tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72993668780408844842024-03-13T21:24:05.843-06:00truth be told(mostly) Denver music--as I hear it.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-48160367211226302772010-12-01T10:03:00.000-07:002010-12-01T10:04:49.462-07:00NPR voting on 10 Best of 2010<img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyOTEyMjI1ODExMTMmcHQ9MTI5MTIyMjkyNzc3MCZwPTg3MzMxJmQ9d2lkZ2V*X3F1aXpfbXNhcHAmZz*yJm89NjNj/YjM4MTgyZmQ3NDRmYjkzYWI1YmUxY2FhOTg2YWUmb2Y9MA==.gif" /><div align="center"><br /><div align='center'><a href='http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2010/11/22/131519491/musicvote2010' title='All Songs Considered'><img src='http://www.mgsrvr.com/25d315a8c9f276a6096a2d5e198aad24.png ' height='595' width='300' alt='' border='0' /><br /><font size='2'>NPR Music: What Are Your Top 10 Favorite Albums of 2010.</font></a></div><br /><br /></div>Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-74753322918272990342010-07-28T23:05:00.001-06:002010-07-28T23:06:05.149-06:00a Wilderness of Mirrors - The Host Organism .mov<object style="background-image:url(http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/qzUArz7ELio/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qzUArz7ELio&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qzUArz7ELio&hl=en_US&fs=1" width="425" height="344" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-18102019711793956592010-03-23T08:24:00.003-06:002010-03-23T08:38:16.156-06:00"Sun and Moon" Wentworth Kersey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FcuH6MvKckE/S6YnRuz_QKI/AAAAAAAAAIk/CSIa_oATYSc/s320/bright+square+sqaure+square+single+pic.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 315px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FcuH6MvKckE/S6YnRuz_QKI/AAAAAAAAAIk/CSIa_oATYSc/s320/bright+square+sqaure+square+single+pic.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />It's been a while since the last <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wentworth</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Kersey</span> listening opportunity. If you haven't heard them before, today is a good day to start.<br /><br />As the sun turns to snow today, I'll be taking some time to listen to the beautiful and comforting combination of Joe Sampson's unmistakable song-writing and song-singing and Jeffrey Stevens signature ambient <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">styling</span>. Treat yourself to a listen. <br /><br />The thoughtful gentleman have today released "<a href="http://plasticsoundsupply.com/release/wentworth_kersey/">Sun and Moon</a>" for your listening enjoyment. It is the first song released from their third of three <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">EPs</span>, forthcoming this summer.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-85678312105878500712010-03-18T18:16:00.005-06:002010-03-18T19:45:06.108-06:00It's a sad day. R.I.P. Alex Chilton<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:OrM3lW6M8pSQPM:http://www.furious.com/PERFECT/graphics/chilton1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 105px; height: 109px;" src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:OrM3lW6M8pSQPM:http://www.furious.com/PERFECT/graphics/chilton1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Alex Chilton (1950-2010).<br /><br />The sky is a little dimmer tonight.<br /><br />I really wish I had a clearer memory of the time I saw Alex Chilton perform. I can't find a reference to it anywhere and hope it really happened. If you remember it, please speak up and let me know. The show, it was in Lexington, Kentucky I am sure. I think it was at a club on Limestone called Babylon Babylon. It must've been around 1987 or 1988. I think.<br /><br />The things that stick in memory seem a little disjointed, but here goes. I remember the guy as seeming kinda moody. It was a small venue. I was stunned when he played "The Letter" and perhaps didn't even know at the time that it was his song. I certainly didn't know he was a teenager when it hit number one. The overall feeling that really left an impression is that, in spite (or maybe because of) my ignorance of the influence of the man's songs, the evening felt momentous. I mean, sometimes you are in the presence of a great talent...the real deal...and you don't need to be told. You just know it, it's so obvious that you are witnessing something special. Even if you are a silly teenager without a clue. Alex Chilton was a real star. Seeing him play was enough to know it. You didn't need an internet full of it to tell you so.<br /><br />That's all I remember.<br /><br />I did come across this today at work and it almost brought me to tears. At work.<br /><object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/H9LGwzGnx5w&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/H9LGwzGnx5w&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="385" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />Over the years I got more familiar with Big Star and both <span style="font-style: italic;">#1 Record</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Radio City </span>grow on me a little more with each listen.<br /><br />I dunno. Maybe the stars are actually a little brighter tonight.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-17281819076804387972009-12-16T21:46:00.004-07:002009-12-16T22:06:07.376-07:00high school students at the book store<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://thm-a04.yimg.com/image/d856dbfbd82bcca6"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 135px; height: 134px;" src="http://thm-a04.yimg.com/image/d856dbfbd82bcca6" alt="" border="0" /></a>I'm not naming names on this one.<br /><br />So. I volunteer to help at the high school fund raiser at a local bookstore. The kids perform music by the coffee shop while we parents of young musicians stand several feet from the front door with plates of cookies and a carafe of coffee hoping to lure shoppers close enough to tell them to please mention the school at the counter when they check out so the high school music program can grab a cut of the purchase they were gonna make anyways. It's a pretty ok fund raiser, as far as those things go. It beats bingo and chocolate bars anyday. Nonetheless, with my rapidly growing anxiety condition, I am really dreading the whole thing.<br /><br />Past a couple saxophone players outside the door, belting out some jazzy holiday tunes, I walk into the book store and stop in my tracks as I catch an unexpectedly familiar tune. So unexpected, it takes me a minute to place what I am hearing. Some kid is strumming away on the guitar belting out a respectable rendition of Neutral Milk Hotel's "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea" and segues right into an Elliott Smith cover. I'm stunned. What sort of 2009 teenager is into such stuff? I walk over and take a look at some boy in a hoodie and jeans playing away. I am heartened and hopeful. I pass out little flyers to potential book buyers with an all right feeling. Even the other mothers talking about ski vacations can't bring me down.<br /><br />There's always more of "us" out there. Young and aging outsiders like me. And you.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-3431998730023681132009-10-17T07:38:00.005-06:002009-10-17T07:59:04.570-06:00Record Store Performances for Local Shakedown Vol. 3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.radio1190.org/localshakedown/shakedown%20copy%20small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 307px;" src="http://www.radio1190.org/localshakedown/shakedown%20copy%20small.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Despite the fact that a record store is not typically designed to comfortably handle a live performance and the crowd that comes along with such an event, I love a record store performances. Recorded music and live music are different worlds, in a common universe of course, but I dig it.<br /><br />Yesterday, today and tomorrow three great local record stores host performances from some great local bands to celebrate the release of Radio 1190's Local Shakedown Compilation Volume 3 out yesterday on <a href="http://www.smoochrecords.com/">Smooch Records</a>. My review of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">cd</span> can be found on <a href="http://godonnybrook.com/home/?p=4219">The Donnybrook Writing Academy</a>.<br /><br />Details of the record and its release can be found at the <a href="http://radio1190.org/">Radio 1190</a> website.