Their Kids Are Gonna Be Talented

Jack White remarkably didn’t make it onto my list this year. His latest Dead Weather release made him a contender, but ultimately it didn’t make the cut. That’s not to say, however, that his influence isn’t still felt. Number nine this year is the first of two members of the ever-present Jack White musical cadre. In fact, Karen Elson, despite being a newcomer and releasing only her debut album in 2010, is a member of the JW inner circle. Now, some might consider her releasing The Ghost Who Walks an act of nepotism, considering her other name is Mrs. Jack White and she is mother to his children. Some might also suggest I’m playing favorites on this year’s list because of the association. There may be some validity to this argument. After all JW did produce the album and his Raconteurs-style country/folk is pervasive throughout the album. That being said, she has a lovely voice and is a very talented songwriter and not only does this album belong among the best of the year, but she deserves all the accolades for it. (On a side note, I can't help but wonder if he didn't pair up with her due at least in part to the fact that her red hair and white skin fit with his strictly enforced color code.)

The album kicks off with two slow seductive tracks, the title cut and The Truth Is In The Dirt, both of which start out with eerie keyboard lines and the latter of which builds to a very White Stripes-esque steel guitar and electric guitar call-and-response. The fourth track, Lunasa, is possibly my favorite song of the year (depending on the day and my mood). It’s a beautiful, delicate three-part reflection on the end of summer and the heartbreak that comes with the changing of the seasons. The three parts play perfectly together and this track really showcases Karen’s beautiful voice. The next track, 100 Years From Now, is a vaudevillian romp which isn’t my favorite track, but one that I value as part of the collection as a whole because perfectly exemplifies the album’s richness and diversity. Cruel Summer is another very light-hearted and countrified tale of said season and speaking of country, The Last Laugh is a tender love song that sounds like it could easily be in the CMT Top 20. The album definitely starts stronger than it finishes, but among many great folk genre contributions this year, including strong releases by Ray LaMontagne and Robert Plant, this was the one that stuck with me most. With Karen Elson’s ability and her position as a member of pop music royalty, I suspect the best is yet to come.

Happy New Year to one and all! I can think of no better way to ring in the 2011 than with a review of the latest from one of my music idols. Log on next year to hear all about my eighth favorite album of this year.

Battle of the Bells

It was the year of the Bells. March gave us Broken Bells, the highly anticipated collaboration between Danger Mouse and Portland’s own James Mercer. The self-titled album exploded out of the gates with the wildly popular and constantly-radio-played single The High Road. This track comes replete with DM’s signature bloops and bleeps, a deeply satisfying tempo change and a hook more infectious than your annual Christmas cold sore. The rest of the album offers more of the same and I find myself returning to it on regular occasion. However, I must admit
that Danger Mouse fatigue is setting in. Actually it’s past setting in; that happened after The Black Keys’ Magic Potion was released. It’s become a low-grade fever at this point and will have likely progressed to a full systemic illness by the time his recently-announced plans to produce the next U2 album come to fruition. It’s pretty much become a rule for me at this point that as soon as any musician becomes associated with Bono and company they immediately cease to be cool or relevant (see Kings of Leon). That being said, I reserve the right to eat my own words as I recently learned of a forthcoming album inspired by Ennio Morricone with guest vocals by Jack White (more on that soon). Furthermore, The Grey Album alone earns him some supply of lifetime credibility in my book.

July saw the release of School of Seven Bells’ sophomore effort, Disconnect From Desire. This band doesn’t have the sound I typically go for, but they’re kind of the sentimental favorite. I was introduced to them by chance at a Thanksgiving night show two years ago when they opened for M83. My wife, sister-in-law and I ended up at the Doug Fir that rainy Portland

holiday night for lack of anything better to do and ended up seeing a great show. The sisters Schoen took a particular shine to the band comprised of the sisters Deheza and Ben Curtis of the Secret Machines. They’re typically pigeonholed in the “shoegaze” genre, but they’re much more than that in my opinion. The centerpiece of the band is the strong vocal harmonies created by the identical twin singers. Their second release builds on their first, the excellent Alpinisms. The vocal arpeggios are back and the 80’s synths are in full force. While Disconnect probably doesn’t quite reach the heights of Alpinisms, it is well-constructed with standout tracks like Windstorm and Babelonia. Expect more awesomeness from SVIIB in years to come.

