A/C
OK, it's official: the Hot season has arrived in Los Angeles. I just turned on the air conditioner for the first time in at least six months. We only have three seasons in Southern California: Warm, Hot, and Too Hot. As of today, the Hot season is in full swing.
God help us.
Sunday, March 28, 2004
Ace In The Hole
If you ever get a chance to see this movie, don't miss it! Kirk Douglas plays an out-of-work newspaper reporter from New York who takes a job with a small-town paper in New Mexico in hopes of rebuilding his career. Life is pretty slow in the West and Douglas becomes increasingly frustrated until a mine cave-in traps a local man under tons of rock. Instead of quickly rescuing the victim, Douglas persuades local authorities to delay their efforts until Douglas' news stories make headlines in the big city markets. The media circus quickly ensues and thousands of people take up residency around the disaster zone hoping to have some brush with history.
The story, based on a true story and co-written and directed by the great Billy Wilder, seems eerily prescient in its expose of modern media manipulations and hidden agendas in favor of corporate and individual greed. The satire is absolutely scathing, at once hilarious and brutal. There are no sympathetic characters in the drama, but the performances by Douglas as the cynical reporter and Jan Sterling as the victim's uncaring wife are outstanding. Ironically, Miss Sterling passed away on the very day I saw this film at a special screening in Hollywood.
Ace In The Hole has never been released on video or DVD and it very rarely shows on television. Hopefully this error will be quickly corrected. This is an excellent film that needs to be seen by everyone, now more than ever.
If you ever get a chance to see this movie, don't miss it! Kirk Douglas plays an out-of-work newspaper reporter from New York who takes a job with a small-town paper in New Mexico in hopes of rebuilding his career. Life is pretty slow in the West and Douglas becomes increasingly frustrated until a mine cave-in traps a local man under tons of rock. Instead of quickly rescuing the victim, Douglas persuades local authorities to delay their efforts until Douglas' news stories make headlines in the big city markets. The media circus quickly ensues and thousands of people take up residency around the disaster zone hoping to have some brush with history.
The story, based on a true story and co-written and directed by the great Billy Wilder, seems eerily prescient in its expose of modern media manipulations and hidden agendas in favor of corporate and individual greed. The satire is absolutely scathing, at once hilarious and brutal. There are no sympathetic characters in the drama, but the performances by Douglas as the cynical reporter and Jan Sterling as the victim's uncaring wife are outstanding. Ironically, Miss Sterling passed away on the very day I saw this film at a special screening in Hollywood.
Ace In The Hole has never been released on video or DVD and it very rarely shows on television. Hopefully this error will be quickly corrected. This is an excellent film that needs to be seen by everyone, now more than ever.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
"Dust Bunnies"
My apartment is knee deep in cat hair. OK, that's an extreme exaggeration, but it does tend to accumulate quickly. It's amazing to me that I can vacuum and within a couple of days there are clumps of hair floating around various corners and pieces of furniture in my room. Some people call these "dust bunnies." It's an appropriate metaphor since they reproduce like mad!
My apartment is knee deep in cat hair. OK, that's an extreme exaggeration, but it does tend to accumulate quickly. It's amazing to me that I can vacuum and within a couple of days there are clumps of hair floating around various corners and pieces of furniture in my room. Some people call these "dust bunnies." It's an appropriate metaphor since they reproduce like mad!
Friday, March 12, 2004
Jupiter
I saw Jupiter the other night through my little telescope that Randy and Heather gave me. It was a lovely, warm evening and I decided to drag out the 'scope to the sidewalk directly in front of my apartment. I did that several times last fall when Mars was big and close and it was a lot of fun. Surprising how much I could see despite the city lights all around.
I got the 'scope lined up with my 25mm eyepiece and I could easily see the bright blob of Jupiter and its four Galilean moons. When I switched eyepieces for the 9mm, I was stunned to see Jupiter much larger and clearer -- I could even see the bands or "stripes" across the planet's surface. It was so exciting! It made me wish I had a larger telescope. The one I have is fine, but it's tiny: only about a three-inch lense.
I just read on space.com that this month will see all five of the naked eye planets visible at the same time. They said the results will be spectacular even with small telescopes or binoculars, which I also have. That's good news. Now hopefully the weather will cooperate. It's getting warmer here in Los Angeles which means the evenings tend to be a little foggy.
In the words of the immortal Jack Horkheimer, "Keep looking up!"
I saw Jupiter the other night through my little telescope that Randy and Heather gave me. It was a lovely, warm evening and I decided to drag out the 'scope to the sidewalk directly in front of my apartment. I did that several times last fall when Mars was big and close and it was a lot of fun. Surprising how much I could see despite the city lights all around.
I got the 'scope lined up with my 25mm eyepiece and I could easily see the bright blob of Jupiter and its four Galilean moons. When I switched eyepieces for the 9mm, I was stunned to see Jupiter much larger and clearer -- I could even see the bands or "stripes" across the planet's surface. It was so exciting! It made me wish I had a larger telescope. The one I have is fine, but it's tiny: only about a three-inch lense.
I just read on space.com that this month will see all five of the naked eye planets visible at the same time. They said the results will be spectacular even with small telescopes or binoculars, which I also have. That's good news. Now hopefully the weather will cooperate. It's getting warmer here in Los Angeles which means the evenings tend to be a little foggy.
In the words of the immortal Jack Horkheimer, "Keep looking up!"
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Spalding Gray
Spalding Gray was found dead this week in the East River, an apparent suicide. Sadly, Gray had suffered from depression and mental illness throughout his life, most severely in recent years due to a terrible car accident which seriously injured him.
