And the Winner Is... Thursday

Thursday night can either be fraught with boredom or serve as jump start to your weekend. Flip a coin- take a chance. It's actually a great night to get out- there's usually more parking and fewer cops and drunks chasing each other around. And once a year- well this is the second so the first one must have went well- is the Jelly Roll Mortals' FULL BAND KARAOKE ROULETTE night which isn't a gun slinging wireless mike affair so much as when real live musicians get together to see who will train wreck or rescue whatever song is pulled out of a hat. Hit the link to get the details. Hit Bangkok Blues this Thursday evening to watch the madness unfold. Take a chance. Get out and stay out.

When the Easter Dust Settles...

One of my favorite bands Greenland will be playing this Monday night at DC9 with French Kicks. Enough with the eggs. Check them out. 9 p.m.

Roll Away the Stone

Yes it's a Mott the Hoople song. In the story of the season, it's also a metaphor for re-invention, redemption and resurrection. The 3 R's, which you can achieve a lot of different ways. Music is one of them, so why not come out to Surf Club Live Saturday night for the "Resurrection Before the Resurrection" show. I keep telling you that the Surf Club is not like any other place. Even though it evokes an old-school honky tonk, it's by no means a throwback. The sounds, the crowd and the Salvadoran neighborhood guys playing pool let you know the Surf Club is very much NOW. Same goes for Saturday night's line-up. Tru Fax and the Insaniacs have been around for several decades, but even though I hear they will unearth some songs from the vault, this is not a living-in-the-past band. No one has ever accused Puptent of being a nostalgia trip. This trio's non-pop wall of sound is all about the 3 R's, and Dark Ages is the theme song. Also on the bill are The Electricutions, who I am looking forward to seeing because their Myspace page says they are "punk rock and roll for wobblies" influenced by Phil Ochs et al. Really, you can't miss this night.

Lyn2

The first time I heard about The Insect Surfers my College Park housemates were donning antennae to go see them, but I wish I had a dollar for every time I've heard someone identify the band with a description of founder David Arnson's golden halo of hair.


David's D.C. roots go way back to the sixties though he is living in L.A. now and still playing in bands. Some time ago, David wrote about Georgetown, but I saved it for this time of year because I have fond memories of people skipping school and flocking there as a rite of spring beyond the usual cherry blossom thing. Cherry blossoms in Kenwood or downtown was where you went with Mom and Dad, but Georgetown was where you met your friends.
So check out David's walkabout from back in the day at Washington D.C. My Hometown.

King Soul and "Colonel" Josh Arnson put on a great show last Friday night to help celebrate Surf Club's re- reopening. Chip Py caught this rare shot of Tom Clifford and Josh's duet.

Skip Sixty Minutes

And to finish up this weekend with a bang- look at all the folks gathering at Jammin Java Sunday for the equivalent of a DC music old home week punk style rock family reunion extravaganza kicking off with The Beatnik Flies EARLY at 7:30 and rocking on until the last band is hear from. If you don't recognize some of these bands you will recognize a lot of the players from groups like Government Issue, Black Market Baby, Minor Threat and The Slickee Boys. Bring the kids and show 'em how it's done.

This Saturday Night Is No Night To Wash Your Hair

The Quarry House is located in what I would call the historic section of Silver Spring- the part that hasn't been "improved." Burgers. Beer. Bourbon. All in your Basic Basement Bar. Long pews line the walls, tables can be shoved together and chairs rearranged to accommodate a party of one or a party of twelve. Women make friends with the band because more often than not they are ducking a guitar player to get into the bathroom. (A lot of women think this is annoying, but the guys are thrilled. Plus boys have to thread their way out of the room, around the bar to the other side of the building to get to their water closet, and they miss stuff while making the trip.)

The Grandsons, an award winning band that has been roots rocking this area for over twenty years, will be at The Quarry House this Saturday night. This might be a no brainer if it were not for The Nighthawks, a local legend of a long lasting and talented band, are playing the same night at The Surf Club. More blues based than The Grandsons - more room to dance- two great shows to choose from that won't break the bank.

King Soul Grants Audience to Surf Club

King Soul's a big band. It's so big that chances are you're going to know one of these guy's names from the local music scene, if not from a local high school: Jake Flack-Guitar & Vocals; Tom Clifford-Vocals & Harp; Nick Ruggieri-Drums & Vocals; Mark Noone - Bass & Vocals; Arif Durrani-Keyboards & Vocals; Chris Whatling-Baritone Sax; Tom Ruggieri -Tenor Sax; and Vince McCool-Trumpet. If no one sounds familiar- don't worry- chances are that Tom Clifford will come sit at your table and introduce himself in the middle of a song. That's what makes local music much more fun than those big ticket names. And at a fraction of the price to go to the Verizon or whatever they are calling it nowadays Center.

