Fresh on the heels of Toad Hall's departure, a Brit landed in our Sonoran Desert, to host mornings on KDKB from 77-78. Anyone remember Barry Everitt?
Barry is now back in London, hosting an Americana, Blues, Roots-Rock Show called House of Mercy.
Radio Free Phoenix will be broadcasting the three hour show beginning at 12 midnight on Saturdays.
Here's last week's playlist for a sampling of House of Mercy:
House of Mercy radio playlist 7th June 2008
in-session Robert Fisher from the Willard Grant Conspiracy
Intro - Into The Red - Tammy Rogers
Joe's Gone Riding - Patricia Vonne
Billy The Kid - Charlie Daniels
These Were The Days - Will Hoge
Wheels Inside The Wheel - Mary Gauthier
Poison - BR
549Forty - John Eddie
It's A Hoot - The Million Stars
The Other Kind - Steve Earle
Country Soul Brother - Jesse Dayton
Countrified Soul - Emerson Drive
Save A Horse Ride A Cowboy - Big & Rich
Nowhere To Sleep - Chatham County Line
Drunkards Lone Child - The Stairwell Sisiters
Robert Fisher in session
Gotta Serve Somebody - Bob Dylan
Shine On - The New Giants'
Wolves (Song Of The Shepherds Dog) - Iron & Wine
City That Care Forgot - Dr. John
Drinking Muddy Water - The Mississippi All Stars
Can't Stand The Weather - Stevie Ray Vaughan
Round Midnight - Conil
Hey! You Going My Way - Jim White
Find A Finger - The Minus Five
Ding Dong - Johnny Dowd
I'm Insane - T. Model Ford
Heart Attack & Vine - Screaming Jay Hawkins
Rolling Stone - Muddy Waters
Muddy Water Blues - Paul Rogers
Paper Bag - The Pack A.D.
How Far Can To Far Go - The Cramps
Lover Street - Heavy Trash
Broken Down Gambler - The Wilders
Leaving Town - The Maybelles
El Paso - The Gourds
Nobody's Sleeping - Anne McCue---------------------------------------------------
If you happen to catch the show, Andy Olson, Radio Free Phoenix Program Director, would love to hear your comments! Or, for more info on House of Mercy, visit www.houseofmercy.net
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Blog Buzz, Bart Bull, and Americana Music
All right! That's a little more like it! I'm happy to see new faces joining in and old friends returning. Building a community (online or otherwise) is tough, but maintaining one is even tougher. There's only one way to do it: let's keep talking with each other. If we can maintain some momentum through the summer, maybe we can have another party at the Alwyn House this fall. Keep the buzz going!
I hope you all enjoyed the Channel 8 show. Marty Manning made huge contributions to the program, both on and off-camera. We owe more to this this fine gentleman and his wife Wendy than we can every repay. My old friend Paul Lowes and I also spent many hours meeting with the producers, providing tapes and newspaper clippings and making a case for KCAC/KDKB as an important cultural force in 1970s Phoenix. I think this was reflected in the final cut of the show. It was a wonderful tribute, not just to the personalities involved but also to the freewheeling, anything-goes spirit of those days.
Incidentally, Paul has an amazing story about his first encounter with KCAC. I'm trying to get him to write it up and post it on the blog. If he doesn't, I'll paraphrase the story and post it myself - but he could do it better.
As for the Bart Bull controversy: I remember his brilliant, sometimes scathing writing for New Times, including a two-piece article about the descent of KDKB into corporate programming. If he wants to criticize our efforts or challenge our perceived notions, all the more reason for him to post it and us to read it! He might ask some tough questions; he might rip us to shreds. His comments might hurt or offend. But they would represent the viewpoint of someone who was there, and they would challenge us in ways we might never challenge ourselves or each other.
Besides which... Bart is called out with a "thanks to" in the notes to one of my favorite CDs of the last 20 years, David Halley's "Stray Dog Talk". I don't know what role Bart played in David Halley's career or in the production of that album, but if he played any role at all I'd happily take whatever tongue-lashing Bart might want to give me. (Bloggers, if you've never heard of David Halley, he is possibly the finest singer/songwriter to ever come out of the Austin scene. The CD I mentioned blows away the competition, not by doing anything radically different than the others, but by doing it so much better that they look like rank amateurs.)
Finally, continuing in a more music-based vein: regular readers know that I lean pretty heavily toward the Americana side of the dial - the rock/folk/country hybrid that John Stewart perfected so long ago, and that is still being practiced by folks like Andy Hersey, Dave Alvin, and Buddy Miller. One of the premiere Americana acts of the last several years was the Hacienda Brothers, which featured two superb singer/songwriters in Chris Gaffney and Dave Gonzales. I saw them a couple of times at the Rhythm Room here in Phoenix, and they tore the roof off the proverbial dump. Chris Gaffney died of liver cancer earlier this year, but Dave Gonzales will be playing a special memorial show at the Rhythm Room this coming Tuesday, June 10th. Admission is free (let me repeat that: FREE!), but donations to offset the family's medical bills are encouraged. The band's last CD, "Arizona Motel" (recorded in Tucson) will also be available. I'll be there on Tuesday evening, and I hope I see some of you there too.
There's a nice article about the upcoming show in today's Arizona Republic (Sunday 6/8/08, Section E, page 8). The link below may or may not work (sometimes links seem to vanish into cyberspace when I try to include them here), but as an alternative you can do a Google search using the key words "Hacienda Brothers Arizona Republic".
I hope you all enjoyed the Channel 8 show. Marty Manning made huge contributions to the program, both on and off-camera. We owe more to this this fine gentleman and his wife Wendy than we can every repay. My old friend Paul Lowes and I also spent many hours meeting with the producers, providing tapes and newspaper clippings and making a case for KCAC/KDKB as an important cultural force in 1970s Phoenix. I think this was reflected in the final cut of the show. It was a wonderful tribute, not just to the personalities involved but also to the freewheeling, anything-goes spirit of those days.
Incidentally, Paul has an amazing story about his first encounter with KCAC. I'm trying to get him to write it up and post it on the blog. If he doesn't, I'll paraphrase the story and post it myself - but he could do it better.
As for the Bart Bull controversy: I remember his brilliant, sometimes scathing writing for New Times, including a two-piece article about the descent of KDKB into corporate programming. If he wants to criticize our efforts or challenge our perceived notions, all the more reason for him to post it and us to read it! He might ask some tough questions; he might rip us to shreds. His comments might hurt or offend. But they would represent the viewpoint of someone who was there, and they would challenge us in ways we might never challenge ourselves or each other.
Besides which... Bart is called out with a "thanks to" in the notes to one of my favorite CDs of the last 20 years, David Halley's "Stray Dog Talk". I don't know what role Bart played in David Halley's career or in the production of that album, but if he played any role at all I'd happily take whatever tongue-lashing Bart might want to give me. (Bloggers, if you've never heard of David Halley, he is possibly the finest singer/songwriter to ever come out of the Austin scene. The CD I mentioned blows away the competition, not by doing anything radically different than the others, but by doing it so much better that they look like rank amateurs.)