I saw Spalding Gray in Providence, Rhode Island (his home state) during the Superstar tour. I remember seeing his name on a theater marquee, though I can't remember exactly if it was the same theater we played at or if it was a different theater nearby. It was a cold, slightly snowy Sunday and I was out for some dinner between shows. I found a quiet Italian restaurant with red checkerboard tablecloths and went inside to eat. Mr. Gray was seated at a table behind mine with a few other people, possibly friends or family. As I sat down, our eyes met briefly and I nodded to him in recognition, but I didn't say anything to him as he was deep in conversation with his companions and I didn't want to draw any attention to him. I was wearing my Superstar tour jacket which had my name "Spalding" stitched in gold thread over the left breast. I think he noticed that since he smiled vaguely at me before continuing his conversation.
I'm sorry I missed his show.
Spalding Gray was found dead this week in the East River, an apparent suicide. Sadly, Gray had suffered from depression and mental illness throughout his life, most severely in recent years due to a terrible car accident which seriously injured him.
I saw Spalding Gray in Providence, Rhode Island (his home state) during the Superstar tour. I remember seeing his name on a theater marquee, though I can't remember exactly if it was the same theater we played at or if it was a different theater nearby. It was a cold, slightly snowy Sunday and I was out for some dinner between shows. I found a quiet Italian restaurant with red checkerboard tablecloths and went inside to eat. Mr. Gray was seated at a table behind mine with a few other people, possibly friends or family. As I sat down, our eyes met briefly and I nodded to him in recognition, but I didn't say anything to him as he was deep in conversation with his companions and I didn't want to draw any attention to him. I was wearing my Superstar tour jacket which had my name "Spalding" stitched in gold thread over the left breast. I think he noticed that since he smiled vaguely at me before continuing his conversation.
I'm sorry I missed his show.
Back to Blogging
Haven't blogged in a while. Been meaning to but very busy these days. Full schedule at UCLA plus I'm trying to sub on Englishtown as much as possible to make money. I've got some big debts coming due very soon, including a whopping tax bill. Icky.
So, what's new? Going back a couple weeks, the memorial for Carl Anderson was just lovely. Very emotional experience. I cried the whole time but there were plenty of laughs and happy thoughts as well. He really was an extraordinary human being. I can't quite believe he's gone. He was so ALIVE. I just expect him to turn up at any moment with his huge charm and energy. Ah well, we'll all be together soon enough.
I'm looking forward to the next Bowie show in April. Randy got tickets for us to see DB at the Greek Theater. It'll be fun to see DB again and especially at the Greek. Plus I hope Randy will be feeling better enough to enjoy the show. Last time he wasn't able to make it. Bowie's been in Australia and New Zealand and now in Japan. I hope he's not too tired and burnt out by the time the tour returns to America. Oh well, a guy's gotta make a living!
Speaking of which, I need to make more money! Wah!!! :-(
Haven't blogged in a while. Been meaning to but very busy these days. Full schedule at UCLA plus I'm trying to sub on Englishtown as much as possible to make money. I've got some big debts coming due very soon, including a whopping tax bill. Icky.
So, what's new? Going back a couple weeks, the memorial for Carl Anderson was just lovely. Very emotional experience. I cried the whole time but there were plenty of laughs and happy thoughts as well. He really was an extraordinary human being. I can't quite believe he's gone. He was so ALIVE. I just expect him to turn up at any moment with his huge charm and energy. Ah well, we'll all be together soon enough.
I'm looking forward to the next Bowie show in April. Randy got tickets for us to see DB at the Greek Theater. It'll be fun to see DB again and especially at the Greek. Plus I hope Randy will be feeling better enough to enjoy the show. Last time he wasn't able to make it. Bowie's been in Australia and New Zealand and now in Japan. I hope he's not too tired and burnt out by the time the tour returns to America. Oh well, a guy's gotta make a living!
Speaking of which, I need to make more money! Wah!!! :-(
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
"Brother-Man!" Carl Anderson Dead at 58
I just heard on the radio this morning that my old friend Carl Anderson, 'Judas' from Jesus Christ Superstar on Broadway and in the original film, has died at Cedar Sinai hospital. He was diagnosed with leukemia about seven months ago.
Carl starred in the record-setting 25th anniversary revival tour of Superstar along with original 'Jesus' Ted Neeley. I worked with Carl on that show from 1995 - 1997. Carl toured with the show only part time during that period. He would join us in the major markets when the show had a 'sit-down' for a week or so. After several years on the road he was tired of living on the buses, he said.
Carl got his start on TV in 1964 in the soap opera "Another World." He made various guest apperances in TV shows such as "Starsky and Hutch", "The Rockford Files", "Magnum P.I." and the film "The Color Purple." He was best known, however, for his soulful performance of Judas and he played the role on and off many times over the years.
Besides Superstar, Carl developed a successful recording and concert career. He toured the world and had a hit record with Gloria Loring, "Friends and Lovers", in the early 1980s. He last appeared on Broadway in 1997's "Play On!", a review of Duke Ellington songs.
The last time I saw Carl was about four years ago. He was performing in a small nightclub here in LA. It was a wonderful show and he sounded great. I sat right up front and he kept interacting with me during the stage banter and so forth. I remember when the music first started, Carl looked down at me, snapped his fingers to the beat, and said "Right there, Scott!", meaning his band had found their groove. It was a classic Carl moment.
Carl was a very warm-hearted and spiritual person. He had an amazing voice and he was a gifted musician. He also smoked the best pot of anyone I've ever known! :-) His wife was Veronica Porche Ali, the beautiful ex-wife of the boxer Muhammad Ali. This Friday, Feb 27th, would have been Carl Anderson's 59th birthday.
Playbill's obituary
Carl's official website
I just heard on the radio this morning that my old friend Carl Anderson, 'Judas' from Jesus Christ Superstar on Broadway and in the original film, has died at Cedar Sinai hospital. He was diagnosed with leukemia about seven months ago.
Carl starred in the record-setting 25th anniversary revival tour of Superstar along with original 'Jesus' Ted Neeley. I worked with Carl on that show from 1995 - 1997. Carl toured with the show only part time during that period. He would join us in the major markets when the show had a 'sit-down' for a week or so. After several years on the road he was tired of living on the buses, he said.
