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- Leftover Salmon is breaking up or taking a break?
Leftover Salmon after 15 yrs says no more.. a hiatus or good-bye for good? read more..
- Leftover Salmon is breaking up or taking a break?
Leftover Salmon after 15 yrs says no more.. a hiatus or good-bye for good? read more..
- Mark Karan interview - 4/21/01
Mark Karan interview
- Railroad Earth
With nearly 400 shows and tens of thousands of road miles now behind them, Railroad Earth has become a staple on the national touring and festival scene, and built a huge following of loyal fans that document and trade every note they play, and often join them on the road for multiple nights. These fans call themselves “Hobos,” and the band considers them to be the fuel that keeps this engine chugging along. Railroad Earth’s next album is planned for release in Spring 2004. Till then the band will continue to bring their music to the stage from East to West. So keep an ear to the ground and listen for Railroad Earth, because they'll be rolling through your town very soon.
- ten2nine
"I hate to break the news to you, but you guy's may have finally put all the pieces together. This new ep is the best work I've heard from you ever! The writing, lyrics and music is superb, the performance is top notch and [Jim Leguilloux's] production gives it a true professional gloss." - Ron Gilmour, Power 104 Kelowna, BC
- Metharia
The debut on the band was on 18th January 2000, when Metharia won the festival "Le Quattro Notti Rock." In June 2003 they are one of the three winners of the "NMC festival,' in Marcerta winning the award for the best live performance.
- Signal Path
Armed with new jungle juice, they are warming up and ready to play. They opened up with a latenight show in Atlanta and continued on to Mountain View Jam Festival in North Carolina. Coast to coast, they'll be working their way to SummerCamp, Wakarusa, and High Sierra Music Festival.
- T-Band
Jim Dooney plays guitar and does most of the lead vocals. He is great at getting everyone involved in the fun by taking requests or choosing the perfect song for any situation. Amy Anderson plays the stand up bass and sings harmony. Amy is the musical backbone of the band. Her playing punch and solid timing keeps us all together in our all acoustic environment. Robert Griffith plays banjo and sings harmony. Rob drives the band with lightning fast fingers and great improvising skills. Rich Egan plays mandolin and does some vocals. Rich keeps your feet tapping and your fingers snapping with his rhythm chops and is great at playing tasteful solos."
- Shanti Groove (September 2003)
Shanti's groove moves along acoustical and electrical lines, combining the voice of jazz and rock with back porch bluegrass and funktified percussion. Bringing their unique sound to venues nationwide, the band provides a musical celebration of the 'groove' kind.
- Kelly's running column
In this column I want to talk to you about Ghent. Ghent is the capital of the province East-Flanders in Belgium, a small country in Europe, and has about 225, 000 inhabitants.
- Kelly's running column
In this column I want to talk to you about Ghent. Ghent is the capital of the province East-Flanders in Belgium, a small country in Europe, and has about 225, 000 inhabitants.
- Curious Yellow (August 2003)
After fronting a couple bands in the mid 90s in California and spending the next several years developing his musical and songwriting talents in Japan and Minneapolis, Adam Lancaster landed in Denver in 2000 and founded the band.
The band took on many formations and seemingly endless lineup changes for about a year until the perfect complimentary additions of Gregg Rosenthal (drums), Josh Eckhoff (guitar), and Matt Novack (bass, vocals) created a sound and style beyond what Adam could have hoped for. This new talented group immediately began writing songs and reworking old songs to create music and a performance that attracts and engages every listening audience. The personal and musical bond between each member deepened quickly and the dedication from everyone to develop the band to its fullest possibilities is evident.
- New Monsoon (June 2003)
Utilizing congas, timbales, tabla, banjo, bongos, Dobro, ghatham, Didgeridoo, electric and acoustic guitars, bass, drum kit and keys, the band offers a plethora of textures, rhythms, ideas and moods. New Monsoon absorbs elements of sound indigenous to world culture and incorporates them into a variety of colorful and original rhythmic compositions.
- One Way Rider (May 2003)
"One Way Rider has taken Nashville by storm! It was an honor to have them perform on the Interstate Radio Network a network of over twenty stations that broadcast from Music City and airs nationwide and in Canada. Locally in Nashville, the IRN broadcast on WSM 650 AM, the home of the Grand Ole Opry. The response was great! We cant wait to have them come back on the air and play for us again. It was so good to be with folks that live and love the bluegrass way, truly a blessed family. David and Valerie are a great example of what a family can accomplish together."
- Smokestack (January 2003)
“The quality of playing blew me away. All four guys were stars, but that keyboard player is a superstar. Very Hornsby in his writing and singing, very Medeski with his jams. I have had the CD for a few months, and being a little familiar with the songs impressed me even more.” CanJam News Toronto,
Canada
- The Miltones (December 2002)
Formed in the summer of 2000, the Miltones have already performed over 350 shows in under 28 months. Their high volume of gigs has enabled the band to mature and explore a range of musical directions that make them a formidable artistic act. Simultaneously their music seems to embrace a level of healing and celebration that make them both accessible and fortunate for the audiences they have attracted.
- Ripple (November 2002)
When Ripple started out in an Old Tappan, NJ basement during early 1978, none of us thought we would be discussing the possibilities of playing together for 25 years. But that’s exactly what happened. From the early day’s of playing friends parties (usually when the Parent’s were away) to all the great nightclubs and other interesting venues we’ve performed at during the years, we’ve met some amazing people and formed life long friendships that will long out live the Band.
- Ray Charles died today at 73.
Ray Charles dead at 73
- Fair To Midland (September 2002)
Brett Stowers and Nathin Seals offer a rhythmic passion that leads the humble gentlemen in their avant-garde sound. The unearthed discord and unconventional cries of frontman Andrew Sudderth infused with guitarist Cliff Campbell's melodic fury tumble into a captivating creation of sonics, cultures, and confusion. Combined with the subtle offering of Matt Langley on keys, FTM glides past the expected boundries and gracefully throws their intense rock harmonies to the flame.
- The Few (July 2002)
"We did it in chunks, whenever he was available," says Burnside. "Living there, and playing in the clubs, it raises your game." The result, an explosive, hooky collection that echoes Burnside's love of the Replacements and fascination with the Cure, is startling from a 22-year-old who took up guitar only three years ago.
- One Cat Left (May 2002)
Pete’s former association with TOM MARSHALL of PHISH led to the band AMFIBIAN. It was here in this situation that Pete found his voice and his motivation..
- Mt. Kilimanjaro!
In one scene we saw a hippo in the river, a croccodile laying on the bank just beside it, and a waterbuck stanking near in the grass!
- Grateful Web Interview with Madison House and SCI Ticketing
SCI interview
- Leftover will be calling it quits at years end.
Leftover Salmon are saying goodbye..
- AN ANNOUNCEMENT FROM TREY 05.25.04
Phish is coming to end..
- Sativa Gumbo (April 2002)
Sativa Gumbo
- Pamela's stories from Africa
This month I'll continue teaching English at the school, organize a second beekeeping seminar, begin making fuel-efficient stoves, and track down another place to buy modern breed roosters.
- Yamagata update
Yamagata
- Yamagata (June 2001)
Yamagata
- JSwine (October 2000)
JSwine
- Mark Karan (August 2000)
Mark Karan
- Moses Guest (September 2000)
Moses Guest
- Uncle Sammy (July 2001)
Uncle Sammy
- Solomon Grundy (April 2001)
Solomon Grundy
- Tonal Vision (May 2001)
Tonal Vision
- Laura Reed & Deep Pocket: A New World Sound
Laura Reed began her life journey half a world away in Johannesburg and Natal, South Africa, steeped in the rhythms of those cities. But it was her experiences in Central America and the Deep South of the US that fleshed out her musical senses. To her repertoire, she collected blues, jazz, soul, heart-rending rock and roll, and R&B influences.
