The Band Guestbook, October '98

Sat Oct 31 19:51:40 MET 1998

Texas Ben

With all the talk about Long Black Veil- no mention of Rick's live performances where he weaves Train of Love into the song. I enjoy it. I think artists should be free to reinterpret the songs they perform and whether its boredom or the attempt to reconnect with the audience that is the cause, I enjoy when Billy Joel or Jimmy Buffett or Rick Danko changes the lyrics.

As for Book Faded Brown, Rick is sometimes a bit lazy at varying his sets and no doubt failed to do his homeowork with this wonderful tune. He should reintroduce Sip the Wine and some other classics and replace Jamaica Farewell and Crazy Mama. Nevertheless I enjoy his performances and expect to be crawlin to pawlin again soon. Save me aplace at the table round- Sadie.

Sat Oct 31 19:26:37 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Bernstein's off limits but Clinton's fair game? With a ban on classical music, I guess we should refrain from mentioning Garth's love of the Bach chorales. And Muddy must've liked Margolin's playing, or he wouldn't have hired him?

Sat Oct 31 18:04:35 MET 1998

Dirty Dan

Please no more classical talk-it don't belong here take it to bernstein.com or whatever. Peter Viney your not stepping on any toes with the Dolly Parton quote-it is funny. That is why President Hillary and her lapdog{in more ways then one}Bill should leave or be kicked out . They are not to be believed or trusted and have made the oral office a laughingstock and a disgrace. Bob Margolin is not a "great unsung bluesman, if anything he is nothing but an opportunist riding the coattails of Muddy Waters. Long Black Veil is just a nice little old country ditty that was elevated to an atmospheric masterpiece by the combined genuis of THE BAND. This is the Band at its best, creating a mountain out of a molehill. They have done it before, they are doing it now and will continue to-create gems out of sand. Like an oyster makes a pearl. And that is why Levon Helm likes sushi so much. He likes it RAW, son. Then he gives it life. and thats just the way it is folks!

Sat Oct 31 17:12:31 MET 1998

Nick Tovo

Donald J. one rock movie that I personally prefer to the Last Waltz is "Hail! Hail! Rock and Roll" about Chuck Berry. The sparring between the movie's musical director Keith Richards and Berry is priceless. The role of musical director was originally RR's but he backed out and Richards filled the void. DJ why do you attack musicians who have had admirable and righteous careers. For example you criticize the BAND and try to say who should and should'nt be allowed to sing. Now you put down Bob Margolin as though he's only passing himself off as Muddy's guitar player. You my friend, are a joke.

Sat Oct 31 16:47:15 MET 1998

Peter Viney

Bobby Charles: the self-titled 1971 album gained itself a title when it was re-released on CD as "Small Town Talk" - just in case you want to go and find it. And you should. Look forward to discussing The Weight - I've had my say on it, but am happy to extend the article if anyone wants to add interpretations. Though 'KIng Harvest' might be my favourite song, 'The Weight' is my favourite lyric.

Sat Oct 31 15:53:08 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

I'd love to discuss The Weight, but we should do our homework first. Our British friend Peter Viney wrote an elaborate analysis of the song for this website. So let's start from there! DONALD JOSEPH: how did your 7-year-old react?

Sat Oct 31 14:55:04 MET 1998

Jam

Always thought Long Black Veil was the weakest effort on Big Pink. It is a good story but not nearly as interesting as the lyrics to The Weight. I would love to see some entries that discuss what this song means to different people. Personally, I'm very bored with, and haven't even read the last few on the Veil.

Sat Oct 31 14:15:44 MET 1998

Peter Viney

Some nice wide ranging entries today. I just picked up "Crossing The Great Divide" at last AND Taj Mahal's 'The Real Thing' (the latter on vinyl) so the day has started well.

Apologies for mis-use of 'improvisation' but delighted to hear someone else likes LB on Ravel.

Donald Joseph is probably right that Thomas Berger's 'Little Big Man' is the best novel on the Wild West (I'd forgotten that "It is a good day to die" line), but if you haven't read them, look for Richard Condon's "A Talent For Loving" (wasn't that an abandoned Beatles movie project?) and E.L. Doctorow's "Welcome To Hard Times." They are possible contenders for the title. 'Little Big Man' certainly helped form my views on Western history. Very good movie, but the book is too good to render totally on film.

The Bobby Charles is a "must-have" album (though it's hard to work out exactly what The Band played on - it's Dr John on 'Small Town talk.'). 'Jesse Winchester' with both Robbie and Levon is another key "non-Band" album from just a bit earlier.

Thanks also to A. Lad for the lyrics to 'Old Shep' (Shane wasn't a bad Western novel, I guess. I enjoyed your role in the movie). But isn't the line: "And laid his old head on my knee. I had shot the best friend a man ever had, I cried so I scarcely could see'? It also reveals an Elvis alter-ego. Jim. There's an early 60s B-side "Just Tell Her Jim said Hello" and in 'Old Shep' the doctor says 'I can do no more for him, Jim.' So why did he call himself Jim? (Band connection - Levon narrates 'Elvis 56'). Wouldn't this be a fun song for Danko solo shows?

Sat Oct 31 09:46:41 MET 1998

Jan H.

Just a little test again ...

Sat Oct 31 08:45:30 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

PAT BRENNAN: I KNEW MY COMING-OUT WAS RISKY! I love LB's performances: he was a great and charismatic man and could inspire other musicians to great heights. You should hear his Mahler IX with the Royal Concertgebouw (on the DG label). Litterally breath-taking. And he was not afraid of boundaries between musical genres as well. Don't know if he liked rock music. He must have! But I'm glad he never conducted an orchestral version of The Weight or Cripple Creek. I never liked the "Charles Aznavour chante Bob Dylan" crossover. Absolutely awful!!!

Sat Oct 31 07:36:57 MET 1998

Donald Joseph

I objected specifically to Ricky's adding "all" to "over my bones." I did not object to singers changing or adding lyrics generally (although a post by Rod indicates perhaps he did). Hence all this defense of changing lyrics is irrelevant to my complaint. If it worked in the song, I wouldn't care if Levon sang "Way down the Mississippi River to play golf in Mexico." It's just the "all over my bones" in this specific case conjures up a silly mental image.

Y'all discussed adding place names in "Blind Willie" versions, but someone said Beak was always faithful to written lyrics. Yet no one remembered Beak changing "downtown" to "Come to New York, there's a rumble in the alley" on Rock of Ages! Whassamatta you guys, gettin' old?

Ragtime: "Akua Tuta" is my favorite tune from that Robbie l.p., by far. I taught my 7 yr. old boy the meaning to an Indian of the "It is a good day to die" phrase (i.e., I'm going into battle ready, willing, & able to rock'n'roll all night). You should read Thomas Berger's "Little Big Man"; besides being the best novel ever written about the West, & besides being historically extremely accurate, the Indians in it say "it is a good day to die" on about every 3rd page.

Bob Margolin is of course the frizzy-headed guitar player in TLW; anyone who didn't know this is no fan of Muddy Water's' Blue Sky records late period. "Steady Rollin'" Bob Margolin writes a column for Blues Revue magazine. He may be a good technician, but I'm no fan. I object to how he has built a career on having been Muddy's guitar player -- but he conveniently forgets to tell people that Muddy fired him shortly before he died! I once actually wrote Bob a letter on this point, because his Blues Revue columns made himself out to be Muddy's butt-boy. Bob actually wrote me back with an impassioned defense explaining that Muddy fired the whole band in a rash act arising out of someone else's behavior (Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson's?), & claiming Muddy almost reconciled with Bob before he died. I still have Bob's letter. It's B.S., in my book: Get a Life, Bob! Muddy's dead! I knew Muddy Waters, & you're no Muddy Waters! (At least, I saw Muddy live several times.) BTW, AFTER my letter Bob, for the 1st time in print, admitted Muddy had fired him, but he buried the fact in a bunch of excuses. Come out of the closet, Bob!

One of you questioned calling TLW the greatest rock film of all time, implying it's not because it's all Robbie & no Beak. Sorry, but it is a Marty Scorsese classic that is the greatest rock film of all time, & will be until Orson Wells comes back from the grave to do a documentary on Manuel. What's in competition: "The Song Remains the Same"? Those insipid Stones flicks? The pretentious Talking Freds picture?

Someone a few days ago was looking for the sleeve photos on the Danko '77 solo l.p. I just got a copy of that l.p. re-released on c.d., One Way Records, & the photos are all there, although of course very small.

I also just got a new (1988) Bobby Charles l.p. called Secrets; haven't even heard it yet, although at least some of the tunes are not new & are reissues.

My favorite album of all time -- yes, including Band l.p.'s -- is Bobby's self-titiled '71 Bearsville l.p. I'd've thought all you Robbie Bashers (not to be confused with Robbie Basho) would LOVE that album, because it's vintage-era Band ('71), with all 4 of our boys LESS Robbie, but with Dr. John, Geoff Muldaur, Bob Neuwirth [T Bone Burnett crony] and John Simon. The album is produced by Ricky, with John S. & Bobby. Lots of people like "Tenn. Blues" & "I Must Be In a Good Place Now," but my favorites are "Street People," "Long Face," "Save Me Jesus," "He's Got All the Whisky," the original "Small Town Talk," & "Grow Too Old."

I can -- and will, if you press me -- make a convincing case that this l.p. equals in every way the 1st 2 Band l.p.'s And Bobby's record is your only shot at hearing the 4 original guys together circa 1971 without Robbie. I'm interested in y'all's opinion of this record.

(And if any of you hard core guys don't have it -- Boy are you in for a treat! Finding it is like finding a lost link between Brown & Stage Fright.)

Bobby is of course still a Band crony who writes for & might sing on the new Jubilation l.p. He also guests on Butterfield's Better Days l.p.'s. He's a notorious recluse who was unforgivably edited out of TLW, the greatest rock film of all time.

Sat Oct 31 06:03:28 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Ragtime Willie, after perusing the Guestbook and discovering that you're a classical reviewer, I have a warning. Agree with me completely or I'll get Jan to reveal your identity. The classical crowd will not stand for a reviewer with rock music alter ego. You'll be finished, but at least we'll have you to ourselves.

Sat Oct 31 05:49:14 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Ragtime Willie, no big deal, but I never said Bernstein altered Mahler the way Stokowsky reworked something like Picturse At An Exhibition. In the bio-doc on Lenny, the musicians in the Viennese Orchestra--which is kind of like Mahler's Big Pink--claimed that Bernstein's interpretation caused them to re-think Mahler completely. As a result, most conductors use Bernstein as square one when approaching Mahler. Something about the emotional quality of the music that everyone seemed to miss until Lenny showed it to them. The doc had quite a cinema-verite scene where, at one of the first rehearsals after Benrstein took over the Orchestra, Lenny is pissed at the musicians' collective inability to grasp his conducting concept. It's really very uncomfortable. Check it out if it's on near you. Also re: Bob Margolin. He played with Muddy for years and is one of the great unsung blues players.

Sat Oct 31 05:27:46 MET 1998

Henry

My wife and I love The Band. Over the past 4-5 years, we have seen them about 20 times (over half, I'm sorry to say, in solo form). It has been a great way to see New Jersey and southern NY. They played in Hunterdon County, NJ 6 times. I just moved to Hunterdon, and the concert schedule was a big part of the decision. Regarding Long Black Veil: Since my wife and I love The Band so much, we constantly listen to and sing along with their music. We also have a cat we call "B". Whenever we listen to Long Black Veil, we always substitute "B", instead of "me", for the chorus part, "Nobody knows, Nobody knows but Beeeeeeeeeeeeee". Whenever Rick plays solo (which I have seen 5-6 times in the past two years), he always encourages the audience to sing all songs with him. He always sings Long Black Veil. My wife and I always sing it with the substituted language discussed above, and have a great time.

Sat Oct 31 04:51:38 MET 1998

Gordon Ridley

Am looking for videos of live Band performances especially two I heard in the summer of 1976 in Massachusetts. Anyone know a source? Net search has come up empty so far.

Sat Oct 31 01:46:06 MET 1998

Bones

Glad to see that "It Is A Good Day To Die" is getting some good reviews. Great song! I like "Golden Feather" from that album even more.

Sat Oct 31 01:37:39 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

As I see it, Robbie depicts in "Good Day To Die" the same kind of poor sods as in " Acadian Driftwood" and "King Harvest". But these native Americans have more pride & dignity than their Steinbeckian / Faulkneresque counterparts who are mere victims.

Sat Oct 31 00:36:41 MET 1998

john donabie

Remember Martin Mull before Fernwood tonight? Well, a best of Martin Mull has been put out with all his Capricorn label favorites. Included on backup..Levon Helm..Libby Titus..& Amos Garrett. Great memories. Dueling Tubas a must listen.

Fri Oct 30 23:41:36 MET 1998

Les Thierolf

This review appeared in the KC Star on Thursday Oct. 29. It's by Fred Shuster of the Los Angeles Daily News. I have been unable to find if this is condensed from a larger review. (This is exactly as printed in the Star)

MUSIC REVIEW- "And the Band plays on - The Band: Jubilation (River North Records) The three original members of the Band are marking the 30th anniversary of the release of their groundbreaking debut, "Music from Big Pink," by recording 11 new songs (plus cameos from Eric Clapton and John Hiatt) in a converted Woodstock, N.Y., barn.

Still able to put across warm folk-rock sounds and ragged rhythms, the Band creats a vibe that's familiar and fresh. Clapton's solo on "Last Train to Memphis" is relaxed in the front-porch style of J.J. Cale, while Hiatt shares the microphone with Rick Danko on the sturdy "Bound by Love."

In the end "Jubilation" is so good you almost don't miss Robbie Robertson."

Do you think the boys would let Robbie play if he just showed up?

Fri Oct 30 23:31:13 MET 1998

Stanley Landau

I saw Dylan last night at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. He was in top form and has a very adequate band. But there is no way they compare to The Band. For some reason Dylan attempted to play lead guitar on about 80% of the songs. Aside from the fact that it would be generous to suggest that Bob is a mediocre lead guitar player, he has the capable (but no Robbie Robertson) Larry Campbell in his band. Particularly after listening all week to RAH, (which in turn led me back to Before the Flood) it’s hard to understand how Bob, having played with The Band, could ever settle for playing with anyone else. Come to think of it, it’s hard for me to understand how any of Rick, Garth, Levon and, yes, Robbie, can settle for playing with anyone else. To Dylan’s current band, (to paraphrase Senator Benson) all I can say is I knew The Band, I was (and am) a devoted fan of The Band, The Band were friends of mine (well not really), and guys, you’re no The Band.

Fri Oct 30 22:45:58 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

CAP: You just hit the mark. PETER VINEY: Thanks for putting Long Black Veil into perspective. Maybe it was just "fun" for Marijohn Wilkin to write it and for our guys to record it. But still I enjoyed exploring the anatomy of these wonderful lyrics. Re Lennie Bernstein: I'll confess something to you if you promise not to tell anyone on this website. I am a reviewer for a classical CD magazine (though my readers don't know me as Ragtime Willie) and in that capacity - as a classical buff - I feel obliged to object to using the term "improvisation" for the way musicians handle their scores. Anyway: LB's rendering of the Ravel G major is one of my favourites too. What has this to do with The Band? Everything, as far as great music's concerned.

Fri Oct 30 22:29:08 MET 1998

A Lad

When I was a lad And old Shep was a pup Over hills and meadows we'd stray Just a boy and his dog We were both full of fun We grew up together that way I remember the time at the old swimmin' hole When I would have drowned beyond doubt Shep was right there To the rescue he came He jumped in and then pulled me out As the years fast did roll Old Shep he grew old His eyes were fast growing dim And one day the doctor looked at me and said I can do no more for him, Jim With hands that were trembling I picked up my gun And aimed it at Shep's faithful head I just couldn't do it I wanted to run I wish they would shoot me instead He came to my side And looked up at me And laid his old head on my knee I stroked the best friend that a man ever had I cried so I scarcely could see Old Sheppie he knew he was going to go For he reached out and licked at my hand He looked up at me just as much as to say We're parting, but you understand Old Shep he has gone Where the good doggies go And no more with old Shep will I roam But if dogs have a heaven There's one thing I know Old Shep has a wonderful home

Fri Oct 30 21:52:26 MET 1998

Peter Viney

On improvisation of classics: Bernstein is a wonderful example. My favourite classical piece is the Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major, 2nd movement, “adagio assai’. Bernstein did this on a 1958 vinyl with the NY Philharmonic and did it wonderfully. You can do this slow or slower, but Bernstein does it slowest! I don’t think it’s that highly rated by the classical buffs, but as I know almost nothing about classics, he does it for me. I spent years trying to find this on CD - ending up with an inferior 1946 and lots of versions by other pianists. I finally got the right one (Leonard Bernstein: A Portrait - Sony). Sorry, what’s this got to do with The Band? Never mind, it’s a great piece of playing.

More on improvising the classics: If you want a live ‘The Weight’ which is word perfect (without double checking) then Robbie Robertson gave total respect to the lyrics in his Seville 1992 TV performance - with vocal help from Bruce Hornsby and others. You can’t beat Levon on this song though. The example of Rick changing the “St James Hotel” in ‘Blind Willie McTell’ is a good example of when not to please the home crowd by changing the words - the St James Hotel has immediate and deliberate resonances of St James Infirmary. Both Dylan and Robertson are artful writers and you’d really have to think hard before changing a syllable (though Bob does it often enough). But Levon’s voice is about spirit, not total lyrical accuracy, and the spirit’s there in every version I’ve heard by him.

I’m not sure how far I’d analyse the emotion / morality of ‘Long Black Veil’ - look back at my Levon quote. They thought it was funny. It is, because it takes chivalry beyond eventual reason. It’s hard to think that the ‘best friend’, however vengeful he might later feel, would think being hanged was a completely fair punishment! I love the song - but then I love ‘Old Shep’ too, and I’m not sure they’re coming from very different places. Even Elvis found it hard to keep a straight face. ‘Old Shep’ is even more “over the top”. I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes in Presidential matters, especially given the last couple of weeks, but looking at Marijohn Wilkins other lyrics (and what a fine writer she is), do you think that ‘P.T. 109’ was totally lacking in irony? Country singers have a sense of humour. Take Dolly Parton on a recent British chat show:

Host: Did you ever meet President Clinton?

Dolly: No, I never did. Probably just as well.

She is a lady with a finely tuned sense of humour and impeccable comic delivery and timing.

Fri Oct 30 20:32:01 MET 1998

Cap

I've been very much enjoying the recent Long Black Veil discussions, but unfortunately I've been too busy to join in. I do want to say that I LOVE Good Day To Die, it is so unique and powerful. RAGTIME WILLIE: I don't know if you brought up Good Day To Die in reference to Long Black Veil on purpose, but I find them similar in the narrator's attitude towards life and death, in putting less value on one's own life than on a greater cause.

Fri Oct 30 19:37:54 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

NED. Sad but true: I'm afraid you're right about Rick changing lyrics because he is bored with some songs. In live shows he seems not always aware of the meaning of what he sings. A few weeks ago someone in this Guestbook reported a concert wherein Rick was asked to do Book Faded Brown. He refused because he didn't know exactly how the song went! And this is the tune we all at once named [one of] his finest Jubilation performance[s]. We praised his deep understanding of the lyrics, even the Kermit line! This came as a shock to me. Re LBV: Thinking of human behaviour: actually there is not much difference between "chivalry" and "foolishness". I'll come back to your nice suggestion to take on "We Can Talk". This is not a tale like LBV , but a rather hermetic poem full of symbolism. Our Beak really was a poet, wasn't he! PS. At last: "Good Day To Die" has more admirors! This is a song about integrity.

Fri Oct 30 18:22:00 MET 1998

Stephen Novik

Heard the first casualty? in the latest swing trend the other day in HMV.. Although I like Johnny Favourite Swing Orchestra's "Rootbeer & Licorice", He doesn't sound nearly as good as Robbie on the cover version of "Bessie Smith".

Fri Oct 30 17:02:41 MET 1998

Ned

Sorry about the double post and the spelling and grammar goofs.

Fri Oct 30 17:00:50 MET 1998

Ned

Ragtime, I listen to the Native Americans frequently. Good Day to Die is awesome: I like the line We cared for the land and the land cared for us. Nice family effort too, with Robbie's son playing drums.

Regarding Long Black Veil, I think it is very debatable what the motivation of the narrator is. David Powell suggests that it is the shame of betraying his friend; Franko suggests that it is an act of chivalous love. I agree more with Franko based on the fact that the friend is never mentioned except in identifing his lover, but his lover domninates the last half of the song. I was hasty to label him a fool. I just want to add a thanks to everyone who has joined in this fun discussion of Long Black Veil. What do you think of taking on We Can Talk?

Regarding the other hot topic: There is a tension between improvization as interpretation and poor performance. Unfortunately, some of the instances where lyrics change seem to suggest that the performer can't remember how the song goes, or just didn't know it in the first place. When Joan Baez changes the lyrics of Dixie, I don't see that as artistic expression, but a lack of connection with the meaning of the song. When Dylan fumbles the words of the Weight (Levon Helm & Bob Dylan, Lone Star Cafe, May 29, 1988) the impression I get is that he forgets the words, not that he giving us his intepretation. Whe artists change place names in songs to reflect where they are performing it can be cute, it is also pandering to the crowd: sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Peter points to a time when "Won't you feed him when you can" becomes Won't you feed Chester whenever you can". The singer has altered the meaning of the song: Cehster asks him to take jack his dog, but then says feed Chester (apparently referring to himself in the third person)?! If, as was suggested, Rick changes the lyrics becuase he is bored, then maybe he needs to find a different song to play! I have greatly enjoyed some musicians creative lyricism during concerts. i recently saw Greg Brown (anyone familiar with him) and he loves to transform songs when he performs them live. He is not borded, rather he is totaly into the spirit of the song and ad libs additional extra lyrics.

Fri Oct 30 16:55:33 MET 1998

David Powell

Further adding to the irony of "Long Black Veil" is the fact that, in tone & language, the "heart-wrenching" tale is told in such a matter of fact manner. Its lines read as if they were literally taken from a police report or from a film noir script.

Fri Oct 30 16:50:10 MET 1998

sean

many thanks to pat brennan for telling me the "frizzy-haired guy" standing next to muddy waters during "i'm a man" at the last waltz is Bob Margolin, "one of the highest respected blues guitarists alive." i never even heard of him and here i was thinking i had a respectable grasp on blues players...

Fri Oct 30 16:20:29 MET 1998

David Powell

"Long Black Veil" is indeed a classic country song. What makes it unique, however, is the fact that told from the perspective of a dead man, who cannot rest peacefully in the afterlife. The irony of the song is that the protagonist goes to the gallows not because he chose to protect the honor of his lover, but rather out of the shame that betrayed his best friend. His lover is forever haunted by guilt also, because she not only betrayed her husband, but her lover as well, by not coming forward as an alibi to save his life at the murder trial. In the end, the only thing that makes the two characters sympathetic to the listener, is the fact that they are both wrecked by guilt over the deed that was done. In the annals of country music, "Long Black Veil" thus becomes the classic "cheating song," due to the fact that protagonist has to die in order to achieve revenge against the faithless woman portrayed in the story. Man, with all its plots & subplots, twists & turns, a country song don't get no better than this my friends.

BTW: Happy birthday Grace Slick. Heed what you fed.

Fri Oct 30 14:52:05 MET 1998

Just Wonderin'

Ragtime Willie: I listen to "Good Day to Die" several times a week. As a matter of fact I was listenting to it when I saw your post. I think anyone interested in the history of Native Americans would enjoy it. The words "what law have I broken, what wrong have I done" just tear me up everytime I hear them. "Now you want to drive me out with no place else to go" really tells the story.

Fri Oct 30 12:45:50 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie (getting old)

And it's Stokowski, not Stokowsky ...

Fri Oct 30 11:02:31 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

Sorry, it's Franko, not Franco, isn't it? I just noticed.

Fri Oct 30 10:58:06 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

Pat Brennan: Re Bernstein: His Mahler interpretation are timeless classics, but I wouldn't say that his "alterations" (which are no more than liberties) are on the canon now. Each conductor has his own freedom in handling a score his own way, but they very rarely "change" it. Stokowsky did, but Lennie certainly not. BACK TO THE BAND & LONG BLACK VEIL: Franco from Boston: you hit it. Chivalrous! That's the word. I did not agree with NED who called the lover a fool. PS Has anyone listened to It Is A Good Day To Die lately? Not even Donald Joseph?

Fri Oct 30 04:58:13 MET 1998

Franko

My interpretation of LBV was always that the protagonist, if you will, spoke not a word to protect the reputation of his lover. A chivalrous act of love. The irony is that by protecting her reputation, he loses (death), she loses (a life of sorrow and guilt - not only did she cheat but she allowed her brave lover to hang), and her husband probably didn't fare too well in the romance department after the incident, with his wife at least. And he lost a drinking buddy.

As for Rick's live version of the song, I agree that "all" should be left out. But even worse than that, in his live versions of "Blind Willie McTell" I wish he would stop substituting the town that he's playing in for "The Saint James Hotel." I've heard "The Foxboro Hotel", "The Plymouth Hotel", etc. I know this criticism is picky, and Rick is my favorite in The Band, but the line makes me cringe.

Fri Oct 30 04:46:12 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

This is a very interesting thread, a performance's "deviation" from the original piece of music. There was a special on Leonard Bernstein on PBS last night. One of the doc's salient points was the grief he took from NY critics for the liberties he took interpreting the great works. Now, Lenny's "liberties"--especially in the case of Mahler's music--have become part of the canon. Feinstein has his adherents, Sinatra has his. They both represent the two poles of the performance sphere. Another interesting point: The Band eventually took a lot of grief for their "rote" performances of their songbook, slthough if you consult the boots, it's obvious that their tempos changed drasticly through the years. Also, Garth never played the same thing twice. If you'd like a real lesson in how a song can evolve, check the many versions of "Tangled Up In Blue." New Orleans becomes Los Angeles, the shrimp boat becomes the airport, he becomes me, I becomes him, etc. Even the music changes radically: check out the 78 tour when Bob performs it like Edith Piaf, accompanied by guitar, keys, and sax.

Fri Oct 30 02:14:59 MET 1998

roy

i wish the band had covered dylan's drifter's escape at some point in their career. i think richard would have been excellent sing it.

Fri Oct 30 00:08:59 MET 1998

Simpleton

I'm sick and tired of the RR bashing that goes on here, and for now on, you'll see a nasty Levon related comment, when your finished. This is too bad , considering the fact that he probably checks in here from time to time.

Thu Oct 29 23:54:31 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

Re LONG BLACK VEIL: Peter Viney I just read your article that provides more useful information (as usual, thanks a lot), but doesn't discuss the moral topic. I never knew of the existence of version by Marijohn Wilkins herself, changing the perspective to the woman. BTW: the moral issue must have been the actual reason for including this song in Big Pink (PLUS the melody of course), rather than the bare fact that it "fitted in". The Band always liked making moral statements. The Rumor is another impressive example. PS Does anyone share my fascination for It Is A Good Day To Die? Great performance and great great song(writer)!!

Thu Oct 29 23:50:04 MET 1998

Johnson

Levon once did an excellent version of an Alka Seltzer song.

Thu Oct 29 23:39:20 MET 1998

Buttmunch

Hey Ol Dexy, Just picture all 68 pounds of Levon in a multitude of poses, pretty funny huh?

Thu Oct 29 23:33:26 MET 1998

Smack Job

JAGGER SINGS A NICE VERSION OF THE VEIL ON A CHIEFTENS RECORD.

Thu Oct 29 23:30:26 MET 1998

Johnny Rotten

First good post I've ever seen from you John from Pennsyltucky. It's about time.

Thu Oct 29 21:24:06 MET 1998

Peter Viney

Long Black Veil:

Check out my short article about this song on the site (via Articles). Let's not forget that Marijohn Wilkin also wrote "Big Bad John" and "P.T.109" (which quotes "Big Bad John" at the end) and that Long Black Veil has a large degree of self-conscious send-up which excuses Rick's so-called "over-acting" in recent renditions . Quote from Levon "I guess we thought it was funny."

If you're really getting heavily into the song, make moves to find Marijohn's own answer disc, "My Long Black Veil". It's coupled with the Lefty Frizell version on:

"And The Answer Is: Great Country Answer Discs From the 50s" (Bear Family BCD 15793) - Marijohn's answer disc sees her "shedding unseen tears"

There is a general point about live performances and added syllables / words - "The Weight" suffers particularly from this. ("Won't you feed him when you can" even becoming "won't you feed old Chester whenever you can" on one version, which makes no sense at all and adds four syllables overall). It may be that it's supposed to be jazz-like, but I reckon the somewhat spikey rhythms of songs from the first two albums are plain hard to reproduce on stage and it's easier to stretch out the line and add syllables. With both main composers absent, I guess there's no one left to protest (though they were doing it right from 1969 onwards - check out the "Woodstock" version of "The Weight"). I don't think sense has necessarily been considered - I agree that "all over my bones" brings images of tears dripping onto a plate!

Thu Oct 29 20:47:11 MET 1998

Don Pugatch

I want to thank all my mentors for putting me on to Eric Anderson, and especially the CD with Rick Danko. For all those who feel that Book Faded Brown is a great song,and I am one of them, Kermit, give me a break, Do listen to Blue River, trully a classic Rick. Anyone ever think of some great Band tunes to make videos by? Good to see that the Georgia connection is getting play, Jimmy Carter, best ex President the country has ever had.

Thu Oct 29 20:37:26 MET 1998

John

David Powel's perspective is absolutely correct on this topic. Rick Danko has a very creative and versatile approach to a song by twisting the lyrics a little differently here and there and through the use of various affectations of his voice. John Fogerty of CCR can be heard on his latest concert video{?} having some fun with his own lyrics on Bad Moon Rising when during one chorus he actually sings it as: There's a Bathroom on The Right. Then you have someone like Micheal feinstein a singer/pianist who performs George Gershwin tunes exactly as written; tempo,lyrics,music,etc. In his mind to deviate from the composers score is sacreligious. Feinstein had the audacity to critizise Frank Sinatra for his occasional altering of a Gershwin lyric. Thank goodness that wonderfully vital performers like Sinatra,Danko and Fogerty don't share this view, because then their music would be as boring and one dimensional as a M.Feinstein recital. All music is open to interpretation, except for the great classical compositions. This is music that is written at or near a state of perfection.

Thu Oct 29 20:12:37 MET 1998

sean

"the last waltz is considered the best concert movie of all time," according to www.muchmoremusic.com....hello?...mmm...what are some reasons this must be true...where to start...the funny white rock in neil's nose? the numerous and luminous shots of richard manuel playing that night? neil diamond? that frizzied haired cat standing next to muddy waters during "i'm a man"?...robbie singing? no, robbie catching the fly!...it's just such a goddamned impossible way of life, i quit...actually, i just want to break even...

Thu Oct 29 18:47:14 MET 1998

Ol' Dexy

I defy everyone to go to the www.muchmoremusic.com site, view the RR photos and try as hard as you can to imagine Levon -- or especially GARTH -- posing in the multitude of posings as posed for by the penultimate songwriter. Just try...

Thu Oct 29 18:13:31 MET 1998

David Powell

Rick's alteration of the lyrics to "Long Black Veil" can possibly be attributed to a simple case of boredom. Musicians, in order to fulfill audience expectations, often perform the same signature songs night after night. To break the monotony, they'll often change things around, altering lyrics or instrumental passages. In extreme cases, some performers have been known to substitute obscene lyrics which rhyme with the actual words in the song. For example, years ago Jerry Jeff Walker would often perform obscene but hilarious versions of "Mr. Bojangles." Instumentalists will often inject familiar passages from other songs into their solos in order to liven things up. The amazing country guit/steel picker Junior Brown will quote Jimi Hendrix licks in the middle of a western swing song.

Part of the charm of modern forms of music is a sense of playful inventiveness. This ain't rocket science here folks. We're not dealing with sacred tracts etched in scrolls or stone. We shouldn't fall into the trap of taking this kind of music too seriously. After all, this isn't Bach, Brahms or Mozart. Roll over Beethoven, and tell Tchaikovsky the news.

Thu Oct 29 16:06:25 MET 1998

Ol' Dexy

RE: Rick's vocals on LBV. I'm one who has always loved the "tear" in his voice. Why else would I be lurking about on this page if I didn't (along w/the tear in Garth's sax, the growl in Levon's singing, the moan in Richard's , and the bulging neck muscles when Robbie tears into a closed mike). Seems to me we as listeners would want a singer to interpret the song he (or she) is singing. That might mean altering the beat (phrasing), or even a lyric here or there. Maybe Cole Porter wouldn't have appreciated all that "koo-koo" in Sinatra's versions of his songs, but they sound pretty good from here. I imagine the Beak's idol Ray Charles has altered a few lyrics here and there. That being said, it probably is a better image for her to be crying "over my bones" than "all over." But, I guess it's all over now, baby blue.

Thu Oct 29 15:45:46 MET 1998

Just Wonderin'

If anyone is interested there is a short thing abour RR at www.muchmoremusic.com

Thu Oct 29 14:56:17 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

DIAMOND LIL: I can hear something calling on me / And you know where I want to be / Oh Willie don't you hear that sound / Oh to be home again / Down in old Virginny ...

Thu Oct 29 12:57:21 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Quiet morning, not a sound to be heard here except Richard's voice coming off my cd player. In a station. Sometimes...I just miss him.

Isn't everybody dreaming.....then the voice I hear is real.....out of all the idle scheming....can't we have something to feel?

Thu Oct 29 09:43:01 MET 1998

Rod

Donald I agree with your comments about Rick adding extra bits to LBV. I think singers often get too fimiliar with the words to a song and start adding their own embellishments. Levon is occaisionally guilty of this as well. Richard, to his credit, always respected the original lyrics which the writer probably savoured for their balance and meaning. Maybe this was because he was a writer himself.

Thu Oct 29 06:53:26 MET 1998

Donald Joseph

My 2 cents re LBV may not be as profound as y'all's offererings (for just this once), but here goes:

When Ricky sings the tune live nowadays, he renders the last line "She cries all over my bones." This ruins it for me. The beat & Ricky's phrasing may demand an extra syllable, but it still ruins it.

The right line, rendered correctly on Big Pink, is of course "She cries over my bones." This conjures up for me the woman at a dark & lonely graveyard, white dress whipping in a cold wind, weeping silently but passionately at the guy's grave site (his bones safely buried 6 ft. under), while he looks down from above.

But when Ricky nowadays sings she cries "all over" my bones, I get a mental image of the bones sitting there on top of the ground, perhaps on a plate -- looking like the remains of a Cuban pig roast -- with her squatting over them, drenching them soaking wet.

Ridiculous!

BTW, the New Riders covered LBV shortly after the Band did. Their cover is more than listenable, but it shows that no one can approach the Band at their height.

Thu Oct 29 06:25:40 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Concerning the name thread: Robbie went by Jamie Robbie Robertson for quite a while. I can't really pinpoint when he dropped the first name. Ben Pike: thanks, and know that I only cpnverse with people capable of maintaining a dialogue.

Thu Oct 29 06:25:00 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Concerning the name thread: Robbie went by Jamie Robbie Robertson for quite a while. I can't really pinpoint when he dropped the first name. Ben Pike: thanks, and know that I only cpnverse with people capable of maintaining a dialogue.

Thu Oct 29 02:55:52 MET 1998

TOM

THE PROBLEM WITH LEVON'S VOICE IS FROM TO MUCH SMOKING..I HEARD HE TRIED TO QUIT ONCE USING THE NICOTINE GUM AND PATCHES..WOUDN'T YA KNOW HE ENDED UP WEARING THE PATCHES AND CHEWING THE GUM AND STILL SMOKING AT THE SAME TIME!!!

Thu Oct 29 01:57:05 MET 1998

Mike Carrico

Great posts re Long Black Veil - The seemingly endless quandries presented to the principals of the song have always facinated me. I don't see the executed lover as a fool - He considered his options and chose the one which would "protect" his best friend. He sacrifices his own life, but preserves his best friend's blissfully ignorant view of their friendship, and of his marriage. This is an atonement for his betrayal. The most hellish price is paid by the woman - She knows all but must remain silent out of love for her husband AND her lover; she bears her burden stoically, without complaint. But sometimes at night when the cold wind moans...

Thu Oct 29 01:52:40 MET 1998

Bill Paige

I have been asked to share this letter with all of you; I know many of you have tried to order Jubilation from this company, and others may still wish to purchase the vinyl version. At least it appears TappedInto.com is trying to make things right! More news coming soon . . .

An Open Letter To Fans Of The Band:

It has come to my attention that some of the orders for The Band album JUBILATION that were placed with TappedInto.Com during the August 15, 1998 Web chat with Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Garth Hudson were not sent on the release date of September 15, 1998 as scheduled.

This is simply not acceptable.

It is our policy that all in-stock orders be processed no later than two to three business days after the release date for pre-orders such as this. Therefore, we have decided that customers who ordered JUBILATION during that 30-day time frame will receive their orders AT NO CHARGE.

For those of you who have been wondering, the Limited Edition vinyl release of JUBILATION is now scheduled for November 10. This special souvenir can be ordered at TappedInto.com.

I wanted to express my personal apology for any problems you may have experienced, and please continue to enjoy The Band’s newest triumph, JUBILATION.

Best regards,

Steve Roads
President
TappedInto.com

Thu Oct 29 01:04:55 MET 1998

Kevin Gilbertson

On middle names - I know this is picky, but technically, Levon didn't use it. Isn't it Lavon?

Wed Oct 28 23:11:27 MET 1998

Ned

Willie, never too far. However, I think the sogn is ambiguous about redemption.

Wed Oct 28 22:43:25 MET 1998

Scott

New Rick Danko Concert Date 11-20-98-Wetlands 161 Hudson St New York NY - 2 blocks south of canal, near the Holland tunnel.

Wed Oct 28 22:42:31 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

BRIN: o.k. I take the "stupid" back, but still I think CB and SK are no more than easy-listening tunes. DIAMOND LIL: Bonnie Bartlett allright. She played the wife of one of the senior surgeons. Maybe SHE can tell us if she met Jaime R. Robertson on the set. NED: Very nice addition to your first comment on Long Black Veil. I agree that The Few At The Scene had their own reasons To Agree That The Man Who Ran Looked A Lot Like Me. You made me think about crime & punishment. Maybe the man thinks he deserves to die because he is guilty as hell. Not of the homicide of course, but of betrayal. He was In The Arms Of His Best Friend's Wife. So he was NOT his best friend's best friend! He feels guilty, protects the wife & saves her marriage by keeping silent about his alibi. But still he HAS betrayed his friend. So he has to die, but at least he can tell us about it (from heaven, not from hell). So he is redeemed for what we did. Am I going to far?

Wed Oct 28 22:21:31 MET 1998

Bones

It is Robbie on narration for Monday Night Football. Robbie on St. Elsewhere? WOW! Is it true?

To Donald Joseph: I collect anything that is related to our boys, even Olivia Newton-John. I bet you Olivia is going to sound better than my record of Tiny Tim and the Band. Maybe not, though.

Wed Oct 28 22:12:02 MET 1998

Brin

Ragtime Willie

As far as 'stupid' songs such as 'Country Boy' being 'not much' if they aren't sung by Richard Manuel, I recommend Sam Cooke's 1964 lp 'Ain't That Good News.' That's almost certainly where RM and the other Hawks learned 'CB'(not to mention 'A Change Is Gonna Come'), and even today one can only marvel at the performance. Richard must've. While it's unfair to compare the Band (especially post-Robbie) to Sam Cooke or Ray Charles, what I find most moving about their versions of 'CB,' 'Georgia,' or 'You Don't Know Me' is that at what must have been a time of great turmoil --when they were without their only source of new material worth performing--they reached back to the music that inspired them and must've meant the most to them.

Wed Oct 28 21:50:59 MET 1998

Corporal Capricorn

for all you band people Check out mr. dylan and his new band. Though a different overall philosophy and instrumentation then when they backed dylan, nis new band is another animal, who's talent and musical telepathy merits comparison to Dylan and the Band. I've seen them 3x and they keep getting better. Bucky Baxter and Larry Campbell are country influenced players and are like Robbie Robertson's shadow. The bassist Tony Garnier played with the Band in NYC i believe as well. There's a lot of great bootlegs out there and I recommend them. If you give a damn....

Wed Oct 28 21:23:44 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Got it Willie..Bonnie _Bartlett_! You were close!

Wed Oct 28 21:05:42 MET 1998

Jack Carey

"I can't see and it's hard to feel, I think his majic might be real." Great Website for a Great Band! any information available about dead/garcia band covers of band songs?

Wed Oct 28 18:48:31 MET 1998

David Powell

Maria Muldaur's version of "Georgia On My Mind," recorded with her then-husband Geoff, features a stunning guitar solo by the great Amos Garrett. This solo by Mr. Garrett, every bit as unique as the one he later played Ms. Muldaur's "Midnight At The Oasis," is probably responsible for Robertson's fascination with the song.

Wed Oct 28 18:19:32 MET 1998

Ned

Yeah, what about the friend? The implication is that his wife stays with him, but he is still oblivious to the deceit as she keeps her grief hidden.

I like the specualtion of who the actual murderer was, though I still feel that it is not relevant, sort of like Hitcock's idea of the McGuffin. However, your point brings up a different angle: What about the "few at the scene"... ...did they really see someone that looked like our hero? Or maybe they didn't like his politics, skin color, etc. Those few are the scource of the evidence that hangs him.

So the "best friend" remains, with an unfaithful secretely-grieving wife and the memory of a friend who he now thinks may have been a murderer. All I can say is...

You give your hand to me and then you say hello/And I can hardly speak - my heart is beating so/And anyone can tell you think you know me well/You don't know me...

Wed Oct 28 18:10:12 MET 1998

Old gal pal

RE: Georgia On My Mind Many years ago in Woodstock, John Taplin had Maria Muldaur's version of this song on a tape loop set up at his house. He said this was at Robbie's request so that he could listen to it over and over. It is pretty great.

Wed Oct 28 17:56:43 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

NED: What about "The Best Friend" ? He looses his friend. Does he still have his wife? He knows nothing of the ethical dilemmas of the other two. Maybe HE was The Man Who Ran? Nice object for speculations.

