The Down South Radio Hour ®

The Explorer's Club!

2012-01-21T12:58:00.004-05:00

http://www.rockridgemusic.com/explorersclub/

I spent the weekend in Charlotte and the initial reason I went was to see The Explorers Club perform. If you ever read my blog you will know that this is not the first time I have seen them, in fact I have lost count of how many times I have seen them!

There is something very unique about this band that I really like and they are only getting better with time. It seems when I hear their music I get transported back to the 1960's sounds of Herb Alpert and the Beach Boys. They have a way of melting all these vibes into a unique mix of sounds that work perfectly in 2012. Mark Linett, who mixed The Beach Boys’ “SMiLE” for Capitol Records was responsible for the mix on the up-coming release “Grand Hotel.” You can hear the perfection in the mix on the pre-release tracks.

This band has just started a tour so I would encourage you to check their web site to see if they will be in your area. They are not to be missed! There is also a new album of music coming in February. I have heard some of the tracks and they are damn good! I know radiomargaritaville is playing some of these tracks right now so tune in and listen for them.

I wished the band would have played longer but on this night there were three different acts so I guess I had to settle for what I got! I can't wait 'till the next time I get to see another performance from these guys. I hope it is soon.

http://www.myspace.com/explorersclub

Here is a pre-order page for the new album:

http://www.shopbenchmark.com/theexplorersclub/

And a nice HD video link for the new album release!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQFPpNiOJKw&feature=g-upl

What a great new song! Check out this video of "Run, Run, Run,"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LBeHeBosgU&feature=related

That's it for now...until next time, I'll see you. Down the road...

Malcolm Holcombe!

2012-01-21T12:27:00.003-05:00

http://www.malcolmholcombe.com/

Malcolm Holcombe last Saturday night at the Evening Muse in Charlotte. http://www.theeveningmuse.com/ This venue is an intimate place right in the heart of a part of Charlotte now called NODA. That would be "North Davidson Street" which is about three miles north of up-town Charlotte. Yeah that's what they call it here...up-town, never downtown...You say downtown in Charlotte and everyone knows you are not from around here.

Malcolm played to a very attentive crowd seated in chairs and standing along the window glass in the front of the venue. It was a nice selection of songs from a guy who has spent most of his time in Western North Carolina. After the show was over he was walking towards the door when a fan asked him about his song 'Dressed in White." He seemed to really like her knowledge of his music so he sat his guitar case down and opened it. He sat down in a chair and played the song to her right there. I thought that was pretty cool. Here's a like to the song if you want to hear it:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGp4DVg1Xtw&feature=related

I asked Malcolm about the song "Killing the Blues." I told him I really like that song. Many people have covered it and I recently found out that it was written by Rowland Salley. Malcolm told me that as soon as I started talking about the song. He knows his music for sure. These days everyone from Robert Plant to John Prine has covered that song. Cool stuff.

Here are the links. This song is off the meter.

The Allison Krause and Robert Plant version. I love this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtpeLia33PY

Here is Malcolm's version. I love this one too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZSGs-7jvHw

Go check out Malcolm if you get a chance, he is a real talent. I need to go get another round of his live music...

"Killing the Blues"

Leaves were falling, just like embers,
In colors red and gold, they set us on fire
Burning just like moonbeams in our eyes.

Somebody said they saw me, swinging the world by the tail
Bouncing over a white cloud, killing the blues.

Now I'm guilty of something...
I hope you never do
Because there is nothing
Any sadder than losing yourself in love.

And then you've ask me... just to leave you
To set out on my own
And get what I needed.
You want me to find what I've already had.

The Christmas Jam Mirror Ball.

2011-12-27T22:10:00.002-05:00

I just liked this picture. It comes from my past. I will tell you the story sometime. That is for another day or maybe a moment on a beach with the breeze in our hair and a rising tide. Until next time, I'll see you down the road. Much Love always.

Warren Haynes!

2011-12-27T21:55:00.002-05:00

http://www.warrenhaynes.net/

I can't stop the story without showing a picture of Warren in 2011 Christmas Jam form...Here he is singing the lead on "Shakedown Street." Thanks Warren. Your show always rocks!!!

Here is one of my absolute favorites with Warren playing a very special guitar:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fR8zeRd5bUk

And here is another favorite. The Hangout Festival 2011 on the Gulf Coast with Grace Potter and my pal Ron Holloway on sax.
"Honky Tonk Women" This one ROCKS:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-epBSpoSwU&feature=related

Phil Lesh!

2011-12-27T21:37:00.004-05:00

http://www.phillesh.net/
http://www.philzone.com/

Well. The crowd was here to see this guy. And he did not disappoint. The first song was the Grateful Dead's "Shakedown Street" and it just rode on from there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R3WBhod0sE

Nothin' shakin' on Shakedown Street. Used to be the heart of town.
Don't tell me this town ain't got no heart. You just gotta poke around...

A snapshot of my afternoon. before the show. It was COLD and breezy in this mountain town. I love the place. So cool in so many ways. As I parked in the garage next to library I went to the elevator. Out stepped two young girls and a guy. They were laughing. As I stepped into the door I smelled the fresh remnants of dope smoke. I smiled. Welcome to Asheville. Money and hippies abound....

After a great meal and some micro-brew I went to find my place at the door for the show. Yeah it was cold. It always is. Part of the game for coming to this gig! There were people walking by with boom boxes playing Dead music and showing various drug stuff for sale. I thought....only in Asheville. Too funny. 'Nuff said.

Los Lobos!

2011-12-27T21:27:00.002-05:00

http://www.loslobos.org/site/

It was as good as I imagined it. Los Lobos can rock.

Don't Worry Baby! Yeah! This ROCKS.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiDyURMJkV0&feature=related

...With Neil Young..."Cinnamon Girl"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGT-Eh6plIY&feature=related

I watched this set from mostly right behind the stage. It was off the freakin' meter...I wish you could have been right beside me....just sayin.'

The Gang....

2011-12-27T21:13:00.003-05:00

Jimmy Herring! Yeah he rocks that guitar. http://www.myspace.com/jimmyherringofficial

He was on it in this picture. Here's a nice link to Jimmy playing with Derek Trucks and his band.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ia2unDpnDw&feature=related

Casey Driessen on violin. I have seen this guy many times backstage at Merlefest playing with Zac Brown and many others.

He is quite good! In fact you check it out. Charlie Daniels made this one famous. Zac and his band still jam it with Casey...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnQZ1HSUbXU

Too much fun!

Bela Fleck!

2011-12-27T21:03:00.002-05:00

http://www.belafleck.com/

Wow. This was a show! The band can jam and it went from Scruggs to rock....I just sort of watched it from several angles including ten feet away to the back to the stage. It was great! When you see these guys you never know what they might play. But it is all Great!!

Here's a taste...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsDqloUEliQ&feature=related

Xmas Jam 2011 Asheville, North Carolina

2011-12-27T20:51:00.002-05:00

Audley Freed! He has played with all kinds of people...the Dixie Chicks, Gary Allan, Perter Frampton, Government Mule, Jakob Dylan, Gavin DeGraw, on and on....

He is always awesome at the Christmas Jam. Here is a link to a very cool Warren Haynes and Government Mule 2010 cover of Skynerd's "Simple Man" with Audley playing. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51k7xlbguEM&feature=related

Nice!

2011-12-15T21:13:00.005-05:00

You can click the photo to enlarge it...

So here is most of the band playing. Randall was all over the sax, the keys, the guitar, the vocals. He does it all. His talent is very solid. He has the mastery of music for sure and it is a pleasure to enjoy seeing someone of this caliber perform in an intimate setting. Yes I know I am a lucky man in so many ways. I never stop enjoying a moment. This was a good one. Thanks Randall.

I spent a few minutes chatting with Randall in the corner. I took home some music, including this song and I have to say this was probably my favorite one they did on this night. Enjoy. Here is the link to the video.

I am a bit behind on my blog but I promise I will catch up one day. Until next time, I'll see you. Down the road.

Drivin' to Montgomery! Click on the link. I love this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQ7gpZ8ThbQ

Randall and Mel....

2011-12-15T21:07:00.003-05:00

So I spent a lot of time at the back watching this show. My old pal Mel Melton who owns the place and it is the chef stepped up to play some harp on a couple of cool blues numbers stood silently beside me for a while just watching this band play. We both knew we were watching something very cool and there were some subtile smiles going on. It was a very nice night. Great music. Great food. Life is short enjoy the moment. Just sayin.'

http://www.randallbramblett.com/

http://www.papamojosroadhouse.com/papa-mojos-roadhouse-mel-melton.htm

A video link. Mel Melton and the Wicked Mojos featuring Max Drake from Stoneville, North Carolina about five miles from where I live. It's the Chapel Hill Boogie.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvLxKZFVAAY

Randall Bramblett!

