punkrockbitch.com

2010-07-27T08:06:00.002-04:00

New Album Due Out By Every Lady Rocker's Rock Idol

Ann and Nancy Wilson of the 70s rock band Heart have stuck it out through the decades. Sure, they've had their ups and downs and lived to tell the tales. Now they have a new album coming out, purportedly in stores at the end of August, entitled, "Red Velvet Car".

I am one of their fans who came on late in the game, I was a zygote when Crazy On You and Magic Man were hitting the charts. So it wasn't til the late 80s or early 90s that I really began to grasp their awesomeness. But I can honestly say they are one of the main reasons I first picked up a guitar at age 15, alongside Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, Neil Young, Rush and yes, Liz Phair, among others.

I will not dis my heroes. I know they've come a long way and perhaps even strayed in a slightly different direction since "Straight On" and their other rock classic hits, and I still look forward to this new album like a christian kid looks forward to an Easter basket.

From wikipedia:

The 20-track Red Velvet Car DVD setlist is:^{[citation needed]}

Barracuda
Never
Kick It Out
Straight On
Love Alive
Mistral Wind
Back to Avalon
These Dreams
WTF (new song)
Hey You (new song)
Red Velvet Car (new song)
Sifonia's Mark (new song)
What About Love
Alone
Love Reign O'er Me
Crazy on You
Sand
Your Long Journey
There You Go Again (new song)
Magic Man

2010-06-26T21:11:00.000-04:00

YOU GOTTA GO TO THIS TOMORROW, SUNDAY

Alpha Women Attack the Lower East Side FREE festival in Tompkins Square Park!
2-6 PM, a huge line up of great peeps. Check out the info on the Facebook invite now and go!

HIM 4/22/10

2010-06-07T20:34:00.006-04:00

HIM is touring in support of their new release, Screamworks: Love in Theory & Practice. I've seen HIM multiple times, but I'd never had the privilege of photographing them, and I was definitely looking forward this San Diego House of Blues show (despite the murky lighting typical of all HOB venues). This was the first time I'd seen them since the lead singer, Ville Valo, went to rehab, and I was curious to see what a sober Ville looked and sounded like. Was the booze an integral part of a HIM performance?

Well, I can tell you that the band has never sounded better. They may not be wasted onstage, but they're still having a great time up there, and it shows. The songs are tight and the audience rapport as wonderful as ever.

A big part of a HIM show is atmosphere. There are oriental rugs laid out onstage, and the lighting is dramatic. Unfortunately, it's not so great for photography, but then again that's not what the lighting is for. It's for the audience, and they seem to love it.

Ville is older now, and forgoes the eyeliner, but he still looks great. He swaggers all over the stage as if he's not in front of thousands of people. He seems completely at ease, stopping to chat with audience members between songs with his trademark, almost manic grin.

The audience, also, has matured. Not just young teen girls (though there certainly were some there), many in the audience were clearly longtime fans and sang along enthusiastically to both old and new material. The set was a nice balance of songs, and the packed house seemed wholly appreciative.

HIM is alive and well, and I hope they continue to make music for years to come!

More info here: www.heartagram.com

AFI Again

2010-02-18T21:49:00.012-05:00

Previously, I'd photographed AFI in a small, intimate venue. Then, they were set to play New York City's Roseland, and I wondered what difference that would make in the whole atmosphere. Not only that, but the lighting scheme had been significantly changed, so I wanted to have a new take on the Crash Love tour.

The lighting was much more sophisticated, less harsh and definitely more dramatic. It was also a hell of a lot harder to photograph, but that was my problem, not theirs. As their lighting director says, the lights are for the audience, not the photographer. We work with what we get.

The band, however, was just as energetic, giving their all with new songs and old. Davey Havok is the quintessential frontman, flamboyantly interacting with the crowd as if they're all old friends. And some of them are! Many AFI fans have been devoted to this band since their inception back in the 90's. Davey's look has changed many times, from punk to glam to his current Morrissey-esque 'do. His voice has also strengthened, as well as his lyrics. Jade Puget on guitar is a virtuoso, the melodic driving force, effortlessly shredding while pirouetting around the stage. Hunter attacks his bass with a savage force that still produces an epic counterpoint, grimacing at the crowd. And last but not least, Adam is a beast on the drums, pounding out the brutal rhythm like a man possessed.

The new songs may not be what old-school fans call "AFI", but they're unarguably tight and catchy, showing off the band's range. They do play a good share of their older material as well, and though the shows are short, usually not over an hour, they definitely give the audience their money's worth.

Not many bands have the kind of connection that AFI has with their fans. Go see an AFI show if you have a chance at all. It will be a show you won't soon forget.

AFI fans are colorful and patient:

Upcoming Tour Dates:

February 20 Brisbane Soundwave Festival 2010
February 21 Sydney Soundwave Festival 2010
February 26 Melbourne Soundwave Festival 2010
February 27 Adelaide Soundwave Festival 2010
March 1 Perth Soundwave Festival 2010
March 12 Nashville, TN Rocketown
March 13 Charlotte, NC The Fillmore
March 15 Jacksonville, FL Plush
March 16 Tampa, FL The Ritz
March 18 Pensacola, FL Seville Quarter Party Plaza
March 19 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
March 27 Anaheim, CA Festival Grounds at Angel Stadium
April 5 Nottingham, UK Nottingham Rock City
April 6 London, UK Brixton Academy
April 8 Glasgow, UK ABC
April 9 Manchester, UK Manchester Academy
April 11 Newcastle, UK 02 Academy 2 Newcastle
April 12 Birmingham, UK 02 Academy 2 Birmingham
April 14 Hamburg, Germany Grosse Freiheit 36
April 15 Munich Give It A Name,Tonhalle
April 17 Milan, IT, Italy Alcatraz
April 20 Vienna Outdoor Arena
April 21 Warsaw, PL Stodola
April 24 Meerhout, BE Groezrock Festival
April 25 Dulsburg T-Mobile Extreme Playground

Jade

2010-01-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

REPOSTED FROM JESSY DELFINO'S BLOG

RAY's on AVE A may have to say laterzzz
by Jessica Delfino

The local NYC joint is on the skids due to the financial catastrophe of oh nine. A victim of the modern age and money issues, Ray, in his 70s, is facing a crisis.

More HERE from Gothamist too

So many have been lost in the money crunch. I saw Love Saves The Day hit the dust, which
just broke my heart because I loved that dusty little hell hole. Other spots which beat
it were the awesome Good World (though I heard that place just 'moved' but STILL, it's no longer four steps and a hop away from my place anymore) and a few other places that are skipping my mind just like they skipped town.

Turns out a small gathering of local art-ctivists are going to stand in front of the place and form a human wall to keep the body guard from bolting the doors shut, as the landlord promised to do later today. I tried to find a phone number and I can't, so if you want to help, just show up at Ray's around 5 pm on Ave A between 7th and A.

Another quick and easy way to help: Eat at Ray's today and tell everyone you know to eat at Ray's today! Order food for your office there today! And then donate a little extra, too.

Photos of Ray's, and more information HERE

From my friend's FB post:

PLEASE repost to help save Ray's on Ave A (btwn 7th & A) Ray Alvarez is in his 70's & owns & operates Rays. You can get truly amazing egg creams, rasberry lime rickeys, pomme frites (which I ONLY like from here!) from a true neighborhood character & institution. It would be HEARTBREAKING to see this place go...

Jeezuz Christ he's 77 yrs. old & has been there since 1974 according to EV Grieve. It will be horrible for him he can't work @ his place or stay open @ all...

