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Ultrea / Blog

Ultrea getting people off their couches and rocking...

“The laws of celestial mechanics dictate that when two objects collide, there is always damage of a collateral nature.” To me this is a really fancy way of saying that with absolute certainty one person really can make a difference. A person can share just a moment of their life with another and change the course of history. Large or small scale, that is a profound thought.

We were lucky enough to witness this firsthand at ROX sports bar this past Friday, in Jefferson. After our set I was introduced to a gentleman named Brandon. Brandon lives near ROX and after a long day he finally had the opportunity to sit down for the evening and relax. He could hear the music in his Jefferson home. Despite living so close he had never been to ROX before. He said he liked what he was hearing so much that it made get off of his couch and walk over to the bar to see what was going on. He caught our last two songs live. When we spoke with him after our set he couldn’t have been more complimentary. The idea that we made such an impact on a person that it literally pulled them off of the couch is astounding.

We weren’t the only ones tearing it up. We were joined by InAeona, an incredible three piece, from Boston Massachusetts. They have a compelling and unique sound, a powerful stage performance and made a lasting impression. Earth Rise Put on one of the most passionate sets I’ve seen in a long time. Summerfest contenders My Eternal Stand also brought an astonishing performance. We will be back at ROX July 20th for a rare acoustic set. It probably wont be loud enough to “reach the couch” so we hope to see Brandon and you all out there.

Always Persevere ~Jen

Ultrea weekend recap

“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” – Ernest Hemingway. We were blessed this weekend to be a part of the 10th annual MAMA Madison Area Music Association awards. This event raises funds to get instruments to the hands of children. We all are blessed to have supportive families and school music programs and would not be who we are today without music.

It was an unexpected surprise to hear that we had been nominated for two MAMA awards. As a young band, scratch that, as a newer band it is a great honor to see our name along side the other nominees. In the category of Hard Rock/Punk Performer we want to congratulate Lords of the Trident and in the Hard Rock/Punk Song Category “Goodbye to Good Intentions” by 4 Aspirin Morning took home the MAMA. We also want to congratulate our good friends in Sexy Ester for their multiple wins. Great job guys! We take pride in being a part of a thriving music community. Madison is a great place to find diversity in music and caring people to carry on the vision for a successful music scene.

Although we didn’t win we were blessed to be there supporting such a great cause. We love music; writing, performing, and recording is what we do and we’re not slowing down. We want to thank everyone who voted for us, ETM Records, 424 Studios, 301 Productions, and Apex Audio Solutions for helping us get as far as we did.

This week we are back in the studio to continue recording and be sure to check us out at ROX sports bar in Jefferson, WI this Friday June 28th. Always Persevere ~Jen

Happy Monday Ultrealians!

We are eager to hear this morning if we have won enough votes to play the US Cellular stage at Summerfest this year. Thank you to everyone that voted for us. We are continually impressed by the amount of support we receive and are so grateful to every one of you.

When were not giging you will find us at 424 studios writing and recording new material coming to your eager ears soon. We are developing a song challenging everyone to open their eyes and see the injustices happening all around us. I hope it can inspire us as citizens to take a more active role in our future to ensure that we may continue to live the American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If you were out to one of our shows this weekend you had a sneak preview of “The Crisis” (divided we fall)

The Memorial Union Terrace is always a music hot spot. We were thrilled to be asked to fill a last minute spot over the weekend. We could not have asked for better weather or a better turn out. Honestly I was nervous how many people would stay for out whole set. We try to create diversity in our music, but you still never know how it will be received. I was pleasantly surprised to see most people not only stick around but be visibly moved by our songs. It is always our goal to touch the lives of others in a positive way.

Saturday night we nearly got flooded out as we performed at The Blue Pig with Two Ton Anvil, and 3 Left. The rain was literally flowing in the doors. But the show must go on and we tore up that beautiful stage. Bring it on, mother nature, you cant stop us! Because although the storm literally raged on to break us down. We banded together as one to get our message heard to the masses. Always persevere. ~Jen

Life can change in an instant

We are reminded, just how quickly fate can turn on you. Jenny LaRoche, a friend of Greg’s, was critically injured in a car accident and is currently battling serious injuries. We were more than happy to help out with a benefit show last Friday that was put together in just four days. The Poynette community came out to support of “Team Jenny” and donations reached nearly $1000. It is always great to see people come together to help a friend, or complete stranger, in a time of need. It gives me hope that in our unsure future, humanity can and will come together to achieve the goals necessary to survive in harmony with one another. It is time to be unselfish, treat others as you would treat yourself, and be the change you wish to see in the world. During rehearsal this week we continued work on a new song that centers around the fact that everyday more and more of our freedoms are being taken away. The songs key points focus on truth, justice, and freedom. The voice of one person may be strong but the voices of many united can not be ignored. It’s one of many works in progress coming soon out of 424 studios. We ended our week with a power packed show at Frank’s Power Plant in Milwaukee. Along with our friends from The Frenetic, On Last Run, and Breech we were happy to welcome back Fall II Rise. They are a high energy down to earth band that is originally from Puerto Rico, but recently relocated to Texas in the last few months. We had the opportunity to play our very first show with FIIR and were very excited to reconnect with them. Their lead singer, Betty, is the perfect example of a strong, intelligent, beautiful female leader. She inspires myself and many. The weeks get busier and busier for us with rehearsal, recording, writing and performances. Speaking of this week we will be on the Memorial Union Terrace on Friday for a FREE show with 3 Pill Morning. Saturday you can catch us at The Blue Pig in Cudahy. In closing, please always expect the best and prepare for the worst. Thank you for being a part of our community. Always Persevere ~Jen

Food, Friends, and Freedom!

