The world waits. Within 20 - 25 minutes, the cat will be out of the bag. We will know whether Michael Jackson, a one-time icon who couldn't sell out an arena if his life depended on it stateside, will be found guilty on any or all of the counts relating to child molestation and conspiracy.
The world waits. Ever the jaded journalist, I can't help but think Destiny's Child selected the wrong day to announce their upcoming split following their fall tour.
Don't cry for me California...
Monday, June 13, 2005
Friday, June 03, 2005
News and notes for Friday
Some quick thoughts go into the first weekend of June.
Andrew McMahon, Lead Singer of Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin, Has Been Diagnosed With Acute Lymphatic Leukemia. I first met Andrew when he was in high school and Something Corporate was just getting started. I have talked with him several times and seen him perform and he is a winning personality and talented musician. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and I hope he is well soon!
I heard Pavarotti pulled out of a planned concert tomorrow. Why is that tenor still singing? He sounds terrible; his voice no longer soars and he hasn't been good in years!
Best not to get me started on the Michael Jackson trial. I would only be putting down here what so many of you are already thinking anyway. Hope to catch you all next week and thanks for reading!
Andrew McMahon, Lead Singer of Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin, Has Been Diagnosed With Acute Lymphatic Leukemia. I first met Andrew when he was in high school and Something Corporate was just getting started. I have talked with him several times and seen him perform and he is a winning personality and talented musician. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and I hope he is well soon!
I heard Pavarotti pulled out of a planned concert tomorrow. Why is that tenor still singing? He sounds terrible; his voice no longer soars and he hasn't been good in years!
Best not to get me started on the Michael Jackson trial. I would only be putting down here what so many of you are already thinking anyway. Hope to catch you all next week and thanks for reading!
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Steve Winwood
I was asked to cover Steve Winwood last night, Tuesday. It was a last minute thing and I was at the show until almost midnight and had to get the review in early today. I'm tired, so tired.
Best to read my review when it runs in the OC Register tomorrow, on June 2nd to get the full story. My first time seeing him and I enjoyed it, jams and all.
I'll write more later. I just want to keep this moving. I tend to have days where I am so submerged, I don't have the strength to write another word. It's all those deadlines, and even worse, the stacks of CDs I need to get to! Where does the time go? We've all asked that, right...
Best to read my review when it runs in the OC Register tomorrow, on June 2nd to get the full story. My first time seeing him and I enjoyed it, jams and all.
I'll write more later. I just want to keep this moving. I tend to have days where I am so submerged, I don't have the strength to write another word. It's all those deadlines, and even worse, the stacks of CDs I need to get to! Where does the time go? We've all asked that, right...
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Live 8
By now, everyone with any kind of passing interest in pop music has heard about the upcoming Live 8 series of shows being organized by Bob Geldof, with the poverty fight-minded shows coming to various sites in Europe and the U.S.
It sounds promising, especially with Coldplay, U2, Paul McCartney, the Cure and Keane among the artists set to perform.
But I do want to share my thoughts on Elton John. Yes, he is legendary and all that. But my feeling is he is really consumed with himself and doesn't much care about others. I attended a Disney party in connection with the DVD release of the Lion King in October 2003 and he performed at the theater, and then was at the party afterwards. Of all the notables there, including comedian George Lopez, CCR frontman John Fogerty (who couldn't have been cooler) and others, Elton John was the only one who would not talk to everyday "normal" (meaning non-celebrity) people.
Elton John is going to perform at Live 8 for the simple fact it keeps him in the public eye. There is not a warmth to him, like when you see Bono going out to greet fans before a show and such. I haven't met a bunch of rockers outside my role as a pop scribe, but of those who I have, I can tell you Mark McGrath, Danny Elfman, John Fogerty, the members of the Smithereens and the guys in Offspring were so much cooler than Elton John. Maybe he was having a bad day? Then why did he go to the party after, just to sit at a table in a roped off area and have celebrities come by to worship him? I wish the "in crowd" among rockers would disown him. After all, isn't that what Live 8 is about? Helping the helpless?
It sounds promising, especially with Coldplay, U2, Paul McCartney, the Cure and Keane among the artists set to perform.
But I do want to share my thoughts on Elton John. Yes, he is legendary and all that. But my feeling is he is really consumed with himself and doesn't much care about others. I attended a Disney party in connection with the DVD release of the Lion King in October 2003 and he performed at the theater, and then was at the party afterwards. Of all the notables there, including comedian George Lopez, CCR frontman John Fogerty (who couldn't have been cooler) and others, Elton John was the only one who would not talk to everyday "normal" (meaning non-celebrity) people.
