Why Full Length CD's Are Valid.

Recently it was reported that U2 was very unhappy that their latest release ( No Line on the horizon) had only topped the 1 million mark in sales and it was the lowest performing piece of recorded work in its history. It prompted this comment from bassist Adam Clayton "The commercial challenges have to be confronted. The concept of the music fan - the concept of the person that buys music and listens to music for the pleasure of music itself- is an outdated idea".





While its true that todays ipod generation is used to buying music by the song, and the concept of a full length CD actually being solid enough to listen from beginning to end ( like us old dudes like to do) is pretty rare today. I am thrilled to report that the CD is in fact alive.

Gov't Mule

By A Thread

I know, "Yeah Mike loves Gov't Mule". While this is true, I feel I have to spread the news about this latest offering from my favorite band, because I feel its its best offering. Yes, perhaps even more so than its early work with Allen Woody. Its a collection of songs that reflect mature lyrical content and the ability to change gears and genres without losing what makes this band so good. The ability to reference the greats and yet be original and exciting. Its hard rope to walk on, but this band keeps doing it.

This is the 1st effort with new bassist Jorgen Carlsson ( who replaced Andy Hess, who appears on 2 tracks). Carlsson is a welcome addition to this band. He is loud in the mix and aggressive. Hess, while a good bassist in his own right, just didn't have much fire in him. This new bassist recalls Woody, and yet is very distinctive . I have had the pleasure to see Jorgen with the band, live 3 times. I instantly could feel the energy from this band rise up. I wondered if this would translate into a studio. I am stunned at how well it did.

Here is a track by track breakdown:

1. Broke Down On The Brazos- The track starts off with low guttural bass rumble and the Texas twang of Warren Haynes guitar. Just when you start thinking " Man this sounds like old good funky greasy ZZ Top" You hear the sound out of your right speaker of none other than lead guitar monster Billy Gibbons from ZZ dueling Warren for six delicious minutes. Nasty Nasty stuff.

2. Steppin Lightly- The gears change nicely into a funky stew that I can only imagine what this song will morph into when played live. Yes, danceable G-mule and its irresistible. Once again its Carlssons bass work that propels this song into a place that the previous post Woody lineup would have had a hard time pulling off this well.

3. Railroad Boy- This is a song that has been around since the 1800's. Covered by all sorts of artists. This is Gov't Mules take on it, and frankly, it sent chills down my spine. The lyric itself is chilling, but the stops and starts on this just adds to the drama. One of the highlights of this CD.

4. Monday Mourning Meltdown- A very moody piece that had elements of Pink Floyd in it and a middle section that wanders a bit into jazz. I love the risks that the band takes and how it pays off .

5. Gordon James- A song that starts off like a church hymn and develops into a nice midtempo ballad. Lyrically smart and about as commercial as this band gets. I say that in a good way. There will be no mashups or Kanye dropins.

6. Any Open Window- From the first notes of this track, you can hear Jimi dripping all over it. Its not just how much of the spirit of Jimi that is captured by Warrens guitar and vocal phrasing, its how galloping the rhythm section is. Mitch Mitchell and Noel Redding are channeled by Matt Abts and Jorgen Carlsson. Love it.

7. Frozen Fear- Not my favorite on this CD, but still a very solid Gov't Mule song. Sure it will grow on me with repeated plays. A Grower!

8. Forevermore- I have heard this song in concert on on solo Warren acoustic recordings. This version trumps the other arrangements. The middle solo and backing hammond B3 give it the darkness it deserves. Its a great song to expose the non converted fans to.

9. Inside Outside Woman Blues #3- If "Any Open Window" gave you a taste for Jimi. This will give you a buffet of Jimi, and Cream. 9 minutes of non boring nasty freak flag flying blues!

10. Scenes From A Troubled Mind- Warren Haynes writes some of the most dark lyrics I can recall, and yet as all good blues music provides. Its that mixture of pleasure and pain in the music and lyric that deliver the release that this song builds too. Another song that I can imagine morphing into something bigger live. I love the last 3rd of the song that really recalls Zep in a subtle way.

11. World Wake Up- A message song. Biting lyrically and a song that all of us can relate to on some level.

In summary. I love this CD. When you love music and you get something great like this, you just wish you could personally thank the artists that provide the goodness that is great music. But I would violate my restraining order if I pestered artists like that ( hahaha)

Late night listening

Do you ever sit in the middle of the night and listen to music? When I feel down or have too much on my mind, I love to sit in the dark and let the music take me away. Here are 10 random nocturnal choices.

Al Green- Is Love. Songs about love and faith, the confusion of both. It's a soothing listen that I go back to time and time.

George Benson-Breezin: Lush and soothing. Perfect tonic for a rough day.

Jeff Buckley- Grace: Even though his songs and voice are full of angst, I find it great late night listening. Personal favorite "Last Goodbye".

Marvin Gaye- Vulnerable. I could pick any number of Marvin CD's. But this is a CD that is full of late night gems. Check it out.

Miles Davis- A Kind Of Blue: Maybe a cliché choice. But it's made for this kind of list.

Sam Cooke: Night beat. Title speaks for itself. Music that sounds like it would be played in a smoky bar in the early 60's.

Stevie Wonder: Music of My Mind. The track "Superwoman" is a favorite. Just a piece of music that gets me every time.

David Gray: White Ladder. Wistful songs of love. Low key, but not totally sleep inducing.

The Derek Trucks Band: Soul Serenade. CD full of moody instrumentals that require quiet listening.

Warren Haynes: 9-03-07 Aspen Co. LOVE this CD. Acoustic versions of everything from Costello's Allison to Black Sabbaths War Pigs, he also mixes in some great alt versions of Gov't Mule material.

Just cause!