Ars Nova Ant Fest

2009-11-04T22:00:00.003-05:00

In midtown, there is this very interesting club that puts on really weird and neat shows. Maybe they aren't as weird or interesting as Ultrabunny or Haunted Pussy, but they're weird and interesting in their own ways. They have lots of "gay" shows, and other undefinable show topics.

It is called, "Ars Nova," and right now, a festival is going on there called the Ars Nova Ant Fest which features tons of crazy wacky shows. Music, bands, plays, dirty perverted folk songs --- wait a minute, did someone say dirty perverted folk songs? That's MY show!

That's right, my show is in the Ars Nova Ant Fest. Tickets are $10, which is not super cheap for those of us on a holiday budget, but if you buy your tickets in advance online, you get a free drink at the show, and $10 for a show and a drink isn't so bad. You can order your tickets RIGHT HERE.

I've toured this show across the US and UK, this past summer in Scotland, Ireland and England and as part of the Reading & Leeds Festival, Latitude Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and more. These songs (and I) were publicly denounced by the Catholic League. This is one of the last times I'm going to perform this collection of perverted, twisted songs live, as I've been doing them for a few years now and I'm getting ready to retire them and move them on to something different. Of course, I will keep you posted about that project when it is ready.

Show info:

Thurs Nov 12 @ 8 PM
Jessica Delfino's Dirty Folk Rock
Ars Nova ANT FEST!
511 W. 54th St.
With her lewd songs and unconventional instruments (rape whistle!), Jessica Delfino is a self-described brunette Britney Spears--with balls.
Tickets: $10
For tickets: http://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/691205
SPECIAL OFFER: If you buy a ticket online to my show, you get a free drink at the show (which nearly covers the cost of the ticket!)

AFI is back!

2009-10-17T01:13:00.016-04:00

After a long wait, AFI is finally back with its eighth CD, Crash Love. Decemberunderground came out way back in June 2006, and though the band toured heavily in the interim, it still seems like ages since we've heard from them. The new CD is once again a departure from their past work, something AFI seems to specialize in; they never seem content to stay with one 'sound'. At first listen, Crash Love seems poppier than previous efforts, but that's just a first impression. The songs grow on you, as good music does, and more and more layers open up on further listens.

Of course, AFI never shines as much as when they're onstage, and that hasn't changed one bit. AFI shows may be short (usually just over an hour) but they're packed full of energy and sincere showmanship. Davey Havok seems totally at ease and confident, chatting with the crowd as if they're old friends. And most of them are. For the kickoff of the Crash Love tour, AFI played Minneapolis on October 2nd. Davey mentioned playing the same city way back in the 90's, and an audience member immediately professed to having been there. AFI is the kind of band that attracts diehard, devoted fans. Fans who will line up for hours in cold, miserable weather in order to be front and center. For their efforts, they'll get crushed by fans behind and abused by crowd-surfers, but to them its well worth a close-up view of Davey, Jade, Adam and Hunter.

I attended three shows in two weeks: Minneapolis, Sayreville NJ and Pittsburgh. The setlist varied a bit, but was heaviest on Crash Love (of course) and Sing the Sorrow. At least one very old song was included in each show ("Ny-quil", "Half-Empty Bottle") and of course their MTV hit "Miss Murder". All in all, the crowd seemed extremely pleased, singing every word as loud as Davey.

The stage and the band were resplendent in black and gold; they look great and sound better. If you get a chance, check out AFI when they come to a town near you. They're touring the US and Canada for the rest of the year, then they'll be off to Australia in early 2010. Then they'll likely hit Europe, and then come back for another swing through the US. Here are the announced dates:

10/17/2009 Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom Hampton Beach, NH

10/19/2009 The National Richmond, VA

10/20/2009 Gallery of Sound Scranton, PA

10/21/2009 Scranton Cultural Center Scranton, PA, United States

10/23/2009 Merriweather Post Pavilion Columbia, MD

10/25/2009 House of Blues Boston, MA

11/3/2009 Cain's Ballroom Tulsa, OK

11/4/2009 The Pageant St. Louis, MO

11/6/2009 Uptown Theater Kansas City, MO

11/7/2009 Riviera Theatre Chicago, IL, United States

11/9/2009 The Fillmore Detroit Detroit, MI

11/10/2009 The Sound Academy Toronto, ONT, CA

11/12/2009 Electric Factory Philadelphia, PA

11/13/2009 Roseland Ballroom New York, NY

11/15/2009 House of Blues - Myrtle Beach North Myrtle Beach, SC

11/16/2009 Tabernacle Atlanta, GA

11/18/2009 Pompano Beach Amphitheatre West Palm Beach, FL

11/19/2009 House of Blues Lake Buena Vista, FL

11/21/2009 Verizon Wireless Theater Houston, TX

11/22/2009 Stubbs Austin, TX

12/15/2009 Winnipeg Convention Ctr. Winnipeg, MB, Canada

12/16/2009 Prairieland Park Saskatoon, CAN

12/18/2009 Shaw Conference Center Edmonton, CAN

12/19/2009 Big Four Building Calgary, AB, CAN

12/21/2009 Save On Foods Centre Victoria, BC, CAN

2/20/2010 Soundwave Festival Brisbane, AU

2/21/2010 Soundwave Festival Sydney, AU

2/26/2010 Soundwave Festival Melbourne, AU

2/27/2010 Soundwave Festival Adelaide, AU

3/1/2010 Soundwave Festival Perth, AU

Please check out http://www.afireinside.net/ for more info, and go buy Crash Love!

J

girls, gore, robots and geishas, and geisha robots!

2009-07-01T22:01:00.003-04:00

American movie trailers have the baritone voiceover guy going for them, and generally not much more.

The voiceover guy here is pretty lame, BUT the movie certainly seems to make up for it.

RoboGeisha (Japan 2009 coming soon)

VNV Nation Review and Pics

2009-06-30T22:10:00.008-04:00

VNV Nation has been around since 1990 in one form or another, and now, 19 years later, Ronan and Mark prove they've still very much got it.

Saturday night's LA show (6/27/09), was the kickoff of their tour to support their newest release, Of Faith, Power and Glory. The venue was packed with goth, alt, and rave types, and just plain fans of one of the best-known electronica bands in the world.

The energy was palpable, and the crowd threw themselves into the songs just like the band did. Though this tour is for the new CD, Ronan didn't skimp on the crowd favorites, even going back to 1999's Empires for Darkangel, to the audience's delight. The crowd favorite had to be Beloved, though, with Perpetual a close second.

Though the CD just came out on the 23rd of June, the audience seemed to have no problem with the lyrics and dance moves to the new material. The new tracks are pure VNV, and I predict "Sentinel" (misspelled on the album cover, FYI) will be the next big track. Introspective, emotional, yet uplifting; somehow VNV manages all of it while still being danceable, and not overdramatic. Quite a feat.

VNV is touring heavily in support of the new CD: North America in July, Europe in September, and a promise by Ronan to be back in the US late fall.

Check out their website www.vnvnation.com for tour dates and more info. Also please see my interview with Ronan Harris, coming up soon!

Prima Donna Review and Photos

2009-06-14T02:09:00.005-04:00

I recently caught the band Prima Donna at Hollywood's historic Knitting Factory. When the band first struts out onstage to the accompaniment of some severely retro riffs, you'll wonder if you've stumbled into some sort of 80's time warp. Lycra, animal print, and lots of big hair and guyliner will make you feel like a virgin again. Or maybe not. At any rate, these boys know what they're doing, and they're ready to rock your face off. They work together like a well-oiled machine; singer Kevin has all the moves to win over the ladies, and Aaron doubles on keyboard and sax to give the music its unique blues-inspired feel. David wails on the drums, and the combo of Erik and Daniel on guitar and bass work together perfectly.