- Laura Reed & Deep Pocket: A New World Sound
Laura Reed began her life journey half a world away in Johannesburg and Natal, South Africa, steeped in the rhythms of those cities. But it was her experiences in Central America and the Deep South of the US that fleshed out her musical senses. To her repertoire, she collected blues, jazz, soul, heart-rending rock and roll, and R&B influences.
- Pavlo and His Signature Guitars
Pavlo is Canadian born, but his parents came from Greece in the mid-60s. Two of his band members are of Greek descent. Spryos Gazetos, the longest serving member of his band, plays bass, keys, and bouzouki, a mandolin-type instrument, and George Vasilakos also plays bouzouki and guitar. Both are Greek. Gino Mirizio, percussionist and piano player, is Italian and is adept at a variety of handrums, including timbale, congas, cajon, djembe, doumek, and ud. Randy Rodrigues, bass, is of Portuguese descent, and Densil Femdios, the keyboard player, was born in Kenya of Portugese descent. These musicians add flavor to Pavlo’s already rich mix of flamenco, classical, and Greek-inspired melodies.
- Pavlo and His Signature Guitars
Pavlo is Canadian born, but his parents came from Greece in the mid-60s. Two of his band members are of Greek descent. Spryos Gazetos, the longest serving member of his band, plays bass, keys, and bouzouki, a mandolin-type instrument, and George Vasilakos also plays bouzouki and guitar. Both are Greek. Gino Mirizio, percussionist and piano player, is Italian and is adept at a variety of handrums, including timbale, congas, cajon, djembe, doumek, and ud. Randy Rodrigues, bass, is of Portuguese descent, and Densil Femdios, the keyboard player, was born in Kenya of Portugese descent. These musicians add flavor to Pavlo’s already rich mix of flamenco, classical, and Greek-inspired melodies.
- Salvador Santana Band: Carving Out Their Own Sound
Salvador Santana has not just big shoes to fill, but legendary ones. His father is rock icon, Carlos Santana. Like many children of musical experts, he has pulled away from his father's instrument and even Santana's classic rock sound.
- Salvador Santana Band: Carving Out Their Own Sound
Salvador Santana has not just big shoes to fill, but legendary ones. His father is rock icon, Carlos Santana. Like many children of musical experts, he has pulled away from his father's instrument and even Santana's classic rock sound.
- Sam Sparro: Bringing Personality to Dance Music
Young Australian-born songwriter/producer, Sam Sparro, is a musical wonder. Partly he comes by this honestly. He grew up in a musical family that explored a lot of musical styles. His great-grandfather was a professor of music. His grandfather is a jazz trumpet player, who played with Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. His grandmother is an accomplished singer and dancer, and his father, Chris Falson, is a noted gospel singer. However, when Sparro decided to venture into the musical world himself, he created something totally new and unexpected.
- Sam Sparro: Bringing Personality to Dance Music
Young Australian-born songwriter/producer, Sam Sparro, is a musical wonder. Partly he comes by this honestly. He grew up in a musical family that explored a lot of musical styles. His great-grandfather was a professor of music. His grandfather is a jazz trumpet player, who played with Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. His grandmother is an accomplished singer and dancer, and his father, Chris Falson, is a noted gospel singer. However, when Sparro decided to venture into the musical world himself, he created something totally new and unexpected.
- Jethro Tull Celebrates 40th Anniversary!
The 40th Anniversary of Jethro Tull is upon us this year--2008. The group, which is made up of frontman/flutist/guitarist Ian Anderson, guitarist Martin Barre, drummer Doane Perry, keyboardist John O'Hara, and bassist David Goodier is in the midst of a variety of tourdates that include Europe, the UK, the Middle East and North America...
- Jethro Tull Celebrates 40th Anniversary!
The 40th Anniversary of Jethro Tull is upon us this year--2008. The group, which is made up of frontman/flutist/guitarist Ian Anderson, guitarist Martin Barre, drummer Doane Perry, keyboardist John O'Hara, and bassist David Goodier is in the midst of a variety of tourdates that include Europe, the UK, the Middle East and North America...
- World Premiere of Dead Symphony, August 1st, in Baltimore
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will delve into the psychedelic world of The Grateful Dead on what would have been Jerry Garcia’s 66th birthday, Friday, August 1 at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall with the world premiere performance of Lee Johnson’s Dead Symphony No. 6.
- World Premiere of Dead Symphony, August 1st, in Baltimore
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will delve into the psychedelic world of The Grateful Dead on what would have been Jerry Garcia’s 66th birthday, Friday, August 1 at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall with the world premiere performance of Lee Johnson’s Dead Symphony No. 6.
- Hometown Biscuits Rule the 23rd Annual Jam on the River
Philadelphia’s favorite jam friendly festival kicked off its 23rd annual party by the Delaware River on Penn’s Landing. This perfect city location set the scene for two days and three nights of live music and camaraderie. People of all ages come out to sit in the sun, shop the vendors, and ultimately dance to the diverse lineup created by the Live Nation community.
- Hometown Biscuits Rule the 23rd Annual Jam on the River
Philadelphia’s favorite jam friendly festival kicked off its 23rd annual party by the Delaware River on Penn’s Landing. This perfect city location set the scene for two days and three nights of live music and camaraderie. People of all ages come out to sit in the sun, shop the vendors, and ultimately dance to the diverse lineup created by the Live Nation community.
- A Conversation with Mandolin Virtuoso Peter Ostroushko
Though Peter Ostroushko's generosity is well known among other musicians as he quietly sits in the background, adding instrumental support for many solo artists, he is in his own stead an incredibly versatile and sensitive player and composer. He has amassed a legacy of his own original recordings on Red House Records, orchestral compositions, scores for musicals, soundtracks for documentaries, and his own active touring schedule. He also plays several different stringed instruments in a variety of styles.
- A Conversation with Mandolin Virtuoso Peter Ostroushko
Though Peter Ostroushko's generosity is well known among other musicians as he quietly sits in the background, adding instrumental support for many solo artists, he is in his own stead an incredibly versatile and sensitive player and composer. He has amassed a legacy of his own original recordings on Red House Records, orchestral compositions, scores for musicals, soundtracks for documentaries, and his own active touring schedule. He also plays several different stringed instruments in a variety of styles.
- A Conversation with Mandolin Virtuoso Peter Ostroushko
Though Peter Ostroushko's generosity is well known among other musicians as he quietly sits in the background, adding instrumental support for many solo artists, he is in his own stead an incredibly versatile and sensitive player and composer. He has amassed a legacy of his own original recordings on Red House Records, orchestral compositions, scores for musicals, soundtracks for documentaries, and his own active touring schedule. He also plays several different stringed instruments in a variety of styles.
- Day 2 of Jam on the River 2008
Overall, Jam on the River 2008 was a great time. For next year, I would like to see a more rock oriented lineup with some bigger names, maybe less DJs and more rock n’ roll jam bands. Furthermore, a bluegrass band, mixed in with a Rose Hill Drive type act. Even an African sounding band like Toubab Crewe or more jam bands like RAQ or moe would be nice. I wouldn’t even mind a Latin influence like Manu Chao or Rodrigo y Gabriella. How about the jazz funk jam bands like Galactic or the Dirty Dozen Brass Band? Philadelphia needs to get out of their electronic cocoon of bands in the jam community and branch out to become more diverse. This festival has the potential to bring the whole jam community to the city of brotherly love.
