D.A.V.I.D.B.O.W.I.E.

Bowie at the Pavilion
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion -- April 29, 2004

It’s been nearly 13 years since David Bowie’s last appearance in Houston. So, it is without surprise, that I got my hands on a pair of tickets as soon they went on sale. David Bowie is a living legend; his career spanning over 4 decades. He’s done it all; music, art, movies, theater, and modeling. At the age of 57 he is still writing music and rockin’ the world. And he’s doing it better than many artists half his age. Bowie’s 26 songs, 2 + hour show was simply phenomenal. But before I get into the details of his performance, I must say a few words about the opening band: The Polyphonic Spree.

The Polyphonic Spree, who hails from the great state of Texas, is a unique band like no other. Their style can be described as “symphonic choral pop.” At first sight, they look like they belong to a cult (all wearing long white robes with flowing long hair). I’m sure that is something they hate to be likened to…but I think it gets the visual point across. Their happy go-lucky message is packed with energy. Let me tell you, I’ve never seen a tambourine take a beating like I have the other night. The exuberant energy was infectious. I definitely had a smile on my face…simply amazed with the amount of energy and talent these folks have. The choir was so energetic and active, I was genuinely concerned the platform they were on was going to come crashing down. That it did not do. Now, let’s talk about the variety of instruments used: French horn, flute, piccolo, trombone, trumpet, violins, violas, classical harp, synthesizer, piano, Theremin, drums, guitar, bass, and a poor abused tambourine. I may have forgotten a few instruments, but I think I listed the lot of them. The Polyphonic Spree was simply amazing…great performance!

Bowie’s stage consisted of two raised platforms decorated in faux limestone, one on the left side and one on the right, both of which were joined by a platform that spanned the rear of the stage. A large video monitor spanned the width of the stage as well. Inverted leafless trees lined the outer platforms for that earthy feel.

The lights went dark and a cartoon movie of Bowie and his band began playing on the giant video monitor at the rear of the stage. Then one by one, Bowie’s band began walking across the rear platform and eventually took their places. And then as if from no where, David appeared front and center and started into his hit Rebel, Rebel. Bowie is a master at his work. His personality and candor made for a show to never forget.

Forgive me if my memory isn’t spectacular…but early in the show, I believe after Rebel, Rebel, David welcomed the fans of Houston to the show, joking candidly, “Well, it’s been almost a month since we were last in Houston…” He, too, knows it’s been ages since he’s been to Houston. Hopefully the Houston crowd gave him such a warm reception that he’ll want to return. And warm had more to do with the weather than the crowd. Again (David was quite the comedian this night), David jokes, this time about not sweating during his performances—except in Texas. You gotta love the warm, humid Texas weather.

Bowie continued on with his set, picking up with a song from his new album Reality, followed a work from the Earthling album. Bowie talked about influences and such, prompting him to perform a song by the Pixies…one of his influences. At the conclusion of that song, Bowie then went on to chat with the crowd some more…”Let’s talk about clothes…” He then jumped into Fashion, followed by an excellent rendition of All the Young Dudes. At the conclusion of Dudes, he spoke to the crowd, “Let’s go Chinese.”
This led into nothing other than, China Girl, which was followed by Modern Love, Fame, and The Loneliest Guy. As The Loneliest Guy was coming to an end, Bowie knelt down on the stage and put his head on the ground in some sort of yoga pose gone wrong. After getting out of the pose he got up laughing. He explained to the crowd “that last move just felt right, I don’t know why I did it…What does it mean?” He then performed the yoga pose again…Laughing again, he said, “…it proves I have a strong neck…” Next on the set list was The Man Who Sold the World, which had the crowd on their feet again (the older legs and backs of some of Bowie’s followers were getting tired…and many people had begun to sit down). This is probably one of my top 10 favorite Bowie tunes; an excellent live version. The hardest and loudest rockin song of the night by far was Hallo Spaceboy. The thundering percussion and bass and that signature guitar riff made you feel it underneath your skin…An absolutely amazing performance. He then played a few songs from his previous album, Heathen: Sunday and Heathen (The Ray). Although it’s quite funny that on the set list we acquired from the sound engineers at the mixing board after the show has ‘Heather’ as a song…Bowie has no songs in his catalog named Heather…funny coincidence?

