Blameshift is a four-piece rock band from Long Island, New York that started in 2005. The band consists of Jenny Mann, Tim Barbour, Mike Sarkissian and Dan Scofield. The band is recognized for their work ethic, extensive touring history and high energy live show. In 2006 they recorded a self-released album, “Drop Down”. The release was followed by over 150 tour dates including three dates on the Warped Tour. In 2007 Blameshift recorded their second album. “The Test” with Michael Birnbaum and Chris Bittner.
The album was nationally released through Smart Punk, F.Y.E, Hot Topic, and iTunes. Alternative Press named Blameshift as “Unsigned Band Of The Month” in August 2008. Blameshift won a contest through Taco Bell called “Feed The Beat” in 2008. Michael Birnbaum and Chris Bittner also produced the single, The Sirens Are Set in 2008. Blameshift toured through all of 2008 in the U.S. and Canada with And Then There Was You, and The Material on the Everlasting Sound Tour.
At the start of 2009 producer Mike Watts demoed the bands’ Self Titled EP. With touring in between with Sky Tells All and The Material, the release of the EP was put on hold until February 2010. In May 2010 the band raised $5500 through Kickstarter to record with producer / engineer Erik Ron in Hollywood, California. In June 2010 the band signed with Restless Management out of Venice Beach, California.
Their music has been licensed on MTV’s “The Real World”, E!’s “Keeping up with the Kardashians”, Delta Airlines in flight radio network and Oxygen’s Best Ink hosted by Pete Wentz.
While on the road the band started making jewelry out of the used guitar strings. This project became a full fledged business called “Get Strung” that is now in 160 stores around the country! They donate 5% of all the proceeds to music education causes which has attracted some famous musicians who donate their used guitar and bass strings to Get Strung. You have to respect their entrepreneurial spirit!
In addition, to share their touring and business experience Tim Barbour created his own music management company that helps up and coming bands learn how to navigate through the business of music. The Hit Music Collective endeavors to teach bands the skills they need to take their career to the next level.
It is refreshing to talk to a musician who understands the business of music and knows it takes hard work and lots of time on the road to have a successful career in music!
