Music Art Culture Resilience

April 2020 Vol. 2, Issue 4.

Dweezil Zappa A Child of Invention spends a lifetime redefining the 20 experience of musical space. And we talk to him. Candlebox Success, roller coasters, and the Seattle grunge scene by 24 Candlebox’s frontman Kevin Martin.

www.radioradiox.com FREE A Note to Our Readers We enjoy bringing you our paper every month. It’s a great chance to drive around and check out the bars, restaurants, coffeeshops.. you get it. So obviously it sucks for us right now too. This is the first wholly digital edition of Xperience Monthly. And it is pretty kickass, we hope you like it. WWe know that our advertisers are struggling to keep afloat right now, and we decided to just put our last month’s ads in at no charge. This pandemic won’t last forever, and our friends should be remembered through this time. Also, many of them are still open in some form. Please enjenjoy this digital edition. And go through our ads. Please excuse the outdated information - call them first. We make no guarantee that any business listed in here is going to honor any special from before the pandemic. We do gaurantee that if they’re open, they deserve your business. Enjoy the first Pandemic Edition of Xperience.

Page 4 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Uncle Vito and the Flow

Dweezil Zappa Is music in the blood? If you ask Dweezil Zappa, he might say it’s more in the sweat.

Page 24

Photo provided. Uncle Vito, for so many years, was synonymous with PYX 106. Candlebox A fixture on PYX 106 for decades, Uncle Vito has a lesson in how to The epicenter of a whole sneak great music past the goalie and onto the playlist. generation’s music scene was in Seattle. So was Kevin Martin and his band. or at least the leg we’ve joined listeners that goes beyond the Page 20 By Liam Sweeny them on. distance between a congested I’d never heard of Gary Lo- highway and the booth in the sta- catelli until about five years ago, tion. In your time on PYX, you ome of our favorite peo- when he retired from radio sta- became a beloved figure to many. ple are nameless. Okay, so tion PYX 106. Of course I, and Now you’re a listener. How is the Observations and Ramblings...... 44 Sthat’s not totally true; they pretty much everyone else in the grass on the other side of the have names, but we don’t know Capital Region, have heard of fence? Sassy Says...... 41 them. We know their personal- “Uncle Vito.” They are one in the U V: I love retirement and ities. We know their voices and same. have never looked back! Honestly, their turns-of-phrase, and the We sit down with Uncle Vito, I have never even turned the sta- throw off jokes with which they and we discuss getting a Zorro tion on once since I left. If there is spice their repertoires. mask that fits. one thing I miss it’s sharing good It’s such that when we hear RRX: There’s a pretty close music with others. There is so their real names, it’s usually relationship that develops be- much good music that a majority when they’ve ended their quests, tween radio personalities and Continued on Page 5 April 2020 Page 5 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 4 heard before. Of course, in continuous. important. classic rock, and in a large RRX: Radio has changed a lot RRX: I remember your brief of people will never hear because station, there are expectations – over the years. We have Spotify stint as ‘Ranger Danger’ on it didn’t and still doesn’t get air- what people want to hear. How and iTunes, and not to mention WXXA in the ‘90s. He was a love- play. Over my career I tried to were you able to bring something that new cars have the internet. able example of what not to do in share as much of that music as I new to people without veering too With so many choices in terms of the world, and it looked like a lot possibly could. One thing I want- much from their comfort zones? what’s out there, what there is to of fun. It’s illustrative of the in- ed to do in retirement is give back U V: I have always believed listen to, how does a radio station terconnection between radio and in some way and I’ve been able to there is a flow to music and that with a broadcast tower stay rel- TV. Do you think, at least locally, do that through our local Senior comes from the tempo and mood evant? Is it just making yourself collaborations like that are easier, Center. I joined a few months of songs. If you go with the flow available online, or does it take or tougher? Are there more barri- after retiring and soon became you can introduce the listener to something more? ers or less? President there. In that role I something new and unfamiliar as U V: Being online certain- U V: Not really sure how to an- have not only be able to do things long as it goes with the flow. For ly helps, but I think you need to swer this one. What I can tell you for the seniors in my community, an example say I wanted to play a have that local touch. These days is my radio personality got me but also lead our group in vari- song by the Cure on PYX, some- my favorite radio station is my the TV job. And then the TV job ous fundraisers and donations for thing they didn’t do. I would play local station that is staffed with ended the radio personality for a things in our community. it after a song by Lynyrd Skynyrd, live DJs and covers local news while. That was because I was a RRX: Being on the radio because it would break the flow of and events. I believe people like kiddie host and some of the ris- means having your hands on the music and seem like a slap in to be able to pick up the phone qué stuff I did on the radio didn’t some great music. the face. But if I played a song by and actually talk to the person fit well with that. I think under Sometimes, it’s something the Doors and went into the Cure they are listening to. It’s that hu- great that most people haven’t song after that the flow would be man connection that I believe is Continued on Page 6

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Continued from Page 5 some children from the shelf Anyone you have your eye on above the cradle to the all-night- musically? Any honors to bestow the right circumstances though er before they submitted their to anyone? Educate, enlighten, they could really benefit each oth- perience dissertation. You’ve been there emote – the floor is yours. er. Not sure if that really answers for people through their happiest U V: I really like the new Pearl Monthly your question, but that’s what I and darkest moments, and you Jam song “Dance of the Clairvoy- have. could’ve walked right by them in ant”, looking forward to hearing RRX: One thing I’m sure you the store. Anything ever happen the new album when it comes Art Fredette loved from your time on PYX Publisher that drove this home for you? out. If I was still on air I would be was making people light up with U V: Actually, quite a few trying to stress the importance giveaways. Stickers, t-shirts, and Liam Sweeny times. Many times I’ve been told of our upcoming election. I used Editor-In-Chief let’s not forget concert tickets – I by someone that they listened to to try to do that through humor Creative Director know from what we do how much me and that it made their day. I on my show, humor that would fun it is to hook people up. And Kit Haynes have actually received a couple of stimulate and make people think. there was a culture behind call- Associate Editor emails from people who listened It’s important that people become ing in and winning stuff – do you and said their lives were headed informed before they vote. You’re think that culture still exists in Dick Beach in the wrong direction and be- not going to get that way from our ‘on-demand’ world? Staff Geek cause of something I said on air what you see on Facebook, in a U V: I honestly don’t. it seems they turned things around. I can’t meme or a far left or right blog. to have disappeared. Even in my tell you how much those emails Search out the facts from solid Contributors final couple of years on air it was meant to me! sources before checking that box diminishing. Rob Smittix RRX: This is where you an- on Election Day. RRX: You were on air for swer the questions I didn’t ask. Josh Reedy thirty years. Your voice has raised Amy Modesti Gary Locatelli, a.k.a “Uncle Vito.” Photo provided. Stephanie Bartik Fred Aseel Sassy Auburn

Jeff Spauling

Jetta Intelisano

Melody Morris

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1397 Broadway, Watervliet, NY 12189 April 2020 Page 9 Music Art Culture Revolution Music and Mountain Ingenuity Between the ‘cabin in the woods’ and the rivers and streams of song that run down the Ad- irondacks, Northern Borne show that making music means more than just finding notes.