2011-12-15T21:01:00.002-05:00

http://www.randallbramblett.com/

Well. I have seen him before. Many times in fact. Solo and with the likes of the Allman Brothers Band as well as Bonnie Raitt.
He is always very awesome. He road-tripped from Athens, Georgia to entertain a sold-out house in a fine cajun restaurant. I drove almost two hours each way to see him after a long week of work on not so much sleep. It was worth every moment. You really just had to be there. 'Nuff said.

Jimmy on Stage.

2011-12-03T22:31:00.003-05:00

I'm not going to put my best photos up here but I would be happy to share them with you in person. Here's one for you. It was a great show!

Here's a link to one of my favorite videos of the day...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-3kqPF2kk4&feature=related

Yes and now you heard my strange proposal
So get that packard up and lets move
I wanna be there before the day
Tries to steal away and leave us behind
Ive made up my mind

And I wanna be there
I wanna go back down and die beside the sea there
With a tin cup for a chalice, fill it up with good red wine
And Im a chewin on a honeysuckle vine

Here Comes Jimmy!

2011-12-03T22:23:00.005-05:00

Well I hesitated to add this photo. I am kind of hesitant to put my favorite pictures on the internet. I don't mind sharing I just want people to not do the wrong things with them. That's all. And they are my treasures. I love photography. It helps reclaim what you can't remember in a special moment. Just saying.'

I should add Jimmy said that was the first time the police were in the front of him in Key West. Too funny!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbuYO5Hdj4g&feature=related

The Upstairs View.

2011-12-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

Looking down at the street from the Margaritaville Offices...

A view down Duval Street.

2011-12-03T22:15:00.001-05:00

Just a picture not too long before the set was changed for the Coral Reefer Band.

Me and Alex Leist.

2011-12-03T22:08:00.003-05:00

I just liked this picture. Alex ran this show many years ago for a while. We have been friends since the early 1990's thanks to the internet and the music of Jimmy Buffett. I can tell you we have seen some good times in Key West. For sure. Long story...

I should mention this picture was taken as Jimmy Buffett was on the way across Key West to play for us. We both knew it and we were smiling.

John Frinzi and Friends...

2011-12-03T21:58:00.003-05:00

http://www.johnfrinzi.com/

This is a long-time running gig. John always invites cool people to play late night on the beach. It is the place to be to share stories with friends you haven't seen in a while. I can't really explain you just need to be there. It is always a moment, you can feel the ocean breeze, it is warm, and the music is very good.

In this picture you see John, Freebo, Doyle Grisham, Nadirah Shakoor, Mark James, and Freebo.

Let's just say it was really good.

http://freebomusic.com/

http://www.nadirahshakoor.com/fr_home.cfm

http://www.doylegrisham.com/

Howard Livingston!

2011-12-03T21:54:00.002-05:00

http://www.milemarker24.com/

Howard. He is living the dream. I enjoy his music and his band is very good....We always have fun. He got me home safely the last time I needed a ride from downtown. Thanks Howard. You and Cyndy too....

The sun going down behind the Casa Marina....

2011-12-03T21:52:00.000-05:00

I just love Key West sunsets...

Will Kimbrough!

2011-11-24T21:34:00.003-05:00

http://www.willkimbrough.com/

Well. Will is totally awesome. He is a great person. He is an entertainer. He can tell great stories. He is an AWESOME guitar player and shares everything he knows which I really love. It is just cool to listen to him talk about little things in music. So yeah I am a huge fan. Mostly of Will the person. Here is my advice. If you get a chance to see him perform you RUN don't walk. I had a blast, 'Nuff said.

There is a cool story behind this song. Check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR7gl-eWCAU

Of course the song Jimmy Buffett made famous, actually one of many Will songs....Will writes some awesome tunes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ywz8UVHfAA

One I really understand. This reminds me of Madden, Mississippi.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usMjBo2tyag&feature=related

And here is the Jimmy Buffett version of this cool song...Thanks Will!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uy0JJ68VVE

So as I post this on Thanksgiving...here is a cool video for you to watch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htcQmkk2fec

Michael Crawley!

2011-11-24T21:26:00.002-05:00

http://www.myspace.com/michaelcrawley

Crawdaddy. He is a super harp player. I really love to watch him play. He has the soul and the ability. Not to mention I love that shirt he has on. He played with Will through most of the show and really added some awesome stuff on many of the blues tracks.
Folks, this was a GREAT show. I wish I could write something to capture the magic but you really needed to be here on this one.

Here is my advice. If you can go see either of these guys play go now. They both rock!

Will and Me.

2011-11-24T21:22:00.002-05:00

OK so this is the picture I should probably not post on my blog. But I really love this guy. He is such a talent. He works hard, he knows his craft, he freaking loves his family, and besides he is pals with a bunch of my friends. So this is a picture I really like.

This guy is a star. He is so damn amazing on guitar.

Will's Pedals.

2011-11-24T21:12:00.003-05:00

I'm in Key West at the Studios of Key West. http://www.tskw.org/ It is the show I have called my favorite gig of the week. After all the action of the week... yeah this show still is although Jimmy Buffett in the street was pretty damn good! More to come on that....

I am a hard-core fan of Will's "Weekly Lick of the Day" He tells us all about guitars and pedals. Music and love of music. I love every moment of it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Zip42DUMAo

So here is my picture of Will's pedals.

Lingerie...

2011-11-18T20:47:00.003-05:00

This guy is too much fun! Here is a link to a favorite of mine. One he calls "Lingerie."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbkRejBht1s

I'm not sure how you explain one of these shows...He has a theme that plays as he comes on stage. The crowd knows what he is going to do and it is an audience participation show. This is one entertaining guy. You should go check him out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cD0aL4uWPt0&feature=related

Too funny...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYFhd5AL6dw&feature=related

Unknown Hinson!

2011-11-18T20:42:00.002-05:00

http://www.unknownhinson.com/

Rocking at the Blind Tiger in Greensboro, North Carolina in October. Unknown Hinson is a ton of fun to see in person. He is always dressed to kill and he plays like it is his last gig....

Joe and his guitar collection....

2011-11-13T20:31:00.003-05:00

Joe traded guitars almost every song. He has some really nice axes. We were driven through most all of his hits from the James Gang all the way to current including several songs of his made famous by the Eagles. I loved "Life in the Fast Lane" but "Pretty Maids All in a Row" was my favorite. It was a great show and I felt privileged to be witnessing this version given how few shows he is playing on this tour. It was a great night!

Here is a nice bootleg video link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1lw82eYx4U

And...Funk #49

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8x-Po5mJF4o&feature=related

Joe Walsh!

2011-11-13T20:28:00.002-05:00

http://www.joewalsh.com/

Joe playing to a packed house. Kenny Wayne Shepherd is a hard act to follow but Joe can get it done on guitar. He was smoking!
He seemed as sharp as ever and his band was very tight. Nice stuff!

On Fire...

2011-11-13T20:16:00.003-05:00

Kenny played everything from his own songs to Hendrix's "Voodoo Child" as well as a Stevie Ray cover. All the songs were pretty damn intense and the band played almost relentlessly for the time they were on the stage. I would go see this band again today, they are that good! 'Nuff said.

Check this out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6N4WbXRu-c

Kenny Wayne Shepherd

2011-11-13T20:09:00.003-05:00

http://www.kennywayneshepherd.net/

Kenny Wayne Shepherd opening for Joe Walsh at the Durham Performing Arts Center. What a band! I have seen KWS several
times now and I believe he is only getting more and more powerful in his performances.

That is the fabulous Chris Layton on drums in the background of this photo. You can click the photo to enlarge it.
Here is an interview with Chris on his days with Stevie Ray Vaughn.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvZkqbHPnGU

FARM AID 2011.

2011-08-12T21:12:00.007-04:00

Farm Aid 2011. http://www.farmaid.org/site/c.qlI5IhNVJsE/b.2723609/k.C8F1/About_Us.htm

Wow. I have been watching this event happen for so long now. I am such a fan. First it is an awesome cause supported by some of the coolest music icons in the bidness'. They are all my favorites. Each year I get invites to join them live really close up. I haven't done that yet. I should so I can report on it. In the meantime I watch the video and listen to the satelite feeds. This year they are live on Willie's channel Sirius 56. No Direct TV live feed yet but there will be a replay for sure. There is a web feed....http://gigaom.com/video/farm-aid-2011-online/

So go buy a t shirt or even support the sponsors. I still buy Horizon Organic Milk evey week just because they sponsor this event and support small farmers. They ROCK. And it is awesome milk that is good and it lasts a long time, longer than that watered-down stuff from the corporate milk guys. Check it out. http://www.horizondairy.com/products/milk/whole-milk-plus-dha-omega-3/?gclid=CNjt_NiNy6oCFesRNAodJSG8yg

Thanks to the guys who do this every year. We love ya.

