Wow! A first in quite some time, (about 6 months I think), the 2nd blog entry to hit cyberspace in less than a week! Also, we seem to be doing an about face here from a few days ago. Things seem to be picking up in the rock & alternative music world. Maybe it was the full moon... maybe it was the weather. Don't know, but hey... don't care!
First off, lots of new stuff seems to either be on the horizon or bursting at the seems. The first tidbit that seems to be a substantial buzz on the airwaves as well as on-line, is the wedding of Eddie Vedder. Now, here's the fun part... ask a bunch of people who are really into alternative music or even just Pearl Jam, and ask them, "Who did he marry?" About half the people don't know! By the way, her name is Jill McCormick.
More new stuff - Soundgarden is back! Their new release (oops, almost said album... soo 80's of me) is called "Telephantasm". Five (5) tracks have already been released on iTunes. We will be adding some of the new stuff to the station this weekend.
Is it me or are we sorta in a "retro" gear, here? All these big time artists and people from the 90's making a big splash again? Don't get me wrong... I'm not complaining. But along with the Soundgarden release, Alice in Chains had a big night with opening act The Deftones at NYC's Madison Square Garden. One question loomed large before Friday’s concert:
- How would new singer William Duvall measure up to Layne Staley, the band’s original front man, who died in 2002?
On Black Gives Way to Blue, the album Alice in Chains released last year with Duvall (ending a fourteen-year hiatus for the group), the new guy sounds remarkably like Staley. In concert, the similarity became almost eerie: The band kicked off its set by nailing the first three tracks from 1992’s Dirt (“Them Bones,” “Dam That River” and “Rain When I Die”), with Duvall recreating Staley’s vocal lines with the same studiousness of guitarist Jerry Cantrell, who delivered his solos note-for-note. In that sense, Alice in Chains have changed: The show felt more like a recital than an exorcism, as it would have with Staley. All in all, from what I've seen & read, things went and are going well.
Another shot of retro-ism... last one, I promise (well, maybe not). I was reading in the latest issue of Rolling Stone an article that highlighted the top 25 record stores in America. Much to my delight, Newbury Comics out of Boston Massachusetts made the list... in fact, it was in the top 10! Not only was it a nice surprise, but also filled my head with TONS of great memories of one of my old college stomping grounds. It's also nice to know that these stores, although few & far between, are still thriving.
Finally, here's a concert bill made in heaven or hell depending on your viewpoint. Read the band list & try to wrap your mind around the fact these bands played on the same day and weekend in southern California. More than 25 acts, including headliners Eminem, KISS, Blink-182, and Bush, playing their first gig in eight years, put in high-octane sets at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, CA, for KROQ's second annual Epicenter Festival. Wonders never cease...
That's about it for now. 'Til next time, keep listening...
Peace out,
Dave
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Is It Me or Has It Been An Off Week?
Greetings fellow alternative music lovers!
First off, my apologies for the campy, cliched opening line. It was the only way I could think of to start this entry of the blog. It's corny, somewhat stupid, and well... off.
Reading some of the latest musical news, I'd have to say that we are right in line with what's happening in the alternative rock as well as the rock world in general lately, at least in the past week or two. I've been glancing through Rolling Stone, Spin, Billboard, and a host of others. And all the stuff either in those rags or on the web, seems, well... off. What I mean by this, is that it's all been a bit weird. In some cases, it leaves me thinking, "Has it been THAT slow of a week guys?"
Here's a few examples...
- Highlights on J. Lo & Steven Tyler debuting on American Idol
- Lady Ga Ga speaking in Portland Maine... yes, Maine
- The top 10 Beatles songs of all time... haven't we been there before? A lot?
Moving forward, however, we did have some cool tasty features that emerged this week. One of the most awaited and anticipated was the new Kings of Leon single which we are featuring on 360 Degrees. We, like many people, are hoping the follow up disc is just as good as their last disc, but offers something different.
Another interesting article I read was about Nashville Tennessee. Apparently, that city is one of the hottest places for new alternative music. Yes, I thought the same thing... Nashville? The city has a fitting nickname: "Music City." While it's known as the capital of country music, iconic artists like Elvis, Johnny Cash, the Everly Brothers, and Bob Dylan all flocked to Nashville to record seminal albums. But the city is undergoing a rock renaissance. Big names like Paramore, Kings of Leon, and Jack White all call Nashville home, and outside the Grand Ole Opry, a young indie rock scene is blossoming.