Situated right between the above albums with a June release was Sleigh Bells’ debut album, Treats. I’ll just cut right to the chase and say that this one claimed the spot on my list. Early on I was calling it a guilty pleasure as I felt it was a bit gimmicky and didn’t break any new ground. These days I’ve shed the guilt and embraced the raw power that is Sleigh Bells. Bottom line: this band is all catchy hooks and all big fat beats. A June release was perfect for this album because it’s one of those ones you turn up really loud and play over and over again and it inevitably becomes a soundtrack for summer. Premium tracks are Run the Heart with an absolutely punishing bass line and the concluding Treats which features an epic guitar riff that would make even the CDMC’s resident metal head stand up and take notice. I had the pleasure of seeing this band open for The Black Keys a couple of weeks ago and let me tell you, that bass is indeed punishing. These guys are in close contention with the lady singer who claimed ninth best album on this list for new artist of the year. Stay tuned as her identity will be revealed tomorrow.

Best of 2010 - ZH version

What a difference a year makes. Last December I was scrounging to throw together a top 5 albums list of 2009. This year, on the other hand, the cup runneth over as I’m once again putting forth a list of ten phenomenal releases from the past twelve months. This year’s list still has a strong indie rock representation, but 2010 brings a little more diversity to the table with a good amount of contemplative folk, a dash of dependable blues and even a set of live covers of Italian film score songs (!)

Yes, it was a great year in music, though not exactly the year I was expecting. Many of the artists making appearances on my best of the year lists in the recent past released new albums this year that surprisingly fell short. Bands like Spoon, Dr. Dog, and Blitzen Trapper released solid but ultimately forgettable new music and didn’t make the cut. Other artists were involved with side projects that were high priority when I heard news of their upcoming releases, but lower priority after I actually heard the material. Maximum Balloon, side project of TV on the Radio’s Dave Sitek missed the mark for me as did, with much regret, the second Dead Weather album.

This year I was also reminded that beauty is in the ear of the beholder. I may have spent too much time seeking out critically lauded albums instead of focusing my efforts on my specific tastes. I tend to do this because I like to be exposed to new and exciting sounds and am always interested in broadening my horizons. To some degree it works and a few of them did end up on my list. In other instances I’m left scratching my head. A prime example is the new release from Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti. Am I the only who feels like I’m the butt of a huge universal joke, perpetrated by every critic, music blogger and iTunes user in the country? What is redeeming about this music? The craziest part is that most reviews say this is his most accessible album to date. At any rate, this is the last bit of energy and attention I’ll be devoting to Ariel Pink and I advise anyone who reads this to follow my lead.

On to more worthwhile topics. Tomorrow I’ll kick off my best of 2010 list with number ten. In a year packed with so much quality, it’s only fitting that the final spot on my list comes down to a photo finish. Much like the NCAA’s added a play-in 65^th team to the bracket, I’ve expanded my list to include a three-band playoff. As the Christmas season concludes and we’ve been inundated with Jingle Bells, Silver Bells and Carol of the Bells I felt it only appropriate to stick with the theme. Check back here tomorrow for the Battle of the Bells.

Shameless Music Plug

iMainGo: Best portable music player on the market. Among USA Today's top tech gifts for 2010.
(I have no disclosure statements to make about this product, it is just awesome)

iMainGo X product review

Best Metal Albums (a recent list)

15. Lamb Of God - "Ashes Of The Wake" (2004)

New Wave Of American Heavy Metal combine old school thrash and metalcore influences.
Highlight tracks: Blood Of The Scribe, Laid To Rest

14. Baroness - "Red Album" (2007)

Independent metal with Southern rock grooves.
Highlight tracks: The Birthing, Rays On Pinion

13. Dream Theater - "Train Of Thought" (2003)

Heavy progressive rock with nuances of Rush and King Crimson. Complex time signatures with unbelievable guitar and drum work.
Highlight tracks: As I Am, In The Name Of God

12. High On Fire - "Snakes Of The Divine" (2010)

Leaders of the "Stoner Metal" sub-genre. The title track is among the best metal songs ever written.
Highlight tracks: Snakes Of The Divine, Fire, Flood & Plague

11. Nevermore - "This Godless Endeavor" (2005)

More progressive metal. Opeth's lead guitarist/singer, Mikael Akerfeldt, commented on this being his favorite album of 2005.
Highlight tracks: This Godless Endeavor, Born

10. Iced Earth - "The Glorious Burden" (2004)

Taking cue from NWOBHM bands such as Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. This album debuts Judas Priest's replacement vocalist, Tim "Ripper" Owens, for the then departed Rob Halford.
Highlight tracks: The Reckoning (Don't Tread On Me), Gettysburg


9. Wolf - "Black Wings" (2002)

Tracks that seem to have been taken directly from an Iron Maiden lost songs vault. Wolf is a Swedish metal group with riffs that rival those Maiden released in the 80s.
Highlight tracks: Genocide, Venom


8. Trivium - "Ascendancy" (2005)

Written when lead singer/guitarist Matt Heafy was only 18. Ascendancy skillfully blends metalcore and thrash. Clean vocals and 'Cookie Monster' growls can be heard throughout.
Highlight tracks: Pull Harder On The Strings Of Your Martyr, A Gunshot To The Head Of Trepidation


