Category Archives: SHOW “G”-Views

If you get the fever for tha flava of some serious beats…I will always send you toward Om Records, the put out some serious sounds that’ll make your face dance and your sweat shake. These latest 2 are no exception to that rule.

The sixth installment of the ‘Sounds of Om’ series previews the freshest new music signed to the cutting edge label with exclusive tracks and sought after remixes. Volume Six takes a ride through a slick selection of future house music with a wonky main course, with a side of techy beats & groovy dessert to finish things off with style.

Kicking off the 2008 edition of Miami is none other than Billboard #1 Remixer Eric Kupper’s (Hed Kandi) with his remix of Samantha James’, most downloaded Om track on iTunes, “Breathe You In”. Bound to be one of this biggest tracks this year! Om Miami 2008 is the first time this track has been available on CD. Also featured here is JT Donaldson & Bugz in the Attic’s Daz-I-Kue with they’re dancefloor remix of Home & Garden. It doesn’t stop there! Miami features over 12 new tracks never before released anywhere on CD. Om fans be forewarned! This release is HOT!

Last night at in the Capitol Theater in the Overture Center for the Arts, those of us in attendance were part of a scene, a moment in time most likely unlike no other….Universes

Undeniable uniqueness
New School meets Old School meets WHAT?
Invincible human beat ‘capella box
Vernacular crossing borders
Ear opening
Recital from the heart’s deep
Super MF
Essential forward thinking & expression
Starts at a beginning to the end.

Check out my conversation with Steven Sapp, one of the founders of the group here.

Last night in the grand Overture Hall, the African Children’s Choir presented Journey of Hope. The moments I shared watching these kids work magic with their stories through song and dance made me remind myself that I too have yet to fully live. True soul was the sound that captured me, unlike any I have sensed at shows in the past. Once I was able to gain perspective and then leave it slightly behind for a moment, I realized I was a part of this Journey of Hope, these moments shared made me feel vulnerable. With 13 girl performers and 9 boys, there was an energy of excitement and an allure of the unknown…each story invited the audience to join Africa in her quest to remain the homeland. One moment that stays etched in my mind is when those 22 kids introduced themselves with a quick “Hello” and a mention of “When I grow up I will be”…solidifying my connection with these children for more than just one night in Madison. There were 3 adult performers as well, each a former member of the choir and each doing there role in educating Africa and others about her. Since the Children’s Choir has expanded its operations to serve children and families in Rwanda, Ghana, Nigeria, the Sudan, Kenya, Somalia and South Africa. The relief, education and music programs currently support over 8,000 underprivileged (truly) children, ranging from school of the “Lost Boys” of Sudan, to the teachers’ colleges, to the literacy schools in the inner city, to support centers for AIDS orphans in South Africa, to university sponsorship programs to former choir members. For more information on the African Children’s Choir.

Be a part of Africa.

Last Night at the Barrymore, Victor Wooten and his band kept the smiles wide with a soulful-funked up-jazzified-bass-thumpin’ “school is in session” romp into our musical imaginations. There are times when I listen to Victor play when I feel like I am listening to a familiar tale, like a children’s rhyme I recall from years gone by and other moments…well, its like the earth is quakin’-n-thumpin’ in directions never sensed before. That certainly was true last night. When you come to town with a guitarist like ” the Teacher” Regi Wooten, the streets of style matched with sound creation have yet to be paved, but man does he start trailblazing right before your eyes. There are moments of fantastic drumming effects that have to be seen and not told. “The Voice” Saundra Williams brought that sexy and soulful element to a show where sounds kept tempting and taunting……what lurks around the next corner…….bass solo!! This was another one of those shows that I had high hopes for..and I am elated that once again those expectations have been exceeded.

Don’t forget about Victor’s Bass/Nature camps.

My conversation with Victor.

The presence of someone who is all about good is easily recognizable by the radiant glow, and Sister Carol certainly brought that presence to the Majestic last night. Known as the “Black Cinderella” and “Mother Culture,” Sister Carol has led the way for women in reggae. Her music is rich with cultural heritage & infused with a vital social consciousness that permeates every aspect of life in the new illennium. Who knew that the thriving dancehall scene in New York City in the 70’s would lead Sister Carol to a path that would include movies, albums, television appearances and a Grammy nomination for her highly regarded 1996 release, Lyrically Potent. Having won talent contests in both Jamaica and New York, Sister Carol was offered an opening slot for one of Jamaica’s finest vocal trios, The Meditations, who had provided harmony vocals for Bob Marley. Bringing her greater recognition and a wider audience, as well as firmly establishing her as a cornerstone of the dancehall/dj movement, this opportunity opened the door for her to record her first two records, Liberation for Africa & Black Cinderalla. The energy from the evening is still strong within my spirit and the blessing of one love, one people has been brought to life by Sister Carol’s being, see her when you can.