Opening for King Soul is Colonel Josh Honky Tonk which will bring on that rootsy kind of music in true keeping to Surf Club's road house roots with plenty of room for dancing, playing pool or just hanging at the bar. Show is this Friday night at Surf Club starting at 9.

Spring Fever in D.C.

Anyone else feel a case coming on?

Now You've Got Somewhere to MOW! by Lyn2

What do lawn mower racing and local music have in common? You might think not much, but actually it's man-about-town photographer, film-maker and musician Mike Ratel. When I first heard Mike describe his movie project about lawn mower racing, I thought he was talking about a story in The Onion. But it turns out, this is a nationwide craze. Mike's goal in his upcoming film On Your Mark, Get Set, MOW! is to tell the story of this "poor man's NASCAR" and get behind the souped up mower engines and race day to chronicle the motivations of the racers. To support this film project, he's recruited some great local talent for a benefit show at DC-9 on Monday night, March 30. On the bill are the ethereal Janel and Anthony, singer-songwriter Tim Bracken, power-rockers Phoebus and one of this blog's regulars - the incomparable Puptent.

Come out out for a three-way hit: support local music, support local film and learn about a sport you didn't even know existed!

Technology Muse

Stock Wilson, a long time local musician and DC area native, has a lot of stories to tell-like this one which I lifted from his myspace blog. Here's an excerpt:

"I was a motorcycle courier back in the early '70s. If the Washington Post wanted a picture of President Nixon dancing at the Kennedy Center on the front page of tomorrow morning's edition they had to send a guy like me racing through the city to snag a package from a photographer and then racing back to the Post's photo department.
My friend Rob snapped some pics of the band a few hours ago, and before I was back in Falls Church they were sitting in my computer. Actually, they were in my Blackberry so I could have viewed them on I-95.

But about that technology thing?
It was a lot more fun piloting that big BMW around DC, dodging Secret Service agents and getting the packet back to the Post by deadline. The next morning I could look at the front page and know I'd have a story to tell thirty-something years later."

I think he has a point. There is a magic to the internet to be sure, but I'm an incurable nostalgic for old Washington, but at least we can share our stories at will without the burden of a publishing house's judgement.

Stock's in The Loggers, a self described roadhouse band that's been around for roughly an eon. Their next show is Friday at Bangkok Blues in Falls Church- an early one for all you early to bed early to rise types- 7:00 to 9:30.

"Our Giglet" from Dan Hovey

(And what I want to know is did Dan just make up a new word?)

DAN HOVEY & FRIENDS!
FEAT. DAVE ELLIOT AND CLAUDE ARTHUR
THURS. March 26 9:00PM
at JV’s
6666 Arlington Blvd. Falls Church, Va.
703.241.9504

Special Guest: Bruce Harrison

Rites of Spring

No, this isn't about the legendary Rites of Spring, but you should look them up if you're into DC music history. It's about this weekend, where the vernal equinox meets local music in a burst of rejuvenation. Spring fever is setting in, and if DC Rocks seems irrational and opinionated sometimes, that's because it is. It's just the musings of a a handful of people who like a lot of the same things. For example:

We irrationally like Spring in DC, especially the pink-blooming trees.

We really like seeing people we know play live music.

We like music venues that feel like someone's living room only you have to pay for beer.

We like to see people we know at the shows and meet new people who are just like us only nuttier.

We like 7 Door Sedan in a glam/psychedelic/rock wow sort of way. Still.

We insanely like DC's adopted Prabir and the Substitutes even after 2 and a half years of fandom. (remember the origin of fan is fanatic)

So it ought to be a good weekend to celebrate warmth, sun, rebirth, pagan stuff, and the like. Saturday night at the Velvet Lounge we plan to catch the 3-way extravaganza, and we will have a lot of questions:

Where did the Septic Twins get their name and why are their 3 of them? 

Is that Arthur Noll's real hair in the Myspace picture?

 How come 7 Door Sedan just gets better and better?

Will John Stabb's new band Sleeper Agent be playing at a Glen Echo hardware store anytime soon? 

How many old DC punk hardcore players/fans are here? Raise your hands.