7. The Sword - "Warp Riders" (2010)

The Texas metalers third outing takes hooks from such local influences as ZZ Top and Pantera. Southern rock meets thrash in perfect harmony.
Highlight tracks: Lawless Lands, Tres Brujas


6. Megadeth - "United Abominations" (2007)

Dave Mustaine and Co. continue to thrash and this release is their 2000 decades crowning achievement. The blistering guitar solo on Burnt Ice is worth the price of the album itself.
Highlight tracks: Burnt Ice, Blessed Are The Dead


5. Dimmu Borgir - "Death Cult Armageddon" (2003)

Death metal meets John Williams. The album was recorded with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Strings have never sounded this brutal.
Highlight tracks: Progenies Of The Great Apocalypse, Cataclysm Children


4. 3 Inches Of Blood - "Fire Up The Blades" (2008)

Cam Pipes lives up to his name with vocals that would make Rob Halford and Ronnie James Dio cry. Songs about swords, sorcery and Middle Earth. This is metal.
Highlight tracks: The Hydra's Teeth, The Goatriders Horde


3. Iron Maiden - "Brave New World" (2000)

It's Iron Maiden and it hasn't been this good since 1984.
Highlight tracks: The Wicker Man, Brave New World


2. Mastodon - "Blood Mountain" (2006)

A concept album about a man in search of the Crystal Skull to place atop of Blood Mountain in order to remove the reptile brain to achieve the next step of human evolution while being warned by a clairvoyant, one-eyed Sasquatch. I cannot make this stuff up. It's awesome.
Highlight tracks: Capillarian Crest, Sleeping Giant


1. Opeth - "Ghost Reveries" (2005)

Metal album of the last decade! Flawless. Arguments do not apply.
Highlight tracks: Reverie/Harlequin Forest, Ghost Of Perdition

Country Finally Rocks!

I've never been a big fan of country music aside from the old greats like Johnny, Willie, Waylon and Merle. The Highwaymen (Cash, Nelson, Jennings and Kristopherson) was a band to only which The Traveling Wilburys can come close to touching as far as "supergroups" go. Johnny Cash still seems to put out relevant music late in his career and post-mortem. And T Bone Burnett has put country music back into popular culture with the likes of the 'O Brother Where Art Thou' soundtrack, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss' 'Raising Sand' and the 'Crazy Heart' soundtrack. But only recently has there been a legitimate, pure country album release that's worth a damn.



Jamey Johnson's "The Guitar Song" was released on Mercury records and has single-handily gotten me interested in mainstream country. This guy solidifies 'outlaw' country to which Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings were associated with in the 1970s. Packed as a double album, 'The Guitar Song' encapsulates what ol' school country is all about. With songs such as 'Poor Man's Blues', 'Mental Revenge' and 'Good Times Ain't What They Used To Be', Mr. Johnson seems to be channeling those Nashville legends. The album is split into a 'Black Album', which deals with themes such as alcohol overindulgence and love lost, and a 'White Album', which has a more upbeat, honky-tonk vibe. Songs such as 'California Riots' and 'By The Seat Of Your Pants' have long jam sessions that would have made Ronnie Van Zant proud. The album is also packed with enough lap pedal guitar, keyboards and tinges of soul music that even a cavalier fan of country music (such as myself) would find intriguing and classic. Twenty-five songs deep, surprisingly, this guy doesn't miss a beat. GAC and CMT take note. I'd go to the Grand Ol' Opry to see this outlaw in a heartbeat.

Eighties Nostalgia

Music defines a decade and that was no exception for the 80s. Although there were some questionable moments (namely Spandau Ballet, A-Ha and Flock Of Seagulls), a ton of classic music can be found on many 80s soundtracks. Here is a list of my favorites;

5. Labyrinth

David Bowie not only played the Goblin King in Jim Henson's 1986 masterpiece, but he wrote and sang the majority of songs while wearing grey spandex pants and a kick-ass sequined coat with 8 inch shoulder pads. Check out 'Magic Dance' and 'Underground' (Really the only good music Bowie produced in the 80s).


4. Beverly Hills Cop

Where to start? Harold Faltermeyer's 'Axel F', the Pointer Sisters 'Neutron Dance', Patti LaBelle's 'New Attitude', Danny Elfman's "Gratitude' and Glenn Frey's 'The Heat Is On'. "I'm just burning, doin' the neutron dance!" I still whip out the leg warmers while rocking this soundtrack.


3. Vision Quest

Great flick about high school wrestling, weight loss and all the romantic turmoil us graplers went through during that period (yeah right). Madonna made her first motion picture appearance and the songs included 'Only the Young' (Journey), 'Hungry for Heaven' (Dio [RIP]), 'I'll Fall in Love Again (Sammy Hagar), 'Hot Blooded' (Foreigner) and my personal favorite 'Lunatic Fringe' (Red Rider).