Finally, continuing in a more music-based vein: regular readers know that I lean pretty heavily toward the Americana side of the dial - the rock/folk/country hybrid that John Stewart perfected so long ago, and that is still being practiced by folks like Andy Hersey, Dave Alvin, and Buddy Miller. One of the premiere Americana acts of the last several years was the Hacienda Brothers, which featured two superb singer/songwriters in Chris Gaffney and Dave Gonzales. I saw them a couple of times at the Rhythm Room here in Phoenix, and they tore the roof off the proverbial dump. Chris Gaffney died of liver cancer earlier this year, but Dave Gonzales will be playing a special memorial show at the Rhythm Room this coming Tuesday, June 10th. Admission is free (let me repeat that: FREE!), but donations to offset the family's medical bills are encouraged. The band's last CD, "Arizona Motel" (recorded in Tucson) will also be available. I'll be there on Tuesday evening, and I hope I see some of you there too.
There's a nice article about the upcoming show in today's Arizona Republic (Sunday 6/8/08, Section E, page 8). The link below may or may not work (sometimes links seem to vanish into cyberspace when I try to include them here), but as an alternative you can do a Google search using the key words "Hacienda Brothers Arizona Republic".
Friday, June 06, 2008
Thoughts on the candidates' economic platforms...
A big philosophical difference exists between Barack Obama and John McCain concerning their approach to our economic difficulties. The Republican (McCain's) approach is to ease the tax burden on corporations and businesses in the assumption that they will be able to grow their businesses, hire more people and stimulate the economy. The Democrat philosophy (Obama's) is to create government programs that benefit the public and employ a lot of people that way. Of course there are more elements in each candidate's platforms, but let's look at this fundamental philosophical contrast.
First, both points of view have some rational validity. It's true that Reagan's 'trickle-down' economics theory seems basically sound, and it's also true that the Democrat concept of government programs will work, as it did so well with FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps. Both also have their flaws. Trickle-down economics works if corporations and businesses put the public interest ahead of profit in their list of priorities. Unfortunately it doesn't seem that this is likely to happen. The problem with the Democrat principle is that it results in "bigger government" (i.e. higher taxes) and more regulation.
When one considers these options one must also reflect on the history of our economic decline. There are, of course, innumerable factors, but a fundamental one that seems to sort of jump out is that corporations have had the opportunity to find a proper, or at least workable, balance between profit-margin and public interest values for decades, and have done rather badly, to say the very least. They might have observed the Native American rule that, when confronted with issues that affect the entire tribe, elders must contemplate the impact of their decisions on the next seven generations. Think about that for a minute. Compare it with our current world paradigm. The corporations had more than enough time to balance their priorities a little more on the side of sustainable viability and resource conservation, and a little less on the side of short-term profit, if they were at all so inclined, but they have far too often chosen the course of voracious greed.
There is always an inherent tension between the concepts of individual freedom and social responsibility. Anarchy would be an ideal lifestyle if everyone would cooperate and behave responsibly and honorably. Free trade would be an ideal business model if corporations were willing to balance their quest for profit with their moral responsibility to serve the long-term public interest. Well, people and businesses just don't always do the right thing - it's a fact. Some of us are monstrously selfish. Therefore, we need guidelines, rules, government, and regulation. For both people and businesses. And the degree to which we need them depends on the degree to which people and businesses exercise their freedom without regard for the consequences of their actions. Lately that's been quite a lot, so it would follow that quite a lot of regulation is
required.
In an ideal world corporations would voluntarily shift their focus from profit-driven endeavors to those that settle for a little less profit for doing something that truly serves the public interest. They'd self-regulate. Creating jobs in the "green" industry and building businesses that produce valuable goods and services at reasonable cost would be a good example. Downsizing business enterprises so they can tailor their products and services to local needs would be another. Sacrificing immediate profit for long-term goodwill and sensible resource management
practices would be another. Unfortunately, we don't live on that planet. Corporations on this planet have had the opportunity to do this for ... forever, for as long as there have been corporations. What on earth... or anywhere else for that matter... could possibly make us think that the Republican policy of allowing businesses and corporations more freedom will result in a shift in the corporate paradigm profound enough to save the economy or our planet? Our recent experiences with a Republican administration and Congress prove unequivocally that relaxing government regulation on corporations, granting them favors and trusting them to "do the right thing," has had disastrous results. Perhaps some day our species might evolve to the point where we don't need strict regulation of commerce, but in view of our clear and present crisis it seems pretty obvious that a significant stiffening of the regulation of businesses must occur, and we must stop entrusting them with our future - they've broken that trust too many times already. Someone said insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.
Obama's proposal, in line with the Democrat platform, is to establish government programs that will create (or encourage the private sector creation of) "green collar" and other jobs that serve the public interest (e.g. health industry, understaffed agencies and departments of the government itself, etc.), and a number of others in related infrastructures. This would not only stimulate the economy, it would move us quite a bit closer to that seventh generation concept. Of course none of us wants "bigger government" intruding into our lives... at least not in the way we're used to experiencing it... but a more benevolent government, one that has our long-term interests and welfare at heart, might be a bit more welcome, don't you think? And as for taxes, well, we get what we pay for. If we want a good government, it's gonna cost us, but the benefits will far outweight that cost. Cheap government is bad government, and look at how much bad government has been costing us! A whole lot more than higher taxes, in the short term, and in the long haul... some of our decisions are costing future generations more than we can possibly calculate. The choice seems clear to me, but I suppose many will continue to work to emasculate the government and empower greedy and powerful national and international corporations. It will no doubt be argued for some time yet, until we find that delicate balance between having enough government but not too much. In the meantime we'd better make a severe course correction or we're headed for the rocks.
First, both points of view have some rational validity. It's true that Reagan's 'trickle-down' economics theory seems basically sound, and it's also true that the Democrat concept of government programs will work, as it did so well with FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps. Both also have their flaws. Trickle-down economics works if corporations and businesses put the public interest ahead of profit in their list of priorities. Unfortunately it doesn't seem that this is likely to happen. The problem with the Democrat principle is that it results in "bigger government" (i.e. higher taxes) and more regulation.
When one considers these options one must also reflect on the history of our economic decline. There are, of course, innumerable factors, but a fundamental one that seems to sort of jump out is that corporations have had the opportunity to find a proper, or at least workable, balance between profit-margin and public interest values for decades, and have done rather badly, to say the very least. They might have observed the Native American rule that, when confronted with issues that affect the entire tribe, elders must contemplate the impact of their decisions on the next seven generations. Think about that for a minute. Compare it with our current world paradigm. The corporations had more than enough time to balance their priorities a little more on the side of sustainable viability and resource conservation, and a little less on the side of short-term profit, if they were at all so inclined, but they have far too often chosen the course of voracious greed.