Then, after sleeping most of Sunday, we will bravely cross the bridge to Iota in Arlington, VA to see those fabulous Substitutes with The Laughing Man and Sleeping Bags. Richmond's finest have severely curtailed their appearances in our metropolitan area of late, so get on over and end the deprivation. We have run out of things to say about this band except that we love them and think everyone else should, too.

Irrational, maybe, but come along and see for yourselves.

There is something mesmerizing and amazing about The Beatnik Flies.  Their songs are reminiscent of  The Beatles and a psychedelic 60s vibe without sounding stale or trite. They have the chops of experience, but the high energy of a much younger band. I have to admit I can't remember all the times I saw The Flies, but lately I've never been  disappointed, and I always want to go back for more. The Loggers, another solid veteran band more in the straight up rock and blues vein will be opening for the Flies in a new venue for everyone, The End Zone in old town Gaithersburg this Friday night.

Surf Club Blues

Many people around town remember the hoopla when Chick Hall's Surf Club "closed." The Hall family had owned and operated this local honky tonk for generations, and everyone knew things would never be the same. And they are not. But what is a refreshing surprise is that very little has changed- even the name which is now Surf Club Live. The new owners James Byrum, (or JB) and his father, Jim decided to keep Surf Club the continuing haven it has been for local bands. In his relatively short tenure, JB has booked the better known groups such as The Nighthawks, The Slickee Boys, The Grandsons and  Ruthie and The Wranglers as well acts that are still trying to get their foot in the door- any door. Tribute shows, the DC Blues Society and zydeco dances are also all a part of Surf Club Live.

With JB's father minding the door, and Mike Toole, Chick Hall's veteran sound man, still at the helm, the place has a friendly feel and a non-pretentious atmosphere. It is one of the few clubs where all ages can come see live bands, and I am hard pressed to think of a venue of the same size with such good sound and a disco ball to boot.  Due to bureaucratic issues, the Surf Club has had to close its doors for now, but if you care about local venues trumping corporate ventures, please take a moment and drop a line on JB's behalf. 

Help keep the little guys going.

Here's part of a letter JB sent out as he struggles to keep this place alive:

"Many have asked how they could help me. My integrity and business operations are being challenged. If anyone wants to help, this is how you can do so. You can write a letter that I can submit in support of myself and Surf Club Live. Speak freely as to how you feel about me, my personal dealings with you, and what I am trying to do here in support of the community, local musicians, and the local music scene in general. Feel free to make any comments you would like. I’ve tried my best to keep this club going in a terrible economy and against tremendous odds. I have done all I can to support musicians and non-profit organizations such as the DC Blues Society. I have tried to keep this club, which so many you love so much, open and running shows every week. It does not matter if you are a member of an organization, a musician, or a loyal patron, I will submit all the letters I receive as a sign of the support I have within the community.

Please email any letters to jamesbyrum@yahoo.com.

Thank you. Your support means a lot to me during these difficult times.

James Byrum
Surf Club Live"

A Frog's Tale by Mark Opsasnick

Local author Mark Opsasnick is definitely a guy in the know when it comes to DC bands and clubs. He's spent a good deal of time tracking down the history of both in our area. DC ROCKS is honored to have his insights this week as guest author. Here are Mark's thoughts about a show coming up Tuesday at The New Deal Cafe in Greenbelt:

Any attempt at describing the stage appearances of the musical artist presently known as “Mystr Treefrog” will inevitably fail to do the amphibious Montgomery County, Maryland-based axe-master justice. Best known for his ambitious 80s-90s run as vocalist-guitarist for the hard-rocking local band Shock Opera, the iconoclastic Treefrog has recently taken to periodically hopping off his perch and descending upon local stages where he cranks up his croaking and playing and delivers mind-bending, mood-altering, and dream-inducing musical performances.
When pressed for labels, Treefrog, whose simple slogan is “Beat the monster – feed him wine and show him fire,” identifies his sound as “Swampadelic thump – like Woody Guthrie on magic mushrooms and steroids, only possibly more melodic; twisted twang n’ blues to an interspersed go-go beat.” He goes on to proclaim his personal appearances are like “having a good old-fashioned hootenanny around a campfire – with girl scouts roasting sunglasses on sharpened sticks (that will be the acoustic set)” and promises that for his upcoming gig at the New Deal Café in Greenbelt he and his cohorts will “try to keep the racket down a little to respect the room…We may even sing ‘Michael Row’d Da Boat Ashore.’ Differently. Perhaps backwards.”
Got all that??
Unfortunately, such illuminating scribble fails to deliver the props Mystr Treefrog so richly deserves. For full effect, leave the tadpoles behind, seek the vibe, and experience the man – or frog – yourself.