2. Back To The Future

Everything from Marty McFly and the Starlighters playing 'Johnny B, Goode' to 80s icon Huey Lewis rocking his greatest song ever, 'The Power Of Love' and the under appreciated 'Back In Time. God bless Biff.


1. Blues Brothers

No one can argue with this one. With rock legends Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker contributing hits, Jake and Elwood still stole the show with 'Gimme Some Lovin'', 'Theme From Rawhide' and 'Sweet Home Chicago' (not counting 'Stand By Your Man' which didn't make the soundtrack). Arguably John Belushi's best film (tie with Animal House).


Honorable mentioned songs include Extreme's 'Play With Me' ("Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure"), Lindsey Buckingham 'Holiday Road' ("National Lampoon’s Vacation"), Prince 'Purple Rain' ("Purple Rain"), Ray Parker, Jr. 'Ghostbusters' ("Ghostbusters"), Cyndi Lauper 'The Goonies 'R' Good Enough' ("Goonies") and Kenny Loggins 'I'm Free (Heaven Helps the Man)' ("Footloose").

American Carnage

For most "classic" metal enthusiasts, the 80s and early 90s was the pinnacle. The "Big Four" (Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer and Anthrax) were all top of the metal charts and playing for arena sized sold-out crowds. However it lives on today. Case in point, The American Carnage Tour! Metal icons Megadeth, Slayer and Testament are touring the states in support of new albums however are revisiting periods of time that made them monoliths of the genre.

I was able to witness the second leg of this monumental tour. And as a "Thank You" to all their rabid fans, a special production was in store. Megadeth took the stage and played their 1990 magnum opus "Rust In Peace" in its entirety! As a special bonus, Megadeth (aka Dave Mustaine) decided to bring back Jackson, Minnesota's own David Ellefson to the mix for the tour and likely an extended stay. Having helped Mustaine write "RIP" (the greatest metal album of all time) it was awe inspiring to see these guys play the album live... Flawlessly. Recently being named in Joel McIver's 2009 book "The Greatest Metal Guitarist of All Time", Mustaine owned the performance. He can still shred like no other as he flexed his thrash chops throughout the show and proved why this moniker was christened upon him. To end their set, Megadeth played 'Trust' ("Cryptic Writings"), 'Headcrusher' ("Endgame"), 'A Tout Le Monde' ("Youthanasia"), 'Symphony Of Destruction' ("Countdown To Extinction") and closed with 'Peace Sells' ("Peace Sells... But Who's Buying") having Ellefson play his signature opening bass riff amongst the enthusiastic crowd. Following Megadeth's set, Slayer played their 1990 album "Seasons In The Abyss" with other classics including 'Raining Blood' and 'Angel Of Death' (from 1988's "Reign In Blood").


Long live Thrash!

The Wolfmen of Grinderman

For those who love Nick Cave (my pick for artist of the last decade). He is about to embark on a stateside tour with his band Grinderman.

Check out their new video for the single 'Heathen Child' directed by John Hilcoat (dir. The Proposition, The Road)



Tickets go on sale August 20th at Ticketmaster.com

See you at First Avenue in Minneapolis!

Evil Elvis Lives!

After a 6 year hiatus, the Evil Elvis himself, Mr. Glenn Danzig has returned with a new album entitled "Deth Red Sabaoth".



Since Rick Rubin stopped producing Danzig in the mid 90s, the band has dismantled and undergone several line-up changes which have unfortunately led to mixed results. Initially, Danzig reformed as an industrial group a kin to Nine Inch Nails or Filter but Glenn had seemed to have lost much of his songwriting ability. Initially known for his blues-infused, punk style, swaggering doom rock, Danzig was viewed as somewhat of a "has been" (to those other than his die hard fans, much like myself!) After releasing two albums, Blackacidevil and Satan's Child, in this vain, he decided to go back to what made him a legend in the metal community. That being said, his music remained a watered down version of his late 80s/early 90s hay day. Now on his 3rd album toward redemption, Danzig has finally nailed it!

