johnnykmusic

Can I get a damn rebound?....

2012-01-29T15:37:00.000-05:00

I just went through a stressful football season with the Cleveland Browns, but I thought the UConn Huskies would ease the pain. Not happening, they cannot close out games.

Tweeted by LowCutConnie:

"SXSW is a big monied industry circle jerk with its head up its own BS'ing blogoshere. I might feel differently if they hadn't rejected us." Those tasteless bastards!

Sunday pre-game trail mix...

2012-01-29T13:04:00.001-05:00

Every Night of the Week (Lou Ann Barton) Old Enough
Never Tell Your Mother She's Out of Tune (Ellen McIlwaine) Up From the Skies
He Thinks He'll Keep Her (Mary Chapin Carpenter) Come On Come On
I Hear a Call (Emmylou Harris) Cowgirl's Prayer
Your One And Only Man (Otis Redding) The Very Best Of...
Hurricane On China Lake (Marcia Ball) So Many Rivers
Cry Me a River (The Three Sounds) Standards
Sing, Sing, Sing (Benny Goodman) The Harry James Years
No Drawers (Marva Wright) Blues Queen of New Orleans
Trouble Blues (John Lee Hooker) 20 Great Hits
Your Mind Is On Vacation (Van Morrison & Georgie Fame) How Long Has This Been Going On.
Bluesology (Milt Jackson) Early Modern
Little Angel, Little Brother (Lucinda Williams) Sweet Old World
Lonely Boys (Black Keys) El Camino
There She Goes (The La's) The La's
Phenomenal Woman (Ruthie Foster) The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster
Calling On the Angels (Blackie & the Rodeo Kings) Kings of Love

From Cafe Nine...

2012-01-29T09:31:00.002-05:00

2Nite! All new Jam Session hosted by Queen of the Blues Roxy Perry! Roxy's Traveling Roadhouse debuts tonight 8-11:30. ALL players welcome!

Baby, we were born to die...

2012-01-28T06:37:00.005-05:00

photo: Nicole Nodland

For a couple months, I kept stumbling upon her hype. Lana Del Ray, what's up with this? I tried a couple vids (Video Games) and came away thinking I'm just not getting it (which CAN happen, you know!). Kind of hipster-retro Leslie Gore. When I saw her two songs on SNL (Video Games Blue Jeans), I still didn't get it. Though hesitant, emotionless, monotoned, she wasn't terrible. Why the hate, Brian Williams ( "..one of worst outings in SNL history.")? She's not evil, merely not good.
Articles: Stereogum Sasha Frere-Jones

What were you born for?

Heard while picking up breakfast sandwiches at Fancy Bagels this morning- great song!...

2012-01-26T19:52:00.001-05:00

Here comes Johnny playin' oldies goldies...woooo whoooo, woooo whooo...

On Neil Diamond's birthday, the lineups are set for Jazz Fest 2012...

2012-01-24T16:04:00.003-05:00

Well, the hope for the Black Keys playing this year's New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has vanished with today's announcement that Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band are added to the first weekend and Eddie Vedder will do an acoustic set on Thursday of the second (our) weekend. It's all good, though.

The daily schedules have been announced. Early favorites to catch are:

Thursday (May 3)- Esperanza Spaulding, Florence & the Machine, Eddie Vedder, Mia Borders, James Cotton, Little Freddie King, Rosie Ledet, The Iguanas,
Friday (May 4)- Grace Potter, Zac Brown Band, Theresa Andersson, Wayne Toups, Ingrid Lucia, Mavis Staples
Saturday (May 5)-The Eagles, Levon Helm w/ Mavis Staples, Allen Toussaint, Steve Earle, Anders Osborne, Malone Brothers, Lost Bayou Ramblers
Sunday (May 6)- Bonnie Raitt, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Funky Meters, Asleep at the Wheel, Mem Shannon, Rockin' Dopsie Jr, Neville Bros (pass on the Foo Fighters)

Sorry, can't root for the Pats (Billy Belichick sucked as the Browns' head coach)...

2012-01-22T22:50:00.008-05:00

Okay, you rabid (and very lucky, both should have lost) NY Football Giants/ New England Patriots fans, who wins the battle of the minutiae?

The Pats moved to nowhere Foxborough from Boston, but the Giants left NYC to play in the swamps of Jersey. Which is the more egregious? Penalty points on the Pats for blowing smoke up our governor's ass and teasing him with a possible move to Hartford.
Yankee Stadium vs. Fenway Park? The new Yankee Stadium is much better than the 70's-style remake of the original, but you've got to give the edge to a true original (even though actually watching a game there can be painful). Penalty points against Boston for allowing that old clubhouse guy to Sandusky young boys for so long.
TD Garden vs. The World's Most Famous Area? No contest once the C's left crappy old, but venerable Boston Garden (where I once scored 3 KEY points in a prelim-to-Celtics game) for its slick new digs. Extra points to NYC for bringing the Nets to Brooklyn.
MA senator JFK vs. NY carpetbagger senator RFK? I guess we should really ask Marilyn Monroe.
Ted Williams vs. Mickey Mantle? It wouldn't be fair to bring out Jeet. Oh wait - Jeter vs Bobby Orr?
Boston Strangler vs. Son of Sam?
Who got more - Joe Willie or Brady? Penalty points on Broadway Joe for the Suzy Kolber thing. Penalty points on Brady for being a whiner.
Dirty Water (The Standells) vs. Empire State of Mind (Jay-Z and Alicia Keys)?

Saturday nights are made for fighting...

2012-01-21T05:20:00.020-05:00

Thanks to Trish for sending out a reminder that today is JR's (the character formerly known as Johnny Gumbo) 85th BIRTHDAY, I think! Birthday Song

Zero Tolerance (those intolerant bastards) play their final show ever tonight at the Downtown Cafe in Bristol. Will the world be a kinder place without them? Did Scott K and Jon S go to Northampton to catch Big Head Todd & the Monsters at the Calvin Theater last night?

Joe Biden covering all bases with his San Francisco Giants to go to the Super Bowl prediction. Smooth, Joe. Rooting for the Jersey Jiants, just so Keith won't destroy his house. By the way, season ticket holders Keith and Vin are doing a mediocre job with the UConn Huskies this season. Rumor has it that they are the reason that Ryan Boatright can't play.

For you hipper-than-thou cafe society types (and you know who you are, Barry 'n Mark), a very cool offering in Hartford tonight at Japanalia Eiko (formerly Cafe Eiko), 11 Whitney Street, with Born to be Blue, a performance by blues singer Ed Reed. Cost is $25/person for general seating (byob), $40/person for stage side table seating with complimentary beverages. Show starts at eight. (Htfd Courant article)

Sarah Borges posts:
We did it!! Thanks to all of your fabulous support we raised $15,325. That's MORE than my original goal of $15,000, and the donations are still coming in. I am so happy and grateful. Thanks to all of your support my new record, Radio Sweetheart, will be released in 2012. Keep checking back here for updates on its progress. All of the donation rewards other than the new cd (t-shirts, stickers and the like) will begin going out shortly.

In other news, two great shows this month opening for the Ryan Montbleau band, one at the Tupelo Music Hall in Londonderry, NH on January 21st and another at the Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY on January 28th. Check the shows page for details. Thank you thank you THANK YOU!

Johnnykmusic comment: Congrats to Sarah, who accomplished her goal with minimum help from us. We tried to do a house concert with Trish, but it fell through. I did buy the new CD, actually bought it for Peter for a Christmas present and forgot to tell him. So, Peter, you get Radio Sweetheart when it comes out and, I think, Sarah will sing you a voicemail message. Radio Sweetheart was an early, very cool Elvis Costello song.

The ultimate At Last, Etta James passes at 73...

2012-01-20T19:36:00.004-05:00

From Bonnie Raitt: To me, Etta James stands as one of the greatest singers of all time… any genre, any era. The sheer power and depth of emotion, phrasing and nuance in her voice set her so far above the rest, and have since she first started out. Her perseverance, ferocity and vulnerability have been as inspirational to me as her monumental talent. I bow to you, my dear friend and soul Sister…now and for always. Love, Bonnie

An Appreciation: Etta James (LA Times)

Johnny Otis, mentor to Etta James, checks out at 90...

2012-01-19T14:40:00.006-05:00

Leading a band in the late 1940s that combined the high musical standards of big-band jazz with the raw urgency of gospel music and the blues, Mr. Otis played a key role in creating a new sound for a new audience of young urban blacks, a sound that within a few years would form the foundation of rock ’n’ roll. With his uncanny ear for talent, he helped steer a long list of performers to stardom, among them Etta James, Jackie Wilson, Esther Phillips and Big Mama Thornton — whose hit recording of “Hound Dog,” made in 1952, four years before Elvis Presley’s, was produced by Mr. Otis and featured him on drums. Read More

Johnny Otis in the 1950s

Johnny Otis in 1970 with son Shuggy Otis and Roy Buchanan

From basketball scribe Pat Forde...

2012-01-18T07:51:00.005-05:00

Buzzer beater

When hungry in the Final Four city of New Orleans (39), The Minutes recommends a visit to a rollicking restaurant that always has a long line for service for a good reason – the food is great. Get the chargrilled oysters at Acme Oyster House (40), chase them with an Abita Turbodog beer and thank The Minutes later. There are a million great places to dine in NOLA, but this is a low-maintenance way to eat like a king. Read More

(JK comment) Make it two more Abitas, and let those two tall ugly gents buy them, they just got their asses kicked at pool - again (beer bottle click):

Let's get ready to ramble...

2012-01-16T20:28:00.003-05:00

It's not easy to replace a legend, but thankfully we do not have to. We do, however, need to replace Johnny Gumbo (who, we must admit, had his legendary moments), so an American Idol-type search was commissioned to find someone to be our 4th at the 2012 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Thousands were interviewed, thousands declined, until we bribed Peter into joining the group. He agreed, with one proviso - that he not be required to do a face plant in front of our hotel on his first night in Nola. We reluctantly agreed.

Introductions to the Pool Hall Studs have been made (no need to tell Peter about Mark because Mark, a/k/a The Big Me, does that so well himself); flight and lodging are not yet nailed down. Sadly, one major event will be missing this year just as it was reaching its tipping point - Piano Shirt Friday. Oh well.

I know everyone is posting Abraham, Martin & John, but I hate that song...

