The Band Guestbook, October '97

Fri Oct 31 22:59:54 MET 1997

Darren Smith

What an excellent site.I`ve been a fan for a few years now but,I don`t really know much about them so,this site is a great help. keep up the good work!

Fri Oct 31 00:14:36 MET 1997

hank beukema

Remember Danko is playing halloween night in piermont ,ny at the sweetest little club in america.Ther may still be seats available.call 914-359-1089 Hank Beukema

Thu Oct 30 22:31:44 MET 1997

Chris Bell

re THE BAND (ones assumes: Danko, Hudson, Helm, Weider, Ciarlante & Bell. Remember that group?) - at the BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL, CA on NOVEMBER 21, still listed on the Concert Dates info…….Does anyone know if it is still happening? Am trying to find out, on behalf of a pal here who wishes to attend. And maybe other folks are wondering too?……..I see that Pollstar no longer lists this show, and nobody else has mentioned it. And so, especially with Danko shows either side, and no other "The Band" shows apparently happening - do we assume that this show is now not to be? And no "special trip" for my friend?….Any info?

Thu Oct 30 19:56:33 MET 1997

Bob

I have been to a few Pow Wows and I see the Indians selling Mexican factory jewelry. They are telling the Public that they made it and selling it for very high prices. The Arts & Crafts Act was made to Protect them but they are openly Breaking the Law and Ripping Off the Public. I do not understand why the Promoters of the Pow Wows are not doing anything about it or the Local Newspapers are not Warning the Public about it. Come to this site to learn more- www.buckagram.com/scam.htm

Thu Oct 30 13:35:50 MET 1997

gopher

my logic dictates that i must agree with david powell completely, understanding that the past must be, by default, fodder for contextual discussion, etc. ...and of course, history must be revealed and preserved as it is discovered.

Thu Oct 30 05:09:05 MET 1997

Kyle Whitlock

This is fantastic!! Thank you guys SO MUCH for all great music over the years. I grew up listening to you. Your music has continued to be an inspiration to me and my friends. I am a professional contemp- orary jazz keyboard player here in South Carolina. Garth, you are still the best! How about a solo album? Cheers & take care!, Kyle Whitlock/10/97

Thu Oct 30 03:27:44 MET 1997

Pat Brennan

I stand corrected on my Gil Evans flub. I still think he would have done a cool job on Moon Struck One. BTW, Allen Toussaint has a new album out. I haven't heard it but I'm looking. Uhh, maybe it was Dylan who died before he got a chance to work with the Band......duh

Thu Oct 30 03:02:12 MET 1997

Marvin Gardens

Eric Andersen will join Danko at The Bottom Line for two shows 11//11. I'll be there with my Life is a Carnival tee shirt. See you.

Thu Oct 30 02:40:19 MET 1997

Kris Kehr

Hey there... Curious how no one mentioned the Crowmatix gig in Jersey over the weekend. It was the kind of rock & roll magic my mind conjured while reading "This Wheel's On Fire", and I'm a better man for having experienced it...Thanks Levon! Talked to the tee-shirt guy about getting the Crowmatix over here in State College...would LOVE to see that happen....I also talked to him about Rick Danko perhaps stopping in on his way through to Ohio...Is any of this a possibility? The great bar ZENO's has a huge Band fan at the helm, and would be a great venue for either! kris

Wed Oct 29 22:07:08 MET 1997

SAM CHAZ

I'm anxiously awaiting Rick's shows at the Tin Angel. I say shows because he is doing an early show at 8 and a later show at 10:30. Eric Andersen is slated to play with Rick. Hoping Shredni shows. Nick Tovo, my main man, what the hell's going on? Are you running this page now or what? No Band shows? You must be in Kansas. No Keswick New Years show. I guess I blew it last year by chosing women and football. Well, at least women. KRIS: you made the right decision. Gotta see a post Japan Danko. The Band rules!! P.S. I'm currently bemoaning the breakdown of my longtime companion; my turntable. I guess it's pawnshop time. LONG LIVE VINYL!!!

Wed Oct 29 21:32:27 MET 1997

Tracy Lynn Rotkiewicz

Here I am again. I must add in about information on the jazz great, Gil Evans. He did not die during the making of "The Color Of Money" soundtrack or shortly after. It was released in '86. Evans was born in Toronto and died in Cuernavaca, Mexico, in 1988 at the age of 76. I had the pleasure of going to the '97 Juno Awards and seeing him get inducted into the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame, where his children accepted the award on his behalf. There you have it. Also how can I get in touch with Carole of Boston? Her e-mail is not working. Donald Joseph, please, please contact me! I am VERY interested in those pics you have of Robbie. Do you have an e-mail? Do you get attachments? I'll beg if I have to. (pleading tone.) LONG LIVE THE BAND!!!!

Wed Oct 29 17:44:28 MET 1997

Kris Pancoast

Hello - Again to Nick in Delaware; thanks for the suggestion about Ricks upcoming show. I called my relatives last night and they want to go too!! You are soooo lucky to have seen those shows in Chicago; even though they weren't 100% on that night, any show was better than none. The Pittsburgh Dead show was our last stop on that tour. I was incredibly bummed when I heard they were playing together and I wasn't going to be there (especially after that fateful day: August 9th, 1995). And to have hung out with some of the Boys in the hotel. Ah, those memories are ones to cherish. At least I was able to see over 125 shows.

Now, at David Powell's suggestion, I'd like to offer my humble opinion on the Bands newer music. The whole album Jericho is one of my favorites from them. I love all the old stuff too, but that is one killer album. And I like how they put Richard Manuel on there. Gone, but certainly not forgotten. High on the Hog is pretty good too; I did a double-take at the CD when I read they did Free Your Mind. But I like their version. The last time I saw The Band play was New Years Eve and it was great, but I was truly blown away by the show they did at The Ribfest in Trenton NJ 9/96. I hope they'll start doing a lot more shows again as the Band, but I'll take em however I can get em.

Wed Oct 29 14:51:27 MET 1997

David Powell

In the spirit of returning the focus of this forum back to a discussion of the music, I would like to see comments posted on the topic "In what direction do you think the music of The Band is headed?" It's always great to look to all that great music from the past, but what does the future hold in store for those members who continue to perform under the moniker The Band, as well as for Robbie & Rick and their solo efforts? How do they avoid becoming just another nostalgia act like so many other groups that have persevered over the years? I would like to see the opinions of others regarding the newer material, especially those of you who have been fortunate enough to see recent performances. Let's examine the state of the music as it exists today and look to where it may be headed in the future.

Wed Oct 29 08:03:51 MET 1997

Ulf S.

Great web pages, great Band. I have just discovered this music, and I can't believe that they seem to be so "forgotten". There's nothing like it, their old stuff is incerdibly good, and "Jericho" was a wonderful suprise when I first listened to that cd yesterday. They should do an accoustic album, if possible with Robertson involved. Levon, you are my all-time favorite singer and drummer. Please stay healthy and keep on rockin'. Thanks.

Wed Oct 29 08:00:09 MET 1997

Jan Høiberg

Thanks to the latest contributors here for focusing on the Band again. If you want to divide your loong guestbook entries into paragraphs to make them more readable, just insert a <P> in your text (that is a "less-than" character, a "P", and a "greater-than" character), and you'll get some space in there, like this:

Also, please remember that you only need to hit that "Submit" button once after you have finished writing your entry. If you don't see your entry in the guestbook after you have submitted it, you only need to reload the guestbook with your web browser. If you hit the "Submit" button again you'll end up with two identical copies of your entry (or three, if you click it three times...the worst I've had was seven copies of the same posting). Having to remove those duplicates and triplicates every morning is gettin' kind of old. Thanks.

As usual the October entries here will end up in a separate file by the end of the month, so far we have about 80K of postings for October. If someone wants their own photos to appear at the site, send me an e-mail and we'll sort it out.

Wed Oct 29 05:39:09 MET 1997

Donald Joseph

Nick Tovo: Great post! Pat Brennan: Great post, too, except you've got your dead-Gil-Evans stories mixed up. Gil died during Robbie's Color of Money soundtrack project; his charts appear on that soundtrack album, which of course came out more than a decade after Cahoots (1986 vs. 1971). Gil was supposed to work on "Moon," yes, but his excuse for backing out wasn't quite as strong as "I'm dead." No matter: While Gil may be highly regarded, no one ever accused him of being funky. The funkiest horn arranger who ever lived, Allen Toussaint, of course also worked with the Band (Cahoots, Rock of Ages, Last Waltz). Just this week Allen was voted into Robbie's fave project the Cleveland Rock Hall; incongruously, Allen was elected in the "non-performer" category. Anyone who owns Allen's albums, has seen Allen live in Now Orleans, or who knows what Allen's Louisiana license plate on his Rolls says ("Mr. Piano") knows Allen is indeed a hell of a "performer." Would anyone ever say the same about Gil?

