Tony Romanello on the web

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Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Posted for Streaming: "Streets of Tulsa" and "Tell Me Please"

Back by popular demand, "Streets of Tulsa" has been posted on Myspace for your listening pleasure. This song has taken on an on-line life of its own over the last 3 years. The song, off of the album Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo: Vol 2, as most of you know, was written and recorded almost 6 years ago in my home town of Tulsa, OK.

Also posted on Myspace is the original Counting Stars version of "Tell Me Please." Written in 2000, and recorded 2001-2002 at Bell Labs, with Trent Bell in Norman, OK. I had a blast creating this album - thanks a million to Trent and all of those talented musicians who aided me along the way. This song is one of my personal favorites.

Hope you enjoy.

Rock the Casbah,
TR

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Wednesday, January 16, 2008

"Dances (Remix)" Posted for Streaming

I've posted a new remix of "Dances" on Myspace for streaming. "Dances" is an interesting song because its popped up on 3 of my albums in three very different versions. This version is a remix from the original Counting Stars tapes, 2001-2003. All of the instruments were recorded with Trent Bell at Bell Labs, Norman, OK. Since then I've managed to convert all of the Counting Stars tapes to digital format and have been working on remixing them on-and-off again over the last couple of years. Countings Stars was a big challenge to mix since we had tracked so many instruments and were working (at the time) in a totally manual analog environment. So, now with easier access and usability to computer-studios I've been able to disect, cut-up, edit, and sample different parts of the original recordings to test new variations in the mixes. Those of you familiar with the original "Dances" from Counting Stars should be able to hear the differences in the new version, but rest assured that no new instrumentation has been added - I wanted to maintain the original feel of the sessions. One of these days a full Counting Stars remix album should see the light of day. But until that happens, I'll try to post a tune from time to time. New tunes posted, as promised...

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Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Got the Les back...

Check out the new pics:

This thing looks, sounds, and plays like a dream - wwwwowww - the work I had done on it completely blew away all expectations I had. Its almost like having a completely new instrument.

Special thanks again to Jerry Amalfitano at Amalfitano Pickups, and Mark and Mitchell Cigainero at Cigainero Guitar Repair for their incredible work and skill, and my uncle Roy Anderson for organizing and supervising the whole project. If you'd like to get ahold of any of these people to learn more about their operations contact me and I'll pass along their info.

rawk!-TR

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Thursday, January 03, 2008

Happy New Year! Merry Belated Christmas! Its been a while...

I always say I'm going to be better at keeping the blog updated, but in 2008, I mean it. Things are going well. Austin is cool. The newness of everything is starting to wear off, so finally, after almost 6 months, things seem to be settling in. Julianne and I had a wonderful (albeit it brief) time visiting family back in OKLA and ARK over the holidays, except for the head cold that kept me on the couch for a few days. It was sad to see the effect of the early-December ice storms on the beautiful trees of Tulsa... but I'm sure the Spring will bring a renewed beauty.

On the music front, I've been plugging away the last few months writing and recording, editing and remixing, etc., etc... Much progress there. I hope to have a new soundbite or two up soon for all to hear (keep posted to my myspace). I'm also working with a couple of different media ideas for posting on the blog, so that should be interesting as well. Back in Sept I got to sit in on a Hallelujah Crowd mixing session. Check out the results here, I'm sure you will find it pleasing to the ear. Props to fellow displaced okie, Computer Boy, on his editing and mixing prowess - the songs sound great!

I've been able to catch a few shows here in the "live music capital of the world" but my favorites would have to be those of old town homeboys South 40, and part-time okie/full-time Brit Songmaster Phil Marshall. Just too much else to absorb here as far as a scene goes. Ya, I know, I need to get my act together and start playing live again - plenty have inquired why I have not done so yet. I'm getting there. I'm working on new things. I want everything to be right, and ready, etc. I'm past the point of playing shows just to play shows. And I'm not too terribly motivated to start from scratch handing out loads of press kits to every club owner. But, I'm sure the time will come again. For right now, I'm still enjoying the break. Trying to get used to the new surroundings, new job, and all the rest.

Ohhhh, but the Les Paul... The Les Paul is getting a grande re-haul... that is the most exciting news of late... Check out the current pics:

Topping the rehaul, the Les will get new custom pickups via Jerry Amalfitano at Amalfitano pickups. Please check out his website - he is indeed a master and artisan of his craft. Also while the Les is on the chopping block: new bridge, stop bar, electronics, strap studs, jack plates, complete set-up, and body refinishing. Wow. I've wanted to get this done for some time. After spending countless nights over the years being abused in bars and clubs with blood, sweat, beer, and rawk 'n roll, the Les is finally getting a much needed make-over; I've been wanting to do this for a long-time. It will look, and sound spectacular when I get it back next week. I'll be sure to post some pics.

OK. I'm going to let you go... but I'll be sure to be back soon... thanks for keeping posted and drop a line sometime.

PEACE!
TR

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Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Sorry for the delay in updating this thing... our move to Austin last month was successful, but the home-internet connection was not - until about 2 days ago (thanks Chris!). So I'm back online. New city. New Apartment. New Job. All kinds of things going on. More to come soon...

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Saturday, July 07, 2007

Pictures from 2001-2006 have been posted under the "media" section - or just click here to view them. The new pics are also posted on myspace.

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Thursday, July 05, 2007

The new(est) version of the website is finally up... you can view it at www.tonyromanello.com. Hope everyone is keeping dry - it seems like its been raining for a year down here in Texas.

New Pumpkins and Interpol albums come out next week - suhweet.

Happy belated birthday America!! And Godbless our troops.

-TR

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Thursday, June 28, 2007

Paul McCartney can play.

His new album is fantastic. Also getting spins on my cd player(s) and ipod these days are the new BRMC album, and Silversun Pickups. Still haven't picked up the new Ryan Adams. Too many albums to listen too, not enough time... speaking of... be sure to check out my good buddy, Philip Zoellner. His new release is excellent. You will like it, so keep a look out for news of his new release. Seems like yesterday Phil and I were working on his first solo outing, "Rosedale Sessions." Philip is a great songwriter and I wish him all the best with the current disc. A certain drummer that I know, Mike Friedemann, has been known to drum a show or two or three with him as well. Go check em out...

Been "scrapping" things lately, unfortunately... scrapped a couple of shows, scrapped a few songs, and scrapped a new website. In all cases, it just wasn't "right"... other obligations, timing, delivery... didn't quite come together. But nevertheless, I'll keep pluggin on this end and keep you posted. Despite the "scrapping," I have managed to make progress on some of the new songs. Just not sure how to tie them up (or if they will be tied up for that matter). But, I assure you, there will be some new music to listen to (online, if nothing else) before too long, I promise.