I sit down with Northern Borne, and we discuss polishing musical spoons. RRX: Northern Borne hails from Washington County, with its heart in the Adirondacks. We haven’t covered a lot of bands from north of the dial. So maybe you can play ambassador. What does the north country have that sparks such a passion in you all. Is it just scenic vistas, or is there something more? NB: The scenery, history and lore of the Adirondacks makes a compelling backdrop to a good story. The rich history of mining and logging, the early develop- ment of the railroad and the har- diness of the people play into a lot of our songs. It’s one of those rare undefined places- wild at heart, it appeals to the very nature of who we are and where we came from. There is a certain intangible ele- ment there that is difficult to put into words- a particular sense of being at peace with nature yet Photo provided. struggle with the difficulties it (l - r) John Wensley, Sarah Babushkin, Shows Leary. also offers. John was raised in Albany By Liam Sweeny some time in the Adirondacks Northern Borne is a band of and spent a lot of time in the Ad- this spring, summer, or fall – the honest ingenuity. They are blue- irondacks camping as a kid. He purity. The air and the water and grass and roots music and blues, grew to love it there and wanted eneath the deep-woods when you see the ingenuity of glued together with some jam to be part of the mountains, so mosquitoes and the mud what passes for camp chairs, you band. They are Sarah Babushkin, he eventually built a cabin in the Bfrom the hike lies the bed- can add deep honesty to purity Shows Leary, and John Wensley, woods. Ironically, as John was rock of why you might spend and soak it all in. and their sound in incredible. Continued on Page 10 Page 10 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued on Page 10 handing us their cards. Being approach to putting our name out lived on his ranch The Circle B in that you’re bluegrass and that there and providing something Chestertown for a time and after working on building his cabin, you’re from up north, do you have physical past the online content. we met, we boarded our horses Sarah was working on a ranch to do extra to book in the Capital RRX: You won an award from there. Chris and his family lived just a stone’s throw away- though Region? Dorn Space Theater, for the best and worked on that ranch for over it wasn’t until much later that the NB: We are still navigating original local song of the year in 50 years. Back in the 1950’s, Dude duo would meet. It was in that our way through the entire book- 2019. Can you tell us about this ranches were a big part of the cabin that Northern Borne was ing process and are just starting song? And also, in speaking of Adirondacks and quite prevalent. created as a duo. to look into playing more in the awards in general, is there a rec- He was a true Adirondack Cow- RRX: You describe your mu- Albany/Troy/Schenectady areas. ognition landscape in the Adiron- boy and we are glad that we can sic as a mix of bluegrass, sto- We have a few shows coming up dacks like there is in the Capital help to tell his story and touch on rytelling, blues, roots, and jam this month (April) at Corcoran’s District? How do bands up north, the rich history if the Adirondack band. I’ve always loved the sto- Towpath Tavern in Waterford including Northern Borne, get Dude Ranches of yesterday. rytelling aspect of music; it taps and The Schenectady Distilling their due? We aren’t certain about awards into the truth, most prevalent in Company. We just opened for NB: We are very proud of in the North Country, most of the acoustic music, of ‘have instru- Beg, Steal or Borrow at one of our this song, not just because of the bands there seem to get their rec- ment, will travel’ – you can go favorite haunts, the Rustic Barn award, but mostly because we ognition mainly through word of anywhere with a guitar and banjo in Troy, which is also where we were able to capture our dear mouth. and tell a story. Does Northern met our bass player Shows Leary. friend in a song- appropriate- RRX: Kicking back on the Borne ever go ‘off-grid’ and just Shows is a welcome addition, and ly named Adirondack Cowboy. ‘storytelling’ question… the Ad- play? brings in a strong rock influence The song is a true story based on irondacks is a land of change. NB: That is the beauty of what that has really helped us hone a dear friend named Chris Bog- we do and we often play un- in our sound. Receiving positive gia that we lost to cancer. Sarah Continued on Page 11 plugged. The band got its start feedback from open mics like the relatively off-the-grid in the cabin Rustic Barn and the Black Bear that John built. There was no TV in Watervliet pushed us to reach in the cabin, and phone service out to those areas initially. We was very limited. It was nice to honestly weren’t sure how well we have a space that encouraged cre- would be received at first since ativity and provided a good back- a lot of the music seemed to be drop to the stories that unfolded blues/rock and we are so differ- in a lot of the music. The band ent. But when we had the crowd also started acoustically, with dancing and having a good time, Sarah on the mandolin and John it gave us a boost of confidence to on the banjo. We were camping in try and expand past the outlying Vermont and just picking around venues that we are used to, such our campfire when the camp di- as the Argyle Brewing Company rector came over and asked us to in our hometown of Cambridge, come back and play a gig there! Unihog in Hoosick Falls and We were very new and that expe- Hicks Orchard to name a few. rience made us think about per- Regardless of where you ask to forming live. be booked, however, it seems the Outdoor Deck • 15 Draft Lines • Great Food • Private Parties RRX: I remember the first process is pretty much the same. time I saw Northern Borne. It Places look to see that you are Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday & Sunday was at one of the station shows, playing other gigs and check your Open at 4PM Open at 3PM Open at 2PM and Sarah was handing out your music out online to make sure card. I still have it; it’s nice. And you would work for their venue. 403 RIVER STREET - TROY I don’t often see bands hands The business cards are a formal www.RyansWake.com April 2020 Page 11 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 10 cool! They hand make these mics on three years ago now. This a similar vein as us- The North from recycled materials with an area has a diverse music scene, and South Dakotas. Be certain There’s development, and even excellent condenser mic at its and places not to miss would be not to miss our good friends and though it’s a park, the areas that core. Since we purchased ours, Argyle Brewing Company and extremely talented individuals aren’t government owned are we have realized how many oth- Unihog in Hoosick Falls- both Keanan Stark and Orion Kribbs growing, expanding, in some cas- er artists utilize similar versions of which host local and national when they play. Also be sure to es going the opposite way. What from the same company. It helps acts. Be sure to check out the East check out the re-located band is the current story of the Ad- define who we are and the style Bound Throwdown in Septem- from Troy to Shushan Bleak Little irondacks; not in words, but what we play. We recycle a lot of tradi- ber, put on by a Capital Region World. would the song sound like? tional tunes and make them our Favorite Band, East Bound Jesus, NB: To us it would need to be own just like Josephine has recy- and another local favorite also in haunting. At one time the Adiron- cled parts. She looks the part and dacks were vibrant with indus- adds to our character. She can be try. Mining and logging, railroad finicky, however, due to the con- Hours development and tourism, the denser, and it does not work well beginning of the great camps and for every venue. It’s been a learn- Mon - Sat the history of the dude ranches. ing experience for sure. When the Northway was built, it RRX: Here’s where you an- 11am - 8pm bypassed a lot of the small towns swer the question we didn’t ask. that had previously thrived. Less Any love to give o’er the moun- tourism coupled with changes tains? People/places/things we (518) 235-2323 in industry led to a more small should check out? Enlighten, edu- towns and businesses struggle to cate, emote – the floor is yours. 787 & Dyke Ave, Cohoes, NY 12047 keep their doors open. The ghosts NB: When we were first start- of the mountains and the struggle ing out we were traveling through of the local people mixed with the Schroon Lake and happened to beauty of the natural surround- stop for dinner at Witherbee’s ings incorporates a pretty but Carriage House. They happened ghostly sound. to have music that night, the fab- RRX: One thing that is true ulous Tom Brady was playing. of almost every musician or band There was a large group at a ta- that we’ve interviewed, and that ble that night that took us under is the love everyone has for their their wing and we were instantly instruments. Be it a war-battered part of the music scene. Wither- harmonica or an armory of elec- bee’s became our local haunt and tric guitars, there’s a connection. we frequented the open mic run Sometimes it’s love/hate. I bring by Mark Piper for many years. A this up because I notice a vocal couple others to check out would mic that Sarah uses that’s really be Bar Vino in and distinct. Any tale to it? Basil and Wicks both in North NB: That mic is an Ear Trum- Creek. There are so many tal- pet Labs Microphone named ented musicians that play in the Josephine. We first saw a simi- area that are worth checking out lar mic used at a bluegrass festi- TNT”, The Willy Playmore Band val band competition. All of the and George Parrot ,with whoever instruments and vocals came he plays with, the man is amaz- through the one mic with sur- ing. We moved to Cambridge prising clarity. Plus, it looked in Washington County going Page 12 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

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Sean Quell PAUL MURRAY 169 rEMSEN sTREET (518) 268-7216 (518) 698-9181 195 River Street, troy cOHOES, ny 12047 BARBER BARBER April 2020 Page 13 Music Art Culture Revolution A New Record Label with No Limits

Brian Chiappinelli (B Chiaps) Coming together with a shared purpose is what makes Photo provided. bands more than just musicians. Record label ‘Almost Never Dead and artist Brian Chiappinelli have brought acts together in the same way.+

take a more active role in cross pro- By Rob Smittix moting our art with each other’s fans and friends. All with the goal in mind of helping each other grow because we he Capital Region has put out so much really believed in each other’s music. music over the years and no I don’t Once this base Tcare much about Tiny Tim. We have started to build up through live so much potential here and when artists and shows and we got our bearings, I de- musicians get together and start making cided I really wanted to take what I noise it inspires the rest of us to step it up. had learned and be able to help other That’s why I thought it would be a great idea artists who could benefit from what we to speak with Brian Chiappinelli (B. Chaps) of were building. Almost Never Dead (Record Label) and find RRX: Nowadays more and more out what it’s all about. musicians are starting to take a D.I.Y. RRX: Brian, thank you so much for tak- approach to the music industry, al- ing the time. I’m just curious, what’s your ti- though I’ve found many smaller inde- tle at Almost Never Dead? pendent labels that have a lot to offer Brian: I’m an artist, a producer and the music fans. Tell us how Almost Never founder of the (collective) record label. Dead will stand out from the rest. RRX: First off, it is always great to see Brian: I believe Almost Never artists in our area making contributions. But Dead will stand out (and already does) you have decided to take it to the next level. because we are not putting ourselves Tell us about Almost Never Dead and what in a box. We work with any style of you’re all about. music from lofi, to punk, to hip hop, to Brian: Almost Never Dead started as a alt rock. If we see momentum, we will hive mind collective effort between a bunch pursue it and have a very able mind- of us who were a group of friends, each with ed team who is anxious and willing to our own separate musical endeavors. learn about new tools, trends, and tac- Overtime, our projects started overlapping tics to bring visibility and opportuni- more and more, and with that so did our au- ties to the artists we work with. diences. It was sort of passive at the time but RRX: So how many artists are you we realized that lots of the people who were working with at the moment? And coming to our shows appreciated all differ- Who? Brian: Right now we work with ent styles music. It just took introducing the acts in the right environment. We decided to Continued on Page 14 Page 14 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 13 You can expect to see a Never Dead clothing line soon as well as 6 artists (officially): Soo Do Koo, some new artists and collabora- B. Chaps, Bad tive projects. Mothers, Mic Lanny, Fine RRX: Where can people find Grain and Cool Right? you online? RRX: You recently had a label Brian: Best place to find all launch party at the Low Beat in things A.N.D. is on our Facebook Albany, any highlights you’d like or the Instagram page to share? @almostneverdead Brian: The label launch show Recent /Upcoming Releases was a great time! We had a won- Soo Do Koo- Mallard (avail- derful turnout and packed up able everywhere) the lowbeat. We also promote Mic Lanny - Lanny Bars prod. Vegan Delicatessen a safe space for our shows and Devin B (available everywhere) fro anyone attending. It’s an at- Mic Lanny - Salt for Sugar Student Discounts mosphere of camaraderie and Wounds (available everywhere) Available positivity. There are video re- B. Chaps x Big O - Parking Vi- caps the Almost Never Dead fan olations (available everywhere) pages as well as on the artists’ Fine Grain - Cold Dead Eyes personal pages. I’d also like to (available everywhere) TROY ALBANY mention that we are now collab- Bad Mothers -Currently hit- 4th & Ferry Street 227 Lark Street orating with the local streetwear ting the studio at Headroom in brand, Null Void. This was our Philly to record a new album first event bringing in outside (release date TBD) produced by creatives/businesses and trying Scoops Dardaris to expand past just music and entertainment. RRX: What does Almost Nev- er Dead have in store for music fans for in the near future? Brian: People can expect a ton of new content forms constantly. We are fully self-sufficient for all of our content creation and are only going to take it to new levels.