Carl got his start on TV in 1964 in the soap opera "Another World." He made various guest apperances in TV shows such as "Starsky and Hutch", "The Rockford Files", "Magnum P.I." and the film "The Color Purple." He was best known, however, for his soulful performance of Judas and he played the role on and off many times over the years.
Besides Superstar, Carl developed a successful recording and concert career. He toured the world and had a hit record with Gloria Loring, "Friends and Lovers", in the early 1980s. He last appeared on Broadway in 1997's "Play On!", a review of Duke Ellington songs.
The last time I saw Carl was about four years ago. He was performing in a small nightclub here in LA. It was a wonderful show and he sounded great. I sat right up front and he kept interacting with me during the stage banter and so forth. I remember when the music first started, Carl looked down at me, snapped his fingers to the beat, and said "Right there, Scott!", meaning his band had found their groove. It was a classic Carl moment.
Carl was a very warm-hearted and spiritual person. He had an amazing voice and he was a gifted musician. He also smoked the best pot of anyone I've ever known! :-) His wife was Veronica Porche Ali, the beautiful ex-wife of the boxer Muhammad Ali. This Friday, Feb 27th, would have been Carl Anderson's 59th birthday.
Playbill's obituary
Carl's official website
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Winter Storm Warning!
I can't believe it. For the first time since I've lived in California (over 7 years now), I've just seen a weather service flash across the bottom of the TV screen! This happens in Colorado regularly throughout the year, but I've never seen in CA before.
Seems we have a Winter Storm Warning in effect until Monday at 4AM. Snow could reach 24 inches in altitudes above 5500 feet! It's been raining almost non-stop in LA since Friday afternoon and it feels cold!
So you Coloradoans out there: don't think it's ALL palm trees and sunshine out here in CA!! :-)
I can't believe it. For the first time since I've lived in California (over 7 years now), I've just seen a weather service flash across the bottom of the TV screen! This happens in Colorado regularly throughout the year, but I've never seen in CA before.
Seems we have a Winter Storm Warning in effect until Monday at 4AM. Snow could reach 24 inches in altitudes above 5500 feet! It's been raining almost non-stop in LA since Friday afternoon and it feels cold!
So you Coloradoans out there: don't think it's ALL palm trees and sunshine out here in CA!! :-)
Friday, February 13, 2004
The Apprentice
I've been watching this reality show on NBC. Donald Trump auditions a group of ambitious young business professionals to head one of his companies. They must work together and compete against each other to be successful and gain his favor. Every week someone fails and he fires them. It's like "Survivor" goes to Wall Street. 'Let the bloodbath begin!'
Actually, I've found the firing process most interesting. It is informative to see how Trump logically works out the choice for who gets fired and why. He receives counsel from his advisors, but he makes the final decision. I enjoy that part, not because someone gets fired, but because I learn something every time. I learn about the corporate mentality, I learn about the dog-eat-dog world of business, and I learn about the hard decisions people have to make to achieve and maintain success. I really admire The Donald sometimes for his sharp mind and skills as a businessman. He's got a real talent for it.
Sick bastard.
I've been watching this reality show on NBC. Donald Trump auditions a group of ambitious young business professionals to head one of his companies. They must work together and compete against each other to be successful and gain his favor. Every week someone fails and he fires them. It's like "Survivor" goes to Wall Street. 'Let the bloodbath begin!'
Actually, I've found the firing process most interesting. It is informative to see how Trump logically works out the choice for who gets fired and why. He receives counsel from his advisors, but he makes the final decision. I enjoy that part, not because someone gets fired, but because I learn something every time. I learn about the corporate mentality, I learn about the dog-eat-dog world of business, and I learn about the hard decisions people have to make to achieve and maintain success. I really admire The Donald sometimes for his sharp mind and skills as a businessman. He's got a real talent for it.
Sick bastard.
Teaching
There are not many jobs quite as rewarding emotionally as teaching. How many times do you have someone tell you how much they appreciate your work, how much you helped them, how you have changed their life and made them a better person?
It's pretty rare, unless you're a teacher. As one of my high school mentors advised me (he knew I was bound for teaching long before I did): "Teaching won't make you a lot of money, but you will have a very rich life." I really understand that now.
There are not many jobs quite as rewarding emotionally as teaching. How many times do you have someone tell you how much they appreciate your work, how much you helped them, how you have changed their life and made them a better person?
It's pretty rare, unless you're a teacher. As one of my high school mentors advised me (he knew I was bound for teaching long before I did): "Teaching won't make you a lot of money, but you will have a very rich life." I really understand that now.
Monday, February 09, 2004
"I Dreamed I Met A Galilean..."
Sad news today. Jason Raize, a former colleague of mine from Jesus Christ Superstar, apparently committed suicide last week. Jason played Pontius Pilate when I joined the Superstar tour in Sept/Oct 1995. He was only 20 years old then and I was his understudy. After Jason left the tour that December, I took over full time as Pilate.
Jason was a beautiful young man and incredibly gifted. He had the most gorgeous voice I have ever heard. He later found fame on Broadway starring as Simba, the lead character in the original "Lion King."
The full story can be found here.
Sad news today. Jason Raize, a former colleague of mine from Jesus Christ Superstar, apparently committed suicide last week. Jason played Pontius Pilate when I joined the Superstar tour in Sept/Oct 1995. He was only 20 years old then and I was his understudy. After Jason left the tour that December, I took over full time as Pilate.
Jason was a beautiful young man and incredibly gifted. He had the most gorgeous voice I have ever heard. He later found fame on Broadway starring as Simba, the lead character in the original "Lion King."
The full story can be found here.
Sunday, February 08, 2004
Bowie in LA, part 4
Wiltern #2
This was the best show for me. Even though I was stuck in the very back row of the balcony section – literally the wall was behind me – and it was hotter than fuck up there, and we could barely hear the band sometimes the sound was so muddy, I had more fun than ever!