All else is well - this time next month Julianne and I will be settled in Austin, TX. I think I've heard somewhere that its the live music capitol of the world... sounds interesting ;)

rawk,
TR

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Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Congrats to Tulsa's own, Upside - they have released a killer rock album and played a great CD release party in T-town on Sat night - I was lucky to attend and saw a lot of old friends. It was nice being back in the room that Bob built. Props too to Phil Zoellner and his Trio (aka Mike and Jody) - they rocked out McNellies - really diggin the sound of the trio.

In other news, there will be a change of location for Julianne and I this summer - more to come on that soon. Hint... the town is also on I-35.

By the way, a few of the Hallelujah Crowd songs at www.myspace.com/hallelujahcrowd

Oh, and go buy the new Bloc Party album - its fantastic.

Random 80's song of the day: "Fascination Street" by The Cure...

rawk,
TR

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Friday, March 23, 2007

Its been a while since I've checked in...

Sorry about that. I always say I'm going to be better about these journal-things, but - well, that hasn't always been the case.

What is new. What is new? Lots. Where to begin... Unfortunately I've had to cancel some upcoming shows. I am truly sorry about that. I was looking forward to it. But trust me that too much is going on right now. None of it bad, really - just different, and so I am reminded of why I'm still taking a "break" right now, and its because of the times in the past that i needed to be able to say that "i have to cancel some shows" and was unable to do so.

But don't let that deceive you. Things are good here. Much progress of late - new songs, new demos, new remixes... and still plans of shows to come. I will keep you posted. Haven't quite figured out what is next, but I have lots of options so that is good.

O ya, and btw, Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo: Vol II is still available on iTunes, Myspace, and select retail in your Midwest city. Check it out... Thank you for your overwhelming support!!!!

I finally bought the Wilco DVD "I am trying to break your heart." Reminds me of alot of things. Time sure flies. Some of you who have frequented this blog for the last few years may remember may last posting about it... sometime in 2003-ish I think? That was a good year. That was a crazy time... "Where are you tonight?"-era and such: The All-American Rejects were playing on MTV spring break (I still remember playing with them in 1999 at Mike's in Stillwater). Counting Stars was charting on CMJ. TRB was getting commercial radio play on the edge in Tulsa and prepping for Edgefest. I was living on Brookside in Tulsa. Fanfest, Deep Ellum Dallas, New Orleans, Fayetteville, Joplin, Stillwater, OKC, Norman, etc., etc., etc.,... It was an exciting time; it was a tumultous time. How that affected things to come... How things transpired... wow. Its enlightening looking back, isn't it? Some of you were there with me the whole time. I still appreciate your support.

Congrats and much respect for those who have digressed, pursued, and triumphed: The Flaming Lips, The Starlight Mints, Bowling for Soup, Blue October, The All-American Rejects, Hinder, Aqueduct, and more to come, I'm sure... It's nice to wake up in the morning and see familiar faces from back in the day on VH1 while I'm drinking my coffee.

I'm thinking about podcasts? Videos? What do you all think?

peace & love,TR

ps - congrats to my great friend Steve Gooch and his new Bride, Karen... for those of you who remember, Steve was the inspiration and my business partner in Engine Shed Records (RIP 2000-2004). They got married in L.A. last week and we're so excited for them. Viva L'Engine Shed!!!! So now go visit Eric Sarmiento, Little League Hero, and Radio Wave Days (formerly Standing On Zero) because they are STILL making great music and we (Engine Shed) still wish we could have made everyone famous!! There is great rock in Oklahoma, rest assured. Support your local indie rocker.

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Friday, February 16, 2007

My good friend from Tulsa, Captain, started the Tulsa Micro filmfest a few years ago. Captain recently relocated to Seattle, Wa, with his lovely and talented wife Fae. Captain started the Seattle branch of the Microfilmfest - just like we all knew he would. Captain is a true artist and sojourner if there ever was one. I am happy that he has moved on and kept true to his vision. My best to him and Fae! I am flattered and honored to say, Captain and Fae put together a video retrospective of the MicroFilmfest and they selected an old song of mine from TRB "History" as the background - you can check out the video here. You can check out Captain's website HERE.

Vive Le MicroFilmFest!!!!

also...

Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo Vol 2 is now available on iTunes.

Counting Stars is now available on BurnLounge... with my personal retail favorite JamSession!

-TR

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Friday, January 19, 2007

Two new songs have been posted: "The shelf" and "Breathe like the first time" on
Myspace.com/tonyromanello

Both songs will appear on the forthcoming album: Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo: Vol 2 -- more info to come very soon.

Word up.

- TR

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Friday, January 05, 2007

Happy 2007!

I hope that everyone had a great and wonderful Holiday season. Julianne and I had a great time visiting family and friends throughout the TX-OK-AR-MO region - we kept busy!

2006 was a great year - from the release of R&R Fairytales, to the return to the stage at Mayfest, Mercury Lounge, and Freakers, and the release of Team Galaxy's Sled Chronicles - I had a blast.

Progress continues into 2007: Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo WILL be released soon... I promise. The Hallelujiah Crowd enters Bell Labs Studios (Norman, OK) to begin mixing sessions in January. There are more TR & Friends live shows looming on the horizon. Radio Wave Days is BOUND to break out soon (if you haven't checked this out yet, then you are missing out... great stuff!!!). Re-editing/re-mixing of Counting Stars and MumbleOdd continues. And I'm currently demoing for two new untitled releases... one might actually even see the light of day before the end of the year.

wew.

o hey, before I forget... you can download singles from R&R Fairytales, Counting Stars, and MumbleOdd, for 99-cents each on my Myspace page... check it out... this is the first time that original MumbleOdd has been available in a few years... The new myspace store offers a great new avenue to release music immediately, that I'm hoping to be able to utilize more.

And once again, thank you for all of your support! I couldn't do it without you all.

Have a great 2007.
-TR

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Saturday, December 09, 2006

Ho Ho Ho... Happy Holiday Season!

Tis the season to check back-in with everyone, so here's the latest...

Unfortunately, Lo-Fi 2 won't be released before the end of this year. I am sorry for that fact, but hey, we're working it out and rest assured that it will be along shortly after the new year.
But, as consolation...

