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New KRE interview:
“DREAM THEATER:
A Light To Dark Interview with Mike Portnoy”
By: Michael Kohli
Premiering right here on Oct . 27, 2008
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"DREAM THEATER: A Light To Dark Interview with Mike Portnoy"
By: Michael Kohli
Is the music light or is it dark? Who is this Dream Theater? Do they have a hit single? Why, have I not heard of them? To the outside world of Dream Theater, these are common questions asked when you talk about a band like Dream Theater. Society in the mainstream music world, over the past 30 years, have created an illusion that you have to have a hit single in order to be accepted by the music world itself. Local bands immediately think that in order to make it you have to have a mainstream hit record. But, Dream Theater is a band that has had 23+ years of success and continues to be thriving. 20 years after that song, "Pull Me Under," caught the metal world by an 8+ minute storm, they have taught us that a band can survive through their own world and fans. Even their latest studio album, "Systematic Chaos," debuted at their highest position in the Top 20 on the Billboard charts. Im sure they are happy about it but, it's not a requirement for them. It's like an extra incentive bonus for their achievements, but they already have their own mainstream world of fans--even if the other parts of the music world don't "get" them yet.
The Progressive music genre has never really been understood by the music world. But, to the world of people that do get it, they do know Dream Theater! This is a genre in which bands are born to be creative in their music. Don't tell them you want a song in three minutes. Just put them in a room for 3 months and let them dive into their world and see what they come up with.
One of my favorite aspects when Dream Theater releases any new album is that you never know what you're going to get. If you listen to songs like, "A Change Of Seasons", "Peruvian Skies", "The Spirit Carries On", "Never Enough", "Learning To Live", and "Space-Dye Vest" all together at the same time--you will not believe the variety of music you will hear. They always keep each album and song different and exciting. Whether it's another 24+ minute epic song--as a Dream Theater fan--I know that every minute of the album is going to take me some place different. Does the whole world have to know them in order for their album to be a success? Oh, hell no! They've got a whole world of fans that really do "get" them. Just go to any concert of theirs and you will see the love for Dream Theater in the air. Any fan will tell you that this isnt a band that you can just casually get into. It takes a lot of time to really get to know the world of Dream Theater. If you are impatient and you want to hear a song in 4 minutes and for it to be over quickly, then Dream Theater is not the band for you. But, if you are a music fan that likes to kick back either on a long drive or in your living room, Dream Theater is a band that could take you on many great travels!
As of this writing, the band is currently in the studio preparing to launch their next chapter after 23 years of success. They just released a retrospective collection this year. And, they also just released a new 5 disc DVD/CD set, "Chaos In Motion 2007-2008." During the midst of all this, I had the honor of talking to Mike Portnoy during his last week of vacation. It was a huge honor on my part. Dream Theater has been a part of my life for over 17 years myself. I got into them right when their, "Pull Me Under," song became a hit. Back then, I was just in grade school listening to the old Pirate Radio here in So. California. I remember when I first saw their album, "Images And Words," displayed at my local Wherehouse music store. The album had 8 songs. And I realized that this bands first single was over 8 minutes long. I was immediately blown away by this band. The adrenaline in the music just makes you want to hear more and more. And, you could tell that when they jam together, they dont stop playing until they feel the song needs to end. There is so much storytelling in the lyrics and the music. Whether the music goes dark and heavy or if it goes light and spontaneous, I've always been amazed by every album and song they have created together.
Kohli: "Can you hear me now?"
Mike Portnoy: "Yep, Im here!"
Kohli: "Hey there, Mike Portnoy! How are you?"
Mike Portnoy: "What's happening - how are you doing?"
Kohli: "Great. Well, first of all--I'd like to thank you for taking the time out to talk with me today!"
Mike Portnoy: "No problem!"
Kohli: "Are you guys in the studio right now?"
Mike Portnoy: "Nope, I'm enjoying my last week of my summer vacation. And, then we head back to work starting next week."
Kohli: "How has your summer vacation been? Did you get to enjoy it? You seem to be the workaholic of the band."
Mike Portnoy: "It's been unbelievably unproductive! First time in a very long time for me. Which has been awesome--I've just been hanging around the house with my wife and kids. We've been barbequing, sitting by the pool, & getting to go to concerts. Its been really my first time really off in a very long time. Even in the past when Ive had my downtime with Dream Theater, I get involved in a lot of different projects and responsibilities. But, this is the first time in a long time where I've been an unproductive lazy bum! It's been awesome.
Kohli: "On an average day while touring -- how long does it take to take down and put together your drumset?"
Mike Portnoy: "I have no idea! My tech is very thorough. He's a great guy and he's been working for me for many years now. From what I hear -- he could set it up and down in under an hour. Theres a very cool behind the scenes documentary on our new DVD ("Chaos in Motion") which basically for the first time in any of our DVDs--it really shows what life is like on the road. And a big portion of the documentary has a focus on our crew and what it takes to keep our show on the road and put it up and take it down every day. It's a big undertaking and our crew is really awesome with that."
Kohli: "One of my favorite DVD documentary moments was on your previous set Score which showed you, John Petrucci and John Myung going back to the music school in Berkeley where you three met! That was really cool to see where you all started."
Kohli: "Tomorrow, your Chaos in Motion DVD/CD 5 disc set comes out -- do you have any release plans?"
Mike Portnoy: "We plan on releasing it and hopefully people will buy it! It's just our latest DVD. It's a souvenir of our last year on the road. You know--well kind of close out that chapter and well celebrate it by going into the studio to start the next chapter!"
Kohli: "Your song Panic Attack recently got picked up by Rock Band 2. How did that come about?"
Mike Portnoy: "Yeah, I guess that's how it works. Through their game companies I guess they have a list of songs for bands. I really don't know the behind the scenes and legal stuff, but, we are very honored and flattered that they included us. I think we are totally a type of band that would appeal to gamers because the music is very technical. It's nice to have a song on there. We also have a song on the upcoming Guitar Hero 4 and the upcoming Rock Revolution. It's nice to finally be infiltrating that world."
Kohli: "I interviewed Jordan Rudess a few years ago. Right when you guys released your first album with him and he was your third keyboardist at the time. You also previously worked with him on your Liquid Tension Experiment project and now with him being a part of Dream Theater, you guys are about to record your 6th studio album with Jordan in the band. Is he officially now part of the family? Is your search for a keyboardist finally over?