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Owners 251 River Street Troy, NY 12180 $3 Off for (518) 326-5818 Orders Over $20 April 2020 Page 17 Music Art Culture Revolution When the Record is Your Lineage As music transcends those who perform it, group Off The Record play nearly as often as we do. RRX: Because of? demonstrates that their groove traces through a proud lineup. JP: Size of the venue. GD: And the money, venues are like - this is what we pay, I don’t care if you bring twenty By Melody Morris guys in or three guys in. JP: There’s some jokes that there are some gigs we play where was first introduced to Off I lose money, but I love the envi- The Record Trio when my fi- ronment. I love the space so I do I ance’s family surprised us by it. But between my hair, make up, having them play our engagement clothes, my hair I’m usually out party. They played their classic before the gig even starts. 60’s tunes and blew us all away. BR: We’ve been extremely Currently the band is made up of fortunate that the cultures we’ve Joanna Palladino; lead vocalist, brought into this band contin- Geo Doody; guitarist, and Bob ue to be simpatico with ours. Resnick; percussionist. Whenever you enter into a new RRX: You formed in 2009, band, it’s a different culture. They with Lou Sansivero as the gui- have their friends, their ways tarist. Eleven years is a long time of making decisions, their ways for a band to be together. What’s of handling sounds, their way your secret? of handling crisis’. We’ve been JP: Yes, we’ve been togeth- unbelievably lucky, we start- er longer than the Beatles. One ed with Lou, he was one of our thing that has helped is having best friends, it made it easier, we someone who doesn’t mind be- knew his culture. We were fortu- ing a third wheel while Bob and nate with Billy and his culture, I get grumpy at rehearsal at each between his wife and his friends other. Photo provided. and the way he handles things GD: I like being second, third (l-r) Bob Resnick, Geo Doody, Luke McNamee, Joanna Palladino. was simpatico with us. And it has banana. I have always liked continued with Geo. Being able playing in bands, I do a lot of have to be a Yankees fan. GD: It’s like work, work, work. to not only hang out and have a solos but there’s such a dynam- JP: You can’t leave the band, JP: Die - in Albany. good time, it’s also being able to ic about playing in a band. In or- you have to retire. You have to GD: Yes handle communications. der to do it well you have to have move out of state to retire from JP: So once he said that we Whether one of us had a long people that can play but you also the band. When we first hooked said, “You’re in. You’re next for work day, or the sound doesn’t have to have people you like. You up with Geo we asked him if he us because we’ve gone through work at a gig. Nobody has lost gotta have fun, people you can was going to retire anytime soon, two guitarists because they’ve their shit, which is unf*cking be- hang out with. moving anywhere. Geo said he’s moved”. lievable. Another reason we’ve JP: We have things in com- born and raised in Albany, I’ll die BR: We know that if we were stayed together is because we’re mon. We’re Yankee fans, you here. We said “Good.” a five/six piece band we couldn’t Continued on Page 18 Page 18 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 17 Off The Record wants to make sure to thank & acknowledge the still vibrant, we’re still working following: on new songs. We have a CD com- Lou Sansivero - Founding ing out. Member, guitarist, harp player JP: We finally did a CD and Billy Harrison, Honorary life- we did it the right way. It took long Member- guitarist forever but we wanted to do it the Luke McNamee - aka Blue right way, we wanted to pay roy- Hand Luke - guest saxophonist alties. We wanted a new record- Thom Cammer - Photogra- ing with Geo, of how the band pher and Creative Director http:// sounds now, but live. Almost like thomcammer.com. a demo to give out to promote us. Be sure to catch one of Off The When we were done, it actually Records gigs at these fine loca- sounded really good so we said, tions (dependent upon Coronavi- “holy crap, it sounds great, let’s rus conditions): do some more!” RRX: I like the veto rule. Tell April 4 - Elks Lodge - Jolly me more about that. Corks Lounge8 PM - 10 PM JP: Yeah, we have a rule. If May 2 - Private Party May 9 - one of us wants to try a new song Private Party and one of us hates it you get to June 20 - Center Street Pub veto. And like Bob says, there’s 9 PM - Midnight plenty of really good songs out July 18 - Friedreich’s Ataxia there so why make it torture for Fundraiser - All Day - Details to someone? There’s no reason for come July 25 - Helderberg Moun- that. tain Brewing Company 4 PM - 7 RRX: Geo how long have you PM August 1 - Center Street Pub - been in the band? 9 PM - Midnight GD: I’m trying to think how August 15 - Private Party w long it’s been, has it been two Kitty Rodeo August 29 - Indian years? Ladder Farms2 PM - 5 PM OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! JP: It’s been two and half You can find them on: Daily Drink Specials years, you’ve played in two Facebook https://www.face- Christmas shows with us. book.com/offtherecordtrio/ Every Tues BR: No, it hasn’t been that $2 Genesee Drafts long. Website: https://offthere- Sunday - Late Night Happy Hour GD: I remember our 1st gig cordtrio.com/ Mid to 2AM - 2 for 1 Domestics & Well was a wedding in April. JP: So it’ll be three years in Check out Geo at: geomusic- Bucket Fridays April. now.com and Bob with: Miss 5 for $15 Domestic Bottles, 5 for $18 Imported Bottles BR: Yeah, that’s what it is, Paula & The Twangbusters: three years in April.Joanna said https://www.facebook.com/pg/ it best when she describes the Twangbusters/events band as a fun great band, you’re & A Duo with Kevin Maul getting a show. Check their website for their CD release date. 29 - 124TH STREET, TROY April 2020 Page 19 Music Art Culture Revolution

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saratogaspringsdigital.com [email protected] Page 20 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution The Red-Headed Stepchild of Grunge

Photo provided. Candlebox frequently owns the world stage. They are currently working on a new record. You may not have heard of Kevin Martin, but he’s the singer for Candlebox, an iconic member of the ‘90s Seattle grunge scene. There’s a lesson in his success, and relative anonymity.

By Liam Sweeny Kevin Martin’s name might York, my ears were in Seattle. a lot of amazing music happen- not be as well known as Eddie Now, every band I know thinks ing. I had come from a punk rock Vedder’s or Kurt Cobain’s, but as they are at the center of the cre- background in San Antonio to ebellion is a word that is the lead singer of Candlebox, he ative world at some point, but you this kind of… dirgy rock scene, often associated with rock holds court with them. actually were. Did you feel the which they were giving the name Rand roll. Whether it’s the Kevin and I “sat down” and scene’s “gravity” back then, or of grunge to. I called it ‘acid rock.’ lyrics, or the dancing, or just the talked about my teenage CD was it all just a good time? And it was interesting, because general attitude, rock and roll has collection. KM: We certainly felt the I was just about to turn fifteen always had a finger to give. And a RRX: Everyone has strong gravity of it. I mean, you know, I years old, so I had gone from scene that typified this finger-giv- feelings for the era they cut their moved when I was fourteen years a completely different under- ing feel was the Seattle grunge teeth in. So, for me, that was old, January 20th, 1985. It was standing of music. And shortly scene of the 1990s. grunge, and while I was in New just starting then, and there was Continued on Page 21 April 2020 Page 21 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 20 chewing up the Billboard more very happy accident for us, but it trying to say you’re not, the battle than it wasn’t. And to me, it was was an enormous insurance poli- is that the label has all the money thereafter, I took a job working cool recognition for a band that cy that got cashed at great dam- and really, in order to succeed at in a shoe store with Susan Sil- kicked ass, but for you, what was age to each of us individually. all, you’ve got to play their game. ver, who was running Sound- the success like? Was it a source Because none of us were prepared Unless you were Nirvana, and of garden, and a bunch of bands, of power? Or was it ever a bur- for it. When you’re making the course, that was inevitable. Kurt so at sixteen, I was immersed in den? Can you approach what kind of money we were making Cobain pushed back at every the scene. I think at that point I you do in the same way pre- and from 1994 to 1998, you do stupid chance he could get against Gef- realized I was going to be sing- post-success? shit, and you think it’s gonna last fen Records. Bands like Candle- ing; I was still playing drums in KM: I would say it’s a bur- forever, and it doesn’t, and every- box, and Presidents of the United a punk band; I wasn’t singing in den. I mean, we were kind of body tells you it doesn’t. States of America and The Sweet- a rock band. I didn’t look at it in the red-headed step child of the Pre- or post success? Post waters and the what-nots that any perspective that I do now. scene. We didn’t handle the suc- success is so much easier to look came after Soundgarden, Moth- Candlebox is the first job I had as cess very very well. I don’t really back on it and say ‘those were er Love Bone and Pearl Jam, we a singer where I was stuck with know. It was hard for us; we kind huge mistakes, don’t ever do all cut out to play that, and it was it. So I’m sort of reluctantly the of fell into one another’s hands them again.’ For me, I do it ex- unfortunate singer of a rock and roll band. as a band. I went to school with actly how I want to do it. I don’t RRX: Candlebox has gone Yeah, so I really think you knew the bass player, but because he let anybody dictate to me which through lineup changes, which something was happening. And was a foreign exchange student direction I should be going, what is expected for a band that got it was still a time when people from Ireland, I didn’t know him. songs I should be writing, who I its start in 1990. And you all had were still tacking fliers on tele- I knew the drummer kind of. I should be writing for. I don’t let disbanded between 2000 and phone poles, handing out fliers to didn’t know Pete at all. He was labels dictate to me who I should 2006. I used to think that chang- shows on First Avenue and Pike introduced to Scott and me by and should not tour with. It’s ing band members and taking Street. It was an exciting peri- Kelly Gray who produced our first mine. Pre-success, you’re follow- od, but the musicians knew, right and second records. So it was a ing the rules. As much as you’re Continued on Page 36 around 1987 – 1988, that there Photo provided. was something happening with the scene – you know, we were getting A&R guys coming out to see shows, Michael Stone and guys like that who were checking out Mudhoney and stuff like that. So I think everybody knew some- thing was gonna happen, but no- body knew it was going to blow up like it did. And then of course around ’89, everything changes, so ’89 – ’96 really, that city was producing some of the greatest music and having some of the greatest successes in the world. So it was very exciting. But did I think I was going to? RRX: For a long time in the nineties, Candlebox was

Kevin Martin, Candlebox frontman. Music Will Find a Way Page 24 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Composition and Sweet Innovation

Dweezil Zappa doesn’t live in his father’s shadow... He casts his own.

