Uncle G Reviews...The Keith Emerson Trio

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
30 Dec 2015

ClassicRockRadio.co.uk NEW Music Review
The Keith Emerson Trio - The Keith Emerson Trio
Released: 2015 Emersongs Ltd.

By Gary "Uncle G" Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

I luv a new offering with an interesting back story, and this archival release has just that. With only four known in existence, an acetate (instant recording … no edits like tape … commonly used for presenting demos) recording, of The Keith Emerson Trio, was recently found. Quoting from the liner notes; "…it was David Gaylor, who contacted me saying he has been rummaging through old records when … found an acetate that had The Keith Emerson Trio written on it."

And this is Keith Emerson narrating the story by the way. Songs performed by himself, Godfrey Sheppard (bass), and David Keene (drums). Recorded in 1963, this now newly sanctioned product for the masses, would make Keith still a teenager. In the painting world this would be akin to checking out the early drawings of H.R.Giger, or Peter Max (insert your own name of favorite painter here). Mr. Emerson is quoted again from the liner notes; "Now we all have to start somewhere..."

Note: See actual liner notes for full quote(s).

I became aware of the legendary piano / keyboardist, prog-rocker Keith Emerson via the radio waves. Stations like WPLJ FM, or WNEW FM, both out of the city that never sleeps, New York City, and their playing of ELP's first hit; Lucky Man (1970). Found on the group's debut album. It wasn't so much the actual song, but Keith's solo towards the end of the tune, played on a Moog Synthesizer that caught, and held my attention. Myself, and millions of others as well. When able, I'd play that part of the song as loud as those surrounding me could stand it. Still do to this day. So feel free the next time you hear that classic, to crank it up. Volume to eleven! FYI: A possible cool way to blow out older speakers. And if that don't do the trick, try this Keith Emerson penned composition; Tank. Found on Emerson, Lake, & Palmer's 1970's self-titled debut album, along with the already mentioned 'Lucky Man'. And if I may say, such a solid first release by the long established super prog group. If not already in your classic rock collection, one should get it at first opportunity. Play it all day. Preferably in a place where weed isn't illegal. Produced by Greg Lake. 

More about Keith. I feel it's important to acknowledge the experience, and expertise that one gets from devoting oneself to a craft. Keith Emerson had certainly paid his dues, and deserves every ounce the respect those in the know, bestow upon him with each passing day. He's been a musician all my life. Congratulations for doing that. The music he involves himself with, a positive part of my existence.  

As far as getting to know Keith's vast body of work, and two of the biggest bands he was in, I became a Emerson, Lake, and Palmer fan first, and then a more casual fan of The Nice after. For those not aware, The Nice is the keyboard driven rock band, Keith was in, before ELP. So for the record, I wasn't a fan of The Nice first, but the other way around. Because of my age. I discovered ELP as a young teenager. By that age, I already established what my two favorite forms of rock music were, with that being, art rock and hard rock. Bands like Alice Cooper, Yes, and Led Zeppelin rung my bell the most. Emerson, Lake, & Palmer came in second, to my being into Yes the most. Was into Pink Floyd, Genesis, and a host of others that I write about on a semi-daily basic for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk ... hope I'm not looking back to fondly, but the nineteen sixties to the nine nineties was an excellent time to be a fan of music.

My mother was a professional musician. Died young, and left a huge influence on me. Music is in my veins. I was weaned on Herb Alpert and The Tijuana Brass. My mums favorite. Not surprising to anyone who knows me, and it could be because of this, that I seriously dig instrumental music. Many of my close personal friends have heard me discuss the merits of even having a vocalist in a band. Instrumentally it could be rock music based, or a cool score to a film, or television program. Jeff Beck's Blow By Blow (Jazz Fusion_Instrumental Rock) is one of my all time favorite records. I'm also into TV Theme Songs … go figure.

One of my first impressions when I first started playing The Keith Emerson Trio CD that arrived in my snail mailbox one day, was that bassist Godfrey Sheppard's work is absolutely amazing. Am more appreciative of this fact with each and every listen. The dude plucks and bows with the best of them. This in turn makes you think how crazy good the drummer, David Keene is. Sets pace, and playing already, like an old time professional. All three determined, focused, young, and full of … energy. All these things come to mind when their music is playing in the background.

For ELP related collectors (meaning whatever each of the three do individually, and not together as a group), there is a hint of playfulness to Keith's sound, and a few notes sprinkled throughout that ELP fans who really know Keith's parts, will recognize, and deem it worthy for collection. So if into Mr. Emerson's entire catalog, which would include his solo stuff, film work, and 3 … awesome band, as was Emerson, Lake, & Powell. ALL GREAT stuff! Then, The Keith Emerson Trio CD / album (limited amount pressed) is an automatic buy, in whatever format you dig most. In 1963 music of this type might not have been all the popular trend, but it did have it's place. In smokey rooms where people said words like, groovy. In today's world, what I hear most is that good music is good music, in whatever form available. Even on a recording that usually self destructed as time played on. I'd be excited finding a recording of the Keith Emerson Trio at a yard sale as well. Thanks for the keen eye David Gaylor!

The Keith Emerson Trio (a few notes n' observations)

Sound Wise: Check it out. The best stereo system in the world, and this will sound like it was recorded in someone's living room, circa; 1963. And as a matter of fact, it was. Liner notes say it was captured right there in what was then, Keith's house. Whereas the source isn't a vinyl record, it's remarkable that fifty two years later, that the sound quality is as good as it is.

The Band: They sound extremely well rehearsed. Again, hard not to be impressed by the playing of the bassist (Godfrey Sheppard) and drummer (David Keene). Remember, it's my interest in Mr. Emerson that motivated me to open this CD to begin with. Any musician who can keep up with, and even out shine Keith from time to time, is well worth remembering in my book.

Uncle G Rating: Using the ever popular five star rating system, whereas one star means the recording sucks (and not in a good way), to five stars which means it's safe to spend your disposable cash on, Uncle G gives The Keith Emerson Trio archival release; 5 stars! A LOT of fun! A must have for every Keith Emerson collector. Worth repeat plays for sure.

Official Keith Emerson Website

White Raven - Thirteen Stars 2015 album soars.

This weekend Thirteen Stars have released their new album "The White Raven"  a genuine milestone for fans of Southern Style Rock  but this is not a homegrown Southern US band  Hoss and the band are "good old boys" from the very North of England.  Geographically they may not be American but when they turn on the licks they certainly channel the south of the Mason Dixon line. The new outing is even  tighter than the previous  the  highly rated ` "Way Dyu" and it is a tad heavier in the bass line too.


