Getting The Weepies on the road
Friday, May 16, 2008
I have a tradition of buying a new record when I go on a road trip. Provided I’m not engrossed in conversation with fellow travelers or competing with the squealing of my brood of children (3 under the age of 10 right now), traveling allows me to really immerse myself in the music—a rare pleasure these days.
Recently I squeezed in enough time to download The Weepies before hitting the road with the fam to endure the straight and flat monotony of Mpls to Omaha via I-35 and I-80 at roughly 70 mph. While not an optimal music experience, I was able to catch some good listening time during the enevitable napping (when little E and middle E nap at the same time, its like the stars align and a new age of world peace has dawned). The Weepies are my new favorite band.So take this as an endorsement. Check them out on the Web and MySpace. Far from inducing the tears their name suggests, The Weepies helped me regain some serenity amid one of our more chaotic family trips.
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Fake band versus real band
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Can you tell which band is(was) real?Seriously, you just don't hear progressive rock like this these days. Darn those major labels!
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Music at a place called vertigo
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Regardless of how one feels about U2 (fan or foe), it’s hard to argue that their manager, Paul McGuinness isn’t the most successful manager working in the music business today. He’s been with them from the start, and is the business brain behind their nearly three decades of success. For those reasons, it is worth paying attention to what he has to say about the state of the music industry. He recently gave this speech at MIDEM’s first International Manager Summit. Here’s a couple of the more interesting bits:
On U2 and the ownership of their own content…U2 own all their masters but these are licensed long term to Universal with whom we enjoy an excellent relationship. With a couple of minor exceptions they also own all their copyrights, which are also licensed to Universal. U2 always understood that it would be pathetic to be good at the music and bad at the business, and have always been prepared to invest in their own future. We were never interested in joining that long humiliating list of miserable artists who made lousy deals, got exploited and ended up broke and with no control over how their life’s work was used, and no say in how their names and likenesses were bought and sold.
On the crisis in the music industry…
I love the record business, and though I may be critical of the ways in which the digital space has been faced by the industry I am also genuinely sympathetic and moved by the human fallout, as the companies react to falling revenues by cutting staff and tightening belts. Many old friends and colleagues have been affected by this. They have families and it is terrible that a direct effect of piracy and thievery has been the destruction of so many careers.
On the role of technology companies and ISPs…
Today, there’s a bigger issue and it’s about the whole relationship between the music and the technology business. Network operators, in particular, have for too long had a free ride on music – on our clients’ content. It’s time for a new approach - time for ISPs to start taking responsibility for the content they’ve profited from for years. And it’s time for some visionary new thinking about how the music and technology sectors can work as partners instead of adversaries, leading to a revival of recorded music instead of its destruction.
On Steve Jobs and Apple…
I have met Steve Jobs and even done a deal with him face to face in his kitchen in Palo Alto in 2004. No one there but Steve, Bono, Jimmy Iovine and me, and Lucian Grainge was on the phone. We made the deal for the U2 iPod and wrote it down in the back of my diary. We approved the use of the music in TV commercials for iTunes and the iPod and in return got a royalty on the hardware. Those were the days when iTunes was being talked about as penicillin for the recorded music industry.
I wish he would bring his remarkable set of skills to bear on the problems of recorded music. He’s a technologist, a financial genius, a marketer and a music lover. He probably doesn’t realize it but the collapse of the old financial model for recorded music will also mean the end of the songwriter. We’ve been used to bands who wrote their own material since the Beatles, but the mechanical royalties that sustain songwriters are drying up. Labels and artists, songwriters and publishers, producers and musicians, everyone’s a victim.
On shifting blame from P2P networks to the true profiteers…
I suggest we shift the focus of moral pressure away from the individual P2P file thief and on to the multi billion dollar industries that benefit from these countless tiny crimes – The ISPs, the telcos, the device makers.
I highly recommend a full read. It’s long, but worth it.
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Thank you Sara Groves
Saturday, December 01, 2007
For another gift of beautiful songs. (This is worth seeing full size). Support artists like Sara.TSAWWT Bookmarks:
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Absolutely loving this record
Saturday, December 01, 2007
I missed this record when it debuted in April, but still had to get a post written on it. I became a fan of Maria McKee in the late 80s when she fronted Lone Justice. After that, I lost sight of her artistic visions in the 90s. This new project, called Late December, while markedly different than everything else that comes before it, fully showcases her greatest assets: her powerful voice, and her inventive approach to melody. While it’s not the return to the belfry-rattling power cow-punk of Lone Justice I would have loved to hear, it’s a refreshing turn from an artist that continues to evolve.