First off, my apologies for the campy, cliched opening line. It was the only way I could think of to start this entry of the blog. It's corny, somewhat stupid, and well... off.
Reading some of the latest musical news, I'd have to say that we are right in line with what's happening in the alternative rock as well as the rock world in general lately, at least in the past week or two. I've been glancing through Rolling Stone, Spin, Billboard, and a host of others. And all the stuff either in those rags or on the web, seems, well... off. What I mean by this, is that it's all been a bit weird. In some cases, it leaves me thinking, "Has it been THAT slow of a week guys?"
Here's a few examples...
- Highlights on J. Lo & Steven Tyler debuting on American Idol
- Lady Ga Ga speaking in Portland Maine... yes, Maine
- The top 10 Beatles songs of all time... haven't we been there before? A lot?
Moving forward, however, we did have some cool tasty features that emerged this week. One of the most awaited and anticipated was the new Kings of Leon single which we are featuring on 360 Degrees. We, like many people, are hoping the follow up disc is just as good as their last disc, but offers something different.
Another interesting article I read was about Nashville Tennessee. Apparently, that city is one of the hottest places for new alternative music. Yes, I thought the same thing... Nashville? The city has a fitting nickname: "Music City." While it's known as the capital of country music, iconic artists like Elvis, Johnny Cash, the Everly Brothers, and Bob Dylan all flocked to Nashville to record seminal albums. But the city is undergoing a rock renaissance. Big names like Paramore, Kings of Leon, and Jack White all call Nashville home, and outside the Grand Ole Opry, a young indie rock scene is blossoming.
The annual Next BIG Nashville summit -- which is currently in progress through October 2nd, celebrates all corners of the city's scene, and like the music it honors, the event is growing. This year, national acts like Yeasayer, Wavves, and RJD2 join a bill packed with about-to-break local acts that could soon step out of the shadows cast by Nashville's country music juggernaut. Some of these new acts will be hitting the airwaves shortly on 360 Degrees. Be sure to check them out!
While we're on the subject of new & exciting bands, here's a link to Billboard Magazine & their "Tastemakers" series of tunes & videos. This week features the band The Black Angels. The music is modern, but definitely has a 60's twist to it. I think you'll like it. It's just another example of how alternative music and it's influences spans the decades.
That's about all the time I have right now. Until next time...
Dave
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Our 6 Month Anniversary, New Tracks, Hate Mail & Defining What Is "True"
Well, it was bound to happen sooner or later. 360 Degrees of Alternative celebrated it's 6 month anniversary on the air this past week, and as if right on cue, the station received, in my opinion, it's first piece of "hate mail".
The email came from a former listener - and his main complaint was "the station had veered tremendously from it's original concept of being a "different" alternative radio station". His main focus was regarding the tracks that had been added over the past 3 months, and he really objected to the addition of bands like Motorhead, Pantera, and Megadeth. In his opinion, those bands are heavy metal, not alternative. Other points included, "there is too much variety", "there are too many decades featured", and my favorite, "I've come to believe you really don't know what true alternative music is".
I'm going to pass along a Readers Digest condensed version of the reply I sent to him. First off, I sent along my expressions of disappointment that he was no longer a listener and had become dissatisfied with the music selection. However, I informed him that I was not going to change a thing. In the past 6 months, we have had over 2,000 listeners add 360 Degrees as a "preset" to their member profiles... and they are only allowed six presets at this time. We also have over 325 listeners who have designated the station "as their favorite". On the other side of the coin, he was our 1st dissatisfied listener. Sorry Charlie, that ratio doesn't add up to do a major change in my book. I also dished the statement of "veering from the original concept". It sounded as if the station has been on the air for something like 15 years not just 6 months. Yeesh pal, relax.
As far as adding bands as Motorhead, Pantera, and Megadeth, there's a very good reason for this. It's called a matter of influences. Motorhead, as I have stated before, have influenced more bands, metal AND alternative, that I dare to count. Likewise for Pantera & Megadeth. In regards to Pantera, and the song we feature "I'm Broken", it's difficult to find a band that can truly rock harder and still maintain a level of quality. In regards to Megadeth, the song we currently feature is the classic, "Peace Sells". While the guitar sound and style could be classified as "metal-esque", if there is such a term, one just needs to step beyond that point. Listen to the lyrics, what they're about, the snarl in the vocals, the attitude, and finally the all-out assault of the bass & drums at the end of the song. Then play a modern kick ass "alternative" song right after that and I dare you to tell me there's vast night & day differences...