Jax and Matt without their customary headgear

 Showing his true blues roots guitarist Jax Sedgewick slips in Keef Richards style   riffage  giving a very tasty vintage Rolling Stones  feel particularly on "Fools Heart" .  On other songs showing  a different style he's throwing in Ted Nugent southern fried  power chordage before delving deep into his gig bag for some decidedly funky riffs on "Breadline".  The percussion  and bass are taken care of  by Andy Bates and Matt Eden working very tight together  hitting the groove right down the middle, really great to hear two guys who are bolstering each others performance rather than competing . Hoss Thompson gruff vocals sound  those of a guy who has been smoking Marlboro for at  maybe forty some years ( I don't think he has really), deep melodic without pushing it to comic book American he treads the line of not sounding "too British" as the bands core content obviously demands and while he's doing that he plays some mean riffs on a still very new Les Paul.

 Hoss and that tasty Les Paul

New bassist Ryan Bell with hat pulled  down to shade his eyes

Andy secure in his drum castle




 Though generally Thirteen Stars are bluesy they are often faster paced and certainly will tackle much more complex composition than traditional blues while still keeping quite light on the instrumental solos.  I've had 'White Raven' on heavy rotation and after around a thousand road miles I can set it firmly into the class of driving music I'll be hitting the road with it loaded come Monday morning . I regularly found myself tapping along  and it certainly does eat up the Motorway miles so I'd certainly recommend it for a Xmas gift . It is bound to please whether you want it for a friend who enjoys the styles of  Skynyrd or ZZ Top or The Stones or for yourself  dammed fine idea. Remember when Johnny Van Zant got together to form his band they wanted to be the US's Stones now the circle has come back round and we have a  band  that you might easily describe as England's Skynyrd in the same way a bit different but right on the money.
 News for our friends in the US that Thirteen Stars are planning a pilgrimage to the US in 2016 so you could just get a chance to be the first to catch them rocking  in the South an occasion you don't want to miss out on. 

Copies of "White Raven" are available from iTunes, Amazon and    http://www.offyerrocka.com/store.html?p=2

and naturally at Thirteen Star gigs details are  https://www.facebook.com/ThirteenStars/?fref=ts

2015 Hard Rock Hell is a good place to be.

Everybody with a love of rock really needs to 'do a festival', there is nothing quite like sharing a day with folk who have diverse tastes and seeing a vast array of different styles or genres that might otherwise have passed you by. As a young person your average festival is a great adventure, rather like camping in the outback armed with your tent and sleeping bag you brave whatever nature can drop on you (not restricted to rain, many legged creatures and the odd stray farm animal which can all add to the fun).  Then at some point having wet rather interesting smelling clothes and a damp mushroomy bed loses some of its charm, so then you might drag a caravan down to the gig giving you back some semblance of civilisation and less chance of contracting trench foot or photosensitive dandruff. The madly esoteric even restore ancient camper vans for those few days of Nirvana (and supporting bands) gaining kudos for keeping  the spirit of the sixties alive armed or decorated with a sheaf of self adhesive vinyl printed flowers, retro gig 501's and Kaftans.
      After 2006 the whole game changed with a little thing called "Hard Rock Hell"  at the end of the summer  festival season when bands were usually back on the road  the organisers decided to bring  the concept up to date adding that missing civilisation to the package. Nine years on in North Wales the Haven Holiday camp again plays host to the  festival,  which draws thousands of keen fans from across the UK and indeed much farther afield. There are options to how you can enjoy the spectacle ,you can of course stay off site in nearby Pwllheli which has some great hotels or you can 'bring your van' as there are some onsite pitches available.
 Having tried the options I'd recommend for the full experience and ease of catching a nap between bands you want the onsite accommodation. There are apartments of various levels of luxury or the US style 'double wide' mobile homes. We've done this the last couple of years and  you can really appreciate the comfort of a hot shower after seven hours of scooting between bands, bars and bogs. None of that nasty three working but smelly toilets across the next field  it is all there on hand, with the  all bits you would expect at a proper concert venue plus a lot more.
    This year we had a couple of days of decent weather broken by heavy rain and high winds but being a permanent site Haven is paved and unlike the traditional festival you are never going to step into sloppy pools of water mixed with sheep or cow poo.  Even the hardy souls who need the weed (tobacco obviously) have got shelter along the two halls and the long bar between has those huge umbrellas to keep the rain off.



    This years festival openers are a great bunch of guys from Northern Ireland  the Screaming Eagles,  they deservedly return each year to deliver their Ulster brand of  heavy duty rock. Now opening the first day is a big ask  for any band , because there is  a rush for a festival goers to get registered on site and settled in to your crib, so your band have to be a big draw to get audience in place . The proof  is this  audience know what HRH is all about, long before the sound check bodies were drifting into the hall, with a  lot of old friendships being renewed in the relative calm before Screaming Eagles crashed into town.  Behind the stage barrier a line of the keen pressed forward to get up close,meanwhile behind them were a happy crew headbanging and moshing away lost in the metal avalanche. Judging by the level and accuracy of the sing along a sizable contingent had taken the ferry over from Belfast where the band are regularly filling music venues like the Diamond Rock Club, most were clutching glasses of ale as they sang giving the atmosphere a great home from home boost. With front man Chris Fry welcoming and egging on the crowd to a great response  the day was clearly going to one to remember. Screaming Eagles sets have never disappointed and the day's was as good a performance as I remember.
As is the script with Hard Rock Hell once the music starts it is a roller coaster following on from the Screaming Eagles were Trucker Diablo a fellow Ulster band from Armagh shredding like crazy with breakneck metal riffage for a full set of crowd rocking songs. In fact we are lucky the band had a change of heart, just a year ago they were talking about taking an open ended break. Only the smart idea of a crowd funded album gave them the impetus to get back out on the road, thankful that they did.










             

The stage barely got time to cool before the power rockers Attica Rage hit the bricks. Attica look a little  like the cast of Sons of Anarchy rocking that biker denim style. There is a level of loud rock which surpasses normal I get the clear impression Attica Rage are looking to Motorhead levels as inspiration and they are getting close, joking aside they do have a lot to offer for people who don't have a Harley sat on the driveway I won't try to capture their style but check out their official clip of "Ashamed" on You Tube which if there was any justice should be on rotation on VHS instead of the plastic bands that are.

             

Headliners for the Thursday were Black Label Society , Zakk and the boys were rocking it large in their unmistakable style, it is not hard to see why Ozzy rates Zakk so high. He has the knack of teasing the audience with familiar songs given a full festival push with that bullseye V screaming while the mosh pit is bouncing in appreciation of a Wylde workout.
            

