Heard Dave and the Guilty Women at the Palms in Winters, CA. Best Dave Alvin
show I've heard, and I've been to a bunch. He and the band seemed to be having
a great time, and the Guilty Women's musicianship and enthusiasm adds another
dimension to an already great act. The intensity of the performance built up
during the night, with perfectly timed relief with softer numbers, and a nice
mix of new material and old favorites. The intensity was both musical and
emotional--Dave did a timely version of "California's Burning" as well as Chris
Gaffney's "Man of Somebody's Dreams", and Christy McWilson--whose singing was
an unexpected treat--did a touching performance of "Bury Me in Potter's
Field". Despite playing unmiked amps (and I didn't see any monitors) the sound
was unusually clear and balanced for the Palms--which has tough acoustics for
amplified acts.
Saw Dave and the Guilty Women at the Rex Theater in Pittsburgh July
9th--terrific! Dave is such a
professional: he handled requests, even though they were not on the agenda, gave
plenty of credit to his
band members, and made the evening a total joy. He rocked and he also handled
"Downey Girl" with
tenderness and compassion.
I last saw Dave 2 years ago with the Guilty Men and I thought this year's
concert was even better, I loved
Cindy Cashdollar's slide guitar work.
http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20090710/LIFE06/907100308
July 10, 2009
Alvin discovers a different musical path with the ladies
By TOM WILK
Courier-Post Staff
After 30 years as a professional musician that has included stints with the
Blasters, X, the Knitters and as a solo artist leading the Guilty Men, Dave
Alvin knows change is a recurring part of a musician's education.
"I like to learn things," he said. "One way to learn is to play with a bunch of
different musicians."
He has accomplished that with the release of "Dave Alvin and The Guilty Women"
(Yep Roc), a new CD, and a nationwide tour that stops tonight at World Cafe
Live in Philadelphia with a distaff backing band.
After last year's death of fellow singer-songwriter and best friend Chris
Gaffney, a member of the Guilty Men, Alvin said he needed a break from his
longtime touring band.
His solution was to perform in October at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Festival in San Francisco with an all-woman band that included multi-
instrumentalist Cindy Cashdollar, singer Christy McWilson and guitarist Nina
Gerber.
Despite the lack of rehearsal time, Alvin found an immediate chemistry with the
new group on stage. "I've worked with everybody on one thing or another
previously. There's really no difference once you start playing."
The lineup change and CD gave Alvin a chance to put a different spin on his
newer songs. "Downey Girl," a folk-based elegy to Karen Carpenter, who lived in
his California hometown, show a softer side with women singing backup. The jump-
blues swing of "Boss of the Blue" is a tribute to Big Joe Turner, one of
Alvin's first mentors.
"Marie Marie," a rocker from his days with the Blasters, is recast as a Cajun
rave-up, thanks to the fiddles of Amy Farris and Laurie Lewis and the accordion
of Suzy Thompson. "Que Sera Sera" receives a Western swing makeover with
fiddles and Marcia Ball's boogie-woogie piano.
"It's a pretty existential kind of song," Alvin said of "Que Sera, Sera," a hit
for Doris Day. " "Whatever will be, will be' sums up the blues philosophy," he
added with a chuckle.
Alvin has another mission on his tour. He's promoting a tribute CD, "The Man of
Somebody's Dreams: A Tribute to the Songs of Chris Gaffney" (Yep Roc) that
spotlights the overlooked output of his late friend who died of liver cancer at
57.
The CD highlights Gaffney's strengths as a songwriter with performances by Los
Lobos (the title track), Boz Scaggs ("Midnight Dream") and Calexico ("Frank's
Tavern").
"Chris never got his shot (at breaking through)," Alvin said. "This is my way
of giving him one."
Reach Tom Wilk at (856) 317-7827 or twilk@courierpostonline.com
Country
Standard Time's web site has
a review of Dave's show Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007 at the Paradise in Boston. The
site has a bunch of other Dave features, Cd reviews, concert reviews, etc.
Just saw Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men at Anna Banana's in Honolulu on Dec.2,
2006. Man, what a great concert! I saw him a couple years ago when it was
just him and Rick Shea doing a mostly acoustic show, and that was great too.
But this show with the Guilty Men was just a great, joyful noise, ain't-it-
great-to-be-alive kind of night. It was a small crowd as he had to compete
with Pearl Jam playing the same night, but as good as P.J. might have been, I
think we got the better of the deal - I can't imagine a better night of music.
Haven't felt like this since Patti Smith came to Honolulu in 2001. It would be
pointless to pick out standout songs as they're all good, but my favorites
are 'Border Radio' and 'Abilene' - such great songs. It looked like the guys
were enjoying the gig - on the last song(the 2nd of the encore) everybody
crowded the dance floor, so I got off my chair and stood in front of Chris
Miller and the bass player(sorry I forgot his name). Everybody was smiling
and having a great time. I got Dave to autograph my CD, and he couldn't have
been more gracious, especially after having put out 110% on stage. Talked to
Chris Miller a little bit about guitars and stuff, but I was feeling a bit
like a groupie/guitar nerd, so I kept it brief. Anyway, if Dave and the band
ever come to a town near you, definitely go see him. I guarantee you'll leave
smiling! Dave, if you make it out to Honolulu again, I'll be there!
[Ed: Sorry I didn't meet you there, Byron. I was the guy in the back with the
recorder... I'll post some pictures soon.]
Hello. My name is Thom and I have written a review for the new Knitters album which can be found at www.stinkweeds.com . I have also attached the review in the body of this email for your immediate perusal. Stinkweds is a local record store here in Phoenix, Arizona and the owner, Kimber, has her reviewers on an invitation only basis. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you for your time.
thom gabaldon
"it's not how long i live, but how beautiful it is"
killing joke
"only outcasts truly mourn"
oscar wilde
"great spirits have always encountered opposition from mediocre minds."
einstein
"How hateful it is! We are all humans, but some are so cruel as to want the blood of others to water their gold tree."
dang thuy tram
I want to start a country station that doesn’t play crap. On it wouldn’t be these big hat concrete never seen a bull in my life much less rode one losers like Garth Brooks and Toby Keith. Instead I would treat people to some real heartfelt country of The Knitters. Now this is the real deal, folks. Real lyrics, real down home sound, real attitude.