As far as variety, that's one of our strong points according to our listeners and people who have reviewed / rated the station. I get feedback constantly about what people think about the station, the songs I feature, and more stats than one realizes. According to the people that matter most, the listeners, 360 Degrees is doing a great job. If one doesn't want variety, go back to listening to some of the traditional radio stations out there. On average, their playlists only consist of approximately 200 songs. We feature, at the present moment, over four times that amount.
Lastly, as far as keeping or playing alternative music "that is true"... all I have to say is "c'mon; what planet are you from"? Alternative is a vein of rock n' roll, which was a bastard child to begin with. It came together decades ago from several different types of music. It could not nor can it ever be "true". Ditto with any form or genre of rock n' roll. Period. Deal with it.
On a different note, we wanted to let everyone know that we have a new email address! We were experiencing some problems with the initial one we had, so we went with a local company that has a much more reliable system. You can now send comments, suggestions, or whatever to altrnatv@midcoast.com
Til next time, keep listening...
Peace out,
Dave
The email came from a former listener - and his main complaint was "the station had veered tremendously from it's original concept of being a "different" alternative radio station". His main focus was regarding the tracks that had been added over the past 3 months, and he really objected to the addition of bands like Motorhead, Pantera, and Megadeth. In his opinion, those bands are heavy metal, not alternative. Other points included, "there is too much variety", "there are too many decades featured", and my favorite, "I've come to believe you really don't know what true alternative music is".
I'm going to pass along a Readers Digest condensed version of the reply I sent to him. First off, I sent along my expressions of disappointment that he was no longer a listener and had become dissatisfied with the music selection. However, I informed him that I was not going to change a thing. In the past 6 months, we have had over 2,000 listeners add 360 Degrees as a "preset" to their member profiles... and they are only allowed six presets at this time. We also have over 325 listeners who have designated the station "as their favorite". On the other side of the coin, he was our 1st dissatisfied listener. Sorry Charlie, that ratio doesn't add up to do a major change in my book. I also dished the statement of "veering from the original concept". It sounded as if the station has been on the air for something like 15 years not just 6 months. Yeesh pal, relax.
As far as adding bands as Motorhead, Pantera, and Megadeth, there's a very good reason for this. It's called a matter of influences. Motorhead, as I have stated before, have influenced more bands, metal AND alternative, that I dare to count. Likewise for Pantera & Megadeth. In regards to Pantera, and the song we feature "I'm Broken", it's difficult to find a band that can truly rock harder and still maintain a level of quality. In regards to Megadeth, the song we currently feature is the classic, "Peace Sells". While the guitar sound and style could be classified as "metal-esque", if there is such a term, one just needs to step beyond that point. Listen to the lyrics, what they're about, the snarl in the vocals, the attitude, and finally the all-out assault of the bass & drums at the end of the song. Then play a modern kick ass "alternative" song right after that and I dare you to tell me there's vast night & day differences...
As far as variety, that's one of our strong points according to our listeners and people who have reviewed / rated the station. I get feedback constantly about what people think about the station, the songs I feature, and more stats than one realizes. According to the people that matter most, the listeners, 360 Degrees is doing a great job. If one doesn't want variety, go back to listening to some of the traditional radio stations out there. On average, their playlists only consist of approximately 200 songs. We feature, at the present moment, over four times that amount.
Lastly, as far as keeping or playing alternative music "that is true"... all I have to say is "c'mon; what planet are you from"? Alternative is a vein of rock n' roll, which was a bastard child to begin with. It came together decades ago from several different types of music. It could not nor can it ever be "true". Ditto with any form or genre of rock n' roll. Period. Deal with it.
On a different note, we wanted to let everyone know that we have a new email address! We were experiencing some problems with the initial one we had, so we went with a local company that has a much more reliable system. You can now send comments, suggestions, or whatever to altrnatv@midcoast.com
Til next time, keep listening...
Peace out,
Dave
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
I Vaguely Remember You, But It's Been A While... Can You Please Refresh My Memory? I Think We Have So Much To Catch Up On... From Roses To Toilets.
Greetings fellow alternative music lovers... or should I rephrase that as a "welcome back"? It has been almost 6 weeks since my last post. Hard to believe the last time I was here was on July 22nd... I almost forgot my user name to get on the blog! Thank God for hints! I was going to blame things on my age, but I don't think the fans would buy that crap...