Elton John is going to perform at Live 8 for the simple fact it keeps him in the public eye. There is not a warmth to him, like when you see Bono going out to greet fans before a show and such. I haven't met a bunch of rockers outside my role as a pop scribe, but of those who I have, I can tell you Mark McGrath, Danny Elfman, John Fogerty, the members of the Smithereens and the guys in Offspring were so much cooler than Elton John. Maybe he was having a bad day? Then why did he go to the party after, just to sit at a table in a roped off area and have celebrities come by to worship him? I wish the "in crowd" among rockers would disown him. After all, isn't that what Live 8 is about? Helping the helpless?
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Is Anyone Listening?
Can we be honest here?
I tuned into Yahoo’s online Adult Alternative radio station today. Things started out great; heck Coldplay’s “Speed of Sound” was the first cut that was played. But things went downhill from there (with the exception of U2’s “With or Without You” somewhere along the way). Both Rob Thomas and Matchbox Twenty, Jewel, Sheryl Crow – that is not exactly my idea of alternative. More of the same old’ same ‘ol.
And like throwing the poor penguin out in the sands of the Sahara, why play any cut from Kelly Clarkson. I guess it’s the theory about reaching down to the lowest common denominator. If you want to really offer up some great cuts from the so-called Adult Alternative genre, what about some of the latest work courtesy of Ocean Colour Scene, Glen Phillips, Aimee Mann or Bruce Cockburn? Or the Finn Brothers, Ron Sexsmith, Ryan Adams or Bright Eyes…I could be wrong. I wish I were wrong.
I tuned into Yahoo’s online Adult Alternative radio station today. Things started out great; heck Coldplay’s “Speed of Sound” was the first cut that was played. But things went downhill from there (with the exception of U2’s “With or Without You” somewhere along the way). Both Rob Thomas and Matchbox Twenty, Jewel, Sheryl Crow – that is not exactly my idea of alternative. More of the same old’ same ‘ol.
And like throwing the poor penguin out in the sands of the Sahara, why play any cut from Kelly Clarkson. I guess it’s the theory about reaching down to the lowest common denominator. If you want to really offer up some great cuts from the so-called Adult Alternative genre, what about some of the latest work courtesy of Ocean Colour Scene, Glen Phillips, Aimee Mann or Bruce Cockburn? Or the Finn Brothers, Ron Sexsmith, Ryan Adams or Bright Eyes…I could be wrong. I wish I were wrong.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
All Music, all the time
Well, I not only survived, I thrived at the 8th annual Doheny Blues Festival in Dana Point over the weekend (May 21-22, 2005). I saw many great artists, including a number where it was my first in-person look and listen. And, overall, my impressions were this was almost Coachella on the Coast. And, thankfully, not a Gram Rabbit in the bunch!
The winners came from across the country, and represented young guns and the old guard. If you haven't seen the Blind Boys of Alabama, you should. They are entertaining and deliver gospel-blues with an energy that defies age. I have seen them several other times, and they never disappoint.
About the acts I had not caught before. Roomful of Blues fuse neo-swing, blues and R&B with musical craft; the horn section is rivaled only by the strengths of the lead singer and guitarist.
And there is something wonderful about standing in the shadow of the mighty Pacific and listening to a talented guitarist tear it up on his Fender (or Gibson) in an outdoor setting fitting the power of his delivery. Guitarists Walter Trout, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Mato Nanji (Indigenous) and Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars) did exactly that over the weekend. And acoustic performances by Roy Rogers & Norton Buffalo, as well as David Lindley were equally impressive especially given the cozy presentation afforded by the Backporch Stage.
Make sure you hit it in May 2006 if you are into the blues!
The winners came from across the country, and represented young guns and the old guard. If you haven't seen the Blind Boys of Alabama, you should. They are entertaining and deliver gospel-blues with an energy that defies age. I have seen them several other times, and they never disappoint.
About the acts I had not caught before. Roomful of Blues fuse neo-swing, blues and R&B with musical craft; the horn section is rivaled only by the strengths of the lead singer and guitarist.
And there is something wonderful about standing in the shadow of the mighty Pacific and listening to a talented guitarist tear it up on his Fender (or Gibson) in an outdoor setting fitting the power of his delivery. Guitarists Walter Trout, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Mato Nanji (Indigenous) and Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars) did exactly that over the weekend. And acoustic performances by Roy Rogers & Norton Buffalo, as well as David Lindley were equally impressive especially given the cozy presentation afforded by the Backporch Stage.
Make sure you hit it in May 2006 if you are into the blues!
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
A Week's Worth awaits
Hello all,
I have not blogged this week. But that doesn't mean I've been quiet. Make sure to get the Orange County Register on Wednesday, May 18th (or visit the paper at www.ocregister.com) to read my in-depth feature on Kenny Wayne Shepherd and the Doheny Blues Festival. I interviewed the virtuoso guitar player last week and the story runs tomorrow. He is a champion of the blues and couldn't have been cooler when we talked over the phone on May 12.