2012-01-16T07:37:00.007-05:00

On April 4, 1968 the bus carrying the Quinnipiac Braves (there's irony in there somewhere) baseball team was en route from Hampton Institute to Maryland State (now Maryland-Eastern Shore) on their annual Spring southern trip. We (included in the 'we' are Johnny K, Gene Z, Steve the Bod, The Gool, etc.) would play primarily all-black colleges on the trip, and we would sometimes end up hanging out with the other team at night. On this date, as we pulled into the Maryland State campus, the bus was stopped by campus police, who informed us that Martin Luther King had been killed in Memphis and things were getting a bit testy on campus. Needless to say, we never played that game, although we did spend the night in our barracks on campus, awaking the next morning to the sounds of a student march passing right in front of us. It was eerie, but everyone was cool.

Arcade Fire's performance on Austin City limits...

2012-01-15T19:44:00.000-05:00

Missed these guys at Jazz Fest. My bad.

Watch Arcade Fire on PBS. See more from Austin City Limits.

Will it be Big Blue or Blew?...

2012-01-15T12:36:00.006-05:00

How cool and/or corny were the late 60s/early 70s bands and their related album covers? Here is a site I stumbled upon that shows you - redtelephone66.com, a Psychedelic music blog specializing in mostly obscure and out of print albums from the 1960s and 1970s.

Example:

Repairs- Repairs (1972)

Repairs were a Connecticut group consisting of Peter McCann (vocals-keyboards-guitars-string arrangements), Sukie Honeycutt (vocals-keyboards-percussion), Larry Treadwell (vocals-keyboards-guitars-accordion-harmonica-percussion), Mike Foley (vocals-bass-guitar) and T.Ace Holleran (drums-percussion) with addional instrumentation by Bob Bonefant, Barry Marshall, Michael Kaman (woodwind-horns) and David McCann (fiddle).

This is actually Repairs second album, produced by ex Rolling Stones producer Andrew Oldham. Oldham also produced the group’s first album, “Already A Household Word” in 1971 (see above post). The album is an exceptional collection of originals covering a variety of genres including folk, rock and progressive efforts with alternate male and female lead vocals. Oldham’s production makes for a well polished recording (you’re sure to enjoy this one!!!) After leaving the Mowest label, the group recorded a third album, “Live” on the independent Kuckuck label in 1974. (Max Collodie)

The dream of the 90s is alive in Portland...

2012-01-14T10:20:00.000-05:00

Jimmy Fallon as Tim Tebow/David Bowie: Tebowie!..

2012-01-13T15:53:00.000-05:00

Freaky Friday the 13th...

2012-01-13T07:26:00.009-05:00

Westie Punks
The Legendary Gussy Tapes, Vol I

Received an email from music legend/Westie Punk Gussy P (yes, he of the Gussy Tapes) in response to last week's Throwback Thursday. "We had the Buddy Knox 'Party Doll' 45, as well as Charlie Vinson's 'You Butterfly.' Only you and I care about these things." So true, Gussy, but then again, we are the only ones who matter (Charlie Gracie, btw). Rumor has it that, in light of the recent Wildweeds reunion at the Iron Horse in Northampton, the Westie Punks are rehearsing for a similar gig at Jimmy's of Savin Rock. I will keep you old WP fanatics abreast of the situation.

From the Courant's jazz critic, Owen McNally:
Trumpeter Nick DiMaria leads his quartet Saturday, Jan. 14, at 2 p.m. in the admission free jazz series at Ed Krech's Integrity 'n Music, 506 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield. He's joined by pianist Andrew Kosiba, bassist Andrew Zwart and drummer Mike Dick. Information: 860-563-4005.

Looking for a break before the Giants game on Sunday afternoon? At 3 PM, the 2nd week of the Hartford Public Library's 2012 Baby Grand Jazz Series features the UMOJA Quintet. Then, on your way home, you can stop at the Pine Loft (see below) to catch The Sawtelles set before settling in for Big Blue.

Jessica Latshaw (subway chick) has her song Ain't My Friend recorded and available on iTunes.

Sawtelles announce some January dates...

2012-01-12T21:25:00.007-05:00

Our favorite Plantsville band, The Sawtelles, is like Stacey's mom, they got it goin' on:

"we've got a bunch of gigs coming up in the next coupla weeks. we hope your new year is swell so far! there should be a flier attached for sunday."

Jan 15 (Sun)- at the Pine Loft, Berlin Tpke

Shaka starts at 2PM for 20-25 minutes
Paco goes on at 2:30 for 30 minutes
Mike Crandall at 3:15 for for 30 minutes
The Sawtelles at 4pm for 30 minutes and
Peter Menta at 4:45 then open jam with shaka again and players that want to jam!!

(this is a fundraiser for the ct blues society solo/duo winner Bill Shakka, $10/1 or $15/2 cover.)

Jan 20 (Fri)- Typhoon Thai Restaurant, Main St, Middletown. 6pm (byob!)

Jan 21 (Sat)- we're hosting at Neverending Books, State St, New Haven 7pm. Guests include PBR (pete's brunelli and riccio, doing a non-rehearsed drum/bass musical experience), Electric Dawn (fr. Shrinnirs), and possibly a Sawtelles set.

Jan 24 (Tue)- Elm Bar, New Haven- triple-bill w/ Sawtelles, Lys Guillorn (P on drums) and Baby G. How awesome is that??

Jan 28 (Sat)- Javapalooza, Main St, Middletown, 7:30-9:30 pm.

Coachella gets Black Keys...

2012-01-09T21:30:00.003-05:00

Wild Flag on Jimmy Fallon...

2012-01-09T10:22:00.004-05:00

Girls on Jimmy Fallon:

Hartford Public Library's 2012 Sunday Baby Grand Jazz Series...

2012-01-08T17:36:00.005-05:00

(Htfd Courant)- With a generous anonymous benefactor stepping forward to pick up the tab for the entire season, The Hartford Public Library's "Baby Grand Jazz Piano Series 2012" launches the first of its 16 free, weekly Sunday concerts Sunday, Jan. 8, at 3 p.m. with a much-anticipated encore performance by the noted, Japanese-born pianist Eri Yamamoto. While the popular free matinee series' official motto for 2012 is "The Best Things in Life Are Free," its theme song, thanks to the Secret Santa-like donor who came up with $7,400, might just as well be "Everything's Coming up Roses." Read More

Eri Yamamoto opens free jazz series
at Hartford Public Library Sunday,

>>Jan. 15, saxophonist Yunie Mojica
>>Jan. 22, trumpeter Larry Gareau
>>Jan. 29, vibraphonist Ed Fast
>>Feb. 5, Taino Pacheco
>>Feb. 12, guitarist Sinan Bakir
>>Feb. 19, Goza Brazilian Jazz
>>Feb. 26, trumpeter Ricky Alfonso.
>>March 4, pianist Jeff Wieselberg
>>March 11, Artists Collective
>>March 18, pianist Warren Byrd
>>March 25, Too Human
>>April 1, pianist Noah Baerman
>>April 8, Easter Sunday, no concert
>>April 15, saxophonist George Blackman
>> April 22, saxophonist Kris Allen
>>April 29, pianist Emery Smith.
Information: http://www.hplct.org and 860-695-6300.

I want a Sunday kind of love, a love that lasts past Saturday night...

2012-01-08T06:00:00.014-05:00

Hoop Dreams
Oh fer Jersey, boys...Huskies lose to Seton Hall and Rutgers. Blame it on Roscoe. Meanwhile, QU Bobcats (really Braves) oh fer NYC, losing to St. Francis and LIU. Blame it on Gene Z. Returning up Route 10 after the Bobcats' loss, got stuck behind this car with a big NY Yankees decal on the back window. It was SO annoying, we couldn't pass it - I kinda felt like the Red Sox!

Jessica Latshaw (subway chick)via Facebook: "It's all settled, then. Going into the studio tomorrow. Laying 'ain't my friend' down so that my magician friends can put it on itunes and my super kind and supportive friends can buy it. WHOA (and spread the word)!"

Interesting piece on 60s soul/funk singer Betty Harris (produced by Allen Toussaint), who, it turns out, has been living right here in Middletown CT all these years. After not performing professionally for many years because she lost control of her career, she has refocused with her own band and has started performing again. We missed her last night at Trinity-On-Main in New Britain. Htfd Advocate article
Cry To Me   (awesomely excellent)
I'm Evil Tonight
What Did I Do Wrong
What a Sad Feeling

Crisp, clear Sunday morning trail music: Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Girls).....excellent album, gave it to G-Man for Xmas:
How Can I Say I Love You
My Ma

The Tony Award-winning musical Memphis coming to The Bushnell January 10-15. (Htfd Courant story)

Tom Ardolino, longtime drummer for NRBQ, passed away on Friday. This is a clip from the Agora Ballroom in West Hartford, CT that was televised on "Friday Night Concert" in 1986.

America's bowlers paying last respects to legend Don Carter...

2012-01-07T10:13:00.002-05:00

And you know who you are. Newly retired brother Joe is one. I expect to pay tribute by kicking the Pool Hall Studs' asses at Rock 'N Bowl (again) at Jazz Fest (Mark travels with his own ball!).

(From Wikipedia, so it must be true) - Don Carter (July 29, 1926 – January 5, 2012) was a right-handed American professional bowler. Born in St.Louis, Missouri, Learning the game while working a childhood job as a pinsetter, Carter went on to become one of the legends of ten-pin bowling and a founding member of the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) in 1958. He was 6-time bowler of the year.

New Carolina Chocolate Drops on the horizon...

2012-01-07T07:34:00.002-05:00

On Leaving Eden, the Carolina Chocolate Drops follow their Grammy-winning album Genuine Negro Jig with a record of original compositions, covers, and traditional songs produced by Buddy Miller (Emmylou Harris, Robert Plant, Patty Griffin, Solomon Burke). Pre-orders include an instant download of the track "Country Girl"; the first 300 CDs ordered will be signed by the band. Release date is 2/29/12.

Track Listing:
1. Riro's House
2. Kerr's Negro Jig
3. Ruby, Are You Mad at Your Man?
4. Boodle-De-Bum-Bum
5. Country Girl
6. Run Mountain
7. Leaving Eden
8. Read 'Em John
9. Mahalla
10. West End Blues
11. Po' Black Sheep
12. I Truly Understand That You Love Another Man
13. No Man's Mama
14. Briggs' Corn Shucking Jig / Camptown Hornpipe
15. Pretty Bird

CCD tour dates include stops at The Calvin in Northampton, MA and Infinity Hall in Norfolk, CT.