I was with my friend Heidster who is a “casual” Bowie fan, although she sang along with almost every song. We had such fun dancing and singing along and basically basking in the majesty that is Bowie.
He seemed jollier and more comfortable than ever. The set list was full of surprises. He did so many new songs early on in the show. I was surprised he would challenge the audience so much like that. But the crowd seemed to stay with him. It was really a wonderful vibe in the house. I was a long way from the crushing masses up front so I can’t vouch for that scene, but up in the nosebleeds people were having a great time!
Bowie had a lot of great moments vocally, and with his stage movements. At one point (what song was it?) he knelt down at Gerry’s feet during the closing guitar riff. It was magical. DB was full of surprises tonight. With bar stool slung over his shoulder, he introduced “Days” as the first song he’d written specifically for furniture. LOL He also told some great stories about how crazy the Las Vegas scene was and he gave a lengthy and touching introduction to the brilliant “Slip Away.” My friend Heidster grew up in Jersey so she knew Uncle Floyd from TV. She freaked out when she saw the video footage from the old TV show, and the sing-along is consistently one of the best moments of the show, I think. Such a warm touch!
Being way up high, I had a different perspective of the performance and since this was my fourth show this week, I knew what to look for at certain times. It was interesting to see how carefully the lights are designed to accent the music on stage. For example, during “Fame” the lights give a bright flash or bump every time the chorus sings “Fame.” This gives almost the effect of flash bulbs going off as if one were on the red carpet in front of paparazzi.
I was a little disappointed but mostly surprised that he didn’t do “All The Young Dudes” since he’s done that every show so far, but it was nice to hear obscure numbers like “Fantastic Voyage” and “Battle For Britain” again. Heidster kept calling for “Changes”, which he never did. I didn’t think he was doing that one on this tour, but I just saw that it was included on the Vegas set list so that’s even more depressing!
He’s had so many great songs over the years; it would be impossible for him to do all the favorites, though I probably wouldn’t complain if he took the time to do every last one of them!! He is such a pro on stage. One needn’t be a Bowie fan at all to see what an entertaining show he presents. The music, the lighting, the imaginative use of video – Mr. Bowie is still on the cutting edge. I can’t wait to see him again!!
“There’s old wave. There’s new wave. And there’s David Bowie.”
Wiltern #2
This was the best show for me. Even though I was stuck in the very back row of the balcony section – literally the wall was behind me – and it was hotter than fuck up there, and we could barely hear the band sometimes the sound was so muddy, I had more fun than ever!
I was with my friend Heidster who is a “casual” Bowie fan, although she sang along with almost every song. We had such fun dancing and singing along and basically basking in the majesty that is Bowie.
He seemed jollier and more comfortable than ever. The set list was full of surprises. He did so many new songs early on in the show. I was surprised he would challenge the audience so much like that. But the crowd seemed to stay with him. It was really a wonderful vibe in the house. I was a long way from the crushing masses up front so I can’t vouch for that scene, but up in the nosebleeds people were having a great time!
Bowie had a lot of great moments vocally, and with his stage movements. At one point (what song was it?) he knelt down at Gerry’s feet during the closing guitar riff. It was magical. DB was full of surprises tonight. With bar stool slung over his shoulder, he introduced “Days” as the first song he’d written specifically for furniture. LOL He also told some great stories about how crazy the Las Vegas scene was and he gave a lengthy and touching introduction to the brilliant “Slip Away.” My friend Heidster grew up in Jersey so she knew Uncle Floyd from TV. She freaked out when she saw the video footage from the old TV show, and the sing-along is consistently one of the best moments of the show, I think. Such a warm touch!
Being way up high, I had a different perspective of the performance and since this was my fourth show this week, I knew what to look for at certain times. It was interesting to see how carefully the lights are designed to accent the music on stage. For example, during “Fame” the lights give a bright flash or bump every time the chorus sings “Fame.” This gives almost the effect of flash bulbs going off as if one were on the red carpet in front of paparazzi.
I was a little disappointed but mostly surprised that he didn’t do “All The Young Dudes” since he’s done that every show so far, but it was nice to hear obscure numbers like “Fantastic Voyage” and “Battle For Britain” again. Heidster kept calling for “Changes”, which he never did. I didn’t think he was doing that one on this tour, but I just saw that it was included on the Vegas set list so that’s even more depressing!
He’s had so many great songs over the years; it would be impossible for him to do all the favorites, though I probably wouldn’t complain if he took the time to do every last one of them!! He is such a pro on stage. One needn’t be a Bowie fan at all to see what an entertaining show he presents. The music, the lighting, the imaginative use of video – Mr. Bowie is still on the cutting edge. I can’t wait to see him again!!
“There’s old wave. There’s new wave. And there’s David Bowie.”
Bowie in LA, pt 3
The Wiltern Theatre
Sad evening since my best friend Randy was too ill to attend the performance. He tried to make it, and we actually went to the theater, but before we went in he started feeling bad and we had to cut it short. He took me back home and I hurried back to the theater for the show.
Luckily the second ticket didn’t go to waste since I was able to drag my friend Mark out of bed for his second Bowie show. Poor Mark was deathly ill on Monday night and he wasn’t much better last night. He was lying on the couch watching a movie when I showed up on his doorstep. At first he said he was too sick to go, but he changed his mind after a few minutes. It too good an opportunity to pass up!
The Wiltern is a nice theater, but it’s been renovated to be a club instead of an actual theater. Therefore, the floor is all general admission and it’s standing only, no seats. Because we were so late getting to the theater, the place was packed and we were stuck in the back of the house by the bar. At least we were raised slightly higher than the crowd so we could see a little bit, but it wasn’t as nice a view as the Shrine.
Bowie and the band seemed a little tired to me. His repartee was more subdued than the previous two shows and he seemed to struggle vocally a couple of times. The mood was still quite cheerful, however, and the audience was very appreciative. There were a few minor technical problems, including some bad feedback at least three times during the performance and a few glitches with the rear video projection. In fact, the stage was so small that the raised side platforms were missing as well as the overhead video screens.