Metallica Setlist/Review

That Was Just Your Life
The End Of The Line
Ride The Lightning
Holier Than Thou
One
Broken, Beat And Scarred
Cyanide
Sad But True
Welcome Home (Sanitarium)
All Nightmare Long
The Day That Never Comes
Master Of Puppets
Fight Fire With Fire
Nothing Else Matters
Enter Sandman
- - - - - - - -
Die, Die My Darling
Motorbreath
Seek and Destroy


This was like a meal where the appetizers were so horrid you were ready to go to another resturant. Thankfully the promise of the main course kept you there.

The 2 opening bands ( Godija and Lamb of God) were just plain noise. Not a word was understood and the "music" sounded about as good as me trying to tune my guitar with my amp. Just plain anger and noise. While I love an angry tune as much as the next dude, this stuff was just plain crap. If I heard the lead singer from Lamb Of God scream " Give me some noise you MotherF#$#ers" one more time, I was gonna go down there and unplug each and every one of these dufus's.

Thankfully, Metallica knows how to put on a concert. Believe it or not, I could really feel the appreciation from the band as the crowd roared all night for them. Yes, even snotty Lars seemed happy to be playing for the packed house. Even though Metallica's catalog is filled with songs of alienation and anger. I walked away feeling that they are in touch with their audience and what this music provides to them. Its like they feel responsible for it. I found it refreshing to see a veteran band at grips with that. Especailly a band like Metallica, that has made many missteps when its come to its core audience. I enjoyed this show very much. Even though I am not a hard core Metallica fan.

A taste of Metallica

Here are some short clips of what I am to expect Tuesday night.

Kenny Wayne Sheppard W/Corey Stevens- Review

Sorry for the delay on this, but it ended up being a evening that left me feeling a little cold.

Its hard to explain when you watch 2-3 hours of music and it just never catches fire with you. The word proficient comes to mind. Corey Stevens put on a good show, it was never embarassing or cringe worthy, it just never got out of 2nd gear for me. He played his regional hits ( Blue Drops Of Rain, It's Over) and they satisfied the masses, but as far as going to another level...It didnt happen.

Kenny Wayne was more of the same. He seemed much more interesting when he played songs that were by other artists ( Hendrix etc). His original material was ok when he soloed, but his lead singer was very mannered and looked confused as to where his spot was in the band. He would sing in the wrong places and acted like a dufus.

I ended up leaving early after I had had enough. Not the worst concert I have been to, the tickets were cheap and my Mountain Dew only cost $2..not a total loss! :-)

Music Music Music!

I will be quite the music critic in the next couple of months. My live music dance card is booked quite nicely and I am excited to see some good shows. Let's examine what your pal has on tap, shall we?

 

Kenny Wayne Sheppard w/ Corey Stevens. 10/3. "I have seen him once before when he was a wee lad opening up for Peter Frampton (1994 to be concise on my dates). He is now a little older and still is a great artist to watch. Should be a great night of blues and better yet, its right down the street from me".

Metallica W/ Lamb of God 10/13. "My first Metallica show. I am excited to check them out. Bought tickets about 6 months ago for this sold out show. Will be wild and loud. Funny how I really like these kind of shows now that I am considered an old dude! Hahahah!!! By who?"

KISS W/ Buckcherry 11/7 "I am so excited to see this show. Because KISS is my sons FAVORITE band. The tickets cost me a ton. But how can you lose when you have your boy by your side and watching him have his rock and roll mind blown by these guys!"

Steely Dan (Aja. Performance) 11/8 "Yes it will be quite the contrast from a night of KISS to see the no frills and yet great musicianship of Steely Dan. It will be a night of a complete performance of the classic DAN album AJA. I would have preferred they did a complete run through of my fave THE ROYAL SCAM but I had no choice in the matter. Still very tuned up for this!

 

Stay tuned for reviews!

Blogging from a phone! Very cool. Promise. won't make this a twitter like thing. YET.

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my best friend Jeff!

Did you know Jeff, that on your birthday in 1968 "The Archies" Saturday morning cartoon debuted on CBS? No wonder we became the first "Archies" tribute band on the west coast. Ahh yes...the quick rise to fame we had, and the even quicker crash that followed. ;-)

I hope you have a great birthday, I know its been a rough few weeks for you. I am so glad and lucky to have you as a lifelong pal.

Thank you and enjoy your special day.

2 times the fun!

Yesterday, was a nice day for music purchasing for your trusty author. Two of my favorite bands released some new material for me to dig into.

1. Drive-By Truckers- The fine print. This is a collection of of "odds and sods" that didnt make other Trucker Cd's. Its a good barometer when your scraps are more entertaining than other peoples thought out and polished up work. My early fave from this collection is "George Jones Talkin Cell Phone Blues", which details the infamous GJ car acci where he smacked up his vehicle talking to his daughter on a big ol friggin late 80's version cell phone. As usual, great lyrics by Patterson Hood and Crew. Very worthy of a listen.

2. Black Crowes. Before the frost...until the freeze. 2 cds ( well one cd and a download of a 2nd cd) of a mixture of classic crowes rock music and what they have been leaning towards in recent years, a more rootsy country spaced out rock vibe. I like this latest road the band is taking. However, its not the black crowes that most people remember. ( geez they even made a stab at late 70's stones like disco with the song, I aint hidin and even that wasnt too bad!) Still, great music made by a band that seems to comfortable in its own skin. Check out last nights performance from Letterman.

New Kiss CD 10-6

UPDATE. new single... view above.

My son is so excited for this. First new Kiss CD in 11 years. Supposed to be a throwback to the 70's Classic Kiss Sound. Its only going to be sold in Walmart and Sams Clubs. A 3 disc set. The studio album, a cd of rerecorded Kiss hits ( why do they do this? Journey did it with its last release and I think its a total waste of disc space) and a 3rd disc that is a Live DVD. For a reported $12. Not a bad deal. I will be hearing Disc 1 quite a bit , I am sure!

Brett Farve. A Viking

I will just say. It will be a interesting year in Viking land. Its a win-win situation for the team and for Mr. Farve. The team will get a player that knows the offense very well, and someone that will sell tickets and jerseys. Mr. Farve. He will have a team that has top shelf talent surrounding him and is just asking for him to run the "car" so to speak.

