Ain't Gon' Change

Out with the old.


In with the new.

Oh, and the Black Lips kicked out the jams at the Echo, Tuesday night. Just sayin'.

Better Than I've Ever Been

I haven't read anything more narcissistic and less substantive than Billy Corgan's corporate sponsored rant for his latest solo abortion, "Zeitgeist" (the addition of Jimmy Chamberlain certainly doesn't warrant the use of the Pumpkins' name.) And, as well all know, this isn't Corgan's first publicity stunt either - remember, Corgan announced the reunion of the Smashing Pumpkins on the eve of his debut solo release.

I'd be less suprised if Billy Corgan OD'd on his ego than announce the return of James Iha and D'arcy Wretzky.

Summer Deep

Congratulations to Ashton (above) and CB (aka Tweak Bird) on their upcoming gig with Big Business at Spaceland, August 3rd. Brain melting is to be expected.

Let Them Talk

As you may recall, I've experienced several less than pleasurable performances from artists late and great. Os Mutantes' performance Friday night at the El Rey was a shining example of a band far capable of performing their songs over thirty years later, without seeming consumed by age or their legacy. Energetic and humble, Os Mutantes took the stage flanked by backups singers, percussionists, and Brazilian sound wizards.


Sergio Dias, guitar hero.


Os Mutantes performed old jams, like "Technicolor."


And "Panis Et Circenses."



And "Bat Macumba."


Oh, can't forget "Balada Do Luoco." It's as if John Lennon made a record in Brazil, post "Sargent Peppers Lonely Heart's Club Band."

Os Mutantes' performance was well received by all; everyone left with smiles on their faces, myself included!

When the time came for a well deserved bow, Arnaldo Dias gratefully performed push ups for the crowd, an obvious show of his energy and excitement.

And the Summer continues.

Stop, Drop

"I'm like me on Entourage/I'm playing myself"

Saigon's no stranger to label woes and suited out CEOs, watching his debut album gather dust on the shelves of Craig Kallman's office at Atlantic. Attributed to sample clearance problems, the entirety of "The Greatest Story Never Told" was held back by one song, "C'Mon Baby," a supposed jammer with Just Blaze and Swizz Beatz. When Saigon publicly aired his frustrations with Atlantic recently, the execs suddenly scrambled to expedite the clearance process. A week and a half later, the song was cleared and "The Greatest Story Never Told" takes another step forward.

"C'Mon Baby" is now the first single off "The Greatest Story Never Told" and I'm way into it. Better yet, I hear Old Hov hops on the remix, which should leak soon enough.

BK stand up!

Watch Yo Screw

After work, we (Maia and I) headed to Zune's "Live at the BBQ" event at LA Historic Park (huh?) for UGK and Common.


Surrounded by cars, we crept all the way to the park. Maia sang Morrissey songs most of the way.


We arrived and found our way to the main stage where we found Bun B.


And Pimp C.

Collectively known as UGK or the Underground Kingz, from Houston, Texas. Bun B and Pimp C performed the classics, like "Pocket Full of Stones" and new jammers like, "International Player's Anthem."

Afterwards, dinner - Cole slaw, grilled vegetables, rice, beans, and cornbread. And Red Stripe.


Then, I saw Bun B.


Score!

Sorry, no Common pictures. I can tell you I saw a lot of raised fists and peace signs though.

I'd rather save the battery life, thanks.

Make 'Em Say

Os Mutantes tonight at the El Rey.

Oh yes!