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MMR-B-Q 2012 Live Updates and Review
We have you covered for the 2012 MMR-B-Q kick off to summer concert. The MMR-B-Q is Philadelphia's unofficial kick off to the summer concert series. The radio station WMMR would like you to think the concert series begins tonight, but in reality it began LAST NIGHT with Lady Antebellum.
The bill this year is fairly solid with Adelitas Way, Halestorm, Steel Panther, Slash with Myles Kennedy, Shinedown and Godsmack. The troupe of reporters we sent to the show decided to tailgate (Philly style) instead of checking out Adelitas Way and Halestorm. They arrived just in time to see Steel Panther. I will update this post throughout the night, so keep checking back for full reviews of each of the remaining bands (Steel Panther, Slash with Myles Kennedy, Shinedown, and Godsmack).
Steel Panther: (5:35pm - 6:10pm)
Steel Panther played for a solid 30 minutes and played only songs off their records. They did NO cover songs, which shocked most of the audience. A local WMMR personality came out to play drums during one of the songs (Eatin' Ain't Cheatin') and received the loudest pop (yea wrestling term) of the day.
The Panther opened with Eyes of a Panther and powered through songs like Community Property and 17 Girls in a Row. They still had their trademarked humor and translated well to the larger stage. Here are Lars Wettner's thoughts on their performance.
The bill this year is fairly solid with Adelitas Way, Halestorm, Steel Panther, Slash with Myles Kennedy, Shinedown and Godsmack. The troupe of reporters we sent to the show decided to tailgate (Philly style) instead of checking out Adelitas Way and Halestorm. They arrived just in time to see Steel Panther. I will update this post throughout the night, so keep checking back for full reviews of each of the remaining bands (
Steel Panther: (5:35pm - 6:10pm)
Steel Panther played for a solid 30 minutes and played only songs off their records. They did NO cover songs, which shocked most of the audience. A local WMMR personality came out to play drums during one of the songs (Eatin' Ain't Cheatin') and received the loudest pop (yea wrestling term) of the day.
The Panther opened with Eyes of a Panther and powered through songs like Community Property and 17 Girls in a Row. They still had their trademarked humor and translated well to the larger stage. Here are Lars Wettner's thoughts on their performance.
Slash Walmart Series Online Now
It is a running joke on this site that Slash will do pretty much anything for money or to just play music. Now comes absolute proof he will do whatever and play whenever. It's with heavy heart I announce, the Slash's Walmart Soundcheck presented by Axe. Fuck, that just got written.
I can't really go on anymore. I feel like I am about to throw up. My body is achy, my ears are hot, my stomach is crunching up.....wretch...wretch...great now I am dry heaving. If you want more information about it (He does an interview and a few songs) watch it here.
I can't really go on anymore. I feel like I am about to throw up. My body is achy, my ears are hot, my stomach is crunching up.....wretch...wretch...great now I am dry heaving. If you want more information about it (He does an interview and a few songs) watch it here.
Van Halen Postpones 30 Dates
VAN HALEN, according to Pollstar.com, has postponed 30 tour dates. No word from the promoter on why the hell they postponed the dates. Anyone saying that they know why is lying.
Here are the affected dates. Again these dates have been postponed with no makeup date scheduled:
Jul. 07 - Uncasville, Ct., Mohegan Sun Arena
Jul. 09 - Hampton, Va., Hampton Coliseum
Jul. 11 - Philadelphia, Pa., Wells Fargo Center
Jul. 13 - East Rutherford, N.J., Izod Center
Jul. 15 - Baltimore, Md., 1st Mariner Arena
Jul. 17 - Rochester N.Y., Blue Cross Arena
Jul. 19 - Detroit, Mich., Joe Louis Arena
Jul. 21 - London, Ontario, John Labatt Centre
Jul. 24 - Toledo, Ohio, Huntington Center
Jul. 26 - Grand Rapids, Mich., Van Andel Arena
Jul. 28 - Cleveland, Ohio, Quicken Loans Arena
Jul. 31 - Fort Wayne, Ind., Allen County Memorial Coliseum
Aug. 02 - Columbus, Ohio, Schottenstein Center
Aug. 04 - Knoxville, Tenn., Thompson-Boiling Arena
Aug. 06 - Memphis, Tenn., FedEx Forum
Aug. 08 - Birmingham, Ala., BJCC Arena
Aug. 10 - Greenville, S.C., BI-LO Center
Aug. 12 - Cincinnati, Ohio, US Bank Arena
Aug. 21 - Spokane, Wash., Spokane Arena
Aug. 23 - Portland, Ore., Rose Garden
Aug. 25 - Sacramento, Calif.,Power Balance Pavilion
Aug. 28 - Fresno, Calif., Save Mart Center
Aug. 30 - Reno, Nev., Reno Events Center
Sep. 04 – Salt Lake City, Utah - EnergySolutions Arena
Sep. 08 - Albuquerque, N.M., Tingley Coliseum
Sep. 11 - El Paso, Texas, Don Haskins Center
Sep. 13 - Austin, Texas, Frank Erwin Center
Sep. 15 - Oklahoma City, Okla., Chesapeake Energy Arena
Sep. 17 - Wichita, Kan. – Intrust Bank Arena
Sep. 21 - Moline, Ill., Iwireless Center
Sep. 25 - Milwaukee, Wis., Bradley Center
Those tour dates are no longer listed on VAN HALEN's official website. A tour promoter in Utah is saying the dates will be made up at a future date. They are recommending fans keep the tickets and they will be valid for the future concert date.
I would assume if you wanted a refund, they would be obligated to give you one. While I am not sure WHY the dates in the summer were cancelled, I would recommend getting your money back. But I have a problem letting a ticket company or a promoter hold onto my money in the off chance a concert is made up. Especially with the contentious past between the band members and the health of Eddie. I am NOT saying that those two things are the reasons they have postponed dates. I do, however, feel that there was an aggressive tour schedule on their first leg and I was SHOCKED to see they added more summer dates. I would, if I had to guess, fatigue would be the governing cause of the postponements.
Here are the affected dates. Again these dates have been postponed with no makeup date scheduled:
Jul. 07 - Uncasville, Ct., Mohegan Sun Arena
Jul. 09 - Hampton, Va., Hampton Coliseum
Jul. 11 - Philadelphia, Pa., Wells Fargo Center
Jul. 13 - East Rutherford, N.J., Izod Center
Jul. 15 - Baltimore, Md., 1st Mariner Arena
Jul. 17 - Rochester N.Y., Blue Cross Arena
Jul. 19 - Detroit, Mich., Joe Louis Arena
Jul. 21 - London, Ontario, John Labatt Centre
Jul. 24 - Toledo, Ohio, Huntington Center
Jul. 26 - Grand Rapids, Mich., Van Andel Arena
Jul. 28 - Cleveland, Ohio, Quicken Loans Arena
Jul. 31 - Fort Wayne, Ind., Allen County Memorial Coliseum
Aug. 02 - Columbus, Ohio, Schottenstein Center
Aug. 04 - Knoxville, Tenn., Thompson-Boiling Arena
Aug. 06 - Memphis, Tenn., FedEx Forum
Aug. 08 - Birmingham, Ala., BJCC Arena
Aug. 10 - Greenville, S.C., BI-LO Center
Aug. 12 - Cincinnati, Ohio, US Bank Arena
Aug. 21 - Spokane, Wash., Spokane Arena
Aug. 23 - Portland, Ore., Rose Garden
Aug. 25 - Sacramento, Calif.,Power Balance Pavilion
Aug. 28 - Fresno, Calif., Save Mart Center
Aug. 30 - Reno, Nev., Reno Events Center
Sep. 04 – Salt Lake City, Utah - EnergySolutions Arena
Sep. 08 - Albuquerque, N.M., Tingley Coliseum
Sep. 11 - El Paso, Texas, Don Haskins Center
Sep. 13 - Austin, Texas, Frank Erwin Center
Sep. 15 - Oklahoma City, Okla., Chesapeake Energy Arena
Sep. 17 - Wichita, Kan. – Intrust Bank Arena
Sep. 21 - Moline, Ill., Iwireless Center
Sep. 25 - Milwaukee, Wis., Bradley Center
Those tour dates are no longer listed on VAN HALEN's official website. A tour promoter in Utah is saying the dates will be made up at a future date. They are recommending fans keep the tickets and they will be valid for the future concert date.
I would assume if you wanted a refund, they would be obligated to give you one. While I am not sure WHY the dates in the summer were cancelled, I would recommend getting your money back. But I have a problem letting a ticket company or a promoter hold onto my money in the off chance a concert is made up. Especially with the contentious past between the band members and the health of Eddie. I am NOT saying that those two things are the reasons they have postponed dates. I do, however, feel that there was an aggressive tour schedule on their first leg and I was SHOCKED to see they added more summer dates. I would, if I had to guess, fatigue would be the governing cause of the postponements.