Time: 7pm sharp.

Admission: Absolutely Free!

Food and drink: Not Absolutely Free!

And here's Mark's skinny on the New Deal:

The New Deal Café is not your typical Washington, DC-area watering hole. It serves as a Lebanese restaurant, coffee house, beer/wine bar, live music & performance art venue, and art gallery –all rolled up into one nice hippie, trippy package. There is never a cover charge (unless a special benefit is underway) and the comfortable back room-dining area accommodates approximately 60, with additional seating always available. The café welcomes everyone and conveys a warm, bohemian atmosphere. Live music is featured six nights a week (they are closed to the public on most Monday nights), with every imaginable style offered on their eclectic schedule. The Café’s Thursday night open mic has become one of the best in the nation’s capital, with a wide range of talented local musicians – electric and acoustic – taking the stage every week. What I like best is the laid back atmosphere (you can have a quiet dinner, hang with friends at the funky little bar, or take a seat in a darkened corner and “zone out” as I frequently do) and for those of us who are slowly bidding farewell to those wild all-nighters of our youth, the hours are accommodating – the Café closes up shop at 9pm on weeknights and live music acts are usually off the stage by 11pm on Friday and Saturday nights. Located in the historic “Roosevelt Center” just across from the historic Greenbelt Theatre, the New Deal Café is a fantastic suburban alternative to a night in the bustling city. Parking is free and so are the good times!

Mi Ami's Got Local Boys from DC

I spotted this on our neighborhood list serve from Lynda Martin McCormick:

"Palisades son Daniel Martin-McCormick and his hyper-percussive tropical punk dance trio, Mi Ami, will be in DC on March 10 as part of the band's international tour. New York Times music critic Ben Ratliff praised the group's new single "Echonoecho" for its "slow and humid and elegant" sound that is both "strange and cool." Mi Ami was named one of the top bands to watch in 2009 by the SF Bay Online. Daniel and band mate Jacob Long have produced two CDs on the renowned Dischord label that still sell world-wide. Mi Ami's new CD, "Watersports" (under the Quarterstick label) is predicted to be "one of '09s finest afro-technological/mystic-punk record by City Paper's Aaron Leitko. "Echonoecho" is issued on vinyl and is also available on i tunes."

Mi Ami will be at the Velvet Lounge this Tuesday March 10th.

Retroactive Weekend

Read this carefully:

Local film maker and rock history buff Jeff Krulik is hosting a Led Zeppelin - Wheaton Youth Center reunion and open house thing this Saturday from noon until 6 p.m. at what is now The Wheaton Community Center.

No, Led Z is not playing. 

No, Jeff is not screening a movie.

And no there won't be free popcorn or ludes.

What will be happening then?

Jeff will be taping concert goers- hopefully including ones that were actually there when Led Zeppelin stopped here in our own humble Wheaton, Maryland for one of their first American gigs. (While some of us may debate whether this really happened or not, Jeff is on a quest to prove that it did.)  For more on this story check out John Kelly's column from the Post last January titled "Dazed and Confused: Zeppelin Played Where?"

There will also be guest speakers and displays and maybe even old friends to jar your memory

And to add to the excitement our own rock legends The Beatnik Flies and Ottley! will be playing live and in person. Free. ( Long about 3 p.m.)

If you can't make it to this event, you can email Jeff directly with your memories or photos.

Then later Saturday night, in keeping with the retro theme, that psychedelic crazy crew GHz will be having a CD party at Outta the Way Cafe in delightful downtown Derwood. GHz is celebrating their first studio recording which will include remakes from Cream, Jimi and the Doors as well as their own original materiel. They'll be playing new songs, too. (These guys have been busy.)

Ever practical Scott reminds rock fans to bring 'cold hard cash' so you can be the first on your block to own a copy of their new release "There's Trouble Coming."

There's no place like D.C.

You can catch Nick Ruggieri, that shoe shine inspired drummer, this Thursday at The Sunset Grille which to my knowledge is the only beach bar I know of in beautiful Annandale, VA. He'll be playing with his buddies Dave Kitchen, Dan Hovey and Pete Ostle in The Cutaways- a roots rock kind of band, according to Nick. "We play early R&R to New Orleans R&B to Rockabilly and Honky Tonk Country with some '70s pop stuff thrown in." Another great band at a tiny place for a song.