Check these videos out.....They do it because they feel it. Yeah I do too.

(Just so you know there is some incredible video here. Remember these guys kick SERIOUS ass and the band is OFF the meter.)

http://www.farmaid.org/site/c.qlI5IhNVJsE/b.6300359/k.5BC8/Farm_Aid_Live_Videos.htm

Until next time, I'll see ya. Down the Road. Maybe even a country road. :)

"Shuffle Diplomacy Tour 2011"

2011-08-05T20:44:00.008-04:00

http://www.steelydan.com/
http://walterbecker.com/

Walter Becker. Well. This is fifty percent of Steely Dan. Yeah I took three pictures of Walter last night, this is one of them. Even though these two partners hire the best people to play on their albums and tours I still credit the officers at the head of this business deal with all the glory. They are the heart and soul of the music. The band, while sonically perfect are only there because these guys create the music. So I salute them both. Walter and Donald.

In this picture Walter was giving his extremely cool rap before "Hey Nineteen." This song comes from the "Gaucho" album. I had a poster of this album cover in my house for a long time. I wish I still had it.

"Hey Nineteen" was a huge hit. Even now Walter reminds us of the wonderful decade of the 1970's when so much music was happening. There was always a special night when...The Cuervo Gold, The fine Colombian. Make tonight a wonderful thing.

I will end these thoughts with my recollection of the entire show from start to finsh. The band seems very "On" last night. They were very tight and the sound was pristine as it always is at a Dan show. I always wear earplugs at live music shows to dampen the db level to a safe spot. Last night I took them out. I rarely do that. This was probably one of the best Steely Dan shows I have seen. I just wanted to soak up every morsel of sound from that stage.

There is only so much time to tell a Steely Dan story. I have so many more. Go see this band live. They are awesome.

Remember sleep is over-rated and life is short. Go see live music now!

Until next time. I'll see you. Down the road.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzfwtX2kgOA

Way back when in 67
I was the dandy
Of Gamma Chi
Sweet things from Boston
So young and willing
Moved down to Scarsdale
And where the hell am I

Hey Nineteen
No we can't dance together
No we can't talk at all
Please take me along
When you slide on down

Hey Nineteen
That's 'Retha Franklin
She don't remember the Queen of Soul
It's hard times befallen
The sole survivors
She thinks I'm crazy
But I'm just growing old

Hey Nineteen
No we got nothing in common
No we can't talk at all
Please take me along
When you slide on down

The Cuervo Gold
The fine Colombian
Make tonight a wonderful thing
We can't dance together
No we can't talk at all

Walt Weiskopf!

2011-08-05T20:13:00.008-04:00

http://www.waltweiskopf.com/
Walt. OK remember the ban on concert photography? I usually oblige. But. Something made me raise my camera to snap a single picture of this moment. I remember it so well.

Walt walked to center stage. Donald pulled the microphone forward over his keyboard. He said something about predicting the current economic mess back in 2000-something. When he said that I knew what he was going to play. I had never heard it performed live. I smiled. I spent some time back in 2000 something hacking this song for a radio show on radiomargaritaville.
http://www.radiomargaritaville.com/

This sax solo was the introduction to a show I put together. I love every note of it. Walt was getting ready to freaking rip it. It was off the meter. By the time I caught my breath I snapped one single picture to avoid the camera nazis. You are looking at it. It was a moment. I am glad I captured a small part of it. You really have to experience this band live. I cannot describe how good they are, I can only try.

It's high time for a walk on the real side
Let's admit the bastards beat us
I move to dissolve the corporation
In a pool of margaritas
So let's switch off all the lights
Light up all the Luckies
Crankin' up the afterglow
Cause we're goin' out of business
Everything must go

Talk about your major pain and suffering
Now our self-esteem is shattered
Show the world a mighty hidey-ho face
As we go sliding down the ladder

It was sweet up at the top
'Til that ill wind started blowing
Now it's cozy down below
'Cause we're goin' out of business
Everything must go

We gave it our best shot
But keep in mind we got a lot
The sky, the moon, good food and the weather
First-run movies-does anybody get lucky twice?
Wouldn't it be nice...

Tell me can you dig it Miss Fugazy
Now it's gone from late to later
Frankly I could use a little face time
In the service elevator
And if Dave from Acquisitions
Wants to get in on the action
With his Handicam in tow
Well we're goin' out of business
Everything must go

Can it be the sorry sun is rising
Guess it's time for us to book it
Talk about the famous road not taken
In the end we never took it
And if somewhere on the way
We got a few good licks in
No one's ever gonna know
'Cause we're goin' out of business
Everything must go

Steely Dan is Back at the DPAC!

2011-08-05T19:12:00.015-04:00

http://www.steelydan.com/
Some time ago I heard Steely Dan was coming out on tour again in 2011. I always get those cool emails that say pay attention and get some cool seats for Steely Dan shows. I like that. If you read my blog you know that I have been a fan since they recorded the first album in the 1970's. Since I have already saved that story back in 2000 -something, maybe even several times, I will spare you the part about mowing grass in hundred-plus degree Mississippi weather to buy Dan vinyl. You can research that if you are so inclined. LOL, I haven't piloted a lawn mower in over a decade. Just sayin.' Yeah life is good! Remember the little search box on the upper left. Just type "Steely Dan" there...

As for the picture of the trucks above. You may ask yourself, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1wg1DNHbNU not that I am writing a Talking Heads songs or anything, why is there a picture of trucks on this blog. Well it is a couple of things.

Before I start, a salute to the road crew. It is a tough job I volunteer for all the time. I really like this video of the Steely Dan setup...check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYOAqL-L-zw

First let's start from the beginning. I rode into Durham on this 100 and something degree day in my beloved-scratch-free MINI worrying about parking. I had received an email that there was a ballgame next door at the Durham Bulls stadium at 7:00. So I was concerned about parking. You see I always park in the adjacent deck next to the DPAC which is very new and very nice. So after navigating the streets and traffic I ended up on level 3 in my favorite parking deck. Yeah I was early. I am always early for a concert because that is the way I like it thank you.

As I walked down the steps and avoided the elevator I walked around to the back of the loading dock on the way to will-call to pick up my ticket. As you can see the matching Volvo semi-trucks were parked and chilling in the searing heat outside. The gear was already on stage at this point. I already knew there was a ban on photography inside so I took some photos to add to this trip as a backup plan. It's not like I need any Dan photos at this point in my life anyway. I probably have 10,000 or so. I have taken so many photos of these guys it is over the top...several thousand per show usually. But that is just my style. I will spare you the soapbox about concert photography bans and why artists are so picky about having their pictures taken. All we want to do is a little fan worship and frankly I don't care if you are having a bad hair or even a no-hair day. We just want something to share with our friends to try to offset our guilt of paying crazy prices to see old guys playing music or maybe it is even the that special moment when a really good-looking background singer aka Carolyn Leonhart http://www.carolynleonhart.com/ is hitting that special note....

OK before I get accused of being uptight on a Friday night I should say that I still think the musicians in this band are among the best at what they do and that is why I keep coming to see them play. They may even be the best. In fact as I write this I am listening to the studio version of the first song they played last night. "Throw out Your Gold Teeth" from the "Countdown to Ecstasy" album. I have to say it is one of my favorites. I wasn't expecting it. By the first thirty seconds of the show tears were flowing from my eyes. It was that damn good. Yeah it was DAMN good, sort of the definition of perfection from a music and sound perspective. Steely Dan music is like a fine wine that must be tasted on a regular basis.

As I listened to the lyrics that I know so well I thought it was interesting about being in the middle of tobacco-ville literally, I mean Durham, 100 yards away is the Lucky Strike factory in all it's glory, and this was the place where so many cigarettes were made for so long. Lucrative addictions. Think about it. Anyway that was just a momentary thought. You read the lryics, you will see. The link to the video of this song is at the bottom of this post. Enjoy.

Got a feeling I've been here before
Watching as you cross the killing floor
You know you'll have to pay it all
You'll pay today or pay tomorrow
You fasten up your beaded gown
Then you try to tie me down
Do you work it out one by one
Or played in combination
You throw out your gold teeth
Do you see how they roll
I have seen your iron and your brass
Can't you see it shine behind the glass
Your fortune is your roving eye
Your mouth and legs
Your gift for the runaround
Torture is the main attraction
I don't need that kind of action
You don't have to dance for me
I've seen your dance before
Do you throw out your gold teeth
Do you see how they roll

Tobacco they grow in Peking
In the Year of the Locust
You'll see a sad thing
Even Cathy Berberian knows
There's one roulade she can't sing
Dumb luck my friend
Won't suck me in this time

Got a feeling I've been here before
Won't you let me help you find the door
All you got to do is use
Your silver shoes
A gift for the runaround
Use your knack darlin'
Take one step back darlin'
There ain't nothing in Chicago
For a monkey woman to do
Do you throw out your gold teeth
Do you see how they roll

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpQ1MLA_FG0

Peter Frampton Don't Need No Doctor...