Bowie took a short break to introduce his band. This is a perfect time to do the same, as there were some surprises, at least to me. He started off with his lead guitarist, Mr. Earl Slick. Earl Slick is a legend himself who worked on some of Bowie’s mid 70’s albums: David Live (1974), Young Americans (1975), and Station to Station (1976). Next was Mike Garson on piano. He’s also worked with Bowie before: on the Aladdin Sane album and then on the Outside tour and Earthling tour. Catherine Russell was introduced next. She is on backing keyboards, backing vocals, and guitar for several tracks. Bowie joked that he had done her hair before the show. Fulfilling the percussion duties was Sterling Campbell. He’s worked with Bowie on Outside and ‘hours’ albums. Next, Bowie introduced his other guitarist, Gerry Leonard—a fellow non-American. Bowie joked that Gerry was his fellow Brit (since all the other band members are American)…when really Gerry is from Ireland. Gerry has worked previously with Bowie. Last but not least is the ever-talented Gail-Ann Dorsey on bass and vocals. She’s been with Bowie’s band since 1995, and her signature onstage presence is the lack of shoes…she plays barefoot. I guess the few surprises that caught me off guard were Earl Slick and Gail-Ann Dorsey. I honestly didn’t know who was playing for Bowie this tour…he’s played with many talented people and has changed personnel many times through out his long career. It was really nice to see that Gail-Ann was still with him…Bowie has an awesome band and it showed that night.

As Bowie introduced his next song he said, “The next song is a song I did with a good friend of mine, Freddy Mercury. Freddy couldn’t be here with us tonight…” As he said this he looked skyward as if acknowledge Freddy’s presence. This song is of course, Under Pressure. Once again, another song performed superbly. Bowie then did Days, The Supermen, and Reality. Again, Bowie began chatting with the crowd saying, “I know what your thinking, when is he gonna play something we know?” Two of the three previous songs were off of the new album and the other was another obscure Bowie classic. Of course those of us that are fans of Bowie knew those songs. He then jumped into Ashes to Ashes. Bowie addressed the fans for the next song, “This was one of the first songs I wrote after coming to America…” Quicksand is the name…and a song that I have not heard before. Next was a Velvet Underground classic, White Light/White Heat. For Bowie’s next song, he alluded, “There are some of you out there that I’m afraid of…” This of course leads into I’m Afraid of Americans. A spectacular version of this was done…One could feel the bass and drum drilling into the pit of your stomach…
The next song he dedicated to all the “heroes” out there…Of course that song is Heroes, another Bowie classic. Bowie and crew left the stage to prepare for the encore. Wow…at this point I’m nearly exhausted from it all. It’s been a tremendous ride and experience. Yet, there was more to come…

As the crowd chanted for more, the sound level increased dramatically…ladies screaming at the top of their lungs, guys belting long blasts of whistles (I included). Other contributed to the noise by banging on the seats in front of them. Only a few minutes passed and the band returned to their posts. Bowie came out on stage with a Stetson cowboy hat with the brim curled up around the hat. He then explained that his next song was inspired by a show that “…both kids and stoned adults like.” The Uncle Floyd show started back in 1974 and has a cult following in the New Jersey – New York City area. The song is called Slip Away. This is one of my favorite songs off of the new album…and I can’t explain why. I was pleased he performed it. For this song he brought out the Polyphonic Spree to do some of the vocals and backing vocals on it…this time they were in multi-colored robes…the Spree added a wonderful touch to this song. He thanked the Spree for being there and applauded their performance. “If Ziggy were a Texan...” he walked stiff bodied, much like John Wayne would have to cool his throat with a sip of water…and then jumped into Suffragette City. And the final song of the evening was the classic Ziggy Stardust. Yes, all good things must come to an end…
Once the song was done, all band members were arm in arm at center stage. A bow to the center, a bow to the left, a bow to the right, and another bow to the center…and the band waved goodnight as they exited stage right. Bowie stayed out a little longer waving goodbye to Houston, Texas, for an 8th time. It was an end to a phenomenal show!!