There is always an inherent tension between the concepts of individual freedom and social responsibility. Anarchy would be an ideal lifestyle if everyone would cooperate and behave responsibly and honorably. Free trade would be an ideal business model if corporations were willing to balance their quest for profit with their moral responsibility to serve the long-term public interest. Well, people and businesses just don't always do the right thing - it's a fact. Some of us are monstrously selfish. Therefore, we need guidelines, rules, government, and regulation. For both people and businesses. And the degree to which we need them depends on the degree to which people and businesses exercise their freedom without regard for the consequences of their actions. Lately that's been quite a lot, so it would follow that quite a lot of regulation is
required.
In an ideal world corporations would voluntarily shift their focus from profit-driven endeavors to those that settle for a little less profit for doing something that truly serves the public interest. They'd self-regulate. Creating jobs in the "green" industry and building businesses that produce valuable goods and services at reasonable cost would be a good example. Downsizing business enterprises so they can tailor their products and services to local needs would be another. Sacrificing immediate profit for long-term goodwill and sensible resource management
practices would be another. Unfortunately, we don't live on that planet. Corporations on this planet have had the opportunity to do this for ... forever, for as long as there have been corporations. What on earth... or anywhere else for that matter... could possibly make us think that the Republican policy of allowing businesses and corporations more freedom will result in a shift in the corporate paradigm profound enough to save the economy or our planet? Our recent experiences with a Republican administration and Congress prove unequivocally that relaxing government regulation on corporations, granting them favors and trusting them to "do the right thing," has had disastrous results. Perhaps some day our species might evolve to the point where we don't need strict regulation of commerce, but in view of our clear and present crisis it seems pretty obvious that a significant stiffening of the regulation of businesses must occur, and we must stop entrusting them with our future - they've broken that trust too many times already. Someone said insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.
Obama's proposal, in line with the Democrat platform, is to establish government programs that will create (or encourage the private sector creation of) "green collar" and other jobs that serve the public interest (e.g. health industry, understaffed agencies and departments of the government itself, etc.), and a number of others in related infrastructures. This would not only stimulate the economy, it would move us quite a bit closer to that seventh generation concept. Of course none of us wants "bigger government" intruding into our lives... at least not in the way we're used to experiencing it... but a more benevolent government, one that has our long-term interests and welfare at heart, might be a bit more welcome, don't you think? And as for taxes, well, we get what we pay for. If we want a good government, it's gonna cost us, but the benefits will far outweight that cost. Cheap government is bad government, and look at how much bad government has been costing us! A whole lot more than higher taxes, in the short term, and in the long haul... some of our decisions are costing future generations more than we can possibly calculate. The choice seems clear to me, but I suppose many will continue to work to emasculate the government and empower greedy and powerful national and international corporations. It will no doubt be argued for some time yet, until we find that delicate balance between having enough government but not too much. In the meantime we'd better make a severe course correction or we're headed for the rocks.
Monday, June 02, 2008
New Bloggers Q&A - Welcome to KCAC Lives!
In a few comments by new bloggers I was asked about the blog, so I'm going to attempt to give some history. The archives are the best place to start, but for the short version, here's my shot: First, it's fabulous to see new names commenting on the blog! Tell us about yourselves (if you are not in the witness protection program) (o: Bring up a topic you want to talk about!! Don't be shy! We're truly a community and you don't have to be someone "who was there" in the 1970's KCAC and KDKB days (o: to be part of it. We LOVE hearing from new people and talking about ALL SORTS OF THINGS.
Am I the blog administrator? Well, not exactly, but sort of, by default. How's that for a definitive answer? Seriously, Jimmy Magahern (one of the Valley's long time favorite freelance writers) actually created this blog. Jimmy wrote for New Times for years. You can read some outstanding articles by Jimmy Magahern on intriguing topics (REALLY interesting stuff!) for Phoenix Magazine. He brings a whole new perspective to the magazine. FYI if you want to read some of the best articles written for the New Times over the years, go to their site and archive Jimmy's stuff. No, Jimmy is not paying me to say these things (o: in fact he may be embarrassed that I am saying them but they ARE true.
Somewhere in the KCAC LIVES! archives Jimmy Magahern wrote the story about about how he got involved via Russ Shaw and Marty Manning, original KCAC/KDKB guys. Maybe Jimmy will check in and tell you the story again himself. He can do it much better than I can! The blog was really busy for a long time, lots of stuff happened (go back thru the archives from the beginning if you want a real trip down AZ Mamory Lane!) So it's really a joint effort headed up by Jimmy Magahern. But if he hadn't started this blog it would not exist. There are some amazing (and embarrassing) (o: KCAC circa photos in the archives as well. Check it out.
I got involved when I had a radio show a few years ago. I became aware of the blog because there is a link to Radio Free Phoenix (RFP's a 24/7 commercial free music internet station that honors the KCAC days with its name, format and REAL people doing air shifts!I Gasp!!) I was drawn to it because of the historically fascinating (and entertaining as all get out) stuff written by Jimmy, Marty Manning, Russ Shaw, Ron Wortham, and other veteran radio heads like Radio Free Phoenix creator Andy Olson and RFP and KOOL radio personality Liz Boyle. Jimmy noticed the comments I was writing to their posts and began putting them in as 'articles' such as this one. Then he asked me to be a contributor (see sidebar, there are many of us!)
I really got acquainted with Jimmy when I asked if he'd be interested in contacting Arizona's internationally known rock and roll photographer LISSA WALES to do an article about Promoter Danny Zelisko and drummer Troy Lucketta's huge benefit concert for Lissa called DRUMMER-PALOOZA (October 2005.) Jimmy did a really cool interview with Lissa for a New Times piece about DRUMMER PALOOZA. Lissa was really happy he'd called her and got a big boost out of talking with him. Jimmy emailed to thank me for referring him to Lissa and said he greatly enjoyed talking to her. Jimmy seemed like a really outstanding, authentic human being (o: as well as writer, so when he asked me to be a contributor I was honored to be part of the team.
Sadly Lissa Wales never got to read Jimmy's article, or any of my articles on this and other websites or see the benefit. Lissa knew her sister brought Jimmy's New Times article to her and it was on the table by her hospital bed. She'd undergone a second successful bone marrow transplant and then fate reared its head. Lissa Wale's wonderful, unique spirit kept shining brightly here on terra firma until she died in October 2005 very shortly after the benefit concert. Lissa battled leukemia for 18 months. Lissa's spirit and talent is so well known and cherished by those who knew her, her name STILL appears as a contributing photographer for L.A. based DRUM MAGAZINE (a glossy internationally read drum magazine) and Lissa's famous photos are all over the websites of VERY famous bands. Her specialty was shooting drummers. Check out her photos on own website at lissawales.com and also on the website azmusicandentertianmenthalloffame.org (or just azmusichalloffame.org)
Back to the blog: As a native, long involved in AZ arts and entertainment, I have both an artistic and emotional connection to this website, and when Ron Wortham (another KCAC original) and I started contributing like crazy, Ron became the main administrator along with Jimmy. When he decided not to do it anymore he asked me to step into his shoes, which are way too big for me to ever fill. Jimmy, of course, still is the main administrator, but he is up to his eyeballs with his freelance career. So, I do what I can.
Aaack! Edit, edit, I know! Sorry!