2011-07-20T16:23:00.006-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OoCSnZaw19A

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LhHkhVSWvY&feature=related

Photo: Andrew Talbert ©2011

OK. So I should put my story up here. First, the video links. Last night Peter didn't play this one. There was a guy who yelled it twice last night from the crowd. I never did but I really wanted to hear it. I was not disappointed. I heard three freakin' hours of music from a just-turned 60 year old who has the stamina of a thirty year old. If you think this guy can't rock well I will pay your way as a wager that you are DEAD WRONG!

Frampton Comes Alive. 35 years this year. I was there in the 1970's, Jackson, Mississippi, when he toured this album with Gary Wright opening. It was awesome then and it still is.

Last night was planned for several months as I really wanted to feel this one. And I did. William Shatner had the vocals before the show telling everyone to prepare. Go get a beer, pee, and get your seat...all the way to the start of the show which was promptly at 8:00 PM. Peter came out and ripped the "Alive" album wide open. His band was on. Only one song passed before I was pumping my fist in the air. Yeah, the start of a great night. Did I mention the "I'll Give Ya Money" solo? It was THE highlight of the night. The crowd roared on this one...yeah I did too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mf4jUc4996w

By 10:50 the band took a needed break when most bands were packing the gear. Most of the "Alive" music had been played. Even the old encores. A double album and still we were rocking. After almost five hours I still had not really moved, having been on my feet in a tight crowd since 6:00 PM.

Peter came back out. Within several songs he was handed his beautiful Les Paul which I have captured in this picture above. He looked at his band and said "OK Let's Give it to them!"

He broke out some Humbie Pie and he freakin' ROCKED IT. So there are my memories of a three hour show from one of the best of the rock era in my lifetime. Some people chuckle when they think people like this can't rock anymore. I would put this guy up against anyone out there right now. You just need to go see him. You will see.

Nice job to all the band and Peter. Thanks for the show bro.

See ya down the road....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DON-4ZubYbg&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=AVGxdCwVVULXfbx7hpdt4PsXz_3KLRyUG-

Peter playing one of my favorites.

2011-07-20T15:47:00.002-04:00

http://www.frampton.com/

One of the best songs and solos of the night. "All I want to be." I enjoyed every moment of it. I have some very cool pictures of this moment I will keep for myself without putting them on the net. Come by the house and I will show you a cool one. 'Nuff said. Enjoy this one.

Yeah yeah yeah, oh no no no no girl
Do what you do, don't bring me down
I went to the doctor, he's just another clown
Don't stand alone, you might turn to stone
I'm sure there is a pill for that, you're on your own
Can't you see what it's doing to me? Yeah
All I wanna be is by your side
I don't care, now that I've cut my hair
All I wanna be is by your side
All I wanna be is by your side
Shake me down, you wanna put me on the ground
There's money in my pocket, I won't make a sound
You could run me over or pick a four leaf clover
Now they cut the lights down, it's getting warmer
Can't you see what it's doing to me? Yeah
All I wanna be is by your side
I don't care if they cut my hair
All I wanna be is by your side
All I wanna be is by your side
All I wanna be is by your side
All I wanna be is by your side, yeah, yeah

Rob Authur!

2011-07-20T15:34:00.005-04:00

http://www.robarthur.com/
The guy who tossed me a pick last night..he is quite the musician! He plays keys very well and even picks up a guitar. I will say I missed the late Bob Mayo last night.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Mayo
"Peace" Bob!

I really like this picture because I really like this guitar! Rock on Rob! Thanks for picking up the torch, those are some big shoes to fill!

Adam and Peter tear it up!

2011-07-20T15:22:00.002-04:00

http://www.frampton.com/band.html
You can almost see the student watching the master. This is my first picture from last night, at least the first one I am posting. More on the story in a moment.

Back at the House of Blues...

2011-07-20T15:10:00.002-04:00

http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/myrtlebeach/

I always enjoy the art at the Hose of Blues...one of my favorites is the fence with all the hub caps on it...thus my picture to start my story.

Boz Scaggs!

2011-07-18T16:39:00.006-04:00

http://www.bozscaggs.com/home.html
Boz is so busy his web site is behind. He has a vineyard which you can link to to check out his wines. He has a vast collection of music you can choose from.

http://www.bozscaggs.org/tour.htm

Now that that is out of the way I want to tell you my story from Friday night. As I walked into the venue through the tall Carolina pines down the twisty sidewalk into the main area of the Cary amplitheatre I had thoughts of a great show on my mind. The sun was out and I picked up a very cold over-priced Ranger microbrew at one stand and then quickly made my way to the local BBQ sandwich stand. I eased on down to my seat which was quite close to the front center stage. I had that feeling of anticipation of a perfect night coming. The food and drink was good but honestly all I could think about was Boz Scaggs playing some of my favorites. I wandered out to the sound mixing area and talked to the guys running the sound and light from Sound Image. They were friendly enough and we even took some pictures. 7:40 was show time and I headed back to my seat. At 7:40 Boz walked out. It wasn't long before the crowd rose to their feet as this show kicked some ass. My eyes were watering tears of joy for quite a while. I just could not control it no matter how I tried. Boz is one of those artists that I really get. He puts me in a mood that takes me away from reality and that is place I like to go. Frequently.

The band. Well the band was all the same for both of these guys. They rocked it! I thought they did a stellar job with all the material. I wish I knew all the names but I don't. I would call them out because that is what I like to do.

This was a great concert and I can't wait until I get to see these guys again. They stay on my list of favorites so I advise everyone to go see them when they can. 'Nuff said.

My next concert is only a night away. More on that soon. I'll see you down the road...

Here is the encore song...

Georgia, I swear I never seen such a smile
Gorgeous enough to make an angel's heart run wild
Your lazy eyes and small-town lies
Have got me in your spell
Your drive-in boys and back-seat noise
And oh, you learned so well
Oh, oh, oh, so how was I to know
You got me, you got me right now
Georgia, your daddy was high the night he dreamed up you
Georgia, the stars were flyin' the night that you came through
Crystal sea of lights
Oh, what a nice surprise
Oh, oh, oh, and now I miss you so
But baby, I'm comin' back to you
Georgia, we will be together, dear
If they ever let me out of here
They will say that it's not true
But I did it all for you
Georgia, won't you tell them for me dear
Georgia, girl I never lived through a night like that
Sure enough got your lovin' where I like it at
Moonlight through the pines
Oh, oh, oh, but how were we to know
That wasn't moonlight, they were searchlights, oh no
Georgia, we will be together, dear
If they ever let me out of here
They will say that it's not true
But I did it all for you
Georgia, won't you tell them for me dear
Georgia, we will be together dear (oh, my dear)
If they ever let me out of here

Boz....

2011-07-18T16:37:00.000-04:00

Boz leaning into it. Great stuff!

Michael McDonald!

2011-07-18T16:08:00.003-04:00

http://www.michaelmcdonald.com/

Michael McDonald. I have been watching Mike perform for decades as I have been a fan for most of my life. I am still excited to see him perform and of course I always go see him when I can. Tonight he is on the bill with Boz Scaggs. They are great friends and tour frequently together. They even take turns opening for each other. Boz opened the show on this night but I am starting my story here. We are in Cary North Carolina at the http://www.boothamphitheatre.com/.

Here's one he played. It is still a favorite of mine and reminds me of a year of my life. 1978. I played the heads off a cassette deck listening to this one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_GmuIHL_EM
Hey, don't worry, I've been lied to
I've been here many times before
Girl, don't you worry, I know where I stand
I don't need this love, I don't need your hand
I know I could turn, blink, and you'd be gone

Then I must be prepared any time to carry on
But minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on
Oh, minute by minute by minute by minute
I keep holding on

Roger Bartlett!

2011-06-24T22:14:00.002-04:00

http://www.rogerbartlett.com/

So while in New york City I made it a point to hang with Roger Bartlett. He is the original Coral Reefer guitarist and so cool. He was on most of the early stuff up through the "Havana Day Dreaming" album. We spent some time talking and recording some stuff in my hotel room. It was cool. Roger is still performing in NYC all the time. In fact he played his guitar for three hours before we talked. Dedication. The mark of a great player. Look for him down the road. 'Nuff said.