Bowie did not act like he was 57 years old…he was talkative, friendly, funny, a true legend. He never seemed to get tired. He seemed truly happy to be doing what he was doing. It was honor to be there. It was also a great honor to see Earl Slick, Mike Garson, and Gail-Ann Dorsey, Sterling Campbell, Gerry Leonard, and Catherine Russell. They are a superb band. I’m glad that we were able to make that show. It may be a while before he comes back to Houston. Now I have Bowie memories to go with the Bowie art on my wall, the Bowie books on my shelves, and the Bowie DVDs and CDs in my cabinet. David Bowie is a true world icon…he’s done amazing things, I’m sure there is more to come.

Here is the night’s official set list:
1. Rebel, Rebel
2. New Killer Star
3. Battle for Britain (The Letter)
4. Cactus
5. Fashion
6. All the Young Dudes
7. China Girl
8. Modern Love
9. Fame
10. The Loneliest Guy
11. The Man Who Sold the World
12. Hallo Spaceboy
13. Sunday
14. Heathen (The Ray)
15. Under Pressure
16. Days
17. The Supermen
18. Reality
19. Ashes to Ashes
20. Quicksand
21. White Light, White Heat
22. I’m Afraid of Americans
23. Heroes

Encore
24. Slip Away (with the Polyphonic Spree)
25. Suffragette City
26. Ziggy Stardust


A twenty six song set is true testament of a legend. Unfortunately, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion has a curfew and he had to cut a few songs from his encore. Heather was able to get a copy of the set list after the show. She asked nicely before the show started. Hopefully I can get some pictures posted soon…of the set list…cameras are not allowed…and I wasn’t going to chance bringing in my camera. But I can take pictures of the tickets and set list. I was hoping he’d perform Space Oddity, since Houston is a space city after all. But he didn’t…I’m not bitter or disappointed in any way…The show was Phenomenal and definitely something to remember.

You know you Zwan it...

Here's another concert review. Enjoy!

Concert Review -- Zwan @ Verizon Wireless Theater 04-14-03
Zwan Review 04/14/03 Houston Verizon Wireless Theater

I can only sum it up by saying Zwan is the ‘Shock and Awe’ campaign to the musical battlefield. They hit you hard, they hit you fast, and they hit you loud!! Wow, what a performance. Zwan are Paz Lenchantin (bass, violin, vocals), David Pajo (guitar and keyboards), Matt Sweeney (guitar and vocals), Jimmy Chamberlin (drums), and Billy Corgan (guitar and vocals) This was probably the most fantastic concert I’ve attended. I’m probably one in the minority here, but I can’t stand crowds. I’d rather have a seat and my space at a concert and enjoy the performance. For this show, I elected to buy balcony seats for the above stated reason. Standing for long periods of time can be painful. However, I was disappointed to have to swap my seat for a general admission ticket. After Heather and I did our traditional buy a shirt and stickers routine, we headed for the floor. Not wanting to fight for my space in the crowd, we decided to stake our claim behind the sound engineers board. Turns out, for this particular venue, this is nearly the best spot in the house: center stage, unobstructed elevated view of the entire stage, and plenty of elbowroom. We took our seat (our floor space) about 40 minutes prior to show time. The crowd was fairly sparse, but that was to change when Zwan came on stage.