I am excited for the upcoming year, it will be fun to see how this plays out.

My New Favorite TV Show

This is a show I know my Dad and I would have loved. Based on the true story of William Banks, its about a recovering addict that uses " Tough Love" and compassion to get fellow addicts sober.

I find this show to be very real and to the point about addiction and the many paths it follows. Rich, poor , loved and unloved. Every episode I have watched has touched me on a different level.

Tuesday nights on A&E 9PM

You know...I tried this for my wedding..and it didnt fly.

Serious....this is a way to start a wedding!

Paul Stanley is a tool.

My son as you all know loves KISS. Part of my great pleasure as a father is my ability to imitate all of the KISS members speaking voices and torment the poor lad. This great little clip ( Thanks Circle of Fits for the tip on this!) captures the stupidity of "The Star Child" along with some funny and to some ( not me) disturbing images! :-)

Enjoy!

Gov't Mule @ The Zoo 7/15

Set 1

Zoo Jam

Soulshine

She Said, She Said->Tomorrow Never Knows Jam

Wandering Child

Larger Than Life->If 6 Was 9->Larger Than Life

Gameface

No Need To Suffer

When Doves Cry->Beautifully Broken->When Doves Cry->Beautifully Broken



Set 2

I'll Be The One > Blue Sky Tease

Banks Of The Deep End

Trampled Underfoot

Fallen Down->The Other One Jam-

Drumz-> with Warren, Jorgen and Danny on percussionDrums->

Kind Of Bird

Thirty Days In The Hole /I Dont Need No Doctor



Encore

Into The Mystic->Soulshine Reprise


Another great night with Gov't Mule. A perfect night for a outdoor concert, 70 degrees and no bugs! The only thing that marred a otherwise perfect night, were some old people that wanted people to sit down,when 90% of the place was standing. Oh well...:-)

Highlights of the night : Great version of Led Zeps "Trampled Underfoot". The perfect mixture of Princes "When Doves Cry" into Mules own "Beautifully Broken". I have heard this mix before on recordings, but this is my first live one. Loved it! The middle section of "Larger Than Life" that morphed into Hendrix's "If 6 were 9", was to be the top of the nights mountain.

Lowlights- The traditional 10 minute drum solo is getting a little boring to me. Love drummer Matt Abts, but I just get a little distracted and unfocused during this part of the show. A very minor lowlight.

Another lowlight has nothing to do with the band, but concerts in general. Crazy elbow throwing bad dancers! Good lord, if I could ever go to a show where I dont get blasted by one of these goofballs, I would be shocked! Its like I have a dancing with the uncordinated stars magnet in my pocket!. Last night was the classic "frat boy with a beer in one hand and a crackberry in the other hand" running in place and elbows thrusting into my side. Lets just say I made him lose his beer by the 2nd song. :-) ( he didnt have a ticket for the seat next to me...so by the time he went to get another beer....no seat! hahaha!

My Best Friend Remembers Me.

From my best pal in the world Jeff http://jefybal.blogspot.com

Jeff wrote a great childhood memory of my birthday. I thought I would share it here!

"My bestest life-long buddy has a birthday this month! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my pal Mike!!
When we were kids, we had wagon races. We all had the little red wagons (the ones that NO kids have now!), not the ones with the wood sides or the big wheels!

Ours were all metal! We...at least I was...into the races at Clovis Speedway because a guy by the name of Bob Cetti lived behind me and had a race car. So the gang in the neighborhood all became racers too. We had drivers and pushers (the unlucky kids that got to push the wagons with the drivers in them) and one kid who rode a scooter. It all progressed into converting big wheels into race vehicles, then bikes, then eventually into real cars...but this story is about the wagons and a hot July day.

(Mike, if I forget or leave out something PLEASE feel free to add it! Ye Ol Gopper's memory aint what it used to be!)

It was the early 70's, a time of endless hot summer days for the gang in our hood! We lived on plumbs from the tree in my backyard, bing cherries from the tree next door, and kool-aid from everybodys house! The world revolved around us as we would wake up in the morning and not return home until it was dark, unless we got hungry. Our mothers didn't worry because we lived in a safe world back then. If a parent wanted their kid, all they had to do was go outside and yell his name. It would start a chain reaction of someone else yelling that name until that kid was told by another kid (because the first kid never heard his own parent calling) that mom or dad was calling. We would swim in our pool, play frisbee, or "the game your dad taught you". But for a few early summers, we would race. Race our wagons. We had all painted our wagons with our favorite drivers numbers on them. Mine was 74, Mikes was 37, I don't remember what Yez had but I do remember the fun we had.

So this summer day, Yez, John Webber and his sister Lisa, Randy Hanna and a couple of other kids decided we would give Mike a surprise birthday. Lisa made a cake and we set up for the great race celebrating Mikes birthday, on Yez's driveway. Now Yez had a bigger than average driveway because of the garage being converted into a bed room. Where the garage door should have been was a brick wall about three feet high then a window. So his driveway/race track was more like a road course instead of the round track. So as time came to start the race, Mike had no clue that it was "fixed". Up to this point, he had never won a race I believe. Lisa was the flag girl (multi-talented! I wonder what ever happened to her?) and she dropped the checker flag(because that was the only flag we had, it served as the start flag, caution flag, red flag, white flag...you get the idea!) and the great race was on!