What makes the Knitters so strange, for those that do not know, is that this is a side project of the legendary punk band X plus Dave Alvin of The Blasters. The Modern Sounds of… is the second album in twenty years by these pranksters. How is it that a group of Los Angeles troublemakers can sound more country than anything Nashville is trying to shove down our throats? Well you start by honest, live in the studio production, not gloss. Add a dash of musical originality and shake in liberal amounts of lyrical heart and soul and you have it. Exene Cervenka even has a little “hick” in her voice when she sings for authenticity.
But the Knitters aren’t an imitation band. The songs mix originals with rare country classics as they did on their first album. They’ve even updated one of their own songs, “(We Don’t Even Try) Anymore” as well as countrify-ing the already amazing “Burning House of Love”. And if anyone has wondered what happened to the Wrecking Ball, well “The New Call of The Wrecking Ball” will let you know how he’s making out. I’m still not sure on what to make of their version of “Born to Be Wild”.
There’s a joke about country music and what happens when you play a song backwards. The Knitters plays that country music that I grew up with; haunting tales, back porch story telling, real heartbreak and loads of feeling. If only country stations had something of a clue, then Zoe Records as well as Bloodshot Records would be kicking the asses of the well deserved in, ahem, music town. But for now, this gem is ours to enjoy and pass down to our kin folk, warts n’ all.
Well first I would like to say that I thought that the Chicago show on Sunday(the Robbie Fulks thing) the 18th of Sept. was fantastic! I don't want to hear about the mistakes!!! Who gives a shit! Who noticed? One of the best sets I've seen. Joe Terry(is that his name?) was great on the piano. A great compliment to your songs. You may not remember but I was the guy who approached you just before you went on and said I was born(by a dry river)and raised in L.A. and went to the Ash Grove a few times. Also I noticed your mention of The Golden Bear on the website. In 65 or 66 I saw the original Paul Butterfield Band there then Junior Wells shortly after that. What a great club that was. I remember you could go in if you were under age if you just wanted to see/hear the music. Man I could go on and on. Thank you so much for your music. I've seen you play 3 or 4 times now and have most of your records. I live in Saint Paul and remember you being on KFAI radio. I think you were on Jackson Buck's show. He's a friend of mine. He lives in Boston now. You also said some good things for the pledge drive. Here I go rambling again. Well I did hang out with Ramblin' Jack Elliot at The Cedar Cultural Center for a half hour once. You can ramble if you've hung out with him. Hey take care, keep making the great music. It is much appreciated. Hope you see this.
Regards,
Craig Kent
Saint Paul
Saw the Guilty Men last night at the Borderline in London, UK. The usual magnificent music, and I've yet to see Dave turn in a less than 110% performance in 25 years. Great comeback on the drunken "CockneyRebel" heckler, by the way! Excellent setlist, blending old and new, cleverly opening and closing with "So Long Baby Goodbye" (With a key-change already...) My omly gripe would be that Dave's guitar was not as loud as Chris', and at times became a high pitched scream behind the great sound Chris had, when both were rocking. The broken string thing didn't spoil anything(for us out front, anyway...)but if a guitar roadie is a Clapton fan, I'd change him! Lots of moments to treasure again - many, many thanks to everyone and PLEASE come back soon...
I saw Dave for the first time last week at the Continental club inHouston and I was floored!!! It was just Kick A.. rock!!!There was so much talent on that stage it was unbelievable! Greg was so much fun to watch play- his heart and soul were right there on the stage. We ran out the next day for the Ashgrove CD and would have bought others but they were sold out.
You have made a new fan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Thanks!
We saw Dave Alvin for the first time Saturday night - Feb. 26 at Skipper's Smokehouse in Tampa - what a great, great show. Most of us had never actually seen Dave but were familiar with the Iguanas - another great group. The venue was cool and Dave and the Guilty Men seemed like a guilty pleasure! Thanks for a great show and great music. Ashgrove was just awesome.
Ned
saw dave at fitzgeralds on friday feb.11th. the iguanas opened, never heard them before, they were great.
i first saw dave with the allnighters at the riviera in chicago, 1985.
they opened for los lobos. what a great night that was, never forgot.
anyway, the friday show was more than i could of asked for. i waited a long time to see him again, it sure was worth it. my buddy and i also got to go backstage and say hello to the band, what a thrill! they sang happy birthday to me, what a cool thing. im still smiling. i won't wait 20 years to see them again.
thats all
ed
Tuesday 1/25/05
Bend, Oregon
The Midtown
Dave and the guys were back again to play after just being here in August
of 2004. The venue was basically a small room partitioned off from a roller rink, but there was a bar and you could push up against the stage and feel the blast of the music from 4 feet away. What more could you possibly need? The 200 people there, were probably the same 100 people from August who had to drag a friend along to confirm what they've been raving about for the last 5 months.
Dave was a bit hoarse from shredding his voice at a previous night's Seattle show, but what he lacked in vocal range he more than made up with his guitar work. They went through several songs from the great new Ashgrove album including a more muscular take on "Out of Control" that practically made the hair stand up on the back of your neck. It was hardly recognizable from the softer album version. Other highlights were "Abilene" and Chris Gaffney's
lead on "Sugar Bee".
Saw Dave Saturday night in Pasadena. Acoustic Music Series. The venue - A church in Pasadena. I believe I had a greater spiritual experience than anyone attending services the next day.
I knew some of Dave's stuff from the Blaster's days and had heard a couple of cuts off of "Ashgrove".Had not really been following him, I knew about Dave from the song Dwight Yoakam covered (Long White Cadillac). But in all honesty, I went because I wanted to check out Mike Stinson who was opening (and also wrote a song Dwight covered).
The first phrase that came to mind after hearing Dave's set was "Holy...." ok can't repeat the first one ... second phrase that came to mind....(forget that one too) the third phrase was UnF'g believeable! DAVE, YOU ROCK. Amy on fiddle was to die for, watching her play reminds me I can't play for beans and should probably consider taking up the autoharp. When she and Dave played off each other it was a thing of beauty.