I can't find a video off the new project, but here's a classic live cut: Wheels, circa 1986.
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How do you do this live?
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Okay, I've seen the video (which is amazing). But how do you pull this off live (although, I know it's not really live)? Mute Math on Jimmy Kimmel:TSAWWT Bookmarks:
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Songs of mass destruction found
Sunday, October 07, 2007
I've missed Annie Lennox. 
So glad she's back--back in an explosive way. To be honest, this is a perfect time for me to show my egalitarian cards. How could anyone forsake the artistry and power feminism of Ms. Lennox? While some anger management drop-out nut jobs from rainy Microsoft land may rant and rave like men's men to keep "women in their place," Annie L. is locked and loaded. Sing it, sister!This record is another amazing chapter in an already amazing lexicon. I've lifted a video from her new single, as well as one just especially for complementarians. Peace out.
Feel free to flame me for what I said up there in para. 1. I totally deserve it.
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Sound a Trumpet for OTR
Sunday, September 16, 2007
The long awaited album from Over The Rhine has arrived: The Trumpet Child. 
This is music for lovers, as romantic and (dare I say it) sultry as I've ever heard them. Bravo.A friend of mine commented on continual growth of Detweiler and Bergquist's songcraft. I very much agree. They are true artists. Their songwriting continues to ascend the heights. I can only say, thank you, once again.
Enjoy. The recent live/radio studio performance video features a tune from the new project: "On A Roll"
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Mae in August this year
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
I waited a really long time for this record, and it finally hit the digital shelves in iTunes. Now another vigil begins--to see them play live. I missed a pretty big opportunity to do just that when they were touring their first record, Destination Beautiful. But the record that hooked me was their second: The Everglow. Nothing like a really meaty and far out concept record to breathe some life into album rock in a digital single world. And now Singularity carries Mae into scary major label land. Here's a prayer that they survive and thrive.
I have to say, I think the linked video is a little silly--silly in a different way from Eisley's "invasion." I'm not sure what it takes to create music video art these days that is worthy of the music it attempts to visualize. I'm no director, mind you. Just wondering outloud. Any thoughts on that after seeing these music videos? I'd love to hear what ya'll think. I hope I didn't bias you in my comment. Try to cleanse your palate before viewing. On the right is a little documentary episode about the new project.
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Eisley's new sound combinations
Friday, August 24, 2007
The summer music I’ve been waiting for has arrived, a little late, but oh well. Honestly, I have to confess a fair amount of talent envy with these Eisley kids. Every time I hear another brilliant tune by them, I can't help wishing I had five percent of their talents for songwriting and melodic creativity. Forgive me, for I am a frustrated and mostly washed up musician. Suffice it to say, these kids are gifted. No sophomore slump here, my friends.Here’s the free video that came with the album, plus another promo with them talking about the record. Yeah, they're still just kids--and it shows. But the music is incredible.
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Save the dates: June 30 to July 5
Friday, July 27, 2007
As I am expecting to graduate in May, 2008, I plan to go all out for C-stone in 2008. Boys, put in for your vacation days and bribe your wives with gifts now, cause we’re gonna be there. Oh yes, and Mr. Orvis, you may want to talk to Romantica about getting a booking on the Gallery stage—you’re definitely good enough, or better. Would love to see you there. You know we’ll feed the band with Doug’s famously ginormous burgers.
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Lamentation in absentia: Cornerstone 07
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Well, a five year run was broken this year. I didn’t go to Cornerstone. My absence can be attributed to a confluence of circumstances: A new baby at home—making life crazy with three kids, classes for my MA program, the earlier date for the fest, lack of a quorum among my Cornerstone compadres. But rather than whine about it (too much), I’ll just post a few tidbits about 2007 acts and speakers I wish I could have seen and heard. Think of these as notes for next year—and there will be a next year!The Over the Rhine midnight show. This really goes without saying. But I missed new tracks from their next record, The Trumpet Child, and the fine addition of multi-instrumentalist Jacob Bradley, formerly of VOL, on bass, dobro and lap steel. Gee whiz.
