in the world around you?

Well I would say you do have to be involved in the world around you and work for positive change. I'm a bit fed up with politics at the moment. It seems to me the two parties are like Pepsi and Coke. One is a little sweeter and one has a little more bite but they are essentially the same.


If possible, please compare/contrast Beggar (the song about AIDS) with what you guys did with Weapons of Mass Percussion.

Beggar from 1996's Craven Dog, was (like alot of our stuff), lifted from the headlines. The person in Beggar is based on a story I read in Time Magazine. He was a street person begging for money claiming he was sick. However, he really wasn't sick, just greedy. Then he gets mad when confronted with the truth of his scam..
"Weapons Of Mass Percussion" is literally ripped from the headlines as we used recorded current events to tell the story of the album.

And finally, a softball: what is it like to be a kid from Vassar and play shows in Hollywood and New York?

Really, New York and LA are just like any other towns. New York audiences are a little more freaked out by a band from Detroit. Los Angeles audiences love it more then most. I myself am going to London this fall to meet up with some amazing producers and artists to plan for our new CD. It is our 9th self produced CD and our 1st produced in our own studio. Most of of it will be recorded here and some in London.

Why do you think a group from a small town was been so creative and prolific?

I think people in the Mid-West are so creative because they HAVE to be. I mean you have to find something to do! Ha Ha!

Fans Pics From Saturday's Show

Last Saturday THE PROCESS performed a rare hometown show at the small, legendary local venue Whites Bar. There was much love felt from our friends and fans in the house! Thanks to Bo White and Tim Avram at Whites and our good friends in Stamp'D for sharing the bill with us.

THE PROCESS LIVE IN LOS ANGELES REISSUED!!

THE PROCESS has just reissued the live recording

"LIVE IN LOS ANGELES".

Culled from two radio performances in 1999 and 2001 recorded live in concert on

KXLU FM in Los Angeles.

The CD is the first part of a planned reissue series of the bands back catalog, so stay tuned for futher updates!

CLICK HERE TO BUY LIVE IN LOS ANGELES

THE PROCESS SUMMER SHOWS (SO FAR)

Upcoming Shows:

Jul 5 2007 6:00P David Asher Djs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Jul 12 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Jul 19 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Jul 21 2007 9:00P THE PROCESS LIVE IN CONCERT AT WHITES BAR
9:00 PM Saginaw 2609 State St, Saginaw, 48602

Jul 26 2007 8:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Aug 2 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Aug 3 2007 7:00P THE PROCESS LIVE IN CONCERT AT THE KINGFISH
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708 7:00 PM

Aug 9 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 487086

Aug 16 2007 David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Aug 23 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

Aug 30 2007 6:00P David Asher DJs Reggae at the Kingfish 6:00 PM
1019 North Water Street., Bay City, Michigan 48708

THE PROCESS IN ASCAP PLAYBACK MAGAZINE

Stepping Out

The Process The infectious grooves of Detroit, Michigan's renowned rock reggae band The Process continue to gather fans in their wake. Founded in 1989 by vocalist David Asher and guitarist Garrick Owen, and joined soon after by bassist/programmer Bill Heffelfinger, the band's commitment and prowess soon established them as a force to be reckoned with. Currently holding the The Process's grooves together is P-Funk All Star drummer Gabe Gonzalez, who no doubt helped to inspire the title of the band's most recent album, Weapons of Mass Percussion. The band just won the 2007 Detroit Music Award for "Outstanding Reggae/Ska Group." Visit http://www.theprocessonline.com/.

NEW THE PROCESS ONLINE STORE

THE PROCESS has just opened an all new ONLINE MERCHANDISE STORE

At the new store you can buy THE PROCESS apparel such as T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Hoodies and Hats, as well as lots of other cool and creative THE PROCESS Stuff.

CHECK OUT THE PROCESS ONLINE STORE!

THE PROCESS Endorsed By GHS STRINGS!

THE PROCESS has just been endorsed by GHS STRINGS! We are excited by this latest sponsorship and look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with GHS, whose excellent products have always been our choice.

GHS STRINGS

The Process earns Detroit Music Awards honor

The Process earns Detroit Music Awards honor
Monday, April 23, 2007
THE SAGINAW NEWS
The Process, a band that took root in Vassar and often performs around mid-Michigan, received the Outstanding Reggae/Ska Artist/Group honor at the 2007 Detroit Music Awards from the Motor City Music Foundation.
Bob Seger, Iggy Pop, Alberta Adams and Nadir were among other performers who received honors Friday at Detroit's State Theatre.
The Process -- David Asher, Bill Heffelfinger, Garrick Owen and Gabe Gonzalez -- received five nominations in this year's competition. And even though the foundation named Asher the Outstanding World/Reggae/Ska Songwriter in 2005, he went into the competition knowing The Process faced strong competition among Detroit-based groups.

The bands latest release "Weapons Of Mass Percussion" has won critical acclaim.

THE PROCESS WINS AT THE 2007 DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS!

THE PROCESS was just voted

"OUTSTANDING REGGAE/SKA GROUP" in the 2007

DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS!

THE PROCESS would like to thank our friends, fans, families and supporters.

You have stood by us through good and bad times over the years and we would like to express our love and gratitude to you.

The Awards were presented 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 20, at the State Theatre, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit.

Visit The Detroit Music Awards page to view the complete list of official winners .

Saginaw News Podcast

Catch THE PROCESS vocalist David Asher on the Saginaw News Podcast
"Catch the Muse with Sue At the News". Asher discusses developments with the band and future projects.
Go here:
Catch the Muse with Sue at The News