I genuinely feel sorry for people who love musicians other than the one that I love. Let's pretend for a moment that you are a sad misguided soul who loves Creed. You love Scott Stapp. You live and breathe for the next Creed album, their next tour. You log countless internet hours doing Google, you-tube,and Twitter searches for the latest news, interviews, videos and gossip. I know this is probably difficult to comprehend, but bear with me, I have a point. I purposely used the worst rock band I could think of, to demonstrate the contrast. If you are a Creed fan, what do you get? At best, an new album every two years, followed by a world tour. If you are lucky, one show, one night in your town. Sure, you get non-stop radio airplay on every alternative radio station in the nation, but is that enough for a superfan?
Creed is the worst band in the world.
Maybe I'm not the average superfan. Perhaps, I am spoiled by my favorite artist. Third Man Records owner Jack White is an active band member of the Dead Weather, the Raconteurs and until very recently (sadly), the White Stripes. With three bands and 10 albums under his belt with just these bands, Jack White is arguably the hardest working guy in the music business. There is never a dull moment for a Jack White fan.
First of all, there is the Third Man Records subscription service, the Vault. If you are a Vault member, for $60 a quarter, you can occasionally participate in video and text chats with none other than Jack himself. You automatically receive a limited edition vinyl package in the mail, usually including three components: a previously unreleased double LP of a Third Man Artist that can't be bought anywhere else, a 7" rarity and maybe a t-shirt or DVD or postcards. Every three months, I anxiously wait to hear the announcement of the next package. Then, I routinely stalk my mailman until it arrives. Does a Creed or Lady Gaga fan have this kind of regular, quarterly, release of new tangible, possibly collectible material? I think not.
But, you don't have to shell out the $20 bucks a month as a Vault member to enjoy what Third Man Records has to offer. Although it helps. Have you SEEN this quarters package? Previously unreleased, limited White Stripes? Yes. It's to die for. http://www.thirdmanrecords.com/news.html
Although the excitement is continuous, it is easiest to just tell you about the things so far in 2011. Mostly recently, TMR announced their plans for Record Store Day 2011. They are re-issuing 2 White Stripes seven inches on swirly vinyl. Plus, if you happen to be in Nashville that day (and managed to get tickets) you can catch Jerry Lee Lewis with Jim Keltner on drums right there at the Third Man Venue! You can almost guarantee that Jack will join on stage for at least one song.
In March, Third Man Records unveiled the Third Man Rolling Record store at SXSW with promises to hit the road all over the country. Does it look like a rolling banana? Maybe. Is it getting vinyl into the hands of kids (and adults alike) who can't get to Nashville to visit the original Third Man Records shop? Definitely. Jack made a surprise appearance at South By this year and played 2 songs for a couple hundred VERY lucky fans who were at the right place at the right time.
Jack produced the new album from icon Wanda Jackson's "The party Ain't Over". Earlier this year her tour featured Jack on guitar at the New York and LA shows. I can tell you from experience, it was amazing to witness.
Then, as if that wasn't enough, The Rome project with Danger Mouse featuring Jack White vocals will be released in May. Keep in mind this is only the beginning, a mere four months into the year. I can only imagine what comes next.
It seems every couple months there is something new and thrilling coming out of Third Man. Every time I turn around, there is an announcement of a new album, a new limited edition release, a new collaboration with an icon, or a new up and coming band produced by Jack White. I have to admit, Jack White is a marketing genius. I don't know exactly how he turned me into a vinyl collector. But, he did. He knows just how to keep his fans engaged, excited and willing to buy. I am guilty as any.
Thank you Jack White.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
The Foo Fighters - "Back and Forth" Documentary
The first time I heard about the Foo Fighters Documentary "Back and Forth" is when we were planning our trip to Austin for South By to see the Third Man Rolling Record Store. Unfortunately, like most of the things I was interested in attending that day, it was not playing on the one particular day we were in town. I was disappointed because I love rock documentaries. I find the stories behind the bands very intriguing. Netflix has a slew of them and I even enjoy the ones from crappy bands that I never heard of before (Anvil). I even enjoy Rock Docs that don't star Jack White. Shocking, I know. Oops, I promised my hubby I would "try" to get through a blog about the Foo Fighters without mentioning the completely unrelated Jack White. Damn, That was twice.
Last night I was scrolling my Facebook feed and there was a link to the documentary trailer that mentioned the movie was playing in select cities for one day only (April 5th), followed by a live concert. I click the link to the theaters and to my surprise it would only be playing in five theaters across the entire state of Texas and one of them happens to be five minutes from my house.
(watch the trailer here...but finish reading the blog first)
My hubby is not a big fan of movie theaters. Let me rephrase that, my hubby is not a big fan of the people that populate movie theaters. We haven't been to a theater together in probably 5 years. We are Netflix people. However, he is a drummer and a big Dave Grohl fan (and Taylor Hawkins), so despite his disdain of the movie theater crowd, he was on board for this one.
He calls the theater first thing Tuesday morning to inquire about purchasing tickets. We were not sure if this limited, one day, one time only release would sell out or if anyone even knew about it. We decided to play it safe and get tickets early. The lady on the phone tells him they are having trouble with the projector and they are not even sure if they would be able to broadcast the show that night, so she wouldn't sell him the tickets. She advised him to call back at 2PM when they would have a better idea. My hubby is obedient and calls at 2PM, only to be informed that they have already sold out.
Luckily of the 5 showings in Texas, two of them are in Fort Worth. He calls the 2nd place about 30 minutes away and they let him purchase the tickets for $20 bucks a pop over the phone. Phew.