One of my favorites was the Coral Reefer Band reunion. "Live at the Windjammer" which I credit my pal (and fellow lunch money punk) Bob Robinson with putting together. This is a must have cd for the Parrothead out there. Go buy it NOW. It is available on CD Baby. He has some other cool recordings up there too. I have them all. They are fabulous and a must-have for the serious parrothead. Thanks Roger. You rock as always.

http://www.rogerbartlett.com/

Imagine...

2011-06-24T21:51:00.004-04:00

2011 DSP Andrew Talbert. (You can click on the picture to enlarge it)

So I was in New york City this week. I have been there several times but I have never had time to see much. This trip I stopped by the Dakota. I took some pictures just to remember the moment. I will tell you that I felt really weird being on the sidewalk that John Lennon died on.
All of us are Beatles fans. When you listen to the music you hear something special, something that captures a moment in time. I was just in the Ed Sullivan Theater this week watching David Letterman do his show live with Paul Shafer and his band...WOW that was incredible...the Beatles played there...you remember or maybe you don't. Either way the music is amazing. To think that someone could take a member of this bands life before it was time is well...I felt sadness and anger at the same time. All in that one spot. After all these years, I still felt that.
Before I left this time I bought a picture of John Lennon with his New York City shirt on. It is in a frame over my shoulder in my studio now. John was the man. They all were and still are. No one will ever take that away. Strawberry Fields Forever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b7qaSxuZUg

Summer Tour 2011 !!

2011-06-24T21:35:00.005-04:00

Tall Paul and Quincy! http://www.tallpaul.com/

On my recent visit to Key West a couple of weeks ago I ran into the 2011 Summer Tour of Tall Paul and Quincy. I knew they were playing at Margaritaville Key West and of course we made a point of being there for the opening night. We had a blast. Not only was the music great and the margaritas fabulous, well, the company was outstanding. Kristie flew down from Nashville and Howard http://www.keywesttime.com/ and his wife Cyndy drove down from just north of Key West. Yeah that mile marker thing....24 baby. We had fun and I am so glad that Howard drove us back to the Casa Marina after the show. The margaritas were way too good....Did I mention these guys put on an awesome show? I love their music. 'Nuff said.

Oh left to right...me, Cyndy, Tall Paul, Kristie, Quincy, Charlotte, Howard Livingston. The dude in the back is...well none of us know...he just jumped into the picture...what's up with that?

JD Souther!

2011-06-16T18:44:00.008-04:00

JD Souther. Photo DSP 2011 Andrew Talbert.

My story. I arrived at the Arts Center Sunday night with a couple of tickets in my pocket all alone. Boy that was a loss for someone. I had been here before. I knew this would be a special show. I had been very busy lately with so many things happening. I hadn't slept much after travel to Key West and my daughter's graduation from high school the day before. I had harvested forty pounds of honey earlier in the day in the Carolina Summer heat. I knew I would be two hours from home when the show ended and I had to get to work at 6:00 the next morning. I really didn't care. That is what coffee was invented for. I knew I would love this show. I did. I really did.

I made a couple of new friends in the general admission line. I usually do. That is part of what I like about concerts, just meeting people and sharing experiences. After the show I talked to Chris for a while and sat down with JD. We talked about mostly the Canadian Grand Prix race earlier in the day. This was a continuation of the conversation I had the last time we talked. I should have recorded some sound bites, my digital recorder was in my pocket, but honestly I just sat there and enjoyed it all. That is life. Enjoying the moment. I have learned that at my age. You should get that from my blog. Enjoy the moments, life comes at you fast.

I will end this posting session by saying I would go see this show again right now. I love the songs and this artist. He has written so many cool songs. I now have the just released "Natural History" cd. It is a masterpiece with so many awesome players, most of them I have been standing next to the last twelve months or so. You can see that on the blog if you research the artist list. This cd is a "must have." You can have my word on that.

http://www.jdsoutherstore.net/store/

Here is a few lyrics from my favorite song from the night. In the meantime I have my traveling shoes on. I'll see you down the road.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgefLta3bqo&feature=related

Out in the shiny night, the rain
was softly falling
The tracks that ran down the boulevard had
all been washed away

Out of the silver light, the past came softly calling
And I remember the times we spent
inside the Sad Cafe

Oh, it seemed like a holy place,
protected by amazing grace
And we would sing right out loud, the
things we could not say
We thought we could change this world
with words like "love" and "freedom"
We were part of the lonely crowd
Inside the Sad Cafe

Oh, expecting to fly,
we would meet on that beautiful shore in the
sweet by and by

Some of their dreams came true,

some just passed away
And some of the stayed behind
inside the Sad Cafe.

Chris on Piano.

2011-06-16T18:37:00.001-04:00

Chris. What a great player.

JD Souther Opens His Tour...

2011-06-16T18:28:00.006-04:00

http://www.jdsoutherstore.net/store/

JD Souther. He has wrote songs that I would bet my last dollar you have heard on your radio. He has the history. He is a piece of the "Southern California Sound" you know so well. I really enjoy his intimate concerts at the Arts Center. This is always a special moment. You really have to go see him perform to understand the connection between being in the presence of your past. The musical past. It is an awesome thing to feel and hear great song writing being performed by the actual song writer. Did I mention all the stories about people like Warren Zevon?

Honestly I thought "New Kid in Town" was so over-played when the Eagles hit with it in the 1970's. The first time I heard JD play it I fell in love with it. I really love his version of this song. It is awesome. Capital "A." Just 'sayin.'

Go watch if you like:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFf8uVBBLo4&feature=related

There's talk on the street, it sounds so familiar
Great expectations, everybody's watching you
People you meet they all seem to know you
Even your old friends treat you like you're something new

Johnny come lately, the new kid in town
Everybody loves you so don't let them down

You look in her eyes, the music begins to play
Hopeless romantics, here we go again
But after a while you're looking the other way
It's those restless hearts that never mend

Johnny come lately, the new kid in town
Will she still love you when you're not around?

Chris Walters and Me Last Sunday...

2011-06-16T18:20:00.003-04:00

Chris and me after the JD Souther show last Sunday in Carrboro, North Carolina. Chris is an awesome piano player and was the only guy on the stage with JD. What a great show! He adds so much to an already great show. I have seen Chris perform with Peter Mayer several times and followed his work with JD for some time now. He is quite the talent.

Jill Andrews!

2011-06-16T18:01:00.004-04:00

http://www.jillandrews.com/

Jill was on hand to open the show for JD. There were many people who had driven several hours just to see her perform. She was great! She has a new cd and put on a great show. She hails from Knoxville, Tennessee. She will be on the tour with JD for a while so go see her. Am I the only one who thinks she looks like Demi Moore's sister?...and yes that is a compliment.

Robert Plant. A few thoughts.

2011-06-11T19:50:00.004-04:00

Well. I don't have any pictures of Robert. But my head is full of stories. That is what this blog is for. Let me spill a detail or two.

I was standing backstage. It was mid-day on Sunday. The stage was set for Robert and his Band of Joy. It was the finest equipment we had seen most of the week. Well. Maybe the new Yamaha mixing console the Doobie Brothers brought was on par...That one took six guys and a lift truck with a boom to load out way after midnight....Even so I was impressed with the quality of the sound equipment on this stage. I was standing next to the mixing board just scanning the back stage area. In comes Robert Plant. Unnoticed. He had come in with sunglasses and a stocking hat covering his hair. He walked right up to me and stood. I am thinking he was three inches from my shoulder. I slowly, very calmly motioned the new stage manager over and said "We need some security...I turned to Robert and said Robert...the green room is about fifteen feet that way." He smiled and walked that way. Soon the back stage was locked-down for the rest of the show.

I have to tell you I never took a picture after the one above. I was asked not to take pictures so I didn't. It is all good. I saw Patti Griffith from 10 feet away with Buddy Miller and Robert Plant smiling as they took the stage. I sat next to Jim Lauderdale on a road case and watched the show from twenty feet away. I watched the encore happen as they all smiled and took in the moment before the final song.

Robert Plant is one of the best vocalists I have seen perform. Period. I have seen so much live music I can't even remember it all.
That is part of the reason for this blog. To try to remember the years and the stories. What I will tell you is Robert has the history, he has some special charisma that few have, and his vocal talent is very special. I am ready for another Robert Plant show!

That is all from Merlefest. I have been so busy it took almost a month to record all of this on my blog. But I have a JD Souther show in less than a day! Onward!

Oh...finally. My favorite moment. "Ramble On." I love the song but afterwards Robert asked from the stage "Can you FEEL IT?"
I was standing in front of the stage at this point having just watched some people my age sway in the crowd. I smiled real wide and I said out loud "Damn Right I did." I think a tear rolled down my face.

See you down the road my friends.