My wife and I saw your show here in Dallas and it exceeded our highest expectations. You and the band were truly great and we took away a lot of great memories. You guitar playing is truly excellent which I did not realize until we saw you. Only got to listening to your music within the past 6 months as I got on to you via Los Lobos "The Ride". Now we are grinding through all of your CDs enjoying everyone somewhat upset because we had not heard you earlier but also feeling like old rock and rollers who are finding treasures at a juke box. Anyway, 2 quick questions: What was the brand of guitar you were playing that night so very good and effectively ? Second you sang a song where the lyrics started out something like, "I was born next to a river, that had concrete on its banks." Could you please identify its title and on what cd it is from. Please come back to Texas, keep up the writing of the awesome poetic lyrics, the great guitar playing, and the Guilty Men were very, very good and dedicated. Ashgrove is the best CD we have found this year and getting our friends easily tuned on to it. Best of Luck, and again thanks for a great show.
PS Thanks for the web site which makes it great to get into your achievements and current happenings.
Photos from some recent shows in San Diego during the last few years:
http://www.pbase.com/camera0bug/dave_alvin_
Thanks guys!
- Dan
I have been a long time Blasters fan and been listening to hijacked Dave Alvin cds for the past year. (keep reading) Saw Dave and his Men at the Coach House and was absolutely floored!! Never have I expereinced such musicianship and magic on a stage. The whole band made the evening an event I will never forget. Since that night I have been purchasing the whole Dave Alvin catalog and spreading the word across my network about Dave's songwriting skills and telling all if he's in town GO SEE HIM!!!
Dave thanks for some of the best melodies and lyrics I've heard in a long, long time.
Will
Well I sit here in front of my PC 55 years old playing my copy of Ashgrove.
Been through a real bad blue time for a number of years always seeking my place you know like us blue people do. Amazingly just recently the real Terry Cliffe popped out and though a late bulb its been a wonderfull year where and when while reading a UK paper called the Independent I saw this piece about a blues man called Dave Alvin. There aint no therapy like a good blues song either listening or singing myself. But this stuff is just amazing. It seems to link straight into the heart when I play it no better way to get high and while on my first holiday for a couple of years on the Costa brava me my walkman and Dave got down to the connection by the swimming pool where my girl laughed and told me to be quite when on occasions I joined Mr Alvin down at the Ashgrove.
Hi Dave
I'm Bob a blues reporter from Belgium.
My compliments with your performance at the Moulin Blues Fest in Holland.
On my website there is a full festival report, complete with pictures.
Go to www.bobtjeblues.com click on concert report and then hit:
"Moulin Blues - Ospel, NL - vrij 7 & zat 8 mei 2004"
Also, check out my photo gallery.
Hope to see you again, you did a nice job!
Best wishes
Bob
www.bobtjeblues.com
A review for you.
Steven J. Athanas
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Toledo City Paper
NEWCIRCLES7/15
Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters "Now My Soul": Although I’ve said that the white man has ruined the blues, there are exceptions. Ronnie Earl is one of them. His time with Roomful of Blues (another exception) helped his guitar chops, as well as keeping his style close to the real thing. His latest disc is absent of any filler, this disc is fat with the blues. (www.ronnieearl.com)
Dave Alvin "Ashgrove": Alvin’s first studio offering since leaving High Tone and moving to Yep Roc, and it’s a sizzler. A wonderful mix of blues, Americana and country rock, Alvin continues to prove himself an extremely capable rocker, it’s in his blood. "Rio Grande" is an impeccable love song that utilizes Western imagery so well that you can almost see the sunset on the Rio Grande. (www.davealvin.com)
Clarence Bucaro "Sense of Light": Bucaro’s last self-released disc owed more to Leon Redbone than the heavier topic material here. This isn’t a bad thing, it only shows his versatality. His first release for Rounder records jumps topics like a bullfrog, going log to log. The first track "Of a Trade" deals with child labor and sex trafficking, while "Light Me a Candle" has a post mortem feel and "Father of Our Nation" are inspired by the writings of imprisoned Drapchi nuns in Tibet. It’s a far cry from the last effort, but it also gives this young Chardon, Ohio lad a lot more credibility. (www.clarencebucaro.com)
Various Artsists "Creole Bred": I’m not quite sure how I feel about Cyndi Lauper singing Creole, but she pulls it off. So do The Tom Tom Club, David Hidalgo (from Los Lobos) and Sweet Honey in the Rock, who mix it up with more seasoned vets like Taj Mahal and Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas. This is an immaculate tribute to Creole and zydeco music, with backup given by the cream of the crop musicians of this genre. Taj Mahal’s two contributions ("Two-Step de Grand Mallet" and "’Tit Monde") are both as pure as a bucket of crawfish, and the Zydeco Cha Chas rip it up just as good they please. (www.vanguardrecords.com)
Nina Nastasia "Dogs": This one came way out of left field. It’s a reissue from the label Touch and Go (it was originally released in 1999 on the very small Socialist Records) and is an incredible chunk of music. Nastasia sounds a bit like Patti Smith in her early days, with Edie Brickell vocal tones, which isn’t be a bad thing. Instrumentation is sparse and dark, but the beauty of the melodies make for a tantalizing, albeit moody, listen. (www.touchandgorecords.com)
Bebel Gilberto: Joao Gilberto can be credited with birthing two wonderful entities: with Antonio Carlos Jobim, bossa nova was born; with Brazilian singer Miucha, he brought Bebel Gilberto into the world. Bebel started out doing work with Caetano Veloso and David Byrne, then released her first CD, "Tanto Tempo," in 2000. Now we have this self-titled work on Six Degrees Records, and it is wonderful. With a constant recognition of Brazilian music, producer Marius de Vries (who has worked with Madonna, Bjork and Annie Lennox) keeps Bebel in the here and now (as in "Aganju," which features her mother on backup vocals). Get an umbrella drink, jump in a hammock and put this one on. (www.bebelgilberto.com)
Duke Robillard "Blue Mood, the songs of T-Bone Walker": When B.B. King goes to that great blues hall in the sky, Robillard would be the likely contender. His blues are smooth, well-executed and his voice was meant to sing the blues. On this disc he pays tribute to his mentor, "the Father of electric blues guitar," as he puts it. These songs sizzle, they jump and this disc is what the blues is all about. (www.stonyplainrecords.com)
Amy Farris "Anyway": Farris’ debut disc gets a big boost by being produced by labelmate Dave Alvin. An Austin, Texas native, the disc is rich with that Americana sound that Alvin and Austin are known for. Farris plays the fiddle — which gets equal billing with her vocals — and it’s this instrument that got her in the biz. She’s worked with Alejandro Escovedo, Kelly Willis, Tish Hinojosa and even country legend Ray Price. Her version of the standard "Undecided" is a pure delight, which shines with her fiddling. (www.redeyeusa.com)
Delays "Faded Seaside Glamour": This British quartet is led by the angelic voice of Greg Gilbert, whose vocals, well they’re very feminine. Having said that, they work very well with this lushly produced CD. The disc’s title suggests a loss of innocence, according to the press release, and the musical influences suggest a time gone by, when life was oh so much easier. (www.thedelays.co.uk)
http://www.soundstage.com/music/reviews/rev619.htm
A review of Dave's new disc along with the new Los Lobos.
