Live Review: Bob Dylan/John Mellencamp

Edgefield, Troutdale
Saturday, August 28th, 2010

Dough Rollers

The opening opening act was the Dough Rollers out of NYC. The lead singer sounded like he was going for the low pitched gargled scream of Tom Waits, but he was trying much harder than Mr. Waits. During the opening songs, the veins were popping out of his neck. Through the middle part of the show, the veins became visible on his forehead. By the end of the show, his face was the color of a fire truck and veins were popping out of his nose. They were a bit too religious for my taste, but it was a great effort, really. According to their myspace, they have a third member, a female violinist, but I only saw the guitar player and singer on stage. I was sober at this point, so maybe my perception switch was still off.

John Mellencamp

Next up was John Mellencamp. The Cougar is missing from his name, but they sure weren't missing from this capacity crowd of mostly elders. And speaking of elders, did you know Johnny C is 58 years old? I spent way too much time listening to the radio in the 80s and 90s, so I know all your hits, but I know nothing about your career since I graduated high school. I'm just here to see Mr. Dylan. When you walked out on stage wearing jeans, a tee shirt, and sunglasses, with your hair slicked back, I was picturing the fast talking local at a dive bar in a small town telling over exaggerated stories from his youth. Maybe that's what your going for, which is respectable, or maybe I just didn't realized you aged 20 years since I've last seen you.

Either way, I'm standing near the front waiting for a couple laughs, and he starts the show with "Pink Houses" followed by "Paper In Fire," and has most of the crowd wrapped around his finger. I tried to resist, but it wasn't going to happen. My legs and mouth started moving, and he had me shouting along and pumping my fist like everyone else.

The accordion and electronic violin player stage left created a unique sound I've never seen live, but it was a familiar sound on hits "Paper In Fire" and "Check It Out." The bassman resided at the far rightof the stage, alternating between electric and stand up, and Johnny C had a guitar player on each side of him. John John said the guitar player to his left has been playing with him for 35 years! Holy shit, I haven't even been alive 35 years. This is the youngest I've felt since my grandmother tried to spank me when I was 23 for using foul language. Remind me to attend more performances by old musicians. Anyone have a Willie Nelson ticket available for face?

After a couple of acoustic sets, including a brief crowd sing along in which no instrument was played, he continued working the crowd with lines such as, "I wrote this song when my wife was 13," and "You know why this chant works at every show, because it's fun!" While briefly exiting to grab another round of beers, I even had to duck under a couple's extended arms who were dancing around on the path shouting, "London Bridges, London Bridges!" Wait, was I suppose to fall down, or where they? Damn, it's been a long time.

Upon my return, he opened "The Authority Song" with the line, "I wrote this song when I was 22, and I still feel the same way." The crowd cheered of course. However, it wasn't all smiles and high fives. Johnathan pulled the same leg kick, into fist pump, into mimicking the final drum beats of a song, three times. He was also chewing gum the entire show. I don't trust people who chew gum in public. Oh yeah, he didn't play Jack and Diane either, which didn't bother me, but obviously bothered a couple younger chicks standing near me who said, "I can't believe he didn't play Jack and Diane," immediately after the show ended.

Anyway, Mr. Mellencamp, you surprised the hell out of me and put on one entertaining show. I tip my hat, and I take back anything negative I've ever said about you before and within this review (except the part about the gum chewing). It had to be one hell of an honor opening for one of your heroes, and the good vibes were flowing, so hugs all around.

Bob Dylan

Mr. Dylan entered the stage dressed sharply in a black suit with white pinstripes down each leg, and a white cowboy hat. His five-piece band of aging pretty boys were dressed in matching gray suits. Mr. Dylan alternated between the guitar and keyboards, while occasionally playing the harmonica, and rarely addressing the crowd. But you don't read Bob Dylan reviews to see what he was wearing, and the no names he was playing with, you read them to answer one simple question. "Did he have it?"

Before I get to that answer, I suppose we should talk about lawn chairs (sigh). So you showed up early, you are one of the first people in the venue, and maybe you waited in line for a long time. Congratulations, I hope you get a great view for the show. Just understand this, people stand in front of the stage. Knowing this phenomena occurs, plan on where you should place your armada of chairs and blankets. For example, if you place your gear within ten feet of the stage, you are an idiot, and your gear deserves to be trampled. I would recommend staying at least 20 feet away from the stage, maybe more. I'm talking to you middle aged woman who decided her empty chairs and blankets belong six feet from the stage, while continually telling people, "Don't move those."