At first glance, you’d be surprised enough to look away and then back again….Yep, it really is four trombones front-lining a NOLA Brass Jazz Funk Rock outfit. It indeed that is a Tuba back there blowing baselines, and eventually will have a solo…yeah, a Tuba solo…Well, really a sousaphone solo. With their funky “git-tar” riffs and a mighty drumming, Bonerama was in town last night in the beautiful Capitol Theater at the Overture Center of the Arts and really blew the roof off the joint playing many of their own tunes, a medley of Meter tunes (tasty) and even a version of Crosstown Traffic that ranks up there with one of the best live performances of a song in my book. There was an unbelievable energy on the stage as we got to see one of the co-founders of the band, Mr. Mark Mullins play his trombone through some interestingly odd and rock-n-roll cool effects, I am telling you there is more to this band that just the brass facts. The crowd at the Overture obviously appreciated the energy, enthusiasm and I would imagine that there would be an invitation to bring back the NOLA sounds and then some to Madison in the future. So if you can, Bonerama..please do Bonerama.

Check out my conversation with the other co-founder of the group, Mr. Craig Klein here.

SETLIST:
1. intro/music
2. Epistrophy
3. Gekko Love
4. Lost My House (But I Got My Rugulator)
5. Crosstown Traffic
6. Mr. Go
7. Meters Medley
8. Equale
9. Hard Times
10. The Ocean
11. Big Fine Woman
Encore:
12. Folly >
13. The Mouse

What a way to kick off a hump day…some seriously innovative rockin’ took place at the High Noon Saloon. The Benevento/Russo duo showed off the ability to do so much with less. The creativity of this duo is visibly as obvious as feeling the intense sound bounce on and off of you. It is often, if you close your eyes…..that you forget it’s actually a drum and organ duo (of course with some mind-blending sampling intact)….especially when they begin brewing up their musical storm. From unscripted “improvisationals” and challenging interpretations of some classic tracks is born a set of music that left many in the High Noon Saloon memorized while dancing with their ears wide open. The unspoken communication, whether intentional or not between artists and audience, kept each note alive with the hopes for the next one to be born right there in front of us. ANDDDD, in case you’ve been asleep recently, the duo opened up for Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, an act that no longer needs any explanation, just go check them out!

On a Friday night, what could make it all alright…Some down home original sounding Funky music with the one and only mister Clyde Stubblefield and his band. That is what went down at th Rathskellar to celebrate WSUM’s 6th Anniversary.We are blessed to have Clyde as a Madison resident of over 30 years and we look forward to the continuation of Funky Monday coming back in the near future. Currently, the Clyde Stubblefield Band sports two featured vocalists (male and female), a three-piece horn section (sax, trumpet, trombone), a organ/keyboardist, a percussionist, a smokin’ guitarist and a rock-solid bass to play with the Funky Drummer. Clyde Stubblefield IS the FUNKY DRUMMER! He drummed for James Brown from 1965 to 1970 and recorded such hits as “I Feel Good”, “Coldsweat”, and “The Funky Drummer.” Clyde is one of the most sampled drummer ever, providing some of the most famous and familiar grooves used by DJ’s and hip-hop artists around the world.