I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday weekend. Memorial Day is of course a day to remember the fallen. I know of no one who has not been affected in some way by our military population. Time can be so short for those brave enough to stand up for our citizens. It has been six years since my family was touched by the loss of one of our own soldiers. I learned a lot that year about what life should be. Please don’t wait to speak your feelings. Don’t wait to say “I love you” “I’m sorry” “I forgive you” “Thank you” because you never know what tomorrow brings. Memorial Day should also be about celebration. I am blessed that my brother, an Army Infantrymen, is still with me today. He is my hero for many more reasons than just his military service and he gives me to celebrate. We Celebrated with over 200 acts of live music at The World’s Largest Bratfest Saturday. Over 150,000 brats were enjoyed while jamming to some great tunes. Joined by our friends Adam Domack and Left of Reason, we were thrilled to be on the Metcalf’s stage bringing our message to the masses; our message of principle, positivity, and perseverance. I was approached by so many new faces and am so grateful for the loads of encouraging words. Big “Thank you” to 301 Productions for making that happen. We had the most fun you could possibly have on a Sunday night at the Frequency! We could not have asked for better people to hang out, and rock out with. The energy was palpable. Thank you to The Mended dead for warming up the crowd. It’s always a pleasure to play with such talented musicians. Thira, a five piece hailing from MN blew us all away with intense stage presence. The lights, the style, and of course the music is massive and flawless. They are all super down to earth and humble, we can’t wait to share the stage with them again. Breech is responsible for the scabs and bruises one can only acquire from a good old fashioned circle pit. The floor forcefully exploded with bodies during their entire set. We look forward to the release of their new material. Throughout the entire weekend the Ultrealian men hunkered down at our base camp (424 Studios) to begin work on our upcoming LP with ETM Records. Bryan blasted through drum tracking in record time. Guitars should be finishing up by the end of this week. PROGRESS! Monday being Memorial Day we got together not only to continue on schedule for recording but to bond as a band family. Together we are stronger than we are apart and as long as we work together we will continue on our path to change the world. Cheers to a great weekend and to many more ahead. Milwaukee fans be sure to catch us at Frank’s Power plant on Saturday June 8th with our friends from Breech and One Last Run. “We walk, blind to the future, but with hope of tomorrow. With strength and purpose, you are not alone.” ~Jen

This week in Ultrea news

We had two shows this weekend packed with energy and a great sense of community. Thursday night we gathered at The Club Tavern in Middleton with our friends ShallowSide all the way from Alabama. Lights, holy action these gents bring the vigor and force bigger and better every time we see them. Their energy is infectious and spread out into the bar area. At one point during a song that their bassist ventured off stage and down the stairs, handed over his bass to a patron and had this surprised but capable stranger fill in the bass line while he took a short bathroom break. Who does that? Shallow side, that’s who. It was a pleasure to play with them last week in Rockford, and great luck that we were able to share the stage again this week. ShallowSide is continuing their tour to find out where they are going to be next check out their fan page on facebook or you can follow them on twitter. Speaking of twitter, I hopped on that bandwagon myself. If you stay in touch with me and hear about Ultrea shenanigans first feel free to follow me @ultreavoxtress on twitter. Saturday we had the pleasure of playing at Rox Sports Bar in Jefferson. We met Chris, one of the owners, at a show a few months back at one of our Regent Street Retreat shows. Chris has been such a great supporter of us and we were more than happy to accept the opportunity to help build up the music community in Jefferson County. It’s always a family feeling when we get to play with Adam Domack long time friend and crazy talented artist. Also joined by Ol Style Scratch, and Left From Tomorrow. Look for Ultrea to return to Rox later in June of this year. ”When words fail music speaks.” I want the send a huge thank you to our own Greg with 301 Productions for putting together countless events that bring local music into the lives and hearts of us all. With out his hard work, extensive planning, and continued dedication to the local music community we could not be what we are today. Join us for a beer and a brat at America’s Largest Bratfest this friday located on Willow Island 301 Production acts will be on stage from roughly 5pm to 7pm. If you miss us there you will have another opportunity this Memorial day Weekend. May 26th at the Frequency with The Mended Dead, BREECH, and Thira. Until we meet again… AP from Jen

Ultrea/LOR Family Rocks Rockford!