Moving forward, let's dive into the blog. This one's going to be pretty meaty, so you may want to grab a beer or something... you'll probably finish it before you finish reading this. It is nice to know that even though I've been away for a while, some things just don't change in the music world. Just this week alone, I've read tidbits about Axl Rose bitching about the organization at the Leeds and Reading Festivals and how his performances got "cut short" in order to comply with local curfews. He also apologized for the shows being "lackluster"...
Another quick note before going onto alternative stuff, apparently some Beatles fan paid almost $15,000 for a toilet that was owned by John Lennon from 1969 to 1971. I wonder if he got a certificate of authenticity or ownership with it? I mean, how do you prove he owned it? DNA?
August has been a good month for fans of the band Weezer - The band is releasing their new album Hurley on September 14th, then quickly following it up with an October 5th reissue of Pinkerton, from 1996. A rarities compilation, Death to False Metal, is also in the works. But for the cult that has developed around the Pinkerton, Weezer's emotionally charged second album, there's even better news: According to guitarist Brian Bell, Weezer may perform the album in its entirety in a special tour. This is especially notable because Weezer has banished the album's material from their set lists in recent years.
There's been a good deal of media coverage lately regarding the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina... maybe too much. However, there have been some good highlights coming out of this. Artists like My Morning Jacket, OK Go, Steve Earle, R.E.M.'s Mike Mills, Tom Morello and more have teamed up for a new digital benefit compilation, titled Dear New Orleans, marking this fifth anniversary The set — which hit all digital retailers and DearNewOrleansMusic.org last week — includes new material, covers of traditional songs about New Orleans, and collaborations with local musicians. The MC5's Wayne Kramer teams up with New Orleans' funk rock mainstays Bonerama on one track, while MMJ collaborate with Preservation Hall Jazz Band on a cover of Al Johnson's Mardi Gras anthem "Carnival Time" for another. Fun stuff!
OK, here's one for the old folks... sorry couldn't help that... tell you what; I'll include myself in that group as well. Blondie will release Panic of Girls, their first new album since 2003's The Curse of Blondie, before they begin touring Australia in November, according to the groups drummer Clem Burke. The exact release date of the disc, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers' third since they reunited in 1997, has yet to be decided. If you don't feel all that cool with the "old" part, think about this. Debbie Harry of Blondie has been on the cover not once, but twice of AARP magazine...
I read this next bit on the website of my local newspaper. I live in a small town along the coast of Maine just north of Portland... which isn't all THAT big of a city. However, it is cool to see a local musician start making the big time.
http://knox.villagesoup.com/ae/story/midcoast-native-plays-letterman/347764
Alright, I'll admit it... this isn't really alternative, but it's damn cool. Earlier this month, at the American Carnage gig at New Jersey's Izod Center, thrash-metal mainstays Slayer and Megadeth tore through complete versions of some of their most beloved albums: Seasons in the Abyss and Rust in Peace, respectively. Unlike the flash and pyrotechnics associated with most arena metal bands, the two kept the focus on the music with virtuosic, pummeling sets.
Moving forward, let's dive into the blog. This one's going to be pretty meaty, so you may want to grab a beer or something... you'll probably finish it before you finish reading this. It is nice to know that even though I've been away for a while, some things just don't change in the music world. Just this week alone, I've read tidbits about Axl Rose bitching about the organization at the Leeds and Reading Festivals and how his performances got "cut short" in order to comply with local curfews. He also apologized for the shows being "lackluster"...
Another quick note before going onto alternative stuff, apparently some Beatles fan paid almost $15,000 for a toilet that was owned by John Lennon from 1969 to 1971. I wonder if he got a certificate of authenticity or ownership with it? I mean, how do you prove he owned it? DNA?
August has been a good month for fans of the band Weezer - The band is releasing their new album Hurley on September 14th, then quickly following it up with an October 5th reissue of Pinkerton, from 1996. A rarities compilation, Death to False Metal, is also in the works. But for the cult that has developed around the Pinkerton, Weezer's emotionally charged second album, there's even better news: According to guitarist Brian Bell, Weezer may perform the album in its entirety in a special tour. This is especially notable because Weezer has banished the album's material from their set lists in recent years.