Hi--
I was fortunate enough to attend a fantastic concert of Dave with the Knitters at Slim's in San Francisco earlier this year. I took some photos and posted them on my web site. If you like any of them, I'll be happy to send you the high resolution images with my compliments. Cheers!
http://www.lensculture.com/music.html
Jim Casper
Caught Dave and the Guilty Men July 31st at the Bowerey Ballroom, NYC. My first time seeing them live and they lived up to all expectations. The Bowery Ballroom was an excellent venue to catch the show as well - I believe they played there last year as well. My wife and I have been big fans since buying King of California while living in the Los Angeles area in the 90s. It took a year or two until I figured out that he was the same Dave Alvin from the my Blasters albums, which had since been gathering dust. Catch my attention once, it must be luck, catch it twice you must have some talent.
I saw Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men last night, 07/14/04, in Troy, NY, and I must say that it was one of the best shows that I have ever seen!! To be able to see Dave and Chris up close was more than I could have hoped for. The new cd is perhaps my favorite cd of the last 15 years, and 2 songs, the title song, "Ashgrove" and "Out of Control", just may be the best songs that I have ever heard! Just about anyone that I listen to on a regular basis has been influenced by Dave Alvin. He has either written a song, played on an albumn or produced the album for most of my favorites. Please get out and support this band when they come to your area. You will not see a better band or meet a better bunch of human beings.
Ottawa bluesfest July 17th.Took in the annual bluesfest here on Saturday and saw a bunch of great music but I was drooling to see Dave+ the GM who were the headliners that night on the roots stage . so about 9:30pm the GM hit the stage and it's 1,2,3 BAM ! Away they go through a rocking tune that I don't remember the name of . The band is awesome !!!! Talk about power ! Then out strolls Dave and it just gets better and better. I was a few yards from the stage and the sound was perfect. I would guess they played about a 90 minute set but had to get off due to bylaw's about noise after 11. Seemed like it was 20 minutes , just flew by leaving me wanting more ! A large portion of the crowd did not know the band but there were a large number of new fans at the end of the show. I will now have to figure out the closest club date and do a road trip. and oh yeah they had to fly in a drummer as BLH couldn't make the show , I never noticed . Anyway they tore the house down , thanks boys !!
I saw Dave & the Guilty Men at the New York State Rhythm & Blues Fest in Syracuse on Friday July 16. A lot of the crowd was there to see Southside Johnny & wasn't really paying attention at first, but then were captivated by the show. It was impossible to ignore the energy & Dave had the crowd eating out of his hands. A long version of "Jubilee Train" with a bunch of classic rock & roll interspersed was great along with another long version of "Sugar Bee" with a lot of soloing. Disappointing that there was no encore, but what a great show.
Dave & The Guilty Men put on an excellent high energy show at Little Brothers, Columbus, Ohio on Saturday 7/24/04. Los StraitJackets did a great job as the lead in band. Dave & The Guilty Men didn't take the stage until midnight, but it was worth the wait. To put it mildly, "they tore it up". It was great to see such a high energy kick ass show where the band members were laughing and smiling at each other all night. It was no secret these guys were having fun and it was infectious as the audience was also having fun. This was the first time I ever saw Dave Alvin and it won't be the last. There wasn't a person in the place that didn't appreciate that Dave and the band put everything they had into the show. I particularly liked the pedal steel, key boards, acordian, and those smoking Dave jams on the Fender. All the songs were great, but "Out of Control" was my favorite and best describes the night. I am a true believer now and look forward to the next chance I get to see them. Thank You Dave and The Guilty Men!!!!
Bob Jenkins - Columbus
There are but three words to discribe last nights performance by Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men at the Trocodero in Philadelphia...HEAT, COOK, AND SIZZLE! How could I have forgotten just how accomplished a guitarist Mr. Alvin is, until last night. I swear I saw lightning bolts coming off his fingers. The songwriting not only from the new CD "Ash Grove" but spanning a career full of rockabilly, folk, alt-country, blues, and good old rock n' roll was superb. What a storyteller...
The band could not be cooled, burning up from the start through an hour and a half of some kick-ass jamming! I felt like I was attending my very first R&R review, goosebumps included. Don't miss this show and be prepared to sweat. WOW!!!
Just saw Dave and Los Straightjackets at the Paradise in Boston Friday night. It was absolutely one of the best outrageous gigs ever!!! Dave live doing "Somewhere In Time" ( oh God, that voice of his!!!) is probably one of the most prolific and moving songs EVER!!! When Eddie Angel and Jimmy and the sick boys came out on the stage to play with Dave it was a true "MIND BLOWER". No true fan should miss this tour!!!! If you aren't dancin with an ear to ear smile for this, you don't deserve to be alive!!!!
Saw Dave last night in Solana Beach, CA. Great show. Dave was on the top of his game and the Guilty Man (plus one hot guilty woman) were on the top of their game.