Team Galaxy is releasing our full-length Christmas CD. For those of you who don't know, Team Galaxy is... [as stolen from www.myspace.com/teamgalaxytulsa]:

"...an all-star band made of up of Spot Music Award (The Oklahoma Grammys) winning artists. The project began in 1998 and the current line up has been together since 2000. Basically it’s a gathering of like minded Tulsa area musicians who come together to record their versions of holiday classics. Team Galaxy members include Tony Romanello/TRB, Greg Klaus/Fanzine & The Mudville Project, Scott Cooper/DDS, Erv Felker/Black Wednesday & Difuser, Billy Berkenbile/Nashville Rebels & Rev. Jonny Palmer, David Taube/DDS, Hank Charles/Valcour Sound & The Red Alert and Davit Souders/DDS & Rideshy Ritual. This holiday season Team Galaxy releases the twelve song cd “The Sled Chronicles”, tracks include: “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”, “Rudolph The red-Nosed Reindeer”, “Santa Claus Is Back In Town”, “Frosty The Snowman”, “Holly Jolly Christmas”, “Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)”, “Here Comes Santa Claus”, “Let It Snow”, “Hey Mr. Santa Claus”, “Merry Christmas Baby”, “Blue Christmas” and as a bonus track, a live acoustic version of “Santa Claus Is Back In Town”. The Tulsa World and Urban Tulsa have referred to the band as “Tulsa’s answer to a Holiday supergroup” and a “supergroup for the holiday season...”

So we are all very excited to release this CD to you this year - this project has been a blast, and its always a treat to get to play with such wonderful musicians and to have Hank Charles man the control booth in the studio. Special thanks to Diabolical Davit Souders, the Team Galaxy ring-leader for organizing the project year in and year out. I'll be giving out more details about when and where you can grab the CD, or catch one of the upcoming holiday appearances for more info:

Mon. 12.18.06 Live-On Air at KRSC 91.3fm RSU Radio at 7pm
Wed. 12.20.06 Live-On Air at Good Day Tulsa KTUL TV Channel 8 Morning Show at 9am

More to come soon... I promise.

- TR

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Sunday, October 29, 2006

Saturday night lights - Cain's Ballroom - Freaker's Ball. It just doesn't get any better than that. Many thanks to Diabolical Productions, Davit et. al., for putting together a wonderful event. We had a blast. Highlights of the night included Mudville, DDS, Motorcade (Good to see Nathan B and Aaron back onstage again), and many more. Special thanks to the guys in the band for rockin their stuff: Andy came as Dracula - he looked awesome. Julianne and I came as Dog the Bounty Hunter and his wife, Beth. Matt V and Mike F came as their scary-bad selves... muwhahaha... They all kicked azz onstage.

Setlist:
Shades of Grey Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Rock 'n Roll is a Fairytale
Headlight Shine
Under the Blue
An Old Anthem
5th Floor Evacuation Plan

Thank you all once again for your support - we'll keep jammin' as long as you want us to. Lo-fi 2 news coming soon... have a happy Halloween.

TR

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Monday, October 16, 2006

What a great time on Friday night. Much special thanks goes out to Josh Martin and the crew at Mercury Lounge for hooking us up at the last minute when the original venue fell-through. Mercury Lounge definitely has a lively atmosphere and we felt right at home - its a great place for a rock set. Andy, Mike F, and Mike T all did a great job. I can't thank those guys enough for coming in and takin care of business - makes my job really easy. It was also my dad's birthday that night (Happy B-Day Dad!), so it was great to see my mom and him there - we were overwhelmed by the turnout of our family and friends. Thank YOU all for coming out.

The set looked something like this:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Rock 'n Roll is a Fairytale
Headlight Shine
Under the Blue
5th Floor Evacuation Plan
The Last Bar Chord Ever Played
Sky

Also thanks goes out to Brian Parton, and Starkweather boys who graciously let us open the night. Both bands were great. Parton even played my fav: "you put the 'evil' in the devil."

Mike T was filling in on bass for the first time that night! He did great - thanks again MST. Matt Vandaveer will rejoin us on Oct. 28th at Freaker's Ball @ Cain's Ballroom. Unfortunately, Team Galaxy won't be performing at Freaker's this year, but there is sure to be some onstage surprises (hint hint don't miss the DDS set hint hint).

-TR

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Wednesday, October 11, 2006

!!!CHANGE OF VENUE!!!

Friday, Oct. 13th, 2006
Tony Romanello and Friends
Live @ Mercury Lounge, Tulsa, OK
Northeast corner of 18th and Boston
9:30pm Ages 21+ only$5
with Brian Parton, and the Starkweather Boys.

Sorry for the last-minute notice, but we're moving the show this Friday across the street to Mercury Lounge. Special thanks to Josh Martin and the crew at Mercury Lounge for finding a slot in the line-up Friday night. Be sure to tellthem thanks when you get there!

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Monday, September 04, 2006

workin workin workin... getting things done - much getting accomplished. its nice to be able to spend so much time in the studio writing and recording. Lo-Fi 2 is progressing quite nicely and looks to be ready sooner rather than later - maybe in time for the upcoming shows... did someone say shows??? yes, as promised, there are some upcoming full-band rock shows to announce:

Friday, Oct. 13th @ Mercury Lounge, Tulsa, OK
Saturday, Oct. 28th @ Cain's Ballroom, Tulsa, OK - Freaker's Ball 2006!!!

For both of the shows Andy will head up the guitars and Mike F will pound the drums. For the Boston's show Matty V will be partaying backstage in NYC at Madison Square Garden (can you believe that?!) that night so our good friend Mike Taylor will be filling in on bass. Matt V will rejoin us on bass to rawk it for the Cain's Ballroom show on the 28th.

By the way, Mike T and Mike F have their own project called Radio Wave Days. Their new album, "Crash Land The Future" is finished and will be coming out sometime soon - it is awesome stuff. I was fortunate enough to get to play keyboards on this album. Check it out here.

Freaker's is going to be a cool night - as always. There are always a few surprises at Freaker's Ball so don't miss it... in the meantime, check out Davit's Diabolicast here (thanks for the spins!).

Also working on a few other surprises before the end of the year, so keep posted.

All else is well - completed the Hallelujiah Crowd bass lines - they are full-speed-go on guitars and keys.

thats all for now...

-TR

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Thursday, July 20, 2006

Sorry its taken me a while to check back in... as some of you know, Julianne and I got to spend almost 6 weeks in Europe during the first part of the summer for work. It was incredible - we were based out of Maastricht, NE and accomplished much traveling: Amsterdam, Brussels, Cologne, Paris, Dublin, etc., etc... It was a great experience, but I am happy to admit that it is terrific to now be home in the USA! Sure we have our share of problems here, but its the greatest country in the world, without a doubt, if you ask me.