Am I the blog administrator? Well, not exactly, but sort of, by default. How's that for a definitive answer? Seriously, Jimmy Magahern (one of the Valley's long time favorite freelance writers) actually created this blog. Jimmy wrote for New Times for years. You can read some outstanding articles by Jimmy Magahern on intriguing topics (REALLY interesting stuff!) for Phoenix Magazine. He brings a whole new perspective to the magazine. FYI if you want to read some of the best articles written for the New Times over the years, go to their site and archive Jimmy's stuff. No, Jimmy is not paying me to say these things (o: in fact he may be embarrassed that I am saying them but they ARE true.
Somewhere in the KCAC LIVES! archives Jimmy Magahern wrote the story about about how he got involved via Russ Shaw and Marty Manning, original KCAC/KDKB guys. Maybe Jimmy will check in and tell you the story again himself. He can do it much better than I can! The blog was really busy for a long time, lots of stuff happened (go back thru the archives from the beginning if you want a real trip down AZ Mamory Lane!) So it's really a joint effort headed up by Jimmy Magahern. But if he hadn't started this blog it would not exist. There are some amazing (and embarrassing) (o: KCAC circa photos in the archives as well. Check it out.
I got involved when I had a radio show a few years ago. I became aware of the blog because there is a link to Radio Free Phoenix (RFP's a 24/7 commercial free music internet station that honors the KCAC days with its name, format and REAL people doing air shifts!I Gasp!!) I was drawn to it because of the historically fascinating (and entertaining as all get out) stuff written by Jimmy, Marty Manning, Russ Shaw, Ron Wortham, and other veteran radio heads like Radio Free Phoenix creator Andy Olson and RFP and KOOL radio personality Liz Boyle. Jimmy noticed the comments I was writing to their posts and began putting them in as 'articles' such as this one. Then he asked me to be a contributor (see sidebar, there are many of us!)
I really got acquainted with Jimmy when I asked if he'd be interested in contacting Arizona's internationally known rock and roll photographer LISSA WALES to do an article about Promoter Danny Zelisko and drummer Troy Lucketta's huge benefit concert for Lissa called DRUMMER-PALOOZA (October 2005.) Jimmy did a really cool interview with Lissa for a New Times piece about DRUMMER PALOOZA. Lissa was really happy he'd called her and got a big boost out of talking with him. Jimmy emailed to thank me for referring him to Lissa and said he greatly enjoyed talking to her. Jimmy seemed like a really outstanding, authentic human being (o: as well as writer, so when he asked me to be a contributor I was honored to be part of the team.
Sadly Lissa Wales never got to read Jimmy's article, or any of my articles on this and other websites or see the benefit. Lissa knew her sister brought Jimmy's New Times article to her and it was on the table by her hospital bed. She'd undergone a second successful bone marrow transplant and then fate reared its head. Lissa Wale's wonderful, unique spirit kept shining brightly here on terra firma until she died in October 2005 very shortly after the benefit concert. Lissa battled leukemia for 18 months. Lissa's spirit and talent is so well known and cherished by those who knew her, her name STILL appears as a contributing photographer for L.A. based DRUM MAGAZINE (a glossy internationally read drum magazine) and Lissa's famous photos are all over the websites of VERY famous bands. Her specialty was shooting drummers. Check out her photos on own website at lissawales.com and also on the website azmusicandentertianmenthalloffame.org (or just azmusichalloffame.org)
Back to the blog: As a native, long involved in AZ arts and entertainment, I have both an artistic and emotional connection to this website, and when Ron Wortham (another KCAC original) and I started contributing like crazy, Ron became the main administrator along with Jimmy. When he decided not to do it anymore he asked me to step into his shoes, which are way too big for me to ever fill. Jimmy, of course, still is the main administrator, but he is up to his eyeballs with his freelance career. So, I do what I can.
Aaack! Edit, edit, I know! Sorry!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Watch Channel 8 on June 2nd at 7:00 PM!!!
I've just watched an advance screening of "Arizona Memories from the 1970s", which will air on Channel 8 on Monday, June 2nd. The show will include a segment about KCAC and KDKB, with a special emphasis on Bill Compton. Marty Manning makes a number of appearances, along with Hans Olson, Jerry Riopelle, Alice Cooper, and the Tubes. Be sure to watch!!!
Tom
Tom
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Travis Edmonson Honored At Concert Friday May 9
Fiddler's Dream Coffeehouse Celebrates Travis Edmondson
Don't Miss This One!!
Don't Miss This One!!
CONCERT FOR TRAVIS EDMONDSON - FRIDAY, MAY 9TH AT 8PM
'All my waking hours are in terms of music. I see it in my mind. I know when it's right, and I know when it's wrong. Everything that has a sound is music to me,' says Travis, one of folk music's greatest legends and half of the 1950's and 1960's duo of Bud and Travis. That vantage point has served him throughout his life and continues to be a great source of inspiration, despite some minor chords along the way.
In the early 1960's, Bud and Travis performed 'The Time of Man', an antiwar song written by Travis, on the floor of Congress. 'The Time of Man' was about the use of atomic energy and is known throughout the world. In 1982, Travis' ability to play the guitar was stolen as a result of an aneurysm and a stroke. 'It came as a great shock. I couldn't play. It was a heart breaker. It would have been easier not to be able to walk.'
Ironically, Bud suffered an inoperable brain tumor at the same time. Travis says, 'I was paralyzed on the left, and he on the right.' Bud died in the late 1980's. Their wonderful spirit and music will be shared on this special night! Admission is by suggested donation of $20, which will go to Travis and Rose Marie. The night's schedule includes The Santa Cruz River Band, Sue Harris, Gaylan Taylor, Don and Victoria Armstrong, Joe Bethancourt, Earl Edmonson, Chris Burton Jacome, Oscar Cisneros, Ron Iverson, and a surprise special guest or two! The concert will be held in the large room. Spread the word and bring a friend! Bring your albums! Travis will be there to say hello, it will be a very special evening.
from Fiddler's Dream
To my KCAC LIVES Cohorts:
This is truly a once in a lifetime event. Travis Edmondson's legacy is worldwide. Let's all get out there and celebrate this incredible musician whose body of work helped define the musical consciousness of a generation. Jimmy, talk about a story worth writing!! Hope you can be there!
Mariah
Monday, May 05, 2008
"Arizona in the 1970s" program
Watch Channel 8 on June 2nd for the big "Arizona in the 1970s" special. I'm told that there will be clips of KCAC and KDKB audio, and a discussion of how Phoenix radio and music evolved during the 1970s. Hans Olson, Jerry Ripoelle, Alice Cooper, the Tubes, Bob Boze Bell, and Wonderful Russ have all been interviewed on film for the show. There will be many other 1970s topics addressed, of course - the Don Bolles murder, the Orme Dam controversy, the floods of 1978, the Bicentennial, etc. None of these stories will be explored at great length, since the show is designed to feature an entire decade in one hour, but it will be well worth watching.