I was standing in front of an empty chair, close enough to Mr. Dylan that I could have hit him with a baseball nine out of ten times. I could almost touch the front rail, yet halfway through the show, I have someone slapping the back of my legs, supposedly wanting me to move out of their way so they could sit down. Guess what, I'm taller than you, so you can't see the show anyway. Next time, try not to section off a 40 square foot section right in front of the stage for you and your three friends. I hope you had a great view for the Dough Rollers.

Anyway, to answer the question posed earlier, Mr. Dylan had it more than he didn't, so the easy answer is "yes," but the real answer is more like, "71% yes." His high(er) pitched voice was fine, but he couldn't sing in the lower tone for more than a couple words without his voice noticeably cracking. He also wasn't doing a very good job of singing softly. It was as if his throat was a steam engine with a lid. When he was blowing out the most steam, the lid stayed open and produced a beautiful sound. When the power supply of the steam tapered off, the lid would start flapping down, and the voice would sound muffled and cracked. He spent most of his time blowing steam, so I would say yes, he was on.

Now there will be some out there who will try to compare his voice on this evening to his voice on Blood on the Tracks, which is impossible to replicate 35 years later (there's that number again, I've discovered the fountain of youth). The fact is, his voice sounded very similar to Modern Times, which is to say he's 69 fucking years old, he's not supposed to sound like he's 34.

There's really not much else to say, no beach balls, no lasers, no video monitor playing Three Stooges movies, no crowd surfing or stage diving, no energy, just Mr. Dylan playing his material and sounding just like he should. What did you expect?

Setlist:

1. Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat
2. It's All Over Now Baby Blue
3. Tom Thumb's Blues
4. Just Like A Woman
5. Beyond Here Lies Nothing
6. Tangled Up In Blue
7. The Levees Gonna Break
8. Simple Twist Of Fate
9. Highway 61 Revisited
10. Workingman's Blues #2
11. Thunder on the Mountain
12. Ballad of a Thin Man

Encore:
13. Jolene
14. Like A Rolling Stone

New Shows: Suicidal Tendencies, Mavis Staples & Billy Bragg, David Allan Coe

Suicidal Tendencies

When was the last time you heard Suicidal Tendencies, Mavis Staples, and David Allen Coe mentioned in the same sentence? That's right, it's never happened.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Saturday, October 16th, 2010
$20
Tickets on sale Wednesday, September 1st, at 10:00 a.m.

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Mavis Staples & Billy Bragg

Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Monday, November 1st, 2010
$35
Tickets on sale Friday, September 3rd, at 12:00 p.m.

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David Allan Coe

Um, yeah. I'm afraid to say anything positive or negative. He made an album with Pantera once, that's pretty cool, right? Wait, I'm not racist, I didn't mean it.

Dante's, Portland
Monday, September 27th, 2010
$25
Tickets on sale Wednesday, September 3rd, at 9:00 a.m.

New Shows: Ozomatli, No Age, Peter Wolf, Deer Tick

Ozomatli

Some find their music cheezy (Latin boy band?), and their antics tiresome (playing the finale marching through the crowd, political screams), but this blend of Rock/Latin/Rap is unique, and they put on a fun show. Their saxophonist plays a mean mini guitar. Mini guitar face included.

Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Thursday, November 4th, 2010
$20
Tickets on sale Friday, September 17th, at 10:00 a.m.

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No Age

Holocene, Portland
Sunday, November 28th, 2010
$12 ($14 day of the show)

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Peter Wolf

The definition of a rock star:

1. Have a couple songs everyone knows (Freeze Frame, Centerfold).
2. Have famous friends (David Lynch).
3. Bag a famous hot chick (Faye Dunaway).
4. Be skinny with long hair, sun glasses, and a mustache (this).

Aladdin Theater, Portland
Thursday, September 30th, 2010
$27.50

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Deer Tick

Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Thursday, October 21st, 2011
$13
Tickets go on sale Tuesday, August 31st at 10:00 a.m.

So You Like Electronic Music?

Bloody Beetroots - Death Crew 77

Roseland, Portland
Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010
$20
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, September 1st, at 10:00 a.m.

