MOG - indiepixie's Posts

Bowels of NY Update #1: Used beds and Punk: Nick Zinner of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' Photo Exhibit

indiepixie — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:09:05 GMT

Aug 16th: A select crew of NY's dripping-in-black art and music elite slink to the dim lit sticky floored cellar of the rock and roll club, LIT LOUNGE, to check out Nick Zinner's new photo exhibit. Lit's the only place in NY where grunge hasn't died. Or at least if it died, you can still smell its decomposition on Lit’s floor. One of my friends passed out on the bench in the basement of Lit and awoke to find a rat walking on his face. It's as charming as nails stapled into black leather. But on the days you want to revel in a shit hole, this is the best rock shit hole there is. That said, the Fuse gallery in the back of Lit was perfect staging ground for the Yeah Yeah Yeah's guitarist extraordinaire, "It’s OK, Don’t Look at the Road."

Zinner, who studied photography in college, is into streamlined minimalist photography- with a bit of Dash Snow street grit. He highlights things unkept- the beauty in the unbeautiful and vice versa.

In this particular exhibit, he's got 100 or more photos of used beds from all over the world. Bangkok, LA's The Standard.... You can't match bed with place or date if you tried. Instead, it's a motley maze of used and consumed bedroom detris, highlighting the mundane trial of touring, a place with no name, a bed with no identity, save the constant reminder you ain't nowhere near home sweet home.

There's also bigger pictures of a guy showing off his lip tattooed with the word punk, woman's asses in short shorts. In explanation Zinner says:

"I have become more fascinated with the ambiguity of an image. If you remove the facts and the dates and are just left with the image, that image to me is strongest, when each viewer can attach their own meaning to it."

Check it for yourself if you happen to be rolling in the east village of NY. It helps they're also fairly reasonably priced- you can buy a pict of the bed for $25 and the bigger pieces for ~$500.

ohhhh and pssst...Vice Mag also has a cool clipping of work by Nick and his charming girlfriend Aliya Naumoff who's an uber-talented photog on her own right: http://www.viceland.com/int/v15n7/htdocs/way-out-west-146.php.

"It’s OK, Don’t Look at the Road" (Photographs by Nick Zinner)
August 16-September 13, 2008
Fuse Gallery
93 2nd Ave
(between 5th & 6th Sts, 2nd Ave stop on the F)
NYC, NY

CONCERT REVIEW: Bob Dylan Blows An Anti-War Message Through Prospect Park, Brooklyn

indiepixie — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:16:48 GMT

Bob Dylan Live: Prospect Park Brooklyn

Listening to Dylan live today can be equated to listening to Dylan in the early 60s via transistor radio in a cornfield in Nebraska. His voice live is almost unrecognizable, like it’s been dragged through tobacco fields naked, tortured for years in smokey bars with no windows, lugged through tired deserts of American heartland, washed out to sea and beached back again, and then hung to dry for too long on radio antennas everywhere. One’s ears must strain to distinguish a sole lyric within each indecipherable scratch of a song. It's so painful a process one almost wonders why Dylan continues to put his chords through the trail.

At the same time, for a fan, seeing Dylan live is always a thrill. Zealous yet patient aptly described the spectators who packed into Brooklyn's Prospect Park to see Bob Dylan on Tuesday night, August 12th. After all, these were the diehards, who bought tickets within the slim time frame before they sold-out, who came prepared to brave a possible tempest to see him, who knew every word to every song out of his five decade large library.

As for Dylan, he rarely plays that guitar any more. He doesn’t move much around stage- and relies on his band for any abrupt movements or climactic musical refrains. In fact, on Tuesday night, he hid most of the time behind a keyboard, which due to his angled stance, could have been mistaken for a walker. And yet, the 67 year old performed with glistening eyes and a wide smile and put on a solid, lengthy show.

He began by waltzing the crowd through folked-up versions of "Rainy Day Women #12 & 35", and " Lay, Lady, Lay". Then through "Girl Of The North Country", " The Levee’s Gonna Break" and "Spirit On The Water." In came a bluesy rendition of "Honest Me". Couples swayed as the band undulated into a free-laced jazz style for "Beyond the Horizon," where Tony Garnier liberally plucked the standup bass. "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" was sweetened by tender banjo accompaniment.

As for effects, there were little. Though the set was infused with a cornucopia of instruments (keyboard, harp, bass, drums, guitars, violin, viola, banjo, and electric mandolin), there were few 'roots' improv bits but a couple impressive jazz-style solos. There were no visuals, except a poster of an all-seeing eye that came curling down during the encore. (We're not at Radiohead any more, folks.). As for costumes, the band wore sedate black suits and hats. Dylan was dressed as dignified as an admiral during The Civil war- his shrunken body engulfed in a square-shouldered suit and proud black wide-brimmed bolero hat. Diamonds glittered on his collar like military stars; a scarf was tucked gracefully under his neck. Proud yet refined.

Truth be told, there was a stretch in the set, between "Honest With Me" and "Nettie Moore," where some onlookers seemed to bat their eyes too frequently, falling victim to beer-aided exhaustion. Some of the younger folk looked painfully bored. Except for those who knew each song he played- the lyrics, the symbolism, et al- it was hard act throughout which to maintain consistent, unceasing interest - especially since unless you'd paid top dollar for front row- it was often a strain to see above the tree-line of heads.

Still, part of the entertainment came from the tame yet friendly crowd. A couple of white-haired women passed around several rolled joints. In the sidelines, a man chuckled about the indelible memories associated with "Lay Lady Lay" ("My first wife and I feel in love to "Lay Lady Lady." We fell out of love to "A Fool Such as I." The cycle's continued till now" as he pinched the hip of the pepper-haired woman next to him.) Even the security guards hummed the tunes under their breaths.

By the time "Summer Days" came on, weed smoke floated out over the bandstand, ladies sipped cough-syrup-esque red wine, families were finishing their last nibbles of fried chicken on blankets in the back of the park and almost everyone was swaying content. By the last song of the set, "Master of War," his anti-war tones resounded loud and clear over an ironically peaceful lawn.

Thus, by the encore, when Dylan ripped through an emotional, deconstructed version of "Like A Rolling Stone," most people rose to their feet. The woman next to me grew teary-eyed. He still plays the harmonica like he did 30 years ago.

After the build-up of anti-war songs throughout the set, the finale "Blowin' In The Wind" was shockingly powerful. As spectators hummed the words under the sepia-tinted lights, Dylan crooned:

Yes, 'n' how many times must the cannon balls fly
Before they're forever banned?

.......
Yes, 'n' how many deaths will it take till he knows
That too many people have died?

.......
Yes, 'n' how many times can a man turn his head,
Pretending he just doesn't see?

It was a song to which everyone knew the words; words of which everyone knew the intent. Ahh and there's the rub. Why does Dylan perform when he can no longer sing? When he's too frail to play the guitar? The answer was blowing in the wind.

(*NOTE: Cameras were forbidden during the set- so the collage above is fragments from ONE photo taken from my cellphone (hence the grain). I digitally split and withered the peices- so they took on character of their own. Best I could do, folks!)