"Deth Red Sabaoth" sounds like it should have followed "Danzig III: How The Gods Kill". The album blasts off with 'Hammer Of The Gods', a song as brutal as the title suggests. Tommy Victor (of Prong/Ministry fame) has helped Glenn find that screeching raw guitar sound that has been lacking since that 1994 seminal release. The next track 'The Revengeful' continues with one of the best rhythm guitar riffs since 'Snakes Of Christ' from "Danzig II: Lucifuge". Guitar solos are also back in full force and help elevate this album to among his best. In the past, Danzig has also had a knack for slow, dark, prodding tunes, and "Deth Red Sabaoth" highlights this well with songs like 'Rebel Spirits', 'On A Wicked Night', 'Deth Red Moon' and 'Night Star Hel'. 'On A Wicked Night' in particular is one of the strongest tracks and should become a staple at his live shows. It starts with a heavenly sounding acoustic riff with Glenn crooning his Jim Morrison-esque best. The songwriting is definitely the strong point of the album as the production is virtually absent. Danzig was quoted saying he used "1970s Kustom tuck ’n’ roll bass amps to play some of the guitar parts through" to give the album a more lo-fi vibe. This works in his favor, as his most recent releases relied too heavily on computerized sounding production. The song 'Ju Ju Bone' revisits the bands blues-rock influences similar to 'Twist Of Cain' from 1988. The albums theme continue with Danzig's obsession with the occult and fantasy. However, given this is Glenn's shtick and should be taken tongue-in-cheek, Danzig pulls it off as only he can. Even though his lyrics and imagery should be taken with a grain of salt, it's great to see this hulking, hairy mass of a man got his groove back.



Here is a list of my favorite Danzig albums.

1. "Danzig" (1988) *****
2. "Danzig II: Lucifuge" (1990) ****1/2
3. "Danzig III: How The Gods Kill" (1992) ****
4. "Deth Red Sabaoth" (2010) ****
5. "Thrall-Demonsweatlive" (1993) ****
6. "I, Luciferi" (2002) ***1/2
7. "Danzig 4" (1994) ***1/2
8. "The Lost Tracks Of Danzig" (2007) ***1/2
9. "Circle Of Snakes" (2004) ***
10. "666: Satan's Child" (1999) **
11. "Blackacidevil" (1996) *

Menomena

When I heard Portland's own Menomena was doing an in-store appearance this evening to celebrate the release of their much anticipated new album Mines I was pretty excited. It didn't seem to be real widely publicized, so I thought the timing would be perfect. I'd leave work just after 5pm and cruise over to Music Millennium to catch their 6pm abbreviated set where they'd play for the first time live a handful of songs from the new album. As a newbie to the in-store world I didn't realize you could get advanced tickets for entry by pre-purchasing the album the day before. As a result, I went to the back of a really long line and waited with hope that there would be room for me to squeeze in. Thankfully it was worth the wait and I did get in. For those who have never been to this particular location, it is not a lot different than your typical record store; tight aisles probably not wide enough for two people to stand side by side with merchandise crammed in wherever it will fit. A great place to browse on an average day, but less than ideal for a mini concert. The bad news is that from my particular vantage point I could see a drum and an occasional foot. The good news is that it was well worth the wait. From what I heard so far, I believe this was the beginning of my love affair with another solid album from a phenomenal band. They blasted through four tracks from the new record: Queen Black Acid, Killemall, Five Little Rooms and TAOS. From where I was standing, I had a great view of the crowd, particularly the ones who were in the know and got the advance tickets for better positioning. QBA and Killemall were great, but when they started in on Five Little Rooms with an intro showcasing their signature bari sax, I looked around the room and saw many smiles and heads nodding in approval with the beat. I captured the set on my phone for those interested and Five Little Rooms is featured here. You'd be better served to pick up the album yourself due to the very limited sound quality of the audio, but this gives a little taste. Unfortunately the video is less than thrilling, but I'll know better next time.

After the set, I purchased Mines on vinyl and I haven't had a chance to listen to the remainder of the songs yet. Friend and Foe was a tough act to follow, but I've got a very good feeling about this one. This was my first glimpse of the band that day. I think the dude at the counter was saying, "Shit, I'll never be as cool as these guys, so I guess I won't even try." Much like my prediction that Brothers was going to catapult The Black Keys into the national spotlight this year, I think Menomena is also on the verge. You can be sure that a full review will be forthcoming.

An Evening With The Beast

On Sunday, July 18th 2010, I got the opportunity to see one of my favorite bands live for the first time. Needless to say, Iron Maiden did not disappoint. As my comrade who joined me at the show stated, "We can cross that one off the bucket list." Below is why this was such a memorable event.

Was it irony or destiny that while traveling to the show my odometer displayed the number of the beast? Regardless, I was ready for whatever the greatest metal act on the planet had to offer.


While never being a big draw in the United States, Iron Maiden has been a world wide phenomenon for the past 35 years. How good could these quinquagenarian metalheads be? Especially given the intense atmosphere at any metal show. I was crawling out of my skin in eager anticipation.

The concert was held at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater outside of Chicago. Upon arriving at the venue, we were quickly surrounded by people of all ages wearing denim, camouflage and black t-shirts. By the start of the show, we were a part of an 18,000 Maiden worshiping crowd. The stage was created to resemble an alien spaceship to go along with the release of Iron Maiden's 15th studio album "The Final Frontier" which is slated for a August 17th stateside release.


