Giddy UP Cowboy!

Bottoms UP Bitches it's Thirsty Thursday!!!  Things are moving right along here at SSP HQ!!  We are currently booking up shows for the summer and have some great gigs coming up.  

On April 30, SNAKE SKIN PRISON will return to Hanover's in Pflugerville TX to blast the breeze between your knees!!  This is going to be an amazing night so mark your calendars and come throw down with the Loudest Band in Texas!!  

Click HERE to check out the event on FaceBook

After that comes the Liver Busting Annual Event otherwise known as "Matt's Annual Blackout Birthday Bonanza" ... errr...or something like that!!!  Always a good time that we never remember so we have to continue to do it in hopes of burning it in our brains!!!  May 14th at Dirty Dog Bar on 6th Street downtown ATX!!  

Click HERE to RSVP to the Event on FaceBook and be the coolest person in your neighborhood!!

This is a special show not only because we're celebrating the fact that Matt is still alive, but we'll be taking donations for the Texas Fire Walkers.  In a nutshell, the Fire Walkers are a charity organization that helps families that have been affected by Texas Wild Fires.  You can read more about them HERE.   This a free show so GET EXCITED and come GET SOME!!  

We also have a very special announcement...we'd like to introduce you to the newest member of the SSP Pain Train ... beating the skins like Ike beat on his first wife ... he's filled in and helped SSP in the past so it only made sense...Gary Tumnus!!  We'd like to welcome him to the intoxicating family that is Snake Skin Prison and are excited to continue to spread the disease!!!  

Be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter, PornHub and many other amazing social media sites!!  

...And as we wind on down the road...

Well look who it is!!  That's right, after a bit of a hiatus, we've decided to knock the dust off this ol yarn and see how things progress.  I checked and my last SSP "Booze for Thought" blog was in 2014!!  Well I can definitely say a lot has changed in the world of SSP...some good...some bad...and some just down right intoxicating.  After several complaints and compliments here we are again!

Most recently would be the release of our lastest EP "Lakota".  Cranking 3 new tunes, I feel like it's definitely right down SSP Lane.  You can check it out on iTunes HERE

Let's see what else...Oh...we have yet again changed drummers :).  I would like to say that it seems Keef and myself change drummers more than we change underwear...but I must admit, speaking for myself, I change my boozy drawers more than once every 5 years!!  All joking aside, SSP is very grateful for everything Marc brought to the table.  He will surely be missed and will leave big, unlaced, VANs to fill...but don't you worry your little head my pretties...the SSP train runs long and deep...far and wide. 

I'm personally excited about the future of SSP.  We have several cool things in the works, some things you might expect and some things you might not.  I promise to try and write more often, even if it's just to tell you my latest dirty joke!!  We have a couple shows on the books and working on more!!  If you have a venue, event, bachelorette party you'd like to book SSP ... check it out HERE. 

We'll be in Pflugherville at Hanover's on April 30!!  Click below for details!! 

Also on May 14 we'll be celebrating my annual Birthday Show!!!  I've lost track...this is the 5th...or 6th...or maybe 9th...who knows!!!  It'll be at Dirty Dog Bar downtown on 6th.  It's a free show!!  21 + and we'll be taking donations at the door for the Texas Fire Walkers.  You may or may not know about the Texas Fire Walkers, but you can read more about them HERE.  TFW are a charity organization that helps people needing to recover from fire and other natural disasters.  Very excited to have them on board!!  As well as the drunkest band in Austin (that would be SSP), we have special guest Broken Teeth joining the stage.  They just released a new EP "Bulldozer" and always leave the stage dripping with rock n roll juices that go on for days!!  

https://www.facebook.com/events/1564062150586496/

Wow...I started this blog and thought, "I ain't got shit to talk about!!"  Just need a little push from time to time.  Lord knows I got plenty to say and am hardly at a loss for words!!!  

Alright ... well hope to see you at a show ... share this blog with your friends, spread the word!!  Feel the breeze between your knees!!

\m/

dMb

Written on the Run!

I got my reminder to work up a new SSP blog and one word came to my mind...Thankful! 

As most of you know we had our 4th annual A Very Metal Christmas this past Saturday At the Dirty Dog.  

It felt as though a black cloud was looming over top of this event.  We dealt with everything from band having to cancel, photographers/light guys canceling, and even other events trying to use the same event title (there were more than 1) that we have used for the last 4 years!!!

At one point I looked at Marc & Keith and said I just want this event to be over...then something happened...YOU!!  People kept showing up and showing up and before you know it the venue is filled with the SSP FAMILY that I have come to know and love dearly.  

We had amazing sponsor on board with Hoek's Death Metal Pizza!!!  And trust me it was amaze balls!!

The show was great all bands destroyed it!!!   

Don't forget about Santa rocking out!!

I can't wait until year 5!!!  

Until then, have a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!!!  

Much love 

dMb

\m/

If I had a dollar for everytime...

...someone said, "So what's new with the band?" ... I'd probably have ... oh maybe 15 dollars...a day!  HA! ...

Don't worry your pretty little heads, SSP is still blistering our way across The Lonestar State.  Shows are being scheduled, merch is being designed, livers are being busted!!

Probably the most exciting news is the upcoming release of new tunes!!  That's right, we just finished tracking vocals on 2 new tracks and will begin working quickly on a 3rd.  It seems today, that we do better releasing 'EPs' as compared to full length albums.  Times are changing everyday and so is the music industry.  Things are NOT what they were when I stumbled into Austin in 2006...and I'm sure they won't be the same in 2020!  I think the key thing here is not to get excited and continue to push and press forward...always willing...always ready.  Repetition I tell ya...that's how you win!!

Just so you know my money is where my mouth is here's a little snippet of what's to come...

I'm always excited for this time of year to roll around.  I love the holidays, it's the only time of the year where people expect you to drink a lot!!  You get up and start drinking at 2pm on a regular day of the week and people tell you you have a problem!!   You get up on Christmas day and start off with a nice totty followed by some rum and egg nog which leads into nice jar of holiday moonshine...well then by golly it's Christmas!!!   Another reason I'm excited for this time of year is our Annual Christmas Extravaganza!!  That's right!!   VMC...aka...A Very Metal Christmas!!  This will be our 4th year!!  Can you believe that??  Wow...I mean...some bands can't even stay together for 4 years!!!   This year will be held again at The Dirty Dog Bar located on 6th St. down ATX.  With a capacity of over 400, a big stage, great lights and 2 bars slinging drinks with amazing an amazing staff...we love playing Dirty Dog...