Photo & Review by Faith-Ann Young

Good Party Partners? Bloc Party + Does It Offend You Yeah?

indiepixie — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:39:21 GMT

BLOC PARTY + DOES IT OFFEND YOU YEAH? Do Webster Hall

Aug 6th, Webster Hall, NYC

Last week, I sprinted to Webster Hall in order to see (and shoot) Does It Offend You, Yeah?, the NME-loved, ra-ra band from Reading and fellow bold Brits Bloc Party. It was a hot night; a packed house; a little bit of tension in the air. I didn't know if the two would mix sweetly or combust.

Lucky be a rock band, theirs was a partnership of equals. DIOYY has sharpened up their performance over the past year (having toured madly) - showing new maturity and more apparent "rockability" (as opposed to chaotic electronica with ocassional riffs) to their songs. Still their riotous electro-dance hits "Weird Science", "Let's Make Out" and "We Are Rockstars" were the crowd favorites. Surprise fact of day: They are set to open for Nine Inch Nails in the next few weeks?! Speaking of bizarre pairings...............that's a shiraz followed by a scotch no?

DOES IT OFFEND YOU, YEAH?

Morgan Quaintance on right; James Rushent on left

James Rushent looking haloed

Dan Coop

Daring duo..........

Morgan rrrrriffing............*check out the fender.

James glowing

The Crowd showing their adulation

BLOC PARTY

By the time Bloc Party pranced on stage, Webster was filled to the brim with people ready to rave. One often forgets what a difficult job it is to amuse a rambunctious crowd of sassy New Yorkers for over an hour. You bore and people riot. (Or blog endless drivel about you.) And so often the bands that were soo hot last year or the year prior (Scissor Sisters? OK Go? Artic Monkeys?) are reminded how ephemeral that seat of supremacy can be.

Bloc Party played expert zoo keepers- taming the crowd all the right notes- soothing them into drop-jaw silence- and then orchestrating rampant applause in finale. Kele Okereke was particularly emotive (as is typical- he's one of the most photogenic fellahs too)- screaming away under the bright lights. However, while Kele is a great draw, Bloc Party as a unit works so well by carving out hits off steady, riveting hooks- fed by an intensive drum sections. You feel as though they've just got that sacred 'rockability' equation written on their fingers...(translated with a few synths and pedals)....so much so the crowd just eats out of their palms. Their 'recipe' is more apparent in older hits from Silent Alarm than their newer A Weekend In The City. But nonetheless, the bait is there throughout. That night, the animals are listening.

Kele Okereke

the stringbean fiery rocker known as Russel Lissack

Teething

"Helicopter"?

Kele in the shadows.

"The Prayer"?

Twas a good night. Twas not just another week in the city.............

photos by Faith-Ann Young

What's Ur Favorite Dylan Song and Why?

indiepixie — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:09:09 GMT

What memory does it unfurl.

I'm heading to Prospect Park tonight to check him and am psyched. Haven't seen the man in a while. And while I've heard these days his live set (read: voice) is a little weary, I feel like Dylan's music holds a special squishy spot in most people's proverbial 'sentimental heart'. For those who have seen his career evolution, his stack of albums are like totem poles of personal history.

I went through a serious Dylan phase when I was 16 of 17, away from home, living in Paris with this 60 year old chick Elenore and her Spanish lover Enrique, both of whom made pillows for a living and owned two hotels in Egypt. I was randomly assigned to this bohemian feather-filled insane asylum by my school, Columbia University in Paris; during that time of intense growth and experimentation - I'd never felt freer. i'd sit with my legs dangling out of the rooftop....smoking cigarettes, the dope of wine weighing down my head, writing poetry, and staring at the dusk set in over the coffeeshops on the cobbled Parisien streets.

Dylan's albums were played during these moments. I remember giggling over the wit of the line "with her fog, amphetamine, and her pearls" and that undulating guitar hook from "Just like a Woman"..................

Or the rustle from the song Quinn The Eskimo (The Mighty Quinn)...That song always sounded wierdly like Dylan was playing in the bathroom next door. And for some reason, it reminded me of the dusty american backroads. And I thought of my dad.

The Dylan phase never really ended. Neither did my love for travel...or Paris....or pillows.

On the same token, I ask you. What's your favorite song? And the memory associated.......?

Success?

Did you fall in love to his music?

Cope with Depression?

Convince you to live with a bit of "Carpe Diem"? Or Fuck All spirit?

Lose your virginity?

Lose a love one?

Blame Alcohol?

Seek Roadtrips?

Was there one sweet phrase that suddenly sung true? in a diner 1 am on 7th avenue in Brooklyn?

A Chorus that reminded you how little you know about someone you thought you'd memorized?

Or a line to celebrate growing old. Or vice versa?

Was it Brandi or Bob or Jackie or Don or Peter?

Or was it just a reminder to remember yourself? a little bit or a lot?

All Points West: Exclusive Photos & Review of Day 2: Chock-A-Block to See Radiohead, The Roots, Rockers Kings of Leon, and Austin's The Black Angels!

indiepixie — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 17:51:31 GMT

ALL POINTS WEST: Day 2:

If Day 1 ran like butter- easy access to the ferry- easy waltz into the park, Day 2 ran like peanut butter. Two hour lines to get on the ferry; a line 200 people long for VIP entrance and a big wall of people just standing and sweating at General Admission. Chock-a-block crowds. Everywhere. Sure, the park had sold out Day Two, 30,000 people strong, but the infrastructure and organization was by no means prepared for such an ambush.

Chilling in the shade; check out the amazon man on the left, hot.

Most people seemed confused and then infuriated about the obscene alcohol policy. Caleb Followill of Kings of Leon even gave the finger to the crowd, after hearing it was near impossible to get drunk at this festival. However, since the lines for the bathroom were so long, maybe this was a blessing in disguise. Regardless, one expects 'newbie kinks' during the debut of a festival. Thankfully, the music made up for it. (almost).

SIA

Little Australia dove Sia started the crowd off with blissful jazz-hued vocals.

She doesn't rely on high-tech video screens or props. Or make-up. Instead, she stood in a simple striped shirt and bob- and let her voice soothe the crowd.

http://www.myspace.com/siamusic ;

Statement of Day: Sia's Band wearing "VOTE" shirts.

"Rock the Vote" Reps were also out canvasing the grounds to register voters

(um, if you haven't already, go HERE and rock out).

Sia smiling

Internal moment.

Internal moment. Sia joked briefly to the crowd to notify her if she was showing Cameltoe. She didn't but I still tried to shoot her from the waste up. Lady's courtesy.

Finding shade from the sun under one of the art exhibits.

Ahhhh kids tripping on acid............................

(I would say due to the strict alcohol rules, there were significantly more people tripping out this festival. Much easier hit and high.)

THE BLACK ANGELS

A Trio of (Black) Angels

Now if you guys were at the Mog-sponsored Lou Reed Tribute at SXSW this year, you had the pleasure of seeing Austin's next-hot-thing "The Black Angels" perform.