To kick things off, an Iron Maiden cover of UFO's 'Doctor Doctor' played over the sound system. Was the band indirectly speaking to me? Now I was sure it was destiny! As the lights dimmed and the song ended, music reminiscent of Richard Strauss' Sprach Zarathustra from 2001: A Space Odyssey chimed in. The crowds cheers were getting louder and louder when Dave Murray, Adrian Smith and Janick Gers suddenly blasted in with the opening song 'The Wicker Man' from 2000s "Brave New World". The place was erupting with excitement. The triple guitar threat was unreal and the sound was spot on. Bruce Dickinson ran out onstage and continued to rile up the already stoked crowd.

*Courtesy Village Voice

Even though the band has been around for 30+ years, it was great hearing this live as it was the first song that got me hooked on Iron Maiden just 10 years ago. The next tune, 'Ghost Of The Navigator' continued to highlight the guitar harmonies and the galloping bass sound of lead songwriter Steve Harris. Maiden then blasted into an oldie with 'Wrathchild' from their 1981 release "Killers". With this song the crowd was going ravenous!


Following a plug for the new album, Maiden played 'El Dorado', the first single from "The Final Frontier". Again, Steve Harris' bass was the driving force behind this throwback sounding tune. Nicko McBrain (such a fitting name for a heavy metal drummer) pummelled the hell out of his drums despite his age of 58. Already, the show and performance had me awestruck.

*Courtesy Village Voice

Following a few more songs from their two most recent albums, Bruce Dickinson took a break to talk to the crowd. The Maiden front man continued to talk about the recent loss of metals larger than life gentleman and one of rocks greatest singers, he was talking about non other than Ronnie James Dio. As Dickinson quoted "He did actually sing a lot of songs about the Devil, but there wasn't a bad fucking bone in his body". He then dedicated the next song, 'Blood Brothers' (again from "Brave New World") to his memory. This was a fitting tribute to the belated rock icon. The band continued the brilliant set with a few other newer tracks before ripping through some classics. The set ended with 'Fear Of The Dark' and 'Iron Maiden'. During 'Iron Maiden', an 8 foot alien rendition of Maiden's mascot Eddie came out on stage to terrorize the band.


For an encore, the band opened with 'The Number Of The Beast'. The crowd was amazing and the energy throughout the amphitheater was more than infectious. Amazingly, Bruce Dickinson continued to run back and forth throughout the stage and appeared as vitalized as the acne-riddled, pubescent fans he inspired 30 years ago. Band mates Steve Harris and Janick Gers also continued to rock with over the top, animated performances. Concert staple 'Hallowed Be Thy Name' was played next and continued to fire up the audience. I had long ago lost my voice but continued to sing along. The band closed the concert with 'Running Free' from their 1980 self titled album. We had most definitely received our money's worth.


For those who have not seen an Iron Maiden show, regardless of being a fan, their performance and stage presence is second to none. After being a part of this concert, there is no question why the band has continued to be one of the best metal bands and live acts in the world. Should they tour North America again, I will be in attendance along with my little metalhead who has been in training since the day we met!



Iron Maiden "The Final Frontier" Tour 2010 - Chicago set list:

-The Wicker Man
-Ghost Of The Navigator
-Wrathchild
-El Dorado
-Dance Of Death
-The Reincarnation Of Benjamin Breeg
-These Colours Don't Run
-Blood Brothers
-Wildest Dreams
-No More Lies
-Brave New World
-Fear Of The Dark
-Iron Maiden

Encore:
-The Number of the Beast
-Hallowed Be Thy Name
-Running Free

God Bless metal, Dio and Iron Maiden!

Up The Irons!
\M/ \M/

Pink Floyd: The Greatest Band Of All Time

Even though the band has not released an album since 1994 (and for some, 1983, when Roger Waters left the group), Pink Floyd's music continues to influence and be among the greatest songs ever written. Roger Waters is getting ready to hit the road on September 15th for "The Wall Live Tour" and will be touring the Northern hemisphere for almost a year. After seeing David Gilmour live in 2006 (which was the best concert I have ever seen) and Roger Waters in 2007, I am eagerly awaiting this experience. In anticipation, I felt it prudent to give a little lesson in the legendary bands record catalog and rank their studio albums. Call it "Pink Floyd for Dummies".

14. "More" (1969)

-Recorded as a soundtrack for the little seen movie of the same name, "More" is a very experimental album (even by Pink Floyd's standards). Even though founding member Syd Barret had left the band, his trademark psychedelic sound still can be heard throughout the record. 'Green Is The Colour' is definitely the standout track as much of the remaining album is for die hard fans only.