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Holy Fuck

Holocene, Portland
Thursday, October 14th, 2010
$13

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Bonobo (Live)

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Monday, November 29th, 2010
$20

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Hudson Mohawke

Holocene, Portland
Monday, September 27th, 2010
$10 ($12 day of the show)

New Shows: Reverend Horton Heat, Cherry Poppin' Daddies, The Gracious Few, Bay City Rollers

Reverend Horton Heat

The bass player's first name is Jimbo, seriously. People in the south are so funny.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Thursday, December 30th, 2010
$12
Tickets go on sale Saturday, August 28th at 10:00 a.m.

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Cherry Poppin' Daddies

The second most famous lead singer named Steve Perry in music history. I would at least get t-shirts made with this slogan.

The Daddies are also local, hailing from Eugene, which is a bit ironic since they have short hair and dress nice.

Dante's, Portland
Saturday, December 4th, 2010
$15

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The Gracious Few

Kevin Martin's other band. You remember Kevin Martin, right? He's the lead singer of Candlebox, and everyone loves Candlebox. Come on now, you can admit it, it's okay.

I now dare you to not listen to the song "Far Behind." "Now may-yay-yay-yay-bay, I didn't mean to treat you oh so bad, but I did it anyway."

Wonder Ballroom
Friday, December 3rd, 2010
$16
Tickets go on sale Saturday, August 28th at 10:00 a.m.

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Bay City Rollers

The biggest group since the Beatles! Too bad Dante's is 21 and over. This means no screaming teenagers. And yes, they are playing on a "Saturday Night."

Dante's, Portland
Saturday, September 25th, 2010
$12
Tickets go on sale Saturday, August 28th at 10:00 a.m.

Live Review: The Hold Steady

Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Friday, August 20th, 2010

Warning: This is a concept review based on a concept album, Separation Sunday. Most of this didn't actually happen, and you probably won't get it.

Standing around waiting for the Hold Steady to start, I struck up a conversation with a chick named Holly, who had a cross around her neck leading to three open buttons. After discussing the Ramones and Screeching Weasel at length, she joked about how I should remember never to trust her. When she started talking about Jesus, the conversation turned into a bore, but it seemed like a simple way to score, so I smiled and nodded agreeably. Then I excused myself to grab a beer, and lost sight of her.

The Crystal Ballroom was at half capacity on this night. When this happens, it means one can aimlessly wander without intruding on anyone's personal space or view. Me being a bit taller than the average folk, made sure I had a lot of room in front of me, just in case I was blocking someone's view. They can always step in front of me if they can't see, you know, the usual. Then a tall dude with his girl approached from my left, acknowledged me with a nod and smile, then proceeded to stand directly in front of me obstructing my view. If you are going to do this, don't acknowledge me? Then I forget you exist and move. Not this time, you sir, are an asshole.

After moving away from said prick, I found a better spot to stand. I nodded and smiled to some dude wearing sweatpants who tapped me on the shoulder a couple minutes later. Apparently I was blocking his view or something. Oh really, it's a fucking concert dude.

He introduced himself as Charlamange and his bald friend as Gideon. He kept trying to talk me into playing "paper, scissors, rock" for $5 a pop, which was confusing. I guess I'm not much of a gambler. Within minutes, Holly from earlier arrives. She referred to Charlamange as Charlie, and gave him a big hug, so I guess they know each other. The show was about to start, and I had to take a leak, so Holly offered to hold my beer.

Upon return, the Hold Steady started the show with "The Sweet Part Of The City." Being surrounded by bars and restaurants, it was a very fitting opener. I then pounded my beer, and the show immediately became really crazy. Craig Finn, known for his crazy leg movements, started doing a rendition of Karate Kid mixed with Robert Hays Saturday Night Fever spoof from Airplane. He then floated above the crowd, all the while kicking his legs in typical awkward fashion. Then he started shooting icy lasers out of his feet, turning concertgoers into Hans Solo blocks of ice. The guitar player shot lightning bolts through the crowd each time he lifted his guitar, and shook the venue when hitting the whammy bar. The crowd was going nuts. There were people touching people they didn't even know.

Finn immediately morphed into the larger than life stage presence he is, all 7'6 of him, looking like a taller version of Drago from Rocky IV. Peering around the venue, I noticed great white sharks and killer whales flying around with cigarettes where their eyes were supposed to be, exiting from the trunks of big black cars. What the fuck is going on, and where is Holly?