Mike Portnoy: "As far as Im concerned, Jordan was always the right man for the job. The search has been over for 10 years now. He's finally come home. You know, we wanted him back in 1994, after Kevin left the band. Jordan just wasn't ready to commit to such a huge commitment at that point. He passed on the offer in 1994. Then, when he finally came around in 1999, this lineup has been bigger, better, and stronger than ever. It's been smooth sailing ever since hes been in the band. There's no doubt about it that he was the missing link.
Kohli: "What was your favorite moment during the Chaos in Motion 2007-2008 tour?"
Mike Portnoy: "Oh, god--one moment from the whole tour. Well, we did over 100 shows so theres so many things, I dont know. Whenever we go to a new place for the first time--that's always exciting. So, I think one of the highlights was when we went to Australia for the first time. We've been waiting a long time to get down there. We played in front of a lot of people there for the first time. That's always the highlight."
Kohli: "Have you guys ever toured out in India?"
Mike Portnoy: "No. We've had a few offers, but nothing that's stuck. I think the three places that we are still really waiting to get to would be Russia, India, and Israel. Those are the 3 markets that are still new to us.
Kohli: "Are there any new angles or concepts you thought of for the new album?"
Mike Portnoy: "We haven't even discussed it and we won't really know until we are actually doing it. When we get together next week, we reconvene, and we all basically fire up and start from scratch."
Kohli: "One thing I've noticed through the years as a Dream Theater fan myself is that all your albums seem to have this light to dark concept. Where one album will be dark and the next one will be lighter. Your lighter albums tend to have this futuristic flow to them. And, your darker albums seem to polish your roots to go even darker than before. Especially since Falling Into Infinity, I noticed that the next album had a really dark and ancient tale surrounding it, "Scenes From a Memory." Then the following album, "Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence had songs like Misunderstood, Blind Faith, and Disappear with a futuristic flow. Then "Train Of Thought" went back to your dark roots with "Otavarium" following in 2005 with futuristic tones all over the album. Then in 2007--you realeased a completely dark album "Systematic Chaos." Was this planned before hand or did it just come about?"
Mike Portnoy: "Actually, I've seen that discussed by the fans and that's totally not a conscious thing. I've even seen that pointed out with the album covers. It's true. The album cover for, "Images and Words," was very light and the cover for "Awake" was dark. "Falling Into Infinity" was light, "Scenes" was dark, "Six Degrees" was light and through "Systematic Chaos" being dark. You could even look at the covers and get that feel. But, that's not a conscious thing. I would say that the only way it was possibly consistent was because every time we make a record--we are kind of reacting and responding to the previous one. You know, wanting to go some place different than where we just went. So, maybe that mentality is what spawns that alternating contrast from album to album. It's an interesting thing to hear pointed out."
Kohli: "Yeah, and even on each of your albums--each song is placed perfectly together!"
Mike Portnoy: "Thank you!"
Kohli: "I've seen you guys live about 4/5 times now. I have to say my favorite tour of yours was yout tour with Queensryche. Here in Los Angeles. You guys completely dazzled the audience by doing an encore set together (both bands!). People were falling to the floor with happiness - they couldnt believe their eyes! Truly amazing show."
Mike Portnoy: "That was fun. I knew it was a line-up the fans had been wanting for a long time. It might have been better if it was done in 1993 - I think it was about 10 years too late. But, you know--better late than never. It was nice to finally put it together. For me -- the best part was the jam at the end of each night. To me--that's what made it the most unique experience for the fans. I've never seen many bands doing that--doing an encore together. I think it's a great idea. I wish more bands would do that. The following year--we went out with Yes and I suggested that to them and they wanted nothing to do with it. It was surprising that we were able to pull it off with Queensryche. To see musicians collaborate and play on stage is a very cool thing."
Kohli: "There are a lot of bands today that seem to have a Dream Theater influence. Evanescence, The Muse, and even Smashing Pumpkins 'Machina' album had a bit of a 'Falling Into Infinity' feeling to it. Do you recognize that with bands?"
Mike Portnoy: "There's certain bands where our influence is very obvious. And certain ones where its a lot more subliminal. The obvious ones are all the bands that are in the Progressive/Metal genre. There's a whole slew of younger Progressive Metal bands that carry our sounds. I am more flattered and more musically excited by the bands that our influenced by us and twist it into their own way. Stone Sour and Trivium. These are bands that have all openly named us as influences. You really can hear it in their own sound. I think it's cool when bands twist it in their own direction."
Kohli: "After you complete a big album project--do you listen to the album afterwards--take it for a test drive or anything?"
Mike Portnoy: "To be honest, no. Because when making a record--I'm so consumed with every single aspect of it. When making a Dream Theater album - I listen to it a thousand times, listening to it every single day and analyzing every little single aspect of it. Usually, the last time I will listen to our album is when we finish the mastering sessions. I'll take it home and listen to it one final time. Then that's it. Then on the road, we end up playing it a thousand times. Very rarely will I ever go back and hear it. Even in my IPOD, I have it set so that it doesn't turn up in my shuffle."
Kohli: "How does it feel when you listen to it that one last time?"
Mike Portnoy: "You know, I'm our biggest fan. Usually, that final listen after the mastering sessions - you know I just spent the last half a year pouring my heart and soul into that album. Especially, as the bands producer. It goes beyond just being the drummer or the writer. I really get involved in every element of our record. At least with the last 4 or 5 albums -- I feel a complete sense of pride and satisfaction. Obviously, if there was anything I was unhappy with, we would still be in the studio making it. Usually, at that point at the end I feel a complete feeling of pride and accomplishment. Some less than others. Especially earlier, when we didn't have complete control. There really isn't anything I would change about any of them."
Kohli: "I love on 'Repentance' how you brought guest rock stars to do the speaking parts in the song. Would you ever consider working with someone like, Alanis Morissette? Once in awhile--she will contribute a part in a song. Years ago--she sang on a Dave Matthews Band hit, but most people outside the Alanis circle have no idea that it was her doing the chanting noises. What do you think of an artist like Alanis Morissette and other artists?"
Mike Portnoy: "I've been fortunate enough to work with most of the people I admire and wanted to work with. The list goes on and on. Between all my side projects - I feel very fulfilled. Alanis, I love her in particular. I'm not a giant fan of a lot of other female artists in that genre, but her in particular I love and really admire. In fact, her first album Jagged Little Pill is a favorite of mine and was a huge influence in my lyrics for Falling Into Infinity. You know--I remember when her first album came out--I was listening to it every day and her lyrics just somehow worked their way into my lyrics during that period."
Kohli: "Do you consider Falling Into Infinity one of your greatest albums? I know you guys were under a lot of pressure from the label at the time.