NYC impromptu subway serenade (thanks to Kay for the heads up)...

2012-01-06T08:06:00.009-05:00

Description from youtube:

Okay- what you are about to watch is a true New York experience. What originally started out as a typical nyc subway ride turned into an awesome performance by two people who have never met before. I captured the whole thing on video. The singer continued with another great song after the entire subway car demanded an encore. Her name is Jessica Latshaw- make sure to check out her music.

Okay, so johnnykmusic took the bait and looked up Jessica Latshaw. Who knows whether or not this whole thing was staged (and she could have given the bongo guy a bit more love), but it's pretty cool anyway. Here is a version of the same song performed (without bongo accompaniment) at Cabaret For a Cause on 8/14/11. Apparently she is a dancer/singer who has done some Broadway, too. She's definitely trying hard to hit that tipping point and, to that end, she's got Rob Thomas tweeting her up now. She will be appearing at the Local 269 Bar in NYC on Jan 14 (Sat). Facebook Twitter

UPDATE: Her BLOG explanation of what happened.

Here's something she posted back in June (she's on piano this time).

Throwback Thursday...

2012-01-05T12:09:00.004-05:00

Totally tasteless, but funny from Twitter (whatcha got?):
#describeyoursexlifewithamovietitle
#ReplaceAMovieTitleWithHoe

Portlandia's Fred Armisen (SNL) and Carrie Brownstein (Wild Flag) doing Push It...

2012-01-04T22:07:00.002-05:00

There is a lengthy article in the 1/2/12 New Yorker about Carrie Brownstein and her relationship with Armsen in Portlandia and her music career as an indie guitarist in Sleater-Kinney and Wild Flag (whose self-titled album was #2 on the Courant's Eric Danton's 2011 Top 10 list).

End of The Duke and The King?...

2012-01-04T20:24:00.000-05:00

(RTTNews) - Mumford and Sons will be collaborating with Simone Felice on the latter's upcoming album. The members of the band will be making a guest appearance on the album's lead single "You & I Belong."Mumford and Sons' Ben Lovett is also co-producing the album and was instrumental in helping Felice select recording locations — including a barn near Felice's woodland home, a church in London and an abandoned high school near New York's Hudson River - to match the gospel overtones of the record. Felice's debut solo album is slated for release on April 2. The album by the former drummer, writer and vocalist of the Felice Brothers and creator of folk group the Duke and the King features 10 tracks and a guest appearance from a girls' choir from his hometown in upstate New York.

LJF back to Goshen in 2012...

2012-01-02T09:49:00.008-05:00

The Litchfield Jazz Festival returns to its past stomping grounds at the Goshen Fairgrounds August 10-12, 2012. And, we have some exciting new features for you!!

Our Friday evening Gala will now be a Jazz Party & Live Auction. The party will be held in our beautiful, new Sunset Lounge, followed by music of the Four Freshmen and 2012 Grammy nominee Vince Giordano & the Nighthawks.We've got a quick and fabulous live auction and a great on-line auction with jazz collectable memorabilia, fine dining, trips and more. We'll even have dancing by professional ballroom dancers and YOU! Dancing with the stars under the stars. Can't beat that!!!

Join us for the rest of the weekend under blue skies (we don't allow rain!). Choose the Mainstage tent or the lawn and help us celebrate the 17th Annual Litchfield Jazz Festival. Enjoy the breezes, the sunsets, and, as always, the glorious music.

It's never sunny in Cleveland...

2012-01-01T17:54:00.012-05:00

Brownies v. Steelers in the season ender:

Brownies drive to the 4 yd line on Senica Wallace scramble (although he fumbles, but ruled down- whew!)
Okay, let's do this, need 4 yards. Got four on first play, but in the wrong direction. Settle for field goal. 3-0 Brownies.
Get ball back with just over 2 minutes to go in half. Driving. Settle for Dawson 45 yd field goal with 45 seconds in half. 6-0 Brownies.
The inevitable. Give up field goal after holding Steelers at the one yard line with 4 seconds. 6-3 Brownies at the half. You know where this is going, don't you.

Steelers open 2nd half with drive. Settle for field goal. Tied at 6. No prob, right?
Wallace gets picked off at Browns' 24. Shit.Touchdown. Steelers 13-6. We suck.
Phil Dawson kicks 49 yd field goal in wind. Brownies close to 13-9 near end of 3rd quarter.
Brownies recover fumble at midfield and get 15 more for facemask!!!! Nothing.
It's raining, it's snowing.
Brownies get ball back on own 25 with 1:46 left (no time outs); comeback time!
Drive inside the Steeler 40 with 25 seconds left. Inside the 25 with 5 seconds.
Wallace lobs a pass to Little in the end zone!!!!!!!
It's never sunny in Cleveland.

Sure beats ringing it in with Dick Clark...

2012-01-01T16:57:00.000-05:00

Drive By Truckers perform Green Onions with Booker T at midnight, December 31, 2011 at the 9:30 Club in Washington DC.

New Year's morning trail mix...

2012-01-01T12:34:00.004-05:00

All the Way Down (Etta James) Burnin' Down the House
Don't Make No Sense (Tad Benoit) The Power of the Ponchartrain
Stop And Think It Over (Sarah Borges & the Broken Singles) Diamonds In the Dark
Alison (Elvis Costello & the Attractions) My Aim Is True
Afternoon in Paris (Kenny Burrell Trio) Live at the Village Vanguard
Cathy's Clown (Everly Brothers) Golden hits of the 60's
Thunder Road (Bruce Springsteen) Born to Run
Ten Cent Pistol (Black Keys) Brothers
Amusement Parks USA (Beach Boys) Today! Summer Days & Summer Nights
Blue Monk (Thelonious Monk Quartet) At Carnegie Hall
Even Angels (Shelby Lynne) Revelation Road
Girls Beware (Sonny & the Sunsets) Hit After Hit
Brother (Gil Scott-Heron) The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
Black Crow (Diana Krall) The Girl In the Other Room
The Back Door Wolf (Howlin' Wolf) The Back Door Wolf
Tangled And Black (Bonnie Raitt) Luck of the Draw
Baby, Let Me Take You Home (The Animals) The Complete Animals
Wade In the Water (Ellen McIIlwaine) Up From the Skies
4th Time Around (Bob Dylan) Blonde On Blonde

HAPPY GNU YEAR!...

2011-12-31T23:59:00.009-05:00

For Yvette & Garrett - Congrats!

(going old school with Percy Sledge)

Are you?...

2011-12-30T08:48:00.001-05:00

I don't care if Monday's blue
Tuesday's gray and Wednesday too
Thursday I don't care about you
It's Friday, I'm in love

Hump Day Listing...

2011-12-28T06:53:00.007-05:00

A list of Best Of lists (with top 5):

Pop Bitez Top 25 - (Foo Fighters' Wasting Light; Black Keys' El Camino; Tom Waits' Bad As Me; Iamdynamite's Supermegafantastic; Chrysta Bell's This Train)
NPR Ken Tucker's Top 10 - (Beastie Boys' Hot Sauce Committee, Part 2; Middle Brother's Middle Brother; Adele's 21; Raphael's Stone Rollin'; Tuneyards' whokill)
Paste Magazine's Best 50 - (Bon Iver's Bon Iver; Fleet Foxes' Helplessness Blues; My Morning Jacket's Circuital; Tuneyards' whokill; Middle Brother's Middle Brother)
Billboard 200 Albums - (Adele's 21; Taylor Swift's Speak Now, Lady Gaga's Born This Way; Jason Aldean's My Kinda Party; Susan Boyle's The Gift)
Rolling Stone's Best 50 - (Adele's 21; Jay-Z/Kanye West's Watch the Throne; Paul Simon's So Beautiful, So What; Fleet Foxes' Helplessness Blues, Radiohead's King of Limbs)
Eric Danton Top 10 Albums (Htfd Courant) - (The Antlers' Burst Apart; Wild Flag's Wild Flag; Lori McKenna's Lorraine; Tom Waits' Bad As Me; The Weeknd's House of Balloons)

Hear a new girl's into town, yeah...

2011-12-27T13:21:00.002-05:00

Wildweeds reunion concert at Iron Horse (Eric Danton)
It's not every teenage band that can reunite 40-odd years later to play a pair of sold-out shows for an audience comprising more than friends and family, but then, it's not every teenage band that landed a No. 1 hit, either. The Wildweeds have now done both. The Windsor group capped the second of two capacity performances Tuesday at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton with a 70-minute set of original songs sprinkled with cover tunes and, of course, the hit: "No Good to Cry," which the band saved for the end. Read More

Tweet from Christine Ohlman:

Completely fabulous time singing backup at the Wildweeds Reunion with Big Al Anderson at the Iron Horse last night in Northampton, MA. I was honored to be asked to sing those wonderful high parts that were the late Bobby Dudek's on all the records...Jeff Potter stood in for the late Skip Yakaitis. Andy and Alex Lepak and Ray Zeiner were of course also there!!!

Merry Christmas, Baby, you sure did treat me fine!...

2011-12-25T08:43:00.002-05:00

From all of the management, writers, editors, researchers,

photographers and publicists here at johnnykmusic -

The Merriest of Christmases!!!!

Johnnyk's 2011 Christmas mix tape:

Let It Be Me/Christmas Song (Laura Nyro)
White Christmas (Otis Redding)
Merry Christmas, Baby (Wanda Jackson & the Continentals)
All I Want For Christmas (Yeah Yeah Yeahs)
Merry Christmas (The Cameos)
Soul Christmas (Count Sidney & His Dukes)
Lonely This Christmas (The Sinners)
Santa Won't Be Blue This Christmas (Jimmy Charles)
A Funky Xmas To You (J. Hines & the Boys)
Stone Soul Christmas (Binky Griptite & the Dee-Kays)
Get Down Santa (The Jive Turkeys)
Everything Christmas Should Be (Kenny Vance & the Planotones)
Merry Christmas, Darling (The Jaguars)
Christmas Time Is Coming (Lightning Hopkins)
Mrs. Klaus' Kimono (Drive By Truckers)
Xmas Card From a Hooker in Minneapolis (Neko Case)

'Twas the night before Chris Smith...

2011-12-24T07:45:00.003-05:00

Help the girl get it done!...

2011-12-23T12:06:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Sarah Borges:

A very merry and happy to all of you; I hope all of your wishes come true. Mine certainly did, we've raised $14,000 for my new record, which now has a name - 'Radio Sweetheart'!

