Hallelujah and amen

When devouring chocolate chip cookies didn't cure my depression, I turned to religion. Reverend Slanky held a revival, at the Badlander, on Friday evening. Reverend deals in ecstatic, mystical faith, providing a transcendent experience through music, with an emphasis on drumming and dancing. Here are a couple of photos of the church service.


The local papers like to comment about the bands they cover possibly being the best in Missoula. Reverend Slanky can claim a place on that list, due to winning the PBR battle of the bands, this year. I posted a photo of their victory celebration, under "PBR Flashback" on May 1. There are some more shots from PBR on the flickr archive.


Cody leads the band, from his position behind the big drums.
Reverend Slanky is a good-sized combo, with approximately nine members performing on any given night. There's another drummer, behind Cody, pounding on a regular drum kit. There are usually two guitars, a bass and a keyboard, in addition to assorted brass.


The keyboardist always seems to be cheerful, unlike this fellow, who seems to be offended by the very concept of photographers.

Maybe he looks that way because he takes his music so seriously. Chris was an original member of the hermans, and recently played with that group again, after Cale and the Count departed. Over his shoulder, you can see Phil, who also plays with another group, Luau Cinder. See a previous post about their performance at Authentic Creations for First Friday.

The Reverend takes old music, stuff popular when I was young (that's old), and funks it up, making it more danceable than any version you ever heard before. If you like to dance, check the upcoming Missoula events for this group and be there for their next performance. Even if you don't dance, your butt may drag you out on the floor and start bouncing.

Give a shout out: let it bounce!


Get your music live and local.

Wal-Mart touches my life, again

I thought I was through with Wal-Mart, except for an occasional shopping venture, because, damn it, their prices are lower. Some of the ways they keep their prices lower piss me off. Wal-Mart is a leader in the reduce-American-workers-to-serfdom movement. They brag about the jobs they create and now employ one and a half million workers, excuse me, "associates," in this country. Studies show for every job they create, however, 1 1/2 jobs are lost. Thus, Wal-Mart has caused 750,000 people to lose their jobs.

When my parents moved to Arkansas, I told them they wouldn't see much of me, because I didn't care much for the place. I was true to my word and could count on one hand the number of times I visited them over the next 20 years. Yes, I know I was a bad son. Taking a sabbatical from the crowding and pollution of southern California, I headed out to tour the country, in 1998, and included a visit with my parents.

On a previous visit, my Pop, then in his mid 70s, was building fence. He was building fence from scratch, cutting down trees, sawing them to length, splitting them into posts, digging the holes, planting the posts and stretching the barbed wire. He was unhappy he couldn't do it as fast as he once did.

This time, he was approaching hip replacement surgery with some apprehension. I'll never forget him, afterwards, in that hospital bed, looking like a scrawny bird in a nest of cables and tubes.

Mom outweighed me by nearly 100 pounds and did not leave her recliner except to go to bed, eat her meals and visit the restroom, in spite of the constant entreaties from doctors to exercise some. It would have taken a cattle prod to get her moving, and I didn't have the toughness to use one. She later would slide to the point of being late to the restroom, if you catch my drift.

What does this have to do with Wal-Mart? I stayed, in Arkansas, to nurse my parents for the next eight years, and Wal-Mart was the only game in town for employment. They were constantly hiring, because their annual turnover ran above 60%. Don't be intimidated. I'm not going to detail all the crap I experienced over those years, or the many times management lied. I would like to give a warning. If a boss tells you a business is run like a big, happy family, he has incest in mind and you are going to get fucked.

To be fair, the insurance was not bad, and I signed up to have the cost withheld from my meager wages. It paid $70,000 for a hospital stay in 2005, when I learned about abdominal adhesions and how painful they can be. After Pop died the following May (Mom was already gone in 2002), I dithered about continuing to work for Wal-Mart in order to keep the insurance coverage. A month later, I walked.

I received two paychecks the month I walked, insurance was withheld from both, and my insurance should have been paid through the end of the month. I saw a doctor that month, and my insurance paid. This month, I received an invoice for that office visit, because last month Wal-Mart took their money back, saying my insurance had been terminated. Two years later, they decided I wasn't covered, even though they took fees for the coverage.

Writing is good therapy. When I started this, I was cussing a blue streak and ready to rip someone's head off. Transcribing events makes them a little more palatable. It also makes me realize I have a lot more to say about Wal-Mart. I'm sure I have enough material for an article, and I'm wondering about a book.

Next month, University Press of Mississippi is publishing a book entitled Covering for the Bosses: Labor and Southern Press, by Joseph B. Atkins. Joe sent an email saying I am quoted "at some length" in the chapter on Wal-Mart. Not wanting to repeat myself, I need to read that book before I say more about the world's largest retailer. I may have to wait a while, due to the $45 price tag on the book.