I shit you not, these kids rock. Rock in a way you haven't been rocked since 1960's psychadelia bite you in the ass. (Or my friend Andy says at least since Black Rebel Motorcycle Club did).

http://www.myspace.com/theblackangels

Well they The Black Angels were back here at All Points West- in the midst of the line-up- and they've tightened their set- emboldened their sound. They've touched the darkside and carved out a little play-pen of red velvet within which we'd like to watch the clouds roll overhead as David Lynch clips flicker off the walls.

Christian Bland finger-pluckin

Their guitarists channel Velvet Underground with their eyes closed, the chick drummer is a power you'd never mess with (though a dainty Farrah Fawcett look-a-like) and though Alex Mass looks like a dead ringer for Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's Alec Ounsworth with his beanie cap, his voice sounds like Morrison dribbled over mollasses. Or maybe it's that intoxicating tunneling electric guitar riff..............

Nate Ryan

Alex in a daze

The Black Angel's Christian Bland

Alex Mass bringing back the tambourine...

Stephanie Bailey channeling Farrah Fawcett on a no-name drum kit

The Girls backstage entranced...............

KINGS OF LEON

1 King

By the end of The Black Angels, we were perfectly prepped for Kings of Leon to astound. Cocky, balls-out rockers, known for their rambunctious off-stage antics as much as their impressive on-stage skills, the boys didn't dissappoint. In fact, they seemed almost- matured? Less speed-freakish? Still , Caleb's voice is still twinged with distinct urgency and desperation (the same sort of fuck-all twang that Jack White so expertly channels- except with a Nashville tinge). Nathan continues to remind that 'drums' are on of rocks greatest asset- driving in a constant infectious beat- while Jared and Matthew cement the sound with solid waves of guitar and bass.

Remind me again why Kings are bigger in Europe than the US?

Don't they hit the Rock N Roll Born In the USA G-spot?

http://www.myspace.com/kingsofleon

Caleb of Kings

Jared of Kings of Leon on bass; looking deadly

APW

Powerful Nathan Followill on drums

Matthew in front, Caleb in back

They had a video screen that reflected all 4 members perspectives...

Caleb pensive

Matthew on a good stroke

The Crowd grooving to Kings of Leon. A girl smoking something delectable.

As the sun-sets, a man defines "Passed Out"

THE ROOTS

In a decided change of pace, The Roots beasted onstage in full parade style- with hip hop word maestro Tariq Trotter munching poetic as the sunset. The drums provided the distinctive go-go grind while the Sousaphone provided jazzy entertainment. As we beat our heads to the beat, we all were reminded of why The Roots meant so much to us in the days of ore. It has the amazing prospensity of awakening your senses while relaxing your soul.

http://www.myspace.com/theroots

Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson

Captain Kirk Feelin It

One eye on you: Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter

Sousaphonist Damon "Tuba Gooding Jr." Bryson

Blinded By the Light The Roots's Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter

Next up was Radiohead; which looked a lot like this: http://mog.com/indiepixie/blog_post/178721

Radiohead

They are always awesome and they thrilled in the same similar manner as they had the night before. Thom Yorke infected with energy- the immense crowd throbbing to the experimental electronic wizardry.

Radiohead

The view of Radiohead from Liberty State Park.

All Points West: Day 1: Exclusive Photos of RADIOHEAD, CSS, Girltalk, Andrew Bird, Grizzly Bear, oh my!

indiepixie — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:27:51 GMT

ALL POINTS WEST DAY 1:

GRIZZLY BEAR

Brooklyn-based Grizzly Bear was a treat onstage. All members contribute vocals (which is a rarity these days) to craft ethereal rock grooves- light, atmospheric, and harmony-friendly.

Ed Droste lead singer of Grizzly Bear during a tender moment

Chris Taylor riffing

Daniel Rossen introspective

ANDREW BIRD

Andrew Bird brought two other musicians to help him with his one-man show. Regardless, all eyes were on him and his crazy methods for layering musical instruments over eachother into wonderous fok-based ballads (including the violin, whistling, guitar, mandolin & glockenspiel).

Andrew Bird on Violin

Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum: A bassist and Guitarist Add Texture To Andrew Bird's Set

His Custom-built Horn Speaker. (It deserves it's own shot).

Cansei De Ser Sexy: CSS

You always know when the Brazilian crew CSS comes to town, they come ready to party. Granted, their music is much more show than about musical proficiency. But if you should know that already from song titles "Let's Make Love and Listen To Death From Above" and "Music Is My Hot Hot Sex." Regardless, LoveFoxxx resembled a clown on acid or a tri-colored piñata (hey- at least she didn't strip) while the day-glo crowd went wild, teen girls screamed at the front, balloons flew into the sky, and the rest of the band just strummed and chilled back.

LoveFoxx's clown attire

GIRLTALK

Gregg Gillis (i.e. DJ Girltalk) was at it again this weekend making a ruckus onstage. This time he brought with him blow up beach balls, blow-up animals, and 50 new onstage characters including a drag queen and a chick in a really revealing purple retro leotard. As the sunset over Manhattan, he played mash-ups of 80s hits and 90s old-school rap- from his ceran wrapped Panasonic computer (evidently in case people threw water) as people partied on and off stage.

(see Lollapalooza post for more details on last week's performance.)

Girl Talk's Gregg Gillis

Confetti And Life-savers.

The guy in the front didn't know he was being humped by two men from behind.

A civilized View.

A Noveaux Peace sign?

Radiohead

With the help of a thousand watts of thousand dollar LED lights, Radiohead graced the stage for their first New York-area show in more than two years..........and lived up to every exectation. Thom Yorke seemed particularily energetic during the opener, at one point just dancing and writhing around onstage as though lost in trance. Mr Yorke drifted delicately from microphone, to guitar, to keyboard, and back, as the backdrop frenetically flashed slit-frame images of the band. Since this festival with 30,000 people max- (although yesterday was not sold-out), APW felt a bit like a garden BBQ in comparison to some of Radiohead's other live sets, such as Lollapalooza where they performed to a packed-to-the-rim crowd in Grant Park. While the handful of bandmates onstage seemed larger than life, the performance itself seemed strangely intimate. And as one viewed Manhattan glimmering like a mirage in the background, as Yorke's voice beamed over our heads, it had a bit of a fairytale, empyreal quality.

One of the only shots you'll see with Thom Yorke's eyes OPEN.

Ed O'Brien looking dapper

Yorke Playing Charades?

Jonny Greenwood on Drums

Yorke belting

The LED display onstage

Manhattan and Radiohead

FOR BASIC Tips and Hints for ALL POINTS WEST :

http://mog.com/indiepixie/blog_post/178713

All Points West Music Festival: Basic Tips, Hints & Guide: How to Get There, Liquor Rules, Set-Up, etc.....

indiepixie — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:43:24 GMT

ALL POINTS WEST DAY 1

Most pretentious Manhattanites will grumble and bitch about taking a ferry to New Jersey- even if it is for a music festival with a stellar line-up. All Points West is also a rather expensive one: $89 a day, $258 for all three days. However, despite some obscene liquor laws and a bit of a trek, the trip to ALL POINTS WEST, however, is worth it. Why?

An idyllic panorama of Manhattan during the day. A rainbow over Manhattan.

