Please visit our new location....

My site has finally been moved to its new home at gotriad.com

From now on, the Musical Garbage Can will call here home.

Thanks for reading.

Ashlee online

If you'd like to read my interview with Ashlee Simpson, the story is here.

Avril and Ashlee

So, Avril Lavigne hates performing some of her hits, but does it because the fans like it.

Hey Avril, did you know it's your fans that are paying your salary? I'm glad you've come to this realization.

And here's a suggestion - if you don't like playing "Complicated," why not change it up a bit? Create a new version that's fresh for you and for the fans.

Instead of fans hearing it for the 4 millionth time, it'll be new for them too.

Simpson goes pop?
Ashlee Simpson reportedly wants to go 80s on her sophomore album.

She mentioned this to me briefly during my interview with her - simply saying she'd been listening to a lot of 80s music recently.

Apparently, she's going to make like Gwen Stefani and make a tribute to the 80s. Those who read my blog regularly know that I think Stefani's singles have been musical garbage.

As for Simpson - at this point in her career, is there really anywhere to go but up?

HAPPY EASTER!

Please come back tomorrow...

Coming soon: CD reviews of Cynder and Queens of the Stone Age

Dancing in videos

I was watching MTV this morning and caught the latest Usher video, and suddenly found myself laughing.

Do people really dance like this?

Most of the dancing you see in videos is extremely choreographed. You'd never see someone dancing like this in a club.

In fact, if someone pulled off the NSync "Bye Bye Bye" move of hand-talking, they'd probably live to regret it for the rest of their lives.

So if moves that, in public, would be publicly ridiculed are cool in videos - why are they cool in videos? That is, if anyone actually thinks it's "cool."

Are these hip-hop videos with goofy dancing just there to make us laugh? If so, it seems to be working so far.

Anthrax returns!; Simpson interview

No kidding...

I just got a press release that says it all - Anthrax returns!

"For the first time in 13 years the entire original lineup: Joey Belladonna, Frankie Bello, Charlie Benante, Scott Ian and Danny Spitz, will gather together in one room to discuss new music releases, as well as the future plans for this monumental ANTHRAX reunion."

The band is getting together in New York City on April 1 for a press conference to discuss their future plans. (Almost makes you wonder if it's an April Fool's joke...)

I saw Anthrax once, years ago, on a bill with Primus and Public Enemy - now THAT was a great show.

I'll keep you posted on any other news I hear.


Simpson interview
I had the whopping 10-minute phone interview with Ashlee Simpson yesterday.

I will say she was actually very nice, if a little too "bubbly." And she definitely used the phrase "you know" too much, you know?

She was pretty open in her comments...the first few questions got short answers, but she eventually started rambling.

Overall, it wasn't too bad. I just hate when you get interrupted by the publicist with the words, "Jeff, you have time for one more question."

The story is scheduled to run next week, and I'll post a link here when it does.

Ashlee Simpson and the Crue

Late yesterday, I was offered the opportunity for a 10-minute interview with Ashlee Simpson.

Of course, I had to take it.

Why? Because I want her answer to the lip synch question - not why she did it. My question is - "Do you think the reactions you received were justified? If it wasn't you, but someone else, do you agree that fans should be getting live music?"

I'm still working on the wording, but I'm interested in hearing her answer.

As a huge music fan, and someone who loves writing about it, I'll take the opportunity to interview just about anyone out there. There's always an interesting angle, even if you don't like the band.

Motley Crue
Early word is that I've been given the OK to review Motley Crue's concert for the paper. That's the reward for the day...

Joss replaces Jess

Singer Joss Stone has replaced Sarah Jessica Parker as the new GAP spokesperson.

This is good news to me, because I got tired of hearing SJP sing about how she "enjoys being a girl."

By the way, does anyone actually buy clothes at the GAP anymore? I remember when jeans there were the cheapest around - about $20 a pair. Now, they cost about $50.

Who in their right mind spends more than $30 for jeans? I laugh, in horror, when I hear about women paying more than $100.

But I digress, this isn't a fashion blog.

The reason I bring this up is because I feel like Joss Stone doesn't get enough attention.

If you've heard her performance at this year's Grammy's, or heard either of her albums, you know this girl has talent.

She's often compared to Janis Joplin, but I think it's simply because she's got a great, soulful voice.

If you haven't already, check her out.

New albums this week

Two big new releases for tomorrow that I'm looking forward to:

Ozzy Osbourne's box set and Queens of the Stone Age

I saw Ozzy in concert once, back in 88, I think it was. I remember that the openers were White Lion and Vixen - does it get better than that? haha

Anyway, Ozzy put on a great show, and I still remember parts of it today.