I have to say a little more, now. The first year I worked at Wally World, the Tire, Lube, Express department, in the course of a standard oil change, forgot to replace the oil. The omission considerably diminished the quality of service, as the engine seized up within a short time. It didn't make the news, but I heard a rumor and asked a TLE associate for confirmation. Not only was it true, but he admitted the same thing happened twice the year before. At that point, I began to collect articles about the company I worked for and continued to do so for the full eight years. Maybe, I could write a book.

First Friday--June

First Friday is always a treat, as the galleries offer up their new exhibits with snacks and drinks. I made an early start on the day, seeing some shows before the official kick-off, in order to beat the crowds.

An early reward was coming across the new location of "db" on main street and getting to sample the high-end stereo this electronic boutique offers. Tyler Wilson, the owner, graciously demonstrated his sound systems and showed excellent taste in musical selections. Definition of excellent taste is taste in agreement with mine. Tyler played the Grateful Dead, when they were still the Warlocks, Pink Floyd and many others I bought on vinyl long ago, in my youth. It was another favorite, a live recording of the Cowboy Junkies that lured me into the shop.
The outside speakers had extruded aluminum casings, were sleekly modern and had a high, clear sound. The inner pair, with shorter, wooden cabinets had a mellower sound, produced by technology developed in the 40s. The first pair sold for $6,000, and the latter for a mere $1,350. My vow to end desires was challenged, as I coveted the entire system. All you rich people out there, if you're looking for a good sound system, nay an excellent sound system, go to db and talk to Tyler. You won't find better equipment or a more comfortable place to compare systems.

Next, my wanderings took me to Dauphine's, where I found Thomas Pendarvis, of Good Neighbor Policy, alternately playing the drums and noodling on his guitar.

















Back on Higgins, an activist extolled shoppers to pressure elected officials to keep their campaign promises. It was a sample of old-time soap box oratory. Many folks aren't old enough to remember what it meant to "climb on a soap box," or why someone might tell another to "get off the soap box."

For First Friday, Authentic Creations, a hip, hemp clothing store, featured live music by Luau Cinder, and I'm afraid many missed the pun in the band's name. The year I was a freshman at Pepperdine College, there was a freshman at UCLA named Lew Alcindor. He would later change his name to Kareem Abdul Jabbar. That was the first year the freshman basketball team beat the varsity at UCLA.

In the above photo, Phil Stempin is on the bass, with Aaron Talley drumming behind him. Below is Lance Irven, who plainly enjoyed his work. Phil also plays with Reverend Slanky.


Someone made a beer run after 8, reviving the crowd and the band, who proceeded to play until almost 10pm. Their rocking, but smooth, updates of 60's and 70's hits pleased this old man greatly.

Speaking of this old man, I was making my own political statement that evening with my t-shirt. When photographed, I was on my way into the Union Club to see Russ Nassett and the Revelators. I discovered Russ has peaked out in age and is getting younger. He was rocking pretty good, and the crowd was reaching fever pitch.

His son was doing a Roy Orbison routine at the other end of the stage. They did a tribute to Bo Diddly by playing Bo's signature song.

The Clumsy Lovers Weren't Clumsy at Caras

Downtown Tonight caught a break with the weather and had enough fans show up to please the vendors, who had been terribly disappointed the day before for Out to Lunch.

The Clumsy Lovers came from Vancouver, B.C., to perform for the event. The last time they performed in Missoula, it was at a venue noted for always charging a cover even when the band sucks, and that meant a high fee for this terrific band. Who could complain about quality entertainment for free? The band expressed affection for our burg and said they greatly enjoy coming here.



The Clumsy Lovers have a Celtic influenced folksy sound, which is easy to dance to, although this night few besides the children danced. Perhaps, it is still too early in the spring, and people just aren't warmed up enough to dance outdoors.


In addition to t-shirts and CDs, the band merchandise included bumper stickers saying, "Honk if you're a clumsy lover." It was a joy to hear this amiable band, and the weather cooperated, after threatening all day. The music ended at 8:30, and the rain started at 8:35.

Braving the elements at Caras Park

A blustery day produced a cold and soggy Wednesday for the first Out to Lunch event of the year. A thin crowd huddled under the big top, while musicians worked hard to keep their fingers working under the tent covering the stage. The musicians are the hardy souls I want to praise here. First up was David Boone & Friends.








This was the first time, I saw David perform. Every previous listing for him, which I've seen, was at the Wilma. My current policy (based on necessity, I assure you) is to only photograph bands I can see free. If there is a ticket to be bought or a cover to pay, I'm not there. Hint to bands: If you want photos of your band on this blog, put me on your guest list. Just tell the bouncers to let in the old guy with the big beard and the big camera. And, communicate place and time to me.

Suggestion to venue owners and managers: If you want your venue mentioned here with photos of bands who played there, see the hint to bands above.