I had the pleasure of seeing Dave and The Guilty Men at Ottawa Blues Festival. The show was good, but the setting lent itself to much coming and going of traffic. Dave was on the Roots stage and Robert Cray Band was on the main stage. Still and very good performance. My wife and I stayed after in hopes of meeting Dave(she indulges me this stalker like behavior). Chris Gaffney was standing behind a wire fence and told me that Dave would be right out. He finally came and met with about 15 fans that had gathered, but to my dismay, he did not venture out from behind the fence. I didn't think that we were that threatening. Dave signed my picture of him and me taken in Boston on the reunion tour; he guessed the location from the photo, don't ask me how. All told, an enjoyable night; thanks Dave, Mike
Caught Dave & the Guilty Men last night at the Ark in Ann Arbor. Scheduled opener did not perform, but Chris Gaffney did! (w/ the GM, of course). Dave came strolling out about 3 songs in ( I was waiting for somebody to say: "Are you ready for star time?" ) and proceeded to rip it up. Favorite moment: "I'm Your Puppet" as part of "Nine Volt Heart" and tremendous playing by Chris Miller (?) during same. Joe Terry is a monster, as are all of the GM. Took our 16 year old. Her favorite? "4th of July". Why isn't that covered more often? Just askin. Thanks, fellas. We had a great time.
Friends and I made the trip to Indianapolis last night to see Dave & The Guilty Men at Birdy's. The band played a little under two hours and set list was close to previous reviews. Dave did play an abbreviated version of "All Around Man" when requested. It was my first time seeing the Guilty Men and I thought they were great. My apologies if my "dancing" annoyed anyone and as for assorted whoopees and yahoos, if that bothers you check out Barry Manilow next time he's in town.
Saturday night at Iota, Arlington, VA
Among the songs played in rough chronological order:
Blackjack David
Out In California
Abilene
Halley's Comet
Ashgrove
East Virginia Blues
Sinful Daughter
Dry River
Fourth of July
9 Volt Heart
Museum of Heart
Romeo's Escape
Marie Marie
Chris Smith is a great great guitarist. Its a much more rocking show than with Rick Shea, who I really enjoy as well.
The sound at Iota was nowhere as good as last year, when it was clear as a bell. It was hard to hear Joe Terry very well, and there was some feedback. According to Greg Boaz, it was much better than the Fri. night show which I missed.
here is a link for some pics I took at the show in Richmond Va. last night (6/23/04) @ Poes Pub, they are accessible
here.
Once again Dave & The Guilty Men put on a great show.
Please feel free to download and use these photos if you can. (I wish they were a little better). Just give a nod in my direction for taking them, that's all.
Ken
Just saw Dave and the Guilty Men at the Rams Head Tavern in Annapolis - fabulous show - everybody was in rare form. Great versions of Marie Marie and 4th of July...Danced my toes off - thanks Dave and guys...See you at IOTA and the Belly Up...There really isn't a better live show - anywhere. Thanks! Annie
A month ago today, at 6 AM, I was on a plane heading to Los Angeles from the rural flatlands of North Carolina. My destination later that night was the Neighborhood Church in Pasadena. I'd never *heard* Dave live before, but had seen him in the audience at "Julie's Hootenanny" at the Roxy almost a year before and was incredibly excited to finally get to hear the band. I had messages to deliver to Brantley and Rick from kindred spirits in North Carolina. It's nice to be the bearer of heartfelt thank you's to people who've reached out and made a difference in friends' lives. (Y'all will know who I'm talking about.)
It was wonderful meeting Brantley and Rick before the show, they were gracious and kind and we chatted while they set up their instruments. Brantley was fun to talk to because we've been to quite a few of the same haunts. He even told me of a show he went to in my present hometown ~ WAY back when I was a kid, before I even lived here.
The really cool part was when I left after the show. I had gone with a dear old friend and four new friends. When the show was over, I noticed that the setlist was still on the floor where Dave had been sitting. I went over and asked the guy on the stage if I could have it and he handed it to me. When I turned around, my group of friends had left. I took one more look around the really beautiful room and then headed out. I decided to go out one of the alternate exits, not the main one where the crowd was. There were probably a couple dozen people going that way, at most. I was surprised as I got to the exterior door to see Dave standing to the left of the exit, greeting and shaking hands with folks who were leaving. He had a beer in one hand and an incredibly warm smile on his face. I had the set list in one hand and switched it to shake his hand and to tell him that I'd come all the way from NC to see them and that it was definitely worth it! I thought about asking him to sign the set list, but I'm not really that interested in autographs (I prefer the memories) so I didn't.
It hit me when I got back to the place I was staying in South Pasadena that Dave standing outside the venue, shaking hands as folks left was just like a preacher meeting his flock after the sermon. Dave.... it was a GREAT service, I'll go to your church anytime.
Peace. mona in NC
A guy named Guy Brown just sent the report below to the
Richard Thompson Discussion List. Thought you'd like to
know.
Regards,
Flip Feij
at Richard Thompson For Completists
http://www.richardthompsonforcompletists.com
Saturday night was Sings Like Hell's 100th show. Its a monthly subscription series that has put singer songwriters, from world class (RT) down to almost unknown in the 1500 seater, rather stately theatre The Lobero here in SB.
Show opens with a 15 min narrated slide show by Henry Diltz, rock photographer of note (CSN first album cover, Morrison Hotel, Macca and Linda Life Magazine, etc, etc), very entertaining. He's a genial guy with fine stories accompanying very famous pictures with some great shots absolutely new to me (mid 90's RT included).
Then, unannounced previously, Jackson Browne trots out to begin the musical
show:
Barricades of Heaven
These Days
My Mysterious Friend
Lives In The Balance
Jackson is a SLH subscriber but, I think, this is the first time he's been on the stage (but a solo JB is coming to SLH in March 2004), his songs are, well, JB songs, but so well rounded and constructed. I've always had a soft spot for them, and the ladies do love him. Well rendered performance.
Then, Glen Philips (Toad the Wet Sprocket, and local SB resident) accompanied by two members of Nickel Creek: Sara Watkins on vocals and violin, and Sean Watkins on acoustic guitar.