Today is the last day of the fundraiser, and I'm looking forward to a new year, new record, and to sending out all of the fabulous prizes to you fancy donating folks. Order fulfillment of everything but the new record will begin after the first of 2012. The anticipated record release will be early summer 2012.

And for everyone who didn't get a chance to get in on the fundraising fun, you can still donate for the next 24 hours. Check it out HERE -- we only need $1000 more -- so close!

Still hearing from old Farquahr fans...

2011-12-22T08:15:00.001-05:00

From Anonymous: The Farquhar were the best. My daughter at age 3 was singing the Pizza Boy song at school... for all who don't know, the chorus goes something like this..."Pizza, pizza, pizza, pizza, pizza boy is here. I got your red hot pizza, I hope you got the beer." Needless to say, I got a call from her nursery school teacher. Skip ahead 19 years- she did graduate from college, so was apparently not permanently damaged.
The original posting here with many comments recalling the Fabulous Farquahr. Also, now on Facebook.

Holiday greetings from the late, great New Orleans legend Johnny Gumbo...

2011-12-21T08:34:00.011-05:00

Relax, it takes a little time to load.

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Alas, he should have been this nimble just before the face plant on the sidewalk in front of the Ambassador Hotel at Jazz Fest last year. But he rallied admirably! That's why you've got to love The Gumbo!

Dudes, thank us by playing at Jazz Fest!...

2011-12-21T03:31:00.000-05:00

The Black Keys are ending the year with El Camino as the #2 album in the US! Thanks to every one of you that purchased the album and an extra thank you to for being a part of the mailing list.

Just another Manic Monday...

2011-12-19T07:49:00.007-05:00

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has not yet announced that final TBA spot for the 2nd weekend of 2012 Jazz Fest. It makes SO much sense that it would be the Black Keys- they have played the 2009 Voodoo Fest and the Nola House of Blues; Dan Auerbach is reportedly making a record with Dr. John to be released in 2012. Just do it, boys! UPDATE: According to this article by Keith Spera, The Times-Picayune, "The other TBA likely won't announce his plans until January. So the festival accommodated him, in the interest of building a better overall show." Is the singular reference a ploy or are we out of luck? Unfortunately, I'm guessing the latter.

Great news for our new fav band, Low Cut Connie. NPR's Fresh Air has chosen Get Out the Lotion as one of its Top 10 Albums of the Year. We, of course, knew this already, didn't we? Audio for this story from Fresh Air from WHYY will be available at approx. 5:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Congrats, boys, now come perform in CT!

Shopping Saturday, maybe...

2011-12-17T08:48:00.010-05:00

In my online CD order from Barnes & Noble, got Paul Anka's Songs of December (an album of crappy Xmas standards) instead of Girls' Father, Son, Holy Ghost. Not cool. Called B&N; they are priority the correct CD, so we're good.

Gently urging the Boys From Brooklyn to see Low Cut Connie at the Living Room in NYC tonight.

Heard that Daniel Street, the concert venue down in Milford which recently hosted a solo Justin Townes Earle show, will close at the end of this year. They will go out with a bang - final show on December 30 is the Felice Brothers.

The Cults:

The Cults on Yo Gabba Gabba! from stereogum on Vimeo.

NYC loses two arts icons...

2011-12-17T07:52:00.002-05:00

(NY Times) One of them found a tiny old theater on a grungy stretch of the Bowery. The other mortgaged her home to buy a 19th-century coffee barge and haul it to the Fulton Ferry Landing in Brooklyn. That coffee barge, bought for $10,000 in 1976 by Olga Bloom, who died on Nov. 24 at 92, became the floating chamber-music hall Bargemusic. And the 107-seat theater on the Bowery, a few doors down from the punk-rock club C.B.G.B., was, starting in 1964, the home of the Amato Opera, which its founder, Anthony Amato, who died on Tuesday at 91, liked to call the smallest grand opera company in the world. (read more)

New York City’s floating concert hall
Moored in Brooklyn just under the Brooklyn Bridge, Bargemusic presents great music up to five days a week, every week of the year. Walk across the gangplank of a renovated coffee barge into a “wonderfully intimate wood-paneled room with thrilling views of lower Manhattan and excellent acoustics.” Experience why critics call Bargemusic “the perfect chamber-music hall” and why artists say it is “unlike any other place in the world to perform.” See calendar of concerts, info about reservations, and how to get to Bargemusic. Read a Mayoral Proclamation in honor of Bargemusic.

What's puzzling you is the nature of my game

2011-12-17T02:32:00.001-05:00

Pre-Christmas music wish list (for those with curiosity and taste)
Yo Yo Ma - The Goat Rodeo Sessions
Ruthie Foster - Live at Antone's (jk note: she's live 3/9/12 at City Winery in NYC)
Ruthie Foster - Let It Burn (out 1/31/12)
Gillian Welch - The Harrow And The Harvest
Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures (out 12/5/11)
Low Cut Connie - Get Out the Lotion
Tom Waits - Bad As Me
Dex Romweber - Is That You in the Blue?
Drive-By Truckers - Go Go Boots
Raphael Saadiq - Stone Rollin'
Allen Toussaint - The Complete Warner Recordings
Trombone Shorty - For True
Dinah Washington - After Hours With Miss D
The Black Keys - El Camino (out 12/6/11)
John Prine - The Singing Mailman
Feist - Metals

Wouldn't it be nice....ACTUAL Beach Boys (sans dead Dennis & Carl) to play Jazz Fest...

2011-12-16T17:55:00.001-05:00

Quint Davis promised that the TBA on the 2012 Jazz Fest lineup was a “mind-blowing reunion.” In fact, it’s the remaining original Beach Boys – Brian Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine, with long-time members Bruce Johnston and David Marks – who are also coming together for a new studio album, their first together since 1980′s Keepin’ the Summer Alive. The album and tour will be part of a celebration of 50 years of the Beach Boys.

On the press release on the Beach Boys’ website announcing the reunion, Quint Davis says:
It’s an honor to present the original Beach Boys reunion at Jazz Fest 2012. Hosting the greatest artists of our era has always been the primary mission of Jazz Fest, and certainly the Beach Boys are unsurpassed as an iconic American musical and cultural institution. Every spring Jazz Fest is the number one destination for good vibrations and fun, fun, fun; on April 27, when the Beach Boys reunite on our biggest stage, it’s going to feel like a thrilling homecoming for everyone lucky enough to be there. We’re all looking forward to experiencing the magic and the joy.

Also from the press release:
Brian Wilson says, “This anniversary is special to me because I miss the boys and it will be a thrill for me to make a new record and be on stage with them again.” read more

Shelby Lynne singing Mother at John Lennon Tribute, Beacon Theatre 11-12-2010 ...

2011-12-16T17:46:00.002-05:00

Walter Rose with Lucinda Williams...

2011-12-15T20:16:00.000-05:00

Walter Rose - Driving South (feat. Lucinda Williams) by fanaticpro

(MOKB) - Over the last 25 years or so, the term country music became something of a joke for those who searched a little deeper for the music they listen to. Somewhere after the movie Urban Cowboy, country music became less about telling the story of the common man and more a commodity being sold to the masses at your local Wal-Mart. Recently, we have seen a shift in country music towards what made the likes of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Loretta Lynn icons in American culture. Movies like Walk the Line and Crazy Heart along with acts like The Avett Brothers, Wilco, and Those Darlins embracing their country leanings has led to a younger audience of fans open to seeing someone live wearing a Nudie Suit, Stetson Hat, or Wranglers and playing a steel guitar or having a little twang in their voice. In comes Walter Rose.

Hailing from Carmel, CA, Walter Rose is creating in his own words, “melodic novellas of road trips trough broken-down desert towns” and the kind of stories that bring to mind tumbleweeds blowing through old Client Eastwood movies.” We are fortunate to have the first taste of his debut album Cast Your Stone. The song is titled Driving South and features the excellent Lucinda Williams. It is a beautifully subdued number with tiny cracks of honesty in every lyric sung. The perfect musical companion for a road trip of self-discovery. Cast Your Stone will be released on January 17th.

Too bad Phil can't make it...

2011-12-15T07:43:00.002-05:00

2012 New Orleans Jazz Fest line-up announced!...

2011-12-14T15:40:00.005-05:00

Weekend one Weekend two

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Eagles
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Foo Fighters
Zac Brown Band
TBA (johnnykmusic: we can only hope it's The Black Keys)
John Mayer
The Neville Brothers
Al Green
Herbie Hancock and his Band
Ne-Yo
My Morning Jacket
Bon Iver
Paulina Rubio
Jill Scott
Florence + the Machine
Allen Toussaint
Feist
Bunny Wailer
Bonnie Raitt
Irma Thomas
Maze feat. Frankie Beverly
Dr. John & the Lower 911
Janelle Monae
Yolanda Adams
Iron & Wine
Pete Fountain
Rodrigo y Gabriella
Steel Pulse
• Rebirth Brass Band
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
Esperanza Spalding
funky Meters
Levon Helm Band with special guest Mavis Staples,
Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings
Aaron Neville
Steve Earle
Galactic
Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s 50th Anniversary Jam
Little Anthony & The Imperials
Ani DiFranco
GIVERS
Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers
Dianne Reeves
Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra
Better Than Ezra
Carolina Chocolate Drops
Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk
Bruce Hornsby
Dave Koz
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
Gomez
Pedrito Martinez
Bounce Shake Down feat. Big Freedia, Katey Red, Keedy Black, and DJ Poppa
Israel & New Breed
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
Zebra
Amanda Shaw
James Cotton “Superharp” Band
Cowboy Mouth
Asleep at the Wheel
Papa Grows Funk
David Sanborn and Joey DeFrancesco
Bobby Rush
Chuck Leavell & Friends
Ellis Marsalis
Marcia Ball
Voice of the Wetlands Allstars
John Boutté
Gary Clark Jr.
The Texas Tornados feat. Flaco Jiminez, Augie Myers, and Shawn Sahm
Cubano Be, Cubano Bop: Poncho Sanchez & His Latin Band feat. Terence Blanchard
Cheikh Lô
Tab Benoit
Regina Carter's "Reverse Thread”
Bombino of Niger
Glen Hansard
Big Sam's Funky Nation
Jeremy Davenport
Sarah Jarosz
Bonerama
Evelyn Turrentine-Agee
Terri Lyne Carrington’s Mosaic
Ruby Wilson’s Tribute to Bessie Smith & Ma Rainey
Wycliff Gordon
Donald Harrison
Lindigo of Reunion Islands feat. Fixi
Sonny Landreth
Buckwheat Zydeco
Soul Rebels
The Stars of Heaven
Jewel Brown & the Heritage Hall Jazz Band
Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters
Anders Osborne
Honey Island Swamp Band
Theresa Andersson
John Mooney & Bluesiana
Eric Lindell
Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters
BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet
Pine Leaf Boys
James Andrews & the Crescent City Allstars
Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys
Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias
Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians
Shamarr Allen & the Underdawgs
Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience
Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band feat. Thais Clark
Banu Gibson
Hot 8 Brass Band
George French & the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band

2011-12-12T19:07:00.000-05:00

Monday morning quarterback...