For anyone who has been following my KCAC tape preservation project: I need a little help from my friends to get this job done within a reasonable time frame. Please contact me if you can offer any technical support, advice, or training in digital audio management during May or June. Thanks,
Tom
For anyone who has been following my KCAC tape preservation project: I need a little help from my friends to get this job done within a reasonable time frame. Please contact me if you can offer any technical support, advice, or training in digital audio management during May or June. Thanks,
Tom
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Pacific Coast Photo Album
From Daniel:
"Hi!
I just made a trip down the west coast - drove from here in Lapine over to the coast at Florence, then south all the way to Seal Beach, which is just east of Long Beach, down by L.A. I stopped in Arcata and visited Chris, then drove down Highway 1 through the Mendocino coast and Big Sur, stopping frequently to take pictures. I've just uploaded 'em to a new Picasa album I named Pacific Coast. I hope you like 'em, and that you're enjoying life.
:~)aniel"
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Hello from Marty
Just dropped into the site to see what's happening. Not too many posts these days. Are we getting too old to remember? Or have we remembered enough? Hopefully it just means that we're all moving forward and staying busy. This technology thing is screaming into the future and as soon as you get one thing, there are 99 more! I've been having a lot of fun editing the Beth & Bill blog at www.kez999.com, and it's enabled me to stay employed and busy after 40 years in radio. I find that a lot of things that I'm doing now utilize the same skill set that kept me going in audio production for years, only now I get to play with graphics and layout as well. It keeps creating new wrinkles in my brain so I don't feel like I have to play crossword puzzles to keep from getting Alzheimer's. (Although I do like crosswords, but who has time!)
Saturday, April 12, 2008
A Night of "Playing Real Good for Free" (bow to Joni!)
Come and experience the rebirth of Music Night at Changing Hands. Hosted by Pinna Joseph who began the monthly tradition 30 years ago at their original Mill Avenue store (before poor Mill Ave got franchised to death) it has been many years since they’ve done one. It's a great way to hear some interesting music and connect with the music community.
A group of musicians will do mini-sets between 8:30 and 10:30 PM and I'll be among them. Haven't done a solo acoustic set in a LONG time. There are sure to be a lot of original songs performed that evening. These music nights traditionally were wonderful and nurtured some up and coming Arizona acoustic acts from blues to folk to jazz spanning several decades. Come on out and support this community music event!! Hey, what the heck! Bring the family!
Music Night 4/18/08
8:30 Mark Saylors “Locopelli” – Native American flutes
8:40 Tom Kruck – Guitar & Harmonica – “The Lost Freight Train”
8:50 William Love – Acoustic Guitar
9:00 “Black Velvet Band” - Five women playing Celtic music - from Tempe
9:10 Dennis Yee & Pinna Joseph – Cello & Voice
9:20 Tony Berardi - spontaneous improvisation with vocals & percussion
9:30 break
9:40 Korri Bernstein – Acoustic guitar / original songs
9:50 Mariah Fleming – guitar & voice - the original 'Anachronymph' Mariah does originals &
interpretations
10:00 Chris Burton Jacome – flamenco guitarist
10:10 Aleah Shaye – acoustic contemporary folk/blues
10:20 Call & Response Chanting with Pinna (for all to join in)
10:30 Short Jam - if time permits
For more info call Changing Hands 480 730 0205 (McClintock and Guadalupe on SW corner across from Trader Joe’s)
A group of musicians will do mini-sets between 8:30 and 10:30 PM and I'll be among them. Haven't done a solo acoustic set in a LONG time. There are sure to be a lot of original songs performed that evening. These music nights traditionally were wonderful and nurtured some up and coming Arizona acoustic acts from blues to folk to jazz spanning several decades. Come on out and support this community music event!! Hey, what the heck! Bring the family!
Music Night 4/18/08
8:30 Mark Saylors “Locopelli” – Native American flutes
8:40 Tom Kruck – Guitar & Harmonica – “The Lost Freight Train”
8:50 William Love – Acoustic Guitar
9:00 “Black Velvet Band” - Five women playing Celtic music - from Tempe
9:10 Dennis Yee & Pinna Joseph – Cello & Voice
9:20 Tony Berardi - spontaneous improvisation with vocals & percussion
9:30 break
9:40 Korri Bernstein – Acoustic guitar / original songs
9:50 Mariah Fleming – guitar & voice - the original 'Anachronymph' Mariah does originals &
interpretations
10:00 Chris Burton Jacome – flamenco guitarist
10:10 Aleah Shaye – acoustic contemporary folk/blues
10:20 Call & Response Chanting with Pinna (for all to join in)
10:30 Short Jam - if time permits
For more info call Changing Hands 480 730 0205 (McClintock and Guadalupe on SW corner across from Trader Joe’s)
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Link to John Stewart Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWwayDfJtkE
Click on the above link (or cut-and-paste it into your browswer) to see a clip from one of John Stewart's final performances. You Tube is amazing - there are many other clips of him available from the Kingston Trio days clear up to 2007, but this one is my favorite.
Is there anyone out there who could help me with some computer issues related to preservation of the KCAC tapes? I'm sure it's simple once you know how to do it, but I really need someone to walk me through the process a few times. Every time I think I have it figured out, the computer crashes or the audio file gets converted to some weird format that I can't use or something else happens that leaves me completely frustrated and baffled.
Click on the above link (or cut-and-paste it into your browswer) to see a clip from one of John Stewart's final performances. You Tube is amazing - there are many other clips of him available from the Kingston Trio days clear up to 2007, but this one is my favorite.
Is there anyone out there who could help me with some computer issues related to preservation of the KCAC tapes? I'm sure it's simple once you know how to do it, but I really need someone to walk me through the process a few times. Every time I think I have it figured out, the computer crashes or the audio file gets converted to some weird format that I can't use or something else happens that leaves me completely frustrated and baffled.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Coulda Been Worse...
My truck got stolen today. Right out of the parking lot at the Phoenix Art Museum, in broad daylight, no less. I was inside looking at the Illuminated Bible exhibition, and meanwhile someone was driving off in my 1986 Nissan 4x4. But here's the good news: my KCAC and KDKB memorabilia had been loaned out to Channel 8 for their upcoming special on Phoenix in the 1970s (see my previous post), and I had been scheduled to retrieve it all this morning on my way in to work. I was short on time, so I didn't do it. And then, this afternoon, coming home from work, I stopped off at the museum and... well, let's just be glad that I DIDN'T have all that stuff in the truck, because otherwise it would be gone. Anyhow, that Illuminated Bible exhibition is remarkable and well worth your time, but hurry up - it only runs through March 9th. And watch out for your ride.
Tom
Tom
Saturday, February 16, 2008
"Arizona Memories From the 1970s"
Channel 8 is producing an hour-long special on Arizona in the 1970s. The format will be similar to their previous specials on Arizona in the 1930s, 1950s, etc. I have been in touch with the show's producer, John Booth, and he is very much aware of the importance of KCAC and KDKB and all of the associated personalities during that period. I've already delivered one batch of tapes and memorabilia to him, and we have another meeting scheduled for Monday. The show will probably not air until June, but there's a good chance that progressive radio in Phoenix - and the community that revolved around it - will play a featured role. Stay tuned!