- Day 2 of Jam on the River 2008
Overall, Jam on the River 2008 was a great time. For next year, I would like to see a more rock oriented lineup with some bigger names, maybe less DJs and more rock n’ roll jam bands. Furthermore, a bluegrass band, mixed in with a Rose Hill Drive type act. Even an African sounding band like Toubab Crewe or more jam bands like RAQ or moe would be nice. I wouldn’t even mind a Latin influence like Manu Chao or Rodrigo y Gabriella. How about the jazz funk jam bands like Galactic or the Dirty Dozen Brass Band? Philadelphia needs to get out of their electronic cocoon of bands in the jam community and branch out to become more diverse. This festival has the potential to bring the whole jam community to the city of brotherly love.
- Catch Yonder @ Bonnaroo - Sunday 3:45PM (What Stage)
Catch Colorado¹s Yonder Mountiain String Band on the Main Stage (the What Stage) this year at Bonnaroo just prior to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss's set this Sunday, June 15 at 3:45. Yonder returns to Bonnaroo after a short hiatus having played on the festival in 2003, 2004, and 2005. They return to Bonnaroo with a brand new live record, Mountain Tracks: Volume 5, on their own label.
- Catch Yonder @ Bonnaroo - Sunday 3:45PM (What Stage)
Catch Colorado¹s Yonder Mountiain String Band on the Main Stage (the What Stage) this year at Bonnaroo just prior to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss's set this Sunday, June 15 at 3:45. Yonder returns to Bonnaroo after a short hiatus having played on the festival in 2003, 2004, and 2005. They return to Bonnaroo with a brand new live record, Mountain Tracks: Volume 5, on their own label.
- Wakarusa 2008 Photos!
Grateful Web's Tim Hurley was on hand at this year's Wakarusa to cover the festival. Tim's pictures are here! And check back soon for Tim's write-up of last weekend's Wakarusa.
- Wakarusa 2008 Photos!
Grateful Web's Tim Hurley was on hand at this year's Wakarusa to cover the festival. Tim's pictures are here! And check back soon for Tim's write-up of last weekend's Wakarusa.
- Grateful Dead - Road Trips: Volume One, Number Three
Staggering gas prices curtailing your travel plans? Avoid the pinch and let ROAD TRIPS transport you far and wide while safely parked with your favorite listening device. The dead's latest 2-disc installment takes us to the magical Summer of '71.
- Grateful Dead - Road Trips: Volume One, Number Three
Staggering gas prices curtailing your travel plans? Avoid the pinch and let ROAD TRIPS transport you far and wide while safely parked with your favorite listening device. The dead's latest 2-disc installment takes us to the magical Summer of '71.
- Infamous Stringdusters New Album + Summer Tour Dates!
With "The Infamous Stringdusters" (released 6/10/2008), the award-winning sextet has put on record the dynamic of intimacy and virtuosity that distinguishes their live shows. The eponymous album is both a nod to traditions and a challenge to conventions, proving that the Infamous Stringdusters' combination of innovation and experience has truly molded a new level of newgrass music.
- Infamous Stringdusters New Album + Summer Tour Dates!
With "The Infamous Stringdusters" (released 6/10/2008), the award-winning sextet has put on record the dynamic of intimacy and virtuosity that distinguishes their live shows. The eponymous album is both a nod to traditions and a challenge to conventions, proving that the Infamous Stringdusters' combination of innovation and experience has truly molded a new level of newgrass music.
- GOGOL BORDELLO GEARS UP FOR BONNAROO
After proving a highlight at Coachella this year, internationally acclaimed Gypsy punk band Gogol Bordello performs today at Bonnaroo on Saturday, June 14 at 4:00 PM on the Which Stage. Come see why Q Magazine calls Eugene Hutz, “a great performer of our times,” with what the New York Press is calling “a band that everyone should see live.”
- GOGOL BORDELLO GEARS UP FOR BONNAROO
After proving a highlight at Coachella this year, internationally acclaimed Gypsy punk band Gogol Bordello performs today at Bonnaroo on Saturday, June 14 at 4:00 PM on the Which Stage. Come see why Q Magazine calls Eugene Hutz, “a great performer of our times,” with what the New York Press is calling “a band that everyone should see live.”
- Chicago and The Doobies Still Smokin It Up
Sure, the bands may be old and the music not quite up to date by the standards of today's young teens and adults, but Chicago and The Doobie Brothers showed that even in the millennium they can still draw in a crowd. Wednesday nights show at Fiddler's Green Amphitheater didn't quite sell out, though the majority of seats were packed and the lawn area was crawling with numerous more fans with blankets and picnic baskets in tote.
- Chicago and The Doobies Still Smokin It Up
Sure, the bands may be old and the music not quite up to date by the standards of today's young teens and adults, but Chicago and The Doobie Brothers showed that even in the millennium they can still draw in a crowd. Wednesday nights show at Fiddler's Green Amphitheater didn't quite sell out, though the majority of seats were packed and the lawn area was crawling with numerous more fans with blankets and picnic baskets in tote.
- Cameron Tapp: A Mate with a Big Heart
Last week, Australian singer/songwriter Cameron Tapp made his US solo debut, not in a coffeehouse or intimate club, but as the processional singer at a fan's wedding. He flew almost 10,000 miles to sing his hit song as Jesse Ihry walked down the aisle of a Fargo, ND church.
- Cameron Tapp: A Mate with a Big Heart
Last week, Australian singer/songwriter Cameron Tapp made his US solo debut, not in a coffeehouse or intimate club, but as the processional singer at a fan's wedding. He flew almost 10,000 miles to sing his hit song as Jesse Ihry walked down the aisle of a Fargo, ND church.
- Peter Buffett & Akon Announce Musical Collaboration
Composer and philanthropist Peter Buffett and international star Akon announced today the beginning of their musical collaboration and the launch of a new social action and resource website, IsThereSomethingICanDo.com. Akon added vocals and remixed Buffett's song "Anything," from his 2007 album 'Staring At The Sun.'
- Peter Buffett & Akon Announce Musical Collaboration
Composer and philanthropist Peter Buffett and international star Akon announced today the beginning of their musical collaboration and the launch of a new social action and resource website, IsThereSomethingICanDo.com. Akon added vocals and remixed Buffett's song "Anything," from his 2007 album 'Staring At The Sun.'
- Behind the Dead Symphony: A Look at Lee Johnson's Great Opus
For classical composer Lee Johnson, tackling the work of the Grateful Dead was like discovering the musical foundations of a new foreign country. Johnson is known for his concert pieces, choral works, short operas and musicals, planetarium soundtracks, and solo/ensemble pieces that cross into jazz and big band music. Some of these disparate elements also find their way into his full-length symphonies where he has even added world music, a jazz/rock band, or whale song to his orchestras.
- Behind the Dead Symphony: A Look at Lee Johnson's Great Opus
For classical composer Lee Johnson, tackling the work of the Grateful Dead was like discovering the musical foundations of a new foreign country. Johnson is known for his concert pieces, choral works, short operas and musicals, planetarium soundtracks, and solo/ensemble pieces that cross into jazz and big band music. Some of these disparate elements also find their way into his full-length symphonies where he has even added world music, a jazz/rock band, or whale song to his orchestras.
- A Wet and Windy Wakarusa 2008
Saturday's lineup would prove to be even more exciting, highlighted by the return of jamgrass pioneers Leftover Salmon. The recently reunited group treated fans to an amazing two hour set on the Sun Down Stage. Fan favorites like “Carnival Time”, “Get Me Outta This City”, “Up on the Hill”, and “Ain’t Gonna Work” sounded great and had folks dancing in the breeze. Frontman Vince Herman’s down home banter and “festivaaaaaaaallll!” cheers kept everyone in high spirits during this energetic set.