They just got back from a tour across the USA, and they're doing some SoCal shows in the next month or so. Catch them if you can; you won't regret it!

http://www.myspace.com/primadonna
www.primadonnarocks.com

Interview with Tiger Army's Nick13

2009-06-14T01:38:00.003-04:00

Tiger Army is probably the most well-known band in the modern psychobilly scene. They've been at it for almost a decade, and through numerous lineup changes they're still going strong.

Tiger Army formed in early 1996, and played their very first show at the legendary 924 Gilman in Berkeley, CA, where bands such as Green Day, AFI and Rancid honed their skills. They opened for longtime friends AFI and actually borrowed their drummer Adam Carson for the gig. After hard work and local shows, the band hooked up with Rancid frontman and Hellcat Records co-founder Tim Armstrong. The band's self-titled debut was released in late '99. Tiger Army essentially introduced the psychobilly subculture to the USA.

When founder and frontman Nick13 agreed to answer some questions for me, they were working on a followup to their well-received III: Ghost Tigers Rise album.

Hello Mr. 13! Jade from PunkRockBitch.Com here... thanks so much for taking the time to answer some questions.

How do you see the psychobilly genre... is it growing, or changing significantly? Are the changes good or bad for the scene?

When Tiger Army started, there was no scene in America. For most of the band's existence, we tirelessly promoted the genre. People now are aware of it to an unprecedented extent here, so what we set out to do has been accomplished in that respect. That being said, the scene is largely a disappointment to me. Many of the older Euro bands are completely washed up and just tailor what they do to their idea of the American "market" -- zero artistic credibility at this point. As for younger bands from the States, too many are content to deliver poor imitations of bands they like rather than take artistic chances and do something new, which is both boring and a letdown. I think fans of the music deserve more than that.

What do you think the differences are between the US and European psychobilly scenes?

The European scene is older & frankly there's a better understanding of what the music is. Some kids here seem to think it's thrash metal with a stand-up bass. It's a little hard to say since it's been awhile since we've been there. We still get festival offers from Germany and hopefully we can make that happen.

What are some of the early bands you have tried to emulate? What one band do you think influenced you most?

Probably the Meteors. They were the first psychobilly band and always one of the best. Was always a fan of the Quakes, Long Tall Texans... my writing was also influenced by the songwriting of a little-known band from England called Sgt. Fury.

You've gone through a lot of lineup changes... can you tell us about the new members?

Well, they're not that new at this point as they've been in the band for over and year and played well over a hundred shows, but the stand-up bassist is Jeff Roffredo and the drummer is James Meza. Both have played in a number of different psycho bands and both are some of the most talented musicians at their respective instruments that I've ever had the privilege of playing with. As far as playing goes, I don't think the band has ever sounded better. I can't wait to make a record with these guys!

(Note: since this interview, original member Geoff Kresge has rejoined the band on stand-up bass)

Why did you start a band initially? Was it something to do, or what you really wanted to do with your life?

When I was young, it was something to do. As time went on, I realized that there was nothing in the world I cared about as much as the band, so I knew that I'd rather spent all my time trying to be a musician, even if it meant failing, than succeed at something else.

When you were a teenager and dreaming of starting a band, you must have pictured it a certain way. How does what you pictured compare with what it's really like?

Really, it's beyond my wildest dreams that I'd still be playing music and doing it for a living at this point. Tiger Army is 10 years old next March and there's no end in sight.

You started your first band in '91 at age 17, Influence13, with Jade Puget and Geoff Kresge. What was it like back then for a band starting out? Why did that band break up?

Things were harder then, it was so hard to get any kind of a recording out. There are many more labels now and more resources to promote your music, like the internet. As for breaking up, well, probably different musical directions and difficulty keeping a drummer were two big ones.

We hear you're working on a new CD... how's that coming?

I'm in the middle of the writing process now and I've got several songs that I really like. We've been working them out in the rehearsal room. I'm really excited about this album, the lineup, everything. I think it has the potential to be the best thing we've done yet and I don't want to settle for less! No date is set for the studio yet but it will be out in 2006...

What is your songwriting process like? Do you get random ideas while you're stuck in traffic?

Traffic would probably be too distracting, but I've definitely gotten a lot of ideas on long drives, both on & off tour! Many of the lyrics for "Rose of the Devil's Garden" came to me on a drive on CA's 1-5 from LA to the Bay Area. I had to pull into a gas station and scribble them down on paper napkins!

What non-psychobilly bands would you like to tour with?

Morrissey and AFI.

Do your parents/family like your music?

They do, which is really cool. My parents have always been supportive of my music. I had an opportunity to play our CD for my Grandma who lives in Australia this past spring when we were there on tour, she seemed to genuinely enjoy it! But it's probably just because I'm her grandson, who knows...

Have you ever gone to a high school reunion?

No. I hated high school and the people in it for the most part! I'm in touch with most of the people I want to be from back then so a reunion would just involve those that I don't care about or never liked.

What kind of music do you listen to for your own enjoyment? Do you ever worry it will influence your own music?

I listen to all sorts of things from 50's hillbilly to current industrial/ebm. Also a lot of pop, Morrissey, Depeche Mode, etc. Drawing on different styles is what makes music exciting, so no, I don't worry about things influencing me. On the contrary, I welcome it.

Do you have a favorite venue to play?

There are many I like, but if I had to pick just one, perhaps House of Blues, Los Angeles. A friendly and knowledgeable staff and a cool room that holds a decent number of people but still feels intimate.

And now a few requested questions from my readers:

What about the rockabilly/psychobilly scene made you decide you wanted to be part of the whole genre?

I was always a fan of early punk, as well as 50s rockabilly/rock'n'roll. The more I listened, the more connections emerged between the two, although on the surface they might seem to have nothing to do with each other to some people. When I discovered psychobilly, it seemed like I could have a combination of everything I was into in one band! That's still true, for the most part.

What do you think of people who only like Tiger Army because of their relation to AFI?

I don't know of any such people. I know of many people who discovered Tiger Army through AFI, but that's always the way it is, I got into so many bands when I was younger because of connections with other bands I liked. I'd imagine the majority of AFI fans to be drawn to original, exiting music, so I see no reason why they wouldn't genuinely enjoy both. If there is someone who's just into Tiger Army to seem cool to someone else, well, I don't know what to say, that's pretty far away from my world.

What is your pre-show ritual?

A little bit of vocal warm-up, maybe a bit of hot honey & lemon drink, some stretching maybe... whatever I think I need. Mostly it's about focusing and getting in the right head space to go out and do it.

If you were stranded on a desert island, which five people would you want with you and why?

Probably just my girlfriend. It'd be cool to have some friends there as well, but I wouldn't wish them to be stranded on a desert island just for my amusement!

What kind of deodorant do you use?

Old Spice "Original" scent. Perhaps a bit too much time on the hands, whoever was wondering about that. ;-)

www.tigerarmy.com
www.myspace.com/tigerarmy

Patrick Wolf show Review and Pics

2009-06-13T23:04:00.009-04:00

I was lucky enough to catch Patrick Wolf in his only US acoustic performance this year. Entitled "An Evening With Patrick Wolf," the show was held at La Poisson Rouge in New York City on May 6th, 2009, a tiny, intimate venue. There was much disorganization in crowd control, whereby people who'd been waiting all day weren't let in first. I can't say much for the staff's organization and consideration, but that's not what this review is about. It's about Patrick Wolf, and he definitely gave it his all.