Bowie sang another variety of songs not included in previous shows. “Rebel Rebel” opened as usual but went next into “Pablo Picasso” from Reality instead of the typical “New Killer Star.”
01 Rebel Rebel
02 Pablo Picasso
03 New Killer Star
04 Fantastic Voyage
05 Blue Jean
06 Reality
07 Looking For Water
08 Fame
09 Cactus
10 All The Young Dudes
11 China Girl
12 A New Career In A New Town
13 The Loneliest Guy
14 The Man Who Sold The World
15 Heathen (The Rays)
16 Hallo Spaceboy
17 Under Pressure
18 Life On Mars?
19 Be My Wife
20 Days
21 Ashes To Ashes
22 Hang Onto Yourself
23 I'm Afraid Of Americans
24 "Heroes"
(encore)
25 White Light, White Heat
26 Five Years
27 Suffragette City
28 Ziggy Stardust
The Wiltern Theatre
Sad evening since my best friend Randy was too ill to attend the performance. He tried to make it, and we actually went to the theater, but before we went in he started feeling bad and we had to cut it short. He took me back home and I hurried back to the theater for the show.
Luckily the second ticket didn’t go to waste since I was able to drag my friend Mark out of bed for his second Bowie show. Poor Mark was deathly ill on Monday night and he wasn’t much better last night. He was lying on the couch watching a movie when I showed up on his doorstep. At first he said he was too sick to go, but he changed his mind after a few minutes. It too good an opportunity to pass up!
The Wiltern is a nice theater, but it’s been renovated to be a club instead of an actual theater. Therefore, the floor is all general admission and it’s standing only, no seats. Because we were so late getting to the theater, the place was packed and we were stuck in the back of the house by the bar. At least we were raised slightly higher than the crowd so we could see a little bit, but it wasn’t as nice a view as the Shrine.
Bowie and the band seemed a little tired to me. His repartee was more subdued than the previous two shows and he seemed to struggle vocally a couple of times. The mood was still quite cheerful, however, and the audience was very appreciative. There were a few minor technical problems, including some bad feedback at least three times during the performance and a few glitches with the rear video projection. In fact, the stage was so small that the raised side platforms were missing as well as the overhead video screens.
Bowie sang another variety of songs not included in previous shows. “Rebel Rebel” opened as usual but went next into “Pablo Picasso” from Reality instead of the typical “New Killer Star.”
01 Rebel Rebel
02 Pablo Picasso
03 New Killer Star
04 Fantastic Voyage
05 Blue Jean
06 Reality
07 Looking For Water
08 Fame
09 Cactus
10 All The Young Dudes
11 China Girl
12 A New Career In A New Town
13 The Loneliest Guy
14 The Man Who Sold The World
15 Heathen (The Rays)
16 Hallo Spaceboy
17 Under Pressure
18 Life On Mars?
19 Be My Wife
20 Days
21 Ashes To Ashes
22 Hang Onto Yourself
23 I'm Afraid Of Americans
24 "Heroes"
(encore)
25 White Light, White Heat
26 Five Years
27 Suffragette City
28 Ziggy Stardust
Wednesday, February 04, 2004
Second night at the Shrine
It was back-to-work Monday for Bowie and the band as well as the audience. Monday night’s crowd was a little less reckless than Saturday’s but no less appreciative. The torrential downpour just before show time may have dampened our clothing, but not our spirits. After a day and a half of rest, the band was a little slow to warm up, but by the time “Fame” rolled around in the early minutes of the show, things started groovin’.
Bowie started the show as usual with “Rebel Rebel” and “New Killer Star”, but it wasn’t long before he was changing things up and surprising even ardent fans. A striking acoustic rendition of “Loving The Alien”, the dynamic “Battle For Britain” with it’s stereo dueling guitars, and a lively “Starman” were just a few of the gems Mr. Bowie offered his audience. “Looking For Water” from Reality, ‘80s super-single “Blue Jean”, and a breathtaking encore of “Bring Me The Disco King” rounded out the songs not included on Saturday’s set list.
For me, the greatest treat of the evening was the jazzy “Bring Me The Disco King” to start the encore. Sitting on the raised rear platform in a new burgundy velvet blazer, his shadowy bangs covering his eyes in the subdued lighting, Bowie looked strikingly like his “Sweet Thing/Candidate” from the 1974 Diamond Dogs Tour.
He does look remarkably well these days, his carefully chosen stage movement the epitome of suave sophistication. He was also wearing a new t-shirt. I couldn’t quite make out what it said.
By the time the concert ended, so had the rain. And we stepped out into the chilly, damp air…back into Reality.
It was back-to-work Monday for Bowie and the band as well as the audience. Monday night’s crowd was a little less reckless than Saturday’s but no less appreciative. The torrential downpour just before show time may have dampened our clothing, but not our spirits. After a day and a half of rest, the band was a little slow to warm up, but by the time “Fame” rolled around in the early minutes of the show, things started groovin’.
Bowie started the show as usual with “Rebel Rebel” and “New Killer Star”, but it wasn’t long before he was changing things up and surprising even ardent fans. A striking acoustic rendition of “Loving The Alien”, the dynamic “Battle For Britain” with it’s stereo dueling guitars, and a lively “Starman” were just a few of the gems Mr. Bowie offered his audience. “Looking For Water” from Reality, ‘80s super-single “Blue Jean”, and a breathtaking encore of “Bring Me The Disco King” rounded out the songs not included on Saturday’s set list.
For me, the greatest treat of the evening was the jazzy “Bring Me The Disco King” to start the encore. Sitting on the raised rear platform in a new burgundy velvet blazer, his shadowy bangs covering his eyes in the subdued lighting, Bowie looked strikingly like his “Sweet Thing/Candidate” from the 1974 Diamond Dogs Tour.
He does look remarkably well these days, his carefully chosen stage movement the epitome of suave sophistication. He was also wearing a new t-shirt. I couldn’t quite make out what it said.