- A Wet and Windy Wakarusa 2008
Saturday's lineup would prove to be even more exciting, highlighted by the return of jamgrass pioneers Leftover Salmon. The recently reunited group treated fans to an amazing two hour set on the Sun Down Stage. Fan favorites like “Carnival Time”, “Get Me Outta This City”, “Up on the Hill”, and “Ain’t Gonna Work” sounded great and had folks dancing in the breeze. Frontman Vince Herman’s down home banter and “festivaaaaaaaallll!” cheers kept everyone in high spirits during this energetic set.
- Umphrey's McGee Releases Jimmy Stewart 2007 and A New Live Series - CompendiUM
In June, prog-rock powerhouse Umphrey's McGee will release Jimmy Stewart 2007 - an ambitious double-live album comprised of some of the band's most inspired improvisations, sequenced into two seamless 70-minute "mixtapes." Several times each performance Umphrey's McGee delves into the "Jimmy Stewart" creation process. They aim to generate melody-rich, spontaneous compositions, utilizing a Zappa-inspired language of body gestures and hand-signals which allow the band to create structure on-the-fly.
- Umphrey's McGee Releases Jimmy Stewart 2007 and A New Live Series - CompendiUM
In June, prog-rock powerhouse Umphrey's McGee will release Jimmy Stewart 2007 - an ambitious double-live album comprised of some of the band's most inspired improvisations, sequenced into two seamless 70-minute "mixtapes." Several times each performance Umphrey's McGee delves into the "Jimmy Stewart" creation process. They aim to generate melody-rich, spontaneous compositions, utilizing a Zappa-inspired language of body gestures and hand-signals which allow the band to create structure on-the-fly.
- North Dakota's Legionnaires: Get the Fever
The band is called the Legionnaires. They aren't named for anything noble like the French Foreign Legion or even the DC Comics Legionnaires from the Legion of Super Heroes. They are named for the disease that gets into lungs and brings on a high fever. The Legionnaires honestly will produce a kind of delirium and has created an uncommon loyalty among fans.
- North Dakota's Legionnaires: Get the Fever
The band is called the Legionnaires. They aren't named for anything noble like the French Foreign Legion or even the DC Comics Legionnaires from the Legion of Super Heroes. They are named for the disease that gets into lungs and brings on a high fever. The Legionnaires honestly will produce a kind of delirium and has created an uncommon loyalty among fans.
- Nicholas Mrozinski Wants You to Get the Feelin
Every town has its bar band that packs in the crowds on Saturday nights, but few towns have a draw like Minneapolis' group, The Feelin Band, and what they can produce, wrapped up in a good time.
- Nicholas Mrozinski Wants You to Get the Feelin
Every town has its bar band that packs in the crowds on Saturday nights, but few towns have a draw like Minneapolis' group, The Feelin Band, and what they can produce, wrapped up in a good time.
- Merlinmoon: A New Concept
On June 10, a new pop album dropped on the US music scene. It is the culmination of four years of writing, travel, and soul searching by 24-year-old Alex Deep. It's a sophisticated offering for a young musician born into an Italian family in Venezuela.
- Merlinmoon: A New Concept
On June 10, a new pop album dropped on the US music scene. It is the culmination of four years of writing, travel, and soul searching by 24-year-old Alex Deep. It's a sophisticated offering for a young musician born into an Italian family in Venezuela.
- Reckless Kelly Release ‘Bulletproof’ on 6/24
Highlighting one track in particular, the Statesman notes that "with 'American Blood,' the Reckless ones brilliantly stand up for their country, while blasting the Bush administration," adding "It's the most powerful moment in an album full of them."
- Reckless Kelly Release ‘Bulletproof’ on 6/24
Highlighting one track in particular, the Statesman notes that "with 'American Blood,' the Reckless ones brilliantly stand up for their country, while blasting the Bush administration," adding "It's the most powerful moment in an album full of them."
- Matmos Takes on Boulder Theater July 15th
Matmos' approach is quickly pushing them to the center of the experimental music world. Straddling pop and serious electronica, they've toured and recorded with pop icon Bjork, performed in Lincoln Center and the Whitney Museum of Art, given seminars at Harvard and worked with some of the top musicians in the classical world.
- Matmos Takes on Boulder Theater July 15th
Matmos' approach is quickly pushing them to the center of the experimental music world. Straddling pop and serious electronica, they've toured and recorded with pop icon Bjork, performed in Lincoln Center and the Whitney Museum of Art, given seminars at Harvard and worked with some of the top musicians in the classical world.
- Dark Star Orchestra Fall Tour Dates Announced!
Thanks to all of you who were able to come out and see DSO this spring on our winding road to Manchester, TN. Along the way DSO was honored to welcome two very special guests as Rob Eaton Jr. joined DSO for "Easy Wind" on the first night and Phish's Mike Gordon sat in for a few tunes on both nights at Higher Ground in VT. The end of the road brought DSO to Bonnaroo greeted by thousands of fans under 'The Other Tent' for their Late Night slot on Thursday night.
- Dark Star Orchestra Fall Tour Dates Announced!
Thanks to all of you who were able to come out and see DSO this spring on our winding road to Manchester, TN. Along the way DSO was honored to welcome two very special guests as Rob Eaton Jr. joined DSO for "Easy Wind" on the first night and Phish's Mike Gordon sat in for a few tunes on both nights at Higher Ground in VT. The end of the road brought DSO to Bonnaroo greeted by thousands of fans under 'The Other Tent' for their Late Night slot on Thursday night.
- Los Lobos Announces Summer Tour
Since they began as Los Lobos Del Este Los Angeles in 1973, Los Lobos has evolved into a respected artistic entity using eclectic musical molds built on the blues, rockabilly, jazz, Latin and their own Mexican-American heritage. Critically acclaimed Los Lobos has thrived for more than three decades. In that time, they have released over 15 albums, won the Best American/Mexican Grammy for Anselma in 1984, and in 1987 their cover of "La Bamba" shot straight to #1 on the Billboard Singles chart where it remained for three weeks.
- Los Lobos Announces Summer Tour
Since they began as Los Lobos Del Este Los Angeles in 1973, Los Lobos has evolved into a respected artistic entity using eclectic musical molds built on the blues, rockabilly, jazz, Latin and their own Mexican-American heritage. Critically acclaimed Los Lobos has thrived for more than three decades. In that time, they have released over 15 albums, won the Best American/Mexican Grammy for Anselma in 1984, and in 1987 their cover of "La Bamba" shot straight to #1 on the Billboard Singles chart where it remained for three weeks.
- Ratdog/Gov't Mule Photos from Eugene (6.20.2008)
Grateful Web's Aaron Dietrich was in attendance at Friday night's Ratdog/Gov't Mule show in Eugene, Oregon. Here are some pictures from the show. Aaron also was at Saturday night's Seattle show, so check back soon for those pictures. Once again, we cannot thank Dennis McNally enough for his wonderful hospitality.
- Ratdog/Gov't Mule Photos from Eugene (6.20.2008)
Grateful Web's Aaron Dietrich was in attendance at Friday night's Ratdog/Gov't Mule show in Eugene, Oregon. Here are some pictures from the show. Aaron also was at Saturday night's Seattle show, so check back soon for those pictures. Once again, we cannot thank Dennis McNally enough for his wonderful hospitality.
