Madame Mayhem

Madame Mayhem is certainly a commanding and unforgettable figure - all you have to do is check out the new video for the song "Monster" for the proof. But dig a bit deeper, and you will discover that some of rock and metal's most renowned and respected names played a part in her forthcoming full-length album, Now You Know, which will be released through BFD/RED on October 16 (in the US and Canada).

A powerhouse team of rock talent including Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, Winery Dogs) - who produced and played on the album - Ray Luzier (Korn, KXM), Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal (formerly of Guns N’ Roses), Russ Parrish (“Satchel” from Steel Panther), and Corey Lowery (Saint Asonia, Stuck Mojo) all appear on the fourteen-track recording.

But before the album's autumn arrival, fans can check out the striking clip for "Monster" (by Industrialism Films). "This video shows the escape from being trapped, under speculation, and breaking free to embrace your true self," explains Mayhem. "Raw and real! About how society can turn you into what they already think you are."

Though a singer first (and frontwoman/showwoman during live performances), Madame Mayhem is also a songwriter, and plays piano and guitar.


Now You Know Tracklisting:

“Monster”
“Perfect Nightmare”
“Something Better (Now You Know)”
“Left For Dead”
“Witchcraft”
“More Than Misery”
“Better Days”
“... After 2 Am”
“Nothing To lose”
“Under The Microscope”
“Sacrifice”
“Pain”
“Can't Stand”
“Anyone Who Had A Heart” - BRAVEWORDS.COM

If you’re checking out new music and run across an artist like Madame Mayhem, you might be quick to pre-judge her as just another hot chick singing rock/metal. Yes, there are more females out there rocking out in what has typically been a testosterone driven genre. Yes, there are quite a few who are out there cashing in on it and are more of a gimmick, but this young lady will soon prove you wrong if you think she falls into that category. If you combine the vocal range and power of Pat Benatar with the fiery attitude of Lita Ford and throw in an insatiable love of the genre being created and you get a little idea of who Madame Mayhem is. She has a brand new album entitled Now You Know which is being released on October 16 and if she isn’t already on your musical radar, you will be very soon. We sat down with her to discuss the making of her new album, fan girl moments in the studio and jewelry that’s also good for kicking ass. - I'm Music Magazine

A powerhouse team of rock talent including Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, Winery Dogs) - who produced and played on the album - Ray Luzier (KoRn, KXM), Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal (formerly of Guns N’ Roses), Russ Parrish (“Satchel” from Steel Panther), and Corey Lowery (Saint Asonia, Stuck Mojo) all appear on the fourteen-track recording.

But before the album's autumn arrival, fans can check out the striking clip for "Monster" (by Industrialism Films). "This video shows the escape from being trapped, under speculation, and breaking free to embrace your true self," explains Mayhem. "Raw and real! About how society can turn you into what they already think you are."

Though a singer first (and frontwoman/showwoman during live performances), Madame Mayhem is also a songwriter, and plays piano and guitar. And soon, the world will experience her extraordinary talents!

Madame Mayhem - Monster [Official Video]:

Madame Mayhem - Monster [Official Video] - YouTube


Billy Sheehan Interview On Madame Mayhem's New Record:

Billy Sheehan on Madame Mayhem's new record - YouTube

'Now You Know' Tracklisting:

1. Monster
2. Perfect Nightmare
3. Something Better (Now You Know)
4. Left For Dead
5. Witchcraft
6. More Than Misery
7. Better Days
8. … After 2 Am
9. Nothing to lose
10. Under The Microscope
11. Sacrifice
12. Pain
13. Can't Stand
14. Anyone Who Had A Heart - Metal-Temple.com

"Madame Mayhem's Now You Know the brand new album from Manhattan born, singer songwriter, Madame Mayhem. The gorgeous and extremely talented artist's latest offering is sure to turn some heads, if not for her vocal range , and in your face delivery , then the amazing talent on show through the album". ....