By Dick Beach certificate. RRX: I found it inter- esting that, giv- RRX: Thanks for joining us. en who they are, that I want to start at the very be- those were the names ginning. Having done some re- that popped into your dad’s search, it was fascinating that head. I don’t know whether when you were born, the hospi- you did. tal would not let you have your DZ: Well, yeah. It didn’t have name, which I thought pretty in- am any meaning to me at the age, teresting. But then, when I found age other than I didn’t like the sound that on the birth certificate, you were of any of those names. Dweez- were registered as Ian Donald watching il sounded better to me at that Calvin Euclid Zappa. Those were the PMRC time. But ultimately, it’s one of some of the guys in Frank’s band and congressio- those weird things where some- at the time. What do you think nal hearings. Your body decided yeah, you can’t about how he came up with that, dad came up and Tip- name a child this. You’re gon- and what it meant to you over the per Gore she thought it’d na have to have a regular name years? be fascinating to see the toys or we’re not gonna let you have Photo provided. DZ: Well, first, my first name that you guys played with as chil- access to your child. So, my dad was always Dweezil, and it was dren. Of course, Frank’s answer Dweezil Zappa grew up around just gave a host of names. Those on my birth certificate. Those was hey, come on over, see them. legendary musicians. were something they couldn’t were my middle names, Ian Don- They’re in the closet. complain about. Then, that was ald Calvin Euclid. But those were DZ: That was Senator Haw- the solution to that thing. But the was a normal childhood. It was removed when I found out that kins who – other thing that was on my birth who you were. It’s what you did. those were my middle names RRX: Was it Hawkins? certificate was under religion, it You went out and played with the when I was about five. I didn’t DZ: Yeah. But yes, she was a said musician. kids in the neighborhood. You like any of them, so I said I don’t wretched lady. RRX: Before we move on to want any of those. They were RRX: Yeah. I would imag- your first recording, those of us of actually taken off of my birth ine that by and large, for you it Continued on Page 25 April 2020 Page 25 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 24 because we were talking about RRX: Oh. I will make an ex- Pretty in Pink, Running Man, different scales and modes and trapolation ‘cause we all know and the TV show Normal Life. played music. Would that be how things, so he showed me this that your dad kept pretty much But the best of them, in my esti- you would categorize how your thing. It ended up being some- everything. Do you document, mation I think probably interest- childhood? thing that got attached to the record and keep your own set of ing to our readers, is the fact that DZ: I think everybody would firstriff that I wrote. That is how archives? Is that a part of the pat- you indeed were Ajax Duckman, view whatever their situation his part of the songwriting thing tern of what you do on a regular which was, I think, one of the is growing up as normal ‘cause came together ‘cause the chorus basis? great cult cartoons ever. How that’s all they know. But we cer- part became this Lydian chord DZ: No, I don’t really care tainly didn’t do anything that was Zappa is utilitarian when it comes thing. about that stuff for my own pur- abnormal for traditional stan- to his gear, but he often uses a The song has really got only poses, really. I have that note- Gibson SG. dards of what children do when three little sections in it. The lyr- book, but generally they’re growing up, playing with ics were stuff that were all about speaking, I’m toys or stuff like that. We didn’t my mom because she used to ba- not a col- have weird toys, we didn’t do sically tune out and you couldn’t lector of strange things. So yeah, it was Photo get her attention, as a kid. You nothing of anything to speak of. provided. were like, “Uh, we have to go to RRX: I want to get to the first school now,” and she’d be sitting recording you made, back in ‘82. there reading the newspaper. You were 12, 13, and you did “My Like, “Yeah, we’re late for school. Mother Was a Space Cadet.” We have to go.” She just wouldn’t DZ: Yeah. even take her eyes off the news- RRX: You wrote it with your paper or whatever magazine. sister and Steve Vai. That had The point is, the song itself is a to be really interesting. Is there bit of a sense of humor song. It’s anything in particular about that the first song that I remember re- you recall, whether it was about ally writing, and my sister added process, about the writing expe- a couple lyrics into it. But the rest rience and things of that nature of the story that’s interesting is that really stood out for you? that it was actually produced by DZ: Well, I had a riff that I Edward Van Halen, and Edward had composed that was a pretty Van Halen played a little bit of heavy duty guitar riff. I had only guitar on the intro to the song. been playing guitar for a couple There’s a slide guitar part that he things. of months. I was learning how to plays the intro on. I don’t play by listening to records and was So, there’s a lot of history to keep scrap- picking out things that I could that process that experience. And being the books of things. I from just listening. But my dad for you? Was that an very first thing that I ever record- know some people are in- had Steve Vai in his band at interesting project? You did it for ed, working in the studio with terested in having some kind of the time, so he showed me a cou- about three years. What are your Edward Van Halen and all this an archive of all that stff, but I’ve ple of chords and some ways to memories of it, and then second- stuff. He was joking around with already experienced it by living it. relate chords to scales. So, I had arily, were there any takeaways us, saying, “I don’t know what to I don’t need to go back and check a little notebook of lessons that from working on that? do with you guys. Do we have to it out again. he gave me. It was five or six les- DZ: It was a fun show. It was take a milk and cookie break?” RRX: I’m gonna fast forward sons in a little notebook. During quirky animation. The company, We’re all like 12 years old. a little bit. Later in the ‘80s, into that period of time, I had showed Klasky Csupo, they were pretty RRX: Did you keep the the ‘90s, you had an interesting Steve this riff that I wrote and notebook? acting career. You were an MTV he showed me a Lydian chord DZ: Oh yeah. VJ for a short time. You were in Continued on Page 26 Page 26 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 25 He said, “Absolutely.” So, every anything that said it’s been re- years, and I haven’t had any time time, he said NAWSA. They nev- leased, I am guessing perhaps it’s to finish it. One of the things that popular at the time, during Ru- er got a single take where he said still in production? has renewed my interest in work- grats and a few other shows. They NASA, and that is the art of keep- DZ: It is still in production. ing on it again is that with the had a style of animation that was ing your artistic integrity. Don’t The thing about it is, it’s always proliferation of the Atmos. There popular at the time. Duckman give them the option because they been an idea of mine to make it are great opportunities for mix- was all angular and weird, and will use it. He kept going, and it the equivalent of an audio mov- ing and delivering music in this they got to go pretty twisted with was hilarious to watch because he ie. The whole premise behind this format. This particular project a lot of the stuff in there. It oper- did it so amazingly well. thing is that it’s a piece of mu- will be cool to hear in surround ated on a few levels. It wasn’t nec- RRX: That had to be fantas- sic that constantly morphs and sound, and have things moving essarily just a kids’ show kind of tic. It had to be fantastic to watch, changes styles, but it also changes around your head, and all that thing, you know? But it was – it really did. the environment that the mu- kind of stuff. RRX: Well, neither were the DZ: Yep. sic is in. Over the years, it’s been My goal is to finish it in the Warner Brothers cartoons. RRX: Around ‘96, you began on different formats. It’s been on next year or two, but as an Atmos DZ: Yeah. But the people that a project called “What the Hell analog tape, it’s been on various project. It’s really an audio mov- were in the cast were interesting Was I Thinking?” The last ref- versions of digital tape and now, ie type of presentation. It’ll be a and fun. I remember Tim Cur- erence that I can find to it was it’s in computer form. multi-channel experience, a bin- ry being the guy that made me when you did really a wonder- But there were a couple of aural audio movie. laugh the most. He gave a master ful post when Malcolm Young technical problems that came up RRX: I find intriguing that lesson in how to deal with artistic passed, which would have been during the process of recording you mention binaural sound. Lo- integrity. For example, he want- 2017. Is that still an ongoing proj- that at one point halted things. cally, a guy by the name of Todd ed to read the material the way he ect? Are we going to see the fruits But really, the delay has been Lopez, his firm is called ZBS thought it was the funniest. When of it? Because I couldn’t find that I’ve been touring the last 15 Media, really interesting audio the producers or director would projects for radio. One of the ask him to change someething, Photo provided. things he has is one of the very he would politely say, “Oh yes, of few kunststoff recording heads. A course.” They would say, “Here’s head that was built with auditory how we’d like to do it,” and they’d input to the two ears, and literally give him a line reading. He’d say, you record in 3D around a mim- “Oh, sure. Sure.” icked head. I don’t know if you’ve He would listen to them, and ever seen it, but it really is a fan- then he would do it only the way tastic thing. that he wanted to do it. Each DZ: Yeah, there’s a few com- time, they would say, “Okay, that panies that have made those was great. But now, can you try kinds of things that mimic the it like this?” and he’d say, “Abso- human hearing system. But now lutely.” And he would do it only with Atmos, there’s a way to de- his way. He has a British accent, liver an experience like that in but when he does an American regular headphones. That’s the accent, he does a really obnox- thing that’s going to be very inter- ious version of an American, and esting for the future is that in the he would over-enunciate certain very near future, you’ll be able to things. be sitting on an airplane or sit- In one case, he was mispro- ting on the subject, listening with nouncing the word NASA as earbuds and hear full binaural 3D NAWSA. So, they kept saying, “Okay, that’s great. But can you say NASA instead of NAWSA?” Dweezil Zappa doesn’t see him- self as a ‘legacy’ person. April 2020 Page 27 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 26 music that my dad made that I have to be cataloging all of these surround sound. sounds that I’ve recreated as pre- 327 Broadway It will alter how people expe- sets in my guitar rig. So, there’s a rience music because music has Menands, NY 12204 few that become standard that I been so devalued, but this is one (518) 621-7449 can use with any guitar. of the ways that music can have But I’m always tinkering with a resurgence and be revalued be- stuff, so each guitar... I might play We Deliver cause any song from any era can M-F: 11-3 PM a few different ones on each tour. be presented in this format, and Sometimes I’ve done tours where it will heighten the experience of Mon - Fri: Open at 11am Sat - Sun: Open at Noon I only play one guitar all night, the music. Old records, new re- www.krismidcitytavern.com sometimes I play three or four cords, creating new recordings in different guitars in a show. But that way. It’s exciting and some- it just depends on the material. thing that I look forward to. But I think I’ve kind of grown accus- yes, “What the Hell Was I Think- tomed to playing an SG mostly Take-Out & ing” will eventually get finished, just for comfort. It’s the easiest but I plan for it to be in that kind guitar to play. But sometimes a Delivery Available of format. Stratocaster will make a sound RRX: I can’t wait for it to that you just can’t get from any- come out. I’d like to talk gear. I’ve thing else, and that’s just what’s got a bunch of guitars that I can’t needed. My dad would do that play worth a tinker’s damn. My for...he would choose that for cer- favorite is a Gibson 1980s repro- tain songs. duction of the 1960s Les Paul Ju- So, like I said, depending on nior Double Cut dual Humbuck- material, I’ll have to have a Stra- ers in TV yellow. You have a lot of tocaster for certain things. But guitars from which to choose. I mostly, I get away with playing an know you play an SG, you’ve got SG most of the time. Except on a Roxy SG, you’ve got a Strato- this tour, the Hot Rats tour, I’ve caster. What’s your favorite rig been playing a Les Paul Gold Top to play? What’s the one when, that has p90 pickups in it, so it’s whether you’re on stage or wheth- a combination of stuff. But gen- er you are rehearsing, that just erally speaking, I don’t get really makes you happy? too attached to anything ‘cause DZ: It all depends because I know that you could be out on I’ve always been the kind of play- tour and something can break or er that whichever guitar I pick whatever, and you just got to find up I’m gonna play a different a way to keep going anyway. way because the guitar just feels RRX: Speaking of the current different. tour, Zappa Plays Zappa start- Sometimes you hit on cer- ed, I guess, in 2006. My wife tain combinations with amps or and I, we saw you on that first effects that work best with that tour and we’ve seen a number of particular guitar, and things get them since. There was something inspirational. But the biggest that struck us on that first tour: challenge for me is that we cover so much ground in recreating the Continued on Page 40