Anberlin. Will they be there in 2008 and can Stephen Christian’s live vocals finally keep up with the band's frenetic rock show? I guess it rained the evening they played main stage, so maybe this was one to miss.The Violet Burning. Nothing like campfire cooking with real live rock stars. And, I understand I missed a huge rock show at the Gallery stage, their preferred venue. Aw shucks!
Tess Wiley. Former member of Sixpence during The Beautiful Mess era. I always appreciated her contribution to that record, and since she is now a resident of Germany, I doubt I’ll get many chances to see her play live. Pity.
Leigh Nash. I just love her recent Blue on Blue album. Missed her in 2006 and really missed her this year. Nuts.Monk. Former guitarist for Over the Rhine, Ric Hordinski’s modern ethereal ensemble. Would have like to seen/heard that. You missed it Kuku—you know you did.
Rosie Thomas. A fun and quirky folk songstress that I have now managed to miss twice. Whine.
The Next Big ThingTM. Nothing like saying you saw them first way back when: Eisley in 2002, Robert Randolph and Copeland in 2004, Lovedrug and MuteMath in 2005 (and many more). For 2007, it is likely that that would have been Tifah, from what I read on the fest blogs. Darn.
Reunion shows. What can I say? In the past, I’ve been treated to The Alarm, The Prayer Chain, The Choir, Altar Boys, Undercover, Steve Taylor, 77s. 80s music heaven. Who’s next? This year we missed a heaven’s metal bloodbath: Bloodgood, Whitecross, etc. Sigh.Imaginarium/Flickerings. Really, I’d like to get in on these as a separate event without feeling conflicted about missing a potentially brilliant music show to sit on my butt and watch films (or vice versa). I must credit Cornerstone for exposing me to The Ring, Donnie Darko and the concept of film festivals in general (although Cornerstone needs to make some investment in a better viewing venue—that pole barn is horrible). Oh well, there’s always Netflix.
Songsmithing workshops. Missed discussions with Leigh Nash and John Davis this year. Boo-hoo.
Shane Claiborne. The “so hot right now” simple way, social justice guru. I’m anxious to read his book and hear him speak. I guess his sessions were mobbed. Rock star.Loren Abraham. How design can help commerce and creation care coexist fruitfully.
Mimi Haddad and the CBE tent. “It’s a world gone crazy, keeps a woman in chains.” Shout "Yeah" for CBE!
Aiden Enns. This guy is all about affluence and consumer culture from a critical POV. I’ll have to catch up with him in cyberspace.
I'm sure there would have been other discoveries stumbled upon by wandering around the farm in a sweaty, sleep deprived stupor.
How can I replace the experience of cohabitating in tents and trailers with old friends and having a good old-fashioned night terror as my delusional screams rouse us all from peaceful slumber? Good times.
Just for those who don't have a clue why this festival is different from all the others, here's a YouTube overview from their DVD. It maybe highlights more of the heavy music, but you get the idea if you watch all the clips.
Click for Part 2
Click for Part 3
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I'm so Romantica
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Here's a full endorsement (unpaid). Pick up a copy of Romantica's new project, America. If the idea of Jim Orvis (pictured, left) drumming his heart out doesn't convince you, Ben Kyle's (pictured, middle) amazing and sweet songwriting should. This local act is on the cusp of much-deserved national success. Get on board for a unique journey in and through America.The StarTribune's Chris Riemenschneider says, "This is the kind of record I can recommend to everyone. It's sweet and (truth in advertising) romantic, and the Irish-born Kyle is true to his roots with ample melancholy and poetic license. Kyle fares best in his most personal tunes, such as the up-tempo waltz 'The National Side,' about his family's migration to America."
Now available on iTunes.
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J-bro returns
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Huge Jonatha Brooke fan here. Recently I was able to pull down her latest, Careful What You Wish For, from iTunes. Have been listening to it on and off for a few days now--and am exceedingly happy. The tunes are a cut above her last project (which was pretty good), and many have more of a hard edge, without detracting from her ability to craft beautiful melodies and lyrics. And, she sings one song in French, no less. C'est magnifique!
