Random thoughts from a digital drummingfish swimming upriver throwing plastic discs while shooting jumpers.

How did Burden Brothers not catch fire?

Posted: August 17th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | No Comments »

I mean…

I’m glad that Toadies are back together and Vaden Lewis has rediscovered that great band’s power again.

But, his short alliance with Taz (from Reverend Horton Heat) and partners in Burden Brothers was poised for kickassdom. I’m still kind of surprised nobody caught on to them.

Here’s a video for “Shadow” from their first record.

I highly recommend an investigation into both their records if you dig this.
Well worth the coin for some kick ass rock with amazing vocals.


Safe and happy journey, Les Paul

Posted: August 13th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: My Music | No Comments »

So utterly sad to hear that Les Paul has left this world.

I never had a chance to meet him in person but I did have the opportunity to see him play for Gibson at NAMM in 1995. He was debuting some new Les Paul signature line with guys like Slash and others.

He seemed so genuine and honest in his playing and in his conversation.
Without him, the electric guitar would be a much different beast.

All musician’s owe him a debt of gratitude and respect.
RIP Les.


Jeff Beck slays, Vinnie rules too part 39

Posted: August 5th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | No Comments »

Currently, I am obsessed with Jeff Beck’s recent live album entitled “Performing this week – at Ronnie Scott’s, Jeff Beck”.

Aside from the sound quality (absolutely stellar), the ungodly playing of all in the band, it’s a uniquely satisfying listen.

As a musician I am astounded when I hear playing like this and the physical abilities of the players. Doesn’t hurt that my man Vinnie Colaiuta is on the tubs making Beck’s music breathe and jump like I don’t think it ever has.

Here’s a great clip from the DVD of “Nadia” to get a taste.


Rocking for your Friday

Posted: July 24th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | No Comments »

Somehow, someway, at least once every 2 weeks or so I am reminded of the time I spent living in Kansas City, Missouri in the late 90′s. It’s a good thing mind you, not a bad thing.

But invariably the reminder is in the form of music, a band, something.

Today, I am reminded of one of the most overlooked and undervalued 90′s KCMO rock bands: Molly McGuire.

Check out this clip from 1996 recorded at the Whiskey doing “Stand Up” from their first major label disc called “Lime”.

The power they had onstage was incredible but Jason “Meatsuit” Gerken was the engine of the band. Check out his amazing groove and drumming ability.


Thomas Lang makes me ill

Posted: June 29th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Drumming | No Comments »

OK.

First, yes, this guy’s fashion sense is abominable. I mean, look at this get up….

But, man, can he play. His physical abilities matched with musical ones would make any self-respecting drummer or drumming fan twist over double backward. This clip is from one of his recent DVD tutorials and is just a snippet….

Watch his foot speed and overall ability to mess with the time with blinding skill and accuracy. Thomas Lang, you make me ill.


Old School Van Halen

Posted: June 5th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | Tags: | No Comments »

Because it’s Friday, and well…this song still rocks.

Enjoy.


He crush on Vinnie Colaiuta

Posted: June 1st, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Drumming | Tags: | No Comments »

To a lot of drummers, Vinnie Colaiuta is a gold standard to gauge one’s abilities against.

For some.

Some of us, myself included, realize we will never be this kind of player or simply do not ascribe to be this kind of player. That said, even though I know this about myself I can appreciate his greatness and do. Often.

Here’s a clip of a fusionoid super group called Karizma with mega players like Michael Landau on guitar, Neil Stubbenhouse on bass and Dave Garfield on keys.

My man Vinnie obviously is slamming away on the tubs.


NIN going away?!

Posted: May 22nd, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | Tags: | No Comments »

How can Nine Inch Nails go away when they play this fiercely?

I’m bummed I will miss this tour but I think Trent might want to reconsider the notion of retiring the live show.


Recognize: Bobby Rondinelli

Posted: May 1st, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Drumming, My Music | Tags: , , | No Comments »

I recently got back in touch with some favorite musician’s from my musical formative years.

Part of that includes favorite rock drummers from the late 70′s and 80′s and Bobby Rondinelli is near the top of that list.

Here’s a solo from a few years back with his band The Lizards:

Such a great showman.
Enjoy.


We need the Clash back

Posted: April 20th, 2009 | Author: Greg | Filed under: Bands | Tags: | No Comments »

Just watch this interview from 1981 with Tom Snyder.

We need bands to have integrity again:

Bring em back!