Wed Oct 28 17:46:38 MET 1998

Ned

Dave (of Canton beneath the Blue Hills), I would like to take you up on the Crazy Love case, but my computer is an underacheiver and does not do Real Audio (hmm, maybe it is me who is the underachiever). ASo I will just have to take your word for it. Also, I did not see the NFL promo, but I did see a promo for the new series Wind On Water which featured a clip from The Sound Is Fading, rather disconcerting.

Dave (Powell this time), you are getting my name association thoughts flowing, rather like playing the Kevin Bacon game. Kristofferson goes on to marry Rita Coolidge who sings prominently on Native Americans and a little less so on Contact With the Underworld of Redboy.

Wed Oct 28 16:54:36 MET 1998

Just Wonderin'

Dave: Yes RR played 'Roger' in the Crossing Guard. I liked that movie not for his small performance, but I lilked the story behind it.

Wed Oct 28 16:52:55 MET 1998

Ned

It was obvious that all this discussion of politics and ethics has had an effect on me when, while listening to Big Pink, I found myself dwelling on the morality of Long Black Veil. A murder creates the dilemma for the narrator, but the details of this crime are irrelevant to the story. The point is that the narrator is forced to make a choice with severe consequences. Though innocent of murder, our hero is guilty--guilty of adultery and violating the trust of his best friend. His choice is between revealing his affair, a publicly damaging choice, or covering it up, a personally destructive choice. He chooses to hide his philandering, honoring his relationship with his lover. What sort of man is he? Morally weak because he has an affair? Strong in integrity, as he is willing to sacrifice his life to protect his lover? I can't help but feel that he is a fool. The remainder of the song highlights the dedication of his lover to his memory. She could have come forward and confessed their affair to save his life. Instead she stoically accepts his choice, then cries over his bones. Her private suffering is what gives this song power.

Wed Oct 28 16:36:42 MET 1998

David Powell

Most of the authors who have "researched" the _Blonde On Blonde_ sessions are in agreement that "One Of Us Must Know" is the only non-Nashville track to make it onto the album. Other songs recorded in New York (and possibly L.A.) that feature various members of the Hawks, augmented by Al Kooper, Paul Griffin & Bobby Gregg, that did not make it onto _B.O.B._ include "I'll Keep It With Mine," "I Wanna Be Your Lover," Tell Me Momma," and "She's Your Lover Now." Official or non-official versions of these songs are available for comparison with the other songs, recorded in Nashville, that did make the final cut.

Incidentally, there was another (now famous) recording artist present at the Nashville _B.O.B._ sessions, although in a non-musical capacity. Then struggling songwriter Kris Kristofferson, who was also present at subsequent Dylan sessions in Nashville, had just begun working as a janitor at Columbia's studio. Perhaps Kristofferson could provide some information as to who played what during the sessions.

Wed Oct 28 16:12:30 MET 1998

Dave

I don't remember seeing Robbie on "St. Elsewhere", but I remember seeing Bruce Fowler (trombone player for Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart) on "Chicago Hope". I believe I saw Robbie in a recent Jack Nicholson movie, was it "Crossing Guard"? And I *swear* it was Robertson doing the narration of a National Football League promo during Monday Night Football last week. (Nobody took me up on my request to check out... http://www.cco.caltech.edu/~bryan/roxy/songs/crazylove.ra ...and tell me if the guitar player sounded like Robbie) --Dave

Wed Oct 28 15:44:49 MET 1998

Ned

I have often pondered the name issue. Garth and Levon are more unique names than Eric and Mark. I even tried going by my middle name for a stetch as it had a more distint ring to it and I was tired of being called Ed, Nate, or Ben (oddly enough a lot of people seemed to do this). I gave up when It didn't work out, so I am just Ned again. The only musician who I esteem higher than the Band also does not utilize his birth name: Van Morrison was born George Ivan Morrison. I must say that I find these name permutations easier to accept than going by Sting, Flea, Bono, Edge, Madonna, Snoop, or a symbol used by the artist formerly known as Prince.

Wed Oct 28 15:41:31 MET 1998

Jim

Does anyone know if there is anything different about this release of Stage Fright listed at WWW.CDWORLD.COM STAGE FRIGHT . . BAND + + NEW RELEASE + + Category: Rock/Pop EMI-CAPITOL SPECIAL PRODUCTS #19839 . . Streetdate: January 1, 1999 List: $6.97 . CD Available January 1, 1999

Wed Oct 28 15:34:28 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

JW: if it's a rumour, than I'm the one responsible for it. It is my own (failing? fooling?) memory that made my see RR in that episode. BTW: I just listened to "It Is A Good Day To Die" again. Wonderful tune [1 out of 12].

Wed Oct 28 15:12:40 MET 1998

Just Wonderin'

BLIND WILLIE: I did not see the Much More Music thing though I would have loved to! I just recently moved to Texas. Anyone happen to tape it and would like to share? DIAMOND LIL and RAGTIME WILLIE: I don't remember RR in St. Elswhere either. I think I would have remembered. Maybe just a RUMOUR. PAT BRENNAN: RR appeared on Good Morning America(I think that's the name) one Sunday morning I think about the first week of August. Quite interesting. DONALD JOSEPH: I have a magazine article with an interview with RR (MUSICIAN DEC. 91). I quote: I was an only child and my name is actually Jaime Robertson. My relatives still call me Jaime. It's pronounced "Jamie"; its got nothing to do with the Spanish "Jaime"--my mother thought the regular spelling looked too much like "Jammie," so she took the name from a book about Indians that had some kind of Spanish connection. She thought, "Well isn't this a nice sounding thing," but when you're going to school you could get kidded with a name like Jaime. "Robbie" just evolved from Robertson and it wore well.

Wed Oct 28 14:16:13 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

Sorry Diamond Lil: of course she was not Bonnie Bramlett from Delaney & Bonnie. My mistake ... But what was her name again ... old age you see ... still pushing age seventy three ...

Wed Oct 28 13:16:25 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Hey Willie Boy...don't think it was Bonnie _Bramlett_ ...although can't seem to recall the surname of the Bonnie in question. Guess my memory just isn't serving me breakfast this morning. Any other St. Elsewhere watchers out there?

Wed Oct 28 12:51:04 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

DIAMOND LIL (and others). St. Elsewhere was one of my favourites too. Bonnie Bramlett was in it and it marked the beginning of Denzel Washington's career. I have a strong remembrance of a scene with JAIME Robbie talking and smiling to some nurses. I presume he played a relative of one of the patients in that episode. I am almost sure I've seen him, but ... my memory ... old age you see ... [as you must know] I'm pushing age seventy three ...

Wed Oct 28 12:17:30 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Ragtime Willie:

Gotta admit - you really piqued my curiosity when I read your post about Robbie Robertson's possible appearance on an episode of "St.Elsewhere". Used to be my favorite show - back in my "wish I had a doctor like Howie Mandel" days. But I digress.

Think I would've remembered if Robbie had made an appearance on the particular show..unless I somehow managed to miss an episode. Anybody?

Wed Oct 28 10:13:04 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

DONALD JOSEPH: "Levon" Helm sounds much better than "Mark Helm". I know nobody else called "Levon". This answers your question, don't ya think? But I must admit: "Jaime Robertson" would have been much more mysterious than simply "Robbie".

Wed Oct 28 09:49:22 MET 1998

Ben Pike

Well, I tried to put an end to the political ragging but I see it has continued. And a heathly sign it is too, stand your ground Pat, and keep up the good work. I remember the Band on SNL with great affection, the set was four songs: Life is a Carnival, Dixie, Stagefright. And then they came back for GOMM. Ragtime, I also dug The Bands version, and it started a little GOMM revival I think, because a lot of people seemed to cover it not long after the Band's version. I sure would like to see that "Man Outside" even though it's rep is bad beyond beleif. I also happen to have noticed in a mag that Peter Yarrows(!) film "You Are What You Eat" has just come out of video(from 1969) and the Band are seen breifly in that. Anyone ever seen it?

Wed Oct 28 06:25:28 MET 1998

Donald Joseph

Pivate Jackson: Yes, crediting RR & not Bobby Kaylor with "directing" Carny was the Rock Hall error that had jumped out at me. Jaime R. starred in, produced, & was one of the Carny "story" authors, not a director. By the way, Band roadie/crony Jonathan Taplin is Carny "exec. prod.," as I believe he was for TLW; his name turns up on Hollywood projects still; The Boys brought him to cinema.

Peter Viney: You got me. I should've remembered Levon's book does make the "Georgia"/Jimmy link.

A personal note re the Band SNL show: When it originally aired in 1976 I suffered angst because my aunt was getting married that same night, with a big reception at the Hilton in Chicago's south Michigan Ave. 1976 was before anyone had videotape machines, and before Sports Bar and such put TV's in public places like hotels. My best friend watched the show without me. To this day I've NEVER seen it. My buddy said the Band at one point did about 4 or so tunes; later they came back & did just "Ga."; my friend reported Beak held the mike, sitting at the piano bench without playing, for all of "Ga." Of course, musical guests on SNL usually only get to do 2 tunes; the Band got 5 or so, showing they're special. (But we knew that.) Buck Henry was the host. Levon & RCO also got a SNL slot later. By the way, my aunt is now divorced. So are The Band. And I still, 22 yrs. later, am waiting to see the SNL footage.

Bud Henderson: I agree; on first hearing, to me, Levon on Jubilation sounded so sick I couldn't believe they released the record that way. I'm now getting more used to his badder voice, but it's still marked.

Bones: I think of myself as a Band collector "completist," but really, now: Olivia Newton John doing "In a Station"? Have you no pride, Man?

Windy: I own "Man Outside" on video, but I've had it for years, & I don't know where to get it now. Rest assured you're better off without it. Although it contains the 4 original members in acting parts (sans Jaime R.), it's an embarrassment to The Band. They come across as having scraped bottom. I've owned it for a long time & only watched it once -- I from time to time consider seeing it again, but I grimace. Levon's role is pretty big, & Garth's is tiny. Either Richard or Rick (I forget which) has a decent-sized role. But its so low budget, cheap, and bad you're not missing anything.

While I enjoyed the Clinton/Lewinsky digressions, the hommages to Jimmy Carter, Nobel peace prize wannabe, are too much even for me. Anyone who would let then - 5 - yr. - old Amy control nuclear armament policy is a heart - lusting rabbit smacker!

QUERY OF THE DAY: Jaime Robbie Robertson; Eric Garth Hudson; Mark Levon Helm -- why didn't 3/5 of our boys stick with the 1st names their mamas gave them?? If anyone should have changed to a middle name, it should have been the OTHER 2 guys -- the 2 guys with THE SAME FIRST NAME, "Richard" ("Rick" is just SHORT FOR Richard). My question: Whassup with THAT?

Wed Oct 28 06:16:17 MET 1998

John Donabie

Hot week in Toronto. Thursday night it's Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell. Friday & Saturday Greil Marcus is in town talking about music in general on Friday night and a Bob Dylan symposium on Saturday at the Art Gallery of Ontario

Wed Oct 28 06:13:33 MET 1998

John Donabie

WINDY: RE "THE MAN OUTSIDE". When I was in Arkansas three years ago I saw copies for rent; but not for sale. I ended up buying it here in Toronto at Sam the Video Man a division of Sam The Record Man, one of Toronto's oldest and best record & video stores.

Wed Oct 28 05:09:09 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

As I recall, Jimmy Carter has raised the ire of a number of presidents by attempting to mediate international disputes outside the auspices of the State Department. He and his wife are great people, and he has impeccable music tastes. The Chicago Tribune reported at the time that The Band had recorded "Georgia" for the Carter campaign then proceeded to knock it as a turgid rendering of the tune. The Saturday Night Live performance is incredibly moving. In fact, combined with the earlier performances of "Carnival" "Dixie" and "Stage Fright", the SNL material from two weeks before the LW is far superior to the movie event. Especially in light of the uninspired performances at the SNL soundcheck. I also recall Dylan sitting in the audience, but that was a long time ago. Saw Dylan last Sunday in Chicago with Joni Mitchell. He introduced Sam Lay who was in the audience as "one of my old drummers." Did anyone see Robbie on a CBS Sunday show a while back? He revisited Big Pink and and pointed out the various instrument locations in the basement. The owner was a record collector who had him sign MFBP--the last member of the group to do so. I didn't see the show and just heard about it today.

Wed Oct 28 04:04:34 MET 1998

Mike Carrico

The Rock&Roll HOF Band site has many errors, some of which have already been noted. The most glaring may concern the Basement Tapes. They were recorded in 1967 without Levon (for the most part), not in 1966 with him.

And the movie is "Carny", not "Carney".

Wed Oct 28 03:58:13 MET 1998

Blind Willie McTell

To Just Wonderin'

Last Saturday MuchMoreMusic(Canada's answer to VH1), ran a 20 minute video sequence of RR's Showdown, Crazy River, Ghost Dance (the amazing RR plays guitar left-handed), and what seemed to me a more 'acoustic' version of Unbound. Can other folks help out - is the video for Unbound missing a lot of the electronic stuff?

Blind Willie McTell

Wed Oct 28 03:38:04 MET 1998

Windy

Does anyone know where I would be able to purchase a copy of "The Man Outside" which starred some of the band members? I would appreciate any help that I could possibly get. Thanks!

Wed Oct 28 01:57:05 MET 1998

John

It is interesting that Clinton resents Jimmy Carter's various international efforts to quell disputes as a mediator. As the Band has produced the kind of quality music which appeals to people of different ages and backgrounds without seeking the trappings of superstardom, Jimmy Carter through his humanitarian efforts exhibits a similiar spirit of doing quality work without seeking total credit and personal glory.

Wed Oct 28 01:40:57 MET 1998

John

Jimmy Carter was a good president and is a great man. Former 1st lady Roselyn is an incrediable woman. They are truly an admirable couple. As I remember it their son Chip was the big Dylan&Band fan in the family and it was Chip with the help of his father that facilitated the visit to the Gov's mansion. Carter loves to fish and once while sitting in a boat on a lake he was attacked by mad swimming rabbit. It was said that Jimmy sang the 1st lines from a Band song while trying to beat the vicious creature with an oar..... Hey rabbit surrender, I'm gonna give it to you..... Ain't no pretender, gonna ride in my canoe.

Wed Oct 28 01:22:06 MET 1998

John Donabie

OL" DEXY....Could the error on the R&R Hall of Fame be that Robbie's picture is not on it?

Wed Oct 28 00:58:38 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie (can't stop anymore)

A QUESTION TO ALL TV WATCHERS: did I see well that Robbie Robertson played some role in one episode of hospital soap ST. ELSEWHERE in the early 80's? Or is my memory fooling me?

Wed Oct 28 00:51:25 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Ragtime Willie:

Thanks for clarifying -had a feeling there had to be more to your first post than I was seeing.Appreciate your reply. Thanks.

Wed Oct 28 00:45:04 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

DIAMOND LIL: Let me make myself clear. Regarding "Country Boy": of course Richard's singing is moving and endearing, just as you say. But I think the arrangement was made many years later, adding Garth's synthesizer and stuff to what had been just a small performance in a small cafe. Re "She Knows": knowing that Richard died soon after that (this WAS in a small cafe!) can make you cry. I only said that his voice could turn these tunes into something powerful, so I don't why you I think we disagree on this. But these two songs themselves would not have been much if sung by anyone else. Regarding Jimmy Carter and his campaign: I consider "Georgia" , great as it is, as a miscasting, not because Richard should not have sung it (on the contrary!!) but because it does not fit to my conception of what a BAND song should be. As a composition, that is. That goes for the other two songs as well. BTW: I am looking out for a Richard Manuel lef-outs and/or left-overs album, as mentioned by Peter Viney, even if none of the track would turn out BAND-like. He just was a great singer. I just had my Orange Juice Blues. BEAK FOR BREAKFAST!

Wed Oct 28 00:19:26 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

So which is it Ragtime Willie? You didn't like Richard singing "Georgia" because of the Carter campaign, or because it didn't "sound like the Band" ? I happen to think that"Georgia" is one of Richard's finest. A miscasting? Who could've done it any better???

BTW..you are certainly entitled to your opinion, but I really have to disagree with your comment about "Country Boy" and "She Knows" being "stupid songs". Both of them bring tears to my eyes when sung with that Richard passion and power.

Thanks for letting me voice my opinion.

Wed Oct 28 00:13:56 MET 1998

Bones

Thanks to Peter Viney and David Powell for answering my Blonde On Blonde question. I just purchased the Olivia Newton-John album where she sings Richard Manuel's "In A Station". CDNow has a 30% off import sale right now. Also picked up the Band album (Japanese reissue).

Tue Oct 27 23:49:26 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie (again)

David Powell: you're quite right about Jimmy Carter's honesty. He was a good president and should not have been defeated by a second-rate actor. BUT: I did not like Richard Manuel singing "Georgia On My Mind" to support Carter, because it did not sound like The Band at all. Richard was a great singer and could turn anything into something powerful (even stupid tunes like Country Boy and She Knows), but this performance was a miscasting. (Yes I know he had done this song before, even as a Hawk if I am well-informed. But still). Will I be topped now?

Tue Oct 27 23:43:59 MET 1998

Ol' Dexy

I think I caught the Rock Hall mistake: It's not true that "most" of the songs on Big Pink were by Mr. Robertson. In fact, he only wrote four out of eleven. Four good ones to be sure, but no better than those by Manuel, Dylan or Dylan/Danko. One might say the mixture of songwriting from within the band on that album was similar to that on JUBILATION! Surely -- surely -- this mistake can't have anything to do with Robbie's high influence on Mr. Wenner and other Rock Hall biggies? (Sorry about that total cheap shot. I still like Robbie. I just like Levon a damn sight more.)

Tue Oct 27 23:36:07 MET 1998

Thanks * A * Lot

You * Goofy * Person * Don't * You * Dare * Taking * Credits * For * My * Actions

Tue Oct 27 23:32:30 MET 1998

Ragtime Willie

Private Jackson: Robbie Robertson produced, not directed that movie. So it was his own film-project.

Tue Oct 27 23:26:02 MET 1998

Goofy

DONALD JOSEPH: Who else could it be than me?

Tue Oct 27 20:42:33 MET 1998

David Powell

As I member of the "Georgia contingent," I feel obliged to mention a few things in regard to President Carter's connection with The Band. During the Dylan/Band tour in 1974, then Governor Carter attended one of the concerts they played in the old Omni coliseum in Atlanta. As I recall, governor Carter, a self-professed fan of both Dylan & The Band, invited them over to visit at the Governor's mansion after the concert.

During his presidential campaign, Carter received the support of others in the rock music community, most notably Capricorn Records head Phil Walden.

Say what you want about President Carter's so-called political "liberalism"; he is truly a kind & decent man who has garnered even more respect since he left the office of Presidency through his human rights work throughout the world. Through his work for Habitat for Humanity, President Carter personally participates regularly in the physical labor of building houses for those less fortunate. President Carter, a former peanut wholesale farmer & Navy veteran, occasionally teaches Sunday school down in Plains, Ga. Overall, I would say that President Carter displays a spirit closer to that of the music of The Band than most modern politicians.

(To put things in historical perspective, Carter defeated President Gerald Ford in the election. Ford had become president following Richard M. Nixon's resignation on the eve of impeachment proceedings. Ford had been previously picked as vice-president by Nixon following Spiro T. Agnew's resignation after his indictment on criminal charges. Immediately after Nixon's resignation, Ford as president by succession not election, pardoned the disgraced Nixon.)

Tue Oct 27 20:18:37 MET 1998

Danny Lopez

To Bud Hendershot: Check out the Sept. 19 entry under "What's New."

Tue Oct 27 19:59:36 MET 1998

Bill Kiely

Have been a fan and collector from the days with Ronnie Hawkins, and Levon and The Hawks.

Tue Oct 27 19:34:21 MET 1998

Peter Viney

The Guestbook has been so quiet for a few days that I may as well post multiple entries (again). Diamond Lil seems to be right about the Carter campaign. This is what Levon says in "This Wheel's On Fire":

"We'd been getting calls asking us to help the (Carter) campaign, so in October we released a single of "Georgia on My Mind" in Mr Carter's honor … just a few days before the election, we played "Georgia" on 'Saturday Night Live' and a few days after that Jimmy Carter was elected President of the United States."

Seems pretty unequivocal to me.

Tue Oct 27 18:13:18 MET 1998

Bud Hendershot

I am really enjoying Jubilation - the more I hear it, the better I like it. I am concerned with Levon's voice though. Is he healthy? It sound's as if he's really straining.

Tue Oct 27 17:57:08 MET 1998

Dave

Back to the song "Crazy Love"... I found a web site that has the song in question as a realaudio file. It's in mono, but you can hear it OK. The song dates from 77/78 or so; it was a leftover cut from the Bride Stripped Bare album sessions. Waddy Wachtel was the guitar player on that album, but damned if this song doesn't sound like Robbie. Check it out.

http://www.cco.caltech.edu/~bryan/roxy/songs.html
http://www.cco.caltech.edu/~bryan/roxy/songs/crazylove.ra

What do you think?

Tue Oct 27 17:32:18 MET 1998

Private Jackson

The glaring error on the R&R web site is when they say that Robbie directed his own film project-Carney. As the great Karnac would say: Incorrect Sir! Robbie acted in it and Robert Kaylor directed. Good clue D.J., do I have the "right stuff"? Also when describing the Band's concert at the hall they named the "Shape as one of the songs performed. We all know it and love it as: The Shape I'm in. Would be like saying the Band played the "Creek in concert. We diehards know what song it is but not everyone would. Lazy journalism . Write the whole song out. Tommy Lee Jones picked up Levon and they shared a bottle of bourban as they drove to the movie set. From what I remember Tommy's basic advice to Levon was: just forget about the camera.

Pat Brennen, If I only knew and if only you had a clue! If you are a historian it appears you practice revisionist history. For those who care I'm not John of Penna nor know who he is but enjoy his posts nonetheless. Quantico is in Virginia and i'm embarking on manuevers for 10 days in N. Carolina

Tue Oct 27 17:18:47 MET 1998

Ned

Dave (of Canton),

I am unfamilair with a Brain ferry version of Crazy love, however there is a version of Crazy love sung by Aaron Neville on the Phenomenon soundtrack which most definitely features Robbie on guitar.

Tue Oct 27 16:51:22 MET 1998

David Powell

As Peter mentioned, it seems there is a difference of opinion among various authors as to who played what on _Blonde On Blonde_. Even participant Al Kooper's recollections in his book are contradicted by other writers. The fact that Dylan wasn't satisfied with early attempts to record some of the material with the Hawks, including sessions in L.A. in-between tour dates, is evidently not in dispute. Producer Bob Johnson, who was familar with the Nashville studio environment, was perhaps the catalyst in persuading Dylan to record sessions there using the accomplished Southern studio musicians. Charlie McCoy, who has been interviewed on the subject, seems to have been the unofficial leader during the sessions. Although the Nashville cats were not used to Dylan's unorthodox methods of recording, these skilled, veteran musicians were adept at playing any style of music. Kooper & Robertson, at one point during the sessions, were brought in to the recording process. Since they were more familar with Dylan's style of music, Dylan would go over the material with them & they in turn would sketch out the songs with McCoy & the other musicians. This enabled the musicians to at least chart out the songs using the Nashville method, which employs a simple numerical system rather than the formal musical notation.

As far as who played what, it's always going to be hard to determine, even with the studio logs. The thing to remember is that the Nashville musicians are almost like chameleons, that's why they're always in demand. If an artist like Dylan asks them to play something a certain way, they can do it. If they've playing along side Kooper & Robertson, they may adapt some of those two musicians' techniques in playing the material..

Recently I made a cassette tape that includes "Freeze Out", an earlier version of "Visions Of Johanna" recorded with the Hawks in L.A. Along side it, I included the studio version of "VOJ" and two live versions from the Manchester & London Dylan solo acoustic sets on the '66 tour. This provides a really nice way to hear how this song evolved.

Tue Oct 27 15:58:29 MET 1998

Dave

Is the error at the HOF that you're talking about "Richard Ciarlante" by any chance? Now for MY challenge: Can anyone tell me for sure whether it's Robbie playing guitar on Bryan Ferry's cover of V. Morrison's "Crazy Love"? Sure sounds like it, and they've contributed material to the same soundtrack albums in the past.

Tue Oct 27 13:23:50 MET 1998

Peter Viney

The reason I'm trying to find out more is that every time I listen to "Visions of Johanna" I'm convinced it's Robbie on guitar. Andy Gill said this too in the recent Mojo. Of course it's always possible that someone played uncredited. When we went over this a few weeks ago, it seemed a lot of us had the same aural impression.

Tue Oct 27 13:20:27 MET 1998

Peter Viney

Bones, re/ Blonde on Blonde:

The Dylanologists have devoted a lot of space to the credits. Clinton Heylin did his very detailed book on Dylan's recording sessions, then Michael Krosgaard in "The Telegraph" Dylan mag took it even further, complete with photos of tape boxes, session lists and payments. The only Hawks track is "One of Us Must Know" and only Robertson & Kooper went on to Nashville. Not only that, but Robbie doersn't play on everything we all thought he did. We were talking about this last month, According to the session notes that's Wayne Moss on "Visions of Johanna". Until Heylin & Krosgaard got access to Columbia's archives all was speculation. Even the late John Bauldie made errors in the "Bootleg Series" notes (which he corrected by publishing Krosgaard's stuff in "The Telegraph" - the magazine which he owned and edited). I'm trying to find out a bit more about this.

After the recent bit on "great unreleased-on-CD albums" I've had a few days re-listening to "On The Beach." I find "Revolution Blues" fascinating. It's what Rick and Levon would have sounded like if they'd been in a 3 / 4 piece "all guitar" band. Quite different.

Tue Oct 27 11:34:26 MET 1998

Diamond Lil

Donald Joseph:

Although I don't know if "Georgia" was an official Carter campaign recording, I can tell you that I was lucky enough to be in the company of Levon at the moment Carter was elected, and there was a "whoop and holler" as a room full of people started singing the tune, joined by Levon and The Cate Brothers. Still gives me chills just thinking about it.

Tue Oct 27 07:28:25 MET 1998

Donald Joseph

Verbaitim postings like the Robbie amazon.com interview & the old Geo. Harrison piece are true public services & add to this guestbook a lot, in my opinion. I'll be happy to take credit for this trend (I'm the one who posted the new Robbie "eatin' ain't cheatin'" interview), but I'm sure some "Banddandy" will go farther back into the archives just to knock me out of contention.

Speaking of going back & taking credit for myself, I believe I was the guy, a year ago, to point out the babyish-ness of the odious term "Banddandy." In fact, I think I deserve credit for the fact that this term is now used rarely -- & then used only in derision. Before my posting of a year ago, many of you guys were climbing all over one another claiming the "Banddandy" title with pride (or was it self-loathing?).

I guess I understand why some of you guys complained about this guestbook digressing into a Clinton discussion, but surely it's appropriate to post & then comment upon a Band member's opinions!! I agree it's fair to complain when the posts (in this case) stray from commentary on Robbie's own positions. However, the Lewinsky scandal, like O.J., is an acid test which gives insight into how those who comment on it think. Hence I (for one) enjoyed the ranting. But invoking relatives killed in action confuses me. My grandfather got 4 purple hearts in the Big One. Does that add Weight to my musings about the Band?

Why has no one ever taken me up on the challenge of looking at the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame website pg. on The Band [Jan provides a link to it] & finding the glaring error it contains? I want to know which of you wannabes has the Right Stuff.

Speaking of what was I believe Levon's second acting role, I just saw a chunk of his performance on cable TV in Mexico this weekend: I popped on the telly & heard Levon's distinctive voice narrating a documentary about the early days of trying to break the sound barrier. It turned out the documentary is a part of the movie -- I'd completely forgotten this. Apparently this was Levon's entry into narrating, which he later did at least on some Elvis documentary, & some highway 66 or 61 documentary (I've seen neither).

I picked up somewhere that Levon learned how to act in a 5 hour car ride with Tommy Lee Jones -- they were driving from some city to some other, preparing to film Coal Miner's. Questions:

* Why didn't Robbie ever break away from Marty long enough for a Tommy Lee tutorial?

* Did Will Smith ever get in a car with Tommy Lee before Men in Black?

* Tommy Lee was Al Gore's roommate at Hahvahd. Does this six - degrees - of - separation connection to Levon add fuel to the fire of those of you claiming liberal/Democratic leanings for the Band? (By the way, other than that it's been repeated endlessly, what proof is there that "Georgia on my Mind" was a Carter campaign recording? Is there any proof that the 5 original members always would have cast the same vote for US president? -- I say "would have" not just because Richard is Too Soon Gone, but because, folks, THEY'RE CANADIANS!!!)

* Got a stick 'o Beamens?

Who's * the * guy * who * posted * the * goofy * "thanks" * note * with * all * the * *'s?

Someone who is politically ignorant, a few days back, said Jan H. should be U.S. president. Last time I checked my dog-eared copy, the Constitution required a president be both a U.S. citizen & be born on U.S. soil...this requirement should be obvious to fans of this web page: Were it not for this rule, Jan ALREADY WOULD BE president!

Tue Oct 27 06:08:56 MET 1998

1

3

Tue Oct 27 04:02:16 MET 1998

Pat Brennan

Ahh, Private Jackson, if you only knew...

Tue Oct 27 01:01:10 MET 1998

Bones

Back to the music....

I have read in one of the many Dylan books that the Band(Hawks) played on Blonde On Blonde, but only Robertson,Kooper and the Nashville cats get credited. This site claims that everyone but Levon play on "One of Us Must Know". Is this a fact or are people guessing?

Mon Oct 26 21:00:12 MET 1998

Ed Aldridge

I've been the biggest fan of the Band for the past three years. I'd love to talk to other young guys or gals who love the Band as much as I do.

Mon Oct 26 18:18:19 MET 1998

Gotcha

Ned:

Efforts would only be wasted in trying to help Jackson achieve a better understanding of life. Don't however be so sure that Quantico is not in Penna, at least in his mind.

My last post was not meant to be understood by anyone but Jackson. Ignorance needs to be addressed in simplified words.

BTW Ned, I enjoy your posts.

Mon Oct 26 18:07:50 MET 1998

Ned

Dear Gotcha,

Your post is nonsensical. Though I appreciate the effort to help Jackson achieve a better understanding of life, Quantico is not in Pennsylvania. It is down here in old Virginny. If on the other hand you are trying to suggest that he and 'John from Penna' are one and the same, I would have to disagree, though the do both share some of the same opinions. Then again, maybe your post is not meant to be understood.............

Mon Oct 26 17:51:43 MET 1998

Gotcha

Private Jackson:

Good Geography lesson. Had a feeling quantico was located in Penna. Now I know for sure.

With that having been said, excuse me while I disappear.....

Mon Oct 26 17:49:03 MET 1998

Ned

David, Great post about Harrison, thanks.

Mon Oct 26 17:03:07 MET 1998

Private Jackson

The Brown album re-releases, this is good news. S. Novik you deserve bragging rights. one of the Band-Weider,Bell,RD was checking things out here saw your post and passed it on to Levon. Seems like a likely scenario to me, so good job!

Well C. Young my Dad Survived Guadalcanal thanks to the great Lewis "Chesty" Puller and he agrees with me! And thats why I'm in the corp. Brennan's just a plain nut case. She dissed Frank Sinatra as just another lounge singer. Yeah Right, and the Band is just another bar band!!!! Mr Young as a corpsmen please don't let yourself "go soft in the head" like miss patty.

Mon Oct 26 16:34:50 MET 1998

David Powell

While going through a stack of old magazines this weekend, I ran across an interview with George Harrison in which he discussed how he was influenced by the spirit of the Band's music. In conjunction with the release of his album _Cloud Nine_, Harrison was interviewed by Timothy White in the November 1987 issue of _Musician_ magazine. The following is an excerpt:

WHITE: You mentioned knowing Albert Grossman. I always wondered how the Band came to invite you up to Woodstock in November 1968. You wrote "I'd Have You Anytime" with Dylan during that visit.

HARRISON: I wrote "All Things Must Pass" there as well. To this day you can play _Stage Fright_ and _Big Pink_, and although the technology's changed, those records come off as beautifully conceived and uniquely sophisticated. They had great tunes, played in a great spirit, with humor and versatility.

I knew those guys during that period and I think it was Robbie Robertson who invited me down. He said, "You can stay at Albert's. He's got the _big_ house." I hung out with them and Bob. It was strange because at that time Bob and Grossman were going through this fight, this crisis about managing him. I would spend the day with Bob and the night with Grossman and hear both sides of the battle.

Artistically, I respected the Band enormously. All the different guys in the group sang, and Robbie Robertson used to say he was lucky, because he could write songs for a voice like Levon's. What a wise and generous attitude. The hard thing is to write a song for yourself, knowing you've got to sing it. Sometimes I have a hard time singing my own stuff.

WHITE: You once remarked that you were trying to write a Robbie Robertson kind of song with "All Things Must Pass."

HARRISON: "The Weight" was the one I admired, it had a religious and a country feeling to it, and I wanted that. You absorb, then you interpret, and it comes out nothing like the thing you're imagining, but it gives you a starting point. We used to take that approach with the Beatles, saying, "Who are we going to be today? Let's pretend to be Fleetwood Mac!" There's a song on _Abbey Road_, "The Sun King," that tried that. At the time, "Albatross" was out, with all the reverb on guitar. so we said, "Let's be Fleetwood Mac doing 'Albatross,'" just to get going. It never really sound like Fleetwood Mac, just like "All Things" never sounded like the Band, but they were the point of origin.

Mon Oct 26 04:20:22 MET 1998

John Donabie

I was just on the Tower Records page. The Brown Album (THE BAND) was re-released last Tuesday. It is an American re-release. Tower price $9.99. Doesn't say anything about any remastering.

Mon Oct 26 00:33:07 MET 1998

Charlie Young

Lucinda Williams (daughter of Arkansas poet Miller Williams) did an absolutely awesome version of Dylan's "Masters of War" with her band at Constitution Hall in DC recently, reminding me more of Dylan with The Band than anything I'd heard in ages. Her performance was part of a benefit concert to help pass international anti-landmine legislation. Emmylou Harris (child of a Quantico Marine just like me), Willie Nelson, Steve Earle and Cheryl Crow also performed. I don't think Private Jackson's political comments are out of place here; Levon played at the Clinton inaugural Arkansas ball and the music of The Band had political connections through Dylan. Putting historian Pat Brennan in the same league with scumbag bore Howard Stern is inappropriate, though. By the way, Private Jackson, your Federal Communications Commision has fined Stern's employers 1.5 million for his "obscenity." Personally, I found Starr's report much more obscene than anything Stern says. But Stern I just avoid. Starr I had to help pay $530 an hour to track down a stained dress from some Beverly Hills bimbo groupie. I only wish Frank Zappa were around to comment on the whole hilarious mess. Sure Clinton lied--just like politicians lied about the "domino theory" in Viet Nam; a war which enabled Kentucky Fried Chicken and 7-11 stores to open in Southeast Asia. Domino's Pizza can't be far behind. My Dad, who took a bullet through his right arm in Korea, and a Bronze Star in Viet Nam, agrees with me.

Mon Oct 26 00:11:56 MET 1998

charlie

Sun Oct 25 23:45:51 MET 1998

crazy chester

Sun Oct 25 18:57:08 MET 1998

Stephen Novik

I heard just the other night that Doug Riley's having some kind of recording session in Toronto with a whole bunch of guys from old Canadian bands, and yes, The Band was listed amongst the names,... I think definately Danko and Hudson would be involved, I was curious to know if anybody else heard more about this. Ya hear the strangest things on the CBC.... Thanks. Now, a second point. It seems to me that I wrote a small guestbook entry awhile back extolling my belief that Levon could write a song about his touring days with Ronnie Hawkins...I ain't looking for bragging rights, just wanted everybody to know why I get a little kick out of "White Cadilliac". "Don't Wait" is still the best cut so far, but repeated listenings can 'harvest' some surprises.. ("I'm in high cotton, I forgotten that I had the blues.") See ya!

Sun Oct 25 16:10:36 MET 1998

Just Wonderin'

Hey Blind Willie: Thanks for the info on Dylan 66. Where did you see Ghost Dance video?

Sun Oct 25 12:18:49 MET 1998

Joel Cohen

As the Town Crier I was nearly bawling when we left Pawling. Epie, Euge, Brian & I trekked up to see Jim Weider & the Honky Tonk Gurus last nite. They are incredible! I felt we were in the presence of a musical genius named Jim Weider. For my efforts, Jim & Randy were kind enough to sign my Band t-shirt, joining Rick's.

The boys set included Remedy, Don't Do It and an instrumental version of The Weight. Randy unveiled White Cadillac. They did a lot of tunes from Big Foot of which Deepest Cut stood out. The Gurus include Danny Lewis on piano/electric organ & John Austin on electric bass. George was there pushin Guru CD's and wearing a beautiful Band Jubilation shirt- not yet on sale. Ran into a chum named Stu Hrusker. What a night! What a show. Great chow, too. Heard Rick will be there in December.

Sun Oct 25 02:25:57 MET 1998

Blind Willie McTell

To Just Wonderin'- I paid $26.99 Cdn for Live '66. That's about $20 US. The record merchants of lower Yonge Street in Toronto have some of the best prices in the world.

Saw RR's video for "Ghost Dance" today and I know he is good guitar player but he was playing left-handed. Huh?

Sun Oct 25 01:56:28 MET DST 1998

Just Wonderin'

DAVID GITIN: I think if you log onto Bmg Music Service or possibly Columbia House, you'll find Across the Great Divide there. This is the official release. If you are looking for the bootleg "Crossing the Great Divide" good luck.

Sat Oct 24 22:22:07 MET DST 1998

David Gitin

Love the web site! I'm sitting here recalling when I heard Dylan and the Hawks in Buffalo, N.Y. in early '66, The Band in Berkeley ('69?) and Palo Alto ('76) and all the times they were a part of the soundtrack to my life. Wish I had the "Across the Great Divide" box, but it seems to have disappeared (out of print?). Hello, everybody.

Sat Oct 24 21:35:45 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Has anybody heard of a Richard Manuel (or RM with The Band) left-outs album that seems to be planned? Peter Viney referred to it in his Jubilation review. Does anyone know more about it? What (kind of) songs? When to be released? (the sooner the better I'd say)

Sat Oct 24 19:46:08 MET DST 1998

Jan Ebbesson

Thank's! I found what i'm looking for.

Sat Oct 24 16:25:04 MET DST 1998

Just Wonderin'

Can any of you Canadian fans tell me how much the Dylan 66 and Jubilation albums sell for. They are quite expensive down here! Thanks!

Sat Oct 24 12:09:12 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

Well, it's great to be back home, but whilst I was in that big bad LA I saw"Eat The Document" at this muesum of Television they got there. See, they ran it with the commertails just like they was going to show it on TV. Really hightend the ironic aspect of the whole deal. I am happy to have helped open the political can of worms but I'm just as happy to put one of them plastic thangs on the can. See, you can't have an American type diolgue on an issue when the other side cowardly ignores your point, starts waving the flag and hiding behind dead relatives. All the men who died in wars for Democracy died in part for the idea of free elections, and I'm damned if I'm going to see an election thrown out on the basis of poliitical manipulation of the courts, spearheaded by rumors FUNDED by said elected candidates rich enemys. If you don't like Clinton much(and I don't) beat him at the polls, thats the American way. As for Howie Stern, another guy I can't stand, his big political endorsment was Al Demato....not in Clinton's party as it happens.......

Sat Oct 24 10:42:00 MET DST 1998

Incredibly naive

P.S. also starring * Maud Hudson * Sissy Spacek* Jerry Penfound * Hillary Rodham * Emmylou Harris * Kermit the Frog * Miss "HOTH" Piggy * Paul Jost * (Sail Away) Raymond * Ringo Starr* Daniel And The Sacred Harp * Fats Domino * Libby Titus * Jody Foster * Jan Hoiberg (again) * Love You All * God Bless You All

Sat Oct 24 07:33:12 MET DST 1998

Ted Haycraft

Hey Daniel Hyder... I also met Rick and Richard on that tour. I had them sign my LAST WALTZ booklet that came with the LP's and also took pictures!!! It was a very interesting night! But that pales in comparison to the time I had the great fortune to met Levon and Rick. One day I'll have to share this event with all you other Band fans (if anyone is interested...). Needless to say, meeting them in the flesh and getting to know them on a personal level was and always will be one of the highlights of my "little bitty" life.

Sat Oct 24 07:16:25 MET DST 1998

Rod

Just one more comment on the "Rick Danko" cover art - then you can all go back to talking about Clinton's willy. I just realised today that the road on the back cover is John Joy Rd - where the cover shot for "The Band" was taken. O well, I thought it was interesting.

Sat Oct 24 05:54:06 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

I wonder what Virgil Caine has to say about the Republican candidate for Tennessee state senate killing his Democratic opponent. Okay, okay, I'm done destroying the moral fabric of the US. Garth played accordian on "The River Is Wide" by Wendy Waldman (?). I recall it being exquisite but does anyone remember the album?

Sat Oct 24 04:37:38 MET DST 1998

Blind Willie McTell

It's time for a political moratorium.

The issue here in Canada is that demostrators were pepper sprayed.

The big issue in the USA is the president diddled around. So what!

Forget politics for a weekend and enjoy the music of The Band !!

Look at me, I'm _Jubilating_ and I can't stop.

Sat Oct 24 04:31:22 MET DST 1998

Scott Vliek

This is a truely great web site. The Band is my all time favorite band and I use this site as a reference for any related material. Thanks for all the hard work and constant updates!

Sat Oct 24 04:28:45 MET DST 1998

Daniel Hyder

I've been a Band fan since my high school days in the 60's and 70's. I grew up in East Tennessee, and their music hit the spot. It was phenom- enal that one band could have 3 unbelievably unique vocalists. They performed even cover tunes so well that I prefer their cover to the original [Moondog Matinee]. While living in Little Rock, I got to see and meet Rick and Richard when they were passing through with some ex-Byrds on a low-profile anniversary tour in '85. Joining Rick and Richard were Gene Clark, Micheal Clarke, Rick Roberts and Blondie Chaplin at BJ's Honkytonk. It was only $5 to get in and these shonuff troupers played their asses off to a crowd of maybe 100 people. They were also quite approachable, very friendly, and I got every- body's autograph with no sweat. I thought I was in rock'n'roll heaven.