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><p class="redText style4 style9"><a href="http://www.radio1190.org/localshakedown/html/shake_comp.htm">RELEASE PARTIES! WITH LIVE MUSIC!</a></p> <p class="style8">The Local Shakedown Vol. 3 CD was kindly co-released by your favorite local record stores: Twist and Shout, Wax <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Trax</span> and Bart's CD Cellar. To celebrate its release there will be live music at each store the weekend of October 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span>. The double CD will be for sale at each location for $11.90.</p> <p class="style8">Friday, Oct. 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span><br /> <a href="http://twistandshout.com/" class="style12">Twist and Shout</a><br /> 2508 E. Colfax Ave., Denver<br /> 6:00 PM - The Kissing Party</p> <p class="style8">Saturday, Oct. 17<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">th</span><br /> <a href="http://bartscdcellar.com/" class="style12">Bart's CD Cellar</a><br /> 1015 Pearl St., Boulder<br /> 2:00 PM - Thee <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Goochi</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Boiz</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">otem</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">rellik</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Aënka</span></p> <p class="style8">Sunday, Oct. 18<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">th</span><br /> <a href="http://waxtraxrecords.com/" class="style12">Wax <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Trax</span></a><br /> 638 E. 13<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">th</span> Ave., Denver<br /> 2:00 PM - Bad Weather California, Magic Cyclops, The Fire Drills, The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">GetDown</span>!</p></blockquote>Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-25591453816685328762009-09-06T21:51:00.005-06:002009-10-04T22:18:00.808-06:00The 2009 Denver UMS!The UMS, I think, is the indie music fans version of the county fair to farming folk: it's a chance to say hey to a number of friends you haven't seen since last year, maybe see a new thing or two and best of all, catch a few well-loved familiars.<br /><br />I should've written this in a more timely manner, a month ago or so. But I didn't feel like writing about it until right now. It's not that I didn't enjoy the UMS this year. I did. And it's not that it was too exhausting (though four days were truly too much for me--I took Friday off.)<br /><br />I will probably never get used to that sampling buffet-style mode of music listening of a festival. There were, as usual, too many bands to even catch a sample of properly. And predictably, I missed a good share of those I would've liked to have seen. The four days were more than I could set aside the time and energy for, so I deliberately skipped Friday and having the underage entourage in tow, I skipped the evening hours of Saturday and Sunday as well. The kids were bummed that they had no all ages opportunity to see the #1 voted band of Ian Cooke. He's pretty all-ages friendly too. Alas, there was still much to see and hear that made it well worth the price of a wristband.<br /><br />And the UMS does seem to be growing, not shrinking. I heard tell that there were folks who made the trip from outside the rectangle of Colorado to play for the South Broadway crowd. I'm not sure if I caught any of their acts, but I think I must have seen at least one of them on the outdoor stage, which turned out to be a good place to hang out with my all-ages entourage. The skate shop also had a nice little setup with the little bouncy outdoor stage. Fancy Tiger and Rock the Cradle were good places to stop in and catch some acoustic singer-songwriter fare. The church on Lincoln also was a beautiful and unique place to catch some exceptional sounds.<br /><br />For me, the highlights were: Thursday night at the 3 Kings Tavern with Snake Rattle Rattle Snake and Bad Luck City; Saturday afternoon at Fancy Tiger with Joe Sampson and the church on Lincoln with Kal Cahoone. For my teen-age son, Everything Absent or Distorted on the main stage on Sunday seemed to be the highlight. Chalk drawing on the parking lot also seemed to amuse the very youngest of rockers. I was glad that I bought Walgreens out of the last of their summer sidewalk chalk, because not a speck was wasted. Next year I'm bringing a bucket of chalk.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-13489658232149952652009-09-01T22:13:00.002-06:002009-10-04T21:53:19.994-06:00The Pretenders and Cat Power at the Botanic Gardens at ChatfieldThanks to the friendly folks at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gigbot</span>, I had a couple tickets to take my 12 year old daughter to go see The Pretenders and Cat Power. Juliette Lewis, I must add, was also on the ticket, but we didn't make it there in time to see what her performance was about. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mapquest</span> sent us on a scenic route south of Tiny Town to a road of the same name, but not the right one. It took us a bit of time to figure out what had happened, turn around, call civilization for proper directions and get to the Kipling and C-470 location. We weren't the only ones with crossed signals. Apparently a lot of people's tickets said "gates at 4, show at 5" when it was actually an hour earlier on both counts. Oops.<br /><br />Well, with the heat of the day, I truly wasn't heart-broken for not having another hour under the sun. Nope.<br /><br />I hadn't seen the Pretenders since 1986. They were playing with Iggy Pop in Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. It was a good show, from what I recall. But I was pretty stoked to see the Pretenders again. I expected <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">there'd</span> likely be a bunch of aging rockers I'd feel fairly at home with. My daughter was especially looking forward to Cat Power.<br /><br />Chan Marshall did indeed look to be suffering a bit from the bright Colorado sun. I had heard stories of stage drama from Cat Power, but no such nonsense went on at this show. She sang a lot of low-key newer stuff with a solid backing band keeping it all together behind her. My daughter and I only have the first two Cat Power records, so the newer stuff was mostly unfamiliar. She does have a distinct voice and it delivers just as pretty live as recorded.<br /><br />The Pretenders didn't let the heat bring them down. Well, the sun was set a little lower by the time they took the stage, but it was still plenty warm and sunny. Chrissy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Hynde</span> is an all around solid performer. Her voice and musicianship are as fabulous as always. But not only did the band deliver song after song of crowd pleasing favorite Pretender tunes, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Hynde</span> was really funny and engaging, commenting on a little guy's rocking out dance in the crowd and thanking the venue for not having to play with the wafting smell of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">barbeque</span> in her face. Clearly a passionate vegetarian.<br />Pretenders played with their original drummer and rolled heavily with songs from Pretenders I and II mixing in newer songs here and there which held their own against the old familiars.<br /><br />Though outdoor blanket-on-the-grass venues are not my favorite choice, it was a good place to take a kid to a show. Though, honestly, without the comps, it would've been out of my price range for a family outing. But my daughter was happy and thought it was really cool that she can now for always claim as her first national act concert two bands she likes: Cat Power and the Pretenders.<br /><br />And I had fun too. But next time I'm bringing more water.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-7835415562060824862009-05-14T21:13:00.003-06:002009-05-14T21:47:30.193-06:00Shakedown on a Saturday NightI love <a href="http://www.radio1190.org">Radio 1190</a>. Even the times I don't care for what they are playing at the minute, I appreciate their eclectic, subjective, and what I reckon to be, truly honest selections. I dig that they play what they dig, not only what might sell some ads. However, as you know, listener supported radio still has to pay the bills.