Leaves are fallin' all around, time I was on my way
Thanks to you, I'm much obliged for such a pleasant stay
but now it's time for me to go, the autumn moon lights my way
for now I smell the rain, and with it, pain
and it's headed my way
Aw, sometimes I grow so tired
but I know I've got one thing I got to do

A-ramble on, and now's the time, the time is now
Sing my song, I'm goin' 'round the world, I gotta find my girl
On my way, I've been this way ten years to the day
Ramble on, gotta find the queen of all my dreams

The Setlist...

2011-06-11T19:42:00.002-04:00

This is the setlist. I took this picture at the guitar-tuning station. There was one on the floor I left for a friend from Maryland. I thought this was a cool picture. It is full of Zep songs. The show was awesome. When I saw the setlist I think the hair on my neck stood up. The roadie with Robert said "Yeah you can take a picture of that." He was a busy guy.

Robert Plant...

2011-06-11T19:32:00.003-04:00

Robert Plant is in the house. These are the guitars Buddy Miller will play soon.
http://buddymiller.com/

Buddy Miller appeared back stage with his long-pointed shoes on and I said damn I want a picture of that. I just got back in from Key West this week as I write this. On the trip on the planes I was reading the Keith Richards book "Life" which I have had for a while with no time to read it. Well I got through most of ithe book on this trip. He makes mention of the "long boots" in this book. I thought they were cool as hell. I love Rock and Roll.

Let me set this scene up for you. We were told to not speak to any of the band. We were told to not take pictures when the band members arrived. I was one of twelve people back stage during this show. There were two Wilkes County Sherriff deputies at each entrance guarding the doors. I had my stage shirt on so I could come and go. It was a lock-down I have not seen the likes of since Steve Martin was here last year. More in a moment....

Sand....Nice.

2011-06-11T19:23:00.002-04:00

Every year there is sand sculpture at this festival. I like this stuff. It is very cool to see artists make this happen over several days. I took this picture on my way to my final stint on the stage on Sunday morning. It is almost time for me to head that way. Robert Plant is coming and I freakin' can't wait to see him.

Lyle Lovett!

2011-06-11T19:13:00.005-04:00

http://www.lylelovett.com/

I have various pictures of Lyle from this night. This was one of my favorites. The first time I saw Lyle was in Memorial Hall on the campus of UNC Chapel Hill back in the late 1970's when he opened for Bonnie Raitt. That was so long ago. He still looks pretty much the same these days. As I look at him I remember talking to Robert Earl Keen one night about Lyle. He had many things to say and they were all good. According to these guys, contrary to popular myth, they were not room mates in college in Texas. But they did play together at times. REK called Lyle a great "player." He certainly shows that from the stage. He is also a first-class person. He entered the stage with grace speaking to everyone and left the stage later after the show stopping to talk to anyone who wanted to speak with him all the way to the bus. My kind of guy. I'll stop there with my stories but there are some more for later.

"My Favorite Mistake" A song I really love...

So like I said before
I could not have known
How this fairy tale would finally go
Still the only certain thing for sure
Is what I do not know

So like the years and all the seasons pass
And like the sand runs through the hour glass
I just keep on running faster
Chasing the happily
I am ever after

I just keep on running faster
Chasing the happily
I am ever after

Lyle and Martin.

2011-06-11T19:00:00.003-04:00

I took this picture because I like both of these guys alot. Martin is a dj on WNCW http://www.wncw.org/index.html which is one of the best radio stations around. Lyle is instantly recognizable as a Texan musician and I will tell you he is one of the freaking nicest guys in the music business.

If you want to hear some really cool music try streaming WNCW sometime. We can get them on the net here or if we are in the area we tune in on the radio. Martin has been an announcer for the Merlefest stage for a while now and he is a really cool guy.
http://www.wncw.org/staff.html

Sam Bush!

2011-06-11T18:53:00.003-04:00

http://www.sambush.com/

Not only is Sam one of the nicest, down to earth guys you will ever meet, he is probably the best mandolin player on the planet right now. I am pleased I have spent some time talking with him and cutting-up backstage. Particularly last year when he played so many times with so many people he looked like he was drained! He is in demand as a player and quite fun to hang with. My favorite musician is one who talks to anyone and acts like the rest of us. He is one of them. So he gets a ten from me. 'Nuff said.

Doc Watson and Sam Bush.

2011-06-11T18:47:00.002-04:00

Two amazing players. Grammy-winning, best in class...they keep coming back to this event for so many years. For those that may not know the festival is named for Doc's son Merle. Sam has been here from many years ago and these two are best friends. Not to mention they are among the best at what they do, if not the best.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4d8detsvTA

The Wailin' Jennys

2011-06-11T18:38:00.002-04:00

http://www.thewailinjennys.com/bio/
Nicky, Ruth, and Heather. They played solo and they sang backup. In this picture they were singing backup on the Hillside Album Hour. They are very popular. I keep my ear tuned to the crowd as I walk around. I love to listen to comments about who likes what as I walk around the audience. Durning the days at Merlefest I wander around and just listen. The name of this band came up many times. So they have the game on you might say. Check them out. They have some fabulous harmony and they are easy on the eyes too.

Joan is Rocking!

2011-06-09T20:36:00.004-04:00

http://joanosborne.com/

As I write this I am less than twenty four hours in from Key West on a few hours of sleep. I am behind in my blog and I really want to share some cool stuff from all my recent adventures. There are others coming and I really need to get down and pound out some stuff! Also as I write this I am listening to a replay of "One Way Out" from the time this picture was taken. I had such a great time at this show. I LOVE Joan Osborne and James Nash works so hard to put on a super show.

Go check out the video...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhNHGWT8p4I

Yeah baby. You can hear me in the back ground of this video to the right. I was right on the stage smiling and clapping my hands. I loved this show! I said "Yeah" a few times that day.

Lord, I'm foolish to be here in the first place,
I know some man gonna walk in and take my place.
Ain't no way in the world,
I'm going out that front door
Cause there's a man down there,
Might be your man I don't know.
Cause there's a man down there,
Might be your man I don't know.

James Nash!

2011-06-03T21:56:00.004-04:00

picture copyright 2011 DSP Andrew Talbert

I love this picture. I should explain what this event was. This picture was taken at the Hillside Album Hour at Merlefest. The Waybacks started a tradition of playing an album from start to finish with some usually awesome players and vocalists helping out. Over time they have played Led Zeppelin, The Stones, and The Beatles. This year the rumor was they were playing something American. And so it was, the Allman Brothers' "Eat a Peach." The whole double Album. It was awesome!

http://www.waybacks.com/

I lived through the "Eat a Peach" album debut. I was at the New Orleans Allman Brothers show when they played most of this album live in the early days. I remember the moments of the details of how this album was recorded. This guy brought it back to life. He put his soul into itl. The band was AWESOME. The crowd was OFF THE METER. It was a moment. I am telling you about it in print. Really, you just had to be there. I hope I gave you a feel for it. Get out. See live music. Live. Now. This is the real deal. Thanks James! As I shook your hand at the end of the show I said thanks for giving eveything. He really did. He really did. It ROCKED.

Joan Osborne!

2011-06-03T21:42:00.002-04:00

Well the last time I saw Joan live was New Orleans. When she walked up I just really smiled. I could not wait to hear her sing. I really love her vocals. I was so close and I could not quit taking pictures of her. I guess I wanted to tell her how much I love to hear her sing. That's all. She rocks.

Hillside Crowd at Merlefest.

2011-06-03T21:37:00.002-04:00

It is becoming the "thing" at Merlefest. The "Hillside Album Hour." The crowd is HUGE on the side of a hill. And the music. Well. It is off the meter. You really have to be there. I suggest you make reservations now for next year. This gig is 110% awesome!

Jim Lauderdale!

2011-06-03T21:24:00.002-04:00

http://jimlauderdale.com/

Name a song. He wrote it. I really love this guy. He has great cds. Awesome songs. You just have to check out his catalog. He has wrote some great ones. And he opened the stage before the Hillside Album Hour.

I will tell you about him sharing the backstage with me at the Robert Plant gig soon. Not to mention the guitar story...stand by.

The Tony Rice Unit.

2011-06-03T21:18:00.002-04:00

http://www.tonyrice.com/

Here is a guy how hails from mere miles from me. He plays gigs very close to me all the time. He is one awesome player. This is a group shot from the front of the stage. Tony is a super player!

Local Crew.

2011-06-03T21:09:00.003-04:00

As we load out the Doobie Brothers...they all have cases that are cool. They all have names and a place on the trailer. It is an 18 wheeler. What I would call a whole bunch of stuff including the brand-new Yamaha digital board on the second story of the sound tower. That thing weighed hundreds of pounds and took a real crew with a fork-boom truck to move. The volunteer crew rocks. They make this festival work. From front to back. We all love music and good time. That is why we are here.