3 songs titles unknown to me. Performed, unusually but quite effectively, standing in a semi circle round a single mic, stepping forward when soloing and back when accompanying.
Then, OH, acoustic. Suave and all in bereted black. Absolutely mesmerizing guitar playing through only 3 songs (waaaahhhh)
Words Unspoken, Sight Unseen
The Outside Of The Inside
Crawl Back Under Your Stone
Effortlessly, just through eyebrow raising and movement RT got the audience to do the 'Crawl Back' refrain. A huge stamping response to this performance, and a demand for more, which left Peggie Jones, the SLH svengahli, promising satisfaction at the end; and the next act humbled and in a difficult role.
Alice Peacock
3 or 4 songs on piano, guitar and vocals. A solid voice, slightly limp songs
Peter Case
3 or 4 songs, full of bluster and acoustic instrument bashing, seemed a little overblown to me
Dave Alvin
New songs mainly, including the title track from an upcoming album called 'The Ash Grove' - an ode to famous 50's to 70's folk and blues club. Alvin is an accomplished understated guitarist, rooted in folk, blues and its a lot less strident than Blasters days when they apparently got banned from Santa Barbara for causing a riot in the Lobero.
Finally 3 and a half hour in, the grand finale. Begins with Jackson Browne and RT solo on stage:
Carmelita, the Warren Zevon song, JB singing lead with RT on harmony, but the 2 or 3 RT guitar solos in Spanish guitar idiom were shocking in their vision and complexity. How does this man express so much emotion in so few notes? Each RT solo in this song generated a huge applause.
The Next Voice You Hear, JB song, bit of a let down really, the song is complex and RT seemed a little under prepared. As the song progressed all the other performers reassembled on stage and the evening concluded with
Make Me A Pallet On The Floor, everyone got a verse of solo and a verse of singing. RT was content to stand in the back and admire the talent on display. His solo of course shimmered unexpectedly to life and said so much.
Good evening to all.
GUY
I thought I knew a little about good music but somehow Dave Alvin went undetected by my musical appreciation radar untill last weekend at the Kate Wolf festival In norcal. Dave and the Guilty Men (your band Is awesome!)blew me away and now I have this whole new area of music to discover. Thank you Dave !
sincerely,
Martin Ludtke
Arcata Ca.95521
7/4/03
P.S. It's the 4th of JULY !
My wife and i ventured out last night (3/19) as the rain was falling in San Francisco and bombs begining to fall in Baghdad to see Dave at a Johnny Paycheck Tribute at The Elbo Room in the Mission District.
It was surreal. Only Dave even made mention of the fact that the U.S. had actually pulled the trigger on this incomprehensible event - and yet the show went on.
The venue holds about 200 people; I would estimate that the room was close to capacity. There were about four opening acts leading up to Red Meat and Dave Gonzalez from the Paladins. All the acts were good and totally reverent to the man being honored, but there was little doubt that the music went up a notch when Dave took the stage with Chris Gaffney.
I'd kill for an album of Dave doing Johnny Paycheck or Johnny Paycheck influenced songs. It was great to see Dave with a different backup group (Red Meat) and doing different songs than he usually does so well with The Guilty Men. It was four or five short songs, but well worth the wait.
We left the club at 12:30; missed our BART train home. Caught a cab with a guy talking in Arabic to his brother in Syria while the taxi radio droned on about Baghdad under siege.
It was a night that I'll never forget for a number of reasons. We are living in truly horrific, world changing times - more so than most of us ever could have imagined growing up in the sixties. It's comforting to know that musicans the caliber of Dave Alvin and the artists who raised money for Johnny Paycheck's family last night can carry on with their jobs, be truly inspirational and continue, in the face of chaos, to bring some hope and joy into our stressed out lives.
(Dave and the Guilty Men played my favorite Austin haunt, the Continetal Club, a few Thursdays ago... the day after the Pete Townshend arrest. The following is from an email I sent my friends that missed the show.)
Just as I felt up to covering the Strummer death, I’m slapped back down with the news about Townshend. From ‘say it ain’t so’ to ‘for Pete’s sake’, just like that. Black used to be a fashion statement in the rock world. It’s getting to be required wear.
Last Thursday night I was at the Continental again, Dave Alvin was in town. Most people have never heard of him, even here in the music capitol of the world. The place was full, but not packed. I could care less about that, having given up on the possibility that rock and roll would save the world long ago. There is still the issue of my soul, you see.
I have seen Dave five times now, beginning with the Blasters at the Armadillo half a life ago, with X at Club Foot, and now 3 times with the Guilty Men. He is the real deal. He wrote 4th of July, regarded by many who know as one of the best R&R tunes ever. It ranks right behind Amazing Grace and Somewhere Over the Rainbow in my personal hymn book. It can make you believe.
He did all the good ones, ‘Haley’s Comet’ (his tribute to Bill, who just happened to die in my old town, Harlingen), Abilene, Marie, Marie, Johnny Cash’s ‘Wanted Man’. His is the talent that makes the choice of song almost beside the point – you just don’t want it to stop, ever.