There's been a good deal of media coverage lately regarding the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina... maybe too much. However, there have been some good highlights coming out of this. Artists like My Morning Jacket, OK Go, Steve Earle, R.E.M.'s Mike Mills, Tom Morello and more have teamed up for a new digital benefit compilation, titled Dear New Orleans, marking this fifth anniversary The set — which hit all digital retailers and DearNewOrleansMusic.org last week — includes new material, covers of traditional songs about New Orleans, and collaborations with local musicians. The MC5's Wayne Kramer teams up with New Orleans' funk rock mainstays Bonerama on one track, while MMJ collaborate with Preservation Hall Jazz Band on a cover of Al Johnson's Mardi Gras anthem "Carnival Time" for another. Fun stuff!
OK, here's one for the old folks... sorry couldn't help that... tell you what; I'll include myself in that group as well. Blondie will release Panic of Girls, their first new album since 2003's The Curse of Blondie, before they begin touring Australia in November, according to the groups drummer Clem Burke. The exact release date of the disc, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers' third since they reunited in 1997, has yet to be decided. If you don't feel all that cool with the "old" part, think about this. Debbie Harry of Blondie has been on the cover not once, but twice of AARP magazine...
I read this next bit on the website of my local newspaper. I live in a small town along the coast of Maine just north of Portland... which isn't all THAT big of a city. However, it is cool to see a local musician start making the big time.
http://knox.villagesoup.com/ae/story/midcoast-native-plays-letterman/347764
Alright, I'll admit it... this isn't really alternative, but it's damn cool. Earlier this month, at the American Carnage gig at New Jersey's Izod Center, thrash-metal mainstays Slayer and Megadeth tore through complete versions of some of their most beloved albums: Seasons in the Abyss and Rust in Peace, respectively. Unlike the flash and pyrotechnics associated with most arena metal bands, the two kept the focus on the music with virtuosic, pummeling sets.
Slayer has always been one of the most deft bands in metal, and so they remain. After opening with two tunes from last year's World Painted Blood, guitarist Jeff Hanneman and Kerry King launched into the Seasons opener "War Ensemble," then dug into "Hallowed Point," a frenetic track that stands out on an album well known for its sludgy tempos. But the highlight of the set came with the closing numbers “Raining Blood” and “Angel of Death,” as Hanneman and King fluidly swapped solos. Frontman and bassist Tom Araya, recently recovered from back surgery, belted out the gruesome lyrics with a smile, then retreated to the drum riser to sip hot tea between songs. Wow... how times have changed...
Once Megadeth were up, they dove head-first into the classics, starting with “Holy Wars…The Punishment Due.” Frontman Dave Mustaine ripped through the entire album without addressing the audience - although he later apologized for his manners. Mustaine’s voice has lost a bit of its power over the years, becoming more of a yelp than a snarl on tracks like “Rust in Peace.” Returning bassist and founding member Dave Ellefson made up for Mustaine’s shortcomings, though, eliciting huge applause as he laid down solid foundations for “Trust” and “Dawn Patrol.” Still, the biggest shouts of the night came for set closer “Peace Sells." As Megadeth tore through the track, the audience shouted out the chorus like the song was a fresh hit, not twenty years old. Thank you gentlemen for keeping the faith.
That's all the time I have for right now. Hopefully, it won't be another 5+ weeks before the next installment. Keep listening!
Peace Out,
Dave
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I know it's been a while since the last post. I think, by now, most of you who read this blog already know why. I've received a few emails about it - mainly why I don't blog more - and I can say one thing... once I explain why, people seem to know exactly where I'm coming from. Yes, my current job takes up WAY too much time. However, in the current grand scheme of things, it's a necessity. Many people seem to be in the same boat. Doing what they have to do, while trying to squeeze things in that they like to do. I'm still adding more songs to the stations playlist - and more will be added this weekend - and that's a good thing. In regards to the station, like in life, sometimes we just have to have priorities. In this case, it will always be the music before the blog.
Is it me or has Jack White been in the news a lot lately? Not only did he celebrate his 35th birthday about 2 weeks ago, but on July 28th, PBS will be airing a special "The White House's All-Star Tribute to Paul McCartney". This special will feature Jack White (amongst many other well known artists). Check out the link below to see a sneak-peek at Jack's cover of "Mother Nature's Son".
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/183832
A few facts you may not know about Jack White -
- As a teenager, he was into traditional acoustic blues.
- He didn't plan a musical career immediately, although he did elect not to attend a seminary because he believed he wouldn't be allowed to bring his guitar and amplifier.
- He went into the upholstery business first, but played music on the side, eventually forming the White Stripes with his wife Meg in 1997.