All Points West is located in Liberty State Park, which is literally a 15 minute ferry ride from Manhattan's South Street Seaport (Pier 11). With a pristine view of Manhattan, it may be one of the most ideal venues for a festival in the world. Each band stage faces the omnipotent skyline of Manhattan; the view when combined with first class music has a shockingly majestic feel.

a) TRANSPORT

A couple notes, the ferry is the most direct and most visually stimulating route (if more expensive: $25-$30 depending on when you buy). It is also TYPICALLY the quickest. However, keep in mind, LEAVE early, because the lines can become dismal if the festival is sold out. Friday August 8th, 2008 everything in terms of transport ran like butter; Saturday, August 9th, 2008, it was more like chunky peanut butter: 2 hours ferry line; 1 hour line into the entrance- people shoving you all the way in between.

Another option is the train. To do so, you have to go through Hoboken and then transfer to another light rail, which ends up taking upwards of an hour. Then, just when you think you've arrived, you have an interminable walk to the festival (budget 30 to 40 minutes). Either way, this festival is for the physically fit and patient; As Nike once said, Just do it!

A New Monument vs. An Old Momument: A wood jigsaw exhibit also featured in Art Basel Miami on Right; the Statue of Liberty on Left.

b) Festival Lay-Out:

There's three stages: Queen of The Valley closest to entrance, Bullet in the middle and Blue Comet (the mainstage) in the far-end of the festival set-up.

VIP Lounges and Media tents are in the back by the Blue Comet Stage.

c) Information:

Warning: Asides from handing you a map, most security working the festival won't be able to tell you ANYTHING. Since this is the first year of the festival, they are as green as you. Don't rely on asking people in order to find the vendors; bathrooms, where to buy water, what stage is what. So be sure to scout out the bathrooms earlier than later....you can't rely on the help.

c) Amusements:

There's much of the same amusements as Coachella - since APW is also run by Goldenvoice. This means: lots of Green friendly activities and booths, healthy cuisine, and cool art exhibits, like the sonic forest below.

d) Liquor Laws!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bad news; this may be the most sober festival you've ever been to. Like Coachella, they've got wierd liquor laws- you have to drink in a contained area like a caged animal (unable to see shows while imbibing).

If that's not bad enough, you get a wristband with 5 tabs on it. One drink per tab. Yeah that's right. You are FORBIDDEN to drink more than 5 drinks (which for a 6 ft tall dude who's there for 8 hours...may be discomforting). I heard a LOT of foreigners bitching about this one.............something about us being damn puritans....

(psst: better yet, you can only bring in an EMPTY waterbottle so no luck for you chaps who filled your water bottle with vodka. I lost my money too.)

e) MUSIC:

Now that you are sober (unless you've stocked your socks with pills and your bra with a fifth of vodka, other illegal paraphanelia), you will find this festival actually forces you to focus on the music. Which is a good thing because the line-up is world-class.

It's a good chance you'll see something like this:

CSS's LoveFoxxx

And party like this:

On-stage During Girltalk

Or see a sunset view like this:

Sunset over manhattan.........view from Bullet Stage at All Points West

Or see a triumphant artist like this:

Radiohead's Thom Yorke emoting first night of All Points West

And see from the corner of your eye- a view like this...

An idyllic panorama of Manhattan at Night, while watching Radiohead.

Convinced yet?

More info about the festival is here: http://www.apwfestival.com/history/libertystatepark.

Happy festivaling................

ps For more specific highlights from Day 1 of All Points West: http://mog.com/indiepixie/blog_post/178721

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS: Lollapalooza Day #3: Brazilian Girls, Chromeo, Gnarls Barkley, Mark Ronson Brings guest Rhymefest, Kanye spotted backstage, & NIN Grand Finale!!!!!

indiepixie — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 02:40:08 GMT

LOLLA Day 3

The humidity and heat returned for the final day of Lollapalooza but Obama was still a no show (Barack had been rumored to make an appearance all weekend). Nevertheless, the audience as well as the artists ramped up the energy, special guests & surprises. Nine Inch Nails battled versus Kayne for attention till the very end.

Brazilian Girls' Sabina Sciubba makes an Marry Poppins-esque entrance.

Brazilian Girls's Scuibba in an ensemble Bjork would envy.....

Look at her leg muscles!

Chicago's Golden Girls.

Nicole Atkins & The Sea singing "Brooklyn's On Fire."

With a new red-hued do, Nicole Atkins charmed the crowd with her blend of rock/folk with psychedlia roots.

What happens when a NIN fan gets of a certain age.............

G Love: Now if he only had a cold beverage, eh....................

G Love & Special Sauce bringing love to chi-town from Philly.

Girls.....In awe...........................awaiting

(pppst the feather is a hint)

Saul Williams the poet. the musician. the muse.

Now if you haven't seen Saul Williams of yet, it's quite a live act to be had. Not because of Saul's legendary way with words (though I recommend his poetry). Instead, his live musical act is a cross between a video game drama and a war cry- roughly strewn hip-hop and tear-jerking lyrics atop ferocious musical beats that are loud enough to burst your ear drums. As he comments on the world's dismal state, the right to action, he's covered in full Native American gear, feathers and day-glo- ready to lead the charge.

SAUL WILLIAMS's guitarist ready to blast off?

SAUL WILLIAMS's sound chemists....... DJ & Keyboard......

Saul Williams blending hip hop, poetry & intense beats

Evidently someone who digs his battle cry?

Kanye West, spotted behind Saul Williams' stage (in the green pants).

Saul Williams climbing on the DJ desk mid-set

(Doesn't the DJ look like Mr. T's cousin?)

Next Up? The Black Kids.

The Black Kids' Reggie Youngblood.

The Black Kids, mighty popular amongst the minors, reved the crowd up into a sweat.

How to stay cool? Chill by the mist machines............

The Crowd Awaiting Chromeo: Beachballs and Babes.

Nice Legs? Chromeo's P-Thugg behind a creatively decorated keyboard.

A Weiner of Appreciation..............................................

Electrofunkified: Dave1 on guitar.

On the mainstage, Cee-Lo (left) and Dangermouse (right) enter.

Gnarls Barkley's Cee-Lo spiffy in a suit.

KING KONG Loose In Chi-town? A spectator for Girltalk.

Girl Talk's Dj Gregg Willis (pre-audience mayhem)

(See HERE for more on the security issues during the set.)

GIRL TALK Girls.

Sun setting over the city.

Mark Ronson's string section that opened with Eleanor Rigby by The Beatles.

Mark Ronson dapper in a skinny tailored suit.

Special Guest? Rapper Rhymefest from Chicago...

Together they did a duet of Britney Spear's Toxic that put the pop princess to shame.

A Friendly Duo: Mark Ronson (Left) & Rapper Rhymefest (Right).

Last but never least, NINE INCH NAILS left a lasting impression

Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor

Robin Finck looking demonic........................................

Justin Meldal-Johnsen, best known for playing with Beck (as well as Tori Amos, Air, Garbage, and The Foo Fighters- amongst others), joined the NIN crew.

Finck riffing...............................................................

Head like a hole?

In This Twilight.......................