I lead the race for a while, driving my usual safe way while cutting off Mike every chance I got! When we got to the point of the "fix" Mike zoomed past me into the lead! Now it was a battle for 2nd between Yez and I. Well...remember that brick wall? Yez got to know it reeeeeeeeaaaaaaal good!! And more than once! (Amazing he and I are STILL friends, after all the crappy things I did to him growing up!) Mike stretched his lead and as he came around turn four(ish), Lisa dropped the white flag! I could see the beads of sweat on his forehead! I floored it (which is very hard to do with no gas peddle!)! Mike entered turn one with Ol Gop-Man closing in! DOWN the back straight we came! Closer...CLOSER!! Mike could hear my engine straining...squeezing out every ounce of horse power it had! (ok, Randy was pushing me and he was pooping out) We entered the last turn, Mike tried to block, but I countered and shot to the outside, we were neck and neck heading to the finish! Mike could see Lisa, poised with the finish flag in the air, sunlight framing it like golden statue! His wagon bumped and rubbed mine as we shot towards the finish of this historic race! Wheels turning faster than they had ever turned before as the wind whipped thru our closely cropped hair (our dad's told us it us cooler this way), eyes wider than they had ever been, knuckles were white from gripping the steering so very tight! The flag dropped as we passed the finish line and as we stopped Mike quickly turned to look back at Lisa and heard the immortal and historic words from her virgin lips........"MIKE IS THE WINNER!!"

It all went into slow motion and Mike leaped into the air with joy! He had won! He had fought long and hard and come away with a victory! Nothing else mattered at this moment, for him or for us. For this second in time, the world was a perfect place. "

Now, being as good as we were, we were worried that Mike, in all his joy, would suffer some sort of heat stroke or heart attack, so we told him he needed to cool down. The best way WE knew to do that wasn't pouring water on him, or taking him inside to the nice air-conditioned house! No Sir! He needed to put on a blindfold, to cool his eyes then the rest of him would be just fine! 10 year olds logic! He believed it! So the blindfold went on, and Lisa ran home to get the cake and candles and matches! Now we had a new problem! NONE of us were allowed to play with matches so NONE of us knew how to light one! We figured it out and burned a few fingers along the way. When Mike asked why we were saying "ow!" we told him we were burning our feet or something. At last the candles were lit, and we told Mike he had cooled down enough to remove the blindfold. It probable looked like a scene from a Charlie Brown show, with a lopsided cake made by a 10 year old in her EZ bake oven and a bunch of kids yelling "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" then singing, but for us, at least me, it will go down as one of the best memories I have.

So HAPPY BIRTHDAY to mister Mike Young! My childhood friend, my adult friend, my blood brother, my pal! I am so happy we have been and will always be, best friends!

Thanks Jeff! I am so lucky to have a great friend like you for all these years.

More Hot Rod.

for my son

This is yet another promise that the "spaceman" Ace Frehley will actually release his long delayed CD. We shall see....

New Mule

1. Broke Down On The Brazos 6:19

2. Steppin’ Lightly 7:10

3. Railroad Boy 5:03

4. Monday Mourning Meltdown 8:08

5. Gordon James 3:48

6. Any Open Window 4:45

7. Frozen Fear 5:48

8. Forever More 4:17

9. Inside Outside Woman Blues #3 9:04

10. Scenes From A Troubled Mind 7:23

11. World Wake Up 5:54

Originally slated for release on my b-day ( July 28Th). The lads have delayed the CD until Sept. something. A little bummed by the delay, but I will make do by seeing them next week ( July 15Th). Once again, I expect to have my musical buffet plate well filled by my favorite live band. No opening act, all Mule and its in a very funky place. The Minnesota Zoo! Now I know what you are thinking. What no wild bird show as the opener? Sad to say, its the only decent amphitheatre in the twin cites area. Its actually a great place to see the show, and the lions roar when the tunes are hitting the spot! :-)

As for the above CD. It was recorded down in Texas at Willie Nelsons studios. "Broke down on the brazo's" features a blazing guitar duel with ZZ Top Lead Beardtarist Billy Gibbons. The rest of the Cd is supposed to have a more southern rock feel than other mule releases. I hate to even put this stuff into a catagory. From the titles of the song, looks like some good deep stuff. Me likey!

Ps- My Brother and Sister in laws took in a Mule show a couple a nights ago. On top is a nice shot of drummer Matt Abts. Thanks!

wow...angry dancing.

Maaan, I have done some pretty nutty things when I have got mad. But nothing like Kevin B. Check out the angry dancing ( which is spoofed perfectly in the movie hot rod)..there is medication for this now my friend. :-)

babe, babe, baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaabe!!!!!!!!

From my underground fave movie Hot Rod!

Michael Jackson

As a fan of Michael Jackson since I was first into music, I am saddened to hear of his passing. The toll taken on his career and the the man himself has been severe. All of the allegations and lawsuits and bizarre behavior, blurred the image of the singer I remember.

I remember the Jackson 5, how they sang songs about love and dancing. How it made me want to sing along and explore soul and r/b music. It truly took me down the long road of music appreciation. I wanted to be Michael Jackson. I thought he was the most exciting performer I had ever seen.

Then came the solo career. He then became EVERYONES favorite. Still loved him...but as the years went by..It became evident that something was wrong. I bought every piece of music he released, and yet I had the strange feeling that he had drifted a long way away from those innocent Motown days.

I often equated latter day Michael Jackson to the sad story of Elvis. Trapped by his fame and retreating into his own world. Michael was quoted as saying he never felt at peace unless he was onstage. I think all of the plastic surgery and odd behavior was a result of this. He was never comfortable in his own skin. Very sad. I know the news will end up reporting that his death will be related to pain killers. Such a shame. 50 years old.

In the end. It will be the music and the influence on music he had that will be remembered. Its undeniable. However hard he tried to mess it up, the music will remain and will be appreciated.

A Final Resting Place

Yesterday, I along with other loved ones were able to bury my fathers ashes in his hometown. I didnt feel the hurt or pain I thought I would. Yes, I cried and felt sadness and a sense of finality, but at the same time I felt a sense of happiness.

It felt very right to be able to bring him home. The place where he grew up, the place where all of his childhood memories and young adult memories were created. The town that he told my brother and I all of these great stories about his Dad and Mom and Brother. I liked that fact that he was going to be placed here, a place where we could come and pay our respects and have all of this "bruce" floating around it.

I can only speak for myself, but today I feel I can move forward and let go of Dad. Even though I know a place in my heart and a place on earth where I can find him.