Rocklahoma Set Times Announced
If you are heading to Rocklahoma, we have your set times and my thoughts on who you should go and see. Rocklahoma is the Memorial Day party in Pryor, Oklahoma. It has become a destination festival for metal heads, glam rockers, and jean head bangers. All congregate for a festival of over-priced food and rock music. Here are the set times. You will also find some of the bands bolded. Those are bands you should absolutely check out because they are awesome.
Thursday, May 24
AXiS Campground Stage Pre-Party
7:00 PM - Jamco Industries
8:00 PM - Delay the Day
9:00 PM - Baron Von Swagger
10:00 PM - Aformatic
11:00 PM - Back From Ashes
Midnight - TwoFold
1:00 AM - Tiranico
2:00 AM - Fist of Rage
Friday, May 25
Main Stage
4:25 PM - Adelitas Way
5:35 PM - Cavo
6:55 PM - Chevelle
8:30 PM - Slash
10:20 PM - Creed
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Beneath
5:00 PM - Janus
6:20 PM - Redlight King
7:55 PM - Red
9:35 PM - P.O.D.
Midnight - Eve To Adam
Retrospect Records Stage (Just hang out here on Friday)
3:10 PM - Sunset Riot
3:50 PM - Ragdoll
5:00 PM - S.E.X. Department
6:20 PM - Down N Dirty
7:55 PM - Hessler
9:35 PM - Pretty Little Suicide
11:35 PM - Wildstreet
12:30 AM - Lynam
1:20 AM - Fist of Rage
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Absence of Ink
1:00 PM - For The Broken
2:00 PM - Echo Fuzz
3:00 PM - Shotgun Rebels
11:00 PM - Soulicit
Midnight Rocker Lips
1:00 AM - Snew
2:00 AM - Mine Enemies Fall
Saturday, May 26
Main Stage
4:35 PM - Pop Evil
5:45 PM - 10 Years
7:05 PM - Theory of a Deadman
8:40 PM - Megadeth
10:30 PM - Rob Zombie
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Anti-Mortem
5:10 PM - New Medicine
6:30 PM - Trivium
8:05 PM - The Darkness
9:45 PM - Volbeat
Retrospect Records Stage
3:15 PM - Diemonds
4:00 PM - S.E.X. Department
5:10 PM - Switchblade Scarlett
6:30 PM - Ruff Justice
8:05 PM - Firstryke
9:45 PM - Lillian Axe
11:40 PM - On Fire
12:15 AM - The Glitter Boys
1:00 AM - Black Tora
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Villains Dance
1:00 PM - Stun
2:00 PM - Dagger
3:00 PM - Unwritten Rulz
11:00 PM - Drek
Midnight - A Good Fight
1:00 AM - Willie Basse
2:00 AM - Sweatin Bullets
Sunday, May 27
Main Stage
4:35 PM - Black Stone Cherry
5:45 PM - Puddle Of Mudd
7:10 PM - Jackyl
8:40 PM - Queensrÿche
10:30 PM - Chickenfoot
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Rains
5:10 PM - Charm City Devils
6:35 PM - Aranda
8:05 PM - Art of Dying
9:45 PM - Hellyeah
Midnight - Falling in Reverse
Retrospect Records Stage
3:15 PM - Fist of Rage
4:00 PM - Ragdoll
5:10 PM - Down N Dirty
6:35 PM - Sunset Riot
8:05 PM - Diemonds
9:45 PM - Black Tora
12:10 AM - The Glitter Boys
1:15 AM - Wildstreet
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Desi and Cody
1:00 PM - David Castro Band
2:00 PM - The Hawkeyes
3:00 PM - We The Ghost
11:00 PM - Through the Thorns
Three-day general admission tickets are available now for only $150 plus fees and 3-day VIP tickets can be purchased for $380 plus fees. Single day tickets are currently priced as follows: Friday ($60 plus fees), Saturday ($70 plus fees) and Sunday ($60 plus fees).
Beginning Monday, May 21 at 10:00 AM CT, 3-day general admission ticket prices will increase to $185 plus fees and 3-day VIP reserved tickets will increase to $400 plus fees. Single day tickets will increase to the following prices: Friday ($70 plus fees), Saturday ($80 plus fees) and Sunday ($70 plus fees).
The second paragraph doesn't make much sense to me. If I was wavering about going and couldn't really commit this week, I would be incentivized if the tickets DECREASED in price rather than INCREASE. But I have never put on a giant festival designed to rape people of their hard earned cash, so I have no room to talk here.
Thursday, May 24
AXiS Campground Stage Pre-Party
7:00 PM - Jamco Industries
8:00 PM - Delay the Day
9:00 PM - Baron Von Swagger
10:00 PM - Aformatic
11:00 PM - Back From Ashes
Midnight - TwoFold
1:00 AM - Tiranico
2:00 AM - Fist of Rage
Friday, May 25
Main Stage
4:25 PM - Adelitas Way
5:35 PM - Cavo
6:55 PM - Chevelle
8:30 PM - Slash
10:20 PM - Creed
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Beneath
5:00 PM - Janus
6:20 PM - Redlight King
7:55 PM - Red
9:35 PM - P.O.D.
Midnight - Eve To Adam
Retrospect Records Stage (Just hang out here on Friday)
3:10 PM - Sunset Riot
3:50 PM - Ragdoll
5:00 PM - S.E.X. Department
6:20 PM - Down N Dirty
7:55 PM - Hessler
9:35 PM - Pretty Little Suicide
11:35 PM - Wildstreet
12:30 AM - Lynam
1:20 AM - Fist of Rage
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Absence of Ink
1:00 PM - For The Broken
2:00 PM - Echo Fuzz
3:00 PM - Shotgun Rebels
11:00 PM - Soulicit
Midnight Rocker Lips
1:00 AM - Snew
2:00 AM - Mine Enemies Fall
Saturday, May 26
Main Stage
4:35 PM - Pop Evil
5:45 PM - 10 Years
7:05 PM - Theory of a Deadman
8:40 PM - Megadeth
10:30 PM - Rob Zombie
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Anti-Mortem
5:10 PM - New Medicine
6:30 PM - Trivium
8:05 PM - The Darkness
9:45 PM - Volbeat
Midnight - Otherwise
Retrospect Records Stage
3:15 PM - Diemonds
4:00 PM - S.E.X. Department
5:10 PM - Switchblade Scarlett
6:30 PM - Ruff Justice
8:05 PM - Firstryke
9:45 PM - Lillian Axe
11:40 PM - On Fire
12:15 AM - The Glitter Boys
1:00 AM - Black Tora
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Villains Dance
1:00 PM - Stun
2:00 PM - Dagger
3:00 PM - Unwritten Rulz
11:00 PM - Drek
Midnight - A Good Fight
1:00 AM - Willie Basse
2:00 AM - Sweatin Bullets
Sunday, May 27
Main Stage
4:35 PM - Black Stone Cherry
5:45 PM - Puddle Of Mudd
7:10 PM - Jackyl
8:40 PM - Queensrÿche
10:30 PM - Chickenfoot
Hard Rock Stage
4:00 PM - Rains
5:10 PM - Charm City Devils
6:35 PM - Aranda
8:05 PM - Art of Dying
9:45 PM - Hellyeah
Midnight - Falling in Reverse
Retrospect Records Stage
3:15 PM - Fist of Rage
4:00 PM - Ragdoll
5:10 PM - Down N Dirty
6:35 PM - Sunset Riot
8:05 PM - Diemonds
9:45 PM - Black Tora
12:10 AM - The Glitter Boys
1:15 AM - Wildstreet
AXiS Campground Stage
Noon - Desi and Cody
1:00 PM - David Castro Band
2:00 PM - The Hawkeyes
3:00 PM - We The Ghost
11:00 PM - Through the Thorns
Three-day general admission tickets are available now for only $150 plus fees and 3-day VIP tickets can be purchased for $380 plus fees. Single day tickets are currently priced as follows: Friday ($60 plus fees), Saturday ($70 plus fees) and Sunday ($60 plus fees).
Beginning Monday, May 21 at 10:00 AM CT, 3-day general admission ticket prices will increase to $185 plus fees and 3-day VIP reserved tickets will increase to $400 plus fees. Single day tickets will increase to the following prices: Friday ($70 plus fees), Saturday ($80 plus fees) and Sunday ($70 plus fees).