RATING:SHANE 9/10 - myglobalmind.com

(Feature interview in issue No. 9 )

http://issuu.com/rock_n_roll_industries/docs/rnr_ind_mag_issue_9 - Rock N Roll Industries Magazine

..."The hypnotic rhythm, bubbling with unkempt glamour and intrigue, of Madame Mayhem's "Addicted to You" would beautifully highlight spring collections loaded with leather and bondage-inspired elements."... - Billboard

Madame Mayhem "Addicted To You"
The hypnotic rhythm, bubbling with unkempt glamour and intrigue, of Madame Mayhem's "Addicted to You" would beautifully highlight spring collections loaded with leather and bondage-inspired elements. - Billboard

I may be the last person in the planet to not have visited the new Cutting Room. It’s all the rage, continuing its legacy of pushing the envelope in musical programming. Now, I have heard through the grapevine (how DID that expression get started?) that the folks in charge over there think Madame Mayhem is the realio dealio (again, how?) Anyway, I guess I'll kill two birds with one stone (caveman expression?) and go check out her act and the venue next Friday or the Friday two weeks after. She has a bi-weekly residency and all the answers to all my questions below:

I've heard great things from the people over at The Cutting Room. Tell me about your residency there and the show next Friday.
The residency has been a blast! The band and I are having so much fun. Our next show is on Friday, March 22nd, and then we have another show at The Cutting Room on April 19th. It’s a high-energy show and you WON’T be disappointed if you come down to see me.

Tell me about the new Cutting Room.
It is a gorgeous venue with a classy and, most importantly, ROCK vibe. You have to really see it to understand how cool the place is. There’s a chandelier with guitars that I wish I could have and fit in my apartment. I feel so fortunate to be playing there! It’s an upscale rock supper club that’s located at 44 E. 32nd Street.
Getting to play my music at a place that's most recently hosted Billy Joel, Adam Levine, Ringo Starr, Julian Lennon, and is soon to have Guns N' Roses’ Bumblefoot on the same night as me on April 19th kind of brings the whole WHITE NOISE album experience full circle.

The record features you guys plus plus plus...tell me about the collaborations.
My record “White Noise” was produced by Grammy winner Mark Hudson. He has worked with legends like Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, and Ringo Starr. Working with Mark is always a good and crazy time and I learn a lot just being around him. Everyone that worked on this record is incredible, but what’s really cool for me is that we were able to get some rockin’ guest artists that I have admired for years to play on the record. They did it because they believed in the music, which was inspiring. They include:

Earl Slick – David Bowie, John Lennon, New York Dolls
Elliot Easton- The Cars, Blondie
Jonh Moyer – Disturbed, Adrenaline Mob
Rudy Sarzo- Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Dio

Working on this record with these legends was such an amazing learning experience and a humbling one at that! You can download “White Noise” on iTunes.

What kind of music is on the album?
The genre is definitely rock. It’s orchestrated in terms of the way old-school rock 'n’ roll was done 30 years ago, but is still so current in the way it relates to people today. It’s a musical listening experience that hard rock and even pop fans can enjoy.

What are your influences, your goals. Where are you in three or five years? Do I have a press pass to see you at the Garden.
INFLUENCES: I have a very eclectic taste in music so I try to incorporate different things into my music. I always joke that the reason I turned out the way I did, whether it be style, musical taste, anything really is my mom’s fault. Apparently, when I was baby, she would get sick of all the Rafi and Sesame Street tapes in the car and she would play what she loved: '90s grunge. So yeah, Nirvana was my baby music, not to mention Aerosmith and Alice Cooper.
GOALS: My ultimate goal is to be able to do this for the rest of my life. Performing, being part of the industry. In terms of success, to me it’s being successful enough that I have the means necessary to be able to do this. I don’t think I’ll ever retire! More immediate goals are to be able to get on a tour with my band and just play EVERYWHERE! You know, spread the MAYHEM! WHEN I make it to the Garden you most certainly will get a press pass!

When did you start singing?
As early as I could talk, well, scream really. Making music and performing has been my dream since forever. There really hasn’t ever been anything else. I started off in musical theatre. I was a working actress at nine. I am classically trained in singing, dancing, and acting but I always knew that rocking out was what I wanted to do most. Not to mention I have been told by the people close to me that I’ll have a much longer life expectancy when I am doing what I love, since when I’m not performing or working, I’m not so pleasant to be around.