<br /><br />So be a good listener and get to the Hi-Dive on Saturday night for Radio 1190's Local Shakedown Volume 3 compilation Benefit Show and you can shake your own self down to some of Denver's most fabulous talents. I can't wait to hear the haunting and adrenaline-inducing new songs <a href="http://www.myspace.com/badluckcity">Bad Luck City</a> has been recording performed live on stage. The much talked of <a href="http://www.myspace.com/theovercasters">Overcasters</a> will be there to dazzle with sounds and projections. And for goodness sake don't get there late or you'll miss the long-awaited return of live music from <a href="http://www.myspace.com/cowboycurse">Cowboy Curse</a>. <br /><br />Only $6! And kids, you can come too. It's a 16+ show.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i724.photobucket.com/albums/ww243/jziehe/LSflyer.jpg" width="100%" />Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-60954236462049035072009-04-09T09:13:00.003-06:002009-04-09T09:42:24.247-06:00You may not go to church, but you can still see the ReverendThis Saturday at <a href="http://www.myspace.com/oneeyedjacksdenver">One Eyed Jacks</a>, (formerly The Continental Club) what Westword's Best of 2009 called <a href="http://www.westword.com/bestOf/search?keywords=club+revival">the best club revival</a>, you can join in the <a href="http://www.myspace.com/reverenddeadeye">Reverend Deadeye's</a> own rock 'n' roll revival. I'm reminding you right now to bring your bibles, because as many times as the Reverend asks for them, y'all forget them every single time. For shame.<br /><br />It is the Reverend's last show in Denver before his second European tour. So head down, check out the new club and send one of Denver's fine musical ambassador's on his way with a little more change in his pocket. I am sure he'll appreciate it.<br /><br />I got to see the Reverend with American Relay at 3 Kings Tavern last week. I always am glad to see both these bands perform and last Thursday was no exception. It was a treat that Reverend Deadeye's brother was in town and performing with him. I hadn't seen them play together before and it was quite fine. American Relay has yet to disappoint me and the duo delivered their songs with no lack of energy and fervor. They shared some new songs still in progress too, which I love to catch. One of the irreplacable experiences of following a band and making the effort to get out to see them live is hearing new songs develop, following the song until it is recorded and immortalized as "the" version. I like to follow the possibilities of where a song might go. Even though I am only a listener in the process, it feels inclusive. And since, like so many others, I've got the job-searching depression going on, it was a little comforting to listen. When you're on the outs, those blues songs remind you that you're still on the inside somewhere.<br /><br />Okay, that's enough of my rambling musical philosophizing. Go out and listen for yourself!Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-82411911274597464382009-03-12T10:07:00.004-06:002009-03-12T11:09:16.248-06:00YouTube Art --ThruYOU<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://flavorpill.com/attachment_image_files/0017/8528/kutiman_email.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 165px; height: 216px;" src="http://flavorpill.com/attachment_image_files/0017/8528/kutiman_email.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Many pieces of art come from taking stuff that's plentiful and available, taking that and then doing something new and interesting with it.<br /><br />What could be more plentiful and available in our time than <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a> videos?<br /><br />I learn about many cool projects from my <a href="http://flavorpill.com/signup">Daily Dose</a> subscription, but the <a href="http://thru-you.com/">ThruYOU</a> project made by an Israeli musician and producer named Kutiman, is the coolest to date.<br /><br />Music is a universal form. If you ever doubted it you won't after watching this. I am not a YouTube superfan (like some people I know) but mostly because all that material totally overwhelms me. Then there's all that time that disappears jumping from a Cincinnati rapper to a school orchestra quartet to some dude teaching funk chords to a theremin player to a mom singing with a baby in her lap to etc. etc. etc.<br /><br />To me, the time spent feels mostly wasted free time, but the time Kutiman spent surfing around YouTube was put to beautiful creative use. It's astounding to me. He taps into some genius perception and memory by splicing together music and images that would never be in the same place but for his mixing them. I don't see how he kept it all straight enough in his head to piece it together.<br /><br />But it's cool he did.<br /><br /><a href="http://thru-you.com/">Check it out</a>.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-57931405059341732982009-02-18T12:05:00.005-07:002009-02-18T12:11:42.129-07:00Teenage RockingI wasn't going to post this as it seems too much vicarious parental pride to do so. But I just can't resist. Teenage rocking is fun.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-htHTlcvNTI&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-htHTlcvNTI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-25782508382137533702009-01-11T22:07:00.004-07:002009-01-11T23:01:23.411-07:00this is not a show reviewI had the best of intentions to go listen to Ross Etherton sing his songs at the Meadowlark last Thursday, but I just couldn't make it. Well, I made it to the show, just not to hear Ross, which is pretty lame as he was billed to go on second, but I couldn't make it a minute more. I hope it works out better next time.<br /><br />There were four or five acts on the line up and none of them had started yet. Okay. I had been working two shifts at the book store, filling in for two different people. First shift in the basement in the children's section, then second shift closing the coffee shop. I was achy and tired. I thought perhaps I should probably skip it and just go home, but I telephoned JZ, who was already at the place and he told me that the show hadn't started yet. I went.<br /><br />I arrived at the Meadowlark a little after 9:30. Nobody had begun to play. I contemplated whether or not I wanted to get a drink with the following internal conversation: I'm really tired and drinking alcohol will only make me sleepier but then I am feeling thirsty and, well, a little edgy. Edgy? Yes, rather edgy in fact. Come to think of it, I thought to myself, I always get kind of uncomfortable at the Meadowlark. I've noted this before and chalked it up to other things, but this time I decided to try to analyze it. I looked around at the stone walls and remembered when this bar first opened. It was a quiet unfinished basement bar that was useful for escaping the Larimer Lounge. It was good for wanting to have a conversation with a friend or just use a clean bathroom. This was before the LL remodel. I would sometimes get a drink there when I arrived a little too early for a show. But that was a couple years ago. Since then, little by little, it started getting fixed up. Heavy wooden furnishings, mood lighting, animal heads, ultra-bright metallic bathrooms. It became less of a get away from the Larimer kind of bar and one of its own identity. But what is this identity? The best way I think I can describe it is "new yuppie artsy bachelor pad" or at least how I imagine one might be. It has the appearance of comfort, but way too self-consciously to actually be comfortable. At least it's that way for me. <br /><br />Okay, now I've sorted out that question in my mind and got it off my chest. I can get on to the action of the evening and why I didn't make it to the second act. The first act, called, I think, The Radical Knitting Society, took the stage armed with an upright bass, a rather pretty semi-acoustic electric guitar, keyboards and drums. It looked like a potentially intriguing line up of instruments to me. I listened to several songs start out nice and quiet and a little interesting and then build into something more strident and somehow twist toward grating. I wondered if it was the music or the environment getting to me. I again thought about getting a drink. But decided that wouldn't be enough to calm my agitation. I needed to get outside. Fresh air. JZ agreed he could use a smoke, so we trudged up the stone staircase and stepped out into the brisk night air. <br /><br />It was barely a few moments before the real entertainment of the evening came ambling, nay, weaving down Larimer Street. A tall black man named Ronnie with a 40 in his left pocket, and a forty in his right fist, arrived at the corner and introduced himself. He rapped some dope rhymes. But I forgot them. He told animated nonsensical tales of adventures in hotels and their pools, women and security officers. His eyes were red and watering. He related comedic family stories about his sister and brother and uncle and nephews and nieces and aunt. He was courteous and pretty well behaved for someone as clearly mashed as he was. I didn't have any change for his bus fare, but he left us with the encouraging words that it ain't over 'til Jesus comes down from the sky and tells us it is. All right? Okay. <br /><br />I didn't feel all agitated anymore though, unfortunately by this time I was so tired I was about to fall over and really really needed to get home, so we went back inside to offer apologies to Ross. There was also a new songwriter in town, hailing from Illinois I think, going by the name of The Dowry, who introduced himself earlier. I'll keep an eye peeled for another chance. But that was all I could take.