Wed Oct 29 04:31:05 MET 1997

NICK TOVO

KRIS, THANKS FOR THE KESWICK UPDATE. I'LL TRY TO CATCH DANKO OR THE BAND SOMEWHERE ELSE THAT NIGHT. SUGGESTION SPEND AS MUCH TIME AS POSSIBLE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND THEN GO SEE DANKO-TELL THEM THE TRUTH, IT'S ONLY A FEW HOURS OUT OF THE WEEKEND. MAYBE THEY'LL GO, I RAN INTO MY PARENTS AT A DYLAN CONCERT( THEIR FIRST AND LAST ROCK CONCERT), MUCH TO MY SHOCK. I SAW THE DEAD'S LAST TWO CONCERTS IN CHICAGO WITH THE BAND OPENING. THE BAND WERE GREAT AS FOR THE DEAD (MY 25TH SHOW) JERRY WAS TIRED AND FORGETTING WORDS AND IT WASN'T THEIR BEST EFFORT (ALWAYS FUN THOUGH). WENT TO THE FOUR SEASONS WITH MY FRIEND SAM CHAZ AFTER LOOKING FOR "THE BAND" CAUSE THAT'S WHERE THE DEAD AND THEIR GUESTS STAY. "THE BAND" WASN'T THERE BUT I SAW ALL OF THE DEAD (EXCEPT JERRY AND MICKEY) PLUS THE OX, JOHN ENTWISTLE (IN TOWN WITH RINGO'S BAND). HAD A CONVERSATION WITH WEIR ABOUT WHO WROTE "ME AND MY UNCLE", AND ANOTHER WEIRD, LONG ONE WITH HIM AND SAM CHAZ IN THE BATHROOM. HE WAS REAL COOL. DONALD YOU RAISE SEVERAL GOOD QUESTIONS. THIS IS UTTER SPECULATION BUT MAYBE DANKO'S ALBUM OPTION DIDN'T GET RENEWED BECAUSE HIS FIRST ONE ONLY GOT TO #125 ON THE CHARTS. WHO KNOWS WHAT HAPPENED TO THE SONGS. ENOUGH OF QUESTIONING LEVON'S DRUMMING. THE GUY CAN FLAT OUT PLAY, JUST ASK MAX WEINBERG. HELM HAS ALWAYS PREFERRED THE TWO DRUMMER SOUND AFTER THE BAND SPLIT THE FIRST TIME. ON HIS GREAT ALBUM "AMERICAN SON" (I RECENTLY FOUND IT AT A USED RECORD STORE IN KANSAS), WHICH WAS DONE 1980 HE USES TWO DRUMMERS ON EVERY TRACK {NASHVILLE SESSION DRUMMER KENNY BUTTREY ON MOST). I THINK LEVON JUST DIGS THE SOUND OF DOUBLE DRUMS, HE IS A DRUMMER AFTER ALL. MANY GROUPS USE TWO DRUMMERS (SEE GRATEFUL DEAD). GO SEE HIM AND JUDGE FOR YOURSELF DON'T LISTEN TO ANYONE WHO HASN'T SEEN HIM LIVE. I KNOW NOTHING OF A FEUD ONLY THAT THE BAND HAVEN'T PLAYED TOGETHER SINCE THE BUST. LEVON IS ONE-SIDED IN HIS BOOK AND I THINK ROBBIE IS A GREAT GUITARIST AND PRODUCER BUT HIS SOLO WORK SORELY MISSES THE INTERPRETATIONS OF HELM, DANKO AND HUDSON. I THINK HIS SOLO WORK PALES COMPARED TO JERICHO AND HOG OF WHICH MUCH IS INTERPRETATIONS OF OTHER ARTISTS SONGS (COVERS), WHERE THE BAND PUTS THEIR OWN SPIN ON THE SONGS AND MAKES THEM GREAT. AS FOR ROBBIE'S SONGWRITING CREDITS WITH THE BAND I BELIEVE HE WROTE ALL THE LYRICS BUT THAT THE ENTIRE BAND SHARED IN WRITING THE MUSIC. I MEAN I CAN'T IMAGINE ROBBIE DICTATING ALL THAT GREAT ORIGINAL ORGAN WORK TO GARTH (THEY DON'T CALL HIM "HONEY BOY" FOR NOTHING. LEVON'S PISSED 'CAUSE ROBBIE GETS ALL THE CREDIT (READ: MONEY). BUT THEN AGAIN THE BAND HAS MADE MUCH GREEN TOURING WITHOUT ROBBIE SO MAYBE IT'S EVEN. SO THERE YOU HAVE THE BENEFIT OF MY UNEDUCATION. YOU'RE LUCKY TO BE IN RANGE OF DANKO AND THE BAND, I'M CURRENTLY STUCK IN KANSAS WHICH IS DEVOID OF GOOD ROCK, THE STONES AREN'T EVEN PLAYING HERE. LONG LIVE THE BAND.

Wed Oct 29 04:08:56 MET 1997

Pat Brennan

I thought you might like to know that the late, great Gil Evans was suppposed to do the orchestration for Moon Struck One but unfortunately died before he could finish it. Evans arranged an extrordinary album of Jimi Hendrix tunes. He was truly an original and probably would have blown minds ala Alan Toussaint's work on Rock Of Ages. BTW, after purchasing The Last Waltz bootleg, I must agree with Levon's assessment of the live vs. studio percentages. There are an awful lot of wrong notes, blown changes, and questionable singing on the boot that has magically disappeared in the movie. But the drumming and guitar playing is consistently dead on. It's quite an interesting comparison. Since we're talking about lesser known Band tunes, how about Whispering Pines from the brown album. Kills.

Wed Oct 29 03:53:02 MET 1997

Serge Daniloff

Hey Donald Joseph from Cinci., for a "hardcore Band fan" it sure took you a loooong time to discover this Band site..It has been around almost two years. But, better late than never. The sale of Big Pink was announced HERE last year. If you dig enough you'll find it, along with all the answers to the questions you were asking in your previous entry..This a BIG page..don't scan through too quickly, it will only take you a week at four hours a day to go through everything and absorb all the goodies..You are right about stirring things up a little in this guestbook. All the best.SD.

Wed Oct 29 03:08:40 MET 1997

Dan Blood

A friend of mine and I sang "Christmas Must Be Tonight" in church a couple of years ago. We did OK but couldn't master that Band harmony...not surprisingly. I liked the Moon Struck One from Cahoots and probably purchased the box set Across The Great Divide just because it was on there. From Islands I liked Right As Rain but soon grow tired of it. These songs don't hold up like the earlier stuff. Remember Joni Mitchell's lament on Miles of Isles...Hey, Van Gogh, paint another Starry Night..."

Wed Oct 29 02:55:13 MET 1997

Donald Joseph

Not to be too talkative (see below), but 1 more point: You have to check out the current (maybe one previous) issue of Details magazine: There's an article in there about the fact that Big Pink is now for sale, and it's fairly cheap (as I recall, about $140 k). It's still pink, & the contemporary photo which accompanies the article shows it's totally unchanged -- it's like one bush has grown a little, & that's it. Who wants to take up a collection so we can buy it?

Wed Oct 29 02:33:34 MET 1997

Donald Joseph

TO Chris Lecky: I ardently wish I could join you at the Ricky show in Columbus, but I'll be out-of-state on a trip I can't reschedule. I will, however, be at both the Delbert McClinton show tomorrow & at the Dylan show on 11/8. I am a die-hard Ricky freak: I 1st saw solo Ricky on his 1st-ever solo tour in '77 in support of the self-titled album. He was doing 2 shows at Chicago's now-too-long-gone Ivanhoe that night; I braved 60 miles in a blinding snowstorm. Apparently due to the snow there were only about 5 or 6 of us there that night, and Ricky gave us all free tickets to the 2d show! (My buddy & I had to turn the tickets down because he had told his mother he was at a high school basketball game. Our car ended up seriously stuck in the snow.) SET LIST: Ricky that night in '77 played his entire solo album plus "Wheel's on Fire." That was it. I've since seen Ricky countless times -- including a great New Years' Eve show years ago in NY. That night we had to decide against seeing Stevie Ray Vaughan and Dr. John, opting instead for Ricky! Hot show: It was Ricky's Chili Bros. period; he did "Empty Bottles" with the Bros. TO LUKE: I am intrigued by your allusion to Robbie's "side" of the Levon/Robbie debate: What IS Robbie's side? I'm sure he has one, but I've never seen it spelled out. I would genuinely appreciate hearing it. Here's a trivia quiz question for Robbie buffs: Why did Robbie cash in on Richard's death by conspicuously dedicating "Fallen Angel" to him AFTER being the only Band-member no-show at Richard's funeral? (You'll recall Robbie's excuse was a sore throat. Puh-leeze.) However, I must credit Robbie with tact: My mother cornered him in a hotel in Seville, Spain at the Guitar Heroes concert in '92, & he was quite gracious. If I knew how to "post" -- which I certainly do not -- I'd show you all the monster shot of Robbie hugging & mugging w/my mama!