While I've been gone it has been cool to see that Rock 'N Roll Fairytales has gained some spins on Hometown Heroes (thanks to Diabolical Davit Souders), RSU Radio, XC Radio, and z104.5's Home Groan. The CD's are also available at Borders in Tulsa for those who have been asking. As of last week, the EP and singles are now available on iTunes - so that is exciting as well. All of this, and the "Official" promotion has not even started yet. O yes, and plans for a couple of shows in the fall as well - keep posted.

I'm also gearing up for more studio bass duties with the Hallelujiah Crowd. These songs that Brian and Jeremy have crafted are turning out awesome - I'm pumped to be a part of the process. And since the three of us now live within a couple of hours of each other things should progress nicely.

Mike and Andy have been playing some with Mr. Zoellner, so make sure to check them out. Matt is still beatin the box with Ruby's Begonia every-other Thurs at Camerelli's too.

Hope all else is swell...

-TR

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Tuesday, July 11, 2006

In memory of Syd Barrett, R.I.P. 1946-2006:

"Remember when you were young, you shone like the sun.
Shine on you crazy diamond.
Now there's a look in your eyes, like black holes in the sky.
Shine on you crazy diamond.
You were caught on the crossfire of childhood and stardom,
blown on the steel breeze.
Come on you target for faraway laughter,
come on you stranger, you legend, you martyr, and shine!

You reached for the secret too soon, you cried for the moon.
Shine on you crazy diamond.
Threatened by shadows at night, and exposed in the light.
Shine on you crazy diamond.
Well you wore out your welcome with random precision,
rode on the steel breeze.
Come on you raver, you seer of visions, come on you painter,
you piper, you prisoner, and shine! "

- "Shine on You Crazy Diamond" by Pink Floyd, 1975; David Gilmour, Roger Waters, Rick Wright.

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Sunday, May 21, 2006

wow, what a weekend! the shows went great... Mercury Lounge on Friday night was a good ol' fashioned rock and roll setup... just cranked the amps and let the sounds swirl in the room - just like it should be. We're looking forward to getting back in there again soon. Thanks to Josh and Company for a great night.

Saturday night at Mayfest was a blast as usual - the crowd was incredible! A special thanks to Tulsa Mayfest for supporting independent artists and musicians. What a great event - it was first-rate as usual. The Red Alert rocked the house before us, and Stevedore synth-popped it out after us.

The setlist:
1. Part I
2. Part II
3. Part III
4. Rock 'n Roll is a Fairytale
5. Headlight Shine
6. So High
7. An Old Anthem
8. 5th Floor Evacuation Plan
9. Novocain
10. Finally Found
11. A Red Shade to Somber
12. Under the Blue
13. Sky
14. The Last Bar Chord Ever Played

Friday night we also played a version of The Who's "Baba O'Reilly" to close out Mercury Lounge.

Special thanks to Andy Callis, Philip Zoellner, Mike Friedemann, and Matt Vandaveer - you guys all rawked! Lets do it again soon...

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Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Two of the new songs (Headlight Shine, and Rock 'n Roll is Just a Fairytale) are now available for streaming on Myspace.com/tonyromanello

The new EP was debuted in its entirety on KRSC 91.3fm Rogers State University lastnight. Special thanks goes out to Ryan Embree with the Oklashow - I appreciate the continued support. KRSC is the only radio station that has supported my music consistently since day one (and for those of you that remember - those were the days of Murmur from Norman, OK). My hats off to their true support of local original music.

Like I said, the new EP will be available at the shows this weekend, and then at select regional retail, online outlets, and digital distribution thereafter.

There are a few people that need to be mentioned in regard to finishing the album. First off, thanks to Mike Friedemann for kick butt drumming, and the vision to contribute to the EP as a whole. Also, thanks to Mark Bahlinger for helping me out with the artwork layout. Mark is a fantastic graphic designer and should be sought out here for any of your upcoming design needs. And very special thanks to Jonathan Belzley at the Mastering Lab in L.A. for doing an excellent job mastering the EP. Everything came together wonderfully.

Laslty, thanks again to all the guys for their hard work in preparation for the shows this weekend: Mike F, Matt V, Andy C, and Philip Z have all been outdoing themselves at practice lately and I am much appreciative. See you all at the rock shows this weekend - Friday at Mercury Lounge and Saturday at Mayfest.

More release information soon...

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Tuesday, May 09, 2006

So it's finished. The new EP is done. All the pieces came together magically within the last month. I've been working on this one for a while now - taking my time, not really been in a rush. It's been nice to approach it like that - the first time I've been able to do that in a long time. I had a good time working on it. This is a different sound for me. It's definitely a different direction - its nice to be able to branch out like this and take some chances on sounding different. There should be a sample available on myspace by the end of the week and some more info as well. It should be ready for the live shows in May, and then available at some select stores, online retail, and digital download sites as well in June-ish.

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Sunday, April 09, 2006

obviously the new website is up... this is probably version double-digit-something-point-zero. thanks for the patience.

OK, so the line-up is confirmed for the full band shows in Tulsa in May. Some familiar faces, and some new faces:

Me: vox/guitar
Andy Callis: bg vox/guitar
Matt Vandaveer: bass
Mike Friedemann: drums
Philip Zoellner: keys/wurlitzer/misc.

I've had the fortune of playing with all of these talented guys over the years... of course, most recently with Andy in trb. Andy is working on some killer material of his own these days. Matt V and I played in Murmur in Norman, Ok. He now plays percussion with Ruby's Begonia in t-town. Mike Friedemann has played drums in a number of projects, including Standing On Zero, Checkpoint Charlie, recently with Josh Beef, as well as an up-and-coming album with Radiowave Days. I've also done quite a bit of studio work with him. Philip Zoellner is another great tulsa musician who just recently released a new CD "Right On Time". I've also been able to spend a great deal of time with Phil in the studio, and hangin out. He'll be joining on keys/wurly, as well as some other misc additions. Should be a blast...

-TR

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006

Howdy,
yup... got some shows scheduled, been a long time, been a long time, yes indeed...

Friday, May 19, 2006 @ Mercury Lounge, Tulsa, OK
10pm. $5 at the door. Ages 21+
other acts to be announced.