Patrick spent as nearly as much time talking as playing, and while you might think the audience would resent that, they loved it. It was a true give and take, as if we were truly spending an evening with Patrick rather than watching a performance. He gave the audience background stories about the songs he sang, the instruments he used, his past experiences on tour, and his life in general. He seemed totally at ease with himself and the audience, taking requests and responding to comments. He even introduced his aunt, who was attending the show, explaining that he was trying to be a bit more modest in this show as he had family present.

Indeed, Patrick kept his stylishly outlandish clothes on the entire show, apparently a rarity for him, and went from piano to violin to dulcimer with unconscious ease. You knew you were in the presence of rare musical genius. He pours his heart into every note he plays or sings, and the audience was entranced.

Patrick performed songs from all his releases, sounding in top form. His music is quirky and different; if he chose to go 'mainstream' he'd clearly have no problems achieving success. But Patrick Wolf is unique, to say the least. He plays what he wants, and his fans love him for it.

I attended another Patrick Wolf show, this time in Hollywood at the Roxy on June 9th 2009. This venue is even smaller than La Poisson Rouge, but with a much different, less intimate feel. The crowd was standing room only, and Patrick was there with the Nylon Magazine Summer Tour. He played last, and came out an hour and a half later than the announced set time. I don't know what the issue was, technical or otherwise, and no explanation or apology was offered by anyone. The crowd was understandably restive (and damn sweaty) by the time Patrick went on, but as soon as he took the stage dressed in a black and white version of the Union Jack and a great deal of glitter, all was forgiven.

This was a much different show than the NYC show. Patrick's full backing band was there and plugged in, and Patrick was clearly ready to rock. He threw himself into every number, singing his heart out to the rapt audience, making eye and hand contact constantly.

The audience sang along to every word, gazing up at Patrick with clear adoration, and he ate it up. He sweated as much as the audience, strutting and stalking around the stage as if he owned it. Patrick's confidence and his musical brilliance is compelling, and it's hard to take your eyes off him.

Plugged or unplugged, acoustic or electric, Patrick Wolf is something special. He's making a go of it without major label support and I for one hope he succeeds.

2009-05-27T15:43:00.002-04:00

PS122 Benefit TONITE

As a long-time friend, supporter and performer at PS122, I'll be working for this event tonight. It is going to be super fabulous and I'm so excited. Over the years I've seen great performances at PS122, including their always titillating Avant-Garde-A-Rama series, the thrilling "Charlie Victor Romeo" show consisting of the reenactments of real life airplane black-box distress calls starring the super talented Nole Dineen, Schoolhouse Roxx presented by Travis Chamberlain who is now running the works over at the New Museum, and much more.

The benefit tonight is based on "Dancing With The Stars" and calls itself, "REAL dancing with the REAL stars". More info is below:

http://www.ps122.org/performances/gala_2009.html

PS -- They needed 2 last minute ushers so if you're interested in volunteering in exchange to see the show, email jessdelfino@yahoo.com asap and I'll try to hook it up!

2009-05-25T23:00:00.002-04:00

Fucking fascinating -- that's the only way to describe it. Of course, there are skeptics that think it's all fake, but still, fake or not, I want one as a pet.

http://gnokr.com/general/feral-children/#comment-1301

THIS IS NEWS!!!

2009-05-22T18:25:00.000-04:00

Fun!

Revillos!

2009-05-22T15:19:00.006-04:00

Undoubtedly the most awesome band ever, The Revillos came from Glasgow Scotland in 1979 and bridged the punk, retro and pop genres to form the perfect rock band. FYI, Singers Faye Fife and Eugene Reynolds (originally of equally amazing Rezillos) are still doing their twangy rock thing in 2009 playing the occasional Rezillos show and writing some new songs. And drummer Rocky Rhythm has a new tell all autobiography out! I saw The Rezillos played their 30th anniversary tour in New Jersey a few years ago and it was a joy to behold. Now if only The Revillos can play NYC (they havent since 1981 when I first heard them interviewed on WNYU radio and became an instant fan) then I can die happy.

Check out the videos below, and at bottom is a BBC documentary about Faye and Eugene and their experiences fronting both Rezillos and Revillos.

go to the Official Revillos Website for complete information and lots more Revillia and check the Revillos myspace page too

X Ray Spex

2009-05-22T13:55:00.003-04:00

FUN EVENTS FOR TONITE, TMRW

2009-05-12T13:47:00.001-04:00

Hey! You! Are you looking for a few fun things to do tonight and tomorrow? I dunno, maybe you have relatives in town or just have an inkling to see something different and fun tonight. Well, I did your dirty work for you. You're welcome.

TUESDAY (tonight):
Alison Grillo's JOKES N GENDER @ Underground Lounge
107th and West End Ave
showtime 7:30 PM sharp
ABOUT THE SHOW: Comedians ruminate on gender issues!

AND WED (tomorrow):
Nick Ferris's REGRETS @ a gallery in Tribeca just 1 block south of Canal on Broadway
6:30 - 10 with an after party at Madame X
ABOUT THE SHOW: A mixture of photographic, short films, poetry and sculptures on the theme of Regrets.
with comedian Lori Chase, live models, DJ -- very different from your standard gallery opening, and
it's to raise money for charity. Visit www.nickandrani.com for more info.

AND ALSO WED:
SKITS'N'TITS! @ Bowery Poetry Club, 308 Bowery
10 PM, $5
ABOUT THE SHOW: This mad party is truly a whimsical delight! Comedians Murray Hill, Kevin Allison (The State), Seth Herzog and Mike Amato bemuse, hot burlesque dancers tantalize, and sketch group "FFF" (or Funny Filthy Floozies) offers a new video and 2 new sketches, one about...dun-dun-dun...STAR TREK!

Don't miss ANY of these shows. Or you will get swine flu.

Hey buddy, can you spare a dime?

2009-01-22T23:21:00.005-05:00

A dime could actually buy you something at one time.

Here's a menu from Woolworth's lunch counter from the 1950s

Sound cheap?

Well it is!

Let's see exactly how cheap by comparing 1950's dollars to 2009 dollars.

Using this table and generously assuming the menu dates from exactly 1950, and also adjusting for inflation since 2007 when the calculator was made, we get the following prices:

Egg Salad Sandwich $2.75

Triple Decker Sandwich $5.75

Super DeLuxe Ham Sandwich $3.59

Two Scoop Malted, Milkshake, or DeLuxe Sundae $2.19

Slice of Pie, Cake or a Cup of Cocoa $1.49

King Sized Coke 89¢

So it's not JUST inflation at work here. It's the current trend of overcharging for basic staples and comfort foods. You would think that in an age of advanced farming, transport, manufacturing, food preparation and marketing, that basic foodstuffs would be cheaper now than in the past when it was harder work to make such things. But apparently modern business philosophy dictates the necessity to squeeze larger and larger profits out of everything. Too many comfort food establishments will easily charge you 2x or 3x more than the prices here and still offer you subpar food (as you'd get from woolworth but without the friendly waitress) but we still love our retro chic restaurants despite the crappy food and high prices.

Think about that next time you buy a $4 coffee, a $12 burger and a $6 milkshake.

sucker.

-bb

2009-01-21T13:41:00.003-05:00

SIGN THE ARTS PETITION

...to have President Obama create an "Ambassador of the Arts" position. I've been performing over seas
for years and making a living at it. In other countries, they pay performers good money to perform and
there is money in the government to support arts easily accessible. Why shouldn't America treat its'
artists the same way??