John McFee!

2011-06-03T20:59:00.005-04:00

http://www.doobiebros.com/biography/john-mcfee/

John. A guy who shares my first name. First I will apologize for not having a primo-picture of him. I have some back stage photos I won't share. But I really love his history of playing with all my favorites in the music bid'ness. Yeah I spell it like that. Anyway. John is the man! I love his history and all the players he is friends with. So here is a picture of him on stage with Pat playing his part. He is the man on guitar. Thanks man. You rock. See why I love this band? They are all so awesome.

So Many Pictures So Little Time...

2011-06-03T20:47:00.000-04:00

Thanks Tom.

Tom Johnston!

2011-06-03T20:38:00.002-04:00

http://www.doobiebros.com/biography/tom-johnston/

One of my favorites. He was there from the beginning and the vocal behind many of the famous Doobie tunes. I have so many cool pictures I wish I could show you them all...from backstage to front stage. I really like this guy. Thanks Tom for a great live show and some awesome recorded vocals.

John Cowan!

2011-06-03T20:18:00.002-04:00

http://www.johncowan.com/

John on bass. He always rocks. Check him out! At Merlefest he is the bass man to have on your stage.

Patrick Simmons!

2011-06-03T19:59:00.004-04:00

http://www.doobiebros.com/biography/patrick-simmons/

Pat Simmons. Yeah I listen to the crowd. So many people call him the backbone of this band. I am a bit more objective. I have been a fan since the day they broke FM in the 1970's. The whole timeline. I have seen people come and go in this band. Live in concert and on albums. I was there and have the albums too. Patrick is a rock for sure. And I would never take anything away. Thanks Pat.

No matter who you like the whole band rocks and yes you are a major part of that. So I thank you. I love the Doobie Brothers from beginning to end. This moment was so good. Worth every bit of work I did this weekend. Yeah I am not cheap but I working for free to hang with the bands and the crew.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71vUJdu4Gr4&feature=related

Percussion

2011-06-03T19:56:00.002-04:00

The back beat. They keep the time. There were two drummers and you should just go buy the music to listen to hear them. They rock.

http://www.doobiebros.com/

The Brothers Gear...

2011-06-03T19:53:00.002-04:00

I love guitars. I like to look at them. I like to feel them and play them. Talk about them. Great players make them come to life. There are some great players within 50 feet of me tonight as I take this picture. The crowd awaits. It will be AWESOME. Are you with me?

Doobie Logistics.

2011-06-03T19:49:00.002-04:00

I have made a career of logistics. I really like this picture. There is so much behind everything that happens in life. Behind every great band is a crew of great people. Check this out. Organization baby. Get it done. Rock n' Roll. Yeah.

Sonny Landreth and Jerry Douglas.

2011-05-30T00:20:00.002-04:00

This was a moment. Sonny Landreth and Jerry Douglas on stage playing dueling slide guitar together. This is what Merlefest is. Great jamming with all kinds of fusion music. I love every moment of it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcuOMePIuCk

"Hey Joe" Jerry Douglas video link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfCiuYVZVTU

Sonny Landreth!

2011-05-30T00:10:00.002-04:00

http://www.sonnylandreth.com/
Before the Doobie Brothers come on the stage Sonny Landreth is coming out to awe the crowd. You really have to see Sonny play to understand how awesome his playing is. Here is a link to a great video of Sonny playing with Eric Clapton recently at the Crossroads Festival:

http://www.ericclapton.com/videos/sonny-landreth-eric-clapton-perform-promise-land-crossroads-2010

Sonny is smoking on the guitar. I love to see him play. Again and again.

The Doobie Brothers are in the House!

2011-05-29T23:59:00.002-04:00

http://www.doobiebros.com/
Back stage with the Doobie Brothers, April 2011. I am really looking forward to this show. I have seen these guys perform since the 1970's, many times in fact. I never tire of this gig. Bring it on!

Zac Brown.

2011-05-29T23:55:00.002-04:00

http://www.zacbrownband.com/
Zac Brown at Merlefest 2011. It was a good show. The cool thing was the union guys were there and I left at midnight. I had three nights ahead of me and I was headed for wine country to get a good nights rest. Back in the morning.

A Not so Great Photo of Randy Travis.

2011-05-29T23:47:00.003-04:00

I am my own worst photo critic. I was very busy during this set. I did shoot a few pictures. This is Randy Travis on stage Thursday night at Merlefest 2011. It was a crowded back stage. Zac Brown was on the right side and Randy's stuff was on the left. There were two tractor trailers backed up to the loading dock. We had fun with a cooler that said "Randy Travis" on the top. The road manager kept saying that there were complimentary autographed drinks inside as a way of saying thanks for all the help. When you opened the lid it would lift a fake snake up! People would jump across the floor when this happened. We got all the Zac Brown crew with this one...It was funny..

Randy Travis' Set List

2011-05-29T23:44:00.001-04:00

This was the first show I was back stage for. It was a complicated load out. That's all I'll say. lol.

The Food Tent at Merlefest 2011

2011-05-29T23:39:00.002-04:00

It always amazes me how this festival has grown. The food tent is huge. The crowd just grows and grows. The talent gets better and I am enjoying working the main stage and seeing the talent this thing is attracting as it approaches a 25th anniversary next year.

On to Merlefest 2011.

2011-05-29T23:33:00.003-04:00

Merlefest 2011. I am behind blogging due to all the stuff I do. This event is held at the end of April each year. At this point it is almost the end of May as I write this. No big deal. It is not like I am getting compensated for this or anything.
This is a shot of the sand sculpture as it is being created. Each year it is a cool thing to watch over several days. These artists are amazing...

Bob Seger!

2011-05-29T23:13:00.002-04:00

So you can see from this picture, seats - lower level half-way back. But I should say this was one of the best shows of the week. I was always a fan of the music, problem was it was so over-played on FM during my formative years I could never seem to go see it performed live. As I heard this HUGE band play and Bob sing his heart out I realized what I was seeing. It was awesome. All the way from the drummer aka Grand Funk's centerpiece, the Sax...ah the horns were off the meter! And my pal Shaun Murphy who has fronted Little Feat as a vocalist, all the while she has been with Bob for many years, what a talent. Can I say I looked at her and thought just how great she looked at this stage of her life? Not sure of what spa she goes to but they should hire her for a testimonial.
The show was GREAT. I read recently in Rolling Stone about this tour. The thing I remember was how Bob wanted to fly back home, sleep in his own bed, and take his kids to school the next morning. He said he was not sure how much more of this he could do even though he had lost 35 pounds on a diet recently. Bob. Read my words. You should do more, not less! I hope I can see another edition of your show again. Very soon!

Here is a song I woke to not long ago. i could not get these lyrics out of my head. Bob Seger ROCKS! Even in 2011 and that makes it even better. 'Nuff said.

He wants to dream like a young man
With the wisdom of an old man
He wants his home and security
He wants to live like a sailor at sea

Beautiful loser
Where you gonna fall?
When you realize
You just can't have it all

He's your oldest and your best friend
If you need him, he'll be there again
He's always willing to be second-best
A perfect lodger, a perfect guest

Beautiful loser
Read it on the wall
And realize
You just can't have it all
You just can't have it all

The Bob Seger Crowd....Greensboro, North Carolina 2011.

2011-05-29T23:05:00.002-04:00

Yes I took this picture from my seat. My seats, well frankly they were not the best I had had this week. It was the fourth concert this week and I had not spent my usual pre-work to make sure I was on top of the stage. Actually I was at this show to make sure my favorite aunt Terri was going to be there. After I left I realized just how damn good the show was.

A Classic Amos Pose.

2011-05-29T22:51:00.002-04:00

So as I watched this show unfold I can tell you a few things. This guy has huge eyes and most of the time he is on stage he keeps them closed. I shot quite a few pictures and most of them he has his eyes closed. It is not a big deal as I will tell you he is very into what he is doing. He is not posing for pictures. He is leading a band and singing his songs with a passion of a great performer. I really enjoyed the show and his focus on what he was doing. His band was great so I am looking forward to this guy going places. He is one of those that you look back later and say...I saw him in a small venue before he got big....Great stuff. And this was only my third concert in one week. One more to go....more on that on that in a moment.

Well to all my friends that treated me so well
You know I'm headed out to that Mission Bell
Gonna wash my soul, gonna get it clean
Heading down the border road called the El Camino

Well I've been a prince and you know I've been a post
By a barb wire fence and a murder of crows
I'm leavin' all I've loved and all I've seen
Heading down the border road called the El Camino
Heading down the border road called the El Camino

Amos Lee!