Also, make sure to attend the Doheny Blues Fest this week. Not only is the event thankfully back in the hands of Omega Events, but the lineup on Saturday and Sunday, May 21-22, is great. Several of my favorite artists are back too! Steve Copeland & Raging Sun and the Blind Boys of Alabama perform on Saturday, while the amazing Roy Rogers (no, not the cowboy! the slide guitar master), Walter Trout and Shepherd all will be tearing up frets on Sunday. Not to be missed. Check out www.omegaevents.com for more details...
I have not blogged this week. But that doesn't mean I've been quiet. Make sure to get the Orange County Register on Wednesday, May 18th (or visit the paper at www.ocregister.com) to read my in-depth feature on Kenny Wayne Shepherd and the Doheny Blues Festival. I interviewed the virtuoso guitar player last week and the story runs tomorrow. He is a champion of the blues and couldn't have been cooler when we talked over the phone on May 12.
Also, make sure to attend the Doheny Blues Fest this week. Not only is the event thankfully back in the hands of Omega Events, but the lineup on Saturday and Sunday, May 21-22, is great. Several of my favorite artists are back too! Steve Copeland & Raging Sun and the Blind Boys of Alabama perform on Saturday, while the amazing Roy Rogers (no, not the cowboy! the slide guitar master), Walter Trout and Shepherd all will be tearing up frets on Sunday. Not to be missed. Check out www.omegaevents.com for more details...
Thursday, May 12, 2005
iPod, Cellphones; what about the music?
All over the internet news sites today, much is being made of Microsoft chairman Bill Gates talking about Apple's iPod maybe not having a bright future despite its current popularity. He says cellphones may replace iPods as the gadget of choice to serve as a portable music player.
Again, I ask, what about the music? I'd say I was sounding like a broken record. But then, does anybody remember records (albums, vinyl, you know!) anymore!
I encourage everyone, no matter how you get your tunes, to seek out good ones. Ignore the hype from Billboard, MTV, VH1 and Spin and even yours truly. Don't forget the classics and the music that moved you back in the day, but forge ahead.
Again, I ask, what about the music? I'd say I was sounding like a broken record. But then, does anybody remember records (albums, vinyl, you know!) anymore!
I encourage everyone, no matter how you get your tunes, to seek out good ones. Ignore the hype from Billboard, MTV, VH1 and Spin and even yours truly. Don't forget the classics and the music that moved you back in the day, but forge ahead.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Doheny Blues Fest; it's coming
Although the 8th Annual Doheny Blues Festival doesn't arrive until May 21 and 22, I am already swamped writing a trio of preview stories on the blues event that arrives on the shores of Dana Point every May.
Make sure to check out my story on Steve Copeland & Raging Sun when it runs in the Show section on Friday, May 13. Steve had a stroke and was in the hospital in critical condition last December, yet has made an amazing recovery and will be bringing his amazing blues outfit to the festival on Saturday, May 21. If you plan on going to the festival, arrive by noon so you can catch his set.
I'm also writing a story on headliner Kenny Wayne Shepherd and that will run sometime in the middle of next week. I haven't talked to him yet, so I don't know the shape of the story. But with his most recent album a good, wide-ranging affair, I'm looking forward to our phone chat and catching him at the fest too....
For more information about this always-fun fest, visit www.omegaevents.com
That's it for now...
Make sure to check out my story on Steve Copeland & Raging Sun when it runs in the Show section on Friday, May 13. Steve had a stroke and was in the hospital in critical condition last December, yet has made an amazing recovery and will be bringing his amazing blues outfit to the festival on Saturday, May 21. If you plan on going to the festival, arrive by noon so you can catch his set.
I'm also writing a story on headliner Kenny Wayne Shepherd and that will run sometime in the middle of next week. I haven't talked to him yet, so I don't know the shape of the story. But with his most recent album a good, wide-ranging affair, I'm looking forward to our phone chat and catching him at the fest too....
For more information about this always-fun fest, visit www.omegaevents.com
That's it for now...
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Another magical night
On Friday, May 6th, I had the thrill of seeing headliner Aimee Mann and opener Glen Phillips (of Toad the Wet Sprocket fame) at the Hollywood House of Blues. Performing songs off her newly-released concept album, "The Forgotten Arm," as well as the wonderful "Lost in Space" and "Bachelor No. 2" solo releases and the acclaimed "Magnolia" soundtrack, it was a set that never faltered. How many artists kick off their night with a song that they halt because it doesn't sound right and then immediately hit it out of the park to the obvious delight of a crowd.