- Rex Foundation: Summer Festivals, Limited VIP Tix & More
The Rex Foundation would like to thank the following festivals for including us as one of their non-profits at their 2008 Summer Festivals! It is with collective efforts we are able to give back to the communities in their areas. We encourage everyone to attend these festivals and tell them... Rex sent me!
- Rex Foundation: Summer Festivals, Limited VIP Tix & More
The Rex Foundation would like to thank the following festivals for including us as one of their non-profits at their 2008 Summer Festivals! It is with collective efforts we are able to give back to the communities in their areas. We encourage everyone to attend these festivals and tell them... Rex sent me!
- Bridgeport & Gathering of the Vibes Extend Contract till 2012
The four-day festival offers entertainment options for the entire family. In addition to showcasing 40 bands on three stages, this year’s event launches the bold Green Vibes environmental initiative, aimed at educating attendees on issues related to global climate change. Local organizations committed to developing sustainable energy alternatives will be highlighted, while a “Solar Stage,” featuring up-and-coming artists from the Bridgeport area and beyond, will be powered by on-site solar panels.
- Bridgeport & Gathering of the Vibes Extend Contract till 2012
The four-day festival offers entertainment options for the entire family. In addition to showcasing 40 bands on three stages, this year’s event launches the bold Green Vibes environmental initiative, aimed at educating attendees on issues related to global climate change. Local organizations committed to developing sustainable energy alternatives will be highlighted, while a “Solar Stage,” featuring up-and-coming artists from the Bridgeport area and beyond, will be powered by on-site solar panels.
- STS9 Releases 'Peaceblaster,' July 8th, 2008
Consider the title of the California-based outfit's long-awaited fourth album: Peaceblaster. The two words rub against each other to create an image that is simultaneously utopian and violent, fraught with the very contradiction that permeates America circa now. The result is a tour-de-force of gut-punching rhythms and textured, shimmering tones. The songs don't seem to have been written so much as plucked from the sky.
- STS9 Releases 'Peaceblaster,' July 8th, 2008
Consider the title of the California-based outfit's long-awaited fourth album: Peaceblaster. The two words rub against each other to create an image that is simultaneously utopian and violent, fraught with the very contradiction that permeates America circa now. The result is a tour-de-force of gut-punching rhythms and textured, shimmering tones. The songs don't seem to have been written so much as plucked from the sky.
- New From JEMP Records – 7/22/97 Walnut Creek, Raleigh, NC
On July 22, 1997, Phish performed the second show of their U.S. summer tour at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh, NC through a torrent of rain, thunder and lightning. Rather than cancel the gig, the band played on with the music mirroring the peaks in the storm’s intensity. Phish’s own JEMP Records is excited to offer the complete Walnut Creek show on DVD, in stores everywhere August 5. “Walnut Creek” features more than 2 hours of 5-camera footage in 5.1 Dolby Surround or optional stereo sound on two DVDs.
- New From JEMP Records – 7/22/97 Walnut Creek, Raleigh, NC
On July 22, 1997, Phish performed the second show of their U.S. summer tour at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh, NC through a torrent of rain, thunder and lightning. Rather than cancel the gig, the band played on with the music mirroring the peaks in the storm’s intensity. Phish’s own JEMP Records is excited to offer the complete Walnut Creek show on DVD, in stores everywhere August 5. “Walnut Creek” features more than 2 hours of 5-camera footage in 5.1 Dolby Surround or optional stereo sound on two DVDs.
- Rose Hill Drive Hosts CD Release Party at the Fox Theater
When I walked into the Fox Theater last Tuesday night through the crowd of long haired teenagers, would-be revolutionaries and otherwise strongly opinionated young people, the building fairly stank of angst and attitude. The cause: Rose Hill Drive was celebrating the release of their second CD, “Moon is the New Earth,” and it attracted the usual gang of Alice In Chains and Hansen look-a-likes, as well as a healthy assortment of all-around rock and roll junkies whose physical appearance wasn’t so easy to stereotype.
- Rose Hill Drive Hosts CD Release Party at the Fox Theater
When I walked into the Fox Theater last Tuesday night through the crowd of long haired teenagers, would-be revolutionaries and otherwise strongly opinionated young people, the building fairly stank of angst and attitude. The cause: Rose Hill Drive was celebrating the release of their second CD, “Moon is the New Earth,” and it attracted the usual gang of Alice In Chains and Hansen look-a-likes, as well as a healthy assortment of all-around rock and roll junkies whose physical appearance wasn’t so easy to stereotype.
- Pearl Jam: An Act of Common Sense and Greatness
As Eddie Vedder quickly pointed out, there was something special in the air on this night in Camden, NJ. Most people equate Camden with their recent memories of crime and race riots. On the other hand, many forget that it was a place of art and authorship. Walt Whitman and famous haiku writer Nick Virgilio lived in Camden and wrote beautiful poems about it. Even Poe frequented Camden when he lived in Philadelphia, around the corner from where I live right now. The reason why I mention all of this when I write a concert review about Pearl Jam is because these themes of writing, art, spoken word, darkness, and hope were around all throughout the night.
- Pearl Jam: An Act of Common Sense and Greatness
As Eddie Vedder quickly pointed out, there was something special in the air on this night in Camden, NJ. Most people equate Camden with their recent memories of crime and race riots. On the other hand, many forget that it was a place of art and authorship. Walt Whitman and famous haiku writer Nick Virgilio lived in Camden and wrote beautiful poems about it. Even Poe frequented Camden when he lived in Philadelphia, around the corner from where I live right now. The reason why I mention all of this when I write a concert review about Pearl Jam is because these themes of writing, art, spoken word, darkness, and hope were around all throughout the night.
- Can I Hear An Amen?: Railroad Earth's New Album
It's a curiosity that Railroad Earth named their latest album, Amen Corner. A lot of people relate that name to holes 11-13 in a full round of golf. It was first used in that context in 1958 by Herbert Warren Wind, a writer for Sports Illustrated, who was trying to give some color to Arnold Palmer's first dramatic win. Even today Tiger Woods and others refer to those holes and the sometimes miraculous things that happen there as the Amen Corner. But that isn't where that term originally came from. The sportswriter got it from an old jazz recording of a song called, “Shouting in the Amen Corner.”
- PRAANG Returns To Cervantes for Two-Night Stint
Formed under a blanket of thick Colorado snow during the blizzard of 2006, PRAANG returns to Cervantes for a two night stand December 5th and 6th. Featuring Steve Kimock, Jason Hann and Michael Travis from EOTO/String Cheese Incident and Jamie Janover from ZILLA, PRAANG represents a new musical avenue for the four members to travel. Completely improvisational, spontaneous, and unrehearsed, the quartet’s music reflects their fateful existence
- THE ROXY IN LOS ANGELES CELEBRATES 35TH ANNIVERSARY
Los Angeles’ THE ROXY THEATRE first opened its doors in the late fall of 1973. 35 years later, the legendary venue marks this significant milestone as one of America’s longest-running independently owned and operated establishments with two monumental shows highlighting its rich musical history: Zappa Plays Zappa December 10, 11, 12 and 13 and a New Years Eve performance by The Wailers.
- THE ROXY IN LOS ANGELES CELEBRATES 35TH ANNIVERSARY
Los Angeles’ THE ROXY THEATRE first opened its doors in the late fall of 1973. 35 years later, the legendary venue marks this significant milestone as one of America’s longest-running independently owned and operated establishments with two monumental shows highlighting its rich musical history: Zappa Plays Zappa December 10, 11, 12 and 13 and a New Years Eve performance by The Wailers.