Sat Oct 24 03:54:38 MET DST 1998

Bullrider

I don't know who conjures up this stuff but no, C.W. ain't the "Cherokee Wiseman", he ain't Chuck Willis, and he ain't Fred Carter. He is in my opinion the best damn guitar picker in Arkansas. Him & Levon go way back to the old "Delta Supper Club" days in West Helena, Arkansas. "Your Constant Cowboy"

Sat Oct 24 02:29:57 MET DST 1998

Observing

Since the Wild Willy episode, four Republicans have admitted to extramarital affairs--including out-of-wedlock children--and the rumblings of Newt's trysts continue unabated. People don't die in war for politicians, they die for their country.

Sat Oct 24 02:09:02 MET DST 1998

J.Croce

After viewing the posts to this site of late I'm convinced that The Band is best appreciated in the privacy of your home, in small clubs and perhaps at venues like Carnegie Hall. The crazies who post and the music critics who over-analyze dont add to the enjoyment of the music. The music is pure and clean, the rest is a waste. I was incredibly naive to suggest The Hand of the Band be extended to and from each of us. Jan, this site is out of control.

Sat Oct 24 02:06:36 MET DST 1998

John

Most excellent post Willie boy. RR has my respect for his musical excursions but not my money as far as Redboy is concerned. Heard some of it on the radio and it doesn't interest me. RR really surprised me with his selections of fav songs. Great songs all. After these past days of political exchange it will be a welcome relief and great privilage to see Doc Watson and David Grisham tonight. Doc is one of the most generous and genuinely nice musicians around. His talents encompass so much more than the bluegrass&country singing and flatpicking guitar that he's best known for. Also is a masterful fingerpicker and slide player, harmonica and mandolin, fiddle and banjoist. Blues and Jazz are also hallmarks of his repertoire. In fact he started out playing jazz some 50+ years ago. I always thought Doc's large catalogue of recordings would be a wellspring of material from which the Band could choice to perform. Doc is a great inspiration and a warm, funny admirable man. Doc's only son Merle was a terrific picker and singer who performed all over the world with his Dad and was his protecter and best friend. Unfortunately Merle died years ago in a farm tractor accident. Sunday afternoon its a concert with: The Great Dane Victor Borge. He takes requests. I'm gonna ask for Jemima surrender.

Pri. Jackson keep a stiff upper lip and be strong. Your uncle did not die in vain. He was one of the few and the brave. God bless your family.

Sat Oct 24 01:49:30 MET DST 1998

SaxMan

Hi! I'm 15 years old, and my Mom reads this guestbook often. I think all this discussion about something that has NOTHING to do with the Band oughta END! I only have one thing to say in the end:

Clinton got off Monica, so let's get off Clinton!

PS - Don't tell mom this is me ;)!

Sat Oct 24 01:33:26 MET DST 1998

Tom Thumb

My favorite tune on Largo is "Before The Mountains". Does anyone have info on Little Isadore's resume. The new Mojo credits Robbie Robertson with lead guitar on both" Leopard Hat" and "Visions". There is also a great article on the great self titled and "lost" Taj Mahal record. The Band is mentioned briefly.

Sat Oct 24 01:26:27 MET DST 1998

Some Friendly Advice

Enough is enough here now.The very people that seem to have forgotten why Jan has this guestbook open to are going to be the first ones to complain when he closes it. Let's stick to the music folks, ok?

Sat Oct 24 01:16:11 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

BUD: there are no _parties_ as far as the music's concerned

Sat Oct 24 01:03:30 MET DST 1998

Thanks a lot

Thanks * A * Lot * All * Of * You * Jan Hoiberg * Levon Helm * Private Jackson * Just Wonderin' * Garth Hudson * King Olav * Ned * Peter Viney * Donald Joseph * Rick Danko * Martin Scorcese * Aaron Hurwitz * Edvard Grieg * Bob Dylan * Eric Clapton * Robbie Robertson * Serge * Ragtime Weenie * Richard Bell * Marius De Vries * John Simon * John Donabie * David Powell * Bill Clinton * Crazy Chester * Jan Hoiberg * Winona * Randy Ciarlante * Ruben Remus * Kenneth Starr * Pat Brennan * Van Morrison * Dori Flute * Ronnie Hawkins * Mr. Booking Agent * John From Penna * Diamond Lil * Bones * Uncle Theodore * Uncle Hangover * Ronnie Hawkins * Bones * Jim Weider * Freddy Fishstick * W.S. Walcott * Ben Pike * Jan Hoiberg * All members of the Band family * God * Bless * You * All

Sat Oct 24 00:57:03 MET DST 1998

Bud

Soon the political and musical will merge into one:

It will soon be revealed that conservatives think that Robbie Robertson has taken too much credit for the The Band's music, and that he and Albert Grossman "pencil whipped" the rest of the boys; liberals, on the other hand, still swear by Robbie's genius.

Clinton supporters like to be called "Banddaddies," while those in the impeachment camp will join the "Hand of The Band."

Liberals, while steadfast Robbie supporters, inexplicably don't want comparisons made between The Band's most recent work and that of thirty years ago; conservatives are still waiting for the _Brown Album II_ .

Because he's Canadien (or is that Canadian?), both parties will continue to take Serge's words out of context.

Liberals think that Robbie can act; the rest of us know better.

I think we should continue to explore these issues. Somewhere in the realm of Presidential Blow-jobs and the music of The Band must lie the nexus of the universe.

Sat Oct 24 00:47:36 MET DST 1998

A friend of a friend

My theory on C.W. is that he's really Robbie, and the song is an effort to reach out (the hand of the Band) and reconcile. The initials stand for "Cherokee Wiseman"

Fri Oct 23 23:44:25 MET DST 1998

Major Roads

Private Jackson: your piece on your uncle on Utah beach. For naught? Well, my friewnd you / yours have survived 54 years in comparative peace sincxe Utah Beach. Not for naught, then. Would have seemed a good deal at the time. Don't over emote.

Fri Oct 23 22:28:08 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Now that it's all over (Baby Blue), let's talk about the amazon.com interview. To me the multi-maligned RR's integrity is beyond doubt. He tried to find new musical ways and embarked on a journey to his Indian roots. I don't follow him there (his latest two albums are closed books to me and I'm afraid I will never find the key), but at least he sincerely wants to explore new musical boundaries. That's why there never will be a reunion with the remaining Band members. They try to copy the spirit of the old albums and sometimes succeed in that . We Band-junkies want them to do so and we like their tunes and arrangements most when they remember us of the old days. That's why there is so much comparing in this Guestbook. Nothing wrong with that, but we should respect RR for going his own way. Regarding the LH>RR controversy: I always thought this was exaggerated for publicity reasons by LH's ghostwriter. But LH apparently approved at the time. Regarding Hoskyns: RR confirms what I always thought: the man never talked with any Band member.

Fri Oct 23 21:15:00 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

Agreed, enough is enough and out of respect for the regulars-Its all over now baby blue. Its been very instructive for me these last few days. I learned that style over substance matters. And that the sanctity of marriage and the integrity of our leaders doesn't. Bombing innocent people and its benign infrastructure is...okay. That the democratic party is the party of adultry and lying. I've learned that the veiws held by ben pike,brin,brennan....are merely a reflection of the decadence and the declining moral code of our country. The popularity of Howard Stern and his ilk, O.J. Simpson living a carefree life.

But what I now understand better then anything is that when my Uncle Theodore lost his life fighting on Utah beach in Normandy during WWII, it was meaningless. His sacrifice was for naught. Thank you. Goodbye. And Godbless your souls.

Fri Oct 23 20:32:54 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

One of the nicest things about this site is having a place to go to get away from all the everyday problems that haunt us in newspapers and television. Please let's get back to why we all came here in the first place.

Fri Oct 23 20:03:51 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

CHARLIE HAWKER: Hear Hear, Mr. Speaker! AND NOW: Please Mr. Music, Will You Play!

Fri Oct 23 19:58:12 MET DST 1998

Brin

Three cheers for Charlie Hawker. Not only are John from penna.'s Clinton posts even more obvious and ill-informed than his observations on the Band, they've also opened the door to the sort of dreary Web know-nothingism that's predominated here for the past few days. The Slick Willie/Billary/Monica-obsessed are especially offensive and inappropriate here not just in their ignorance and dirty-mindedness (worrying about someone else's dick, to quote a wise man), but because the members of the Band have over the years gone out of their way to associate themselves with the sort of decent, humane left-of-center politics that are anathema to Judge Starr and his creepily pious legions.

Fri Oct 23 19:21:11 MET DST 1998

Charlie Hawker

Please stop this Clinton debate here. This is The Band guestbook, not some political newsgroup. Btw, to us Europeans the whole thing is a joke. Your president gets a blow job, then denies it like all married men would. Big deal. Only in the US ... I remember when I stayed there how they would show all sorts of detailed violence on the telly but censor out bare butts and breasts. You're even worse than our stiff-upper-lip conservatives.

Fri Oct 23 18:02:38 MET DST 1998

Doug Maple

Regarding the comments made by John - Can you prove that the Republican congress has more to do with our economic success than President Clinton? I hear that stuff all the time, and It confuses me. Are you sure the last democratic congress doesn't have more to do with our economic success? Or mabye the Republican congress be fore it? ......

Fri Oct 23 16:29:29 MET DST 1998

John

Where's Jim Croce and his "Hand of the Band" when its needed? Lets put it to rest and let sleeping dogs lie, as most of us have made up our minds and aren't likely to change. I nominate Jan H. as our next Prez with Elizabeth Dole as V.P.

John Donabie you are a true gentleman and you said it in a nutshell. Its the strong economy. Hence the tolerance toward Clinton. But presidents have verl little to do with the state of the economy. FDR was the exception. It is Alan Greenspan{federal reserve} and the Republican majority in Congress and the passing of {most} of its budget that is respondsible.

Fri Oct 23 16:19:31 MET DST 1998

Just Wonderin'

My previous post was so long I thought I'd do this one separatly. Whew! I knew that keyboarding class would come in handy someday! OTHER QUESTIONS POSED TO RR BY AMAZON.COM WHAT'S YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE SONG/ Unchained Melody by Al Hibber WHAT SONG MAKES YOU SWOON? Blue Moon by Elvis Presley WHAT SONG IS BETTER THAN COFFEE FOR HELPING YOU WAKE UP? Got my Mojo Working by Muddy Waters. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO CHILL OUT TO? Summertime by George Gershwin WHAT SONG WOULD YOU PLAY TO MAKE PEOPLE DANCE AT YOUR PARTY Walking the Dog by Rufus Thomas WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY SONG? I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus by Brenda Lee WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE SONG FROM CHILDHOOD? The Wayward Wind by Gogi Grant WHAT'S THE BEST SEDUCTION SONG? Baby It's Cold Outside by Ray Charles and Betty Carter WHAT SONG DO YOU WISH YOU HAD WRITTEN Stardust by Hoagy Carmichael

Fri Oct 23 16:13:18 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Enough already with the political discussion. Do you think that what Ronnie Hawkins really told those young Canadians, when he recruited them to join his band, was that he couldn't pay them much but they'd get more ----- than the President of the United States? I'm surprised that just one person seemed to notice that Robbie Robertson, in his comments about President Clinton in Rolling Stone, stole a line from a song by that great Texan, Kinky Freidman. Mr. Freidman's lyrics are especially poignant for those of us here in Atlanta, where the big news is that local sports hero, Chipper Jones, third baseman for the Braves baseball team, cheated on his wife and fathered a child out-of-wedlock with a waitress from a "Hooters" restaurant. Who does he think he is, some rock star or the President of the United States? Or is he just human like the rest of us? Should Clinton resign or be impeached? What does it matter--it's only rock & roll to me. As another great Texan, Lyndon Johnson, once commented on why he didn't remove F.B.I. director J. Edgar Hoover (an alleged cross-dresser) from office, he said: "I'd rather have him on the inside pissin' out, than on the outside pissin' in."

Fri Oct 23 16:07:22 MET DST 1998

Just Wonderin"

At the request of somebody on this guest book I'm submitting th RR interview from amazon.com. It's rather lengthy so for all you Robbie bashers out there scroll over it if you're not interested.

NATIVE SON

From the Band to a long solo career, RR has returned in recent years to investigate his heritage. Of Mohawk descent, the 54-year old Canadian has acted, sang, and been laudes as a stellar songwriter. With Music for the Native Americans and its followup Contact from the Underworld of Redboy, RR has put his ancestral and musical meditations into a series of collaborations with everyone from U2/Tricky?Bjork/ mixmaster Howie B to American Indian Movement activist Leonard Peltier, wh0's been imprisoned since 1976 for the murder of 2 FBI agents.

Amazon.com: When the Band emerged 30 years ago as electronic music was flourishing, you guys were posited as the organic antidote to psychedelia. Now there's an electronic movement with which you appear to feel some kinship.

RR: It was somebody else's idea that we were (anti-psychedelia). Garth Hudson of the Band was really on the forefront of a lot of the electronic things, and always had been. It was just the nature of the music. It just treated the electronic things, and always had been. It was just the nature of the music. It just treated the electronic thing as if it was something other than a musical experience. Hopefully, after 30 years, it's gone somewhere. Today, for me, It's just using the tools of the trade.

Amazon.com: How did you choose your electronic collaborators for Contact from the Underworld of Redboy?

Robertson: Marius de Vries, Howie B, and Tim Gordine--I didn't think of selecting these guys on the electronic front. I just thought that these guys were good on their ax. I don't feel that we have to beat on a log with a stick now that there are other things available to us. I chose these guys because they're more progressive and have been doing it longer than people in the U.S. have. As long as I've been doing this, I have a pretty good ear for casting people who I think might be good in collaborating with me. And my judgment call is usually reasonably accurate.

Amazon.com: Your Native American heritage was something that even fans might have been unaware of until relatively recently. Has your ancestry become more important as you've become older?

RR: There could be something to human nature that maybe years later you feel like rediscovering. In my case, I felt like I could express it properly. For instance, working with the Band, I didn't feel like it was appropriate for me to say to the other guys, "OK, now we're going to do some music about my Native heritage." It was too personal and it felt slightly self-indulgent. And 10 years ago, I didn't know how to make this record.

Amazon.com: In "Making a Noise," you sing the line, "No Injuns allowed>" Were you subjected to racism when you were growing up?

RR: For me, a small amount. My relatives--my mother--grew up in a generation when they were taught to be non-Indians. In school, everyone was taught that this thing could get you in trouble and there was apparently no advantage to being Native Amererican. For me, I was told to be who you are and go on your mission. It wasn't like I was exposed to a lot of racism like my cousins were. I did have one circumstance where I was playing with a couple of my cousins and some older kids came along and they yelled at me, "Hey, red boy!" That definitely went inside me and stung me in a way that's stayed with me all my life.

Amazon.com: The "Sacrifice" vocal track comes from a phone converstaion with Leonard Peltier. Have you ever met him face to face?

RR: No. He's been in prison for over21 years. We haven't had much chance for hanging out. There was something so moving and powerful in hearing his voice that it inspired me to say to myself, "It's time for people to hear about this situation"--which is kind of a phenomenon in American justice. A lot of other people have told the Leonard Peltier story; I thought it would be a good idea for him to voice it in his own words. Hopefully, this will bring just a little attention. I'd like to see him get out of prison. Enough is enough.

Amazon.com: You wrote Bill Clinton on his behalf. Clinton is aware of who you are through the Band. Was there any response from the White House?

RR: Yeah he wrote me back. He talked about the music, and the sensitivity of this issue with Leonard, and that they were going to be looking very carefully into it. And then I got another letter from the White House from someone who deals directly with these kinds of committees for clemency and that kind of stuff. I was grateful to get a response. When you say to someone, "I'm going to write to the President about this," they're like, "Yeah? So what." It was great that there was any kind of response, and it gives me a little more belief that something can be done.

Amazon.com: You've been a musician, a songwriter, an actor, a film producer, a record producer, and a film writer. Is there anything else you'd like to add to your resume?

RR: Well, I've always been interested in real estate.(Laughs) I'm just trying to educate myself in some areas and face some challenges.

Amazon.com: You've worked closely with some pretty serious entertainment icons: Martin Scorsese, Bob Dylan, Jack Nicholson. Who's the most impressive artist you've been associated with?

RR: Boy, I'd feel that it was unfair to other people to single out one person, but I really feel a tremendous closeness and connection with Marty because he's my really good buddy and I extremely enjoy the working relationship and the personal relationship. That's meant a tremendous amount to me. But that's not to take away from working with the guys in the Band and Bob Dylan, or Jodie Foster or anybody else you could put on the list.

Amazon.com: Did you read Levon's book, THIS WHEEL'S ON FIRE?

RR: Ididn't read it myself. Some people told me a little bit about it. I knew Levon has expressed that, the way this book went down, he didn't feel good about the book. His go-writer Stephen Davis made him seem like he was a whiner. Probably sometime or other I will read it, but I never read the book on the Band, ACROSS THE GREAT DIVIDE. I started to read it, but I found so many inaccuracies in it that I thought, "Well I can't read something where I was there and this guy is guessing about." I don't even know that it isn't a terrific book. I hate it when somebody is trying to imagine what was going on and they're writing like it's factual.

Amazon.com: Have you ever thought of writing your own book?

RR: I went through a thing with 2 separate writers and I got cold feet. I've just been busy. And, to be real honest, that's something I have trouble addressing at this time in my life. I have trouble rehashing the past. I'm kind of more in the moment.

Amazon.com: In Levon's book, he come across as very angry at you for giving up touring after TLW. In fact, some of your remarks in the movie about how the road takes a toll in the live of musicians are mocked. Have you ever regretted leaving the traveling-musician phase of your life behind?

RR: Not really. I felt so strongly that I made a movie about it, and a 3 record set. I felt pretty strongly about what I felt then. I loved it when I was doing it, up to a point. When I felt that it was becoming incredibly redundant, and becoming more of a business than a learning process, I thought it was time to move on and address some different challenges.

Fri Oct 23 10:55:40 MET DST 1998

the Crow

just wanted to mention that CW appeared on stage at 2 Levon & the Crowmatix shows ( Iron Horse and Wetlands ). He got a great review for his guitar playing at the Mass show in one of the local papers. Also, the Clinton bashing is really inappropriate here, I think, but I must say that if the leader of the free world can't negotiate a tryst with an intern who came to DC to "get her congressional kneepads" there is something amiss. If you did it & were asked about it in a public forum, would you tell the truth? Don't lie (to yourself).

Fri Oct 23 09:53:07 MET DST 1998

Rod

Appreciated seeing the sleeve photos from "Rick Danko". I bought a 2nd hand copy of the LP back in the early 80's but it just had the outside sleeve. Unfortunately the CD release didn't include it either.

Fri Oct 23 08:15:55 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

JW and BONES: Thanks a lot for answering my question and guiding me through Amazon.com

Fri Oct 23 06:35:45 MET DST 1998

Lonnie Martin

I was born in 1950. In 1966 at the Rollirina skating rink in Hutchinson Ks they had sock hops....Mike Finnigan and the Serfs used to play songs ,WE CAN TALK, CHEST FEVER,.....Music from big Pink. It was a great thing to listen to when I was 16 and growing up.......Thank You

Fri Oct 23 05:57:09 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Mr. Cornpone: would that be the new version of Little Birdies that you were enjoying?

Fri Oct 23 05:43:37 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Did Levon's father really teach them that tune?

Fri Oct 23 05:39:40 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Mr Cornpone: "Little Birds" is generally regarded as the scarcest Band recording. I'd heard another version was floating around. Nice try at baiting.

Fri Oct 23 05:37:00 MET DST 1998

donabie

Just a short comment about Clinton and The U.S. from north of the 49th. I am not going to get into the personal side of the Clinton saga. (Translated, that means I am not an apologist.)

I would just like to say that over the last six years, the U.S. has just about the strongest dollar in the world, your unemployment is at an all time low and generally the country is in great shape. I'll take that any day over the cost of buying an American dollar for $1.50 Canadian and a Prime Minister that doesn't seemed overly worried about it.

Fri Oct 23 05:20:15 MET DST 1998

General Jubilation T. Cornpone

Miss Brennan I feel your pain{said while tenderly biting lower lip}. Maam just this evening down by the huckleberry patch I heard the sweetest "Little Birdies", they went tweet-tweet tweet-tweet. Chickadees or maybe Wrens.

Fri Oct 23 05:03:54 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

Ned, you got that one right, but of course it is only the tip of the iceberg. How can these right wing goofballs blame Clinton for the high cost of the Starr Chamber, when little Kenny spent millions trying to tie Clinton to Vince Foster, Ruled a suiside by the cops, FBI, and the first prosacutor? Talk about the rumor. Course, if we had listened to bone head flag wavers like Jacksons Privates, there would most likely be no Rock and Roll in the first place. Give up yours rich man's witch hunt Dave and John, pucker up and kiss my Donkey downtown.

Fri Oct 23 04:25:57 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Private Jackson: since you neglect to give an addy, I'm forced to respond here. I apologize profusely for not descending to the level of name-calling and invective that would have suited your tastes. However, look up "leering" in a good dictionary, and you may find that out of all the characterizations I used in my post, the one I applied to Clinton had the most pejorative meaning. Perhaps if I had struck a more self-righteous pose, you would have been happier. I'd be happy to argue the "moral" connotations of the protection of slavery by the Founding Fathers, but that should be done privately, if you so choose. However, since you supposedly read my post and still somehow decided I'm a Clinton apologist--and, as a result, a suporter of deviancy--then I doubt anything worthwhile can come from the effort. BTW, who has heard "Little Birds"?

Fri Oct 23 03:01:03 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstickq

I nominate Chuck Willis as CW.

g "What Am I Living For," but it was no more a clue to his impending demise than its flip, the joyous "Hang Up My Rock and Roll Shoes." Both tracks became massive hits upon the singer's

Fri Oct 23 02:23:12 MET DST 1998

josh murdock

congrats on your new release. good to see that The Band still has it. been a long time fan, so has my father. you guys where the greatest band ever.

Fri Oct 23 00:56:21 MET DST 1998

donabie

TO JOHN FROM PENNA;

CW is an old friend of Levon's from Arkansas. It's not Fred Carter. CW is featured in some scenes from the PBS special in which Levon drives Highway 61.

Fri Oct 23 00:54:33 MET DST 1998

Bones

To John from Penna: Go to the music section of amazon.com and click on the Name That Song Contest, and you will find that Robbie was one of the participating artists. Tell me what you think of it. What song does Robbie play to cheer himself up? Bob Marley's "Get Up, Stand Up".

Fri Oct 23 00:23:23 MET DST 1998

John

Found it, thanks JW you should post it, very interesting. Both Robbie and Dr. John wish they had written Stardust. Deanna Carter lists her favs also.

Fri Oct 23 00:04:19 MET DST 1998

John

Franko; CW is probably Fred Carter Jr. who was a member of Ronnie Hawkins Hawks. His daughter Deanna Carter is a rising star in country music, check her out.

Bones from Ct., How did you access Robbie's interveiw concerning his favorite songs? Could'nt find it. Much obliged.

Thu Oct 22 23:56:18 MET DST 1998

just wonderin'

w.S. Walcott: Right on! Storyville is a great album. And like fine wine gets better the more you listen to it! RAGTIME WILLIE: Re: the Amazon.com RR interview: go to amazon .com, you'll see guess this song contest...click on that. You'll see a listing of favorite songs with Beastie Boys, Click on other artists. There is an alphabetical list with RR on it. Click on his name and follow the links. Let me know if you find it. If you can't I printed it out so I could post it.

Thu Oct 22 23:36:47 MET DST 1998

Mr. Booking Agent

The management said they were sorry for the inconvenience you were suffering

Thu Oct 22 22:46:27 MET DST 1998

Franko

King Olav? Ken Starr? Kermit the Frog? Just another day on the ol' BAND web site. If Jimmy Buffet ever appeared on Sesame Street, Kermit could be that elusive link between Jimmy and the Band that someone (Freddy Fishstick?) has been looking for.

Rick a Weenie? Not a few weeks ago in the swamps of Weymouth - he played two hot, smokey, sweaty sets that rocked - no weenie there.

OK, I've been Jubilating for a few weeks now; I give up, who is CW?

Thu Oct 22 21:28:38 MET DST 1998

Jim Merrigan

I've been searching for this site forever...Thanks..It was worth " the weight"...

Thu Oct 22 20:18:58 MET DST 1998

Ned

Ragtime, thanks for the blessing.

And now back to J A N Radio Norway--All Band, All the time.

Got a song here I like to send out to those wacky Americans.....

Forefather pointed to Kingdom Come, sadly told his only son,

"Just be careful what you do, it all comes back on you."

False witness spread the news, somebody's gonna lose

Either she or me or you, nothing we can do.

So don't cha say a word, or repeat a thing you heard

Time will tell you, well, if you truly, truly fell.

Tarred and feathered, yea!, thistles and thorns,

One or the other, he kindly warns.

Now you look out the window tell me, what do you see?

I see a golden calf pointing back at me.

I been sitting in here for so darn long, waitin' for the end to come along.

Holy roaster on the brink, take a chance, swim or sink.

False witness, cast an evil eye, said I cannot tell a lie,

Haints and saints don't bother me, I'm not alone you see.

Thu Oct 22 19:50:10 MET DST 1998

John

I concur: All the way for Norway, I'd live there anyday! Spent a week there{too short} in 86 and as a tribute to its beautiful countryside and friendly people, I have a nice big healthy Norwegian Spruce growing in my back yard.

Thu Oct 22 19:41:01 MET DST 1998

John

Pri. Jackson you're a wise man but I'm sure you inadvertantly used the wrong word in the 1st verse of Creams-Politician. It Goes: Hey now baby, get into my big black 'car'. Slick Willie really screwed us Band fans when he choose Fleetwood Mac to perform at the televised inaugural party, instead of the Band. This would have given them great exposure and it would have been a perfect time to reunite Robbie and the fellows. I'm sure the fellows could,ve put the bad blood behind them on that warm&fuzy feel good evening. Yeah I know, woulda coulda shoulda. Yep Bill blew it, then he got blown!

Thu Oct 22 19:33:49 MET DST 1998

Ragtime (NOT Slick) Willie

NED: I like you more & more since you made your classic Kermit the Frog comment. Your heart is in the right place. "It's a-comin', a brand new day". PRIVATE JACKSON: Are you sure it was Norway you fell in love with during your 3 weeks in 92? AND NOW: Please mr. Music, will you play!

Thu Oct 22 19:32:29 MET DST 1998

Ned

Let's hear it for Norway! As Private Jackson says, a great land that has given us great men including our great host Jan and Eirik Thorvaldsson, known in English as Eric the Red, ...and great women like Gro Bruntland.

Thu Oct 22 18:29:04 MET DST 1998

Jan H.

Make that "King Olav", private. (Carl) Gustav (aka "dumma kungen") is Swedish ...

Thu Oct 22 18:15:14 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

One more thing. Norway is a great country. It has given the world men to admire like King Gustave and Jan Hoiberg. Spent 3 weeks ther in 92 and fell in love with the whole country. If I didn't live in Usa, it would be Norway for me.

Thu Oct 22 18:08:01 MET DST 1998

Ned

It amazes me that some bemoan name calling, associating it with certain views, yet they constantly do it themselves.

Thu Oct 22 17:58:54 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

From Cream's Disareli Gears album the song Politician(pete brown} should be Slick Willie's theme song: Hey now baby, get into my big black girl. Let me show you what my politics are. 2nd Verse: I support the left, tho' I'am leanin' to the right. But I'm nowhere around when it comes to a fight{draft dodger}. A great song for a weenie president!

Thu Oct 22 17:52:40 MET DST 1998

Ned

I have struggled with the issues of whether political discussion belongs here, yet I can not resist responding to Dave from Canton. About an eighth of the cost of the Starr investigation was spent during this year, thus the amount saved if the Lewinsky matter had been speedly resolved would be small compared to the amount spent previously on investigation into other matters, all of which provided no criminal evidence against the President. Suppose the President had confessed all in January, would the Starr investigation have immediately halted and no further money spent? Highly unlikely. What is more likely is that the investigation would have looked even more ridiculous. It is a shame the PResident did not come clean then. Only by catching the President's obfuscation can Starr and his supporters claim that the investigation was worth it. And now back to the music: Big men, little men turned into dust, Maybe it was all in fun, they didn't mean to ruin no one. Could there be someone, here among this crowd Who's been accused, had his name so misused And his privacy refused?

Thu Oct 22 17:29:22 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

As usual more name calling from Clinton apologists. Pat Brennen: dork,blowjob queen. And Willie is merely "leering"? Leering? Try a lying,backstabbing,manipulative,disingenious,felonious,phony without a soul. Not name calling just an accurate portrayal. Also applies to Hillary. Nobody ever said America was a moral oasis. It was founded on a moral foundation with the Constitution as a guide, as john pointed out. There will always be deviants around and people who support+follow deviants. Re: Clinton apologists.

IF YOU DON'T STAND FOR SOMETHING, YOU'LL FALL FOR ANYTHING.

Thu Oct 22 17:13:24 MET DST 1998

David Powell

As many have commented here, Taj Mahal turned in some really strong performances on the recent _Largo_ album project. Columbia / Legacy last week released a 3 CD Taj Mahal retrospective set entitled _In Progress & In Motion (1965-1998)_. The set features 54 songs spanning his entire recording career, including 15 previously unreleased & live performances. One special treat for Taj fans is the inclusion of several songs he performed at the Rolling Stones' Rock And Roll Circus with his fine band that included Jesse Edwin Davis on guitar. From folk, blues, rock, country, calypso, and R&B to Langston Hughes poetry set to music, every aspect of Taj's music is presented. Perhaps no performer, other than his old collegue from the Rising Sons, Ry Cooder, has done more to preserve so many varied & wonderful forms of music than Taj Mahal. Check out the website at : http://www.sonymusic.com/artists/TajMahal/ for details & song samples from this release.

For some reason of late I find myself listening to Little Feat's "Apolitical Blues". The telephone's ringin' & they told me it was Chairman Mao / Tell him I just don't wanna talk right now.

Thu Oct 22 16:24:31 MET DST 1998

Dave

On second thought, maybe that picture wasn't appropriate. If Jan wants to take out that link, OK by me.

Thu Oct 22 16:20:41 MET DST 1998

Dave

Somebody brought up the "40 million dollar witch hunt" with regards to some comments that Robertson made... A good chunk of that 40 million could have been saved if Bubba hadn't lied in January & told his cabinet lies so they'd go out and defend him in public. Lots more could have been saved if he wasn't so concerned with getting the Presidential Staff polished in the Oval Office and concentrated on his job. Further, we could have saved the 60 mil that he spent IN ONE DAY bombing a Sudanese aspirin factory during Operation Change The Subject when things starting getting too hot for him. It isn't surprising that Robbie Rodham Robertson holds the views that he stated, what with his Arkansas connection and the fact that both he & Billary fancy themselves part of the Hollywood in-crowd. I sure like his music, though.

Thu Oct 22 16:06:43 MET DST 1998

W.S. Walcott

Storyville is a great album. Robbie's vocals are good. The songs are great. God bless Robbie Robertson. It's no crime to change. It's no crime to grow.

Thu Oct 22 15:21:44 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Discussing the political statements of Robbie Robertson is legit here. Sorry, Weenie, but I disagree respectfully.

Thu Oct 22 13:26:45 MET DST 1998

A Weenie

Pat Brennan & Ben Pike & John from Penna: let's talk music now, OK?

Thu Oct 22 10:34:53 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

All too true Pat. They deserve each other. Say, I did some time in Skokie myself. Do they still have Hot Dog Island?

Thu Oct 22 08:35:02 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

I looked for the RR interview at Amazon.com, but maybe too late? Where to find it?

Thu Oct 22 06:42:08 MET DST 1998

Anowara

Way to go Pat Brennan and jw!!

Thu Oct 22 05:58:18 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

It's hard to be on a right side here. You have a leering Clinton giving in to the advances of fairly demented blowjob queen in the White House versus the 40 million dollar witch-hunt of a prurient dork. Not a lot to recommend on either team. However, anyone who believes America was some moral oasis when the Founding Fathers were around is kidding themselves.

Thu Oct 22 02:37:12 MET DST 1998

Winona

I love your site and music

Thu Oct 22 02:09:13 MET DST 1998

Kinky Friedman

Apologies to Donald Joseph

Lester Atlas follow the map to El Paso.

Thu Oct 22 01:10:14 MET DST 1998

Bones

There is an interesting interview with Robbie in amazon.com today. It discusses some of RR's favorite songs. Like John from penna, I prefer Robbie talking about music rather than politics(heck, I prefer for everyone to talk music rather than politics). I won't tell of all the RR songs, but I found it interesting that Hoagy Carmichael's "Stardust" was the song he most wished he had written.

Wed Oct 21 23:53:12 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

Now Lester, you make some good points about Clinton. And the next time the Tiny People come in their UFO's, you tell them you need documentation on some of this stuff to send to little Kenny Star. John, you show yourself as the true brave right winger you are. You deride a BAND MEMBER for making a mildly political comment; but when you're called on your nonsense, SUDDENLY the Band room is no place for politics. I don't blame you though, trying to defend little Kenny is about like making a case that Islands is the Band's masterpeice. But you better not talk about among anyone but Limbaugh Pod People, cause you will get your rear kicked pronto, conversationaly speaking. And just for the record; I don't mean to speak for Levon, but I kinda doubt he would side with get Clinton crowd either......

Wed Oct 21 23:17:46 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

To Donald Joseph: Ah, my mistake. Levon & Hiatt are on the "Red Hot + Country" video, not album. I lose the prize. I don't know why the track listings should differ so greatly. The video is live and has Levon on 'Caldonia' then Levon, Hiatt, Radney Foster & Mark Collie on 'The Weight'. Levon plays drums elsewhere on this too. The CD is studio with a totally different selection without either of them. I'd missed 'The Neighbourhood' because they're on different songs. Anyway, the video is worth getting.

Wed Oct 21 22:08:53 MET DST 1998

Crazy Chester

Check out ebay.com. There's some interesting Band stuff there.

Wed Oct 21 20:22:13 MET DST 1998

Lester Atlas

Damn John i wish i represented-peckerwood but alas i must take viagra! Advice for Levon: stay a way from your buddy slick williw clinton. Some say he caused the death of Vince Foster&Jim McDougall plus the jailing of 7 former "buddies" and the forced to leave the country of about 10 others. All of them Arkansasan's! Ah yes politics in the USA today. They're all interchangeable and talk the same rhetoric. Makes me long for the politics of the past. There was nothing slick or P.C. about them. They could be rude,rough and rowdy but they individualists and you knew where they stood. In the 18th&19th centuries dueling and brawling were used to settle disputes. Ronnie Hawkins and theHawks used fisticuffs to get out bad situations. You can't always sweet talk you way through life ladies&gents. Even "weenie" Danko knew that sometimes "might is right".

Oh Serge do you still adore David Powell? Watch out Dave, don't bend over near ole' Sergie. HAW HAW HAW

Wed Oct 21 19:36:42 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

AT LAST: Kenny Starr made it to The Band's Guestbook! I was wondering when politics would show up. Since members of The Band (before AND after The Last Waltz) involved themselves with 'liberal' presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, nobody should be surprised that one of them talks the way Robbie did. Everyone is entitled to his own political opinions and the fact that I agree with Ben Pike (apart from his particular tone) doesn't say that the Band family has no place for rightwingers like John from Penna. Please notify that The Band, in spite of their liberal views, have always expressed a certain nostalgia to old family values in many of their lyrics. Their choice of Book Faded Brown being the latest example: ......AND THOSE WHO SAY THEY'RE THE OUTSIDERS, ARE ONLY EASY RIDERS ON A HORSE THAT'S GOING LAME...... Regarding Ian's question: Its' all on this very guestbook, you know.

Wed Oct 21 17:28:50 MET DST 1998

Ian

First I heard of all this! Where can I read the Robbie interview and the "weenie" review? Please e-mail me. Thanks.

Wed Oct 21 17:27:30 MET DST 1998

John

David Powell wrote: "the reason i like music so much is it takes my mind off all the bullshit in life". My sentiments exactly,thank you. Likewise happy b-day to Steve Croper who has literally defined the art of R&B guitar. Steve along with Booker T. Jones on organ, Al Jackson on drums and Donald "Duck" Dunn on bass were the rhythm section for almost every hit to come out of the Memphis Stax/Volt Records era. They were the essence of groove. Perhaps one of the most easily recognized licks in the world is Steve's "Soul Man" lick.

Wed Oct 21 17:03:20 MET DST 1998

John

Hey Ben Pike, I "represent" that remark{peckerwood}. Its not about sex. But this isn't place to discuss politics, so I'll refrain from a response. Besides my experience has been that you can't discuss issues with some people{liberals specifically} in a logical and intelligent manner before they resort to petty name calling.

For the record I agree with Robbie when he dismissed Procul Harem's whiter shade of pale as a recycled version of when a man loves a woman by Percy Sledge. Just another example of why RR should stick to talking about music and storytelling. Would we really like to hear Bill Clinton talking about the finer points of saxophone playing?

Wed Oct 21 16:59:18 MET DST 1998

David Powell

The Tower store here in Atlanta had some of the pricey Japanese Toshiba/EMI import versions of the Band CDs. Since they didn't have the brown album I picked up _Music From Big Pink_ for $25.99. I did a quick comparison of the Toshiba/EMI CD with a first pressing copy of the Capitol LP, the Capitol CD, and both the Mobile Fidelity gold CD & vinyl versions.

The good news is that the import clearly sounds better than the pathetic Capitol CD. The larger-than-jewel-box size cardboard cover that duplicates the original LP artwork & photos is also a nice touch (even though the color tint is not quite right). However, the import sounds slightly veiled when compared to the Mobile Fidelity versions & the original Capitol LP. Since the Mobile Fidelity versions are out of print & most of you no longer buy vinyl, the Japanese import CD is definitely the best sounding version currently available for someone who doesn't already have a copy.

I do have a problem with the high price of the Japanese imports, especially since they contain no technical information (at least printed in English) regarding the source & process used for the reissues. I would guess that analog source tapes were transfered digitally to hard disk (this is the common practice in the recording industry) before being sent abroad for the CD remastering.

Its very curious that when Capitol had Larry Walsh remaster various Band albums a few years back, they neglected to do the group's best releases, namely Big Pink & the brown albums. Last year, JVC's planned release of a deluxe XRCD version of the brown album was cancelled at the last minute due to reported problems in locating the master tape. As I mentioned in the guestbook previously, the Classic Album video indicates that some form of the multi-track session tapes for the first two albums are still in existence. We can only hope that someday someone, if not Capitol maybe Steve Hoffman of DCC or the folks at Mobile Fidelity, will do a proper job of releasing the Big Pink & the brown album on CDs remastered from the original multi-track session tapes.

Happy birthday to a master of the Telecaster, Mr. Steve Cropper.

BTW--to paraphrase the old saying: "Watching the political process is like watching the process of making sausage. It's only for those with strong stomachs." The reason I enjoy music so much is that it takes my mind off of all the bullshit in life, such as politics. It soothes the savage heart, stomach & ears.

Wed Oct 21 14:48:30 MET DST 1998

jw

Robbie forgot one important point....Monica got her 15 minutes of fame out of this. It takes 2 to tango. At least that's the way many of us Canadians think. Way to go Robbie.

Wed Oct 21 13:02:02 MET DST 1998

Ian

Amazing how Jubilation just grows on you. Listened to Don't Wait five times in a row on my bus ride to work.

Wed Oct 21 07:57:39 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Ben Pike: Right you are! I couldn't agree more

Wed Oct 21 07:16:34 MET DST 1998

Sergeant Lewis

What are you all so upset about? Mr. DeRogatis' review was rather superficial indeed, but not unfavorable. I am a weenie myself, and proud of it!

Wed Oct 21 07:12:11 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

Well, we now have yet another reason to respect Robbie Robertson. What kind of a peckerwood can support the meager findings of lowlife rightwing scum like Ken Starr. You don't have to go overseas to find poeple discusted with trying to play "gotcha" with lying in this contex. A contex(immaterail questions about someone's sex life) witch is never prosecuted(for sensable reasons anyone but a Get Clinton Peckerwood can understand) in the real world. This on top of the totally political trashing of our courts that is the Star Chamber. Hey John, move on to the Lee Greenwood cite and spare us Band Fans. Right on Robbie!!!!

Wed Oct 21 07:08:55 MET DST 1998

Gerard

JOHN from PENNA: I like the way you mock reactionary moral values in the States! Or... did you really mean it?

Wed Oct 21 05:19:47 MET DST 1998

John

Pardon me while I vent a little. Its really unconscionable what some of these reveiwers get a way with. Rick a weenie? This is pure and simple character asassination. Totally uncalled for and wrong. A person unfamiliar with the Band reads it, thinks hmmm sounds like a good album but one of the players is a bit of a weenie,I dunno I think I'll pass. Too many of the critics seem to need to be irreverent and contradictory at times. Maybe the Chicago writer is a fan of H.L. Mencken who once said he liked to throw dead cats into the sanctuary.

As for Robbie and his comments about Clinton's mess and how people he talked with from Europe{r.r. also said this on tv} think we are nuts and obsessed with it all. I say who cares what they think in Europe. The U.S.A. was established on a moral foundation. Its all explained in a little old paper called "The Constitution". So we've had a couple of screw-ups. Nixon&Clinton. We have our standards{which are slipping thanks to liberal socialism}. Europe has their own standards and to put it mildly leaders who screwed up. Stalin,Mussolina,Hitler,Tito. Robbie ought to stick to music and telling stories. If Robbie feels ashamed at the outrage and disgust directed at our President, then he should move to Bosnia and try to sell "Redboy" over there.

Wed Oct 21 03:36:49 MET DST 1998

Bullrider

Levon: Just got "Jubilation" and glad to hear C.W.(consummate picker) get a plug on "High Cotton". "Your constant cowboy"

Wed Oct 21 03:23:37 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Bones & Viney: I was thinking of "The Neigborhood," & I didn't know about Red Hot + Country. Pls. tell me what Hiatt & Helm do on it.

************

I just got my Nov. 22 "Rolling Stone"; the eds. come out against Clinton impeachment, & they ask celebs. to discuss their take on Monica-gate. Page 87 is a mini-Robbie interview...& he goes back to the Hawks! Since none of you Robbie-bashers are going to shell out $3, I'll give it to you IN ITS ENTIRETY. Robbie shows a lot of wisdom with his point about Arkansas culture, but he wholly ignores the legal ramifications of a president committing the felony of perjury. Sorry about the long post, but THIS IS RR TALKING, NOT DONALD J!