Surprisingly, I don't have one Ozzy album to my name. I used to have some tapes of his when I was going through my "I want to be like Randy Rhodes" phase.

Crazy, but that's how it goes....

I loved the last Queens of the Stone Age album, and may have to go pick this one up. Sure, only one guy is left from the band, or so it seems, but I've heard great things about the new album.

Jimmy Cliff
It was my plan for months to go to last night's Jimmy Cliff concert, but alas, it didn't happen.

Reason 1 - I'm still feeling the pain in my knees and ankles. I'm currently listed as a "medical mystery" by my doctor. They have no idea what's causing it. Personally, I think it could be arthritis, but all tests have been negative.

Reason 2 - I was outside doing yardwork all weekend and was pretty much exhausted by Sunday afternoon. Plus all the work kind of aggravated my knees.

I hope he comes back to the area, because I really would have loved to see him perform.

SXSW; Summer tours

The annual South-By-Southwest Music Festival is going on right now, and as usual, I'm saddened by the fact that I've never been.

I'd love to hear some first-hand comments about it, if anyone's ever been there.

The 80s are back
According to a story over at billboard.com, this summer will see some big tours by bands we thought were left in the 80s - not that it was a bad idea to leave them in the past.

Def Leppard is going to tour minor-league ballparks with Bryan Adams.

The Rock Never Stops tour will feature Cinderella, Ratt, Quiet Riot and Firehouse.

I'm pretty speechless about this second tour - and that's not a good thing.

Do people really want to go see these bands? I understand the appeal of someone like Motley Crue. However, gathering up mediocre talent and combining them on one bill seems like a silly idea to me.

Why pay $40 for one one-hit band, when you can see four in one night?!?

Weekend update

I spoke with Victor Wooten for about 20 minutes yesterday by phone. A great interview that got weird at the end.

Wooten talked about meeting Bootsy Collins, his new album and touring.

At the end of the interview, he said he was going to reveal a "secret" on this tour, and started talking about how he has more than just two arms.

Um.....ok.... I wasn't sure how to respond to that.

No Chevelle for me
Due to a dinner party I have to attend, I won't be going to see Chevelle tonight. Having just saw them in October, I'm not too upset about it.

Cliff on Sunday
I do, however, plan on going to see Jimmy Cliff on Sunday night. Check back Monday for a review.

Getting ready for Wooten

I'm interviewing Victor Wooten in about an hour....check for an update later today.

Jimmy Cliff story online
If you'd like to read my interview with Jimmy Cliff - at least the abbreviated version that was in the paper - you can do so here.

Ozzfest lineup; New Foos

It's been announced that Iron Maiden and Black Sabbath will be featured on the main stage of this year's 10th Anniversary Ozzfest.

Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall and Black Label Society will also be on the main stage while the second stage will be headlined by Rob Zombie.

I'm interested to see if this lineup on the main stage expands. Being the 10th Anniversary, you'd think a "best of" lineup would work for this. Also, I wonder if Ozzy himself is performing, or if he's only doing the Sabbath gig.

Foo Fighters' "Honor"
The Foo Fighters are set to release their fifth studio album, "In Your Honor," in June according to billboard.com.

It's going to be a double disc - one rock and one acoustic. Sounds like a good idea, but we'll have to see how it all plays out.

New Nine Inch Nails

I heard the latest Nine Inch Nails song - the first release from their upcoming new album - on my way home from work Tuesday evening.

As a fan of the band, I'm looking forward to the new release, especially after hearing the new song, "The Hand That Feeds."

It's got a "Head like a Hole" rhythm to it, but it's a bit more melodic during the chorus - instead of screaming.

It's definitely a good sign the album may be their best in a while.

Beatsteaks and Ozzy

It's driving me crazy - knowing that you want to buy an album, but can only find it as an import for about $30.

Recently, MTV showcased the band "Beatsteaks" on its Advance Warning show. As I watched the band, I realized, "Hey, I saw their video when I was in a hotel in Vienna last year. These guys are pretty cool!"

So I began my search around the net for the album, "Smack Smash," but am having little to no luck.

I contacted the label in hopes of doing a review of the album. No luck.

I looked for someplace to download the album online. No luck.

I looked for a pirated copy for free download. No luck.

On a recent episode of "Viva La Bam," Ryan Dunn and Bam Margera are listening to Beatsteaks in their car.

Why does MTV add to my torture?

Ozzy Osbourne's Box Set includes free ticket
The upcoming Ozzy Osbourne box set, "Prince of Darkness," will include a free general admission ticket to the upcoming Ozzfest tour. It will be a buy one, get one free deal.