After rushing home from work, we head down to Fort Worth to catch dinner and cheat on our diets before the show.
(outrageous!)
It was scheduled to start at 8:01 PM.
It didn't. We wait. About 8:10 the theater employees show up to tell us that nothing is wrong, everything is working, that they are just waiting for the broadcast to begin. I assume this means that they didn't actually have a tape reel, but were streaming the movie and concert.
At 8:15 when the show has still not started yet, this lady gets up to leave and loudly announces that she is leaving because she already knows all about the Foo Fighters and she was alive when Nirvana was together. My thoughts were two fold. A. Who cares? B. Why did you come here in the first place? (OK, three fold) C. Wasn't everyone alive long enough to remember when Nirvana was together? This made me realize that I am officially old. You are old when you were around to experience something iconic that young(er) people can only hear about. Nirvana is a perfect example of that. I can tell the story of where I was standing when I first heard about Kurt Cobain.(i.e. grocery store, State College, PA). My great grand kids will be on the edge of their seat for that story someday. Guy in line at grocery store: "Did you hear that Kurt Cobain died?" Me: "No, Wow!". The end. Epic story, I know.
8:20 the movie finally starts with a message to save your 3D glasses for the live concert following the movie. The beginning of the movie gives the history of Dave Grohl and his experience drumming with Nirvana and his dealing with Kurt's death. He said he started Foo Fighters because he didn't want to be remembered as this guy who played drums in Nirvana.
Did you know he recorded the entire first self titled Foo Fighters album all by himself? He recorded all the instruments himself, wrote and sang all the songs. Impressive. Obviously he had guys to go on tour with him to play the live shows, but the recording is all him. In my humble opinion, it is one of the best.
The documentary mainly focused on the revolving door of band members. I didn't remember that the band members changed as much as they did. I didn't remember there was another drummer before Taylor Hawkins. I've always been a fan of him as the drummer (mainly because of my hubby's influence) and I didn't remember he was drumming for Alanis Morissette before joined the Foo Fighters.
Dave Grohl has a good sense of humor and is a good story teller, so he kept us chuckling throughout. At times, during some of the interview parts, he seemed less like a rock star and more like a nice, sensitive, Dad-type. I guess he probably IS a nice, sensitive, Dad-type these days, as illustrated in the movie with the family scenes with his wife and little girls.
This was definitely not a "Behind the Music" type documentary of sex, drugs and rock n roll. Besides a short mention of Taylor Hawkins' struggles with drugs and some talk about getting drunk before playing those huge live stadium shows, the rock 'n roll lifestyle was hardly mentioned.
Dave Grohl also talks about how they recorded their latest album using reel to reel tape recording. You know, analog. The old fashion way. In Dave's basement. Sound familiar? Sounds like another big name artist I know, who I wont mention (again). Maybe this is a new trend. Less Pro Tools, More real (no pun intended). Interesting.
All in all it was an engaging interesting story for any Foo Fighters Fan, even one like me who hasn't purchased an album since "One by One" (2002). Its not that I lost love for the Foo Fighters. I will always be a fan of that straight forward Rock 'n Roll style. You know, not quite hard enough to be classified as hard rock, usually classified in that mysterious "alternative" genre that begs the question..."Alternative to what"? I admit that they seemed to have lost their edge these past few years, but I love the melodic verses that bleed into the screaming chorus' with heavy guitars and drums, which is the Foo Fighters classic formula. For me, it is a winner every time.
(everyone looks super cool in 3D glasses)
The documentary is over and a message comes on the screen that the live concert will begin in 5 minutes. When it starts, I put on my 3D glasses, but this is not the concert I was expecting. It appears it is being filmed in a small studio. I found the 3D to be distracting and gimmicky. They had background images that came forward with the 3D glasses and this one shot of Taylor Hawkins side view where his crash cymbal was seemingly extending into the audience. It kind of gave me a headache and I eventually took off the glasses and watched a slightly blurry screen with more satisfaction. They played the entire "Wasting Light" album live. I have my doubts if it was actually live (as advertised) or a recording of live performance, but none the less it was mostly enjoyable.
I'll leave you with this quote from Dave Grohl. "Honestly, had I taken this whole career thing seriously, I would have named it something else. Worst (expletive) band name ever".
Are you following my blog? Simply click the blue 'Join this site' button to the left (you may have to scroll down from the top). Thanks, as always, for your support. Lea-Bean
Last night I was scrolling my Facebook feed and there was a link to the documentary trailer that mentioned the movie was playing in select cities for one day only (April 5th), followed by a live concert. I click the link to the theaters and to my surprise it would only be playing in five theaters across the entire state of Texas and one of them happens to be five minutes from my house.
(watch the trailer here...but finish reading the blog first)
My hubby is not a big fan of movie theaters. Let me rephrase that, my hubby is not a big fan of the people that populate movie theaters. We haven't been to a theater together in probably 5 years. We are Netflix people. However, he is a drummer and a big Dave Grohl fan (and Taylor Hawkins), so despite his disdain of the movie theater crowd, he was on board for this one.
He calls the theater first thing Tuesday morning to inquire about purchasing tickets. We were not sure if this limited, one day, one time only release would sell out or if anyone even knew about it. We decided to play it safe and get tickets early. The lady on the phone tells him they are having trouble with the projector and they are not even sure if they would be able to broadcast the show that night, so she wouldn't sell him the tickets. She advised him to call back at 2PM when they would have a better idea. My hubby is obedient and calls at 2PM, only to be informed that they have already sold out.