As always when I put together shows for SSP, I strive to bring you something different.  We want every show to be an event, something to look forward to.  This year we're bringing you our good buddies from Abilene  REAR NAKED CHOKE.  Also on the bill, closing out the party will be Austin's newest Hard Rock/Rock N Roll/Classic Rock Cover band, JUKEBOX.  They'll be providing the classic tracks you love to get sloppy too while you party with SSP and all the other's on the naughty list!!

Be sure to RSVP to the show HERE and be on the lookout, tickets ($10) will be available soon!!

Other shows to be posted soon include:  Midland, San Angelo, San Marcos, San Antonio!! ...

More news to come!!  Be sure to check us our on Facebook HERE

\m/

dMb

\m/

...The End is Only the Beginning...

It's been a minute...a long minute...since my last SSP blog entry.  Why?  Cause I'm f*cking busy that's why :) ... The Pain Train muscles through the blood and the muck regardless of blog updates :) ... never ceasing...never stopping...always ready...and always rocking!  Growing stronger every day...Bigger...Faster...Stronger...that my friends is the way of the Snake!

It's been an awesome year so far with SSP...playing some amazing shows, releasing some tunes that we're really proud of...and drinking cigarettes longer than our leg with some of Texas' best!

I recently read an interview with Gene Simmons about the current state of Rock N Roll in which he states: "Rock is Dead"...

...and I had to respond...

First and foremost, you cannot kill what you can't contain...bottom line.  Rock N Roll...Heavy Metal...Hard Rock...whatever you want to call it...is exactly that:  The Epitome of Rebellion.  I wonder if Mr. Simmons had an underlying motive by saying that...as if:  "If I tell them they can't do it...they will!"

Let's cut the crap and get straight to the facts...as long as there is a guitar...drums...attitude...alcohol...someone telling you what NOT to do...there will be Rock N Roll.  Does that mean that every guitar picker will make a mint playing their craft?...probably not...but that's life.

Times change...that's a fact.  What was cool yesterday isn't cool today, and what's cool tomorrow won't be cool in a week...BUT...one must focus on the constant...not the variable.  If we put all our stock in what the media told us we'd still be wearing New Kids on the Block tee shirts.  If we listened to what "they" said was cool...we'd be sucking our thumbs laced with Justin Beiber.

But guess what....wait for it...that's exactly what we DON'T do...because?????...we are Rock N Roll!!

Just because RnR isn't the most popular format right now...doesn't mean it's dead...if it's one thing I've learned...as we all should...is history repeats itself...always has...and always will.

Case in point:
SSP recently returned from playing in Midland at the "White Trash Bash 4" at Blue Max...and if anyone thought RnR was dead...well...they obviously aren't paying attention.  "They" aren't paying attention because "they" don't want YOU to pay attention.

Bottom line folks...you...we...me...us...the people...have the power.  WE can control what WE want to hear...support...get drunk to and dance!!

Snake Skin Prison is the poster child of this...I believe.  SSP has been slinging that southern fried whipplewill  since 2007 and we ain't changed a DAMN thing.   WE LOVE BEING THE DARK UNDERBELLY OF THE AUSTIN TEXAS MUSIC SCENE.

Do you do it for the fame?  Do you do it for the money?  Do you do it for the girls?  We do it because we can...and because we want to!!

Rock N Roll is FAR from dead...do you think that lack of $$...lack of promotion...lack of support...could stop RnR...hhahahahah bitch you better pack a lunch...because RnR has been doing that since day one!!  Ask Elvis, ask The Beatles, ask Robert Johnson...ask Metallica as they ran cross the country in a truck/van taking turns driving...ask Dave Mustaine as he was handed a bus ticket back to LA...ask ME...Matt Ballengee...as I drove 1200 miles from my home leaving my family and friends with nothing but my guitars and cheap vodka...

Support???  We never had support to begin with...what we don't have YOU can't take away!!

So Gene Simmons....is Rock N Roll Dead?  The answer is given to me when I strum my guitar and my 18 month old daughter walks up and smiles (then proceeds to bang on the strings)....it's FAR from dead...it's far from over...and if for ONE SECOND YOU THOUGHT THIS WAS ABOUT THE MONEY...??...??...well brother you are in this for the wrong thing.

Excuse the typo's and grammatical errors...I love box wine!

Come see us at Cowboy Harley Saturday at noon!!  BYOB Punks!

Always and Forever...
Waiting and Watching...
I'm drinking if you're buying...

DMB
SSP

Lost in the Middle Without You Again...

Dreams....

You say what you want, some say they don't even have dreams, others say they don't remember them.  But...I...do!!  I have had crazy dreams all my life.  I could turn this blog into a 25 page analysis of all the dreams I have had, but I came here for one dream in particular.

As some of you may know, Snake Skin Prison has released our 4th Installment:  "Blood in the Water"...

Typical EP Fashion, we have 3 songs on here (plenty more recorded, don't worry) and I honestly feel this is by far our best product yet.

Out of the 3 songs...there is one called:  "Lost in the Middle"

I was on KLBJ with Loris Lowe and promised to blog about this song and the lyrics...so here goes:

One night after drinking on a classy box of wine, and taking some sleeping aids...I found myself quickly fading from reality into a dark comatose state of sleep...

I quickly awoke and found myself in a desert.  I was confused as to how I got to this place, I knew (and have always been able to acknowledge) I was in a dream...thus choosing to take advantage of the playground in my head...vs being scared of it.  As I looked at my surroundings I noticed there were these (*1)TALL...like telephone tall crucifixes with bodies nailed to them.  I remember thinking, I don't have time to (*2) worry about that...I gotta get out of here!!  I turned around and who was there...??...no joke...(*3)Yayo...yes...Yayo from the band Yayo and from the band Cosmic Wolf (playing tonight at the parish).  I remember thinking, "Hell he's from here, he should be able to get us out of here!!"