From The Beatles Final Rooftop Performance

remember this????

The Homecoming

Yes, the car is home. They did a great job putting humpty dumpty back together again. As good as new. No major transmission repairs, took it for a nice long drive and got reaquainted with my little car. All is forgiven, I will treat it right and not rudely smack into larger vehicles anymore!

:-)

Update on the car

Today was supposed to be the big day. The town was shutting down to see me drive my little car down main street all pristine and shiny. However, the parade has been cancelled.

When the technician decided to actually drive it over to service for a front end allignment, the check engine light came on and the tech noticed the transmission was slipping a little. OUCH.

Guess I will be waiting.......

Memorial Day: Dad

Its been around 6 weeks since my Dad passed away. I miss him and yet it still hasnt really hit me that he is really gone. The weeks would go by sometimes when he was alive and we would not talk. Only because we were busy in our own worlds. However, I always had the knowlege that I could call him and we could catch up at any time. It sometimes feels like that, and I think the phone will ring and we will be all square. Its when I realize that it wont, that I start to feel sadness and tears.

We have made arangements to have Dad's cremains buried in his birthplace, along with his Father, Mother and Brother. I feel very glad that we will be able to "bring him home" and have a place to pay our respects as a family.

I feel when we do bury him, it will provide the closure that I need. I carry alot of things within me that are related to my father. If you look at the pics. That first one of me with the fish is something my Dad was very proud of. I was never the fisherman that my Dad was or my Brother is, but I would always go when the 3 of us could be together. I usually didnt catch much fish, but I knew and the other 2 knew...it wasnt about the fish, it was about the bonding together. This pic was shot by my Dad, he was so proud of me to catch a fish that was the big one on the boat! :-) The bottom pic is of us with our cameras. Yeah, I was a little bit younger....but certainly a chip off the old block. We both loved snapping pics and did up until the very end. I keep that love alive.

Love ya Dad....Still feel your love daily.

Mike

Fit Car. Not Go.

"Oh my, the humanity of it all!!!!!"

No, it isnt quite the tragedy on the proportion of the Hindenburgh and yet it was a sad day for my little white car.

First of all I am fine. Not a scratch on me, but as you can see ...the car took most of the damage.

2 weeks ago, I was taking a nice little drive , just enjoying the scenery in a town I had never been in ( yes, I like to explore the unknown) and just taking in the fresh air and sites. As I drove down the main street of this town, traffic came to a screeching halt. I slammed on my brakes and slid into a big truck. I was paying attention and not tailgating. But.....I ended up getting a ticket for "innattentive driving". Will have to make a court appearance. Geez, first ticket and car accident I have had in close to 25 years. Hopefully the judge will take that into consideration.

Pretty interesting that all this damage was caused going about 15 mph. Of course sliding into a stationary truck right into his trailer hitch ( ummmm I am a little low to the ground!) will do that to a car that has a large amount of plastic. The grand total of damage came to $8200. Ouch.... Thank you insurance!

Gov't Mule

Coming to town on the 13th of July ( Yes I am going!) and releasing a CD on my 29th birthday! ( true about the CD and the date...the other thing....hmmmmm) Here is a nice clip of one of my faves from the mule. Great lyric and of course great guitar work!

Jeff Buckley- Hallelujah

His most well known song. Beautiful and sad in many ways. Take the time and give it a listen.

Jeff Buckley-Hallelujah.flv
by Rock-90s

war pigs

Sabbath. In its prime. When Ozzy was scary :-)

Black Sabbath - War Pigs Live_in_Paris_1970
by thegonedu69

Led Zep

As are most rock fans. I love me some Led Zep. This clip comes the remastered DVD " The Song Remains The Same" ( highly recommended...a very nice upgrade from the horrible VHS and early DVD version). Since I've been loving you shows "Pagey" at his best..and well the rest is just pure ZEP.

Enjoy!

Jeff Buckley- Forget Her

I am currently into a Jeff Buckley phase. Wonderful singer with a muli-octive range. The guy could sing anything. Son of the late Tim Buckley, who had similar vocal range. Both died at young ages, Jeff of drowning at age 31 and Tim at age 25 of a herion overdose.

The song that I am posting is a B-side from Jeffs Grace CD. Love the lyric and of course the vocal.

Black Crowes. Only A Fool

Love this clip. The last gasp of Mr. Robinson beardless! Always liked this song, has the feel of a old soul song, and the lyric is in that tradition, full of pleading and emotion.

The Video is pure late 90's and the music is a different mix from the CD. Enjoy.

ok...you asked for it.

Well errrr, maybe you didnt...but here it is...bloated Gene hawking chemical flavored cherry soda!

Ace Commercial

I actually laugh at the P&L statement part! Arent you people happy that you visit this treasure trove of weird! :-)

These guys will sell anything!

As you have seen by his Ace Frehley getup. My son likes KISS. I have no doubt that you have seen the new Gene Simmons Dr. Pepper Cherry cola commercial. KISS is the king of selling its name on anything or everything. Of course I Neeeeeever Eveeeeeerrrr give my son a hard time about that ;-)

Here is another shameless shill attempt by our heroes!

A guitar and its player.

I love the song Little Wing by Hendrix, lyricly and musically it just climbs the scale for me emotionally. Passages of quiet beauty that blend into moments of pure aggression. Love the range of feelings it provides.

This is Stevie Ray Vaughans version. Even without the lyric...it delivers. SRV loved Jimi...you can feel it in this performance. It captures the feel of the original and yet always lets you know its SRV and not a tribute act.

The video is a nice look at some of the past greats and some that are still around. See how many you can spot.

Dad loved this.

Dad loved this version of the song, "I'll Remember You". At the 1:40 mark of the song, Elvis looks back with this satisfied smile that looks like " See I can still do it". It always made Dad laugh and of course he watched it at least 7 billion times! :-) The man loved what he loved!

So here is another chance to watch it....for the old man! :-)

Music for my Dad

I take comfort in music. This is for Dad.