Mike Portnoy: "Well, it's great for what it is. For me, it was a very frustrating album to make. We were at a very desperate point in the bands career. It's got a great production, the songs are great, but it was very difficult in trying to make those songs. I think it's a great album to listen to."
Kohli: "Do you guys chase the music or does the music chase you?"
Mike Portnoy: "It comes very unconsciously. The music just flows out of our bodies. When we get together to start an album it never lacks ideas. Especially myself, Jordan and John Petrucci. We have this unbelievable vast chemistry. Ideas just start flying. You've got to grab a net to catch them all because they are flying around so quickly. And, luckily, 23 years into our career -- that still happens. Weve never had writers block (knock on wood!). It's a very smooth and natural thing for us."
"Pancakes With AMY LEE"
(An Exclusive Interview with EVANESCENCE)
by: Michael Kohli
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Listening to the music of Evanescence can be just like ordering pancakes! You can either order the song with dark burnt ends or you can choose a song with the sweetest syrup on it. And, you can even add piano-laced-whipped cream if you like! The music of Evanescence can be very moving and hypnotic. Just the voice of singer, Amy Lee, can put you in a trance throughout a whole song. Whether she is playing piano and singing out a sweet lullaby or whether she’s singing with an angry heart full of deep rage, she can move you. Whether it’s the melody, the voice, or just the song—it’s very easy to become consumed by the music. The music can be so haunting, yet inviting at the same time.
Some of life’s most haunting tales and darkest moments can bring the best songwriters. And, when one of these songwriters look good and sing amazingly—they become a legend within people’s hearts. People can relate and people can be moved by hearing a singer pouring out their heart in song. Whether or not, she locks herself in a room—like Shirley Manson or Alanis Morissette for example—you know the music came from deep within her. Take one the band’s recent hits, “Lithium,” for example. The song, written by Amy Lee seems to be about a battle within her own self, trying to find happiness within the darkness of her life. Other hits like, “Bring Me To Life”, “Call Me When You’re Sober”, and the upcoming, “Good Enough,” single all showcase different stages of rage within each song. At times, Evanescence music can be very dark and heavy. Yet, other times, the music can be very light but, eerie at the same time.
On the heels of their recently released album, “The Open Door,” the band is currently on the Family Values tour with the likes of KORN and HELLYEAH! In my short interview with Amy Lee; we talked about the music business, life on the road, and we even talked about pancakes! I have to say that it was a delight to talk to Amy Lee. As short as it was, it was probably one of my most favorite interviews. She seems like such a sweetheart. I hope that—like fellow singers Shirley and Alanis—that by letting go on the 2nd major-label album—that she has found her peace. Sounds like she’s very happy these days. She’s married, gets to shoot videos in Budapest, and gets to tour with one of her childhood favorite bands, Korn! Here is more from our recent interview:
Kohli: "Good morning Amy Lee. It's great to talk to you. First question: Pancakes or French Toast?"
Amy Lee: "I'll take pancakes with blueberries!"
Kohli: "Outside of Evanescence, how has 2007 treated you so far?"
Amy Lee: "Really good, I think. I don't even mean to say, "I think." It's been really good. Life wouldn't be life without its ups and downs. And, of course, with the band changes, that was the only really hard thing for me, making the call and having to make the call and sort of everything that went on that made the call have to be made. But other than that, everything has been really good. We've toured, like I said, all over the place and I got to see a lot of new countries and a lot of new fans and a lot of old fans, too. And getting married kind of trumps it all. So it has been a very good year so far."
Kohli: "Congratulations on your wedding, by the way!"
Amy Lee: "Thanks!"
Kohli: "I'm calling from Ventura, California. Have you ever been here before?"
Amy Lee: "Yes, I used to live out there. I actually lived in Calabasas. Took the Ventura freeway all the time."
Kohli: "What does music mean to you?"
Amy Lee: "That's such an impossible question. Why do people ask that question? Music means so much to me it would take me three hours to answer."
Kohli: "Has the success in music so far kept you happy?"
Amy Lee: "That's an interesting question."
Kohli: "I mean, because to the music fans—a lot of times when we see our favorite artists on MTV performing and talking about their music—it would seem to us, impossible that they can't be happy. But, in recent years we've seen artists like Brad Delp & Michael Hutchence just slip away. With your music and your success, have you found happiness through everything? Is it comforting enough to you?"
Amy Lee: "I'll put it this way – I found happiness, but I definitely don't attribute it to my success. And I don't mean to say that I don't appreciate the success, I'm very, very grateful for it and glad to have it, but success will not bring you happiness, that's for sure.
It has made life a lot more complicated and a lot of music, especially when you become successful is business. And I think that's one of the saddest things of all. And I think the hardest struggle for me is having to unplug my phone half the time and just turn off and remember that I'm an artist. I'm a musician and that's it and I don't want to do the business all the time. And you know that when you do that you're probably being taken advantage of because you're not on the ball. So I think the success is what makes it hard because people are constantly trying to take advantage of you.
But I have found happiness by remembering to stay grounded and by remembering the success isn't the most important thing in life and by taking chances knowing that I might lose the success, but being okay with that, if that makes sense. You've got to have a life separate from it, for sure."
Kohli: "What's the worse thing about riding the tour bus?"
Amy Lee: (laughs) "The worst thing about riding the tour bus? Well, being the only girl on the bus most of the time usually means there's pee all over the floor and on the seat and seat's up and that's pretty miserable. So I'm basically the cleaning lady of the bathroom all the time!"
Kohli: "I've read that you love Family Guy. Who's your favorite character?"
Amy Lee: "Brian!"
Kohli: "Are there any other artists that you would like to collaborate with or work with?"
Amy Lee: "There's definitely a lot of artists that I would love to collaborate with, but it would just have to be the right project. I definitely don't want to do any more of those ballad duets with some guy. I think it would be really great to do something unexpected with somebody that does, how do I put this? With someone musically who's completely different than Evanescence or than me and to be able to come together and make something really cool that's not like either of us. I don't know who. I couldn't put my finger on it yet."
Kohli: "And, what's your favorite thing to shop for?"
Amy Lee: "I actually really love to cook. I love going to the grocery store and stocking up on stuff for getting creative in the kitchen."
Kohli: "Does your husband help?"
Amy Lee: "Yes, because I can't carry it all. We don't have a car. We live in New York. So I have to carry everything home, so he's got to come with me and help me carry everything.
Kohli: "And my last question – if a local band came up to you and asked you for advice, what would you give them?"