<br /><br />I told you this wasn't a show review. It is a failed-attempt-at-making-a-show review. But kids, that's just how it turns out some nights. Lame, but true.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-64472595913864652262008-12-09T10:06:00.007-07:002009-06-16T22:11:27.474-06:00Oxford American's 10th Southern Music Issue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://nang7.odvf5.servertrust.com/v/vspfiles/photos/Issue%2063-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 150px;" src="http://nang7.odvf5.servertrust.com/v/vspfiles/photos/Issue%2063-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Yesterday I opened the mail and found this image of a grinning Jerry Lee Lewis standing there, donning a baby blue plaid suit, spectacularly white shoes against vivid red shag carpet and drapes. I grinned back. I was holding my copy of the new <a href="http://www.oxfordamericanmag.com/">Oxford American</a> magazine. I generally don't get too excited these days, much less over a magazine. But as I pulled the new OA out of its plastic wrapper I felt like a kid opening a pogo stick shaped birthday present. (I always wanted a pogo stick but never got one.) At that moment, I truly felt truth in the hackneyed saying: "it's the little things that matter."<br /><br />Now, any issue of the Oxford American magazine is a treat for me, but this one particular issue each year is my very favourite. It is the MUSIC ISSUE. If you are already familiar with the past OA sampler discs, you know what I'm talking about. If not, lemme let you in on a treat.<br /><br />The annual OA music issue is the best mix-tape you'll get all year. Especially if you have more than a passing interest in Southern and Southern-inspired music. Even in these internet days of it being easy to find just about anything you can name, when you don't have to dig through dusty record bins and endure cooler-than-you store clerks, you'd likely still not come up with this comprehensive a collection of tunes. Many of the tunes are cooler than one might expect at first glance. Some of them might not even like at first, but many of them grow on you and get down in the recesses of your brain, maybe evoking something you might've heard, or maybe just dreamed. The songs span from 1928 to 2008. From Blind Willie McTell to Richard Hell, The Residents and the Hampton Grease Band, Alabama Sacred Harp Singers, Big Star and Jerry Lee Lewis. And, as they say, <span style="font-style: italic;">so</span> much more.<br /><br />This issue, being their 10th anniversary, the folks at Oxford American have treated us to a double CD with 28 songs on each, and there's not a dud among them. I'm sure of this because I've just listened through it twice even though it's been less than a day since I peeled the cellophane off. Some of the songs, naturally, you'll like more than others, but all are worth a listen. Some of the stuff I can near to guarantee that you've not heard before. Not even on the coolest Radio 1190 show or whatever nifty little indie radio station you happen to have within your airwaves. Then, mixed in with the obscure is the relief of some familiar favourites like Lucinda Williams, Neko Case and R.E.M.<br /><br />And, as if the discs weren't enough, there's the magazine! Some of the best music writers around (and I say that in true sincerity as I really don't like much music writing anymore) treat us to some genuine, smart and funny writing on the artists. I forget it's music writing. I've just started Jack Pendarvis' article on Neko Case and maybe it's not <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> funny, but I've already laughed my stomach muscles sore.<br /><br />Just when I was falling into a numb, music-saturated, oh so sick of all the peripheral static of keeping up with a music scene and all its neurotic stuff phase, just when all I craved was silence, the Oxford American leaned over the muddy waters with a steady hand to pull me out.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-86339515875462022802008-11-17T11:58:00.004-07:002009-04-02T11:58:37.422-06:00Resurrection of the Elvis Tent RevivalOr, this is how we do things in Kentucky.<br /><br />I am so happy to see my all-time favorite public access offering back up for public viewing (albeit now in ten parts.) These folks here are some old friends of mine from back in the day in Lexington. It's from them and some others that I learned all about punk rock shows at the VFW and the community center, skating, 'zines, and making your own damn fun. It's pure fun for me to watch this stuff again.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ilmWJ9f9Alc&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ilmWJ9f9Alc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Thanks to <a href="http://www.64mm.com/">64mm</a> Chris for resurrecting this video and stuff.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-51852631349799921162008-11-13T22:05:00.005-07:002008-11-13T22:54:25.624-07:00This ain't no Little Miss SunshineBut it <span style="font-style:italic;">is </span>a Denver band doing the film scoring thing.<br /><br />I am really looking forward to hearing what <a href="http://www.myspace.com/badluckcity">Bad Luck City</a> came up with for the what has to be some of the most elaborate and terrifying clay animation films I've ever seen. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.denverfilm.org/_uploaded/image/film/casl_616762.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 54px;" src="http://www.denverfilm.org/_uploaded/image/film/casl_616762.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> Saturday 15 November 2008, 2:45 pm, I will be at the STARZ Film Center to see <a href="http://www.denverfilm.org/filmcenter/detail.aspx?id=22332">An Evening with Bruce Bickford</a>. One of the films, CAS'L', runs as a silent film and will feature live musical scoring from Bad Luck City. Dark music--played in the dark. <br /><br />If 2:45 pm is too early in the day for you, they'll do it all again on Sunday at 9:45 pm. <br /><br />I may just go to both.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.brucebickford.com/images/screenshots/feats-clay-0.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 250px;" src="http://www.brucebickford.com/images/screenshots/feats-clay-0.png" border="0" alt="" /></a>Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-83139018911088519052008-09-27T16:53:00.005-06:002009-05-28T21:53:17.616-06:00show review: Nick Cave and the Bad SeedsDisclaimer: It's nearly false notice to title this post as a show review, because I don't feel like this is going to turn out like one. But here goes.<br /><br />Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds<br />Bambi Lee Savage<br />Ogden Theatre<br />Denver, Colorado<br />26 September 2008<br /><br />I like Nick Cave's music. Quite a lot. But still, I wouldn't call myself a super-fan. I can't recite his catalogue like I can my honest faves. But in spite of my Nick Cave ignorance, I appreciated that I was in for a treat on this September evening. Though I don't know the names of but a few of the songs, I definitely recognize that voice when I hear it. And I dig those songs. But my copy of <span style="font-style: italic;">Best of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds</span> has sufficed as almost enough Nick Cave for me. That's just how it is. So super Nick Cave fans, judging from my little contact with y'all last night, unless you are a friend of mine curious what I thought of the show, you're probably just going to get annoyed at my ignorance. You are warned.<br /><br />The Ogden was packed to capacity. And where I was standing, actually over capacity. It was a sweaty energetic crowd who knew these songs by heart. It was overwhelming, both from the emotion of the crowd and the heat. I thought I might faint.