Wed Oct 29 01:17:12 MET 1997

Britt Govea

Does anybody know where I can get a 35mm print of "The Last Waltz"? I've been a major instagator in getting Danko to come play Santa Cruz, so I want to show "The Last Waltz" the weekend before his show to get the town pump for his show! If anyone can help please post a message, I check this guest list daily!

Tue Oct 28 21:55:52 MET 1997

Luke

To Donal Joseph et al. Your points about the Levon/Robbie feud are well taken. I'm sure the truth is somewhere in between Levon's version and Robbie's version. I do think Robbie highjacked SOME (not all) of the songwriting credits. For instance, does anybody believe Robbie wrote Garth's organ part on Chest Fever, and the horn charts in general. Anyway, it's been a long time and I still hope that one day they will bury the hatchet. They're not getting any younger.

Tue Oct 28 21:44:06 MET 1997

Jim

Did you know that this is the only site dedicated to The Band?! Cool! This page ROX!!

Tue Oct 28 17:05:03 MET 1997

Jake R.

Any of you guitar players out there happen to know the chords for "Blue River" on the first Danko/Feld/Anderson album ?

Tue Oct 28 16:47:39 MET 1997

Kris Pancoast

Hi there! Responding to Nick from Delaware - unfortunately there is no Band date for the Keswick this New Years Eve (JGB Band is there). It's a little disappointing; we've spent our last 2 New Years Eve's with Rick, Levon & the boys. Last year I was able to get Rick & Levon to autograph pictures I had taken from the previous year. What a way to start 1997. (Unless is was in Oakland CA with the Grateful Dead like I did for my honeymoon and 1st anniversary). By the way, to David Hubbard who has a comment entered 10/20/97 - Don't even go there talking about the Dead not comparing to the Band. They are 2 separate totally different bands; I love them both equally and there really is no comparison. They are both great!! At least the Band can (and will) play together again; hopefully many more times than are in the works now. Does anyone have any tactful suggestions on how to escape from my family so I can go see Rick play the Tin Angel Nov. 28th (Thanksgiving weekend)? They are coming in from out of townnd and staying with me. But, the 29th is my birthday and I want to give myself that present. I'm just don't want to hurt any feelings, you know? Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks again Jan for this page; I think I say that every time I make an entry, but I LOVE this site. It wouldn't be as cool as it is if everyone didn't share their opinions; let's just forget the rumors. Thanks again and have a GRATE(FUL) DAY!!

Tue Oct 28 12:45:14 MET 1997

Chris Lecky

Thank you Donald Joseph for bringing up some of the obscure music no one talks about. Its good to see another Band fan from Cincinnati, I thought I was the only one around the area. I will be driving to Columbus to see Rick at Ruby Tuesdays, hope to see a full house.

Tue Oct 28 05:32:24 MET 1997

Donald Joseph

I'm as hard core a Band freak as the best of you guys, but I just got on-line & so am new to this page. Overall thought: Of course those who argue for decorum & respect are right as to TONE. But if everyone avoids the controversial this page will be useless fluff. Also, there's nothing wrong with long postings; the short empty ones are boring. Raise the tough questions. Here're mine: *What's this about a Levon/Ricky feud? *What ever happened to the studio material Ricky was recording with Rob Frabroni for a second solo album, as reported in Random Notes (Rolling Stone) in '78-'79? *How do I get my hands on the STUDIO "Don't Do It," which Griel Marcus claims in Mystrey Train is the best Band recording ever? *If Levon's beef w/Robbie goes back as far as Levon claims in his book (Last Waltz & previous), & if it's strong enough to have kept Levon from the Rock Hall induction ceremony, why then did Levon use Robbie as a sideman on his RCO Allstars album of 1977? *As to Levon's drumming: Levon in his prime was universally regarded as one of the great rock drummers. Why did Levon, as early as '83 (with the 1st reformed Band) hire a 2d drummer? Why so many drummers on his solo albums (e.g. the Blue album)? *I love seeing Levon in the movies, but his latest appearance (The Fire Down Below) won't get any Oscar. Did he forget all Tommy Lee Jones taught him in that famous car ride? *A Band freak bashing Robbie is kind of like a cleric denying the existence of God. But when did Robbie forget why he left the singing to others when he was with the Band? And why does he suck up to Rolling Stone mag. & the Rock Hall of Fame? *In his book Levon claims Robbie stole songwriting credit for tunes that were actually group efforts. But the example Levon gives -- Levon claims to have driven Robbie to the public library so Robbie could research "Dixie Down" -- undercuts his point: You don't deserve songwriting credit for driving a guy to a library! *Why do even Band freaks ignore Islands, Moondog, and Cahoots (other than "Carnival"&"Masterpiece")? Let's hear some opinions on "Smoke Signal," "Pepote Rouge," "Christmas Must Be...," and "Promised Land"!

Mon Oct 27 16:46:43 MET 1997

carole

Is there any new news on Robbie's forthcoming album? Last I heard it was expected to release in November. Hope that's still true! Can't hold my breath much longer!! Thanks in advance to anyone who may know anything about it........

Mon Oct 27 16:04:06 MET 1997

gopher

yo, marv: pure speculation here...if i dissed my wife in the manner that ricky did during his trial in japan, i figure i'd expect she might just up and split. could be that's what's up with that, but of course rick's an artist, and it may just be poetic license, ya know...

Mon Oct 27 14:38:53 MET 1997

Michael Nichols

Richard, the song you are looking for is "Out of the Blue." It is on the studio side of The Waltz, and is one of the few songs Robbie sang. Good luck

Mon Oct 27 14:27:02 MET 1997

Jake R.

Just wanted to re- apologize because I feel really bad about some of my unfair accusations. By the way Luke, if you haven't already, check out "The Rumor" on Live at Watkins Glen. It's a sweet one.

Mon Oct 27 14:08:58 MET 1997

Jake R.

Yo Luke, you are right. I wouldn't be too psyched if someone were to print ugliness about me all over this page. I was unfair. Levon's business is his business. He has always been fairly skinny, though nothing like when I saw him last. By the way, I absolutely love The Rumor, and your recalling of it makes me feel bad about what I've written. I won't bite one of the hands that feeds me. I would buy tickets for a Band show anytime. No matter what, they give it their all, every time they go out their. I still happen to think that they would have more of that "All" if they were taking good care of themselves. Levon, if you read this page, I'm sorry. I just want to see you around for a good long time. Everybody does, and I think people will fight to see that happen, even if they have to get a little nasty. So I learned my lesson here. Thanks Luke and others. No more rumors from this Band fan.

Mon Oct 27 00:05:47 MET 1997

Tresa Ferrie

I've really enjoyed this website.

Sun Oct 26 23:28:12 MET 1997

Luke

Yo, Jake - yeah people get "incensed" when the Band is unfairly criticised. If you were really a Band fan than you'd know that Levon has ALWAYS been skinny. Maybe somebody should post an entry about you being on drugs, and send it to your boss, wife, etc. That would be really funny right? Especially since we don't know if it's true or not - just like your accusation of Levon. By the way, did you ever listen to The Rumor on Stagefright. I guess not.

