THE PLAYERS Keith Carlock "You noticed that?" Last night, during one of his solos, Keith Carlock changed his grip. Most rock drummers work their kit like Fred Flintstone, as if they’re wielding two chicken drumsticks, gripping both overhand.  But I remember from fifth grade drum class that you’re supposed to hold the left stick underhanded, […]

MY OLD SCHOOL 1 Insiders will tell you the best Steely Dan album is the second, "Countdown To Ecstasy", the one that ended their touring career, the one sans any hits. I disagreed. But last night I became a believer. "Bodhisattva" blistered. "Show Biz Kids" swung. But "My Old School" was STAGGERING! "I remember the […]

Jay moved to L.A. to play in a band. Twenty five years ago you didn’t sit at home and create a YouTube video, hoping to draw attention to yourself, you ventured to either coast, made buds, formed bands and tried to make it. Jay had a modicum of success, but it didn’t pay the bills.  […]

Yes, I know Les Paul died, Willy DeVille too. Actually, I was going to write about Willy, but I couldn’t find his song "Spanish Jack" online.  And you need to hear Willy to get him.  And then see him.  He was pure New York.  And even though he never broke through, he’s got fans, I […]