The second paragraph doesn't make much sense to me. If I was wavering about going and couldn't really commit this week, I would be incentivized if the tickets DECREASED in price rather than INCREASE. But I have never put on a giant festival designed to rape people of their hard earned cash, so I have no room to talk here.
I think it should be a good festival, but I would take the time to see the bands on the side stages. Especially since the Friday main stage needs to be blown up to ensure those bands never play again live. (I am exaggerating of course. I wouldn't want to deprive this Earth of the dulcimer tones of Cavo or Creed.)
Now it's time for some WILDSTREET bitches!
Now it's time for some WILDSTREET bitches!
Diemonds Ready for the East Coast
Holy shit, is this fucking Christmas Day? I have been trying to get DIEMONDS to come to Philadelphia for years (In the Rough EP review I did.) Of course, Priya Panda will have to release the restraining order she took out against me after 2009 so I can attend the show. Look Priya, I burned the gum statue I made for you out of my pubic hair and old chewing gum. My therapist has me channeling that creativity into felt cat statues.
Anyway, the band also has a 3:15PM Retrospect Records Stage time slot at Rocklahoma on Saturday May 26. If you are heading to Rocklahoma, check my next post as I highlight the only bands you'll need to see. DIEMONDS is one of them!
Now if you are game for a rock show here in Philadelphia, let's see you rock on June 2nd near Temple's campus. If you don't live in Philadelphia, move on to DIEMONDS website and check the tour section for the East Coast date near you.
While you do that, listen to their awesome song Take on the Night a Warriors inspired video and a raucous anthem for the band. And I'll see you all on June 2nd, again assuming the restraining order is lifted.
Anyway, the band also has a 3:15PM Retrospect Records Stage time slot at Rocklahoma on Saturday May 26. If you are heading to Rocklahoma, check my next post as I highlight the only bands you'll need to see. DIEMONDS is one of them!
Now if you are game for a rock show here in Philadelphia, let's see you rock on June 2nd near Temple's campus. If you don't live in Philadelphia, move on to DIEMONDS website and check the tour section for the East Coast date near you.
While you do that, listen to their awesome song Take on the Night a Warriors inspired video and a raucous anthem for the band. And I'll see you all on June 2nd, again assuming the restraining order is lifted.
The Dirty Pearls Live from Moodswing Delaware
Less than a full week removed from their so-so performance at the Gramercy theater (review here), the DIRTY PEARLS brought their Whether You Like It Or Not Album Release Party to Delaware...Moodswing to be more specific.
Gregg Fornario is the owner of Moodswing Delaware, a Miami style club on the heart of the Kirkwood Highway. I walked in and it looks like a club direct from the Scarface days. I joked that it was missing the office with the plexiglass that Scarface looks over the club and does mounds of blow. Then I saw the DJ booth. I then joked that there wasn't a fish tank anywhere in the club...but then I found the bar set away from the stage with the fish tank built into it. It's a classier jaunt than his previous club, the Zoo Lounge, in Hockessin. However, the club looks like it does a metric ton of business with DJs and special guests than it does hosting a rock show. It looked a bit too clean to be hosting the DIRTY PEARLS and this website. I thank them for the venue, but it almost felt like I didn't have AIDS. It was THAT clean.
The previous week I went to see the DIRTY PEARLS in New York City and it wasn't the best show they have done in my opinion. But the show here in Delaware was much MUCH better. They were interacting with the crowd, they sounded rawer and hungrier and even tossed a few inspired covers (VAN HALEN and BILLY IDOL). The band was ripping through their album Whether You Like It or Not and had a slightly reserved crowd, up against the stage and dancing in no time. Something I didn't see at their show at the Gramercy.
Gregg Fornario is the owner of Moodswing Delaware, a Miami style club on the heart of the Kirkwood Highway. I walked in and it looks like a club direct from the Scarface days. I joked that it was missing the office with the plexiglass that Scarface looks over the club and does mounds of blow. Then I saw the DJ booth. I then joked that there wasn't a fish tank anywhere in the club...but then I found the bar set away from the stage with the fish tank built into it. It's a classier jaunt than his previous club, the Zoo Lounge, in Hockessin. However, the club looks like it does a metric ton of business with DJs and special guests than it does hosting a rock show. It looked a bit too clean to be hosting the DIRTY PEARLS and this website. I thank them for the venue, but it almost felt like I didn't have AIDS. It was THAT clean.
The previous week I went to see the DIRTY PEARLS in New York City and it wasn't the best show they have done in my opinion. But the show here in Delaware was much MUCH better. They were interacting with the crowd, they sounded rawer and hungrier and even tossed a few inspired covers (VAN HALEN and BILLY IDOL). The band was ripping through their album Whether You Like It or Not and had a slightly reserved crowd, up against the stage and dancing in no time. Something I didn't see at their show at the Gramercy.
This intrepid writer had his moment in the sun too. I was able to get up on stage and introduce the band as they have never been introduced before. If you were there, you know what I said, if you weren't there it went something like this:
Dead silence
Awkward Movement toward microphone
Hello Moodswing Delaware
Faint applause
These guys aren't going to hit this stage unless you are louder. Let's try that again. How are you Moodswing Delaware?
Louder applause
Alright. Ladies and gentleman, especially the ladies, I present to you the five men named on your future paternity tests...THE DIRTY PEARLS.
get foot caught in guitar cord...almost fall down the stairs.
Dead silence
Awkward Movement toward microphone
Hello Moodswing Delaware
Faint applause
These guys aren't going to hit this stage unless you are louder. Let's try that again. How are you Moodswing Delaware?
Louder applause
Alright. Ladies and gentleman, especially the ladies, I present to you the five men named on your future paternity tests...THE DIRTY PEARLS.
get foot caught in guitar cord...almost fall down the stairs.
This time the band was solid. The guitars were ripping. Mokas was on fire and beyond energetic. I am a big critic on Sunny Climbs and he was engaging and charismatic and played excellent guitar trading licks with Mokas. His Eddie Van Halen guitar on You Really Got Me was inspiring and not easy to do. And Marty beat the hell out of the drums like they owed him money.
Tommy was the ever front man, dancing with the Coyote Ugly "style" dancers and finger wagging and stomping all over the stage. Now that I mentioned the Coyote Ugly "style" girls, I have an issue. I know it is hard to dance to songs you have never heard before. It is so tough, like rocket science tough, to find a groove and shimmy in that groove. But this one bitch had a few moves that she decided to break out during New York City is a Drug that were so off beat it looked like Charles Manson at a parole hearing. It was awkward, ill-performed, and whatever the antonym of sexy is.
That is how I wished they had performed in New York City, but I got to see them rip the roof off with half the crowd. Bonus for me. I also finally picked up my copy of the album, so expect a review shortly.
I also met a photographer at the event, we'll call him the DIRTY PEARLS personal photographer, even though he does it for fun. His website is Monster PhotoISO and he takes some fantastic shots. Check out the one he took of the whole band below. Stunning really. Thanks Shaq for taking the pictures and letting the site use one for the review.
What's the Deal with Christian Rockers Clothing?
It may come to a big shock to some of you, I have a second job....well it is my main job. Most rockers can't make ends meet with rock n' roll. We have to take various jobs (DJ, bartending, retail). You name it, we have probably worked it. My first job is cleaning the stalls in an adult theater. It's not glamorous, but pays 15 an hour thanks to Pennsylvania's Hazardous Waste Act that claims anyone working with hazardous materials is paid a decent wage. I am not bragging, but I make about 20 bucks an hour wiping the semen off the walls and scrubbing the floors.
One of my co-workers decided the adult film industry wasn't for them and that her and her husband were going to sell their house and buy an RV. They did it, but the reason was so they could "touch other people with the words of the Lord." I had no idea the same woman who sucked random men off in the stalls would become such a fundamentalist. Hey God talked to Moses in a burning bush, so maybe he talked to her through another kind of burning bush. I can't pretend to know or care.
Since leaving the adult theater, the co-worker has continued to champion the cause of spreading the word of the Lord to anyone who was unable to move. They have toured nursing homes, mental hospitals, and children's hospitals. Haven't these people suffered enough?
It was today I hear the familiar voice of old Tina walk through the black glass door and the little bell ding. I emerged from the backroom after changing the video and saw her and her husband in typical Christian "rocker" garb. They both had on Canadian tuxedos, clad in jeans that look like they were a 13 year old boys. You know what I am talking about if you have a kid. You buy them jeans at one size, but they grow too fast and now you can see the cuffs are well above their sneakers and you can see their super white socks. Yea, Tina and her husband had the same look.
Let's not forget the jean vests that were purchased at clearance from Jo-ann Fabric and have been dedazzled with various cheap accessories. Her husband also looked like the Christian jean Panama Jack, hat and sunglasses included.