- Leftover Salmon to play Vail, CO + Upcoming Projects
Leftover Salmon will perform a full two set show on December 12th at the Dobson Ice Arena. This show will be part of the Snow Daze Festival held each year in Vail Colorado as a kickoff party to the winter season.
- Leftover Salmon to play Vail, CO + Upcoming Projects
Leftover Salmon will perform a full two set show on December 12th at the Dobson Ice Arena. This show will be part of the Snow Daze Festival held each year in Vail Colorado as a kickoff party to the winter season.
- Karrin Allyson Appearing This Weekend At The Iridium Jazz Club
Over the years, Karrin Allyson has recorded a series of eleven CDs for Concord Records, each of which have showcased her astonishing breadth of repertoire, from standards by Gershwin and Porter to Brazilian bossa nova to samba and Thelonious Monk. She has also taken on French and Brazilian music (From Paris to Rio), the genius of John Coltrane (Ballads: Remembering John Coltrane) and the blues (In Blue).
- Karrin Allyson Appearing This Weekend At The Iridium Jazz Club
Over the years, Karrin Allyson has recorded a series of eleven CDs for Concord Records, each of which have showcased her astonishing breadth of repertoire, from standards by Gershwin and Porter to Brazilian bossa nova to samba and Thelonious Monk. She has also taken on French and Brazilian music (From Paris to Rio), the genius of John Coltrane (Ballads: Remembering John Coltrane) and the blues (In Blue).
- Femi Kuti & the Positive Force @ Boulder Theater
Four years after the DVD Live@Shrine, Femi Kuti returns with a generous, powerful and timeless new album, continuing to explore and push back the frontiers of Afrobeat. Thirteen titles that grab your belly, your feet, your heart and your head. From the ghettos of Lagos to the palaces of corrupt politicians, Day by Day takes us through the winding roads of African paradox. Why is such a rich continent inhabited by the world’s poorest people?
- Femi Kuti & the Positive Force @ Boulder Theater
Four years after the DVD Live@Shrine, Femi Kuti returns with a generous, powerful and timeless new album, continuing to explore and push back the frontiers of Afrobeat. Thirteen titles that grab your belly, your feet, your heart and your head. From the ghettos of Lagos to the palaces of corrupt politicians, Day by Day takes us through the winding roads of African paradox. Why is such a rich continent inhabited by the world’s poorest people?
- BoomBox Set to Ring in the New Year at Mile High
Kicking it all off on Tuesday, December 30th at Owsley’s Golden Road, the headline show will feature special guests Melvin Seals and JGB as well as Steve Kimock and Friends opening the night. BoomBox will take to the stage from 1:30am to 4:30am, keeping the party going until the early morning hours.
- BoomBox Set to Ring in the New Year at Mile High
Kicking it all off on Tuesday, December 30th at Owsley’s Golden Road, the headline show will feature special guests Melvin Seals and JGB as well as Steve Kimock and Friends opening the night. BoomBox will take to the stage from 1:30am to 4:30am, keeping the party going until the early morning hours.
- Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's BEWARE Streets 3/17/09
Though Beware shares spit with its immediate predecessor released this past summer, Lie Down in the Light, it's reach is longer and stronger, more grandiose. Where fiddle and steel contribute their rustic timbre alongside guitars and voices, a thickening thud of low tone rolls beneath, giving the record a bottom that’s fun to watch bounce in new clothes. This indensifies the air and heralds Beware as Bonny’s biggest, most ambitious record to date – yea, bigger and more ambitious than even The Letting Go! A listen or two through and you too may conclude that this could also be the great Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy contempo-country record
- Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's BEWARE Streets 3/17/09
Though Beware shares spit with its immediate predecessor released this past summer, Lie Down in the Light, it's reach is longer and stronger, more grandiose. Where fiddle and steel contribute their rustic timbre alongside guitars and voices, a thickening thud of low tone rolls beneath, giving the record a bottom that’s fun to watch bounce in new clothes. This indensifies the air and heralds Beware as Bonny’s biggest, most ambitious record to date – yea, bigger and more ambitious than even The Letting Go! A listen or two through and you too may conclude that this could also be the great Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy contempo-country record
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo @ Boulder Theater
Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the GRAMMY® Award winning vocal group from South Africa that has conquered nations in its own way with a joyous and spiritually charged brand of vocal music and native choreography, pays tribute to this historical icon with their new Heads Up International release, Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu. Ilembe celebrates not only Shaka Zulu but the sense of perseverance, creativity and pride that he has inspired in generations of descendants.
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo @ Boulder Theater
Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the GRAMMY® Award winning vocal group from South Africa that has conquered nations in its own way with a joyous and spiritually charged brand of vocal music and native choreography, pays tribute to this historical icon with their new Heads Up International release, Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu. Ilembe celebrates not only Shaka Zulu but the sense of perseverance, creativity and pride that he has inspired in generations of descendants.
- Gene Ween Band Tour Dates Announced + New Ween CD
Recorded live at the Cat's Cradle in Chapel Hill, NC 12/9/92, the CD comes with a bonus DVD which features clips from Ween's first tour of Holland, and also Stache's in Columbus, OH. As Dean Ween says; "The whole thing is so brown that it's almost black.
- Gene Ween Band Tour Dates Announced + New Ween CD
Recorded live at the Cat's Cradle in Chapel Hill, NC 12/9/92, the CD comes with a bonus DVD which features clips from Ween's first tour of Holland, and also Stache's in Columbus, OH. As Dean Ween says; "The whole thing is so brown that it's almost black.
- Jazz Museum Events: Nov. 17-21, 2008
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem begins an exciting full week of public programming with a conversation between executive director Loren Schoenberg and best-selling author, saxophonist and composer James McBride for Jazz for Curious Readers, whose first novel was recently turned into a film by acclaimed director Spike Lee.
- Jazz Museum Events: Nov. 17-21, 2008
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem begins an exciting full week of public programming with a conversation between executive director Loren Schoenberg and best-selling author, saxophonist and composer James McBride for Jazz for Curious Readers, whose first novel was recently turned into a film by acclaimed director Spike Lee.
- Swing Into The Holiday Season With George Gee's Make-Believe Ballroom Orchestra
This Holiday season, The Edison Ballroom and producer Mickey Marchello, former guitarist from the legendary New York Rock Band Good Rats, will welcome the swing era sounds of George Gee and his Make-Believe Ballroom Orchestra as they entertain guests with a new show that evokes a golden era: “Sleigh Bells Swing.” George Gee and his 22-piece Big Band offer the perfect Holiday treat for not only swing and jazz music fans, but also for tourists and tri-state area residents looking for an incredible Holiday entertainment experience.
- Swing Into The Holiday Season With George Gee's Make-Believe Ballroom Orchestra
This Holiday season, The Edison Ballroom and producer Mickey Marchello, former guitarist from the legendary New York Rock Band Good Rats, will welcome the swing era sounds of George Gee and his Make-Believe Ballroom Orchestra as they entertain guests with a new show that evokes a golden era: “Sleigh Bells Swing.” George Gee and his 22-piece Big Band offer the perfect Holiday treat for not only swing and jazz music fans, but also for tourists and tri-state area residents looking for an incredible Holiday entertainment experience.
- The Motet performs Talking Heads @ Boulder Theater
Performing the music of the Talking Heads, The Motet will be joined by Kyle Hollingsworth (SCI) on keys, Fuzz (Deep Banana Blackout) on guitar, Jans Ingber on vocals and percussion, Liza Oxnard on vocals, Joey Porter also on keys, Carrie Sangiovanni on background vocals and Paul McDaniel on bass.