Amy Lee: "There's so much advice I would go back in time and give myself. I would really just say, "Stick to your guns and trust your instinct." If you're the one that created the thing, then you've got to know what's best for the music. There's a lot of people that are going to tell you what will be better and how to change what you've made and how to make it more commercial, and shorter and more to the point and everything and that's not satisfying. You need to stick to what you know is the best thing, what you know sounds best and feels best to you because chances are people out there buying records are more like you than the big guy in the office with the cigar."
"7.18.07 with Korn!"
by: Michael Kohli
KOHLISMUSICPIT.COM
Woohoo! I just got off the phone with Jonathan Davis & Munky from KORN! Their FAMILY VALUES tour kicks off this weekend. Their new "Untitled" album will be released on July 31st featuring the new single, "EVOLUTION." The band also recently released a new song, "I Will Protect You," here on myspace, but there are no plans for it to be a single. The song being released was more for their fans to get a sneak peek of the album.
The Family Values tour also features Evanescence--who's singer Amy Lee recently collaborated with Korn on the MTV Unplugged version of Freak On A Leash. But, their are no plans for Amy Lee and Korn to collaborate on stage during this tour. The fact that Amy Lee's a big Soundgarden fan--I did mention to J. Davis and Munky that they should all remake OUTSHINED from Soundgarden on stage. I could totally picture the song being KORN'D and with Amy Lee harmonizing on the chorus. Jonathan kinda laughed but said that he doesn't think so and later added that they probably won't collaborate on stage. And, that the MTV Unplugged was perfect for that moment.
I also asked them their thoughts on the IRAQ war and what they think of the MYSPACE revolution! They say that Myspace is bad for relationships but it's good for bands. They said their stage setting on the Family Values tour is going to be the biggest production they've ever done (but, they wouldn't reveal details).
Earlier this month, former Korn member, BRIAN "HEAD" WELCH released a book detailing his path to finding god. In the book, he reveals details about the band's drug use. But, Brian mentioned this week on the air--that his former bandmates were angry with him, but now says they are cool with him. Jonathan Davis in fact wishes Brian Welch happiness and says he loves him! Here is more from our interview:
Kohli: First of all, great job on the new single, EVOLUTION! I've personally been addicted to the song for a little over 3 weeks now. When making a song or album--what's the most rewarding aspect about creating the music?
Jonathan Davis: For me, the most rewarding thing about creating music is it being heard by so many people. Being able to create something out of nothing. And, to touch people emotionally with it.
MUNKY: I think for me is creating a riff and then listening to it back when you go to the control room. And, just hearing it come to life.
Kohli: What percentage of being Korn is a business and what percentage of it is you guys still having fun being this band, Korn?
Jonathan Davis: If we weren't having fun with it, we shouldn't be doing it. That's why we employ great managers, tour managers and stuff like that to take a handle of the business. When big decisions come up that we need to make, we definitely get involved with that. It seems on my side, I ignore the business side until you have to deal with it. It's more about going out, jamming, writing new music and having fun. What do you think, Munk?
MUNKY: You know, we always have fun. There's things that we have to do. It may seem like a job, but you make it fun! Even in our meetings—when we sit and talk about business, it's usually fun. On a personal level, we all get together and usually we have good times. Even in the more serious meetings, we joke and have a good time! We're happy to be all sitting in the room and making decisions. I don't want to work at McDonald's man!
Jonathan Davis: Exactly!
Kohli: How do you guys feel about the war in Iraq?
Munky: I would like to see it be done! And, all those troops come home.
Jonathan Davis: Me too. I think it really sucks. It is what it is, but we'd like to see everybody just come home.
Kohli: Have any of your songs on the new album become influenced by the war and where our world is now?
Jonathan Davis: No, it's not necessarily political. Just more about our views on the human race in general. Leave politics for politicians, I guess.
Kohli: Jonathan Davis, I loved the score for the movie, "Queen Of The Damned." Are there any more movie/soundtrack plans? Or, more solo stuff in the works?
Jonathan Davis: Getting ready to work on an opera with Clive Barker and Richard Gibbs, who did Queen Of The Damned with me. Right now, looking for funding for it. So, once we get that, then we'll get started on it. Korn's my main thing, man! I love it more than anything.
Kohli: Being that Amy Lee is a big Soundgarden fan and would like to see them get back together, would you ever consider covering, "Outshined," with her on stage during this Family Values tour?
Munky: What was the question?
Jonathan Davis: He wants to know if we'll do "Outshined" from Soundgarden with Amy Lee. I don't think so, bro!
Kohli: Ok, well—it's just an idea!
Kohli: What do you think of the Myspace revolution? Does it help the music industry?
Munky: It helps promoting music.
Jonathan Davis: It's a pain in the ass.
Munky: It doesn't help relationships one bit. Nope. Bad for the relationship.
Jonathan Davis: Yeah, it's bad news. And, it can become a pain in the ass.
Munky: But, for music and for bands it's great. You get all that music and find all kinds of cool bands. And, you can sell your own music on it now. Yeah. It's cool.
Kohli: Thank you and I look forward to hearing the rest of your new album.
Jonathan Davis: your welcome!
--Michael Kohli
KOHLISMUSICPIT.COM
"The Quick 6 with BUCKCHERRY"
By: Michael Kohli
Want to get Lit Up? Well here's an interview with BUCKCHERRY's Joshua Todd. A singer that was born to kick ass on stage. Singing kick-ass lyrics like, "Hey! You're a Crazy Bitch, but you f*ck so good I'm on top of it. When I dream, I'm doing you all night. Scratches all down my back to keep me right on!" BUCKCHERRY's latest album, "15," was recorded in 15 days. After leaving Dreamworks and going on hiatus for a brief period--the band returned last April with a new album. "15" just recently reached platinum status. The album also spent over a year in the top 100 of the Billboard charts (stuck between 35-85). Buckcherry is currently on tour with Hinder. Please enjoy THE QUICK 6 with Buckcherry. And be sure to check out their latest album featuring the current hit rock single, "Everything."
1) Kohli: What are the 3 most important ingredients in life?
JT: Love, family, & rock 'n roll.
2) Kohli: Favorite BUCKCHERRY songs to play live?
JT: Crazy Bitch & Broken Glass
3) Kohli: What is rock 'n roll to you?
JT: High energy & low I.Q.
4) Kohli: Congrats on your album going platinum. And, I think it's cool that you guys started out independently on this album and later got picked up by Atlantic. Your album spent over a year on the top 100 charts. Do Billboard charts matter to you?