You may have seen Nick Ruggieri playing with various DC bands like King Soul or The Cutaways, but he also does photo work for the Newseum, gives drum lessons and has kept up a personal quest for the perfect crab cake. His DC roots go back to the shop his grandfather opened in the 1930s. Nick's Valet, once on 14th Street, exists only in memory now. Read about it at Washington DC My Hometown.

An Open House With the Works

 DC Glass Works in Hyattsville will be having an open house this Saturday from 3:30 until 8:30 which will feature glassblowing demonstrations, refreshments (god, I love that word) and real live music from the rarely live (due to scheduling issues) but always ready to rock- Rhodes Tavern Troubadours. Pop on in and say hello or blow something up. In a good way.

Music starts around 4:30.

Happy Mardi Gras

Today New Orleans rocks...

Jackson Square

(Photo by Mark Hall)

It's Not Too Late To Go South for Mardi Gras

(photo by Bruce Guthrie)

That is if you can make it to Clarendon right there in rebel territory-also known as the commonwealth of Virginia for their own home grown Mardi Gras parade which includes all the right ingredients- beads, live music and floats. Parade rolls at 8 p.m. starting at the corner of Veitch and Wilson and continuing up Wilson Boulevard. Iota has the after party featuring 2 pop bands Tereu Tereu and The Pomegranates- no cover!

You CAN Like Mondays by Lyn2

Phil "Philvis" Duarte has this to say about Monday night's Midwinter Meltdown at the Black Cat.
A Food For Thought reunion of sorts. Shards of Guilt Combo, Special K, Girltrain, All Scars, Beefeater, Burnt Ernies, Fidelity Jones, Delta 72, the Dusters and then some shall take the stage for your entertainment. It's ALL AGES and we love you be there for the ROCK. Pup Tent is Ben Azzara, Ted Watts & Phil Duarte. The Formers are Yvette Williams, Stefan Bauschmid, John K & Dug Birdzell!

There are some who feel that Monday night is the best night to go out since there are no crowds and you have to really want to be out to drag yourself off the couch that night. I think when you combine that with the chance to hear Puptent's special brand of sound and vision, it's a winner. I can't tell you what The Formers sound like but given the band resumes why don't we go find out.

To summarize: Monday, February 23 at 9 pm; Black Cat backroom. Shows end by Metro time. There are pool tables in the Red Room. Food in Food For Thought cafe. Beer at the bar. What more do you want?

Lyn2

Laissez les Bon Temps Roulez

I always get that "do you know what it means to miss New Orleans" feeling right around this time of year because I do. Down in New Orleans the parties and parades are happening now, and you'd be hard pressed not find a King Cake or gumbo hanging around wherever you go. The parades are created by clubs or "Krewes" with mythological names like Muses, Bacchus, Zulu and Rex, and this weekend they'll be rolling most of the day and into the evening. Fantastic floats tower overhead- sometimes double deckers - with costumed people flinging beads, doubloons, toys and cups into the melee. (Despite the prevailing fantasy that girls lift their shirts for beads- which I'm sure does happen near Bourbon Street - in real life the crowds are primarily families -parents with little ones on their shoulders, hands outstretched, and the atmosphere is not tawdry but magical. )

Now I'm getting misty so I will quit here, but if you know what it means or if you want to know- head over to the Surf Club this Sunday afternoon for our local answer to Mardi Gras angst- Little Red and The Renegades Mardi Gras Zydeco Dance Party. The fun starts at 3, and cover is just five bucks. What a deal for a great band and les bon temps.

The first thing I think of when I hear The Hall Monitors is it's back to the rock and roll drawing board- but that's a good thing. Influenced by the likes of Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly and The Yardbirds, I also hear The Animals in there and just good ole deep into back of the garage serious sixties rock.
See what you think.
Also playing are rock and roll rockabilly types Billy Woodward and The Senders plus the more punk rock oriented (stop worrying and) Love the Bomb. (I wish they had told me that as a kid- I could have spent less time under my desk and more time sleeping at night.)

All three bands are playing THIS FRIDAY NIGHT at The Quarry House - the bargain basement of the DC area rock world.

Prabir and the Substitutes, Galaxy Hut Alexandria Va

Prabir and the Substitutes, Galaxy Hut Alexandria Va
Originally uploaded by chip py the photo guy

Best New Band!