Sun Oct 26 17:20:14 MET 1997

NICK TOVO

Jake, I can appreciate a strong opinion as much as the next man. I can also give one. I love THE BAND's live shows (seen about 15 since '94) and after they've done a few in a row they sound really tight, like the very best. It looks however, due to this extended break with Levon and Rick doing their own thing, as though they may indeed be done for awhile. So may you'll get your wish. I hope their gig in Beverly Hills starts them up again but it was scheduled so long ago that I fear they'll play that and then split again. Maybe Butch from New Paltz can shine a light on the situation for us. Jake, what bothers me about what you wrote is your statement about Levon. You say you're sure he's using because he's skinny and looks older than his age. Well my father is the same way and I know for a fact he doesn't use drugs. By the same token Jerry Garcia and Rick Danko were both heavy users and weighed like 300 pounds. By your medical assessment they should have been skinny as a whip. Surely, you have something more credible to go on other than Levon's being skinny and looking old. Otherwise, what you say is irresponsible and is how rumours get started. Having said that I agree with you about the Montclair show, that was ridiculous and not a good sign regarding Rick as we soon found out. I agree with you about the Trenton show (it doesn't get any better than that for any group). That was only a year ago and that's how they sound more often than not, especially outdoors, so why quit if you can still please fans that much. Good luck to you, but look before you leap. As for you Chazzy Sam, I unfortunately will be spending my Thanksgiving in Texas and am not able to make the Danko show much to my chagrin. I expect to see a set list on this page. I tried to give you a ticket to the Keswick last New Year's eve but you fell to women and football pressure. If they play there this year (or if Danko plays out) I hope you have your priorities straight and I'll have your ticket, Rolling Rocks and Southern Comfort. See you in Dec. Jan, thanks again for you're monstrous efforts on this page, all BAND fans owe you a debt of gratitude. Sorry to be so long-winded and I really don't mean to use the page as my own personal e-mail but I just had to respond to Sam Chaz the BAND MAN.

Sun Oct 26 15:13:42 MET 1997

Freddy Fishsticks

to Richard Ryce of Canada the tune is "Out of the Blue"/ lead vocal by Robbie Robertson from The Last Waltz. Nice job RandiJ!

Sun Oct 26 10:49:29 MET 1997

Richard Ryce

i am looking for the lyrics chords and song title for a beautiful song done by the band and i cant find it the song goes something about out of this world out of this time im a stranger here myself does any body know the title of this song

Sun Oct 26 06:03:43 MET 1997

Barbara Bull

What a wonderful site ... need more ...

Sun Oct 26 02:43:11 MET 1997

Stella

anyone know if woodstock records releaesd any other cd's, other then rick's ,yet?

Sun Oct 26 00:33:46 MET DST 1997

Marvin Gardens

Rick Danko's recent live performances of Long Black Veil include new stanzas about "every body's baby but mines comin home. Does anybody know where these new lyrics come from? Check his recent "in Concert" version for complete new lyrics added at song's end.

Sat Oct 25 22:15:54 MET DST 1997

Pat Brennan

I was at Fitzgerald's in Berwyn, Il., twenty minutes west of downtown Chicago. Posters up all over the place for Rick Danko Show, Nov. 13. Reminded me of the good ole days, whnever they were. See ya there.

Sat Oct 25 19:56:31 MET DST 1997

NICK TOVO

LOUIS-thanks for posting Danko's date at the bottom line. If you hadn't I might not have heard about in time it so I for one am grateful. This is just my opinion of course. Keep it up thanks.

Sat Oct 25 18:41:33 MET DST 1997

Jake Rashkind

I've written in the guestbook before, but figured I could say something else in light of all of the bickering that goes on on this page. It cracks me up that people are so emphatic, and get so outraged whenever anyone has anythin bad to say about the Band. I love the Band, listen to their albums, particularly Watkins Glen, The Brown Album, Big Pink, and Rock of Ages, all the time. The last time I saw them though, in Montclair NJ, Rick wasn't there. It isn't the Band without Rick. Levon is still a great player, though I would say his advanced aging has slowed him down, and one too many cigarettes has him sounding more like Jimmy Buffett, than the guy who tears your heart out with his rendition of "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" on the Last Waltz. I saw them last Fall in Trenton at the ribfest. Rick was singing, swaying, and having a good time, right in tune. Levon was on that night too. Garth was born on, but without Rick and Richard, the Band is not the Band. I'll still go to see them if Rick ever comes back, though quite honestly, for his sake, I hope he only does so on special occasions. I honestly believe that Rick is trying to stay off of drugs, and is facing his own mortality.He was getting fat, drunk, and stupid before this whole fiasco in Japan. To go back to the Band would be to jump right back into the fire, where I'm almost positive that the old drummer is still a heavy user. My grandmother is almost eighty, and both she and Levon look about the same age. They are both shrinking. Don't get me wrong, I loved his book, he has a golden voice, and can (or could) play the hell out of the drums. I'm not anti-Levon head. In fact, I may feel slightly bad if I thought that he was ever going to read this, but would hope that he realized that there are people out there who want to see him well. Then Rick could come back and they could put their best foot forward. Maybe write some new stuff. Who knows, maybe Robbie would be up for that. So those of you who are pissed off by this e-mail, take it easy, or clobber me with your guestbook entry. Tell me how much Robbie sucks, and how Levon is as good as he always was. And if you believe that, go check out a show.I just hope that now that the Band is done, that they start digging into the archives with more gems like Watkins Glen. I hope Rick finds himself a good band, or does it on his own. I hope Garth does the same, and that Levon makes Stephen Segal a household name (haha). I'd love to see them playing together when they're in their seventies, but for now, the Band should chill out, clean up, and go back to the drawing board in a couple of years.

Sat Oct 25 18:36:54 MET DST 1997

James Battey

Would someone E mail me the date of the '96 show at The Joint, Hard Rock Hotel, Las Vegas NV.Thank You

Sat Oct 25 17:14:33 MET DST 1997

60's Ricki's sweetheart, Carole The Barrel, from England

A Band Of Memories

Sat Oct 25 10:42:35 MET DST 1997

Jeanette

I am very new to the Internet,butam a very old Band fan.Foolishly,until my son found this page for me,I thought I was one of the few people who even remembered The Band.How wrong I was!! I have really ejoyed going right through this web site,page by page,allthe old guestbook entries,everything.I love it all. Jan, you must be a truly lovely man. Thankyou,Jeanette.

Sat Oct 25 03:34:41 MET DST 1997

matt jackson

did danko ever get out of jail in japan? little worried about that old boy. he told a great joke to me once in a bar in dayton ohio about "a little head" hope all is cool

Sat Oct 25 02:19:19 MET DST 1997

professor ahren herwiz

i'll be at the bottom line on 11/11/97 to see rick. however, he was there 8/11. what gives?

Sat Oct 25 02:15:54 MET DST 1997

Rod Prowse

Last light I finally found a jukebox in a pub that had an entire Band CD - The Best of The Band. Until now the only songs of theirs I've seen on a jukebox were on sound tracks such as The Big Chill etc. Any way the patrons got treated to Ophelia and Life is a Carnival. One thing that struct me was how quite the CD was compared to the others in the box - a bit of a pity. Next time I head back to The Bristol I shall play the entire CD.

Fri Oct 24 20:58:37 MET DST 1997

Reginald

Hey Luis: who put you in charge? I thought this was a forum to express opinion?

Fri Oct 24 00:59:12 MET DST 1997

Kimberly Margetish

Dear Mr. Robertson I am writing to let you know something that might be of interest to you. I have always liked your music, especially your more recent tunes. I was very excited when I met you this past spring in Winnipeg Manitoba. I was more than thrilled to hear that you would by working with my fiance at the new radio station (CJAE radio) in Winnipeg, MB I talked with you on a number of occasions and although you seemed a little odd, you were very nice What a shock it was to find out recently that you are not the Robbie Robertson whom I was introduced to as being you. I am hurt and angry and just wanted you to be aware that there is another Robbie Robertson who uses your persona to pursue his own career. He lead my fiance and myself to believe that he was you. I have witnessed him the bar pretending he is you with your fans and am sure that he has used your fame for other means. I just thought you should be aware of this......it angers me greatly and I feel like I have been duped..of course which I have been. I even asked the man for your autograph to give to my son who is a huge fan of yours. Thanks for your time Mr. Robertson and I will continue enjoying your music for years to come.

Thu Oct 23 22:53:29 MET DST 1997

sam chaz

kudos to nick tovo on defending levon. his live act is as good as ever. however, i beg to differ on his opinion of HIGH ON THE HOG. i just hope rick still is as kick ass as ever when i see him at the tin angel in philly. nick, get home for this gig. you can buy my ticket. just jokin'.

Thu Oct 23 21:54:21 MET DST 1997

Luis E. Loucks

***JUST ANNOUNCED*** Rick Danko LIVE at The Bottom line Tuesday, November 11th., 1997 Corner of Mercer and West 4th. Streets in The Village. One block West of Tower Records... SEE YA THERE... Thanx Rick... Luis

Thu Oct 23 16:40:33 MET DST 1997

David Powell

Good news for all you Band fans like me who still use a turntable to track the grooves of those sweet & warm sounding vinyl platters--EMI is reissuing "The Band" album. Details are sketchy, but it's supposedly being pressed on "heavy duty" high quality vinyl. I will report back when I get my hands on one, but in the meantime just knowing that one of the greatest albums of all times is being released again in its original form is almost too good to be true. Even you diehard fans of the compact disc have to admit that you miss the large format of the vinyl gatefold covers, especially that of the "brown album" with all those great photos of The Band taken by Elliot Landy. Old geezers like me hate those little CD booklets with their tiny print and miniature pictures & artwork design.