2011-12-12T14:05:00.004-05:00

Recap:

NY Football Giants overtake Cowboys - Eli's Coming (you better hide your heart)
Cowboy kicker Dan Bailey misses crucial FG for 2nd straight week - Kicks (just keep getting harder to find)
NL MVP Ryan Braun tests positive for PEDs - One Toke Over the Line, Sweet Jesus
The Brownies lose again to the hated Steelers - The Browns sing The Three Bells (a song about little Jimmy Brown)

Coach, I have no idea- Spin Magazine's Top 10 albums of 2011 (see top fiddy):
10 Lykke Li – Wounded Rhymes
09 Wild Flag – Wild Flag
08 G-Side – The One…Cohesive
07 The Rapture – In The Grace Of Your Love
06 Danny Brown – XXX
05 Girls – Father, Son, Holy Ghost
04 Kurt Vile – Smoke Ring For My Halo
03 EMA – Past Life Martyred Saints
02 PJ Harvey – Let England Shake
01 Fucked Up – David Comes To Life

I want a Sunday kind of love...

2011-12-11T07:33:00.014-05:00

Listening to:

12 Songs of Christmas (Etta James) Hmmmm, better idea than reality.
Best of Al Green (Al Green) Decided to go with the Rev. on this frosty Sunday morn. Spreading the love 'n happiness; feelin' alright
Heroes Are Hard to Find (Fleetwood Mac) Couldn't resist (see story below). Love this album, Mac after Peter Green, but before Buckingham-Nicks.

It's kinda like love in an elevator, only sideways:

(Gawker) Are these people having sex on the subway heroes or villains? A couple had full-blown intercourse on the Vienna metro. When other passengers realized what was up, they fled—then, slowly but surely, crept back to watch, cheer, jeer, photograph, and film it. Is this a triumph or a travesty? (watch for yourselves, you perverts)
Heroes & Villains (Beach Boys)
Heroes Are Hard To Find (Fleetwood Mac)

Redscroll Records, 24 North Colony Road, Wallingford is selling all its used CDs for $2 each until 12/31. Might be worth the trip over to check them out. (update: I went)

The Rhythm and the Blues (Sam Cooke)
The Very Best of (The Coasters)
Retrospective (Buffalo Springfield)
The Beach Boys Today (The Beach Boys)
Chronicle (Credence Clearwater Revival)
The Best of (The Doors)
The Best of (War)
Last Boogie In Paris (Johnny Rivers)
The Best of (Phoebe Snow)
Freedom in the Groove (Joshua Redman)
Moondance (Van Morrison)
Full House (Wes Montgomery)
Stars & Guitars (Willie Nelson)
What's Going On (Marvin Gaye)
Handel's Messiah (Cathedral Choir & Orchestra)

Got 2nd Low Cut Connie CD in mail today. Whose Xmas present is it?...

2011-12-10T17:13:00.005-05:00

Good things goin' on...

Fans and friends...we've got a lot of things brewing over here. We've got a couple of New York City shows coming up next weekend...and our first annual Connie holiday party after the show next Saturday. COME BY AND PARTY WITH US!!! Details are listed here.

We've got lots of plans in the works for 2012....a short Northeast tour in February...long Southern tour in March (including the SXSW festival in Austin)...and recording a NEW RECORD in the spring. Plus, lots more great press articles will be coming out over the next coupla months. Who knows where the new year will take us, but we're gonna keep truckin' along and hopefully hit your home town!

Don't forget to vote for us in the NPR "Favorite Albums of 2011" Poll ...keep spreadin' the word about us and we promise to keep giving you sweet hefty slices of rock n roll goodness.
Happy Holidays from all the boys!---LCC

-----------------------------------------

johnnyk to Cafe 9 via twitter: Hear of Low Cut Connie?

Cafe 9 to johnnyk via Twitter: Not until now. We really dig these guys. Thanks!

Here's hoping we've made a match for a date at the Musician's Living Room.

What does your weak end look like?...

2011-12-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Playin' El Camino LOUD while trimming Christmas tree. Ain't no gun in my house.

Saturday morning breakfast at Main Street Diner in Plainville, right out of Diner. Soundtrack included the Impalas' I Ran All the Way Home, Elvis Presley's Love Me Tender, Jackie Wilson's Lonely Teardrops, Isley Brothers' Shout, etc. Good hash and eggs, too.

Suicide is painless, it brings on lots of changes (M.A.S.H. theme)...
Actor Harry Morgan, best known for playing Colonel Sherman Potter in US TV show Mash, has died aged 96. The star died at his Los Angeles home after suffering from pneumonia, his family confirmed. Mike Farrell, who played BJ Hunnicutt in the military series, said of Morgan: "There was not an unadorable bone in the man's body." Morgan also appeared as Officer Bill Gannon opposite Jack Webb in TV crime serial Dragnet from 1967 to 1970. (read more)

Star Wars, nothing but Star Wars...
SOUTHINGTON (Record-Journal)- After 48 hours of singing the words of SirMix-A-Lot's 'Baby Got Back,' and the Red Hot Chili Peppers''Californication,' among other karaoke songs, Jeff McFarlane willbe in the Guinness Book of World Record. Beginning Wednesday, McFarlane began a 48-plus hour marathon ofkaraoke songs, hoping to set the world record. On Friday, aroundnoon, he set the record with the singing of Queen's 'We are theChampions.'

The Night Tripper meets the Beehive Queen...

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Christine w/Mac Rebennack (Dr. John) at a private evening of duets and music to benefit
the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic. Dec. 7, 2011 Weston, CT

Will this be tolerated???...

2011-12-08T09:01:00.001-05:00

Announcement from Zero Tolerance (those intolerant bastards!):

Ok kids, Big announcement time... After lots of soul searching, Zero Tolerance has decided to call it quits. We've got two gigs left, Dec 17th at Bleachers and Jan 21st at the Downtown Cafe. Hope you'll swing out to one of them to help us celebrate what has been a heck of a run for us. - Jon

FAME, I'm gonna live forever....

2011-12-07T19:01:00.002-05:00

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

They're in:

Guns 'N Roses
Laura Nyro
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Beastie Boys
Donovan
Small Faces

They're screwed:

Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Eric B. & Rakim
The Cure
Heart
War (what is it good for?)
The Spinners
Donna Summer
Rufus with Chaka Khan

Black Keys on the Colbert Report last night...

2011-12-07T14:16:00.002-05:00

Interview with Stephen Colbert (a bit lame)

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Performance: Lonely Boy

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Performance: Gold On the Ceiling

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Shelby Lynne on Letterman last night...

2011-12-07T11:00:00.001-05:00

Eilen Jewell in Natick with Chris D...

2011-12-07T06:03:00.003-05:00

Reknown singer/songwriter/author/Crimson hoopster Chris D recently caught Eilen Jewel in concert at the Natick Center For the Arts and sends along a few thoughts:

I liked Eilen Jewell a lot. She has a new disk out: Queen of the Minor Key. As I think you know, she's a waif of a girl, but with a big voice and a solid band. Her lead guitarist, Jerry Miller, is outstanding. He played more than a dozen solos, most notably on Shakin All Over. She covered a few Loretta Lynn songs (a favorite singer of Jewell's). My favorite song she sang was Let the Rain Roll In, a beautiful/sad song. A poignant refrain: Let's Listen to the Rain Roll In / I don't feel like we gotta do nothin / The years go by and before too long / Even the very last one is gone / The very last one is gone. Not the most uplifting set of lyrics, but the rest of the song is a little carpe diem-ish: enjoy the beautiful days we have. I think we can all identify.

Amy Winehouse: Ireland, 2006...

2011-12-07T05:43:00.000-05:00

In the depths of winter 2006, Amy went to the small town of Dingle in South West Ireland to record an intimate session in the town’s Church, and record an interview for long-running Irish music show Other Voices. In a documentary which will air on the BBC in January, Annie Mac looks back on the time Amy came to Dingle and wowed the locals with her performances of songs from Back To Black.

Vote for your favorite albums of 2011 on NPR...

2011-12-05T20:30:00.008-05:00

(From NPR) You've seen NPR Music's picks for the albums of the year, now it's time to tell us yours. Below, you'll find a list of about 250 albums released in 2011 that we've talked about on All Songs Considered or covered elsewhere on NPR Music. Think of it as your chance to stretch this conversation out for a few more days, or just to tell us how crazy we were to leave your favorite album off the list.

Of course, even 250 albums doesn't come close to covering the range of great music released this year. If you don't see your picks in the list, you can write them into the form at the bottom of the page. Voting will remain open until 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 13. We'll tabulate all the votes and reveal your top 100 on next week's episode of the show. - VOTE HERE!

I voted (quickly, knowing I will think of more):

Adele - 21
Lucinda Williams - Blessed
Trombone Shorty - For True
Gregg Allman - Low Country Blues
Black Keys - El Camino
Low Cut Connie - Get Out the Lotion (write-in)
Justin Townes Earle - Harlem River Blues (write-in)
Steve Cropper - Dedicated, A Tribute to the 5 Royales (write-in)
Dex Romweber Duo - Is That You in the Blue? (write-in)
Raphael Saadiq - Stone Rollin'

Others: Sonny & the Sunsets-Hit After Hit; TV On the Radio-Nine Types of Light; Gil Scott-Heron-I'm New Here; Feist-Metals; Shelby Lynne-Revelation; Tom Waits-Bad As Me; Yo Yo Ma-The Goat Rodeo Sessions; John Prine-The Singing Mailman; Strange Boys-Live Music

Shonna Tucker leaves DBTs...

2011-12-05T19:42:00.003-05:00

Shonna Tucker joined the Drive By Truckers as its bassist in 2003 while still the wife of member Jason Isbell. Hardcore DBT fans are bummed, apparently she could drain a bottle of Jack with the best of them. Her posted statement:

Hello friends,

Unfortunately, I come to you all with some sad news.