13. "Piper At The Gates Of Dawn" (1967)

-Speaking of die hard fans, most would find this ranking blasphemous, as Pink Floyd's debut album is felt to be by some their crowning achievement. Even though I respect Syd Barrett (as you will read later), his music on this record is too kaleidoscopic and whimsy for my tastes. The album has a childish, pop feeling and is likely best appreciated on a heavy dose of LSD. The album has its highlights with the fantastic tracks 'Interstellar Overdrive' and 'Astronomy Domine'. For fans of psychedelia, this album is a must.

12. "The Final Cut" (1983)

-The last album released while founding member Roger Waters remained in the band, "The Final Cut" is somewhat of a sequel to "The Wall". The music and production are all very similar and it lacks the variety its preceding album had. Each song sounds way to similar to the next. The writing was on the wall (no pun intended) for Waters exit as he became more and more a one man show with the release of this album. Every track was written by him and only him, hence the repetitive sound. Choice cuts include 'The Gunner's Dream', 'Not Now John' and 'The Fletcher Memorial Home'. For fans of Roger Waters solo albums.

11. "A Saucerful Of Secrets" (1968)

-Back to 60s, psychedelic Pink Floyd. The last album to feature Syd Barrett (on one track 'Jugband Blues') before his departure due to psychotic behavior. Saucerful was the first to feature guitarist David Gilmour who was asked to tour with the band due to Barrett's unreliability. Gilmour's influence can be felt as the albums sound becomes more familiar to progressive rock than PATGOD's psychedelia. The self titled track is the best song on the album and was also co-written by Gilmour. Other great songs include 'Let There Be More Light' and 'Remember A Day'.

10."The Division Bell" (1994)

-The last studio album to be released. At this time, the band consisted of only David Gilmour, Nick Mason and Richard Wright (RIP). This was the only Pink Floyd album to earn the band a Grammy with the instrumental 'Marooned', however this is far from the standout track. Following in the same vein as "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason", "The Division Bell" is a melodic album with songs that can be played by themselves as opposed to written around a common theme. Most PF albums need to be listened to as a whole. Gilmour's wife, Polly Samson, helped write some of the lyrics and Gilmour continued to be the main songwriter. The album spawned the "Pulse" album and tour. Check out 'High Hopes', 'Take It Back' and 'Lost For Words'.

9. "Ummagumma" (1969)

-This double disc album consists of a live album and studio album. The studio album contains tracks written by the individual band members and plays like a bunch of solo projects. The studio album is unfortunately NOT the highlight and more of an experimental project. The live album consists of four songs, primarily from the first two albums; "Piper At The Gates Of Dawn" and "A Saucerful Of Secrets". For me, this is the best live album Floyd has released and the live tracks are better and have more weight than the songs from the studio albums. The song 'A Saucerful Of Secrets' (which remains one of my favorite tracks) is brilliant, especially the Gilmour vocals which closes the album. For those who love this album, check out the DVD "Live In Pompeii".

8. "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason" (1987)

-The first album without Roger Waters, "AMLOR" has been penned more of a Gilmour solo project. Following a heated legal battle, Gilmour and Co. were able to release the album under the Pink Floyd moniker (I think more due to the studio pushing for another Pink Floyd release). Again, this album consists of mainly separate tracks and Waters influence has disappeared. The first half of the album is fantastic and contain the standout tracks 'On The Turning Away', 'Learning To Fly', 'One Slip' and 'The Dogs Of War'. The very successful live tour and album "A Delicate Sound Of Thunder" was recorded with tracks from this album as the highlight.

7. "Atom Heart Mother" (1970)

-Some of the band members have commented on being disappointed by this album and feeling it was one of their worst, however I have to disagree entirely. The album again has a very experimental sound. The title track is a complex orchestral arrangement which is also the bands longest recorded studio track, clocking in at 23:44. Waters, Wright and Gilmour each contribute a song in the middle of the album and each has a different vibe. The Waters track has his vintage vocals, the Wright song has a psychedelic funk horn section at its core and the Gilmour outing sounds like a great folk tune at times. There is not a single bad track on this album and after repeated listens gets better and better. The albums closes with 'Alan's Psychedelic Breakfast' which includes sounds of bacon cooking and a gentleman talking over what is most likely tea (and possibly crumpets?)

6. "Dark Side Of The Moon" (1973)

-Thought to be Pink Floyd's crowning achievement. "Dark Side Of The Moon" is Floyd's highest ranking album on Rolling Stone magazines 'Greatest Albums Of All Time" list at number 43. DSOTM remained on the Billboard charts for 741 weeks from 1973 to 1988, longer than any other album in history and has sold an estimated 45 million copies. The albums main theme deals with mental illness and was reportedly inspired by PF's founding member Syd Barrett. The album, like most Pink Floyd releases, is best ingested as a whole, however amazing songs include 'Time', 'Money', 'Us And Them' and 'The Great Gig In The Sky'. Some may consider listing this album at number 6 as sacrilege, but check out the top five for argument sake.