I was seeing doubles for three straight songs when Holly reappeared. She was half naked and three quarters wasted, so I could easily see the religious scripture tattoos on her neck and lower back. She was a sexy mess, but looked strung out and experienced, so I was a bit curious. As she whispered religious passages in my ear, I could see Finn, still floating above the crowd, surrounded by elevating cattle and creepy things. Holly kept reminding herself out loud not to fall in love with me as she kissed my neck. At that point, "Floating Finn" approached me, nodded and smiled, then hovered right in front of me with his back turned so I couldn't see the stage. What the fuck Craig?

I briefly dislodged myself from Holly's grasp to get a better view of the flying sharks and whales when I stumbled upon Gideon smoking out of a pop can made from a Pringles can. He told me Holly was contagious, and that he rallied her in Vegas. I looked to the left and Charlemagne was throwing rocks and scissors at frozen audience members with a wad of cash in his off hand. Looking back toward the stage, the drummer, wearing a bright purple cloak, waived his magic totem pole and filled up the other half of the venue with visions of skaters and soccer players.

At this point, the encore began with a song I'd never heard, but I sure liked the metaphor. After two songs, the show was over and the lights came on. I was waiting for my ride, then got jumped from behind by Holly who had a string wrapped around her finger, and a fist full of Adderall.

Fast forward ten minutes, the skaters, frozen people, and soccer players disappear, as did Holly, leaving me with my thoughts about how the band was pretty tight, and how much fun Massive Nights is live. I'm pretty sure I was pumping my fist hard for that one, while dancing with a toothless giraffe.

I'm not sure how Holly got my number, but she's been calling me again. At this point I should say Holly is a hoodrat, but I'm guessing you probably know that.

Setlist:
1. The Sweet Part of the City
2. Soft in the Center
3. Barfruit Blues
4. Constructive Summer (blending into...)
5. Hot Soft Light
6. Hurricane Jay
7. The Swish
8. Rock Problems
9. Magazines
10. Cattle & The Creeping Things
11. Sequestered in Memphis
12. We Can Get Together
13. You Can Make Him Like You
14. Hornets! Hornets
15. The Weekenders
16. Your Little Hoodrat Friend
17. Girls Like Status
18. Chips Ahoy!
19. Massive Nights (blending into...)
20. A Slight Discomfort


Encore
21. (the end of ) Positive Jams (blending into...)
22. Stuck Between Stations
23. Southtown Girls

Citation: Craig Finn's lyrics, mostly from Separation Sunday.

Avett Brothers Special Benefit Show Next Monday

Avett Brothers

Having seen these guys a couple times, including their Edgefield show last month, I can provide good news and bad news. The good news, the Avetts are known for their live shows. I have literally seen moshing during their punk spazz outs and people crying during the more sensitive songs, each occurring within minutes.

The bad news, they recently added a full-time drummer (sorry dude, nothing against you personally). Seth and Scott Avett used to split the drumming duties during their live performances, which really added to the, "I am a bad ass musician, get ready to drop your jaw." factor. Aside from the drums, they each play the piano, their string instrument (banjo for Scott, guitar for Seth), and sing, mixing up each combination per song. This is what made them one of the greatest live acts on the planet. Don't worry though, they still put on a good show (wiping tears away, blowing nose).

I also have more bad news, the tickets are $50, but the good news is the extra money goes to support a cool idea and a good cause, the Terra Nova Community Farm at Terra Nova High School in Portland. Unfortunately, I doubt the Farm will be getting $13 per ticket like Ticketmaster will.


Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Monday, August 30th, 2010
$50
Only 500 tickets available

New Shows: Sublime With Rome, Atreyu, The Posies & Brendan Benson

Sublime With Rome (Two Shows)

Q: What kind of bee gives milk?
A: A boobie!
(Crowd laughter, applause)

Q: How do you create an R&B singer out of a dead duck?
A: Put the duck in the oven until it's Bill Withers!
(Occasional laughs)

Q: What do you call a smart blonde?
A: A Golden Retriever
(Mild laughter, booing)

Q: How much will Sublime charge for tickets now that Bradley Nowell is dead?
A: $35 for GA, $50 for Reserved
(Heavy laughter, applause, standing ovation)

Roseland Theater, Portland
Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 & Wednesday, November 10th, 2010
$35 / $50
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, August 25th, at 10:00 a.m.