<br /><br />Not having heard but one song off the newest release, <span style="font-style: italic;">Dig Lazarus Dig</span>, I reckoned I wouldn't recognize many songs, but it seemed like about half to more of them are on my best-of disc.<br /><br />I had heard that there was a problem with their gear making it from Seattle to Denver and that the band had to rent near to all their gear for the show. That seems like it'd have to rattle anybody, but the Bad Seeds are truly professionals. I wouldn't have known there was a problem. Except for Nick Cave's temper tantrum over some monitor problem where he apparently couldn't hear the keyboard he was playing. So he kicked it over. Tech guys scrambled and ducked glares and what not from Mr. Cave. One might surmise it was simply rock n roll dramatics, but even if this was the case, it was a fine performance. From inviting a call-and-response session of singing with the crowd to the artful arrangement of the set list, Nick Cave knows what his crowd will appreciate. And I always appreciate a good performance.<br /><br />Bambi Lee Savage and her backing band for the evening, Denver's own o.g. line-up of Red Cloud West, gave an enjoyable and solid performance. You might know that I am more than a bit biased here, but I'll try to keep it objective. There were some vocal Bambi Lee and Red Cloud fans giving a few shout outs, many recognizing the Bambi Lee Savage song from the <span style="font-style: italic;">Slingblade</span> soundtrack, and others recognizing a Red Cloud song (sung as a pretty duet between Ross Etherton and BLS,) but truth is, much of the crowd was antsy to see Nick Cave, and no opening band could really make those folks happy.<br /><br />By the end of the evening, I'd decided a couple things. I was really glad to have been at the show. All the way through. It had that feeling of one that I'd be sorry I had missed if I hadn't gone (like PJ Harvey, or John Cale, or Daniel Johnston, or... well you know the type of show I mean.) And two, the energy of these die-hard Nick Cave fans, paired with the energy of the performance has spurred me to give more of the Nick Cave catalogue a closer listen. And that's a longer list of stuff to look forward to. Which is why I keep listening.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-35159571593372223602008-09-06T15:49:00.006-06:002008-09-06T16:52:01.706-06:00The Future is Unwritten<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sofacinema.co.uk/guardian/images/products/9/87909-small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px;" src="http://www.sofacinema.co.uk/guardian/images/products/9/87909-small.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />I heard a little snippet of the new Joe Strummer documentary on Radio 1190 a couple weeks ago and upon hearing the sound of Joe Strummer’s confident and sharply honest voice I set the movie near the top of my Netflix queue. To tell the truth, lately I haven't wanted to listen to anything. The deadening of music has been creeping up on me little by little for months and it is a truly terrible loss. Always, at my lowest times, I’ve been able to turn my ear to music and feel alive again. Not so lately. I haven’t felt alive at all. And music has been no help. Even music I love and have turned to before sounds drowned by the imitations that followed them. When I listen, it sounds wrung out and tired and I have to turn it off. Nothing new fires up my senses either. It’s all deadening. With no input that can make me feel confident I am really alive, I've had no fuel for output. Writing has been out of the question. <br /><br />So, last night, with only half the heart I would’ve had in the past, I sat down to watch <span style="font-style:italic;">The Future is Unwritten</span>. And I almost remembered how it felt when I first discovered the Clash. For me it’s a very fuzzy deal pulling memory from over twenty years ago. I forget things. But I should remember this. The Clash, and especially Joe Strummer made my life feel livable at a time when I didn’t think that could ever happen. Better than that, listening to The Clash, following along lyrics written on album sleeves, I felt that some things mattered, and mattered a whole lot. I knew I existed because I could feel it and was unshakably confident in that. It’s one of the few times I’ve ever held that sort of confidence. That confidence may have been a bit borrowed from how I perceived Joe Strummer, and how I tried to imitate him at that time, (wish I still had a picture from those days) but somehow it felt more real than mere copying. It felt like recognition of something I knew was true, and how I wanted to be. I wasn’t looking up to Strummer because he was cool (he <span style="font-style:italic;">was</span> but that was not the common sentiment at Christ the King or Tates Creek, places where I went to school at that time—I assure you quite the contrary.) Joe Strummer was cool to me because he was the real deal. Things he said resonated with a vital-ness and truthfulness that registered in every sense I had. <br /><br />Now I know, obviously, I was hardly the only kid being inspired by the Clash. Books and reissued discs with copious essays in the liner notes abound. The people they've inspired could populate a large metropolis. Even people who don't care too much one way or the other about the Clash recognize "the only band that matters." But back when <span style="font-style:italic;">London Calling</span> came out and I was playing it over and over, I was unaware of so many other listeners and was astounded when I met someone who had even heard of the Clash (this is what it was like growing up in Kentucky.) The few times I did meet a fellow Clash fan it was an instant recognition of a like-minded friend. I guess <span style="font-style:italic;">Combat Rock</span> changed that. Not that it was the band's fault but after that record The Clash, the band began to be lost to The Clash, the product. I guess both exist, but the documentary I can't help but at least partially see as just another way to profit off a bit of history that's bound to sell. Watching it didn’t change and recharge my life, but it did stir a memory and remind me that, yes, those things can happen. Life can be shaken and you can really feel alive. Especially if you weather the downs and keep listening, and reading, and paying attention. Don’t shut off the input, and eventually something will fire.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-31229426500809450302008-08-15T12:13:00.008-06:002008-08-15T21:57:53.131-06:00Fate and FavouritesAs some of you may have noticed, I am continually suggesting shows I reckon to be worth the while to attend over at <a href="http://www.godonnybrook.com">The Donnybrook Writing Academy's </a>regular Friday feature The Problem of Leisure. My favourites tend to appear a lot, but since the folks running things over there haven't complained about my continual recommendations of Bad Luck City, Bad Weather California, Bela Karoli, Overcasters, and Porlolo, I will keep recommending them, as I deem apt. <br /><br />This week was no exception:<br /><br /><blockquote>The Truth: The Mercury Cafe. <br />Porlolo, Joseph Pope III and Ian Cooke. 9 PM<br /><br />I’ve never been to the Mercury Cafe. I realize that might be hard to believe. This place has been around longer than many interesting Denver places and it’s often talked about by an eclectic and large set of people. One look at it’s calendar will evidence that this is an involved and community-minded place. And you can eat very healthy sounding food there too. So, why wouldn’t I have been there at least once? I can’t explain.<br /><br />The eternally hip Radio 1190 presents an all-ages show at the Merc this Saturday. That means youngsters can come. The always lovely Porlolo, the ever charming Ian Cooke and the equally endearing Joseph Pope III will all perform. And it is only $7. I am tempted to ferry myself and my little entourage over there for a listen. According to the calendar, if you get there too early you’ll run into a Green Party benefit…is Ralph Nader really still running for president?