JT: It all matters. We want worldwide success and be an arena rock outfit. I don't understand people that don't want success.
5) Kohli: Thoughts on Paris Hilton?
JT: Like her! She makes the entertainment business fun! It's neat to see a girl go into a Blockbuster on Sunset and get f*cked by a worker. She's got balls. She doesn't care what people think.
6) Kohli: Any plans for album 4?
JT: We're on tour until mid-September. We'll be off the road after that and probably take a break. Then, we'll record after.
CHECKING IN with LE MEU LE PURR
by: Michael Kohli
FEB. 2008
One of the hottest new bands emerging locally, is a band from my homeland in Ventura . The band is LE MEU LE PURR. For the past 4 years—the band has been literally captivating audiences at shows. The moment the band goes on stage—you just feel their energy light up the whole room. The are an amazing band to watch. I, myself, do not consider their music poppy. It’s just feel good rock that just makes you crave more and more from them.
The band just released their 2nd album on Blackbird Music titled, “A New Canvas.” The album opens up with an amazing track called, “Concrete Butterfly.” Just listen to the first two minutes of the song and watch how the energy keeps changing and building. The music goes all over the place. The music is perfect for listening on long drives. Roll down the windows—and see how fast you get to your destination.
Recently, the band was signed to TVT Records—but ended up staying with their friends at Blackbird Music. Which could be better. Instead of dealing with a bunch of people they don’t know—the label is filled with their own personal friends (the support for each other is built on years of love, trust and people that love live music!) All they need is to build up their marketing and focus on their fanbase. Hundreds of bands who remain independent end up making a lot of money for themselves while staying in their own path. Although, the labels help with distribution. Maybe a proper distribution deal would be all they needed. Once you hear the music and/or see the band live—you will understand. This is a band that is in a good place. They’ve all been in bands. Aaron’s been on MTV in his 8stops7 days. They’ve all toured and explored. I think the knowledge and experience in their previous bands may be key to why the Le Meu Le Purr project is taking people by storm. Here, they know what they have to do in order to make it. Bottom line—they keep the music exciting. It just makes you crave to know where the music goes next.
The band is on myspace and you could find both their albums on iTunes as well. My top favorite songs are; “Sharing Orchids”, “Celebrate”, “The Focus”, “Concrete Butterfly”, and “Pop Rocks and Soda.” The band is: Aaron Johnson (vocals, guitar, keys), Robin Ryder (drums, vocals), Scott Okuma (bass, vocals), and Armand John Anthony (guitar, vocals, knobs).
The band just recently played The Derby in Los Angeles. They have upcoming shows listed at Billy O’s (Ventura), Wildcat Lounge (Santa Barbara) and The Zombie Lounge (San Diego). Visit them online and give it a listen! For now—here is an interview I did with drummer, Robin Ryder. Please enjoy! J
Kohli: “Can you hear me now?”
Robin Ryder: “Yes, Sir!”
Kohli: “This interview is being written for Rock City News.
Have you ever been featured in Rock City News before?”
Robin Ryder: “I don’t think so. No.”
Kohli: “How did the name Le Meu Le Purr come about and
what does the name mean?
Robin Ryder: “Le Meu Le Purr about from us trying to find a good name for a band. It actually comes from a cartoon that featured Pepe Le Pew (a Warner Bros. cartoon). And, he chased a cat around that would say, ‘Le Meu Le Purr,’ as a French joke. It’s kind of a fun thing where we’re always laughing at ourselves. We decided to use that as a name.
Kohli: “Great job on the new album, “A New Canvas” (Blackbird Music). You guys have some really amazing songs on it. Any favs that you love to play live?”
Robin Ryder: “You know it’s kind of funny. The album’s kind of all over place. It’s mainly pop for the most part. But, there’s some really super pop. ‘Celebrate’ is a song that we couldn’t really do without a fourth member. Now that Armand is in the band, we can play that song. That’s my favorite song. I like it a lot. It’s a super poppy song. I’m not like a total pop-driven personality, but for some reason that song is just really fun to play.
Kohli: “You and Aaron Johnson have been involved in bands for a long time. You two really seem to feed off each other on stage and on the recordings. I like when bands have a good duo combo: Aerosmith (Joe Perry/Steven Tyler), Kiss (Paul Stanley/Gene Simmons), and here in Le Meu Le Purr it’s you two (Aaron Johnson/Robin Ryder). Each band you’re in—people are watching both of you at the same time. Do you feel like Le Meu Le Purr could finally be THE band for you guys? Do you feel like this could be the one that takes you far?”
Robin Ryder: “Well, considering in this band anyways, yeah it could. We’re kind of at a pivotal moment right now. We were signed to TVT Records for awhile and it just wasn’t working out for us. We decided to move on and nothing is really stopping us right now. We’re actually at the best place we’ve ever been. As a band, we’re saturating California, parts of Arizona and Las Vegas.
Kohli: “How’s the response been so far outside of Ventura?”
Robin Ryder: “The response has been really good. Just picking up fans everywhere we go. And the shows keep getting better. We’ve been a band for about 4 years now. We’ve never really experienced people coming to us to play shows. That’s happening more and more now. Usually, we’re like, ‘Can we come play?’ It’s been pretty neat. We’re finding more and more fans stretched out across the states. We’re just trying to stick to this area. LA and surrounding areas. We just went out to Arizona for a couple shows. We played with Guttermouth and Youth Brigade. One of those shows were sold out. I think that’s the first ever ‘Sold-out’ show we played. We also played an acoustic show at Zoey’s (Ventura) that was sold out.
Kohli: “How did you guys manage to play acoustic?”
Robin Ryder: “You know, to be honest with you it wasn’t 100% acoustic. Aaron played acoustic guitar. Scott played bass because it’s almost impossible to find an acoustic left-handed bass. Armand actually played his electric guitar too, but it was all acoustic style. For me, I just played with a bass drum, snare, and high hats. It was really super stripped down. You could hear the vocals really good and I used brushes. It was a really great show. I think we are planning another one in a couple months. We just did a show at Rock City Studios in Camarillo. It’s a really cool venue. The sounds really good and it’s all ages. It’s a music school. They cut the sides of the venue. Really good sound system in there.
Kohli: “Both of your albums are now available on iTunes. And you are on myspace (like every other band nowadays). How is iTunes and the internet experience working out for the band?”
