On January 20th of 2009, fans of the indie experimental band Animal Collective will be treated to a new CD entitled: Merriweather Post Pavilion. While their sound has taken them in multiple directions, their latest CD “Strawberry Jam” was their most cohesive effort yet. Fans (myself included) have a strong hope that their newest album will put even that last one to shame.
After seeing a recorded concert of Stevie Ray Vaughan again on the telly the other night, it really brings to mind what a shame it was to lose him as a musician. This was a man who was so dedicated to his craft (not to mention so exceedingly talented at it) that he would play the guitar until the tips of his fingers would callous over and fall off. Then, he’d reattach the tips using superglue so he could keep playing. Here’s a little clip of him in action.
Steely Dan is still out performing. They are currently finishing up the tour that they first announced last spring, called “Think Fast.” The tour has taken them to various locations, mainly in the US but also some in Canada as well. The group was originally together from 1972 until 1981, when they decided to split up to pursue other options. In 1993, they decided to reunite, but at first only as a studio band, no longer touring. Shortly thereafter, however, they decided to begin touring again, performing all around North America. Their music is well known for its use of unusual instruments, including horns, as well as lyrics that are sarcastic and observational in nature. This tour is ending soon, so if you want to see them, you’d probably better get moving!
Robin Williams is really funny in the movies. We can always go see his movies and watch him play a wide variety of characters who range from serious people to really off-the-wall characters. Or if you’ve seen him on Whose Line is it Anyway? then you know that he is an amazing improvisational artist. He just has the ability to say funny things and act utterly loony and then settle down really fast. There aren’t many funnier people in the entertainment world today. If he’s this funny in the movies and on TV, how much funnier would he be in person? You’ve never seen him in person? You really ought to, because it’s a concert experience you can’t get anywhere else. Check out the Robin Williams tour dates and get some tickets to this great show!
Sure Jeff Mangum and the rest of Neutral Milk Hotel aren’t touring and most likely won’t be touring any time soon. But there wasn’t any particular band touring right now (off the top of my head) that really grabbed my interest. Neutral Milk Hotel, on the other hand, is such a solid band that it’s a shame they can’t get back together and tour…or rather, that Mangum can’t work through whatever personal demons he has. Any way, check out any of the NMH CDs and be pleasantly surprised at how incredible they are. Also, check out Neutralmilkhotel.com to learn m ore about the band’s past and discography.
Bruce Springsteen is still working hard. He has done a lot of things this year. He has endorsed Barack Obama for President, appeared at Tim Russert’s memorial service and lost one of his own former band members. Next year will be equally busy, but hopefully a little more joyful for him. He will be playing at next year’s Super Bowl XLIII on February 1st 2009. He remains popular with people of all ages, and definitely an American favorite. He hasn’t released an album since last year, but his records still sell at an impressive rate. Most people will recognize his music right away, even if you didn’t know that he wrote this or that song. He, like Paul McCartney, will probably be well-liked at the Super Bowl.