By the time the concert ended, so had the rain. And we stepped out into the chilly, damp air…back into Reality.
Sunday, February 01, 2004
The Return of the Thin White Duke
What can I say? This guy knows how to have a good time. It is rare to see any performer have such energy and enthusiasm for the stage, let alone a performer who is almost 60, with 40 years of experience under his belt, yet David Bowie demonstrated Saturday night without a doubt what professional musicianship is all about.
South Los Angeles’ historic Shrine Auditorium (former home of the Oscars) played host to the first of four LA shows on Bowie’s current A Reality Tour. A crowd of all ages and walks of life packed the sold-out house. Sixty year-old ex-hippies mingled with middle-aged yuppies who rocked alongside adoring teenagers. Every generation of Bowie fan has their favorite hits and Bowie’s 27-song set list of classics (old and new) spanned almost his entire career. From 1970’s “The Man Who Sold The World” (famously covered by Nirvana), to the newly revamped “Rebel Rebel” (the show opener), a down and dirty “Fame” and ‘80s radio classic “China Girl,” Bowie’s two-hour-plus set didn’t disappoint.
Looking extremely fit in tight black jeans and tousled blonde hair, the star challenged his audience early on with several singles from his new Reality album, including “New Killer Star,” the title track “Reality,” and the lovely acoustic number “Days.” Though most in the crowd were less familiar with these works, they responded enthusiastically. The fans danced and sang through most of the show, only showing their age by occasionally taking a break to sit one out.
Bowie and his crack rock band did a great job of pacing the show. The tempo and mood changed frequently from nostalgic ballads like “Life On Mars?” to classic rock anthems such as “All The Young Dudes.” Bowie encouraged the crowd to sing along several times, stopping the show momentarily during the first verse of “China Girl” to chastise the audience for not taking the vocal lead. “That was pathetic. Guess I’ll have to help you out,” he chortled before starting the song again.
Besides the more obvious crowd favorites, Bowie treated loyal fans with obscure gems such as “Be My Wife” and the instrumental “A New Career In A New Town”, both from 1976’s Low album, one of the trio of albums recorded in Berlin with Brian Eno.
Bowie has always been an enigmatic figure in the rock world, but his performance Saturday night found its stride during some of the more quiet numbers. Songs such as “The Motel” from 1995’s Outside and “Sunday” from 2002’s Heathen were a revelation. Perhaps most touching was Bowie’s affectionate introduction to “Slip Away,” another Heathen ballad and a tender homage to 1970s East Coast children’s television icon Uncle Floyd. The song’s performance included video footage from the TV program as well as a cute bouncing ball sing-along projected on the enormous rear video screens.
The concert included thoughtful and innovative use of video in several numbers, including an animated musical prelude to the concert featuring cartoon versions of Bowie and his band as well as dramatic aerial and time-lapse footage of New York City. Bowie’s outstanding band featured longtime members Mike Garson on keyboards and Earl Slick on lead guitar, as well as newer faces including Irishman Gerry Leonard on ambient guitar, the powerful Sterling Campbell on drums, and multi-instrumentalist Catherine Russell lending vocal support as well. The standout member, however, was Gail Ann Dorsey, Bowie’s striking female bass player for the past ten years, who blew the roof off the hall, and would have made Freddie Mercury proud, with her vocal duet on the Bowie/Queen classic “Under Pressure.”
The show took a somewhat ominous turn with 1997’s “I’m Afraid Of Americans,” which Bowie wistfully introduced as a song that was written in fun but has become something more serious. Apparently hope is not completely lost, however, since Bowie introduced the next song, “Heroes,” as “the other side of that story, your song.”
Alternating between acoustic and electric guitars, harmonica, and even the rare stylophone made famous in 1969’s “Space Oddity” (the first lines of which Bowie teased Saturday’s audience with), David Bowie highlighted his diverse musical abilities. Strutting and dancing around the stage, he remained the visual focus of the show, helped by a thrust platform extending into the first rows of the audience. As tempting as it was for eager fans to rush closer to their star, the ever-present security guards were on hand to keep them at bay.
The show ended with an encore of Ziggy classics including the fast rocker “Hang On To Yourself,” the apocalyptic “Five Years,” and the crowd-pleasing “Suffragette City” (“wham bam, thank you ma’am!”). For the grand finale Bowie performed “Ziggy Stardust,” his dramatic narrative about the character with whom he remains most identified.
As if there were any doubts, David Bowie proved Saturday night that as a performer he is in a league of his own. He seemed more relaxed on stage and jollier than ever, and his voice sounds stronger and suppler today than it did 30 years ago. Though his music often inhabits the pretenses of the real world, David Bowie’s “reality” is a pretty great place to be.
The tour continues Monday night with a second show at the Shrine then moves to the intimate Wiltern Theater for two more LA performances.
What can I say? This guy knows how to have a good time. It is rare to see any performer have such energy and enthusiasm for the stage, let alone a performer who is almost 60, with 40 years of experience under his belt, yet David Bowie demonstrated Saturday night without a doubt what professional musicianship is all about.
South Los Angeles’ historic Shrine Auditorium (former home of the Oscars) played host to the first of four LA shows on Bowie’s current A Reality Tour. A crowd of all ages and walks of life packed the sold-out house. Sixty year-old ex-hippies mingled with middle-aged yuppies who rocked alongside adoring teenagers. Every generation of Bowie fan has their favorite hits and Bowie’s 27-song set list of classics (old and new) spanned almost his entire career. From 1970’s “The Man Who Sold The World” (famously covered by Nirvana), to the newly revamped “Rebel Rebel” (the show opener), a down and dirty “Fame” and ‘80s radio classic “China Girl,” Bowie’s two-hour-plus set didn’t disappoint.
Looking extremely fit in tight black jeans and tousled blonde hair, the star challenged his audience early on with several singles from his new Reality album, including “New Killer Star,” the title track “Reality,” and the lovely acoustic number “Days.” Though most in the crowd were less familiar with these works, they responded enthusiastically. The fans danced and sang through most of the show, only showing their age by occasionally taking a break to sit one out.