Saturday, May 20, 2006 @ Mayfest International, Tulsa, OK
Stage on the Green infront of BOK Tower (1st and Main)
8:15pm. Free Admission.

more info will come soon. rumors of a new website too.
-TR

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Monday, February 20, 2006

I heard something the other day that makes more and more sense the longer it sits with me. I was wacthing the DVD that comes with the Jeff Buckley "Grace" re-issue. in it he refers to something about the whole experience of creating and making music and explains sort of what it is all about to him as an artist... "the goal is in the process" he said... so its not about a finished product, a certain song, or an end in mind necessarily... its about the experience of really molding something and learning as you progress how to transform your feelings into the music. Their is no specific formula, or prescription - it is definitely more of an art than a science.. merely the act of being immersed within it. that brought me to an interesting thought... that there really is no "end" to this. if there is, then this whole thing would simply be a means to something else. and then if that is true, then that sort of devalues the whole ordeal - the whole process.

the goal is in the process.

the end, the beginning... all the notes are right there infront of you. you're in the middle of it all - moving with it, always adapting, learning, taking from one experience and applying it to the next.

i like that.

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Monday, January 23, 2006

updatin the blog... updatin the blog... i said i was going to be better at updating the blog. o well, at least the year is not over.

ok. "what have i been doing with my 'spare' time", people have been asking. welp, i'm hoping to have many different lines out there for 2006. So, here are a few of the haps (or potential haps)...

1. i'm working on an ep with all new songs. all i can say is that they are rock songs. not modern rock. not indie rock. not orchestral rock. just rock and roll tunes. definitely the most straight forward material i've worked on in a long time. look for it to be ready by spring/early summer? but who knows. its nice being able to sit back and take my time on it. i'm having fun.

2. Counting Stars re-mix ep. yup. i've transferred the counting stars songs from analog to digital. i'm planning to revisit some of the songs, re-edit some things, and remix some things. i have no idea about time table on this one. could be a while. but its on the "project list".

3. MumbleOdd re-mix ep. woah. remember that album that i put out way back in 2000? Same drill as for the counting stars material: i've transfered from analog to digital, and will hopefully be revisiting some of these soon. i think that this will be completed before Counting Stars, but again, who knows?

4. Lo-Fi dreams in stereo Vol II. If anyone remembers my very first solo CD "Lo-Fi Dreams in Stereo: Vol I" - this will be the next issue in that series. these are demos/out takes/b-sides that i've gathered over the years. The first volume spanned 1996-2000. The new one covers 2000-present. Again, no timetable...

as for other projects, i'm excited to be adding some tracks to the Hallelujiah Crowd's latest creative process. but i'll leave that for a later time...

peace,

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Saturday, December 31, 2005

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2005... wow. What a year. So much has happened in my life since one year ago... as usual, things have worked out for the best.

In terms of my music, I have been able to take a much needed extended break and begin to focus on writing and recording again. This has been revitalizing.

As for my annual end-of-the-year "best of..." lists - here we go:

Best Albums of 2005:
4. The Killers "Hot Fuss" (*technically 2004, but I bought it in 2005 so I am making an exception)
3. Ryan Adams and the Cardinals "Cold Roses"
2. Bloc Party "Silent Alarm"
1. Interpol "Antics" (technically 2004, but see above*)

Best Concerts of 2005:
4. Black Label Society @ Cain's Ballroom, Tulsa, OK - May 2005
3. U2 @ The Alliance Center, Chicago, Ill - May 2005
2. Built to Spill @ The Metro, Chicao, Ill - May 2005
1. The Doves @ Gypsy Team Room, Dallas, TX - Sept. 2005

As always, thanks for listening. Hey be safe, have fun, and I'll have some updates for you all real soon (I promise) next year!!!
- TR

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Thursday, December 08, 2005

in memory of John Lennon, rip:

"People say I'm crazy doing what I'm doing,
well they give me all kinds of warnings
to save me from ruin

When I say that I'm o.k. they look at me kind of strange,
Surely your not happy now you no longer play the game

People say I'm lazy
dreaming my life away
Well they give me all kinds of advice
designed to enlighten me

When I tell that I'm doing fine watching shadows on the wall,
Don't you miss the big time boy you're no longer on the ball?

I'm just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round,
I really love to watch them roll
No longer riding on the merry-go-round,
I just had to let it go

People asking questions lost in confusion
Well I tell them there's no problem, Only solutions

Well they shake their heads and they look at me as if I've lost my mind,
I tell them there's no hurry... I'm just sitting here doing time

I'm just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round,
I really love to watch them roll,
No longer riding on the merry-go-round
I just had to let it go."

- John Lennon, "Watching the Wheels"
Oct. 9th, 1940 - Dec. 8th, 1980

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Wednesday, December 07, 2005

been beefing up the home studio lately... updates, downloads, more updates, software installation, hardware installation, more updates, yada yada yada... Mac OS X tigers, panthers, jaguars "oh my!!!..." - at least i found a way for line 6, 10.3.9, and dp 4.12 to all coexist together on my computer without spending additional $$$ (if that seems like cyber-jibberish to you, don't worry - its not worth trying to figure out).

but its all in the effort to speed up the writing/recording process on this end - things are coming together quite nicely.

looking forward to heading back home soon. keep posted for the latest in the annual Team Galaxy Christmas Extravaganza.

also there should be some music news after the first of the year...

ps. the bloc party cd is really friggin good

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Sunday, November 27, 2005

Happy Late Thanksgiving.

I am thankful. I am thankful for my life. I am thankful for my wife and marriage. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my friends. I am thankful for my many blessings and opportunities in life. I am thankful for Tulsa. I am thankful for Waco. I am thankful for music. I am thankful for all of you who continue to support me and my music especially over the last few months, and I want to assure all of you that have inquired that I am not finished - not by a long shot. more to come...

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Sunday, October 30, 2005

Trick vs. Treat!

Saturday night was a blast at Freaker's Ball! My first appearance since Mayfest... the acoustic set was OK. I was a bit out of practice, but had a good time on the sidestage at the Legendary Cain's Ballroom in Tulsa, OK. It was great seeing alot of my friends that I haven't seen in a while. Everyone was very cool, and that was awesome... some of the costumes were great. Julianne and I came as members of Team Zissou from the movie "The Life Aquatic". Props to Acoustic Ross (who played a great set, I might add) who actually dressed up as Mr. Diabolical himself, Davit Souders!!

Here's the setlist:

D-Intro
Sky
Everything
Ordinary Man
The Artist
History
Where the Streets Have No Name (U2)

Started out like I have just about every acoustic show for the last 5 years... de-tuned to D with some improv licks and then leading into "Sky". Proceeded to "Everything" and then tried a new and improved acoustic version of "Ordinary Man". Didn't change a thing on "The Artist" and then played "History" solo acoustic for the first time. Then I surprised most people with a rendition of U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name"... why? Because I love that song and I just plain wanted to play it, so I figured out a version of it on my acoustic a few days in advance and decided what that heck!?