Bruce Young 7/4/1937- 4/15/2009

This morning I received the news that my Dad passed away. I hesitate to write such personal news on a blog, but I know there are people in my life that read my usual junk here and do care about this.

My Dad and I had a great and yet hard earned relationship. For most of my life, we have been separated by many miles or by choices that he made. Those choices and those miles played a large part in how I grew up emotionally. My Mother gets all the credit for being my parent, because she was my parent. But, even though my Dad did very little parenting with me, he was my Dad. We spent hours and hours talking about music, movies and most importantly, the anger and hurt over the choices he made with drinking and other relationships. It was through these talks that we developed a bond that I know he held very special in his heart. He died with the knowlege that we didnt have a unspoken word left between us. That I loved him, forgave him, and carry his spirit inside me.

I was able to see him about 2 weeks ago. I knew he was ready to go. They had a very nice ceremony celebrating his life. Many nice things were said about him. He touched many lives through his career as a educator, and as a sponsor in AA. Those were things he was proud of. He accepted the praise in a way he always did, with grace. He knew he wasnt a angel, but he was a man that tried to do his best. That is what I take from him and try to live. One of the last things we laughed about in my final days with him was a comment he heard that he thought was a little over the top, I mentioned it to him after his celebration and he winked at me and said " I know they meant well, but you and your brother are my greatest joy and I will be with you forever". Its easy to feel emotions that can take away from all of the good, but at this moment, I feel peace. Peace for him, and peace for me.

I love you Dad. I am glad you felt it from me for my 44 years as your son.

Elvis- Before the Bloat and Jumpsuit era

I love this vintage of Elvis. When my Dad and I would talk about Elvis, we would always give the sneer to each other and say " If your lookin for trouble....you came to the right place!" :-)

SNL -

Love this clip. Norm Mcdonalds "Turd Ferguson" and Darrel Hammonds Sean Connery are hilarious!

For Dad

Stevie On The Street!

I remember watching this as a wee lad! For some reason this grabbed me a lot more than watching Mr. Hooper talk about produce!

Check out the guy playing guitar behind Stevie. That is a young Ray Parker Jr. pre Ghostbusters!

Steven / Ace Frehley

Today was Decade Day at Stevens school. Of course it was a perfect opportunity for him to dress up as a member of KISS!!!!

Marvin and Tammi- Aint No Mountain High Enough

More Tributes to Marvin!


I have always loved this song. I have posted this one before, but I just felt like slapping it up. The lyric is so positive and you can see the chemistry between them.

More Marvin

Funny how something written in 1970 can be relevant today. From my favorite Marvin ( and in my top 10 for all time favorite albums in general) album "Whats Goin On"

Inner City Blues ( directed by the Hughes Brothers)

In Memory of Marvin

We are approaching 25 years since Marvin Gaye was killed by his father. Killed on April Fools day in 1984, I will always remember the fact that I thought it was a lame joke that a coworker pulled on me.

I always and have continued to love Marvins music. He was able to channel his dispair and turbulent life into something beautiful and full of meaning. It sometimes bothers me that when you bring up Marvin to most people, they just think of " Lets Get It On and Sexual Healing". Good songs, but there is so much more depth out there if you dig for it.

This video shows the various stages of his career along with a song called. " If I should die tonight" that has a lyric that always hit me. Having the love of someone that fills you so fully that even if you were to die too young or before you were ready, you would feel blessed to just have experienced that love.

U2- No line on the horizon- 2009

I am one of those U2 fans that has most of the catalog but dont find myself really listening alot to U2 on a regular basis. I admit they are a great band and have some songs that move me. However, I do not grab for a song from U2 in a moment of sadness or happiness. That to me usually defines if a band is a favorite or not to me.

The exception in U2's catalog is the mid 80's CD "The Unforgettable Fire". I listen to that CD because its moody and atmosperic and hits a note with me when I am in one of those kinds of moods. There have been several U2 cds to follow since "fire", with different producers and sonic textures. It looks like they have finally decided to step back into my "zone" so to speak.

The new CD ( $3.99 on amazon!) is mostly midtempo rock . The exception is the single "sexy boots" which on the surface sounds kind of weak on the radio, but in this collection of songs , really clears the deck and a nice change of pace. As I mentioned above, I enjoy a more moody sound from this band. It delivers on this tone about 75% of the time. I especially like the song "Moment Of Surrender" and the line " Its not that I believe in love..it believes in me". It just grabs me from beginning to end. Many of the lyrics are simplistic like this, but in the context of the song are powerfull and emotional. The Edge's guitar work is unique as always. A+ in my book, a CD I will find myself playing often.

Standout tracks.

Magnificent

Moment of Surrender

White as snow

Cedars Of Lebanon

Cheestastic 80's!

Ahhh yes, bad mustaches and leather pants. Welcome to the world we know as Hall and Oates.

Back Door Slam RIP.

Sorry to hear that one of my favorite young bands have parted ways. I have to admit, I am not shocked. After spending 2 nights in the front row watching Davey Knowles play guitar and sing, I just knew it was a matter of time before he became a solo artist. Very talented and hopefuly wont turn into John Mayer (yuck). Please just play the blues and dont aim for top 40.

Sorry John, just my opinion.

For all 0 of you that loved My Andy Samberg Post!

Happy Birthday!

Its my "Little Mans" 14th birthday. My nickname is now stale and outdated. He still is my boy, but he truly is starting to become a young man.

I love you! You bring so much to my life buddy!

Dad.

Andy Samberg

As someone that thinks the movie HOT ROD (2007) is a underrated classic. I find Andy Samberg very funny. Here he spoofs Mark Wahlberg and some of his acting quirks. I enjoy Marky Mark...but you have to admit....there are some similarities in alot of his roles.

Walk Believer Walk!

In a time where I am searching for spiritual uplifting, my band The Black Crowes deliver for me. Well shot clip from france, captures them live and playing it dirty. Love it.