          

After some technical delays had put back the schedule the final band of the night was Massive Wagons. By now it was cracking 1 am you might think after the exertions of BLS the audience would be heading off for a deserved rest and I'd admit a few did but a lot more hit the bar up for a refill and then settled down for another set. I was talking to the band afterwards and they agreed that following BLS looked like they might be struggling , they had no need to worry as the spotlights picked them out there was a roar of approval. I've been getting nudged for a good year or more by a lot of people asking whether I'd seen Massive Wagons yet.  I should have listened they are majestic to keep an old rocker like me on his feet and relatively sober headed till the stacks get turned off takes a special performance. Once the photos were safe on the memory card I was kicking back with several hundred close friends in the audience rocking right to the end. I think I hit the pillow around 3am really I didn't care it had been a great day and I needed to sleep with two more packed days still to go.
       

Hard Rock Hell X will be on November 10th 2016
tickets from (044+) 0203 287 6684  or http://www.hardrockhell.com/

Uncle G Review_Consider The Source_World War Trio (Parts II & III)

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
07 Nov 2015

ClassicRockRadio.co.uk NEW Music Review
Consider The Source: World War Trio (Parts II & III)
Released: 2015 TECHNE Records

By Gary "Uncle G" Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

08 Nov 2015

So how long exactly should a writer who shares their experience about listening to various music projects, spend time engulfed in whatever the focus is going to be, before they start pounding away at the keyboard, expressing their opinion on the subject? My answer; "Accounts on what it is."

In the case of the newest studio offering from what I'll label a metal-prog band calling themselves, Consider The Source, the answer would be for myself, about a month. For some this is a horrible answer. Would mean the individual is studying whatever is being heard, which would alter the spontaneity of the gut reaction, in which some readers of such articles, would prefer to read.

On the other hand, the argument is there that it's hard to write a book about baseball, unless one played the game. Question is, how can one write about something, and not know the subject matter? So, not planning on it, I lived the last four weeks or so, with this album in my life. The newest Consider The Source TWO disc release of original music, recorded beautifully, and presented flawlessly, as the soundtrack / score to my existence in October / November 2015. Not entirely, for I took days off in between after devoting entire days to multi-plays with either disc one or the other, trying to comprehend what it was I been listening to. To help cleanse the palate, I have been digging on the Hollywood Vampires self titled / debut album. I also spent time composing my second ever song, To Score A Dream (by Gary "Uncle G" Brown), which can be presently found on several Internet websites. But for the most part, this past October, and now the beginning parts of November, where ever I went, so did the new Consider The Source World War Trio Part II & III double album. Even in the shower I'd listen to it, BLASTING this modern day rock n' roll instrumental masterpiece from my home stereo system. Something I'm sure my neighbors love. I can only imagine what the folks in the hood say as they walk back my residence. Good thing I'm aware of the local noise ordinances.

Consider The Source - World War Trio (Parts II & III)

Same thing happened to me when I received the first part of this instrumental three album masterpiece; Consider The Source: World War Trio (Part I) - Put Another Brick In That Bag (23:31). I ended up basically falling into it. If a serious music fan, you'll understand what I'm saying. When Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells II came out, I played nothing but that for as long as I could stand it. With some Doors, and Eric Clapton mixed in here and there. After a while, one moves on. Whatever it is becomes a favorite, and for a musician, sometimes one can get influenced. And just so you fully get the picture, I'm an 'old school' album person. This means that when I pull that CD out to be played in the home entertainment system, that I listen to all of Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon, and not just the song; Money. That I enjoy in it's entirety, The Beatles Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, and just don't play; Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds.

Good News: Roger Waters is coming out with a new studio album.
Bad News: It's about dead children.

Someone give Mr. Waters a happy pill, PLEASE. Yet another reason to like Consider The Source's newest studio creation; World War Trio: Parts I, and NOW Parts II, and III. No lyrics. And as far as dead babies goes, Alice Cooper been there, and done that.

Uncle G's FAVS - Consider The Source: World War Trio (Parts II & III)

So we're on the same page, Consider The Source is a three man 'metal-prog' band , that hails from the United States. These guys (I was raised in New Jersey) leave other highly skilled professional musicians in total awe, on a regular basis. Wherever they play, or that their music could be heard. So this is not a band that favors only a few chords, and plays them over and over and over again. Nothing wrong if one digs the more simplistic sounds. Consider The Source are seasoned pro's. The world's just really getting to know about them now. Hopefully it is I who helped spread the word.

Known for being a classic rock writer, I would compare Consider The Source with a youthful Emerson, Lake, and Palmer. No shit! This band is 'that' good! Replace the legendary keyboardist Keith Emerson, with Consider The Source's guitarist; Gabriel Marin. The same devotion to the craft / high energy as Mr. Emerson exhibited throughout his legendary career, is there. Also, Consider The Source's John Ferrara and Jeff Mann, is a good match for ELP's Greg Lake, and Carl Palmer. Add a case of … (product placement) … '5 Hour Energy'. Sounds better than if I said something like; on illegal steroids. Besides, that shit don't last a lifetime, like the music of Consider The Source's, should. Point is the music they make, a lot of it is high energy stuff. The band's guitarist could out shred anyone out there playing metal-prog. He's in the same field as John Petrucci from Dream Theater. Thinking ahead, I hope Consider The Source stays on solid ground as their popularity soars. Loads of potential, in which this newest studio endeavor clearly demonstrates.

So, what are my favorite tracks or moments from Consider The Sources 'World War Trio Parts II & III release? Not forgetting Part I as an intro / set up to this very ambitious project, and would equate the whole entire suite as I would a classically structured piece of music.

Saying that, it's on record already with me saying that I dug World War Trio (Part I). Same thing here. It's that's easy. If wanting to read a short review you can stop here. I'm pleased as punch with not only Part I, but Parts II & III as well. Please remember to somehow support the band; buy their music, products, etc.. Drive home safely. Now for those wanting more detail, read on.

Again, Consider The Source - World War Trio (Part I, II, & III) is all instrumental (a tad spoken work). Well over two hours of outstanding rock n' roll.

So, let's say I was going to see the band live. I haven't yet and I seriously want to. Their live performance said to be akin to the old Nektar shows, whereas the light show (John Olsen - Lighting Design) is treated equal in presentation, as is the music.

To make this writing exercise even more interesting, let's say we have time restraints. Story will go ... just my luck that Consider The Source is only allowed to play ninety minutes on this particular evening, the FIRST time I will have seen them play. Can't play the entire suite, World War Trio (Parts I, II, & III) in it's entirety, like I was so hoping to see. Drats! So here's my hour and a half set list, and what I'd want to see the band perform.

I'd start the show with a performance of all of World War Trio - Part I. Gives me a little over an hour left. Shit! I really dig the first song off Part II called, Aquarians. Gives one a good idea as to what the band is like. Various influences, styles, and changing time signatures. This is after all a modern metal-prog twenty first century rock band. Back to the intro of Part II called Aquarians, it rocks like a mother-f*cker! Demonstrates imagination out the ass. Playing by all three members is simply outstanding. Double shit! If I pick this I got roughly fifty nine minutes left. Bonus point, over a set of speakers that could handle it, played aloud, Aquarians also makes for great grinding music! Know what I mean? This song is definitely included in my suggested 90 minute set list.

