No Longer Underdogs: The Black Keys

Entertainment 

By Mike Horsey  

Husky Herald Reporter

   They are anything, but an overnight sensation. It took ten long years for their success to slowly climb for ‘The Black Keys.’ Suddenly, with the release of their last two albums, ‘El Camino’ and ‘Brothers,’ they have become one of the hottest rock bands in the world.

   After their most recent album, ‘El Camino,’ which was released in 2011, they debuted as the 2^nd hottest album on the 'Billboard Top 200' list. They powered their way to win two Grammys and the hearts of MILLIONS for their hard blues, smooth rhythm, and brilliant compositions. It was so successful that after their tour schedule was released they had sold out back-to-back Madison Square Garden in less than fifteen minutes.

   One common thing someone that claims to be a ‘Black Keys’ aficionado at our school will almost always hear from other people, like Connor Stager (’16) say, “I have no clue who that band is.” However, the great thing is, even if you have never heard their name, almost everyone has heard their songs plastered in comedy movies, Victoria Secret commercials, and blasting in the background of sporting events.

   ‘The Black Keys’ consists of Dan Auerbach with an everyday trademark beard, who mans the vocals and the guitar in the band, and Patrick Carney who shreds the drums with his extremely silent persona and Buddy Holly type glasses. When you listen to these two men humbly speak about their music you realize they’re two quiet friends from the small town of Akron, Ohio who like to shake the entire world with a mountain of noise.

   Connecting in high school, Patrick and Dan have always shared their love in music. To start off, they began playing music in Patrick’s basement. Bailey Watson (’14) says “…Ever since I began listening to their music…I always thought they were a long shot, but they’re coming out from under.” There’s no doubt that the thought of a two man band from the basements of Ohio have always been placed low on the totem pole.

    From the guys’ first old fashion fan base building by touring in a van with no air, which is the picture on the front of the ‘El Camino’ album, to their wild success headlining around the world. We now wait, after three years, for the debut of their new album ‘Turn Blue.’ The world seems to be confident with the two kids from Akron, Ohio; however, one can only imagine that it’s still all syncing in for them. Regardless, ‘The Black Keys’ are not underdogs, anymore.

Taking the Stage at PHN Idol

Feature

By Alex Budd

Husky Herald Reporter

    Hearts pounded as contestants for PHN idol took the stage in Port Huron Northern’s PAC. “I was respectfully nervous, I wanted to do well.” Said Emily Torres (’14).

   PHN Idol was a chance for students to compete against other student’s singing to win a prize. “There were some great musicians and I didn't think I would win but I won the year before and it was a great memory for my senior year.” Said Torres (’14.)

   The contestants worked very hard coming up to their performances, “I practiced a couple days before” said Ally Evenson (’15). “I worked so hard, but once again not to win” said Torionna Samar (’16).

   Although everyone was competing against each other for the win they were still encouraging to their fellow contestants. “I just did it for the experience; I didn't really want to win. I love every single person who competed and was probably more happy for them than they were themselves!” said Samar (’16).

   Everyone’s song choices ranged from a variety of songs, some written by the singer and some old legendary songs. “I sang the song Galaxy; it’s a positive song that reflects on me. It speaks of positivity and it’s an inspirational song.” Said Torres (’14). “I sang The First Time Ever, I Saw Your Face, I picked it because it’s one of my favorite songs of all time and I thought I’d take a shot at it.” Said Evenson (’15).

   Not only were the contestant’s nervous to sing in front of a crowd but they also has the pressure of being judged by the PHN Idol judges ( Mr. Arena, Mr. Labelle and Mrs. Labelle). “I feel like everyone worked hard and gave it their all because it was brave of them to get up there and do that.” Said Evenson (’15).

   All in all PHN Idol went really great, with Emily Torres taking the win and Ally Evenson taking second place.

“I love to sing for people, my favorite part of the whole thing was to see my friend’s band play at the end.”

( Moriya Dejuses taking the stage as one of the contestants of PHN Idol)
   

"Friday" Night's Alright For Fighting

Entertainment
By Paige Christensen

Husky Herald Reporter

   After returning from summer band camp, the members of Port Huron Northern Marching Band were ready to take on the half time show at Friday night football games. A fresh, new theme was suggested by the senior members and officially chosen by Mr. Senkmajor, the band director. The band students had plenty to say about this year’s music; Elton John.

  Senior drum major, Spencer Kohanov (’14), said “I like it a lot. I think it makes a good show, not just the music but also the different sets on the field.” Some of the arrangements he is referring to include: Funeral for a Friend, Love Lies Bleeding, Your Song, and Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting. The songs are accompanied by marching band’s color guard performance. Each member wears a vibrant tuxedo jacket with bold accessories to tie in the Elton John theme.

   Maddie Ringvelski (’14), one of fourteen color guards, said “I really like it. I think it will draw the attention of more adults.” The band members are excited to have a piece that appeals to both their peers in addition to an older crowd.

  Tuba player, Chris Wit (’14), had nothing but positive remarks, “I really like the Elton John theme. It’s catchy and it is really fun to play. The show has a lot of energy.”

   However, there is a level of difficulty to the set’s choreography. Maddie Ringvelski (’14) said, “There is a lot of starts and stops.” This makes it more difficult for the color guard girls to stay synchronized.

   In addition to the choreography, some of the music is challenging as well. Wit (’14), speaking from an instrumental point of view, said “Some parts of it are and some parts of it are not.” He went on to mention that it depends on the song and the instrument that each student plays.

  Marching band practices between six and eight hours a week to remedy any imperfections they may have.  Not only do they have to perfect the instrumental element but they must organize over two hundred band members in an aesthetically pleasing way.

    Next time keep an ear out for Port Huron Northern Marching Band.