Dad

Today I received rough news. My Dad now has a large brain tumor on the right side of his brain. I spent close to 2 weeks with him in early January in California , we spent some great days together. I am struggling at the moment with the news. However, I have placed this all in Gods hands. As my earthly father and heavenly father would like it. As my Dad says, "Its thy will and not my will".

I will write more about my trip when I feel the words come to me. I dont really feel it in me at the moment.

Black Crowes- First Ave 12/10/08

Some video shot pretty close to where I was standing a few weeks ago at the show.

Wounded Bird is the name of the song

A Dog's Ten Commandments.

This was emailed to me from my Dad this morning. I get so much of my love of dogs from him and that will go on for the rest of my life. Thanks Dad!


1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something is bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say that you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.

I Get Published!

This was in the Sunday paper this morning. Yes, they edited me....but I still got a little taste of the music critic limelight. The first 3 observations are from Startribune critic Jon Bream and the second 3 are from yours truly.
http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/music/36410569.html?elr=KArksUUUU


Pick Six: A half-dozen cool things in music
December 21, 2008

A half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view:

Kanye West, "Saturday Night Live." No, he's not a great R&B singer, but he is a passionate, nonpareil performer who poured deep-seated emotion into both of his songs.

Axl Rose posts on GNR message boards. He hasn't done any interviews to hype "Chinese Democracy," but the Guns N' Roses frontman posted comments on mygnr.com and other fan sites. A lot of questions remain, but at least fans know that Axl is alive and functioning.

"The Complete Lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II," edited by Amy Asch. This oversized coffee-table book has all the lyrics for "Oklahoma," "Sound of Music" and his other classics as well as more obscure pieces, including alternative lyrics, never-published tunes and commentaries. A show-music fan's delight.
JON BREAM, STAR TRIBUNE

Black Crowes, First Avenue. Great show with a lively and unruly crowd. Guitarist Luther Dickinson added a spark and worked very well with Rich Robinson. This wasn't as jammed-out as the State Fair show, just a little more focused on songs and not solos. Chris Robinson was in fine voice and good spirits.

Gov't Mule, Pantages Theatre. The band has been re-energized by new bassist Jorgen Carlsson, who brings back a harder edge. Both nights were close to three-hour performances of totally fresh music. No repeats and a true music lovers' treat.

Tom Jones, "24 Hours" video. This is not the Tom Jones that many fans are familiar with. Dark, brooding and with a real sense of mortality, this video is reminiscent of Johnny Cash's "Hurt." Well worth a view.
MIKE YOUNG - Guest Contributor

Mr. Rock Critic

Today in my trusty Yahoo inbox , I found a interesting email. It was from a local music critic that read one of my online reviews of a show I attended and invited me to write a small section in the local ( minnesota star-tribune) paper.

This is something I have always wanted to do. Its a one shot thing, but I will gladly share with all of you if I get "published'!.

Black Crowes Show

Had a great time last night. Complete with the typical First Ave. weirdness. Fights, drunk people, etc...all part of a concert going experience. Does this happen at Celine concerts??? I guess I will never know! :-)




10 December 2008 - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN [ USA ]
S E T L I S T »
MOVIN' ON DOWN THE LINE
WISER TIME
A CONSPIRACY
WALK BELIEVER WALK
EVIL EYE
DARLING OF THE UNDERGROUND PRESS
GIRL FROM A PAWNSHOP
LONG BLACK VEIL
YOU AIN'T GOING NOWHERE
MY MORNING SONG
SHARE THE RIDE
BY YOUR SIDE
OH JOSEPHINE
JEALOUS AGAIN
WOUNDED BIRD
- encore -
SOMETIMES SALVATION


LONG BLACK VEIL & YOU AIN'T GOING NOWHERE w/Gary Louris and Vetiver"

Planes, Awards, and Music.

No its not another horrible remake of a somewhat decent movie. Its a semi creative title for a long overdue blog update.

Lets start with awards, because its the thing I am most proud of. My son this past weekend won a acting award. He had a nice part in a one act play called "middle class" where he was able to show off some of the comedy skills that I have been watching around the house for years. There were 5 other schools involved with event and after all 5 schools finished thier respective plays, awards were handed out to "top performers". Being a ex jock, and having a son that really isnt into sports as much, I found myself cheering for him like he had just hit a homerun in the bottom of the 9th to win the game. Very,Very proud of my young lad. I did notice that he had a smile from ear to ear as he strode quickly up to the stage to accept his award. I gave him a tip that he needs to slow the stride down the next time he gets one. The Academy likes its stars to show some cool :-)

I am going to be boarding a plane in January to visit my Dad. The road in his cancer treatment has taken a different turn and I feel its important that I come back and spend some time with him. He is still in good spirits and we all are still keeping in the positive. The reality is that his tumors have returned and are larger than before the intial treatments. He has now begun new treatments and is responding to those well. Please keep him in your prayers as well as my Mom who is also battling some health issues. Thanks

Music-

Even though the above items are much more important in my life, I still have music to help me through the good and bad. This week 12/10, I am heading over to First Ave. ( the place where prince did purple rain) to see a show by the Black Crowes. Should be a great night and a great venue. I am not expecting to have it be a good as the Mule shows from last month, but....that is the great thing. No expectations......usually makes for a good evening!

Gov't Mule 11/15/2008 Pantages Theatre

Another memorable night with the Mule. I have to admit, it wasnt as solid as the first night but still a great evening and no real complaints. When you see a band 2 nights in a row and they play for 3 hours each night, there are going to be a couple of moments that dont always give you the goose bump factor. It was only the last 2 songs ( like flies and blind man in the dark) where I was a little disconnected. I like the songs...just nothing really new added to them. The first set just picked up where the previous night left off. Streamline Woman and Lola gave us the taste of Zep that How Many More Years delivered in full. From there on...look at the jukebox of nasty that got played after that. Stevie, Sly,Traffic, Pearl Jam/Soundgarden and ending it off my fave....Al Greens Take Me To The River.