Tom
Tom
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Not John Stewart's Mother Country
As musicians and artists, we are not strangers to unethical tricks of the trade. As Tracey Ullman said in her one woman HBO show: "The bloody record industry are thieves!" So, it seems, is Congress. They're so pleased with themselves for agreeing on an 'economic stimulus package' to 'help' American consumers. Huh? Hear ye, hear ye, oh Fools on the Hill! The economy is being destroyed by the banking industry. Well educated, hard working Americans (AND YES, WASHINGTON, THAT INCLUDES MUSICIANS!) have been blindsided by unregulated interest rates. What good is a 'stimulus package' when interest rates on credit cards ride roughshod over the American consumer? Congress! If you want to help the American economy, stop this disgraceful practice!
As anyone who has had their credit card rates strangle them will attest, interest rates are no longer based on credit worthiness. Even if a credit history is perfect (it could happen!) interest rates can hike to 39.99% or more. No one is protected from banking's legal thievery. Not even the folks who opted for "REAL JOBS TO FALL BACK ON." Credit card companies have access to ALL of our consumer debt records! One late payment on a utility or phone bill allows the rate to skyrocket on any card, even if it has a spotless credit history.
The credit industry is out of control. We've all seen credit card companies hawk their cards at drunken student spring breaks and concerts; we're encouraged to charge groceries and fast food. Pay day loan "services", check cashing "services" and quick auto title loan businesses are on every street corner. They can legally advertise "the lowest possible interest rates" because no legal restriction exists!! Auto title loan 'services' typically charge 197% (yep, one hundred ninety seven percent) interest. Sure, there's 'no such thing as a free lunch' but since when is it okay for extortion to be served for dessert?
What's the matter, presidential hopefuls?! Big old cat got your tongue on this one?! People who serve in our military are forbidden to cash their military checks in check cashing 'convenience' marts! Our government at least protects them from as much as 197% interest from these ubiquitous legally sanctioned thieves!! But the question remains: how can the government turn its back on the rest of America??
We ought to tell Congress to take their $600 per person 'economic stimulus package' checks and eat 'em for lunch. Then it would be as hard to swallow for them as it is for the rest of us.
As anyone who has had their credit card rates strangle them will attest, interest rates are no longer based on credit worthiness. Even if a credit history is perfect (it could happen!) interest rates can hike to 39.99% or more. No one is protected from banking's legal thievery. Not even the folks who opted for "REAL JOBS TO FALL BACK ON." Credit card companies have access to ALL of our consumer debt records! One late payment on a utility or phone bill allows the rate to skyrocket on any card, even if it has a spotless credit history.
The credit industry is out of control. We've all seen credit card companies hawk their cards at drunken student spring breaks and concerts; we're encouraged to charge groceries and fast food. Pay day loan "services", check cashing "services" and quick auto title loan businesses are on every street corner. They can legally advertise "the lowest possible interest rates" because no legal restriction exists!! Auto title loan 'services' typically charge 197% (yep, one hundred ninety seven percent) interest. Sure, there's 'no such thing as a free lunch' but since when is it okay for extortion to be served for dessert?
What's the matter, presidential hopefuls?! Big old cat got your tongue on this one?! People who serve in our military are forbidden to cash their military checks in check cashing 'convenience' marts! Our government at least protects them from as much as 197% interest from these ubiquitous legally sanctioned thieves!! But the question remains: how can the government turn its back on the rest of America??
We ought to tell Congress to take their $600 per person 'economic stimulus package' checks and eat 'em for lunch. Then it would be as hard to swallow for them as it is for the rest of us.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Good Earth Rider
I had to drive to Quartzsite today on business. On the way there I took the shortest route, west from Phoenix on Interstate 10. Not the most exciting drive, but the desert all around me looked renewed by the recent rains - greener than I've seen it in years. On the way home I took the longer scenic route along old U.S. 60, through Brenda and Salome and Wenden and Wickenburg, then back down to Phoenix. On that return trip, I had John Stewart on the CD player: the "California Bloodlines" album in its entirety, most of "Willard", and highlights from "The Phoenix Concerts". Driving the two-lane road through those small towns, looking at the fields and orchards, the farmers in mud-covered pickup trucks, kids just getting out of school, the desert coming back to life, the massive hulk of the Harquahala Mountains wrapped in clouds, good Mexican food in Wickenburg, the Hassayampa River in flood... it was perfect. John Stewart's America is still out there, if you look hard enough. Get off of the freeways and out of the "stinking concrete cities" this weekend (or whenever you can) and you'll see what I mean.
Tom
Tom
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Singer-Songwriter John Stewart Passes
Long time valley favorite, singer-songwriter John Stewart passed away early Saturday morning following a stroke on Friday. It's a great loss and a sad day. Here's a link to a very reflective letter about John from his long-time friend and fan, Tom Deluse, creator of chillywinds.com, an official John Stewart site. John Stewart was scheduled to play his first date of a string of concerts this Sunday evening (January 27th) at The Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grill in Scottsdale. Instead this show will be a tribute concert to benefit his family. Radio Free Phoenix has been paying tribute to John, since Saturday morning with music and special programming. Today at 12 noon (January 21st, 2007) we will be rebroadcasting our music and interview special with John Stewart that aired just under two years ago. The show will also repeat this evening at 8pm (MST). Another special with Andy Olson will air this evening at 10pm (MST) on KWSS 106.7 in Scottsdale. This station is also broadcast on the web at:
KWSS1067.com
Another reflective post I've found about John Stewart is at this url:
The Lonesome Picker Rides Into the Sunset
John Stewart was truly a Wingless Angel and touched so many in his lifetime. We wish him godspeed..
Andy Olson
Radio Free Phoenix
KWSS1067.com
Another reflective post I've found about John Stewart is at this url:
The Lonesome Picker Rides Into the Sunset
John Stewart was truly a Wingless Angel and touched so many in his lifetime. We wish him godspeed..
Andy Olson
Radio Free Phoenix
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Great Way To Spend A Sunday!
ARIZONA EMBRACE: PRAYERS OF PEACE
WE REQUEST YOUR MAGNIFICENT PRESENCE!
WHO:
YOU: We are All part of the Human Family:
from All political parties / from All religious & spiritual practices /
All ages / All races / All professions / All All All...
In addition to our excellent speakers and singers listed on the attached flyer, we are honored to inform you that we will also be joined by former Phoenix Mayor John Driggs, and by Phoenix Councilman Michael Johnson.