It's time for me to move on to the next great thing, whatever that may be.

I want to thank each and everyone of you, with my whole heart for your overwhelming kindness and support over the years. You are the greatest fans in the world! You really do amaze and inspire me. I can't express how much you all mean to me. Your rock solid encouragement has carried me through, many nights. I have been so lucky to have had the chance to meet and talk with so many of you. Your stories and passion are so incredibly inspirational to me.

I am, without a doubt, not done. I will have a website up and running very soon so that we can keep in touch. I have a whole lot left to say and do, and I can't wait to hear what all of you are up to. This is very difficult, so I'll leave you with this... for now...

Thank you all so much!

Safe travels and Happy Holidays to you all!

See you soon somewhere...

All my love,
Shonna

Hubert Sumlin, guitarist for Howlin' Wolf, dead at 80...

2011-12-05T15:42:00.004-05:00

(Note: Vin, Marcia, Keith and I saw him play with the Nighthawks last year at FTC Stage One in Fairfield)

Hubert Sumlin with Bonnie Raitt

(Billboard) Revered blues guitarist Hubert Sumlin, who spent 23-plus years adding gritty leads to Howlin' Wolf's legendary voice and who inspired generations of axemen from Jimi Hendrix to Kenny Wayne Shepherd, died Sunday at a New Jersey hospital of heart failure. He was 80. (Billboard) A member of the Blues Hall of Fame, Sumlin's guitar work in Wolf's catalogue of big-voiced songs include "Killing Floor," "Smokestack Lighting" and "Back Door Man," to name just a few. Rolling Stone magazine recently tapped Sumlin as the 43rd greatest guitarist of all time. He ranked right above Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits.

Sumlin was a key part of Wolf's band from 1953 up until the singer's 1976 death. They began working for Sun Records in Memphis but later moved to Chess Records as part of the Blues migration to Chicago. He has been nominated multiple times for Grammy Awards but has never won. Born in Greenwood, Miss., Sumlin had spent time in Chicago, Milwaukee and in later years, New Jersey. Several years ago he had to have a cancerous lung removed, but he continued to play live with an oxygen tank by his side.

Drink responsibly, play recklessly...

2011-12-04T12:22:00.020-05:00

It's never sunny in Cleveland:
Old Browns (aka Ravens) 24 (9-3); New Browns 10 (4-8)
(From Yahoo)-While on the topic of the Browns, quarterback Colt McCoy’s average per pass attempt continues to plummet. He’s at 5.8 for the season. For a quarterback, 7.0 yards per attempt is a reasonable number. McCoy is becoming the Mario Mendoza of passing.

Black Keys free concert at Webster Theatre in NYC Monday night (streaming on mtvhive.com ); El Camino releases on Tuesday.
- Pitchfork review of El Camino
- NY Times review of El Camino
- LA Times review of El Camino
- All Music Guide review of El Camino

Justin Townes Earle at Daniel Street in Milford, CT on Thursday night

Exhale on Main Street...

2011-12-02T22:22:00.005-05:00

It's the first Friday of the month, so what do you think of? Thai food and The Sawtelles for dinner, of course. Kind of last minute 'cause everyone is going in many directions this time of year, but we grab Keith 'N Sharie and head over to Typhoon Restaurant in Middletown around six-thirty. Great way to end the work week- good food, music and conversation. It's a relaxed atmosphere. The Sawtelles - Julie, understatedly cool on drums/backing vocals; Pete typically abrasive on guitar/vocals (just kidding; inside joke) - entertain us as we enjoy the Typhoon Magic Sticks, Golden Shrimp, Basil Fish, Pad Thai, etc. with our byob wine and beer. Put it on your calendar for 2012.

Black Keys tour stops announced on website...

2011-12-02T11:27:00.003-05:00

(Well, I guess the days of seeing these guys in an intimate setting are gone!)

The Black Keys will hit the road for their first leg of 2012 North American tour dates in March. Fans signed up to the official mailing list will get the first opportunity to buy tickets on 12/6 at 10am local time before public on-sale begins. To sign up for the mailing list now, click HERE.

Ticket sales for the general public will start on 12/9. For public on sale details click the date below:

3/2/12 - Cincinnati, OH - U.S. Bank Arena
3/3/12 - Detroit, MI - Joe Louis Arena
3/4/12 - Columbus, OH - Schottenstein Center
3/6/12 - Portland, ME - Cumberland County Civic Center
3/7/12 - Boston, MA - TD Garden
3/9/12 - Washington, DC - Verizon Center
3/10/12 - Philadelphia, PA - Wells Fargo Center
3/12/12 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden
3/13/12 - Montreal, QC - Bell Centre
3/14/12 - Toronto, ON - Air Canada Centre
3/16/12 - Indianapolis, IN - Conseco Fieldhouse
3/18/12 - Grand Rapids, MI - Van Andel Arena
3/19/12 - Chicago, IL - United Center (fan presale for this show will be 12/13)
3/20/12 - Cleveland, OH - Quicken Loans Arena
3/23/12 - Norfolk, VA - Constant Convocation Center

And don't forget you can preview five songs from El Camino now HERE.

Hop on the bus, Gus...

2011-12-01T19:37:00.007-05:00

Westie Punks
The Legendary Gussy Tapes, Vol I

Email response to Rolling Stone's All-Time Greatest Rock Guitarists listing from former Westie Punk Gussy P:

Why is BB King considered rock? What's with Keith Richards, (my opinion)? What about Stevie Ray Vaughn and Billy Gibbons (one of the bearded guys from ZZ Top, not the guy named Beard)?

Note to Gus - I seem to remember Gussy P wielding a pretty mean axe back in the day. And don't forget our annual Christmas Season rite of chatting in the women's lingerie section of Macy's at the Meriden Square!

My Funny (Red Sox) Valentine...

2011-12-01T16:00:00.018-05:00

Bobby V's special playlist gift to Sox fans:

My Funny Valentine (Frank Sinatra)
Rubber Ball (Bobby Vee)
Kiss Me, I'm Shitfaced (Dropkick Murphys)
The Impossible Dream (Elvis Presley)
Take Good Care of My Baby (Bobby Vee)
Fried Chicken & Beer (The Starters)
Whip It, Whip It Real Good (Devo)
It's All About Me (Mya featuring Dru Hill)
Red Red Wine (Neil Diamond) I assume, needed when the beer runs out
Up Where We Belong (Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes)
I Only Want To Be With You (Dusty Springfield)
For What It's Worth (Buffalo Springfield)
Big Popi's Got a Brand New Bag (James Brown)

The Story Of How New Red Sox Manager Bobby Valentine Invented The Wrap

Honey, Herman Cain is on the phone...

2011-11-29T16:32:00.000-05:00

Late Monday afternoon trail mix...

2011-11-28T17:20:00.001-05:00

Most Likely You Go Your Way (Bob Dylan) Blonde On Blonde
I'm Down To My Last Cigarette (k.d.lang) Shadowland
I Ain't Got You (The Animals) The Complete Animals
All This Is That (The Beach Boys) Carl & the Passions
One Part Be My Lover (Bonnie Raitt) Luck of the Draw
Don't Forget About Me (Dusty Springfield) Dusty In Memphis
After the Fall (Ray Davies) Other People's Lives
Too Late Honey (Rob Stone & the C-Notes) Just My Luck
Is This Love? (The Iguanas) Super Ball
Satisfaction (Otis Redding) The Very Best of...
Lonely Financial Zone (Jonathan Richman & Modern Lovers) Roadrunner
London Calling (The Clash) London Calling
No Drawers (Marva Wright) Blues Queen of New Orleans
Message of Love (The Orbits) A Million Dollars Worth of Doo Wop
All Revved Up With No Place To Go (Meat Loaf) Bat Out Of Hell
Don't Step On It (James Hunter) Believe What I Say

Say hey, Terrie!...

2011-11-27T21:10:00.005-05:00

Just received a quick reply to my Thanksgiving greeting from Jazz Fest bud Terrie (one of the notorious Shoe Ladies) saying she recently attended the Orlando Calling Music Festival and loved it.

Schedule Day 1 featuring the Killers, Drive By Truckers, Roots, Felice Brothers, Raconteurs, Pixies, O.A.R. Avett Brothers
Schedule Day 2 featuring Bob Seger, Justin Townes Earle, Buddy Guy, Robert Randolph, Kid Rock, Dwight Yoakam, Brandi Carlile

A record store Saturday...

2011-11-26T13:36:00.006-05:00

I took Tom Waits' advice (see poster below). Just back from a quick trip to Waterbury's Brass City Records with the following (all for $36!):

Talking Book (Stevie Wonder)
The Season (Jane Monheit)
Song X (Pat Metheny/Ornette Coleman)
The Melody At Night With You (Keith Jarrett)
The Honeydrippers, Vol I (Robert Plant)
12 Songs Of Christmas (Etta James)
Blood On the Tracks (Mary Lee's Corvette)

AND in the mail, I got my copy of Get Out the Lotion (Low Cut Connie)

Brass City Records in-store concerts through the years.

Iron Bowl today...

2011-11-26T10:12:00.007-05:00

Auburn and Alabama played their first football game in Lakeview Park in Birmingham, Alabama, on February 22, 1893. Auburn (then named the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama) won 32–22, before an estimated crowd of 5,000. As if a signal of the future, disagreement between the schools began immediately as Alabama considered the game to be the final matchup of the 1892 season and Auburn recorded it as the first of 1893. (more at Wikipedia)

Just watched the ESPN documentary, Roll Tide/War Eagle, about the Alabama-Auburn rivalry. Them's some crazy-ass fuckers. Great song tho...

Message from Tom Waits...

2011-11-25T16:40:00.002-05:00

Giving you the bird!...

2011-11-24T06:07:00.005-05:00

(NPR) - The lead-up to Thanksgiving can be tough. There's the teeth-gnashing at the airport and the gray despair of the bus terminal, which is saying nothing of what happens if you've walked in your family's front door without having made tangible progress toward satiating your mom's hunger for grandchildren. You may have to take that hit, too.

But once everyone has gathered around the table and the second bottle of wine has been killed, the bad stuff falls away. Whether you're having turkey, turducken, tofurkey or fish tacos, the family is together, and that's what important. So here's a mix designed to help you keep your mind on the bonding-fueled feast that justifies it all. And if "Blueberry Yum Yum" just happens to inspire you to call the boy from down the block and give it another shot, we can only say, "You're welcome." Happy Thanksgiving!

