Andre Smith Crosses Over

THE PROCESS family sends our heartfelt sympathy out to the family of Andre Smith. Andre was a gifted man of God and a dear friend to THE PROCESS.
He performed with the band live and played guitar, keyboards and backing vocals on our releases CRAVEN DOG and WEAPONS OF MASS PERCUSSION.
As a member of the UBEU Production team, Andre was a talented studio engineer and arranger. Most of all he was a great friend with a beautiful spirit and a smile that could make your day. We will miss him being in this world. Thank you Andre, your work here is over, fly away home.

Film captures Process of stage extravaganza

Thursday, November 20, 2008
SUE WHITE
THE SAGINAW NEWS

If there was a retro feel to The Process' standing-room-only show last March at the historic Vassar Theatre, it was totally by design.
The Pigman -- guitarist Garrick Owen in an oversized pig head -- returned to the stage, as did the Skullman, the embodiment of a 1,000-year-old Ethiopian holy man.

The music, lead singer David Asher and drummer Gabe Gonzalez locked a powerful fit of ''Rasta madness'' and bass player Bill Heffelfinger and Owen flying high, embracing the scope of the rock-reggae band's existence.

And the journey continues in a DVD that captures the experience in its multi-media entirety. Catch it Saturday, Nov. 29, at the official DVD release party at Indian Barry's in Bay City. Also performing are the band KMJ and Born.

''It is a very theatrical production,'' Asher said of the homecoming concert on the stage the band first played in the early 1990s. ''We wanted to bring back the feel of, say, Alice Cooper or Peter Gabriel.''

That comes across in full fury, falling just short of aroma-vision in its riveting blast of lasers, vintage film and rolling banks of smoke. Gary Bredow, Lavel Jackson and Art Bissonette worked behind the scenes, he added, to pull it all together.

''We had to bring our own stage in, so we were there at 9 in the morning, and we were working until 2 in the morning tearing it down,'' Asher said. ''But to see how it looked from the audience, that's always a kick. A little weird the first time, watching yourself on a big screen, but then I was more relaxed about it.

''It captured us chronologically; it documented the event.''

And that's the one criticism. While the live segments are professional in every sense of the word -- this is the crew behind the documentary ''High Tech Soul'' -- there's an awkward transition between songs.

''Some wanted to baby-sit the filmmakers through the process but I say to let them do what they know how to do best,'' Asher said. ''We could have tinkered with it, but I don't know if that would have made it better.

''The word is getting out on the DVD -- it's available on CD Baby or on our Web site www.myspace.com/theprocessmusic -- and everything we're hearing is very positive. It's good.''

REVIEW OF THE PROCESS LIVE DVD AT THREE MILE SPIRAL

New on DVD: The Synesthetic Madness of The Process

“We’ve been possessed by this otherworldly soul that this band has.
It pulls us along. It’s got a spirit of its own; beyond us.”

–Dave Asher, discussing his band, The Process,
during a 2001 radio interview by Marc Beaudin
(CAGE Sessions – On the Air, WUCX 90.1 FM)

It’s been a lot of years, a lot of shows, a lot of recordings, since I first saw The Process perform in a mid-Michigan bar back in the late-late 80’s. But what immediately hooked me at that initial show is just as evident today: These guys mean what they play. They mean every note, every word, every drumbeat and guitar riff. They mean every ounce of muscle and soul that they freely spend each moment that they are on stage.

To be in the audience at one of The Process’ shows, is to have your mind, heart, and body taken apart and put back together in a slightly better way. Your senses merge and you see the music; hear the lights bouncing off the walls; taste the moment.

The next best thing to being there in the flesh (and soul) has recently been released on DVD: The Process: Live at the Vassar Theater.

First of all, I want to commend the seldom-thanked in the music business – the folks behind the scenes of this production. The technical aspects of this release are extraordinary. From the direction of Gary Bredow, to the live mix by Art Bissonette, the live recording by Lavel Jackson, the camera work by Bredow and Per Franchell, the lighting and sound by Bissonette Sound, the filming and editing by Big Bang Films, the cover art by Steven Gotts, the photography by Rick Morrow, and the production assistance by Tim O’Brian, Chuck Harrington and Seth Payton; every part builds perfectly to a Whole, which provides the optimum showcase for the talents of the band.

And what a band. This recording offers a seamless sound and energy created by four people who, by all indication, share a common soul. With David Asher on vocals and guitar, Garrick Owen on lead guitar, Bill Heffelfinger on bass, keyboards, programming and backing vocals, and Gabe Gonzalez on drums; they are, individually and as a group, at the top of their form. Mature and consummate musicians who’ve lost none of the edge and passion of their younger days.

The DVD consists of a concert of 10 songs, old favorites and new gems both, and it kicks off in signature Process style: a blaze of lighting and fog effects through which bleeds their hopped-up rendition of Wendy Carlos’ haunting and exhilarating “Title Music to A Clockwork Orange.” Glimpses of the musicians are seen in ultraviolent flashes of light. The relentless drumming; like a jet engine preparing for take-off. The tension builds.