Bowie and his crack rock band did a great job of pacing the show. The tempo and mood changed frequently from nostalgic ballads like “Life On Mars?” to classic rock anthems such as “All The Young Dudes.” Bowie encouraged the crowd to sing along several times, stopping the show momentarily during the first verse of “China Girl” to chastise the audience for not taking the vocal lead. “That was pathetic. Guess I’ll have to help you out,” he chortled before starting the song again.
Besides the more obvious crowd favorites, Bowie treated loyal fans with obscure gems such as “Be My Wife” and the instrumental “A New Career In A New Town”, both from 1976’s Low album, one of the trio of albums recorded in Berlin with Brian Eno.
Bowie has always been an enigmatic figure in the rock world, but his performance Saturday night found its stride during some of the more quiet numbers. Songs such as “The Motel” from 1995’s Outside and “Sunday” from 2002’s Heathen were a revelation. Perhaps most touching was Bowie’s affectionate introduction to “Slip Away,” another Heathen ballad and a tender homage to 1970s East Coast children’s television icon Uncle Floyd. The song’s performance included video footage from the TV program as well as a cute bouncing ball sing-along projected on the enormous rear video screens.
The concert included thoughtful and innovative use of video in several numbers, including an animated musical prelude to the concert featuring cartoon versions of Bowie and his band as well as dramatic aerial and time-lapse footage of New York City. Bowie’s outstanding band featured longtime members Mike Garson on keyboards and Earl Slick on lead guitar, as well as newer faces including Irishman Gerry Leonard on ambient guitar, the powerful Sterling Campbell on drums, and multi-instrumentalist Catherine Russell lending vocal support as well. The standout member, however, was Gail Ann Dorsey, Bowie’s striking female bass player for the past ten years, who blew the roof off the hall, and would have made Freddie Mercury proud, with her vocal duet on the Bowie/Queen classic “Under Pressure.”
The show took a somewhat ominous turn with 1997’s “I’m Afraid Of Americans,” which Bowie wistfully introduced as a song that was written in fun but has become something more serious. Apparently hope is not completely lost, however, since Bowie introduced the next song, “Heroes,” as “the other side of that story, your song.”
Alternating between acoustic and electric guitars, harmonica, and even the rare stylophone made famous in 1969’s “Space Oddity” (the first lines of which Bowie teased Saturday’s audience with), David Bowie highlighted his diverse musical abilities. Strutting and dancing around the stage, he remained the visual focus of the show, helped by a thrust platform extending into the first rows of the audience. As tempting as it was for eager fans to rush closer to their star, the ever-present security guards were on hand to keep them at bay.
The show ended with an encore of Ziggy classics including the fast rocker “Hang On To Yourself,” the apocalyptic “Five Years,” and the crowd-pleasing “Suffragette City” (“wham bam, thank you ma’am!”). For the grand finale Bowie performed “Ziggy Stardust,” his dramatic narrative about the character with whom he remains most identified.
As if there were any doubts, David Bowie proved Saturday night that as a performer he is in a league of his own. He seemed more relaxed on stage and jollier than ever, and his voice sounds stronger and suppler today than it did 30 years ago. Though his music often inhabits the pretenses of the real world, David Bowie’s “reality” is a pretty great place to be.
The tour continues Monday night with a second show at the Shrine then moves to the intimate Wiltern Theater for two more LA performances.
Friday, January 30, 2004
Cell Phones (continued)
My sister Sherea had a great response to my cell phone rant yesterday:
"How about the time I was at Burger King in line during my very limited lunch break and this guy couldn't get off of his cell phone long enough to place his combo meal order! Or what gets me is the "hands free" set ups.....I'm working at St. Nicks and this lady comes up to check out, I say hello to her and ask how she's doing....she starts talking somewhat randomly and by the timing I think this is her response (very odd!) and then I realize she's on the cell phone talking to someone (her mother I think) and not even paying attention to the live people right in front of her. Then she asks a question, I didn't realize it was for me for a minute, so then she's trying to carry on two separate conversations at the same time! It was just awful! I so badly wanted to say why don't you call her back after the five minutes it will take for us to finish your transaction....she never got off the phone. My "thank you and have a nice day" was responded to with, "Uh huh, well I know, because that's how she is" or something to that effect.
I think that cell phones are just another contributor to the impersonal and rude behavior that is perpetuated by today's technology. People are more comfortable "chatting" with a stranger online than they are speaking to a family member or a friend face to face. It's ridiculous....convenient yes....but ridiculous!"
My sister Sherea had a great response to my cell phone rant yesterday:
"How about the time I was at Burger King in line during my very limited lunch break and this guy couldn't get off of his cell phone long enough to place his combo meal order! Or what gets me is the "hands free" set ups.....I'm working at St. Nicks and this lady comes up to check out, I say hello to her and ask how she's doing....she starts talking somewhat randomly and by the timing I think this is her response (very odd!) and then I realize she's on the cell phone talking to someone (her mother I think) and not even paying attention to the live people right in front of her. Then she asks a question, I didn't realize it was for me for a minute, so then she's trying to carry on two separate conversations at the same time! It was just awful! I so badly wanted to say why don't you call her back after the five minutes it will take for us to finish your transaction....she never got off the phone. My "thank you and have a nice day" was responded to with, "Uh huh, well I know, because that's how she is" or something to that effect.
I think that cell phones are just another contributor to the impersonal and rude behavior that is perpetuated by today's technology. People are more comfortable "chatting" with a stranger online than they are speaking to a family member or a friend face to face. It's ridiculous....convenient yes....but ridiculous!"
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Cell Phones
I'm sick of cell phones. Actually, cell phones are great. I'm sick of people who use cell phones, or rather people who have their cell phone permanently attached to the side of their heads 24/7. It's ridiculous. Who are they talking to?! I only know a handful of people that I would want to talk with on the phone at all, and yet there are apparently a lot of people who really need to keep in touch at all times.