Page 30 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution The Art of Being Good to Each Other A brush with death can cause us all to take a second look at our and got lost in my thoughts. And lives. For T.J. Foster, he found a passion and a brand new groove in I thought a lot about the cliché bullshit you’d expect, but mostly the looking glass.. just my own mental hurdles: Why am I so often unhappy when I have a good life? I kind of kicked myself in the ass as hard as I could from a hospital bed and vowed to find a way to take more control of my own happiness. One of the things that was missing from my life for a long time was being in a rock band. I decid- ed I wasn’t getting any younger and that I should just go write a record like that – I could always find the band later. Lo and be- hold, I did. RRX: The feel of this album seems to have many musical styles, what would you say is the biggest influence in the feel of Photo provided. this album? E.R.I.E. is a turn in the life of TJ Foster, and a decision everyone benefits from. TJ: My friend/bass player and I have somewhat jokingly coined gets right into the story of front- hospital stay, can you expand a a genre called nostalgia-punk. man TJ Foster and his brush with bit on how this influenced the By Jetta Intelisano Bands like The Menzingers, death, you really can relate with album? Spanish Love Songs, etc. - they his struggle and conviction to TJ: It’s a long story! To sum it write songs with a fast-and-loose had the opportunity to catch push on in the lyrics. There were up, the doctors had been moni- spirit, but with lyrics and melo- up with TJ Foster, lead Sing- a couple songs that resonated toring my heart for a few weeks dies that harken back to adoles- er/songwriter/guitarist for with me in particular, “With the and one night, an incredibly kind I cence and simpler times. And I a band called E.R.I.E., to dis- Dogs” and “Life and/or Death”. EMS team showed up at my door guess that’s kind of what I was cuss the release of their first full They seemed reminiscent of the at 3 AM because I’d passed out going for. I’m a nostalgic dude length album, Don’t Wanna Live, 90’s pop rock and bands of that and the monitor alerted them my at heart. So, the theme part was Don’t Wanna Die. era; they told great stories in their heart had stopped for fifteen sec- easy for me. When it came to If I had to describe the sound lyrics, while maintaining solid onds. I was scared shitless. I was the music, I asked myself what and feel of the album, I would rock sounds. I would classify this in the hospital for three days and I would have done as a teenag- say its indie-pop rock meets folk- as a must listen to album. didn’t feel much like watching TV er, making music in a garage. rock, with a bit of an edge. The Here is What TJ Foster had to or reading magazines or what- And the best answer I could give grittiness is only surpassed by say about it: ever the hell it is you do when myself was to not think so much the honesty of the songs. The al- RRX: I know this album you’re unexpectedly in the hospi- about it. Being able to turn the bum leads off with “Fire Away” stems from your own near- tal. So, in between visits from y the first single of the album. It death experience and subsequent amazing wife, I listened to music Continued on Page 31 April 2020 Page 31 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 30 RRX: I really love the gritty fragile. We are all human beings, in our lives, I don’t think the four feel to “With the Dogs” and the beautiful and flawed, somehow of us are sitting here plotting our voices off and the over-analytical passion and emotion of “Life and/ existing at the same time in the first extensive tour that, unfor- side of my brain really helped me Or Death” - do you have a favorite same space. Yet, we’re all unique. tunately, would most likely leave produce a record that focused on song on the album? You don’t know what I’m going us losing money and eating like the emotion and the excitement TJ: Thank you, picking a fa- through, I don’t know what you’re we’re in college again. Ha-ha. instead of the technique. vorite song is kind of like pick- going through, and so on. I want We’re all in our 30s, all have kids, RRX: How did you feel after ing your favorite kid. Each one anyone who hears this record to and so that’s obviously what we’re the first single of the album, “Fire has a unique place in my heart, be reminded of that fact , be good tied to first and foremost. If the Away” was released? Was it an but, gun to my head, I’d probably to one another and just as impor- right opportunity arose, I know emotional experience? have to pick “Life and/or Death”. tantly, be good to yourself. we would jump on it. But for now, TJ: It was a surprisingly emo- It’s a song I would have written RRX: So, where does E.R.I.E. we’re just looking to play howev- tional experience, yes. It was the in my late teens/early twenties, go from here? Are there any plans er we can regionally – festivals, first song I wrote for the record, if but I’m so happy I didn’t because to take this experience on the basements, whatever – and have you don’t count “Gentleman Call- I didn’t have the life experience I road? fun doing it. If we’re not leaving ers” – that one is a rehash of an needed to put the words togeth- TJ: The goal from the begin- the stage each night feeling reju- acoustic demo I started back in er. I’ve written a lot of songs over ning was always to take this thing venated and smiling, then we’re 2016. “Fire Away” really sums up the years about struggling with to the stage. It’s where my mind missing the point. Beyond that, everything that happened to me mental health and I’m recalling a is the freest and I’m of the mind- my band doesn’t know this, but and why I believe so much in the review of one of my records that set that if you find something I’ve got enough tunes demoed for power of music. It’s healed me in said, in so many words, I was that lifts the weight, grasp at it as LP2 already so eventually we’ll so many ways. The story I set out asking a lot of questions without much as you can. Also, the songs get around to those too I’m sure! to tell with this song convinced providing any answers. It wasn’t are begging for it. At this point me to step outside my comfort necessarily a negative analysis, zone and let loose a bit. I was but it did open my eyes a bit. It thinking back to when Frightened was something I wasn’t total- “Wonderfully done! Great balance of walking, eating and informative history.” ~ Jennifer Q. 2019 Rabbit, one of my favorite bands, ly aware I was doing, but I took was gearing up to release their re- it to heart. I’d always wanted to cord Pedestrian Verse and Scott close this record with a message NEW Hutchinson (RIP) teased that the of hope – something that peo- THIS YEAR! fourth word on the entire album ple could listen to and find com- 1 SATURDAY/MONTH was “dickhead”. Sure enough, fort in. I just didn’t know how. South Central Troy Food it was. And you know what? It Tour So, I asked myself what twen- sticks with you! When I sat down 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. tysomething me would want to to write the lyrics to “Fire Away” hear from someone wiser and it I tried to emulate that mentali- BOOK NOW RETURNING just flowed out. You’re going to FOR OUR ty. What did I want to say? The FRIDAYS go through a lot in this life, but previous year was a shit storm 2020 SEASON Historic Downtown Albany you’re also going to get through Food Tour for me. Normally I’d find a way to MAY – OCTOBER it. That’s what writing this song 1:30 – 4:45 p.m. pretty that up, but I decided that’s taught me. exactly how I needed to start the RRX: If there is one thing for SATURDAYS record and exactly how I wanted Central Troy Historic District the fans take away from this al- to introduce the project. When Food Tour bum, what would it be? I finally released that story into 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. TJ: Lately, I’ve been signing off the wild, it was like letting go of all our sets with a simple request: USE DISCOUNT CODE: something I held so close to the RadioX20 Be good to each other. I think chest for so long, which is a pretty that’s probably what I hope peo- emotional thing in general. ple take away from this. Life is tasteoftroyfoodtours.com

April 2020 Page 33 Music Art Culture Revolution The Spark that Ignites Us The formation of dream-pop band Laveda proves to all who listen that evolu- tion is more than just a theory.