Since we hit the "history" switch with Mr. White, let's continue in that mode for a bit. I was watching a documentary recently in which the producers of the film interviewed some of the surviving members of The Sex Pistols. In it, Steve Jones talks about how he used to steal bands equipment. He really didn't go into it that much, so I did a little digging. It turns out that he and drummer Paul Cook made some fairly big heists... including a bunch of microphones and tons of PA equipment (enough to fill a huge cargo van) from David Bowie in 1973. They later used all this equipment when they performed as a group called The Strand as well as when they were the Sex Pistols. If you've ever seen pictures of the band & wondered how they could "afford" such high end stuff... now you know!
July is known as the month of Independence Day and the first bass player for Blondie, Gary Valentine has achieved his independence... from the group Blondie. Back in 1977, he was told that he has been kicked out of the band! In reality, this came as no surprise as Gary had been talking about moving to California for several months.
In a bizarre, kinda off-beat note, but still alternative in an odd way... back in 1989, Weird Al Yankovic releases his first movie called "UHF" back in 1989. If you ever have a chance to see this flick, do so. Just leave your brain on hold...
Speaking of leaving the brain on hold, I have to call it quits on today's blog for now. Until next time, keep listening!
Peace out,
Dave
Is it me or has Jack White been in the news a lot lately? Not only did he celebrate his 35th birthday about 2 weeks ago, but on July 28th, PBS will be airing a special "The White House's All-Star Tribute to Paul McCartney". This special will feature Jack White (amongst many other well known artists). Check out the link below to see a sneak-peek at Jack's cover of "Mother Nature's Son".
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/183832
A few facts you may not know about Jack White -
- As a teenager, he was into traditional acoustic blues.
- He didn't plan a musical career immediately, although he did elect not to attend a seminary because he believed he wouldn't be allowed to bring his guitar and amplifier.
- He went into the upholstery business first, but played music on the side, eventually forming the White Stripes with his wife Meg in 1997.
Since we hit the "history" switch with Mr. White, let's continue in that mode for a bit. I was watching a documentary recently in which the producers of the film interviewed some of the surviving members of The Sex Pistols. In it, Steve Jones talks about how he used to steal bands equipment. He really didn't go into it that much, so I did a little digging. It turns out that he and drummer Paul Cook made some fairly big heists... including a bunch of microphones and tons of PA equipment (enough to fill a huge cargo van) from David Bowie in 1973. They later used all this equipment when they performed as a group called The Strand as well as when they were the Sex Pistols. If you've ever seen pictures of the band & wondered how they could "afford" such high end stuff... now you know!
July is known as the month of Independence Day and the first bass player for Blondie, Gary Valentine has achieved his independence... from the group Blondie. Back in 1977, he was told that he has been kicked out of the band! In reality, this came as no surprise as Gary had been talking about moving to California for several months.
In a bizarre, kinda off-beat note, but still alternative in an odd way... back in 1989, Weird Al Yankovic releases his first movie called "UHF" back in 1989. If you ever have a chance to see this flick, do so. Just leave your brain on hold...
Speaking of leaving the brain on hold, I have to call it quits on today's blog for now. Until next time, keep listening!
Peace out,
Dave
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Just Like Our Motto, "From The 60's To The 90's, It's All Here". From The Fugs to Fall Out Boy
Earlier today I posted a separate blurb with a link to a Rolling Stone article that announced the passing of Tuli Kupferberg, co-founder of, in my opinion, the original underground band called The Fugs. I won't repeat, or go into what is covered in the article, but I wanted to expand on it.
Before even discussing The Fugs, you have to have a setting... there is no other way to give you the full scope of this band. In the early 60's, The Electric Circus began as a popular New York nightclub with all kinds of lights and multi-media displays on the walls. A very hip place to "be seen". The downstairs section was a bar called "The Dom". There was no attraction to this bar except for nickel beer. In late 1964, when the Beatles first came to America, The Fugs were conceived in a dark corner of The Dom. Fugs co-founder Ed Sanders, bookstore owner & publisher of a literary magazine at the time called "Fuck You - A Magazine of the Arts") was originally attracted by the poetry readings that were held there. Sanders and Kupferberg were two like-minded individuals (now that's kinda scary) spawned the unofficial origins of "underground" rock, which helped lead to punk and alternative music.