Now if it were me and I was an ambassador for the Lord, I would want to be dressed to kill. Since I am pretty sure that's all the Lord does. I wouldn't wear jeans, but a suit. I would never wear a Panama Jack hat either because I think of Fidel Castro or Johnny Deep (those two are equally Communist). I want to impress those fine Christian ladies and then I would bust into a rousting acoustic version of my hit song, Push, Flush - a song about the consequences of teenage pregnancy.
What's the point of this article? It is to try and figure out why Christian bands dress like they are going to a Canadian funeral. I don't really think I have any answer because I am a not religious at all. That was throat fucked out of me in middle school. Any Christian rockers out there want to chime in on why they believe a jean jacket is appropriate over high waisted jeans?
One of my co-workers decided the adult film industry wasn't for them and that her and her husband were going to sell their house and buy an RV. They did it, but the reason was so they could "touch other people with the words of the Lord." I had no idea the same woman who sucked random men off in the stalls would become such a fundamentalist. Hey God talked to Moses in a burning bush, so maybe he talked to her through another kind of burning bush. I can't pretend to know or care.
Since leaving the adult theater, the co-worker has continued to champion the cause of spreading the word of the Lord to anyone who was unable to move. They have toured nursing homes, mental hospitals, and children's hospitals. Haven't these people suffered enough?
It was today I hear the familiar voice of old Tina walk through the black glass door and the little bell ding. I emerged from the backroom after changing the video and saw her and her husband in typical Christian "rocker" garb. They both had on Canadian tuxedos, clad in jeans that look like they were a 13 year old boys. You know what I am talking about if you have a kid. You buy them jeans at one size, but they grow too fast and now you can see the cuffs are well above their sneakers and you can see their super white socks. Yea, Tina and her husband had the same look.
Let's not forget the jean vests that were purchased at clearance from Jo-ann Fabric and have been dedazzled with various cheap accessories. Her husband also looked like the Christian jean Panama Jack, hat and sunglasses included.
Now if it were me and I was an ambassador for the Lord, I would want to be dressed to kill. Since I am pretty sure that's all the Lord does. I wouldn't wear jeans, but a suit. I would never wear a Panama Jack hat either because I think of Fidel Castro or Johnny Deep (those two are equally Communist). I want to impress those fine Christian ladies and then I would bust into a rousting acoustic version of my hit song, Push, Flush - a song about the consequences of teenage pregnancy.
What's the point of this article? It is to try and figure out why Christian bands dress like they are going to a Canadian funeral. I don't really think I have any answer because I am a not religious at all. That was throat fucked out of me in middle school. Any Christian rockers out there want to chime in on why they believe a jean jacket is appropriate over high waisted jeans?
Scott Weiland Has Returned to Velvet Revolver
Well well well, look what the cat dragged in - Scott Weiland is the new singer of VELVET REVOLVER. Weiland left in 2008 (has it been that long?) Many people were speculating on who would be the new lead singer, even this intrepid reporter. But ultimately, I felt Weiland couldn't be replaced. Nor should he be replaced.
With the band on hiatus and Dave Kushner working at the Arby's, somehow the band put their differences aside and reunited for a one off performance for Dave Kushner's wife in January of 2012. That woman needs to be kissed, because she alone got the lines of communication open, which lead to the big announcement today. Scott Weiland and his former VELVET REVOLVER band mates are working on a new album.
Take your time boys because Libertad was bad. It just didn't live up to the smack the nuts sound the band exploded with on Contraband. So far, it is only Dave, Duff and Scott working on songs while Slash and Myles are touring behind Slash's new solo album.
"They gave me a couple of songs and myself and [guitarist] Dave [Kushner] and [bassist] Duff [McKagan] are gonna be getting together for a song writing session next week," Weiland said.
This all flies in the face of what Slash said on 93.X where Slash denied the rumor Scott is back. I guess the only thing you can say is...stay tuned.
With the band on hiatus and Dave Kushner working at the Arby's, somehow the band put their differences aside and reunited for a one off performance for Dave Kushner's wife in January of 2012. That woman needs to be kissed, because she alone got the lines of communication open, which lead to the big announcement today. Scott Weiland and his former VELVET REVOLVER band mates are working on a new album.
Take your time boys because Libertad was bad. It just didn't live up to the smack the nuts sound the band exploded with on Contraband. So far, it is only Dave, Duff and Scott working on songs while Slash and Myles are touring behind Slash's new solo album.
"They gave me a couple of songs and myself and [guitarist] Dave [Kushner] and [bassist] Duff [McKagan] are gonna be getting together for a song writing session next week," Weiland said.
This all flies in the face of what Slash said on 93.X where Slash denied the rumor Scott is back. I guess the only thing you can say is...stay tuned.
The Hives Unveil Go Right Ahead Video
THE HIVES have released a music video for their new song Go Right Ahead. The song will be found on their new album Lex Hives available on June 5.
If you are like me and a HIVES fan, you should pre-order the deluxe edition because it contains a few bonus tracks produced by Josh Homme (QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, THEM CROOKED VULTURES, EAGLES OF DEATH METAL). You can check out the deluxe edition here.
I like the song, but the video is boring. I know why the video is boring....why spend a bunch of money on a video only 300k people will see at most? Here is the video:
If you are like me and a HIVES fan, you should pre-order the deluxe edition because it contains a few bonus tracks produced by Josh Homme (QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, THEM CROOKED VULTURES, EAGLES OF DEATH METAL). You can check out the deluxe edition here.
No Pantera Reunion with Zakk Wylde on Guitar
Rex Brown gave an interview with San Antonio Metal Something or other and this was an interesting question:
San Antonio Metal Music Examiner: Where do you stand on Vinnie and Phil not having spoken all these years?
Rex: Vinnie's just not open to talking to either one of us. Nothing to do with me. I have no problem talking to Vince. We emailed a couple times, but nothing major. You know, we keep hearing rumors about a reunion with Zakk Wylde on guitar, and that is such bullshit. You can't replace my brother.
Here is a crazy idea because I am a think outside the box guy. We get that holographic company to do one for Dimebag and use the Tupac they already have as the lead singer of Pantera. Or we can do the holographic Tupac and have Pantera on Ice.
San Antonio Metal Music Examiner: Where do you stand on Vinnie and Phil not having spoken all these years?
Rex: Vinnie's just not open to talking to either one of us. Nothing to do with me. I have no problem talking to Vince. We emailed a couple times, but nothing major. You know, we keep hearing rumors about a reunion with Zakk Wylde on guitar, and that is such bullshit. You can't replace my brother.
Here is a crazy idea because I am a think outside the box guy. We get that holographic company to do one for Dimebag and use the Tupac they already have as the lead singer of Pantera. Or we can do the holographic Tupac and have Pantera on Ice.
Could Van Halen Continue After Eddie Retires?
Esquire Magazine had an interview with Wolfgang Van Halen and it was very informative. I have extracted some of the parts I found interesting, but definitely go and read the rest. Well worth it.
When asked if he could carry on the Van Halen when his father retires, Wolfgang says:
"It kind of falls on my shoulders," adding that the band has plenty of material stockpiled on demos from the last three years for future albums. Wolfgang added, "I thought it would be really fun if dad and I just sat down and started jamming and see if we came up with something together, instead of him writing something and me putting my spin on it."
I am sorry, no Eddie no Van Halen. That is the biggest no-brainer there is. Eddie is irreplaceable and while Wolfgang may be able to remix some old songs and make them fit for consumption, it's not Van Halen. He could never, EVER tour without his dad.
I also thought these comments were excellent insight into Eddie.
"I kind of come up with the set lists. When we've got a song that we haven't done, it's like, we should probably run through this before the show and figure out like the count of it. Because dad, for some reason, counts in odds. He'll land on three instead of four."
"(Eddie) still, to this day, does not know the lyrics to 'Beautiful Girls'. You know how we go, 'Top of the world, beautiful girls'? He has it written down on his pedal board. On the last tour I used to have to go (mouths lyrics)."
You just don't think he is that flighty when you see him on-stage ripping it up, perfectly plowing through riffs and solos almost as if they are single ply tissues soaking up cum driplets. The fact he can't remember six words in one song is hilarious considering how effortless the rest of the show is for him. As someone who struggles every day just to get out of bed, it's fun to see someone infinitely more talented than I struggle with the mundane.
Take a moment and go read Esquire Magazine's article. It is great. Then if you get some time, read my review of the Van Halen show. They just announced new tour dates, see them while you can. With this relationship, it's tough to know how long it will last.