I so luv the theremin in the next song, Many Words Of Disapproval. Has a lush kind of vibe to it. As does the next tune, entitled; The Dubious Honor. A lot of precise playing for those who dig it. Rush fans should really get off on this band. As should Yes fans. This whole recording, World War Trio (Parts I, II, & III) is very much 'written in the spirit' of Yes' 1972 double concept album, Tales From Topographic Oceans. Says that on their website. I agree! Check it out. You have quite a bit of time, and it needs to be filled with music that not only does one get into playing, but that their listeners will play, again and again. Both bands achieved that goal in my mind. Back to the third track on disc one of World War Trio Part II, The Dubious Honor smokes in areas. I enjoy a harder rocking beat. Different tempos, and plenty to keep the brain focused on.

Next is another pick; One Hundred Thousand Fools. Leaves me about 55 minutes. All the members performing always stand out. After a while it can go unsaid. For some reason I hear Steve Howe in track four, of disc one. The song One Hundred Thousand Fools, has the honor of being the first song I pressed the repeat button on first listen. Gabriel Marin's playing; Steve Howe meets Jimmy Page after drinking five cups of trendy / hipster high priced dark roast house blend coffee. A wonderful track!

The next two songs keep the flow going. The listener has by now if liking instrumental rock, climbed onto the Consider The Source bandwagon. Is online looking at their catalog, and doing some retail catching up. I understand the reaction.

The numbers now being talked about; track five; Up To, But Not To Exceed … Whoa / and track six; You Are Obsolete. I'll add track five to the set list. I still have forty seven minutes. My set list so far is major kick ass! When given lemons, make lemonade. I want the best ninety minute set list possible.

Next are numbers; Tooth, and You Are Obsolete. Again, the flow of music coming from this disc is simply incredible. I mentioned Gabriel a couple / few times by now. Two other gentlemen in the band; John Ferrara (bass) and Jeff Mann (drums_percussion). Their work leaves one in awe as much as Gabriel's. That's why the comparison to ELP. Same intensity, and same precision playing.

I pick the next song called, Brother Nature. Beautiful song. This is a very cool acoustic piece. For those keeping score, I now have about forty three minutes left till I reach my max of ninety.

                     Consider The Source - Brother Nature

A very mellow piece called, 40% Gentelman, 60% Scholar. Kind of bluesy. John Bonham like drumming, with the bass sounding like it could be John Paul Jones at times. So a little Led Zeppelin sounding to me. A perfect number to end disc one, Part II with. I can fall into the whole song. Minus another seven and twenty-five seconds … I have about thirty-six minutes to suggest for what I think will be an excellent representation of the entire piece; World War Trio (Parts I, II & III). At least to me. When we all go to concerts, most of us we have hopes and wishes at a set list. Greatest hits, favorite songs and deep cuts. Back on track, I now covered disc one (Part II). Let's see how I finish this.

Disc Three (Part III) starts off brilliantly. Excellent first two tracks; A Monument To Compromise (Faux Clarinet) / Ninjanuity.

The next three tracks I want to add to my set list. Tracks 3, 4, and five; So Say We All (Parts I, 2, & 3). Is well worth the sixteen minutes needed to make it happen. I have twenty-seven minutes on my side.

Track six, More Than You'll Never Know, has a peaceful / middle eastern vibe to it. Almost eight minutes long. And the time goes by quickly. It's an enjoyable tune. I imagine it at night. Watching the guys perform this while sitting around a campfire. Nearly naked women dancing seductively. The smell of cannabis in the air coming from the next campsite next to us. Wish I was Captain Picard from Star Trek's Next Generation. I would for sure; Make it so.

Track Seven is a fucking monster and deserves to be seen played live. Period! I'll willingly and gladly subtract seven minutes for; I'll Fight For The Imp. Leaves me twenty minutes.

'White People's Problems, is the next track. The word 'spacey' comes to mind. Perhaps it's the headphones and having drank too much sangria? The outcome … add this eight minute composition to my set list. Twelve minutes to go.

The second to last song on this very ambitious project is titled; Tsim Sha Tsui. A feel good tune that includes a one-string Vietnamese instrument called the Dan Bau. Way good enough for a pick, but if I do I can't fit in the closing track.

The closing number, has to remain the closing number. Like the end of Part I, another ballad to close the disc, and the entire suite. Entitled; You Are Disappearing. Song length is; 6 minutes and 23 seconds. This is my LAST pick! I DID IT! Am too lazy to do the math, but I'm guessing I came in between the 85 and 90 minute mark. And what a performance that would be. Second only to seeing Consider The Source, play the whole thing; Parts I, II, & III.

Uncle G Rating

Using a one to five star rating system, whereas one star means it's truly horrible, to five stars meaning it's truly sensational, Uncle G gives Consider The Source - World War Trio (Parts II & III) … 5 STARS! If these guys never did anything else musically in their lives, they would have this to be proud of. For those into the progressive bands of yesterday, here's a band from the twenty first century that's worth checking out.

For more information on Consider The Source, please consult their official website:

www.ConsiderTheSourceMusic.com 

*Bonus Uncle G Video*
What U R about 2 C, is actual footage of Gary "Uncle G" Brown's drive into Houston Texas, heading east on Hwy I-10 on Saturday morning in October of 2015. The song U hear in the background is from Consider The Source - World War Trio (Part Two) - This Dubious Honor. Actual footage of Uncle G listening to / preparing his thoughts on said subject matter. GREAT driving music btw!

Remember ... this video was made by a real professional music reviewer for a classic rock 24/7 Internet station out of Liverpool England - Don't try this yourself. Keep the roads a safe place for us all to share / drive. 

                     Consider The Source Publicity done by 

                       www.glassonyonpr.com

  

Hugh Cornwell November 2015 Tour dates

Hugh Cornwell is currently a few days into his November tour and you should do your  utmost to catch one or more of them, for an excellent live experience.  (See dates further below)

Hugh is one of the most important figures in punk and new wave music.  He was the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter in one of Britain’s most loved and most influential bands of all time: The Stranglers - best known for their hits “Golden Brown”, “No More Heroes”, “Peaches” and “Always The Sun”.

Always ahead of the curve, he has made headlines both with the music and innovative approaches to reaching new audiences over the years, being at the forefront of experimentation with free downloads and crowdfunding.

In August 2015, Hugh Cornwell released “The Fall And Rise Of Hugh Cornwell” through Invisible Hands Music, on LP and CD [Cat Nos IH61, IHCD61].  The first ever anthology of his post-Stranglers career, twenty five years on from leaving the band, this album brings together twelve choice Cornwell classics taken from the first six solo albums, plus one brand new studio recording, “Live It And Breathe It” [on CD format only].