"When I was 16 yrs. old I was hired by this group from Arkansas called Ronnie Hawkins & the Hawks. The idea of going from Toronto, where I grew up, to the South was very exciting because I liked going to that fountainhead of rock'n'roll. [nice story, Robbie, but the Hawks remained based in Toronto & you did little more than tour Ark. -- Don J.] I had all these musical pictures in my mind ["take a picture of this..." -- Don J.] But one of the things that became apparant to me was a sexual looseness that I had never witnessed before ["more than Frank Sinatra" --Don J.]. Everybody was like 'This is the way it is.'

"Somebody told me an expression I had never heard before that seemed to sum everything up. I had asked about a friend of mine who had gotten married but was fooling aroung, & another person said to me, 'Eatin' ain't cheatin'.' It seems this Ark. philosophy was much more widespread than any of us knew. When the whole thing came up w/Clinton, I thought he could just say 'I'm from Ark.--I don't know what you people do, but we have our own rules here.' I know that it's kind of silly, but it is so common in that area for people to behave that way.

"Clinton has made some terrible mistakes, but to have someone like Ken Starr, whose only job is to get up in someone's business, is unbelievable. I wonder he doesn't have cameras in the bathroom. At some point you just say 'Is there no respect?' I'm in Europe right now [travel dropper! --Don J.] and people here are baffled & horrified that someone would actually peek in someone's underwear. It's time for everybody to mind their own fu*king business. Just deal with your own dick & leave everyone else's alone."

Thus Spake the Lord.

Wed Oct 21 02:23:19 MET DST 1998

Bill Paige

Boy, I'm glad I didn't write DeRogatis' review!

BTW, I find that far too many music reviews in daily newspapers fail to rise above this caliber; there are many "writers" who do little more than parrot back what is fed to them by PR scum like mice elf!

that said, a mention of the album in a paper read by hundreds of thousands of people on a sunday morning is better than a thousand co-op ads asking people to look for it at Best Buy!

i don't doubt that Jan has the dedication and love of The Band to do a good job promoting it to the press; unfortunately, it has less to do with the love of a project than it does pulling favors and good will accumulated over the course of a career, and knowing how pushy and aggressive to be without endangering those sensitive relationships.

as i am constantly reminded, PR ain't brain surgery, but not everyone has the stomach for it!

best thoughts to you all as I head out to see Mike Peters of the Alarm (opening for John Taylor of Duran Duran -- we'll see how long I last with him!).

peace . . .

Wed Oct 21 01:03:56 MET DST 1998

Spider John

Jim Derogatory of Chicago

Calling Rick Danko a weenie? You ever been to El Paso?

Wed Oct 21 00:14:18 MET DST 1998

Tim(SUNDOG)Corcoran.

To Peter V. Bill P. and BANDHEADS: WOW, this year celebrates thirty years of the last of this country's truly American bands-"THE BAND". They just released (Sept.15th,1998)"Jubilation", and this CD is very close to the sounds of "Music From Big Pink" which they did way back in 1968. Only now they've added a 90's touch. This CD has the seasonal feel of Fall in it, warm like Indian Summer,with a rainbow of songs, performed acoustically in the style that only "The Band" can deliver, rustically smooth and fresh. "Big Pink" was recorded in the basement, but "JUBILATION" was recorded in Levon Helm's converted barn, still in bucolic Woodstock, and has eleven tracks,(nine of which are either written or co/written by The Band) with guest appearances by Eric Clapton on lead guitar, and John Hiatt on vocals. The Band (as ever) show that veteran Rockers only get finer in their muscical abilities with no signs of packing in their Rock and Roll shoes. From Ronnie Hawkins, to being Bob Dylan's back up band, to "The Last Waltz", and on through the 90's, The Bands endurance against the waves of time and MUSIC, keep going, in total "JUBILATION"! This is their best album-CD-tape in twenty years. Check out the (acoustic) bass and Rick Danko's exquisite vocals, the magic of Levon Helm's singing, drumming, and mandolin playing, and Garth Hudson's unique keyboard style! Stand-out tracks: Don't Wait; French Girls; Book Faded Brown. Thats one from Levon, Garth, and Rick. Peace, Tim(SUNDOG)Corcoran. I hope you liked it, you can also see the shortened version under "CD REVIEW" at http://www.maximum-ink.com

Wed Oct 21 00:09:14 MET DST 1998

Anthony saccone

Just listened to JUBILATION once again-Is it possible for a compilation to get better everytime you hear it?!Gonna give another listen!DYNAMITE! I LOVE IT!!!!!

Wed Oct 21 00:07:52 MET DST 1998

Bones

To Donald Joseph and Peter Viney: There is also The Neighborhood by Los Lobos, which includes guest spots by Levon Helm and John Hiatt.

To Bill Paige: Thanks for keeping us informed.

Tue Oct 20 23:30:31 MET DST 1998

Mr. Booking Agent

The management said they were sorry for the inconvenience you were suffering

Tue Oct 20 23:14:20 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

BILL PAIGE: Thanks a lot for your wonderful listings. And listings And listings. It was actually Joseph Stalin who was credited for the notorious line "Too many notes" after hearing a new composition by a Soviet composer. The story was told by Salomon Volkov in the alleged Shostakovich autobiography _Testimony_, some years before Milos Forman borrowed it for _Amadeus_. And by the way: comparing the discussions in this guestbook to Stalin's verdict is a bit out of line, don't ya think? Some of us missed the usual Band subtlety and variation in "Kty Downpour" and "Spirit". What on earth has this to do with stupid remarks by dictators in Soviet Russia or fictional characters in 18th century Vienna? And when your friend Jim deRogatis welcomes ''the kick from a rocking horn section" he probably means that these boring tunes badly needed some kicks.

Tue Oct 20 22:18:15 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Now that I've stopped laughing long enough to post this, I have only one question.

Jim DeRogatis: What _grade_ are you in anyway??

Tue Oct 20 22:06:27 MET DST 1998

Jerry Comeau

That article was "weeny" not Danko! I wonder how high "Jubilation" would be on the charts if Jan was doing PR for it? I know he could do a better job, the proof is in his dedication to this thing we all know and love. Of course, it doesn't matter where Jubilation lands in the charts, that was never what The Band was all about. Take Care!

Tue Oct 20 21:50:52 MET DST 1998

sean

the Jim DeRogatis review is lame...nothin' but pencil whipping, to coin a familiar phrase...at least put some thought into it...the stuff on this web page blows away that inane garbage...what a cool album jubilation is. it's riddled with little mysterious musical nooks and crannies, just like the old stone foundation under the haybarn...

Tue Oct 20 21:28:25 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Donald Joseph: To show I'm reading I gave my database a quick spin. The three other albums featuring both Helm & Hiatt are:

A Tribute to Doc Pomus

Will The Circle Be Unbroken Vol 2

Red Hot & Country

On the last they share 'The Weight'. OK, so which album features Hiatt (as a songwriter) and Robbie Robertson? And what's the prize?

Tue Oct 20 20:45:07 MET DST 1998

Bill Paige

and now, the review (again, apologies for the double post)

On another note, here is a review from the Chicago Sun-Times; I post it because it mentions the merits of two of my favorite songs on the album, which, inexplicably, are frequently dissed in this forum. Everyone's entitled to their own opinion, of course (you know what they say about opinions . . .), and JUBILATION is not without flaws, but the comments about "Spirit" and "Ky Downpour" are almost comical, and recall Jeffrey Jones' character in "Amadeus," who dismisses one of Wolfie's works as having "too many notes."

The Band
"Jubilation"
(River North)
[Three and a half stars]

Who'da thunk it? Not only is Bob Dylan in the midst of what is perhaps the most exciting renaissance of his career, but what's left of his old band The Band has delivered the tenth studio album of its long history, and it's a surprisingly vital and inspired document.

Yeah, Levon Helm has always been a lovable character, and Garth Hudson plays a mean organ. But Rick Danko has always struck me as a bit of a weenie. Richard Manuel is dead, and of course Robbie Robertson is too self-important to bother with "an oldies act."

But "Jubilation" is actually a much stronger record than Robertson's recent self-important trip-hop effort, "Contact from the Underworld of Redboy." Nine of the tracks here are new tunes written by The Band and friends, and they have a timeless spirit that could be dated 1968 or 1998. "Last Train to Memphis" conjures up the back roads where Elvis Presley grew up, and guest Eric Clapton shows more life than he did on his last effort. The rollicking "Kentucky Downpour" and "Spirit of the Dance" both get a welcome kick from a rocking horn section, Danko has rarely sounded better than on the cover of John Hiatt's "Bound by Love."

Hey, Bob, I know you have a pretty great combo these days, and you're firing on all cylinders yourself. But you oughta listen to this disc and consider giving your old chums a call. You might be surprised--I know I was.

Jim DeRogatis
Chicago Sun-Times
Sunday, October 4, 1998

Tue Oct 20 20:41:52 MET DST 1998

Bill Paige

I will try to post the radio list with HTML, so someone might actually read it -- if it comes out garbled again, I apologize for taking up the bandwidth. the sun-times review will then be reposted separately. For those that crave info, here's an update on the radio picture for JUBILATION; the album debuted on the Gavin chart at #33, and jumped to #24 the next week. No word yet this week on where it has moved to.

This listing will be included in a new promo piece being distributed this week and next. It is a two-sided sheet of brown paper called "The Jubilation," done up in an old-time newspaper style, with articles on radio adds, excerpts from about 10 different reviews, info on Levon's club opening 12/26/98, etc. If I manage to get it posted somewhere, I will let you know.

• WUMB Boston, MA
• KERA Dallas, TX
• KDHX St. Louis, MO
• DishCD-A Seattle, WA
• WCLZ Portland, OR
• WERI Providence, RI
• WEVL Memphis, TN
• WFUV New York, NY
• WNKU Cincinnati, OH
• KPFT Houston, TX
• WRNR Baltimore, MD
• KRXS Phoenix, AZ
• WYYB Nashville, TN
• WDVX Knoxville, TN
• WFPK Louisville, KY
• KTHX Reno, NV
• KPIG Monterey, CA
• KRCL Salt Lake City, UT
• WRIU Wakefield, RI
• WFDU Teaneck, NJ
• WERU E. Orland, ME
• WNCW Spindale, NC
• WEAG Starke, FL
• WETS Johnson City, TN
• WRVG Georgetown, KY
• WWHP Farmer City, IL
• KFAL Fulton, MO
• KSUT Ignacio, CO
• KOTO Telluride, CO
• KLOA Ridgecrest, CA
• KPFA Berkeley, CA
• KZYX Philo, CA
• WHAY Whitley City, KY
• KEGR Contra Costa City, CA
• WFHB Bloomington, IN
• WKZE Sharon, CT
• WMKY Lexington, KY
• KRVM Eugene, OR
• KUWR Cheyenne, WY
• KFAN Fredericksburg, TX
• KOZT Mendocino, CA
• KTAO Taos, NM
• WFXQ Chase City, VA
• WDSL Mocksville, NC
• WJJC Commerce, GA
• WMNF Tampa, FL
• WANT Lebanon, TN
• WSKV Stanton, KY
• WMMT Whitesburg, KY
• WCBE Columbus, OH
• “Acoustic” Ann Arbor, MI
• KLOH Pipestone, MN
• KUND Grand Forks, ND
• WEIU Charleston, IL
• KKDY West Plains, MO
• KULP El Campo, TX
• KNBT New Braunfels, TX
• KAZU Pacific Grove, CA
• “Fat Music” Freedom, CA
• KVMR Nevada City, CA
• WHEE Martinsville, VA
• WVLS Monterey, VA
• WDHC Berkeley Springs, WV
• WKHB Hartford, KY
• KURE Ames, IA
• KOPN Columbia, MO
• KSYM San Antonio, TX
• KUOP Stockton, CA
• KTJJ Farmington, MO
• KDMO Carthage, MO
• KOMS Van Buren, AR
• KUSH Cushing, OK
• KYKM Halletsville, TX

Tue Oct 20 20:23:45 MET DST 1998

theo van der werf

being a fan from the early days, i'd like to say that this is by far the best band-site i know keep up the good work

Tue Oct 20 17:31:22 MET DST 1998

Donabie

Went to the spot on this site for a look at more of Paul Flemings paintings. He is truly a gifted artist. The prices are more than reasonable.

Tue Oct 20 15:38:30 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

General Jube I wonderd when you would show up. The Arkansan Militia was a fine fighting force in its day. And I beleive favored son Mr. Levon Helm's grandfather was a highly esteemed officer of this outfit. Can you or anyone concur? Semper Fi.

Tue Oct 20 15:22:44 MET DST 1998

David Powell

In the fall edition of _The Tracking Angle_ magazine the contributing editors picked their favorite live albums. The albums are rated in two categories, musical content & sound quality. On a 1 to 11 "Spinal Tap" scale the ratings are depicted by numbered settings on guitar amplifier knobs. (Some of you may recall that the band in Rob Reiner's hilarious satire of rock music, _This Is Spinal Tap_ motion picture, had customized amp knobs that went up to 11, rather than the standard 10.)

The Band's _Rock Of Ages_ is rated an 11 for its music & a 9 for sound. Contributor Carl Baugher writes: "...The Band plays with loose-limbed, good-time relish, but they're sharp as a razor's edge, too. The horns kick ass with Toussaint lines that add real musical meat to these already fully realized songs. There's a great Garth Hudson 'Chest Fever' intro called 'The Genetic Method,' and fine fluid singing from all the bad-ass singers (and this group had three bona fide killers in Levon, Rick and Richard)."

A few of the other live albums rated include: Otis Redding _Live In Europe_ (music 11/sound 9), The Who _Live At Leeds_ (music 11/sound 10), The Stones _Get Your Ya-Yas Out_ (music 11/sound 10), Neil Young _Time Fades Away_ (music 9/ sound 8), The Allman Bros Band _At Fillmore East_ (music 10/sound 8), The Grateful Dead _Live Dead_ (music 11/sound 11), and Van Morrison _It's Too Late To Stop Now_ (music 10/ sound 9).

Incidentally, in almost all the selections, the ratings are based on the vinyl versions of these albums, which with few exceptions, the writers rate as superior to the CD versions.

Tue Oct 20 14:04:58 MET DST 1998

General Jubilation T. Cornpone

Woooeeee! Just want to thank the fellows in the Band for givin' me my propers by naming their new album after me. Its a goodun and a keeper for sure.

Herein is my wish list of record to cd, or better yet record to cassette. Delmore brothers[down in the dirt]. Tim Hardin[4]. Sleepy LaBeef[it ain't what you eat it's the way how you chew it]. Joe Maphis[dim lights,thick smoke]. Osborne Brothers[bluegrass collection] For dancin' with my lady- Paul Warren,Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass. And for laughs-The Monkees[headquarters]. thank ya kindly and gooodbye,its time to check on pappy's corn liquor still and bile 'em cabbage down.

Miss Dori i reckon you be a lakota, if so i say to you-O Matake Oyasin.

Tue Oct 20 13:44:17 MET DST 1998

Dave

HEY! I swear I heard Robbie doing the voiceover for an NFL promo last night during Monday Night Football. Did anyone else notice?

Tue Oct 20 09:41:45 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Dori West: I love your picture. You must be a lovely lady, BUT...... downloading costs me a lot of minutes (and telephone money) since you are on this guestbook. PLEASE Don't Do It. Don't You Brake My Heart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tue Oct 20 09:24:20 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Information:Tom Thumb - Performance OST is (or was) available on CD - Warner 7599-26400-2, and is a must for Ry Cooder completists. And Randy Newman completists. And Stones completists. It's short though.

Donald Joseph - I don't have a price guide anymore. But very few Band albums turn up, when they do they're not at high prices because they're all on CD. And the re-issue brown album on EMI is better than the original. Having said that, sealed copies of albums with posters are rare in the extreme. Put them safely somewhere and wait - they'll be an eventual investment.

This short debate on unreleased stuff is proving a mine of information on what's about - thanks everyone for giving me info too.

Tue Oct 20 07:04:34 MET DST 1998

Reinhard

To Brin, the Boz Scaggs albums "& Band", "Moments" and "My Time" are all available as Japanese mid-price CDs on Sony. None of them is nearly as good as "Boz Scaggs" (his first official solo with Duane Allman), however, but I guess you know that. Regards R.

Tue Oct 20 06:28:13 MET DST 1998

A Friend Of Donald Joseph

Who's Gonna Throw That Minstrel Boy A Coin...

Tue Oct 20 05:52:45 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Why don't any of you want to discuss the 3 other l.p.'s with Helm & Hiatt? This is trivia I thought some of you could do in your sleep. Also the Rock Hall Band page boner...?

On 10/17 I said Pepote Rouge is on of the 5 best Band "tunes" ever; on 10/18 Li'l John Tyler quite rightly questioned me. But while the SONG isn't one of the all-time greats, the PERFOMANCE is, & I stand by my opinion that it is one of the group's 5 best RECORDINGS. Why? The Band is rightly lauded as a group that was bored by solos; Brown, in particular, is marked not by individual noodling but rather by the 5 singing & playing as one organic Band. The group was always like this, but this characteristic is generally thought to have peaked on Brown. SF has Honeyboy & RR soloing more, Moondog is Richard's l.p., & NLSC is more RR/Honeyboy solos, esp. w/Honeyboy overdubbing stuff. But listen to Pepote. It's the only latter-day original Band recording with the 5 guys all jamming as an organic whole, a la -- or even better than -- on Brown. This is especially true during the instumental jam that fills about the last 90 sec. or 2 mins. of the song, after the singing is over. Listen to that again. It's literally my favorite piece of Band recorded instrumental work. Even while they were breaking up, they were together as one.

"Kinky Friedman" -- boy you're dark, calling me an "a** hole"! What's THAT all about? You've come a long way from fronting your Texas true boys.

Peter Viney: On the topic of valuable vinyl, I have (& I SWEAR this is true) unopened, sealed copies of SF & Moondog -- each with original posters! These are sealed copies with untouched posters! What would they bring in sterling?? I bought them in the early 80's, when I'd thought the posters had long before been out of print. They were in a record store for sale at regular price; I was still a student & almost couldn't afford them. Best purchase I ever made!

Tiny Montgomery: That's some review! Even I'd have a hard time writing that much...!

Tue Oct 20 04:09:31 MET DST 1998

Pat Brennan

Three months of computer hell..I finally get back on line and where do I go first? But before I digress, I believe Dylan does not say "F*cking Loud" on the new live 1966. I hear Robbie say "Hey, one..." then Bob say "Play it loud" Finish Robbie's count (Rick had the beat mixed up so Robbie had to center the proceedings) and you'll see what I mean. For the regulars, that's a new addy up there.

Tue Oct 20 03:26:33 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

What a difference a day makes.

I posted my top 10 faves of vinyl that I wished would come to CD form two days ago. Today I hold in my hand from Koch International, King Curtis & The Kingpins with a double album on one CD pkg. It includes King playing Memphis hits from Knock On Wood to In The Midnight Hour (with original art work) and the one I was really looking for....King Size Soul. Both these albums were put out in '67/68 on Atco. I happened to be on the CDnow site and caught a new title that had nothing to do with the above titles and low and behold there was my album on CD. Same as Peter Viney looking for The Dillards with Wheatstraw Suite and finding it under another title.

Whooooooooopie!

Tue Oct 20 02:18:28 MET DST 1998

tiny MONTGOMERY

I had the great pleasure of seeing a great benefit concert in Santa Barbara this past Saturday night. The show was for the benefit of local (S.B.) Health Clinics, and all four acts played for free. The line-up was Los Otros (traditional mexican folk music with a twist of Los Lobos, but not so much rock), Steve Earle (one of my favorite songwriters alive, and the real reason I made the five hour drive south), Jackson Browne (the host and local resident), and last Emmylou Harris with Spyboy (Buddy Miller, God he's good). The show was at the beautifull County Bowl, which is a great little natural amphatheater in Santa Barbara. It was a great Indian Summer night in Santa Barbara, with a billion stars all around (to quote a phrase). First up was the local flavor Los Otros. They have a great sound, and switch instruments throughout the whole set ( I love it when bands do that, because only the relly good ones can). Great Mexican folk music with a touch of rock, however, they only played acoustic instruments. Next up my songwriting hero (a better teacher, than role model) Steve Earle. His set was well worth the drive, just Steve his acoustic guitar and harmonica. He opened with "Baby, Let Me Follow You Down", "This is an Eric Von Schmidt song I learned from Bob Dylan, who learned it from Eric". "When you're signing a folk song, you're suppose to tell people where you learned it from; Bob Dylan forgot that somewhere along the way, but hey he's Bob." A truly great version "It use to go like this, but then it went like that, and now it goes like this again" for all of you admiring LIVE '66 (it's nice to see such a great performance finally get its due, Rick's backing vocals on "One Too Many Mornings" are such a delight). I still prefer the intro to "Like A Rolling Stone" from the actual Royal Albert Hall Performance (the last show of the tour, from "Crossing The Great Divide") a week later. Bob Dyaln "I've never done this before but I want to introduce Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Garth Hudson and um, um.... Richard..... Manuel", he is so out of it, it's amazing he made it back to America alive! See "Eat The Document" for more ridiculous Dylan Behavior!

Anyways, back to the Saturday Night, next up was "My Old Friend The Blues" always a pleasure, followed by the nostalgic "Someday" "Not a lot you can do in this town, drive to the lake then you turn back around". Then it's "The Devil's Right Hand" followed by the darkness "welcome to my personal nightmare" drop the D and we're off "Cocaine Can Not Kill My Pain" straight to "South Nashville Blues". Steve's nightmare, my euphoria! Then it's time for one from his brillant comeback album "TRAIN A COMIN'", the title trak (kinda) "Mystery Train pt.2" If you don't already have 'TRAIN A COMIN'" do yourself a big favor buy it!

His set lasted about fifty minutes and thankfully a DAT was rolled, my search has begun. I had a breif conversation with Steve after his performance. He has a new record comin' out early next year. It is a bluegrass album (his first) with the Del McCoury Band, I've already heard one song "Carrie Brown" it's a murder ballad song. Nobody is writing songs like this guy, he is single handedly restoring my faith in contemporary country songwriting.

Next up was Jackson Browne. A very solid solo set, with Jackson jumping from guitar to piano. However,it really doesn't matter what instrument he's playing, it's always soulful. He did call Steve out for nice version of the old song Cocaine Blues, Jackson did his own verses and Steve did the traditional ones. Now last, but not least the always amazing Emmylou Harris with her latest band SPYBOY. Her set drew mostly from her "Wrecking Ball" record with a few older songs like "Born To Run" (no, not that one) and the great Townes Van Zandt's "Pancho and Lefty". She did not play "Evangeline". Buddy Miller was amazing as usual, I don't think he ever fucks up! The night ended with Steve and Emmylou dueting on Steve's song "Goodbye". It was a great night for music, charity and living.

On a seperate and more personal note Peter Viney call this number 1-800-571-0460 ask for Tommy, he may still have one copy left.

Mon Oct 19 22:53:17 MET DST 1998

Bones

Top five not on CD

(1) The King of Comedy- Soundtrack (2) Buckingham/Nicks- Buckingham/Nicks (3) Carny- Soundtrack (4) On The Beach- Neil Young (5) Dancing Machine- Jackson Five

Mon Oct 19 22:50:01 MET DST 1998

Brin

Dexy

The LP w/Dylan & D. Sahm duetting on the Delmore Bros. 'Blues Stay Away from Me' was 'Doug Sahm & Friends,' which also featured the debut of Dylan's 'Wallflower' and an appearance by Dr. John.

Mon Oct 19 22:45:34 MET DST 1998

Tom Thumb

Does anyone know if Performance is available on disc?

Mon Oct 19 22:24:13 MET DST 1998

Anthony saccone

Still looking for a copy of the Jan '70 issue of Time mag with The Band on the cover!!! Even a scan would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!! Thanks

Mon Oct 19 22:10:30 MET DST 1998

Anthony Saccone

Just recieved the new Jubilation C.D.!!!! Dynamite!! It's a sure winner!!! Can't wait for THE BAND'S next effort!!! Keep it up! Your tunes are timeless!!! Anthony Saccone

Mon Oct 19 22:10:05 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

What a treasure-trove of great music that's been mentioned on the site recently: Flying Buritto Brothers w/Rick Roberts ("White Line Fever," "Colorado," et.al -- his first solo album was great too); Grin; Douglas Sahm Quartet (what was the album w/Flaco and Dylan -- playing lead on one song! I agree with whoever said it: If you love The Band, you've got the right taste buds. Along those lines, check out the unlikely but wonderful new CD by fellow-Bandophile Elvis Costello and Bacharach. Some great stuff, although very un-Bandlike.

Mon Oct 19 21:38:12 MET DST 1998

Tim

I got Neil's "On the Beach" & "Time Fades Away" for $7 each and "Journey Thru the Past" double album for $12 all from a used vinyl store. All mint condition.

Mon Oct 19 20:16:54 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

This is oblique to The Band, but hell, it's a good discussion and they're all Canadian. If "On The Beach" on vinyl is turning up in used record stores in the USA at $5, buy all you can and ship them to me - it runs at between £40 and £70 at UK record fairs (£ not $). Minimum. And a US cover will be thicker card and probably worth more! I've talked to a lot of sellers and they say Neil Young is hugely expensive because (a) they're not on CD (b) Neil Young fans don't dispose of their old albums (c) "On The Beach" never sold well in the first place. I don't know if this is happening in the USA, but used vinyl prices are rising fast in the UK. The Band are also rare as secondhand discs - but don't seem to be rising in price particularly (but US "Big Pink" sleeves are valuable). An odd example given of a valuable vinyl disc is the "Magical Mystery Tour" EP with booklet. It goes for £40 even though more than a million were sold. Seems no one ever got rid of them, even when they bought the US version (on LP) or the CD. But this is music as investment - which is not the way I see it. How much is a pristine copy of The Band worth? Well, the music on it is priceless!

Mon Oct 19 20:00:14 MET DST 1998

Brin

P. Rivard

'Paradise and Lunch' is in print now and has been for some time.

As for other essential LPs that have yet to be released on disk, the following come to mind (all have at least a not-too-many-degrees-of-separation connection to the Band and their ethos):

1. Sir Douglas Quintet. For whatever reasons, the Quintet/Doug Sahm have been shamefully overlooked even as far lesser artists have been graced with box sets and rarities collections. Only a couple of best-of's and some nice but hardly essential 80s & 90s recordings have ever been on CD. At a minimum it would be nice to see a set of their early Tribe recordings (the original 'She's About a Mover') as well as some of the classic early 70s sets such as 'Return of Doug Saldana,' '1+1+1=4,' and 'Together After 5.'

2. Phil Ochs, 'Rehearsals for Retirement' and (especially)'Gunfight at Carnegie Hall'.

3. Boz Scaggs, 'Moments' and 'Boz Scaggs & Band.'

4. Alpha Band, 'Alpha Band' (1st lp).

5. T-Bone Burnett, 'Trap Door.'

6. Them, 'Backtrackin' (a compilation of rare/unreleased in the U.S. tracks, which included the essential 'Mighty Like a Rose,' the one serious omission from the recent 'complete' Them collection.)

7. David Forman, 'David Forman' (eccentric & soulful 1976 release including 'If It Takes All Night' and 'Smoky China Tea.')

8. Grin, 'Grin' (1st LP, w/'Like Rain')

9. Blue Sky Boys. Any collection of their 30s & 40s Bluebird recordings.

10. Bailes Bros. Collection(s) of their 40s (Columbia) and 50s (King) sides.

Mon Oct 19 18:55:37 MET DST 1998

Bud

Donald Joseph - Welcome Back! Jubilation, indeed.

Mon Oct 19 17:21:07 MET DST 1998

Pete Rivard

On the subject of unreleased material on CD's, does anyone know whether Ry Cooder's 'Paradise and Lunch' has ever been rereleased?

One of the lamentable side effects of CD packaging is the lack of surface area to work with in the way of art. What my band did on our CD was to structure the CD insert as a 9-panel foldout, as opposed to a booklet, and thus were able to reproduce the cover art at larger-than-vinyl size. It also allowed us to print the song lyrics at larger that 5 point type. I wish more designers would try this approach and save all of us 45 year-olds from searching for the magnifying glass. And while we're on the subject, I think o lot of contemporary designers ought to revisit the idea that typography is supposed to be readable, in size, style and color.

Mon Oct 19 15:19:56 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Yes there are way too many fine albums that haven't been reissued in the CD format. Those of you who are analog challenged should stop complaining & go out & get a turntable. Many of the albums mentioned here in the last few days can still be found in used record stores at affordable prices. Artists such as Dylan, Clapton, Son Volt, Wilco, Van Morrison, Neil Young & many others still release their new albums on vinyl also, often at prices cheaper or comparable to that of CDs.

Several of Neil Young's albums that he recorded for Geffen are available on CD as imports only. Neil has been "working" on releasing a comprehensive CD box set retrospective for several years now, but the problem delaying the project is that Neil is not happy with the sound available through current digital technology. Lately he has been experimenting with the slight sonic improvements afforded through the use of HDCD encoding, but the problem is that few people have CD players with the expensive HDCD decoders. Neil displeasure with digital is evidenced by the fact that he's gone to the trouble to release his last few albums in separate all-analog (AAA) LP formats in additon to HDCD digital versions

That said--in the last few years I've run across all of the Neil albums mentioned here, including _On The Beach_ & _Time Fades Away_, in excellent condition at used record stores in the $5 price range. One artist that no one's mentioned that can't be found on CD is King Biscuit Boy a/k/a Richard Newell, the fine singer, harp player & former Ronnie Hawkins sideman. He recorded several fine albums, solo & backed by the group Crowbar, filled with classic no-holes-barred rock, R&B and blues numbers. He even recorded an album on the Epic label that featured the songs & participation of Allen Toussaint. It's time for Sony/Legacy to dig into vaults & put that out on CD. I guess it's time for me now to quit my soapbox preaching.

Mon Oct 19 15:18:06 MET DST 1998

Keld Hansen

Will The Band ever tour Europe again? They were great when I saw them in Germany in '96! Where can I get the new album? Please help. Thank you.

Mon Oct 19 12:08:52 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil (again)

Oh good...I see it, I post it, I reload to read it -and it's back to normal. Better switch brands of coffee:-)

Our friend Dori below here posted some HTML and Java that messed things up a bit. Just cleared it up, in between your two recent postings :-).
--JH

Mon Oct 19 12:05:36 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Ummm....is anybody seeing these guestbook entries in hot pink? Is this like seeing Pink Elephants? Only drinking coffee here. Anybody?

Mon Oct 19 11:57:05 MET DST 1998

Dori West

Really enjoyed my visit to your well planned out web-site. Great music & info.

Mon Oct 19 08:51:18 MET DST 1998

Ben Pike

Hey Gang. Lot's of excitment what with a new Band album and the Dylan thang. Some peckerwood I read gave the new album only two stars. How Come? Anywhoo, I would point out that cause Neil never put ReActor out on CD you also don't get "Southern Pacific" and that is a real strong tune. I thought I saw "On The Beach" once on an import. But I sure do miss "Time Fades Away", thats a real good album. Also, the Warren Zevon live set "Stand In The Fire" should be on CD. It is a terrific album and has two songs of witch there are NO studio versions. Ain't that right Peter V?

Mon Oct 19 04:42:21 MET DST 1998

Ned

Ahh, Donald Joseph, I love the idea of recording live-in-the-studio. There is something about that appeals to me, but it is so rare these days. One of the few I know who works almost exclusively that way is Van Morrison. I will not hold my breath waiting for the Band to do so.

Mon Oct 19 04:37:35 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

[CORRECTED VERSION:]

This "vinyl-on-CD" wish list thing you guys are doing has little to do with the Band, since their stuff is on CD, so it goes against our God Jan's instuctions/intent for this page. But since everybody's doing it (& yes, if everyone else did, I WOULD jump off a bridge), here're mine [note: I will tie mine into the Band, too, unlike some of you]:

* Audiophile-remaster (or at least Larry Walsh remaster) of Brown l.p. (why wasn't this done when Larry remastered the other Capitol l.p.'s?)(I understand there is a Japanese job, but I want something available stateside & affordable);

* "Quacky Duck & His Barnyard Friends" (self-titled, 1974; best & most politically incorrect tune:"Media Push");

* Warren Zevon's "The Envoy"; and

* ALL 3 of the Alpha Band albums (T Bone Burnett's band); i.e., self-titled album (1976); "Spark in the Dark" (1978, w/Ringo Starr, cover of "You Angel You," originally recorded by the Band & Bobby Z.); & "Statue Makers of Hollywood" ('78). These are all classics & anyone who likes the Band would like them.

In fact, the Alpha Band -- T Bone, Steven Soles, & David Mansfield -- were the 1st & best spin-off of Zimmie's Rolling Thunder Revue: They got together as Zimmie's back-up band. Sound familiar? The Alpha Band is the 2nd greatest rock'n'roll group ever to have signed a record contract on the strength of being Zimmie's back-up boys. Incidentally, Zimmie & the Alpha Band had holed up in Estes Park, Colo. Stanley Hotel to reherse (although if you've heard "Hard Rain" you'll doubt they did much practicing). I just stayed at the Stanley & they have pictures up on the Rolling Thunder sessions.

Mon Oct 19 02:30:09 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

To Tom Thumb: "Sign on the Cross" is not one of my absolute favs, but since you posted I realized that I neglected one of my all-time favs - your namesake, which I would have formerly attributed to "Guitars Kissing...", but of recent [as discussed in this guestbook] must be attributed to "Live 1966." Almost everything has been said about it, so all I can add is: "stunning."

Mon Oct 19 02:01:27 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

I volunteer to be executive producer of the NEXT Band album (I come very cheap). Here's what I'll do:

Record it live-in-the-studio, like Basements, SF, & LW studio tracks, or at least require the boys to hole up & devote full attention to the project, a la the Brown l.p. sessions.

Wait for Levon to get healthy, & have him do all or virtually all the drumming, w/Rick playing all bass (stand up or electric); only exceptions: When they're playing a different instument, like mandolin (& I'll see if I can get Ricky to pick up the fiddle).

Only Rick & Levon are allowed to sing. We'll arrange tunes in advance & try to get them to harmonize. If we need another voice we'll get Bobby Charles or some other guy from the era. The new guys simply don't get to sing, not even background (or not much background & no leads).

Song selection & editing are paramount. If the boys write or find songs like "Book Faded Brown," "Don't Wait," "Last Train," great. If they bring songs like "Kty. Downpour, White Caddy," "Spirit," "Amazon," etc., etc., I'll politely decline. To fill the album we'll choose tasty covers like "Atlantic City," "Blind Willie," "You See Me," "Stuff You Got to Watch," etc. Bobby Charles is a sporadic writer, but we'll try to commission stuff from him, as Ricky did on the 1st solo l.p. We'll dip into the Dylan/Hiatt songbooks as necessary, or let Levon do a Muddy tune.

We'll use guest guitarists or use a name-brand guitar hotshot (EC?) to bring back a distinctive guitar sound -- the recent albums have GOOD guitar, but it's not distinctive.

Let me do the above & every one of you will be declaring it the best Band l.p. since Brown.

Mon Oct 19 00:49:54 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

Wish they were on CD, the Professor of Music, at the Berlklee school of Music, in Boston, Al Kooper, NYC, your a women, and my favoirte, I Stand Alone, which on this web site, some of us do. We mentioned Seatrain in past months, and if I remember, Sea Level, with Chuck Levell. David, if I am wrong about Sea Level, let me know, a favorite son here.

Sun Oct 18 23:12:18 MET DST 1998

Crazy Chester

Sun Oct 18 22:45:44 MET DST 1998

John donabie

Formatted properly I hope. ALBUMS I WOULD LIKE TO SEE ON CD:

Like Peter Viney, many pieces of vinyl that I wanted to come to CD have happened in just the last year, i.e. American Son by Levon, Jesse James Soundtrack, my favorite Mississippi John Hurt on Rounder, Tour 66 officially.... and good news for Peter...Wheatstraw Suite is available under another name. It is called The Dillards..."There Was A Time 1963-1970 on Vanguard VCD-131/32.

OK here we go...

David Amram..........Subway Night...one of the first composers-in-residence-with the New York Philharmonic. He came from the "beat" generation of the west coast

Seeds...............Gallagher & Lyle

King Curtis & The Kingpins......King Size Soul

Dr. Music.........Retrospective....a Canadian Band led by an old friend of The Band, Doug Riley.

Libby Titus......Levon's Former on Columbia

Ronnie Hawkins & The Hawks......rrrracket time....on British Charly label

The Hawk........Ronie Hawkins on Hawk records with members of his current hawks at the time and the late Duane Allman

The Real Thing.........Taj Mahal.....the only Columbia piece of product not yet released on CD

Jerry Hahn Brotherhood........featuring a great track called Martha'a Madman

Mike Finnegan...........self titled on W.B. featuring a great track called Southern Ladies (David Powell would love that one)

Mike Corbett & Jay Hirsh with Hugh McCracken

Finally Hoyt Axton.........Road Songs.

There are many more; but that certainly is a wish list for me.

Sun Oct 18 22:21:17 MET DST 1998

Spider John

Diamond Lil

I happen to love ladybugs, aint that "Amazon"? Gonna go Levon & the Allstars a listen. Noticed a Havana Moon or was I "Daydreamin"?

Sun Oct 18 21:18:09 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Good albums not yet in CD format:

It's surprising how many exist in one country or another. The final remastered Byrds albums (from Untitled on) are due before Christmas with bonus tracks. My list of 'non-released' stuff has got considerably shorter this year - 'American Son' and 'Jesse James' are available at last. Here are ten vinyl wonders:

Steve Miller Band 'Recall The Beginning - A Journey From Eden.' From 1973. Miller declines to release it.

Neil Young, 'On The Beach' - with Levon & Rick contributing. Again, the artist declines to issue it. There are bootlegs now circulating - or rather "pirates" which couple it with 'American Stars & Bars' on a 2 on 1 CD.

'The Flying Burrito Brothers' - 3rd album with Rick Roberts, and "Colorado'- everything else except this is out. Why? Great album.

'Wheatstraw Suite' by The Dillards.

'Carny' OST with a side of Robbie Robertson.

'King of Comedy' OST with 'Between trains'. At least Van's 'Wonderful Remark' from the OST is on a 'Best of …' set.

'Barbarella' OST with the Bob Crewe Experience (OK accuse me of weird taste, but I keep looking for it).

'Link Wray', 'Mordecai Jones' - all of the first, and some of the second are on the compilation 'Guitar Preacher' but I'd like all of 'Mordecai Jones' - and all of 'Broth' (another Wray / Verocca collaboration). And Link Wray with the original fold-out cover.

'Louisiana's Leroux' with one of my favorite tracks, 'New Orleans Ladies' Number 10 +. All the Rolling Stones early albums as originally released in Britain. The present early CDs are culled from shorter US albums assembled by their record company. The UK versions are (a) superior (b) nostalgic. I especially want 'The Rolling Stones #2" (so I'll make it number 10).

Sun Oct 18 21:05:50 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Anyone who lives in upstate New York may be able to identify with this. I got in from work a little while ago to find literally hundreds of ladybugs hanging out on every window of my house. Of course, leaving one window open when I went to work - I found lotsa ladybugs _inside_ the house as well. (As I write this they are keeping me company). I'm posting this because instead of being annoyed at these uninvited houseguests, all I can think of is Rick Danko singing "There's a hundred lucky ladybugs landing everywhere I see". Thanks Rick. Now if only I could win a million dollars for a dollar in the lottery :-)

Sun Oct 18 21:02:00 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

AbFab:

The version of 'This Wheel's On Fire' over the credits of ABSOLUTELY FABULUOUS is by Julie Driscoll with Adrian Edmonson. Julie Driscoll had the original number 5 UK hit with Brian Auger. Adrian Edmonson starred in 'The Young Ones'. He is the comedian husband of AbFab leading actor, Jennifer Saunders and the version is a comedy record in intent, as observed. The series ran in the UK from 1992- 1995. Julie Driscoll refused permission for release of TWOF as the B-side of a French & Saunders charity single - which was a major a hit, too). Marianne Faithful & P.P. Arnold recorded a further version (which was theme to the Absolutely Fabulous two part special, broadcast November 6,7 1996 in the UK). P.P. Arnold had a hit with 'The First Cut is The Deepest', and this is a great version - less of a send-up.I agree that it's good to hear the Dylan / Danko song at the start and end of a good TV series.

Sun Oct 18 15:57:53 MET DST 1998

Tom Thumb

What about Sign on the Cross, Jonathan Katz?

Sun Oct 18 14:30:40 MET DST 1998

Pete Bottoms

So glad to find this site and many thanks for the new record . My whole family listened to it last night . Hope you are well ; and may you stay forever young .

Sun Oct 18 14:06:04 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Rarities and strange connections.

OK, if we're playing puzzles, someone follow this one through. Hawkins and The Hawks recorded a track that was erroneously credited to Hawkins / Helm, You Cheated, You Lied, even though it had previously been a hit for both The Slades and the Shields. Years later in 1965 The Shangri-Las cut a cover version, credited to Helm. Among references to the Band I found a rumoured association with the Red Bird label in the mid-60s. Red Bird was the Shangri-Las label. The Band's California studio was called Shangri-La. A tribute to 'Lost Horizon' or to that mini-skirted 60s girl group? Or a sense of humour combining both?

The other "great lost tape" has to be the four tracks they cut with Carly Simon when she was being seen as the female Dylan in the basement era. This session is often quoted.

Today's 'Sunday Times' has the most ignorant review ever of 'Live 1966'. One Andrew Smith says he "is still disturbed to find Dylan's words being trammelled by the clod-hopping R&B of what sounds like a very average pub-rock band." The word "cloth-eared" springs to mind.

Sun Oct 18 13:17:15 MET DST 1998

Jerry Comeau

I've always wondered why the following Neil Young albums have not been released on CD. (I haven't seen them anyway):

Time Fades Away(73) - I think this is his best work.__ On The Beach(74)__Hawks & Doves (80) - Captain Kennedy is an excellent song.__Reactor(81) - This one is not as strong as the other three but "Surfer Joe & Moe the Sleaze" make it worth while.