2011-05-29T22:20:00.005-04:00

http://amoslee.com/
So I arrived in Raleigh at the Lincoln Theatre to check out Amos Lee. I had heard a lot about this cat so I was looking forward to seeing the show. As I arrived it was a wet day not far from a recent tornado touchdown. I was happy that rough stuff was over even thought it was still a very cool Spring day in North Carolina. I was lined up with lots of young people trying to stay warm before the doors opened. As soon as we all got in which was 15 minutes after the advertised door open everyone went for the best place to view the show. There were overhead steel supports with new seats added since I had been here last. But as always I headed for the front of the stage. It was going to be a good night.

Steve on Acoustic.

2011-05-22T21:12:00.002-04:00

There is not much I can say about this show that hasn't already been said. This was an eight show mini-tour and I felt very lucky to be there. I am glad both of these talents are still cranking out music and touring so we can watch them play live. Yeah baby.

Some people call me the space cowboy yeah
Some call me the gangster of love
Some people call me Maurice
Cause' I speak of the pompetous of love

People talk about me baby
Say I'm doin' you wrong, doin' you wrong
But don't you worry baby don't worry
Cause' I'm right here at home

Cause' I'm a picker
I'm a grinner
I'm a lover
And I'm a sinner
playin' my music in the sun
I'm a joker
I'm a smoker
I'm a mid-night toker
I get my lovin' on the run
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh

The Stage Backdrop.

2011-05-22T21:11:00.001-04:00

I really like this background. Guitars galore!

Steve Miller!

2011-05-22T21:04:00.002-04:00

http://www.stevemillerband.com/
The day after the new cd released I was in the house watching Steve Miller. It was a blues-filled night. There were hits and there were covers and I should say it was all really, really good. Steve doesn't look as old as he actually is. I stood there looking at him thinking of his age and the things he must have seen in his life. If you go read about Steve you will see just how many cool musical talents he has been around since a very young age. I have everything he has ever recorded and I love to listen to it all. His show was fabulous. The band was tight and the set list was great. What a night!

Gregg on Guitar...

2011-05-22T20:55:00.003-04:00

Gregg on the guitar. His band is sounding great and I really enjoyed this solo performance. It has been a long time since I saw him solo. But I still have the ticket stub. It was the same night I got to talk with him after listening to him play from a bar stool two feet from my seat. He is a super nice guy. A real Southern gentleman.

Well I'm goin' away to leave
Won't be back no more
Goin' back down south, child
Don't you want to go?
Woman I'm troubled, I be all worried in mind
Well baby I just can't be satisfied
And I just can't keep from cryin'

Well I feel like snappin'
Pistol in your face
I'm gonna let some graveyard
Lord be your resting place
Woman I'm troubled, I be all worried in mind
Well baby I can never be satisfied
And I just can't keep from cryin'

Gregg Allman.

2011-05-22T20:49:00.005-04:00

http://www.greggallman.com/
Gregg as he took the stage. He looks great for what he has been through the last year. He sounded good and I really enjoyed the songs he pulled from his older albums. The new release is a very fine piece of work. I am listening to it as I write this. I have been a Gregg Allman fan since I was very young. I haven't lost any interest since the first time I heard him sing a song live and I lost count of the live shows back in the early 1980's. The first one was 1974 if I dare say that...

And the Next Night....

2011-05-22T20:41:00.002-04:00

http://www.boothamphitheatre.com/
The night after the Jimmy Buffett show I was back in Cary, North Carolina for the Gregg Allman and Steve Miller show. Yeah I just saw them perform in Asheville at the Warren Haynes Christmas Jam only 5 months ago. I watched back stage as they smiled and exchanged a hug. You could tell these guys are friends. I was not surprised to see them put a joint tour together.
I was into the venue early as I know the ropes and have great seats for this show. I walked back to the back to have a glass of wine and take the picture you see above. The show was close to starting and the place was completely full of people.

JB.

2011-05-22T19:21:00.005-04:00

Jimmy April 2011. I really didn't take too many pictures at this show. I was there just to take it all in. It is still a social event for me. I had a great time. I thought the set list was pretty cool. There were some older things I really enjoyed. I really don't want to elaborate on my music collection but I will say I always enjoy a "deep cut" song during a concert no matter who is on the stage. I really enjoyed "Lady I can't Explain" and "Survive."
I remember the day "Volcano" was released. I drove to a mall in Greensboro and bought the album on vinyl. I ended up seeing Jimmy perform twice that year live. Since then I have talked to some of the people who were participating in the album. So I guess that one was a special one for me.

Speaking of albums, a little bird told me some old Buffett music was found recently that will find it's way into a new release soon. Seems there were tons of old tracks that were mostly forgotten and almost thrown out. That should be interesting to hear. Anyway...

It was good to see some of my friends at another JB show as I know life is short. A good night indeed.

Here is a link to the set list that night:

http://www.buffettworld.com/archives/2011-welcome-to-fin-land/04-19/

What could I do?
That's never been done before
What can I say?
That hasn't been said by scores

If I was a designer I could do nothin' finer
Than dress you in style
But I'm a hopeless romantic still behind all these antics
Is a heart full of smiles

So I'll just keep on dreamin' (I'll just keep on dreamin')
Thoughts that are in my brain
You just keep on bein'
Lady I can't explain

Ilo Ferreira on the stage.

2011-05-22T19:14:00.002-04:00

Ilo just released his new album. It is available on Mailboat Records.
http://www.mailboatstore.com/product_info.php?cPath=34&products_id=171

Ilo came out to open the show for Jimmy. He played several of his tunes and soon it was time for the main event. I will see Ilo again soon. More on that later...

Pre-show...The Flag is Flying...

2011-05-22T19:03:00.002-04:00

This was the scene as we walked into Walnut Creek for the show. Joined my my old friends Jimmy and Henry from Goldsboro as well as his daughter Liz and a friend we took our place in Box 14. The Landshark lager pre-show fun had been great. Now we were lubricated, fed, and ready for 90 minutes or so of music I know by heart. Not only do I love the scene but I always enjoy a warm Carolina day with live Jimmy Buffett music. It is sort of like watching your musician friends with 25,000 other friends watching. Did I mention I am still not tired of this?

Meanwhile back at another Buffett Show...

2011-05-22T18:51:00.004-04:00

Jimmy Buffett. Show number eighty-one for me. But who is counting? I know I haven't put discussions of shows on this blog intentionally as sometimes people start asking me why I go to so many concerts. I have a bumper sticker on one of my coolers in my collection. It was given to me by one of my parrothead friends Jimmy Jeffreys. It says "It's a Buffett thing you wouldn't understand." 'Nuff said.

Anyway. I will start the Raleigh April 2011 report with this picture. FOH. The "front of House" sound. I remember the first time I heard that phrase so long ago in Mississippi. It reminds me of a question I asked Paul Barrere of Little Feat one time. I was asking him about a name of one of his stage crew. He told me about the guy, his name, and yeah he is "FOH"... front of house baby.

Junior Brown!

2011-04-12T21:53:00.006-04:00

http://www.juniorbrown.com/

Junior Brown is one amazing performer. He hails from Austin, Texas and we were very fortunate to see him at the Blind Tiger in Greensboro. He came on saying very little, virtually walking in the place from the parking lot after adjusting his tie in the travel van mirror. I thought quietly that he really deserves a nice green room. He did go back there after the show but that was an interesting moment.

Junior plays without a break, non-stop with a minimal band on stage. He had his drummer on stage with a very small drum kit and a bass player. That was it. I will say with this stripped-down effect he managed to keep the crowd mesmerized during the entire show. His playing speed is blinding and I cannot believe someone can play this hard for 90 minutes without a single break. One smoking song flew into another and the melodies of surf music to rock to country flew out of the speakers. It seemed only moments later it was over. It was a very intense show and was every bit as good as a large shed show with a name-brand rock band.

Go see this man play. You will not be disappointed. He is awesome.

Here are a few very cool videos to check out:

This is my favorite:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jonJu6-XpWU&feature=related

And another...a surf medley:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=497ZmAsGAT4&feature=related

Hey until next time, I'll see you, down the road.

Yeah. He played it.

2011-04-12T21:46:00.000-04:00

This man can play and his vocals are cool too. Check out this favorite of his:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_wLVCLPx0M&feature=related

Yeah. He played it...

The Guit-Steel...

2011-04-12T21:44:00.000-04:00

The close-up shot of the "guit-steel" in Junior Brown's hands. Oh man what a show. More on the show in a moment.

I have just walked down Spring Garden Street

2011-04-12T21:41:00.003-04:00

On the way to the Blind Tiger from the coffee shop. This is the Spring Garden Street sign near Chapman where a fabulous guitar repair shop used to live. It is now a nice coffee shop where some of my pals play on Thursday nights.