Then I moved inside to perform electric guitar with Team Galaxy. Team Galaxy has been a project that I've been involved with for the last few years. Mainly we've focused on Christmas songs and various specialty nights on Z1045's Home Groan, but the last two years we've strung together all electric rawk sets for Freaker's Ball. Davit Souders, Billy Berkenbile, Greg Klaus, Dave Taube, Hank Charles and myself let it all lay out and had a blast rocking the stage:

Jumpin Jack Flash
Sunshine of Your Love
... On Wheels
Runaway
My Bonnie
Fire

Thanks again to everyone who came out - it was awesome. The other bands were great - I personally got to check out Acoustic Ross, Mudville, Engine Hearts, the Effects, The Red Stripes, Down for Five, Bageyes, Rewake, Math Lab, Fantastic International, just to name a few... - all in all it was a first rate production, as usual. Kudo's to Tulsa and Diabolical!

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Tuesday, October 18, 2005

PLEASE, SOMEONE TELL ME THAT IS NOT AVRIL LAVIGNE SINGING A COVER OF "LIFE ON MARS" BY DAVID BOWIE!!!!!

I mean, I love that song... and I don't think I could stand it if Avril now sings a version of it. That is just too much to ask from a guy like me.

However, I did recently rent and re-watch "The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou" (Wes Anderson - 2004). What a brilliant movie. Bill Murray is a genius. And definitely Deffoe's best performance EVER! But what was a pleasant surprise were the afro-cubano nylon-guitar versions of David Bowie classics sung throughout the movie by Seu Jorge. Now THAT my friend, is how a cover song should be done.

"Ziggy Playeeeed...
.......Giiiiiiiiiiiiiii-tahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!"

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Monday, October 03, 2005

I wrote Streets of Tulsa in late 2002/early 2003 and demoed it shortly thereafter on my trusty old 8-track - i recently uncovered the song, dusted it off and gave it some digital TLC by breathing some fresh air into it via my newer studio setup... and, voila...

The name was inspired by a line that Malan Darras of Rewake once sang at a solo acoustic show way back in tha day at good ol' Club One (anyone remember the club one days?) - anyway, thanks for the line, Malan - that was a good night. The song was inspired by any one of a number of my 20-something friends and I as we sat around wondering all night long just what in the heck we were going to do with our lives. And, oh ya... we happened to all be in Tulsa at the time.

So, without further adieu, rawk it...
----------------------------------------------------

STREETS OF TULSA
(written/recorded spring 2003)

On the streets of Tulsa it was just after 3am and i was feelin down to the corner open the car door thinkin what if you were around the streets and lights dim down its 3am no one on the streets of this town of wonder town of might pulled me under kept me thinkin everything's gonna be everything's gonna be alright.

i know the names of these streets and i know these bands and their beats i've seen the signs on the ground i've seen the clubs i played these crowds and i know what day it is and i know the age i am but I just don't understand - i just don't know where I am...

...on the streets of Tulsa.

Hold these places quite familiar of all these faces i remember her eyes of lightning eyes of stars the freeway lights and runaway cars that pass by wondering are they on their way in or are they leaving days another pass and i just sit here and keep on wishin that we could o we coulda made it last.

I know the times i know the place and all these roads i know the race i've heard the rumors run around and know which doors have been knocked down know where i'm lost and where i'm found some say i know too much for this town but i just don't understand - i just don't know where I am...

...on the streets of Tulsa

I know the times i know the place and all these roads i know the race i've heard the rumors run around and know which doors have been knocked down know where i'm lost and where i'm found some say i know too much for this town but i just don't understand - i just don't know where I am...

...on the streets of Tulsa
...on the streets of Tulsa...

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Wednesday, September 28, 2005

FRIDAY, SEPT 30th, 2005: THE ENGINE HEARTS CD RELEASE PARTY @ THE VENUE, TULSA, OK...

The first time I saw the Engine Hearts it was a sultry, humid Oklahoma summer night among the haze of cigarette smoke and beer of the OLD Deadtown Tavern. This was probably 2001/2002-ish... Finally there was a really rock band in Tulsa that owed as much to the Replacements, the Clash, and T-Rex as to more indier moments of the Get Up Kids, Decemberists, and such... and the more honest elements of punk. Most people don't know what "punk" really means. Punk as in punk rock (with the emphasis on "rock") - like good NY garage pop (Elvis Costello, Ramones), NOT like Blink 180-suck. Focus on the melody and the substance, the hook and the crunch, the room sound and the hiss. I'd trade click tracks for raw feeling any day.

I was approached by the Band and their label interest with the possibility to produce their debut album just slightly over a year ago. Having been a fan of the band for the preceding couple of years, I was excited to work with them. Much to their credit, they were a bit stand-off-ish at first as they tried to see what direction I would try to lead them down - we'd never officially met before... After a couple of meetings the middle factor was met when both parties could not withold their glee for the glorious drum sounds on Weezer's oft forgot opus, Pinkerton. A partnership was born.

My production philosophy: Find what a band does best, and maximize it on tape... Application to the Engine Hearts CD: Let them go at it, turn the amps on 11, turn off the metronome, beat the hell outta the drums and bass, take a few takes of each song, and then cull the rest out in the mix. Boom. Done. Extremely easy band to work with. Its easy when a band has good songs to start with, and good arrangements that have been tried in tested in the nonforgiving club scene. As a producer, I had hoped to not let down the band with something unrepresentative of their sound. I know as an artist, there are probably things they would change, and as a producer there might be a few things to revisit, but that list is always unending... anyone who has seen the Engine Hearts knows that what you see is what you get... they aren't trying to hide anything. I hope that is the same sentiment when you hear their CD.

I certainly dig it.

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Sunday, September 25, 2005

Saturday Night - September 24, 2005. Manchester's finest, The Doves, were at the Gypsy Tea Ballroom in Dallas, TX... and I was there. Had to be the best show I've seen live in a long long time. These guys were incredible. I really became a fan of Doves after 2002's The Last Broadcast. The huge wall of sound created by the band is arguably unparrallelled in intelligent rock today. There are so many layers to this band's sound that I was really interested in seeing if they could pull of an intense show. They did not let anyone down. The show was very uptempo and they definitely connected with the packed house at the Gypsy Tea Ballroom in Deep Ellum (sidenote: what's happened to Deep Ellum? It looked like it was on its last leg?). I was also impressed at how true to the recordings the songs sounded live... with only a 4-piece band! I was sure that they were running backing tracks, so I approached the sound man after the show only to find out that zero pre-recorded tracks were used. They didn't even use a click-track. Amazing. Truly inspiring. Despite the fact that fellow brits Oaisis and Coldplay had performed at huge arenas in Dallas on the two preceding nights - i wouldn't have traded my ticket for anything. Bravo, Mancs!