Luckily of the 5 showings in Texas, two of them are in Fort Worth. He calls the 2nd place about 30 minutes away and they let him purchase the tickets for $20 bucks a pop over the phone. Phew.
After rushing home from work, we head down to Fort Worth to catch dinner and cheat on our diets before the show.
(outrageous!)
It was scheduled to start at 8:01 PM.
It didn't. We wait. About 8:10 the theater employees show up to tell us that nothing is wrong, everything is working, that they are just waiting for the broadcast to begin. I assume this means that they didn't actually have a tape reel, but were streaming the movie and concert.
At 8:15 when the show has still not started yet, this lady gets up to leave and loudly announces that she is leaving because she already knows all about the Foo Fighters and she was alive when Nirvana was together. My thoughts were two fold. A. Who cares? B. Why did you come here in the first place? (OK, three fold) C. Wasn't everyone alive long enough to remember when Nirvana was together? This made me realize that I am officially old. You are old when you were around to experience something iconic that young(er) people can only hear about. Nirvana is a perfect example of that. I can tell the story of where I was standing when I first heard about Kurt Cobain.(i.e. grocery store, State College, PA). My great grand kids will be on the edge of their seat for that story someday. Guy in line at grocery store: "Did you hear that Kurt Cobain died?" Me: "No, Wow!". The end. Epic story, I know.
8:20 the movie finally starts with a message to save your 3D glasses for the live concert following the movie. The beginning of the movie gives the history of Dave Grohl and his experience drumming with Nirvana and his dealing with Kurt's death. He said he started Foo Fighters because he didn't want to be remembered as this guy who played drums in Nirvana.
Did you know he recorded the entire first self titled Foo Fighters album all by himself? He recorded all the instruments himself, wrote and sang all the songs. Impressive. Obviously he had guys to go on tour with him to play the live shows, but the recording is all him. In my humble opinion, it is one of the best.
The documentary mainly focused on the revolving door of band members. I didn't remember that the band members changed as much as they did. I didn't remember there was another drummer before Taylor Hawkins. I've always been a fan of him as the drummer (mainly because of my hubby's influence) and I didn't remember he was drumming for Alanis Morissette before joined the Foo Fighters.
Dave Grohl has a good sense of humor and is a good story teller, so he kept us chuckling throughout. At times, during some of the interview parts, he seemed less like a rock star and more like a nice, sensitive, Dad-type. I guess he probably IS a nice, sensitive, Dad-type these days, as illustrated in the movie with the family scenes with his wife and little girls.
This was definitely not a "Behind the Music" type documentary of sex, drugs and rock n roll. Besides a short mention of Taylor Hawkins' struggles with drugs and some talk about getting drunk before playing those huge live stadium shows, the rock 'n roll lifestyle was hardly mentioned.
Dave Grohl also talks about how they recorded their latest album using reel to reel tape recording. You know, analog. The old fashion way. In Dave's basement. Sound familiar? Sounds like another big name artist I know, who I wont mention (again). Maybe this is a new trend. Less Pro Tools, More real (no pun intended). Interesting.
All in all it was an engaging interesting story for any Foo Fighters Fan, even one like me who hasn't purchased an album since "One by One" (2002). Its not that I lost love for the Foo Fighters. I will always be a fan of that straight forward Rock 'n Roll style. You know, not quite hard enough to be classified as hard rock, usually classified in that mysterious "alternative" genre that begs the question..."Alternative to what"? I admit that they seemed to have lost their edge these past few years, but I love the melodic verses that bleed into the screaming chorus' with heavy guitars and drums, which is the Foo Fighters classic formula. For me, it is a winner every time.
(everyone looks super cool in 3D glasses)
The documentary is over and a message comes on the screen that the live concert will begin in 5 minutes. When it starts, I put on my 3D glasses, but this is not the concert I was expecting. It appears it is being filmed in a small studio. I found the 3D to be distracting and gimmicky. They had background images that came forward with the 3D glasses and this one shot of Taylor Hawkins side view where his crash cymbal was seemingly extending into the audience. It kind of gave me a headache and I eventually took off the glasses and watched a slightly blurry screen with more satisfaction. They played the entire "Wasting Light" album live. I have my doubts if it was actually live (as advertised) or a recording of live performance, but none the less it was mostly enjoyable.
I'll leave you with this quote from Dave Grohl. "Honestly, had I taken this whole career thing seriously, I would have named it something else. Worst (expletive) band name ever".
Are you following my blog? Simply click the blue 'Join this site' button to the left (you may have to scroll down from the top). Thanks, as always, for your support. Lea-Bean
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Record Store Day 2011
I love records. Therefore, I LOVE Record Store Day. This year Record Store Day falls on April 16th. This is only the 2nd year that I will be celebrating, but apparently it has been going on since 2007. I’m just a little late to the party (as usual). Are you?
Record Store day is celebrated on third Saturday of April and hundreds of independent record stores around the country (the world?) will be participating in the celebration. Record stores will be having parties, live performances and special RSD releases. Snacks Perhaps? Don't be greedy. One can only hope. All of this is meant to bring together the local music community and promote the (sadly dwindling) independent record store. In other words, Don’t expect Best Buy to have a party in their 1ft vinyl section, I mean shelf. (They better not anyway).
I could tell you all about it, or you could just go to www.recordstoreday.com and read all about it for yourself, and then I can get to my point.
I have two favorite record stores in Dallas/Fort Worth. One being Good Records on Greenville Ave in Dallas and the other is Forever Young Records in Grand Prairie.