Sign here!!

2009-01-20T21:38:00.001-05:00

JESSICA DELFINO'S TAKE ON WATCHING THE INAUGURATION

After watching tons of political peeps promenade out in a never ending parade which included Bush Sr and Jr, Michelle Obama and the Obama girls, a collection of foddy dod senators and other old geezers, finally Obama strolled out to an overwhelming applause.

Aretha Franklin sang "My Country Tis Of Thee" and actually made the song sound like a cool hit instead of the stodgy old jam it normally is. Her hat was funny.

Biden was so excited. He very politely thanked the justice who swore him in at the end of taking his oath. What a nice fellow.

Obama slipped up on his oath -- he was probably a *little* nervous!!

His speech was however, poetic, 'articulate' and metaphorical. I took notes on the speech and I have some comments on it. Here are the pieces of his speech that I could type as he spoke:

"On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear...we remain a young nation but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things...In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given; it must be earned...it has been the risk takers, the doers, the makers of things, some celebrated...for us, they packed up their few worldly possessions...endured the lash of the whip...for us, they fought and died...time and again, these men and women sacrificed and worked until their hands were raw...this is the journey we continue today. We remain the most powerful, prosperous nation on earth. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services, no less needed...our capacity remains undiminished...everywhere we look, there's work to be done...we will act, not only to create new jbs but to lay a new foundation for growth...we will restore science to it's rightful place...we will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories...all this we can do...all this we will do...now...there are some who question...for they have forgotten what this country has already done...those of us who manage the publics knowledge will be held in account...only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government...without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control...and so to all the other peoples and goverments of people who are watching today, know that America is a friend of each nation and every woman man and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity...and we are ready to lead once more...our power alone can not protect us, nor does it allow us to do as we please...we are the keepers of this legacy, guided by these principles once more...we will begin to responsibly lead...with all firends and former foes we'll work tirelessly...we will not apologize for our way of life...we say to you now that our spirit is stronger...you can not outlast us and we will defeat you...for we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength not a weakness...we are shaped by every language and culture...we can not help but believe that the old hatreds will someday pass...that our common humanity will reveal itself...to the muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect...know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you can destroy...know that you are on the wrong side of history but we will extend the hand if you are willing to unclench your fist. To those nations like ours who enjoy relative plenty, we can no longer endure suffering...for the world has changed nad we must change with it...at this moment, a moment that will define a generation, it is this spirit that must inhabit us all, for as much as government can do and must do...it is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke that finally decides our fate...our challenges may be new...but those values upon which our success depends, honesty and hardwork, courage and fairplay, loyalty and patriotism...these things are old...these things are true...they have been the quiet force of progress throuhg ut our history...what is demanded then is a return to these truths...a recognition on every part...firm in the knowledge that...this is the price and the promise of citizenship...this is the source of our confidence...this is the meaning of our liberty and our creed and why...[we] can join in celebration...America...in the face of our common dangers...let us remember these timeless words...with hope and virtue, let us endure what storms may come...when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end...with eyes fixed on the horizon...we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it to future generations...

He acknowledged "non-believers" in his speech...Awesome. I don't understand the non-separation of separation of church and state in all of this, but I do appreciate that Obama at least acknowledged the non-believers.

"I'm a leftie, get used to it" he said, as he signed the presidential papers.

"I was told not to swipe the pen" he quipped, seeming very nervous!

What is he signing? His life away?

Four of the last 10 presidents have been lefties, the newsies commented. They also said that Obama joked that "Hillary Clinton gave him most of his grey hairs..."

Also, that 882000 rode the DC metro which shattered all records, and of all the people who rode it today, only one pedestrian was hit but not killed. Not bad! A change has come!

Bye Bye Bushie Bye Bye

OK, that's it, the inauguration is pretty much over. Now there's a post inauguration luncheon. I wonder what's on the menu?

My answer has arrived: Seafood stew and apple cinnamon sponge cake with some kind of glaze...

I have a theory that the next big revelation in the world will be that animals will stop being used for food, and animal slaughter will be realized for the Cowschwitz that it truly is!

My favorite Obama speech moments were: his acknowledgement of non-believers, his offer to reach out a hand to those who are willing to unclench their fists and saying that we would harness the sun, winds and soil to run our cars and our factories. Awesome! We went from a warmonger-ing nation to a peacemonger-ing nation like (*snap*) that!

Die Roten Punkte -- not just for punks

2009-01-13T10:13:00.004-05:00

Die Roten Punkte AKA The Red Dots

A friend recommended I see Die Roten Punkte (from Australia) after he happened to catch them
at an open mic in Manhattan last Tuesday. Has someone suggested you see a
band or show and you actually get up off your lazy ass and go, and then you
are so freaking delighted that you did because they are the coolest thing you've
seen in awhile?

That's Die Roten Punkte, or "The Red Dots".

The "brother and sister band from Berlin" Otto and Astrid Rot are the most fun
I've had in a weekend in a long time. They put on a funny show of original, incredibly
catchy rock sprinkled throughout with very silly little bits. I rarely see musical
comedy I really love, and I do love them.

They were here in NYC doing shows at the St. Marks' Theater, they created a
little whirlwind in town going from a light to packed house over the course
of a few days, and now they're gone again, jiggity jig. If you want to see them
now, you'll have to drive up to Canada, as they're on a 9 city tour across our
neighbors to the north.

You can also hear their music HERE.

Fun on December 23rd, New Video!!

2008-12-23T00:23:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow: Lerman Holiday at Comix!!

8 PM

Featuring Ben Lerman, myself and others! Come and see what all this holiday
craze is about. And in the meantime, watch me kick Santa's broke ass!

And also check out this other show I am in tomorrow night, as part of Whoop Dee Doo:

"WEIRD HOLIDAY," THE DEITCH PROJECTS HOLIDAY PARTY, AT SANTA'S PARTY HOUSE
Celebrate the holidays, Deitch-Projects-style with Whoop Dee Doo, "the strangest performance showcase since The Gong Show." A-Ron the Downtown Don and his merry band of crazies will be evaluating the gathered peformeres (SSION, Kembra Pfahler, the New York Ukelele Ensemble, and others) and will decide who will make it into the Deitch Deitch holiday fruitcake. Sounds tasty! Santa's Party House, 96 Lafayette St., (212) 343-8088. 8 p.m. Free.

Free Booze Tonite in Brooklyn

2008-12-16T16:14:00.001-05:00

From MyOpenBar.com:

Hit The Bricks! A Smashing Comedy Music Show
undislosed booze, $6 cover / 8pm-9pm
Trash Bar
256 Grand Street,
bt. Driggs and Roebling
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
(718) 599-1000
rating 3

A comedy variety show featuring a wild assortment of funny performers and starring Jessica Delfino who was officially denounced by the Catholic League for her "Christmas related obscenities" which she promises to share with you tonight. Also starring a terrifical assortment of comedy performers including Rachel Parenta, Sue Funke, Todd Montessi, Eliot Glazer, The Manson Family Singers and Liam McEneaney. Hosted by the fabulous Michelle Dobrawsky.

Come out and drink and laugh -- or be appalled -- it's up to you. It's a free country, full of free booze.