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Atreyu

Roseland Theater, Portland
Friday, October 22nd, 2010
$18
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, August 25th, at 10:00 a.m.

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The Posies & Brendan Benson

Some really like the Posies signature album, Frosting on the Beater. Personally, I couldn't get it to stick after several listens, but I didn't grow up listening to it either.

You know that Brendan Benson guy, right? He is the lead singer of the Raconteurs! Well, the other lead singer. If he and Alison Mosshart fought for Jack White's approval, who would win? Currently, Alison in a land slide.


Aladdin Theater, Portland
Wednesday, December 8th, 2010
$20
Tickets on sale Friday, August 27th, at 11:00 a.m.

New Shows: Gov't Mule, "Joyish Division," Kottonmouth Kings, The Very Best

Gov't Mule

Crystal Ballroom, Portland
Thursday, October 28th, 2010
$25
Tickets on sale Saturday, August 28th, at 12:00 a.m.

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Peter Hook & Friends Perform Unknown Pleasures

Half of the Joy Division catalog performed by a founding member, bassist Peter Hook, with friends (obviously). The lead singer committed suicide roughly 30 years ago, but Unknown Pleasures has steadily gained popularity since.

If you are a Joy Division (or New Order) fan, you don't look at the ticket prices to see a pseudo reincarnation of this album live at the best venue in town. When you do see the price, you'll be surprised. It costs less than a Hanson show.

Doug Fir, Portland
Thursday, December 9th, 2010
$23

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Kottonmouth Kings

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Wednesday, November 17th, 2010
$20

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The Very Best (w/Warpaint)

African Electronic Hip Hop, these guys (and two lovely ladies) tore down the dance tent at Sasquatch 2010. This much smaller venue sounds more intriguing.

Holocene, Portland
Friday, September 24th, 2010
$15

New Shows: Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience, Avi Buffalo, Morning Benders, Bear in Heaven

Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience

Multimedia presentation of Led Zeppelin's music by the son of John Bonham. For a tribute band, this should be a pretty amazing show.

Arlene Schnitzer, Portland
Friday, November 26th, 2010
$35/$45
Tickets on sale Friday, September 17th, at 10:00 a.m.

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Avi Buffalo

Mississippi Studios, Portland
Saturday, October 30th, 2010
$10

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Morning Benders

Off their recent album Big Echo, "Stitches" has become one of my favorite songs of the year. "Excuses" is a very Beatlesesque jam as well. Tough draw playing the same night as Belle & Sebastian, Gogol Bordello, and that one dude name Jimmy Buffett.

Doug Fir, Portland
Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
$12

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Bear in Heaven

Doug Fir, Portland
Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010
$10

New Shows: Menomena, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Marc Cohn, Kate Nash

Menomena

Gerding Theater at the Armory, Portland
Saturday, August 21st, 2010
$16

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Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

This will be their second show of a back to backer. I wrote this about Edward Sharpe three weeks ago when they announced their initial show.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Friday, September 3rd, 2010
$22.50
Tickets on sale Friday, August 20th, at 10:00 a.m.

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Marc Cohn

What is more impressive, the career built around "Walking In Memphis," or surviving a gun shot to the head? I'm voting the latter, although it doesn't pay as well.

Aladdin Theater, Portland
Saturday, November 6th, 2010
$42.90
Tickets on sale Friday, August 20th, at 11:00 a.m.

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Kate Nash

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Monday, November 1st, 2010
$23.75
Tickets on sale Saturday, August 21st, at 10:00 a.m.

New Shows: Michael Franti & Spearhead, Yard Dogs Road Show, Greg Dulli

Michael Franti & Spearhead

An enjoyable blend of rap/rock/reggae/pop. His shows are fun, but look at the ticket prices? Yikes.

Roseland, Portland
Saturday, September 18th, 2010
$32.50 - $40

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Yard Dogs Road Show

Part play, part musical, part strip tease, part insanity. This is one of the strangest shows I've seen, but a ton of fun. Highly recommended, especially for only $16.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Saturday, November 6th, 2010
$16

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Greg Dulli

Half of the Gutter Twins and front man of the Afghan Whigs. I will always remember his rant last time he appeared at the Doug Fir as the Gutter Twins. There was a group of females stage left near the wall who didn't realize they were at a live show, while nearly everyone else was quiet. After Mark Lanegan finished a mellow tune, Greg said something along the lines of, "You just missed a beautiful song because you can't stop talking."