Children’s Hour was, to say the least, different; basically a duo, or rather a duo and a half? David Pajo filled in on drums for several songs. The band was very folkish sounding; with the singer’s voice a cross between Bjork and that chick from the Cranberries, Dolores Mary O'Riordan Burton. Not my kind of music, but, hey, they’re touring with Zwan.
Twenty-five minutes after Children’s Hour left the stage Zwan took it, with force. The set list included, in order played (Heather asked for the copy of the set list that the sound engineers were using and he gave it to her. I was going to put a picture of it here, but I dropped my camera tonight)

Endless Summer
Declarations of Faith
El Sol
Love Lies in Ruin
Honestly
Lyric
Heartsong
Riverview
Baby Let’s Rock
Jesus, I / Soul Machine
Broken Heart
World Goes Round
Settle Down

1st Encore
Mary Star of the Sea

2nd Encore
A New Poetry (this is what the set list says, but they played Spilled Milk)

Unfortunately, I don’t have a photographic memory and can’t describe each song in detail, but there are some notables that I shall point out.
The first 3 songs were played loud, very loud. But everything was still hearable. Great energy, the band got into a groove early and stayed there the whole night. The next memorable part was the intro to Riverview. Jimmy gave an excellent thundering drum solo that Paz then joined for a rhythm section romp. Very cool song! This was a song I had not heard before, but it immediately became one of my favorites of the night. I need to get my hands on that one soon! During Jesus, I / Soul Machine, Matt and David, just sat back and let Billy do his thing. His solo was absolutely amazing. Shock and Awe is the best way to describe it. It’s amazing the speed and control he has. His fretwork is awesome. I can't say enough about his abilities. This was my first time to see him live, and it's always a joy to watch him perform via DVD or TV. I wish for just a fraction of that talent. Another pleasing thing to watch was the way Paz was grooving to the music – she spent most of the time with her back to the audience swaying her hips in that o-so-sexy way. And those teeny little shorts were nice too.

I was hoping they'd break out the acoustics for Broken Heart, but they didn't. It's still a moving song. Paz added beauty with the violin. I've always thought that the violin makes a great touch for those emotional heart-felt songs.

The triple guitar attack was impressive. Each taking his own turn at a solo, all guitars meshed wonderfully, in a dance of mesmerizing notes. Unforgettable. All are great guitarists.

The original set list ended with A New Poetry (which I have not heard yet). However, due to the emotion of the crowd, Zwan gave us the option of a slow sappy song or a high power rock n roll song to end the night with. The obvious choice was to rock the night away. So, Zwan begins a guitar intensive Spilled Milk. Another song I haven't heard before, but wow, what a song to end it with. The energy was unbelievable. Towards the end of Spilled Milk the band posed in a poster picture-taking pose (wish I had a camera) and then picked up with the rest of the song. There were several false endings to this song. I actually think this is a novel idea. Just when you think the song is over, wishing there was more; it happens...there's more. It's especially great if there is a great, catchy hook in it, like Spilled Milk. When the song was done, all the band members waved good-bye to the crowd and exited stage right (well, stage left from their viewpoint), except Billy. He stayed to shake hands with several people on the front row, and tossed the extra guitar picks from his stand, Matt’s stand, Paz’s stand and David’s stand. He left with a very big smile on his face. And so did Heather and I.

It was an inspiring pleasure to be in the presence of probably one of my favorite musical idols. Billy's style is unmatched by anyone. His ability to write songs with such power, bite, love, sadness, joy, alienation, and hope is truly amazing. One could study him a lifetime and not match his abilities. I hope to learn from him. He brings me much happiness.

New Career Path?

With my most recent post on the Smashing Pumpkin concert review, I have received some very positive comments. One commenter even asked if I got paid to write that review. Ha. I wish. While I think that my writings leave much to be desired, I suppose it's something I could consider if my gig as a flight controller doesn't pan out. I'm not sure how lucrative of a business it is, but it might be fun.

To whet your appetite, the next few posts will be some previous concert reviews that I have written. Although, I'd say the Smashing Pumpkins review was my best work thus far. This first one is a review I did for the Blue Man Group.