As we navigated through this (*4) mind-field desert...remember this desert only exists in my mind...I noticed a long line of people...walking aimlessly.  As I got near them, I noticed they were (*5) slaves...and the guy in front would throw a (*6) rock just in any random direction...and that's where they'd walk.  Once they got to the rock...he would pick it up and throw it again...and off they'd go with no purpose...that I could derive. 

I remember thinking, "I just want to find my way back to Kelly..."  (that's my wife if you didn't know...ya know...the girl from 'Alcohol of Fame' Video...yeah that actually happened...) ... I was upset and missed her...and I remember thinking to myself, (*7) "I am literally lost in the middle of the desert with out her..." There was a huge feeling of sadness...like, "Will I ever see her again?" 

I came up to this (*8) hill...I guess sand dune...and when I got to the top...I literally laughed out loud...what did I see...a (*9)Vallero gas station...I thought, "only in a Texas desert would there be a Vallero..." 

So this is where the song stops, I actually have some more lyrics but in hopes of keeping the song at the proper length...we cut it there...for now!

To finalize the dream for you ... I made my way to this "gas station" (this was an experience) and once I got inside it's a whole other wild ride of fictional delusion and comatose creations(it was more of a mad house then a gas station)...so I guess the question to ask would be...did I ever make it out...well...hmmm....I guess I'll have to make you wait until I can musically spin that one!  

Here's the lyrics you can follow the notations above and see how they coincide...

(*1)Bodies hanging above me, bodies hanging and (*2)I don't care

In a (*4)mindfield of desert, a (*3)gun slinger with long black hair

(*7)lost in the middle without you again...Lost in the middle without you again

(*5)A slavery on the run now, follow the rock that he must throw

But just over the (*8)hill now, there is a (*9)place with much in store

lost in the middle with out you again, lost in the middle without you again

Lost in the middle without you again, lost in the middle without you again

Hope to see you tonight! 

here's the details: http://on.fb.me/1dEg6X6

Until then!  

\m/

dMb

BLOOD IN THE WATER

Cogs in the wheel...that's what you feel like sometimes.  Being in a band, an unsigned band at that, can be very frustrating.  I mean think about it...you work and you work and you work...you constantly strive to move forward in a world that is constantly pushing you backwards.  I guess that's life in general at times.  Heave...Ho...Heave...Ho...Heave...Ho...

I moved to Austin in 2006, started forming Snake Skin Prison in 2007...it is now 2014!!  That's 7 years ago!  The fact that we're still rocking and rolling is an accomplishment unto itself.  I have seen so many bands come and go.  So many bands with PROMISE...come and go.  It's sad at times, but you realize, just like the flying fish that leaps unknowingly into the jaws of an awaiting grizzly bear...not all were meant to make it.  Or...as Slash says, "So few can stand so close to the flame."

I haven't blogged on Snake Skin Prison in a bit, and for that I apologize, but don't fret, there has been plenty going on.  We have just finished our newest EP, "Blood in the Water", scheduling up 2014, and writing new material.  It's a juggling act for sure (along with the rest of your life)...but as I tell everyone around me..."The difference between winners and losers is winners do...losers don't." ...

Next Friday Night, Snake Skin Prison will return to The Parish for our EP Release.  The Parish holds a special place in my heart; it's where we released "9 Kinds of Bad" as well as "Smokin Whiskey" and it's hosted a couple "A Very Metal Christmas" events.  It's a great venue, with a killer stage and awesome sound.  I also like the fact that is has a green room (that's backstage room to all you rookies out there).  SSP has pre sold a ton of tickets for this, and anticipate a killer crowd! (AS ALWAYS)

There's 3 songs on this EP:  "Blood in the Water" ... "Lost in the Middle" ... "Loudest Night of My Life" ... I can't wait until they are available, cause I'm anxious to dissect them with you...here's a Teaser we put together...

We've got a killer line up with bands from Austin as well as a great band from Dallas, Redefine.  We've pulled together some amazing sponsors as well!  It's truly gonna be a night to remember...if you can remember!!   I hope you can make it, I promise we won't disappoint...I was wrong once...it was a Tuesday...in 2005 I believe...but hey who's keeping score?  You can get ticket info, line up info, show info...the whole works....at the FB event HERE

Get excited folks...we ain't going home!  A lot of times people will ask...how long are you going to do this?  My response...in the words of Robert E Lee as he charged over a hill and into Yankee territory...

"RETREAT HELL!!" 

Keep it on the sunny side and remember sometimes, "Slow is cool!" 

CHEERZ

dMb

Take It Or Leave It!

Hola from the land of booze and money.  It's been quite a while since my latest SSP blog, and for good reason!!  A lot has gone down in the last several months for SSP, and whereas I apologize for not writing as frequently, I must say I regard your time with me here very special...thus I'm not going to just spew shit for the sake of having a new blog.

Let's see...well I got married!!  That's right...that tall drink of water you see in the "Alcohol of Fame" video...yep...I finally gave in!!  Truth be known, Kelly and myself did NOT know each other prior to meeting for this video shoot...I awed her with my charming hillbilly etiquette.   In speaking of the video, since our Distribution Deal with Perris Records the "views" have been climbing, we were at 2k roughly 3-4 months ago and am now almost to 5k!!  Check it out, it's been around for a while, but just like an old lover sometimes you just can't get enough...

SSP is actually in the works of another video...so stand by for that!!  

Shows have been killer, as I told Keith the other night, it's hard to believe that 6 years later we'd still be rocking and rolling!  There is a HUGE show coming up in 2 weeks, at the Kyle Fair and Music Festival!!  You can check out the details HERE ... (show poster below)

Here's something I thought would be cool, I don't know how many of you watch VH1 Classic's "That Metal Show" but I love that show!!  It's awesome, if you don't have VH1 Classic you can watch it online HERE ... hosts Eddie Trunk, Jim Flourintine, and Don Jamison are hilarious and accurate at the same time...they host rockers and ask them questions...some of which I thought interesting and good "blog" material...so here goes: 

-First CD bought with MY money:  The Black Album - Metallica.  This album would concrete my love for Metallica thus making them my Favorite band of all time...sometimes threatened by Lynyrd Skynyrd and Motley Crue...through the years Metallica has reigned supreme!! 