Songs For Stuffing: A Thanksgiving Mix

The New Yorker - Giving Thanks: An Appreciative, Grateful Playlist

The Classic!

I can't get no satisfaction...

2011-11-23T20:52:00.006-05:00

(Reuters) - Legendary musician Jimi Hendrix was named the greatest guitar player in history on Wednesday by Rolling Stone magazine in a list compiled by a panel of music experts and top guitar players. "Jimi Hendrix exploded our idea of what rock music could be: He manipulated the guitar, the whammy bar, the studio and the stage," said Grammy-winning guitarist Tom Morello in the magazine, citing Hendrix's "Purple Haze" and "The Star-Spangled Banner" as key tracks. Hendrix is joined by the likes of Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page and Pete Townshend among the top 10, in a list laden with rock 'n' roll icons spanning decades.

The panel of experts recruited to vote for their favorite guitar players included musicians such as Lenny Kravitz, Eddie Van Halen (who was voted No. 8), Brian May and Dan Auerbach from The Black Keys, along with a selection of Rolling Stone's senior writers and editors. The experts also weighed in on their favorites, with Pearl Jam's Mike McCready calling Eddie Van Halen "a master of riffs" and Joe Perry praising Jimmy Page's "vision of how to transcend the stereotypes of what the guitar can do."

The full list will be featured in a special issue with four special covers of Van Halen, Clapton, Hendrix and Page, and will be on newsstands and online at www.rollingstone.com on Friday. Rolling Stone's top 10 greatest guitarists follow:

1. Jimi Hendrix2. Eric Clapton3. Jimmy Page4. Keith Richards5. Jeff Beck6. B.B. King
7. Chuck Berry8. Eddie Van Halen9. Duane Allman10. Pete Townshend

TOP 100 Guitarists (Rolling Stone)

Too High, Too Low

Everybody's working for the weekend...

2011-11-23T08:28:00.001-05:00

Zero Tolerance (those intolerant bastards) are playing tonight at the Milestone in Bristol, CT

Sarah Borges at Johnny D's in Somerville, MA tonight

Christine Ohlman is at Blackeyed Sallys in Hartford on Friday night

Friday night, the Dirt Salon in Hartford is having a pot luck jam featuring Carlos Hernanadez Chavez and guests. (Byob and a dish $15/pp; Byob only $20/pp)

New Kate Bush: "50 Words For Snow"...

2011-11-22T18:04:00.000-05:00

LONDON (Reuters) - British singer Kate Bush may believe the music industry is "collapsing," but her latest album has been hailed by some critics as a classic and she has promised more to come after years away from the studio. "50 Words For Snow" is a concept album consisting of seven tracks, each much longer than the average pop song, which was described by the L.A. Times as "an art-song cycle that veers from delicate to blustery but always with a sheen of elegance." In her five-star review, the Telegraph newspaper's Helen Brown called it a "quietly beautiful album," while Simon Price in the Independent on Sunday wrote of Bush's first album of new material since 2005's "Aerial": "To the relief of anyone who carries a torch for the reclusive genius, it's a beauty."

Bush, who rarely gives interviews and studiously avoids the limelight, appears to share critics' sense of enthusiasm for 50 Words For Snow. It is her second album this year following "Director's Cut," a re-working of music from previous records. For an artist who waited 12 years between "The Red Shoes" in 1993 and Aerial, it has been a prolific period. (the whole enchilada)

Sarah smiling...

2011-11-22T17:05:00.006-05:00

SARAH BORGES EMAIL
You heard me right, it's not only turkey time, but it's time to hear me play my new record in its entirety tomorrow, November 23rd, Thanksgiving Eve at Johnny D's in Somerville, MA, with the band that played on the album (Russell Chudnofsky, Kimon Kirk, and Andy Plaisted). We'll be debuting the songs, as well as playing a super fun set of music fit for dancing. Perfect way to burn off all of the calories you're going to eat on Thursday.

Sarah Borges Thanksgiving Eve Event

Wednesday, 11/23, 8:30pm

Johnny D's Holland St., Somerville, MA

Kimon Kirk opens

Saturday marks the only Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles show of 2011 at the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River, MA. Rob Dulaney, Binky and original Broken Singles guitar player, Russell Chudnofsky will play the hits that made us famous (or at least got us lots of free drinks!). The Saturday-after-Thanksgiving tradition continues, so get your tickets now!

Saturday, November 26

Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles!!!!

Narrows Center for the Arts, Anawan St, Fall River, MA

Amy Black opens

It's here already? That's right folks, it's not just Thanksgiving, but my record-making fun(d)raiser is coming to an end!So far I've raised just about $8000, which is amazing! We've got the songs recorded, mixing is just about to start, and oh, did I mention that not only did Steve Berlin from Los Lobos produce the record, but that Terry Adams from one of my favorite bands ever, NRBQ, makes a guest appearance?!!! Be still my beating heart!

The only thing I still need to do is pay for it all! So it's time for little ol' me to thank big-hearted you for donating already, and to ask that if you haven't done it yet, you pretty-please do it NOW!! Check out the donation website and pre-order the new record, or donate for lots of other fun prizes. And since this is the last week you'd better act fast, and to encourage you to do it there are a couple of way cool things happening:

Starting RIGHT NOW we'll be streaming one of the rough mixes from the record on the donation website. You can hear what YOU helped to make!!

And second, if we can hit $10,000 by SUNDAY (I know - SO MUCH money and SO LITTLE time!!!) I'll be streaming a mini-concert LIVE from my very own living room and broadcasting it straight to you via Ustream. This concert will be for my donors ONLY!! If you contribute by Sunday, you can watch, listen, and talk all about it with all of the other donors. You can even send me requests. And I will even play them. Just for you. Once you've made a contribution we'll let you know when, where and how to tune in.

Nothing goes better with your turkey and cranberry than a side of songs and guitars, so come on everybody, grab a drumstick (either kind) and CLICK TO DONATE!!!!

Hartford's cafe society...

2011-11-21T17:24:00.001-05:00

Courant jazz critic Owen McNally writes of Hartford fashion designer/music impresario Dan Blow's current offerings in the Insurance City: Japanalia's Dan Blow Expands His Empire With Jazz Brunches At Atheneum:

Cafe Eiko- "an improvised venue (Blow) sets up at night within his West End boutique, Japanalia Eiko."
Muraski Cafe at the Mark Twain House- monthly jazz brunches
Dirt Cafe, 50 Bartholomew Ave- Wednesday nights
Wadsworth Atheneum- "Jazz Brunch Series"

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Living dangerous. (just finished 'Steve Jobs' and can't use ly anymore)...

2011-11-19T16:39:00.001-05:00

A couple of days of music in Cambridge....(Special report from Peter M)

Thursday night, one of the guys in my painting class had given me a spare ticket to the Boston Philharmonic, a not-the-BSO-but-well-regarded classical operation. Sanders Theatre at Harvard is a beautiful space, a tribute to the wealth of 19th century Boston. The maestro, Benjamin Zander, is a real showboat. He gave long talks before each piece, with live demos by the orchestra, who are sitting there waiting to play....I bet they love that. The program is all Brahms, the First Piano Concerto and the Fourth Symphony. Great stuff. The Fourth is a real war-horse, full of chunks you've heard a thousand times, but still powerful.

After the concert heading back to my car I realize the woman walking right behind me with her friends is tonight's soloist. With long dark hair and high black boots she looks just like the other fashionable young women out in the Cambridge evening ...young, beautiful and talented.

Redbones for a beer. Hello! Still in the third quarter and it's 10 to 10! The Jets look bad, bumble to a field goal. But Tebow is worse. He's terrible! Three and out again. Then the 5-minute drill. Unbelievable. Nobody touches him on that last 20 yard run.

A slightly wild-eyed but not dangerous looking guy sits next to me. Quickly I learn he is 47, can't see why they are playing football on Thursday night, is bi-polar, gets a check from the state, and has $4. Orders a Narry and hands over the four bucks. He's pretty excited when Dez gives him a 16-ounce can plus $1.30 change. I know he's thinking, if these guys sitting at the bar drinking $6 drafts could help me out a little, I could get a second 16-ouncer. He starts an animated conversation with the two deaf guys sitting on his other side. A couple of minutes earlier they had signed to him that they were deaf, but he must have forgotten already. As I'm leaving after the satisfying Jets loss, he suggests a contribution, but I pass.

Friday night picking up Bob at Logan at 9:45. Old guys awake at that late hour is a music opportunity. Atwoods in Cambridge for Tim Gearan Band. It's Friday Night for sure. The place is packed, but no Tim Gearan in the Band. Another local guitar hero, Dennis Brennan is subbing. (I think we saw him with Sarah Borges at the Lizard Lounge a few years back.) He's cranking rock and roll, a couple of Smuttynoses revive Bob after a long plane ride, and it's going good. Then the fight starts. Right in front of the stage, bodies flying, yelling, bouncers (burly guys in standard issue black leather bouncer jackets over hoodies) rush in. The signature moment is the guy in the white t shirt, suspenders, neck tattoo and bulging veins screaming at somebody across the room as he's pushed out the back door, "This ain't Davis Square, motherfucker!" Gotta be some history there....and probably not the end of the story.

The band comes back on, the dancers are little more subdued, and the night is back on track after the excitement. Time to head for the suburbs. I'll catch this show again some time. Tim Gearan should be back as usual, and Blondie says she's here every Friday night.

Friday night Bonnie...

2011-11-18T19:58:00.007-05:00

Listen to more Bonnie Raitt at Wolfgang's Vault.

Bonnie through the years (there were others, but the memory is failing):
Woolsey Hall at Yale (1975)
Bridgeport Jai Alai (1977)
Oakdale Theatre, a very strange show with her father, the Broadway legend John Raitt (1979)
Toad's Place, where she was kinda drunk; Green Lights era (1983)
Oakdale Theatre, where we discovered John Cleary (2003)
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (2009)

It's Friday, Friday. Gotta get down on Friday. Everybody's lookin' forward to the weekend, weekend ...

2011-11-18T06:35:00.007-05:00

So you think we're not uber-cool here at johnnykmusic? I think lyric-checking Rebecca Black should put an end to that!

Still waiting (impatiently) for PHS Mark's report on Wednesday's Trombone Shorty show at The Klein. He must be out of the office at a very important meeting.