</blockquote><br /><br />I thought this would be a good show to take the kids to, they love Porlolo and Ian Cooke and I think they'd like Joe Pope's music too. But then I remembered that $7 means <span style="font-style:italic;">per person</span>. With my little entourage, that gets outta my current budget for an evening. So I decided, well, I guess not. But then, fatefully, my rental car wouldn't start. Why fatefully? And what does that have to do with the show? I'll tell you. <br /><br />This is the story of how I got stuck in a Chevy Cobalt listening to Radio 1190 late Thursday morning and ended up with a plus one to the show. <br /><br />Wednesday I took my none-so-gold-as-mine minivan for a major tune up. I was overdue. Oh, I mentioned, could you check the brakes? They seem a little off. I guess that happens when all the brake fluid has drained out of the rear drums. They weren't working at all the auto repair place told me. Oh and the transmission solenoid is leaking. And the front axle something. And something, something. I couldn't take listening anymore than to find out I could get it all fixed for a little under 2K. But, they would put me in a rental car for the next day no charge. Okay. That's how I got the Chevy Cobalt. It was the only car they had. <br /><br />Besides feeling a little like the Yugo I learned to drive manual in, it was okay. At least it was getting me around to places I needed to go. Until I was in the parking lot of that assisted living center, needing to get to a lunch appointment. The key wouldn't turn. I called the rental place and they said, um, yeah that's happened before. Try jiggling the steering wheel. Do you have your foot on the brake? Take the key out and put it back in. No? Jiggle the wheel again. Near to ten minutes of this in the sun, and finally it starts. And at that very moment the dj was giving away tickets to the show. Third caller. I called. You are the second caller. Oh no I said. But you can call back he said. So I did. And I won. Now I only have two tickets to pay for and that is much better. <br /><br />As for that Cobalt...when I got home, the key wouldn't turn again and all the jiggling and finessing of the key was for naught. I had to call the rental car travel club rescue service. The tow truck driver tries the same to the same effect and says, Oh, I know how to fix this. He jogs back to his truck and comes back with a hammer, smiling, It just needs a little TLC. My eyes bugged out as he starts hammering on the key in the ignition. And you know what? Yeah, it fixed it.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-1527409370969192762008-08-06T21:36:00.002-06:002008-08-06T21:49:32.736-06:00cd release: Blue Million Miles<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://a732.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/m_3d9132441bb21d1c12c42f0ebae16573.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px;" src="http://a732.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/m_3d9132441bb21d1c12c42f0ebae16573.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Blue Million Miles cd release this Saturday 9 August 2008 at the <a href="http://www.hi-dive.com">Hi-Dive </a>in Denver. <br /><br />Each time I listen to <a href="http://www.myspace.com/bluemillionmiles">Blue Million Miles</a>, I appreciate them even more. One part dream-like, one part driving, they kind of creep into your memory and stick. And you're not sorry for the invasion. There are a few Denver bands I've actually felt relieved to find out they were definitely recording their songs, so no matter what happens, they'll always be there for another listen. Friday, I'll be in line to get my own copy of Blue Million Miles newest release, Of Building Walls. And as if that weren't enough reason to get to the show, the fabulously amazing <a href="http://www.myspace.com/badluckcity">Bad Luck City</a> and consistently spectacular, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/theovercasters">The Overcasters</a>, will both be playing too. I'd not miss it.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-50645162241242067672008-08-03T19:27:00.007-06:002008-08-03T19:54:35.394-06:00dpums 2008: a couple listsToo tired to write in sentences. Mostly. So, lists:<br /><br />Who I managed to see at least some, and in some cases, all of:<br /><br />American Relay. Reverend Deadeye. Bad Weather California. Overcasters. Bad Luck City. Orangu-tones. Rachel Pollard. Jason Cain. Aaron Collins. Ellison Park, George Inai, Blue Light. Joseph Pope III. Andy Tanner. Married in Berdichev. Andrea Ball, Jen Korte, Jack Redell. Cowboy Curse. Hearts of Palm. Bela Karoli. Hot IQs. Porlolo. And a few others bits here and there walking up and down Broadway. I didn't get to listen to everything I wanted to hear, but I listened to all I was able.<br /><br /><br />Some of the worst parts:<br /><br />People talking louder than Porlolo’s set in the Skylark,<br />then the jukebox starting up.<br />Sketchy sound systems.<br />House music playing at Blue Ice during Cowboy Curse,<br />and American idol on a wide screen TV.<br />Trying to see two bands at once.<br />Not trying to see two bands at once.<br />Leaving in the middle of a set.<br />Just missing someone you really wanted to see.<br />Griping about this stuff.<br />Blisters on feet.<br />Being hungry and thirsty.<br />The hot hot sun.<br />Sitting on the itchy grass.<br />Forgetting to bring earplugs for the kids.<br />Being overwhelmed and overtired.<br />Sweaty and over-packed Hi-Dive.<br /><br />Some of the best parts:<br /><br />I hate being packed in, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the show.<br />Friday night, appreciating what a great club the 3 Kings Tavern is.<br />The Overcasters and Bad Luck City back to back.<br />Not being able to stop smiling.<br />All those fabulous all-ages venues.<br />Being able to bring my kids Saturday.<br />My kids thanking me (so much) for taking them.<br />The people who stopped chatting and started listening to Porlolo.<br />Roger Green learning a Porlolo song on the stage,<br />and it still sounding amazing.<br />Cowboy Curse playing a great set in spite of the club.<br />Listening.<br />My daughter napping on a stack of carpets<br />Mellow singer/songwriter round sets.<br />Volunteering. Really.<br />Just the right-sized outdoor stage.<br />Nathaniel Rateliff pushing his gear around in a K-mart shopping cart.<br />Cold drinks.<br />Aaron Collins child-like-playful solo performance in Rock the Cradle.<br />Marching my children into the Skylark to hear Porlolo <br />and nobody stopping us.<br />Inviting people who don’t usually come out to the shows <br />and seeing them there.<br />So many creative and diversely talented folks doing their stuff.<br />Feeding my kids those yummy Sputnik french fries <br />one order sweet, one order white.)<br />Feeling the genuine and impossible-to-fabricate good-will vibe.<br />All the cool stuff I actually caught.<br />Realizing some festivals are not so bad.<br />And all this in Denver.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-397938594139070852008-07-25T10:01:00.002-06:002008-07-25T10:03:14.109-06:00show review: Porlolo cd Release!Porlolo CD release party with: Bad Weather California, Wentworth Kersey, Sorellina and the dancing Team Firefox.<br />Friday 18 July 2008, Hi-Dive, Denver<br /><br />by Linda Ruth Carter<br /><br />Cd release shows are always hold a little more excitement than any other. It’s kind of like a birthday celebration. (New songs are born and here’s this shiny document to prove it.) Friday at the Hi-Dive was definitely a celebration of Porlolo’s second full length release, Meadows. <br /><br />This show was fun. If you read no further, just know that much is true. I’ve not kept it a secret that Porlolo is one of my all-time favorites, inside or outside of Denver, and I’ve been looking forward to the release of this cd for the past year or so, ever since I started hearing the first versions of the songs on it being performed. And Friday I got to be there.<br /><br />As the rainbow unicorn cake on the merchandise table read: Porlolo believes in you. And from the people spilling in the door of the Hi-Dive, lots of people believe in Porlolo too. Present were not only the usual crowd of Hi-Dive regulars, but people who’d made a four hour drive from Gunnison just to be there.<br /><br />Opening the evening was Sorellina, who is the Anna half of the duo cellists of Matson Jones. Though I couldn’t make out a great deal of the lyrics, I’d characterize Sorellina’s songs as being of the feminine singer-songwriter sort. Even the buzzy and a little too bright sound of a cello turned up loud at the Hi-Dive couldn’t hide that this girl has a lovely voice, and can play that cello to pieces. I’d like to hear her in a place where the sound is more conducive to what she is doing, but I was glad for the introduction.