-First song learned on guitar:  I had to think about this one, but I'm pretty sure it was "Smoke on the Water" ... this tends to be a staple for the beginning guitarist.  I also learned the intro to Metallica's "Nothing Else Matters"...the intro to Manson's cover of "Sweet Dreams" and the intro to "Enter Sandman" ... any advice for a beginning guitar player??  Play with other musicians that are better than you...bottom line. 

-Song I wish I had written:  "Amazing Grace" this song has been sung, and will be sung as long as there is a voice to sing it, and regardless of who's singing it still rings home an amazing message.  Financially speaking...several come to mine:  "Hotel California" by the Eagles would be a good one.  "Start Me Up" by the Stones is played at every sporting event across the country LOL...

-Any other band I would want to be in:  Motley Crue...I've read a lot of biographies...alot...counted close to 50 the other day, and out of ALL of them...The Crue knew how to party...

Alright there ya go, a little insight into the mind that has given you inspiring lyrics such as: 

"Been drinking since 930 am" 

"I ain't working no more" 

"Well that West Virignia moonshine burns like sunshine" 

and many more to come I'm sure!!  

Come see SSP on Oct 18th!!  It's gonna be a great show, we're playing for upwards of 2 hours!!  

- molon labe - 

dMb

Too Much Communication....??

I'm from West Virginia...did you know that?  Peterstown, West Virginia, located at the most southern tip of Monroe County.  I could step off my front porch, and throw a rock into Virginia...well maybe 2 throws...but I could get it there.  We don't have a single stop light in my town, however we do have 5 churches (off the top of my head), a couple restaurants, a fire station...and one VERY LOUD fire whistle (I plead the 5th on knowledge of that last part).

I've lived in Austin since 2006, and honestly loved every minute of it!!  When I sing, "We've got a long way to go...and Mama I ain't coming home...."  I mean it...every time.  WV will always be my home, but ATX will be my Wheelhouse.

On one trip back to the mountains, during a 4th of July cookout/booze-a-thon, I was talking to an "elder" booze hound...and as I was talking to him, my phone buzzed, I was checking it (for I'm sure it was Oh So Important!), while he was trying to tell me something he noticed I wasn't paying attention (I was multi-tasking) and stopped talking...I eventually realized he had quit talking and I looked up and he said in the midst of all the Winston cigarette smoke swirling around his head...

"That's the problem right there Matthew.  That'll be the death of your generation..." I said, "What's that??"  ... he replied, "Too much communication..."  referring to the Blackberry attached to my hip, the Facebooks, the Myspaces, the Twitters, Emails, and RSS Feeds.

Fast Forward to Today...

The past few weeks have really stood out to me, I don't know why but all the...
"Zimmerman deserves to rot in jail!!" ....  "Trayvon was the victim of..." ... "Paula Dean for President!!..."... "Rolling Stone will burn in hell!!" .... blah blah blah blah blah blah blah...

Now before we go any further, trust me, I know I exploit the social media for Snake Skin Prison, I mean, let's face it folks, it's not going away...and will only continue to grow.  Facebook will become obsolete and another Social Media Juggernaut will be born...and another...and another...so on and so forth.

However, through the whirlwind that is our everyday life, I can't help but think...could this be the death of us...too much communication??  Keep in mind, this is coming from a guy that loves to talk and can't shut up!!

I'm starting to think that Social Media should be treated as the Virtual Dinner Table.  There's certain things you don't discuss at the dinner table...Business, Religion, Politics, Favorite Sexual Positions...etc.  There's a time and place for those discussions...possibly?...and when entering that place with an open mind and an open heart...maybe something would get done...maybe there would be a resolution...maybe we would benefit from all this "communication" and not allow it to be the death of us.

Again, I don't know, I'm just talking, and in my experience, the best I can say is to lead by example.  Every time I look into Samantha's big blue eyes, every time I see that toothless grin, every time those little chubby arms reach up and grab my beard...I'm reminded:

It's not about me anymore, I'm responsible for all my actions, and one day I might have to answer to her, "Daddy, why did you do that?" ... something tells me the response, "hell I don't know I was drunk!" wouldn't be best :) LOL.  I think the best answer would be to "Lead by Example"...it reminds me of that statement, "If every man would sweep his own door step...the whole city would be clean."  Maybe if we...myself included...spent half as much time looking inward then we did posting our opinions on Twitter...maybe...just maybe...we might pull the nose of this airplane called life up just in time to make it...maybe...maybe not...maybe we aren't supposed to make it.

Remember, I'm just an old guitar picker from a small town in Southern West Virginia, 2 rock throws from Virginia...where we don't have a liquor store...gas station...or a Wal-Mart...but by-golly we had a Beyond Video and that was the best damn video store in America (love and miss ya Paul Ball)...

I dunno...I think...I think...sometimes I think I think too much!!!  Either way...come see the most Socially Communicable Band from Austin Texas this Friday Night in San Angelo TX!!!  :) :) :) We aim to please, I promise you that much.

Adios!!
dMb

Snake Skin Prison signs Distribution Deal!!

Nationwide??  How about WORLDWIDE!!  Snake Skin Prison is excited to announce the joining of forces with Perris Records Distribution!!  What exactly does that mean you might be asking yourself??  Well, allow me to inform you...

First off, thank you...yes YOU...the person reading this blog.  If it weren't for you, then our music, my words, my always pressing, world changing words of experience and wisdom would fall on deaf ears.  :) ... so let's take a minute and give yourself a round applause.  In the words of Gomer Pyle.... "ShaZam!"

Alright, with all that being said, in the always shape shifting world of the Music Industry anything is possible.  People ask me all the time, "So when do you think you'll get a record deal?"  or  "When do you consider yourself to have 'made it' ... ?"  My initial response is, "Making the initial sacrifice to move to Austin, to leave my family, my friends, my home...to chase this crazy dream...to conceive Snake Skin Prison...when I put my first foot forward on that journey...that was the beginning of making it."  People often times focus on the end point and not the journey...when it's the journey that has the most to give!!