Rock and roll sells out stadiums but gets less respect in clubs in NYC. Is that true in L.A.?
People like you, Steve, and BlackBook are respected, and when you get the word out to people who usually go out to lounges or dance clubs - you give them the idea to try something new. On March 8th, The Cutting Room had over 200 people who had never been there before and never knew it existed. They are exactly the crowd that would never have gone to a rock show had they never received an invitation to see something new. - Blackbook Magazine

Social Life, a magazine that bills itself as “the Luxury Magazine for the Hamptons,” celebrated its September issue last night at Satori, the swanky lobby bar at The Sanctuary Hotel. The magazine cover featured goth goddess Madame Mayhem posing sulkily in a black ball gown accessorized with her own spiked choker, gloves and combat boots.

Ms. Mayhem, who seemed to be the focus of the evening rather than the new issue, wore her signature goth couture. An edgy exterior, yes, but her pale porcelain skin and doe eyes suggested a softer side; let’s not forget that this rocker originally trained in musical theater and opera. Her debut single, “Save Me,” will be released on iTunes on Oct. 2; it was blasting from the surround-sound system, the lyrics were projected in the video onto a wall.

Just a short stroll from the tourists gawking at the Naked Cowboy in Times Square, the hideaway in the heart of the Theater District attracted a different crowd. Fluorescent purple lighting shone on an assortment of socialites; old suits, young hipsters, designers and musicians, it was an eclectic mix of the city’s creatives. The atmosphere, like the attendees, was laid back yet glamorous, grungy yet opulent—with just a hint of punk.

The fusion of luxury magazine and grunge princess may have been unexpected—a bit like seeing Johnny Rotten at the Maidstone Club—but nobody was complaining.

Although the content of Social Life is directed at the high net-worth-individual who summers on the East End of Long Island, publisher Justin Mitchell said that he liked to play with the cover story. “We like to mix things up a little,” he said. Mr. Mitchell rattled off a list of the magazine’s music-themed summer covers, “with an icon such as L.A. Reid on one and the Jonas Brothers, a younger demographic, on the next.”

Mixing things up all by himself was Mr. Hudson. The prolific producer was dressed to impress, from beret atop head to red patent Doc Martens on feet, and in between bright red pants, red-and-blue pin-stripe blazer, red-hearted tie and burgundy glasses—he was a walking work of art. His multicolored beard, too, was a marvel. “They used to call me weird beard,” said Mr. Hudson, recalling the three years he spent as a judge on British version of The X Factor.

Mr. Hudson praised Mayhem’s work ethic: “It’s different to that of anyone I’ve ever worked with before.” Impressive, considering that “anyone” includes the likes of Cher, Ringo Starr, Ozzy Osbourne and Aerosmith—for whom he produced the Grammy Award winning hit “Livin’ on the Edge.” Mr. Hudson went on, “In rock and roll, a work ethic like hers usually doesn’t exist … usually these rockers are in bed until 2 p.m.”

Mayhem has been on a roll this summer at a slew of North Fork social events. It was at the Southampton Hospital benefit that designer Wesley Nault first spotted her. “She stood out to me in the crowd,” Mr. Nault said. “I had to find out who she was.” Luckily for him, Mayhem’s “spiked gloves” and “great personal style” reappeared at the Couture Council luncheon honoring Oscar de la Renta and a number of shows during Fashion Week. Mr. Nault describes his own collection as “high end but with an edge to it.” The same could be said of Mayhem.

Mr. Hudson wants Mayhem to stand out from the crowd, he doesn’t want her to follow it. He suspects, though, that the crowd will follow her. “Who knows, maybe we’ll all be sporting spiked gloves next year,” he said. “Although I hope not—those things will take your eye out.” - New York Observer

New Yawk rawker chick Madame Mayhem has assembled a stellar cast of musicians on her new album, Now You Know (released through K7 Records). Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, Winery Dogs), who co-wrote, produced and played on the album, was a major inspiration for Ms. Mayhem. Ray Luzier (KoRn), Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal (Guns N’ Roses), Russ Parrish (“Satchel” from Steel Panther) and Corey Lowery (Saint Asonia, Stuck Mojo) also lent their skills to the album. The 14 diverse and memorable tracks are a combination of ‘80s rock/metal with a vibrant and modern production. Ms. Mayhem has a striking look combined with a confident and rocking attitude. Plus, she even looks great in a strait jacket, as witnessed in her new single/video “Monster.”

BraveWords: The video for lead off track “Monster” shows a great side of you. Plus you get to go crazy and thrash around in a strait jacket! How was shooting the video?