Thu Oct 23 14:28:45 MET DST 1997

Pasi Tuominen

The Band did a gig in Jarvenpaa (a small town near Helsinki) at a festival called 'Puistoblues' (Blues in the Park) on 29 June 1996. The biggest daily newspaper in Finland published two not-so-flattering articles about the gig. Here is a summary of them:

A list of famous performers and a fine summer's day resulted in a record attendance at the Puistoblues (Blues in the Park) festival in Jarvenpaa. 12 000 tickets were sold in advance and at the gate. 'I left a Helsinki suburb by bicycle as early as eight o'clock in the morning. It was a distance of about 40 kilometres', said a festival guest. His favourite at the festival was The Band, which earlier used to play with Bob Dylan. 'I cycled from Vantaa (Helsinki's neighbouring city) for 17 kilometres. It was nice to cycle, as the cars stood on the road a couple of kilometres away', told another festival-goer. This was his third time at Puistoblues and also he was lured to the festival to see The Band. The 19th Puistoblues had its climax in its main concert at Vanhankylanniemi ('Cape Old Village'). Attending were also Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Band and the sun. The Puistoblues rockers were skilfully chosen. The Band's roots are in blues and country, whereas Lynyrd Skynyrd's southern rock gets its raw groove straight from rhythm & blues. The Band, led by guitarist Robbie Robertson, had already done a decade's work, e.g. with Bob Dylan, before it retired with a theatrical concert called The Last Waltz, which included a number of famous visitors. Money is probably the reason that has lured the veterans back on the road. The Band tried this already during the 80's, but the attempt failed due to the death of keyboardist and singer Richard Manuel. In Jarvenpaa, The Band tried again, but without Robertson. Only drummer Levon Helm, bassist Rick Danko and keyboardist/horn player Garth Hudson were present from the original line-up. Lynyrd Skynyrd's vital performance rescued the nine-hour marathon concert, as The Band unfortunately sounded pretty flat and incoherent. This was surely due to the unsuccessful mixing, but also to the loose attitude of The Band. There was not a place on the field were one could really have been able to enjoy the music. Even sure hits such as 'Up on Cripple Creek' sounded like a shadow of the original.
[end of article]

I personally, find some of these opinions quite awkward. The mixing was bad, all right, but I did not see a sign of any loose attitude. Strangely enough, they did not even perform 'Cripple Creek'! Sometimes I think that I must have been in another concert. Anyway, what the hell, it is again another way to approach the phenomenon of The Band.

Wed Oct 22 22:34:01 MET DST 1997

Luis E. Loucks

Hi Y'all I want to apologize for my comments which were directed at Dag. Y'all are right, there is no room in here for profanity and it's REALLY not like me, no excuse. I must say tho that I was INCENSED at that persons comments about Levon, I mean "Rest in Peace, Levon"? I will refrain from using profanity in the future however you who come into this guestbook to be disrespectful towards ANY of these people is absolutely unacceptable! Luis

Wed Oct 22 19:00:56 MET DST 1997

Rick Femia

I keep coming back to this site as I am quite a Band fan Can anyone give me an e-mail address for Levon Helm? Keep up the good work

Wed Oct 22 16:49:04 MET DST 1997

Rick

I'm 17 and I'd like to know if their are any other fans of The Band around my age. I can't seem to find any.

Wed Oct 22 04:23:58 MET DST 1997

NICK TOVO

Let me beat a dead horse here a little more. Dag-while you're entitled to your opinion there is no way your right. Levon's playing and singing on "High on the Hog" is excellent. I have also seen THE BAND several times since then and Levon's singing and playing was very strong. I'm not going to trash you like the others because that's wrong. However you're statement seems so unfounded that it's hard to take seriously, I mean anyone who's seen THE BAND recently can see Levon is in fine fettle. You should see them sometime...you won't be dissapointed.

Wed Oct 22 02:28:33 MET DST 1997

Don Pugatch

Before we all know it, Thanksgiving will be here again, and that will bring us back to the days, where The Last Waltz will be celebrating it's 21st anniversary. Let's start thinking about a way, on this page, to talk about our favorite segways of the concert, favorite songs and favorite moments. For me, this was a bittersweet time, as a Band Fan, but now in retrospect, it is history and a time to move on.

Tue Oct 21 18:39:11 MET DST 1997

James Basaker

Great site! Nowhere can you find such emotion from a bunch of guys.

Tue Oct 21 18:17:04 MET DST 1997

John Donabie

I have read other comments about which I am about to leave. When a great announcement like the "Confederate Tales" CD is going to be released... could the person who posts that story please let us all know where that CD or Video can be purchased. Thanks and keep up the good work Jan.

Tue Oct 21 03:30:24 MET DST 1997

Audri

Just stopping by to say hello.... I really love this site. I'm a long time Band Fan. I was hanging out, getting high 29 years ago when someone put Music From Big Pink on the turntable.... as soon as I came out of the fog I bought the album, I've worn out three tapes and I'm working on my second cd... I guess it just dont get no better than The Band.

Mon Oct 20 22:13:25 MET DST 1997

Chris & Gail

To Brooke…thanks for the real nice entry, that we'd sure go along with. Music Soothes the Soul, and The Band's music like none other, is the only thing that can so well complement our beautiful planet and the countryside, huh. Anyway, your comments were very refreshing, especially after some of the earlier "profanities". Ya know, there's nothing wrong with folks expressing strong opinions, but they needn't be so nasty, & would agree with other comments here, that there's really no need for that kinda language on these pages!……….Reflecting on John's earlier comments re no word on "The Band", this is understandable, & he's only expressing what a lota folks are feeling right now. We're wondering ourselves, though am sure it's probably just a hiatus, and solo stuff can still be a good thing. However, after the "original" Band, the line-up with Weider, Ciarlante & Bell is the BEST EVER and the ONLY one that can now work for The Band. So like many folks, we're sure hoping for a lot more from them, and certainly a follow-up to "Hog". In order to do this, they need to get themselves organised again (including for the proper distribution of recordings, i.e. less of a DIY thing). And hopefully get back into the studios, as there's a LOT more great stuff to come from them yet. What has happened to Jim Weider and Richard Bell? Hey guys, get back with Garth, Levon, Rick, Randy….we need you!! Any word yet on the next Carnegie Hall gig?

Mon Oct 20 22:02:31 MET DST 1997

anita

Just got some details re. Rick Danko's show in beautiful Columbus, Ohio: Nov. 14 at Ruby Tuesday's on Summit Street near OSU. Tickets are 12 bucks, and go on sale at Ruby's on Nov. 1 (614/291-8313. CU There.

Mon Oct 20 19:22:36 MET DST 1997

Kim Pantalone

What I was saying before I cut myself off is that I saw The Band in Watkins Glen IN 73 and in 74 with Dylan and even in 96 & 97 and they are always great,and to that guy driving north in Michigan in the fall,I know where your coming from man.Can you dig it?

Mon Oct 20 03:33:05 MET DST 1997

David Hubbard

Thanks so much for producing this wonderful tribute to the Band's legacy. They are one of the greatest ever, and perhaps the most under appreciated. The Grateful Dead were not even close to the Band. I look forward to going through your site in more detail when I have some more time (I'm supposed to be studying). I'm still hoping we'll eventually see a reconciliation between Robbie and the others. As Dylan just proved, even late in life, with the right producer they could still be awesome.

Mon Oct 20 03:24:02 MET DST 1997

John

Ok, what gives. Rick talking solo album, Levon talking Cromatix album, both of 'em gigging all around separately, but no Band dates or word. Hmmmmmmmmmmmm. Doesn't this strike you folks as odd? I mean, does anyone else think that there may have been a parting of the ways?

Mon Oct 20 00:18:47 MET DST 1997

BROOKE D. SLUDER

I decided to take off for the weekend and go to the U.P. of Michigan. The leaves have turned and the country is absolutley beautiful. The whole ride up (nine hours) I listened to The Band. It's tradition. Daniel and The Sacred Harp went well with the season. There's nothing like looking over to the side of the road, seeing the fog all around the birch and pine trees and hearing Levon and Richard sing. If any music goes well with fall and beautiful scenery, it's The Band. I'd also like to say that Mahk Jchi from Robbie's best album seemed to work well the farther up north I got. Sip The Wine is a perfect peace to play right around St. Ignace Michigan. I'd once again like to pay my respects to The Band for making my life better and my trip a good one. I love you all!!!! JAN- Thanks for the site. Thanks very much for the chords and lyrics. It has helped my band out a lot!!!