By Joshua Reedy

aveda are up and com-

ing Albany stars who have Photo provided. Lcrafted an addicting wave Laveda is (l to r) Jake Brooks and Ali Genevich. of dream-pop for those of you craving something noisier. Lave- about Lucy and some of your oth- to put all our energy into this. text me like, “You’re so talented, da is Ali Genevich (guitar/vocals) er past bands? Someone men- RRX: That’s awesome, which you’re gonna do great” and I was and Jake Brooks (guitar/vocals), tioned to me that you had many studio was that? like, “You’ve never seen me per- but the duo has recruited Lemon previous band names. JB: That was at Hook and form before Grandma, thanks.” of Choice leaders Joseph Taurone JB: Yeah, that was my band Fade, down in Bushwick. RRX: So, you guys are signed (drums) and Daniel Carr (bass) with Johnny. RRX: So where does Laveda to a label now, correct? for their live performances. Lave- AG: It was Better By Morning come from, I heard it was one of JB: Yes. It’s a very small team, da sat down to talk about their first by the way, and that’s when your grandparents? basically us and the guy who favorite shoegaze albums, their I joined, and then we all changed JB: Yeah, it was my grandma’s owns the label; he does a lot of new album and their tour leading the band name to Lucy; that was name. Everyone called her Suzy, management stuff with us, very up to SXSW. my band name idea. but Laveda was her first name. quick to respond to emails and RRX: I always start with ori- JB: We rebranded and went She was from Kentucky and the calls. gins, so tell me: how did you guys on tour and did all that stuff. It way they pronounce it over there AG: It’s really good, I like decide to form Laveda? worked-ish, it was ok but that is (La-vee- dah) but we think (La- having a small team because you JB: We met in high school. wasn’t really where Ali and I were vey-dah) is kinda the right way. don’t have to worry about… I We both played in the school in terms of writing. And then we RRX: It sounds cool, I didn’t mean we haven’t really had a big orchestra. started writing the Laveda stuff realize it was a name until some- team before… AG: We started to get to know and decided we needed to do one told me a little while ago. JB: We had a big team with each other because Jake asked our own project. And that start- RRX: Has Laveda heard any Lucy, or more band members. me to sing backup vocals in his ed to gain some traction because of your music? AG: Not really, because we band at the time. So I was like a gy from Pitchfork really like JB: No, she passed away long have like, three people working “sure I’ll do it,” and we started “Dream. Sleep.” and he premiered before we started. She was very with us on social media and we playing in a band together. it at the Chicago music fest ran by supportive of my cover band have people working with us on RRX: Jake, can you tell me Pitchfork which made us decide when I was 12. She would always Continued on Page 34 Page 34 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 33 RRX: And back then it was haven’t heard the duo set. JB: I feel like Albany is in just the two of you, so I wanted to RRX: I thought you were a state right now with the big- radio promotion, which is cool. talk about the difference between great as a duo, but I’m excited to ger venues that are defaulting Everything is outsourced, so the then and now, having a band of see what having two more band to booking the easiest things to label just kinda tells everyone four. members adds to it. book. I think that’s a big disser- who we are and we get to meet JB: Very different. It’s a totally AG: Working with Dan and vice to the scene in general. everybody either over confer- different approach. We definitely Joe is great. RRX: Next, I want to talk ence calls or ya know… it’s good like playing as a full band, es- RRX: I was gonna ask what about what you guys have sched- though because everyone is more pecially at venues like this (the it’s like working with them. uled for the future. I know you’re invested, everybody is excited Byrdhouse) when it’s high en- AG: They’re very sweet and new single is out tomorrow (2/28 about our music, or that’s what ergy. When we play as a duo it’s both so talented. “Ghost” is out now!) and what is they say (laughs). So it doesn’t very chill. But when we play as a JB: Ali and I are both very se- the schedule for future singles? have a corporate feeling like, “Oh full band there’s a lot more; we rious people, and they’re so fun- AG: Our next single is “L” this is my job.” People are doing have a drum machine, we have ny. It definitely is really good for and that will be out March 20th it because they actually want to playbacks, two guitars - it’s loud, our mental health working with (Check out “L”). And then another support us and get our music out reverb, the whole thing. It’s a lot, them. single that will be out two weeks there. It’s honestly just been such and sometimes it’s a little difficult RRX: So do you guys have after “L” called “Rager” and then a good experience. to pull off but our sound is all of any favorite venues or places to the full album out April 24th. RRX: One thing I wanted to that stuff. play in Albany? talk about was the first time I saw AG: It’s very representative of AG: This spot (the Byrdhouse) you perform; it was at the WCDB the recordings now. I’m excited is honestly really cool. I feel like in-studio performance. for you to hear it, because you’ll so many venues are dying right JB: Wow,that was one of our have heard both. A lot of people now unfortunately. first shows.