WHAT:
ARIZONA EMBRACE: PRAYERS OF PEACE
~The First-Of-Its-Kind in Arizona & America!~
WHEN:
Sunday January 13, 2008
2-3 pm
(start gathering at 1:30 pm)
WHERE:
Arizona State Capitol
House of Representatives lawn
1700 W. Washington, Phoenix 85007
(free parking east and west of the Capitol)
WHY:
* To anchor the positive energies of 2008 in Arizona as the year of Connecting + Collaborating + Cooperating with all our elected officials on the eve of the opening of the Second Regular Session of the 48th Arizona Legislature, to come together to create inclusive and proactive solutions to our internal and external challenges;
* To anchor the positive energies for the Super Bowl when billions of global viewers will tune into the game on Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Arizona;
* To anchor the positive energies for the Beijing Olympics, when thousands of athletes and coaches from 90+ countries come together for 2 weeks in athletic excellence, in peace, Aug. 8-24, 2008;
* To anchor the positive energies for the local, state, and national 2008 elections on Nov. 4, 2008. You could be the next President; I could be the next President: we are ALL LEADERS, my friends!
* RSVP to terri@azdopcampaign.org
* Please let us know how many in your groups will attend.
* Check out our listing on the azleg.gov calendar:
http://azleg.gov/aspwebcalendar/calendar.asp
* Check out our listing on Shirley MacLaine's website:
http://www.shirleymaclaine.com/encounter/showthread.php?t=207270
* See related articles in Arizona Republic Calendar, p.21, Jan. 3, 2008 /
and Paradise Valley Independent, p. 4, Jan. 9, 2008 edition /
and "Church Women United in Phoenix" newsletter, Jan. 2008
* For more information on our hosting organizations, visit www.azdopcampaign.org and www.interfaitharizona.com.
Hugs of peace, love, light, laughter*****Terri
"ARIZONA EMBRACE: PRAYERS OF PEACE", JAN. 13, 2008, 2 PM, @ THE ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL / JOIN US! www.azdopcampaign.org
Terri Mansfield~Peace Ambassador~Executive Director, Arizona Dept. of Peace Campaign602.885.9058www.azdopcampaign.orgwww.thepeacealliance.orgwww.galaxiesforpeace.com"CO-CREATING PEACE ON EARTH & IN SPACE = THE DEPT. OF PEACE IN ACTION"
The proposed Cabinet level U.S. Department of Peace will research, articulate, and facilitate nonviolent solutions to domestic and international conflicts...and hold Peace as an organizing principle in society.
ArizonaEmbraceFlyer21.pdf
"Whoosh"
Sharon Elaine Porter
WE REQUEST YOUR MAGNIFICENT PRESENCE!
WHO:
YOU: We are All part of the Human Family:
from All political parties / from All religious & spiritual practices /
All ages / All races / All professions / All All All...
In addition to our excellent speakers and singers listed on the attached flyer, we are honored to inform you that we will also be joined by former Phoenix Mayor John Driggs, and by Phoenix Councilman Michael Johnson.
WHAT:
ARIZONA EMBRACE: PRAYERS OF PEACE
~The First-Of-Its-Kind in Arizona & America!~
WHEN:
Sunday January 13, 2008
2-3 pm
(start gathering at 1:30 pm)
WHERE:
Arizona State Capitol
House of Representatives lawn
1700 W. Washington, Phoenix 85007
(free parking east and west of the Capitol)
WHY:
* To anchor the positive energies of 2008 in Arizona as the year of Connecting + Collaborating + Cooperating with all our elected officials on the eve of the opening of the Second Regular Session of the 48th Arizona Legislature, to come together to create inclusive and proactive solutions to our internal and external challenges;
* To anchor the positive energies for the Super Bowl when billions of global viewers will tune into the game on Feb. 3, 2008, in Glendale, Arizona;
* To anchor the positive energies for the Beijing Olympics, when thousands of athletes and coaches from 90+ countries come together for 2 weeks in athletic excellence, in peace, Aug. 8-24, 2008;
* To anchor the positive energies for the local, state, and national 2008 elections on Nov. 4, 2008. You could be the next President; I could be the next President: we are ALL LEADERS, my friends!
* RSVP to terri@azdopcampaign.org
* Please let us know how many in your groups will attend.
* Check out our listing on the azleg.gov calendar:
http://azleg.gov/aspwebcalendar/calendar.asp
* Check out our listing on Shirley MacLaine's website:
http://www.shirleymaclaine.com/encounter/showthread.php?t=207270
* See related articles in Arizona Republic Calendar, p.21, Jan. 3, 2008 /
and Paradise Valley Independent, p. 4, Jan. 9, 2008 edition /
and "Church Women United in Phoenix" newsletter, Jan. 2008
* For more information on our hosting organizations, visit www.azdopcampaign.org and www.interfaitharizona.com.
Hugs of peace, love, light, laughter*****Terri
"ARIZONA EMBRACE: PRAYERS OF PEACE", JAN. 13, 2008, 2 PM, @ THE ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL / JOIN US! www.azdopcampaign.org
Terri Mansfield~Peace Ambassador~Executive Director, Arizona Dept. of Peace Campaign602.885.9058www.azdopcampaign.orgwww.thepeacealliance.orgwww.galaxiesforpeace.com"CO-CREATING PEACE ON EARTH & IN SPACE = THE DEPT. OF PEACE IN ACTION"
The proposed Cabinet level U.S. Department of Peace will research, articulate, and facilitate nonviolent solutions to domestic and international conflicts...and hold Peace as an organizing principle in society.
ArizonaEmbraceFlyer21.pdf
"Whoosh"
Sharon Elaine Porter
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Downtown Sculpture: "DIAPHANOUS YES - VISIONARY YEP"
Kim Moody and Alwun House have done so much to support those of us who are involved with this blog...lets all try to support this cause. Kim doesn't ask for much. And he gives an awful lot to the community. Without Kim Moody's efforts to keep Alwun House alive, Phoenix's arts culture would have burned out a long time ago.
Most unforgettable works of art and architecture are ridiculed until people give it a chance (think I.M. Pei's Louvre Pyramid, The Eiffel Tower, The Pompidou Center-which features outdoor changing exhibitions of sculpture that parents bring their kids to see!) Even if your sole motive is to stick it to the French, lets open our minds and move our feet to put Arizona on the arts map.
Here's Kim's message:
"Act now in your own creative way, or don't complain if Phoenix is just a 'backwater hick-town'; we're better than that!
One way or another, please voice your displeasure with select city staffers cutting off at the knees, our first biggest chance to have an image-able 21st Century City Center; with an art project at our municipal heart that speaks to our progressive energetic creative core! (our Mayor already gave away Patriots Square Park to City-scrape).
Phoenix is at a crossroad - do we step up and/or speak-up in defense of an exciting work by an International artist? (what a giant step backwards we'll all take as the bright new leading city, if bureaucratic twits arbitrarily succeed and STOP this project already in progress and budgeted)
There's a public hearing on Friday (below) and Council Meeting next week (watch the news for date and time - prepare to bring friends - come early to get a seat!!!)
Special Arts, Culture & Historic Preservation Subcommittee
Time: 1:30pm.
Date: Friday December 14th Phoenix City Hall: 200 W. Washington, Phoenix, AZ. on the 12th Floor.