“There are a few important people in this life, ones that change you, influence you. Twenty five years ago I met one, but we didn’t get the chance to talk – he was dead drunk, face down in a gutter in London. This song is dedicated to Joe Strummer…”
And with that, he played it… I was struck by how few even knew it, ‘f*#k these pretenders’ I remember thinking - for me the opening chords were like dripping ice water down my back, I was hollering even before the drummer kicked in. I was praying that he would rock it - last time I saw him do it, he played it way too slow, not the way he plays it in my head…
It started slow - it’s a ballad, after all, but soon enough he whipped it up, and up, and up, and then, sure enough, they made it, and I was there just as we were there all those years ago, and if you’ve never been there you’ll just have to take it on faith - as for me, I’ve seen it, now I’ll never be afraid… Holly to Ely, Haley to Springsteen, Elvis to Elvis and all those angels in between… Jesus rolled away the stone and Dave sure enough raised the dead. The Clash took the stage at the Continental Thursday night; they played one of my favorite songs…
Just had a big "Dave fest " tonite(4 disc's) . I am ashamed of myself that I never found "Black Jack " until this year . I think that is the best disc I've heard in 5 years. Always liked Dave from the Blaster days and have the first solo LP(and all the blasters LPs, (yes, LPs). But this year found a good internet site to order discs on and started surfing for music and found out that Dave has all these discs out. Been picking them up one by one so now have them all. But "Black Jack" has got to be the gem , I love all the others too but I am a bit of a stereo nut and this disc just pours out!! The production is fantastic. Greg Leitz does a great job , plus HDCD sound. I have too admit this is my fave . The stories are perfect , dark and dreary , but there is always hope! The musicianship leaves me in awe, but I think it is the lyrics that just grab me. Was lucky enough to see Dave as the opening act on a Dylan show a few years back , was Joni Mitchel advertised as the opener but turned out to be a triple bill. He didn't have a lot of time but made the best of it and kicked butt. That made me go online to see what he was up to. So know have turned on a bunch of like minded folks to the music and look forward to the next studio release. Would love to have it in HDCD? Keep a rocking .
John , Chelsea , Quebec
PS can you wear out a cd as BJ has had been on my player for months.
I watched and waited for a Dave Alvin appearance to happen here in Fresno CA after I saw him by chance at an outdoor gig in the Autumn of '95. Only after I had bought tickets to fly out of the country last summer did I find he was to be at the Fresno Underground Gardens while I was to be in the Philippines. Tried to change my reservations but was a no go. I have never seen a review of that show. Can anyone tell me how it was? Would LOVE to hear Dave's impressions of the show and his impressions of his visit to Fresno.
Thanks
John Kirchman
Dear Dave and friends,
here is a link to my review of Out in California published in Milwaukee's Shepherd Express on 11/07/02. Wish I had been able to be at the Blasters show in Chicago, that band was a part of my youth. I hope it was fun for you.
Love,
Kathy Sahagian
We saw Dave Alvin at the Lotus Festival in Bloomington Indiana on Saturday, September 28th. The concert was great.
The Lotus Festival is a "highbrow" international music festival - the kind you only get in a college town. How they ended up with Dave Alvin I don't know. I talked to a few people working the festival and they didn't seem to know who he was. When we asked if there would be a problem getting in to the show, I was told to "just wander over there about 15 minutes before it starts." Luckily we didn't believe that one and sat through the earlier show just to make sure. The cost of our front row seats ended up being an hour of flamenco music in addition to the ticket price. Sadly there were people still waiting to get in when the show ended.
The concert was Dave and his acoustic guitar in a 200 seat auditorium. He sang for an hour an a half covering his solo work and some Blasters songs as well. And, while the audience included a few people who were just passing through because it was on the festival schedule, most of us there were Dave Alvin fans (big-time). At one point he asked the crowd what they wanted to hear and people all over the room started yelling out song titles. His guitar work was outstanding - I knew he was a good guitar player but I didn't know how amazingly good he was. A couple of times he apologized for playing things he said should only be played electric -- they sounded great anyway.
At the end of the show, the crowd yelled, clapped and stomped the floor so hard the building was shaking. It was the best concert I've ever seen.
We saw Dave Alvin at the Lotus Festival in Bloomington Indiana on Saturday, September 28th. The concert was great.
The Lotus Festival is a "highbrow" international music festival - the kind you only get in a college town. How they ended up with Dave Alvin I don't know. I talked to a few people working the festival and they didn't seem to know who he was. When we asked if there would be a problem getting in to the show, I was told to "just wander over there about 15 minutes before it starts." Luckily we didn't believe that one and sat through the earlier show just to make sure. The cost of our front row seats ended up being an hour of flamenco music in addition to the ticket price. Sadly there were people still waiting to get in when the show ended.
The concert was Dave and his acoustic guitar in a 200 seat auditorium. He sang for an hour an a half covering his solo work and some Blasters songs as well. And, while the audience included a few people who were just passing through because it was on the festival schedule, most of us there were Dave Alvin fans (big-time). At one point he asked the crowd what they wanted to hear and people all over the room started yelling out song titles. His guitar work was outstanding - I knew he was a good guitar player but I didn't know how amazingly good he was. A couple of times he apologized for playing things he said should only be played electric -- they sounded great anyway.
At the end of the show, the crowd yelled, clapped and stomped the floor so hard the building was shaking. It was the best concert I've ever seen.
Rod and I were at "Rootsfest" this past weekend in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It was wonderful for me to hear,for the first time, Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men. For my husband, it was a repeat performance. He was familiar with Dave and his brother, Billy, when they played together.
I just want to say the music the Guilty Men shared with everyone made me very happy, simply put. I bought their CD and I've been listening to it ever since. I hope to attend another festival, God willing, they might be playing at in the future. I want to thank Doug Cox for putting on such a good and well run event as well.
Hope Dave and his band attend the music festival in Courtenay, on Vancouver Island. It is held every year in early July. Doug Cox also produces it and it is truly one of the best events on the Island. Hope to see you there!
By the way, at a workshop earlier in the day, Amy Skye was saying her e-mail address was "Amyskye.com"... ha ha... Dave said his was "Amyskye.com" as well. He was so funny. My husband laughed and said, "He's the real deal... no .com shit here... it's just about the music"... obviously, my husband is a great fan of music as well. One more thing my husband said about the other guy who plays lead guitar... Rod said, "That dude's been rode hard and put away wet".. ha ha.
