There Goes A Hero: Taylor Hawkins dead at 50

 This past weekend on Friday, March 25th, the rock commiunuty was turned on its head once again. In the past few years we have suffered many great losses in our communnity . It started with the tragic lost of David Bowie bacck in 2016 . Since then we lost Chris Cornell in 2017, Eddie Van Halen in 2020 and most recentrly Charlie Watts last year. Last Friday, we lost another innovator . Taylor Hawkins , the drummer for the Foo Fighters passed away at the age of 50. He was born Oliver Taylor Hawkins in Fort Worth, Texas on February 17th, 1972. After gruadting Laguna Beach high school , he started his career playing for local Orange. county bands like Sylvia and becoming the drummer for British-born Canadian rock singer Sass Jordan. His first big break came however in 1995 when he joined Alannis Morisette as her drummer for her Jagged Little Pill until 1997. That same year, he would then join Foo Fighters where he replaced original drummer William Goldsmith. Hawkins drummer came be heard on the bands second album The Colour and The Shape and spawned classic hits like "Everlong", "My Hero" and "Monkey Wrentch" talk about a solid debut. He played on every Foo Fighters album since then including modern classics like One By One, Wasting Light and Sonic Highways which in my opinion are the bands best work. Taylor's drumming was both explsoive and fundemntal that made up the Foo Fighter's sound. From interviews and tributes, Hawkins was not only a gifted musician but his personality was contagious. His love for music was always present and he knew how to have a good time. It saddened me when I heard the news of his passing. When Tom Petty died back in 2017, the media was quck to jump to conclusions and it  wasn't proven true . Sadly, that became a reality. So it only made sense for me to be in denial about Hawkings passing. But, once again , it became reality. Hawkings was truly an amazing and charismatic drummer and a true gem that was taken from us far too soon. He was only 50. He had so much left to give this world. Fly high Taylor Hawkings . My condelences to his family, freinds and of course Dave and the band. 

No Return No Return: The psychotic beauty of YellowJackets and its love letter to 90's grunge and alternative

 I try to keep up with TV as much as I can since movies are more my forte . When it comes to cable television HBO and Showtime are the  heavyweights. They have orignal  programming to a sicence. Both have been around long before Netflix and all those other streaming networks were reality. Showtime is now a force to be reckoned with thanks to their new outstanding show Yellowjackets. The themes  of Yellowjackets is a cross between Lost and Lord Of the Flies. The storyline of YellowJackets revovles around  a New Jersey high school soccer team who are on their way to finals when their plane unfortuantly crashes deep inside the Ontaraio wildnerness. The crash takes place in the late 90's (1996) and the show jumps back and forth between 1996 and present time. Apart from the fantastic storyline and incredible acting, Yellowjackets writes a nostalgic love letter to the great one hit wonders and legendary rock and alternative bands of the 1990s. Right off the bat , the pilot episode opens up with The Smashing Pumpkin's classic 'Today' which when you watch the episode unfold , the song becomes quite ironic.  Other songs that are included in the show are The Offspring's "Come Out and Play", Mazzy Star "Fade Into You" and 'Dreams" by The Crainberries. The diverse artists make for a great soundtrack and I'm egar to see what other songs they will use in the series . I pray we get some Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains and many other heavyweights of the era. All in all, the show is phenomimal . If you haven't, give it a watch. If you can't handle the content, stay for the music. 