Photos copyright: Faith-Ann Young

Girl Talk = Legal Talk: Security Guards Use Extreme Force Against Spectators At Girltalk At Lollapalooza....

indiepixie — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 22:51:04 GMT

Girltalk (i.e. Pittsburg's racuous DJ Gregg Gillis) made headlines a few months ago when he pulled a Radiohead, allowing users to decide how much to pay for his new album "Feed The Animals" (if you are still interested, see here: http://74.124.198.47/illegal-art.net/girltalk_feedtheanima.ls_/)

Gregg's also always made headlines for his silly, brash stage antics which some of the time involves removing his clothes and majority of the time involves allowing a large pose from the audience onstage to groove to his tunes.

One doesn't blame Mr. Girltalk for inviting such zealous stage distrations to get the crowd on fire. It's infamously hard to get a mid-day crowd dancing- especially as a one-man-and-computer show. (On that note, I've got to hand it to him- unlike some other DJs who tend to sit behind a large set of turntables only to really press play on an i-pod (Danny Masterson I am talking to you) Mr Girltalk ain't afraid to pull out his Panasonic computer and say "dudes, I play on my computer, true, but I play good shit, already-guaranteed crowd pleasers from the 80s, 90s and onward, to which you are gonna dance, to which you are gonna forget about to tomorrow, and for which you will thank me later").

That being said, yesterday at Lollapalooza, his concert started out like any other: kids onstage with him grooving, people smiling, tons of crowd love......................

Crowd Love.

Girltalk's Gregg Gillis with his Panasonic computer...........

Hot girltalk.................

He even brought along stage props including inflatable balloons, confetti and instruments that looks like snow blowers but reeled off yards of toliet paper into the crowd.

Impressive!

But slowly it got ugly. One boy ran through security onstage (a common occurance at most Girltalk shows), only to be hoisted roughly over the shoulder by a heavily-tattoed security guard and gruffly thrown out of the entire festival - probably before he knew what hit him.

Next, another boy was pounded to the ground by two much older cops.

First off, the crowd-on-stage bit is part of Girltalk's bit. The security guards should have been briefed of this and known how to respond.

Second off, an uncanny amount of force was used. Is it really necessary to bolt a little dance-party teenager to the ground after he bops a fence? Is not leading him out enough? Certain security guards seemed to get some sort of sadistic pleasure pouncing LA riot-style on these scrawny, suburban kids.

If there was indeed abuse, i.e. broken bones, sprawns, bloody noses, no doubt there will be some lawsuits in the fray...

Girl Talk = Legal Talk?

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS: LOLLAPALOOZA DAY #2: Devotchka, Spankrock, Lupe Fiasco, Wilco, RATM, AND MORE....

indiepixie — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 18:39:59 GMT

LOLLA DAY 2: August 2nd, 2008.

The heat had simmered down, the hang-over had begun to set in, and everyone's feet were sore. Like grumpy children on the first day of school, the spectators began to dribble in mid-afternoon. Regardless, it took only a few hours, a few beers and an ecclectic mix of Greek/slavic rumblings from Devotchka, Spankrock's raucous rapping and modern Jazz from Jamie Lidell to ease peoples' ears.

By nightfall, however, there could not have been a greater divide: On the Budlight stage in the North, picnicing families splayed out on the grass and curls of weed smoke rose into the sky as Wilco played their relaxing folk rock, while clothed in mariachi outfits. Meanwhile, down South, riots nearly erupted over by the AT & T stage as Rage Against The Machine beasted out a long, grizzly, energy-punched set- with complex light show and Morello's legendary riffing complimenting Zack De La Rocha's vocal quaking.

Photos & commentary by: Faith-Ann Young

DEVOTCHKA: Jeanie Schroder on Double Bass.

DEVOTCHKA's Nick Urata mixing Greek, Slavic, Bolero & Mariachi.

DEVOTCHKA with its impressive line-up of instruments........

DEVOTCHKA: check out the reflection of the crowd.......in the SOUSAPHONE.

BOOKASHADE: who else can start a crazy raging dance party at 3 pm? Berlin-based Bookashade who plays "wake-up-mother-f*cker' electrohouse. The type that awakens even the biggest straggler's senses.

BOOKASHADE

WINNER OF BEST T-Shirt CONTEST OF THE DAY.

The headband is even more priceless.

SPANKROCK looking sober & spiff in button-down shirt.

AMANDA BLANK : redefining playboy bunnies world-wide :)

SPANKROCK: what cartoon caracter does he look like in this shot (with the floating tie)?

It Don't Matter If You're Black Or White: AMANDA BLANK & SPANK.

We were wondering who the hell the dudes are dressed all funky retro backstage.............

Until Jamie Lidell & his band bounded onstage. His eccentric sax player....

Jamie Lidell showing off his experimental soul/jazz melodies.

Jamie Lidell redefining the tux.

Jamie Lidell

Who Be Doing that backfilp????

LUPPPPPPPPPPPPPPE FIASCO (check out his silver shoes)

A one man wonder??

LUPE FIASCO (i.e. Wasalu Muhammad Jaco) West-side representing

Once the Sun set..........................it meant........................

WILCO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jeff Tweedy of Wilco in full mariachi suit.

Nels Cline of Wilco looking a bit like Bowie?

Tweedy strumming.

AND better yet, we caught the rest of the rage.......................imagine energy pulsing through the air- crowd surfing, bottle throwing, excitement mixing with anger...

RAGE ! Zack De La Rocha in Red Skirt. Morello to his right.

People crowding to see Rage on the sidelines....................

This may look like the US border police. Instead, it is the Chicago cops OUTSIDE the Lollapalooza gates on horseback, barricading the spectators from coming in....

Overall, between Wilco on one stage and Rage on the other, and Lupe prior, every type of music taste was blissfully satisfied on saturday. To one day more.........................

Photos copyright: Faith-Ann Young

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS OF LOLLAPALOOZA DAY 1!!!!!!!!Gogol Bordello, Cat Power, Raconteurs, Cool Kids...PLUS private after-party with MGMT!!

indiepixie — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 19:37:49 GMT

LOLLAPALOOZA DAY 1 August 1, 2008

THE KILLS - showed off their regular herion chic.

(I've mentioned them before at Montreux & Les Ardentes- they are more show than substance- but we blame the Kate Moss syndrome (who's dating Jamie Hines and distracting him).)

Louis XIV riffed hard and rockedy....

Louis XIV in a bit too tight a suit tho...

GOGOL BORDELLO unleashed gysy insanity onstage- bounding, bouncing, and cavorting together- while bestowing their rustic, ecclectic rock.

GOGOL BORDELLO

GOGOL BORDELLO perform insane onstage gymnastics.........

GOGOL BORDELLO Definitely one of the most impressive live acts of the day.

A gypsy wanna-be frollicking in the dirt...

DUFFY: An elegant, cute little version of Barbie- with a velvet voice & (sigh) apparent innocence..

CAT POWER had a relaxing rather chilled out set...

CAT POWER Cat Power's Keyboardist evidently didn't have time for a cigarette break...

CAT POEWER The whole Power crew.....

CAT POWER belting.....................