Robin Ryder: “As far as iTunes goes—we’ve been doing pretty well. Our top seller is Dance Light Dreamers. Our friend Travis runs the iTunes thing. We don’t communicate a lot, because he’s moved up north. I know that we’ve been moving a lot of our cd’s. It’s been really good. We’re working on a self-made video from a bunch of live shows from the last four months for Pulses, which is the first song we’re really pushing for. We just did a Songs From a Window show. If you go on google video, if you type in Le Meu Le Purr—you can see the show as well as an interview.”
Kohli: “For readers in Hollywood and people outside of the Ventura scene, which we’ve both been apart of the past decade—how would you describe the scene? What’s your overall experience been like?”
Robin Ryder: “I think the overall experience has been kind both good and bad. Obviously, the scene has kind of diminished. We’ve had so many venues open and close—which is the usual norm in Ventura. At least for me, since I’ve been playing since I was 13. So many bands now and seems like there are more and more places that continue to pop open like, City Nights, Teen Center in Thousand Oaks and Wide Open Wednesdays (Experimental Café) in Oxnard. As far as people just going out to shows—I think it’s in a weird place. I think it’s like that everywhere. Not just Ventura. People are more into staying home and watching tv. I’m not sure if it’s the economic state our country is in or what it is. But, it seems like people are less involved in going out to shows. It could be just technology. You see people at shows texting! I realize you can be texting your friend, ‘You’re missing out on a great show right now!” Or, you could just be texting. To me, it just takes away from the whole experience. When we were kids, we went out to shows and it was like, ‘YEAH! Rock show, yes!’ And, it’s all you cared about for that moment. Nowadays, it seems like people are wrapped up in themselves. If it’s not the talk of the town for the moment, nobody cares. It’s really weird. But, that’s one thing I think we have on our side. Now that Armand is in the band, it just adds so much more energy into the band. Our show has just gotten so much tighter. It takes a lot to really catch an interest in a band. Our whole approach has been just to play no more that 20/30 minute sets. Because, people don’t really care that much. So, hit ‘em as hard as you can for 20 or 30 minutes and get the hell out of there.
Kohli: “Any bands you’ve seen lately?”
Robin Ryder: “Yeah, have you ever listened to Mew? You know when you see a band that it’s rare that your jaw drops? This band, we went to see at South By Southwest last year because there name is ‘Mew.” Our name is Le Meu Le Purr so we had to see this band called, ‘Mew.’ We waited a good like 3 hours to see them. Their first song literally was a jaw drop. The whole set was incredible.”
Kohli: “2008 plans?”
Robin Ryder: “This year, we’re really working on building our store. Honestly, this is a ‘make it--upgrade it year’ for Le Meu Le Purr. This is the year we have to sore to a new level. We’re at another level right now, but if we backstep—there would be no point to continue. The only thing we could do is push forward. A big part is getting the store up and running.”
Robin Ryder: “When did you start writing for Rock City News?”
Kohli: “I started writing for them in November. This will be my third issue with them. It’s been fun so far! I just wrote a piece on Skid Row in the last issue.”
Robin Ryder: “Sebastian Bach just put out a new album.”
Kohli: “Yeah, I love it. Have you heard it?”
Robin Ryder: “Yeah, I heard an interview with him and pretty much listened to the whole album at work on XM’s, ‘The Boneyard.’
Kohli: “I like how no matter what the public thinks of Sebastian—on the record, he always delivers!”
Robin Ryder: “Oh, yeah! He definitely delivers. Armand went to see Guns N Roses at the Gibson Ampitheater like a year or so ago. I’m not a big Axl fan. I fell in love with Appetite when I was a kid. But, anything else after that it’s just not the same. But when he said that Sebastian is opening I’m like, ‘Dude, that’s going to rule!’ That guy could sing. He’s a great frontman. And, after he’s like, “Dude, Sebastian Bach was insane!”
Kohli: “Thank you for the interview! I’ll talk to you soon.”
Robin Ryder: “Yeah, have a good night!”
LE MEU LE PURR
:: the right side of the RYCHE
:: by: M. Kohli
:: exclusive interview with GEOFF TATE--the voice of Queensrÿche
:: (unedited)
(JUNE, 2002)
One of rock music's most fascinating characters is Mr. Geoff Tate. Known as THE VOICE of Queensrÿche. A voice that is so unique and easily identifiable once you know his name. Geoff Tate, however is very mysterious. Yet at the same time--he knows how to kick ass on stage. And always delivers a flawless performance. His voice is so clear it can become quite haunting--but in a good way. The lyrics are very relatable. Geoff has already made his mark on the music world. Being the front man for QUEENSRYCHE for over 2 decades. :)
2002--Geoff Tate embarks on a new adventure. Releasing a solo album. The album will be released in stores nationwide on June 25th. The record is very eclectic and diverse. Those expecting a hard/heavy new Queensrÿche-ish album--will have to wait till sometime in 2003--when Queensrÿche releases the next album (the long-awaited follow up to 1999's, "Q2K").
On GEOFF TATE's album--(which he produced)--he experiments with all different types of sounds. Each song has a groovy kind of beat along with the music. Other songs have salsa-ish type of guitars--you can almost dance to the track, "Helpless". Then you have some gospel rock, piano all mixed in on the album. But, then as you get deeper into the album--the heavier the album gets. And as with every Queensrÿche album--the final song always seems to come out of nowhere. And, that is the case with the final track on Geoff's new album, "Over Me."
GEOFF TATE recently took the time to talk with me about his album, his tour, Queensrÿche's future plans, and the whole rumor about THE THREE TREMORS--a project that has been in the air grouping Geoff with ROB HALFORD (of Judas Priest fame) and BRUCE DICKINSON (singer for IRON MAIDEN) together to sing on one album.
If you are open-minded about music--and want some great driving music or just something new to listen to: try GEOFF TATE! I highly recommend it :)! Musically, there is something for everyone on this album.
Anyways--here's the interview with Geoff. It was a fabulous honor to talk with one of my biggest influences. Here's what he had to say. Keep it Ryche-ing!!
Kohli: "Mr. Geoff Tate, how are you, Sir?"
GEOFF TATE: "Well, I'm doing really well. Very fine. Kind of hectic-going right now because I'm getting ready to start my tour. Rehearsing my band everyday. That's a little bit hectic on the schedule, but it's fun. It's coming along really well and I'm anxious to play."
Kohli: "How is the new band that you are currently working with?"
GEOFF TATE: "Really good. Really an eclectic bunch of players. Worked up a really nice 2-hour set of our new record. And some really obscure Queensrÿche tunes that we've just kind of modernized and kind of made our own. It's a pretty neat set. I'm really anxious to bring it out and show it to people."
Kohli: "How is 2002 treating you so far?"