TRACKLISTING:
Leave Me Alone  / Beat Of My Heart / Hot Cat On A Tin Roof / Break Of Dawn / Under Her Spell / First Bus To Babylon [Side One LP Format]
Please Don't Put Me On A Slow Boat To Trowbridge / Lay Back On Me Pal / One Burning Desire / Cadiz / Long Dead Train / Getting Involved [Side Two LP Format]
Live It And Breathe It [CD format only].

“The Fall And Rise Of Hugh Cornwell” is sure to be a hit with Stranglers fans and others curious to catch up with the solo work of this revolutionary, radical legend of modern music. This album is a carefully curated dip into the deep pool of work created in the twenty seven years since Hugh Cornwell has been releasing solo albums.

 Hugh Cornwell  Live Shows November 2015  


Saturday 7th November     
TORRINGTON – Plough Arts Centre


Thursday 12th November
MORECAMBE – The Platform
Box Office No: 01524 582803
Website - https://uk.patronbase.com/_ThePlatform/Productions/HUGH/Performances
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.00pm / 7.30pm Stage


Friday 13th November
COLNE – The Muni
Box Office No: 01282 661234
Website – http://www.themuni.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-at-the-muni/p-47-hugh-cornwell/
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.30pm / 8.30pm Stage


Wednesday 18th November
NEWBURY – Arlington Arts Centre


Thursday 19th November
WESTON SUPER MARE – St Paul’s Church
Box Office No: 0844 478 0898
Websites - http://www.lighthouse-weston.org.uk/
and http://www.lighthouse-weston.org.uk/events/hugh-cornwell-acoustic-gig-november-19th-2015/
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.00pm / 8.00-9.00pm & 9.30-10.30pm Stage (2 sets)


Friday 20th November                 
SCUNTHORPE – Plowright Theatre
Box Office No: 0844 854 2776
Website - https://tickets.scunthorpetheatres.co.uk/single/eventDetail.aspx?p=30376
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.00pm / 7.45pm Stage


Sunday 22nd November
GLASGOW – Oran Mor


Thursday 26th November
SALE – Waterside Arts Centre
Box Office No: 0161 912 5616
Website – http://watersideartscentre.co.uk/whats-on/1678-hugh-cornwell-original-stranglers-frontman/
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.00pm / 7.45pm Stage


Friday 27th November
WHITLEY BAY – Playhouse
Box Office No: 0844 248 1588
Website - http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/7711/hugh-cornwell
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.00pm / 7.45pm Stage


Saturday 28th November
SOUTHPORT – The Atkinson
Box Office No: 01704 533333
Website - http://www.theatkinson.co.uk/events/hugh-cornwell/
Tickets - £20.00 advance  
Doors Open – 7.30pm / 8.00pm Stage


Sunday 29th November
LEEK – Foxlowe Arts Centre


For further information on HUGH CORNWELL, check out the following websites / social media links:

Website – http://www.hughcornwell.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hughcornwellofficial

Twitter – https://twitter.com/hughcornwell

You Tube Official Link - https://www.youtube.com/user/HughCornwellOfficial

Gig Cartel – Ticket Links - http://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Hugh-Cornwell.html







This post also appears at: http://radiogirlproductions.blogspot.com/2015/11/hugh-cornwell-currently-back-on-tour.html

RUSH
R40 LIVE

Concert Film Available 20^th November 2015
Epic Live Show with 40 Year Career-Spanning Set list

Exclusive One-Off UK Advanced screening on 17^th November @ Gibson Showrooms, London – To attend simply pre-order R40 Live from the Official UK store for your chance to win tickets

All roads have led to this. Forty-one years in the making, the R40 Live tour took a very real journey back through time. Beginning with the grand design: a state-of-the-art stage set that pivots, rolls and dives, and brings Clockwork Angels in to bombastic, colourful life before marching stridently back in time (through theatre stages, a panoply of band and fan shots, the accrued memories of a life spent playing live) to a mocked-up school gym and the band playing there; a solitary bass amp set on the chair behind Geddy Lee, a mirror ball spiralling crazily above, casting thin rods of light like a light rain across the crowd, Working Man coming to a shuddering halt as the band’s beginning becomes their end.

Rush recorded and filmed R40 Live over two sold-out shows in the band’s hometown of Toronto at the Air Canada Centre on June 17 & 19, 2015 in the middle of their R40 Live 35-date North American tour.

R40 Live had the trio of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart, performing a career-spanning live retrospective celebrating their 40+ years together. The epic live shows by the Rock Hall of Famers were captured with 14 cameras to present the band feature-film style.

The centre-point of this tour was the remarkable set-list, coupled with their idea of a “de-evolution” set design. When the band opened the show with cuts “Headlong Flight” and “The Anarchist” from their most recent studio recording, 2012’s Clockwork Angels, they did so with all the bells and whistles from that extensive tour. They worked backwards through their catalogue as the show progressed, the innovative set design making for constant visual eye-candy, as stagehands exchanged the gear and props on stage to resemble the era-correct tour staging in accordance with the songs being played.

The first set featured the infamous dryers on stage while they played “Roll The Bones”, “Subdivisions”, and for the first time ever live, “Losing It” featuring violinist Ben Mink who appeared on the original studio recording from 1982’s Signals.