THE RACONTEURS.................a brilliant duo: brothers from another mother, Jack White & Brendan Benson

THE RACONTEURS. Jack White impresses on guitar....

THE RACONTEURS. And then on keyboard & piano...

THE RACONTEURS Still killing it.................

THE RACONTEURS: a new member of the Adam's Family?

CADENCE WEAPON: Cadence Weapon rapped out................

THE COOL KIDS: Before The Cool Kids came onstage........(my buddy Hollywood Holt, another talented rapper from Chi-town on the left).

THE COOL KIDS bringing it..............

THE COOL KIDS's Chuck.....

THE COOL KIDS: Who's number 1?

THE COOL KIDS's Antoine "Mikey Rocks" Reed

RADIOHEAD!!!!!!!!

(sorry folks, pit access was denied......)

THE FINALE: Coincidently as Radiohead performed, fireworks went off in the distance by the waterfront (which happens every two weeks at night fall in Chicago). It was as though the whole event was choreographed....immaculate!

HOME: Heading home in the Windy City..............

POST-FESTIVAL TREATS: In the legendary rock haunt, Double Door, MGMT put on a special private show. Where they killed it. As I mentioned when I caught them this past weekend in NYC at McCarren Park Pool, their set has become much more complex and refined- with more improvisational psychedelic riffs. A new guitarist also adds to a more robust sound...

MGMT's Ben Goldwasser on Keyboard

Andrew VanWyngarden in front, bassist in back.

Overall, it was a lush, energetic kick-off day to an infamously strong festival this year. Next up? Devotchka, Lupe Fiasco, Spankrock, Broken Social Scene, Rage & Wilco. Oh my!

Photos copyright: Faith-Ann Young

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS: MGMT & THE TING TINGS Beat the Rain At McCarren Park Pool, Brooklyn

indiepixie — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 01:21:52 GMT

This past Saturday, was supposed to be the perfect day.

The Ting Tings and MGMT were performing a free show at McCarren Park Pool.

There was to be beer and hot hipsters and good music- the perfect breeding ground (literally). And THEN..................

Tough, wet crowd

It monsooned. Wind gusted through the park and big globs of rain belted down. Hundreds of hipsters ruined their hairdos and drenched their designer duds. The only savoir was one guy from Dell Computers who was handing out multi-colored towels, which soon turned the park into one gigantic free Dell ad- beautiful people draping the terry cloth dramatically around their bodies- as the wind made them shiver.

All we wanted was beer in the sun and here God was (or the Gods were) spitting down on us. As our shoes soaked in goo stage-side, I think everyone started to wonder if it was worth it.

Ting Tings' Katie White

Indeed it was.

First off, the Ting Tings showed Brooklyn the brawn of which they are made- winning over the (young) crowd to infectious (if simple) beats. You’ve heard me talk of them before but what you may not know- is they invited theatrical jump-ropers to jump and split alongside them. It's hard to win over a crowd in the rain- even harder when it is just two people- but they did it, and did it well.

Drummer Jules De Martino

Young Crowd getting revved up!

Jump rope anyone?

"how else will my backpack with my mom's computer stay dry?"

Ahhh the boys loved Katie...........

So much they give big gifts.....

Which she repaid with a cowbell....?

Chick on acid dancing in a cess pool. Enough said.

Yoko Ono called and she wants her look back

Next up MGMT bounded onstage- as the rain began to let up and the weed smoke started to work its wonders. They played a short but sweet set- and left many with shivers (from the music, not the chill).

Ben was the first one onstage- behind his podium of sound. Showing off some 80s retro style. Whatever's mellow

Messing Up Metaphors? It was an apple Andrew...Eve ate an apple....

Somewhere in the act, Andrew unfurled a bundle of ladies pink satin underwear (the kind noone asides from your grandma still wears) and unveiled an orange. No one knows the symbolism but it was cute.

What you don't see here is the bassist did a wicked kick of the beachball- while still playing. impressive

Too cool for school. Are those grills on his necklace? or fake dentures?

An intimate moment amongst thousands....

A look of contentment....Priceless

Electric feel indeed :)

WHO's GOING TO LOLLAPALOOZA??? Need any survival tips? Got any survival tips?! Woooga!

indiepixie — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 22:45:16 GMT

G LOVE @ Lollapalooza 2007

You Moggers got recommended acts (asides from the obvious? Radiohead, Kanye)

I just touched down in Chi-town... and can feel the humidity in the air.

Reminds me of good old Lolla. One of the best festivals state-side....romantically wedged in the center of Chicago....yet on palatial park grounds....

In reminiscing about lolla last year.....I pulled up an old article I wrote for Aced Magazine on the festival...........Thought I'd share-

Hopefully, to spark some of YOUR memories....

And ask if any of you guys had any SUGGESTIONS on how best to survive the 3 days of crazies :)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(asides from wear sunscreen folks....)

________________

How Not to Get Lost in Lolla-Land

Having begun as a tribute festival for Jane"s Addiction in 1991, Lollapalooza today offers amusement for hipsters, band-aids, little toddlers with pseudo-mohawks, as well as grizzly-bearded grandpas. In addition, Lollapalooza has experienced an unprecedented revival in the past two years, and this year was no exception with Interpol, Daft Punk, Ben Harper, Muse, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, LCD Soundsystem, G Love and Specials Sauce rocking heavy.

Plus, better than a cherry on a �Sundae", Pearl Jam closed out the festival Sunday with fireworks and spicy words on the president (excuse the cheap puns). Now that our sunburns have cooled and we have recovered from utter dehydration and blisters, Aced Magazine"s Faith-Ann Young has some time to chronicle a few lessons learned from this year"s festival with tips for next year:

Number 1: Choose Flip-Flops Over Sunscreen. Though idyllically situated in the city center of the sprawling metropolis of Chicago, the Lollapalooza Festival is a vertically-oriented festival. Two large paths to the various stages extend like wings to the north and south of the main entrance, Buckingham Fountain.

In other words, you have to hoof it about one mile (the park itself is 312 acres of crying-out-loud) in chaffing, mid-west summer heat to get from one end to the other. (In contrast, Coachella is in a circular formation, so you can bounce like a lotto ball in spin-cycle around from stage to stage with little difficulty.)

Lollapalooza is also three days long, with sets beginning at 11 a.m. and the last shows ending around 10 or 11 p.m. So, while it doesn�t matter what kicks you are to relish from the 72-hours of heart-pounding, adrenaline-raising rock, rap and punk, unless you want to scare away neighbors or suffer from paralysis of the toes-in-heels, I highly recommend flip-flops.

Number 2: Follow Perry. Perry Farrell is a demi-god at Lolla. If you have never heard of him, I suggest buying his oral autobiography (though you�ll have to read it to know why it is called Whores). Former Jane�s Addiction member and founder of the festival back in 1991, the god, formerly know as Perry, has ascended through the years of grudge and heroin addiction. To this day he appears to love and relish each live performance. Follow him and you are destined to see all the glam and glitter of the festival as every artist, executive, and fan come to pay their respect.