Times have changed in the music biz, you don't have to work for Revolver to know that.  The days of the million dollar record deals are probably gone / close to extinct.  I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm sure Aerosmith and Metallica don't have a problem paying the cable bills, but those "types" of bands are far and few in between...but I digress. SO...

Back to SSP :) ... we have been approached and agreed upon working with Perris Records, to distribute...GLOBALLY... "9 Kinds of Bad".  This is definitely exciting, for most bands don't even get an opportunity to record a full length album, much less have it distributed around the world!!  So with all that being said SSP is excited and honored to be accepted into the Perris Records Family and look forward to the future and working with Perris!!

Here's some Links...

Perris Records Website
Perris Records on FB

Links where SSP is GLOBALLY available \m/
BESTBUY
COLLECTOR'S CHOICE MUSIC
NEH RECORDS
IMUSIC
RAKUTEN.COM
IMPULSE MUSIC
DISK UNION

This is just the beginning, and I held off as long as I could :) ...  Where do we go from here?  Beats the Fuzz out of me!!  Forward that's where!!  As long as the good people want better music, Snake Skin Prison will have a place to rest it's weary head.

This Friday the Rock n Roll Pain Train travels to West Texas to the town of San Angelo.  Known as the city where livers go to die, San Angelo is home to probably one of my personal favorite places to play...The Deadhorse.  SSP has been blasting The Deadhorse since August of 2008!!  It's a great bar, with a great staff, and amazing fan base.  If you're within driving range of 210 S Chadbourne Street, San Angelo Texas, 79603, then you should def come by this Friday Night.  There's no Cover and SSP takes off around 1130p!!

If you would've told me 10 years ago that in 2013 I'd have a CD available for purchase in Japan I would've probably finished my drink and then laughed in your face...however this world is rough, you ain't going to make it alone, so you stand by your friends and the ones that you love...and sometimes you might find, that you ain't gonna make it, well you don't lay down and die....


Come and Take It!
dMb

Brother will kill Brother....

...spilling blood across the land...Killing for religion, something I don't understand.

You know, if you want to talk about someone that's a bad ass...I mean straight up brass balls bad ass...that man would be Dave Mustaine.  I try to think of other musicians that left a hugely successful outfit (Metallica is more than successful, they are game changers, hell game starters!)...say...Slash.  He left GnR and went on to do Slash's Snake Pit, Velvet Revolver, Solo stuff...and I'd say he's pretty successful.  Definitely Ozzy, after leaving Black Sabbath (who's new album is amazing!!).  Uhm...Michael Jackson after leaving Jackson 5 :) ... lol the list can go on I'm sure but those are off the top of my head.

Anyways, back to Dave Mustaine, I read his autobiography (great read!), and I truly admire and respect him.  He's a bad ass, bottom line.  I mean they (Metallica) woke him up, on a hangover, and handed him a bus ticket saying, "You've been replaced...you have a drinking problem."  As Dave said  in his book, "I was kicked out of a band, nicknamed "Alcoholica", for heavy drinking!!"

And what did Dave do?  When most would've given up, seeing their chance of rockstar fame and fortune turn into a texas twister spiraling the the trailer park of life...Dave started Megadeth...and rose from the ashes!!

Now in the words of my Grandmother, "I told ya that to tell ya this..."

Life sucks sometimes, it really does.  Life can be a true blue boot scooting kick to the head.  Sometimes, when you're down, life can be a real spiteful bitch and kick you again...and again...and again....and when it does...you really have one of two choices.  Stop or Go.  Live or Die.  Forward or Backward.

Other than pure, raw, determination and blessing...there's nothing better to get your moving forward again than the help and love of another.  Someone to reach down into the water and grab your hand as you're sinking, slowly...drowning in the murky waters of life.

And that my friends, brings us to tomorrow night's show.  I was sitting on my patio (some of you have been there) drinking wine and enjoying the breeze...when I got the call to play tomorrow night's benefit for the victims of the recent tornados in Oklahoma.  SSP has played many benefits, and we are always MORE than willing to throw down some Ass Grabbing, Hard Charging, Southern Metal.  We're all in this world together, and in the words of Hank Sr, "No matter how I struggle or strife, I'll never get out of this world alive!!"  I truly believe, that there is a lot of bad in the world.  But there's a lot of good.  When I look down into Samantha's eyes, see that toothless grin, hear that genuine laughter, and feel my unconditional love for her...I believe...there's still some good.  It's a fight.  It's a f*cking dog fight for crying out loud...but it's a fight that must be fought....and I don't know about you, but I hate fighting alone.  I won't fight alone.  And I won't ask you to fight alone.  We'll fight together.  Here's the details for the show:

https://www.facebook.com/events/459918477435473/

here's the link for tickets:

www.loop1tickets.com

Fight the good fight.  Come rock out with Snake Skin Prison and some other AMAZING musicians!!

Why you might ask?  Cause there's strength in numbers, and you wouldn't want to fight alone...no one deserves that.

Until next time!!
Faith. Family.Forever

dMb

I remember playing music with a friend, he yanked up an acoustic and started strumming a "D" chord and he sang, "I feel better when I'm drinking..."  I thought, "Wow...what song is that?"  After learning to play it and sing it, mastering it for the late night camping trips/parties, I was officially hooked on Jackyl.  Mostly known until recently, for the Chainsaw song "Lumberjack", I would say that it's a safe bet to say that Jesse James Dupree and the boys from Jackyl are seeing quit the resurgence in popularity in thanks to the very popular "Full Throttle Saloon" in which Jesse is part "owner" and in charge of entertainment. When the offer to play with Jackyl came down the pipeline, of course we were gonna take it!!   Snake Skin Prison has played with Jackyl before, and it's gonna be nothing but cold drinks and sawdust!!  