Good Records recently announced their lineup of bands playing from 11am to 11pm plus tons of vinyl releases. To my surprise and delight they announced they will have the limited edition releases from my beloved Third Man Records.
You can you watch the guys at Third Man tell you about them here. Although, I wont make it to Nashville this year, I hope to pick up these releases at good old Good Records.
These types of swirly and rose petal limited edition releases are usually only available from the Third Man Records store in Nashville, TN (or by the luck of the draw with a random mail order). My hubby will undoubtedly be with me in line at 8am on Saturday at Good Records with bells on. After all, the drive into Dallas is a heck of a lot shorter than the one to Nashville.
Reissue of the White Stripes second single from 1998. Limited quantities available on white/black swirled vinyl.
7'' vinyl single, fold-over picture sleeve in poly bag
Tracklist
A Lafayette Blues 2:14
B Sugar Never Tasted So Good 2:55
Reissue of the White Stripes first ever release from 1998. Limited quantities available on red/black swirled vinyl.
7'' vinyl single, fold-over picture sleeve in poly bag
Tracklist
A Let's Shake Hands 2:03
B Look Me Over Closely 2:17
Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi/Jack White/Norah Jones. I'm excited for this one!
The debut release from the highly-anticipated ROME project produced by Danger Mouse in conjunction with Daniele Luppi. Jack White wrote the lyrics and sings on ''Two Against One'' and Norah Jones takes the vocal duties for ''Black.'' Many of the instrumentalists on the album recorded with Ennio Morricone for his classic spaghetti-Western soundtracks.
KAREN ELSON:
Custom made, clear vinyl single with peach-colored rose petals INSIDE the record.
A cover of the Lou Reed classic backed with an unbelievably visceral outtake from Elson's ''The Ghost Who Walks'' LP. Limited to 1000 copies.
http://www.goodrecords.com/recordstoreday/
Record Store day is celebrated on third Saturday of April and hundreds of independent record stores around the country (the world?) will be participating in the celebration. Record stores will be having parties, live performances and special RSD releases. Snacks Perhaps? Don't be greedy. One can only hope. All of this is meant to bring together the local music community and promote the (sadly dwindling) independent record store. In other words, Don’t expect Best Buy to have a party in their 1ft vinyl section, I mean shelf. (They better not anyway).
I could tell you all about it, or you could just go to www.recordstoreday.com and read all about it for yourself, and then I can get to my point.
I have two favorite record stores in Dallas/Fort Worth. One being Good Records on Greenville Ave in Dallas and the other is Forever Young Records in Grand Prairie.
Good Records recently announced their lineup of bands playing from 11am to 11pm plus tons of vinyl releases. To my surprise and delight they announced they will have the limited edition releases from my beloved Third Man Records.
You can you watch the guys at Third Man tell you about them here. Although, I wont make it to Nashville this year, I hope to pick up these releases at good old Good Records.
These types of swirly and rose petal limited edition releases are usually only available from the Third Man Records store in Nashville, TN (or by the luck of the draw with a random mail order). My hubby will undoubtedly be with me in line at 8am on Saturday at Good Records with bells on. After all, the drive into Dallas is a heck of a lot shorter than the one to Nashville.
Reissue of the White Stripes second single from 1998. Limited quantities available on white/black swirled vinyl.
7'' vinyl single, fold-over picture sleeve in poly bag
Tracklist
A Lafayette Blues 2:14
B Sugar Never Tasted So Good 2:55
Reissue of the White Stripes first ever release from 1998. Limited quantities available on red/black swirled vinyl.
7'' vinyl single, fold-over picture sleeve in poly bag
Tracklist
A Let's Shake Hands 2:03
B Look Me Over Closely 2:17
Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi/Jack White/Norah Jones. I'm excited for this one!
The debut release from the highly-anticipated ROME project produced by Danger Mouse in conjunction with Daniele Luppi. Jack White wrote the lyrics and sings on ''Two Against One'' and Norah Jones takes the vocal duties for ''Black.'' Many of the instrumentalists on the album recorded with Ennio Morricone for his classic spaghetti-Western soundtracks.
KAREN ELSON:
Custom made, clear vinyl single with peach-colored rose petals INSIDE the record.
A cover of the Lou Reed classic backed with an unbelievably visceral outtake from Elson's ''The Ghost Who Walks'' LP. Limited to 1000 copies.
http://www.goodrecords.com/recordstoreday/
Monday, March 21, 2011
My SXSW, TMR, Greenhornes Weekend
We were off to Austin. Y'all may wonder why?
To see a big yellow truck, this year at South By.
It was hard to reply, again & again
when asked what shows, we planned to attend.
There is not a show, I tried to explain
I could tell they were thinking, that I was insane.
A store on wheels, painted yellow and black
Selling vinyl and dreams, of a small glimpse of Jack.
It was Friday morning, with a road trip ahead
My sweet hubby driving, with his shoe full of lead.
We made it to town, in about record time
Drove 200 miles, then stood in line.
I was hot, I was happy, but mostly I was poor
After my stop at The Third Man Rolling Record Store.
We drove in that morning, and drove home that night
A one day adventure and it's over. Right?
Wait, not so fast! Although tired and worn,
We have tickets on Sunday, to see the Greenhornes!
Now back in Dallas, we head to Deep Ellum
To see the Greenhornes, and hopefully tell 'em
How much we appreciate, their talent, their band
Get all their autographs, and shake all their hands.
The boys were so gracious, and as cool as could be
When they signed our vinyl, then rocked our city
The weekend was over, and Monday morning came early
Four hours of sleep, but it was worth it... Really.