Madame Mayhem: “It was a fun shoot. We went to L.A. to a big warehouse. I really wanted to express to people what the song meant as visually and as fun as possible. The song is really about breaking out of the mold that people are trying to turn you into and facing who you are. That was something I was dealing with starting out in the industry of what they (record executives) wanted me to be or do as an artist. And over the past years, I decided I’m going to do what I love and what I like to do, and I was just expressing that.”

BraveWords: How did your musical partnership with Billy Sheehan form?

Madame Mayhem: “He’s been a mentor of mine for a few years and a good friend. We were writing together and we just decided to make an album. He liked my voice and obviously he’s one of my favorites of all time. He co-wrote a lot of the songs with me on the album and he produced it, and I also co-wrote some songs with Corey Lowery. It was a really cool experience, especially since he let me express myself and turn it into something that I could be proud of as well as being a really kick ass record that Billy Sheehan produced.”

BraveWords: Every track differs from one another yet contains an infectious hook. How did you approach the songwriting?

Madame Mayhem: “We were going for a sound that we both like. I love hard rock and heavy metal and we wanted to write songs that I could express myself. I really wanted to tell the truth in every song. Each song is different because each song is telling a different story and a different situation, and we wanted the music to match the lyrics. We wanted it to be an eclectic thing where you could have all 14 tracks on the album and not get bored after the first few songs, there’s something changing with each song. We just wanted to focus on each song individually and make it the best that we could, and then figure out as a whole how we wanted to do the record.”

BraveWords: At 14 tracks, were you afraid that would be too many for a single album or were you confident that everyone would be a winner?

Madame Mayhem: “We wrote a whole bunch of songs and there’s even more that didn’t make it. When we were writing the songs we weren’t concerned about how many were going to be on the record, it was more about how many songs were strong enough to be on it. There were just so many, but we wanted the best that portrayed me and the songwriting. For me, if I’m buying a record, I want more songs. I think it’s better for the listener and fans, and me being a fan, I would like more of my artist on there.”

BraveWords: While recording the album, how did each song get constructed in the studio?

Madame Mayhem: “Different songs we did different ways, but we made sure we had the final music structure down first, then I would come in and sing the vocals. Different guest artists came into the studio and it was different each time. Which was really cool because I’ve seen sometimes records are done just one way, because nowadays everyone is so busy and having the guest artists I had, they’re busy on world tours and to have them come in and play on my record, was great. And I think it was cool that we were able to make it work a bunch of different ways to make this album a complete piece.”

BraveWords: Your singing is consistently great throughout the album. It shows that you’re very adept at many ranges and styles. How did you find your voice and at what age?

Madame Mayhem: “I’ve been singing my entire life. I’m classically trained and I went to school for it. It’s been my passion for my entire life. That’s who I am I love singing and performing. When i’s writing songs, I like to take my voice and take it to a depth to where I can keep it at the same consistency.”

BraveWords: The album is just fantastic, but you’re still relatively unknown in huge rock circles. What do you think you have to do to gain more notoriety and a bigger fan base?

Madame Mayhem: “I’m still trying to figure that out to be honest. I’ve been at it for a little bit now and I’m just trying to keep pushing through and trying to reach as many people as I can. My passion is performing live, so the sooner I get out on the road, I think it’ll help and I’ll be happy.”

BraveWords: Speaking of performing live, what’s a Madame Mayhem show like?

Madame Mayhem: “It’s definitely entertaining; we play hard so it’s a lot of fun. There’s a lot of cool things I would want to do production wise that we can’t do yet, but there’s definitely entertainment in the works. It’s not just us standing there singing, it’s definitely a show.”

BraveWords: What’s next for Madame Mayhem including gigs, and what do you hope to achieve or accomplish?

Madame Mayhem: “I hope that my fans and people who are first meeting me love the record that’s coming out October 16th. We’re having a signing in New Jersey at the gig final that night and we have a show the following night October 17th at Dingbatz in New Jersey as well. I think what I really want in the future is for people to be able to relate to this record and I hope that everyone likes it. I just really want to get out there and tour and meet everyone. Being able to make music is my life and dream, and if I can just keep doing that, I’ll be a happy girl.” - BRAVEWORDS