As if that isn't enough, Snake Skin Prison has confirmed "SSP's ROT & Roll!!"  Quite possibly the biggest biker rally in the world, ROT Rally is always a good time for Snake Skin Prison.  You see, SXSW...that's not really our scene, people are too busy getting ripped off and watch hipsters hacky sack....however ROT Rally...that's got our name all over it!!  June 14th, Friday, Red Eyed Fly, this is ALL AGES with both stages!!  Snake Skin Prison headlines the outdoor stage at midnight!!  

http://tinyurl.com/ROT-ROLL

SSP also just rec'd some new merch!!  Ladies Summer Tanks!!   These are very popular, and I don't look for them to be around for long!!  

http://www.snakeskinprison.com/contents/merchandise.html

 

I have some other "news" to give, but I'm waiting on it, don't want to count my chickens before they hatch!! Hold on Kiddoes....we're just getting started!!

Talking Music with a 3 Month Old

      Hola!  As some of you may know, I have recently become the proud hillbilly daddy of a beautiful little girl, Miss Samantha Rose Ballengee!!  Becoming a parent opens your eyes to a lot of things!!  Often times I find myself thinking, "how would I tell her this?"  or "how would I explain that!" lol.  I then (as always) turn to thinking about music, and thought, how would I tell her about music, and how would I express my feelings and love for music....so I put it down...off the top of my head of course so don't judge me...the top 5 things I'd tell Samantha Rose about Music...so here we go!      

      1.       There is no right or wrong.  In the world of music, people will argue and sometimes even fight over their opinion.  I've heard it said so many times, that there is no “sharp…or flat” (which can be compared to right or wrong)….really…it’s just a note(s) put together that doesn't sound that appeasing to the ear.  No one ever said, “This is the right note to hit…” it was just hit and someone said, “Oh…that don’t sound right…” whereas someone else could say, “Hell yeah man that’s awesome!”  As Dave Grohl said in his recent SXSW Keynote Speech, “Could you imagine Bob Dylan singing in front of the judges on ‘The Voice’ ??” So with that being said, I would tell Samantha, “If you like it then like it!!  If you like it chances are there’s someone else out there that likes it.  You have to get out there and explore and experience it for yourself that's the most fun of it!!”

      

      2.   Think for yourself.  Just because they are playing it on the radio, doesn't mean it’s the only thing out there.  And to further that note… “Thank God for Satellite Radio!!”  I can remember being younger and someone telling me , “you need to broaden your horizon’s musically!!”  I thought, “What…I play Metallica and Megadeth!!  What else is there??”  LOL.  Since then I have expanded quite colorfully.  Just look at my Pandora Stations(a quick overview):  The Allman Brothers, Twisted Sister, Van Halen, Black Label Society, Steve Ray Vaughn, Motorhead, Ludovico Einaudi, Trent Reznor, Cinderella, Claude Debussy…so I would say to Samantha, "There’s more than one flavor out there in life...so musically try them all…”

      3.       Give it a listen…and I mean that literally.  Give it a Listen.  So many times I've heard something the first time and thought, “Meh…” but then I continue to jam it and the next thing you know…I’m hooked!!   So I would definitely say, “Give it a listen, give it a chance to grow on you.”

      4.       Get to know the artist/band.  This can be a 2 way street.  I know some artists that I really like their music but I can’t stand their personality…and/or vice versa.  But…I think it’s knowledgeable to be able to make that distinction.  I mean how about this scenario:  “Hey Mom check out my new EyeHateGod tattoo…”  “Nice Matthew, that’ll look great as your singing in the choir on Sunday…”  Again…I’m not personally telling you what to like or dislike, but as I would tell Samantha   “…get out there and get the knowledge….THINK FOR YOUSELF!...Decide for yourself.”

      5.       Music is Time Travel.  This one…I mean…when I wrapped my mind around this I thought I had found the Golden Ticket.  How many times have you been sitting somewhere, doing anything, hear a song and for a split second…just for a moment, you’re transported back to a previous time…and you remember everything.  And I mean EVERYTHING!!  I love when that happens.  A song I heard in high school, or an Album we played over and over in the weight room during our football off season.  Or how about a cover song SSP learned way back…that comes on and I automatically remember me and Keith trying to figure it out!!  So I would tell Samantha:  “Music is Time Travel…remember that…the music you are listening to will shape, define, and help tell your story for the rest of your life…so choose it wisely!!”

Finally, and this really doesn’t get a number because I think it’s an “all encompassing” blanket statement.  Music will never leave you.  Music loves you…and will love you forever.  Music will never hurt you and will never mistreat you.  Just as Nikki Sixx said in an interview a little while back (after the resurgence of Motley Crue)…he was asked, “What’s it like to have Rock N Roll coming back in popularity..??..”  and he responded… “Rock N Roll never left…you did…the people did…they turned to other styles…etc…Rock N Roll has always been here…”  So I would tell Samantha, “Just like your Daddy…music will never leave you, music will love you forever, music will be with you always…forever and ever and ever!”

Then I would say, “Now crank up that Lynyrd Skynyrd and watch me play some AIR GUITAR!!”

Don’t forget NEXT Friday is my 4^th Annual Birthday Show at Red Eyed Fly!!  Hitting the big 32!!! Ow Yeah!!  I hope you can make it!!  

You can get info on the show HERE  

RSVP To the Event on FB HERE

Yee HAW! 

Peace Love and Chicken Grease!

dMb

Best Movie Quote of All Time?

“I ain’t fartin on no Snare Drum” – Pip

Ever see the movie “Airheads” ??  I love that movie.  SSP covered “Degenerated” early in our existence, that’s the “hit single” the Lone Rangers (yes it’s plural) had.  I remember having that sound track, I would listen to that baby (on my walk man) while mowing the yard, cleaning the pool, or lifting weights in my high school days.  The movie was about a band, placed in the 90’s, trying to get their song to “break” either via a record label (yeah right!) or getting it played on the radio (even more yeah right!) … in hopes of reaching past their already existing following and securing a spot amongst the big dawgs!!  It’s a comedy, and is super funny, but hits on a goal that still, almost a decade later, bands are trying to accomplish…get on the radio!! 

I’m writing about this, because recently it has been brought to my attention that Snake Skin Prison has been put into rotation on stations in College Station and Midland/Odessa!!  SSP can also be heard on KLBJ (Local Licks) and multiple…shall I say…gaggles of online radio stations, Pandora, Spotify, Youtube…etc.  Please see the links below to reach out and touch these stations, letting them know to PLAY THAT SSP!! 