The second set opened with classics “Tom Sawyer”, followed by crowd favourite, “The Spirit of Radio” but also included “Jacob’s Ladder” which hasn’t been performed live since 1980 on their Permanent Wavestour. The last few songs of the R40 were set against the persimmion curtained theatre looking stage, with the crowd raising their lighters or camera phones to  “Closer to the Heart” and then Alex and Geddy appeared with their signature doubleneck guitars as they played Xanadu, into the epic “2112” and encore with “Lakeside Park/Anthem” and “What You’re Doing/Working Man”.
The concert film also includes the the band’s renowned tour videos, highlighted by “Roll The Bones (R40 Live)” that features array of special guests in the rap part of the song: Jay Baruchel (She’s Out Of My League), Les Claypool (Primus), Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones), Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine, Audioslave), Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), The Trailer Park Boys, and Jason Segel & Paul Rudd (I Love You, Man). It is the first time the band put the song back in the setlist since the Snakes & Arrows tour in 2007/2008. During the R40 Live tour, “Roll The Bones” gained new life and became a fan-favourite with an arena sing-a-long to the chorus “Why are we here? Because we’re here – Roll The Bones”.
Singer/Bassist Geddy Lee explained how the large group of cameo appearances came about, "We had this older video of an animated Skeleton doing the "rap" part of “Roll The Bones”, and felt it was time to update the concept for this tour. So after a lot of joking around with our show design team, we thought it would fun if we called upon some of our well known pals and see if they wanted to have some fun with the lyrics. There were so many good and funny moments that it was hard to choose, some really hilarious and outrageous stuff!  I'm so glad it worked out as it brought a big smile to the faces in the audience (and to us!) every single night!"
R40 Live audio was produced by Rush & David Botrill, mixed by David Botrill (Tool, Muse), the film was directed by Dale Heslip and produced by Allan Weinrib. The live photograph on the cover of R40 was shot by baseball Hall of Famer Randy Johnson, who captured the band in a rare moment when both Geddy  Lee and Alex LIfeson were on Neil Peart’s drum kit riser. “As a friend and fan of Rush, and the passion I have for photography to capture moments, it’s great that both can blend together for a lasting impression here for the world to see,” commented the self-described ‘6”10 ninja in the photo pit’ who was on a portion of the tour in his new role as photographer.
RUSH R40 Live will be released on November 20, 2015, and will be available in the following configurations:
·       3-CD/1 Blu-ray set
·       3-CD/1 DVD set
·       3-CD set (audio only)
·       Single-disc Blu-ray
·       Single-disc DVD
Pre-orders available here – http://po.st/tcP8Wz
“Their influence is undeniable…and their legacy is that of a band that stayed true to themselves no matter how uncool they may have seemed to anyone.  I think it’s safe to say that Rush are indeed a band that has balls…and they’ve ALWAYS been cool.” - Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters, inducting Rush into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

“Its long been a wonder how Rush prouduce such a huge sound with only three blokes…a world class performance” - The Sun Rush live review

“A full on prog-rocking spectacle” - Time Out

“Rush rarely disappoint. Long may they continue” - The Independent 5/5 live review

R40 TRACKLISTING / CD

Disc One
The World is .. The World is ...
The Anarchist
Headlong Flight
Far Cry
The Main Monkey Business
How It Is
Animate
Roll the Bones
Between the Wheels
Losing It (with Ben Mink)
Subdivisions

Disc Two
Tom Sawyer
YYZ
The Spirit of Radio
Natural Science
Jacob’s Ladder
Hemispheres: Prelude
Cygnus X-1/The Story So Far (drum solo)
Closer to the Heart
Xanadu
2112

CD Disc Three
Mel’s Rockpile (with Eugene Levy)
Lakeside Park/Anthem
What You’re Doing/Working Man

Bonus
One Little Victory
Distant Early Warning
Red Barchetta
Clockwork Angels
The Wreckers
The Camera Eye
Losing It (with Jonathan Dinklage)

DVD/Blu-ray

Set One
The World is .. The World is ...
The Anarchist
Headlong Flight
Far Cry
The Main Monkey Business
How It Is
Animate
Roll the Bones
Between the Wheels
Losing It (with Ben Mink)
Subdivisions

Set Two
No Country for Old Hens
Tom Sawyer
YYZ
The Spirit of Radio
Natural Science
Jacob’s Ladder
Hemispheres: Prelude
Cygnus X-1/The Story So Far (drum solo)
Closer to the Heart
Xanadu
2112

Encore
Mel’s Rockpile (with Eugene Levy)
Lakeside Park/Anthem
What You’re Doing/Working Man
Exit Stage Left

Bonus
One Little Victory
Distant Early Warning
Red Barchetta

Rush.com
#R40live

Uncle G's Fun Movie Reviews_Reel Evil

Classic Rock Radio Dot CO Dot UK
19 Oct 2015
Uncle G's FUN Movie Reviews
Spotlight: Reel Evil (2012 Full Moon Features)
By: Gary "Uncle G" Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

Note: Since the 1990’s, I been watching / collecting Full Moon Features movies. Here’s one from my collection.

Reel Evil (directed by Danny Draven)

Reel Evil - DVD - signed by Danny Draven (director) / Charles Band (producer)

From Charles Band’s Full Moon Film Studios in Hollywood California, comes yet another cool indie / B horror film. This one’s called; Reel Evil. A found footage horror movie. I know, not again. Seen enough after Blair Witch right? Honestly, I’m not a fan of the storyline myself. Still, I like the way Full Moon presented it, and I’m actually fine with this motion picture. Matter of fact, I’m pretty happy with it.

I purchased the DVD off Full Moon’s website;

www.fullmoondirect.com

Caught the pre-sale a couple / few weeks back. Arrived in my mailbox autographed by the director of the film, Danny Draven, and film company head, Charles Band. Didn’t charge more for the signatures. That I liked. Just paid for the product. Motivated me to join in, and get it for the home collection.

One of the stars in the film is a lovely young actress name; Jessica Morris. She also starred in one of my favorite Full Moon flicks from the year 2008; Dangerous Worry Dolls. Seems to have a good career going. Appeared on the daytime soap ‘One Life To Life’ for several years. She also did an episode of one of my wife’s favorite TV shows; CSI. Certainly gives a well done performance here. One of the best I seen her do.

Directed by Danny Draven. In his early thirties he already has an impressive resume of the IMDd website. By watching this film I can tell it’s going to get a lot better. From the intro to the end credits, he directed this movie to come out looking pretty damn cool. Filmed in six days (he states that and gives all kinds of details on the commentary track that came with the DVD).

Without giving too much away, an eager three person film crew gets their BIG break filming behind the scenes footage for a horror movie that’s being filmed in one of the creepiest places found in Los Angeles, California. Our young wannabes wander off by themselves, starting a rather scary trip through the bowels of what was once an insane asylum. Welcome to their nightmare.

The DVD is LOADED with lots of cool bonus features. The BEST one; VideoZone. For me it’s the return of. I missed the official return found in the bonus bits of the newest Puppet Master movie. I fell in love with the special feature Videozone back in the 1990’s. One Full Moon VHS tape back in the day, would come with besides the featured movie, commercials for their products, and then; VideoZone. It’s a behind the scenes look at the film you just saw. A whole night’s worth of entertainment. All that was missing, was the popcorn. And then VideoZone disappeared for years. My guest was that it became to expensive to keep doing. Cut into profit. Became just a distant memory. Until now !! Super glad to see it’s return.

Congrats to Full Moon / Danny Draven for doing a real good job here. Great audio sound. Includes a ton of Full Moon new and old trailers. Comes with a DVD-Rom feature; shooting script and movie poster. All that and a good movie in which everything is centered around.

Check out Full Moon’s official website(s) for additional information / ways the film is available for sale / viewing. Link provided in the beginning of the story. You can also check out Full Moon’s streaming service to see if it’s available on there.

http://fullmoonstreaming.com/

                         Official Full Moon Features Trailer (2012) 

Check out Full Moon's official website(s) for additional information / ways the film is available for sale / viewing. Link provided in the beginning of the story. You can also check out Full Moon's streaming service to see if it's available on there.

http://fullmoonstreaming.com/

Update 2015:  Director Danny Draven recently completed filming a new movie called Patient Seven that is being distributed by Terror Films. Stars one of the coolest action guys around; Michael Ironside. Can't wait to see this one. 