And while her best-known songs ("Red Vines," "Save Me" and "Wise Up") received the biggest cheers, the attentive and devout capacity crowd connected with the new material off her fifth solo effort, the aptyly-titled "The Forgotten Arm," a concept album that tells the story about a Vietnam War vet/drug-addicted boxer and a girl who fall in love in 1972. While she didn't perform the entire album, she and her wonderful 4-man band played a number of the album's gems, including "Goodbye Caroline," "Going Through the Motions" and the emotive "I Can't Help You Anymore."
I have seen Mann a number of times since the 1990s and her skills as a musician and live performer continue to grow. On Friday, she was more relaxed and confident than any time I've seen her. Mann and company's night-ending "Deathly" boasted the kind of power and boldness that is rare among folk-rockers. Clearly Mann has grown beyond the singer-songwriter and folk rock genre where her solo career began and she has joined that rare field of artists who defy easy categorization.
Maybe Mann's magic is rubbing off on Phillips. Always a wonderful singer and songwriter, his solo career has admittedly always been overshadowed by his role as lead singer and frontman of Toad the Wet Sprocket. But on the heels of his wonderful third solo disc, "Winter Pays for Summer," Phillips delivered a strong 50-minute set of material on Friday. Although he received cheers when offering up acoustic takes on Toad tunes (notably an incredible version of "Something's Always Wrong"), his new solo stuff is equally powerful. "Duck and Cover," "Thankful" and "True" were among the highlights of his 14-song set.
And while her best-known songs ("Red Vines," "Save Me" and "Wise Up") received the biggest cheers, the attentive and devout capacity crowd connected with the new material off her fifth solo effort, the aptyly-titled "The Forgotten Arm," a concept album that tells the story about a Vietnam War vet/drug-addicted boxer and a girl who fall in love in 1972. While she didn't perform the entire album, she and her wonderful 4-man band played a number of the album's gems, including "Goodbye Caroline," "Going Through the Motions" and the emotive "I Can't Help You Anymore."
I have seen Mann a number of times since the 1990s and her skills as a musician and live performer continue to grow. On Friday, she was more relaxed and confident than any time I've seen her. Mann and company's night-ending "Deathly" boasted the kind of power and boldness that is rare among folk-rockers. Clearly Mann has grown beyond the singer-songwriter and folk rock genre where her solo career began and she has joined that rare field of artists who defy easy categorization.
Maybe Mann's magic is rubbing off on Phillips. Always a wonderful singer and songwriter, his solo career has admittedly always been overshadowed by his role as lead singer and frontman of Toad the Wet Sprocket. But on the heels of his wonderful third solo disc, "Winter Pays for Summer," Phillips delivered a strong 50-minute set of material on Friday. Although he received cheers when offering up acoustic takes on Toad tunes (notably an incredible version of "Something's Always Wrong"), his new solo stuff is equally powerful. "Duck and Cover," "Thankful" and "True" were among the highlights of his 14-song set.
Friday, May 06, 2005
Recovery almost complete
Believe it or not, I am catching up on my sleep post Coachella. Last night (as in Cinco de Mayo), I went to Martini Blues to catch a fine night of music. In addition to strong sets by Corday and Vesper, I was utterly blown away by Bayadera. I had seen the wonderful quintet at the Orange County Music Awards last month, but that was only for a song. A complete set gave them time to build momentum, explore the various reaches of their territory and take the crowd to a make believe world somewhere between Latin America, the Middle East and a Grateful Dead concert.
Magical stuff.
All night long at Martini Blues, friends and musicians would come up and chat. Many asked me for details about Coachella. The myth is more than that. It is real. A place where - mostly - the music comes first. And people - young and old - go to listen to music. To be challenged by music.
When I told people that I enjoyed a wide-ranging field including the likes of New Order, Nine Inch Nails and Jem, as well as Bright Eyes, Snow Patrol and Keane, they seemed in disbelief that someone can like so many different kinds of music with a passion. I do. Don't ask why. I think I got it from my parents. A little kid, I was raised listening to the Beatles, Bob Dylan, the 5th Dimension (hey, I was a toddler!) and Grofe's "Grand Canyon Suite" and even Nat King Cole and Johnny Mathis. You get the idea, my parents had a wide range of tastes too.
At Coachella, you are immersed in great music. Imagine being lost in the woods on the most beautiful day, with a gentle wind, the sound of birds and filtered sunlight raining down. But here, it was music and loads of it...
Ignore the Billboard charts, and the mindless entertainment shows that tell you how important the trillionth reunion from Cher or Aerosmith or whoever. Go to Coachella next year. Fall in love with music again. And again.
Magical stuff.