When asked if he could carry on the Van Halen when his father retires, Wolfgang says:
"It kind of falls on my shoulders," adding that the band has plenty of material stockpiled on demos from the last three years for future albums. Wolfgang added, "I thought it would be really fun if dad and I just sat down and started jamming and see if we came up with something together, instead of him writing something and me putting my spin on it."
I am sorry, no Eddie no Van Halen. That is the biggest no-brainer there is. Eddie is irreplaceable and while Wolfgang may be able to remix some old songs and make them fit for consumption, it's not Van Halen. He could never, EVER tour without his dad.
I also thought these comments were excellent insight into Eddie.
"I kind of come up with the set lists. When we've got a song that we haven't done, it's like, we should probably run through this before the show and figure out like the count of it. Because dad, for some reason, counts in odds. He'll land on three instead of four."
"(Eddie) still, to this day, does not know the lyrics to 'Beautiful Girls'. You know how we go, 'Top of the world, beautiful girls'? He has it written down on his pedal board. On the last tour I used to have to go (mouths lyrics)."
You just don't think he is that flighty when you see him on-stage ripping it up, perfectly plowing through riffs and solos almost as if they are single ply tissues soaking up cum driplets. The fact he can't remember six words in one song is hilarious considering how effortless the rest of the show is for him. As someone who struggles every day just to get out of bed, it's fun to see someone infinitely more talented than I struggle with the mundane.
Take a moment and go read Esquire Magazine's article. It is great. Then if you get some time, read my review of the Van Halen show. They just announced new tour dates, see them while you can. With this relationship, it's tough to know how long it will last.
Music Quick Hits: Halestorm, Slash, and Danzig
Got a few quick hits that really can't add up to a full post. Together they will be the Voltron of music news.
HALESTORM is the first female fronted rock group to reach number one on the Active Rock charts. They reached number one due to the popularity of their lead single Love Bites (So Do I). This is a band from Philly who aren't reinventing the wheel here. They just have heavy riffs, catchy vocals, and a hot front woman. Naturally being from Philadelphia, they get my blessing! And secondly, having a hot front woman ALSO gets my blessing.
SLASH has released a second song for streaming called One Last Thrill. You can stream the song through Facebook. The song will be found on his new album Apocalyptic Love due in stores on May 21. I am a first day buyer on this album since I am a big fan of the work him and Myles did on Slash.
Speaking of streaming, DANZIG is streaming a song that I had never heard of. The song is called Devil's Angels and is the theme song to a movie of the same title. You can stream it directly from his website and it sounds just like old Misfits stuff. I dig the song. Here were a few comments DANZIG made about the song:
"I've wanted to record this song since 1979 and this is exactly the same arrangement I had for it back then, so it pretty much sounds like that late '70s style of mine. I'm really happy with the way it turned out; it actually came out much better than I had hoped it would. We're going to be playing it live on these upcoming shows."
He is absolutely right, it sounds like late 70s.
HALESTORM is the first female fronted rock group to reach number one on the Active Rock charts. They reached number one due to the popularity of their lead single Love Bites (So Do I). This is a band from Philly who aren't reinventing the wheel here. They just have heavy riffs, catchy vocals, and a hot front woman. Naturally being from Philadelphia, they get my blessing! And secondly, having a hot front woman ALSO gets my blessing.
SLASH has released a second song for streaming called One Last Thrill. You can stream the song through Facebook. The song will be found on his new album Apocalyptic Love due in stores on May 21. I am a first day buyer on this album since I am a big fan of the work him and Myles did on Slash.
Speaking of streaming, DANZIG is streaming a song that I had never heard of. The song is called Devil's Angels and is the theme song to a movie of the same title. You can stream it directly from his website and it sounds just like old Misfits stuff. I dig the song. Here were a few comments DANZIG made about the song:
"I've wanted to record this song since 1979 and this is exactly the same arrangement I had for it back then, so it pretty much sounds like that late '70s style of mine. I'm really happy with the way it turned out; it actually came out much better than I had hoped it would. We're going to be playing it live on these upcoming shows."
He is absolutely right, it sounds like late 70s.
KoRn Release Way Too Far Video
I was excited after heard the lead single (Narcissistic Cannibal) off KORN's The Path of Totality. I liked it, even though I am not a fan of dubstep. It had a cool back beat that repeated throughout the song that worked as the hook and I could feel KORN reaching back a bit to their roots.
But I got the album and it was perhaps the greatest ruse KORN has ever played on mankind since convincing us it is a viable vegetable substitute. (We all know corn has no nutritional value and is a grain.) The rest of the album is a sloppy mess that can be BEST described as a gangbang creampie. There is so much bro semen on this record caused by malicious wanking of all interested parties. The only song worth a damn on the entire album was the lead single, which makes the song the man who enters the whore first during the bareback gangbang. He's the only winner in the whole thing. I suppose if you have unprotected sex with a woman who does gangbangs, no one is really a winner.
Anyway, KORN has decided to release Way Too Far as the second single and have created a music video for the song. In this day and age, it would be cheaper to throw the song behind a PowerPoint presentation of some crude images drawn by five year olds. Why waste money on a video only 103k people will see? That's for the suits to figure out. I am here to spread the word like an STD from a gangbanged whore.
But I got the album and it was perhaps the greatest ruse KORN has ever played on mankind since convincing us it is a viable vegetable substitute. (We all know corn has no nutritional value and is a grain.) The rest of the album is a sloppy mess that can be BEST described as a gangbang creampie. There is so much bro semen on this record caused by malicious wanking of all interested parties. The only song worth a damn on the entire album was the lead single, which makes the song the man who enters the whore first during the bareback gangbang. He's the only winner in the whole thing. I suppose if you have unprotected sex with a woman who does gangbangs, no one is really a winner.
Anyway, KORN has decided to release Way Too Far as the second single and have created a music video for the song. In this day and age, it would be cheaper to throw the song behind a PowerPoint presentation of some crude images drawn by five year olds. Why waste money on a video only 103k people will see? That's for the suits to figure out. I am here to spread the word like an STD from a gangbanged whore.
Chris Cornell Talks About Recording Process with Soundgarden
Chris Cornell did an interview with Artist Direct.com where he discussed the making of the new SOUNDGARDEN album.
ARTISTdirect.com: Has that been the process for the new SOUNDGARDEN album?
Cornell: Definitely, it's been a pretty good time. I suppose the actual writing has taken place over the course of a couple years. Initially, we wrote a handful of songs early on in the process. Then, we went on tour a few times. I went on tour. Matt went on tour with PEARL JAM. Ben was working on a solo record. We would take breaks and come back. That was actually good. Otherwise, I have to force myself to take a break for a minute which is usually after beating my head against a wall if I'm having trouble with something. If something doesn't immediately work and the melodies and lyrics don't coexist with the music perfectly, then I can go away from it and come back a couple months later. Then, the problem seems to have solved itself. Having this amount of time to make this record hasn't hurt us. It's been good — especially for the first record back. To not have a ton of pressure put on it with scheduling, release date, and touring is great.
The song Live to Rise from the Avengers soundtrack better not be indicative of the sound of their new album. The song begins with such promise and throbbing Matt drum line and a typical Kim guitar. But then the whiny Cornell vocals come in. You know the vocals I am talking about if you listened to his solo work. Those vocals carry over to the song and really stab the song right in the heart while staring deeply into it's eyes. It is almost as if Cornell is Dr. Manhattan and looks down upon on all us puny Soundgarden fans and as we cry out "Will you save us?" Cornell says "No."
I know YouTube views aren't really a general means of success, but this video has only 400k views with a movie who pulled almost a billion dollars of revenue. I think that is a pretty telling sign of how the song really isn't that great.
ARTISTdirect.com: Has that been the process for the new SOUNDGARDEN album?
Cornell: Definitely, it's been a pretty good time. I suppose the actual writing has taken place over the course of a couple years. Initially, we wrote a handful of songs early on in the process. Then, we went on tour a few times. I went on tour. Matt went on tour with PEARL JAM. Ben was working on a solo record. We would take breaks and come back. That was actually good. Otherwise, I have to force myself to take a break for a minute which is usually after beating my head against a wall if I'm having trouble with something. If something doesn't immediately work and the melodies and lyrics don't coexist with the music perfectly, then I can go away from it and come back a couple months later. Then, the problem seems to have solved itself. Having this amount of time to make this record hasn't hurt us. It's been good — especially for the first record back. To not have a ton of pressure put on it with scheduling, release date, and touring is great.
The song Live to Rise from the Avengers soundtrack better not be indicative of the sound of their new album. The song begins with such promise and throbbing Matt drum line and a typical Kim guitar. But then the whiny Cornell vocals come in. You know the vocals I am talking about if you listened to his solo work. Those vocals carry over to the song and really stab the song right in the heart while staring deeply into it's eyes. It is almost as if Cornell is Dr. Manhattan and looks down upon on all us puny Soundgarden fans and as we cry out "Will you save us?" Cornell says "No."