And just when you are about to either rush the stage or run like hell, the music breaks into “Blood Runnings” from Craven Dog. A man appears with a skull for a head and covered in a brilliant Rasta robe, like an ancient, long-dead Ethiopian King. He stares into the audience – into and through each person – and now it’s clear: there’s no turning back. The concert has begun.

Song after song, culled from the vast library of Process material, is expertly and whole-heartedly presented. The evolution of each is remarkable, and it seems that their original studio versions were blueprints, and these are the fully-realized structures: architectural masterpieces; holy temples and towers of defiance against all negative forces – all evildoers, downpressers, and craven dogs. The songs are history lessons, incantations, and calls to revolution – danceable social justice and rockin’ revelations. The musicians push their instruments beyond the boundaries defined by standard rock or reggae. They’ve fused these along with funk, rap, and jazz, and raised up a new entity – something that can only be described as “Processian.”

My only issue with this DVD is that the transitions from song to song could be smoother. I would prefer if the camera were kept rolling to capture the incidental material between numbers – to give us more of a live concert feel, and more of a glimpse into the personalities of the band. But this is a small complaint that is quickly forgotten once each song kicks in.

The recording closes also in signature Process style: the resurrection of “Pigman.” Part myth. Part nightmare. Part parable. … He possesses Garrick. The guitar becomes a weapon. … Twenty-seven dogs run wild in the woods. … Death, mayhem, and badass rock’n’roll. … Oink. Oink. … Pigman’s in heaven.

And so are you.


Buy The Process: Live at the Vassar Theater on CD Baby
Visit The Process online
By Marc Beaudin
(Novelist, poet, playwright, scenic designer, theatre director, actor, activist, anarchist, mountebank, pirate on sabbatical, part-time rabblerouser, full-time cloud-watcher.)

Visit Marcs' Blog: THE THREE MILE SPIRAL

REVIEW MAGAZINE: The PROCESS LIVE: Vassar Theater

The PROCESS LIVE: Vassar Theater
Exceptionally Recorded DVD Chronicles Musical Warriors in Their Prime.
DVD Release Party Slated for Indian Barry's November 29th

By Robert E. Martin
REVIEW MAGAZINE

With the possible exception of the wedding band Ceyx, no other musical outfit in the tri-cities have remained as intact as the Vassar-based reggae/rock warriors known as The Process. And being essentially an all-original group, writing and performing their own material while pursuing a very defined musical & cultural vision, this is a band of brothers that truly is in a league of their own.

On a cold and grey March evening earlier this year, The Process booked the beautiful Vassar Theater to perform a sold-out concert showcasing the broad yet precise expansiveness of their music, which served as the perfect setting for a live concert video recording of the 70-minute set.

Entitled The Process – Live @ Vassar Theater and produced by Big Bang Films & the Process, from the opening musical swell of Blood Running to the re-focused delivery of what has become their 'signature' song, Pigman, this is undoubtedly one of the best recorded and professionally edited video releases to hit the market in recent memory.

Directed by Gary Bredow for Big Bang Films with sound & lighting and a live mix courtesy of Art Bissonette from Bissonette Sound, the live recording techniques employed by Lavel Jackson for Mobile Studios set a landmark for the way videos should be filmed, with plenty of tight shots and a focus upon the stage (as opposed to the audience, which often detracts from most concert films).

David Asher's vocal strength has solidified over the years and the flow of his writing grown deeper with age, while guitarist Garrick Owen achieves new levels of sonic accuracy. With the estimable skills of bassist/keyboardist and programming genius Bill Heffelfinger and all group energy focused through drummer Gabe Gonzalez' relentless attack, this DVD does what a concert video is supposed to – frame the accomplishments of the group into a context is not only memorable, but chronicled for posterity.

The Process will be holding a special DVD Release Party with a performance at Indian Barry's on Saturday, November 29th. Copies of The Process LIVE: The Vassar Theater can also be obtained by going to their website at www.myspace.com/theprocessmusic

THE PROCESS LIVE DVD FOR SALE NOW ONLINE!

...The ultimate Process Live Concert Experience!
THE PROCESS® Live In Concert at the historic Vassar Theater. The DVD features blazing performances of some of the groups best known songs, as well as a spectacular film and laser light show. If you love the band, or even if you have never seen them live, this DVD documents what the buzz is all about.
A must have!...

First Review of the Live DVD!

DVD Review: The Process Live @ The Vassar Theater
Mitch Phillips Michiganbands.com

One of the best things about The Process Live: The Vassar Theatre, I think, is the fact that I didn't have to drive all the way to Vassar, MI to see it. That's right. Thanks to the wisdom of The Process and the fine production work of Big Bang Films the entire show was captured and released on DVD for you - and lazy local music dorks like me who rarely leave the cave anymore. But why spend the gas money when I can watch it from my couch?