Let’s fine tune your financial plan. It all starts with one meeting. I can help you organize your financial goals and create a wealth plan that helps you meet future financial needs. Call today to schedule an appointment. Mark Pierre Vice President | Financial Advisor Morgan Stanley 340 Broadway • Suite 6 • Saratoga Springs • New York • 12866 www.morganstanleyfa.com/mark.pierre 518-583-5606 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC2970663 03/20 April 2020 Page 35 Music Art Culture Revolution Page 36 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Candlebox (Cntd. from Page 21) Jelly song was successful, in ’92 going to shut right up and let you or ’93, and a lot of people didn’t talk about it. What’s the good know that they were around since word? breaks was tough, but I’ve seen a form. In rebuilding a band, the 1985. Marty and I were huge fans KM: It’s a dark record for us. lot of bands get stronger because guys I have now, Dave Krusen’s of their early stuff. We respected It’s different. We really kind of of it. What’re the pros and cons of back now, he was there in ’97 to them and really like them. Our pushed the envelope with this change over the long term? 200, came back in 2010 or 2012. fans didn’t. So I went out and record, just in our approach to KM: The great thing about This is the slickest form of Can- said, “You know, we bring these songwriting – there’s a song on Candlebox is that we were nev- dlebox I ever had, really a fine- bands that we enjoy and we want here that three- and-a-half min- er the sum of our parts. People tuned machine. We don’t see each you to experience something dif- utes is an instrumental, bust it’s always look at us and think of us other for six months, go play a ferent. If you came here to see the like a big, epic instrumental. We as the whole. People love Candle- show and not miss a beat. And I same thing over and over, you really used a lot of our influence box; it’s not ‘I love Kevin Martin, don’t think I could ever do that came for the wrong reason. If you and inspirations on this record. I love Peter Klett, I love Marty, I with Pete, Bardi, and Scott; there came here to hear the record that All five of us were inspired by love Scott Mercado.’ I don’t think just too much history. And it’s not you paid for, you came for the great artists and great songs and anybody knew who we were as all bad; I mean, there were some wrong reason. This is a live con- great bands. We wanted to cre- individuals. I don’t think people amazing times. But there was a cert, and we’re bringing things ate that influence and that inspi- knew, “Kevin Martin’s the sing- point where we hated one anoth- to you that we want you to expe- ration in the songs. Every song er for Candlebox” or “Peter is er. And these guys I play with rience. This is why we do this, has a hint of or a nod to someone the guitar player for Candlebox.” now; it’s nothing but love. We ab- it’s what we love.” So it’s hard for musically that inspired me. It’s There’s maybe one percent of our solutely fucking love each other. bands to play for us, because we not just, you know, homages to audience; of the 7 million people RRX: You’ve toured exten- have those purists. But again, it’s the rock artists you know. There’s worldwide that purchased a Can- sively, and you tour with very di- a fifty-fifty. a lot of history on the record, dlebox record, I’d say one per- verse bands and performers, run- RRX: Okay. You have a new from bands we all love and artists cent of those people knew who we ning the gamut from Metallica to record coming out in May. I’m and musicians we all respect. We were individually. Henry Rollins to Our Lady Peace. I think the nice thing about This is great for people who dig what has happened over the years diverse music, maybe less so for Candlebox has always been recognized as the band, not the players. is, you know, we got back to- purists. From your perspective, Photo provided. gether in ’06, … early on, touring how does the crowd response dif- from 1993-1999, you learn a lot fer when the bands are closer in about yourself, you know what genre versus farther apart? you do and don’t like about those KM: It’s fifty-fifty. You know, people, which can make it diffi- I remember when we took the cult to be around them. In 2006, Flaming Lips up, Wayne, the we had a go at it, Bardi (Martin) singer, came up to me when we wanted to be an attorney, and he were in Rochester, NY and said, passed the bar, and he was like ‘I “Can you please go out and say want to make records, but I don’t something to the audience?” Be- want to tour.’ And it’s not going cause every night, in 1994, our to happen, that’s not how it is. fans were such assholes to them. And that’s what comes with those And we had this band Mother types of relationships. Tongue open up on tour, fuck- The beauty’s in changing up. ing funky rock, and our audience And a lot of changes is you find kinda didn’t know what to do those people who want to play with them. And then the Flam- and are willing to cut their teeth ing Lips came out - now I love, with you in every way, shape or and this was shortly after the April 2020 Page 37 Music Art Culture Revolution wanted to call the record Cha- I feel like we’re spiraling out of interested in, any Albany area years, and every time we go to os Men, inspired by a series of control. I should say that that’s stuff you like. Educate, enlighten, Poughkeepsie we go to a French drawings by an artist that I love, part of why I didn’t want to make emote – the floor is yours. restaurant there. It holds a warm but that was a little too obvious. this record. It was a real battle KM: I’ve got some great spot in my heart, that area of He’s a silhouette artist that in- for me. We finished the record in friends in the Hudson Valley. Al- New York. I love going there, and spired the shit out of me. I wrote August, but I didn’t do the vocals bany’s one of the fond memories the Egg is one of those places that a song around it; I didn’t think until January because I was just we had at the end of the Rush you play, you never forget it. I’ve I could do that, but I did, and I so conflicted, like “I don’t want to tour. The ‘end of tour’ party was played the small room acoustical- used some of the Piles Tempest sing this, to write these words.’ there, which used to be called ly, and I’ve played the large room pieces as lyrics in the song. And I I didn’t want to say what I was the Omni Hotel (now the Crowne electrically. I’m excited to come had never really done that before. feeling. Just feels too final for Plaza.) It has a kind of interest- back, like, parking the bus in So it’s a record full of inspiration. me. You know it might be the last ing driveway. I remember the that Death Star looking area, the There’s also some great dark mu- record I ever make. I mean, I’m corner of it used to be the bar, I buildings are very Star Wars-es- sic called ‘Dimlit Blues’ which is really coming to a crossroads in sat there with Alex Lifeson and que, with the reflecting pools; it’s basically about how I want to just my life where I just want to stop. we drank till one in the morning. interesting. And I always walk destroy everything, I don’t like in So maybe this record is the way Such great memories of that city, down (State) street to that old li- that I’m being forced into right it is. And I hope people like it as just historically touring through quor store at the bottom and get now. much as we do. I think we all love there. It’s been going on twen- a bottle of something. Its things I really feel; you know, it’s this record a lot because it’s so ty-seven years now. Touring that that you take with you, and you crazy to me to feel this way, but different. area of New York, we’ve done never forget. I have no control over my life. RRX: This is where you very, very well there. I’ve got a People making decisions for mil- answer the question I didn’t friend who’s a writer, Chris Mill- lions of people that, I don’t know, ask. Any bands/labels you’re er, been friends going on fifteen Page 38 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution The People That Shine Our Paths Maybe he was the guy who passed you by on your way to work with- Central Avenue, I turn back around and see Dino approach- out a word, but Dino De Cherro was a character worth knowing. ing from a distance. With hard- ly a word spoken, he awkwardly jostled the broken set and walked away. No car to be seen as he continues on and on, eventually behind a building somewhere and out of sight... gone. My earliest remembrances of the guy who called himself Dino De Cherro harken back to the late 80’s. His column in Buzz Maga- zine entitled, It’s Only Me -Dino, was his literary outlet for a num- ber of years. In addition to his immense admiration of Elvis, he also offered his peculiar views on topics such as self defense to survive, paranoia (mainly his own), and justifiable suicide. Di- no’s taste in music seemed to be in stark contrast to the maga- zine’s - which catered primarily to the alternative scene. Calling songs lacking the proper mel- ody “mu-SICK”, he didn’t seem shy about letting his views about it be known, even if they were quite possibly not very popular with some of the readership. A Schenectady PO Box address was included, and usually with an invitation to write. “This guy’s Photo provided. Those who knew Dino De Cherro had an opinion, and at least one story. got one helluva thick skin, if he even exists” was the thought that crossed my mind on occasion. By Alan Gold seen making his way up, cradling heavy appliance. In addition to a It wasn’t until the early 90’s a large television set in his arms. try-before-you-buy arrangement, that I had my first encounter with “Why didn’t you park closer to Dino offered free delivery. After t was the summer of 1994. As Dino. Through a one-off column the house?” I asked, but got no realizing that the set had a blown I glance down the long city in the Singles Outreach Service reply. My mother directed him speaker, we arranged to meet at a block in the West Hill section newsletter, it was advertised I to a spot in the back bedroom busy corner in Colonie so it could of Albany, a familiar figure can be where he could finally rest the be returned. Looking out toward Continued on Page 39 April 2020 Page 39 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 38 spiders, or skulls. We would chat on each other’s nerves was be- lots of coffee, and put dates on occasionally, and I mentioned coming more and more com- everything. that he’d be performing his song how I remembered him in Buzz monplace, so we gradually part- Born Charles Edward Puglise It’s Only Me, at their upcoming from years past. Somewhat to my ed ways. We remained cordial, Jr., I suspected almost from the dance, with Grand Central Sta- surprise, he was very much like though sometimes years would start that Dino De Cherro was tion as the backing band. The the person who wrote the col- pass before I saw him again. not his real name. He vehement- evening did not go well, and umn, but with thinner skin. His Here and there, Alive at 5, Lark- ly insisted that it was, even when due to apparent technical prob- views, fears, and unorthodox po- fest, Hooters, or Blessings Tavern it became obvious that I knew lems, Dino left the stage without sitions on certain subjects were were a few of the spots where we otherwise. My feeling, was that finishing the song - not return- no sham. A very private person would cross paths. Once, while he took a title from an Elvis film ing to the Friday night dances almost to the point of being se- working at a pizzeria in down- called Charro, which morphed for quite some time. He was a cretive, it would be several years town Albany, Dino walked in into Cherro, and then De Cher- fixture there, and seemed to be until I actually learned his age, or with his female companion. After ro. The first name may have been well-liked and known to most where he lived, though I did get consuming a slice, he drew a cus- taken from Dean Martin, another of the folks. Standing out in the to see what his car looked like in tomary picture on his paper plate, act whom he admired, and who’s crowd with his trademark pom- relatively short order. along with a note, telling me how actual name was Dino. That was padour, flashy jackets, and inter- We agreed to meet for coffee, much he liked the yummy pizza. my unproven theory anyway. esting rings, his presence be- and did so a number of times, I still have it. When he gave me Eventually, and much to my came known. Unlike the rings usually at our favorite spot, a copy of his 45 single, a friend- surprise, Dino gave me his phone that Elvis wore, which were 24 Barnes & Noble. Our wide rang- ly note and picture were drawn number. We would just chat karat gold and diamond encrust- ing discussions would dart from on the sleeve. A few of the simi- about diverse topics, much as ed, Dino crafted his own. Some religion (he was an avowed athe- larities between Dino and I - we we did back in the coffeehouse had large faux jewels, elephants ist) to microorganisms. Getting both had an artistic bent, drank days. This went on sporadically standing on platforms, giant for a number of years. In 2017, I was invited to come and visit. Now this came as another shock, and I started to think that the shell he had built around himself was finally cracking. Instead of visiting a small, rent-subsidized studio apartment in the bowels of Schenectady, I learned that his abode was in a very residential neighborhood in North Colonie - a house where he lived almost his entire life, but now shared with his sister whom he referred to as Gi. A well-worn reclin- er sat in the corner of the living room, which also served as Dino’s makeshift bed. Bingo, his father of 99 years, was remanded to a nursing home, an act that Dino felt had fractured the family. He died there about two years later, despite his son’s futile efforts to return him home. Continued on Page 43 Page 40 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

DZ: The point is that you need DZ: Yeah, you have George Dweezil Zappa (Cntd. from Pg. 27 ) excellent musicians, and that was Duke, Vinnie Colaiuta, Terry proven in my dad’s bands over Bozzio, and Steve Vai and Adrian you were very quiet,. You almost Hope you enjoyed the concert,” the years. It’s rare that my dad Belew as examples. There were at seemed reticent to say an awful and that’s about all you’d get. So, would be able to keep a band to- least 70 or 80 other musicians or lot. In the years that have passed in the early days, I really wasn’t gether, a consistent line-up, for more throughout the years in ver- you’ve opened up quite a bit. saying anything because, like I more than three or four years. sions of my dad’s bands. Can you provide us with a little said, I wanted the music to just At times, I’ve had versions of my In any case, the point is that insight into how that has pro- speak for itself. band together for more than four the music is challenging and you gressed as you’ve gone from do- RRX: There is a project from or five years. But I’ve mixed it up need people that can play it. But ing this when you were 36 to now Alex Winter called Who the over the years. it’s tough to find the people that at, dare I say, 50? F*@% is Frank Zappa? It’s a doc- It was hard to keep a band to- have the right professional atti- DZ: The whole point in the umentary that is restoring much gether for longer than three years tude and are easy to work with. beginning was that I shouldn’t of Frank’s vault. Is that anything for my dad because often, peo- At the moment, the version of the have to say anything; the music that you have had any contact ple would try to use his band as a band that I have is the one I enjoy should speak for itself. I pre- with? Is it anything you’re inter- stepping stone. They thought, if working with the most and we sented the show in the way that ested in? Or is that part of the I can be in this for a little while, can cover the most ground. The my dad does, where everything legacy that you’re just leaving to then I can move on to my bigger material on Hot Rats, is large- segues. He didn’t have much on- itself? career. It didn’t always work out ly instrumental, which makes it stage banter that was what you DZ: I’m not involved in that that way for people. Most of the an oddball choice for it being a would call typical, where it’s like project in any way. time, in fact, it didn’t. superfan favorite ‘cause typically, hey, how’s everybody doing kind RRX: You’re here in Alba- RRX: There are a few notable of thing. There wasn’t really any ny March 11th and you’re doing exceptions. of that. There was maybe some Hot Rats Live plus more from Continued on Page 43 interaction that was created for ‘69. That album was dedicated to band interjection type of things. you back in 1969. First, is this a Or sometimes my dad would little more special perhaps than have a particular story that he some of the other 50th anniver- would share. But it was all part saries, like the Apostrophe tour, of the musical arrangement and et cetera? Secondarily, you have, everything. I guess, what I would call a band He wasn’t really ever present- of young Turks that are with you, ing a show that was a standard some amazing players. Can you kind of thing that relied on ‘the speak a little bit to the Hot Rats hey, thank you so much for be- piece itself, and then about the ing here’. He would say, “Thanks. band that you’re touring with?