Set 2 closed off with Patterson Hood from another of my faves, The Drive By Truckers sitting in for a great guitar jam with Warren on Neil Youngs "Cortez The Killer". Great way to close the show.

I loved the two nights with the Mule very much. A musical buffet that left me full and wanting more ( man is that corny...)

Dec 10th is the Black Crowes @ First Ave. Looking forward to that, but will need time to recharge!

Click on the link below for pics from last night.

Mule.net: From the Road: "11.15.2008 Pantages Theatre Minneapolis, MN


Set 1
Streamline Woman
Lola Leave Your Light On
Bad Little Doggie
How Many More Years Higher Ground Tease Far Away
Temporary Saint
Sco-Mule->
Dance To The Music->
Sco-Mule
Hunger Strike->
Dear Mr. Fantasy->
Hunger Strike
Take Me To The River with Davy Knowles

Set 2
No Celebration
Trying Not To Fall
Helter Skelter->
Sabbatage->
Have A Cigar->
Drums->
Fullt Blas->
Brighter Days
Like Flies
Blind Man In The Dark

Encore
Cortez The Killer with Patterson Hood"

11-14 Pantages Theatre

The first night of two seeing my favorite band Gov't Mule.

This is the 3rd time I have seen them and I have to say it was the best show I have seen. A couple of reasons. (1) This was a "old school" G-Mule rock show. Loud, full of long solos, bluesy and funky. I was in heaven. (2) I was 5 feet away from the band. It is surreal to have Warren Haynes make eye contact with you and smile as you yell at him your pleasure of another monster solo. Truly memorable. Click the link below for some pics of the show. Also check out the setlist. I really wish there was a way I could get all of you a copy of the recorded show! Its off to the show again tonight. I really wonder how they are gonna top this.


Mule.net: From the Road:

Set 1
Mr. Man
Brand New Angel
About To Rage
Monkey Hill
Devil Likes It Slow
Painted Silver Light
No Need To Suffer
Kind Of Bird

Set 2
The Shape I'm In
Fool's Moon
Trane->
Eternity's Breath
St. Stephen Jam->
Drums->
Peter Gunn Jam->
Goin' Out West
Mule->
Superstition->
Mule
Soulshine

Encore
Have You Ever Loved A Woman with Davy Knowles
Gonna Send You Back To Georgia with Davy Knowles"

Change. At a cost

Let me state one thing. I am not a very political type person. I dont ever remember sitting around the family table as a young man listening to passionate debates about what was going on in Washington. However, I do have a deep respect on our right to choose and the ability to cast your vote on election day.

With the Election coming up on Tuesday, this country has emotions stirring on both sides. I would like to believe that these emotions are rooted in wanting a better life in the next 4 years. This morning I had that feeling shaken a little.

My wife went out to get our Sunday paper and noticed that our mailbox was bashed in. Also, the sign that showed support for presidential candidate of our households choice was gone. We live in a small town that in general has very low crime rates. But, somehow I knew that when I decided to take a yard sign for Obama , that it had a pretty good chance of being stolen. What bothers me is the message of a damaged mailbox. I know it can be replaced, and nobody was hurt, but it saddens me that people get this angry about the right to choose.

All I can say is, go vote on Tuesday. Its important. Its not about skin color, its not about party loyalty, and its not about the crap you are seeing on commercials. Its about supporting who YOU feel speaks to you. My mind is made up.

Halloween 2008

At top, Steven as Freddy Kruger. Mid, our pumpkins ( the joker , traditional , and of course Stevens favorite Wrestler The Undertaker). And the last pic. My son and some creepy dude from the neighborhood that the kids are not supposed to hang out with

Tom Jones- 24 Hours

The first single from his first US Album ( I still call them albums!) in many years ( I have all the import stuff he did in the years they didn't get released here.)

24 hours is a song that lyrically reminds me a little of his old hit "Green Green Grass Of Home" and a little bit of Johnny Cash's remake of Nine Inch Nails "Hurt". Very stark and effective. Looking forward to this new release.

Hobbies

I am a man of passions. When I get into something, I dont ever just do it halfway....I want the whole enchilada! My latest spicy interest is photography. Its always been a interest of mine, but now that I have a real "big boy" camera I have upped the ante.

I took a class on digital SLR photography and learned that my trusty cheap tripod was a embarrassment to the photography world. With head hung low....I asked what would please the shutter gods....Photo #3 is what I came up with after a long search. A Manfrotto tripod with a joystick ball head. ( easy....all of you beavis and butthead fans!) Its a great versatile tripod that really gives me tons of options to take steady shots from any angle.

Pics 1 & 2 are of my new camera bag/backpack. Its the Tamrac Expedition 5 bag. If you look it up on line...it way too much for what I would want to spend on a bag. But.....I used the patient route. Ebay. I found it for an astounding $80! Its a great bag and it even has straps to hold my tripod if I feel like getting all Ansel Adams and taking a stroll into the woods for some nature stuff! It holds all of the gear I could ever want and is very well constructed. I should have this bag for a long time.

And the final pic. My Guitar. I still am using it, it still is a work in progress. I plan on taking some more classes and making some more progress.

Its really like all hobbies. They exist so you can enjoy something that you know you probably wont make a living at, but still love doing it. I have many of these kind of things.....but at the moment, I am a geeeetar playing shutterbug!

Happy Bday yeee ol Gopman!

Notice I didn't really use the word OLD. Hope you have a great birthday! Wish I was there to help bring it in!

Metallica: Death Magnetic

Picked up the digital download ( paid...legal...as it should be!!!) of this new CD today. All I can say is WOW. Yes, its loud, fast and agressive. But isnt that what it should be???? This is by far the best Metallica in about 20 years. It rocks the little FIT CAR HARD!!!!

Here is a great video from the first single off the CD

The Day That Never Comes. ( its long...hang with it.)

My Son Stars in: Mulan

He was a stoic soldier in this version of Mulan. I asked him later why he had a role with very little speaking but lots of scowling. He said " I wanted to look mean" :-) Gotta love it!