I know YouTube views aren't really a general means of success, but this video has only 400k views with a movie who pulled almost a billion dollars of revenue. I think that is a pretty telling sign of how the song really isn't that great.
Rock Criticism is Dead Apparently
I am going to shoot myself in the foot with this revelation, but I am going to do it anyway. BEN SOMMER wrote an article about music reviewers not actually reviewing an album on its technical merits. His point is very valid and with the advent of the internet - everyone now has a voice. Some voices are more informed than others.
I grew up in a musical family. My father was a drummer in more bands than women I have slept with. It's one of his biggest disappointments in me - the fact I didn't start a band and sleep with more women. I would have, if it weren't for the crushing introverted personality and the LDS (little dick syndrome).
Despite my best efforts to rebel against my father and listen to only show tunes, he instilled a base of blues and rock in my soul. He discussed, at length, the technical merits of a song, it's structure, and basic importance of chord progression. I can't craft a song to save my ass unless you need a mean triangle player or Hot Cross Buns on a recorder.
I grew up in a musical family. My father was a drummer in more bands than women I have slept with. It's one of his biggest disappointments in me - the fact I didn't start a band and sleep with more women. I would have, if it weren't for the crushing introverted personality and the LDS (little dick syndrome).
Despite my best efforts to rebel against my father and listen to only show tunes, he instilled a base of blues and rock in my soul. He discussed, at length, the technical merits of a song, it's structure, and basic importance of chord progression. I can't craft a song to save my ass unless you need a mean triangle player or Hot Cross Buns on a recorder.
I don't know what an open 5th sounds like, so I'll never get to the level of detail Ben did when reviewing Van Halen's You and Your Blues. I would love to one day and read more articles and reviews from actual experts than the Hunger Games series has pages. Some of it is rubbing off.
I do try to get as technical as I can, but I am limited by the knowledge of the subject. Since reading Ben's that article, I have tried to go back to my reviews and see if I am more technical than most. I do believe I am. I can pat myself on the back for that. I am just not saying "Yea that was a cool song." I try to explain why I think the song was cool as best I can.
I went to a show over the weekend and thought it was a bad show. I wrote up my thoughts on why and spelled out the reasons. I was waiting for other reviews to compare their findings with mine. You know, typical scientific research bullshit.
I do try to get as technical as I can, but I am limited by the knowledge of the subject. Since reading Ben's that article, I have tried to go back to my reviews and see if I am more technical than most. I do believe I am. I can pat myself on the back for that. I am just not saying "Yea that was a cool song." I try to explain why I think the song was cool as best I can.
I went to a show over the weekend and thought it was a bad show. I wrote up my thoughts on why and spelled out the reasons. I was waiting for other reviews to compare their findings with mine. You know, typical scientific research bullshit.
One review was posted and it was a positive review. The review didn't say why the show was good. It never even dove into the nitty gritty of the why the bands were good. In fact, the review spent three paragraphs discussing Mexican cuisine and Nostradamus than WHY the show was positive.
Then I found all ALL I needed to know about the reviewer when this was stated:
Do we completely lose our credibility and get our rock licenses revoked by sitting in those seats like a bunch of geriatrics? When the opportunity presents itself, we usually choose seats.
Rock N' Roll folks.
Then I found all ALL I needed to know about the reviewer when this was stated:
Do we completely lose our credibility and get our rock licenses revoked by sitting in those seats like a bunch of geriatrics? When the opportunity presents itself, we usually choose seats.
Rock N' Roll folks.
You know where I was? Right up front along the barrier from the Hussle Club to the end of the night. You know why? Because I'm not a pansy. The author continues to kill his rock credibility with this statement:
My ability to really go out and rock hard has decreased exponentially since entering my 30's.
Talk to Keith Richards who is 2x your age and still rocking hard. I am essentially the same age as the author, turned 30 in March. I stood alone at the Guns N' Roses show for seven hours. I prefer to be up front at the shows because that is where the action is. I can see the players on the stage. I can hear the interaction between various members (most times) and see when things go wrong.
My intention is not to prove that I am a more dedicated rock fan, or a superior rock concert go-er, or that I have better rock credibility in the scene than the author does. This site speaks to all those things.
My ability to really go out and rock hard has decreased exponentially since entering my 30's.
Talk to Keith Richards who is 2x your age and still rocking hard. I am essentially the same age as the author, turned 30 in March. I stood alone at the Guns N' Roses show for seven hours. I prefer to be up front at the shows because that is where the action is. I can see the players on the stage. I can hear the interaction between various members (most times) and see when things go wrong.
My intention is not to prove that I am a more dedicated rock fan, or a superior rock concert go-er, or that I have better rock credibility in the scene than the author does. This site speaks to all those things.
His reviews run the gamut from Rock N' Roll concerts/albums to food and wrestling. This article about food, the author feels the need to tag a picture of his food with his site name. You know because you want to protect a generic photograph of food from being illegally used by another site.
My actual intention was to agree with BEN SOMMER's article and provide a tangible example of what he was talking about. To that extent, I feel I have done so.
The Dirty Pearls Album Release Party Review
Last night the Dirty Pearls threw an album release party to a sold-out Gramercy Theater. I have read the reactions to the show on Twitter and everyone seemed to have a good time, but I think this was by far the worst show I have seen by the Pearls.
I am not here to sugar coat things for the band, whose members I have been friends with for almost five years now. I don't want my friends glossing over things when I don't perform up to my potential. I think the Pearls were off last night and the show didn't click for me. Through careful reflection, I believe I have narrowed down the reasons why.
I understand how difficult it is to sell out a show without a dedicated fan base and good supporting bands unless you are a national touring act. That is why I can understand the decision to use some of the bands on the bill last night because each band brought their unique fan base, which helped propel the show to its sold out status. Not all of them were good. Not all of them fit.
Hussle Club opened the show and brought a unique, fun take on the Euro alternative dance/new wave sound that Depeche Mode helped popularize. I could hear the distinct influences of Depeche Mode, New Order, and even a bit of David Bowie. I thought their stage presence was a bit lacking, but that is something you gain from playing shows after shows. They have a solid base to work with and good for those guys.
There was a noticeable uptick in older men in suits at the show and they all left after Ariana and the Rose performed. Ariana and the Rose were the second band on the bill and her backing band was really good. A solid rhythm section and a good guitarist who had technically sound solo work. But Ariana's nasally voice and one stage move (index finger extended arms akimbo, sway the hips) grated on you real fast. I am not familiar with her music, so I can't say if that nasally voice is the signature or she had a cold last night.
I have a feeling this band is garnering attention for solid musicianship behind an attractive female front woman. If that's what it takes for the world to hear the band, then so be it. But I do think if you tossed a less attractive female front woman with a more solid voice, they probably wouldn't have the following nor the attention. I am being a tad harsh based one performance, which may have been an off night for Ariana. I hope I am wrong for the band's sake.
The next band confused the hell out of me. Liquid Blonde They turned the Gramercy into a German disotecque. Strong repeating baselines fed through a computer that were played over by a tall raven haired beauty in a corset on the bass. They had a powerful drummer who couldn't have been as tall as Danny Devito, but hulked out! This man had veins bigger than my dick. The crowd seemed to love them, but I just didn't get it. The songs were ungodly receptive, the set droned on and on in most parts.
Star Killer seemed theatrically minded, which I liked. They were the first band with a stage show complete with blinking lights, stage props, and a Jonathan Davis like microphone stand made of…probably made out of the skulls of hobos. Their music sounded solid, but I couldn't hear lead singer Jasin Cadic for shit. If he was singing, you could have fooled me. I only heard him speak in between songs. I heard the background vocals clearer than his. I kept thinking he would asked to be turned up, but he never did. Then their set was cut short, just when these dudes in masks came out. I wanted to see what they were about, but the Gramercy cut the sound because Star Killer went over their limit.
The Gramercy was running a tight ship last night and treating the whole show as if The Stones were in town. Friends weren't allowed backstage without a pass. Fans weren't allowed to take pictures without a proper photo pass. The sound guy was a huge dick on keeping things on time, which bubbled over during the Star Killer set. And then when people were waiting to meet the Pearls and buy merchandise, the crew kicked everyone out. I don't know the loss in revenue to the Pearls because of that move, but I would suspect MILLIONS!
I think the incident with Star Killer bled over to the Dirty Pearls set. They just seemed off. I have seen them command a large stage and a sold out crowd better. I have seen them play better too (The Bret Michaels Wilmington Delaware show comes first to mind). I also felt they should have performed longer especially as the headliner.