All night long at Martini Blues, friends and musicians would come up and chat. Many asked me for details about Coachella. The myth is more than that. It is real. A place where - mostly - the music comes first. And people - young and old - go to listen to music. To be challenged by music.
When I told people that I enjoyed a wide-ranging field including the likes of New Order, Nine Inch Nails and Jem, as well as Bright Eyes, Snow Patrol and Keane, they seemed in disbelief that someone can like so many different kinds of music with a passion. I do. Don't ask why. I think I got it from my parents. A little kid, I was raised listening to the Beatles, Bob Dylan, the 5th Dimension (hey, I was a toddler!) and Grofe's "Grand Canyon Suite" and even Nat King Cole and Johnny Mathis. You get the idea, my parents had a wide range of tastes too.
At Coachella, you are immersed in great music. Imagine being lost in the woods on the most beautiful day, with a gentle wind, the sound of birds and filtered sunlight raining down. But here, it was music and loads of it...
Ignore the Billboard charts, and the mindless entertainment shows that tell you how important the trillionth reunion from Cher or Aerosmith or whoever. Go to Coachella next year. Fall in love with music again. And again.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
2005 Coachella - If only Time Travel was possible!
Wondering where I've been?
I'm still dizzy and wiped out from a wonderful, inspiring and fun-filled weekend in Indio. You know, that non-descript desert city somewhere east of Palm Springs. I survived the two-day fest, but could hardly get off my chair on Monday. But I'd do it all again. How is that Time Machine coming; forget the damn cell phones...
It was hot, but worth it as I pushed my sonic-feeding tubes (ears) to their limits with a full day on Saturday and Sunday. Best just to free flow some thoughts and impressions. I simply didn't see a single bad performance on day one. How many bands did I see? I caught all of Coldplay, Bauhaus, Weezer, Keane, Snow Patrol, and most (if not all) of sets from the Raveonettes, Jamie Cullum, Katie Melua and Gratitude. All week I've been asking myself who stood out on Saturday. Bauhaus might have delivered the single greatest set, but any one of the performances could well have been a stand-out set somewhere else. I had worried Snow Patrol might not be as strong as they were last year because they fired their original bass player, but have no fear. The Irishmen still rock. And Keane? They replicate all the magic of their wonderful debut live in spades.
What about day two? Before we get to the good stuff, let me be direct. Gram Rabbit is terrible. If you think the moniker begs comparisons with Gram Parsons, run!!! And Orange County's Thrice; a word of advice. Stop your screaming. It is supposed to be music.
But most of the day swept over me like the burning rays of the sun. Headliners Nine Inch Nails. Believe the hype. I've never been a big fan of Trent Reznor's heavy metal-goth mix. But live, he and his hard-rocking outfit slew the capacity crowd in ruins. Songs such as "With Teeth" never failed to convey emotional turmoil. And while NIN's sound might seem at odds with the dance-minded vibe of New Order, that band also turned in a commanding showcase immediately before highlighted by a number of great songs from the newly-released "Waiting for the Sirens' Call." The title track of that album, as well as a rocking "Bizarre Love Triangle" were epic.
Other highlights? A reignited and reunited Gang of Four. And sure-fire turns from the Futureheads and Sweden's Shout Out Louds. Kasabian also rocked and lived up to the buzz.
I'm still dizzy and wiped out from a wonderful, inspiring and fun-filled weekend in Indio. You know, that non-descript desert city somewhere east of Palm Springs. I survived the two-day fest, but could hardly get off my chair on Monday. But I'd do it all again. How is that Time Machine coming; forget the damn cell phones...
It was hot, but worth it as I pushed my sonic-feeding tubes (ears) to their limits with a full day on Saturday and Sunday. Best just to free flow some thoughts and impressions. I simply didn't see a single bad performance on day one. How many bands did I see? I caught all of Coldplay, Bauhaus, Weezer, Keane, Snow Patrol, and most (if not all) of sets from the Raveonettes, Jamie Cullum, Katie Melua and Gratitude. All week I've been asking myself who stood out on Saturday. Bauhaus might have delivered the single greatest set, but any one of the performances could well have been a stand-out set somewhere else. I had worried Snow Patrol might not be as strong as they were last year because they fired their original bass player, but have no fear. The Irishmen still rock. And Keane? They replicate all the magic of their wonderful debut live in spades.
What about day two? Before we get to the good stuff, let me be direct. Gram Rabbit is terrible. If you think the moniker begs comparisons with Gram Parsons, run!!! And Orange County's Thrice; a word of advice. Stop your screaming. It is supposed to be music.