Can you imagine the perfect end to this tale?
My Third Man vault package arrived in the mail!
To see a big yellow truck, this year at South By.
It was hard to reply, again & again
when asked what shows, we planned to attend.
There is not a show, I tried to explain
I could tell they were thinking, that I was insane.
A store on wheels, painted yellow and black
Selling vinyl and dreams, of a small glimpse of Jack.
It was Friday morning, with a road trip ahead
My sweet hubby driving, with his shoe full of lead.
We made it to town, in about record time
Drove 200 miles, then stood in line.
I was hot, I was happy, but mostly I was poor
After my stop at The Third Man Rolling Record Store.
We drove in that morning, and drove home that night
A one day adventure and it's over. Right?
Wait, not so fast! Although tired and worn,
We have tickets on Sunday, to see the Greenhornes!
Now back in Dallas, we head to Deep Ellum
To see the Greenhornes, and hopefully tell 'em
How much we appreciate, their talent, their band
Get all their autographs, and shake all their hands.
The boys were so gracious, and as cool as could be
When they signed our vinyl, then rocked our city
The weekend was over, and Monday morning came early
Four hours of sleep, but it was worth it... Really.
Can you imagine the perfect end to this tale?
My Third Man vault package arrived in the mail!
Me and LJ (Jack Lawerance) of the Greenhornes, Raconteurs and the Dead Weather.
(you can watch this video to get a glimpse into the Third Man Rolling Record Store Experience)
March 18-20, 2011
Are you following my blog? Simply click the blue 'Join this site' button to the left (you may have to scroll down from the top). Thanks, as always, for your support. Lea-Bean
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
More Black Gadgets than Faces
Today, Jack White stood in front of his newest innovation, the Third Man Rolling Record Store, during its debut appearance at South by Southwest. Surrounded by 300 fans with his famous yellow and black decor as a backdrop, Jack surprises his fans with a 2 song solo performance. 45 minutes before my phone starts to go crazy with Twitter posts from the Third Man sites. "Jack White debuts the Rolling Record store at noon, maybe something awesome will happen". Then, 40 minutes before the show, "4th and Colorado at Frank...Get here now, or forever regret it...".
I am in Fort Worth wishing I could transport myself instantly from my cubicle in Corporate America to the corner of 4th and Colorado in Austin on this Wednesday afternoon, as Jack is taking the stage (or more accurately, the parking lot).
"There's more black gadgets than faces", says Jack before he begins his first song. Typical Jack-style commentary referring to the number of people recording the show from their cell phones or cameras. I agree that people sometimes miss out on the experience, although physically present, in their desperate attempt to share the experience. However, I am forever grateful for those people who took video for You-Tube and posted pictures to Facebook. Even though I am handcuffed to my desk 200 miles away, I was able to *almost* experience it as though I was there. Almost.
The NPR footage is the best I have seen online. Here it is. Jack performing a Buddy Holly cover he simply calls "A Texas Song" followed by the White Stripes Song "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground". Jack's six minute mini set was followed by new Third Man Records recording artist SeaSick Steve who overcame some technical difficulties. I just hope Jacky boy is saving some surprises for Friday when I get there... Enjoy!
I am in Fort Worth wishing I could transport myself instantly from my cubicle in Corporate America to the corner of 4th and Colorado in Austin on this Wednesday afternoon, as Jack is taking the stage (or more accurately, the parking lot).
"There's more black gadgets than faces", says Jack before he begins his first song. Typical Jack-style commentary referring to the number of people recording the show from their cell phones or cameras. I agree that people sometimes miss out on the experience, although physically present, in their desperate attempt to share the experience. However, I am forever grateful for those people who took video for You-Tube and posted pictures to Facebook. Even though I am handcuffed to my desk 200 miles away, I was able to *almost* experience it as though I was there. Almost.
The NPR footage is the best I have seen online. Here it is. Jack performing a Buddy Holly cover he simply calls "A Texas Song" followed by the White Stripes Song "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground". Jack's six minute mini set was followed by new Third Man Records recording artist SeaSick Steve who overcame some technical difficulties. I just hope Jacky boy is saving some surprises for Friday when I get there... Enjoy!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Hell on Wheels?
From my perspective, more like heaven. Jack White just might be rolling into your town. Literally.
Yesterday, Third Man Records unveiled the Third Man Rolling Record Store. According to the video posted by TMR on You-Tube, 97% of high school aged kids today have NEVER been to an independent record store. "Perhaps they couldn’t find one", they mused.
Say what you will about Jack White (I can only think of good things, but that’s just me), but one thing that can’t be denied is that he is innovative. Remember the Triple Decker Record from the Dead Weather?
Yesterday, Third Man Records unveiled the Third Man Rolling Record Store. According to the video posted by TMR on You-Tube, 97% of high school aged kids today have NEVER been to an independent record store. "Perhaps they couldn’t find one", they mused.
Say what you will about Jack White (I can only think of good things, but that’s just me), but one thing that can’t be denied is that he is innovative. Remember the Triple Decker Record from the Dead Weather?
How about scented vinyl from Karen Elson? Or the Greeting Card Fold packaging from Wanda Jackson? (You know, it plays music when you open the fold, just like a greeting card). Fans all over the world are chomping at the bit to get their hands on these limited edition vinyl releases, whether it be a split-color of a White Stripes re-issue or a hair record of the live performance of Reggie Watts at Third Man Record’s own venue. Yes, you read right. The Hair Record.
If you can’t make it to Nashville to stand in line at the Third Man Record Store for these types of releases, then you probably aren’t going to get one, unless you pay exorbitant prices on eBay. But, that is another blog topic all together.