The group worked out their material in other venues like Slug's and the MacDougall Street Theater in Greenwich Village. They even invented "dances" like the Turkey Gobble to go along with their songs. Unbelievably, they actually got signed to a record label - the jazz oriented ESP. The label rejected the groups first set of songs as being too offensive. By 1965, The Fugs had enough new material to release "Virgin Fugs". The album epitomized their sense of humor and satire. Depending on your point of view, the band was either making fun, had a healthy disrespect, or an unhealthy social attitude for just about EVERYTHING!
While finding their material can be rather difficult, it is absolutely a must listen. Yes, they can barely play... yes, they can't sing... yes, their material is not for everyone. But, their songs are a freakin' riot! R.I.P. Tuli... you will be missed...
In another odd note, but definitely alternative, Bob Geldof, of the Boomtown Rats, helped organize and pull off the Live Aid concerts in England as well as here in America back in 1985... 25 years ago today. God bless WBCN out of Boston for carrying the entire event live!
In current news, Linkin Park is working on a new album called "A Thousand Suns". They will be working with Rick Rubin, the same producer who worked with them on Minutes To Midnight. Check out the full story here http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/179373
And finally, in the "for those who care" department, Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy, (the band is on "indefinite hiatus" - must be nice), is working on a Reggae inspired album along with his own back-up band for the project. Whether you love them or hate them, it should be an interesting listen.
That's it for now, keep the suggestions coming & keep listening.
Peace out,
Dave
Before even discussing The Fugs, you have to have a setting... there is no other way to give you the full scope of this band. In the early 60's, The Electric Circus began as a popular New York nightclub with all kinds of lights and multi-media displays on the walls. A very hip place to "be seen". The downstairs section was a bar called "The Dom". There was no attraction to this bar except for nickel beer. In late 1964, when the Beatles first came to America, The Fugs were conceived in a dark corner of The Dom. Fugs co-founder Ed Sanders, bookstore owner & publisher of a literary magazine at the time called "Fuck You - A Magazine of the Arts") was originally attracted by the poetry readings that were held there. Sanders and Kupferberg were two like-minded individuals (now that's kinda scary) spawned the unofficial origins of "underground" rock, which helped lead to punk and alternative music.
The group worked out their material in other venues like Slug's and the MacDougall Street Theater in Greenwich Village. They even invented "dances" like the Turkey Gobble to go along with their songs. Unbelievably, they actually got signed to a record label - the jazz oriented ESP. The label rejected the groups first set of songs as being too offensive. By 1965, The Fugs had enough new material to release "Virgin Fugs". The album epitomized their sense of humor and satire. Depending on your point of view, the band was either making fun, had a healthy disrespect, or an unhealthy social attitude for just about EVERYTHING!
While finding their material can be rather difficult, it is absolutely a must listen. Yes, they can barely play... yes, they can't sing... yes, their material is not for everyone. But, their songs are a freakin' riot! R.I.P. Tuli... you will be missed...
In another odd note, but definitely alternative, Bob Geldof, of the Boomtown Rats, helped organize and pull off the Live Aid concerts in England as well as here in America back in 1985... 25 years ago today. God bless WBCN out of Boston for carrying the entire event live!
In current news, Linkin Park is working on a new album called "A Thousand Suns". They will be working with Rick Rubin, the same producer who worked with them on Minutes To Midnight. Check out the full story here http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/179373
And finally, in the "for those who care" department, Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy, (the band is on "indefinite hiatus" - must be nice), is working on a Reggae inspired album along with his own back-up band for the project. Whether you love them or hate them, it should be an interesting listen.
That's it for now, keep the suggestions coming & keep listening.
Peace out,
Dave
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Trying Not To Go Nuts In A Restaurant, Soup To Nuts, People Who Are Nuts, & Jello for Dessert!
Here's a stupid statement - I like being vacation! Well, duh... who doesn't? The key is here, is to enjoy what you are doing. Sounds easy enough. But how many times have you seen "folks on vacation" who are still stressed out to the max, arguing, or worse.
And how does this tie in with music? Here we go! You didn't think you'd get off that easy, did you? My wife & I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary yesterday and we have this restaurant where we like to go when we want a quiet meal. It's usually lunch on a weekday. The place is nice, the staff is friendly & it's rather low-key... works for us.
Also, the tunes the restaurant plays are pretty cool. The owner has a yen for some fairly obscure tunes, which also include the occasional rock songs you almost never hear. It's not obnoxious, but refreshing none the less. Being a severe music buff, sometimes I get distracted by a particular song. Yesterday was no exception. The original version of David Bowie and "John, I'm Only Dancing", came on & it took almost all my strength not to totally go nuts with that feedback guitar at the very end! It also got me to thinking how ahead of the curve that tune was. That song came out years before that type of shit was cool.