But most of the day swept over me like the burning rays of the sun. Headliners Nine Inch Nails. Believe the hype. I've never been a big fan of Trent Reznor's heavy metal-goth mix. But live, he and his hard-rocking outfit slew the capacity crowd in ruins. Songs such as "With Teeth" never failed to convey emotional turmoil. And while NIN's sound might seem at odds with the dance-minded vibe of New Order, that band also turned in a commanding showcase immediately before highlighted by a number of great songs from the newly-released "Waiting for the Sirens' Call." The title track of that album, as well as a rocking "Bizarre Love Triangle" were epic.
Other highlights? A reignited and reunited Gang of Four. And sure-fire turns from the Futureheads and Sweden's Shout Out Louds. Kasabian also rocked and lived up to the buzz.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Oops! Now that is a mistake!
This blog thing! I admit it, I screwed up. In my post I talked about a talented singer that joined Greg Markel & company on stage last Friday. It should have been Cindy Alexander.
For more information about Cindy, visit www.cindyalexander.com.
'enuff said...
For more information about Cindy, visit www.cindyalexander.com.
'enuff said...
Monday, April 25, 2005
An unlikely reunion
For those of us old enough to have caught shows here in Orange County, CA both the 1980s and 1990s, there are two bands that put on shows as unforgettable as they were artistic. In the 1980s, the Living Daylights were simply the best band in town. And in the early 1990s, Altered State (which released two amazing albums on Warner Brothers) likely picked up the torch thanks to singer Gregory Markel leading both those outfits.
On Friday, April 22, 2005, it was an eerie and powerful show that featured singer-songwriter Greg Markel backed by members of both those bands, including virtuoso guitarist Rusty Anderson (Paul McCartney's guitarist for the past four years or so) from Living Daylights, and Chip Moreland of Altered State and Dread Zeppelin fame. Performing at the Knitting Factory in Los Angeles, it was amazing how incredible this collection of players is. In an event not to be repeated, Markel led the band through a brief 30-minute set highlighted by a mind-bending "Into the Strange." The crowd was thrilled, especially when the night's headliner Cindy Russell joined the ensemble.
It was a thrilling night.
On Friday, April 22, 2005, it was an eerie and powerful show that featured singer-songwriter Greg Markel backed by members of both those bands, including virtuoso guitarist Rusty Anderson (Paul McCartney's guitarist for the past four years or so) from Living Daylights, and Chip Moreland of Altered State and Dread Zeppelin fame. Performing at the Knitting Factory in Los Angeles, it was amazing how incredible this collection of players is. In an event not to be repeated, Markel led the band through a brief 30-minute set highlighted by a mind-bending "Into the Strange." The crowd was thrilled, especially when the night's headliner Cindy Russell joined the ensemble.
It was a thrilling night.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
That ain't news!
I used to have a great editor at the Orange County News that was brutally honest. If you pitched a story and he saw it as mere "P.R." or a so-called "puff piece," he would growl and exclaim, "That ain't news."
I often think that when I receive updates on the latest goings-on from pop stars. Take the announcement that Alanis Morissette will embark on her first ever acoustic tour and will be releasing an acoustic version of her album "Jagged Little Pill" revamped. Why? I mean, does anyone really care? I guess it will sell loads when Starbucks sells it exclusively for six weeks. I guess it takes a savvy marketing push to sell her music now...
But tour news that truly is news; the Orange County Fair has announced a bunch of concerts and the schedule includes an appearance by the legendary Plimsouls (on a bill with X) on Friday, July 15th. Now that's worth waiting for, to see Peter Case back in action with one of the best bands to ever call L.A. home.
I often think that when I receive updates on the latest goings-on from pop stars. Take the announcement that Alanis Morissette will embark on her first ever acoustic tour and will be releasing an acoustic version of her album "Jagged Little Pill" revamped. Why? I mean, does anyone really care? I guess it will sell loads when Starbucks sells it exclusively for six weeks. I guess it takes a savvy marketing push to sell her music now...
But tour news that truly is news; the Orange County Fair has announced a bunch of concerts and the schedule includes an appearance by the legendary Plimsouls (on a bill with X) on Friday, July 15th. Now that's worth waiting for, to see Peter Case back in action with one of the best bands to ever call L.A. home.
That ain't news
I used to have a great editor at the Orange County News that was brutally honest. If you pitched a story and he saw it as mere "P.R." or a so-called "puff piece," he would growl and exclaim, "That ain't news."
I often think that when I receive updates on the latest goings-on from pop stars. Take the announcement that Alanis Morissette will embark on her first ever acoustic tour and will be releasing an acoustic version of her album "Jagged Little Pill" revamped. Why? I mean, does anyone really care? I guess it will sell loads when Starbucks sells it exclusively for six weeks. I guess it takes a savvy marketing push to sell her music now...