Solution? Jack and team created the Third Man Rolling Record store. Can’t get to Nashville? Maybe the Third Man Record Nashville shop will come to you.
The Third Man Rolling Record Store, painted in the famous yellow and black, "is designed to reflect the look, feel and panache of the Third Man Records Nashville location", boasts a post on the TMR subscription service called The Vault. The retail store on wheels brags of two turntables and a microphone to play vinyl while you shop (Does Beck get a royalty check every time someone uses that phrase?). It has a high quality amplification system so bands can plug into the van from outside and play wherever the truck is parked. TMR is promising to keep it on the road regularly, from concerts to festivals to any other strange location you can think of...or so they threaten.
As your brain is trying to think of what strange locations they may be talking about, think of it like this: If the bookmobile is the nerdy kid in school, the Third Man Rolling Record Store is that cool musician guy that all the girls swoon over.
The Third Man Rolling Record Store is making its debut at the SXSW festival in Austin March 16-20th and is promising exclusive merchandise. I had no previous intentions to going to Austin this year for SXSW, but since the announcement, we are planning a road trip and an overnight stay to check it out. Luckily, I have a very patient husband who indulges me in this sort of thing. We won’t actually have wristbands for SXSW, we’ll likely just check out the TMR stuff and maybe some local events outside the festival. There are plenty of things to do and see around Austin next week-end that don't cost $200 a wrist.
Here it is, another innovation coming out of Third Man Records. I am excited to see where it will show up next, maybe at my house?
I wonder if it is available for Birthdays and Bar Mitzvahs.
You can watch the video here:
Updated: SXSW TMR artist shows and RRS events:
Open daily from 12-5pm and 7-10pm. Here's a list of our scheduled locations:
March 16th - 4th and Colorado (next to Frank)
March 17th - Waterloo Records
March 18th - 4th and Colorado (next to Frank)
March 19th - Rainy St. and Driscoll
Here's where you can catch Third Man artists at SXSW:
* WANDA JACKSON
Saturday, March 20
Rachael Ray's Feedback Day Party at Stubbs
* THE GREENHORNES
Thursday, March 17
1:00pm - Waterloo Performance
1:15am - Domino/Emo's Jr. Performance
Saturday, March 19
7:00pm - Headlining the Consequence of Sound day party at Larimer Lounge
* JEFF THE BROTHERHOOD
Wednesday, March 16
2:00 PM - eMusic Party @ Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St, Austin, TX 78701
Thursday, March 17
3:10 PM - PreFixMag.com Party @ 501 Studios, 501 Brushy St, Austin, TX 78702
4:30 PM – Thrasher/Impose Magazine Party @ Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St,
Austin, TX 78702
Friday, March 18
3:30 PM - Volcom Party @ Jackalope, 404 E. 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
10:00 PM - Vice/Noisey.com Party @ Kiss N Fly, 404 Colorado St (@ 5th St),
Austin, TX 78701
Saturday, March 19
11:00 PM - Panache Booking Party @ The Mohawk, 912 Red River St, Austin, TX
78701
* WE ARE HEX
Tuesday, March 15
12:00am - Frank
Wednesday, March 16
The Badlands (time TBA) | Elysium (SXSW Offical 12AM)
Thursday, March 17
Gueros (time 12PM) | Hole in the Wall (time 8PM)
Friday, March 18th
Habana Bar (SXSW Offical 1AM) | Peckerhead's (time TBA) | Red Eyed Fly (time
TBA)
* PUJOL
Tuesday, March 15
11:00pm - Panache Pre-SXSW Party At Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th Street (Inside
Stage)
Wednesday, March 16th
4:45pm - AnSo SXSW Party At Spider House, 2908 Fruth Street
Thursday, March 19th
1:00pm - Brooklyn Vegan Day Party At Barbarella, 615 Red River Street
3:00pm - Strange Boys Party At Trailer Space, 401 Rosewood Avenue
12:00am - Pinpoint Music Unofficial Show At Lanai Rooftop Lounge, 422
Congress Avenue
Friday, March 18th
2:25pm - Stay Gold Show At The Eastern, 1511 E. 6th Street
4:30pm - My Old Kentucky Blog Party At Peckerheads, 402 E. 6th Street
7:45pm - Austin Psych Fest Show At Spider House, 2906 Fruth Street
Saturday, March 19th
3:30pm - Psychic Lunch At Spider House, 2906 Fruth Street
9:40pm - Panache Booking SXSW Showcase At Mohawk, 912 Red River Street
(Inside Stage)
Sunday, March 20th
3:30pm Panache Hangover Party At Beerland, 711 Red River Street
Friday, February 25, 2011
Dear Record Company Big Wigs,
I love vinyl. I really do. I cant quite explain it. Maybe it reminds me of my childhood. I had a Chipmunks Christmas record that I used to rock on my portable record player as a kid. When I first started to discover my love of music the world had already moved on to the cassette tape. My first tape? Well, it wasn't mine. My older sister had a Midnight Oil tape that she kept in a drawer in her jewelry box. I was attracted to it because it wasn't the pop music of New Kids on the Block that all my friends were listening to. I used to sneak it from her room over to my best friends house across the street and return it later. I wonder if she ever knew? Good thing she doesn't read my blog. She would probably still kick my ass for stealing (ahem, borrowing) her stuff, just like the old days. The first tape I ever bought on my own was a New Order tape, shortly followed by Depeche Mode, which happened to be my first concert in 1989, I believe. But, I digress.