- The Motet performs Talking Heads @ Boulder Theater
Performing the music of the Talking Heads, The Motet will be joined by Kyle Hollingsworth (SCI) on keys, Fuzz (Deep Banana Blackout) on guitar, Jans Ingber on vocals and percussion, Liza Oxnard on vocals, Joey Porter also on keys, Carrie Sangiovanni on background vocals and Paul McDaniel on bass.
- Download Phish At The Roxy Now!
Recorded Live February 19th, 20th and 21st, 1993, this run at the intimate Roxy Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia set the stage for many classic tripartite celebrations to follow. With the second show's near-instant legendary status cemented among fans due largely to a non-stop thriller of a second set which included feats of rock and roll greatness, including a sit-in by a spurious Gene Simmons, At The Roxy captures a magical moment for Phish and their audience during a period of peak songwriting and experimentation.
- Download Phish At The Roxy Now!
Recorded Live February 19th, 20th and 21st, 1993, this run at the intimate Roxy Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia set the stage for many classic tripartite celebrations to follow. With the second show's near-instant legendary status cemented among fans due largely to a non-stop thriller of a second set which included feats of rock and roll greatness, including a sit-in by a spurious Gene Simmons, At The Roxy captures a magical moment for Phish and their audience during a period of peak songwriting and experimentation.
- Conscious Alliance Announces Holiday Meal Drive & Rebel Alliance Jam XIV
Not-for-profit Conscious Alliance - feeding America's hungry through music - ramps up this year's holiday giving with the announcement of their 5th annual "Holiday Meal Drive." With the support of musicians and their fans, and this year in partnership with Whole Foods Market, the organization will deliver full holiday meals to impoverished Native American Reservations for the fifth year in a row. The organization also hosts the Rebel Alliance Jam XIV - a holiday benefit show at Boulder, Colorado's Fox Theatre on November 29th featuring Keith Moseley, Scott Law, Jeff Sipe, Gibb Droll, and special guest Kyle Hollingsworth.
- Conscious Alliance Announces Holiday Meal Drive & Rebel Alliance Jam XIV
Not-for-profit Conscious Alliance - feeding America's hungry through music - ramps up this year's holiday giving with the announcement of their 5th annual "Holiday Meal Drive." With the support of musicians and their fans, and this year in partnership with Whole Foods Market, the organization will deliver full holiday meals to impoverished Native American Reservations for the fifth year in a row. The organization also hosts the Rebel Alliance Jam XIV - a holiday benefit show at Boulder, Colorado's Fox Theatre on November 29th featuring Keith Moseley, Scott Law, Jeff Sipe, Gibb Droll, and special guest Kyle Hollingsworth.
- Four Sushi Restaurants and the Toubab Krewe
For lovers of atypical instrumental rock derivatives, there may be no sweeter words than Toubab Krewe. What’s a Toubab Krewe, you ask? Good question! For starters, Toubab Krewe is a band, five guys who make some of the grooviest music you’ve ever (or maybe never) heard. The only term that really sticks with any consistency is instrumental, since, as the word implies, they only play instruments sans vocals. Other than that, they are a really tough act to peg. Psychic-Afro-dub-rock comes to mind as a possibility, but somehow even that doesn’t do the Toubab Krewe justice.
- Four Sushi Restaurants and the Toubab Krewe
For lovers of atypical instrumental rock derivatives, there may be no sweeter words than Toubab Krewe. What’s a Toubab Krewe, you ask? Good question! For starters, Toubab Krewe is a band, five guys who make some of the grooviest music you’ve ever (or maybe never) heard. The only term that really sticks with any consistency is instrumental, since, as the word implies, they only play instruments sans vocals. Other than that, they are a really tough act to peg. Psychic-Afro-dub-rock comes to mind as a possibility, but somehow even that doesn’t do the Toubab Krewe justice.
- Marco Benevento & Friends | Nathan Moore | The Flynn Space
Many aspects of last Monday night’s show at The Flynn Space in downtown Burlington, Vermont felt as if they had been transplanted from past eras, even different locales. Nathan Moore, the opener of the festivities, was channeling the bravado and freedom of a Greenwich Village bohemian from 1962 and Marco Benevento, the band leader of the night’s all-star headlining troupe, seemed to have an uncanny resemblance in the mind’s eye to a young Miles Davis, breaking free from The Gil Evans Band in 1959 and forging his own musical path. And just like that jazz pioneer who has a stronghold on everyone’s CD collection, Marco has begun to blaze a trail all his own and, on this night, all of the musicians around him were in for a treat, just like the rest of us.
- Marco Benevento & Friends | Nathan Moore | The Flynn Space
Many aspects of last Monday night’s show at The Flynn Space in downtown Burlington, Vermont felt as if they had been transplanted from past eras, even different locales. Nathan Moore, the opener of the festivities, was channeling the bravado and freedom of a Greenwich Village bohemian from 1962 and Marco Benevento, the band leader of the night’s all-star headlining troupe, seemed to have an uncanny resemblance in the mind’s eye to a young Miles Davis, breaking free from The Gil Evans Band in 1959 and forging his own musical path. And just like that jazz pioneer who has a stronghold on everyone’s CD collection, Marco has begun to blaze a trail all his own and, on this night, all of the musicians around him were in for a treat, just like the rest of us.
- Umphrey's Mantis Pre-Order Takes Off
Umphrey's McGee's one-of-a-kind pre-order campaign for their highly anticipated new studio release, Mantis (January 20, 2009 / SCI Fidelity Records) is already being recognized as a brilliant and innovative use of digital technology. The power of this new pre-order concept is in the hands of the fans. Umphrey's offers fans more free bonus content the more Mantis pre-orders they receive; the fans "unlock" levels of content by getting more of their friends to pre-order the album. The idea is to give the fans incentive to help spread the word about the album, and to offer a totally unique music experience.
- Umphrey's Mantis Pre-Order Takes Off
Umphrey's McGee's one-of-a-kind pre-order campaign for their highly anticipated new studio release, Mantis (January 20, 2009 / SCI Fidelity Records) is already being recognized as a brilliant and innovative use of digital technology. The power of this new pre-order concept is in the hands of the fans. Umphrey's offers fans more free bonus content the more Mantis pre-orders they receive; the fans "unlock" levels of content by getting more of their friends to pre-order the album. The idea is to give the fans incentive to help spread the word about the album, and to offer a totally unique music experience.
- 'Jacofest' A Tribute to Jaco Pastorius
The late great bassist-composer Jaco Pastorius, an undeniable force on contemporary jazz during the ‘70s as well as a towering influence on two generations of musicians, will be feted at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York from November 20 - 23. Included in this all-star gala, produced by impresario Charles Carlini, are Pastorius colleagues and former bandmates like trumpeters Randy Brecker, Miles Evans and Lew Soloff, Saxophonists Alex Foster and Butch Thomas, Trombonist David Bargeron, keyboardist Delmar Brown, guitarist David Gilmore and drummer Kenwood Dennard. Featured bass players are T.M Stephens, Matt Garrison, and Jaco's son, Felix Pastorius.
- 'Jacofest' A Tribute to Jaco Pastorius
The late great bassist-composer Jaco Pastorius, an undeniable force on contemporary jazz during the ‘70s as well as a towering influence on two generations of musicians, will be feted at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York from November 20 - 23. Included in this all-star gala, produced by impresario Charles Carlini, are Pastorius colleagues and former bandmates like trumpeters Randy Brecker, Miles Evans and Lew Soloff, Saxophonists Alex Foster and Butch Thomas, Trombonist David Bargeron, keyboardist Delmar Brown, guitarist David Gilmore and drummer Kenwood Dennard. Featured bass players are T.M Stephens, Matt Garrison, and Jaco's son, Felix Pastorius.