Free Booze In Bkln Tnite

2008-12-16T16:12:00.001-05:00

FROM MY OPEN BAR:

Hit The Bricks! A Smashing Comedy Music Show
undislosed booze, $6 cover / 8pm-9pm
Trash Bar
256 Grand Street,
bt. Driggs and Roebling
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
(718) 599-1000
rating 3

A comedy variety show featuring a wild assortment of funny performers and starring Jessica Delfino who was officially denounced by the Catholic League for her "Christmas related obscenities" which she promises to share with you tonight. Also starring a terrifical assortment of comedy performers including Rachel Parenta, Sue Funke, Todd Montessi, Eliot Glazer, The Manson Family Singers and Liam McEneaney. Hosted by the fabulous Michelle Dobrawsky.

Come out and drink and laugh -- or be appalled -- it's up to you. It's a free country, full of free booze.

A little PSA for the DUDE community

2008-12-16T14:08:00.001-05:00

If you ever think that your girlfriend is "acting like a bitch" or if you are sick and tired of her antics every time her Aunt Flow comes to town, just remember the pure long and short of it -- once a MONTH for a WEEK she BLEEDS -- that is BLOOD POURS OUT -- of her vagina. Imagine if blood POURED out of your peckers once a month, DUDES. IMAGINE THAT! Let's think about it. You'd have to carry around a pack of PENIS PADS with you everywhere you went, or stick a dick-pon UP YOUR DICK HOLE. You know that long q-tip that doctors stick up your weiner when you get VD or whatever the hell other reason they might stick a q-tip up your cock eye? You don't like that, do you. It hurts, right? Now, imagine having to do that with some kind of dumb cotton rod the size of a cocktail wienie that is made of bleach and poisonous chemicals. Every day. Like, two or three times a day. Or imagine having to wrap up your weiner with tape and cotton like it's head was broken, just so you won't leave a huge red stain on your Gap khakis. Like three times a day. You can't ever go far from anywhere that there is a bathroom, because you might just need to run in there on a moment's notice to handle your blood leaking problem. So, just think about all this stuff the next time your girlfriend seems a little cranky. Rub her back or something. Make yourself useful. Watch this video.

2008-12-08T11:54:00.001-05:00

MUSIC / COMEDY...holding hands...making all kinds of plans...

You guys, I am entering this contest, and I totally have a shot at winning this $1000. Come out and support my dirty musical stylings!

Monday, Dec. 8
Music Is A Joke - It's a musical comedy stand-off
like American Idol meets Last Comic Standing. Five
comedian musicians compete, one wins $1000.
@ Stand Up NY Comedy Club -- 78th and Broadway
7 PM -- FREE

*Come and find out how to audition for the next round

Music Is A Joke contest

2008-12-08T11:51:00.002-05:00

La Superette

2008-12-05T10:58:00.003-05:00

LA SUPERETTE

Do you guys love to buy weird shit made by kooky bitches and shyly cute skinny pants wearing dudes? If so, this is your craft fair. Entertainment, home-made crafts and other neat treats. I, Jessica Delfino will be there selling my holiday ornaments which are made out of (unused) tampons. I don't use tampers because they are made using chemicals and bleach which are two things I prefer to keep on the *outside* of my vagina. You can email me at jessdelfino@yahoo.com to order yours in advance. At $5 a piece, they are recession proof, my friends!

Click here for more info on La Superette

Opening party celebration:

Friday, December 12 :: Opening Night
A pre-shopping evening of live music and video with:
:: Lucky Dragons
:::: Fat Worm of Error
:: Madame Chao
:::: Aa (Big A little a)
Doors at 8pm :: $8

Then, during the sale days...free entertainment while you shop!

Saturday, December 13
:: 2pm :: Greg Peterson
:::: 3pm :: Mannequin Circus
:: 4pm :: MP Lockwood
:::: 5pm :: Marisa Olson
:: 6pm :: Scott Kildall
:::: 7pm :: Twistycat

Sunday, December 14
:: 1pm :: Dafna Naftali
:::: 2pm :: Warren Malone
:: 3pm :: Whistling Rufus
:::: 4pm :: Hank Plank and the 2x4s
:: 5pm :: Noveller

+ Guest DJ's in between bands throughout the weekend

What the MTA Financing Plan will mean to New Yorkers. (It means you are screwed again)

2008-12-04T21:13:00.007-05:00

Sorry to go off topic and talk local issues, but as a New Yorker, this is personal.

The MTA (the subway and bus and train corporation in NYC) has lied, cheated and stolen money from the people of the city for quite a long time, with outrageous fare hikes followed by reduced service and generally shitty and irritating ridership conditions. recently they tried their typical attempt at threatening the public by announcing a 23% fare and toll hike and massive reduction in service and even eliminating two entire subway lines.

The MTA had had a major funds surplus not a few years ago, but over the last couple years claimed it had just vanished and now they would be looking at a decaying subway ala 1970's if something serious wasn't done immediately. So here is the plan:

Mobility tax. Yes, right after election day, here come the new taxes. A Payroll tax of 1/3 of 1 percent. Meaning your boss has to pay it, or if you are self employed YOU have to pay it (as if small business and self employed people dont already have enough problems). So, for the self employed, if you make $1000 a week at your decent temp job, and thus take home $600, most of which goes to rent, and $20 for subways, that's an extra $12 you need to give to the MTA. Thats a subway tax equivalent to a 60% fare hike! And if your boss pays for it, I can just imagine you wont be getting any raise, or new office perks this year.

Okay, it gets worse. Much worse.

Tolls on East River crossings. If you occasionally take a cab from the city back to Brooklyn or Queens, expect an additional $5-$10* toll per ride, effectively raising your cab fare 30-60%. God forbid you drive your own car, as a daily commute would add $50-$100 a week to your expenses. Harlem River bridges would only be $2 each way, but seriously, these bridges so small you don't even realize you are going over one.

*"The Commission recommends that tolls on East River Bridges be initially set at the same rate as those imposed on the major MTA bridge and tunnel facilities to eliminate bridge shopping." -MTA Report to the Governor, Dec 2, 2008

And to top it off, the MTA, long a corporate entity with no track record of business success, except for it's criminal behavior regarding accounting practices, will be given MORE power by the city to do what it wants with the roads, rails and bridges of the city. They will own it all folks and can force you to pay/play by their rules.

Such as, if they want to hike fares, they can now do it faster with less time for people to complain, and people will certainly do that as the MTA will now enforce a mandatory fare hike every 2 years or less if inflation or greed demands it.

So, okay, maybe you are rich and don't mind giving yr money to them, what does the MTA plan to give us back?

Well, they claim they wont lie any more about their money needs, and may even make a website showing you where money is going. (woo hoo!) They also won't raise fares immediately but give you a break for a year maybe. They wont take too many services away and may actually improve long distance busses (tho pity the people who ride them anyway). They may even finish the 7 train extension so we can all take a train to the Javits Center and the luxury condos going up there! (wow!) And maybe in our lifetime the 2nd Ave subway will be built just in time to connect the luxury neighborhoods of people who never take the subway anyway. (wise investment).

Will they ever renovate or even clean your local station? Or start using new trains that arent 45 years old? Or bring back express service on lines that once had it and are now so overcrowded they make Tokyo and Mumbai trains look comfortable? Well, those are good questions, let's wait patiently and find out, assuming we all still live in this city long enough to see it.

-prb

ps, read the report yourself here

and here's the NY Times' positive slant on the story

Bloomberg wants a 3rd Term, martial law to follow

2008-09-30T18:04:00.004-04:00

In local NYC politicking, The NY Times website featured a massive headline saying Mayor Bloomberg, the billionare business tycoon who still claims no conflict of interest in owning his own business news tv channel, newspaper and website says he will defy 2 public referendums against term limits, so that he can impose himself mayor for another 4 years. (running against an opponent doesnt even seem an issue here, he assumes he's already won [bought] a future election) Real estate developers and Wall St criminals went dizzy with immediate priapisms.