But anyways, we were just about finished, when another customer, an elderly gentleman whose also a "regular", walked in & he took his usual spot. He also likes doing lunch there, mainly for the same reasons as we do, except he also "likes all the pretty waitresses". While we were wrapping up our meal, and while he was waiting for his, he was humming along to the music. I thought, "Cool... he doesn't know the song, but a good beat & arrangement can transcend the generations." Turns out he's on vacation from Florida.
As my wife & I are walking through the hostess area, in walks another couple (also on vacation), who's already complaining about "the owner of the car with Florida plates who left his car running with the A/C on so his dog could relax in the passenger front seat". They also wanted a seat away from the music, because "it was annoying". I felt sorry for the staff already!
My thoughts were "Relax... who cares" and "If you don't like it, move on". I guess that attitude has spilled over into my station and the music that I feature. Some people who have emailed me have taken this station way more seriously than I ever have. I've replied to them, "you need to relax or chill out more. You are way to serious or overkill."
It also got me to thinking about the more under-lying reasons why I started and why I do what I do... I hope the music and format is enjoyable. Enjoyable enough where it will make someones day better or it will uplift their mood. That, my friends, is priceless. In my humble opinion, there are very few things in this world that can turn someones attitude, mood, or whatever around in less than 5 minutes than a song that that person really likes.
Ever hear of the term, "From soup to nuts"? Well, this next guy is not soup, but he has been called nuts. This week in 1958, Jello Biafra was born in Boulder, Colorado, given name was Eric Boucher. He fronted The Dead Kennedys for a decade and also founded the Alternative Tentacles record label. His later bands included Lard and The Melvins. He became a political activist during a 1979 run for mayor of San Francisco, and has been heavily involved in Green Party politics for the last decade.
Until next time, keep listening!
Peace out,
Dave
And how does this tie in with music? Here we go! You didn't think you'd get off that easy, did you? My wife & I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary yesterday and we have this restaurant where we like to go when we want a quiet meal. It's usually lunch on a weekday. The place is nice, the staff is friendly & it's rather low-key... works for us.
Also, the tunes the restaurant plays are pretty cool. The owner has a yen for some fairly obscure tunes, which also include the occasional rock songs you almost never hear. It's not obnoxious, but refreshing none the less. Being a severe music buff, sometimes I get distracted by a particular song. Yesterday was no exception. The original version of David Bowie and "John, I'm Only Dancing", came on & it took almost all my strength not to totally go nuts with that feedback guitar at the very end! It also got me to thinking how ahead of the curve that tune was. That song came out years before that type of shit was cool.
But anyways, we were just about finished, when another customer, an elderly gentleman whose also a "regular", walked in & he took his usual spot. He also likes doing lunch there, mainly for the same reasons as we do, except he also "likes all the pretty waitresses". While we were wrapping up our meal, and while he was waiting for his, he was humming along to the music. I thought, "Cool... he doesn't know the song, but a good beat & arrangement can transcend the generations." Turns out he's on vacation from Florida.
As my wife & I are walking through the hostess area, in walks another couple (also on vacation), who's already complaining about "the owner of the car with Florida plates who left his car running with the A/C on so his dog could relax in the passenger front seat". They also wanted a seat away from the music, because "it was annoying". I felt sorry for the staff already!
My thoughts were "Relax... who cares" and "If you don't like it, move on". I guess that attitude has spilled over into my station and the music that I feature. Some people who have emailed me have taken this station way more seriously than I ever have. I've replied to them, "you need to relax or chill out more. You are way to serious or overkill."
It also got me to thinking about the more under-lying reasons why I started and why I do what I do... I hope the music and format is enjoyable. Enjoyable enough where it will make someones day better or it will uplift their mood. That, my friends, is priceless. In my humble opinion, there are very few things in this world that can turn someones attitude, mood, or whatever around in less than 5 minutes than a song that that person really likes.
Ever hear of the term, "From soup to nuts"? Well, this next guy is not soup, but he has been called nuts. This week in 1958, Jello Biafra was born in Boulder, Colorado, given name was Eric Boucher. He fronted The Dead Kennedys for a decade and also founded the Alternative Tentacles record label. His later bands included Lard and The Melvins. He became a political activist during a 1979 run for mayor of San Francisco, and has been heavily involved in Green Party politics for the last decade.
Until next time, keep listening!
Peace out,
Dave
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