I read in Rolling Stone that "Though overall album sales dropped 13 percent in 2010, sales of vinyl increased by 14 percent over the previous year, with around 2.8 million units sold. This is a new record for vinyl sales since 1991". No pun intended, I am sure.
I can't explain it. I could go into the whole 'tangible item' reasoning. In a world where everything is a digital download, some people appreciate the art, the lyrics, the photography of a real album that you can hold in your real hands.
Now, don't get me wrong. I love my iPod. It is really inconvenient to jog with a record player strapped to your back. When I drive to work with my record player on the passenger seat, it always skips. A real pain, I tell you.
So, I will finally get to my point. Please, Mr. Record Company Executive, When you have a vinyl record for sale in year 2011, please offer a one time only digital download included with the purchase. I am willing to sign a promissory note that I won't share it with my friends. Well, only with my REAL friends. I wont share with all those people on Facebook. I promise. It all comes down to the fact that I don't like to buy my music twice. Because it is HIGHLY unlikely I am going to walk into my local record store and steal an album from them, you force me to download a torrent file of the vinyl I just purchased.
Let's just make this easy on both of us.
Your skeptical friend,
Lea
I read in Rolling Stone that "Though overall album sales dropped 13 percent in 2010, sales of vinyl increased by 14 percent over the previous year, with around 2.8 million units sold. This is a new record for vinyl sales since 1991". No pun intended, I am sure.
I can't explain it. I could go into the whole 'tangible item' reasoning. In a world where everything is a digital download, some people appreciate the art, the lyrics, the photography of a real album that you can hold in your real hands.
Now, don't get me wrong. I love my iPod. It is really inconvenient to jog with a record player strapped to your back. When I drive to work with my record player on the passenger seat, it always skips. A real pain, I tell you.
So, I will finally get to my point. Please, Mr. Record Company Executive, When you have a vinyl record for sale in year 2011, please offer a one time only digital download included with the purchase. I am willing to sign a promissory note that I won't share it with my friends. Well, only with my REAL friends. I wont share with all those people on Facebook. I promise. It all comes down to the fact that I don't like to buy my music twice. Because it is HIGHLY unlikely I am going to walk into my local record store and steal an album from them, you force me to download a torrent file of the vinyl I just purchased.
Let's just make this easy on both of us.
Your skeptical friend,
Lea
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Action Figures
If you know me, you probably know my husband has a rather large toy collection. His ever growing collection mostly consists of Star Wars toys, Hot Wheels and Action Figures (never to be referred to as dolls). In his action figure collection there is a variety of music figures: Jimmy Page, Joey Ramone, a couple of varieties of Kurt Cobain (Courtney Love allowed that?), Sid Vicious, Johnny Rotten, Lemmy, Ozzy, Mick Jagger, Alice Cooper, Ice T (pre Law and Order, I assume), KISS, Slash, Jimi Hendrix and yes, even a collection of Devo dolls (I mean action figures).
So, if you know me AT ALL, you probably know where this is heading. Where is my Jack White action figure? I think a Jack and Meg dual set would be killer. Of course, Jack and his dang integrity would probably never want to put himself out there that way. So, I am left to my own devices and imagination. This idea has been dancing around in my head for years. What if I create my own Jack and Meg Action figures? After all, I have a red and white guitar Christmas tree ornament that is approximately Barbie size, that could be an accessory. All I need now is a barbie for Meg and a boy barbie doll that looks like Jack. Meg should be relatively easy, find a black hair barbie, pop in some pig tails and the distract away from the fact that she doesn't look like her in the face with a nice red beret. Those action figures never look the same in the face anyway. Just spice up a white drum set figurine with a peppermint swirl and its done. Now Jack will be little harder to recreate. Ken is traditionally too blond and um...tan. Of course you can buy brown hair Ken, but they are typically buff, blue eyed and well...tan.
This one is a bit too "pretty"
The hair is closer on this one. LOL! But not the right ethnicity to be Jack.
I got exicted about this one, then I realized it was probably just the top hat
Still not Quite right, maybe if I dyed his hair and eyes.
Getting Warmer, at least the facial hair is close. But this is supposed to be a Japanese man.
It did occur to me today that some of my millions of readers (ha ha) may not know about the White Stripes or what look I am going for here (Gasp! Shocking I know!). So I decided to share my inspiration for this project.
So, I doubt my little project will ever take off due to its ludicrous nature. Never mind the fact that I cant sew and I doubt the red and black leg pants are available in the Barbie doll accessory section at Wal-Mart.
UPDATE 09-25-11
I found someone who made one! Gosh I wish this was for sale!
You can view it on the web site here
If you like this post, check out:
Are you following my blog? Simply click the blue 'Join this site' button to the left (you may have to scroll down from the top). Thanks, as always, for your support. Lea-Bean
So, if you know me AT ALL, you probably know where this is heading. Where is my Jack White action figure? I think a Jack and Meg dual set would be killer. Of course, Jack and his dang integrity would probably never want to put himself out there that way. So, I am left to my own devices and imagination. This idea has been dancing around in my head for years. What if I create my own Jack and Meg Action figures? After all, I have a red and white guitar Christmas tree ornament that is approximately Barbie size, that could be an accessory. All I need now is a barbie for Meg and a boy barbie doll that looks like Jack. Meg should be relatively easy, find a black hair barbie, pop in some pig tails and the distract away from the fact that she doesn't look like her in the face with a nice red beret. Those action figures never look the same in the face anyway. Just spice up a white drum set figurine with a peppermint swirl and its done. Now Jack will be little harder to recreate. Ken is traditionally too blond and um...tan. Of course you can buy brown hair Ken, but they are typically buff, blue eyed and well...tan.