Another vinyl worth mentioning is The Byrds "Farther Along", I've never seen it on cd.

Sun Oct 18 11:56:58 MET DST 1998

Roger Woods

VH1 (UK) is showing The Band - An Official Documentary. Monday night (well in fact Tuesday AM but on their listings they count this as Monday) - 1.00 AM - 2.00AM 20th October. Still no official release date for Jubilation? In the land of the Free Trade Hall???

Sun Oct 18 11:38:10 MET DST 1998

Jan H.

What a wonderful morning. Long walk in the cool, crisp, autumn air, clear sky, wonderful colors and _Jubilation_ on the disc-man. Got some funny looks while I was singing along, but who cares? Thanks for the nice discussions going on here lately. Keep on behaving (not you, SN).

Sun Oct 18 03:55:07 MET DST 1998

Kinky Friedman

Donald Joseph

During one of your frequent bathroom breaks during the song in question did it ever occur to you that you were the "asshole from el passo"? Note the lack of caps. BTW Marty Robbins was Martin Rabinowitz before the name change.

Sun Oct 18 03:34:18 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

Expanding on a Peter Viney post, how about a top five unreleased Band/Dylan collaborations: 1) You Aint Goin' Nowhere, 2) I Shall Be Released, 3) Tears Of Rage, 4) All You Have To Do Is Dream, 5) I'm Not There 1956. Honorable mentions: I'm A Teenage Prayer, Quinn, Nothing Was Delivered, Crash On The Levee (Rock Of Ages version), Too Much Of Nothing.

Sun Oct 18 02:22:41 MET DST 1998

Little John Tyler

Mr. Donald Joseph:

With all due respest, sir...."Pepote Rouge" in The Band's all-time top five????

Sat Oct 17 23:46:25 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil (one last time)

Ragtime Willie:

Thanks for the info on Wheel's on Fire. Never knew that! Yes, I agree - that version was perfect for the humorous 60's show "abfab".

The dog is fine :-)

Sat Oct 17 23:40:49 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Peter Viney & Donahue: I like your rarities speculation; for years I've played the "rarities" game in my head. Peter's rarities article on this website is fantastic & picks up all my fantasy stuff, except:

* In the late 70's, Rolling Stone's "Random Notes" reported Ricky was back in the studio, Shangri-La I suppose, w/Rob Fabroni producing, working on a 2d solo l.p. Where is this material? Garth's non-involvement may mean it escaped the flames.

* At the "Moondog" period, I'd always understood the Band was flailing around in the studio for 6 mos. or a yr., crippled by alcohol/drug problems of Ricky (or was it Richard)? They ultimately came together & put out Moondog, but I'd always assumed they had layed down a bunch of unissued tracks at this time.

* The studio version of "Don't Do It" is memtioned in Peter's article, but it bears repeating, because G.Marcus in Mystrey Train essentially says it's the best Band song ever recorded.

* Also I want a complete set of the Hawks Roulette & other solo (without Ronnie) singles.

Ragtime Willie: I'll overlook your fake ignorance of British bubblegum if you answer my questions about 3 Levon/Hiatt albums or my Rock Hall website boo-boo query.

"Moon Struck One" is a classic. While no dance track, its dirge pace fits the song subject -- hey, the kid is dead, isn't he? Richard's rich vocal is a keeper. The ballad (story-song) format is forced, & no "Dan'l & Sacred Harp," but still miles superior to the 4 dogs on the new album. My only beef: Snakes BITE, they don't "sting."

Martin Rabinowitz: I settled in to read your long post & was disappointed you merely regurgitated Marty Robbins lyrics. Made me want to go to the bathroom. And why'd you ignore my spelling note? Ay carumba! It's ROSA's, not "Rose's." Rosa is a Mexican, damn it, & Spanish has no silent 'e.'

Sat Oct 17 23:40:45 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie (over & over again)

Diamond Lil: forgot to say I feel sorry for your dog!

Sat Oct 17 23:21:44 MET DST 1998

Sven Johnsson

What a web site! Wow! I had no idea my favorite group of all times had a shrine like this on the net. Been here for hours now and there's still treasures and details and wonderful information in every corner of this place. And the guestbook is cookin'!! Diamond Lil', I _love_ you.

Sat Oct 17 23:08:26 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie (again)

Diamond Lil: "This Wheel's On Fire" was a hit in the late sixties for Julie Driscoll & The Trinity (British pop group). This version is no match for Bob Dylan and/or The Band of course, but is most suitable for hilarious sitcom "AbFab " mocking the sixties.

Sat Oct 17 23:02:23 MET DST 1998

henry

My wife and I closed on our first house on 9/15. Our first day cleaning, etc. was on the 16th. About 2 hours after we got started, the postman came with our copy of "Jubilation", which I had ordered on-line. Since all of my CD's were packed, we listened to "Jubilation" time and time again. One month later, we still do, even though all of the CD's are unpacked. Quite simple, it is perfect.

Sat Oct 17 22:15:40 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil (again)

Wow....kids watching a show on the comedy channel called "Absolutely Fabulous". Song used to startthe show was " This wheel's on fire" ! Ran into the livingroom (tripped over the dog on the way) and damned if I didn't hear right! Anyone know if Danko/Dylan ok'd this..and more importantly if they did - why?

BTW..whoever was singing it really sounded _bad_.

Sat Oct 17 21:54:46 MET DST 1998

Jim Soko

I was at the Greg Allman & Friends show in Poughkeepsie last night. Ran into Butch Denner, close friend and whatever to the The Band. He said Levon is doing well, but doesn't expect any shows for 6 months. Still recovering. He thought they were lucky to get the vocal tracks that they did on the new album. So for those that question the quality, thank god that you got what you did. For those in the local area, you missed a great show.

Sat Oct 17 21:44:26 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Mr. Rabinowitz:

Think we might have met somewhere. Doesn't my lawyer know your dentist?

Sat Oct 17 21:33:38 MET DST 1998

Martin Rabinowitz

Donald Joseph- Like the Gambler says read em and weep:

Out in the West Texas town of El Paso I fell in love with a Mexican girl Nighttime would find me in Rose's Cantina Music would play and Felina would whirl Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina Wicked and evil while casting a spell My love was strong for this Mexican maiden I was in love, but in vain I could tell One night a wild young cowboy came in Wild as the West Texas wind... Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing With wicked Felina, the girl that I love So in anger I challenged his right for the love of this maiden Down went his hand for the gun that he wore My challenge was answered, in less than a heartbeat The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor Just for a moment I stood there in silence Shocked by the foul evil deed I had done Many thoughts ran through my mind as I stood there I had but one chance and that was to run Out through the back door of Rose's I ran Out where the horses were tied... I caught a good one; he looked like he could run Up on his back and away I did ride Just as fast as I could from the West Texas town of El Paso Out thru the badlands of New Mexico Back in El Paso my life would be worthless Everything's gone in life nothing is left But it's been so long since I've seen the young maiden My love is stronger that my fear of death I saddled up and away I did go Riding alone in the dark... Maybe tomorrow a bullet may find me Tonight nothing's worse than this pain in my heart And as last here I am on the hill overlooking El Paso I can see Rose's Cantina below My love is strong and it pushes me onward Down off the hill to Felina I go Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys Off to my left ride a dozen or more Shouting and shooting; I can't let them catch me I've got to make it to Rose's back door Something is dreadfully wrong for I feel A deep burning pain in my side... It's getting harder to stay in the saddle I'm getting weary, unable to ride But my love for Felina is strong and I rise where I've fallen Though I am weary, I can't stop to rest I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle I feel the bullet go deep in my chest From out of nowhere, Felina has found me Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side Cradled by two loving arms that I'll die for One little kiss and Felina goodbye

Sat Oct 17 21:27:15 MET DST 1998

Spider John

Jericho is a great album. Remedy, Blind Willie, Caves, Atlantic City, C Boy, Japan, Amazon & Too Soon Gone are all excellent. 8 out of 12 = .667 batting average. Who hits that good in Ohio?

Tenor Sax Man- I got a School Boy Heart and will try hard to be there. Only Time Will Tell.

Miss Crabtree- you gonna give DJ a Spanky?

Sat Oct 17 21:20:27 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Donald Joseph: I just forgot. Who are these names you mention at the end of your latest comment? (I mean Sporty and so on). I am not good at codes, you know.

Sat Oct 17 21:10:04 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Donald Joseph: we don't disagree about Jubilation at all: the four tunes you picked out are my "dogs" too. "Kentucky Downpour" and "Spirit Of The Dance" are boringly repetitious (as I stated earlier by the way)."White Cadillac" would probably have been better if Levon or The Hawk himself had sung it instead of Randy SHARLONTE. About "Amazon": why don't you mention Rick's desolate singing on that particular tune? About "Twilight": I never heard live versions, only this reggae studio version that doesn't sound like The Band at all (but I must admit Rick does a nice job on that one too). About Islands and HOTH: of course these albums have some moments, but as a whole: I persist, your Honour. It's nice to disagree and it's nice to overdo it as well, don't ya think? And PLEASE DO defend Cahoots & make "The Moon Struck One" bearable to me!

Sat Oct 17 20:17:25 MET DST 1998

donabie

Just a thought. Over the past couple of years I've noticed that from time to time as Band fans we get to stretch out and talk about some of our other musical appreciations. You see, I have this theory. I have found over the past thirty years that generally Band fans "have a better than the average guy," taste in music.

For example. Many Band fans I have know were also into Little Feat....or Steely Dan. In other words intelligent Rock 'n' Roll to sound a little arrogant. Ol' Dexy brought up Jerry Hahn & The Brotherhood the other day and Mike Finnigan as well. What does this all lead up to? It's no crazier a thought than any other Top 10 ideas put forward here in the past.David Powell has mentioned great vinyl he has found over the years etc.

Here's my idea. Why don't we post out favorite top 5 or 10 pieces of vinyl that have not seen the light of day, for whatever reason, on CD yet? I know that as musical thinking folks, you have from time to time wondered why your favorite piece of vinyl hasn't been made available yet on CD. Yeh sure I know..it never sold well etc. Who cares. You get to be A&R person for a day and choose your favorite vinyl and tomorrow we can all buy it on CD. I have my top 10 wishes almost ready to go. What do you think?

Sat Oct 17 20:17:00 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Enough blustering, wannabes, let's see who's for real: Levon & John Hiatt both appear on 4 albums -- each is a genuine organic album & not a K-Tell complilation. Who can name the other 3?

Ragtime, I like anyone who likes the Band, & your nom-de-guerre is admittedly better than my own. But I'm surprised the Band's ovuere is big enough to accomodate 2 fans with tastes as different as yours & mine. Twilight is one of the 20 best tunes the Band ever recorded, & Islands, although it doesn't hold together as an album, is full of fantastic tunes. (Pepote is one of the 5 best -- yes, 5 best -- Band tunes ever, & Georgia, Christmas, & even Streetwalker are fantastic.) (I can also do a passionate defense of Cahoots if you want.)

Let's try a little test, Ragtime: To me, on the new l.p., 4 songs literally jump off the disc at me as DOGS: Kty. Downpour, White Caddy, If I Should Fail, & Spirit (If I Should Fail is the best of the 4, but still a dog). The other 7 tunes are ALL GREAT, (although Jeunnes Filles Francaises is overrated by fans on this page -- it's NOT FUNKY, people!).

It appears most serious Band freaks who contribute to this page agree with my "7 good 4 bad" analysis. DO YOU, Ragtime? (If you don't, cool, in diversity there is strength. I'm just SURPRISED its possible to have tastes like yours & not also be into Scary, Baby, Sporty, & Posh.)

Sat Oct 17 19:12:16 MET DST 1998

Tenor Sax Man

Freddy Fishstick:

Thanks for the mention! Nice to know I have at least 1 fan ;).

BTW - Not playing sax in Nov., singing. Mom, "jamaica" mistake! Hope you'll still come.

Peace!

Sat Oct 17 19:08:58 MET DST 1998

Joe

Altho I don't want to start a war here, I have to agree with Donald Joseph on Amazon: it is dreadful. HOTH gets some bad press on this site (almost as much as RR...) but really it's not much worse than Jericho and I have a feeling (when the novelty wears off) than Jubilation. Back to Memphis is as good a track as any on Jubilation. High Price of love and Crazy Mama are great Band performances IMHO ! I DO like Jubilation but let's not get carried away. Back to Memphis crackled when The Band played it live in London ! I bought American Son on Friday (for UK fans HMV are selling Big pink CD @ £6.99) and it really put Jubilation into perspective for me. A song like Hurricane really showed the energy that Kentucky Rain lacks fr'instance. I'm like everyone else, tho', I'll feed off the scraps we now get and enjoy them, I just feel a little sad that maybe a spark's missing. RR's albums at least try and do something original: Peyote healing is sublime....

Finally Hello to New Zealand, I'm glad someone agrees with me about Rick's voice sounding a little like Adam Duritz: that's supposed to be a compliment. Rick is unique and I disagree with the misuse comments. I even like Stage fright (BTF) live when he whoops and hollers "like a bird"!! Anyway try Flyer the Nanci Griffith album where Adam duets with her on Going Back to Georgia: superb (now that web site really has some flaming......)

Sat Oct 17 19:04:25 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

To Donald Joseph: Spice Girls? Are they a rock group? From Cincinatti I guess? Never heard of them. About "Amazon": I heard it six times (even more) and lijke it anyway. You don't need to have been on a spot to give YOUR OWN impression of it. It's all fiction, you know. Was Bob Dylan ever on Desolation Row? Was Rick Danko ever topped after being "In The Arms Of My Best Friend's Wife". FICTION, my friend. By the way: I could show you a lot of embarrassments from The Band, far worse than Amazon: among them "Twilight" and the whole Islands and HOTH albums. All artists need their bad moments in order to reach the top.

Sat Oct 17 18:33:51 MET DST 1998

Miss Crabtree

Donald Joseph:

So happy you're here! Now Serge will have someone to play with.

Sat Oct 17 18:28:23 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Here's a parlor game for those of you starting to burn out on this website:

Jan's "Members of the Band" page contains a link to that odious "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame" & its page on the Band. The Rock Hall Band page contains at least one gross error. Let's see who can find it first!

HINT (read no farther if you know enough about the Band not to need a hint):

Don't tell Bobby K's mama!

Sat Oct 17 18:07:44 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

"Rosa's cantina" [note spelling of both words] comes from the Marty Robbins classic "El Paso." The Dead, in the late '70's, used to let Weir sing this just about every show -- I used it as my scheduled bathroom break.

Ragtime Willie: You say you can't tell whether I think "Amazon" is good or not. Why don't you listen to the song 6 times, as I urged? If you can't tell this is the greatest embarrasment of the Band's career, you'd be better served at the Spice Girls' web page. Even Honeyboy lost his judgment when he added those goofy squaks & acricket sounds -- he's never even BEEN to the Amazon. Squaks & crickets?? Bigger offense: It's not funky & it makes your skin crawl!)

Dr Ugg: LEARN ********* HOW ************** TO ************* WRITE*********** IN ************ ENGLISH *************

Serge: I second the controversy of anything you say (even though I've not forgotten you used to flame me mercilessly). T.Jacobs, if you don't like it, there's always the Spice Girls website (Aside to Ragtime Willie & T.Jacobs: Pls. report back to us whether, at the Spice site, Ginger is the subject of a derision similar to Robbie's here. Scary!)

John Donabie: "[I]n an interview I did with Robbie in '95..."; "I know when I was at the LW...." Name dropping is an art, & you're Picasso! However, your subsequent drop of John Cougar is not your Blue Period! Cheeses! Jan, pls. edit out all future reference to anyone as unfunky as John Cougar so we don't spoil our keyboards with barf. How many times are we supposed to have to hear (ugh) "Jack & Diane," John? Puh-leeze!

Sat Oct 17 17:58:06 MET DST 1998

Tim(SUNDOG)Corcoran.

Well,nice to see that The Band website is as powerful as ever thanks to "JAN THE MAN",anyway I want to say that its been over a month now since the release of The Bands new CD "JUBILATION", and now my review, with help from Peter(no last name) ha ha ha,well be seen here sometime in a couple of days. I got great comments here in the midwest on the review, but its the hard core "BANDHEADS" such as yourself, that I'm hoping will like it,cuz I don't think I could handle the rejection from you, cuz I love you all oh so dearly, don't cha know, ha ha ha !!! Anyway, it had to be shorten to make the paper, so I'm putting the original and the "MAXIMUM INK" MUSIK MAGAZINE shortened review for all to see. I'll let you all know when the paper is up on the website, Rokker is working on it now. Its front cover is graced with "MICKEY HART",formally of " The Grateful Dead", now with "PLANT DRUM" and "THE OTHER ONES". Take care and please, live well, laugh often, and love much! Peace, Tim(SUNDOG)Corcoran.

Sat Oct 17 16:33:06 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

John Donabie:

On "Eric Clapton, The Band & Friends - The Last Waltz' (1994 bootleg) there are two rehearsal versions - 'All Our Past Times' and 'Further on Up The road' - so tapes were running at least some of the time.I think they'd have problems releasing additional tracks, because the clean-up done on the released tracks with heavy overdubbing according to Levon (and to the ears) means that the other tracks would sound so different. They can hardly do any more cleaning up.On 'The Complete Last Waltz' it's pretty clear (again Levon backs this up in his autobiography) that Joni Mitchell lost the pace, and the unreleased stuff from her set is pretty weak.

Sat Oct 17 16:26:57 MET DST 1998

donabie

Just a little bit more on rairites. I would love to see a deal made with Saturday Night Live & Letterman for some of the Band material to be released. I remember Levon doing a great version of "Ain't That A Lot Of Love" one Saturday night. John Mellencamp was in town this week and I mentioned that I would love to see his version of Jackie Brown that he did live on Letterman from Chicago released as well. Excellent Lou Reed as well. The live Letterman album was a good start; but there is amazing live musical material that could be released; although I am sure it would be a licensing nightmare.

Sat Oct 17 16:20:48 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

Peter Viney:

Regarding Rarities....Something I would like to see released; however in an interview I did with Robbie in '95 I don't think it will happen....is the "official" release of the rest of The Last Waltz. He told me he didn't think people would be interested anymore. I know when I was at the LW they rehearsed downstairs at the hotel as well as Winterland. I don't know if that was portion was recorded or not. That would have been great. Dylan on drums etc. I heard more live Cahoots material during rehearsals then ever before or since. I realize a lot of material was lost in the fire at Garth's; but hopefully someone, someday will give the same love and attention to a definitive box set..just like they did with Hank Williams Sr. recently.

Sat Oct 17 16:07:28 MET DST 1998

Serge

T. Jacobs from NJ. I'll voice my opinion anytime, in any manner and as often as I want here. If you don't like it, skip my entry. Arrogant enough for you?? Go spend more "interesting" time trying to figure out whether Dylan said 2 words or 3 words between tunes. I notice that YOUR entries have really been controversial, thought provoking and interesting.......NOT!

Sat Oct 17 13:08:32 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Going back to last week's discussion about a Hawks / Band rarity set done properly. In the wake of the massive critical acclaim for 'Live 66' there couldn't be a better time to do it. While they would not want to step on 'Jubilation', they could do it in six months time and still capitalise on their renewed reputation as having performed 'the best live concert of all time' (November Mojo cites 'Rock of Ages' as a contender). They could also get more attention to 'Jubilation' - in spite of Mojo's 30 pages which frequently heap praise on The Hawks, there is not one mention of the current release.

Oh. But in the UK it's not a current release - even now. (River North please note).

If they could get Dylan's co-operation, what a set it could be. Thanks to those who pointed out rarities I'd failed to note - the 'Rock of Ages' version of 'Down in The Flood' with Dylan being a prime contender (it's on a Dylan bootleg). As we know there's loads of basement material. More Before The Flood and Planet Waves tracks. The Woody Guthrie concert (available, but you might not want the rest) … 'Hazel' from 'The Last Waltz.' Then the singles, hopefully more Hawks material …

On bootlegs, a few years ago, either RR or Dylan (I think it was RR) said they'd never released all the basement tapes / Live 66 because they figured everyone already had copies. I don't think this is a true reading. They're often easy enough to pick up if you really look, but a lot of people would never come across them. I've tried very hard indeed and still haven't found 'Crossing the Great Divide'. And 'Live 1966' shows that the official version is going to be way superior. The hard-core fans who sought out the boots will buy them again. Strike while the iron is hot.

Bones: I was quoting C.P. Lee on "might be Robertson" - I had a good listen and it sounds like Dylan to me too.I was interested to see if anyone else thought it could be Robertson. Just read a few more reviews - everyone of them hears the middle word in 'play f***ing loud' and they're not quoting each other either.

Richard's piano is pretty audible in several places on both 'Guitars Kissing' and 'Live 1966'. I think what people mean is that it gets buried in the full ensemble pieces. ("Thin Man" is Dylan on piano, not Manuel anyway)

Sat Oct 17 10:54:32 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

Here you go Dr. Ugg

Out in the West Texas town of El Paso I fell in love with a Mexican girl Nighttime would find me in Rose's Cantina

Sat Oct 17 10:50:46 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

Elmo Leonard

I believe Rose's Cantina is part of a Marty Robbins tune from West Texas. BTW- jimmy Buffett tipped his sombrero to Robbins with "A White Sportcoat & a Pink Crustacean"

Sat Oct 17 00:40:10 MET DST 1998

Elmo Leonard

Dr. Ugg

Isn't Rose's Cantena from Hombre? With Rick drinking from a canteen full of rum maybe he was holed up in Margaritaville.

Sat Oct 17 00:13:29 MET DST 1998

DR.UGG

I Am into DYLAN as much as any one but I'm not ready to even hear "66" yet . I'm still stuck on "JUBILATION". Man tell me if I'm off target but the three minute movie " IF I SHOULD FAIL" keeps taken me to the same place near ROSE'S CANTENA . There is know way down the troubled path in less you hide in the HIGH COTTON. ************************STAY WELL************************PEACE FROM THE GOOD DR.UGG

Fri Oct 16 23:44:52 MET DST 1998

Bones

It is interesting that two people can hear the same recording but hear completely different things. To me, Dylan seems to clearly say the words "play f****** loud", and, unlike what Mr. Viney suggests, it seems to clearly be Dylan and not Robertson who yells it. Interesting that people still have different opinions about it.

Fri Oct 16 23:37:41 MET DST 1998

Danny Lopez

To David Powell -- I've got "Guitars Kissing" and today I listened to a tape I made of it in my cheap cassette player in my car. Richard's keys are definitely audible in "Tell Me Momma" and many other tunes. In fact, in light of recent discussions that one can't hear him, I was surprised today just how much he is evident throughout. To be sure, the piano is most pronounced at the end of a verse or chorus, where "space" seems to open. When everybody is working away on their instruments, the piano is often buried. On "Ballad of a Thin Man," there doesn't seem to be any piano on it at all. But then it's back again and very evident throughout "Rolling Stone." On another note, I recently purchased the Gold cd version of "Stage Fright" and was quite amazed by the sound difference. I never before realized that Levon was doing so much on the drums on the title track. Peace.

Fri Oct 16 22:41:02 MET DST 1998

"Peter Viney" and "David Powell"

I'm sure Peter Viney and David Powell is one and the same person.

Fri Oct 16 22:38:31 MET DST 1998

Tim Jacobs

Just got live 66 Dylan and I am blown away by its power. Yes it is better than the 74 tour mainly because of Dylan's singing and the arrangements. I was interested in last weeks debate on the F word. Sounds to me like it's just "play loud". I see that today's USA Today got it right. This website rules. There are many great entries, I enjoy Peter, Potsy and David's among others. I just wonder why people bad mouth Rick's singing and everything about Robbie. Hey Serge, if you're going to spend the time to write, why not make it about something positive. You are probably one of the most knowledgeble of all Band fans but you come off as pompous and arrogant. Also, your preoccupation with Robbie Robertson is getting old. Don't let the fact that others admire him, bother you. Mr. Powell, if you would please help me with the quote you once before used, that alludes to positive behavior. Something about, insults hurled? Anyway it was lovely!

Fri Oct 16 21:58:51 MET DST 1998

SN

Nice work on the home page Jan!

Fri Oct 16 21:35:18 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Not to beat a dead horse here but if "Guitars Kissing" comes from the earlier remastered version that "filtered out" the audience & hall sound, that seems to indicate that a great deal of digital equalizing and/or noise reduction was used. That would explain why the sound is crisper & cleaner. On the other hand, the official Live 66 version has a flat, midrange bloom to it with all the extraneous hall sound, which would indicate that Greg Calbi didn't fiddle around with what was recorded on the original 3 track source tape, which the liner notes indicated used compression . I feel that this is a more accurate version of what a live analog recording from 1966 should sound like, but maybe I'm in the minority here. What I'd like to know is if Richard's piano is any more discernible on the"Guitars Kissing" version?

Fri Oct 16 20:51:40 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Guitars Kissing:

The liner notes to the official CD 'Live 1966' make it clear that the tapes were remastered a few years ago. Dylan magazines indicate that the first remaster "got lost" and became 'Guitars Kissing.' Far from being an 'nth' generation tape, the CDs are crisp and clear, clearer than 'Live 1966'. However, Dylan felt the first remastering attempt lost ambience and 'Live 1966' is the second attempt. Dirtier, louder audience, but much more exciting. As I posted earlier in the week, I'm glad to have both. I remember criticism / half-hearted praise of RR's guitar playing a few months back. Play 'Live 1966' and recant. In those 66 concerts RR kicked the s**t out of all competition.

The song Levon plays drums on, on 'Deserter's Songs' (Opus 40) is a magical piece. I played it this morning on the way for a walk on the beach. On the beach I found myself humming 'Golden Slumbers'. No coincidence. Listen to the chorus on both songs, and wonder wwhy McCartney doesn't get a songwriting co-credit on 'Opus 40.'

Fri Oct 16 19:49:23 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

John Donabie: Wow, always great to run across a real Finnigan fan. He's been in LA for many years, works with Etta James and CS&N among others - he was with John Fogerty in DC a few years ago, the first time Fogerty sang CCR songs in decades. Sang on ER a few years ago, was on the SPACE JAM album, produces albums by others, etc. He tours the Midwest about once a year, selling out and occassionaly doing one of the real old ones. I saw him this summer and he did "Capt. Bobby Stout." He's a real untapped superstar, but his cult lives on -- in fact, there is a small film company that has interviewed Mike, CS&N and others for a documentary that may actually be finished someday. As you may know, the Jerry Hahn Brotherhood covered Cripple Creek in live shows (to get back to the topic of this guestbook).

Fri Oct 16 19:30:59 MET DST 1998

JOHN DONABIE

OL' DEXY:

I still cherish my LP of Gerry Hahn & The Brotherhood. Mike Finnigan's solo album on Warner's is one of my all time favorites. I understand for a number of years he was playing keyboards with Crosby Stills & Nash.

Fri Oct 16 16:55:03 MET DST 1998

tim

i'm looking for a copy of the article "the moving shadow of richard manuel".

Fri Oct 16 15:37:20 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Talking about lyrics: the appearance of a god doesn't necessarily make the song religious (God Only Knows). About voices: one of the many unique features about The Band was that trio of great voices. Richard had "soul", Rick has this "tear" and Levon has his freshness and spontaneity, even now when he sounds like an old man (yes, Uncle H., he does...).Together they covered a whole range of emotions. To Donald Joseph: I can't figure out whether you find "Amazon" a bad tune or not. I like it anyway, just as 50% of Jericho. But I think we all have to admit that HOTH is The Band's most embarrassing failure. Luckily Jubilation is much better, even when some tunes sound a bit repetitious ("Kentucky Downpour" has no tune at all and "Spirit Of The dance" is no more than hot air). But this album really has its gems.To all musicologists in this guestbook: who 's next to explore the Band influences on Johann Sebastian Bach? The Thomascantor loved The Hawks and when he heard Garth Hudson playing "Bessie Smith" and "Chest Fever" he decided to compose some great Toccatas and Fugues in the same manner.

Fri Oct 16 15:30:35 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

Re: Band influences. When I was about 14, living in Wichita, I came across a classified ad: "Jerry Hahn guitar lessons, $10." For those who don't know, Jerry Hahn is one of the alltime great jazz guitarists, having played with Gary Burton, the great organist/singer Mike Finnigan (see "Electric Ladyland"), solo and now with Ginger Baker. Hahn was at this time (1971) quite out of it, and had returned to Wichita, living in a very poor part of town in a tiny beat up house. I had a group that revered Finnigan (and others), so I begged my parents to drive me into this questionable neighborhood and for the $10. Hahn was very nice, gave me reams of music I could never hope to master, and answered any questions I had. One was: who do like in rock'n'roll? His answer: "There's only two that matter: The Beatles, The Band." I'm now 41, and with the exception of Finnigan, have pretty much lived my life by those words.

Fri Oct 16 15:25:09 MET DST 1998

Ol

Fri Oct 16 15:08:32 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Serge mentioned the similarities between Procol Harum & the Band. Perhaps no where is the more evident than on the song "Chest Fever." Apart from Garth's classical inspired organ work, Robertson's almost nonsensical lyrics seem to parody the style of Procol Harum's lyricist Keith Reid.

In the liner notes to Procol Harum's fine second album, _Shine On Brightly_, Paul Williams writes that the group's first album drew inspiration from Dylan's _Blonde On Blonde_ and in turn seemed to lend inspiration to _Music From Big Pink_. Over all MFBP is truly original, but in the case of "Chest Fever" Mr. Williams has a point.

One example of a Band influence on Procol Harum is evident on the song "Wish Me Well" from _Shine On Brightly_. This song features some great vocal & piano work from Gary Brooker along with the bluesy guitar playing of Robin Trower. Trower (or maybe Matthew Fisher) also sings harmony parts on the song that are reminiscent of Levon's interplay vocals with Richard Manuel. Fans of Procol Harum should be on the lookout for the import 3 CD 30TH ANNIVERSARY ANTHOLOGY released last year on the English WestSide label. Disc One features remastered versions of the complete first two albums. Disc Two contains _A Salty Dog_ (containing the Band-like "The Devil Came From Kansas") and _Home_ albums. Disc Three contains "A" & "B" side singles, out takes & previously unavailable alternate & stereo versions of such songs as "A Whiter Shade Of Pale", "Homburg", "Conquistador" & "She Wandered Through The Garden Face." I highly reommend this box set.

BTW the Dylan/Hawks Live 66 set was mastered by Greg Calbi, who has worked at Masterdisk Studios for many years. Like his former colleague at Masterdisk, Bob Ludwig, Mr. Calbi is a proponent of the "less is more" approach to mastering, as far as adding equalization or altering the basic sound of the master tapes. Mr. Calbi's contributions are far too numerous to mention here but highlights include: Clapton's _Crossroads_ & Dylan's _Biograph_ box sets, Springsteen's _Born To Run_, the Rolling Stones classic _Exile On Main Street_, Paul Simon's _Graceland_ & _The Rhythm of The Saints_, McCartney's recent _Flaming Pie_, and Van the Man's _Avalon Sunset_ & _Best of Van Morrison_.

Fri Oct 16 15:07:34 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

The North/ South Connection is the heart of The Band as typified by Acadian Driftwood/The Night they Drove old Dixie Down, and the geographical makeup of the original members. I have hounded my detractors and amused some of you with my half serious attempts at linking The Band & Jimmy Buffett. As I have noted earlier, Bob Dylan covered "A Pirate Looks at Forty" and lunched with Jimmy aboard the former's boat while in the Caribbean. At last I found that which I always felt. Jimmy Buffett's grandfather, Captain James Delaney Buffett was born in Rose Blanche on the southeast coast of Newfoundland In 1904 at age sixteen he left Newfoundland and landed in 1916 on the Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Case closed.

Fri Oct 16 14:28:41 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

Home sick today- what could I do? Listening to Jubilation. You See Me by Allen Toussaint got me to thinking and linking. To the Sax Man from up north

SAXAPHONES I cut my teeth on gumbo rock Benny Spellman and Doctor John Sweet Irma Thomas and Frog man Henry

Jimmy Buffett Livin & Dyin in 3/4 Time 1974. Enjoy!

Fri Oct 16 13:51:34 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

Now we are starting a Georgia contingent on this site, Once again, how can we, David and Mike, get The Band some air play. E Mail Z93, fax Dwight Douglas,their program director, call, whatever it takes. One another note, anyone in the trading mode. Looking for the Crossing boot. Do have interesting items to barter.

Fri Oct 16 11:02:26 MET DST 1998

Jan H.

Just moved the guestbook traffic from the last couple of days to the archives. If this continues, we're gonna break the record from March this year...

Fri Oct 16 03:33:51 MET DST 1998

Donald Joseph

Bud from Cleveland, I'm touched you remember me (sniffle) (cf. your 9/30 & 2/16 postings). Gracias!

The level of discourse on this page has improved! I hope Jan doesn't mind -- but I am grateful for -- the drop-off in inane "JAN I LOOOOOOVE YOUR WEB SITE! I ONCE HEARD THE BAND GIGGED WITH DYLAN!!! DID THEY??"-type postings.

I still scratch my head over the occasional plea that we not post any critique of the Boys, since they are better musicians than we are. Those who only want to read laudatory stuff should stick to the website-in-chief & keep out of the guestbook, where unquestioningly intoning love for the Boys would be nothing more than masterbatory.

The new l.p. is easily the best of the '90's trilogy, because the songs are the best. Levon is quoted recently as saying all he needs is a good song. But post-Robbie, he has (& the Band have) needed -- but not usually had -- an editor to say what's good. Aaron Hurwitz, God love him, must have a tin ear. (By the way, Boys, I happily volunteer for this job.) The critiques on this page of the weaker tune correspond to my own opinions. If all of us can pick out the clunkers, why don't the Boys get someone like us to do the job for them & Aaron? (By the way, if you're so reverential you don't like to hear of bad Band tunes, go listen to "Amazon" 6 times before you flame me!).

Case in point are the goofy tunes on Staying Together, a lot of American Son, etc., & HOTH/Jericho. The new l.p. has more good tunes than the prior 2 l.p.'s, but there are still a few clunkers, as this page has already pointed out.

Also, I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but the new guys in the Band shouldn't get their turn at lead vocals. ("White Cadillac" my a**!) They may be decent singers, but Levon was & Rick still is one of the best singers in pop music. Ever listen to the Brett Mydland tunes on the last few Grateful Dead studio l.p.'s? Even a hard-core Dead tour-head would admit, in a rare moment of clarity, that Brett's tunes are worthless. The Dead boys & our boys are polite in allowing the new guys a chance, & they deserve credit for that, but I don't see the Rolling Stones letting Chuck Levall, the new bass kid, or even Woody sing a word. Something to be learned there.

Bud, I love you, man!

Fri Oct 16 03:13:32 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

Bill Munson or any other Toronto musical mind whose memory is still intact.

On the November shows of 1965 at Massey Hall with Bob & The Hawks...who was on drums? Levon...Mickey...or Sandy. I just can't remember...and I had a front row seat! Old age Ugh!!!

Fri Oct 16 03:09:46 MET DST 1998

Cocteau Van Gogh Geronimo

"...inside the museums, infinity goes up on trial.." I guess I'll have to go to the Museum of Radio and Television in NYC to view "Eat the Document" unless a legit video is released. Does anyone know if raw footage still exists on this? Maybe the museum knows...

Fri Oct 16 02:37:58 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

I know some of you have been waiting for the Jubilation/Jimmy Buffett connection, here it is:

On Book Faded Brown some of you have noted a rainbow/Kermit connection. Me thinks Jimmy beat Rick to the punch with Caribbean Amphibian on Elmapoloooza. What say you Powell & Viney?

Fri Oct 16 00:56:09 MET DST 1998

Bflat blues

If any knows the chords and/or tab and lyrics to "don't do it" please send them to me

Fri Oct 16 00:33:17 MET DST 1998

Mike Carrico

Heard Live 66 on local Atlanta station last night. I would agree that Richard's piano is almost inaudible. I'm sure what the audience heard was much more fleshed out.

It is obvious that Levon is not there. Mickey Jones is always on top of the beat and he propels the music along forcefully, but I miss Levon's funkier style - subversively massaging under and around the beat.

Robbie was brilliant; his jagged lines a great match for Dylan's vocal style, and for the defiant tone of the songs. Makes me wish he would lock the door, tear his shirt and let that "skanky guitar"(as he recently called it) flow some these days.

Can't compare the overall sound of the CD to other releases, as I never heard any of the bootlegs. Sounded damn good to me though.

Fri Oct 16 00:30:13 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

POTSY FROM WEEDSTOCK:

I own a copy of Eat The Document and the most frustrating thing about it is that there are not enough music clips. You see a little of Tom Thumbs Blues and a few others; but as soon as your hooked, there back to verbal scenes. One of the best scenes is Robbie and Bob in a hotel room jamming together.

Fri Oct 16 00:03:00 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

Last comments: Re Dylan Live. Mickey Jones, can whale and Levon was a lucky man to return. Yes, Garth and Robbie are the predominate players to my ears. Feel that Richard was best represented on last cut, "..... Rolling Stone" If interested in a comparison, try Dylan Live 66, then Before the Flood, and in the middle Forever Young. Even though, there is a 8 year spread, the music meets the span of these years.

Thu Oct 15 23:34:04 MET DST 1998

Potsy

I would like to see the entire show that Pennebraker shot for the making of Eat the Document. The Hawks were on fire on that night and in my opinion sounded even more menacing than they did at the Manchester show. Robbie's solo on Tell Me Momma is one of his best and he gets a more eerie sound on Ballad of a Thin Man, which brings me to Garth who is in rare form with one hand raised high above, playing like a possessed madman. It is also the best version of I Don't Believe You and Garth and Robbie get real dirty. I wonder if the Tom Thumb that appeared on Masterpieces is from the same show? One look at Robbie's hideous suit is enough to know that he wont be happy if it's released.

Thu Oct 15 23:18:13 MET DST 1998

Bones

To David Powell: You are right. Warts and all, Dylan Live 1966 is a better recording, although some people still seem to prefer the more mono version. I'm sorry about your Braves.

To Peter Viney: Is that the November issue of Mojo that has the large article of the concert? If so, we have to wait a few weeks for it. Now I know how you felt about Jubilation coming late.

To Bill Paige: Any news on our boys?

Thu Oct 15 21:52:43 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Kevin---Since "Guitars Kissing..." is a bootleg copy produced from a tape several generations removed from the original, could it be that what you think is echo & EQ added on the "official" release is actually ambient detail that was captured on the original 3 track recording? Tony Glover's detailed notes clearly state that an earlier mastered version "filtered out most of the audience and hall sound." It's my understanding that the source for "Guitars Kissing" was a copy of this earlier version which Dylan rejected. The audience / hall sound was not recorded on a separate track, so in order to filter or reduce the level one would have to use a digital equalizer or similar device to cancel out those sounds. The drawback is that everything else in that same frequency would also be affected. Add this to the fact that the bootleg has suffered several generations of lost detail from the original source tape, so what you end up with is not an accurate reproduction of what was recorded on the 3 track master.

Although I don't own a copy of "Guitars Kissing," I have heard it and agree that it has a smooth, warm, almost analog-like sound. Evidently some people might prefer this sound to that of the official version. I believe, however, that the new version is a more accurate representation of what was recorded live in the hall, warts & all.

Thu Oct 15 20:37:41 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

"Dylan" 1973

According to several sources The Band appear on this album. However, Michael Krosgaard's definitive session notes in "The Telegraph" indicate that they aren't playing on it - he lists everyone who is.(Rough album, anyhow)

Unlike 'Live 66' - Mojo devotes 30 pages in the latest issue including great quotes from Mickey Jones and ones you've heard before from RR.And yet another ecstatically favourable review of Mercury rev (The album title, it seems, is a reference to The Band - Marcus had referred to their classic albumds as 'Deserter's Songs.'

Thu Oct 15 18:15:32 MET DST 1998

Jerry Comeau

According to tunes.com, the 1973 album "Dylan" had all 5 members of The Band on it. It also lists Fred Carter, Mike Bloomfield, Al Kooper, etc.

Does anyone know if this is a fact, are The Band on this poorly rated album? What songs? Thanks in advance.

Thu Oct 15 18:08:09 MET DST 1998

Ian

For the most part, I love Rick's vocals. What I'm saying is whether before the Waltz or after, there are times when I feel he does that "choked-up, Crazy Chester" thing. I hear it as "too much" and would rather that he just sing the song honestly.

Thu Oct 15 03:55:31 MET DST 1998

Terry(the bear)Baker

remember the boys from the old Brass Rail days,the good ole`days,the Hawk was in rare form.

Thu Oct 15 02:53:48 MET DST 1998

Serge

About a year and a half ago I pointed out that a similarity existed between Procol Harum's and the Band's instrumental line-up and that even the sound on certain numbers had a resemblance. No one got on to discuss the matter back then. Of course a bunch of less erudite habituals was frequenting the Guestbook at that time.. As to Robbie putting down the suggested similarities with Procul Harum and invoking the Percy Sledge tune instead (which cheezed me off at the time), I would venture to say that he perhaps could not discern a Bach Cantata from a fart...in that particular time-frame of course. Then he suddenly got enamoured of Krizstof Penderecki's bizarre (to my ears) music. Reminds me of the late Marilyn Monroe being seen with a copy Dostoievsky's " Brothers Karamazov" under her arm. For effect..!

Just tossing that out there...

Thu Oct 15 01:03:41 MET DST 1998

Kevin

Agree with David on "Live 1966" the piano is lost in the mix. If you've ever heard the piano work on Leopardskin Pillbox Hat from the 5/26/66 RAH show, you know the Manchester recording missing something. Disagree on the echo. I think it was added 32 years later based on a comparison to my stereo copy of the original GK&TCF. Why do they DO that? Lastly, my first impression of the "official" release is similar to Robbie's view of "Cahoots"; EQ'd to death. I'm disappointed.

Wed Oct 14 23:41:58 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

Next time some of us working stiffs, are sitting at our desks at work, having a terrible day, wishing we could be anywhere but where we are, think of the Rainbow lyric, not on a spiritual or a religoius manner. Maybe your day will improve.

Wed Oct 14 23:29:17 MET DST 1998

Bones

1998! What a great year for Band fans! We will look back at this year one day, and realize how great we had it. Dylan's Live 1966, Jubilation, Contact From The Underworld Of Redboy, Largo,etc..... Great year!