I'm not sure this group even knew he was referring to them, as the giggling continued, combined with the fake smile, "why is everyone staring at us, oh well."

Doug Fir, Portland
Saturday, November 20th, 2010
$18

Holy Shit: Arcade Fire Live!!!!!!!

There is this band called Arcade Fire, you might want to check them out. Their first album in 2004 was widely considered one of the best albums of that decade. Their third album was released a couple days ago, and is already the front runner for best album of this decade (so far). Said album just happens to be number one in America.

Do me a favor, go to Billboard.com, click on the Billboard 200, read through the top 40, and let me know how many acts you regularly listen to? Who the fuck are these guys? I must be too many years removed from High School to get it (although I'll defend half of Drake's work).

Arcade Fire also happens to be one of the greatest live acts I have witnessed. To all the folks who will complain about their main stream appeal, and how they used to be great back in the day playing in front of a couple hundred, bitch all you want, the rest of us will be enjoying an evening of bliss.

Memorial Coliseum, Portland
Thursday, September 30th, 201o
$40
Tickets on sale Friday, August 20th, at 10:00 a.m.

Key Arena, Seattle
Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
$50.66
Tickets on sale Friday, August 20th, at 10:00 a.m.

New Shows: Smashing Pumpkins, Keller Williams, Lotus

Smashing Pumpkins

If you want to see "Billy Corgan & Friends" attempt to play Smashing Pumpkins hits for $40, go for it. This is not the Smashing Pumpkins though. It's like if Axl Rose replaced everyone in his band, and called it "Guns N' Roses." Wait, that happened? ASSHOLE!

On a positive note, the new drummer is a Portland native, so that's cool. "Billy Corgan & Friends" is also a really nice get by MusicFestNW, so props to them.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Saturday, September 11th, 2010
$40

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Keller Williams

Keller plays several different instruments, and routinely performs a la carte. The last time he was through town, he had a backing band (filled with bad ass musicians of course). This tour is being called, "An Evening With Keller Williams." Usually when they use the term "An Evening With," it means without all the extra flare. You probably want to see him solo anyway, because it makes zero sense how he can hold an audience captive on his own, yet he does.

Aladdin Theater, Portland
Sunday, November 14th, 2010
$22

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Lotus

Roseland Theater, Portland
Saturday, October 30th, 2010
$16
Tickets on sale Wednesday, August 18th, at 9:00 a.m.

New Shows: Sufjan Stevens, Mumford & Sons, Grinderman, Caribou

Sufjan Stevens

A Sufjan Stevens show is meant to be attended by attentive music fans, which makes this Schnitz appearance noteworthy. It will be completely different than his last show at the bar, I mean the Crystal Ballroom.

It's too bad he has not continued his 50 state project. The album about Oregon was rumored to be next up. He probably realized he would lose, because people don't like songs about incest, (which rules out most of the south), or being bored to tears (which rules out the Dakatos and Wyoming).

For the struggling musicians out there, come up with a similar concept in which you guarantee your fans over 20 albums. Then if you make it big, you can say it was a joke. I'm working on an album dedicated to the letter X, with 25 additional albums to come. Most of the influence cums from movie reviews. This particular idea is already copyrighted by the way.

Arlene Schnitzer, Portland
Friday, October 29th, 2010
$27.50 - $35

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Mumford & Sons

They sold out the Aladdin four months ago, which is no small feat for an up and coming band. With their popularity rising by the day, it would be wise to get your tickets early. Thank me later.

Crystal Ballroom
Friday, October 22nd, 2010
$20

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Grinderman

Nick Cave's side project. Grinderman live shows have been extremely rare, so this is a must see for Cave fans.

Sorry, no Portland show (Muthafuck!)

King Cat Theater, Seattle
Saturday, November 27th, 2010
$25
Tickets on sale Saturday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m.

Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC
Friday, November 26th, 2010
$40.60 (CA)
Tickets on sale Saturday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m.

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Caribou

One of the nicest people in the industry. The last time I saw him, he sat on the edge of the stage for 20 minutes after the show, meeting fans, taking pictures, bullshitting. He didn't leave until most of the crowd had left, willing to meet every fan wanting to stick around.