Number 3: Schedules Are For Wusses. So I finished watching the Cold War Kids beast through their live set with Matt Aveiro spitting, Nathan Willet crooning then slamming on the piano, and Jonnie Russell and Matt Maust prolonging each euphoric moment with riveting guitar and base licks. But next the options are endless. Should I try to sneak a peak at the new Kentucky-based, attitude-filled Cage the Elephant, or begin a trek to the North end to watch the Roots, or the south end to watch Clap Your Hands Say Yeah?

Sure, everyone has made more difficult decisions in life, but these little tiffs were cause for serious beer-throwing, cat-scratching, and spitting over a period of three days. So for you band-aids, if you are traveling in a big group, note you will have to make sacrifices at Lolla next year. As long as those sacrifices are not missing Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs enthralling gothic stage theatrics, don�t shed a tear, nurse your beer, and rest assured your day will be song-filled and fruit-full at each turn.

Number 4: Take Risks. With 130 bands, Lollapalooza harnesses some of the best old and new music this organic, iTunes-infested world has to offer. I recommend checking out the line-up beforehand, surfing MySpace, testing out some of the tunes, and then checking out some of the newbies. This sounds obvious, but I can�t describe how many people simply lounged by the big stages on either end all day long, without venturing to the smaller sets where you are within breathing distance of new talent.

I got a better bang for the buck by traipsing to see Chicago�s new progressive rock harbingers Wax On Radio (check out Aced Magazine�s Review ), the weeping arrangements of indie pop band Acqueduct, the naughty, salacious slurs of New York�s sequin-bra disco DJ Lady Gaga, and the addictive hard rock hooks of MINK.

Number 5: Girls, wear skirts with caution. It ain�t called the Windy City for nothing. Sure Amy Winehouse pulled it off in gingham black-and-white, but she was chilling in the VIP section and her private trailer before being whisked on stage, while I had to battle through the wind tunnels of downtown just to buy Kleenex or tequila. Oh and boys, I recommend following the girls in skirts...

Number 6: Enjoy the BigMacs Too. While enjoying the new streams of music ing�nues and relaxing in the sun, it is critical not to miss the bands that made you love music, covet your first �tape� or �cd�, roll down the windows with a radio-blasting high, smuggle into concerts underage, dress like jail-bait, or sport black eyeliner.

Silverchair brought me back to 1995, when I had the poster of Frogstomp in our gym lockers, or Gavin Rossdale who was my computer password. Though hindered by health issues, Silverchair remains a live treat with raw talent that has not fizzled.

I was hauled off stage by security guards after sneaking on to watch Daft Punk unleash synthesized jubilation over a hypnotized crowd (even up close you can�t see through their robot suits). Muse made the floor quake. I associate the Roots to at least one fiery night with my first love and a jeep. And, how many people wept during Pearl Jam...I lost count.

Need I say more, except Lolla we love you?

(here's the whole article & picts here).

PS If you're around, maybe we can do an adhoc mog meet!?

PPS This is what Perry Farrell had to say about Lolla this year while we chatted at SXSW:

To I-Phone or Not To I-Phone- That is the Question!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

indiepixie — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:49:23 GMT

For almost 3 years now, I have been carrying the ugliest accessory known to man. It’s gray, boxy, and awkward- so un-GQ; it’s probably been banned in Japan and scoffed at in Sweden. It’s hideous, heavy, and doesn't 'slide' into anything without making its presence known.

Not even that, but if we just for a minute pretend looks don’t matter, it doesn’t even have substance beneath its steely glare. Though I say it's reliable, I am lying like a chick settling for a crack addict: The truth is it forgets shit; it shuts off mid-conversation; and often, mostly when I want to take most, it refuses to talk, blink or budge.

Our history of abuse is so raw- I don’t even have insurance any more on the thing because I’ve surpassed the amount of ‘free replacements’ the company will send me. (Ok – it may have to do with my sado-mascochistic malevolence for anything technological- computers, i-pods, remote controls watch out).

But the alltime low- the real turning point is when I got this email from my good friend Paul:

"My blackberry should be arriving in the mail tomorrow. i feel so badly that i left you alone with your treo. i hope, one day, you'll find it in your heart to forgive me. if it makes you feel better i'll let you pound mine to death a pretty good hammer.

-Paul "

See in our group of friends, Paul and I were on the same team- partners in a self-effacing crime; we would scoff together at our stupidity for buying these peice of shit devices and then giggle with glee when we'd pick up one of the twins by mistake.

Now I am alone, my contract is up, and there's actually a warm, glowing beacon of hope in sight- in the sign of a cross-roads..............

So I ask you my trusty moggers, my friends, my sages of sound,

BLACKBERRY

Or

I POD.

A couple more facts to toy with:

1) The price is not really am issue any more- know that Apple came out with the cheaper model.

2) I need internet. fast and efficient. to talk to you :)

3)I like pretty things. I am left-brain. A creative type. A photographer. A woman of many words. I won't be doing calculus on the thing.

4)I am with verizon wireless so I'll have to change plans which could be a bitch.

What are you on?

Is the I-Phone as cool as Steve Jobs purports it to be?

Is it better to be a rebel of the times and be sleeker by going with the non-sleek (i.e. the functional, conservative, professional blackberry?)

What's a better toy?

Any guidance would be much much much appreciated :)

Warped Tour Photos!!! Plus Highlights & Lowlights from Gym Class Heros, From First To Last, and (doh) Katy Perry

indiepixie — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:56:06 GMT

The Warped Tour 2008 @ Nassau Coliseum

The annual traveling music festival, The Warped Tour, is intended to be a place where "rebellious" teens can head-bang to punk rock, crowd-surf, mosh, watch extreme sports, and (fingers crossed) get laid. Started in 1994 as a skateboarding and punk rally, Warped continues to invade parks and stadiums throughout the wild United States. And as predicted, the audience is majority teenaged, with a predilection for Mohawks, make-outs, and music- the loud kind.

This Saturday, The Warped Tour took over Nassau Collisseum - presenting bands like Reel Big Fish, Angels & Airwaves, Charlotte Sometimes, From First To Last, Against Me, Beat Union, Cobra Starship, Shwayze and Gym Class Heros. Despite some highlights though, the 2008 Warped Tour seemed even more candy-coated and pop-centric (with bubble-gum princess Katy Perry headlining) than in years past. It's a heavily-endorsed commercial machine- complete with a gleaming old school Cadillac on display for the new film "Pineapple Express" and corporate logos at every turn. That said, this is America after all, so it didn't stop thousands of teenagers from getting riled up and rowdy.

Mean Girls.

Just asking to be beat up.

On Left, a creative T-shirt; on Rt, a desparate mating call.

Aww. Kids these days. Follow the Arrows.

The good old, subtle ass-grab.

From First to Last's Matt Manning on Bass

MOST RIOTOUS BAND: Though their myspace claims they sound like the "Inside of a Prosthetic Leg," (good to know they have a sense of humor), From First to Last (FFTL)'s sound is hard, fast, and furious punked rock. Keep in mind they named a prior single,"Ride the Wings of Pestilence;" - they are not afraid to ambush grotesque or controversial territory. Good thing too because at the Warp Tour, the more furious you can make a crowd the better. They had the teenagers crowd-surfing and the mosh-pits rioting.