Anyways, even though we’re 9 years from the movie “Airheads”, we (bands/artists) are still fighting the same battles, at an ever declining rate I remind you, to try and ‘catch that break’.  The days of million dollar contracts, million dollar advances, 15 vacation homes and 25 cars are a thing of the past…just as Big Hair, Metal Ballads, and Trapper Keepers.   Bands anymore these days ONLY make a profit when they tour relentlessly (in my observation/experience), and on top of that it has to be a bill smack full of bands, which turns it more into a festival than a 2/3 band tour.   

I’m not complaining, or trying to be a “negative Nancy” just really thinking out loud more than anything else.  I love playing music, I love writing music, I love jamming with Marc and Keith and when we hit that groove man…I’m telling you what there ain’t nothing better than that!!  Talk about the hair standing up on your neck…that’s better than then the Meal Deal you get at HEB!!   I guess what I’m truly saying is… the more things change the more they stay the same…that’s what I’m saying.  I’m thankful we’re getting some spins on the air.  Hopefully people like what they hear and will call in, Facebook, Tweet, Smoke Signal…and request more of it! 

To request/listen SSP:

KLBJ 93.7 - Austin TX

ROCK 103.9 - College Station/Bryan TX

ROCK 95.1 - Odessa/Midland TX

SPOTIFY

PANDORA

YOUTUBE

iTunes

Keep doing what you've always done, and you'll get what you've always got!

dMb

The Shit you Say!?!?!?

The Shit you Say!?!?!?

I love writing.  Like I really enjoy sitting down and stringing words together in a way that can move another human being in ways no other “thing” can.  I remember watching a video and seeing Zakk Wylde give a guitar to a young boy, the boy was looking it over and Zakk pointed at the fret board of the guitar and said, “You can save the world, solve all the world’s problems…right here…”  I agree!  Music is the universal language…well some say Love is…I say Music is Love so THERE! 

Some of my favorite lyricists would be:  Jim Morrison, Axl Rose, Zakk Wylde, Jim Henson, Willie Nelson…to name a few.  I’m serious about Jim Henson, you ever listen to some of those muppet songs??  GENUIS!  Writing, be it lyrics, poetry, literature…, that isn’t easy.  If so, everyone would be doing it. 

I like to think that my lyrics are multi layered.  Some songs, ie “Outta Control” “Let it Roll”, are not…they are just about the party.  There are others however, that I think can have multiple meanings to different people depending on their interpretation.  A good example of this, is how you read a book, then watch the movie…and see the characters and they are NOTHING like the way you imagined them in your mind when YOU were creating the picture based upon what you were reading.  Same Principle!  Either way, I was thinking about lyrics because last night SSP started working on some new tunes, and I’m always thinking about my lyrics and how to apply them more bad ass than before!

We’re super pumped about 2013, the year of the SNAKE!!, and the possibilities we have in front of us.  We hope you can make it out to a show!  Our next ATX show is March 12 for the official, yearly, often imitated but never duplicated Red Eyed Fly Pre-SXSW Party!!  You can check out the details HERE 

Also!!  Snake Skin Prison Trucker Hats are now available also!!  Help out your Favorite Rockers!!  Getcha one today … Aww Yeah…tha hookup!

http://www.snakeskinprison.com/contents/merchandise.html

Loves ya Faces

dMb

The One Man Party

The biggest party of the year…

That statement, when said seriously…and with Meaning can turn some heads.  I myself, have been to plenty of parties.  I love parties…like before I even sampled the demon spirited Alcohol, I loved parties.  When I was younger, my sister would beg my mom to make ME stay for her parties…why?  Cause I love parties…that’s why!  I’m trying to think of the biggest party I’ve ever been to…like not counting a Spring Break or anything like that.  Hmmm….I attended some parties in college that were pretty epic…yeah…those were probably the biggest back in those days.  I’m talking real deal Holyfield Parties…the kind’ve parties that those jokers on “Buckwild” would probably turn around and go home wearing their dinner on their shirts…type of parties!!  So, with all that said, I would like to say, that I’m somewhat of a “Party Expert”.  I have logged the time and experience, been the inviter and the invitee.  If someone were to walk into Pawn Stars and say, “I have this 1998, Senior Week, Myrtle Beach SC party…how much do you think it’s worth?”  Chumlee would say, “Hmmm, we have an expert in this field, let me call in Matt Ballengee, he knows all there is to know about parties.”  LOL ßthat just made me laugh.

When people post, “The biggest party of the year!!” or “The Biggest show of 2012!!”  (yes I know I’m guilty of that also…) I think… “Pshtttt…you don’t know party son…I’ll tell ya about a party.  I’ll tell ya about a party where the land lord was a pastor and called up at 2am to not only tell us to turn down the music, but did so by taking the Lord’s Name in vain…a Pastor!!”  (I’m not condoning that btw).  So, often times those “postings” on Facebook that start out, “The biggest party…” often times get lost in the information highway just like a bill board that says, “did advertising work…just did…”  that’s great, I did see it…but more like was gazing at it while trying to decide between Taco Bell or Subway. 

I told ya that to tell you this…with all my experience and expert knowledge…I would be willing to say…there is a Party going down.  And a BIG party at that.  It’s on March 12 BEFORE SXSW kicks off.  It’s before all the wrist band, hipster, skinny jeans, clowns take over…well actually they have already taken over, but you catch my drift.  This party is taking place at Red Eyed Fly on March 12.  Snake Skin Prison was a part of this bad boy last year, and they were turning people away at the door.  I’m not lying…I was there.  A lot of you were there too…maybe some of you were not.  But this year is probably, arguably the BEST Austin TX has to offer in the vein of Rock/Hard Rock/Heavy Metal.  I would take that to the bank…or as us rednecks say, “I’d bet the farm on that one…”

Here’s the info on the party!!  Make sure you RSVP through Do512!!  Cause when you do…a hipster trips and skins their knee through their skinny jeans…and because the 1,576 people that have...can't be wrong!

