Jesse Harman, Staff Columnist A functional music scene can provide a haven for people seeking asylum from a strict, oppressive society. Increasing numbers of venues, online discussion forums, and other culture hubs are adopting a “safe space” mentality – striving to…
Sara Moniuszko, Co-Editor-In-Chief Folk-rock duo Aztec Two-Step took the stage on Sept. 26 at Jammin Java in Vienna, Va. to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their second album, Second Step. Before the concert, the duo, comprised of Rex Fowler and…
Connor Smith and Jesse Harman, Staff Writers Swedish doom metal band, Ghost, kicked off its “Black to the Future” U.S. tour at the Fillmore the same night Pope Francis touched ground for his American debut. The tour is an attempt to…
Jesse Harman, Staff Columnist The unique cultural identity of a George Mason student remains elusive. A school of a nearly unrivaled diversity faces a clear question: What exactly constitutes a ‘Mason student?’ What is our ‘identity?’ This problem pervades nearly…
Jesse Harman, Staff Writer Student organizations at Mason serve a variety of great purposes for students. Some clubs and groups help students form networks of friends and acquaintances in an unfamiliar environment. Others might hone students’ practical talents and skills to prepare…
This story was originally published in the April 27 issue of Fourth Estate. Jesse Harman, staff writer Succeeding as an artist in any music scene requires a perfect storm of talent, connections, hard work, and a little bit of luck….
This story was originally published in the April 27 issue of Fourth Estate. Jesse Harman, staff writer World-renowned musician Frank Zappa once said, “Without deviation, progress is not possible.” We – as a people, as a community – cannot move…
Jesse Harman, staff writer The ever-evolving music industry has always struggled to find a balance between the artists and the consumers. Laws, guidelines, royalties and a surplus of legal jargon muddle the rhetoric surrounding the current state of the industry….
This story was first published in the April 06 issue of Fourth Estate. Jesse Harman, staff writer Any music scene—a mass gathering of like-minded talents—has a propensity for competition. Friendly faces arise, and support often follows; still, new bands often…
It has been over two years since singer-songwriter Mary Lambert’s collaboration with Macklemore and Ryan Lewis was released. The song “Same Love” quickly hit double platinum in the United States. With the release, Lambert’s life completely changed from her…