Another 4 years of unregulated luxury condo building, eminent domain of established residents, sweetheart tax breaks for sports teams and big business and in general, huge wheelbarrows full of cash for the rich and a passionate desire for everyone else to pack up and move out of town. Culture be damned, NYC will once again reign Number 1 as the largest shopping mall/gated community in the nation.

Yes, because in a city of $8 million, the 8th richest man in america really speaks for the common man.

But what gets me is the NY Times' reader comments. The NY Rich treat him like a rock god, like the almighty savior of the wealthy. I have always liked the NY Times as a news source, but this makes me reconsider.

I'm surprised GW Bush hasnt thought of this ploy and declared November elections unnecessary. Afterall, it could explain why he is deploying a US Army brigade inside the US for the first time ever, and against US law (as it currently stands).

USA: Democracy starts and ENDS here.

9/11 Get over it already.

2008-09-11T22:02:00.004-04:00

Its been 7 years since 9/11. It's about time we let it rest.

7 years after Pearl Harbor, the germans, italians and japanese were our best friends again.

7 years after the end of the vietnam war, it was just the backdrop of The Deer Hunter and Apocalypse Now and not anything the average person mourned over anymore

7 years after Nixon resigned in "our national tragedy" we had elected Ronald Reagan to create endless tragedies to come.

It's time to pack it in and move on. Don't waste time and effort building a memorial at the former WTC site, just make a nice park and let people be happy there instead of miserable.

(footnote, the extremely tragic General Slocum Disaster which killed 1000+ women and children is almost completely unknown today, with only a very small memorial in a forgotten corner of a small NYC park to show for it.)

Why is this woman smiling?

2008-08-30T19:47:00.006-04:00

I clipped this ad back in the 80s because I knew it had a timeless charm.

It confused me as a young-un why women had the need to massage their chins.

Scientology is not a cult

2008-08-20T10:53:00.005-04:00

It's a Multi Level Marketing (aka Pyramid) Scheme.

Like Amway for rich UFO buffs.

[this has been a public service announcement]

Suitcase Nuke - The Facts

2008-08-14T21:07:00.006-04:00

This is an excerpt from a US Gov't Report called "The Effects of Nuclear War" published by the Office of Technology Assessment, released May 1979.

I think it's important to know the science behind this potential scenario rather than the hollywood speculation. From this report, it seems, while catastrophic, a so-called "suitcase nuke" would hardly cause the destruction of an entire city, but rather maybe only a neighborhood.

Of course the Gov't doesn't advertise this knowledge in order to keep us all in fear. So fear less people! Odds are terrorists won't be the one to destroy america, but keep an eye on yr local politicians, they can do it far easier and don't need no nukes, just lawyers, cops, zoning commissions, eminent domain, and real estate developers.

(click to enlarge)

Vegan Cookies

2008-08-13T00:38:00.003-04:00

My friend and big rock star in Florida Kreg from The Nuevos makes the best vegan cookies anywhere.

Here's his recipe, try it yrself. (My vegan bandmate tells me you should substitute raw natural sugar for any processed sugar to make it truly hard core.)

(click on the pic to supersize it)

Monkees/Butthole Surfers Connection

2008-08-11T19:36:00.003-04:00

Back in the mid 80s I found a couple Playboy Magazine Record Reviews that caught my attention. One was Gibby Haynes reviewing the new Monkees LP, and the other, here, is Mickey Dolenz reviewing "Rembrandt Pussyhorse". Now I'm sure the editors at such a dull, yet limply liberal magazine like Playboy thought this was pretty funny at the time, but one might acknowledge their good taste in connecting two such talented bands.

LSD ALERT!

2008-08-09T23:49:00.001-04:00

Zeppelin World Tour

2008-08-08T01:42:00.004-04:00

Zeppelin on World Tour. Hmmm, not what you might have been expecting...

Hiroshima Bomb Anniversary pt. 2

2008-08-06T02:20:00.011-04:00

these are exhibits from the Peace Museum at Hiroshima Peace Park.

Hiroshima after the bomb - not too may structures left, but remember the bulk of the city was made of wood and the fires raged for days. The red ball is the bomb exploding. US officials purposely chose the bomb to explode in air in order to maximize the radius of destruction. If it had exploded on the ground it would've been less damaging

Gee, I wonder why they dont sell these shirts at museums in the USA?

tricycle survives blast (sort of), but no word of it's owner.

blast victims with their skin melting off.

watch stopped at the time of the blast.

before.

after.

Hiroshima Bomb Anniversary pt. 1

2008-08-06T01:09:00.015-04:00

Back in 1945 on this day we americans tried out an effective new strategy of urban renewal on a small city in western Japan housing the center of operations for the Imperial Japanese Navy and the defacto best fast food in Japan, hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and all the young sailors and noodle chefs therein, many of whom would never have the pleasure to set sea or eat yummy food again after that day. Years later its a wonderful place to visit, and I am honestly thinking about retiring there someday.

Here are some pix to remind us how good we have it that we werent there on the business end of american made technology.

(I wouldnt put it past the good old us govt to try out this method of eminent domain real estate rezoning on New York City someday. Get rid of a bunch of undesirable poor people and then pave the whole place over sim-city style with luxury condos. I'm sure Mayor Bloomberg drools over this scenario)

the a-bomb dome in hiroshima peace park. sitting at the exact ground zero, it escaped total destruction due to basic laws of blast physics. also note the rest of city was mostly made of wood, so stone buildings stood a modestly better chance. even tho, its a total wreck when you really look at it.

The Old Bank of Japan Building, a quarter mile away from ground zero, was in much better shape than the a-bomb dome, but therefore doesnt make a good image of the brutality of war. It stands refurbished as a museum now.

btw, here's a good commentary everyone should read concerning this anniversary event. Hell, one might suppose that if the US Govt could destroy a couple entire cities (not to forget the fire bombings of Tokyo which actually killed more people than the atomic bombs, and the fire bombings in other cities of Japan and Germany) then perhaps the 9-11 conspiracy concept of the US knowingly killing a mere few thousand people cant be too hard to imagine as a possibility.

Home Taping is Killing the Record Industry

2008-08-04T23:43:00.003-04:00

Every day I get a brand new show off TV record and radio I breeze with the sleaze on my cassette 'cause I got the affirmative C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C30 C60 C90 Go 30 60 90 Go A bit bam-boogie and a booga-rooga my cassette's just like a bazooka a bligger a blagger a blippity-blop well I'm going down to the record shop Yeah! And the boss said "LP, single, picture cover or plain I've got all the hits and all the big names I've got biggest discounts in my store if you buy three records, I'll give you four" C30 C60 C90 Go off the radio I get a constant flow hit it, pause it, record it and play turn it, rewind, and rub it away C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C30 C60 C90 Go 30 60 90 Go It used to break my heart when I went in your shop and you said my records were out of stock so I don't buy records in your shop now I tape them all, 'cause I'm Top of the Pops! Yeah! Now I got a new way to move it's shiny and black and don't need a groove now I don't need no album rack I carry my collection over my back C30 C60 C90 Go off the radio I get a constant flow hit it, pause it, record it and play turn it, rewind, and rub it away Policeman stopped me in my tracks said "Hey you, you can't tape that you're under arrest 'cause it's illegal" So I shoved him off and blew his whistle I'm a pirate and I keep my loot So I blew him out with my bazooka C30 C60 C90 Go off the radio I get a constant flow hit it, pause it, record it and play turn it, rewind, and rub it away You're rich enough to have a record collection I'll bring my bazooka round for inspection Sometimes it better get hit twice as fast so I press my playback to make it last I breeze with the sleaze on my cassette I've got the affirmative C30 C60 C90 Go off the radio I get a constant flow hit it, pause it, record it and play turn it, rewind, and rub it away C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C90 Go C30 C60 C90 Go C30 360 C30 C60 C90 Go 30 60 90 Go

-bow wow wow

bazooka boombox photos here!