Great show Dave, just not long enough. Salmon Arm Blues and Roots festival in beautifull British Columbia Aug16, 2002. This was the first time for me to see Dave Alvin after 20 years of listening to The Blasters. I picked up "BlackJack David" a couple of years ago and almost wore it out. At the show last Friday, I came home with 'Public Domain", and "Out in California", both excellent CDs. Thanks Dave for giving us some tunes that I will enjoy for years to come!!
dave and the guilty men have been barnstorming thru western canada for the past two weeks, tearin' it up at several so-called 'folk festivals' and the 'salmon arm roots and blues festivals.' i caught dave at the latter event, a gorgeous venue at the base of Mount Ida in the scenic shuswap lake region of b.c. i went with my wife and two kids (6 and 4). dave said 'we're just a bunch ugly guys. what are we doing playing in such a beautiful place?'
dave's voice started out a bit hoarse, opening with a low-key 'blackjack david' - we were seated quite a ways back from the stage on a blanket, and i grabbed my four yo and said 'screw it, we're going to the front' - which was - VACANT! we were 'behind' the speakers, so hopefully no hearing damage was done and there was lots of room to boogie! the, dave ripped into 'out in california', and several other note-perfect renditions of songs from the new live disc. he morphed 'little honey' into 'that's all right, mama' as a tribute to elvis, and other faves.
the whole set rocked furiously - dave even got into doing these karate type kicks and jumps! the highlight for me was just before the encore, he said - "this goes out to anybody that was at those blasters gigs at the commodore ballroom twenty years ago" - i put up my hand and said ' i was there, dave!' then he kicked into 'marie, marie,' just like twenty years ago, when phil used to end off the blasters sets with 'we're the blasters, tell yer friends...'
and we all left with a huge grin on our faces from seeing once again one of america's finest roots performers. the kids loved it,too!!
Saw Dave & The Guilty Men play a gig on 7/18/02 at a funky bar in Somerville, MA. It was the first time for my wife and I seeing Dave live, and it was awesome. He thanked everyone for coming out on a "school night," then proceeded to playing some great music. I knew Dave was a great guitar player, but he blew the roof off the place that night with some great screaming licks, particularly during American Music and 4th of July. The show started off nicely with King of California, with Dave on acoustic, then Dave went into a few numbers from Public Domain, including an outstanding rendition of Dark Eyes. The electric set included Out in California, Little Honey, Museum of Heart, Abilene, Highway 99, Wanda & Dwayne, among others, and of course faves like 4th of July, American Music, and Marie, Marie. Chris Gaffney sang a cool song as one of the encore songs (wish I knew the name), before Dave ripped into Marie, Marie. It was a good crowd, Dave really appeared to enjoy himself. When he was leaving the stage, he said "see you all in another 4 or 5 years." I hope not. By the way, kudos to Big Sandy & his Fly-Rite Boys for a great opening set. Loved that bus, Sandy!
This review is of the July 18, 2002 appearance at the 608 Club in Somerville, MA.
It was a hot & humid July night and I wasn't sure if I wanted to make the 90 minute ride from my house in RI to Somerville, MA for the show. What the hell, I figured -- I had taken the night off from work and for those of us in New England the opportunity to see Dave play doesn't come around often.
Boy, am I glad I went. Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys opened. They were simply superb. They performed a flawless mix of older and newer songs that kept the place hopping.
Dave and the Guilty Men took the stage a little after 11pm and played for 2 hours until the club closed at 1am. They opened with "King of California" and played almost everything on his new CD including the arrangement of "Little Honey/Who Do You Love" which might have been the high point of the show.
Except for the violin and harmonica, the band lineup was the same as on the new CD. The band was tight, the songs extremely well arranged. My only wish is that these guys came around here more often!!!
I urge anyone with any interest at all in Dave Alvin's music to see this show. It is nothing short of awesome......
I've just seen Dave Alvin at the Milwaukee gig with the Guilty Men and he put on a great show.He still plays with heart and passion like always. His guitar playing gets better everytime I see him, if that seems possible. I caught the 2nd show at 7:30 and Dave played for 2 hours in a very hot and humid outdoor venue. At times, the perspiration beading down his forehead reminded me of his brother Phil. Even though Summerfest, Milwaukees biggest outdoor event that lasts 10 days and draws over a million paying customers to watch bands from all over the country was just down the road, I don't beleive a better show could have been had.
Dave also played 4 or 5 songs from his Public Domain CD, "The 4th of July" from his days with "X" and a good "Little Honey" number to a very appreciative crowd.The Guilty Men allowed Dave the freedom and spontanaity to go off on his own and really rip into his guitar and then come back and finish up with the band on the same page.It was a lot of fun. The crowd really enjoyed themselves and new converts were made to "Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men".
Dave Alvin played two free shows 7/1/02 in Milwaukee. From what I understand he
played somewhat subdued accoustic music at lunchtime (too early for him!!). At the evening show (Started at 7:30 - still too early for him!!) he played some rockin' music - all electric. The standard songs such as Out in California, So Long Baby Goodbye, Marie Marie, Haley's Comet, Jubilee Train, Museum of Heart, Wanda and Dwayne. The two suprises were Chris Gaffney singing Sweet Pea (Not the pop tune from the 60's) and a song I think is called Cowboys to Girls - a Motown song (nice backing vocals).
Because the show was free, was outside, and started early, I suspect a number of the audience were not Dave Alvin fans to start. However, they caught on quick. It was also good to see a number of Milwaukee musicians in the audience.
Good sweaty kick-ass show.
Dave Alvin's done it again. This guy just keeps taking it up another notch and turning up the heat. "Out In California" shows you how good Dave's musical chops are. He goes hell-bent on putting out a tremendous performance. The heart and soul of real life music belongs to Dave Alvin. I have seen him perform four times already, and each performance was truly an electric ecstatic experience. I look forward to see his upcoming tour. It should be a thriller indeed!
Just gotta say that that was The Best Gig I have ever seen The Knitters play!
Somebody was video taping parts of the show , and I would do anything to
have a copy of it!! Dave was truly playing his heart out as all of the band
was as well. It is a shame that the whole show was not videotaped ! A TRULY
INCREDIBLE SHOW WITH ORCHESTRA SUPERSTRING OPENINNG ! What more could one
ask for ? The Knitters deserve to have another c.d. out NOW !!! Silver Wings
is still one of my favorites...I would love to hear more cover songs too !
That's Great when you guys do that ! How bout "Walkin' The Floor Over You ",
The Ernest Tubbs Song? That would be Cool !!
Thanks Dave & fellow Knitters for a Divine Show ! Amen !
Yours,
Marc & Stacey B.
There's a good review of Dave Alvin at Beatfest in May, 2002 at
http://www.soundspike.com/story/230
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Dave Alvin Reviews/Comments/Questions