Danny Draven Official Facebook Page 

https://www.facebook.com/danny.draven.9

Dennis Dunaway_Snakes! Guillotines! Electric Chairs! My Adventures in the Alice Cooper Group

Author(s): Dennis Dunaway and Chris Hodenfield

Published: 2015

           ClassicRockRadio.co.uk PRESENTS 

               Uncle G's FUN Book Reviews

By Gary "Uncle G" Brown

American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk

Twitter @GBrown0816

First Published: October 15, 2015 
Revised July 04, 2016

"In fond memory of Glen Buxton 1947-1997"

Ordering old school via phone, 'Good Records' in Dallas Texas USA, took my order, and a few days later Dennis' book arrived. I had already seen a picture of the book on Dennis' official Facebook page. First impression was I liked the cover photo, and that the book had eleven words in its title. If on Facebook and being asked if it was a good title or not, I'd press the 'like' button. It clearly gets the point across that this was a book written (with help from C.H.) by the original bass player in Alice Cooper. The one, the only, Mr. Dennis Dunaway.

Now notice that Dennis has the word 'group' after Alice Cooper. It helps separate from Alice's ongoing solo career that started when Vince jumped ship (management in tow) in '75. Since then Alice has had an overall successful solo career that began with the mega successful 'Welcome To My Nightmare' album. An interesting catalog of albums followed. In 2015 we find Alice doing a side project, as part of a supergroup called 'The Hollywood Vampires' that just released their debut, self titled album. Frankly, I feel Alice deserves RnRHoF induction, on his solo career alone. Good for him he's already inducted, and rightfully so for being one fifth of the Alice Cooper 'group'. Which is where getting back to the book, this story ends. Admitted into the RnRHoF back in 2011. The 'group' since then has shown it still has some punch left in them which was apparent at a recent 2015 reunion show / appearances in Dallas Texas (Good Records). Glen was of course missed, but Alice, Neal, Michael, and Dennis played an eight song set that proved something is still there. I personally would luv nothing better than a new 40 to 45 minute Alice Cooper group concept album, and after it's release, a tour. If not wanting to embark on a full size tour, maybe just a handful of shows so to be professionally recorded; Audio & Blu-ray. From my lips to God's ears, there is still time left.

Dennis' recalling of events, lays out exactly how the Alice Cooper group came about. The vast majority of the certain to be, if not already, best seller chronicles mostly up to '74's Alice Cooper Greatest Hits album. Superb cover artwork by Drew Struzan on that one btw. For the 'group' this was pretty much the end. On record the 'group' would not play again and it would be minus GB, until Alice's follow up to Welcome 2 My Nightmare; Welcome 2 My Nightmare (2011).

Snakes! Guillotines! Electric Chairs! My Adventures in the Alice Cooper Group. Dennis Dunaway's personal recalling of his life. A very interesting one indeed. Successful with other bands since his Cooper days, and successful in life with a wife and two kids that has certainly kept him well grounded. 

I personally never met Dennis, but I know Michael Bruce, and Neal Smith. I also had the honor of hanging with Glen Buxton when he was in Houston, back in '97. I sat at a table with him and a few others after the Billy Blues show, and was amazed at how well he held our attention. I got to ask him anything I wanted. The dude was so cool and laid back. He sat there attentively as each of the three of us spoke, and then when finished he'd reply. Actually, he used the free time by reaching in and out of this black medicine bag he had with him. In the middle of long answers he's reaching in, grabbing a can of beer or a cigarette, and not miss a fucking beat. He gave responses in great details. Wonderful stories about The Doors, and Kiss.

I made a beer run for GB back when he did the record show appearance, and a cigarette run (Old Gold or Basic's 100) when at Billy Blues. Least I could do for one of my all time guitar heroes. 

One of the coolest and then saddest things ever in my life … the Area 51 show, at what would be GB's last ever public appearance. When it came time for the Cooper's anthem 'School's Out', I got to stand directly in front of Glen, as he played those all too famous, first opening guitar notes. A week later, Glen Buxton was dead. I still get choked up when I think about it too hard. My last memory of GB is him being in the back seat of a car, and exchanging pleasantries back and forth. In the rain, the automobile sooner or later pulled away. I believe it was Jeff Jatras (manager of Michael Bruce ) who seven days later told me Glen passed away.

One fanboy moment I had with GB was giving him a tee shirt. Right before the Area 51 show was to start. Was surprised and honored he actually wore it on stage. An attitude shirt I had specially made in Daytona Beach, Florida a few years before that. I never wore it. Hung on a hanger in my bedroom closet. Would scare mothers and children. It read on the upper arm sleeve; "Sticks and Stones may Break my Bones, but Whips and Chains Excite me". On the front of the black tee-shirt; "What are You Staring At Dickhead!" I forget the rest. 

October 12, 1997 @ Area 51 in Houston Texas USA
Left to right: Neal Smith, Richie Scarlet, and Glen Buxton

My real regret is that I never asked to have a picture taken with him. My wife got him to sign a couple things. Treasured items now. 

Speaking of the Houston appearence, Michael Bruce's manager told me that he would send posts I authored on Sick Things (a public Alice Cooper Internet Discussion Group) about Michael's playing, to Neal Smith. To help get him interested in coming to Houston which he did, along with GB. Dennis gives him credit for the '97 reunion, in which I do as well. It would have never have happened without his persistence. As for the record, and sorry if it's a spoiler, but Mr. Dunaway was ill at the time, and could not participate in the '97 Houston original Alice Cooper 'group' reunion. Alice wasn't there as well. It was never believed he would show up anyway. Michael, Neal, Glen, with the help of Ace Frehley's bass player, Richie Scarlet, and a local Houston musician playing keyboards and helping with backing vocals, John Glenn could not have done any better. For the short time they practiced, and played together, the five of them ended up a pretty tight band. These guys ROCKED! Weather wise in Houston, all during this time, it rained cats and dogs. A contributing factor I believe to Glen's demise.  

Michael Bruce once told me it was always better to take the high road, or whatever you could fit in your pockets. Only kidding! Luv U Bro'! TONS of memories. R.I.P Jeff Jatras. Truth is the man was a true scumbag the majority of the time. Killed himself in 2011. Sad in a way. Many that knew him who upon hearing news of his passing were quoted as saying; "Good riddance!"