The worst are people who try to drive and talk on the phone at the same time. That is chronic here in Los Angeles. What is so important that it can't wait until the person is safely at home or the office?
What are they talking about? "Ok, now I'm on Beverly Blvd. I'm about to make a left turn. There's a lot of traffic today. Yeah, even more than when I last talked with you, five minutes ago. OK, the light's just turned red. I'm going to speed up now."
I just don't get it.
I'm sick of cell phones. Actually, cell phones are great. I'm sick of people who use cell phones, or rather people who have their cell phone permanently attached to the side of their heads 24/7. It's ridiculous. Who are they talking to?! I only know a handful of people that I would want to talk with on the phone at all, and yet there are apparently a lot of people who really need to keep in touch at all times.
The worst are people who try to drive and talk on the phone at the same time. That is chronic here in Los Angeles. What is so important that it can't wait until the person is safely at home or the office?
What are they talking about? "Ok, now I'm on Beverly Blvd. I'm about to make a left turn. There's a lot of traffic today. Yeah, even more than when I last talked with you, five minutes ago. OK, the light's just turned red. I'm going to speed up now."
I just don't get it.
Sunday, January 25, 2004
Cool Party
Had fun at a party last night. A former co-worker recently moved into my neighborhood and he called yesterday afternoon to invite me to a little get-together at the new digs.
It was designed to be a "pot luck" but I didn't know what to bring so I ordered a pizza and picked it up on the way. I felt kind of cheap doing that, but boy was it a good idea. Instantly I was everybody's friend!
Mark lives with two young ladies and they are very cute and charming. I was quite a bit older than most of the people there, but I didn't mind it. It was fun to joke and laugh with them and to watch them play and flirt with each other, and with me. I am not at all the partying type and I usually avoid gatherings of strangers, but last night I felt very much at ease.
The apartment is really cool, built a hundred years ago Mark said, and they have a roof-top patio with decent views of the Hollywood hills. The patio was definitely the cool place to hang out, and the weather cooperated beautifully. There are some times when it's really fun to live in Hollywood.
The party carried on for several hours, with much imbibing of various intoxicants. I find myself in a funny frame of mind in such circumstances when it becomes clear to me that everyone is speaking and acting from their subconscious. Physical barriers relax and our behavior reveals our inner thoughts. Luckily, everyone there was thinking happy, frisky things.
Eventually I reached my fill of frolicking and excused myself to walk home, pausing for several warm hugs on the way out. It was a lovely party and Mark told me his sweet roommates had made an executive decision that I needed to come over more often! Delightful.
Strolling home past Melrose I was flattered again by a black man in a small SUV who pulled up toward the curb and asked for "directions." In honor of dear Stennie, here is the Actual Conversation:
Guy: Hey, you know where's Santa Monica?
Me: Excuse me?
Guy: You know which way to Santa Monica? (meaning the Blvd - the gay pick up zone)
Me: (thinking for a moment, then pointing north) That way.
Guy: (disappointed) OK.
He turns his car around, then calls to me again.
Guy: Hey, you like to get high?
Me: (smiling) Uh, no thanks, man.
Guy: Oh, too bad. 'Cause you look GOOD!
Me: (chuckling) Thanks. You do too.
Scene.
That was a nice capper to the evening. I enjoyed the attention I received all night, and as tempting as some of the prospects were, I felt completely comfortable leaving alone.
It's great to feel attractive (especially so soon after the "German Rejection"), but I was satisfied to spend a pleasant evening with some sweet and cute young people and I look forward to the next occasion.
Had fun at a party last night. A former co-worker recently moved into my neighborhood and he called yesterday afternoon to invite me to a little get-together at the new digs.
It was designed to be a "pot luck" but I didn't know what to bring so I ordered a pizza and picked it up on the way. I felt kind of cheap doing that, but boy was it a good idea. Instantly I was everybody's friend!
Mark lives with two young ladies and they are very cute and charming. I was quite a bit older than most of the people there, but I didn't mind it. It was fun to joke and laugh with them and to watch them play and flirt with each other, and with me. I am not at all the partying type and I usually avoid gatherings of strangers, but last night I felt very much at ease.
The apartment is really cool, built a hundred years ago Mark said, and they have a roof-top patio with decent views of the Hollywood hills. The patio was definitely the cool place to hang out, and the weather cooperated beautifully. There are some times when it's really fun to live in Hollywood.
The party carried on for several hours, with much imbibing of various intoxicants. I find myself in a funny frame of mind in such circumstances when it becomes clear to me that everyone is speaking and acting from their subconscious. Physical barriers relax and our behavior reveals our inner thoughts. Luckily, everyone there was thinking happy, frisky things.
Eventually I reached my fill of frolicking and excused myself to walk home, pausing for several warm hugs on the way out. It was a lovely party and Mark told me his sweet roommates had made an executive decision that I needed to come over more often! Delightful.
Strolling home past Melrose I was flattered again by a black man in a small SUV who pulled up toward the curb and asked for "directions." In honor of dear Stennie, here is the Actual Conversation:
Guy: Hey, you know where's Santa Monica?
Me: Excuse me?
Guy: You know which way to Santa Monica? (meaning the Blvd - the gay pick up zone)
Me: (thinking for a moment, then pointing north) That way.
Guy: (disappointed) OK.
He turns his car around, then calls to me again.
Guy: Hey, you like to get high?
Me: (smiling) Uh, no thanks, man.
Guy: Oh, too bad. 'Cause you look GOOD!
Me: (chuckling) Thanks. You do too.
Scene.
That was a nice capper to the evening. I enjoyed the attention I received all night, and as tempting as some of the prospects were, I felt completely comfortable leaving alone.
It's great to feel attractive (especially so soon after the "German Rejection"), but I was satisfied to spend a pleasant evening with some sweet and cute young people and I look forward to the next occasion.
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