The Black Crowes: Massive Tour on JamBase
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Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Not Your Average Guy
I'm still not sure about why all the fuss over Michael Jackson. Last week when the news broke about Micheal's death I was a bit critical of him and borderline hateful. I don't want to come across as hateful. I'm just still trying to understand why a guy like Michael Jackson is being so praised. I just got overwhelmed by all of the media coverage and really got to thinking about what we really care about in this country. So much so that I didn't turn on the radio or tv all weekend. Then as soon as I get in the car for work Monday it hasn't stopped so right back to the Ipod. That being said I don't feel any differently about his death. I would equate it to someone like OJ Simpson, Mike Tyson or Bernie Madoff dying. Who cares? Just because someone has talent, success or tremendous fanfare doesn't give them an automatic right to sainthood.
People say to me well you idolize Perry Farrell, Eddie Vedder, Warren Haynes, Jerry Garcia and other rock icons. Other people idolize sports figures and Hollywood stars for many reasons. I get that, it is somewhat the same and a bit hypocritical of me to judge the feelings that people have for Micheal Jackson. I don't know why we do this, we've never met these people, we don't talk to them daily, we're not friends with them. So what's the difference? The difference is that most of these stars are good role models to kids, huge influences on people and the paths they take in their lives, contributing members of society, some of which even give their money to charity or to help build things like schools, hospitals etc... Some of them are on drugs and have their problems and scandals as well, but not the type of problems that Michael was faced with or caused for other people.
Michael Jackson was far from your typical star, he has not been relevant in show business for more than a decade. The only reason he is still relevant now is because of how HUGE he was in the early 80's, but most recently he was relevant for his scandalous freakish behavior and now his suspicious death. He has been accused of child molestation twice. (Accused is the operative word). I understand that he was acquitted but I mean really what's he doing with all of these kids around all the time. Don't you think he would stay as far away from kids as possible, having been accused twice of sleeping in the same beds and touching kids inappropriately. Most recently he requested a chorus of all boys from the ages 5 to 13 for his upcoming tour. He hung his baby out a window from twenty stories up. It's not even definite that the three children he has are even biologically his. Now it's going to turn into a huge battle between the elder Jackson's and their biological mother who claims she was artificially inseminated and sold her womb to carry the babies for him. Now they're left with practically nothing. Now his poor parents who are in their late seventies have to care for three young children, try to figure out his huge financial woes and battle for custody of these children which may not even have been his. He has caused more problems in his death than when he was alive. Was he a good role model for kids. Are we trying to send a message that irresponsible behavior should be rewarded and that people be put up on a pedestal for engaging in it. This isn't the type of person I want my kids to Idolize.
Al Sharpton had this to say
"Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of color. Way before Tiger Woods, way before Oprah Winfrey, way before Barack Obama, Michael did with music what they later did in sports, in politics and in television." "It's surprising therefore, that a day after the news of Michael Jackson's death and with the nation deep in mourning, President Obama has not personally acknowledged a man who helped paved the way for his election." The president shouldn't overlook Michael Jackson's importance. He was far from simply an entertainer." "On this, the president risks of looking completely out of touch not only with America, but with the rest of the world."During his weekly rally at the National Action Network yesterday, Sharpton railed against reports focusing on allegations that Jackson molested children and abused prescription drugs."If we can look past the shortcomings of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, then we can put into proper perspective any shortcomings Michael may have had," he said.
People say to me well you idolize Perry Farrell, Eddie Vedder, Warren Haynes, Jerry Garcia and other rock icons. Other people idolize sports figures and Hollywood stars for many reasons. I get that, it is somewhat the same and a bit hypocritical of me to judge the feelings that people have for Micheal Jackson. I don't know why we do this, we've never met these people, we don't talk to them daily, we're not friends with them. So what's the difference? The difference is that most of these stars are good role models to kids, huge influences on people and the paths they take in their lives, contributing members of society, some of which even give their money to charity or to help build things like schools, hospitals etc... Some of them are on drugs and have their problems and scandals as well, but not the type of problems that Michael was faced with or caused for other people.
Michael Jackson was far from your typical star, he has not been relevant in show business for more than a decade. The only reason he is still relevant now is because of how HUGE he was in the early 80's, but most recently he was relevant for his scandalous freakish behavior and now his suspicious death. He has been accused of child molestation twice. (Accused is the operative word). I understand that he was acquitted but I mean really what's he doing with all of these kids around all the time. Don't you think he would stay as far away from kids as possible, having been accused twice of sleeping in the same beds and touching kids inappropriately. Most recently he requested a chorus of all boys from the ages 5 to 13 for his upcoming tour. He hung his baby out a window from twenty stories up. It's not even definite that the three children he has are even biologically his. Now it's going to turn into a huge battle between the elder Jackson's and their biological mother who claims she was artificially inseminated and sold her womb to carry the babies for him. Now they're left with practically nothing. Now his poor parents who are in their late seventies have to care for three young children, try to figure out his huge financial woes and battle for custody of these children which may not even have been his. He has caused more problems in his death than when he was alive. Was he a good role model for kids. Are we trying to send a message that irresponsible behavior should be rewarded and that people be put up on a pedestal for engaging in it. This isn't the type of person I want my kids to Idolize.