If you don't know this guy, you don't know what you're missing. Marco is the front man for Mudslide Charley, one of my favorite local bands. You can see previous articles about Mudslide Charley, on this blog, titled Rainy Afternoon Musings and Drums, Drumming and Slide, posted on Thursday, May 22, and Thursday, April 10, respectively.

If I understand correctly, this is the Charley of Mudslide. If I'm wrong, it won't be the first time I was full of shit. I'm definitely not wrong, when I say, he can play that harp.


This is just one of at least three bands Roger drums with. On this day, the rain pushed the tent right down on top of his hat.




Some might say it was one of those days "...not fit for man nor beast," and I'm sure the vendors faced with the pitiful turn out would agree. However, there are 11 more weeks of this event, and I promise the weather will be absolutely glorious for some of them. I'm looking forward to Big Sky Mudflaps, on July 2, because I heard they've been around for years and are an old local favorite. Another of my favorites, Zeppo, will be playing on July 23. A very talented woman, Joan Zen, is on the schedule for August 6, and Bob Wire, a funny guy, who writes some of the wittiest satire in town, will be up a week later on the 13th.

This is a great event. Come out, when you can, and support downtown Missoula. I've seen towns, where the big box stores have sucked downtowns dry. That will never happen here, because we won't let it happen here.

A day for voting and hope, or a rant

Time to get out and vote. Nope, not me. Sorry. I don't know the local issues and candidates well enough to cast an informed ballot, and I refuse to choose between Hillary and Obama. Both have cast votes, in the senate, I don't like. Hillary infuriated me when she announced she had been against the war from the beginning, after she voted for it. Then she made the excuse that she had been misinformed, and that if she knew then what she knew now...

I was sitting out in the armpit of America, and I knew they were lying their butts off to get the war started and enrich themselves and their cronies. How did she not know, while sitting in the halls of power? Feingold and Kucinich knew they were lying, as did Kennedy and Byrd, who both face serious health threats at the moment. Kucinich erred, however, when he told me Hillary had voted with Bush and his cronies "every time." When I checked, I found out of the first 14 legislative efforts to get the war rolling and keep it rolling, she had voted with the war-makers only 11 times.

Checking how your elected representative votes is important. It is easy to do online. Start here, and keep searching until your questions are answered.

Obama gave an eloquent speech opposing the rush to war, before he became a senator. However, after becoming a senator, his votes almost matched Hillary's. I'm all for hope, but until his actions match his words, I'm not sure what to hope for. I'm old enough to have been hopeful many times, and many times my hopes were dashed.

Now, you have my rationalizations for not voting today. That being said, whomever the Democrats choose will get my vote in November. The dim-dems have wimped out on the war issue (and many other issues) for years, but I want the Bush era ended asap, and a vote for McCain is a vote for more of the same old crap. I just hope the next president can make a difference.

I'm not quite as cynical as Philip Berrigan who said, "If voting made any difference, it would be illegal," but I'm getting there.

An homage to friends

The need to do everything quickly, right now, immediately is a created fiction. Seldom do emergencies, demanding prompt action, arise. Trying to please others can be a shackle, restraining us and keeping us from pleasing ourselves. Constantly, I have to remind myself of these two points, relax and be myself.

Last week, The Victory Smokes and BVE performed twice at the Badlander. It was a double dose on Monday and Friday, and both were terrific. My images and thoughts of the two bands had to be posted here ASAP. Well, there are other considerations, paying the rent being at the top of the list, followed by other issues requiring money. As the pressure to produce income, stay current, pay bills, have the latest on the blog and continue eating builds, I say time out and turn to a more important subject.

The subject is friends. I remember something Kori (a friend) said: "Opportunity is good; friends are better." I don't know if she originated the statement or was quoting someone else, but it is true. Here's darlin' Kori.


A dear friend, in El Segundo (remember Sanford and Son?), recently asked for a few of my images and a photo of me, promising a surprise. Today, I received an email with links to two slide shows of my stuff, complete with soundtracks, on Animoto. It was a surprise and a very good one.

Right behind that came the monthly newsletter from my friend Geri, who now resides in Sedona. She said it was time to give up that get-out-and-make-it-happen approach, which comes from the ego, and develop a get-out-of-the-way-and-let-it-happen attitude. That came right down the pipe through the strike zone. Dr Geri's website can be found in the links on the right side of this blog.

On that list of people and things I like is a blog by another friend. Check out Stumbling the Walk to learn more about my friend, Chris. He's a musician with two bands, Lazerwolfs and Tater Pig. Check the Lazerwolfs site for upcoming events and the awesome graphics Chris creates to advertise them. Their music can be sampled on myspace. Tater Pig is a family trio, which includes Chris, his wife and son.

Here he is, under the lights at the Other Side, playing with the Lazerwolfs, during the PBR battle of the bands.







Thanks to Chris for telling me I could do whatever I want with my blog and for leading by example by saying whatever comes to mind on his blog.