(Photo by DC Rocks staff photographer Chip Py)

Last night while Prabir and The Substitutes were killing the crowd at the Galaxy Hut, the band won the Wammie- our local rock award-for New Artist of the Year. Congratulations to Prabir, Charlie, Chris, Robbie and Tyler!

Torn

There's a reason DC ROCKS has two authors named Lyn-it's so we can attend different shows on the same night. This is a tribute to the wealth of talent at work around here. This Sunday night, it's a monumental split since the bands involved are among our favorites. Everyone knows we've got a "Prabir and the Substitutes Problem." We've been in withdrawal during their 3 months absence from the DC scene. It's also well known that of the fabulous new entrants of the last year or so, 7 Door Sedan is one that stands out for DC ROCKS, and they haven't played since early December.
Sigh.

You can imagine our dilemma, with both of these acts playing this Sunday night, President's Day Eve.

The answer? Geography among other things.
Lyn1 will cross the Potomac to get to the Galaxy Hut in Arlington for Prabir and the Substitutes and their friends The Palominos- both outstanding acts for a mere $5. Lyn2 will hit the Quarry House in Silver Spring for 7 Door Sedan's first show since early December. New songs are promised and the opening act is King Mixer with Lyn2's childhood friend Danny Ingram on drums.

Valentine's Day or Carnival ? Have it All at the Surf Club

Valentine's Day. For some it means making your kids sign and address 66 Spongebob cards which is a hazard not mentioned in those what to expect about childhood books. For others it's the mandatory box of chocolates or a traditional dinner out, and for still others it's a night to get in bed with a book and ignore the whole thing. 

But there's something or someone for everyone out there.  This year why not do that something at The Grandsons and Hula Monsters  Hawaiian Swing Mardi Gras Monster Dance Party at the Surf Club this Saturday night? These guys are the consummate professional party men who happen to be talented musicians as well and can keep that dance floor well occupied.

Get in the on the second line and feel the love.

Dark Night of the Soul

The weather may be weirdly warm in DC right now, but being February you know it's not over yet. Our last snowfall (or should I say snow melt) can be as late as April although that is rare. What isn't rare is that March starts out like the proverbial gentle lamb and ends with my all time least favorite weather-30 degrees and raining. This week the forecast calls for nearly 70 degrees then a wintry mix by Saturday. (which sounds dangerously close to my least favorite weather.)

These dark days call for soul soothing measures like food and music. If you have a hankering for soul food-you could always head over to the Hitching Post in NE DC for fried chicken, greens and macaroni and cheese. If you feel the need for soul/funk/r & b,  DC9's got it this Thursday night featuring Boston based Jesse Dee and DC based Sol and Stacy Brooks.

$8.

And don't forget the Thrillbillys are always ready to shake rattle and roll the Sunset Grille -also on Thursday night if you happen to be on the Virginia side of the river. 

Sunday Night Therapy With Ken Moss and More by Lyn2

Sunday night rock therapy as the weekend ends and the Monday dread sinks in is just what you need February 8 at the Galaxy Hut where you can see three bands for five bucks. Ken Moss (currently 7 Door Sedan, formerly Acrylix and more) will share his prolific song-writing talents. The line-up is Ken on guitar with friend Bill Merkel on bass. If you like 7 Door's Sweden or the one I call "The Crazy Guy Song," you know that Ken has a knack for poetry put to melody across an array of styles. This is a great chance to hear what he's been stocking away.

The Crowd Scene, formerly of London and now of Arlington VA are headlining. Eric Brace calls them "British pop" in his rave reviewl that plus a quick spin through their web site convinced me to stay through the whole show. The openers, Get Off My Lawn are, according to Ken, two guys who were in The Intentions who swear they shared a bill with Acrylix at Baltimore's Marble Bar in the 80s. Get Off My Lawn's Myspace doesn't tell me much so I wandered over to check out The Intentions. Why can't I remember these guys? Apparently they loved Razz and I got a rewarding Undertones feel from the first track on their page. Anyway, I digress. This Sunday at the Galaxy Hut sounds like something not to miss.

RARE RTT RIOT @ The Avalon

Anything can happen at a RTTS concert, and since they are far and few between these days, don't miss this Saturday's show. Here's the scoop from Jake Flack:

"Attention rock n' rollers of ALL ages: The RTTs annual winter dance-party meltdown at the Avalon Theatre is Saturday, February 7.
The fun starts promptly at 10 a.m. and goes until the last kid says, "Mommy, I want to be in a band too." Mission accomplished! In the spirit of inclusion and togetherness we invite all aspiring young musicians to bring your favorite instrument and join us on stage. We've invited our newest fans, Sasha and Malia. After seeing this video rumor has it that the RTTs are in heavy rotation on the 2nd floor of the White House!"