He has a pretty cool light show which is projected through the band usually onto the back of the stage, rather than projected over the band on a screen. He tours with a band, and plays drums in about half the songs in addition to the full-time drummer. Two drummers never sucks.

This is a tough show to skip for $14, especially since they aren't playing at the Hawthorne Theater. It's rough playing the same night as the Black Keys though.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
$14

New Shows: Gogol Bordello, Murder City Devils, The Sword, Bad Religion

Gogol Bordello

One of the liveliest crowds I've seen at the Roseland. Everyone was dancing or jumping, including the back of the venue, and the balcony. I spend very little time listening to this band on album, but their live shows are too much fun to miss. More bands need cheerleaders.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
$23.50
Tickets on sale Wednesday, August 11th at 10:00 a.m.

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Murder City Devils

I wrote this about the Murder City Devils Sasquatch! show last year:

Short Version: The lead singer turned the set into a rant against frat boys who bash gays.

Long Version: Spencer Moody came out early without the band, and proceeded to tell a story about his first Lollapalooza experience when he was a kid going to see Jane's Addiction. He sounded very nervous, and apologized for not being a great speaker in front of crowds. I had never seen the Devils before, so I didn't know who he was. He looked more like a roadie than a rock star, and acted the part.

There were many frat boys there, since TV on the Radio and NIN followed, and I heard a couple people make drunken cracks about gays. It was very quiet after all, and I got the feeling he was working the crowd to see what came up, because the story was mostly boring, even if a little endearing.

Then the band comes out, and he starts screaming and jumping around like a madman. Nice intro.

His first chance to address the crowd was epic, he went off for at least two minutes calling the crowd every name imaginable. Paraphrasing here, "all you assholes can fucking leave the festival, jump in the car your parents bought you, and eat a big fat bag of dicks."

Then he used the term "faggot," repeatedly, to the point that I thought he was calling the crowd "faggots." Again paraphrasing after another rant, "this next song is for all the beautiful faggots, who are just like us."

After he declared his war, he grabbed the guitar player and made out with him during a couple songs, grabbed a (straight) fan in the front row, and made out with him, then wandered around screaming and falling down like a drunken madman, yet still sounded coherent. He picked up a VIP dude on the side of the stage, and walked him out to the middle of the stage holding him like a baby, only falling down once on the way. The only time I thought it got a bit out of hand was when he grabbed a female cameraperson's head, and rubbed it in his crotch for 10 seconds, and mildly shoving another female cameraperson later. I was thinking there might be some fall back from those two acts.

One of the coolest parts for me was when he first started screaming the word "faggot", a bearded man with a blonde wig, a tutu, and a tank top reading "I'm a Slut" passed by on the shoulders of another man. Good stuff.

Another rant had him saying all the faggots had beautiful cocks, and telling all the ladies with beautiful vaginas, to watch out for the frat boy fuckers, and not let them touch their beautiful vaginas.

Toward the end of the show, each time he started a new rant, the band started playing a song instead, to which he quickly turned back into a singer. At the end of the show, he went back to the mic, but they cut it off. He then jumped into the crowd never to be seen again.

I had never seen this band before live, but I am a big fan now. It was uncomfortable, there were people leaving in disgust, he was falling down every which way, and I can't believe he didn't hurt anyone with his antics, including swinging the mic stand around on stage several times. He was a lunatic, yet if it wasn't for the situation with the two female camerapeople, I might have guessed he was sober, with maybe a case of vertigo.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Friday, October 15th, 2010
$20

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The Sword

I've been looking forward to catching this metal band for a couple years. I hear they put on a great show.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Sunday, October 3rd, 2010
$16

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Bad Religion

Their manager is a cool cat. I can't say the same about guitar player Brian Baker.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Monday, November 15th
$22.50
Tickets on sale Saturday, August 14th at 10:00 a.m.

New Shows: She & Him, Deerhunter, JP Chrissie & the Fairground Boys

She & Him

M. Ward on guitar is an amazing spectacle. Zooey Dachnaschanklelorthel's appearance is an amazing spectacle. I'm not sure it's worth the steep ticket price to see She sing, and Him play.

Arlene Schnitzer, Portland
Friday, October 22nd
$32-35

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Deerhunter

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Thursday, October 28
$16

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JP Chrissie & the Fairground Boys

As in Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders. Apparently, she thinks her new album is her best work yet. Okay, we get it, you are generating hype. No one thinks their new material is going to suck, right? Even Green Day thinks they are currently creating their best work. Shameless.