Click "read more" below for a short review and all the relevant links.

1st Annual HALLOWPALOOZA Russell Industrial Center

1st Annual HALLOWPALOOZA Russell Industrial Center
With: THE PROCESS

10-29-2008 18:00 at 1st Annual HALLOWPALOOZA Russell Industrial Center
DETROIT, 48239
Cost: $20.

10-31-2008 12:00 at 1st Annual HALLOWPALOOZA Russell Industrial Center I-75 to 94 take Clay Exit BUILDING ONE 5TH FLOOR, DETROIT, 48239 Cost: 20.00 4 Free Beer FUNK ROCK TECHNO HOUSE ELECTRO HIP HOP MUSIC!!!! 1ST 200 FREE WITH COSTUMES-HOST 4 COSTUMES ZIAM BETWEEN 6-9 FULL SERVICE BAR & FOOD 10 D.J.
’S PLUS= 7 BANDS-EMILY RODGERS & FRIENDS,UNITED SOULS, GIANT SLYDE, BLACKMAIL,THE PROCESS,ENEMY SQUAD, BENNY STOOFY, & DAVID WINANS PI ALSO LIVE HIP HOP= DJ DEZ,NICK SPEED,DANNY BROWN,& FAT RAY COSTUME CONTEST, PRIZES, 1O KEGS ALL U CAN DRINK,ADULT ENTERTAINMENT EMPLOYEES FREE ENTRY

Fan Pics From the DVD Release

These fan pics from the DVD release last Saturday at Whites Bar in Saginaw were taking by good friend of the band Sam Lingenfelter.

THE PROCESS DVD RELEASE

10-02-2008
For Immediate Release:

Reggae rock group THE PROCESS will release it's live DVD "THE PROCESS: LIVE VASSAR THEATER", filmed at the historic venue last March.
The release party will be held at Whites Bar (2609 State St Saginaw, MI 48602),
Saturday October 11th at 9:00 PM.
The DVD features blazing performances of some of the groups best known songs,as well a a spectacular film and laser light show.
Opening the event will be guests Ben MacArthur and Friends.

SONG LIST FROM THE DVD:
Blood Runnings
Jah Made the Herb
Craven Dog
Rapdown
Rising Up
Mist Of Time
Rasta Soldier
Run Them Down
Spread the Money
Pigman

THE PROCESS interviewed live on WDUM this Friday

THE PROCESS will be interviewed live on WDUM, The University Of Detroit Mercy's Radio Station, The New 91.9 CS this Friday at 7:00 PM.
Listen to the interview live on the internet at www.udmercy.edu/cstradio
Click the link to hear the interview live this Friday.

"Blood Runnings" from THE PROCESS: Live Vassar Theater DVD

"Craven Dog" from THE PROCESS: Live Vassar Theater DVD

THE PROCESS SURFACES!

NEW SHOWS/DVD RELEASE PARTYS FROM THE PROCESS!

Saturday 09/27/2008 9:00 PM - Indian Barry’s

505 E Midland Street Bay City, Michigan 48706 US

THE PROCESS Live In Concert with special guests Rocktropolis.

Join THE PROCESS for the Bay City release of our new Live In Concert DVD!

Saturday 10/11/2008 9:00 PM - Whites Bar

2609 State St Saginaw, Michigan 48602 US

Join THE PROCESS Live In Concert with special guests MacArthur

for the Saginaw release of our new Live In Concert DVD!

Shaolin Sound System

Shaolin Sound System is a joint venture between DJ ASH RA (David Asher) and Seth Payton. Specializing in Roots Reggae, Dub, Ska and Modern Dancehall music, with an emphasis on music from the "golden age of roots reggae".Contact us to DJ your club, event or private party today! Please add our Myspace to your friends, Thank you!

SHAOLIN SOUND SYSTEM

New Live DVD from THE PROCESS

The audio is now mixed for the new DVD release from THE PROCESS!

The DVD includes 11 blazing songs from the band filmed live in concert at the historic Vassar Theater last March.

Stay tuned for updates on the release date!

THE PROCESS AT THE GHS STRINGS WEBSITE

THE PROCESS is excited to have our own webpage on the GHS Strings site.

The site features Photos, Music and More.

GHS Strings is the first choice for many of the world­s most renowned professionals.

THE PROCESS is honored to be endorsed by this world class company.

VISIT THE PROCESS AT GHS STRINGS

THE PROCESS RECEIVES TWO DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS

THE PROCESS has received two nominations in the 2008 DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS

Nominations include:

OUTSTANDING REGGAE/SKA ARTIST/GROUP-THE PROCESS

OUTSTANDING WORLD/REGGAE/SKA VOCALIST DAVID ASHER, (THE PROCESS)

The Detroit Music Awards will be held on Friday April 25, 2008 at the Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave. in Downtown Detroit. The main awards show will commence at 7:00 pm with doors opening at 6:30.

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.