Bye Bye And Chip Py Photo Guy

(JP McDermott)

Local artists and rock fans alike celebrated the life of Buddy Holly last Saturday night at the Surf Club with a musical tribute organized by JP McDermott. The place was packed, and photographer, Chip Py captured the action on stage. See more pix of this show at Chip's Flickr site.

(Chris Watling)

And if you missed that, JP is giving a lecture/presentation at the Smithsonian later today, the 50th anniversary of the plane crash that took the lives of  Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper and Buddy Holly (The intro to this clip is priceless- "Now no matter what you think of rock 'n' roll, I think you have to keep a nice open mind about what the young people go for... )

That was "a long long time ago..." as Don Mclean would say. 

And would you believe it's been 38 years since that song was an instant hit?  I could barely do the math, but "American Pie" came out in 1971. I was still in elementary school, but I remember that single being all we would listen to at slumber parties. My daughter uses that song to mark a certain demographic divide, but that's another story.

Long live rock and roll.

Rave on, Buddy Holly.

Happy Feb Rock Fans

In February it will be

my snowman's anniversary

with cake for him 

and soup for me!

Happy once 

happy twice 

happy chicken soup 

with rice.

-Maurice Sendak

Due to my son's sixteenth birthday TODAY this will be short and sweet:

Two shows Saturday night- Beatnik Flies and gang at Velvet Lounge

and the Buddy Holly Tribute with a veritable galaxy of local stars at The Surf Club.

At least won't tip the boat over if we divide ourselves up between shows.

If you can't make it to the Beatniks Flies show at the Velvet Lounge this Saturday, you might want to check out the breakUps at the Rock and Roll Hotel on FRIDAY. (or better yet- go to both and compare musical notes) I haven't seen the breakUps, but their grinding sort of sixties rock sound has me intrigued, and sometimes reminds me of the Flies. Check 'em out on myspace to see what I mean.  Plus there's a great fish sandwich lurking around the corner at Horace Dickey's on 12th Street. Or the french fries and mussels at Dr. Granvilles. (Gotta keep up your strength if you're going to dance.)

Inaugural Inspiration Part Two

Lyn2's thoughts can be found at Washington DC My Hometown.

Inaugural Inspiration

I liked this musing from Wayne Kahn of Right On Rhythm:

"Where we find ourselves today

Remember that it was MUSIC that led the way.
It was the musicians (and those that supported them)
on both sides of the racial divide
That pushed open those very first doors.
Doors that would only open grudgingly.
And then might temporarily close again
Only to be forced back open
BY MUSICIANS
And society slowly opened ensuing doors
Doors that the
Jackie Robinsons
Jessie Owens
Thurgood Marshalls
Shirley Chisolms
Barack Obamas
could find their way through
It is MUSIC
That mingles the masses
Breaks down walls & barriers
That finds common ground
And then society catches up

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MUSICIANS
SUPPORT THE ARTS
THEY MAKE OUR WORLD
A MUCH BETTER PLACE

It was incredible being on the Mall."

YES

DC:Is There Any Other Place To Be?

Indoor Venues Good

The only good thing about this weather is that it gives me a profound appreciation for all things Summer. Plus it makes me grateful for the simpler things in life like four walls and radiators. So if you need to give your senses an attitude adjustment try going out and in again. Once again I've got ONE night - Sunday January 18-and TWO shows to reccomend. Jammin' Java is having the Azalea City showcase which includes solid acts like Ruthie And The Wranglers, Jon Carroll and many more.
And across the river in another galaxy called Silver Spring don't forget the Pup Tent Gang with Sister Ex and Tru Fax at the Quarry House.

Not all bridges will be open!

Got Plans?

Are you ready For The Big Day? Do you know what your plans are? No? Join the club. As the inuguration of our 44th and most exciting president looms but five days away- two songs keep running through my head-Nirvana's "Come As You Are" and The Temptations "Ball of Confusion"। (Great psychedelic link there.)