THE Funky Drummer, Mr. Clyde Stubblefield

Last night Madison was in DA HOUSE at the Majestic. Galactic brought its from the corner to the block funk sounds to our neighborhood and the crowd was ready, set and man did they go. Both the band and the audience seemed to be on top of their evenings game plan. Galactic provided the back-sound of real home grown funk that started at the click of Stanton’s drum stick and didn’t stop until the whole gang arrived. The audience was giving back the love to the band and especially when they introduced Mr. Chali 2na of Jurassic 5 onto the stage. I could tell by his eyes that he was touched deeply by the warmth of the reception the room provided. There was a track or two from J5 and DA FISH kept it real, just like we like it here in MadCity. There was a wave of arms dancing to the hip hop thang and bodies shakin’ themselves silly to the funky lines being dropped. With the cold air left outside, the heat was turned up as Galactic took us through a music journey that was reminiscent of strolling down a N’Orleans block, where each turn can weave into an unexpected mesh of artists doin’ their thing. They even took a moment to reflect on the past, busting out treats from the snack jar—Manic Depression & Immigrant Song. The latter ended the show in a swarm of head bobbing, and when the whole gang arrived back onstage, including members of the opener Ohmega Watts, the room filled up with the rhythm and soul that a good funkin’ leaves behind, a lasting memory allowing myself to attempt to learn some new adjectives. This was a show that was better than expected even when expectations were out of sight. Go Galactify yourself and keep DA FISH fed with the love.

On Friday night after the Esperanza Spalding Trio show, we were treated to the second set of the Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad for some relentless vibes fortified with a rock steady sound. With a bowl full of sweet smelling groove of roots reggae and experimental dub, this very well could be some North American International Body Music. Giant Panda is honored to have shared bills with reggae greats Toots & The Maytals, The Wailers, Lee Scratch Perry, King Yellowman, Morgan Heritage, The Meditations, Mad Professor, and Edi Fitzroy. GPGDS has been joined on stage by members of John Brown’s Body, Brazilian Girls, Thievery Corporation, Umphrey’s McGee, and String Cheese Incident. Giant Panda continues to put on concerts in their hometown of Rochester, NY featuring other modern American powerhouses such as Dub Trio (in Madison on 2/25), and Toubab Krewe. The set was electrifying and a stream of soulful sound made for the get down to get DOWN.

get on down w/GIANT PANDA

There is a reason that Esperanza Spalding is usually smiling. Playing her music feels good- and it shows. An artist that goes about defining her music nightly with a voice of rhythm -n- blues jazz-scat painted with a distinct soul unique to Miss. Spalding. Her bass flirts with her vocals and creates a romantic sound captivating as it can be traditional at times, there was a sense of freedom both on the stage and in the crowd. The trio consisted of Mr. Leo Genovese on piano and Mr. Otis Brown III on percussion, and they were tight. From the moments Miss Spalding groove her way on stage, the happiness was contagious with layers of brilliance, beauty (both visual and auditory) and bold composition and arrangements and I would invite you to look into this artist who spends time playing bass for Herbie Hancock and drives her art down new unpaved paths that make her future one to keep an eye and ear on. Opening the evening off in the Wisconsin Union Theater was songstress and Gretchen Parlato with the wonderful guitarist and spirit, Mr. Lionel Loueke. The evening closed with a couple of pieces these unique artists collaborated on which showcased the openness of jazz music with an invitation for continual exploration. A stirring night of sound integration, just like the world palate presents us daily.

Last night at the High Noon Saloon, Madison’s very own Baghdad SCUBA Review tucked the hump day goodnight with a rockin’ jam party of feel good energy (not only coming from the band itself, but the SCUBA Crew in the crowd had a true positive wave about it as well). This progressive sound is a match for listeners of cross-genre likings, as it mixes a potent blend of well crafted songs with a certain stage spark that fires up easily and burns well throughout the night. With six members on stage, the intersections of where sound meets is often exact and timeless, moving from jam to groove to rock without blinking an eye, this is certainly more than a “Jamband”, it is way more than a band that jams as well. It is Baghdad SCUBA Review, and you might want to catch the wave of positive energy and sound as I am sure this band will make its way to you in one way or another soon.

Madison’s own Baghdad SCUBA Review

Wind Chills of minus 25 cannot stop the arrow from turning green and free forming its way all over you. Here’s a tissue to clean off and see what you heard.

Together- Sammy Figueroa
Blusette- Hilario Duran & Perspectiva
La Concha- Daniel Mancero
——————————————————————-
I Don’t need no Mary (Juana)- Andre Williams
Crooked- Keller Williams
Someday the Sun won’t Shine for you-Jethro Tull (live/acoustic)
the Runaway- Gentle Giant (live)
Message Stick- Xavier Rudd
Bongo Bong- Delta Nove
Buffalo- Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad
New Mexico Dub- Jah Wobble
——————————————————————-
Coffee- Papa Mali
When I call Home- Honeytribe (demo)
Wine and Women- Pedro Arevalo
Freedom- SOL
——————————————————————–
Koi Bole Ram Ram- Cheb i Sabbah
Chandalis Bliss- Jetsunma
Bounce Baby- Galactic w/Z Trip
Even Stranger- Baby Elephant
Wonders & Signs- Buckshot LeFonque
Shake Everything you got (live)- Maceo Parker
Chalky’s Back with Knife- Suite Crude Review
———————————————————————
Burning Love- Eric Sardinas and Big Motor
Cheddar- Mike Keneally and Beer for Dolphins
Purple Haze- Frank Zappa
Immigrant Song-Mike Keneally & Beer for Dolphins
Out @ 11- Baghdad Scuba Review
Ladies Man- Keith Kilgo