The future of 80s music is here
Friday, March 23, 2007
I had a brief email conversation recently with an old friend about some 80s and 90s music—“Break it Down Again” by Tears for Fears, to be exact (from the Elemental album circa 1993). It seems like the 80s and 90s New Wave synth-pop sound that was creeping into today’s new music is gaining more momentum. Case in point, The Brothers Martin, a new collaboration of brothers Jason of Starflyer 59 and Ronnie of Joy Electric. Hooray! I’m busting out my pastel plaid pants, cardigan sweaters, Ray-bans and hair gel. A shout out to my nephew, Brandon for turning me on to the Brothers. Funny, Brandon wasn't even alive when the New Wave was really new.Ich bin Anberlin(er)
Thursday, March 01, 2007
While I was in the newborn fog (and still am), Anberlin released "Cities." To celebrate, enjoy this vid trailer about the record. Definitely their best yet, from what I hear. Downloading it right now. Producer Aaron Sprinkle does it again. Seems like all my favorite music has something to do with him lately.
Hallelujah
Thursday, March 01, 2007
As I sit here keying this in, I'm reflecting on the 15 inches of snow I've shoveled--three times in the past 12 hours. And I guess I'm in for the night, waiting to see what cruel joke the plow leaves for us in the morning. Blizzard 2007. This is it, folks. It's been a while since I've seen this much so fast. October 31, 1990 maybe. To brighten mood, and help look upon this snow with the wonder my 8-year-old does, here's a little gem of a vid I found on YouTube: Over The Rhine covering Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah.Arresting development
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Police reunion in the offing? It seems that some dreams may come true if reports of a reunion tour materialize in 2007. Unlike some, I’ve been progressively bored by Sting’s solo career (yes, even the fancy-shmancy lute record). And while a reunion tour would be fantastic, it pales in comparison to getting back into the studio together for new material. "If you love somebody, set them free." Well, we did that for Sting, and he never came back.
Merry Christmas from Ohio, USA
Friday, December 08, 2006
Over The Rhine is releasing a full-length Christmas project called Snow Angels. If you are an OTR fan, you’ll understand how fitting that title is. 
I didn’t stumble onto this until recently, but now realize that this is the Christmas album I’ve been waiting for all my life. Check on this info page linked here for a complete track list and a couple of free MP3s. Sweet!
I heart iPod
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
This week the Apple iPod turned 5 years old.
My 2G iPod (looks just like the 1G pictured, but has a touch wheel inside the ring of four buttons) has been my daily musical companion since my birthday in May 2003, just as the 3G iPod was debuting. At the time, my beloved wife picked it up at Best Buy on a very limited clearance sale for $199 (full price for the 10 gig model was usually $399). This May it will turn 4 years old. (The G stands for “generation.” A 2G iPod is a 2nd generation iPod.)This is truly remarkable considering the battery on most of these devices was only expected to last 18 months. My battery has never been replaced, and I fully expect it to give up the ghost some day soon (in fact, the long march to oblivion has already begun). But before that happens, I am compelled to post this tribute to my diminutive digital music wonder.
I can’t speak for those have had problems with their iPods. I know that those problems can and do occur, so I’m not posting this to praise Apple in general on iPod quality. No, this is specific to my little 3-and-a-half-year-old 2G iPod.
You rock!
A protest of beauty
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Last week Dawni and I enjoyed an evening of great music by Sara Groves. Her most recent recording, Add to the Beauty, was voted CCM Magazine’s Album of the Year—a well deserved accolade. I did a little plug for this outstanding record back in November, 2005. It’s a pity that the hometown girl can’t sell out a hometown show (at Bethel University’s outstanding concert hall). Perhaps it was poorly promoted, or perhaps her songwriting challenges today’s consumer Christian music fan a little too much. Their loss. It was fantastic.
Sara related a story you may have heard several years ago. In 1992, Vedran Smailovic, a cellist with the Sarajevo String Quartet, witnessed 22 of his neighbors die in a bomb blast as they stood in a queue waiting for bread in Sarajevo. The next day, Smailovic walked into the bombed out crater that remained with his cello. Wearing his performance tuxedo, He began playing his instrument, plying his musical craft to mount the only protest he could. (More.)A life of beauty is a protest—it is an act of spiritual aggression toward the ugly bastion of evil in this world. As Sara says of beauty in one of her recent and most moving songs, this is “how it matters.”
As Woodland Hills Church is currently running a group study called Experiencing the Beautiful Life, I thought I would highlight a few quotes that resonate with what Sara said much better than I.
“In such ugly times, the only true protest is beauty.”
- Phil Ochs
“The awful thing is that beauty is mysterious as well as terrible. God and the devil are fighting there and the battlefield is the heart of man.”
- Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoyevsky
Anything but blue about this music
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
This is not a review. This is a strong suggestion. Go buy this record. I now feel supremely stupid for blowing off the Leigh Nash show at c-stone this year. Don't be as stupid as I was. Go to iTunes (or whatever music source you frequent) and give them your $9.99. Do it right now.
This album is a rebirth of sunny, beautiful pop brought to you by the former chanteuse of Sixpence None The Richer. I've been listening to it non stop since I downloaded it this past Saturday. The combination of a fall color trip to the north shore, warm sunshine and these songs was intoxicating and therapeutic.
You won't be sorry or blue for picking up your very own copy of Blue on Blue.
It's only Fair
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Aaron Sprinkle’s new creative outlet, Fair, has me completely hooked with the debut release, The Best Worst-Case Scenario. Sprinkle has been heavy into producing some major acts in the past several years, making this new project all the more interesting. It was downloaded on a whim just a couple weeks ago after seeing a brief review and reading the raving user reviews in iTunes. It will not disappoint. Highlights: The sunny chorus of Confidently Dreaming and the sisters from Eisley doing lush backing vocals on Unglued. (Sprinkle’s voice blends with theirs like he’s another sibling). But what I discovered most is Sprinkle’s fantastic voice and gift for songwriting.
The only trouble is, I can’t quit listening to it long enough to move on to my other new albums. Rest assured, Fair is a good habit.
New math and the art of making noise
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Photo by Brian Behm
Hands down, the best performance of Cornerstone 2006 was MuteMath. With a new full length album added to their lexicon, these guys are truly music and noise artists. While influences abound, I don’t think anyone can say these guys are anything but original and visionary. Pray that they settle their label dispute soon in order to get their music to a wider audience. I finally was able to pick up their disc on site (for a paltry $10 bucks). You can only get it here otherwise.
Dust, tents and sanctified rock-n-roll
Monday, July 10, 2006
Of all the music festivals over the summer, Cornerstone (Bushnell, IL) has to be the harshest environment for music and camping known to mankind. And yet, I cannot resist its underground charm, 300-plus bands and Jesus hippie roots. Here is an inside look at the love-hate relationship many of us have with certain aspects of Cornerstone:I hate the porta-johns, but love how the bands wallpaper them inside and out with posters (mostly homemade) promoting their shows at the fest.
I hate crap bands, but love the 10-plus generator stages that spring up for the festival (a rock show around every corner). You gotta love 200 people crowded around a 4-piece playing their hearts out from a mound of dirt, drums and amps.
I hate screamo pounding through the forest at 2 a.m. I love 2 solid hours of Over The Rhine on a cool midsummer night.I hate most of the on-site food (strawberry-lemon shake-ups being the exception), but love sampling breakfast fare from local greasy spoons in Bushnell and Macomb.
I hate the dusty, unpaved roads of Cornerstone farm, but love the wry dust graffiti that soon appears on all the cars.
I hate camping, but love sharing campsite BBQ dinners with The Violet Burning.I hate when it rains and becomes one big mud puddle, but love how fresh rain gets all that dust out of the air.
I hate being a culture nerd, but love that I can spend some time indulging my inner-geek in relative obscurity at the Imaginarium.
I hate all the idiots driving the golf carts, but secretly love the idea of renting one for the duration.
I hate the corporate Christian marketing machine that seems to have a bigger and bigger presence in the merch tents every year, but love the creative ways little bands adorn their merch tables (and I love the free stickers).
I hate the sometimes immodest clothing (or lack thereof) some folks wear, but I love spotting Batman and Spiderman in full-on spandex costumes. Wow. I hate being out of cell range and unconnected to my computer, but love how we picked up a phantom WiFi signal somewhere at the campground for 2 days.
I hate art house movies, but love how Flickerings opens my mind a bit more each year.
I hate the blues, but love Glen Kaiser sightings (or sighting any ex-Rez band member).I hate the Cornerstone showers.
I love the friends that make it all bearable. Truly my brothers from other mothers.
[For a most complete wrap up of the fest, check out the live coverage blog and links to the videos above.]
A shiny Nickel
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Some friends got us in to see Nickel Creek at private Bethel College show this past Saturday night (5/20/06). And yes, we did feel like some of the oldest folks in the joint. That notwithstanding, it was well worth the pittance we spent for the tickets. Huge thanks to Chris & Ro!This show was downright amazing.