Still a pretty cool idea, if you ask me.

The box set is a 52-song, four-CD retrospective.

The latest news

Case closed?
The investigation into the murder of Notorius B.I.G. has been closed.
This makes sense, because they have no suspect.
I thought you had to have a case solved, before you could close it, no?
I guess they figure time could be better spent investigating what makes Krispy Kreme donuts so delicious.

Jamiroquai can't spell
It's been announced in a press release that Jamiroquai's upcoming album is entitled, "Dynmaite."
It will be released on June 21. Or maybe that should be Juen 21.

Who cares?
In the latest "who cares?" news, Britney Spears says she'll no longer address her personal life in interviews.
This should last until Kevin Federline tries to sell his clothing line or record an album, at which point Britney will shout from the rafters of her trailer park.
If a talentless dancer releases an album to the world, will it make a noise?
I think the answer is no.

Home and writing

I just got in from my short vacation, and now it's time to get down to business.

I've got to get this Jimmy Cliff story done and sent in, so that's what my first order of business is.

Until tomorrow...

Cliff interview update, and a short vacation

After two failed attempts at reaching Jimmy Cliff yesterday, I finally got him on the phone this morning.

Definitely a fun interview that lasted for about 20 minutes or so.

Cliff talked about his music, of course, but I also got him to talk a little about Bob Marley. I didn't go as deep as I would have liked - mostly because the article is about Cliff, not Marley.

A nice guy though, and I was thrilled to hear him say, "I haven't done my best stuff yet."

I loved the last album, and am glad he'll be doing more.

On vacation
My cousin is getting married this weekend, so the next update here will most likely be on Sunday evening when I get back.
Spend the time reading those entries you missed here.
Go outside and enjoy the weather.
Just have fun.
Thanks for stopping by.

Getting ready for reggae

This afternoon, I'll have the honor of interviewing one of the founders of reggae music, Jimmy Cliff.

His album, "Black Magic," that was released last year was one of my favorites of the year.

It's always interesting when you interview someone who has been in the music business for 40 years - you never know what you'll get, or what questions you should or shouldn't ask.

For example, about four years ago, I interviewed Alice Cooper. His manager told me I'd have 15 minutes and to "stick to the new stuff." Once we got talking, the interview lasted 45 minutes, I asked Alice every question I could possibly think of and he commented that it was a great interview. I got to ask about his appearance on the Muppet Show, his views on the presidential election and more.

In contrast, I interviewed Bo Diddley a few years ago. Here is another musician who's been in the business for years, but you can tell interviews aren't his favorite thing. Some questions Diddley answered for a minute, some questions he gave me one or two words. After about 10 minutes, he simply said, "I need to get going." I had been warned that the interview depended on his mood.

So now, I'm preparing for Jimmy Cliff. Do I ask about his working with Bob Marley? Do I ask about Peter Tosh? Do I get into the thoughts that Marley is more recognized in reggae than Cliff though Cliff was an originator of the reggae sound?

It's a tough line to cross, if you think you're going to ask questions that will stir up emotions.

How do I approach it? I simply wait and judge the mood of the interview. If Cliff is in a good mood and talkative, I'll get into the Marley stuff. If he's short and to the point and seems bothered, you ask about working with Marley, but don't dive deeper.

My job is to gather information, but not offend.

CBGB and DUI

I've never had the chance to visit the legendary CBGB in New York city, but I'd love to have the chance. Unfortunately, that may not happen.

The club is facing closure because of unpaid rent. Open since 1973, The Ramones instantly pop into my head when the name is mentioned.

It's a sad story, and we'll have to watch and see what happens. Apparently, the owner owes $76,000 in rent.

Carter Arrested
What better way to hype your upcoming tour than to get arrested for DUI?
Apparently, Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys thought it was a pretty good idea. Although if my million-making band was relegated to the club scene, I'd be going out and getting drunk too.

Fred Durst sues Internet
OK, maybe he's not suing the whole internet, but he is suing Web sites that posted pictures or video that was hacked from him - I'm sure there's lots of sites out there with it.

MTV's TRL - Where's the real rock?

Have you seen the videos listed for voting at the TRL Web site?

When viewing the list, you have to ask, "Where's the real rock?"

Up for voting include:
50 Cent
Alicia Keys
Ashanti
Ashlee Simpson
Britney Spears
Chingy
Chritina Milian
Destiny's Child
Eminem
Gavin DeGraw
JoJo
Kanye West
Lindsay Lohan
Mariah Carey
Nelly
Ryan Cabrera
T.I.
Will Smith

The only thing close to a rock song is blink-182, Avril Lavigne (?), Green Day, Linkin Park/JayZ, Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone", Sum 41, U2.