Wed Oct 14 23:02:59 MET DST 1998

Pete Rivard

Oh, and I have to agree with Peter Viney. That rainbow lyric is just plain stale, maudlin and weak. Torpedos an otherwise good lyrical concept in 'Book Faded Brown'.

Now, as for the comment about being uncomfortable with the notion of 'God' in a song, every budding Band fan would have turned thair back on the group as early as Big Pink if they were uncomfortable with Christian characters, mythology and spirituality in general. Robertson was always a spiritual lyricist, these days he just expresses it through Native American theologies. Like all good writers, his primary source reference, as it is with all us Westerners, is the Bible.

As for Danko's ability as a vocalist, I've always thought that his was one of the original, unique voices in rock. Used to have an undercurrent of barely controlled hysteria. 'Stage Fright' is a gem, and a great example of what he can do. No one can sing and weep at the same time like Danko, in an understated way.

Wed Oct 14 22:50:32 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Ian: at last someone recognizing that Rick Danko did the trick before on Christmas Must Be Tonight. And you're quite right that Rick sometimes lapses into mannerisms. But he still has his great moments. Book Faded Brown is one of them. Uncle Hangover: you are such a loyal defender of Rick's singing. You are overdoing it of course, but I love you for that. You like Kermit as well, don't you?

Wed Oct 14 22:05:07 MET DST 1998

Pete Rivard

Apropos to the discussion on Band-influenced rock groups, Procol Harum's name was raised. I was one of Procol Harum's biggest fans in my college years (then again, I used to think I was the Band's biggest fan, then I found this website and now realize I'm not even in the top 100). This was most definitely an all-Brit band, most of the original line-up classically trained (shades of Garth). Gary Brooker was the single voice (no Band influence there) and pianist, and tended to use chorales and vocal ensembles for harmony, and heavy on his use of orchestral arrangements. Matthew Fisher was the original Hammond organ player. Robin Trower on lead guitar. BJ Wilson on the drums (an excellent drummer, by the way). When Robin Trower left he was replaced by various guitar players, Mick Grabham being one. Chris Copping replaced Fisher on keys, and doubled on second guitar.

Interestingly enough, Procol Harum featured a lyricist who was not a musician, but something of a university poet, a guy by the name of Keith Reid, who hung out in the wings when they toured. I saw them at Temple University in Philly in '72, with Steeleye Span opening the show. Also saw them at the Tower theatre in Philly in '74, with JD Souther, of all people, as the opening act.

So we come back to the importance of lyrics in rock music. Procol Harum employed a full-time lyricist, Gary Brooker did all the melodies arranging. Some of the lyrics and arrangements tended toward the pretentious, or overly arty, but there's a store of great Procol Harum tunes. After their 'Grand Hotel' album their material got somewhat tired.

Wed Oct 14 20:55:48 MET DST 1998

Uncle Hangover

Ian? You _love_ what Rick does on his albums after The Waltz? Split personality or something, is it? Jeez...

Wed Oct 14 20:26:23 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

First impressions of the Live Dylan concert CD #1 Listen on head phones, close you eyes, Dylan is live. Harp is unbelievable, guitar is overwhelming, voice is strong. Mr. Tamborine Man, Dylan is playing with the audience, you are anticapating the next verse, and he is changing the structure. Question: What do you think The Hawks were doing during the first set?

Wed Oct 14 18:23:49 MET DST 1998

Tim

Picked up Live 66 yesterday. Needless to say I am very impressed. "You wouldn't know it to look at him but he was famous long ago for playing the electric violin on Desolation Row". I didn't see Jubilation there yet. I guess it's not out in Canada yet, glad I ordered mine through CD now. Thanks to Columbia for releasing Dylan in Canada on the same day as the U.S.

Wed Oct 14 17:41:06 MET DST 1998

Ian

Uncle Hangover, I love Rick's singing on those albums; especially his cover of Blue River. Occasionally, I think he lapses into "doing something with his voice" rather than singing honestly.

Wed Oct 14 15:04:08 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Just a brief comparison of the new official release of Live 66 with the bootleg version----I have both a good sounding LP bootleg and a not so good CD version, both of which are mono. It's obvious that the new CD benefits from the use of the 3-track stereo source tapes. There's more depth & air to the sound, along with a wider soundstage. You get more of the Hall's sound & echo which lends to a better sense of being there ambience. The new release has also corrected the pitch problems that plague the bootleg versions; the vocals & instruments have more clarity, despite the use of compression to limit problems with peaks in the sound. One thing I noticed, especially on the solo acoustic portion, is great tone Dylan achieves on the harmonica. In places, his harp sounds better here than on his studio recordings. Although never much of a singer, this album definitely captures Dylan at the peak of his ability.

The instruments of the Hawks are reproduced with greater clarity on the new CD, although Richard's piano tends to be buried in the mix. This is probably due to the fact that it was the only un-amplified instrument and it was probably difficult in getting it properly miked live amidst the increased volume levels of the electric intruments. At the begining of "Like A Rolling Stone," however, Richard's great piano work comes through loud & clear in all its glory.

With the release of Live 66, _Jubilation_, along with _Largo_ & the other side projects, we as Band fans should rejoice. When have we had so much given to us, in a relatively short amount of time, to enjoy? Let us count our blessings. Diamond Lil is right; we should all shut up & listen to the music. And above all, we should play it .......loud!

Wed Oct 14 14:45:30 MET DST 1998

Uncle Hangover

Ian, you're wrong. Listen to Rick's '77 album and his singing on the two brilliant albums (from 1991 and 1994) with Jonas Fjeld and Eric Andersen.

Wed Oct 14 13:46:15 MET DST 1998

Ian

Ned, It seems to me, when it was first noted that Rick had that "tear in his voice", he started to do it ALL THE TIME. The quality you mention on "Book Faded Brown" is very reminiscent of his vocal on "Christmas Must Be Tonight." The innocent shepherd commenting on something much larger than himself. That can be very beautiful, unfortunately, when overdone it sounds a bit "precious."

Wed Oct 14 10:05:38 MET DST 1998

Dennis Nilsen

Wonderful web site. When will "Jubilation" be available here in Denmark?

Wed Oct 14 06:12:25 MET DST 1998

Rod Prowse

I agree that the Counting Crow's vocalist does sound alot like Rick in his younger days. I haven't heard Jubilation yet but I feel that Rick's voice is not what it used to be - I always thought he was a bit undisciplined has a singer and couldn't quite pull of the tricks that Levon or Richard could - especially live. That being said his vocals on TLW are excellent - the best he's done aand probably some of the best on the album. This brings me to another bone of contention with the current set up. That is there is too much emphasis on Levon and Rick singing rather than playing there instruments. There are some tracks on High on the Hog that Rick doesn't play bass on at all. One of the best things about the old Band was the unique sound of the drums and bass - even though it wasn't always R + L. Finally to here some of Richard's best piano work listen to Before the Flood.

Wed Oct 14 00:29:13 MET DST 1998

Adela V. Calbillo

Just returned from my visit to NYC AND Rick's show in Piermont on Friday night! Yes, it was a fun evening, and I ended up spending $100 damn dollars on all his merchandise (4 t-shirts and his CD). Worth it. I want to send lots of love to Rick and the rest of the guys, and I also want to wish a happy belated birthday to the god-man owner of this site, JAN HOIBERG, and also a happy birthday tomorrow to our longtime friend and the Band's, Serge Daniloff. Don't you go changin'!

Tue Oct 13 23:31:03 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Speaking of Richard's playing, he is at his best on the 68 Woodie Guthrie tribute concert. Let me qualify what I am about to say by acknowledging the fact that Helm is a far better drummer than Mickey Jones. In fact, Levon is one of rock's all time most innovative drummers (The Weight,Tears of Rage, We Can Talk). But I'm afraid Levon wasn't going to top Jones's performance in 66. Jones is awesome on Ballad of a Thin Man. Dylan tried to rework this for the 74 tour, but the tempo is too fast and it sounds hurried as a result. The 66 Ballad on the other hand is sublime and possibly the best of great set. My point here is that Mickey Jones dynamic style was perfect for Dylan's songs. One exception being, Let Me Follow You Down. Levon hadn't reached his peak in 66. His playing on the 65 Hollywood Bowl boot leaves a bit to be desired. And in the Hawkin's 63 Who Do You Love, funky drumming would have really set this song off. But what if for some strage reason Mickey Jones had played on Who Do You Love? I believe it is a song that is better suited to his hammering style, in the same way as Dylan's 65, 66 sets. Don't mean to upset anyone, It's just an opinion.

Tue Oct 13 21:16:22 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Live 1966 may well be the greatest live album of all, in that it is 'warts and all' including audience barracking. Mickey Jones in the drum chair - well, that adds to the experience. Mickey was phenomenal, and though he plays with far more attack than subtlety, you have to say that 'Rolling Stone' is a defining moment. I think the only 'fault' if it can be called such, is the under-utilisation of Richard and Rick oin backing vocals. Rick is credited for 'One Too Many Mornings' - though I think it's Rick, Richard and Robbie. Compared to Before The Flood or even the sub-standard Isle of Wight tracks on 'Self Portrait' it seems a pity to lose the choruses. Of course in 66 that would have been too iconoclastic. Remember that in 66, 'Tell Me Momma' had the same thrash and impact to those watching as the early Sex Pistols would have had on a Genesis fan, or 'Rust Never sleeps' (another candidate is 'Live Rust') to the average CSN fan. This was tougher (and louder - read the liner notes) than anything the audience had heard.

Tue Oct 13 21:06:09 MET DST 1998

Ned

Ian,

I saw that too and it really wierded me out.

Tue Oct 13 19:58:38 MET DST 1998

Bones

In today's wallofsound.com website, there is a review of Dylan Live 1966. It claimed that this was the greatest rock album of all time. WOW! It also said that Robertson's guitar work is "dazzling".

Tue Oct 13 19:39:01 MET DST 1998

John

Thanks Stu for the nice reveiw. Excellent requests-Blue River+One more Shot. Almost felt like I was at the show!

Diamond Lil{you give me a thrill},your heartfelt post really rings true. This forum gets its share of people who over-analyze,scrutinize and criticize virtually every aspect of the songs and albums. That old saying is true, "Those who can, do. Those who can't, criticize." Generally true music appreciators and specifically fellow musicians, don't agonize over a piece of music. It either has merit and value to them, or it doesn't.

In all their years of recording the Band has made 1 sub-par album HOTH. And even this album has some beautiful moments! The Bands music in its various forms is as comfortable as the warmth of a well-tended fire on a cold winters evening.

Tue Oct 13 18:36:25 MET DST 1998

Ian

I heard Robbie's "The Sound is Fading" hyping some new TV show having to do with the beach while watching the ALCS. It seemed so out of place that I didn't notice it! My wife pointed it out. I was stunned. Shots of swimmers and surfers with hardbodies to "Yaminay, the sound is fading."

Tue Oct 13 15:48:11 MET DST 1998

Patric Mulcahy

As a long time Bandie I'm awaiting my copy of Jubilation with high expectations and some small degree of trepidation after having purchased High On The Hog which was in all honesty a real shocker. I can only hope that they are back on track although every band has released at least one torpedo..Keep up the fine work Jan !

Tue Oct 13 15:16:55 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Thanks Peter. I agree with you about Elton John. Although I don't care for a lot of his work, I do enjoy _Tumbleweed Connection_ & _Madman_, perhaps due to the Band influenced aspects of those albums. Mr. Taupin, as evidenced by his comments on the Classic Album video, was certainly influenced by Robertson's approach to writing lyrics. (BTW Elton John is now a part time Atlanta resident who seems to enjoy the laid back lifestyle of the South.)

Although they toured extensively in the U.S., especially after signing with A&M, Procol Harum was indeed an English band. The original piano /organ combo of Gary Brooker & Matthew Fisher was great. Combine that with Brooker's soulful vocals, Keith Reid's lyrics & the fiery guitar of Robin Trower and you can definitely draw a Band comparison. Robertson, as I recall, once refused to return the compliment in an interview years ago when he dismissed "Whiter Shade Of Pale" as being a recyled version of Percy Sledge's "When A Man Loves A Woman."

Another British band that showed a Band influence was Joe Cocker's one-time back-up group, The Grease Band, who recorded a fine solo album for Leon Russell's Shelter label. Although they used only one keyboardist, the amazing Chris Stainton, the group had a multiple vocalist approach reminiscent of the Band's harmonies.

Tue Oct 13 13:52:19 MET DST 1998

Shecky

Rick's Performance in Weymouth, MA 10/10/98 Definitely an off night. Rick only sang lead on about six songs (Twilight, Makes No Difference, Stage Fright, Caledonia Mission, The Weight, and Ophelia). He mostly talked his way through the lyrics. The constrast with his last two shows in Massachusetts (this summer at the Plymouth Waterfront Festival, and last year at the Orpheum Theater in Foxboro) was stark. He looked and acted totally out of it on Saturday night.

Tue Oct 13 04:05:04 MET DST 1998

Stu Hruska

On Friday night, we sat in stop and go traffic, nearly an hour behind schedule to meet a fellow Band fan for dinner and Rick Danko's late show at the Turning Point in Piermont, New York. While sitting in the sea of red tail lights I realized that my wife had learned almost all the lyrics from the Band's new album "Jubilation" as she sang along with the new cd. The music certainly took the edge off the miserable trip. While driving I wondered if Rick would be doing anything from the new album. As it turned out Rick started the early show nearly an hour late so we were able to have a pretty relaxed dinner before being treated to what was a wonderful late show performance.

Rick sounded just great and turned in a spectacular performance accompanied by Aaron Hurwitz on vocals, keyboard and accordion. Rick started the show with an eclectic selection of "Tura Lura Lura" and what I think was "Old Man River" from the musical Showboat. I could be wrong about the titles, but it definitely wasn't anything I've heard him sing before. His voice sounded just wonderful. This was followed by "Stagefright", "This Wheels on Fire", "Going Back to Piermont, NY", "Jupiter Hollow" accompanied by our dinner guest, Sophie Louise who was sitting at our table. I know this is Sophie's favorite Band song and Rick was really more than a good sport about her duet. Next was "Long Black Veil" followed by Rick singing "Book Faded Brown" from the "Jubilation" album. It was wonderful hearing him sing this live as I've been playing it non-stop since I got the cd. This just may become a Danko standard. Next came "Caledonia Mission", "Jimmy Crack Corn and I Don't Care", "It Makes No Difference" a wonderful rendition by Rick vocally and on Guitar. Aaron then turned in two memorable numbers on "The Next Time You See Me" and "Let The Four Winds Blow". He did an exceptional job both vocally and instrumentally. At that point Rick asked the audience for any requests and then he did "Blue River" at the request of yours truly followed by "One More Shot". At that point Rick introduced Kevin Doherty of the group Four Men and a Dog. Kevin, who was warmly received by the audience, co-wrote "Don't Wait" for "Jubilation" and performed a wonderful lead on this song accompanied by Rick and Aaron. This song was really a high point for me and Kevin was really happy with the audience response to his song. The show ended with Rick leading a very responsive audience who joined him with "The Weight". A wonderful evening!

Tue Oct 13 02:45:40 MET DST 1998

Jerry Comeau

Another British/Band connection.

Peter mentioned The Rolling Stones, another obvious Band influence on them is "Beggars Banquet" with 'Dear Doctor' sounding very Bandish and having 'Music from Big Brown' written on the bathroom wall in the cover photo.

Interesting article Peter, most of us enjoy your posts!

Tue Oct 13 02:14:19 MET DST 1998

Joel Cohen

To RJ

On the occasion of our 18th wedding anniversary, I only wish I had paid closer attention in the early 70's when you were following The Band. It wasn't until 1993 & Jericho that I realized what I had missed. In the 5 years since I have acquired every studio album including Jubilation. Its not The Brown Album, or Big Pink, but I ain't complaining. I look forward to "Jubilating" with my best friends at Carnegie Hall in 1999.

Tue Oct 13 00:59:32 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Doesn't anybody just _listen_ to the music anymore? Although I've read some very interesting and valid points about the Jubilation CD, I'd just like to point out that it's still Rick, and still Levon, and still Garth that we're listening to. I'm just happy that they're all still with us, and still making music for us to enjoy. I've been a Band fan for about 25 years now, and I'm just thankful for the warm, comfortable familiararity that Jubilation gives to me. God bless Rick, Levon, and Garth for not hanging up their rock and roll shoes.

Mon Oct 12 22:56:59 MET DST 1998

Rick

Ricks voice Can't think of anyone who sounds like him. He's unique- that high, quavery tenor that you swear is sometime going to break, but never does. He also hasn't lost much over time. The Jubilation material is a problem- not the right emotional vehicles. "Unfaithful Servant" & "It Makes No Difference" make you cry. I also love the Rock of Ages cover of "Caledonia Mission". "If I Should Fail" sounds forced, "High Cotton" more like the Dirt Band than THE Band. Next up I'd like them to so a live cd. Maybe invite Bones Malone, etc for a little horn section. Not a RoA remake, but show the world that these vets can still kick ass, and also that the "new guys" can play just fine, thank you.

Mon Oct 12 22:45:21 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

To all of you discussing "Book Faded Brown"s chorus. I still like Ned's Kermit association and I do like the song, even the chorus, very much, but I think the problem with many of The Band's newer songs is that their choruses are rather dull. This started on Cahoots already ("The River Hymn" being the worst example), but became a real problem on Islands ("Let The Night Fall"). When Robbie left it went worse. "The Caves of Jericho" or "Too Soon Gone" should have been nice songs had their choruses been able to keep them alive. For the same reason High On The Hog is almost unbearable to me. Jubilattion is better on this particular point.Remember "Oh, To Be Home Again, Down in Ol' Virginnie"? Those where the days, my friends, when lumberjacks like The Band made their choruses out of wood.

Mon Oct 12 22:40:54 MET DST 1998

Luis

This is a link to CNN which today features a story about tomorrows CD release of Dylan/Hawks Manchester 1966 concert. http://cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/Music/9810/12/dylan/

Mon Oct 12 22:22:40 MET DST 1998

Bones

There is a great article in the new Entertainment Weekly about Dylan Live 1966, giving it a A rating. The article is appropriately titled "Do Look Back".

Mon Oct 12 22:09:01 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Joe's right. Brinsley Schwartz made a concious effort, Van was effortless but much compared, especially on 'His Band & Street Choir' and 'Tupelo Honey.' The one I forgote was Fairport Convention - the most self-concious attempt to translate the ethos. Spooky Tooth had an American. So did most versions of Supertramp. I'll look up Procul Harum. The Band only had one too.

Mon Oct 12 21:55:12 MET DST 1998

Joe

Re Brit bands influenced: Don't forget Brinsley Schwarz and of course Van the Man. It's surely no coincidence that the Band sound so effortless on Caravan on TLWaltz. I've listened to Deserter Song and I'd agree: it's very Garth influenced. PS Weren't Procul harum american? How about Cowboy Junkies if we're going to broaden the base??

Mon Oct 12 21:38:50 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

3 posts in one day is ridiculous - but I forgot Spooky Tooth (who even covered 'The Weight.')

Mon Oct 12 21:30:55 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

In answer to David Powell. British groups influenced by the Band:

I think any two keyboard line-up was certain to bow its head to The Band.Procul Harum is obvious - though to be fair to them, 'A Whiter Shader of Pale' predates public releases by The Band (though post-dates the 1966 tour). I remember being told that The Band had 'a Procul Harum sound.' If you take the intro to 'Chest Fever' and the style of 'I Shall Be Released' you can see why people drew parallels.

Traffic were motivated by the Basement mystique. They never had twin keyboards (but you don't need them when Winwood is your keyboard guy).

Zoot Money was another, and in the early 60s his band was our local equivalent of The Hawks. Terrific keyboard player and vocalist.

The Beatles - we talked about this on the site - there are all those quotes from Harrison and Lennon in the 'White Album' sessions, wanting to sound like The Band.

The Band had enormous influence on Clapton - beneficial I think.

The looseness of The Rolling Stones, which was aquired circa 'Let it Bleed' owes much to the feel of The Band, especially on 'Country Honk'

The cover, lyrics and even tunes of Elton John's 'Tumbleweed Connection' are an example of an unlikely disciple- though Bernie Taupin contributed to 'Classic Albums'. Then Elton John cut 'Madman Across The Water' which included a song called 'Levon' (a tribute I think) and 'Tiny Dancer' (who is "LA seamstress for the band / The Band.')

One you wouldn't have guessed: Supertramp. The rhythmic keyboard sound they developed over five years (before they hit the big time in 1975) owed much to repeated listenings to Richard Manuel.In 1970 they were considering recruiting a second keyboard player so as to emulate The Band. Interestingly, the keyboard player Rick Davies started out as a drummer (and is just about the best drummer I've seen apart from Levon, believe it or not). He played keyboards like congas.It's a reverse of Richard's career. Finally Roger Hodgson moved from bass to a new role splitting piano and guitar.

Another odd one - Mott The Hoople (they had organ, and added electric piano for a few live numbers - such as 'Like a Rolling Stone')

Certainly in 69/70 The Band were the major topic. I remember being in Watford Gap motorway services in late 1970 and putting 'The Weight' / 'I Shall Be Released' on the juke box at 3 a.m. when there were about six bands gorging on hamburgers and strong coffee. (This was where nearly all bands stopped on the motorway leading back into London after gigs in the Midlands and North). The selection brought spontaneous applause.

Today, and an American band. The reviewers of Mercury rev seem to follow Andy Gill in drawing parallels. I don't see it. Prefab Sprout rather than The Band (but it IS a great album).

Mon Oct 12 21:04:08 MET DST 1998

Joe

First thanks to Peter Viney for putting me on to a mailorder to get Jubilation quickly. I loved it at first; somehow though it's lost some of its charm already. Don't know why exactly: maybe it lacks the mystery of Big pink or the Band. Simple songs like When you Awake have a subtlety that have allowed innumerable playings. I know all the scratches in Across the Great Divide, so much so that the Cd sounds strange! AtGD also has meanings on such a number of levels too. If you compare the Band's music to poetry, the good old stuff is not as obvious, it needs studying, immersion; it had a feel. Jubilation is good but ultimately to me somehow disappointing. I feel the Band could still challenge, like the old bluesmen can still do: take John Lee hooker. I still love it tho, especially the last 2 numbers.Peter: you're right there my "pompous" mate. Second: I have the bootleg (a good quality version too!) and yes, you're right again Peter you are obsessional ! My main disagreeement is about the drumming: Mickey Jones drums like a orang utan... And I thought the "thin mercury sound" was about Blonde on blonde. You surely can't describe the Albert Hall (sic) as TMS!! I'm not sure I'll buy the Cd altho the Dylan part sounds good. incidentally Ballad of a Thin Man sounds 10 times better on Before the Flood: beautiful Garth playing on like a haunting film theme. Third I was discussing Rick's voice with a friend last week: trying to compare it with someone, but when you think about it: who does he sound like? No one I know. maybe Adam Duritz (Counting Crows) has that lost back of the throat bluesy quaver. The CC live CD is a goody incidentally. Anyone out there with an opinion on rick's voice? bye and thanks to Peter (just joking and I still can't get a copy of Ridin the Blinds!!)

Mon Oct 12 20:29:36 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Live 1966:

The excellent liner notes by Tony Glover have this to say:

"An early version of the remastered tapes filtered out most of the audience and hall sound. This added a closeness and clarity to the vocals, but took away from the manic edginess of the room feel. It was abandoned in favor of the rawer sound heard here."

This backs up what Isis said - Dylan found the sound of the original remaster (as bootlegged on "Guitars Kissing") too clean. He delayed and captured trhe whole experience. The audience is way louder on the official release which adds to the impact. I suspect the level has been boosted, and then some. The sound is 'dirtier' than 'Guitars Kissing' but has a more effective 'Wall of Sound' feel. Absolutely essential - I'm glad I now have both versions. UK release day is Monday- it can be yours Tuesday in the USA. Have no doubts.

As for the small flame from Nick, fine. If you think the chorus of 'Book Faded Brown' is a great lyric, enjoy. My pompous opinion is that Danko improved on the song vastly. I love the performance. The lyric has good moments, but the chorus is sheer dross. Sorry. You don't have to agree. You don't have to be unpleasant either.As Bob Dylan said, 'I don't believe you …' Then he said 'Play f***ing loud' and with this release, 32 years late as it is, I did. Full volume. Look forward to Tuesday.

Mon Oct 12 20:08:14 MET DST 1998

Paul Kelly

I just want to thank you for giving me credit for the photos of Dylan & the Band/Hawks I really like the site and as of today you can hear the Free Trade Hall concert in all its GLORY.

Mon Oct 12 20:04:47 MET DST 1998

TREVOR

this is not really a comment but more of a plea,when will we get to see THE BAND performing live in south africa

Mon Oct 12 18:57:21 MET DST 1998

David Powell

CNN's online website has a review of the Tour 66 CD release. Included are some interesting quotes from Mickey Jones. It seems that Mr. Jones is now an actor with a recurring role on the ABC television show "Home Improvement." From drummer to actor, does that sound familiar?

Mon Oct 12 18:06:10 MET DST 1998

Ned

Daivid, Before the Flood provides that glimpse of Dylan with the complete Band, though several years later

Mon Oct 12 17:57:20 MET DST 1998

Ned

Little John Tyler,

An interesting idea, but it doesn't apply to me. It is not the lyric of Book Faded Brown that bothered me, but the way it is sung. I have heard several of my Rock&Roll heroes sing about their deity: Clapton (actually it might be Steve Winwood) on Presence of the Lord, Van Morrison on dozens of songs, Dylan & The Band on Forever Young, Greg Brown on Jesus and Elvis, and I could probably come up with more given time. What has bothered me is the tone and phrasing reminiscent of Kermit the Frog.

Mon Oct 12 17:30:45 MET DST 1998

Little John Tyler

I've been noting all the criticisms posted here lately to the "rainbow" lyric in "Book Faded Brown," and I'm led to wonder if they have more to do with discomfort about the "God reference" in that line, than to the objections cited. First -- for the record -- I'm not here to advocate any religious position or to praise the Lord or to proselytize in any way!!! But it occurs to me that there may just be a tinge of awkwardness for some in hearing their rock 'n'roll heroes singing about belief in a deity. For me the lyric works. I have no clue what faith(s) if any The members of The Band ascribe to, but the characters created and sung about on Jubilation often fit the rural Americana/old fashioned Judeao-Christian work ethic persona. That's clearly the case with the narrator given voice to by Rick on "Book." He talks about the family and about gathering at the table in prayer; it's only natural for this imaginary narrator character to note and marvel at the everyday miracle of a rainbow and find in it reason to believe. Likewise, there's the Levon/Old man searcher character who's "talked with God out on a hill" in "Don't Wait." In both instances, the humble (fictitious) men who talk directly and un-selfconsciously about what they believe in is solid storytelling, with credible, multi-dimensional, well-developed characters telling their stories.

If it's objectionable lyrics you're looking for, you need go no farther that the extremely awkward "And C.W. just showed up with an authentic fifties Coke machine" line in High Cotton. It is unlikely (We've all heard of bringing your own bottle, but this goes way too far. ), unnecessary (Do we need a Coke machine at the barbecue to have good time? Wouldn't a few six-packs have sufficed?), and unwieldy (there are about 50 % more syllables packed into that line than in the line it's trying to rhyme with. It scans poorly as written word, and strains the listeners' comprehension when sung.) Then there's the very forced fires-expired "rhyme" in "If I Should fail"... Still, that's only two small, flawed brushstrokes on a masterpiece of an album

Happy birthday, Jan, thanks for the gift you've given the rest of us, in the creation and care of this site.

Mon Oct 12 17:26:57 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Indeed, I inadvertently failed to mention Richard Mauels fine piano work in my previous posting. Although comparatively less prominent than some of the other instruments, Richard's piano was an essential ingredient in "that wild mercury sound." Since Dylan's electric rhythm guitar playing has always had a "thin" sound, it was up to Richard to flesh out the chords to build a fuller framework for each song. Compared with Robbie's, Garth's & even Rick's solos, Richard's solos seemed all too brief but neverless just as tasteful.

The two (with Garth actually closer to three) keyboard approach was an important part of this distinctive sound. One wonders if this approach to instrumentation had any influence on the group Procol Harum. I also wonder if Rick's adventuresome approach to bass playing may have influenced Jack Bruce. Someone more capable than me, such as Peter Viney, may be able to examine what influences that the Hawks may have had on the English musicians at that time.

One other note--Although Mickey Jones was quite a capable, workman-like drummer, he certainly made up for what he may have lacked in technique with his explosive dynamics. Still, it's always intrigued me to wonder what these performances might have sounded like with Levon in the drummer's chair.

Mon Oct 12 15:45:58 MET DST 1998

Ned

David, enjoyable but there is one Hawk whose name you leave off and I hope it is not becuase you didn't notice him. Richard's piano is less prominent than Garth's organ or Robbie's guitar, but it is there like in his great but all too short solo in Baby Let Me Follow You Down.

Mon Oct 12 15:31:39 MET DST 1998

David Powell

THE GHOST OF ELECTRICITY & HIS STEAM DRILL

"Got your steam drill built and you're lookin' for some kid / To get it to work for you like your nine-pound hammer did / But I know that you know that I know you show / Something is tearing up your mind." (From "Tell Me, Momma" by Bob Dylan)

By the time Bob Dylan took the stage at the Free Trade Hall in Manchester, England on May 17, 1966, he had abandoned the Woody Guthrie folk singer persona. That night instead, a rock & roll Rimbaud, fueled by amphetamine and propelled by his back-up band the Hawks, blazed a path straight towards an eventual motorcycle crack-up. No longer performing songs in the "Nine-Pound Hammer" folk tradition, Dylan sought "that wild mercury sound", as he later would describe it in a 1978 interview.

Following a slow count down, Dylan & the Hawks began their plugged-in set by launching into "Tell Me Momma," taking off into a wild mercury gallop like a stallion ablaze across a minefield of jagged images & shimmering slivers of sound.

The pace slows a bit, only to speed up agian, with resurrected versions "I Don't Believe You" and "Baby Let Me Follow You Down." As Dylan's harmonica plays skeleton keys between lyrics laced with venom & irony, Danko's thumping bass and the machine gun drum fills of Mickey Jones drive us through the foggy ruins of Dylan's mind, while Garth's organ swirls behind amidst the sharp staccato of Robertson's guitar licks falling like shards of broken glass. The haze of the songs' imagery is buried beneath thick layers while surrounded by sharp edges of quicksilver sound.

Inside "Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues" we find ourselves lost in a mescal dream down in Mexico before being jolted back to reality by Robertson's razor sharp licks, as he plays one of the greatest guitar solos of all times.

With Dylan's "Leopard Skin Pill Box Hat" Robertson again displays what the Bobster must have meant by his "mathematical guitar" remark. Like some twelve bar acid trip through the delta, we're caught behind the garage door with the blues again.

Following a mumbling, incoherent introduction, Dylan takes us through an exaggerated recitation of "One Too Many Mornings", as the Hawks sing along to the last lines of the chorus like lost souls at a revival meeting.

The journey ends with two of the finest live performances ever recorded in the history of rock music. Dylan gives new meaning to the "Ballad Of A Thin Man" as he directs its scathing lyrics to an audience of Mr. Joneses. Garth's haunting organ chords echo in response to each line sung by Dylan as he walks the tightwire like an acrobat in a circus tent, balancing high above the crowd.

Before launching into "Like A Rolling Stone", Dylan, like some prophet scorned, responds with the now legendary "I don't believe you. You're a liar." As the words "play...loud" dissolve into an immaculate bass run played by Danko, Dylan turns a song of dissolution & betrayal into an anthem of defiance. The shattered images of the lyrics rain down on the audience like pieces of hard, cold silver thrown back in their faces.

What we're left with in this recording is a time capsule portrait of an artist at his peak. Assisted by the high energy sound of the Hawks, Dylan took his songs beyond the level of protest as entertainment and into the realm of experimental performance art.

Mon Oct 12 15:23:56 MET DST 1998

Ned

Nick Tovo, what a very inappropriate and idiotic comment. The question you put to Peter you should ask of yourself.

Since the enjoyment and judgement of music is in the listening, the qualification for judging is having ears and a brain. Peter seems well qualified. (Possibly better qualified than a paid critic as money can distort the experience of music.)

Mon Oct 12 14:51:05 MET DST 1998

Rick Smith

Seems there's a birthday boy in our midst. Let me be the second to wish Jan a very happy birthday, and also offer public thanks for all his hard work to maintain this site. I visit frequently and thoroughly enjoy all the pages. BTW, Denton is about 6 hrs from New Orleans, but if it makes the trip easier, Jan, you have a place to stay and a ride to New Orleans on Dec. 26.

Mon Oct 12 14:50:50 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

One of the things that is nice about this web-site is the Guestbook. To be able to just read what others say about a shared passion [the Band's music, the music of its members alone, or music in general], from a community of people all over the world is phenomenal. When someone logs on and reads the material on this site, or reads the guestbook its a great triumph of modern-day technology, and its shared experience. I want to read what other people have to say, and to occasionally post something myself. When someone posts something here its because s/he feels that there is something in that post that the others, that share those interests, may want to read. Nick: that's what makes Peter's posts interesting [and yours too, and Serge's posts, and ALL of the rest]. If you find something objectionable in the post, post something yourself - but name calling doesn't have a whole lot of value does it?

Mon Oct 12 14:08:33 MET DST 1998

NICK TOVO

Peter Viney, I agree that Book Faded Brown is a great song but your criticism of the lyric is unwarranted and like all of your pompous comments, reeks of self-importance. I am quite sure you have never written a song nor are you a paid critic, not that it would matter. I am curious though - as to who gives a shit about anything you say. Why are you such an expert on everything? Believe me your not.

Mon Oct 12 06:21:33 MET DST 1998

Ted Haycraft

I'm very impressed with the quality of this site. Always informative and I hope that I can eventually assist in some small way...

Mon Oct 12 01:09:10 MET DST 1998

Anowara

Jan, Check out any of Robbie's solo albums, Contact From the Underworld pf Red Boy being the most recent, from earlier this year. He's been working with American Indian musicians and incorporating Indian music into his work. His albums Robbie Robertson, Storyville and Songs for the Native Americans are all quite good. He also does a lot of work on film soundtracks. He's supposedly doing one now. The film is about life on LA's Sunset Strip in 1971 - see the Library/News & Gossip area on this web site.

Mon Oct 12 00:54:53 MET DST 1998

Happy Birthday Jan!

Sun Oct 11 22:49:32 MET DST 1998

DR.UGG

IS IT JUST ME ? I SAW RICK LAST NIGHT IN A SMALL CLUB LIKE ROOM IN WEYMOUTH. AND AT LEAST TO ME IT SEEMS HE IS MORE AT HOME IN A PLACE LIKE THAT THAN A BIGGER PLACE. I STOOD THERE ONE HAND ON THE SPEAKER ONE FOOT ON THE STAGE ,I KNOW I WAS MORE AT HOME IT WAS THE TOWN I GREW UP IN. ....RICK THANK YOU FOR COMMING TO WEYMOUTH. GREAT SHOW AND HE PLAYED TO THE CROUD TAKING REQUEST. TRULY A GREAT TIME . THE REST OF HIS GANG DID THERE GREAT JOB ALSO ..............TILL NEXT TIME STAY WELL DR.UGG

Sun Oct 11 22:36:13 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

We're going to be accused of Trivial Pursuit-style obsession here, but as John Donabie says, it's absolutely clear what is said before 'Like A Rolling Stone'. (And I'm judging on 'Guitars Kissing' and 'Play F ***ing Loud'CDs - both of which are excellent recordings, albeit bootlegs) While other words of the three might be disputed, there's no doubt about the middle one. Sorry, I just don't see why anyone has a problem with this. They were entitled to say it. Read C.P. Lee. 'Judas!' from the audience was particularly offensive given Dylan's ethnicity. Good for Dylan - or going back to C.P. Lee, was it in fact Robbie? Anyhow, every reviewer I've read hears what John hears and what I hear (and what can be heard every day everywhere). I could give you a pile of references.Forget the F-word. Listen to Rick's rolling bass, Garth's amazing fills, Richard's piano, Mickey Jones' drums and Robbie's guitar (oh, and Bob was pretty good too).

Sun Oct 11 20:38:46 MET DST 1998

Jan Eskildsen

Very good web-side with very useful links for a 51 year old fan. I saw and heard Levon & the Hawks with Bob Dylan (1966) May 1st in Copenhagen. Because Dylan was still not so famous, there were lots of empty stools that night. But I was there, and because of my interest in hi-fi, I knew at once, that the Band was playing throguh Klipshorns. What happened to Robbie Robertson? He was not in the Dylan 30 year anniversary show? Have a nice day. Warm regards - Jan Eskildsen

Sun Oct 11 20:17:26 MET DST 1998

Uncle Hangover

I have to admit ... I don't like Dylan much either as a musician or singer, but he is a great poet. The Band were/are wonderful musicians and singers, once with a superb songwriter and guitarist among them. Little Feat took over after them, and while they had Llowell George...wow. Now, who do we have? Son Volt is good, but ...

Sun Oct 11 19:35:09 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

KEVIN:

Your right. It was November of '65. November 14-15, right after Cleveland. He was staying at the Inn on The Park. He liked that hotel. He stayed there during Tour 74 as well. Don't know where I got February in my head.

Sun Oct 11 19:14:29 MET DST 1998

Stephen Novik

Jerry- No. Dylan doesn't do it for me. Only The Band! The Band Only! (I wish they'd come back. I'd like to hear 'em do "Cripple Creek"!!)

Sun Oct 11 19:10:42 MET DST 1998

Buckman

To Little John:Danko in Piermont,Friday night...He was an hour late for the early show which we're getting used to,but bigger and better than ever.His voice and guitar on Makes No Difference and Blind Willie were wonderful.Appeared with Aaron[the perfesser]and did Don't Wait with the Irishman who co wrote it,Kevin Doherty...Sort show though cause he was late...I couldn't stay for the late show.Did get an autograph on Jubilation and a Band hat,so I'm happy....Hank Beukema [Buckman]

Sun Oct 11 15:15:53 MET DST 1998

Kevin

John, You said earlier the release of the 1966 Manchester show took you back to Massey Hall, Toronto in February 1966. Are you sure it wasn't one of the November 14-15, 1965 Massey Hall shows? Levon was with the Hawks until the end of November 1965, so if you saw him, it wasn't February 1966. I don't think Dylan played Toronto in February.

Sun Oct 11 11:11:28 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

This is my last comment on the F word re: Dylan. Unless you own the new Live at the Royal Alber Hall, Tour 66...no one can make a comment on this subject. I do own it, It will be released on Tuesday, No it doesn;t make me "happy" to imagine anything. The fact is that Bob utters 3 words. Unless you have this, the cleanest version of the song...your dealing with a boot. I believe he does say it; but who cares? I repeat..I played the phrase over & over again and there are 3 words spoken. Wait will Tuesday Joel to comment after you hear the legit board feed version. It is very crips and clear.

Sat Oct 10 21:55:46 MET DST 1998

Johnny Rotten

Hey blowhards, open up your GD ears. It's simply, "play loud". Wax buildup is the problem, most likely.

Sat Oct 10 21:45:44 MET DST 1998

Joel ,Richards

I agree with Potsy. I've listened very closely to Guitars Kissing and Play Fucking Loud (tacky title for sure) and I think it is quite obvious that Dylan says "play loud". He says loud immediately following the word play. There is no pause and definitely not time for a two syllable word. But if it makes you happy to believe the legend then I don't see anything wrong with it. Anyway, can somebody give me a short review on Hirth From Earth? How much does Garth contribute and is it available on cd?

Sat Oct 10 20:34:13 MET DST 1998

Jerry Comeau

Hey Stephen, are you going to see the Bob Dylan and Jann Arden show on friday? Should be a good one.

Sat Oct 10 20:10:54 MET DST 1998

Stephen Novik

I've had my copy of Jubilation now for a week, and I love it! "Don't Wait" is the best, "White Cadiliac" excellent rockin' vocals from Randy- just an all around great album! I got my copy through HMV 'cause their computers had it listed as "Spirit of The Dance". Hope other Canucks can use this bit of advice. Congrats to River North for a great CD. Can't wait for the next one! I mean it's just like the crowd who helped me cheer on Colin Linden and Richard Bell last night. MORE! MORE! MORE!

Sat Oct 10 20:09:20 MET DST 1998

Janis Cushnie

I was browsing the web to find references to my (I thought) unique surname. I was interested to find that a member of The Band had the same surname.

Sat Oct 10 18:01:22 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Book Faded Brown:

I finally found the Carl Perkins version (it's on "Friends, Family & Legends" a Magnum Force CD). The album includes another Paul Jost song too. The loveliness of the melody is there on the Perkins version of course, but you can hear how Danko lifts the song to another dimension. I appreciate the 'Jubilation' version even more. (but still think the rainbow bit in the chorus is … well, weak.)

On the Japanese remasters, investigations continue. I picked up 'Rock of Ages' at Tower today and because it's a "straight live" sound it benefits even more. You can't complain about the lost production values. And Tower sells the single CDs at £20.99 compared to Virgin's £26.99.

Sat Oct 10 17:17:51 MET DST 1998

Chad

Serge; I love it when you say things like "Eureka". It sends chills down my spine.

Sat Oct 10 14:50:36 MET DST 1998

Little John Tyler

I keep listening to Jubilation, and keep finding myself carried away by the harmonica and mandolin that weave just below the surface of virtually every song. Almost as if Levon is offering up something extra to compensate for his (temporarily) diminished vocal contribution. Just beautiful.

Anybody out there catch Rick's show in Piermont NY last night? Please post.

Sat Oct 10 09:29:45 MET DST 1998

Serge

Doug McClement : Interesting entry.. I also was at the June 21, 1969 Toronto Pop Festival in Varsity Stadium, some photos that I contributed were taken that day, and are here in the pic. sections of each Band members. I also have about 15 minutes of "ho-hum" 8mm film that I took of the Band, both behind the stage area and during the concert that day. It was their first "major" large concert in Canada as the BAND, but actually there was a small venue at the University of Guelph, Ontario a bit earlier that year, pics. of which are also on this site. I forget the exact date, but it preceded the Pop Fest.in Toronto. Wonder if your tape and my film could be sync'd. for moments of Cripple Creek..:) The movie is a little erratic as I was taking photos, and trying to catch moments of silent film. My "Levon on the mandolin" pic.(in the Levon section of this page) was taken during that opening number "Cripple Creek". Its's also the photo that Paul Fleming turned into a watercolour portrait : Levon #2.

