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I came across Alexx Calise on My Space and like what I heard so asked for a press pack and was sent her album which is spot on. Alexx combines pop and rock in her music and to her credit she is a DIY artist. There's no whining about big record deals etc and everything Alexx has achieved she had done so through hard work and the love she put's into her music. We may disagree on Iraq as you'll find out in the interview but there'll always be space in Street Voice for Alexx - She rocks! Anyway here's what she had to say for herself.
Street Voice: Can you introduce yourself to our readers please?
AC: Allow myself to introduce...myself. I'm Alexx Calise :) ::curtsies::
Street Voice: What bands inspired you to get in to Rock music in the first place?
AC: I've always loved distorted guitars, wailing vocals and melancholic lyrics, so bands that really resonated with me were silverchair, The Toadies, Soundgarden, Sponge, Buckcherry, and Our Lady Peace. When I heard that music, I was hooked. I was also really inspired by my dad, who rips on guitar and has even stood in for MIA band members at some of our shows.
Street Voice: You've just recently released your debut album 'Morning Pill' so how did you feel when you held the finished product in your hands?
AC: "Morning Pill" was the result of 4 long years of pain, heartache, blood, sweat and tears, so when I received the finished product, it was quite emotional for me. You have no idea how amazing it is to hold a tangible incarnation of your feelings and emotions in your hands. It's almost like having a baby, except, in this case, there probably wouldn't be one since the album is titled "Morning Pill" and all.
Street Voice: What has been the response to the album from both your fans and the music press?
AC: So far, the response has been amazing. People have responded especially to the lyrical content, which I'm very happy about being that I'm a poet at heart. I've even had many people tell me that the album has helped them find their way, and that it's helped them through harsh times. I think the greatest compliment I ever received though was "you inspired me to paint again." That truly floored me.
Street Voice: Did you undertake many shows to promote the album in the USA?
AC: Yes, I did a bunch of dates along the east coast. In particular, I really enjoyed playing the Bon Jovi/Philadelphia Soul Summer Slam '07 show in Wildwood, New Jersey. I performed with a backing band of performing arts high school students and these kids seriously tore it up. The Soulmates (Philly Soul cheerleaders) even came up onstage and danced to the tunes. It was a wild weekend. We had to keep it PG-13 though since they were underage and all.
Street Voice: Are there any plans to come over to Europe to promote the album?
AC: Definitely. I'm gearing up for a huge tour overseas in the upcoming months, so keep checking back with me at alexxcalise.com and myspace.com/alexxcalise.

Street Voice: What inspired your lyric writing for the album?
AC: Various existential meltdowns. No, all kidding aside, I just wrote what I felt. I grew up with this album essentially. A lot of the themes are about coming into your own, experiencing love and heartache, and being able to stand on your own two feet.
I'm definitely a product of my environment as well. No matter where I am, the people or places in that environment dictate my lyrical content. During the writing of "Morning Pill," I was in a state of discontent, I was unsure of myself, and I needed answers. I discovered myself when I put all of those feelings on paper. This album truly saved my life and shaped me into the person I am today.
Street Voice: You're a solo artist so have you a full backing band behind you or do you just hire in musicians when it comes to touring etc?
AC: My first choice of players is always my band from Florida, but sometimes the dates and locations of the tour affect who will and won't be playing with me. Scheduling is always a factor.
Street Voice: You've got a fair few endorsers behind you so how did all those deals come about?
AC: Well, if I told you I'd have to kill you. Just kidding. Honestly, I'd have to say that all the deals I've procured are the result of hard work, perseverance, and self promotion. Shameless even. You'll never get anywhere in life without putting yourself out there, being the best you can be, and most importantly, without asking for what you want.
Street Voice: Say you could just play with one artist/band who would it be and why?
AC: Definitely Justin Timberlake. I think he's honestly the second coming of Michael Jackson. "Justified" and "FutureSex/LoveSounds" are two of the best produced and performed albums I've heard in years. He's one of the most talented artists of our time right now, and I'd be honored to perform with him.
Street Voice: If Hugh Heffner came along with a large cheque book would you pose naked for his magazine or would you give him a good kick in the nuts?
AC: It depends. Is it a large check book or a large check?

Street Voice: President Bush has alienated Americans from almost everywhere in the world so I presume on that basis you never have any plans to go to the Middle East?
AC: I wouldn't say that. If I were presented an opportunity to perform for our troops, I'd be there in a second. It's the least I could do for the people that fight for our freedom every day.
Street Voice: Apart from your music what else do you get up to?
AC: Definitely ass kicking. Well, that and working out, being active and writing. I recently just fell in love with Zumba as well, which is a Spanish dancing style that combines Salsa, Bachata, and even Reggaeton. I'm in desperate need of an oil can though. Because I'm white, I often look like I'm doing more of the Robot than anything.
Street Voice: Alexx when's our first date and where would you like to be taken?
AC: It depends. How large is YOUR check book?
I thought my cute looks would have been enough:-)
Street Voice: What plans have you for the rest of 2007?
AC: I'm planning on doing some shows in Australia and New Zealand and then I'll be recording my second album. That should keep me busy for at least a little while.
Street Voice: Anything you'd like to add?
AC: Yes. Jam out with your clam out!
Thanks to Alexx for doing the interview and making it an interesting read. Hopefully you'll feel the same and check this lady out.

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