It's sad. Just sad. Because it's not like good rock bands don't exist these days, they just don't get played on "Music" Television.

The week ahead

I think I may try something new on the weekends. . . unless there's major news.

On Saturday, I'll review a CD.

On Sunday, I'll try and give a look at the week ahead, and down the road.

For example, I still have the new Tori Amos CD to review, as well as others I've mentioned in the past. You can add to that list - the new Black Label Society CD, and Cynder's most recent album.

This week is the Commitments concert, but I'll be on my way to South Carolina for my cousin's wedding when they're in town. So it looks like I won't make it.

On Wednesday afternoon, I'm interviewing Jimmy Cliff. I'm looking forward to that, as his latest album was on my top 10 of last year.

That's a quick rundown - I'm off to watch Viva La Bam.

'Head' speaks

Brian 'Head' Welch has publicly commented on why he left the band Korn, and his new Christian life. It's an interesting article in the way that, while it gives his side of the story, to me it seems like Welch has gone a little overboard as well.

He has changed his title from "founding Korn guitarist" to "former Korn guitarist." Was it such a big deal to be known as a founding member?

His music will be an "extension of the Korn family" but will also have a "Christian, spiritual edge to it."

And what's more Christian than this: "I want to use every dime of the money I make off the songs to build skate parks for kids." Hey, there's nothing better than skating for Jesus, right?

Alanis, Black Crowes and Backstreet

Alanis Morissette is celebrating the 10th anniversary of her "Jagged Little Pill" album - the record that took her from big-haired Canadian pop to the forefront of female angst and man-hating.

She plans on releasing an acoustic version of the album on June 13 - ten years to the day after the original was released. And what better way to celebrate than to release your album to the masses - at Starbucks.

That's right, frappuccino fans. Ms. Morissette's great idea will be corporate-ified by being sold at 4,500 North American overpriced coffee outlets near you.

The acoustic anniversary album is a great idea - one that I wish Pearl Jam would do.

Black Crowes tour
As expected, the Black Crowes are turning their short stint in New York City into a full-fledged tour. I guess Chris Robinson was tired of his wife's success, and his own lack of solo success.

I wish they were coming closer, but maybe I'll make the trek to Raleigh to see them.

I caught the band during a surprise side-stage performance at Lollapalooza in Atlanta years ago, and would love to see them again. They definitely have a great live energy.

Backstreet's been down-sized
You're a boy band that's sold millions of albums. To celebrate your has-been status, you're going back on the road with a new album and a handful of club dates.

Yes, in a smart move - I doubt they'd sell out stadiums - the Backstreet Boys are going on a club tour. I hope these smaller venues are lip-synch equipped.

Touring news

Simple Plan and Good Charlotte are teaming up for the "Green Day Lite Tour." OK, I'm kidding about the name of the tour, but they are teaming up for one. The tour will happen this spring, and thousands of teenagers are bouncing in their seats for it.

Motley Crue is going on a Carnival of Sin later this year, as they announced the addition of a new U.S. tour later this year. I guess the tour is going well, so far, with reports of sellouts or near sellouts in just about every city they're playing.

Alter Bridge - Creed, but without the whine of Scott Stapp - is going to headline the sixth Jaegermeister Music Tour this year. Past headliners have included Slipknot, Saliva and Hatebreed, leaving many music fans wondering, "Huh?"

B.B. King is going to turn 80 this year, and is still touring the country. If that doesn't say something about love for music, I don't know what does.

Nine Inch Nails has announced their tour plans, with briefs runs in the U.S. and Europe. This band disappears for years at a time, and then only announces tour dates in 14 U.S. cities? I hope they add more. . . soon. . . and in North Carolina would be nice too.

Dave Matthews' annual summer pavilion tour will go on as usual, tons of people will buy tickets, the shows will sell out, and if you're lucky, his tour bus won't dump any waste on your head.

Commitments

Well, thanks to an all-day meeting yesterday, my interview with Kenneth McCluskey of The Commitments was delayed and rearranged to 5:15 p.m. yesterday.

After a pleasant 30-minute conversation, I had to go home and write the story for today's deadline, thus eliminating any chance of going to see The Secret Machines last night.

Of course, I'm still having those good old foot problems and probably couldn't stand for the whole show anyway.

Now I'm back to catching up on work.

The Commitments interview

I was in training all day, and now I'm getting prepared for an interview with the bass player of The Commitments - the band from the movie of the same name.

Sorry for the lack of an update.

More later. . .or tomorrow.