He'll stick around: Dave Grohl's memior shines with nostalgia and hope for rock's future

 Over the holidays, I recived a book that was high on my reading list . That was Dave Grohl's new autobiogrpahy The Storyteller:Tales of Life and Music . I always knew Dave Grohl as "that guy from Nirvana" (something he's learned to accept with the punches ) and the lead singer of post grunge legends Foo Fighters but I always wated to dive more into his lifes story becuase of his excellent musicianship and all around cool personality that makes you want to grab a beer with hin. To say that this book was too good to put down would be an understatement. What I found to be the most intriguing was his upbringing in the suburbs of Virginia right outside Washington D.C. and how his love for music took him at a young age . The night he saw legendary punk band Naked Raygun play at a club in Chicago one hot summer night was the night that changed everything. Couple that with his love for John Bonham , Neil Pert of Rush and The Beatles and he was ready to conquer the world. And he did . It was so fasciniating to find out he jammed with Iggy Pop, Mccartney , and after Nirvana disbanded he was invited to play drums for Tom Petty on SNL. I won't give the whole book away as you should go pick up a copy for yourself. Dave Grohl is truly an American rock icon who has overcome hardships and tragdy while all the while was able to create timeless music. Go get a copy you'll thank me later . 

This Charming Band: The importance and legacy of The Smiths

    Flashback to 1982. Fast Time's At Ridgemont High has cemented itself as an 80's classic and genres like hair metal, new-wave and hardcore punk were starting to dominate the airwaves. Take into account that MTV was launched the previous year. It's safe to say that music was one of the top entertainment forces of the year let alone the entire decade. Out of all the bands that have come out during the new-wave rock era, The Smiths are the greatest out of them all. The roots of The Smiths can be traced back to 1978 when Steven Morrissey (Morrissey) and Johnny Marr met at a Patti Smith concert at The Apollo Theater in Manchester. In May of 1982, Marr visited the home of Morrissey and asked him to form a band. Morrissey is credited with coming up with the now-iconic name as he has stated that he was shooting for an "ordinary" name.  The Smiths finally came together as Morrissey (vocals), Johnny Marr (guitar), Andy Rourke (bass), and Mike Joyce (drums). Throughout 1982 and 1983 the band would record demos of songs that would eventually end up on future albums like "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" and 'This Charming Man".  In 1984, the band released their self titled debut to critical acclaim and produced classics like 'What Difference Does It Make?", "This Charming Man" and "Reel Around The Fountain." What made The Smiths stand out from the rest of the bands of the time were the loner/introverted lyrical style of Morrissey and the guitar style of Johnny Marr who drew influences from Roger Mcguinn of The Byrds, George Harrison, and James Honeymoon Scott of The Pretenders. The following year the band released their politically-charged sophomore album Meat Is Murder and spawned anthems like 'The Headmaster ritual" the rockabilly influenced "Rusholme Ruffiants'. The re-release of the single  "How Soon Is Now?" however proved to be their crowning achievement that year. In 1986, the release of The Queen Is Dead became the band Sgt. Peppers and became their most well-known and critically acclaimed album. However, in 1987 the band came to an end due to tensions in the band. Decades later, The Smiths are still celebrated for their brilliance and have been nominated to be inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame twice. It's safe to say that the waiting has been long enough. Let them in! 

There hasn't been a band quite like The Smiths since and there will never be again. Despite their short career,  their impact on rock n roll cannot be underestimated.

Wer'e All Alright: Cheap Trick rocks The Wellmont theater

 Yesterday I had the pleasure of seeing Cheap Trick once more at The Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ. I first saw them at the same venue back in March of 2019. This time around I bought along my girlfriend and best friend including my dad. Next to The Rolling Stones (who've I also seen live) I can honestly say that Cheap Trick is truly a testament of rock n roll and are at their best when they play live. Cheap Trick was formed in 1973. The original lineup consisted of Robin Zander (vocals and guitar) Rick Neilsen (Guitar), Tom Peterson (bass) and Bun E. Carlos (drums) . The group hails from Rockford, Illinois and their contribution to rock and roll can't be underestimated. In the late 70's, disco was ruling the airwaves . Thank god we had Cheap Trick to prove that rock was very much alive. They had a Beatlmania following on Japan which resulted in the live album masterpiece Cheap Trick at Budokan . It wasn't until that live record that America finally started taking the band seriously. Being able to combine both elements of punk , pop, glam rock, and new wave along with catchy lyrics and powerful guitar hooks there is a reason why decades later the band still reigns supreme. 