<br /><br />Next up was the eight member dance troupe known as Team Firefox. Donning spandex, leg warmers, and glow sticks as necklaces, bracelets and anklets, Team Firefox danced a coordinated choreographed number to “Never Let Me Down” by Depeche Mode. The stage was too small for this performance so they used the whole floor from the half-wall back to the wall and from the stage almost back to the little stage in the rear. It was fun to watch, though I had to stand on a chair to see. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like it in the Hi-Dive. I mean, they were really dancing. But they had the crowd watching, smiling, clapping, and perhaps trying to remember some of those dance moves too. <br /><br />With smiles on faces from the cheerful dancing, next came the debut of Wentworth Kersey. I was one of the fortunate early kids to get a copy of their disc along with my new Porlolo (and a copy of Roger Green’s newest too.) Pretty awesome. <br /><br />If Wentworth Kersey sounds oddly familiar for a debut band, it should. This is the musical project of Joe Kersey Sampson (A Dog Paloma) and Jeffrey Wentworth Stevens (George and Caplin) and if you like either or both of these people’s prior musical releases, you will likely dig this new collaborative set of songs. I did. After a couple songs Wentworth Kersey retired from the stage and joined the crowd to listen to featured band of the evening.<br /><br />Porlolo said they chose to go on before Bad Weather California so they could sit back afterwards and enjoy hearing their friends play. Having heard a few of the pre-released songs off Meadows already, people were already calling out requests, many of them for “Animals” an extraordinarily catchy poppy sounding song sung with the saddest most tear-jerking lyrics, simultaneously hitting your emotions in two places at once. It’s fabulous.<br /><br />No two times I can recall have I seen the exact same set of musicians accompanying Erin Roberts, though I believe I’ve seen her solo more than once. The cast of supporting players have many amazing repeat performers and whomever of her friends that accompany, I’ve always heard an enjoyable set. Whatever the line-up, the songs always seem to sound just right. On this night, accompanying Erin were: the overall-wearing guitar-sorcerer Roger Green; the ever consistent and copacetic drummer, Xandy Whitesel; the lovely and heart-stirring stringed sounds of Bela Karoli: Julie Davis on upright bass and Carrie Beeder on violin; and the talented songstress Kate Magnus (Placerville) on guitar, electric bass, and a hand-held keyboard. They played a few songs from Storm and Season, but mostly performed a nice long set of songs from Meadows. Song after song, the listeners smiled and cheered. Did I already say it was fun? I’m writing these words two days later and I’m still smiling thinking about it all.<br /><br />Bad Weather California took the stage to send off the night. Chris Adolf is another Denver songwriter that has been known to take the stage either solo or with a different arrangement of musicians from show to show, but for some time now he’s had the stable line-up of Xandy Whitesel, Joe Sampson and Adam Baumeister making Bad Weather California an identifiable group. But things haven’t gotten stuck in any rut. Indeed there is always a vibe of unpredictability with a Bad Weather California performance. Lyrics are elastic and verses change from show to show, like the songs have a life of their own and have to be wrangled somehow to get them out in the air. But the chorus is familiar enough that the crowd is often chanting along in communal song. That might sound corny if you haven’t been there, but it is pure fun. Believe it.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-41173403082137077862008-07-13T22:38:00.006-06:002008-07-15T22:29:27.085-06:00Top Twenty?In spite of my skepticism about the relevance of polls, I recognize they've got their place. They tell a little bit of the story, though nowhere near the whole thing, and if we keep that perspective, it can be some fun. One good thing the <a href="http://www.dpums.com">DPUMS</a> (and other best-of events like the Westword showcase) does is give a concrete occasion to mark and celebrate a portion of the great sounds around town. I really love some of the music being made in this town, and I try to listen to as much of it as I can make time to hear. Being asked to play a little part in this celebration makes me glad.<br /><br />So, I got my ballot yesterday, and with only three days before it was due, I looked at the alphabetical list of local bands, then set about the work of making my own top twenty. I scanned the list, subtracting bands I knew to be broken up, noting my inability to make judgment on bands that I had yet to hear from and adding a couple for consideration that weren't on the list. Coming up with a ranked list of twenty local bands is a challenge. And truthfully, the unavoidable arbitrariness involved in deciding who is at number six versus seven or even seventeen, makes it less than satisfying work. I needed some guidelines. And since none were explicitly given, I made up my own. This turned out to be the best part of putting together the list. <br /><br />My guiding factors in voting on my choices for the DPUMS:<br /><br />1. I have heard them play. Should be obvious, but can't say how many times I've heard someone give an "opinion" about stuff they clearly haven't really listened to but are mimicking what's been said by others. In most cases I've seen each of these bands/artists at least once live and in all cases I've listened even more times to stuff they've recorded.<br /><br />2. Pleasure. Simply, I enjoy listening to the band. Subjective? Yes. But that's what a personal opinion is: confidence without proof. And it's a place to start.<br /><br />3. Talent. This really is another obvious one, but still an important factor. They've got to know how to play their instruments. <br /><br />4. Genuineness. Sincerity is tough to judge and near impossible to prove, but when I recognize it, I'm confident in my judgment. Soul-less sounds soon wear thin. But when the band really means it--you can feel it is substantial. The real thing, as they say.<br /><br />5. Distinctiveness. Originality is where judgment gets less subjective although is limited by what I'm familiar with. I haven't heard everything out there, and I never will, but I believe I've listened to enough to have an inkling. Many songs sound the same and many bands wear their influences on their sleeve. This isn't bad. It's a place to start. But it's magical when artists take their influences, integrate it into their own work and truly make it a new work. It becomes theirs, not a knock-off or imitation. Listeners can tell.<br /><br />6. Hard-working. If the task is to rank the best of the past year, in my opinion, the band has to have played out a bit: either locally or even toured outside Denver, or perhaps they've spent time recording and releasing their music. Even if I liked what they did two years ago, if they haven't played out or released anything recently, and especially if I know they are already disbanded I decided I shouldn't be able to vote them at the top of a 2008 poll. Ditto for promising new bands that haven't played enough for me to form a substantial opinion on yet.<br /><br />7. My boyfriend is not in the band. To avoid the presumption of a conflict of interest, I am not voting for Bad Luck City or Overcasters. Even though they are two of my favorites, for the reasons listed above, not just because of my affection for someone in them. <br /><br />The showcase has been a fun time the past two years I've attended. <br />I expect this year will be too.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-34091150402823383832008-07-04T10:42:00.006-06:002009-04-09T10:24:12.796-06:00show review: Moonspeed, The Wheel, Ross Ethertonreposted from the notorious <a href="http://godonnybrook.com/home/?p=957">Donnybrook Writing Academy</a>:<br /><br />Show Reviews | Moonspeed<br />By The Truth • Jun 30th, 2008 • Category: Headlines from the Manor, Show Reviews<br /><br />Show Review: Moonspeed, The Wheel, Ross Etherton<br />Saturday 28 June 2008 at the Hi-Dive, Denver<br />by Linda Ruth Carter<br />Photos by Laurie Scavo<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//moondspeed1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//moondspeed1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The up-side of having established a musical reputation in town is that you can fill the place up with your new band’s public debut. The down-side, well, hang with me and we’ll get to that.