(Photo credit: Nickel Creek web site/Adam Brimer)
Aside from NC’s always fantastic original music, the cover tunes stole the show: From the uproarious rendition of Randy Newman’s “Short People” (Sara and Sean Watkins are short indeed), to Radiohead’s “Nice Dream,” to an over the top version of Britanny Spears’ “Toxic” complete with a computer-generated drum solo.
NC just kept it coming with extended jams of their signature tunes—for more than two solid hours. Sara kept shredding her bow and belting out her vox. And watching Chris Thile throw down on mandolin was a moment of ecstasy for this fan of stringed instruments. Gifted is an understatement of the highest order. Oh yes, and there was even tap dancing involved.
They concluded with a six song encore set that included a round of solo tunes for each one of them, with Sara doing Tom Waits’ “Pony,” Sean doing one of his own tunes, and Chris doing a Bach fugue (think Nigel Tufnel sans the foot-played guitar).
I’m now on an earnest hunt to find them on DVD—nothing in video was for sale at the show.
It was a great way to kick off the 2006 summer music season. The bar is set pretty high, but I’m sure my next live music binge at C-stone won’t disappoint.
Derek Webb redefines the Christian artist
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Mockingbird from Derek Webb has been out for a little while now, but I wanted to post something about this project to express my fast growing support and appreciation of this artist. Derek Webb is a rare gem. His art is both intensely provocative and challenging, preferring to play the role of prophet rather than the more commercially viable role of CCM acoustic pop “artist.” This would not be so remarkable over and above the high quality of his song-craft, where it not for the fact that so few join him in his chosen role.Someone should really tell him that admonishing brothers and sisters in the Lord does not lead to positive net unit sales. And it’s just not very nice. He’d be better off doing a worship album. Lord knows we need more of those.
Keep on keepin’ it real, Mr. Webb.
UPDATED 3/17/2006:
Lest I boast about my superior writing abilities, someone else, of course, has already said this so much better. Luke Daugherty writes in Relevant.com, “At a time when the church looks more like the bride of America than the bride of Christ, we absolutely need the music of people like Derek Webb. We don’t need more artists who drown the saints in praise choruses that separate the reality of the gritty walk of faith and obedience from the pristine shine of the Sanctuaries in which we gather.”
Mute Math not remaining silent in court
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
There I was, prepared to post a rather acerbic rant about Mute Math’s great new project and its decidedly limited distribution (only via concerts and their own online outlet for the CD with no iTunes availability).Boy, am I glad I kept my big mouth shut. Sadly, it seems their lack of wider distribution is wrapped up into a much larger dispute with their now estranged former record label.
This raises an issue for discussion. MuteMath is now suing Warner Brothers/Word for promoting them as a CCM artist—essentially pigeon-holing them into the Christian music market. They say they had been promised billing as a mainstream music artist (think Switchfoot, P.O.D., Ashlee Simpson, or whoever you like). You can read an overview of the situation here. As for their new project, they can’t really proceed with wider distribution on another major label until this dispute is rectified.
I’ve heard the debate about Christian bands versus "Christians in a band" ad infinitum over the years. This lawsuit (ostensibly between Christians, although one could hardly assume Christians are calling the shots at Warner/Word) makes me a feel a little embarrassed as a person of faith. On the one hand, I know it’s all about business and rectifying a contract dispute with the record label (and a problem with a legal arrangement requires legal remedies). On the other hand, the publicity such a dispute will receive—and the parading of the Christian or secular artist debate in front of a watching world—doesn’t seem to have an up side from a Kingdom perspective.
I’d be interested in anyone else's thoughts on the issue. This has got to be a first. To quote The Oracle from The Matrix Reloaded, “It is a pickle.” Of course, she also said, “I love candy,” so go figure.
Drop Dead on the street
Thursday, March 02, 2006
The Violet Burning’s new release, Drop Dead, hit the street February 14. As of today, Northern Records is only distributing it direct via CD with no iTunes distribution.Frustrating, to say the least, since I missed the live show February 17th where I would have preferred to purchase it direct from the band (always a better deal for them).
At least you can listen to the full album as a stream here. All you hackers out there with Audio Hijack, just remember to buy the record when it does hit iTunes.