But tour news that truly is news; the Orange County Fair has announced a bunch of concerts and the schedule includes an appearance by the legendary Plimsouls (on a bill with X) on Friday, July 15th. Now that's worth waiting for, to see Peter Case back in action with one of the best bands to ever call L.A. home.
I often think that when I receive updates on the latest goings-on from pop stars. Take the announcement that Alanis Morissette will embark on her first ever acoustic tour and will be releasing an acoustic version of her album "Jagged Little Pill" revamped. Why? I mean, does anyone really care? I guess it will sell loads when Starbucks sells it exclusively for six weeks. I guess it takes a savvy marketing push to sell her music now...
But tour news that truly is news; the Orange County Fair has announced a bunch of concerts and the schedule includes an appearance by the legendary Plimsouls (on a bill with X) on Friday, July 15th. Now that's worth waiting for, to see Peter Case back in action with one of the best bands to ever call L.A. home.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Sorry about the delay
Hi Friends,
Sorry about the delay since my last posting. I actually have been listening to loads of new music - and surprisingly - much of it has been great. I'm not telling many of you anything you don't know when I celebrate Moby's "Hotel." A great double-disc set, with the first one full of strong songs ("Raining Again" and "Slipping Away" are my favorites today), while the second disc is filled with trance-minded instrumental gems that are perfect for those lazy, late afternoons.
Also, Aimee Mann has kindly posted her forthcoming "The Forgotten Arm" on her Web site, although the album doesn't come out until May 3. It's a fantastic album and go to her official site (www.aimeemann.com) to check it out. According to notes on her site, it's a concept album whose story involves a couple and their journey (physical and emotional) across America in the 1970s. She is that rare singer-songwriter who crafts music that is as accessible as it is intelligent.
Also, any of you who can pick up the latest copy of LIVE magazine (available throughout Orange County and parts of L.A.) can read my monthly Kinslerscope music DVD column; I review Aimee's "Live at St. Ann's Warehouse" DVD that was released in November, as well as the latest DVDs featuring Johnny Cash, Snow Patrol and Steppenwolf.
I'm always behind in my listening because I get so much stuff and there are not enough hours in the day. But all of you know that too...
Sorry about the delay since my last posting. I actually have been listening to loads of new music - and surprisingly - much of it has been great. I'm not telling many of you anything you don't know when I celebrate Moby's "Hotel." A great double-disc set, with the first one full of strong songs ("Raining Again" and "Slipping Away" are my favorites today), while the second disc is filled with trance-minded instrumental gems that are perfect for those lazy, late afternoons.
Also, Aimee Mann has kindly posted her forthcoming "The Forgotten Arm" on her Web site, although the album doesn't come out until May 3. It's a fantastic album and go to her official site (www.aimeemann.com) to check it out. According to notes on her site, it's a concept album whose story involves a couple and their journey (physical and emotional) across America in the 1970s. She is that rare singer-songwriter who crafts music that is as accessible as it is intelligent.
Also, any of you who can pick up the latest copy of LIVE magazine (available throughout Orange County and parts of L.A.) can read my monthly Kinslerscope music DVD column; I review Aimee's "Live at St. Ann's Warehouse" DVD that was released in November, as well as the latest DVDs featuring Johnny Cash, Snow Patrol and Steppenwolf.
I'm always behind in my listening because I get so much stuff and there are not enough hours in the day. But all of you know that too...
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Rock's sad path
Is it me or do too many of rock's finest die long before their time?
I'm sure many of you noted the passing of Split Enz/Crowded House drummer Paul Hester when it was reported on March 27th. While be beat away in the shadow of Neil Finn, listening to some of those bands great recordings again it's very obvious how his skills lent themselves so much to the music. And how glorious the music of those bands continues to be!
Crowded House is one of the best and most underrated bands of all time, and it was sad I didn't hear a single CH or SE track played on the radio in the wake of Hester's apparent suicide in a park somewhere in the south of Australia.
Get out those iPods and make sure you take a listen. "Distant Sun," "Don't Dream It's Over" and "Weather With You" sound as great today as when they were actually played over the airwaves...
I'm sure many of you noted the passing of Split Enz/Crowded House drummer Paul Hester when it was reported on March 27th. While be beat away in the shadow of Neil Finn, listening to some of those bands great recordings again it's very obvious how his skills lent themselves so much to the music. And how glorious the music of those bands continues to be!
Crowded House is one of the best and most underrated bands of all time, and it was sad I didn't hear a single CH or SE track played on the radio in the wake of Hester's apparent suicide in a park somewhere in the south of Australia.
Get out those iPods and make sure you take a listen. "Distant Sun," "Don't Dream It's Over" and "Weather With You" sound as great today as when they were actually played over the airwaves...