Al Sharpton had this to say
"Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of color. Way before Tiger Woods, way before Oprah Winfrey, way before Barack Obama, Michael did with music what they later did in sports, in politics and in television." "It's surprising therefore, that a day after the news of Michael Jackson's death and with the nation deep in mourning, President Obama has not personally acknowledged a man who helped paved the way for his election." The president shouldn't overlook Michael Jackson's importance. He was far from simply an entertainer." "On this, the president risks of looking completely out of touch not only with America, but with the rest of the world."During his weekly rally at the National Action Network yesterday, Sharpton railed against reports focusing on allegations that Jackson molested children and abused prescription drugs."If we can look past the shortcomings of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, then we can put into proper perspective any shortcomings Michael may have had," he said.
Why do we have to look past Michael's short comings just because we looked past Elvis' and Frank Sinatra? They're different people with different legacies. Some people still haven't looked past Al Sharpton's shortcomings for that matter, but I won't get into that it's a whole separate matter. The above mentioned celebrities are huge contributing members of society and great role models for kids. If Tiger Woods or Oprah Winfrey died I would understand the out pouring and grief. I do agree with Al's perspective on what Micheal did for paving the way for African Americans, but to compare him to Barack Obama or credit Micheal for paving the way for President Obama is just ridiculous. Let's face it Al, maybe President Obama doesn't want to speak about it because he doesn't want to be associated with or promote this type of irresponsible behavior, or maybe because he's just too busy making important decisions on the safety, security and future of our country. I don't think the President is too concerned if his reputation is tarnished for not being in touch with pop culture and not speaking out about Michael Jackson.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Voodoo Fest New Orleans
Halloween weekend looks goulish in NO. Kiss, Eminem, Jane's Addiction, Flaming Lips, Widespread Panic, Gogol Bordello, Wolfmother, Street Sweeper, Ween to perform at Voodoo fest 2009 in New Orleans La.
Check out the rest of the diverse line up here
http://thevoodooexperience.com/2009/lineup.php
Check out the rest of the diverse line up here
http://thevoodooexperience.com/2009/lineup.php
Up in Arms About Micheal Jackson
We are being threatened to be wiped off the map with nukes by North Korea, there is a political uprising in Iran that could change and shape the future of the world and or put us at war with them. Government spending is through the roof. Yet on every news station I can find all I hear about is the death of Micheal Jackson, what a legend he was, how much he will be missed and what a great legacy he leaves behind. All he has left behind is a tremendous amount of debt an anguish for his family and fans. Even on Capitol Hill in the senate and congress they had a moment of silence for him. I mean what the fuck is going on in this country. People die everyday no one gets special moments of silence. What makes him so special. We are facing some of the most challenging issues of our lives and all I can hear about is Micheal Jackson. Don't get me wrong I don't want to see anyone die and it is sad, but I mean come on already. No one seems to be talking about the creepiness factor this guy had. If the molestation charges and trials weren't enough, he most recently requested an all boy chorus for his new tour. Boys from ages 5 to 13. This guy was a wack job and everybody is focusing on how great he was. I think our priorities are a little mixed up. Are they going to talk about how great OJ was too when he dies.
Maybe I'm being a little harsh but that's just my take on the whole thing
Maybe I'm being a little harsh but that's just my take on the whole thing
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
New Additions and Pictures
I added a new search engine that will allow searching for old blogs that I've posted just by typing in one keyword, it can be used to search the web as well. I also added a Jambase music news feed, The new Pandora Cosmic Radio Station that I created and a photo slide show. So come on by and check out all the new fun stuff at The Cosmic Vibes Blogspot.
Here is a link to my Picasa web photo album. A lot of pictures have already been posted but I added a ton that weren't up there or weren't available for public viewing. http://picasaweb.google.com/cosmicfriendjeffrey
Stay tuned for pictures and audio from the latest Emergence gig 6/19/09 at Ragtime in Arlington coming soon. Also coming up July 4th fireworks on the mall and Allgood Music Festival http://www.allgoodfestival.com/ two of my favorite times of the year.
Happy Summertime:)
Here is a link to my Picasa web photo album. A lot of pictures have already been posted but I added a ton that weren't up there or weren't available for public viewing. http://picasaweb.google.com/cosmicfriendjeffrey
Stay tuned for pictures and audio from the latest Emergence gig 6/19/09 at Ragtime in Arlington coming soon. Also coming up July 4th fireworks on the mall and Allgood Music Festival http://www.allgoodfestival.com/ two of my favorite times of the year.