Rockford, IL was great to us this weekend. We are so grateful for the opportunity to expand the range of our message and our music. We joined Six Hour Sorrow, ShallowSide and our extended family from Left of Reason. We have had the pleasure of playing with LOR previously and have plans to play many more shows together. It is refreshing to find another band that represents similar values. Family, Honor, and Loyalty are just a few things that we like to represent and influence others to do so as well. We pulled off the most epic of photo bombs yet. As LOR was setting up Jason snuck up behind the drum set to a platform high above the stage. Well into their first song they were not expecting to see a shirtless leprechaun gazing down at them… and the awaiting cameras. Check out our photos to witness us pull into the lead of this photo bomb war. We will have the opportunity to play with ShallowSide again this Thursday at The Cub Tavern. They bring some incredible energy to the stage I hope you all can make it out to experience it. Yesterday was Mother’s Day and although there are more dads in Ultrea this day is really another day to celebrate family. Many people don’t know that between 5 of us we tally 11 little ultreans. One of the reasons that we are so determined to continue our dreams is to lead by example. So, that one day our kids can see what we’ve done and not only be proud but inspired to reach their own goals, and dreams. This can not be done without love, teamwork, and sacrifice. We want to wish all of our Ultrea mom’s a happy Mother’s Day and thank you for your support and sacrifices. “We will not waiver, we will not faulter”… we will not fail you. Love Jen

MayMayhem2013

Last night may have been the most amazing Ultrea experience. I have never felt a better sense of community than sharing the Regent Street Retreat with 11 amazing bands. Faith Hills Have Eyes, Breech, Stux, Divyded, Mind Drop, Two Ton Anvil, Murdercore, 3Left, The Reserve, and The Mended Dead it was an honor and a privilege to play along side you. A huge thank you to 301 productions for putting this event together. I never realized the amount of work that goes into an affair such as this. After hours of prep, set up, tear down and loading I have a new appreciation for what you do. Also thank you again to Apex Sound Solutions, Andy Knutson, Dan the Man, Behind the bar Brandon, all the Bands and most importantly all the fans. The energy was palpable and only motivated us further to bring it full force! Moshing, head banging, throwing up the rock fist is what we love to see. We are forever humbled by your support. Afterward I got a chance to meet some great people. We sold out of our EP Always Persevere so we will have to get another order in for those. Anyone interested in ordering Ultrea gear online should contact us at ultreaband@yahoo.com We currently have t-shirts sm-3lx. Can Coozies, and 4 color high quality vinyl stickers. (great for your car) There is hope in beginning when we rise through the ashes, for when the storm rages on all around to break you down, just find strength and remember your life is worth it. We’ve got to balance our life around our dreams, but through thick and thin we have each other and we will always persevere. ~Jen

For a Just Cause

Generosity filled Rev. Jim’s Saloon last night in Stoughton. Over 100 people participated in the event to benefit the family of Jessica Frank. It is crowds like this that really embody the message that we are so desperately trying to convey. Hardship, heartache, sacrifices, and perseverance is the journey of so many. It is our goal to inspire and motivate others to always strive toward their goals and fight for what they believe in. In this case; love, family, and security is what really matters. We want to thank Left of Reason, and Two Ton Anvil for sharing the stage with us. Also all those who donated, bought raffle tickets, donated raffle prizes, worked the event, and of course those who attended to support this deserving family. Our sound engineer Luke unveiled his brand new PA system under Apex Sound Solutions. We are excited to have his expertise and his sound support. Look for him tonight as he runs the small stage at the Regent Street Retreat. Hope to see you all there. ~Jen

Bruised but not Broken

I woke up Sunday morning with fist/elbow sized bruises. These are but temporary battle scars that give you that good kind of soreness only felt after a weekend of good rock’n. The Wisco was packed from wall to wall Saturday, but there was just enough room for a small but intense mosh pit during The Gunderson Project’s last song. The Gunderson Project, a 5 piece Metal band from DeForest, had their live debut opening for us. Murdercore also brought intensity with their new bassist “Wookie.” Greg even commented, later on Facebook, “I’m surprised The Wisco is still standing.” But let’s back up just for a minute. Before brutalizing Willie Street, we were at the Badger Bowl stage, with One Last Run and Left of Reason. These are two unbelievably fun bands to play with. We will be playing with Left of Reason again Friday May 3rd at Rev. Jim’s Saloon to benefit the family of Jessica Frank and May 11th at Bar3 in Rockford. One Last Run will join us again Saturday June 8th at Frank’s Power Plant in Milwaukee with BREECH. During rehearsal this week we began work on ballad composed by our own Greg. You can expect to hear this mixed into our normal set soon. We also got a chance to stage an impromptu photo shoot to display our new T-shirts available for sale at all of our shows small-3X large for $10. They will soon be available for online purchase here on Reverbnation.com. As you go about your business this week I hope you think about how much you impact others. We are constantly in debt to everyone who supports us as musicians, as people, and as a family. We only hope that we can impact others with our message of positivity, patience, persistence, and perseverance. This is our life. This is our journey. We hope you will join us on our journey to change the world. ~Jen