GEOFF TATE: "Is it 2002 already? [laughs] What is it, June, already? Well you know, I've been so busy since January. We've been finishing up the record. Getting ready for putting a tour together. Also, I've been writing a new Queensrÿche record which is due out next year. I've just started looking around and noticing that, you know, it's summertime. The flowers are blooming. The sun's just beginning to shine here in Seattle--breaking through the clouds. So this is great! I'm really looking forward to going out on the tour and seeing what the rest of the country looks like this time of year."
Kohli: "What's Seattle like during the Summer?"
GEOFF TATE: "Well, we don't really start getting Summer properly until about July 5th. We'll have maybe like 3 sunny days a week. Every July 4th, it rains. The next day it's gorgeous. It's like the beginning of Summer. And, it's clear until October."
Kohli: "How long did you work on the new solo album?"
GEOFF TATE: "Let's see. God, I think it's a better part of the year. I started writing it with Jeff Carrell, my partner on this. When was that? We finished the "Q2K" tour for Queensrÿche which seems to be about September/October. Something like that of last year. So, about a year, I guess. To write it and record it all. And get through all the various stages of stuff you have to get through to make a record."
Kohli: "Are you happy with your new album?"
GEOFF TATE: "Very, very happy with it. I'm happy with the experience. You know, I primarily worked with the same people throughout my musical career. And, this was really the first time I'd branched out and really worked with a completely different roster of people. Everybody in the band was different. The writing team was different. The studio production people were different. Nobody on this thing was the same. So, it was really a stretch for me to go out and do something like this. It feels good. It was very scary to do. But then, I started to getting the groove of it, feeling it out and getting comfortable with it. It was a really good learning experience. You know, to branch out and do something different."
Kohli: "What made you interested in pursuing a solo album?"
GEOFF TATE: "Well, it just sort of happened. And, after the "Q2K" record and tour, Queensrÿche had been out for almost 11 months. We were due to start making and writing another Queensrÿche record in November when we got back. We were going to take the month of October off and start in November. And, November rolled around and nobody seemed interested in making a Queensrÿche record at that time. Scott and Kelly had gone off and done a solo project. Michael started doing one. And so I figured, well if everyone's doing different projects--I guess I might as well do one too. So I did it. Launched into it. Kinda put Queensrÿche on hold for awhile. And, did it."
Kohli: "What age did you start singing?"
GEOFF TATE: "I don't remember, I was so young. I think I've always just sung. It was sort of something you did in my house. My Mom was a really good singer. My Dad played Trumpet. You know, we were always listening to music. When I got my first transistor radio when I was about 9 years old, that's when I first heard rock music. And, it just blew me away. I heard Jefferson Airplane, and went, 'Man I've got to do this!' I've got to sing like this. I've got to play guitar. That just kind of started me on the road."
Kohli: "In my opinion, you've got one of the most mesmerizing voices in the world. How did you go about training? Or did it just come naturally?"
GEOFF TATE: "Well, I've been singing for all my life. For a brief period when I got into my first band, I noticed that I couldn't sing that long of a period of time without losing my voice. So, I went and saw a vocal teacher here in Seattle named, David Kyle. He gave me some lessons. Taught me some techniques of strengthening my voice. I started doing those exercises and I got a lot stronger. So, I've just kind of kept it up all these years. Exercise regularly. Try to live a moderate life style. Just kind of take
care of my voice a bit. I really don't think about it too much. I don't baby it or really worry about it. I don' wear a scarf to protect it or anything. It's just kind of the way that it is.
Kohli: "What do you do on your spare time?"
GEOFF TATE: "I used to know. Well, let's see. I sail. I do things that pretty much revolve around my family. 'Cause I have 3 kids. We camp and go out on the sail boat for the weekend. And, go on trips. Some day, my wife and I would like to do a world trip. Where we just jump on the boat and take off. And, work our way around the world. Let's see what else. I ride motorcycles.
Kohli: "What were the last albums or pieces of music that you listened to?"
GEOFF TATE: "I really like this record by--it's actually a soundtrack by Paul Oakenfold. It's for the movie, "Swordfish." I love that record. I bought D'Angelo's Brown Sugar. I like that record a lot."
Kohli: "What's your favorite song to perform live?"
GEOFF TATE: "I don't know. I like performing and doing shows. I like all of them. I like the stuff that we're doing on the solo thing, because it's different renditions of stuff. Queensrÿche in the past hasn't really been able or into taking a song arrangement that we've done on a record and then changing it. We've always really done the arrangements that were really recorded. With my solo band, we've really taken these songs apart. We built them and given them a completely different makeover. We chose songs that
Queensrÿche normally hasn't played live. Which is kind of cool, because it gives the fans a chance to see these songs in a new light. And, ones that they'd never hear anyway.
Kohli: "What else would you like to pursue?"
GEOFF TATE: "Traveling is really something I love doing. Like I said earlier, one of my dreams is when my kids get older--my wife and I are talking about doing an around the world sailing trip I just think that would be so cool to live on a boat. go from port to port. Travel to all these locations and spend time exploring. Give the kids that's sort of a lifestyle that's sort of un-encountered by the demands of America.
Kohli: "Are you planning on coming to California at all on this tour?"
GEOFF TATE: "Yeah, we're going to be in Los Angeles on the 26th of July at the House of Blues. Think we're playing Santa Ana."
GEOFF TATE: "Where you at?"
Kohli: "I'm in Ventura County, CA. Beteen LA and Santa Barbara."
GEOFF TATE: "Santa Barbara sure is pretty. We played a theater once there years ago. Forget the name of it. It was a really interesting place. The inside of the theater looked like a replica of a Mexican village. It's very strange. I remember it very well because I walked on stage that night at the show. We hadn't been able to do a sound check for some reason. So it was my first time walking on stage. I was singing the songs and I happened to glance to my right and I noticed, wow I'm standing inside a Mexican village. This is really weird. As I looked around, it was very evident that, that was the look of the place."
Kohli: "Is THE THREE TREMORS project still in the works?"
GEOFF TATE: "No. That never really got off the ground. It's one of those things where, gosh, it was all sounding interesting when we first began talking about it. And, the more we talked about it, the more impossible it seemed. And then the conflicting schedules. To do something like that, everybody would have to be in the same place at the same time for quite a period of time. We're all busy with our own thing. It's difficult to put the time into something like that. Then you got to agree on what direction you might want to take it. Frankly, Halford's music that he's been doing lately is completely at odds to what I like and what I'm into. Same with Dickinsons' stuff. Bruce's Iron Maiden stuff--it's not me at all. We'd have to meet musically on some kind of common ground. And, I really don't know what that would be. Not saying that it won't ever happen. I'm a firm believer, if people really want to make something happen, they can do it. But, it would be quite a challenge to do?"