This one is a bit too "pretty"
The hair is closer on this one. LOL! But not the right ethnicity to be Jack.
I got exicted about this one, then I realized it was probably just the top hat
Still not Quite right, maybe if I dyed his hair and eyes.
Getting Warmer, at least the facial hair is close. But this is supposed to be a Japanese man.
It did occur to me today that some of my millions of readers (ha ha) may not know about the White Stripes or what look I am going for here (Gasp! Shocking I know!). So I decided to share my inspiration for this project.
So, I doubt my little project will ever take off due to its ludicrous nature. Never mind the fact that I cant sew and I doubt the red and black leg pants are available in the Barbie doll accessory section at Wal-Mart.
UPDATE 09-25-11
I found someone who made one! Gosh I wish this was for sale!
You can view it on the web site here
If you like this post, check out:
Are you following my blog? Simply click the blue 'Join this site' button to the left (you may have to scroll down from the top). Thanks, as always, for your support. Lea-Bean
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Danger Mouse
Just confirmed: Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi's album, "Rome", featuring vocals by Jack White & Norah Jones will release on May 16th (UK) and May 17th (US & Canada)
This is a silver lining for White Stripes fan everywhere mourning the end of the White Stripes. We know what you have been up to Jack. Now Meg, what is next for you? I hear Mighty Mouse might need a drummer.
This is a silver lining for White Stripes fan everywhere mourning the end of the White Stripes. We know what you have been up to Jack. Now Meg, what is next for you? I hear Mighty Mouse might need a drummer.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
An Open Letter to Jack and Meg White
Dear Jack and Meg,
I get it. Honestly, I do. I understand, to the best of my fangirl ability, the desire to preserve what is special and perfect about the White Stripes. Quit while you are ahead. That is the idea, right? When I saw your tweet this morning, with the link to the story about your official breakup, I was heart broken. But I must admit I was not really that shocked or surprised. I mean, it has been nearly four years since your last album or canceled tour. I have always claimed to be cautiously optimistic regarding a new White Stripes tour. I really wanted it to be true, but I think deep down inside I knew better. You gave us the Under Great White Northern Lights documentary last year. That was amazing, but what I realize now is that it was foreshadowing to the announcement that came today. When I saw you cry Meg, in that final scene, I think I knew right then. I think you were crying about the end of the White Stripes. The end of Jack and Meg. I cried too, but I didn't know yet why.
I will always have my six favorite albums in my collection. I will also always cherish my red and white split color 'White Blood Cells' vinyl. The White Stripes aren't dead. They will live on forever in my soul and my on my record player.
The saddest part of this for me is the end of Meg in the public eye. We all know Jack will be around. Who can guess what is next? A solo album? A new collaboration? Producing some big name or an up-and-coming artist? I expect to see it all. soon. I can hardly wait to see what comes next. But what about you, Meg? I haven't heard from you since 2007. I suspect you have happily disappeared into anonymity. I always suspected that you were never very comfortable with the spot light that shined on you for all those years. You were this regular shy girl who loved music and records and Jack (like me!). The hardest part of this all is that we never had the chance to say goodbye to you Meg.
But, I forgive you Jack and Meg. I am not the kind of fan that holds a grudge. I trust you are doing what you feel is best for you. I get artist integrity. I also understand and want to preserve the perfection that is the White Stripes. I get it. I just have one request, please release 'Get Behind Me Satan' on vinyl as a peace offering to your fans.
Forever Grateful,
Lea
you can read the official announcement here:
http://www.whitestripes.com/
I get it. Honestly, I do. I understand, to the best of my fangirl ability, the desire to preserve what is special and perfect about the White Stripes. Quit while you are ahead. That is the idea, right? When I saw your tweet this morning, with the link to the story about your official breakup, I was heart broken. But I must admit I was not really that shocked or surprised. I mean, it has been nearly four years since your last album or canceled tour. I have always claimed to be cautiously optimistic regarding a new White Stripes tour. I really wanted it to be true, but I think deep down inside I knew better. You gave us the Under Great White Northern Lights documentary last year. That was amazing, but what I realize now is that it was foreshadowing to the announcement that came today. When I saw you cry Meg, in that final scene, I think I knew right then. I think you were crying about the end of the White Stripes. The end of Jack and Meg. I cried too, but I didn't know yet why.
I will always have my six favorite albums in my collection. I will also always cherish my red and white split color 'White Blood Cells' vinyl. The White Stripes aren't dead. They will live on forever in my soul and my on my record player.
The saddest part of this for me is the end of Meg in the public eye. We all know Jack will be around. Who can guess what is next? A solo album? A new collaboration? Producing some big name or an up-and-coming artist? I expect to see it all. soon. I can hardly wait to see what comes next. But what about you, Meg? I haven't heard from you since 2007. I suspect you have happily disappeared into anonymity. I always suspected that you were never very comfortable with the spot light that shined on you for all those years. You were this regular shy girl who loved music and records and Jack (like me!). The hardest part of this all is that we never had the chance to say goodbye to you Meg.
But, I forgive you Jack and Meg. I am not the kind of fan that holds a grudge. I trust you are doing what you feel is best for you. I get artist integrity. I also understand and want to preserve the perfection that is the White Stripes. I get it. I just have one request, please release 'Get Behind Me Satan' on vinyl as a peace offering to your fans.
Forever Grateful,
Lea
you can read the official announcement here:
http://www.whitestripes.com/
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