Strange..30 years later I was filming the Woodstock, Ontario concert, while you were there recording it. You really must stop following me around :o)

Sat Oct 10 05:27:07 MET DST 1998

To Travis

Rick pronounces it Shar-Lonty. (that's what he says on his "live" CD from Woodstock Records.

As far as the "Hand of The Band" thing, it doesn't do much for me personally, but think it was proposed by someone enthusiastic and sincere. Forget the logo idea. Think the intent was to soften, if not eliminate the flaming that pops up here every once in a while. Keep posting Lil. Nobody has a lock on rights to post, or what to say.

Sat Oct 10 04:00:23 MET DST 1998

Travis

Love the new cd. I think Randy Ciarlante sounds great on White Cadillac. How do you pronounce his last name?

Sat Oct 10 03:28:57 MET DST 1998

Doug McClement

I own a 48 track mobile recording studio operating out of Toronto. I've always been interested in live recording. As a 16 year old, I went the Toronto Pop Festival on June 21, 1969, and smuggled in a cassette recorder. This was The Band's first Toronto appearance under that name (not Massey Hall in 1970, as mentioned in the Concert section). The songlist, in order, was

Cripple Creek
Tears of Rage
Long Black Veil
We Can Talk About it Now
Lovin' You Has Made My Life Sweeter Than Ever
Don't You Tell Henry
I Shall Be Released
The Weight
Slippin' and Slidin' (encore)

It's not a great recording, but it's certainly got archival value. The following year, The Band played at CNE Stadium in Toronto as part of The Festival Express, which was a tour where the bands travelled by train, visiting Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Calgary. Janis Joplin, Mountain, Ten Years After, Traffic and The Grateful Dead were also on the show. The concerts were filmed on 16mm, but only the Janis Joplin footage has ever been released. I taped the entire festival. This may be the concert listed as taking place in Toronto in August, though it really happened on June 27. I shot about 45 minutes of super 8 film from the twenty yard line, but only have about 30 seconds of The Band.

The other live tape in my posession is much more recent. I was hired in 1990 to record a solo show with Rick Danko at The Diamond Club in Toronto for a local fm radio station live broadcast. Sredni Vollmer (spelling?)was backing him up.

Three years ago, my company was hired to record The Band in Woodstock, Ontario (about 150km from Toronto) for a live radio broadcast on a local station. The station had received permission from the Canadian branch of the record company to do the recording, but nobody thought to clear it with The Band. Levon vetoed the recording a couple of hours before showtime. He just seemed upset that no one had asked their permission. We had to tear down our gear. (and the radio still had to pay us). We got to watch the show from the side of the stage. It was, needless to say, amazing, the type of small town Ontario fair they used to play with Ronnie Hawkins. A lot of people in the crowd remembered those days.

My final brush with the band occurred on Monday of this week. I was the music engineer at the broadcast launch of a new 24 hour music tv channel here in Canada called MuchMore Music. It is patterned after VH-1 in the USA, sort of an adult contemporary playlist. They managed to round up a lot of Canadian Music Icons for the party, including Anne Murray, Gordon Lightfoot, and Robbie Robertson, who was interviewed on camera.

Sorry for taking up so much bandwidth, but I thought that some of the fans might be interested in some of this stuff.

Keep up the good work!

Doug McClement,
LiveWire Remote Recorders
Toronto, Canada

My company, Li

Sat Oct 10 03:09:47 MET DST 1998

Doug McClement

Great site! I've been a fan of The Band for a long time, and it's good to see so much care taken to try to keep things accurate.

Sat Oct 10 02:09:59 MET DST 1998

Ben Dover

Private Jerkson

Looking forward to meeting you. The Band family is lucky to have someone of your obvious intelligence and sensitivity in its company.

Fri Oct 9 23:33:10 MET DST 1998

Tim(SUNDOG)Corcoran.

"HAPPY BRITHDAY JOHN AND SEAN LENNON", from everone on "THE BAND" WEBSITE.

Fri Oct 9 23:07:00 MET DST 1998

cosmo

David Powell- Right on Brother! WE ALL SHINE ON, Cosmo

Fri Oct 9 22:50:54 MET DST 1998

Potsy

If more songs are ever released from the Port Dover show, I hope No Particuler Place to Go is among them. Levon claims in his book that Robbie is unbelievable on this number. I like the way he did Brown "eyed man" on Hammond's album. Going Back to Memphis from Watkins Glen is also fine. Robbie's sound really came alive during Chuck Berry songs.

Fri Oct 9 22:39:59 MET DST 1998

Donabie

An afterthought. Could the debate over the F word at the beginning of Like A Rolling Stone become as famous as...Did Jagger really say.."try to make some girl pregnant" in "Satisfaction?"

Fri Oct 9 22:36:28 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

Potsy: Manchester Free Trade Hall ("Royal Albert Hall"): Dylan's comments before Rolling Stone:

Not to turn the F*****G Word into an essay. I went back to the Tour 66 CD today and played the portion over and over and over again. Viney is right. Dylan Indeed says Play F*****G (I believe Loud). It's no big deal. Anyone shocked over an artist using the word........ well........ I'll repeat that in an interview I did with Mickey Jones, Dylan was frustrated by this point and wanted to give a decibel response to the purists.

Fri Oct 9 22:32:53 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Like a dog with a bone. Further to my last post, I just re-read C.P.Lee (Like The Night) - a whole GREAT book on the Manchester concert, and C.P. says this:

Somebody, it may be Dylan or it may be Robertson continues - 'Get (or 'Play' or 'You're a f***ing liar) f***ing loud!'

Never thought of it being Robbie. It makes sense - the comment's a long way back from Dylan's loud and wide open vocal mic. He'd have to have walked a few paces away and turned his back to the audience (which he often did at the start). So maybe it was RR. The most famous live line in rock & roll. Why not? And listening through it today I'm stunned again by the brilliance of all five Hawks.

Fri Oct 9 22:28:07 MET DST 1998

Ellarbee

The fine reviews for "Jubilation" continue to roll in. River North seems to be doing well in getting the word out to some of the more widely distributed publications and frequently visited Internet sites. The latest I've seen is at E!OnLine (www.eonline.com) where the album is given a strong B+ rating.

Fri Oct 9 21:53:00 MET DST 1998

Bones

I just got a copy of the Jeffrey Gaines album. Great music! Garth sounds wonderful on it.

Fri Oct 9 19:13:09 MET DST 1998

David Powell

On this day, October 9, in 1940 JOHN LENNON was born in Liverpool, England. Ironically his son Sean, who is 23 today, shares this birthday. On November 3rd a four CD anthology of Lennon solo recordings will be released. Check out the website for details at:

http://www.hollywoodandvine.com/johnlennon/

Let us all celebrate his wonderful life & work through the enjoyment of his music. Give peace a chance.

Fri Oct 9 17:36:44 MET DST 1998

Ned

Private Jackson, you are correct that there is a technical difference betwen digital and analog. Yet the human ear is also technically limited and I believe digital technology has or will approach analog to the point that the human ear cannot tell.

Fri Oct 9 17:31:30 MET DST 1998

David Powell

As an addendum to my earlier posting regarding the inclusion of additional material on CD: Quality reissues such as Jefferson Airplane's _Surrealistic Pillow_, Buffalo Springfield's self-titled first album & the Mobile Fidelity gold version of Cream's _Disreali Gears_ have included both the stereo & mono versions on the same disc (each version in its entirety, back to back). Since it was the practice in the era when these albums were made to record mono & stereo versions separately, differences in the sound, as well as the performance, exist between the two. By using the programing feature on the CD player, one can compare the differences between the two on a song by song basis.

In answer to the question that Peter raised about compensation for the Tour 66 release, I would guess that the Hawks were hired merely as contracted back-up musicians for Dylan. Any royalties for the performances would probably go to Dylan alone, with Columbia (Sony) recouping some if they actually own the masters. Since Dylan left Columbia at one point & later came back, I would imagine he has over the years negotiated a very lucrative percentage rate. It is also evident, due to the years of delay at his insistance in the release of the Tour 66 material, that Dylan excercises a great degree of control over his back catalog of material. If any of the Band members or their estates receive any compensation for the CD's release it will probably come solely from Dylan's generosity if at all.

Fri Oct 9 17:12:25 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

Hey Lil, take a pill, you seem like one uptight chick. What A. Solution wrote was not to be taken literally, it was a figure of speech to make a point. This guestbook is interesting with good info and opinions. Crotchie,aka Croce,Fishstick and yourself insist on bringing attention to your little two-person clique. Nobody cares! It is shallow and superficial. Join this wonderful Band family as a whole connected group-which is its strength-not as little petty whiney cliques. Please take this as constructive critisim, as you aren't the only clique here, just the most obvious one. The hand of th band is a dumb concept not worthy of a comment. The Band is too important and high quality to be be brought down to the shallow level of a slogan. Now seize the day girl. We are family. Be strong and above the fray. This is Pri.Jackson and I'm standing tall and looking good, next stop Hollywood!

Digital will never sound as good as Analog. Its just not technically possible-1010101010.

Fri Oct 9 17:09:40 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Considering The Band's as an unity, a work of art in itself, I'm opposed to add left-out material to the CD versions. A solution could be adding the left-overs to a second CD within the same box to show how the _work in progress_ was done.

Fri Oct 9 16:41:51 MET DST 1998

Maria

Sorry, this review came from Music Boulevard on the internet.

Fri Oct 9 16:40:50 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

Potsy: Manchester Free Trade Hall ("Royal Albert Hall"): Dylan's comments before Rolling Stone:

I'll use asterisks - the word does not offend me, but it does some. I don't yet have the officia release yet, but 'Guitars Kissing' is very clear, as is the bootleg actually called 'Play F***ing Loud." Interestingly, this morning's review by Andy Gill in 'The Independent' quotes the self same line, without my asterisks which is unusual in a morning newspaper, but attests to the importance of this release. Uncut's long review seemed to think it was 'Play F***ing Hard'. Let me confuse matters by saying I always heard it as 'Get F***ing Loud.' No doubts about the 'F***ing' though. Now the one I like is at the end. On the first bootleg I got way back in 71 (In 1966 There Was …), as he finishes, as Mickey Jones smashes the drums that last time, Dylan calls 'Thank You' but it's more like 'Thuck You!' And I've never been quite sure what he said. 'F*** you ' was the most appropriate response. Unfortunately, the modern releases reveal it as 'Thank you.' Pity.

After all these years, and all the money made by bootleggers of this marvellous concert, I have one question. Will Robbie, Rick, Garth, Richard's estate and Mickey Jones get any money from this official release? It would be well deserved. Checking that word again, you hear that rolling bass line punctuating / holding time as Dylan says, 'I Don't Believe You! You're A Liar! … (and then the disputed line).'

Fri Oct 9 16:35:07 MET DST 1998

Maria

Found this review on Jubilation and thought you guys might be interested:

Album Review: The Band - Jubilation (River North)
by Ed Hewitt
October 1998

The Band - Jubilation (River North)

Rating: 7 (out of 10)

After a 30-year career fulfilling the role of the world's most exalted backup band as Bob Dylan's support, making an admirable body of music themselves, disappearing for a stretch, and reemerging sans leader Robbie Robertson,The Band seem content to be a group of lifers adjusting expectations without giving in. Superbly paced, heartfelt,and honest, Jubilation approaches Jericho as the best of The Band's post- Robertson albums. Gently and exquisitely competent aged and ultra smooth, like a bourbon that's spent a long time on the top shelf;Jubilation is a rootsy, comfortable, and in the end exultant document of how an American institution can get older and better by simply doing what they do best.There are a couple high profile guest appearances: John Hiatt takes the lead vocal on the mandolin- and accordion-driven "Bound By Love," a folksy love song written by Hiatt in which Hiatt sounds like a lifetime member of The Band, and Eric Clapton gussies up the shuffle of "Last Train to Memphis" with some of the funkiest, dirtiest guitar work he's done in years. The star turns are fun, but far from the whole show."Well I was searchin' by myself / Singin' old songs see if they help," sings Levon Helm on "Don't Wait" in his dilapidated, evocative voice; he meets an older man by the sea, who tells him "I've know high times more than once /Now stick strictly to the honky tonks," as Danko talk-sings the lines behind him. History-making arguably long behind them, The Band looks no further than their music. This commitment is evidenced even on the back cover, where the remaining original members Garth Hudson, Rick Danko and Levon Helm stand in a half-circle in a corner, hunched over their instruments. The rock stardom,the rock and roll history- and myth-making, they've done it all, and now they're content to hunker down in the honky-tonks and jam. Lucky us.

Copyright © 1998 - N2K, Inc.

Fri Oct 9 15:26:55 MET DST 1998

David Powell

As Jonathan mentioned, there is a certain amount of distortion inherent in the vinyl format due to groove spacing. This is also what limits the amount of music that can be put on each side of a record. Improvements in technology have eliminated much of this problem. Recent releases such as Eric Clapton's _Pilgrim_ have corrected the groove problem by spreading the music, contained on one CD, onto four sides of a two LP set.

This brings up another sore point for me regarding CDs. The compact disc has the ability to store around 75 minutes of music, yet most CDs released contain around half or three quarters of this amount. The _Music From Big Pink_ CD has just over 42 minutes, _The Band_ just under 44, and _Jubilation_ a little over 43, as an example. Why not include more music, or in the case of reissues, include out-takes or include two albums on one disc? Give us our money's worth! I believe recent reissues such as The Byrds & Santana releases do justice to include the additional material. After all, the CD format allows one to program the playing order & selection, so a purist can listen to just the material included on the original album if he or she chooses.

One more point I'd like to make is that many CDs, from a sound quality standpoint, deliver the goods at a less than premium price. _Jubilation_ is a good example. A good mastering engineer such as Bob Ludwig takes care in seeing to it that all the information recorded in the creative process is accurately represented in the manufacturing phase, so it can be reproduced for the listener. Since the CD format stores sound as a series of digits in lengths of 16 bits, the proper care & equipment must be used in order to reproduce as much information as possible from the master tapes. When this is done improperly, you get that "thinness" or lack of depth in the sound of the music. It is in this area where a vinyl LP will sound superior to a poorly produced CD.

Fri Oct 9 12:40:34 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

It's a shame what happens to Jubilation in Canada. I feel sorry for all Band fans over there. Mind you: I have my copy for almost one month now! Don't these distributors know where The Canadian Squires originally came from?

Fri Oct 9 03:49:06 MET DST 1998

Blind Willie McTell

To David Powell,

I read with great interest your piece on the David Forman album. I always have loved the lines "When I was a boy, I dreamed I was a jeweller / With a family business that was free and clear / Selling golden earings to Mrs. Mickey Mantle / Trying to be gentle, while I stuck it in her ear." (from "Dream Of A Child")

All these years, I've thought that Burton Cummings wrote those lines. Up here in Canada, Burton's Dream of A Child was the first Canadian album to go platinum.

Burton says in his liner notes from his album Up Close and Alone about Dream Of A Child. "A fellow from the north played me this song ... at one time this fellow was my friend, and at another time he is not ... Sir David Forman wrote this ... I would barter a great deal to have written (and include it on any and all resumes) the line about Elvis Presley kissing Brenda Lee, but then again,

I ACTUALLY KNOW WHO CHARLES DICKENS WAS ...

Fri Oct 9 03:20:07 MET DST 1998

Freddy Fishstick

Just finished Jubilatin with a good friend. We both agree that The Band should open Carnegie Hall show with Kentucky Downpour and close it with Don't Wait. The latter is standing ovation material for Levon. If I Should Fail would be perfect movie score for Louis Lamour flick. How's about Aretha joining the boys for White Cadillac?

Fri Oct 9 02:36:00 MET DST 1998

DR.UGG

Listening to "JUBILATION" I think the best song so far for me is "IF I SHOULD FAIL" What do you people think? Rick ' the good DR.UGG will see you in Weymouth . thanx DR.UGG

Fri Oct 9 01:32:15 MET DST 1998

Blind Willie McTell

To Bill Paige,

Canadian Jubilation - delayed?

Jubilation was on the upcoming releases board at the main HMV store in Toronto for October 6, it's disappeared, and no one call tell me when it will be released. I was fortunate enough to pick up a copy last weekend in NYC. But that doesn't help the rest of the Band fans up here in the "birthplace of The Band".

Help!

Thu Oct 8 22:59:49 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Listen to the manchester concert closely and you hear Dylan says "play loud" contrary to what everyone says. Even the lame Marcus wants to cheapen Dylans retort by claiming, he used the word "fucking". Greil must think that it's more cool to cuss. Personally I don't have much of a problem with profanity, even like to use it every now and again but I don't see why everybody wants to put words in Dylan's mouth. I would like some feedback on this just to make sure I'm not too crazy. Sorry gotta go, somethings burning.

Thu Oct 8 22:55:37 MET DST 1998

Lost John

Thanks for the review of Mercury Rev, whoever posted it on What's New. Sounds interesting. Don't get me wrong out there ( I love the Band and Jubilation is OK- they could play the Kylie Minogue back catalogue and I'd like it) but there seems so little new in any of these re-releases or bootlegs, that we seem reduced to raking over some very cold coals. I'd like to see more stuff about new music even if the Band connection is weak or purely inspirational. French Girls is tantalising. Robbie does at least still experiment. Also (I may have missed the posting: if so sorry)but how about the connection between Cotton and the Moondog M picture: coke bottles, CW etc??

Thu Oct 8 22:47:03 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Jonathan Katz: I think your wife doesn't realise that some artists HAD to leave out a few songs they loved, just because of the restrictions of vinyl records. Remember the startling moment on the cd version of No Reason To Cry, when at the end Richard Manuel bursts out " Last Night I Lost The Best Friend I've Ever Had". This bonus track (not on the LP) made the whole album worthwile for me***. On the other hand, Big Pink & "The Band" albums are perfect in themselves. Adding "Get Up Jake" as a bonus to the brown album would be nice, but where to put it? At the end? It would damage "King Harvest"'s impact. At the beginning? The same for "Across The great Divide". But of course I'd welcome a leftovers album. Regarding remastering: I don't like CD's that sound better than the original LP's. ***P.S. I have to admit: "Sign Language" is great too.

Thu Oct 8 22:35:22 MET DST 1998

Bones

Mr. Katz raises an interesting point. Outtakes at the end of an already classic album drives me crazy. Of course, if the Band did it, I would be the first one in the record store to buy it. What bothers me about it, however, is the fact that it clouds first-time buyers from the original great piece of work.

Now, one cannot buy John Coltrane's Giant Steps, The Who's Next or Elton John's Tumbleweed Connection in their original formats. They all have either bonus tracks or outtakes on them.

It would bother me to give Music From Big Pink to my child one day, and it contains three different takes of To Kingdom Come. It would interest me, but my child may lose the great feel of a classic record.

Thu Oct 8 20:58:35 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

I just wanted to add this about remastered CD's. This is my "understanding" and maybe some techies out there can confirm. This is not meant to start any nastiness about what is better: digital or analog, or lp or CD, etc. My understanding is that the remastered CD's have a sonic advantage over lp's because, due to groove width, there has to be some compression of the dynamic range of sound captured on tape to put it onto lp. For some of the reissue CD's companies have not gone back to original masters for the source, so they suffer from the same compression of the lp. Good remastered CD's [such as the DCC reissues], go to great pains to find the original masters so that a "full" dynamic range can be transfered from the master tape to the CD format. I have admitted elsewhere my preference for the CD format, particularly compared to my "well-worn" lp's. However, there is nothing like a good used record store for bargains, and stuff that does not have the commercial potential to make the reissue on CD profitable. In addition, sometimes sound is butchered when transferred to CD format as companies try to cash in on their back catalog [little investment, large profit]. But, these prices for remastered CD's are killers! Especially if you have already bought the material in [two] other formats! And now off on a tangent: I often get irritated with groups/companies when a CD is issued with the inclusion of a few outtakes [such as the Byrds reissues]. I am sure that one motivation [by (only?) the business people at the record company] for the inclusion of these outtakes is to lure those that already have the material and are buying it again for the outtakes. As my wife says, "you're buying material that the artist decided wasn't good enough the first time!" And although she has a point, I'd probably buy a fourth version of "the brown album" or "Big Pink" if it included some outtakes [if they exist, right Peter?].

Thu Oct 8 20:28:55 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

I hold in my hands this afternoon, an advance copy of the CD "The Bootleg Series vol. 4 BOB DYLAN LIVE 1966."

It is everything I could have wished for. After bootleg upon bootleg (with Two Guitars Kissing the best) the "real thing" has arrived. The clarity is amazing. Garth's Organ swirls will take you on a roller coaster ride of harmonics.

Apparently, Columbia records recorded four show during the British tour. Sheffield (May 16), Manchester May 17-the source for this set), and London at the royal Albert Hall (May 26 & 27th). A three track stereo machine was used , running at 15 IPS. A number of the shows from Austraila on were recorded in whole or in part from a momo line feed by the film crew using a state of the art Nagra, running at 7.5 IPS. The Manchester Dubs were found to be overall best. The Nagra was also used for the Liverpool "Just Like Tom Thumbs Blues"; which was the b side of I want you.

These notes are from inside the jacket which is filled with great photos. Some we have seen before...many we have not. There is a single black and white picture that Serge will enjoy of the Hawks equipment packed up and ready to go. The caption reads..."The offending Instruments." The CD is out "officially" on Tuesday. You'll almost hear Bob yelling out..."PLAY F.....G LOUD! before going into Like A Rolling Stone. Enjoy it. It took me back to Massey Hall in Toronto..February 1966.

Thu Oct 8 19:10:39 MET DST 1998

Ed Connor

Thu Oct 8 15:51:47 MET DST 1998

Tim

Just received Jubilation in the mail from CDnow, only took a week from California. First listen is very positive! I remember the first time I heard High on the hog and it didn't have this impression on me. Last time I checked (Tues) record stores in this area had not heard of the album yet. Any other Canadians see it anywhere? Paige did say Oct 9 (tommorrow).

Thu Oct 8 15:48:36 MET DST 1998

David Powell

I haven't heard the Japanese releases that Peter, Jonathan & others have mentioned, but I'm quite familiar with other CDs imported from that country. I've purchased several Japanese import versions from the Miles Davis catalog. They were also packaged with cardboard reproductions of the original LP covers, complete with artwork & an inner sleeve for the disc. Like the packaging, the sound is far superior to that of the average CD produced here in the U.S.

The Japanese have a reputation for taking more care & using better equipment is producing reissues. This reputation was established in the era of vinyl releases & has carried over into the digital age. What is meant by digital remastering is that the analog source tapes are tranferred to the digital domain, usually to a computer work station's hard drive, the volume & noise levels are adjusted & maybe some equalization is done to smooth out the high notes & tighten up the lows. This digital master is then used to produce the CDs.

Like gold CDs, the Japanese imports are priced quite high. Being the vinyl junkie that I am, I would like to point out that in the last month or so I have purchased used LPs, in all good condition, of _Music From Big Pink_, Moondog Matinee_ & a mono "360" version of Dylan's _Bringing It All Back Home_. I paid about $30 for ALL three of these LPs, the price for just one Japanese import CD.

Thu Oct 8 14:53:30 MET DST 1998

Wanda 'n Dennis

A reminder: starting this evening and running through Sunday, on www.liveconcerts.com is the King Bisquit Blues Festival from Helena, Ark. Tonight's broadcast starts at 7:30 EDT. Sadly, liveconcerts reports that due to illness, Rufus Thomas, Mr. Memphis, will not be headlining this evening. The Band played a heck of a show at King Bisquit back in the fall of '94.

Thu Oct 8 14:20:51 MET DST 1998

Richard

Much ado about mandolins. Of course, that instrument is all over Jubilation, which is part of what makes me jubilate so much over that great new album. I have been -trying to- play the mandolin for about a decade, and a little group in grad school. We actaully played a few Band songs (The Weight, Ain't No More Cane, Masterpiece, I Shall Be Released, Across the Great Divide, etc...). Anyway, Levon has always inspired me to pick the thing up and try to figure out a tune or two. I've seen Sam Bush (with Emmylou Harris) and David Grisman in concert, and I agree with whoever called them mando-players par excellence, but I still like the rough edges of some of the very soulful musicians who use mandolin as a second or third instrument: Ry Cooder, Levon (of course), and dare I say it...Jimmy Page on some of the old Led Zep albums. I have three mandolins in the stable right now, the nicest one being a 1919 Gibson my wife gave me for a wedding present--yes I am a lucky man in the mate department. But the newest one I have is actually the reason I'm writing: this thing is __wild___. It's called a cumbus (pronounced joom-boosh), and its a Turkish banjo-mandolin. It had a nickel body with a banjo head resonator thing, and a rosewood and mahogany (or faux rosewood I suspect) mandolin neck. The things has a real "chickenwire" and "rubber bands" sound to borrow from His Greilness. It cost less than $200, so I would thoroughly recommend to anyone that they check one out. It is, in a word, Funky. Rag Mama Rag....

Thu Oct 8 13:58:37 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

Remasters:

Peter-I agree that the new Japanese releases give you trade-offs in the sonic department. I bought "Big Pink" and "The Band" at outrageous prices in the U.S. [approx $28]. I did not spring for "Stage Fright" because I have the DDC remastered version [also at an outrageous price]. Its hard to get over the fact that I've bought each of these three times [lp, CD, and remastered CD]. But its The Band and I can't resist. The packaging is great on these [also on the DDC "Stage Fright"], with the Japanese remasters looking like miniature lp's, bringing back a flood of memories of their larger versions. [I hate to think how flooded I would be with memories if I brought the lp's out of storage!] I was especially pleased to see "Big Pink's" next of kin photo reproduced - a critical part of the original lp that Capital excluded from the CD. And with the insert of Levon's parents who could not be there for the photo shoot. One quibble: on "The Brown Album" some of the text is faintly italicised, or accidentally skewed. Worth the price? Only if you are a FANatic, I guess. For you fans, I recall reading that these mini-lp editions are first pressing only. I geuss I'm off to the record store for the rest of them!

Thu Oct 8 12:13:04 MET DST 1998

Dag-Øyvind Engtrø

Can anybody pleaaase tell me why the #"/"%/ hasn't "Jubilation" come to Norway? Aaaaaaaargh! Love the great site, Høiberg!

Thu Oct 8 11:27:44 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

It's taken me several days to be able to post this, and my apologies to anyone who might not know why I have to.

To Mr.A Solution: violence in any situation is wrong, and to even suggest that a woman being hit by a man is a "solution" absolutely rendered me speechless.

And to CW: Who actually agreed with this, you truly disgust me.

Both of you men, whoever you are, should apologize to every woman who reads and contributes to this guestbook.

Sorry Jan and everyone else for taking up space with this, but _I_ feel much better now.

Thu Oct 8 09:00:04 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

JAPANESE REMASTERS (EMI-TOSHIBA) I’ve been meaning to post on this for a while.

I bought The Band / Big Pink / Moondog Matinee. PACKAGING - best CDs ever. Brown album has "dimpled cardboard" on the cover, "Big Pink" has the Next of Kin photo, Moondog Matinee has an exact (scaled) repro of the wrap-around poster - folded at the same points plus it comes off. The actual discs don’t reproduce the Capitol labels - OK on the others, but you lose the retro label used on the vinyl Moondog Matinee.

SOUND - I keep meaning to do a full side by side review, but haven’t. I start listening to one, get lost in it and leave it on. I haven’t the patience / mentality for the real side by side job (anyway that requires two identical CD players through the same system for fast switching). I play a bit of one then take it out and play the other.

They are "digitally remastered" whatever that means. Like a lot of remasters, that means more extreme bass and treble. Loads of cymbals (as someone described Van Morrison remasters). It also means audible master tape hiss at a couple of points due to the extra top. Stereo is wider. Sound is cleaner. At one point they tried to remove a popping-P from Richard’s microphone on ‘Across The Great Divide’ - didn’t get all of it, but they reduced it. I would have considered a pppopping ‘p’ to be ppppart of the ppperformance.

It’s more "hi-fi". It’s not the ultimate job - it’s less atmospheric and cosy, and the louder bass seems to lose some of the perfection of the Rick-Levon melding of bass and drum lines, because of the change in perceived bass volume. On the brown album, the remastered "EMI 100 Years" vinyl is still the best reproduction to me.

The clean-ness shows up some of the murkiness of the previous CDs but also kills some of the atmosphere for me. What’s needed is not this, but it’s still very interesting. No "veils are removed from the music" (original 80s CD ads said this), but things do reverberate in a different way and your attention is shifted.

PRICE An outrageous rip-off in the UK. Virgin are selling them at circa £26 each (against £13 - £15 for a new CD). So double the price. In Germany they’re around £14 - £15 - the price of a new CD. At normal price, they’re worth a shot. At UK prices … well, I feel ripped-off but I bought one originally then went back for another.

Thu Oct 8 00:16:46 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Thanks for the info on Forman, David. Speaking of good mandolin players, how about Eric Bazilian's playing on Largo. I believe he also played on the Band's version of Atlantic City. His versatility reminds me of Cooder's. He plays the banjo, tremelo guitar and bass on the awesome Disorient Express. He does the blues up nicely on White Man's Melody inserting just the right amount of mandolin on this one. Eric's a master of strung instruments. Combined with a great songwriter, keyboardist in Hyman and one of todays better singer's in Forman, they make a great unit.

Wed Oct 7 23:02:29 MET DST 1998

Bones

There is a review of Dylan's Live 1966 2CD set in the up-coming Rolling Stone magazine. The magazine gives it 4 1/2 star rating. I am looking forward to the 56 page liner notes.

Wed Oct 7 22:41:24 MET DST 1998

Pete Rivard

On the subject of mandolin playing, my feeling is that most of what we hear in the rock genre is mostly just coloration, guitat players strumming the mandolin for its particular voicing. This is similat to the way the 5-string banjo was used to color country-rock songs in the seventies, and is still the way the accordian is used on many tunes. Pure background color. Garth Hudson is one of the few serious accordian players you'll hear.

Anyone interested in how he mandolin and the banjo are properly employed in a rock setting should check out any of Newgrass Revival's albums, especially the configuration featuring Bela Fleck on banjo. Sam Bush is one of the premier mandolinists on the music scene today, along with David Grisman, and for those guys the mandolin is not a color instrument, it's a full fledged rhythm and lead axe. Sam also plays a Fender 4-string electric mandolin.

Oh, and on a non-musical subject, how about them Vikes!

Wed Oct 7 21:51:35 MET DST 1998

Lost John

Anyone heard Mercury Rev and Deserter Songs yet: great reviews in English papers this week, extolling Band like qualities, so us anoraks need to check it out.....

Wed Oct 7 15:12:08 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

Rick from CT's review of JUBILATION was very nice, although I also have been enjoying Rick's songs. Saw the Entertainment Weekly review -- great again to see the boy's getting some mass coverage (although the grade should have been higher). Re: the Lopez cover... maybe Jennifer will team up w/ them in New Orleans. Couldn't hurt to get the pulse up, huh? Seriously, any word on any BAND concerts outside of N.O.?

Wed Oct 7 14:25:45 MET DST 1998

Rick

It's taken repeated listenings, but _Jubilation_ is finally getting under my skin. My first impression was mild dissappointment- mainly due to the fact that the buzz was this is "Rick's album". If anything, it is Levon's triumph IMHO. Yes, the voice is strained but the effort is maximum- he sings right through it! His mandolin & harp are everywhere and "his songs" have more of a Band feel to them- they dance, they move. Rick is in fine voice, but sticks to mainly slower ballads which simply don't have the feel of Band songs. Better for a Danko solo album. I also like what Randy adds to the mix. He has obviously absorbed a lot drumming along side the master. His vocal harmonies also fill in the lower "arrgh" that Levon has trouble with this time. "White Cadillac" should be a great live number too. Garth, it goes without saying, does it again.

Wed Oct 7 14:08:53 MET DST 1998

David Powell

VINYL SIDING: DAVID FORMAN

In response to his fine contributions on the _Largo_ album, there have been several inquiries of late regarding David Forman. I was finally able to locate a solo album of his that I had stored in a boxed-up section of my record collection. (One of the few drawbacks of vinyl is the storage problem presented by LPs due to size.) I cleaned it up last night & gave it a listen.

Simply titled _DAVID FORMAN_, with a stark black & white photo of Forman by David Gahr on the cover, the LP was released in 1976 by Arista Records. Produced by Joel Dorn (the masked announcer) & recorded at New York City's Regent Sound Studios, it features the cream of N.Y.C. session players of that time; Andy Newmark on drums (with Rick Marotta on one cut), Bob Babbitt on bass, Hugh McCracken on guitar & Ralph MacDonald, percussion. A string & horn section are also featured on most of the songs. In addition to the vocals & arrangements, Forman also played piano & guitar.

Forman wrote six songs on the album & co-wrote the other four. The songs include: "Dream Of A Child / Treachery / If It Take All Night / Smokey China Tea / Endless Waters / Rosalie / When The Comet Comes / Winnsboro, Louisiana / The Seven Sisters / The Marriage Of Napoleon".

Unlike most of the "singer / songwriters" of that era, Forman avoids being over sensitive & sentimental in his lyric with lots of clever word play & humor. "When I was a boy, I dreamed I was a jeweller / With a family business that was free and clear / Selling golden earings to Mrs. Mickey Mantle / Trying to be gentle, while I stuck it in her ear." (from "Dream Of A Child")

Forman's voice has a wide range; his singing style at times reminds me of a more soulful Randy Newman. On the song "If It Take All Night", sung in falsetto, he leaves me wondering how much I'd like to hear him sing "Lonesome Suzie" or "I Shall Be Released." On the gospel flavored "Endless Waters", with background vocals by Cissy Houston, Forman really gets soulful. This is an overall fine effort; I'd forgotten just how good this LP was. I'm glad to hear that Forman is still making music & only getting better with age.

Wed Oct 7 07:36:43 MET DST 1998

Andrew Hunsicker

Pollstar has Rick Danko appearing at the Turning Point in Piermont, NY on 10/9/98.

Wed Oct 7 07:18:09 MET DST 1998

Jason Paul Steadman

Nice Colors and formatting...very nice!

Wed Oct 7 02:12:40 MET DST 1998

Bill Paige

re: mandolins; I went through a mandolin period in high school and college, playing folk music (a Woody Guthrie birthday hoot sticks out in my mind), jammming with friends. i told ya -- in my early teens I was learning guitar by playing along to the brown album and SF!

not sure why I stopped, but it is a terrific sounding instrument and if you already play guitar, not too difficult to pick up. getting good is another thing altogether.

watching Seals and Crofts at the Auditorium c. '70-71 was a magical moment for me; I really connected with the songs on their first album, and while I admired their deep sprituality, I did not gravitate to the Bahai faith. Strangely enough I live about a 30-minute bicycle ride from one of the world's eight Bahai temples, and it is truly magnificent. If you are ever in Wilmette, Illnois, on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, roughly 15-20 miles north of the Chicago Loop, check it out.

and another thing . . . in the '80s I worked as a writer/reporter for UPI, and one of the sports guys was named Wally Martin. He had a picnic every year and the first year I went it became clear that his neighbors were invited as well, and his next door neighbor was Jethro Burns. well, you know, I tried not to miss Wally's picnics after that, and Jethro would always oblige with a little close-up workshop. It was a sad day when he passed away.

I guess that's all by way of saying, yeah, take up the mandolin! What have you got to lose?

On the promotional front, it looks like Rick will be doing some more interviews next week; and there will hopefully be some things we can do when Levon's club opens (if it happens on December 26, that's my birthday and I'm planning to be in Manhattan, but those plans may have to change!). The October Pulse (Tower Records house mag) has a 1/2-page ad for Jubilation and the new Kansas album, and I have been working with a reviewer there for a review in November or December.

The poster has been shipped and should be getting out to stores in the coming weeks. Hopefully it looks good enough to put up and the clerks will make use of it!

Until next time . . .
(RIP: Gene Autrey)

Wed Oct 7 01:39:31 MET DST 1998

Phil

The Glory of Baseball I too remember seeing this show on TV in the early eighties/ late seventies on a Sat. afternoon.I turned on my TV in my apartment and was wandering around not paying any attention other than a cartoon about baseball was on when all the sudden I hear a song playing that Rick Danko was singing.Needless to say I sat down and wacthed the rest of the show and credits after the show and recall "performed by Rick Danko" credited after the song titles.I also recall the whole thing seemed to have been done in Canada.Any way it was a kid's show with a moral in sportsmanship of good quality with fun songs which RD 's vocals were perfect for.

Wed Oct 7 00:59:09 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

IAN RE: MANDOLIN

Ian I share your love of the mandolin. It creates an ambience that is unique. If you want to hear some great mandolin, check out a CD called "THE DILLARDS" "THERE IS A TIME". Dean Webb is one of my favorite mandolin players. It's on the Vanguard label...VCD-131-32. Dash Crofts of Seals & Crofts used it as his main instrument. Then there's great Bluegrass music. Your choice.

Wed Oct 7 00:19:45 MET DST 1998

Bones

The new Entertainment Weekly with Jennifer Lopez on the cover has a review of Jubilation, giving it a B- rating. Nice to know the word is getting out.

Tue Oct 6 23:32:45 MET DST 1998

DP

Sorry about the spelling, How instead of who. The Eric Anderson album was signed in 1985, Tight in the Night is the title.

Tue Oct 6 22:37:31 MET DST 1998

Diane

Brin:

Thank you forshowing me that my middle aged memory is not completely shot to hell! Was beginning to think I was hallucinating as noone seemed to remember that wonderful Rick Danko rarity. Now - if someone could tell me if the video still exists and where I could get it, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Tue Oct 6 22:28:59 MET DST 1998

Don Pugatch

David, talk about a bargain, who about records for $1.00. Picked up in perfect condition Eric Clapton, recorded at Shangra La, Guess the supporting cast, and a signed Eric Anderson, also in mint condition. Now if my turn table was a little better, then.......

Tue Oct 6 19:52:17 MET DST 1998

brin

Diane

"The Glory of Baseball" (if that is the title) does--or did--exist on video. That's how I heard it. It was one of a bunch of videos we rented for my then five-year-old stepdaughter about ten years ago. Danko wasn't mentioned on the packaging, and I couldn't believe what I was hearing from the other room. I wish I more details, but I was in such a hurry to record the audio track (pulled the tape out after I read your post,and it still sounds great) I neglected to note them. I do recall it was a CBC program, one of series. Listening to the tape, I'm struck by the quality of the performances. Two of the three songs (all about two minutes long) are rollicking, good-timey rockers (the one Diane remembers ends w/the line 'Meatball, Lucille Ball, and that's all'), and RD sings the one ballad in his best, most emotional choked-up sobbing voice, a la "It makes No Difference"--if you just a heard a clip of him singing 'Is this the game? I don't wanna play/Do they call this fun? Is this okay,' you wouldn't think you were listening to a kids' song. Would love more details, and maybe someone else (a Canadian?) has some. Thanks to Diane, though, for bringing to mind one of my favorite Band-related rarities.

Tue Oct 6 19:43:02 MET DST 1998

Tim

Ian, i've been trying to learn the mandolin too. It's going slow for me (actually, I suck) but i'm having fun. There is a good mandolin page on the net, it's at http://www.mandolincafe.com/

It has lots of info and fun stuff like History of the Mandolin, Homer & Jethro's Kellogs Ad, and a Random Bad Bluegrass Band Namer that is really funny, I got "Traditional Creek Rounders" for my band (if I ever got one) Good luck with it!

Tue Oct 6 19:16:54 MET DST 1998

Uncle Hangover

Just read the "album of the week" review in People's Magazine. Well deserved! Keep on keepin' on, guys!

Tue Oct 6 15:47:41 MET DST 1998

Ian

Love Jubilation! Love the Band! I play guitar and would like to buy a mandolin. Does anyone in The Band Family have any opinions about mandolins? Please let me know. I'm just starting to research. Thanks.

Tue Oct 6 15:21:35 MET DST 1998

David Powell

VINYL SIDING

Although I listen to as many CDs as most people, often paying premium prices for gold & import rarities, I still prefer vinyl. No I'm not referring to construction material; I mean those round platters with the grooves that you spin on a turntable. It's great to browse through the little stores that sell new & used records in search of rare gems at bargain prices.

Here are some of my recent finds: Picked up a copy of the first Jesse Winchester album for $5.00. It's a first pressing on the blue Ampex label, featuring all those great songs & participation by Robertson, Helm & Hudson. Found a copy of _Moondog Matinee_ complete with poster, also for $5.00. Picked up a promo copy of Van Morrison's _It's Too Late To Stop Now_ for $7.00. This two record set has to be one of the greatest live albums of all times.

The other day I was going through some old records I hadn't listened to in a long time & rediscovered Jackie Lomax's 1972 album, _Three_. I bought this years ago in a cut-out bin & it still had the $1.97 price tag on it. It's a first pressing on the green Warner Bros. label (not Bearsville). Produced by John Simon, who also plays piano, this is a great sounding album. Rick Danko & Levon Helm lay down a solid bottom on the song "Hellfire, Night Crier" playing bass & drums respectively. Also features some fine guitar work by John Hall & the always excellent drumming of Bernard Purdie.

Tue Oct 6 13:20:26 MET DST 1998

Maria

Congratulations to Levon on the opening of his new club on December 26. One question. Does one need to get tickets for the show that evening and where would we get them? Thanks.

Tue Oct 6 12:57:24 MET DST 1998

Jan Høiberg

Just a test after cleaning up the site a little. And congrats to The Band and River North for the "album of the week" review. Guess who is trying to save up money for a trip to the opening of Lee's cafe in New Orleans ...

Tue Oct 6 10:21:18 MET DST 1998

Diane

Trying (with no luck) to find out if a video exists of an animated TV special that Rick Danko did the music for back in 1980. I believe it was called "The Glory of Baseball". He dida song from it many times at My Fathers Place and The Lone Star Cafe. Anybody remember it? "Cheaters Never Prosper, and Losers Never Win"....

Thanks for any info anyone can give me.