By the way, my next live show review is going to be the shit. Be sure to check back often, you don't want to miss it!

Roseland Theater, Portland
Thursday, October 21st
$20/$32.50

So You Like Electronic Music?

Paul Oakenfold

Roseland Theater, Portland
Wednesday, October 13th, 2010
$25

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Paul Van Dyk

Playing almost a year from now? That's pretty ambitious. I don't even know what I'm eating for dinner tonight.

Roseland Theater, Portland
Saturday, July 2nd, 2011
No ticket information available

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Vitalic/Rusko

Roseland Theater, Portland
Thursday, September 30th
$15

New Shows: Roky Erickson, Head Cat, Starfucker/Octopus Project

Roky Erickson

Dude is a bearded legend, and his latest album was produced by Will Sheff, with Okkervil River backing. There are no Okkervil shows scheduled in October, so there is always a chance. If the entire band is there, this will surely be a treat.

Wonder Ballroom, Portland
Friday, October 22nd, 2010
$22

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Head Cat

Why does Lemmy have to charge so much money for tickets? This is his third time at Dante's, each time charging a small fortune. Is it just him, or does the Stray Cats drummer make them worth the money? I might pay $20 for Motorhead, but come on?

Dante's, Portland
Friday, September 17th, 2010
$20

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Starfucker/Octopus Project

What the fuck happened to Starfucker changing their fucking name to Pyramiddd so it wasn't so fucking offensive?

Roseland Theater, Portland
Wednesday, October 20th, 2010
$12

Live Review: Wolf Parade

Crystal Ballroom, Portland, OR
Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

The transformation of Spencer Krug into a rock star has been fun to watch. I knew nothing about this band when they opened for Arcade Fire in 2005, and their live performance was nothing special. Krug looked like a fourteen year old band nerd with a quirky voice asked to fill in for the real keyboardist. He was barely even set up on stage, being as far to the left as possible. Dan Boeckner on the other hand was a rock star from day one, and pretty much controlled the stage.

While the singing duties have been split, not since their debut album has the weight been carried equally. Starting with the underrated At Mount Zoomer, it became clear that while Boeckner is writing competent rock songs, Krug is writing epic stories. The same feeling is prevalent on their third album, Expo 86, a very NW friendly title.

As for the show, they opened with, "You Are A Runner, And I Am My Fathers Son," the song that begins many of our earliest Wolf Parade listenings, being the first song on their debut. The two men traded songs back and forth, with Boeckner spazzing out on stage and Krug headbanging along on the keyboards, which seemed to be turned up much louder than previous shows. Let's face it, synth is back, and I've got my Vision Street Wear on back order in celebration.

A quick message to the fellas. So you're on a hot streak. You are full of confidence. You can do no wrong. There is a cute chick dancing her tail off next to her friend, singing along with every song. If you think she wants to have a "let's get to know each other" conversation, you've already lost.

Guess what? She is a fan of the band. Target the girl texting, or the one having a conversation with friends with her back to the stage. If you just can't let this one go, try dancing, and save the meaningful conversations until after the show. She paid good money to see one of her favorite bands, not to be continually interrupted by cologne and collars.

As I digress. "California Dreamer" was the perfect closing song to their first set, and had the largest crowd reaction. That was until the encore closer of "Kissing the Beehive." I'm not sure Wolf Parade should be allowed to close a show with a song other than this eleven minute masterpiece.

This was the best Wolf Parade performance I have witnessed, and they easily had more crowd participation than previous years (sure, they are more popular, but anyway). I'm not trying to take anything away from Dan Boeckner. Him and his wife put on a high energy show with the Handsome Furs, and he is still half of what makes Wolf Parade, but it is Spencer Krug morphing into a rock star that now makes this band a must see.

Setlist:

1. You Are A Runner And I Am My Father's Son
2. Palm Road
3. Cloud Shadow on the Mountain
4. Language City
5. Dear Sons And Daughters of Hungry Ghosts
6. Ghost Pressure
7. What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had To Go This Way)
8. Fine Young Cannibals
9. Cave-o-sapien
10. This Heart's On Fire
11. I'll Believe In Anything
12. Pobody's Nerfect
13. California Dreamer

Encore:

14. Two Men in New Tuxedos
15. Shine A Light
16. Kissing the Beehive