Monday, March 21, 2005
Hall of Fame: U2 still rules
As time goes on, it will likely be increasingly rare to get excited about the annual induction concert/party/ceremony that is held in connection with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Although I didn't get to go to the real ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York earlier this month (only celebrities such as Richard Gere, Cameron Diaz and Catherine Zeta-Jones seem to get a seat at the table), I did catch the broadcast over VH1 on Saturday night, March 19.
A few points to ponder:
I knew they would save U2 for last. Why else would anyone stay tuned in? They performed an energetic and strong set of four originals, with Bruce Springsteen joining them on stage.
The Pretenders are not in the same league as U2, but I would have likely cast a vote for them; especially in the wake of undeserving artists such as Billy Joel, Aerosmith and ZZ Top gaining entry in years past. There are a zillion Major League ball players who have hit home runs or thrown a shut out; do they all get in the Baseball Hall of Fame? Of course not.
Buddy Guy is a great guitarist, although I think of him more in the blues camp than rock. But it was great to see him square up and play with Eric Clapton and B.B. King on stage at the event.
Isn't it the "rock 'n' roll" hall of fame. I think Percy Sledge had a great song with "When a Man Loves a Woman," but that isn't rock 'n' roll, and does one song alone get you into the hall? The same goes for fellow inductees, the O'Jays. "Love Train" is a cool, but shouldn't these guys be in the Soul music hall or something? If those artists are welcomed, why leave out Hall & Oates? They have had more influence than Sledge, and fused soul with rock and are undoubtedly more influential?
And why isn't Gram Parsons in the hall; I can't tell you how many up-and-coming alt country-roots rockers are influenced by him today. I think the hall will loose credibility as the years go by and they continue to let in artists who don't rank up there with the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry and U2.
Although I didn't get to go to the real ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York earlier this month (only celebrities such as Richard Gere, Cameron Diaz and Catherine Zeta-Jones seem to get a seat at the table), I did catch the broadcast over VH1 on Saturday night, March 19.
A few points to ponder:
I knew they would save U2 for last. Why else would anyone stay tuned in? They performed an energetic and strong set of four originals, with Bruce Springsteen joining them on stage.
The Pretenders are not in the same league as U2, but I would have likely cast a vote for them; especially in the wake of undeserving artists such as Billy Joel, Aerosmith and ZZ Top gaining entry in years past. There are a zillion Major League ball players who have hit home runs or thrown a shut out; do they all get in the Baseball Hall of Fame? Of course not.
Buddy Guy is a great guitarist, although I think of him more in the blues camp than rock. But it was great to see him square up and play with Eric Clapton and B.B. King on stage at the event.
Isn't it the "rock 'n' roll" hall of fame. I think Percy Sledge had a great song with "When a Man Loves a Woman," but that isn't rock 'n' roll, and does one song alone get you into the hall? The same goes for fellow inductees, the O'Jays. "Love Train" is a cool, but shouldn't these guys be in the Soul music hall or something? If those artists are welcomed, why leave out Hall & Oates? They have had more influence than Sledge, and fused soul with rock and are undoubtedly more influential?
And why isn't Gram Parsons in the hall; I can't tell you how many up-and-coming alt country-roots rockers are influenced by him today. I think the hall will loose credibility as the years go by and they continue to let in artists who don't rank up there with the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry and U2.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Adore; the real deal
I somehow got out last night (I'm in the middle of a major move - sorry about posting so seldom lately), and made it to the Anaheim House of Blues on a Monday night. I got to check out two bands, with Adore really hitting a sonic fastball out of the yard. The quartet can rock hard, but songwriting, hooks and focus were never far away during the band's energetic 30-minute set.
The songs off their new CD, "Children At Play," were great, especially "Weight of the Dead" and the closing tune, "Bedridden." Guitarist Jimmy "Vayps" Galinato really delivered some excellent harmonic touches during a solo displayed early in their set, while singer Grant "Sizzo" Vanderboom involved the crowd from start to finish. And the rhythm section has a solid one-two punch with drummer Shawn Yeager and bassist Russ Fyne.
This is a band that rocks without cliche, and with a conviction that is refreshing.
For more information on the band, please visit www.adoremusic.net.
The songs off their new CD, "Children At Play," were great, especially "Weight of the Dead" and the closing tune, "Bedridden." Guitarist Jimmy "Vayps" Galinato really delivered some excellent harmonic touches during a solo displayed early in their set, while singer Grant "Sizzo" Vanderboom involved the crowd from start to finish. And the rhythm section has a solid one-two punch with drummer Shawn Yeager and bassist Russ Fyne.
This is a band that rocks without cliche, and with a conviction that is refreshing.
For more information on the band, please visit www.adoremusic.net.
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