Kohli: "Would you guys ever work with Michael Kamen (who produced Queensrÿche's REAL WORLD song for the LAST ACTION HERO movie and did Metallica's S&M album), again?"
GEOFF TATE: "I'd work with Michael in a heartbeat. He's a very creative man. Very fun to hang out with."
Kohli: "I just think it'd be cool for him to produce THE THREE TREMORS project and put orchestration into it."
GEOFF TATE: "That would be cool to take it from a classical approach. I agree."
Kohli: "I really love your REAL WORLD song. The way it just starts off slow and builds to this whole climax. That's one of the songs that got me hooked to Queensrÿche."
GEOFF TATE: "I'll be playing that on my solo tour."
Kohli: "Who else would you like to work with?"
GEOFF TATE: "Wow, there's a lot of people actually. I'd like to do something with THE CHEMICAL BROTHERS or PAUL OAKENFOLD. DAVID SYLVIAN--I'd love to play with that guy. God, there's just tons of people. Anybody that's looking to expand outside of what they've been doing--I'm interested in working with them."
Kohli: "Did you produce your album, yourself?"
GEOFF TATE: "Yeah, was my first time doing it all by myself. Was really quite a challenge. But, I loved it.
Kohli: "What's your favorite food?"
GEOFF TATE: "Favorite food? Well, I really like Asian cooking."
Kohli: "To readers new to your music--how would you describe your new album?"
GEOFF TATE: "Eclectic. Eclectic and Elegant."
Kohli: "What's the word for the day?"
GEOFF TATE: "It would have to be....slow-down."
Kohli: "What advice would you give a local band from like, Ventura?"
GEOFF TATE: "Save your money!"
 (Geoff Tate & Kohli SUMMER '03)
:)
BRET MICHAELS interview May, 2001
1) Mr. Bret Michaels, How are you sir?
"I'm doing awesome."
2) How's your daughter?
"Raine Elizabeth is beautiful, thank you. I am very happy."
3) So, with the summer approaching fast, are you excited to hit the road again?
"Well, the most exciting thing is every summer gets me more pumped up. We'll be hitting
the road from late May to late September/early October."
4) What made you decide this year's support acts (Warrant, Quiet Riot, ENUFF Z'NUFF) ?
"Realistically, these guys have toured with us in the past. It'll be a good show
for the fans."
5) Who else would you like to bring on future tours?
"Well, next year, i would like to
bring out POISON, DEF LEPPARD, MOTLEY CRUE, & SCORPIONS and flip-flop on
who headlines."
6) What do you think of NAPSTER?
"Well, it's a Catch 22. Good exposure. We,
Poison, give free music to fans sometimes. I think 1 or two free songs from a band is
great, but not a whole album. Bands won't work for free."
7) What were the last five albums you bought?
"Foo Fighters, Kid Rock, AC/DC--Highway to Hell -- wore that album out, so bought a new one. AEROSMITH's new
one, and a new band from Denver, Colorado called, SICK."
8) What's in your c.d. player right now?
"Let's see, it's a six disc. Power To The
People, Kid Rock, Queen's Greatest Hits, Foo Fighters, AC/DC Highway To Hell ,
and our new single, Rockstar."
9) What was the last film you saw?
"Enemy At The Gates. I love movies like Saving
Private Ryan and Platoon."
10) What POISON or Bret Michaels song do you feel best resembles you?
"Truest reflections at the exact moment of writing it would have to be Something to Believe In
or Every Rose Has It's Thorn."
11) If a high schooler (Who has just gotten into POISON) walks into a music store,
looks at the POISON section, and tries to decide the first POISON album he will
buy, which album would you first recommend?
"Good one to pick...tough to say. I
would say, Open Up...And Say AHH!"
12) What's your favorite kind of food?
"My favorite kind is Italian."
13) In the dawn of a new century, how do you feel the music industry treats you now?
"The music industry follows the fans. Capitol/EMI has found a new love for us. All our albums have gone gold and platinum, except for Crack A Smile which is on it's way."
14) How about the media?
"Mixed. Some love us, some hate us. I do give it all to the fans that are loyal and come out to our shows."
15) Is there a full-length POISON studio album in the works anytime in the future?
"May 2002, mark my words! I'm making the album no matter what. Whether I have to play guitar, drums, or do it all by myself. I'm making a new Poison album."
Poison update: Bret Michaels did keep his word! Poison released their full-length album, "Hollyweird" in the summer of 2002! The album features a cover of The Who's classic, "Squeeze Box" and new material including one of my Poison favs, "Shooting Star." I followed up with Poison's Rikki Rockett that summer right before they kicked off their tour. Both interviews (May 2001/Bret Michaels interview & 2002/Rikki Rockett) were published in The Voice (Ojai/Ventura).
________
"FOR THE LOVE OF DISHWALLA" --
Reviewed by M. Kohli
01.11.02 (VELVET JONES, SANTA BARBARA--CA):
The crowd waited in anticipation for the members of DISHWALLA to come on stage. The talk of the night was, "Have you heard about, 'OPALINE'?" "Can't wait to hear the new stuff". Finally after the two opening bands, GRAVITY WILLING and KARMACANIC--92.9 KJEE d.j., BIG LOU comes on stage and introduces the band.
The band opens up with the title track from their forthcoming album, "OPALINE" (Due on April 23, 2002 on IMMERGENT RECORDS). The moment the band begins their second song, "HAZE", people are already waving their arms and heads to the beat of the song.
Even my head was bopping through the entire set. Especially on well-performed tracks as, "CHARLIE BROWN'S PARENTS", "STAY AWAKE", and (of course) "COUNTING BLUE CARS".
J.R. Richards has a voice that could sooth an entire crowd and yet mezmorize you at the same time. The band has an incredible energy on stage and the music just seems to embrace the entire audience.
This show proved that the love for DISHWALLA is still very strong. Musically, there is a unique bond between the fans and the band. The love in the air was so strong that not even the angriest soul could break it.
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Dishwalla 01.11.02 VELVET JONES show setlist:
Opaline
Haze
When Morning Comes
Home
Charlie Brown's Parents
Stay Awake
Moisture
Madlife
Nashville Skyline
Counting Blue Cars
Darling Nikki
<<<< (Encore Set) >>>>
Give
So Much Time
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