Where you live should not decide
Thursday, February 16, 2006
…whether you live or whether you die (from the song, Crumbs From Your Table – How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, U2). I happen to think that this is the most powerful phrase set to music in recent memory. The first time I heard Crumbs, I was stopped in mid sentence of a conversation, compelled to stop talking and play it again to really hear what it was saying. To me, it still is the deepest gut-punch of the now Grammy-winning record. Placed in the second half of the album, it is the cry and lament of the millions sick and starving in this world—waiting for the crumbs from our table of plenty. 
U2 in Dublin
Ever since my first listen I have tended to define the audience or object of this song not as the rich nations of the West, although it is most certainly that, but rather as The Church corporately, and as me individually. Also consider the account in Matthew 15:21-28 of Jesus and the Canaanite woman pleading for her demon-possessed daughter--which gives the song its title and chorus. For those not inclined to listen to a U2 song, here are the lyrics to Crumbs:
Crumbs From Your Table
From the brightest star
Comes the blackest hole
You had so much to offer
Why did you offer your soul
I was there for you baby
When you needed my help
Would you deny for others
What you demand for yourself
Cool down mama, cool off
Cool down mama, cool off
You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I’m waiting on the crumbs from your table
You were pretty as a picture
It was all there to see
Then your face caught up with your psychology
With a mouth full of teeth
You ate all your friends
And you broke every heart
Thinking every heart mends
You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I’m waiting on the crumbs from your table
Where you live should not decide
Whether you live or whether you die
Three to a bed
Sister Ann, she said
Dignity passes by
You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
I’m waiting on the crumbs from your table
It’s been quite a month for U2 with the Grammy’s. Prior to being showered with shiny awards, Bono spoke at the National Prayer Breakfast hosted by the President Feb. 2. MN Senator Norm Coleman even introduced him. Please take some time to read what he said (thanks for the link to the transcript, Derek). It bears repeating. Don’t worry—no f-bombs were uttered. The aforementioned lyric from Crumbs is woven into his remarks.
Drop dead with anticipation
Friday, January 27, 2006
The Violet Burning are set to release the latest recording, Drop-Dead, February 14. Club 3 Degrees in Minneapolis is the fortunate venue for a CD release show February 17.I checked in with my good friend and pastor Doug Glynn who has evolved from huge fan to friend of lead Violet, Mike Pritzl over the past few years to see if he has a good read on what this new album will be like. He actually scored a little preview recently.
He said it’s different, and that it’s more into what Mike is digging lately musically—less commercial. What’s more, the Glitter Twins from Rock-n-Roll Worship Circus (now known as The Listening) lent a hand in the production. Ahhhhh. I like the sound of that.The anticipation is killing me.
She's a beauty
Friday, November 04, 2005
As if I needed another reason to appreciate the artistry and ministry of Sara Groves, she is featured in an online interview for Relevant magazine where she is remarkably forthcoming about her spiritual odyssey and its interplay with her songwriting. She has traveled much of the same spiritual ground that Dawnshelle and I have in the past 24 months. While she avoids the label of “emerging” (and avoids labeling it altogether), it’s apparent that this is where she has arrived thus far in her journey. And she has good insights to share, especially when it comes to the temptation to become cynical about The Church:
“I think it’s a growing pain. At least, that’s what I feel like I went through or am going through. About two years ago or so, when I was in the middle of that pain, I was looking for God to move or break through or just do something. I was talking to a friend about what I was going through, and I looked at a him and said, ‘I am going to be so bummed-out when they actually come up with a name to express what I am experiencing at this moment, when they actually categorize what I am going through.’ And he looked at me and said, ‘They already have named it; they’re calling it the emerging church.’ And I was like, ‘No! Don’t name it!’ It’s such a bummer that it’s in our nature to name things like this. Because…in naming it, it’s like we’re making it something exclusive that no one else gets. Too often when we create something new, everything else seemingly becomes dumb or wrong or silly. But everything we’ve been (sic) doing or have learned is not dumb. Our grandparents are not dumb. They have a lot to offer us. And our parents are not dumb. They have a lot that they can teach us on this journey.”
It’s nice to know we are not alone. Definitely make a point of getting a copy of "Add to the Beauty" (linked here in iTunes). It is most unfortunately being sold track by track instead of by the entire album for $9.99. Although I don't begrudge Sara any of the extra money that garners, I think it is a greedy sales tactic by her label to extract the maximum profit. So, I must protest this while I also recommend the product.
Do the math, mute sounds good
Saturday, October 29, 2005
MuteMath was one of the more outstanding shows at this year’s Cornerstone festival. It’s been hard to wait for a real album with only a 6 song EP to bide my time. But those six songs pack quite a sonic wallop. MuteMath appeared October 18 at First Avenue in Mpls., sharing the stage with Mae. 