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Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Congratulations to my friend, Brett - Brett is having a CD release THUR, SEP 29th, at the Jazzhaus in Lawrence, KS. Brett is extremely passionate and talented, and a very good songwriter - people tend to lose site of the essence of a true "song" sometimes but Brett knows what he is doing... I had the pleasure of working with Brett in my studio last year as we produced his EP. You can find more info on Brett at http://www.brettarmstrong.com

I really had a good time working with him - as well as the other artists I was fortunate enough to produce such as Jarrod Major, the Engine Hearts, Alaska Factor, and the Affect to name a few. I'll keep you posted on these bands as their CD's are released... it will give you an idea of alot of what I did with myself during 2004-2005.

I think the Engine Hearts are having a release soon - they've been getting alot of spins on Home Groan on the Edge in Tulsa of late... they are one of my fav rawk bands around.

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Sunday, September 04, 2005

I posted a new... err, I mean "old" song that has not been previously released. Its called "Breathe Like the First Time" and was written and recorded back in Spring 2003...

Breathe Like the First Time
(recorded Spring 2003)

Sing out loud
Like no one can hear a sound
Don't say your leaving
I won't have to whisper goodbye tonite

What if the heavens could only
Defy fate and give us one more night
Maybe we could try...

Yea I'm lost and found up here
Yea I'm breathing the air again
So breathe in...
Once, Like the first time

Dance about
Like no one else is around
Don't say goodnight
and I won't have to wake up tomorrow and sigh

What if the heavens could onlyDefy fate and give us one more nightMaybe we could try... Yea I'm lost and found up hereYea I'm breathing the air againSo breathe in...Once, Like the first time you tried.

Yea I'm lost and found up here
Yea I'm breathing the air again

Yea I'm lost and found up hereYea I'm breathing the air again
So breathe in...Once, Like the first time you tried

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Wednesday, August 31, 2005

"...Mr. Karma's gonna get you..." - John Lennon

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Sunday, August 28, 2005

I thought it oddly pertinent to repost these lyrics...

The Artist
(originally released on the album "Counting Stars" 2003)

Her art has always been confused...
Pockets empty, arms in blue.
And as she smells the sweet perfumes she waits all too long...
Her art has always been confused.
She's painting greens in the afternoons
and as the city lights pass her by in her room - still she waits...

On these fables
That canvas and dreams meet on tables
Artists deceive to be able
To paint this charade how they want.

Her art has always been confused.
She sometimes screams in red and yellow hues
regarding shades of bright maroons on a slate - and still she waits.
So she rarely paints in blues.
Her art is not all that's been confused.
And as the city lights, they pass her by in her room she waits,
But don't you wait to long...

On these fables
That canvas and dreams meet on tables
Artists deceive to be able
To paint this charade how they want to see them.

And, O the sweet perfumes...

You paint me pictures and scenes now that I - I've found my nerve.
You paint me pictures and scenes, well now, here are my thousand words.
And I've seen nothing of worth.
I've only smelled the sweet perfumes...

Of these fables
That canvas and dreams meet on tables
Artists deceive to be able
To paint this charade how they want to see them.

O the sweet perfumes... all that was left in the room.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2005

I heard a great quote today:

"Judge your sucess by what you had to give up to get it." - The Dali Lama

Makes a lot of sense.

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Sunday, August 14, 2005

Cocoons
(written c. 2003)

The little man ends up laughing.
He watches us babble and fight about
Fast food cutlures, pop, and liquor stores,
Diamonds and pearles, paper or plastic.

He never needed a cent
Always steady and true
Took what the world through at him
His butterflies changed the rules.

Someone asked him a question:
"Just how do you live without these things?"
They teased him over and over again
But calm and collected, he remained as they jested him.

He never needed a cent
Always steady and true
Took what the world through at him
His butterflies changed the rules.

He had a hidden companion
A little Butterfly in his hands
"When times are bolder you'll forget this place"
Then it whispered a secret
and fluttered away from him.

He never needed a cent
Always steady and true
Took what the world through at him
His butterflies changed the rules.

They were changin
They were changin rules.

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Thursday, July 28, 2005

The masses are becoming restless... the revolution against the music industry is underway:

- Major Label & Commercial Radio Payola Exposed
- Legal Action Taken by the State of New York vs. Sony
- Further Fallout Expected to Affect Other Major Labels and Radio Stations
- CMJ Stations Now reporting to Mediabase
- iTunes/iPod and XM Users Increasing

Stay tuned... the revolution will be broadcasted.

"...let them open the request lines, let selection kill the old, take back the radio..." Jimmy Eat World "Your New Aesthetic" (Clarity - 1999)

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Tuesday, July 26, 2005

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sony BMG, the world's largest music company, will pay $10 million to settle a New York State probe into the way the music company influenced which songs were played on the radio, Attorney General Eliot Spitzer said Monday.

Spitzer has served the four top record companies -- Universal Music Group, EMI Group Plc, Warner Music Group Corp. and Sony BMG -- with subpoenas demanding information on so-called payola, sources familiar with the matter have said.

The investigation centers on a long-standing practice of paying independent promoters to help secure valuable airtime for songs -- also known as "payola." Under the Sony BMG settlement, the company agreed to stop making payments to radio stations in exchange for airplay, Spitzer said.

"Our investigation shows that contrary to listener expectations that songs are selected for airplay based on artistic merit and popularity, air time is often determined by undisclosed payments to radio stations and their employees," Spitzer said at a press briefing.

Spitzer also issued subpoenas to radio companies, such as Clear Channel Communications Inc. (Research), Viacom Inc.'s (Research) Infinity Broadcasting, and Cox Radio Inc. (Research). All three have banned the use of independent promoters.

Asked for comment, an EMI spokeswoman referred to a statement by the company in its annual report, which confirmed Spitzer's investigation into the promotion of records on New York stations and said it was cooperating with the inquiry.

"EMI has a long-standing, strict written policy prohibiting unlawful radio promotion practices," the company said. "EMI is not currently aware of any reason for believing that there will be a material financial impact on the Group."

Clear Channel said, "We are cooperating fully with Mr. Spitzer's office, and expect our practices will be found to be completely compliant with the law." Infinity declined to comment other than to say its stations do not use independent promoters. Cox Radio was not immediately available to comment.

- From cnn.com

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Thursday, July 21, 2005

everyone else can go home...

Junior Brown = guitar gawd

game over.

