ION INDIE MAGAZINE September 2017, Volume 40 | Page 4

Music by Silversel “All Outta Rocks” This September 2017 edition of ION Indie Magazine is a bittersweet one, as it heralds new beginnings and farewell to the familiar. Although we are significantly stoked to be featuring the exceptional Latin-infused El Paso, Texas-based ska band Fixed Idea (who are celebrating 25 years as a group), we also know that we will be taking a brief hiatus after this issue as we prepare for the relaunch of the new bi-monthly version of this publication. ION will re-emerge this fall under our new partnership with the Neue Regel Radio Network and Total Order Magazine, whose platform is overseen by friend and esteemed colleague, Michael Presti. Through the leadership and wise counsel of Michael, I anticipate great strides for this “little engine that could” that now has morphed into a hulking locomotive…and everyone knows that it’s hard to stop a train! I will remain on as Editor-in-Chief of ION, so some things will remain the same. We are looking to the future with great excitement -- and with the same resolve to get independent music read about, seen, and HEARD! This issue of ION is bittersweet on another count, as we say a fond farewell to two family members whose horizons are also expanding. I’ve always considered this publication to be as much about the team that contributes to its creation, as it is about the talented musicians that appear in our pages. Thus, many have passed through our doors and have left to pursue other opportunities for their personal and professional betterment. Our Art Director Jay Petsko is departing our midst, as the demands of his many professional responsibilities are requiring more intensive attention. Jay has been with us since almost the inception of ION Indie Magazine and has served us in exemplary fashion. Jay will be missed, but remain a friend and advisor. Also, journalist Tim Campbell has made the decision to pursue higher education and thus, will be taking leave of this staff. We will miss his writing acumen and the genuine passion that shines through in his articles and reviews. However, we are welcoming Journalist Jeff Popka to the ION family. Jeff is making his debut in this issue as our new “ReverbNation Artist of the Month” reporter. Delighted to have you aboard, Jeff! Here’s to both new horizons and new beginnings! “Music isn’t what I do, it’s who I am. Music is a life force that beats within. It permeates the senses and encompasses the spirit. Music transcends. It heals the heart, purges the soul and provides refuge from pain. Music is immortal.” ~The Fairy Rock Mother