"ALL WE ARE SAYING IS GIVE ART A CHANCE!!"- Mariah
Barenda Sperduti, ED, AZ Action for the Arts wrote:
As you may know, the City of Phoenix recently decided to cancel a planned public art project by artist Janet Echelman, selected for the Phoenix Civic Space, citing various issues. After the response from concerned citizens, the City has agreed to refer the issue to the sub-committee of the City Arts, Culture & Historic Preservation. The committee will review the issue and make a recommendation to the City Council. This is a public meeting that will give you the opportunity to let the City of Phoenix know that you value public art. Please cut and paste the following links for more information about the issue.
azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/1209art1209-ON.html">
azcentral/com/news/article/1210publicart1211/html">
Most unforgettable works of art and architecture are ridiculed until people give it a chance (think I.M. Pei's Louvre Pyramid, The Eiffel Tower, The Pompidou Center-which features outdoor changing exhibitions of sculpture that parents bring their kids to see!) Even if your sole motive is to stick it to the French, lets open our minds and move our feet to put Arizona on the arts map.
Here's Kim's message:
"Act now in your own creative way, or don't complain if Phoenix is just a 'backwater hick-town'; we're better than that!
One way or another, please voice your displeasure with select city staffers cutting off at the knees, our first biggest chance to have an image-able 21st Century City Center; with an art project at our municipal heart that speaks to our progressive energetic creative core! (our Mayor already gave away Patriots Square Park to City-scrape).
Phoenix is at a crossroad - do we step up and/or speak-up in defense of an exciting work by an International artist? (what a giant step backwards we'll all take as the bright new leading city, if bureaucratic twits arbitrarily succeed and STOP this project already in progress and budgeted)
There's a public hearing on Friday (below) and Council Meeting next week (watch the news for date and time - prepare to bring friends - come early to get a seat!!!)
Special Arts, Culture & Historic Preservation Subcommittee
Time: 1:30pm.
Date: Friday December 14th Phoenix City Hall: 200 W. Washington, Phoenix, AZ. on the 12th Floor.
"ALL WE ARE SAYING IS GIVE ART A CHANCE!!"- Mariah
Barenda Sperduti, ED, AZ Action for the Arts wrote:
As you may know, the City of Phoenix recently decided to cancel a planned public art project by artist Janet Echelman, selected for the Phoenix Civic Space, citing various issues. After the response from concerned citizens, the City has agreed to refer the issue to the sub-committee of the City Arts, Culture & Historic Preservation. The committee will review the issue and make a recommendation to the City Council. This is a public meeting that will give you the opportunity to let the City of Phoenix know that you value public art. Please cut and paste the following links for more information about the issue.
azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/1209art1209-ON.html">
azcentral/com/news/article/1210publicart1211/html">
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Support Live Local Music!
There's a good article by Larry Rodgers in today's Arizona Republic about the Hacienda Brothers, a fine "western soul" group with Tucson roots. They will be playing at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix this Wednesday night, December 12th. Anybody who likes the music of the Flying Burrito Brothers and Gram Parsons should be there! I've seen these guys twice before at the RR, and they are awesome live performers.
Also - Andy Hersey will be playing an acoustic "Happy Hour" gig at Club Mardis Gras in Scottsdale (8040 E. McDowell) this Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Not the most convenient hours, but a good chance to see him in a more intimate setting.
Finally - the Breadwinners, a terrific local bluegrass group, plays every Tuesday evening at the Red Owl, 2155 E. University in Tempe (at the southwest corner of University and Loop 101).
Take time out from the hectic Christmas season to attend one of more of these shows - you won't regret it!
Tom
Also - Andy Hersey will be playing an acoustic "Happy Hour" gig at Club Mardis Gras in Scottsdale (8040 E. McDowell) this Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Not the most convenient hours, but a good chance to see him in a more intimate setting.
Finally - the Breadwinners, a terrific local bluegrass group, plays every Tuesday evening at the Red Owl, 2155 E. University in Tempe (at the southwest corner of University and Loop 101).
Take time out from the hectic Christmas season to attend one of more of these shows - you won't regret it!
Tom
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
New sources of online music
The AMEHOF fundraiser was great fun. Thanks to all those who put it together, the folks at the Rhythm Room, and the artists who played there!
I thought you all might like to know about a few online sources for music that recalls the salad days of KCAC and KDKB.
Wolfgang's Vault contains the audio archives of Bill Graham. Apparently, he recorded nearly every concert he ever presented - at the Fillmores East and West and many other venues - and, incredibly, those are being offered as FREE streaming audio! We're talking about hundreds of previously unreleased concert recordings from the late 1960s through the 1980s, by artists such as the Who, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue, the Allman Brothers Band (with and without Duane), the Electric Flag, Jimi Hendrix, Ry Cooder, Warren Zevon, Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen (a legendary 1978 show, in its 3-hour entirety!), U2, Fleetwood Mac (the Peter Green era as well as the Stevie Nicks era), and Arizona's own Tubes in a pair of 1974 shows. Selected concerts are also available as MP3 downloads for $9.98 per show, regardless of length. This is a truly remarkable site! It contains a searchable database to find whatever artist you're interested in, including many lesser-known artists such as Tracy Nelson and the Incredible String Band. Finally, the site has a link to an online edition of Crawdaddy Magazine, which offers extensive and intelligent discussion of music past and present. The current issue has articles on Nick Drake, the Replacements, and Wilco, to name a few.
Also check out Rhino Handmade, which sells limited-edition reissues of classic albums, box sets, and previously unreleased material, all with top-notch sound quality and packaging, and often with bonus tracks. Their latest offering is a 2-disc reissue of Lee Hazelwood's 1960s Warner/Reprise solo albums. Only 5000 copies are being manufactured, and when they're sold out, they're off the market for good (except at inflated prices on EBay). This is a legitimate, label-sponsored site - no bootlegs or inferior quality! Accordingly, the discs are not cheap. The Lee Hazelwood set goes for $39.98 plus shipping and handling. Single-disc items are usually about $20. But where else are you going to find an entire, unreleased 1972 concert by Aretha Franklin, or studio outtakes and alternates by Tim Buckley, or a 1962 session by bluesman Mance Lipscomb? Again, there is a searchable database on this site that allows you to look up a particular artist, or to browse through the entire list.
There's also a rival site,, that offers similar deluxe treatments of material from other labels. I got a box set containing all of the Sir Douglas Quintet and Doug Sahm solo LPs from the 1960s, with extensive notes and numerous bonus tracks; and another box set of every recording made by Muddy Waters between 1952 and 1958; but many other titles are available. They are still in the process of a massive Motown reissue campaign that will include virtually everything recorded by that label in the 1960s. These limited-edition items are not cheap, but the quality is impeccable and much of this material is impossible to find in decent sound quality elsewhere.
Keep the for-profit sites in mind for Christmas gifts to your music-loving friends (or for yourself), but enjoy the incredible Wolfgang's Vault recordings FOR FREE anytime!
Tom
I thought you all might like to know about a few online sources for music that recalls the salad days of KCAC and KDKB.
Wolfgang's Vault
Also check out Rhino Handmade
There's also a rival site,
Keep the for-profit sites in mind for Christmas gifts to your music-loving friends (or for yourself), but enjoy the incredible Wolfgang's Vault recordings FOR FREE anytime!
Tom
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