Sun Oct 19 17:24:37 MET DST 1997

Bone

Great web page, The Band have created some of the greatest songs. Despite that they are mostly fom Canada, their songwrting skills i somperable to the other great songwrtiters such as Cole Porter, the Gershwins, Leibler and Stoller, and of course Bobo Dyaln.

Sun Oct 19 15:14:37 MET DST 1997

joel g. cohen

jan, its beginning to look like the WWF around here with the personal attacks and obsenity. i love the band and can't wait for carnegie hall. if i want violence and obsenity i can just go upstairs and have dinner.

Sun Oct 19 12:06:08 MET DST 1997

Sean Lyons

Long-time fan.

Sun Oct 19 06:43:10 MET DST 1997

John the Baker

great site, I'd just like to say that I think Jimmy Eppard rules, he's the man! and Motorman is the fattest drummer of all times. Rick, your a fine role model for all us punks who just sit around the green all fuckin day smokin dope and shooting shit. I haven't seen you play since riverfest a while back when Jorma played later that night at the lake. We puffed a few with rick on the porch during break and later that night he got a DUI, remember that night? Probably not, but us punks wanna grow up and be big rock stars just like you and I know that for me personally, I can't wait til I'm famous enough that I can get busted in some foriegn land and be home before I even get sick. Thanks rick, keep up the good work, we love you.

Sat Oct 18 21:55:36 MET DST 1997

Matt Hoffman

Nice detailed site! Lots of choices, and ggod info. Look forward to returning!

Sat Oct 18 21:04:36 MET DST 1997

Maximilian Robins

I am printing out all these lyrics and shit for probably the biggest fan of the Band out of the subset of fans living in Italy. I met him during my trip to Europe and while I had known the Band before, I never understood exactly how awesome they were. I will sending a big ass packet to him sometime in the next 2 weeks with lots of the stuff printed from this GREAT page!! Keep up the good work. My regards to everyone...

Sat Oct 18 20:50:10 MET DST 1997

Divine Jr.

Go for the new design, Jan. Subtle, simple, very fitting for the best music site on the net.

Sat Oct 18 20:26:30 MET DST 1997

Erlend Bergsås Mikkelsen

You are the best band ever walking on earth. I`m going to a concert of you in Oslo Spektrum (in Norway) in about a week from now. And I`m really looking forward too it.

uhm...The Band in Oslo, Norway, next week? Dream on...
-- JH

Sat Oct 18 04:52:10 MET DST 1997

Mark Sandefur

A wonderful site for a truly great "Band"

Sat Oct 18 01:34:58 MET DST 1997

Tracy Lynn Rotkiewicz

Jan, you have done a tremendous job with this website. I only hope people can appreciate a good thing. I thought my previous guestbook entry got some flack, but this is something else. Why must people be rude, make childish remarks (such as making fun of others last names), or using profanity about their opinions. We are civilized people (aren't we?) I for one believe that everyone is entitled to their OWN opinion, but please HAVE TASTE. You know, there is a thing called "proper etiquette.) Younger people do visit this site and I'm sure they don't appreciate it. Some of us have e-mail addresses for a reason, and it's not to waste space with complaints complaints on The Band Website. Though by and large a big Robbie fan (PLEASE NO TOMATOES), I do appreciate Jan's hard efforts. I would hate to see this guestbook disappear. Don't take it for granted. Has anyone considered having a Band Net Forum? That way everyone can air out in an opinionated manner. Maybe then we can let Jan do what he does best....keeping this site alive with all of the information we want to hear. Let's curb the language. The Band will always be the GREATEST band on earth (hands down!) To each their own. Bravo to Jan Hoiberg and Happy (belated) Birthday to you! LONG LIVE THE BAND!!!!!

Fri Oct 17 19:26:59 MET DST 1997

Vic S. Farris

Here in south Ms we have listened to The Band through the foggy days and still do in my mellowed out days . Been blessed to know y'alls music then and now . Another taped Reunion released on VHS would be cool . Hell boys 57 and 60 ain't too old !!!!!!!

Fri Oct 17 15:19:01 MET DST 1997

David Powell

Without adding more fuel to the fire, I feel compelled to respond to Mr. Gravem's recent comments regarding Levon's skills. It's sad to see this web page used for personal diatribes against certain individual members of The Band. Most often Robbie seems to be the favorite target and now Levon. I will admit that the process of aging may have diminished Levon's drumming skills, but his singing ability remains as strong & distinctive as ever. Mr. Gravem--you claim to be a professional bass player. The mark of professionalism is characterized by not only technical ability but with ethical conduct as well. Your observations regarding Levon's current abilities to perform are not only insensitive but amateurish. You are talking about a man who has chosen a profession that brings joy & entertainment to many of us, and has done so for many years with a high degree of skill & dedication. For you to say "he's simply too fucked up to play and sing properly" is your own opinion & you have that right to express it. But Mr. Gravem that's just your opinion, and I for one don't share it. As we say here in the South, you are not a gentleman. I am somewhat perplexed also at how you can condemn Levon on one hand and yet still sing the praises of Rick-- in light of his most recent problems which have hindered not only his ability to perform, but that of his ability to function as a person as well. Perhaps this just an indication of the inconsistency of your observations with the facts.

Fri Oct 17 08:25:10 MET DST 1997

gopher

serge- thanks for the criticism. you're right of course. i do tend to prattle on, and i'm no english professor either. i'd explain why i use lower case but this really isn't the time or place. in the future i'll try to be more articulate and concise. if i fail i hope you will forgive me. by the way, bob dylan will be playing the huntington, wv civic center noevember 5th.

Fri Oct 17 01:14:40 MET DST 1997

James Withrow

You guys are great! Can you come to the Ranger School and play at my graduation in May? Its in the Adirondack Mountains in Wanakena, N.Y. its a great place. Thanks!

Fri Oct 17 00:17:06 MET DST 1997

Pat Brennan

Just heard that Dylan will be performing Nov 11 at Illinois Benedictine College in Lisle Illinois. So you got Bob on the 11th, then Danko on the 13th at Fitzgeralds in Berwyn, just minutes from Lisle. As long as my very pregnant wife can hold off, I'm gonna be pretty busy that week. And lay off Dag; everybody has a right to his/her opinion, as silly and as ill-informed as it might be.

Thu Oct 16 22:02:54 MET DST 1997

Serge Daniloff

Gopher, I tried to make sense out of your verbal diarrhea. Say what you have to say in a simple English form. The lame literary style with which you are trying to express yourself fails terribly. I don't know where your train of thought starts, and where another ends. Perhaps if you used a capital letter to start your sentences some sense could be made of what you are attempting to say. Properly placed commas could also be of help. And PLEASE find out what a "split infinitive" is. Avoid using them...It gives you away. Don't let your sentences run on and on to up to 50 words. I got out of breath trying to read your piece, and I still don't know what you tried to say. Go Pher some English grammar lessons.

Thu Oct 16 21:52:42 MET DST 1997

rob larsen

Well, i simply love the Band and couldn't be happier with this complete, thoughtfully produced website. Thank you

Thu Oct 16 21:40:22 MET DST 1997

Jim Moulton

Thu Oct 16 20:57:03 MET DST 1997

Missy Johnson

In response to Dag from Norway: Considering that you are a member of the "professional" world, I find it ironic that you have gone so low as to rip Levon on our very own Band page. Although you may have jumped off the "Band" wagon years ago, those true fans who remain have learned to accept and appreciate the changes within the Band during the years. Not unlike any other great musician, Levon has changed his approach to music over time. This does not make his drumming style any less "proper" than it was before. Also, I don't know where you are getting your facts, but during the ten shows I have seen, Levon was in excellent form. There will never be another who can sing, drum, play the mandolin, and tell stories like he can. I hope that I never run into you at a show, but I bet I would know which one you are: the drunk shouting, "The Weight! The Weight!" at the top of his lungs? Thought so. Go spout off your pathetic mouth somewhere else.

