Slaughterhouse-Five

To be honest, I haven't read too much of this book. So far I have only gotten about a chapter in but it is intriguing. The book is by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. and he writes about his experiences in WWII. He also talks about his unsuccessful attempts to write the book. I found this to be a little odd. I've never read a book where the author talks about all the times they screwed up before they were actually able to do it in the book itself. He also talks about how he outlined the story on wallpaper in crayon.

I haven't read much but it seems to be different from any other book I've read so I think I'll keep reading and find out.

:)'s first performance!

Yes, that title is correct. Sideways Smiley made their debut performance at the Van Meter homecoming dance. They played two songs and rocked both.

First they played Journey's Don't Stop Believing. Alex Gilmore was the frontman and nailed the vocals, Zach Prouty was shredding it on the guitar, Marcus Benton, the newest member of the band, kept a steady yet studly beat on the drums, and Joe Trent played a little piano.

Next, they did a little more of a vocal number with Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody, it was a great way to end a great night. Everyone was involved in singing with Zach laying down the piano. When things started to get rockin' Zach switched to guitar, Alex and Marcus kept on singing, and Joe kept time on the drums.

From who I've talked to, the performance was a great success. "They were entertaining and frankly my mind is blown right now." said a concert goer.

Now that the band has gotten the first gig jitters out they are planning on setting up another show. Possibly a Halloween monster mash? It is still in the brainstorming stage but more details are sure to come!

More :)

The rumors are true! Marcus Benton is the new member of :).
After his impressive audition the original members debating for quite some time. Not just anyone can be let into this selective, wonderful brotherhood. After considering everything that there was to consider, Marcus was accepted. I talked to Marcus during the deliberations and he said he was very anxious to hear whether he was accepted or not. Once Marcus heard the news he seemed quite thrilled.
I think he will help the band immensely, especially since he comes from a drumming background. I think that will add a new element to the band and I hear he's not too shabby on the rhythm guitar either.

Whats new with :)

I have some more news on Sideways Smiley! They have come up with a design for a t shirt, possibly added another member, might have gotten another gig, and are still amazing.

This is the shirt design. It was designed by Alex. Its navy blue and a V neck because that is the style of bands these days.

The possible new member is Marcus Benton. He tried out this past Tuesday. He tried out on bass guitar to the song "Born to Be Wild" by Steppenwolf. From what I've heard he did quite well. I think he would be a good addition to :). They could use a rhythm guitarist or drummer to fill out the band.

Good news for anyone who goes to Van Meter! Sideways Smiley might be playing on coronation night! It just depends on if the seniors come up with a skit or not. If they don't then that would be two shows in one week. Lucky Van Meter!

Thats all I have as of now on :) but I'll be sure to let you know if I get any new info!

Sideways Smiley

One day in a weight room in Van Meter, Iowa something special happened. Three young men from a small town created an air band. They had just finished a workout and were relaxing.

Some hard rock music was blaring and thats when a new genre was born. Zach Prouty began to sing and play air guitar. Alex Gilmore started laying down some sick beats on the drums and Joe Trent initiated some slap bass. This is Sideways Smiley.

Sideways Smiley is a up and coming air band from Van Meter, Iowa. They bring a lot of stage presence and perform many types of music. There specialty is covering already famous music and also making it there own by remixing many songs.

They practice regularly in the weight room. They are working on clothing designs and a record deal. If you would like to get into contact with them there email is sidewaysmiley@gmail.com or follow them on twitter at Sidewaysmiley1.