Just being able to see live music was such a blessing after what we've all been through. Cheap Trick were on top of their game last night. They may be up their in age but they play with such passion and are so professional at what they do you would believe they were in their late 20's. The only changeup for the band tonight was that Robin Taylor Zander (Robin Zander's son) filled in for bassist Tom Peterson who is currently recovering from open heart surgery. Daxx Neilson (Rick Neilsen's son) was on drums and has been since 2010. The band performed songs from their latest album Another World while also providing deep cuts for true fans like "Stiff Competition" and "Top Of The World".  Their classic "Big Eyes" was also included which was a staple on their Budokan record. Of course , Cheap Trick wanted to please everyone that night. They rounded out the night with classics like "The Flame", "I want you to Want Me", 'Dream Police" and the epic "Surrender". After seeing this band twice , I can honestly say that their in my list as one of the many if not greatest live American rock acts. If you haven't seen them yet, do yourself a favor and get tickets next time their in the Garden State. It's worth it.

Stop making sense: My top 5 Talking Heads songs

 There hasn't been a band quite like Talking Heads. They were a critical part of the new-wave rock movement that emerged in the late 70's and throughout the 1980's and crossed many musical boundaries including rock, pop, art punk, post- punk and much more. Talking Heads were formed in 1975 in New York City and were active until 1991.The band was composed of legendary lead singer /guitarist David Byrne, Chris Frantz (drums), Tina Weymouth (bass) and Jerry Harrison (keyboards, guitar). David Byrne , Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth all met while attending the Rhode Island School of Design in 1973 . Frantz and Byrne formed the band the Artistics while Weymouth provided transportation. In March 1977 Harrison was added to the lineup . That same year , they released Talking Heads 77 to critical acclaim and from there the rest is history. I've always liked Talking Heads but hearing the same songs played on FM radio constantly made me stay away form the band . Now I have new appreciation for the band. Here are my top 10 favorites from the legendary band.

5. 'Uh-Oh Love Comes to Town" Talking Heads 77 (1977)

This opening track off of the bands self titled debut is a playful, soulful and care free tune that showcases right off the bat that the band can tackle many genres. From Bryne's original vocal delivery, to Frantz in pocket drumming its an impressive first song from beginning to end . However, the highlight of this hidden gem is Weymouth's simplistic yet powerful bass line throughout the song . This song foreshadows her contributions to the band which will be a part of the secret weapon that was to become Talking Heads.

4. 'Pulled Up" Talking Heads 77 (1977)

The closing track off the bands debut album is one of their greatest hidden gems and my personal favorite off the album. This is David Byrne at his most vicious ,awkward and most personal vocal delivery. Harrison's guitar playing and Frantz drumming showcase the bands punk characteristics as it is straight forward and easily melodic . One of their best deep cuts. 

3. 'And She Was" Little Creatures (1985)

By 1985, Talking Heads were at the top of their game. With the release of 1983's Speaking In Tongues and the blockbuster concert film Stop Making Sense, they were on a role. Hidden Creatures is often overlooked because of tensions in the band and most fans saying it was too commercial. However , And She Was is arguably the best track off the album. According to David Byrne, the song was about a girl he knew that took LSD with him in a field next to the Yoo-Hoo factory in Baltimore. With a memorable guitar riff from Harrison,  killer baseline from Weymouth and Frantz best drumming on record this song proved that despite hangups in the band, they were still able to create fantastic music 

2. "Heaven" Fear Of Music (1979)

Fear Of Music is the second of the trio of albums Talking Heads would make with producer Brian Eno. Song wise this album is Talking Heads at their most ambitious and creative in my opinion. Every track is completely different from the next. Heaven is the most enduring track off the album and showcases the fantastic guitar work between Byrne and Harrison. The use of heaven in this song is vastly different from most as Byrne writes from the view of a man who sits in his favorite bar and hears his favorite song on rotation and the bar is empty where "nothing ever happens". 