<br /><br />I was pretty excited about Saturday’s show for a number of reasons. One, there was no shortage of talented people scheduled to take the stage. Two, Denver being the relatively small musical scene that it is, I’ve become friends with many of these people and it’s always nice to see them. Three, two out of the three acts scheduled to perform would mostly be playing stuff I’d not heard before. And four, the thematically unified line-up (in that all three acts have a considerable reputation with their other bands preceding them,) promised to provide an interesting dynamic to the evening.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//ross1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//ross1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Walking around outside before the show we caught Ross Etherton in the parking lot behind the Hi-Dive, on the porch of the Theater on Broadway, rehearsing, writing down some last minute lyrics and figuring out his set list. It felt a privilege, getting that exclusive and personal preview, seeing him fuss over what songs he should play. And later, inside, Etherton brought that same inclusiveness and friendliness onto the stage, sharing stories about the songs with all who were listening. Then I felt twice-privileged. Some songs were familiar old favorites to Red Cloud West fans. Other songs, like the endearing lullaby for his new baby girl, are gems that surely will shine all the more with time and the polish of more performances. I’m looking forward to listening.<br /><br />The Wheel, I’ve probably seen at least half a dozen times by now, either by himself, or with the accompaniment of violin and keyboard. The songs are beautiful in either incarnation and although by now I know to expect it, the first couple songs I’m still blown away by what a great voice and sense of delivery Rateliff brings. The songs feel like they have a strong sense of central character and I find myself listening carefully for the story. Perhaps I should listen more lightly next time though because after about four songs, I’m tired. Like when I pile my plate high with good food, eat too much and feel overstuffed and sleepy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//nathaniel.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://godonnybrook.com/home/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images//nathaniel.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Moonspeed got all eleven members settled on stage, seated in a kind of orchestral manner. I’m sorry I don’t have everyone’s last names but here’s how it looked: The two drummers, James and Kit were mirrored in the back and flanked on either side by the synthesizers: Darren to the left, Shannon Stein to the right. Stage left featured the three guitarists, I believe it was Ryan, Jim and Matthew on two acoustic and one electric. Stage right sat Adam on bass, and in front of Shannon, Hayley Helmerick on melodica and Doug Spencer on various percussive elements: tambourine, triangles and wind chimes. Center of it all sat Jeff Suthers on vocals and guitar with his signature sounding trade secret pedals. But what did Moonspeed sound like? Not surprisingly, big. And the sound man (I think it might’ve been Xandy) deserves a medal for making everyone clear and audible.<br /><br />Definitely, Moonspeed wears the influences of bands cited on their Myspace like My Bloody Valentine and Angels of Light. And while Moonspeed is not exactly blazing any new musical trails, they do seem to be having a good time making their own trip down the road, and gauging from the crowd of listeners I witnessed, it would seem they’ve got a good number of fans happy to follow them.<br /><br />And now we get around to the down-side of the debut: it’s difficult to not bring Bright Channel performance expectations to the show. I tried to keep in mind that this was Moonspeed’s public debut, and though they didn’t quite have the tightly crafted delivery of oft-rehearsed songs, everybody onstage did remarkably very well listening to each other and keeping things woven together pretty well, if a little loosely. Should be a good time keeping up with where it all goes.<br /><br />Tagged as: , Angels of Light, Bright Channel, Hi-Dive, Monofog, Moonspeed, My Bloody Valentine, Nathaniel Rateliff, Red Cloud West, Ross Etherton, The WheelTruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299366878040884484.post-27204842139186307752008-05-27T21:31:00.007-06:002008-05-27T22:36:31.355-06:00I'd love to see The Breeders...againI would. I loved that band.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:rbuepcJpFyXnUM:http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51S1RpFoHHL._SL500_AA240_.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 9px 9px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px;" src="http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:rbuepcJpFyXnUM:http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51S1RpFoHHL._SL500_AA240_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>But I probably won't make it. I don't have a ticket, my bank account is negative until Thursday, I found out today that the IRS is after me so I must find an accountant to help me respond, and my parenting obligations for tomorrow include watching the youngest perform "Hot Cross Buns" on the accordion at school (very cute), taking the middle child to violin lessons (highlight of her week) and then attending an academic awards ceremony where my eldest child be lauded for his, well, academic skills and stuff. It doesn't take a fortune teller to predict, come evening time, I will be very tired.<br /><br />Even so, maybe I will still find a way. I've got reasons.<br /><br />I always liked the Breeders back in the day, in all their various line ups. When <span style="font-style:italic;">Pod</span> came out I remember it striking me as really cool to have both Kim Deal and Tanya Donnelly in a band together because I really liked both the Pixies and Throwing Muses. It's harder to imagine now, but there still weren't all that many girls in popular bands at that time, even "alternative" bands. And hardly any good bands were all girls. I noted Albini producing and still crack up at hearing him in the background asking "Josephine [Wiggs] do you think you are going bald?" and talking about the weather or some nonsense. But mostly, I stuck with The Breeders as a fan because their songs were catchy, fun and good. I still play those records sometimes. I sing along with them when nobody is listening. They have me wishing I had the aptitude to write songs, discontent to just write <span style="font-style:italic;">about</span> songs. <br /><br />And I actually did see The Breeders live once before. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:swsj0oGJpEm0GM:http://www.cbc.ca/arts/images/arts_breeders2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 8px 8px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px;" src="http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:swsj0oGJpEm0GM:http://www.cbc.ca/arts/images/arts_breeders2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>It was probably one of the most surreal shows I attended and still can recall. They were opening up for Nirvana at the Lakeland Civic Center in Lakeland, Florida. I believe it was 1993. I went to the show with my niece Kelley and two guys. I generally detest shows of arena size, but this seemed like one not to miss, even at the time. When The Breeders hit the stage, Kim Deal was clearly pissed off. They started sans Kelley Deal. Kim explained to the audience that they had "lost" her in Miami and left without her. Well, they started off and before a couple songs had passed Kelley comes wobbling on stage in a bright red skirt-suit and heels and plugs in and starts playing. From across the arena you could clearly see that Kim looked disgusted. My niece and I couldn't figure out if this was staged shenanigans or some genuine rock-n-roll moment. It was...odd. Anyway, one of the best rock-show moments I've witnessed was later when Pat Smear (who was touring with Nirvana) comes out wearing Kelley's red suit, and heels, and proceeds to rock out and save the show from being a total curmudgeon contest between Cobain and Deal. It's still kinda hard for me to recall how obviously miserable the guy was, and how oblivious so many people around me were to that. <br /><br />So. Even not having had a chance yet to hear the newest effort under The Breeders moniker, not having heard whether there are better motivations and substance behind with reunion tour compared to some other reunion tour I've seen some people on...I still want to go.Truthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17528727841790377090noreply@blogger.com1