Tue Oct 6 01:04:49 MET DST 1998

Luis

Anthony Fappiano:

Thanks for posting on your pilgrimage to BIG PINK. Hell, it gave me chills reading it, I can't imagine what YOU must've felt. Acutally, thanks to your awesome writing, I CAN imagine what it felt like. Thanks man,

Peace,

Luis

Mon Oct 5 23:50:28 MET DST 1998

Bones

Thanks to Bill Paige for the review. Also, thanks to Anthony for a wonderful story about visiting Big Pink. Band fans need to pick up an actual copy of this week's People magazine(as opposed to reading the review on the net) because there is a very large picture of Levon with bold print underneath claiming that Jubilation is the "Record of the Week". Congrats!

Mon Oct 5 23:00:25 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

Great to see the PEOPLE review. Hope RS, EW, others follow suit. Still kind of amusing to always see the "note" that RR refused to participate, especially in light of his own comments in '93 attesting to the fact that he approached them about doing some songs together prior to JERICHO. Judging from comments made by Danko at that time, he may even have been more against the idea than Levon. Robbie's concept was likely to record a couple of new songs to be included in the CD retrospective in time for the Hall of Fame induction. Anyway, it's great to see JUBILATION get some nice notice from the general media.

Mon Oct 5 22:35:08 MET DST 1998

Mike

Got let go from my job of five years last Friday...Feeling half "Free at last, Free at last..." and half "Oh, man, I gotta get out there and rustle something up." Came home, popped open a cold one, cranked up Jubilation, and me and Annie (my Husky) just there together and listened..."I'm in high cotton, yes I'm in high cotton, as soft and white as the clouds. I'm in high cotton, the popcorn's poppin', there ain't no stoppin' me now." Thanks guys, for doing it again. This wasn't the first time your music bailed me out. Thanks for doing it again. And thanks Jan for an incredible site...(Now, if I could win a million dollars for a dollar in the lottery, now that would REALLY be something!) Please tour! -- Peace, Mike

Mon Oct 5 19:46:27 MET DST 1998

Private Jackson

Thank You Bill Paige. It is good to read a mostly positive review from a major publication. I think the description of Jubilation as a "loosey-goosey, focused but ramshackle" effort is accurate as it applies to the best of the band's work. Pretentiousness? The Band? No way Jose! They always seem to have a good time and enjoy themselves,live or on a recording. The reveiwer might be mistaking maturity and rioutousness for pretense. Now R.R. exudes pretentiousness. Robbie appears to be in great pain and discomfort when performing his music.

Mon Oct 5 19:04:09 MET DST 1998

Anthony Fappiano

Well, we finally did it. Yesterday. my best friend and I made our first pilgrimage to Big Pink in Woodstock. We had no intentions of doing it at the start of the day. My sister was married on Saturday and I picked my best friend up at Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY on the way to CT for the wedding. On sunday we began the long trip back. As we got off of I-87 on to rte 28 in upstae NY, I noticed the tiny twon of Woodstock was only abot 15 minutes out of our way. I mentioned this to my friend and we decided that this was definitely the time to finally make the trip to Big Pink. The only problem was we had no idea as to where we should even begin to look. We drove through the center of woodstock and figured that someone would help us out. After parking and we beganw alking the main street and checked with town hall. No help there. But across from town hall was a very nice head shop called Not Fade Away. It dawned on me later that this was probably the same company that produced all of The Band's merchandise. Upone enteirng, I asked the saleswoman if she had any idea where Big Pink was located. She told me that she could get me to the street, but had no idea where the actual house was. She said that she'd heard that it was not on the main road but off of a long dirt driveway. She also mentioned that there was a row of mailboxes on the street by the driveway. We were estatic and figured we'd have no problem locating the place. The only problem is that on Stoll Road there are about four or five drioveways with rows of mailboxes on the street. Not a problem we figured, we'll just check each of them one by one. The first row proved to be the wrong driveway. As we found the second row we noticed that one of the houses had a pink mailbox! A dead giveaway we figured. Needless to say, this was not Big Pink and the dog guarding the property gave my friend a run for his money as he spriunted back towards the car. We were becoming discouraged now as we'd been looking for over an hour. The next long driveway was particualrly long, but as we made our way over the ridge, there it was. Big Pink. We were awestruck. This was the place. Dylan and The Band! The Basement tapes. Big Pink, the brown album, all of them were inspired right on this piece of prperty where we now stood. It's diffuclt to describe the feeling I had when we caught our first glimpse. I can only compare it to the feeling you get when you see Bob or the Band performing live. It is incredible. BUt this was even better. I mean, here we were, in the middle of the wilderness, standing next to a gorgeous mountain, on the very spot where it all happened. I love many different bads, but The Band and Bob Dylan have done some things that no other bands have ever done for me: they've changed my life. We parked the car and didn't really no what to do next so we just stood and stared for awhile. We considered knocking on the door and asking to see if we could have a look around but decided against it figuring whoever lived there probably wouldn't appreciate it. As we walked toward the front yard we searched for a souvenir but didn't wat to cheapen the whole experence by stealing anything form the house. INstead we looked down and in the driveway was a stone that had been broken directly in half. It was cut right down the center and split perfectly even. My friend picked up one half, I the other, and we drove away with "I shall be released" playing on the stereo. This truly was one of the greatest experiences of my life, one that I will never, ever forget. Thanks, -A.F.

Mon Oct 5 17:25:46 MET DST 1998

Bill Paige

Just thought ya'll might like to read the People Magazine review of Jubilation that came out today!

Mon Oct 5 17:19:41 MET DST 1998

DR.UG G

"JUBILATION" IS A FINE CD. MY BEST LOVED SONG TO DATE IS "IF I SHOULD FAIL" I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED THE WAY THEY CAN DO A MOVIE ON DISK. TO ALL BE WELL PEACE FROM DR.UGG

Mon Oct 5 15:43:55 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Peter Viney's article on rarities is intriguing as well as informative. In this era of CD reissues, the problem of locating the actual master tapes remains as the primary obstacle in achieving a quality result. Another problem is, that due to neglect, the tapes have often deteriorated over the years.

It is rare that the artists themselves actually retained the rights to their recording masters, especially in the past. Buck Owens and Ray Charles are the exception to this rule, since they had the power and foresight to negotiate this perk into their contracts. In most instances, the labels for whom the artists recorded retained the rights to the master tapes. These companies, especially the large conglomerates, are notoriously negligent in the storage of these tapes, often even loosing track of them or worse, destroying them.

Since Garth was the go-to guy in The Band as far as working on & sweetening up the sound of their recordings, it is quite possible that he may have had different "work" copies of these recordings. These are probably the tapes that were rumored to have been destroyed in the fire at his house. The basement tapes that were widely circulated as bootlegs, were recorded "unofficially" rather than a studio under a record label's auspices; that would explain their availability. Quality live recordings and board tapes are also apparently available from sources other than Capitol / EMI. Another problem with The Band's recordings is that their long-time manager Albert Grossman passed away several years ago. It has been rumored that shortly after his death bootlegs of Band & Dylan recordings began turning up in greater numbers, indicating that the source tapes may had been "misappropriated" from Bearsville. Of course, any releases of older material would also require Robbie Robertson's cooperation or involvement since he presumably controls some of the rights.

It was refreshing to see Christina's recent posting. Here's hoping that more young people will discover the music of The Band. Maybe someday, despite all the obstacles, a quality box set will be available for listeners to discover the earlier recordings and rare gems.

Mon Oct 5 15:40:24 MET DST 1998

Ned

Saturday night I was up late with Bruce Springsteen on the CD player. I love the original Atlantic City, but as it played I realized a resolution to my issues with The Band's version. As a way to showcase The Band's awesome musical talents, the version on Jericho is fantastic. But I was never satisfied with their interpretation of this song. When I listen to Bruce's original I hear a story of despair ["But I got the kind of debts that no honest man can pay" and "Well, I'm tired of gettin' caught out on the losin' end"] and desperate hope ["Now our luck may have died and our love may be cold/ But with you forever I'll stay./We'll be goin' out where the sands turn to gold/But put your stockings on 'cause it might get cold."] The way Bruce sings it and the sparse instrumentation [just guitar and harmonica] create a powerful song. All of this is missing in The Band version. The song is upbeat with a full ensemble. It struck me as incongruous, as if Levon were to sing Lonesome Suzie at double time backed by a full horn section. I loved the sound, but could never reconcile the song with my sense of the original....

Until Saturday night. The key is the sense of the chorus ["Well, everything dies, baby that's a fact/But maybe everything that dies someday comes back."] As Bruce sings the second line, it is a question: his love is fading and he hopes that maybe someday it will return. What struck me Saturday was that when The Band sings that line it is as a statement: The Band may have died with the Last Waltz and later with the passing of Richard Manuel, but they are back.

I still prefer Bruce's original for its powerful story but I am a little more at peace with the powerful performance of The Band.

Mon Oct 5 15:19:48 MET DST 1998

Dave

My god's own group, I'm interested in linking up with band fans for nights on the piss and arguments about Across the Great Divide and The Last Waltz

Mon Oct 5 06:57:28 MET DST 1998

Rod Prowse

We still haven't got Jubilation out here yet - sO I guess I'll have to order it on the web. To add to Peter Viney's article on unreleased stuff - The Classic Album video ends with a cut of the first verse of Whispering Pines - so they definitely must have recorded several versions of some songs. Whether or not they still exist in their entirety is another matter.In response to Kevin, I'm sure The Rumour on Watkins Glen is not from ROA since Robbie's guitar sounds a lot different on the earlier recording.

Mon Oct 5 02:20:48 MET DST 1998

Lisa

As a long time friend and investor in this exciting venture, I eagerly await the opening of: LEVON HELM'S " CLASSIC AMERICAN CAFE" Be there when THE BAND starts playing 300 Decatur Street, New Orleans December 26, 1998 btw, There may still be some opportunity to become involved..

Mon Oct 5 02:00:12 MET DST 1998

Tony

Thank you John for the Levon Helm cassette. That truly was a great find. Enjoyed "Money" and "Willie and the Hand Jive"!

Mon Oct 5 01:47:42 MET DST 1998

Blind Willie McTell

Manhattan Jubilation Observations

Just getting back to Canada from a few days in Manhattan. Went into 25 or 30 CD stores. The good news, they all had Jubilation. The bad news, I didn't see any in store promotion.

The results of my informal survey. J&R Records on Park Row in Soho had Jubliation for $11.99 US. The big chain stores up around Times Square and Central Park had Jubilation going for $17.99 US.

Mon Oct 5 00:10:10 MET DST 1998

cosmo

A friend of mine who knows I'm a big Band fan just came back from New Orleans. He brought back a local paper with an interesting advertisement. I'll write it word for word......" Levon Helm's Classic American Cafe.. Opening November 1998.. Be There When THE BAND Starts Playing! " I just thought I'd pass it along. PEACE, Cosmo

Mon Oct 5 00:06:59 MET DST 1998

Kevin

Just read Peter Viney's "Rarities" article and found it interesting. Two quick comments. The Hollywood Bowl recording is from July 1970, not October. The confusion over the July/October date is mentioned in Jan's "Crossing the Great Divide" segment. There's also some background on this recording in Heylin's "Bootleg". The other comment is on "The Rumor" that CTGD credits as a "Rock of Ages" outtake. I've mentioned this before and having just listened to it last night, I think "The Rumor" on CTGD is the same performance as on the "Live at Watkins Glen" Capitol release. It also doesn't sound the same as the other ROA outtakes on CTGD. However, I don't see "The Rumor" listed on any of the Watkins Glen shows in Jan's tape archive either. So, who knows.

Sun Oct 4 18:39:18 MET DST 1998

S. Stice

So glad I found this page! Just this AM, took the Best of the Band CD and copied it to a cassette - bought older car, Kenwood stereo has cassette player only! Wouldn't trade my Band music for anything!

Sun Oct 4 14:51:51 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Anybody have any backround information on David Forman? Is he also a member of the Hooters and has he done any outside projects. Somebody mentioned a solo album in the 70's, can anyone confirm this? " I rise in the east-settle in the west, goin for a ride on Disorient Express, searchin for the guru in the land of milk and honey, he was charming, funny but the guru took my money, Gimme little click-gimme little clack, hammer down the spike-coolie on the track, coal black hair braided in a not, get out the way baby, I can't stop, so I get on the train, head down the track, goin for a ride' never comin back, snakes in the boots, I couldn't care less, goin for a ride on Disorient Express"

Sun Oct 4 14:38:29 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Sun Oct 4 10:36:48 MET DST 1998

G. Marx

C.W. of Cooke County

You is no best friend of Rick. My guess is your the best friend of Dick. Come down from your root beer high and kiss the cooke, I'm sure he'll appreciate it.

Sun Oct 4 10:32:33 MET DST 1998

G. Marx

To A Solution

If that's your solution I wish you were in it. Why not try lye. Gotta run, gotta date with the Captain's daughter.

Sun Oct 4 08:10:13 MET DST 1998

Jolene Oberg

Ya'ah'teh, Tonight on NBC I heard and saw a Promo for something called "Wind on Water" or "Wind on the Water". What attracted my attention was the first song from Contact/Redboy.."The Sound is Fading". At the bottom of the screen was "Robbie Robertson" "Making a Noise". I have no idea what it is about. It said, "In two weeks" and I am too curious and impatient to sit around and wait....Anyone who has an idea? Sure would appreciate it if possible? Thanks much. We've got Jubilation here..got it? Get it! Good! Jo-

Sun Oct 4 01:27:32 MET DST 1998

C.W.

Touche! Mr. A Solution. Some are the problem-crotchie, others are the solution. Bravo. The Band has put out one mighty fine album and I feel like I'm in High Cotton whenever I listen to it. Praise to the Band! And thank you lord!

Sat Oct 3 22:31:20 MET DST 1998

A Solution

Here's you chance Croce. Somebody wants your hand. Give it to her. The back of it. Then perhaps you'll both be happy.

Sat Oct 3 22:08:29 MET DST 1998

Gerard

Beste Stijn, welke _finest disc_ bedoel je eigenlijk?

Sat Oct 3 21:58:22 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Stan and Ollie: Call me crazy (and I'm sure you will) but I like J.Croce's posts. With all the hatred and violence in this world, I'd feel safe taking his hand anytime.

Sat Oct 3 20:20:22 MET DST 1998

Ken Morris

Many of you may or may not know about the online auction called ebay. I am not promoting ebay but, there has been several old Band LP's for sale lately. This week there was even an original "Last Waltz" movie poster that went for about $75. Most of the albums have been selling for $10 or less. If you need more info, let me know.

Sat Oct 3 20:15:39 MET DST 1998

Stijn Delsman

One of the finest discs I own. I was searching the internet to see if there were other releases, but I guess I have to wait a while. Don't think it's easy to get a Jeffrey Gaines disc over here, so I'll check this website from time 'till time. Keep up the good work!

Sat Oct 3 20:13:42 MET DST 1998

Cristina

This is a GREAT site of the Band-- I'm only 14 but I love them anyway! I'm probably the only one my age who loves them as much as me. I know them through my parents who are also big fans. We have The Last Waltz on video and we have all their records saved from "way back when." E-mail me if you want to talk Tears of Rage.

Sat Oct 3 19:58:17 MET DST 1998

brin

The Dylan-Hawks version of "Long Distance Operator" is from a December 1965 Berkeley, CA, concert and has been available on an eponymous bootleg. The song itself kind of sticks out from the otherwise 'standard' '65/'66 set list and sounds almost tentative next to the "Basement Tapes" version. It's obvious the Band really grew into the song--the BT version has a lethal edge the Dylan version doesn't come close to.

Sat Oct 3 19:20:36 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Thanks Peter Viney. I overlooked this one when I decided not to buy this boxed triple set just for 2 or 3 tracks. I know now what I'll have to do on next monday. Why don't they sell them seperately! We only need disc 3! Regarding remastering: engineers can do wonders with old tapes, singles and 78s. Besides: diehard Band fans don't care for DDD quality. So there might be some hope for "Uh-Uh-Uh" (talking about lyrics...)?

Sat Oct 3 19:01:04 MET DST 1998

Peter Viney

"He Don't Love You"

This isn't that rare - it's on the official box set, 'Across The Great Divide'. The other Levon & The Hawks (aka The Canadian Squires) track available is 'Leave Me Alone' on the CD of 'Pebbles Volume 10' (but not on the recent Pebbles box set unfortunately). That leaves 'The Stones I Throw (Will Free All Men' and 'Go Go Liza Jane' and 'Uh-Uh-Uh' still unreleased. The box set suggests that masters are unavailable. Maybe. But singles are in existence and it would be worth remastering off a single - take the BBC remasters of jazz 78s as an example of how well it can be done with modern technology. If The Band have lost their copies (sounds unlikely), then they only have to ask on the site! I reckon 'He Don't Love You' with its very Lee Dorsey / Robert Parker sound is the one that stands up best, even though it was a B-side, and that's probably why it was on there.

Sat Oct 3 17:48:35 MET DST 1998

Stan Laurel

I'm with you on this one, Ollie. I've had about enough of this hand jive.

Sat Oct 3 14:47:38 MET DST 1998

Ollie Shickelgruber

Once again we are drawn into J.CROTCHE's land of make believe. But I can sympathize..I truly believe that Robbie had me in mind when he wrote "When you awake".

Sat Oct 3 13:20:18 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Just gave another listen to "Don't Wait" fom Jubilation. Curious about the Charlie "Hawk"er name. Anyone else think that's more than coincidence?

Also, conversation in the song to me sounds like it's maybe with an angel of some sort. Angel of death? Am having an inspired discussion with a friend about it, and we seem to agree. Anyone else have any input?

Sat Oct 3 13:19:23 MET DST 1998

J. Croce

Just finished Jubilating with a very good friend of mine. Two songs really stand out to me although I am very happy with the album. Better then HOTH close to Jericho which I love.

On Book Faded Brown "Yet they all hold hands when they walk through town". Thanks for The Hand of The Band plug guys.

As for "Don't Wait', when Levon does this in Carnegie Hall (Charlie Hawker) he should get the longest standing ovation The Band has ever got. That is all for now. Like the man said, we have been rejubilated!

Sat Oct 3 12:10:42 MET DST 1998

Kenji Nakanishi

The Band has been a good R&R teacher for me. And also a great treasure box of good American music�I Thanks and I'll back here again.

Sat Oct 3 09:26:18 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Just watched the Classic Album video again. My memory failed me: it is Levon who analyses "Rag Mama Rag" and Robbie who shows how "King Harvest" was done. "Cripple Creek" is handled by both of them, but NOT together of course. On this (BBC-) video they mix takes from "The Band" and "Last Waltz" without telling you. Nice to see Garth almost crawling into his keyboard, just like the late Glenn Gould (who played a quite different repertoire). Canadian habit? Is there anyone who can listen to "King Harvest [Has Surely Come]" with dry eyes? This is Steinbeck of course. They did the trick again with "Acadian Driftwood", moving the scene up north.

Sat Oct 3 03:14:09 MET DST 1998

Jonathan Katz

There's a Dylan/Hawks version of "Long Distance Operator" from the the 1965 Hollywood Bowl concert. The arrangement is the same as the one by The Band with Richard singing lead, as I recall.

Fri Oct 2 22:49:32 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Ned & The Doctor: you make me jealous. I don't have this "Crossing the Great Divide" bootleg and don't know where to get it. Looked for the song on The Roulette Years, but no no no. More cd's with unknown material and rare versions should be released!

Fri Oct 2 21:20:55 MET DST 1998

The Doctor

"Do You Believe That He Loves You, Do You Really Think That He Loves You"

Excellent choice, Ned. I love that song! You are correct on Richard making that song flow. I love the drums on that one. That point when Richard finishes the chorus " He Don't Love You and He'll Break Your Heart" and the drums kick - WHAM - BOOM - and the song continues. Thanks for reminding me of it!

Fri Oct 2 21:18:06 MET DST 1998

Bones

Thanks to Mr. Katz for his thoughtful essay on "Don't Wait". These are the types of ambiguous lyrics that Robbie has always been so good at writing. Potsy, I agree that a Robbie/Garth instrumental record would be fantastic(but only a dream).

Fri Oct 2 19:36:59 MET DST 1998

Ned

Willie, do you know He Don't Love You (Levon & The Hawks, 1965, heard on Crossing the Great Divide). Though written by Robbie I believe that the power of the song comes from Richard for the reasons you have been describing.

Fri Oct 2 18:59:38 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Thanks David Powell for reminding me of that enlightening tv documentary wherein Levon & John Simon analyse Cripple Creek. If I remember well Robbie does the same with King Harvest, another immortal gem from that everlasting brown album. Still I miss those rhytmically interesting features in much of their later work. But of course I didn't mean "drum machines" when I mentioned their continuous beat. Good heavens no!

Fri Oct 2 18:36:48 MET DST 1998

Ellarbee

For those of you who have admired Paul Fleming's artwork of the members of The Band but, for one reason or another, haven't followed up on your admiration, here's some information from a visitor who has. I ordered Fleming's work, Levon #2, the watercolor of Levon playing his mandolin. It arrived today (total time between order and delivery was about 15 days), and I couldn't be happier with what I've received. And Paul was great about shipping the piece so that no damage could occur. If his other offerings are anything like the one I ordered (and I have no reason to believe they aren't), my guess is that any fan of The Band would take great pleasure for years to come in what Paul has produced. Also, Paul was more than willing to correspond by Email, to discuss his work, and to provide background information. People can talk about the brown album photos all they want. For me, the less literal nature of Paul's renderings is equally impressive, although lesser known than the Landy photos. Thanks, Jan, for featuring the Fleming works. I hope other visitors to the site will take the time to discover them and will find them to be as satisfying as I do mine. I'm off to the framing shop!

Fri Oct 2 17:35:49 MET DST 1998

David Powell

In The Band Classic Album video Levon goes into some detail regarding the "tricks" they used to make the songs interesting rhythmically. As he listens to the tapes with John Simon, Levon explains how they halfed or split the beat on such songs as "Up On Cripple Creek". He also points out instances where Richard played the drums, expressing admiration for his style of drumming.

Rick's distinctive, often loping, style of bass playing melded perfectly with Levon & Richard's drumming. In addition, especially on the brown album, Levon & John Simon took painstaking care in miking the drums to get that deep "wooden" sound. They realized that you have to get the bottom recorded properly before you can build the rest of the song around it.

In this day & age of recording, where so many artists use drum machines, it's refreshing to go back & listen to The Band. Their songs live & breathe with vibrant rhythms, with plenty of air & space left for the vocals & other instruments.

Fri Oct 2 17:06:28 MET DST 1998

John Donabie

I was going to write a very long piece on what I now think is the finest Box Set of music ever, ever released. I was going to go on and on about how all other record companies will have to look at how to do things right; after seeing and hearing this box. The closest competition this set has is from the Bear Family folks of doing things right.

I will simply say..go to www.hankwilliams.com to find the answer.

Because I am interviewing the producer of this Hank Williams box, Colin Escott, I was able to get a box to listen to. 10 CD'S, 225 RECORDINGS, 53 PREVIOUSLY UNISSUED, DEMOS, TWO BOOKLETS, PICTURES NEVER SEEN BEFORE, VERSIONS OF SONGS NEVER HEARD BEFORE!

Believe me when I say. This box will set the standard. Anything less won't do. Sure, not everyone is a legend like Hank Williams Sr; however as Peter Viney pointed out about "Across the Great Divide"...it was not a strong box. Not enough work or research done to give the collector what he or she wants. It lacked in out-takes and rarities. Let's face it. Great Box Sets are really for collectors. Anyone can buy a greatest hits CD.

Check out the site... www.hankwilliams.com and see for yourself. It will make a great Christmas Gift. It will also give me great ammunition the next time I complain to a record company about doing things half-assed.

Fri Oct 2 16:12:19 MET DST 1998

Ol' Dexy

J. Katz -- I agree about "Don't Wait." Took me a while to confirm it was the favorite, what with "Book," "Fail," "You See Me," "French Girls," and "Memphis." They're all good -- not just the arrangements, but good songs with good lyrics. Damn fine album.

Fri Oct 2 15:05:45 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Ned: Yes! That's exactly what I mean, even when "Long Distance Operator" is a Dylan song. I think Richard made the arrangement himself. Many of the later Band songs - including those on Jubilation - have a continuous beat. It's just the unexpected syncopation in songs like "Jawbone" that startles every time you hear it. That's why the early albums never will bore me.

Fri Oct 2 14:49:25 MET DST 1998

Ned

Ragtime: If I follow what you mean, I always loved the syncopation of Long Distance Operator which is fabulous Richard all the way.

Fri Oct 2 14:48:09 MET DST 1998

David Powell

Thanks Jonathan Katz for your fine article on "Don't Wait." The more I listen to _Jubilation_, the more I believe that this song may be the centerpiece or defining essence of the album. In light of Potsy's & Ragtime Willie's comments, indeed we must remember that this is now & that was then. Each album must be judged in light of the times from which it came.

It's sad that great musicians like Richard Manuel, Mike Bloomfield & Paul Butterfield are no longer with us. It's equally sad that Robbie Robertson, in spirit, is no longer a member of The Band. Each day, however, I'm thankful that Levon, Rick, Garth & the rest of The Band are still around to share their music with all of us. Let us count our blessings. Carpe diem.

"Well now, rules are alright / if there's someone left to play the game / All my friends are goin' / and things just don't seem the same." --from the Nick Gravenites song "Born In Chicago", recorded by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 1965.

Fri Oct 2 14:47:34 MET DST 1998

Ned

Pete Rivard: I greatly appreciate your repsonse, it was exactly what I was looking for. I doubt there will be much more discussion on this topic. Once again, thanks.

Fri Oct 2 12:06:57 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Jonathan Katz: Just read you wonderful review of my favorite jubilation tune "Don't Wait". Thoughtful,inspired piece. Thanks for sharing.

Fri Oct 2 11:41:47 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

Addition to my previous comment! It's just the combination of that deceptive self-evidence and the rhythmic angularity that makes this music so special. And talking about "Get Up Jake" I only meant the studio version that should have been on the brown album.

Fri Oct 2 09:46:24 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

You're right Potsy. The magic can never be brought back. Let's cherish what we've got from these five great men in the past and not dream about what could have been. Pete Rivard opened an interesting debate on lyrics, but I'd like to discuss another special thing about Big Pink and the brown album (plus Get Up Jake and a few songs on Stage Fright). This music seems to be so natural & self-evident that you could be fooled easily. Listen to "We Can Talk", "Jawbone" or even a quasi-accessible song "Rag Mama Rag" (I myself heard them a thousand times) and you 'll always be surprised because of the syncoping rythms that give a certain unruliness - or call it angularity - that prevents you from singing along. I think Richard Manuel was partly responsible for these syncopes. And they are what makes these songs so different from the later ones (save "The Well").

Fri Oct 2 06:28:34 MET DST 1998

Segue

103.1 FM in Annapolis, Maryland (WRNR) is playing cuts from Jubilation. As for Garth, Rick said in the recent interview that a Garth Album is likely on "Woodstock Records" at some point. (Potsy that 'jazz singer' you're looking for is (or could be) none other than Garth's wife. She sang on Hirth Martinez's "Hirth from Earth"

Fri Oct 2 03:07:47 MET DST 1998

Diamond Lil

Just had the pleasure of jubilating with Spider John. Sometimes the best part of good music is sharing it with good friends.......

Fri Oct 2 02:41:38 MET DST 1998

Spider John

At long last I have been rejoined by The Band. I just listened to the new album with Diamond Lil and I have to say I feel "rejubilated". Don't Wait can become a signature piece for Levon; If I Should Fail, for Rick. Yes John Hiatt sounds a bit like Richard on NLSc or Randy Newman, Bound by Love is fine. I'm gonna enjoy listening to this one. Best especially to Levon Helm- the honor is ours.

Thu Oct 1 23:55:04 MET DST 1998

brin

Haven't checked out "Largo" myself (never much cared for the Hooters and they seem to be the auteurs), but does anyone know if the David Forman I keep seeing mentioned in connection with that album is the same David Forman who released a solo album on Arista circa 1978? A marvelous record, loaded with intelligent songs and idiosyncratic vocals.

Thu Oct 1 23:47:46 MET DST 1998

Mark Grissom

Just one more thing...come on out to The Fillmore in SF and do the new album for us!

Thu Oct 1 23:45:43 MET DST 1998

Mark Grissom

I am really enjoying "Jubilation". I couldn't think of anything better to fall into Autumn with. Something about The Band's timeless sound fits the season so well. It reminds me of music made by friends on the back porch, passing instruments and a jug of something around.The songs are excellent, but mostly it's the ensemble feel, the woozy harmonies, the sense that this is music made by people who know each other well. This comes from a long time fan who saw the first live perfomance at Winterland (well, the Saturday night show) and a great one in Berkeley after "The Band" came out. Great to catch up with you all again!

Thu Oct 1 23:15:24 MET DST 1998

Potsy

Thanks for the tip David, always on the lookout for new Bloomfield. Nice entry Nick. David Forman is a fantastic vocalist in a fine group. I can't wait to see what they do in the future. Only one thing. It's hard to think of a worse name for a group. The Hooters? Anyway, Largo is an unexpected find. When I showed the cd to my brother, he asked me what it sounded like. I told him it sounded like the collection of classic photographs in the wonderfully packaged case. Disorient Express is an awesome song. So is Gimme a Stone, thanks in part to Levon Helm. Forman does duets with Both Levon and Taj, and also does the Star Spangled Banner justice. DO A SOLO ALBUM GARTH! I would love to hear Garth work with a female jazz singer, but what I would really love to hear is an all instumental record from Robbie and Garth. They worked together so incredibly. The 66 tour is just one example. Those of you that think Robbie 's return to the Band would somehow give them that something that is missing, are out of your minds. You can't bring Richard back and he can never be replaced. The magic never lasts forever. It's almost as ridiculous as a Beatles reunion. THE GARTH HUDSON, ROBBIE ROBERTSON SESSIONS. Has quite a ring to it on the other hand. Excuse me for dreaming. Love, Potsy.

Thu Oct 1 22:43:00 MET DST 1998

Bones

To Peter Viney: I thought you might be interested in this(you probably already know it). Rick Chertoff is a valuable friend to the Band. Levon credited him on The Today Show a few years ago for bringing them "Atlantic City", which I know is one of your favorite Jericho tracks. Rick is also involved with the Band's guesting on the Largo project, which I know is one of your favorite records. Here's hoping that Mr. Chertoff will continue his friendship with the Band.

Thu Oct 1 22:11:47 MET DST 1998

clemens Steekelenburg

please sent me the adress or e-mail adress of Larry Samuels, former manager of the band, or tell him to contact me at clemensmonique@hetnet.nl

Thu Oct 1 20:24:29 MET DST 1998

brin

Re: Mike Bloomfield

Band fans intrigued by D. Powell's Bloomfield post should look out for the still-circulating Dylan bootleg "Spider's Web," which includes the electric portion of Dylan's Newport '65 set in listenable sound as well as '65 and '66 studio recordings with members of the Hawks. That three-song electric set was an even louder shot heard 'round the world than RAH/Manchester.

Thu Oct 1 18:05:54 MET DST 1998

Segue

Different people check in at different times, and there are always people checking in for the first time. Steve from upstate NY, click "What's New," (on your left) scroll down a little and check out the Danko interview.

Thanks to Bill Paige for posting the list of stations playing stuff from Jubilation. (what about WDST in Woodstock?) Anybody out there heard any of their new stuff anywhere? If so, please post!

Thu Oct 1 16:14:43 MET DST 1998

Ellarbee

To Steve (from upstate NY) and others who have recently posted messages about Levon's health: take a look at the Rick Danko interview Jan has included in the What's New pocket of the site. If Rick's on target about Levon, the news is the best that anyone could want. And, as for Levon's voice on "Jubilation", let's all enjoy it for what it is!! The more I listen to his vocals on the new CD, the more inspiring I find them to be. Levon's an absolute marvel, a national musical treasure. May he long give us the pleasure of his company!!

Thu Oct 1 15:33:36 MET DST 1998

David Powell

MIKE BLOOMFIELD REVISITED

When Bob Dylan took the stage at Newport on July 25, 1965, Mike Bloomfield played electric lead guitar in the back-up group. Bloomfield had been recruited from the Paul Butterfield Band to play that night, in part to duplicate the blazing blues licks he had added to the recording sessions of Dylan's _Highway 61 Revisited_. Joined by fellow Butterfield band mates, bassist Jerome Arnold & drummer Sam Lay, along with Barry Goldberg on piano, the electric wall of sound that Bloomfield & company layed down behind Dylan stunned the Newport audience's folky sensibilities. An abbreviated set consisting of "Maggie's Farm," "Like A Rolling Stone, " and a portion of "...It Takes A Train to Cry," abruptly concluded to a mixed chorus of boos & stunned silence before Dylan was cajoled into briefly returning to the stage alone with acoustic guitar in hand.

Bloomfield reportedly turned down Dylan's offer to permanently join his band, choosing instead to continue his path in pursuit of the blues. After an all too brief stint with Butterfield, Bloomfield left to form his own band, Electric Flag, along with singer/songwriter Nick Gravenites and Buddy Miles. Adding an R&B horn section to the basic blues format, Electric Flag, under Albert Grossman's management, recorded a couple of classic albums on the Columbia label before disbanding. Bloomfield would later join Al Kooper to record & perform material consisting of long, extended jams. This partnership was successful commercially, but Bloomfiled disdained "selling out", prefering instead to return to his love of the Blues.

Over the years, Bloomfield worked on projects for small record labels and occasionally emerged to participate in commercial ventures such as the John Hammond / Dr. John / Bloomfield album and the ill-fated KGB "super group." During this time, like many of his contemporaries, Bloomfield fought his own personal battles with the demons that he had met out at the crossroads; but still he maintained his pursuit of the Blues.

The Columbia / Legacy label has recently released the album _MIKE BLOOMFIELD, LIVE AT THE OLD WALDORF_ (CK 65688). The single CD contains a set of performances recorded live at the Old Waldorf club in San Francisco between December 1976 and May 1977, along with the opening medley recorded before a live audience at the Record Plant studio on 11/10/74. Bloomfield is accompanied by a small group of friends, with vocals handled by bassist Roger Troy, drummer Bob Jones & rhythm guitarist Nick Gravenites. Butterfield alumnus, Mark Naftalin, handles piano chores, with Barry Goldberg playing Hammond organ on one song.

From the opening notes of the "Sweet Little Angel / Jelly Jelly" medley, Bloomfield plays with breathtaking intensity. Not since the first Butterfield & East-West albums has the fire of his guitar work been on such full display. This is the real deal, no bullshit blues, that Bloomfield loved. On many of the songs he plays a sinewy slide guitar in a style reminiscent of Muddy Waters. His staccato blues licks seem to go on forever, flowing smoothly with graceful ease & never stumbling. Switching back & forth on pickups, he achieved guitar tones to die for, from fat to biting sharp.

Every cut on this CD is exquisite, period. Highlights include Elmore James classic "The Sky Is Cryin'", Nick Gravenites' "Buried Alive In The Blues," and "Farther Up The Road." On the latter, Bloomfield adds a swing feel to the song with cromatic jazz chords, along with his beautiful solos. I highly recommend this CD. If you're a fan of the blues, Bloomfield & the art of electric guitar, this is a must have. Go out & run to the nearest store & buy it right away brothers & sisters. God bless the late Mike Bloomfield, bluesman extraordinaire.

Thu Oct 1 14:59:22 MET DST 1998

Kevin Scott

I live in Canada, I can't find The Band's new CD. I've looked in all the big stores Sam's and HMV. I asked a clerk at HMV, they did not even know The Band put out a new album. Does anyone in Toronto area know where to get the album?

Thu Oct 1 13:59:08 MET DST 1998

Ragtime Willie

To Steve from Upstate NY: just check the guestbook archives. We've been through all that.

Thu Oct 1 13:46:01 MET DST 1998

Gerard

Ok it was a joke then. I just have another cocneption of what a "joke" should be. Never mind. It's all over now.

Thu Oct 1 13:12:19 MET DST 1998

Ian

I'm glad to hear the anti-Semitism was a joke. My imagination went wild and I wondered if the anger at Robbie (half-Jewish) and Albert Goldman could've had something to do with that. It troubled me deeply, being a fan of The Band since the very beginning. I couldn't imagine that these guys could be that way. Glad to hear it's all straightened out. It's amazing what a "joke" like that could do.

Thu Oct 1 12:14:35 MET DST 1998

Tim(SUNDOG)Corcorcan.

JAN...THE BEST TO YA FOR MAKING THE FUNEST PLACE TO POST REAL FEELINGS FOR A REAL "BAND". SOMETIMES I THINK THAT EVEN SOME OF THE POOR TASTE THAT SOME PEOPLE POST IS FUN TO READ,HA HA HA !!! PEACE, TIM(SUNDOG)CORCORAN. P.S. I LOVE YOU ALL!

Thu Oct 1 11:01:10 MET DST 1998

Jan Høiberg

Nearly 400K of guestbook entries were posted here in September, the month that marked the first proper official recognition of this site from The Band and their management. I want to thank The Band, Aaron Hurwitz, George Lembesis, and Bill Paige, for putting the site address and my name on the new album. And thanks to the posters here for many interesting entries and for keeping the noise/signal ratio low.

Thu Oct 1 10:21:19 MET DST 1998

Reinhard

Has anybody seen the vinyl version of "Jubilation" yet? This site mentions a limited edition coloured vinyl pressing to be released in September. It´s the 1st of October, I am curious how it looks like, gatefold sleeve etc...

Thu Oct 1 09:03:46 MET DST 1998

Nick Tovo

Mom just hand delivered me "Jubilation" and I'm very pleased. Rick sounds great and soulful. The songs are all very good particularly "Book Faded Brown", "Don't Wait", "High Cotton", "You See Me", "Bound By Love" and "If I Should Fail". I'm sure the other songs "Kentucky Downpour" and "White Cadillac" and "Memphis" will be great live. Saw a beautiful rainbow in Montecatini-Alto yesterday while standing on a mountain and thought of the rainbow lyric. The way Rick sings it gives the line credibility. Overall "Jubilation" is very enjoyable-4 STARS out of five for me. A healthy Levon would have sent this one over the top.

It's amazing how fast "THE BAND" put it together. Rick and Levon hadn't played live together in over a year, then I see a Danko show in late Feb, he says THE BAND is going in the studio and then in Sept. "Jubilation" is out and sounds great. Truly a testament to professionalism and fantastic teamwork among THE BAND family. GOD bless'em all.

I also love "Largo", does anyone have any background on David Forman? The Hooters were the biggest pop-rock group to come out of Philadelphia in the 80's. Their first and by far best work was the album "Amore" released on an independent label. "Amore" is quality reggae-pop -rock-soul. The Hooters first big hit was "All You Zombies" and they opened for "THE WHO" along with "Santana" and "The Clash" in '82. The big sharks snatched them up and their sound became more pop but with good lyrics. They won a Grammy for best new group in '84(?) after scoring big with "And We Danced". Their popularity began waning shortly thereafter but they wrote some good songs like "Karla with a K" and "500 Miles". Hyman and Brazilan (sp?) also wrote for and helped produce other artists like Lauper and Osborne. They of course played on "Atlantic City" with "THE BAND" on "Jericho" and have surfaced as the brains behind "Largo". My memory is a little sketchy about their past work but as a near-Philly boy I'm proud of the way they evolved.

Thu Oct 1 03:50:18 MET DST 1998

Purdy-Quinlan

Hey, so I'm a little slow sometimes and I just tuned into the Band web site! It's great! Thanks alot! I'm so psyched, my dad just told me that Rick is playing at a little club here in Weymouth, Massachusetts on Saturday, October 10th!!! Yipee!!! I hope to see some of you guys at Shrauty's on Rte. 53, Washington Street! I'm having a Danko ala The Band party before and after!! You're all welcome to attend!! I have tried to never miss a show since we first saw the old new Band at the Orpheum Theatre in Boston circa 1980??? Date has left me? My husband and I fell in love way back in 1978 while attending several viewings of The Last Waltz at different movie theaters in the Boston area. Mind you I was 16-17 years old. Charlie (that's my guy), he'd pick me up at Midnight and my mother would be "where are you going?" I say "to the movies" - she'd be horrified!! Those were the days!! Rick and I have hung out together on several occasions! I've got some pretty good video's & photo's!! Well, I guess that's it for now - I'll check in later!!

Thu Oct 1 03:26:33 MET DST 1998

Steve

I'm enjoying the new album BUT take a good listen to Levon's voice-has this been mentioned in this guestbook yet? The Rumor has it he's got something seriously wrong with his throat-it's just not the same strong Levon-"High on The Hog" and everything else before it was quality-this is not a critique- I'd like to know if anyone's heard?

Thu Oct 1 02:50:06 MET DST 1998

Virgil Cohen

I'm sorry my attempt at humor has fallen so far off the mark. The idea that The Band could be guilty of any kind of prejudice, particularly anti-Semitism, should be so obviously ridiculous that anybody with any sense would see it. We live in sensitive, sad times. my post should have indicated in jest that "Virgil Cohen" was denied admission to The Band and that's why he thought the same had happened to Aaaron Hurwitz.

Thu Oct 1 02:47:25 MET DST 1998

Bob Anderson

The Band is the all time greatest musical entity on the face of God's earth. Thank you for still making music. The new album is great! What do you think of the impending release of the "Albert Hall Concert" with Bob Dylan? God bless you, Bob

Thu Oct 1 01:58:36 MET DST 1998

Scott Richardson

Gerard -- didn't mean to mispell your name.

Thu Oct 1 01:54:00 MET DST 1998

Scott Richardson

Girard and Ned -- Wow. Sorry. I feel like I must defend myself. First, Ned's interpretation was correct. Second, I agree Girard -- let's drop it now. I was only trying to react to the absurd idea proposed in response to Girard's reasonable question. Never meant to hurt no one. Truly sorry if I did, but I thought Mr. Cohen's comments to be pretty far from reality.

Thu Oct 1 01:34:32 MET DST 1998

Serge

Bud from Cleveland: Interesting, thoughtful entry. Thanks.

Thu Oct 1 00:55:41 MET DST 1998

FERDINAND THE IMPOSTER

LONG LIVE GARTH HUDSON AND HIS ACCORDION. ALSO AGREE WITH BUD,THAT IT WAS NICE TO SEE THE BAND TAKING PART IN THE SONG WRITING. IT WAS ALSO GREAT TO HAVE THE JOHN HIATT COLAB- ERATION AS IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS HE HAS BECOME ONE OF MY FAVORITE SINGER/SONGWRITERS.