Putumayo presents: Latin Reggae. When Bob Marley had gained the success crossing over in the 70’s, I don’t think the reggae world was expecting so many fusions of styles and cultures to make this music their own. Putumayo invites all of us into a “what a small world it is after all” album that magically blends Jamaican grooves and Latin rhythms with this fine compilation out now. The album includes both notable artists and some newbies onto the scene. A perfect blend. The socially conscious lyrics are in the forefront accompanied by the collision of Latin beats and a heavy Jamaican jam, which posses as much strength in form as they do substance. The album begins with Muchachito Bombo Infierno from Spain and ends with Sarazino from Ecuadorian/Canadian/Algerian roots. A favorite of mine is sandwiched in the as the 7th track, Ticklah (featuring Mayra Vega) combining many musical disciplines and wleding a new shape in our minds from sounds we only imagined existed. This collection is sure t make your minds open and your skin dance…..

I waited a long time to hit my first show of 2008 and man am i happy to say the first one may be the best one. The Greyboy Allstars were in town on a snowy cold Monday night and the funk didn’t stop until all the ears were drenched with a soulful satisfaction. Karl Denson brought a fire to the stage that was electric and immediate. There was two sets of old school funk that was heavy and filled with vibes that easily overtook those in attendance at the Majestic who were certainly ready to go. Karl’s fire lasted well into the night as snow fell, the Greyboy Allstars blanketed us with a down comfort of “feeling with a groove”, and for me it lasted well into the next day. Robert Walter was on keys and made finger magic which tickled that back of the house with a boogie meant just for Madison. If you are wondering which show you shouldn’t miss this year, I heavily suggest the Greyboy Allstars if they are nearby or a shorter long distance away…..it will complete your musical journey for the year early. I will be setting up a conversation with Karl sometime in the near future to discuss the tour, his new release on Bobby Ace Records, Lunar Orbit and some personal friends we share. Stay Tuned in with an open mind.

the Greyboy Allstars’ Karl Denson 1/21/08

Last night was spent hanging out in a setting that was G-RATE. (GREAT) The Barrymore Theatre had an invitation only party to celebrate many things including the PACKERS/GIANTS game on Sunday, so many folks were dressed in their Packer green & yellow. There was a pot luck of delicious treats that kept my insides warm and free beer, free good beer I should mention most of the night. There was a live DJ and equipment set up for people to jam together on stage and until 10pm, the young ones were allowed to run, jump and have fun there own chosen way. It was a great way to get connected up with some kind folks and certainly, the Barrymore is always a happenin’ spot regardless of the invite only or concert night status. The scene here is very fitting for the always changing chameleon that is greenarrowradio. A big thank you to Steve and his Barrymore staff for making it a night to set all other things aside and have a good time. THANKS!

This is never easy. This year was no exception.

30. Lipbone Redding – Hop the Fence & Una – One
29. Corey Harris – Zion Crossroads
28. Eccodek – Voices have Eyes
27. Going Home – A Tribute to Fats Domino
26. Marco Benevento – Live at Tonic
25. Guvna Dub – the Guvna Dub Sessions
24. Geoff Achison & the Souldiggers – Souldiggin’ live
23. the Greyboy Allstars – What Happened to T.V.?
22. Secretary – the Secret Life of Secretary
21. Slavic Soul Party – Technochek Collision
20. Anoushka Shankar/Karsh Kale – Breathing Under Water
19. Galactic – From the Corner to the Block
18. Charlie Hunter Trio – Mistico
17. Cashman – Texassippi Stomp & Rough Guide to Latin Funk
16. Baby Elephant – Turn my Teeth Up!
15. the Yardbirds – Live at BB King Blues Club
14. JJ Grey’s Mofro – Country Ghetto
13. Tinariwen – Aman Iman
12. the Budos Band – II
11. Bernie Worrell – Improvisczario
10. Skeebo Knight – Jekyll Island Nights
09. Healing the Divide – Concert for Peace/Reconciliation
08. Putumayo presents – a New Groove
07. Cameron Mizell – Life is Loud
06. Sharon Jones & the Dapkings – 100 days 100 nights
05. Desdamona – the Source & Sirsy – Revolution
04. Karl Denson Trio – Lunar Orbit
03. Pop Levi – the Return to Form Black Magick Party
02. A.K.A.C.O.D. – Happiness
01. Club d’Elf – Perhapsody Live