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www.facebook.com/illusiverestaurantandbar 3 FERRY STREET, RENSSELAER, NY | 518•977•3602 | WWW.ILLUSIVES.COM April 2020 Page 41 Music Art Culture Revolution Tips for Surviving Cabin Fever That’s not my department—that’s aren’t going outside. By Sassy Auburn for you to figure out based on Crack a window or two accurate news reports and your or three. Get the stagnant air Sassy physician’s orders. But what out of your humble abode and let s of today, I have been else can you do to keep yourself the fresh air in. It doesn’t matter sequestered to my hum- Says from losing your mind? How can what the weather is outside ei- Able abode for over you stay busy instead of count- ther. Not only will it lift your spir- three months. No, I don’t have ing flowers on the wall with the its, but it is just plain healthy. COVID-19. I had double foot sur- once I was able to start walking Statler Brothers? Here are a few gery in December which kept me again, things balanced out. With things that I plan on doing while Take a small walk outside. off my feet completely for eight all the virus talk going around, I hunker down: Cover your face if you want but weeks. After that, I went back to I’m sure there are some people Start out the day like it get outside and take a leisurely work for ten days. But because who are choosing to stay inside. is any other day. Get up, get stroll. If you can get out and into my body was low on energy, I And that’s perfectly fine. Thumbs dressed, brush your teeth, take a nature a bit, more power to you. managed to pick up the flu. That up on that. But once you are in- shower, put your makeup on, do Don’t stay out too long, but long has left me home to recuperate side… then what? your hair. It will automatically enough to get you a dose of sun- till my symptoms are gone. Okay. Your main objective, of course, give you the feeling of normalcy. shine and infuse some natural I’m fine with that. But because is to keep yourself safe and well. It is still a regular day—you just Continued on Page 42 I have other health concerns (“pre-existing conditions”), my doctors have advised me to stay in until the world chaos calms down. I had been house bound for two months already… what’s two plus more? I’ll be honest, I have more than enough to keep me busy. This gives me the perfect opportunity to build on my writing projects, start a YouTube and Facebook Live channel, and even build my base with my communities on social media. I can definitely use this down time to build on my future. Even if I only end up with 100 homemade Christmas tree stars, I’m still ahead of the game. Being stuck inside is no big whoop to me, I’ve been in recov- ery mode many times before. But to many individuals it can cause them to go stir crazy. I got that way after my foot surgery. But Page 42 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 41 things you might be low on for Hopefully we all get through the future. this without too much mental and Vitamin D from the rays. Find your inner crafter. physical exhaustion. Kevin Ba- Stay in contact with fri- Have some old yarn, glue sticks, con’s statement in Animal House ends and family on social glitter or silk flowers laying keeps ringing in my head: “Re- media, but don’t LIVE on the around? Get creative. I will ad- main calm, all is well. ALL. IS. internet. Check in with loved mit, I am a huge fan of making WELL!” Take it day by day, every- ones. Get your news so you know loop potholders when I’m sick, one. Keep yourself safe, but also what is going on but don’t be but I also enjoy making holiday keep busy. It won’t be long before glued to your TV all day, 24/7. Be ornaments, jewelry pieces and the chaotic abnormal returns to up to date on what is happening repurposed fashion items. Don’t the normal abnormal we’ve all but don’t get obsessive. Just stay forget to get other bored family come to know and love. informed. members involved too. Get cooking! No matter what Release the artist in you. is going on outside your doors, Everyone—no matter what age— you are still going to need to eat. should have crayons, colored Search for recipes you can cre- pencils or markers around for ate with things you already have. when they are sick or just stuck Make a big pot of something inside. Coloring has been known that you can enjoy now as well to reduce stress and help you feel as freeze for the future. It’s also calmer and mentally clearer. Turn a good time to go through your on your favorite music and just cupboards and cabinets. Straight- create art. en things up and make a list of April 2020 Page 43 Music Art Culture Revolution Dweezil Zappa (Cntd. from Page 40 ) people like songs that have lyrics At the end of the day, it comes a little bit more than some of the and harder to see the good in more. together, but it’s a lot of work. other records. people when so many bad things But, this one just has always But we enjoy it. The fans seem RRX: Finally, as is my habit, are happening. Everybody’s got to stood out to people. We do our to really get into this Hot Rats I leave my last question as a bit hang in there and be nicer to each best to recreate every element full album presentation. Per- of a free-for-all. I always ask this, other. of the record, from the produc- haps a bit more than other live so don’t let your head explode too RRX: Thank you very much tion to obviously the notes and albums. We’ve done Apostrophe, much. What is it you’d like to say for taking time out. We’re looking rhythms and stuff. But it’s a chal- we’ve done Roxy & Elsewhere, to the world? When I say that, it very much forward to seeing you lenge to recreate the landscape of we’ve done One Size Fits All. But could be about music, it could be on the 11th out here. it with the instrumentation that I think there’s just something about life, it could be about phi- DZ: Sounds good. Appreciate we have, so I’m using my guitar to about the Hot Rats album that losophy. It could be pretty much it. Thanks. make sounds that are from other gives a feeling, maybe more so anything that you would like to instruments, like sometimes I’ll than some of the other records. tell the world that you hope they have a kind of woodwind sound I’m not sure what it is, but there’s will think about. or a violin sound or something definitely something that’s so DZ: I’m not much of a philos- like that I will be incorporating evocative of that particular era opher. I spend most of my time into my guitar sound. That’s just and for a lot of people, this is living in the moment. I’m not a part of the process that we go the first record they ever heard, legacy type of person. But as far through. We figure out who’s gon- sometimes the first record they as I can see, it’s tough out there na play what and how we are go- ever bought in their whole life. in the world. There’s a lot of stuff ing to make the sounds work. So, this one just seems to mean going on. But I feel like it’s harder Dino De Cerro (Cntd. from Page 39) Dino’s attitude had tak- was inside visiting; trying to con- me several years ago and bur- you’re feeling better! Dino” en a bitter turn, and I knew that vince Dino to get help. Two days ied somewhere in my desk. I Along with it, a neatly folded up it was time to step away once later, on New Year’s Eve, Gi called dug it out. It was a note written five dollar bill. again. It was my hope that over to inform me that she found her on a neatly folded up napkin. It Why he decided to lay me a time, the issues concerning his brother dead in his favorite chair. was handed to me while sitting five spot, who knows? But it’s father would blow over and then It never came to mind that at the bar in Hooters, and after a something that I’ll always hang maybe things would go back to death was on the horizon. I al- long bout with bronchitis Dated on to. the way they were. Gi stayed in ways assumed that eventually, March 9, 2012, it read: touch with me on a regular ba- common sense would override “Al, Good to see you. Glad sis, and as I lived nearby, would his obstinance. It is so true, that sometimes drive her to the gro- sometimes we only realize some- cery store. She informed me that one’s worth after we’ve lost them Dino was having various health forever. While at times Dino did issues, but refused to see a doc- irritate me greatly, there were tor. More months went by, but other times when we had some still he declined to do anything. marvelous conversations - some- One late afternoon, I dropped thing that would never happen Gi off at the house; illuminating again. through the front picture win- As I was reminiscing recent- dow was the Patriots-Dolphins ly, it struck me that there was game. A close friend of theirs something that he had given to Page 44 April 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Observations and Ramblings from a Cranky Old Guy

By Jeff Spauulding so, and the response around supplies,that makes sense. But vulnerable are the elderly, which the globe, is something truly toilet paper? most people say starts at age 65. unforgettable. Do people think they will get I’m age 64… Do the math. elcome back, and for As a Cranky Old Guy, I have coronavirus by an invasion of Of course, I don’t want to get the basics of your read- lived through a lot of truly hor- the anus if we don’t have enough it. ing pleasure, I have W rible events, where the world Charmin? Of course, I don’t want family, not only washed my hands, but stopped, for at least a moment. Then there’s water. friends or (most) co-workers to my entire body, in Lava soap, the The killing of JFK. The killing The other day while shopping, get it. strongest there is according to of RFK. The killing of MLK. I can’t tell you how many people To paraphrase Curly How- Cranky Old Guys globally, and The killing of John Lennon. were walking around with carts ard of the Three Stooges, ‘I’m too I wrapped myself completely in The Shuttle. filled with 4 or more containers of young, and too beautiful, (looks moist towelettes. September 11, 2001 water, at least 24 to a container. in the mirror) well I’m too young. Notice I said nothing about This, however, seems to have People, coronavirus is not like Again, it may take a miracle, wearing clothes under the tow- created more of a panic mode a gator from the swamps com- but MAYBE by the time this “goes elettes. And for THAT, I apologize than even that one day. As I ing into your house next time you to press,” the nightmare will be for the mental picture… write this, I hear the State of want a cool refreshing drink. over. And that’s the topic for this Ohio is shutting down bars and Thank God there was SOME I am not that optimistic. month. restaurants. relief in a local grocery store Please take care of not just Again, I had planned on hav- Has anyone asked what they down the street from me. There yourself, but all others within ing a lighter topic this time. will do with the massage parlors? was an ample supply of cuts of your circle. But the News Geek and Pop The other day I was shopping in steak of all sizes. And finally, no matter what, if Culture Icon in me knew we Walmart (don’t judge me). A guy Yes, America if not the world there is ever a time to NOT talk had to do SOMETHING about walked in and washed his hands could come crumbling down politics and point fingers, this is coronavirus. for twenty seconds (and yes, I in an instant…but some lonely it. I sit here on the afternoon counted), went to the urinal, horny fool can still exercise the Coronavirus cares not if you of Sunday, March 15th, putting whipped it out, then went BACK freedom of what may be the very are an R, a D or an I. Thanks for words to paper (so to speak). to wash his hands…again for last “Steak & BJ Day.” listening. My phone continues to go off twenty seconds. Before the angry letters come Be hearing you…hopefully! non-stop with alerts, warnings, Did he think it was going to in, yes, I take coronavirus VERY and an unlimited supply of WTF fall off? seriously. rants. Clearly, he won’t be at a mas- Experts say the most And even though this article sage parlor for the foreseeable is for the April issue, we have to future… Anyone remember the assume: AIDS epidemic? (A) The World is safe and In THAT case, at THAT time, this is a “Flashback” look at what after we found out it wasn’t just happened. “Gay Cancer,” we had a similar (B) The “crisis” continues to fear. grow. But absolutely NOTHING (C) The Zombie Apocalypse compares to the stocking up, or has occurred and it’s just The some would call it hoarding, of Walkers reading my words… food and materials. Whatever happens, the events Okay, I get the cleaning of (at least) the last month or