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Wednesday, July 20, 2005

...A Little Slice of Radio Heaven...

Just heard 5 straight songs off of the Clash's seminal album "London Calling" -- on the r-a-d-i-o. No kidding. As if that wasn't enough, the DJ then proceded to inform the listeners of a band called the 101'ers - Joe Strummer's band before the Clash. I've heard of this band a handful of times but never heard any recordings because evidently they only released one "single" in the mid 70's until a recent release of previously unavailable material surfaced. So the DJ played one of their songs. It was really cool to hear a young pre-punk Strummer playing rawk music that owed more to old school blues rock (e.g. early day Beatles, Sam Perkins, Yardbirds, even some Elvis Presley) than what we attribute to the Clash - very cool stuff, indeed. Sometimes I guess its hard to recognize evolutions until after the fact. It obviously worked out well for Mr. Strummer.

Anyway, the radio made me smile. Bravo to Dr. G and his "Retro College Radio" hour on KRSC 91.3fm, Rogers State University Radio, Claremore, OK USA. Keep 'em comin' - we're listening.

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Thursday, July 14, 2005

A friend reminded me of a great quote the other day that makes sense in my life right now:

"Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans..." - John Lennon

And speaking of John Lennon... I've been rediscovering and re-appreciating the brilliance of John Hughes 80's movies and how these movies and quotes are ingrained in the subconcious psyche of most 20-somethings today. You know, the Breakfast Club, St. Elmo's Fire, Ferris Bueller's Day Off... O, I lost you... when I quoted John Lennon I immediately wanted to say:

"...after all, he was the walrus. I could be the walrus - but I'd still have to bum rides off people to school... 'I recall central park in fall... how you tore your dress... what a mess, yes I confess...'" - Matthew Broderick as Ferris Beuller, Ferris Beuller's Day Off

In music news, I have to sadly admit that the new Coldplay songs just aren't sticking with me. Now, I gave this one some time because 'Rush of Blood...' took me a while to catch on to because it was such a big departure from 'Parachutes'. The new one just hasn't sunk in yet - its definitely a departure from 'Rush of Blood...'. Don't get me wrong, I like it when bands depart from the sounds of previous albums, and not that this album is bad, its just not great. And thats what I expected - something great... Also, the Foo's album isn't doing it for me anymore either. I was excited at first with the 'rock' album, but again over time nothing has stuck with me. Not a fan of "Best of You", either - the most annoying song of 2005 so far if you ask me. The acoustic disk is nice though. I seem to be digging that. Dave has written some great songs, but only one great album in my opinion - and this isn't it unfortunately... The album that surprises me the most so far is Ryan Adams and the Cardinals "Cold Roses". Despite the title sounding like a lost Saigon Kick, or Cindarella album from nineteen-eighty-somethin the album(s) are really great. The songwriting, musicianship, and musical textures are very innovative and do a terrific job of walk the line between singer-songwriter/alt-country/southern rock genres.

Anybody heard any other new albums? There are a ton that I want to get right now... especially that new Spoon album.

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Tuesday, July 05, 2005

Idyllic Sunrise
(written/recorded c. 2002)

Thinking now that all I've got is time...
It's the blessing and the curse - it's a fine fine line
When all your wishes sink to consequences
And your wants outweigh your needs.
You can't see right.

But today I'm gonna make up my mind
To brave the raging ocean with forward eyes.
But I've sailed right through that Idyllic Sunrise to find
We're all a little jaded sometimes,
We're all a little faded and blind
To the world that we've evaded and defied.
At least right now I've finally realized
...And I don't know why.

I've wait for the chance to reveal.
Anticipated for the right kind of "ideal".
You know that timing is everything, so whats the deal
With fate, choice, love, and hope - its all surreal.

But today I'm gonna make up my mind
To hit the open road and just ride.
But I've glided through that Idyllic Sunrise to find
We look at life and we prioritize
In different ways and maybe none of them are right
Or wrong in this world that we've defined.
At least right now I've finally realized...

It might not be alright.
No, not all the time.
But we're gonna survive.

We're gonna survive.

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Tuesday, June 28, 2005

Top 5 almost-forgotten songs from the 80's to cover on a Tuesday sometime:

"Should I Stay or Should I Go" - The Clash
"The Promise" - When In Rome
"Bizarre Love Triangle" - New Order
"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" - Tears for Fears
"Don't You Forget about Me" - Simple Minds

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Wednesday, June 22, 2005

I've been listening to Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot alot lately... i've heard rumors that the band recorded each song 2 or 3 different ways and then picked the best finished version to be on the album. Brilliant. One version would be mostly acoustic, one version would be mostly rock, and the other version would be mostly electronic or experimental. I was thinking how that was kind of funny because when I write songs they always start acoustic - even the rock songs. I usually record these as a scratch demo. And then from there the song can go one million different directions.

As a songwriter, I think thats one of the most important things to do is to find just the right direction to take a song, or if you're doing an album, a group of songs. There might even be 2 or 3 or 4 "right" directions. So to me the song is kind of independent from the sound, if that makes any sense. It is more of a little person that can wear different outfits. I respect what the Foo Fighters have done on their latest double-disc (one album acoustic, one album rock). Imagine what Radiohead's OK Computer would have sounded like if were produced by Bob Rock, or what U2's Joshua Tree would have sounded like on MTV unplugged. But its funny then that albums are so definitive to a band. I guess thats the beauty of it. When a song is actually recorded, it is merely a "snapshot taken at any one time".

Think about that for a second... could you imagine Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" recorded with Nickleback-esque production?... ewwwww...

"Wayee doooown insi-ide...

...WOMAN (woman, woman)...

...cuz yooo-uuuuu nuheed it...

...Loooooooooooooooooooooooooooove..."

ratatatatatatatatatatatatatat
ba-na ba-na na ba-ba na ba-ba na
ba-na ba-na na ba-ba na ba-ba na

rawk,
TR

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Monday, June 06, 2005

well hello there...

welcome back to this website. yes change is in the air. the thing i've learned about change is that it leads to more change. and more change. i'm sure alot of you are wondering about the band, and why exactly i decided to leave. i can't stress enough that i was just burnt out, and honestly in need of a break. no, this does not mean that i am retiring from music (such has been openly suggested), it just means that i'm retreating for a while. i want to get back to the real reason why i started playing music in the first place - because i love it. you get so wound up with things sometimes that you reach a point where it feels like you're banging your head against a brick wall, and thats how i was beginning to feel - you get kinda tired of it... disillusioned a bit. if something doesn't break to alleviate the pressure eventually then you just sit there wondering why on earth you're doing it.