From First to Lasts' Lead singer Matt Good. The ladies love him.

http://www.myspace.com/fftl

Mosh Out of My Way.

TREND OF THE YEAR: For this year's Warp Tour, a new, infectious trend sparked from a couple videos on Youtube. Everywhere kids are covered with permanent marker. Girls and boys alike on one arm write "Free Kisses" and on the other, "Free Hugs." (If they are really creative, they inscribe a sweet message on their back like this guy.) The day is thus spent accruing and tabulating such free gifts.

Funnily enough it works...At least the free hugs part.

BEST ORGANIZATION TACTIC: above.

The Warped Tour is infamously organizationally challenged. The schedule is not published beforehand so when the line-up is finally announced the day of the festival, it is posted only in one place. Unless you have photographic memory, you are relegated to just following the crowd and hoping to traipse to your favorite bands. Luckily the chick above was thrifty and used her body as a bulletin board.

BEST THROWING DEVICE: While plastic bottles came in close second, toliet paper still maintained as best object to throw in a concert. Not incredibly original, but it makes for a good kodak moment.

BEST GOOFY ENTERTAINMENT: Ludo gets the cake for an amusing, fun live performance. It's not so surprising since their name from a character in the film Labyrinth, they all wear capes, and they have one guy who plays "moog" (aka the name of a type of analog synth..rhymes with vogue). But on they came in with spunk and attitude- and with lighter rock/ska than a typical Warp bands. Their music has easy hooks, plentiful electric guitar riffs, with emphasis on the humrous lyrics and story telling- ala Weezer.

Caped capers in Ludo

http://www.myspace.com/ludorock

MOST MEDIOCRE PERFORMANCE: Gym Glass Heros had the chance to really throw the audience into a whirl. The ENTIRE population of the Warp Tour flooded to their stage as they performed midday- ready and willing to be hoisted off their feet by GCH's hip/hop/rock. But either they seemed tired or just too loose- GCH's retained little momentum throughout their set and few people rioted or appeared riveted. You'd expect more from a band with a hand-full of hits and industry accolades. Our only guesses are due to their rather spastic brand of hip-hop rock, perhaps the crowd was confused on how to mosh? Or maybe Travis McCoy is more shy onstage these days since being arrested for assaulting a fan (hitting him on head with a microphone).(see Rollingstone).

Gymclass Hero's Travis McCoy

PAIGE WOOD (above)

BEST NEWBIE BAND: Next up, I caught Paige Wood perform w. a full band. Granted, I've been listening to Paige since she was performing in dank Irish pubs in NYC. While the Warped Tour seemed like an odd pairing with her brand of indie rock, she brought a fiesty amount of stage theatrics, gymnastic tricks & talent to the stage. With an ethereal blonde mane & predilection for wearing 1960s/70s retro bodysuits - she stands out from the other boys-in-black on the Warped Tour. However, her velvety voice embodies something between a sexed-up Tinkerbell and that pipe-smoking little red deviless who perches on your shoulder luring you into something illicit. With a gutsty full band as well, she brings much more slick rock attitude than the fated female singer-songwriter stereotype. Having recently emerged with some more electronic-dancehall-esque beats, she had the young crowd easily heated. Check her out here and let me know what you think. She's got what it takes and then some more.

http://www.myspace.com/paigewoodmusic

Hair Do or Hair Don't?

Kayne really didn't think of the repercussions of wearing those slatted sunglasses around. They are omnipresent at ever festival these days. Everywhere.

All American Rejects (a lot of em).

BEST FORIEGN IMPORT: Beat Union from Manchester. Hard angry pulsing punk rock. If you had eardrums before, you won't after their set. If you weren't angry before their set, you will be afterwards. Inspired by The Clash and The Police, they've got an attitude that's infectious.

http://www.myspace.com/beatunion

MOST PROBABLE NEXT HIT BAND: SHWAYZE with his Sidekick the infamous Cisco ADLER

If you haven't heard of him yet, you will hear of Shwayze in the near future. Um and not because the LA rapper has got a new reality show with MTV called Buzzin'. It's more because his music is a hit to the commerical G-spot. Nothing incredibly dare-devil or defiant- but it contains sun-drenched beats with easy-slow rap drizzled over top. After all, it's rap from Malibu not from Compton. For a taste and feel, here's some lyrics: "I move on like the greyhound buss......Met her at a backyard block party by the bar. She was buzzin' all over me."

Did I mention that he travels with the infamous I-dated-Mischa-Barton-and-like-to-show-of-my-Cck musician/rapper/socialite Cisco Adler? They had the crowd dreamy, wild, and ballistic - appropriately as the sun set in the West.

Cisco Alder rapping.................

http://www.myspace.com/shwayze

LOUDEST CHRISTIAN ROCK: Anberlin

At an event like the Warp tour, you can tell the commercial success of a band usually by the number of moshers and crowd surfers. Well Anberlin live is a bloody breeding factory for accidents- people pummeling through the sky, heads crashing into one another, bottles thrown, energies up. Their breed of loud, tenuous alternative rock is not for the faint of heart- Weirdly enough, two of their members, lead singer Stephen Christian and bassist Deon Rexroat (real name) used to be in a Christian Punk band together called "SaGoh (Servants After God's Own Heart). Yikes! Isn't Christian Punk an oxymoron? Regardless, Anberlin is still characterized often as a Christian-based band and the lead singer (last name Christian; catching a trend?) says that religion affects every aspect of his daily life. Good news for him; based on their style of playing, God is hearing them loud and clear.

http://www.myspace.com/anberlin

BEST COMEBACK KING: REEL BIG FISH

They are back, they are touring, they are funny, they have some songs you know and love, and it's an easy sell. How we can convince the other ska bands to make a comeback is another story.

http://www.myspace.com/reelbigfish

For more WARPED TOUR survival tips, check out Buzznet's Warped Survival list:

BOTTOMLINE: Considering the state of the union, you would think teen rebels would have plenty of targets at which to scream obscenities names and sure-fire reasons to mosh about. Between housing foreclosures, sky-rocketing fuel costs, the never-ending war in Iraq, Bush & the upcoming election, bands also have their pick of offenses to hurl at the susceptible audience of adolescents....to spark a light and ignite the engines of change.

However, just because a kid sports a Mohawk or bands play loud, furious music does not mean the songs are political anthems, like the old days of anarchistic punk. Instead, the Mohawked tend to be suburban rebels without real causes- their Mohawks gelled back with generic-brand-extra-hold hairspray; their ripped jeans are bought at K-Mart.

In tandem, the Warp Tour has become safe playground that allows these feisty kids to get dirty and listen to some of commercial jizz under the guise of 'punk rock.' There are some golden exceptions (highlighted above), but generally, there's not much passion or (real) punk behind the noise. To maintain marketable at such a mammoth scale, the tour has been forced to let on some more questionable acts of talent (for more, see post: WHO THE FCK IS KATY PERRY) that guarantees ticket sales. It's money over mojo. But as long as the kids are getting free kisses and the chance to mosh around a bit, who really cares? Perhaps America is not ready for rebels with real causes. Or at least, a big coliseum ain't the place to look for em.