Thu Oct 16 13:41:23 MET DST 1997

gopher

dump on me too, if you want, i could care less. i love the band's accumulated catalog of music, and their legacy, as well as their roots...and am well aware of the brilliance and ingenuity of the musicians involved, both originally, and as absorbed within their framework, down through the years. perhaps dag was a bit blunt, or chose the wrong terminology, but frankly, he has a point. perhaps, relatively, it may be moot, but nonetheless regardless if you care to admit it or not, levon's skills have diminished. to what degree, and to what cause(s) this can be attributed, only he might be able to say. but this does not negate the fact that he remains a highly talented, engaging musician, with a depth of soul that is uncharted. for this , levon must be appreciated; i think dag deserves credit also, for having the courage, albeit somewhat tactlessly, to objectively interpret levon's current musical status. that helm is still of both status and ability qualified perform in such venues as carnegie hall, ought to give anyone with common sense the understanding that, despite denial, if he is no longer the world's greatest drummer(or singer, for that matter), he remains an impressive icon. regardless of the toll time and expreriences may have taken upon him... carnegie hall

Thu Oct 16 11:56:28 MET DST 1997

HÅKAN TORSTENSSON

Thank YOU Jan.The Band website are one of the greatest sites i ever know I hope they are coming to sweden sometime. In that case LEVON,SEE YA UP ON CRIPPLE CREEK....

Thu Oct 16 02:42:03 MET DST 1997

Dave

This is a great site, and I will continue to check on my favorite BAND thanks to Jan. Yet I hope when I do check back, Dag (is Dueche your first name?) will have lost the address for this site and found the Charles Groden webpage or something more suited for his asshole like qualities. Apologies, but we need to keep idiots out of this site. Figures he can only play an instrument with four strings. DUH DAG, DUH...

Thu Oct 16 01:59:53 MET DST 1997

Don Pugatch

I have not signed in recently, but some of the lastest comments, I have to say have been in poor taste. This is a Band Web Page, not a palate for some personal trashing. On a possitve note, if anyone is from the Atlanta area, this Sunday from 9:00 Am to 12:00PM, on 96 Rock, WKLS, there will be a 6th anniversary show, This radio show has played more Band music over the years, then any other station in the state. Listen in, if you have never heard the show, especially the first hour, which is the best portion, called The Quiet Storm. Call in, and tell either Rex or Alan what Band cuts you want to hear, 404 741 9696

Thu Oct 16 01:47:42 MET DST 1997

Pat Brennan

On his way to the West Coast, Rick Danko will be performing at Fitzgerald's, 6615 W. Roosevelt, Berwyn Illinois. It's only 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and a great place to see music. See ya there.

Thu Oct 16 00:24:27 MET DST 1997

Serge Daniloff

Happy belated birthday to you too Jan...Thanks for the greeting...Didn't know we were both "libras" :) Whatever that's supposed to mean..two libra Band freaks I guess. Many happy returns Viking. !!!

Wed Oct 15 22:54:19 MET DST 1997

TINY MONTGOMERY

THERE'S NOT EVEN ENOUGH PEOPLE IN THE JOINT, TO GET ANGRY; AND A FIGHT BREAKS OUT! UNBELIEVABLE! DAG MAMA DAG, I CAN'T BELIVE IT'S TRUE!!! WE ALL KNOW LEVON ROCKS THE GREAT DIVIDE; AND HE'S A PROFESSIONAL MUSICAIN TOO!! WHAT EVER THAT MEANS!!!

Wed Oct 15 21:58:55 MET DST 1997

Luis E. Loucks

Once again to Dag... Perhaps I was a bit hasty with my comment earlier. I have a question for you, when exactly was the last time you saw or heard Levon Helm sing and or play drums with THE BAND FROM WOODSTOCK? See, the reason I ask is because I saw Levon and the boys at... ummmm... CARNEGIE HALL you shit this year and last year plus a total of 6 Band concerts in the last two years. When was the last time you, as a "Professional Musician" played CARNEGIE HALL? You know what they say about wine aging and with improving with time? Let me tell you something you fuck, Levon and The Band are an institution that are respected, admired and emulated by the most succesful and prolific creative minds and artists of the 20th. Century! So, who are you and what do you have to say? When you as a "Professional Musician" have influenced and affected the global artistic community as Levon Helm has, keep your thoughts to yourself you bitter and petty loser! Respectfully, Luis

Wed Oct 15 20:08:26 MET DST 1997

Per Erling Aune

Fenomenal web site. I am an old fan,born in 48,and i've been performing The Weight,which is one af my favorites,from stage for many years. Iwill enjoy The Band's Web site for a long time. Thanks !!

Wed Oct 15 19:29:31 MET DST 1997

Mathias Thunge

Bob Dylan is the best

Wed Oct 15 18:48:13 MET DST 1997

Luis E. Loucks

This is directed to Dag from Norway Professional bass player huh?.... hmmm... Ummm, FUCK YOU!

Wed Oct 15 16:56:54 MET DST 1997

Hondo

I am a huge fan and have seen them 3 or 4 times now here in Maine.Can't wait for them to get back here,and ROCK'N ROLL.This web site is FANTASTIC!! Thanks!.......P.S....Dag in Norway....EAT ME....

Wed Oct 15 01:24:30 MET DST 1997

Dag F. Gravem

Levon once was the world´s no.1 drummer. Sadly time has taken its toll on him. Some band fanatics fail to comprehend the fact that nowadays he´s simply too fucked up to play and sing properly. May The World´s Greatest Drummer rest in peace.Rick still is one of my favourite bass players, by the way. And I´m a bass player. Professionally

Wed Oct 15 00:43:53 MET DST 1997

Adela V. Calbillo

This web site is not only one of the best music web sites, it is one of the best web sites, period. We owe gratitude to the man of vision, Jan, as well as the rest who contribute wonderful things to make it as comprehensive as possible. I would like to say a big "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" today to one of these people, the beautiful dude up in "Canadia", Serge. Who loves ya, baby.

Happy birthday from me too, Serge. And thanks for forgetting that my birthday was on Sunday, Adela. Now you have to send me that tape from Austin to make up for it, ok?
-- JH

Tue Oct 14 17:32:09 MET DST 1997

GEETOMAN

CAN ANYONE SEND ME THE TAB FOR THE INTRO. ON THE WEIGHT? I CANT FIGURE IT OUT!

Tue Oct 14 06:56:03 MET DST 1997

desi jackson english

Any news about the band touring outside America maybe downunder?

Tue Oct 14 06:11:31 MET DST 1997

BROOKE SLUDER

I am 19-years-old. I was raised with The Band. I have never felt such intense pssion towards anything like I have The Band. I have the deepest respect for each member. I play the guitar and naturally Robbie is my God. I would love to hear from anyone who loves The Band as much as I do. I have never met anyone who even knows who The Band is. I think that's pathetic. Every time my band plays King Harvest I dedicate it to them. ROCK ON LEVON, RICK and GARTH! REST IN PEACE RICHARD! KEEP MAKING BEAUTIFUL SOUNDS ROBBIE! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!

Mon Oct 13 21:31:41 MET DST 1997

TINY MONTGOMERY

COMPLETE DETAILS ON WEST COAST DATES FOR DANKO! WED. NOV. 19TH THE CATALYST,SANTA CRUZ,CA. THU. NOV. 20TH LAST DAY SALOON,S.F.,CA. SAT. NOV. 22ND SANTA MONICA,CA. I'LL SEE YOU ALL THERE!

Mon Oct 13 16:48:20 MET DST 1997

britt govea

good news for all you west coast BANDHEADS! DANKO is heading our way soon! one date is CONFIRMED for Nov. 19 at the CATALYST in SANTA CRUZ! What a night it's going to be,hope honey boy comes along!

Mon Oct 13 03:06:31 MET DST 1997

Phillip Dunavan

Real interesting. I went to school with Levon & used to be neighbors. Would really like see & talk to him again. My son is an avid drummer & I've told him about Levon.

Mon Oct 13 01:34:29 MET DST 1997

Cheech

Any band that hunts down Sonny Boy Williamson, gets him good and drunk, jams, and then drinks his bloody spit from a can definitely qualifies as the greatest band in the world to me. Levon, you're the best. You got the MAN! Butchie. True bluesmen. the Hook

Sun Oct 12 03:14:52 MET DST 1997

joel cohen

Does anybody have a line on Ed Kaercher who often backs up Danko? How about a setlist from Danko's performance tonite in Amagansett?

Sat Oct 11 22:31:19 MET DST 1997

Joe Costantino

Hi to fellow Band fans Hope to see Rick at The Turning Point 10/31

Sat Oct 11 18:47:03 MET DST 1997

Doug Yargar

Been a big fan for years.

Sat Oct 11 17:51:06 MET DST 1997

Dave

Does anyone Know if Garth has any New stuff out? I'd bet he still has some GREAT music just waiting to get out of him.

Sat Oct 11 16:54:57 MET DST 1997

Jan H.