Mokas was a man possessed when I saw them at Acey Slade's birthday bash in Philly. He was quieter last night. I didn't like Sunny Climbs at all in Philly. I couldn't figure out how he fit with the band. Technically speaking he's a better guitar player than their previous. He did come out of his shell a bit more last night and I hope with time, he can develop a stage persona. If Dougie can, Sunny definitely can.
I am not here to sugar coat things for the band, whose members I have been friends with for almost five years now. I don't want my friends glossing over things when I don't perform up to my potential. I think the Pearls were off last night and the show didn't click for me. Through careful reflection, I believe I have narrowed down the reasons why.
I understand how difficult it is to sell out a show without a dedicated fan base and good supporting bands unless you are a national touring act. That is why I can understand the decision to use some of the bands on the bill last night because each band brought their unique fan base, which helped propel the show to its sold out status. Not all of them were good. Not all of them fit.
Hussle Club opened the show and brought a unique, fun take on the Euro alternative dance/new wave sound that Depeche Mode helped popularize. I could hear the distinct influences of Depeche Mode, New Order, and even a bit of David Bowie. I thought their stage presence was a bit lacking, but that is something you gain from playing shows after shows. They have a solid base to work with and good for those guys.
There was a noticeable uptick in older men in suits at the show and they all left after Ariana and the Rose performed. Ariana and the Rose were the second band on the bill and her backing band was really good. A solid rhythm section and a good guitarist who had technically sound solo work. But Ariana's nasally voice and one stage move (index finger extended arms akimbo, sway the hips) grated on you real fast. I am not familiar with her music, so I can't say if that nasally voice is the signature or she had a cold last night.
I have a feeling this band is garnering attention for solid musicianship behind an attractive female front woman. If that's what it takes for the world to hear the band, then so be it. But I do think if you tossed a less attractive female front woman with a more solid voice, they probably wouldn't have the following nor the attention. I am being a tad harsh based one performance, which may have been an off night for Ariana. I hope I am wrong for the band's sake.
The next band confused the hell out of me. Liquid Blonde They turned the Gramercy into a German disotecque. Strong repeating baselines fed through a computer that were played over by a tall raven haired beauty in a corset on the bass. They had a powerful drummer who couldn't have been as tall as Danny Devito, but hulked out! This man had veins bigger than my dick. The crowd seemed to love them, but I just didn't get it. The songs were ungodly receptive, the set droned on and on in most parts.
Star Killer seemed theatrically minded, which I liked. They were the first band with a stage show complete with blinking lights, stage props, and a Jonathan Davis like microphone stand made of…probably made out of the skulls of hobos. Their music sounded solid, but I couldn't hear lead singer Jasin Cadic for shit. If he was singing, you could have fooled me. I only heard him speak in between songs. I heard the background vocals clearer than his. I kept thinking he would asked to be turned up, but he never did. Then their set was cut short, just when these dudes in masks came out. I wanted to see what they were about, but the Gramercy cut the sound because Star Killer went over their limit.
The Gramercy was running a tight ship last night and treating the whole show as if The Stones were in town. Friends weren't allowed backstage without a pass. Fans weren't allowed to take pictures without a proper photo pass. The sound guy was a huge dick on keeping things on time, which bubbled over during the Star Killer set. And then when people were waiting to meet the Pearls and buy merchandise, the crew kicked everyone out. I don't know the loss in revenue to the Pearls because of that move, but I would suspect MILLIONS!
I think the incident with Star Killer bled over to the Dirty Pearls set. They just seemed off. I have seen them command a large stage and a sold out crowd better. I have seen them play better too (The Bret Michaels Wilmington Delaware show comes first to mind). I also felt they should have performed longer especially as the headliner.
Mokas was a man possessed when I saw them at Acey Slade's birthday bash in Philly. He was quieter last night. I didn't like Sunny Climbs at all in Philly. I couldn't figure out how he fit with the band. Technically speaking he's a better guitar player than their previous. He did come out of his shell a bit more last night and I hope with time, he can develop a stage persona. If Dougie can, Sunny definitely can.
Sunny is consistently over run by larger personalities like Tommy London and Marty E, the latter is persona personified behind the kit. I don't think they need competing personalities on stage, but more interaction with the crowd and more of an outgoing personality would be better. I was on his side of the stage last night on purpose to really study him and the only interaction that side of the stage received was when Tommy London stopped by briefly.
I think the Dirty Pearls spread themselves too thin last night. There were too many bands. Timing wouldn't have been an issue had a full band been left off the bill. This would have allowed Star Killer to get to their final song and the Pearls to have a longer set where they could promote the record in-depth and even add in older songs for those fans who have been around a while.
I also have seen bills where it was one fantastic NYC band after another. Just jam packed Statues of Liberty, The Bullies, The Pearls all on one bill at Arlene's Grocery or the Mercury Lounge. The Gramercy had no personality, well it actually did but it was negative.
I don't want to sound like a curmudgeon, grasping onto the past. I am somewhat skeptical when a band changes, but the addition of Mokas was the absolute right decision. Sunny is a better guitar player and seems to have a deeper understanding of the instrument. He just needs to work on coming out of his shell on stage. I liked the changes made to the song Bruises and I liked the slower intimate song too.
But this was one performance and one night and the thing with bands is, there is always another performance down the road. In fact, there is one in Delaware this Friday. I hope to see you there.
I think the Dirty Pearls spread themselves too thin last night. There were too many bands. Timing wouldn't have been an issue had a full band been left off the bill. This would have allowed Star Killer to get to their final song and the Pearls to have a longer set where they could promote the record in-depth and even add in older songs for those fans who have been around a while.
I also have seen bills where it was one fantastic NYC band after another. Just jam packed Statues of Liberty, The Bullies, The Pearls all on one bill at Arlene's Grocery or the Mercury Lounge. The Gramercy had no personality, well it actually did but it was negative.
I don't want to sound like a curmudgeon, grasping onto the past. I am somewhat skeptical when a band changes, but the addition of Mokas was the absolute right decision. Sunny is a better guitar player and seems to have a deeper understanding of the instrument. He just needs to work on coming out of his shell on stage. I liked the changes made to the song Bruises and I liked the slower intimate song too.
But this was one performance and one night and the thing with bands is, there is always another performance down the road. In fact, there is one in Delaware this Friday. I hope to see you there.
Dirty Pearls Record Release Party This Saturday
Congratulations to our contest winner, Maya, who will be heading to The Dirty Pearls big party this Saturday in New York City. You really need to be at this show because it's going to be the biggest bash in New York City this weekend. Star Killer and The Dirty Pearls on one bill for one big night.
But if you can't be there this weekend, how about next Friday May 11, 2012 at Moodswing in Delaware? I am going to introduce the band at their show that evening. I am currently working up some lines from some old KISS or Guns N' Roses introductions I have seen.
Ladies and Gentlemen, you wanted the best....but they were busy....The Dirty Pearls.
What's everyone drinking out there? Anyone drinking some TEQUILA? How about some VODKA? Well I am drinking some COLD GIN! Here's a band who loves COLD GIN....The Dirty Pearls"
Please welcome NY's HOTTEST BAND...THE DIRTY PEARLS.
Straight from Rikers, The Dirty Pearls.
I haven't settled on the introduction just yet, but I will come up with something appropriate. You should take note and see how they are going to be introduced on Saturday by purchasing your tickets here.
But if you can't be there this weekend, how about next Friday May 11, 2012 at Moodswing in Delaware? I am going to introduce the band at their show that evening. I am currently working up some lines from some old KISS or Guns N' Roses introductions I have seen.
Ladies and Gentlemen, you wanted the best....but they were busy....The Dirty Pearls.
What's everyone drinking out there? Anyone drinking some TEQUILA? How about some VODKA? Well I am drinking some COLD GIN! Here's a band who loves COLD GIN....The Dirty Pearls"
Please welcome NY's HOTTEST BAND...THE DIRTY PEARLS.
Straight from Rikers, The Dirty Pearls.
I haven't settled on the introduction just yet, but I will come up with something appropriate. You should take note and see how they are going to be introduced on Saturday by purchasing your tickets here.
Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar Festival Announced
The Rockstar Energy Drink Dogs Fucking Cats Uproar Festival has finally been announced and it contains some pretty good bands. Shinedown, Godsmack, Staind, Papa Roach, and Adelitas Way are the main stage acts. The second stage has a decent bill too with POD, Fozzy, Mindset Evolution, Deuce, Redlight King, Candlelight Red, In This Moment, and Thousand Foot Krutch.