1. "Life During Wartime" Fear Of Music (1979)

The lead single off the 1979 masterpiece album is Talking Heads at their best. Everything about this song is flawless. Weymouth is the soul of the song with her iconic bass line accompanied by a memorable guitar hook from both Byrne and Harrison. The song is lyrically similar to punk with the idea of questioning authority and going against the mainstream but in a different tone.  David Byrne sings from the point of view of an insurgent who is a bit paranoid and has a problem giving up the creature comforts you lose when you enter into guerilla warfare, not the least of which is music.The lyrics also have nods to the cultural elements of the late 70's including disco, changing hairstyles and even a nod to the famous CBGB venue where they got their start where they opened for The Ramones. Truly one of their best .

Had the makings of a perfect soundtrack: Why the music in The Sopranos mattered

With  The Sopranos prequel film The Many Saints Of Newark being released , my obsession and love for the iconic HBO show has come back in full force.  For the film, I loved it . It'll take multiple viewings but nonetheless it is a great fan service for fans of the game changing show. We waited a long time for David Chase to create content again so lets just take it for all its worth . Without giving spoilers the movie takes place during the Newark race riots in 1967 so lots of classic soul and R&B is showcased throughout . When it gets to the early 70's, classic rock is in full force. 

As for the series, The Sopranos had everything going for it and it doesn't take a genius why it was so successful. For starters our main anti-hero Tony Soprano sees a psychiatrist. That alone in of itself makes the show so unique . If you've seen your fair share of mafia films you know that the rule is to never rat out the members of your family and tell your secrets to nobody .However , Tony sees Dr. Melfi to help balance his panic attacks, family life and the lifestyle he has chosen. It doesn't hurt that aside from the late great James Gandolfini playing the legendary character that you have a dream supporting cast and fantastic writing that really made you forget you were watching a television program. 

Just like the writing, the music used in the series is just as brilliant if not more so. For starters let's go to the infamous finale scene. Tony deposits change into a jukebox and plays Journey's "Don't Stop Believin" which when you look back at it now is the perfect song. At this point, Tony is a dead man walking. He is either going to get whacked or live the rest of his days out in prison . Don't Stop Believin is his optimistic way of seeing his future . Who knows? maybe he'll get off scot free. That being said, the screen cuts black and it's up for us as the viewer to decide . If you can catch it , the other Journey song that could of been chosen form the jukebox was their smash hit "Any Way You Want It" which proves that you can conclude for yourself if Tony lives or doesn't . That is genius. 

If we go back to the pilot , the song used in the ending credits is Johnny Cash's ' cover of The Beast In Me" from his 1994 landmark album American Recordings . We know from the pilot that Tony is seeing Dr. Melfi to help cope with his panic attacks, family life and the lifestyle he has chosen . On top of that , we get a glimpse of what his childhood was like with his sadistic mother Livia and her turmoil with the rest of the family . This song is the perfect choice because Tony wants to control his inner demons. Hence forth 'the beast " 

In the season 3 episode 'University " The Kinks classic "Living on a Thin Line" is used during the ending credits. When watching the episode again after multiple viewings its hauntingly appropriate. Ralph Cifaretto shows his true wicked colors and beats Tracee to death. Tracee was a stripper at the Bada Bing and was pregnant with Ralphie's child. His satanic actions now have him 'walking on a thin line ". Also, the lyrics also reflect of England and its glory days and how times have changed . That same mentality can be applied to the mafia and how the glory days of the 60's and 70's are long gone.

Finally, the last track that seemingly makes the music important in the series is The Rolling Stones classic "Through and Through" from 1994's Voodoo Lounge. This is played during the season 2 finale as Tony sacrifices friendship for business and kills Sal "big pussy" Bonpensiero for ratting out the family. The song  showcases Tony Soprano's endangerment of what he's been through , what's occurring at the moment , and what is to come. 

This show is truly the greatest of all time .You don't need to hear it from me . See for yourself if you sadly haven't already .