You’ll be hearing more from them in the future, I can assure you. To get a taste, visit their current tour home page and wait for the video to download and play. It's some live footage with lots of cool (but shaky) camera angles going on.
Buy them on iTunes:
Preaching "The Choir"
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Lately I've been exploring different types of worship songs beyond that of the basic personal testimony-oriented praise/pop song. Yesterday my iPod cued up and played this one off of the new Album (Oh How the Mighty Have Fallen) from The Choir. Sometimes I find that God is in my iPod--an unexpected and cool aspect of omnipresence. I had been pondering what a modern lament (such those in the Psalms) would sound like. I do believe this is it.Enough to Love (Words and Music: Hindalong, Daugherty)
If I could touch with my fumbling hands your scars
If I could know in my rebel mind your heart
If I could see with my lusting eyes your face
If I could taste on my withered tongue sweet grace
Would I trust You near enough
Would I trust You near enough
Would I trust You near enough
Enough to die
Enough to love
If I could hear with two muffled ears your voice
If could find in my troubled life true joy
If I could feel with numb fingers your spirit
If I could drink for my barren soul your tears
Would I trust You near enough
Would I trust You near enough
Enough to die
Enough to die
Enough to love
If I could touch with my trembling hands your scars
Would I trust You near enough
Would I trust You near enough
Would I trust You near enough
Enough to die
Enough to live
Enough to love
Notable and not at Cornerstone
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
This biggest disappointment with Cornerstone 2005 began before the festival when I learned Mae was not on the roster. Without a doubt, The Everglow is one of the best rock albums of 2005. Better yet, it is a full blown concept album complete with a CD storybook, prologue and epilogue. Too cool.
Check out the video for their single, Suspension. Even better, pick up The Everglow from iTunes and set your iPod free.
Gushing about Drunkard's Prayer
Friday, July 22, 2005
Buy this record. 
Seriously, step away from the computer, grab your coat and top hat, and go purchase it right now.
Why are you still here reading this? This recording is essential for anyone who has ever been in love, and gone through hard days of marital discontent (who hasn't). Read a little about how this recording was born from the liner notes on the OTR website.
---
Born
(Bergquist/Detweiler)
I was born to laugh
I learned to laugh through my tears
I was born to love
I'm gonna learn to love without fear
Pour me a glass of wine
Talk deep into the night
Who knows what we'll find
Intuition, deja vu
The Holy Ghost haunting you
Whatever you got
I don't mind
Put your elbows on the table
I'll listen long as I am able
There's nowhere I'd rather be
Secret fears, the supernatural
Thank God for this new laughter
Thank God the joke's on me
We've seen the landfill rainbow
We've seen the junkyard of love
Baby it's no place for you and me
I was born to laugh
I learned to laugh through my tears
I was born to love
I'm gonna learn to love without fear
---
This album is the definitive statement of a real marriage. And quite unexpectedly, many of these songs speak volumes when seen from the perspective of a fragile and fallible love relationship with God.
So get up off of your backside and go buy this record. This fine couple deserves your patronage.
Karin Bergquist and Linford Detweiler of Over The Rhine
A song is born
Sunday, July 17, 2005
After more than a year of starting and stopping my recording project, we finally finished song 1, "Sing Your Love." With the able and excellent talents of R. Matt Patrick, we put the finishing vocals down last night and mixed it into shape.Dawnshelle kicks on the BGVs, if I do say so myself (I'm so proud), and it's good to hear my old Magnetic North band mates in action again via the recording. Maybe I can entice them to play live again.
Download the MP3 and listen for yourself: My iDisk
Email me for the secure password: Todd Wold
The photo web site is up to date
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Woven Hand at Cornerstone 2005
Enjoy a new batch of pictures and watch for more in the coming days. Posted now are pictures from the live performances. Some are blurry, but you get the idea.
One of the highlights was Woven Hand on the Gallery Stage at midnight. Also notable were Lovedrug, The Lonely Hearts, OTR, John Davis, MuteMath, the Voilet Burning and The Choir. Much anticipated, but disappointing were Anberlin and Copeland. They'll still remain in my major rotation for the time being. Good music--just poor live performances in my book.
Visit the new photo page
Email me for the secure password: Todd Wold