Dennis' new autobiography, Snakes! Guillotines! Electric Chairs! My Adventures in the Alice Cooper Group. Recommend reading, so say I.

http://www.dennisdunaway.com/book/

Review_Desert Sweets - A Place Meant For Birds

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
A ClassicRockRadio.co.uk New Music Review
Spotlight: Desert Sweets - A Place Meant For Birds (2015)

By Gary "Uncle G" Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816
10 Oct 2015 

Writing while under the influence of Desert Sweets

Ready...Start...Go

I begin by visualizing a watering hole that could be located in any small town, or large city. A building on the corner, where the wooden floors could use a good mopping. In the middle of the business establishment was a spot where there were several pool tables. Musical notes from different instruments can be heard throughout the bar, but I was too twisted to figure out if it was a performance, or a rehearsal. The faint smell of cigarette smoke courtesy of a lady outside smoking nonchalantly near the barely opened shit house window.

One night in the Big Apple, I literally walked face first into the front doors of an old and at the time nearly forgotten Ed Sullivan Theater, because I wasn't looking where the fuck I was going. In my late teens, or early twenties. Bar hopping in NYC, decades ago, was always an eye-opening experience for me.

For hours I sit and drink at my favorite at the time drinking establishment. I simply felt at home. As a child in 1969, I watched the Apollo Moon Landing while sitting on a bar stool, on a television set located in a South Amboy, New Jersey tavern because my Father stopped going home after Mom died. A professional musician who drank herself to death. On nights she worked, I was allowed to watch her perform one set, while eating a hot tomato pie. And here we were, my Father and myself, back at the scene of the crime.

While Pops best friend, and he were on non speaking terms, Dad's drinking buddy aka the town drunk, while out and after having consumed possibly one alcoholic drink too many, fell backwards from his bar stool, and landed head first on the hard floor below. Looking the same as any of the other times he was publicly intoxicated, people at first stepped over and around him. Again, not the first time Ace was found while looking down from a stand up position. This would be his last. The man when breathing and not totally shit-faced, enjoyed quiet times at home watching the boob tube with his elderly Mother, who unfortunately had the difficult task of having to bury her one and only son.

The End.

"OK Class, time to put down your pencils."

And there you have it. I had totally no idea what I was writing about, before I wrote (typed) it. While the creative juices were flowing, in the background, coming out my home stereo system, was my one and only inspiration. Desert Sweets newest release; A Place Meant For Birds. An almost all instrumental true avant-garde project. The groups first in over a decade. Just under fifty-five minutes long. Seven tracks total, with two of them coming in at over the ten minute mark. Three very talented / seasoned musicians. Captured live in New Mexico a couple years ago. While I was recently thinking about how I was to go about writing about it, the idea popped in my mind about doing some 'improvisational writing'.

Hearing 'A Place Meant For Birds' inspired me to apparently write about pubs of long time pass, and of some of my recollections regarding one, King Alcohol. Wasn't planned. Sounds triggering old thoughts and memories. Glad the opportunity arose to tell the world about about Ace. He was really into baseball, and favored pitchers. Totally blitzed while standing in the middle of a public street, he'd pitch a perfect game. Never got to experience his glory because the police would always arrive by the ninth inning. When quized later on, he would respond with how the rest of the game went. Happened more than once. People would come out of their house, and sit on the curb watching him. Didn't like it when someone would trash talk. Was skinny like Gilligan on that tv show about the stranded castaways. Wish I remembered the man's real name. May 'Ace' rest in peace.

Knowing your craft, one learns keeping doors open, can help one get craftier. Expand one's regular horizons. Exceed one's boundaries. Frank Zappa was perhaps my first exposure to anything musically out of bounds. That and the sounds I would hear when I spun my Partridge Family albums backwards. Instead of hearing them singing 'come on get happy', in my already then warped little mind it sound to ME like; "I AM SATAN AND I WILL EAT YOU!" And then I'd let go of the needle, and I'd hear them sing normally; "Come on get happy." I digress. For myself progressive rock exceeded the three minutes / three chord / repetitive beat format of pop radio that I was immersed in my youth. Also, being incarcerated in Asbury Park, New Jersey, at the ripe age of thirteen, first exposed me to black people and jazz music. The hippest guards were smoking weed when all was clear, and pumping out the jazz fusion. All while beating me in the game of chess. Lesson learned was to always keep an open mind when it comes to music. And for the most part, that I have.

"Sand shits from the corner of my lips" -- Lisa Gill (poem …track six)

All three players of Desert Sweets have interesting musical backgrounds. Worth investigating. Let me introduce; Biggi Vinkeloe (alto saxophone, flute) / Mark Weaver (tuba, didgeridoo) / Damon Smith (double bass).

Desert Sweets @ the Outpost, Albuquerque, NM 03/14/13
Photo by: Mark Weber

Uncle G Rating

Avant-garde not have the same interest with the general public as adult contemporary, standard rock music has. To give this a rating as I would anything I normally would, simply would not be fair. Thing is, some people out there upon giving this thirty seconds of their time, would dismiss what they heard, as perhaps not even being not music at all. Meaning not traditional music per-say. Sally's not coming around any mountain here. Yet it's all sound with one purpose, to make the brain react. So Sally can still come with her six white horses, and hopefully not have any hay stuck between her butt cheeks. The human mind in all its glory, is engaged. Nice when the response is favorable.

Right here and right now, I'm officially saying the new Desert Sweets release called, A Place Meant For Birds, is worth the money to acquire it. If I was doing a one to five star review with one star meaning it sucks uncooked turtle testicles, to five stars meaning it's well worth having in the personal collection, I'd then follow that up by saying something much like this; Uncle G gives Desert Sweets - A Place Meant For Birds …5 stars!

Also getting a 5 star review … the cover art. LOVE IT! And the paper sleeve the CD comes in that has this uniquely interesting cowboy image, not surprisingly, has a nice feel to it also. No expense spared. The painting is called, Cowboy Angel II, by Delmas Howe (2009). Catches the eye fer sure. An oil on canvas, 70" by 44". 

Honorable Mention: My African Grey Parrot; Bela Brown. Her favorite track on Desert Sweets - A Place Meant For Birds is track six; The Wind Has Taken My Breath.

Bela Brown
Hatched 10 Feb 1999
Favorite Food: Peanuts (in the shell)

*Bela Brown's Helpful WebLinks*

Biggi Vinkeloe: www.biggievinkeloe.com

Mark Weaver: www.facebook.com/mark.weaver.315

Damon Smith: http://balancepointacoustics.bandcamp.com/

Lisa Gill (poet): poetlisagill.wardpress.com/about/

Inspiration: Rio Bravo Fine Art Gallery - www.riobravofineartgallery.com

To Purchase: http://geni.us/2NL7

OH..and don't believe that shit about the Partridge Family. No Satan, and besides who isn't happier at this moment any more than David Cassidy? So come on ... get jovial. You'll be glad you did.