It sounds like the whole thing is going to be just insane. You can take the Metro, but you know it will be a complete madhouse- just look at a "normal" rush hour. The governor of Maryland,

Martin O' Malley has asked everybody to take alternate routes and stay off the Beltway on Tuesday. (Stay off the Beltway? I could write an essay on that for "This I Believe") I heard bike riding is encouraged, but bikes are not allowed in the "security zones." (Ball of confused, yet?) And unless you are an awfully big wig, plans are something you're better off NOT making which should be good news for all you non committal man types. On the other hand-remember the day after the election- all the hotels in Washington "sold out? Well, no more. According to today's Washington Express- there are plenty of rooms available.

Plans??

Lyn2 planned all her logistical moves around her house being rented, but now it seems that won't be happening. She wasn't planning to go to a ball... until yesterday when she found out that she probably is. I thought the concert at the Lincoln Memorial sounded like a good bet, but this morning my son told me he heard on the radio that "they" are saying don't go unless you are invited.

Invited???

I checked the official Inaugeration website. Gates open at 8 a.m. (Gates? Remember when there were no stinking gates?) Concert starts at 2:30. (Frostbite should set in around noon.) The good news is you can bring a bag as long as it doesn't exceed 6"X 4"X 8."

"Come, as you are. As you were.
As I want you to be. As a friend.
As a friend. As an old enemy. Take your time.
Hurry up. The choice is yours. Don't be late..."

So that's my plan. What's yours?

Homegrown Hero In Reverse by Hometown Girl Lyn2

In DC we're proud of homegrown musicians who make us proud when they make it in the bigger- Chuck Brown, Henry Rollins, Thievery Corporation.... just to name a diverse few. Lots of people can live here a long time and still not meet the "homegrown" test, but that seems not to be the case with the New Boss, President-in-7 Days, Barack Obama. One trip to Ben's Chili Bowl for a chili half-smoke, and he's a DC Guy already according to the local news stations. I'm cool with that, especially since he chose the half-smoke - a delicacy we can rightfully call our own. Jamie Cramer suggests that if DC ever gets its own quarter, it should feature a half-smoke.

Speaking of Jamie Cramer and Barack Obama, on Sunday night you can celebrate the impending inauguration of the latter by checking out Jamie on bass with Tru Fax and the Insaniacs at the Quarry House. They're with Puptent and Sister Ex in the "Light at the End of the Tunnel" show, which you can still make after you go down to the Lincoln Memorial for the star-studded Inauguration Welcome event featuring Bruce Springsteen. (I shall now call him the Old Boss.)

What better way to celebrate this welcome and historic peaceful transfer of power than rocking out with 3 bands - full of homegrown talent. Puptent promises to have some new songs and a righteous attitude. Having rocked us through a lot of administrations good and bad (mostly bad), Tru Fax is sure to be in fine form-and- if you haven't seen Sister Ex who hit the scene last year- it's about time that you did.

This writer is sure the crowd and three of her favorite bands will be jazzed. She's also glad that the most awesome Sylvia Becker can come to celebrate her birthday that night. As for Michael Hennessey, he won't be celebrating his birthday that night even though it's this week but he will still be dancing. Don't ask questions, just do what Hen says.

Dsepard Deprived?

Alice Despard fans take note: Alice will be performing solo tonight-at 7:30 p।m.- for the songwriter's circle thing at DCAC Theater on 18th Street in Adams Morgan.

The Hall Brothers Live and In Person

(photo by LC)

Chick Hall's Surf Club- I still run into a lot of people who are confused because of all the hoopla that went on when it "closed." Yes, the original Chick Hall's did go away as the family business run by the Hall family, but the good news is the new owners have kept it going as a local music venue under the name Surf Club Live. If you haven't been, check out the website and see all the talent that has passed through there in the past year- diligently documented by new owner JB. It's still a down home place with a large dance floor, pool tables, an enormous bar and a really good sound system.
Meanwhile The Hall Brothers might have left the headaches of owning a club behind, but they haven't stopped the music. Both Chick Hall Jr. and his brother, Chris have been on the music scene inside and out for many moons, and they are phenomenal players. They'll be appearing this Friday night at the College Park American Legion Hall from 8:30-11:30 p.m. Plenty of room to dance and catch local legends of the honky tonk rock scene in action.

Do These Guys Look Familiar?

If you were hanging out at the Wheaton Youth Center on January 20, 1969, local film maker Jeff Krulik is looking for you. Legend has it that this is where Led Zeppelin landed on their first American tour. Check out Jeff's on going film project on Youtube. I don't know where I was back then, but I know I didn't make it to the show. My life revolved around critical matters like not doing my homework in hopes that school would close for a snow day, and the C and O Canal would freeze hard enough to go ice skating.