as you can tell, there are a couple of ties and if I were to try and do this again, along with pulling out most of my hair…it could come up a whole lot different. Thanks to all the fine artists that put out excellent releases in 2007. Looking forward to listening and sharing a whole new lot in 2008.

-G

The High Noon Saloon was the spot for the Holidaze in Hicksville as Mr. Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks graced our Madison grounds with a true treat, as a matter of fact, this one goes down as a classic. Not only was it the season for holiday cheer as only Dan Hicks can share (I believe the one phrase in the show was lets get these Christmas songs out of the way, hey hey) , but it was also Mr. Hicks’ birthday. There was even a cake. Oh yeah there was a show. As expected except better, the show seemed to be more than a show, an experience. Folk swing is somewhat the style of the music, but man…..there was some kicked up blues riffs, so finely timed dance steps and a barrel, check that, a building filled with a humor so sincere to this night that you couldn’t go home without feeling connected. There were plenty of old classics to rejoice in….from I Scare Myself (which really blew the top off the place)and the nights closer of How can I Miss You When You Won’t go Away, but for me the stopper was the rendition of the Tom Waits song The Piano Has Been Drinking. While this show can be compared to others in the long and brilliant career of Dan Hicks, there was so many thrilled audience members that I would have sworn this was there first time witnessing the event that is Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks. I also noticed that while the room was filled up nicely, there was plenty of room for some younger ears, I really think that this music and the way it is presented to a crowd is something for the younger crowds to share in. Madison’s own Harmonious Wail and their Gypsy Swing music opened the show and was all that I have heard people say and more. Be sure to check them out also.

Listen to my first conversation with Dan here.

Listen to my second conversation with Dan here.

Mr. Dan Hicks and MisterG 12/09/07

One of the most electrifying shows I have seen in a long time. Youssou N’Dour et le Super Etoile de Dakar brought West Africa, heck all cultures present together for an unforgettable night of dance, positive rhythms and shared spirit at the Wisconsin Union Theater. This was a few hours of community led by a powerful sermon by one of the most powerful voices on any continent. Carrying his storytelling and roots of Senegalese music, Youssou N’Dour does create a sound that is a force strong enough to combine all into one. The Griot Percussion mixed with Afro-Cuban arrangements is a sound that can flourish in any land, there is nostalgia in those songs and even I, who knows only a slight peek into the French dialect can feel it. It is a celebration.

Robert Fripp perhaps best known for being the guitarist for, and only constant member of, the progressive rock band King Crimson. His work has spanned over four decades, encompasses a variety of musical styles. He was offered a teaching position at the American Society for Continuous Education in Claymont Court, West Virginia in 1984. He had been involved with the ASCE since 1978, eventually serving on its board of directors, and had long been considering the idea of teaching guitar. His course, Guitar Craft, was begun in 1985, one of the results of which was a performance group, “The League of Crafty Guitarists,” which has released several albums. And last night at the Majestic Theatre in Madison, there were 11 crafty acoustic guitars with their guitarists, and one Robert Fripp. There were moments were I felt like my skin was unzipped and my bones, muscles and tissue had a chance to prowl around under the night sky. There was music and sounds from other worlds, places I have not seen before. There was so much amazing timing, like that of a spacecraft taking off precisely at the most opportune moment where liftoff will only be successful. Mister Fripp must have taken a trip through outer space and recorded the sounds of space, as I have thought them to exist. There were explosive moments like a star being born and there were times where the Giant of the Woods was stomping through a tiny forest right onto my front porch. This ensemble or guitar orchestra is always something to behold and this night was one to remember, and to share with others. I hope all of you get a chance to experience the sound like Mister Fripp creates and it penetrates you with inquisition and a sense of where your space is. You are never-ending.

Mister Robert Fripp