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Welcome to Jobygoob's Retro Reviews. Today's review is a show readily available for download at the Live Music Archive, 7/29/88, at the Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey California. This was the first of a three show run at Laguna Seca, and in my opinion the best of the three. I chose this show mainly because of the extremely high quality of the recording currently available at the LMA. It sounds to me to be a mislabelled soundboard or soundboard/audience matrix recording, but I suppose it's possible that its just a phenomenal audience recording. If this is the case, it's one of the best sounding audience recordings I have ever heard. I'll definitely be sending this over to Born Again Ben because he somehow missed this clearly worthy addition to his great list of best auds at the archive.
One small note about the LMA: If you haven't been over there recently, you'll notice next time you visit that they have undertaken a major overhaul of their site. All the Grateful Dead has been moved over to its own section, and they have altered the way that you search and access shows. You can still search by year, but it's not as intuitive as before, and each search results in a long list of shows that is nowhere nearly as easy to navigate as it was before. There's a new forum just for discussion of the Dead, which I'm sure is a great relief to all the other posters at the LMA that have no interest in GD. The coolest addition is a little java jukebox on the page of every show that lets you easily stream from any song in the show. This is very cool, and while it doesn't exactly lessen the blow of losing download access to all the great soundboard recordings, it is a real nice feature none the less. It also allows me to easily listen to the show while I write these reviews, a nice way to record my impressions on the fly. I'm not a big fan of these changes overall, but I get the feeling this is a work in progress and hopefully the interface will continue to improve as time goes on. Now on to the review:
This was one of only five times the Dead played at Laguna Seca Raceway. This must have been a fantastic place to see a show, because of the gorgeous surroundings and the campgrounds right on site at the venue. According to a post on the LMA, several Deadheads camped on the grounds of a U.S. Army rifle range nearby the venue, resulting in the Dead being banned from playing there ever again. Definitely a great loss.
This show was in the middle of an extremely prolific period for the Dead. Jerry was healthy and strong, and Brent was really coming into his own, adding so much to each and every show. The first set opened with a nice, laid back Iko Iko, featuring some interesting sound effects on Jerry's vocals and great organ fills and solos from Brent. This is a nice, always unexpected opener and is a good indicator of some unusual song selection for the show ahead.
Bobby gives us a Walkin' Blues next, nothing too special here.
Jerry picks up the mike again for Candyman, always a treat. He mixes up some lyrics in the first verse but recovers nicely. Nice harmonies on the refrain. The first lead break is really nice. Jerry's vocals are strong here early in the show. The song builds up to a pretty powerful crescendo at the last verse, overall a great version.
Next song is Bob Dylan's Queen Jane Approximately, one of my favorites in this position from Bobby Weir. I was always so happy so see this instead of those cowboy double shots we get so often here. Nice harmonies from Jerry and Brent, and some great support solos from those two as well.
Jerry's up again next with Althea. A few more confused lyrics in the first verse, and a flaw in the recording cuts out a bit here, not too bad though. Great soloing after the bridge is the highlight here.
Brent takes over with an early version of one of my favorites of his original tunes, Blow Away. This is definitely an early version, only the fourth time played, with none of the backup vocals from the rest of the band that really added alot to this song. It's interesting to hear, though, and shows how this song evolved and really improved over the next couple of years. Phil comments after this song how the band seems to take longer in between songs than they used to and gets a rise out of the crowd.
Cassidy is next, pretty standard version here. This is just a great song, and I really never got tired of hearing it. Always a nice opportunity for Phil and Jerry to take off after the "faring thee well now" verse, and it never gets old listening to the whole band come back from the outer reaches to join together in unison for "flight of the seabirds." Probably in my top five favorite Bob Weir tunes of all time.
Deal closes the first set, which was always a crowd pleaser. Nice long high energy jam after the verses to end the set. Overall, while not a killer first set, definitely nothing to complain about.
 Set two picks things up significantly. It opens up with a nice leisurely paced China Cat Sunflower. Jerry sounds good vocally and as usual for this song, there's some real fine interplay between his and Bobby's guitar work. There's a nice long jam at the end of verse three that sounds like a leisurely jaunt into the standard Rider, but tonight Jerry has other plans. He noodles for a bit before blowing everyones mind and smoothly transitioning into Crazy Fingers! The band is right with him and it’s a really nice version. The vocals are very strong, and while there's really no jamming, it's still really sweet considering what a surprise it is for everyone. After this great diversion from tradition the band transitions right back into the I Know You Rider jam and into the song. It's such a refreshing change and it really is a shame that the boys didn't mix up this classic pairing more often. This kind of surprise is a great example of why seeing the Grateful Dead was always such a fantastic experience for me. There always was the potential for some crazy magic flying in out of left field at any given show, and for me, more often than not, the boys would deliver.
The set doesn't slow down as they go right from Rider into one of the best versions of Playin' In the Band since the truly amazing versions from 1972. This Playin' is so good it is featured on the Grateful Dead box set retrospective "So Many Roads." Brent and Bobby sing together and their interplay is really wonderful here. The instrumental is superb, with creative and imaginative soloing from Phil and Jerry following the verses. The fun continues as the jam takes off into some serious weirdness, before coalescing back into the reprise and transitioning into Drums>Space, which contains some nice easy going jamming along with the usual explosive moments of terror.
Jerry brings us out of space with one of my all time favorites, The Wheel. Something unusual about this tune: The Wheel, in my opinion, is one of the few songs I think that Jerry did better in the recording studio than in most live versions. The intro to this song, on Jerry's first solo album "Garcia," is probably my favorite guitar work ever done on any recording. Just hauntingly beautiful and melodic. It's also featured during the animation sequence of the Grateful Dead Movie. The version from this show is practically flawless, but I've yet to hear a live version that captures the magic of that studio release. There's a couple from 1976 that come close...
Phil and Brent take control of the mike with a pretty rocking Gimmie Some Lovin'. Great guitar jams, organ music, and some serious Phil bombs highlight this tune.
Jerry graces us with a rarity for the next tune, Believe It Or Not. This was played only seven times by the Dead. I was lucky enough to catch two of them live, in Hamilton Ontario 3/22/90 (a phenomenal show, a classic, deserving of its own review sometime soon), and in my hometown of Philly on 9/9/88. This song always reminds me of the JGB tune Gomorrah, I guess because of the signature little guitar run after each verse that is pretty similar. I think Gomorrah's a better song, in general. This version is as good as any of the few we saw, flawless but just not a lot to this tune in my opinion.
 Sugar Magnolia ends the second set. Bobby sounds tentative and a bit off here. He actually stops singing during verse two and has Jerry and Brent's harmonies finish the verse. Maybe he was having equipment or mike problems. Jerry and Brent are all over this tune tonight, but this is not one of the better Sugar Mags. Nothing really wrong with it, just doesn't take off the way this song sometimes does. The jam at the end is fine, and maybe I'd get a better feel of how the crowd was into this tune on a recording that featured the audience a bit more, but what we have here is basically a routine performance of the tune to close the set.
The band encores with Jerry's Black Muddy River. Nice version, not much different than any other one. Jerry sounds a bit tired here, but it's been a long, hot night. This was a great song, consistently effective and evocative. Not my favorite encore, I agree with Phil when he expressed the sentiment in his autobiography that this tune was kind of a bummer to end a show with.
And that's all for now, another Retroreview comes to a close. Check out the link at the beginning of the review to head to the Live Music Archive for a downloadable copy of this great show.
Joby Goob,
The Grateful Web |