Happy Summertime:)
Saturday, June 20, 2009
cosmicfriendjeffrey's Lollapalooza 2009 Schedule
If you are going to be at Lollapalooza this August check out my schedule and lets hook up and see some music together. Hope to see you there
cosmicfriendjeffrey's Lollapalooza 2009 Schedule
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cosmicfriendjeffrey's Lollapalooza 2009 Schedule
Shared via AddThis
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
On Tour With Jane's Addiction
Sunday night 6/14/09 in Wallingford CT. was the completion of the first Jane's Addiction Tour with all four original members since 1991. All signs so far say it was a success. According to Dave Navarro's blog today he thinks so too.
" The tour was amazing! Probably one of the best touring experiences I have ever had and definitely the smoothest tour THIS band has ever done. Lots of laughs and no drama and no inner turmoil... Just a great time celebrating our music and our musical connectivity on stage." says Dave Navarro.
It was a success for me as well. I was able to catch five shows, each one being better than the next. It was a journey that took me to L.A at the Echoplex night club in February, on to George Wa.at the breath taking venue The Gorge for memorial day. Then back to the east coast to Camden NJ. After that one of my old stomping grounds Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia Md. Ending Sunday in Wallingford CT. my original home state. This was something I have been hoping for along with many other Jane's fans for many years. It's hard to believe it's already over but it's not hard to believe that it happened because it did, and it was an experience that I wouldn't trade in for anything. I saw new places, met new people, made new friends, partied with old friends and enjoyed five nights of hard core old school Jane's Addiction.
Sunday night in CT clearly showed that choosing NIN for support was a good choice. Most of the shows had pretty good turnout but without NIN in CT they only played to about 3000 or so. That being said they didn't leave anything behind except NIN. They killed it. There was so much energy in that theater. There have already been tons of great reviews of the show so I won't even try. Mountain Song was sick with the help of Tom Morello and it was definitely my favorite and definitely the most energetic pit of the of the four pits I was in. Perry was on fire. Vintage Perry that we used to get in the old days. Talkin shit to the crowd and at one point flipping fans the bird for fun. It is not over yet. They have a three week span of shows in Europe and then back to the States in August for Lollapalooza which I will be in attendance. This show I believe is going to be the most magical of them all. Playing in front of massive crowds, with the night time skyline of beautiful downtown Chicago in the back ground. I just don't think it's going to get any better.
Here is a link to my photo album from the Wallingford show. I took a ton from Street Sweeper and Jane's. You can also find the pictures from all of the other shows in my picasa web album if you poke around
Enjoy
http://picasaweb.google.com/cosmicfriendjeffrey/JaneSAddictionStreetSweeperWallingfordCT#
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Emergence @ Ragtime in Arlington 6-19
Hey now friends!
Emergence is back inside the beltway next Friday night at Ragtime in Arlington http://www.ragtimerestaurant.com/. The gig starts at 10pm. Come on out for some cold drinks and good grooves what more can you ask for on a Friday night
Hope to see you there:)
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Update: The Black Crowes Still Going Strong
Last year when The Black Crowes released their new album Warpaint and embarked on a 90 city North American tour (Euphoria or Bust tour), they performed the album in its entirety on March 20, 2008 at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, CA.. Now they have decided to release this to the fans. After each show you are able to go to http://www.liveblackcrowes.com/ and purchase any show you attended as well as archived shows. This Wiltern show was never released for now obvious reasons. I attended five shows on this tour and purchased most of them. I just picked up the new CD today and gave it a listen. I always find it interesting to hear the bands progressions and how they get better as the tour goes on. Many fans probably don't even know that you can do this. This live CD is a must have for Black Crowes fans. The Warpaint album did well on the charts debuting at #5 on Billboard, the best debut since Southern Harmony and Musical Companion.
The day after the Euphoria Tour ended, the band announced that the next album of original material would be recorded in front of a live audience at the intimate setting of Levon Helms ( of The Band) barn in Woodstock New York on a five night run in March of 2009. These sessions were dubbed "Cabin Fever Winter 2009". The band performed about 30 songs of mostly new material and several covers. The new material will be released as a double album as well as a DVD that documents the recording session. In an interview with a Dutch newspaper on May 6, 2009, Chris Robinson revealed that the new Black Crowes double album, "Before The Frost, Until The Freeze", will be in stores in September 2009. It is said to include bluegrass and country-blues influences and arrangements.
As if The Black Crowes didn't tour enough on the Euphoria tour, they are currently starting another tour being billed as "Stuck Inside Utopia". Which has dates scheduled from June 4th to October 9th including many festivals and another stop at Wolftrap in Vienna Va. on Tuesday August 25th which I will definitely be attending. These dates can be found at http://www.blackcrowes.com/
I hope to see you at a show,
Happy Summer Time
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