Testing the guestbook script after failure. It was not possible to add new entries to the guestbook the last couple of days, should be OK again now.

Thu Oct 9 17:21:04 MET DST 1997

gopher

hey, ho divine, jr.: give john waters my best!(sorry, i couldn't resist...) or, if you really are...or whatever, any band fan is a friend of mine,anyway, pal... my favorite movie does happen to be "polyester" oddly enough...

Thu Oct 9 09:46:31 MET DST 1997

Divine Jr.

This is my second visit to The Band site. I'm impressed.Keep up the good work.

Tue Oct 7 00:36:41 MET DST 1997

Ned

Just saw the movie "Feeling Minnesota"Disappointing movie, but.............great appearance by Levon at the end.He give Keanu Reeves a lift to Las Vegas and, as Keanu gets out to go, Levon offers him a bible and wishes him luck. I thought it was the best part of the movie.

Mon Oct 6 21:20:09 MET DST 1997

Aaron Koehler

The Band is a great band. Mainly I'm writing this for my father who is the biggest fan of The Band. If you have any info. about concerts or anything involving The Band, please send to 8041 Lindisfarne Dr. Pittsburgh, Pa 15237. Since I have the computer at school, my father dosen't have a chance to look up this page.

Sun Oct 5 16:46:17 MET DST 1997

Kitrick Short

Hi Jan! I still hope you will make a chat room for us Band fans to talk in and a way for us single fans to meet each other! Does anyone else think this is a good idea? We are special people and need a way to find each other!!Keep up the great work Jan!

Sun Oct 5 08:37:17 MET DST 1997

gopher

little john: i was just trying to figure out if theguy was referring to the keith relf, or annie haslam renaissance, to begin with, aside from wondering if he was addressing a producer, arecord company, a fan club, or what...anyway,i hope i was gentle, but do know the fella has been hipped.

Sun Oct 5 06:18:30 MET DST 1997

Pacific

Had tickets for the Spring Band concert in SF; crushed with news of Rick. Then saw him in Clinton NJ; pure magic!!! Please come back, and bring Levon!

Sun Oct 5 05:17:31 MET DST 1997

Anna

i just wanted to say that this site is really cool. my dad listens to the band and he got me listening to them, too. i wasn't even born when the recorded "The Last Waltz," (i'm 17) but it is my favorite CD. anyway, just wanted to say 'thanks' to everyone who made this site, it's good to see that there are still people out who like good music!

Sun Oct 5 03:04:53 MET DST 1997

Missy Johnson

Thanks for all the great shows guys. In response to a few previous entries, Rick has done "Too Soon Gone" it at least one show I know of and it is excellent (don't have the tape here to tell y'all which one-sorry!). I'm so happy to see that Rick is doing a show in Philly over my Thanksgiving break, can't wait (my 11th!). Keep those shows coming! Great web site Jan, keep up the great work! Cheers to many more great shows!

Sat Oct 4 21:54:35 MET DST 1997

joel cohen

great site. sorry about first entry. saw danko at brokerage and bottom line. saw them at carnegie hall.liner notes to ridin' on the blind say Twilight was never released by the Band. I'm sure its on "the Best of the Band". Look forward to Carnegie in 98!

Sat Oct 4 15:09:06 MET DST 1997

Stefan Carlsson

GREAT!!!

Sat Oct 4 13:52:00 MET DST 1997

isabella

need info about robbie robertson when the new cd ?i like your music and hope i will find new cdsoon.isabella

Sat Oct 4 00:00:58 MET DST 1997

Rick Smith

I'll second those comments from Nick. Would love to see "Where I Should Always Be" and "Too Soon Gone" played live; can't imagine Rick getting through "Too Soon" though. I couldn't.

Fri Oct 3 22:27:37 MET DST 1997

Jon Lyness

Nice to see a mention of "Shine a Light" from Nick Tovo - I think it's a terrific song, quite underrated with great vocals by Levon & Rick and great playing by Garth. Another personal recent favorite is "Where I Should Always Be" - Rick's vocal on this is so sweet and haunting. Since songs like these never get played live, it's easy to forget about them or think of them as "minor" songs. I'd love to hear them live - and "Too Soon Gone" too, for that matter! Take care, all -- Jon

Fri Oct 3 19:29:34 MET DST 1997

Little John Tyler

Uh, anybody want to volunteer to gently break the news to Paul "Dooooles" Dooley, who signed the Guestbook a couple of messages back?

Fri Oct 3 03:21:35 MET DST 1997

Ron Shankland

JAn-thanks again for a WONDERFUL website!Band afficianados all over the world thank you!Anyone with Crowmatix tapes or recent Band gigs please contact me to trade tapes!Hi MIssy-and Laurin,from way back!_Let's all be positive about Robbie's solo career-he is the reason why the Band's songs are respected by fellow musician's like the Beatles/Clapton etc.etc.-My fave Band member is still Levon though!-MVP_Garth-no questions asked!!!!

Fri Oct 3 03:21:13 MET DST 1997

Paul Dooley

l've really enjoyed the 2 Renaissance cds that you'vedone, I hear that one is in the works for YES althoughI've heard that the music will come from the RELAYERtour which isnt bad but I think that my vote would go forthe GOING FOR THE ONE tour in 1977, great songselection including the intro music for one of YES'most popular songs "Awaken". Wakeman had justrejoined and spirits were high. I hope nothing is instone yet and perhaps the GFTO tour will get to cd.You guys are doing a great job and it is very much appreciated, Thanks Paul "Doooles" Dooley

Thu Oct 2 16:17:27 MET DST 1997

Yoko

Thanks!

Thu Oct 2 14:43:14 MET DST 1997

Michael Hemmerde

Please I'm making a work about Woodstock, if u played in it please reply to my mail.

Thu Oct 2 08:06:52 MET DST 1997

David Jordan Williams

Hello -It was great to come across The Band's webb site andin particular Robbies page. I worked on his NativeAmericans cd project doing the photography and graphicsand found both Robbie and his music deeply inspirational.There is just one little problem I noticed when going overimages of Robbie. I noticed that three of my photos werecaptioned wrong; Robbie in Norway 1994, Looking tired, andPortrait 1996. All three of these images were done in 1994as part of the photo sessions for the Native Americans cdproject.Could you please correct these slips and install myname and info. Thank you and continued success withthis important part of our rock history.David Jordan Williams

Done. Thanks for good photos and nice words about the web site.
-- JH

Thu Oct 2 04:22:05 MET DST 1997

NICK TOVO

IT'S GREAT TO HEAR THAT DANKO IS DOING WELL. I'M REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO HIS SOLO ALBUM. THE LIVE ALBUM IS SORELY MISSING SOLO DANKO SUCH AS SIP THE WINE, MEXICO, JAVA BLUES ETC. THE LIVE ALBUM IS ALL BAND SONGS WITH NO S0LO DANKO (WHICH IS UNDERSTANDABLE UNDER TRHE CIRCUMSTANCES). I'M HAPPY TO HEAR OF HIS PHYSICAL AND VOCAL RECOVERY . CAN'T ANYONE GIVE UP A SONG LIST. I HOPE THE BAND STAYS TOGETHER, ALTHOUGH NEWS OF A DANKO ALBUM AND A CROWMATIX EFFORT CONCERNS ME. I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR ON THIS SITE IF THE BAND IS GOING ON TOUR THIS WINTER (OR SPRING) AND IF THEY ARE GOING TO COMPLETE THE ACOUSTIC ALBUM AND PUT THAT OUT. THE 90'S BAND IS THE BEST AND "SHINE A LIGHT" IS A PERFECT OPENER (AND MY FAVORITE SONG). YOU THINK I'M KIDDING...I'M NOT. LETS' GO.

Wed Oct 1 23:50:11 MET DST 1997

Jon Lyness

Thanks, Tim of Rhode Island, for mentioning the great photo of Rick and Bob Dylan in Rolling Stone Magazine. The accompanying caption says that Rick is working on a solo album - does anyone know anything at all about this?!

Wed Oct 1 14:48:13 MET DST 1997

Divine Jr.

Been a fan for nearly 30 years now, I never get tired of the Band's timeless music. Good to seethey have such a great web site. I'll be back soon.

Wed Oct 1 04:24:24 MET DST 1997

brian white

Hello,Please tell me who is in the Band as of today. Willthey tour much as a group over the winter. I had ticketsfor a show this past summer but they did not comebecause of Japan. We were told that they wouldbe back in the fall, but the theater has now closeduntil next summer. Please send me any current touringinformation. ThanksBrian WhiteBlwMbc@hotmail.com