5. "Obscured By Clouds" (1972)

-Another album created as a soundtrack. "Obscured By Clouds" was written for the French film "La Vallee" directed by Barbet Schroeder (who also directed the Oscar winning "Reversal Of Fortune" and "Barfly"). By far the most underrated Pink Floyd album, "OBC" was written at the same time songs were being compiled for DSOTM. The record plays as a folk recording at times and a blues-rocker at others. It is highlighted by the songs 'Childhood's End', 'Wot's... Uh The Deal', 'The Gold Its In The...' and 'Free Four'.

*WARNING* The upcoming albums are flawless. The order of preference below could change at a moments notice, but for now, is as follows.

4. "Meddle" (1971)

-"Meddle" contains the greatest song ever written, 'Echoes'. I got the opportunity to see David Gilmour play this track live in its glorious 23 minute and 27 second entirety. The song starts slow with an ambient, space trance sound and builds into an absolute opus. Originally, the track was the entire B side of the album. The album starts with 'One Of These Days', a dark, heavy song which features Gilmour on an electric slide guitar which should single-handedly put him among the greatest guitarists of all time. The track is primarily an instrumental with the only lyrics being "One of these days I'm going to cut you into little pieces". The song, and album for that matter, has been sited as an influence for many progressive rock, indie and death metal bands. Other tracks such as 'Fearless' stand out and should be played on more classic rock radio. This is a must have for all Pink Floyd fans whether casual or fanatic.

3. "The Wall" (1979)

-Originally written as a Roger Waters solo album, "The Wall" is a classic PF album. Gilmour eventually co-wrote many of the radio friendly tracks (something that was missing from "The Final Cut"). The album is a 2 disc (4 vinyl) album that has more than stood the test. It ranks #4 among the greatest selling albums of all time in the US behind MJ's "Thriller", Eagles "Greatest Hits" and Led Zeppelin "IV". The concept of the album revolves around it's central character Pink and deals with personal isolation during WWII. It has spanned some of Pink Floyd's most memorable songs such as 'Comfortably Numb' (number 314 on Rolling Stone's Greatest Songs Of All Time), "Another Brick In The Wall, Pt. 2" (number 375), "Run Like Hell", "Hey You", "Young Lust" and "Mother". Frequently sited as the last great Floyd album, "The Wall" is immaculate.

2. "Animals" (1977)

-The album that started it all for me, "Animals" was the first Pink Floyd record I listened to in its entirety. I was instantly hooked. Reminiscent of George Orwell's novella "Animal Farm", "Animals" contains 5 tracks entitled 'Pigs On The Wing' (Part one opening and Part two closing the album), 'Dogs', 'Pigs (Three Little Ones)', and 'Sheep'. In an excerpt from Mark Blake's 2008 book entitled "Comfortably Numb — The Inside Story of Pink Floyd' and as "Animal Farm" had depicted, the animals in the record deal with people and society; "Dogs as enforcers of the law, Pigs as ruthless leaders, and Sheep as the mindless pawns. Whereas the novella focuses on communism, the album is a critique of the worst aspects of capitalism, and although both advocate a democratic socialist ideal the album differs again in that the sheep eventually rise up to overpower their oppressors." The album cover remains my favorite of all time with a picture of the Battersea Power Station with a 30 foot pig-shaped balloon (known as Algie) flying above the ziggurat.

1. "Wish You Were Here" (1975)

-Another example of how Syd Barrett continued to influence the band long after his departure, "Wish You Were Here" was written with Syd being the bands muse. Similar to DSOTM, Barrett's influence on the band proves to be greater as inspiration than as a member. The opening and closing track, 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' was written for the founding bandmate who was struggling with schizophrenia. The two tracks combined play for over 26 minutes and remain a staple for both Waters and Gilmour on tour. The self titled track is also one of Pink Floyd's most recognizable songs with the lyrics "Two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl, year after year" and ranks #316 on RS greatest songs.

Please do yourself a favor and get these albums. If nothing else, purchase the top four or a select number of tracks you may not already have. Remember, most of Pink Floyd's music is best ingested as whole albums. They may change how you view music.

My favorite Pink Floyd tracks include:
10. Fat Old Sun [Atom Heart Mother]
9. Time [Dark Side Of The Moon]
8. Wish You Were Here [Wish You Were Here]
7. Fearless [Meddle]
6. A Saucerful Of Secrets [Ummagumma]
5. Comfortably Numb [The Wall]
4. Pigs (Three Little Ones) [Animals]
3. Childhood's End [Obscured By Clouds]
2. Shine On You Crazy Diamond [Wish You Were Here]
1. Echoes [Meddle]