Ya’ll come back now…ya HEAR!

dMb

Hear the shot heard around the world!!

I remember when I moved to Austin in 2006, I had one thing on my agenda…world domination.  I remember when people would ask me what my “end game” was…and the response was always the same... “World Domination” … anything less would be considered failure.  Talk about young…dumb…and full of…uhm…spunk!  I’ve learned a lot in the past 6/7 years.  I’ve learned that maybe it’s not a good idea to drink an entire case of Lone Star before you go on stage in San Angelo.  I’ve learned that it’s not a good idea to finish your set, take 5 jager bombs, only to learn you’re the only band, and it’s not the end of your set…just the beginning!!  I’ve learned it’s not a good idea to go to Shady Grove, eat their Catfish Platter, drink 3 Margo’s, then go to Dirty Dog and walk straight on stage!!  I’ve learned a lot, and as my dad says, “If you’e gonna be dumb, you gotta be tough!”  

Another thing I’ve learned, is maybe the world isn’t exactly worth dominating.  Maybe..just maybe, instead of focusing on “making it big” or “taking over the opposition” if one could take a gander around…they might realize…depending on who’s keeping score…maybe you’ve already made it big.  Did that just blow your mind or what??  J  I’m a firm believer in the Goal system:  Set a Long Term Goal, then chop it up into Short Term Goals that will help you accomplish it.  However, you must remember, sometimes life is about the ride not the destination.  Sometimes we get so caught up in what’s going to happen, we’re not focusing on what IS happening, only to wake up one day and realize we missed it all!!  In the words of a very wise man, “Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses, just don’t linger too long or you’ll get stung by a bee!”

Typically I write about Snake Skin Prison and things going on in my personal life as well.  Typically my personal life is Snake Skin Prison…the end.  However, this past Tuesday my whole ball game changed!!  At 1206p on Tuesday, 1/29/13, I heard a scream that would rival that of Vince Neil, Zakk Wylde, or Ronnie James Dio!!   On that day Kelly and myself welcomed our daughter, Samantha Rose Ballengee.  I looked at Kelly and said, “Babe, we’re a long way from the Alcohol of Fame..huh?” J .  It’s truly an amazing experience and even though I’m a man of many words both appropriate and not, I cannot describe it!!  I will say I’m glad I’m a guy…I’d much rather to the poking then the pushing!! 

Come celebrate with me this Friday night at Red Eyed Fly!!  Snake Skin Prison will be double fistin’ it with Broken Teeth, Crimson Devils, and Panhandle TX.  It’s gonna be a blast on all accounts!!  SSP Will be giving away 2 guest list spots and 2 copies of the new EP, “Smokin Whiskey” all you gotta do is RSVP (Going) to the event on Facebook!!  Click the show poster below to do so!!!! 

CLICK HERE TO RSVP (GOING) ON FACEBOOK

Some people say, “So after being here for this long, pumping and pushing this band…are you getting tired of the hustle?”

My response:  “The reason a bulldog’s nose is slanted backwards…so he can breathe without letting go!!” 

I’m just getting started!

Friday…Come ON!

dMb

Come and Take It...If you can!!

I had never heard that statement before in my entire life..."Come and Take It" until I moved to Texas.  I saw it on flags, shirts, bumper stickers, buildings, tattoos...and I thought, "Come and take what?"

So naturally I did what I always do when I don't know shit about shinolah....I google it!  Upon Google'ing the phrase "Come and Take It" I ran into another ol' online pal of mine...Wikipedia...well hell, if it's on Wikipedia it must be true!!!  Wikipedia said so!!

You can check HERE if you like, but basically here's the gist:

"Come and take it" is an American patriotic slogan most notably used in 1778 at Fort Morris in Georgia during the American Revolution, and later in 1835 during the Texas Revolution. The phrase is similar to Molon labe, which is a classical expression of defiance reportedly spoken by King Leonidas I in response to the Persian army's demand that the Spartans surrender their weapons at the Battle of Thermopylae.

Remember that movie, 300??  The one that made every male look at their gut and wince with shame??  Well yeah, that's where it started, when the Persians were demanding...well you can read above...

So it's not "just" a Texas thing, but brought to my attention by Texas and even more important than that, extremely huge in Texas history.  So with all that being said, I thought, "Well slap my ass and call me Gonzo, that there needs to be put in a song!"  The seeds had been planted, the idea was starting to form. 

I view "Come and Take It" as statement from SSP to the world about our Music, about our Love, about our Desire...Discipline...and flat out pure Determination to succeed.  When everyone else decides to go home, when everyone else is tired and wants to quit...there's good ol' Snake Skin Prison...slugging away at the man!  

Or so I like to think anyways!!  LOL 

We just released our new EP, "Smokin Whiskey" at Red Eyed Fly and had a blast, you can check out Pictures here!!  and here!!  

Also, "Smokin Whiskey" was released digitally on Oct 30, so be sure to check it out HERE on iTunes!!

The future is bright for Snake Skin Prison!!  That's for sure, it's exciting times to be the hardest working band in Texas!  

FIRE IT UP...LET'S BURN ONE DOWN

WE'LL FLOOD THE STREETS OF THIS WHOLE DAMN TOWN

WIND EM UP TIGHT...AND WATCH THEM GO

BY THE TIME WE'RE DONE...THAT WHOLE WORLD'S GONNA KNOW

YOU'LL HAVE TO PRY IT FROM MY COLD DEAD HANDS

AND I'LL PROTECT IT LIKE THE PROMISED LAND

YOU CHOOSE TO SIT...I'M GONNA STAND

WHAT'S MINE IS MINE, AND WHAT'S YOURS I'M COMING TO..

TAKE ME AS I AM...SOMETIMES THE TRUTH CAN HURT A MAN

IT AIN'T HARD TO UNDERSTAND...SO COME AND TAKE IT...IF YOU CAN

STAND WITH ME...YOUR FIST IN THE AIR

I'M WAGING WAR...ON THAT COLD DEAD STARE

YOU WANT SOMETHING...SO BAD YOU CAN TASTE IT

DON'T WAIT FOR IT...NO YOU COME AND TAKE IT

PRE-CHORUS

CHORUS

CHORUSX2