The tour will run from August and September and hit 30 cities. I don't agree with Adelitas Way over Fozzy on the main stage. I feel Fozzy is a better band and could really open the main stage with a bang. Sort of like how Black Label Society opened Ozzfest's main stage way back when. Adelitas Way is pussy rock - rock for the ladies. I understand why the promoters want them on the bill..because they will bring in the ladies, but Fozzy is better.
Here is a taste of Adelitas Way. Listen to how polished they are and how corporate they sound. The sound is watered down and homogeneous for the brainwashed masses.
Now listen to this roshambo. It's Fozzy who has a dirty, crunched sound that is a labor of love from a real metal head.
Yes, I realize I chose a cover song as an example of Fozzy's work, but it's so awesome. I think I'll use it for my Cover Thursday hashtag on our Twitter account.
The tour will run from August and September and hit 30 cities. I don't agree with Adelitas Way over Fozzy on the main stage. I feel Fozzy is a better band and could really open the main stage with a bang. Sort of like how Black Label Society opened Ozzfest's main stage way back when. Adelitas Way is pussy rock - rock for the ladies. I understand why the promoters want them on the bill..because they will bring in the ladies, but Fozzy is better.
Here is a taste of Adelitas Way. Listen to how polished they are and how corporate they sound. The sound is watered down and homogeneous for the brainwashed masses.
Now listen to this roshambo. It's Fozzy who has a dirty, crunched sound that is a labor of love from a real metal head.
Yes, I realize I chose a cover song as an example of Fozzy's work, but it's so awesome. I think I'll use it for my Cover Thursday hashtag on our Twitter account.
No Freddie Mercury Hologram
Since Coachella and the holographic Tupac, so many topics of conversation has been "Who should get the hologram treatment"? It is just getting to the point of Ludacris.
There was a thread going around where the makers of the hologram technology would take a few legends around the country and fill theaters with the music of Elvis, Jimi Hendrix, and/or Janis Joplin. Or there was talk of Paul McCartney and Ringo touring with holographic John Lennon and George Harrison. It's a bad idea. If I want to hear Elvis music, I will put on Jailhouse Rock and listen to it. I will watch his Hawaii special and reflect on him. I only see the hologram as a geeky gimmick that should be given the Old Yeller treatment before it embarrasses itself by getting rabies.
Thankfully, Queen has decided to say no to something. They didn't say no to American Idol or Adam Lambert joining them on stage. They have said no to holographic Freddie Mercury. Thank GOD they did. Roger Taylor had this to say:
I don't think I want to," Taylor told Billboard.com. "Were somebody (else) to use a hologram of Freddie, I would have no objection... It just doesn't sit too well with me. I don't want to appear with a hologram of my dear friend. It's the real one or no hologram for me. But I think it's an amazing effect when used properly — obviously in darkness."
So it is possible for Queen to say NO. Now if they can only transfer that word to American Idol contracts.
There was a thread going around where the makers of the hologram technology would take a few legends around the country and fill theaters with the music of Elvis, Jimi Hendrix, and/or Janis Joplin. Or there was talk of Paul McCartney and Ringo touring with holographic John Lennon and George Harrison. It's a bad idea. If I want to hear Elvis music, I will put on Jailhouse Rock and listen to it. I will watch his Hawaii special and reflect on him. I only see the hologram as a geeky gimmick that should be given the Old Yeller treatment before it embarrasses itself by getting rabies.
Thankfully, Queen has decided to say no to something. They didn't say no to American Idol or Adam Lambert joining them on stage. They have said no to holographic Freddie Mercury. Thank GOD they did. Roger Taylor had this to say:
I don't think I want to," Taylor told Billboard.com. "Were somebody (else) to use a hologram of Freddie, I would have no objection... It just doesn't sit too well with me. I don't want to appear with a hologram of my dear friend. It's the real one or no hologram for me. But I think it's an amazing effect when used properly — obviously in darkness."
So it is possible for Queen to say NO. Now if they can only transfer that word to American Idol contracts.
Juliet's Vice Eponymous Album Review
I introduced you to Philadelphia based band, Juliet's Vice when I reviewed their album D.G.A.F (you can read that review here). They sent me their followup album entitled Juliet's Vice and I enjoyed it.
D.G.A.F was one of my favorite EPs and I still listen to it today. I love the sleazy (Faster Pussycat, LA Guns) vibe they built on their first album. I don't think Juliet's Vice follow up really expands on the first album.
The album begins with a pervasive acoustic riff that weaves naturally with a light electric lick. This builds to a beautiful bombast that kicks the wall down like the Kool-Aid man. Star has a plodding theme to it that typifies the lyrics about a falling Star. The guitar solo is punctual and leads to one of the best moments of the album. A heightened guitar solo that is allowed to organically breathe and develop on it's own. The music crescendos perfectly and winds down flawlessly.
Dirty Little Princess has a lovely bluesy ostinato that equates impeccably with the sleazy lyrics ("Sucking face with some old boyfriend, he can suck me too"). The guitar solo is once again carefully thought out and flows well with the song.
Tattoos N' Pink has that Out Ta Get Me vibe from Guns N' Roses Appetite for Destruction but rolls into a fun 80's hair metal feel for the chorus. But this song has a big issue, the drum mix isn't blended well especially during the chorus. During the A section and B sections, the drums drop back and help push the song along, but during that chorus the cymbals are way too loud and kill the part people want to remember. That is a shame too because the guitar work is stellar. You can really hear it when the song breaks down around the three minute mark.
The mix continues to be a problem for certain songs like The Ones to Blame. This song is notably softer (sound wise) than the rest of the album. I had to turn up my speakers to hear the music in the background, but then got drowned out by the vocals during the chorus. You can really hear the softness of this track when compared directly to Fireball (the very next track). You are going to need to be mindful of this if you buy the album and turn The Ones to Blame up. You will need to turn it BACK down before it blows out your speakers.
The cymbals once again make another one of my favorite riffs almost unlistenable. Broken Home has a wonderful repeating urgency like I am barreling toward Bat Country with a pocket full of mescaline. But those cymbals really hit my ears at an uncomfortable pitch.
I love what the band has going here. It's a solid base with some stupendous song writing, but the mix is wrong and that mix affects my review. No one knows better than me about local artists and the limits placed on their band. Those limits may be money, studio time, personal time, etc. I'd just like to let the guitars and vocals breathe a bit more than by stymied by a loud cymbal crash.
Head over to the band's Facebook page to learn more about them. You can buy Juliet's Vice album through iTunes now.
D.G.A.F was one of my favorite EPs and I still listen to it today. I love the sleazy (Faster Pussycat, LA Guns) vibe they built on their first album. I don't think Juliet's Vice follow up really expands on the first album.
The album begins with a pervasive acoustic riff that weaves naturally with a light electric lick. This builds to a beautiful bombast that kicks the wall down like the Kool-Aid man. Star has a plodding theme to it that typifies the lyrics about a falling Star. The guitar solo is punctual and leads to one of the best moments of the album. A heightened guitar solo that is allowed to organically breathe and develop on it's own. The music crescendos perfectly and winds down flawlessly.
Dirty Little Princess has a lovely bluesy ostinato that equates impeccably with the sleazy lyrics ("Sucking face with some old boyfriend, he can suck me too"). The guitar solo is once again carefully thought out and flows well with the song.
Tattoos N' Pink has that Out Ta Get Me vibe from Guns N' Roses Appetite for Destruction but rolls into a fun 80's hair metal feel for the chorus. But this song has a big issue, the drum mix isn't blended well especially during the chorus. During the A section and B sections, the drums drop back and help push the song along, but during that chorus the cymbals are way too loud and kill the part people want to remember. That is a shame too because the guitar work is stellar. You can really hear it when the song breaks down around the three minute mark.
The mix continues to be a problem for certain songs like The Ones to Blame. This song is notably softer (sound wise) than the rest of the album. I had to turn up my speakers to hear the music in the background, but then got drowned out by the vocals during the chorus. You can really hear the softness of this track when compared directly to Fireball (the very next track). You are going to need to be mindful of this if you buy the album and turn The Ones to Blame up. You will need to turn it BACK down before it blows out your speakers.
The cymbals once again make another one of my favorite riffs almost unlistenable. Broken Home has a wonderful repeating urgency like I am barreling toward Bat Country with a pocket full of mescaline. But those cymbals really hit my ears at an uncomfortable pitch.
I love what the band has going here. It's a solid base with some stupendous song writing, but the mix is wrong and that mix affects my review. No one knows better than me about local artists and the limits placed on their band. Those limits may be money, studio time, personal time, etc. I'd just like to let the guitars and vocals breathe a bit more than by stymied by a loud cymbal crash.
Head over to the band's Facebook page to learn more about them. You can buy Juliet's Vice album through iTunes now.