Leon Russell with a free show at Mohegan Sun's Wolf Den tonight (can't go, the boys 'n girls from Brooklyn coming up for the weekend weekend). Sawtelles on Main Street in Middletown tonight at Javapalooza. Eilen Jewell has two shows (1st sold out) on Saturday night at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton, MA.

Lee Pockriss, who wrote the music for midcentury pop hits like “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” “Catch a Falling Star” and “Johnny Angel,” died on Monday at his home in Bridgewater, Conn. He was 87. (NY Times)

You can now go to the official Amy Winehouse website to watch the Our Day Will Come: Amy Winehouse Tribute.

Leon Russell induction into the R&R Hall of Fame (wonderful, understated version of A Song For You with John Mayer):

Thirsty Thursday...

2011-11-17T16:49:00.004-05:00

Rolling Stone has learned that blues-rock duo the Black Keys have been booked as the musical guest for the December 3rd episode of Saturday Night Live, with host Steve Buscemi. The band, who will be promoting their seventh album, El Camino, will have the rare distinction of appearing on the show twice in the same year; their first time on the long-running sketch series was on the January 8th episode with host Jim Carrey.

Hump Day...

2011-11-16T00:01:00.008-05:00

Pool Hall Stud Marky G at The Klein in Fairfield tonight to catch Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue (with our best bud guitarist "Sneaky Pete" Murano). Opening is Devon Allman's Honeytribe, who will headline at the Hungry Tiger in Manchester on Thursday night. He's Gregg Allman's son.

New Ruthie out soon!...

2011-11-15T10:36:00.001-05:00

Ruthie Foster will release her new album, Let It Burn, on January 31, 2012. The CD features special guests The Blind Boys of Alabama, soul legend William Bell, and the rhythm section of The Funky Meters (bassist George Porter Jr. and drummer Russell Batiste). Recorded in New Orleans with producer John Chelew (The Blind Boys of Alabama, John Hiatt, Richard Thompson), Let It Burn also includes New Orleans-bred guitarist Dave Easley, renowned saxophonist James Rivers and Ike Stubblefield (Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, and Eric Clapton) on organ. In addition to two new tracks from Foster, "Lord Remember Me" and "Aim for the Heart," Ruthie adds her signature sound to songs by Adele, Black Keys, Los Lobos, Johnny Cash, The Band, Pete Seeger, Crosby, Stills & Nash and more.

Ruthie will be appearing at City Winery in NYC 3/9/12. Sounds good to me - anyone else?

iTunes Match - Legalizing your dodgy music collection has never been easier...

2011-11-15T10:11:00.000-05:00

(ZD Net.com) Yesterday Apple finally released the iTunes Match service, and legalizing your dodgy music collection has never been easier.

Note: While I’m going to be talking about ‘pirated’ music here, don’t take that to mean that I’m OKing the practice or in any way condoning it. I don’t.

iTunes Match is a new $24.99 a year cloud music service from Apple that makes your iTunes library available to you everywhere you go (as long as that everywhere has an internet connection). It works by scanning your entire iTunes library and duplicating this up in the cloud server. Duplicating your tracks is handled in three ways:

All your iTunes purchases are already in the cloud waiting for you
Any songs that you’ve ripped from CD or acquired via other means (naughty-naughty … but Apple forgives you!) are scanned and matched against Apple’s catalog, and if a match is found, Apple gives you a free, DRM-free copy to do with as you please, no questions asked
Any tracks that iTunes doesn’t recognize (such as those from your Tuvan throat singing collection) will be uploaded to the cloud - (the whole enchilada)

Gumbo's greatest hits?...

2011-11-14T15:02:00.004-05:00

One's in the bedroom cleanin' fish and the other's out cutting a deer, I think it just got country over here.

UConn Huskies are playing Wagner tonight...

2011-11-14T14:01:00.007-05:00

Music-drama in three acts, words and music by Richard Wagner, who calls the work, "eine Handlung" (an action). Produced, under the direction of Hans von Bülow, Munich, June 10, 1865. First London production, June 20, 1882. Produced, December 1, 1886, with Anton Seidl as conductor, at the Metropolitan Opera House, New York, with Niemann (Tristan), Fischer (King Marke), Lehmann (Isolde), Robinson (Kurwenal), von Milde (Melot), Brandt (Brangäne), Kemlitz (a Shepherd), Alvary (a Sailor), Sänger (a Helmsman). Jean de Reszke is accounted the greatest Tristam heard at the Metropolitan. Nordica, Ternina, Fremstad, and Gadski are other Isoldes, who have been heard at that house. Edouard de Reszke sang King Marke, and Bispham Kurwenal. - (more)

(Wagner, coached by Dan Hurley, is 1-0 after winning 73-57 at Ivy League champ, Princeton, on Saturday.)

Just purchased: Get Out the Lotion by Low Cut Connie...

2011-11-12T15:45:00.002-05:00

"Get Out the Lotion" is available for download / CD at LOWCUTCONNIE.COM.

Low Cut Connie Mission Statement from website:

Low Cut Connie is ready to fondle you with rock n roll fingertips.
Low Cut Connie wants to drink a shake with you and dance like lunatics in New Jersey.
Low Cut Connie wants to dream your dreams with you like mystical hobos.
Low Cut Connie wants to bowl strikes down your lonely little alleys.
Low Cut Connie wants to clean your plates and sing doo-wop in your parlor.
Low Cut Connie is ready and willing to ride with you all the way to dawn in Yankton, South Dakota.
Low Cut Connie wants your parents and your children and your animals down by the lake...all swimming in happiness.
Low Cut Connie is your friend, your brother, your mistress, and your plumber.
Low Cut Connie wants to jerk tears from your eyes, and move your hearts to scream sex and joy.
Low Cut Connie wants to smash your piano to bits and repair your refrigerator for free.
Low Cut Connie wants to pour booze on your floor and walk backwards to Wendy's.
Low Cut Connie wants to pound music into your soft temples and meditate after the fact.
Low Cut Connie wants to come to your sleeping town, just to meet you and know you and love you forever.
Low Cut Connie wants to kiss-kiss with you all night long and woo you with hot hysterical drumsticks.
Low Cut Connie wants to draw you with Telecaster crayons on your table for breakfast.
Low Cut Connie wants to leave you like strangers, gorgeous and anxious, and quietly streaking in the morning light.

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave in NYC tonight and Fairfield next Wednesday...

2011-11-11T13:11:00.004-05:00

PHS Mark with Orleans Ave guitarist
"Freaky Pete" Murano at Jazz Fest 2011

(NY Daily News) The trombone can blare and wail, or swoop and soothe. But seldom has it nabbed the pop spotlight enjoyed by the sax or trumpet. You’d have to go back to the swing days of Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey to find a starring role for this long and meaningful instrument.

Enter Trombone Shorty, the man best positioned to bring the sexy back to his title contraption.It helps that he’s 25 years old and a looker. Naturally, Shorty hails from New Orleans, a city whose famous brass bands have always given strong play to this underappreciated horn. But Trombone Shorty (nee Troy Andrews) hasn’t ghettoized his style to fit the city’s stereotypes. (the whole enchilada)

11/11/11 at Terminal 5, NYC
11/16/11 at The Klein, Fairfield, CT

Zak Brown & Gregg Allman singing "Georgia On My Mind" at the CMA Awards...

2011-11-11T06:34:00.003-05:00

I tried watching some of this show, but it was painful. Therefore, missed this.

Lucinda Williams set list at First Ave in Minneapolis...

2011-11-11T06:11:00.001-05:00

Can’t Let Go / Pineola / Drunken Angel / Buttercup / Stow Away in Your Heart (new song) / People Talking / Concrete & Barbed Wire / Fruits of My Labor / Copenhagen / Born to Be Loved / Trying to get to Heaven (Dylan cover) / Those Three Days / Seeing Black / Essence / Unsuffer Me / Changed the Locks / Joy / Honey Bee ENCORE: Blessed / Ain’t My Cross to Bear (Allman Brothers) / Rockin’ in the Free World (Neil Young) - (concert review)

Last Sunday night at Cafe Nine...

2011-11-10T19:08:00.001-05:00

Dex Romweber Duo (Tom Hearn photo)

The Death of Johnny Gumbo...

2011-11-08T21:20:00.006-05:00

The iconic character, born in pre-Katrina New Orleans at Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar after a few morning Bloody Marys, has, tragically, passed.

New Orleans Times-Picayune obit:

The Gumbo was laid to rest in a quiet, sparsely attended ceremony recently next to the dumpster at the local hang-out, The Float. Long time musical buddy, Jose Feliciano, was on hand to sing one of the Gumbo's favorites "Feliz Navidad." Attendees were given used hot dog wrappers to scatter over the coffin. Long remembered for his lack of judgement, devil may care, throw caution to the wind attitude, the Gumbo's epitaph read "Yu know Whaat?!"

The Death of Me by Dex Romweber Duo:

With your lies, your lies, your lies

And your perfect pair of thighs

Peter, his roof guy, and the Boston Symphony...

2011-11-08T20:44:00.004-05:00

Paid my roof guy in hundred dollar bills, US greenbacks. Hyperactive tax dodger. At my kitchen table he notices classical music post cards, notices, etc., says he's a huge classical music fan. "Grew up listening to Grateful Dead etc. Then one day heard a classical piece...changed my life!" As the old folks say, "You know you know never can tell."

After my unhappy experience with Shelby Lynne, Saturday evening went to the Boston Symphony. Two Haydn symphonies and then concert excerpts from Wagner's opera Die Meistersinger von Nurnburg.

Haydn symphony number 1 is clearly a baroque symphony, made for a small string orchestra in a Viennese music room. Number 100 is a full blown Classical Symphony for a big orchestra with brass and percussion, made to blow the doors off a big public concert hall in London, where Haydn went to be a rock star and make big money... and set the path for Beethoven's great symphonies.

The Meistersinger is great stuff, with a huge orchestra, solo singers, and a hundred plus chorus...and you can't help but hear the echoes of virulent German nationalism. At one point the chorus shouts at full volume, "Wach' auf!" "Awaken!" .....a Nazi Party election slogan in the 20s and 30s. And of course it is set in Nurenburg, the site of the Nazi party rally of Leni Riefenstahl's film Triumph of the Will. Check out Triumph of the Will on youtube. In that film and in her film of the 1936 Olympics, Riefenstahl created the standards for dramatic documentary/propaganda film. All those NFL Films low angle shots of the long pass dropping out of the sky are pure Riefenstahl.