Butthole Surfers on 120 Minutes circa 1987

2008-08-04T00:39:00.003-04:00

I have this on vhs somewhere but luckily someone already posted it to YouTube

BHS Promo Spot on MTV's 120 Minutes (circa 1987)

Rare Butthole Surfers - the original "kuntz"

2008-08-04T00:23:00.002-04:00

If you didnt catch this on WFMU's blog a year ago, then here's a second chance.

If you are familiar with "Kuntz", the creepy remixed thai song on Locust Abortion Technician, here is the original track.

Thai Shotgun Cassette

Here's a challenge - Take this and remix it YOURSELF, and send us the mp3 or a link to it and we'll have a contest to see who's version is best. I'm sure with 20 years hindsight you can make it much weirder than the Buttholes version.

More Beme Seed - top 3 songs

2008-08-01T01:28:00.003-04:00

Following up on the previous Beme Seed video post, here are some Beme Seed songs to peruse and hopefully persuade you into being a fan.

All three Beme Seed albums have long been out of print, but if you're lucky you can find them online somewhere for sale as vinyl, cassette and CD. The first album is UK import only, so is much more rare I would believe, especially to find it on CD, as CD's were still a new format in 1989 when that LP came out.

I picked what I consider the best song from each album, although thats an arduous task as there are quite a few equally wonderful tracks on each LP. So listen up!

Old New Song from "Lights Unfold" (1990 No. 6 Records/Rough Trade)

Flange Song from "Purify" (1992 No. 6 Records/Caroline)

The Love That Touches from "Beme Seed" (aka "The Future Is Attacking") (1989 Blast First!/Mute)

-bb

Rare Lost Video - Beme Seed "God Inside" (1989)

2008-07-31T11:56:00.011-04:00

Beme Seed was a band I happen to have had the honor of playing in way back when. At the time they were somewhat obscure Boston/NYC based neo-psych band but were on the radar of all the major indie labels and headed for greatness based on their 3 outstanding albums (1 and a half of which I contributed to, which personally scared the shit out of me since I was originally a fan of the band and now had to actually co-create with them.) It's a crying shame that their albums were never re-released, but I'm hoping the copyright owners (I'm talking to you Michael & Kenny) will get off yr butt and make a greatest hits album at least, if not a nice box set. This is late 80's punk-psychedelia at its finest, and needs to be heard again.

The video here is "God Inside" from the first album. the album was put out by Blast First! the uk label that handled uk pressings of Butthole Surfers, Big Black, Sonic Youth and more, but I doubt the label really had anything to do with the video, as they were pretty tight with money. The video was done for free by a guy who was trying to get on the butthole's good side (and who wasnt?) and features ex-Butthole dancer, now Beme Seed lead singer Kathleen Lynch and no actual other band members, which is odd considering the democratic nature of the band yet still effective. Kathleen btw is portrayed in the video in her Butthole Surfers persona, which if a far cry from the reserved, demure and intellectual character she was in Beme Seed. (She's great singer, and to me channels both Siouxsie and Janis Joplin at times). Perhaps if you read this Kathleen, post some more stories about this video in the comments...

I think I may be one of the only people on earth with a copy of this video (banned from MTV for being too cutting edge in its day), and unfortunately mine is a second generation dub from vhs, digitized for yr convenience.

-bb

Beme Seed - God Inside (1989)

(requires quicktime)

also visit Beme Seed on myspace

Butthole Surfers @ Webster Hall, NYC July 29, 2008

2008-07-30T10:40:00.002-04:00

I first saw Butthole Surfers at Webster Hall (then called The Ritz) back in 1986 or so. The show started with the quintessential angst/noise anthem "Shah Sleeps in Lee Harvey's Grave", movies rolling, Kathleen naked and green center stage, strobes, smoke and colored lights all over the place, like some wickedly bad nightmare edge blotter trip, and then each member lit their guitar on fire, smashed it on the stage and threw the flaming pieces into the audience. They grabbed more guitars, lit them too, smashed them and threw even more splintered flaming guitar parts into the crowd. All during the FIRST SONG. I was terrified. I was in awe. I was in love.

Now twenty+ years later, they fittingly come out of retirement to play here again. It's very odd how the Buttholes, the most revered and monumental underground band of the 80s (sorry Sonic Youth, you could never compete on this level) rose to become international indie rock gods only to go major label, get a gold record and then just disappear rapidly but quietly. They never actually broke up, and we all thought they were just working on the next amazing album to end all albums, or planning their next tour, but it didnt happen. A random smattering of shows here and there but almost like they just needed to please the record company contract. The juggernaut seemed to have gone and with it did the entire underground rock scene.

But here they were again, 25 years a band, with the classic late 80s lineup of Gibby, Paul, Pinkus, King & Theresa, only missing Kathleen (are you still living in Jersey Kathleen? Were you at the show?) and despite the spectacles on Paul and Gibby, and a few lyrics written down to jog the memory, the band were in great form and picked a perfect setlist to please the fans.

I felt the songs from the early albums had the most impact, great tribal dirges perfect for sweaty moshing, slow and steady and pulsing. The younger kids, having only grown up on the later major label albums were happier when they played the higher speed thrash rock. Tracks from most of their albums were represented, with the notable exception of "pioughd" (damn, no "lonesome bulldog" or "blindman"?) It was all a-list material, perfect for a greatest hits album. (as cheesey at it sounds, the world needs a BHS greatest hits album, perhaps the band can use their genius to pull that off without it looking like K-Tel production? A truly dignified collection of their best work...)

Those of you who appreciated the Buttholes trademark mind blowing light shows may have been disappointed. Video projectors have replaces 16mm (Kathleen once told me how she loved the effect of the projectors beams spreading out across the audience - none of that with the new gear, and the imagery now in more in the background, not nearly as overwhelming and frightening as it used to be). Besides some strobes and tiny puffs of smoke, the lights were very low key, but hell, we were just too happy to have the band and their music here. Ask the aging fans risking hip dislocations in the moshpit, they were loving every second.

Technically I should add, the sound at Webster Hall is atrocious. A bit muddy and not helped by the staff. The band were apparently doing their own best to get sound out of bad microphones and dealing with the monitors and bad levels, which leads us to the next scene.

All good thing must come to an end and in true classic style as well. Gibby was apparently arguing with the stage monitor sound guy, which led to a plastic cup being thrown, and suddenly the security goon pulled him offstage. Paul took over with "Shah Sleeps in Lee Harvey's Grave" which he did magnificently if not menacingly, and the band called it quits while we waited and waited for Gibby to come back. Which did not happen. If the crowd had been younger, riots would have ensued and blood would've flowed, but after a half hour of haranguing the security staff's unwise decision, we just gave up and left the building. It was sad to not hear another half dozen amazing songs, but this show had certainly made up for our needed fix of truly profoundly wonderful underground music as provided by the best of the best. I hope they will come back and play more. Sometime before we're all too old to enjoy a good moshpit.

-bobby bunny