Something Blue

Blue Man Group Review -- August 17, 2003, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion: We’re here to see the famed Blue Man Group. The night is very hot and humid…the kind of night where sweat seeps from your skin while you are sitting doing nothing. The only relief is a breeze from an approaching storm. We’re in the uncovered reserve section, so we hope that the rains don’t come, although that would be a welcomed relief. The rains never come…but the light show makes its presence known. And the show has begun…

First up are Tracy Bonham and her band. They played some new tunes from her upcoming album. Not too bad. I’m not a big Tracy Bonham fan, but her work is recognizable. Tracy also does some vocals with the Blue Man Group. I will say she has a really soothing voice with quite a bit of range.

Next up are Venus Hum. This trio has that ravey, electronica pop thing going for them. It actually wasn’t too bad. From what I could tell, Venus Hum ran everything (or almost everything) through their laptops. They also used a few keyboards, random electronica gear and a Fender Jazzmaster—I didn’t hear the wonderful tones from this lovely guitar for they had been altered, but how cool is it that a Jazzmaster is in an electronica band. But for the most part everything was computer generated, and with today’s technology, it sounded really good. You can get more info from their website: http://www.venushum.com

As stage crews cleared the stage for the Blue Man Group, tickertape type electronic signs generated scrolling messages to keep the audience entertained; one sign on the left side of the stage and one on the right side. And each sign had it’s own personality. One sign spewed random internet facts, and the other commanded the audience to do and say things. Then, one sign claimed to be better than the other and the other got offended and “left”, when I say left I mean turned off.

And now, for the big show…the Blue Man Group is unleashed. A giant curtain hides our view from the stage…backlighting gives way to hairless figures rhythmically beating on some fabricated contraption. The tempo ascends and wham, Blue Man Group and band slap you in the face with and explosion of sound and a mind numbing sequence of lights. I like loud guitars and mind hollowing drums…and this was all that and more.

The stage production was outstanding, and it should be. Marc Brickman, best known for his work with Pink Floyd and Nine Inch Nails, collaborated with BMG for this Rock Tour. The visual was just as appeasing as the audio, a pleasant display of carefully orchestrated lights and video footage make for an active show. Having listened to the Complex album several times, I already knew what I was in store for from the sonic realm. Not one sound was made from these funny little blue men, but the humor was loud enough for all to enjoy. Little stage antics made it comical; it brought the audience closer. But don’t let the blue voodoo catch you off guard…these are skilled musicians.

One of the most impressive parts of the show was when all three blue men participated in a tag team style rhythm showoff. Blue Man number 1 starts a good beat the tubulum (see the website), and a seconds later, Blue Man number 2 takes his place without missing a note. Blue Man number 3 replaces Blue Man number 2 and the pattern goes on…all in time, all in rhythm, all in synch. Very impressive.

The rest of the band performed brilliantly. They were definitely a part of the show, and not some backing band. They interacted with the blue men in a comical fashion. If you like drums/percussion, this is a show for you. Watching the guys in the back, all moving in time, with the same rhythm was mesmerizing. It was as if they were connected to each other somehow. I’ve never had much rhythm, if any at all, but just watching those guys go, was a show in itself. The guitarists were definitely an added plus. Naturally, me being a guitar guy, watched these guys quite often…powerful riffs and licks that stuck in your head…great stuff.

I’ve never seen the theatrical blue man shows, but from what I’m told there are no lyrics, just instrumental. That’s okay by me, but there were some talented vocalists that help make the complex tour a true rock tour. Of course, Tracy Bonham and her smooth voice were nice. Venus Hum helped out on a tune with one of the coolest dresses (worn by Venus Hum’s Annette), I’ve ever seen. Different colored lighted bands from shoulders to knees made up this dress. Each band flashed in time and flowed rhythmically to the sounds. It’s hard to explain, so I say, see it for yourself. And Peter Moore did an excellent job on the vocals. I like his version of Sing Along better than Dave Matthews (then again, I’m NOT a fan of DM—I’m surprised he even got mentioned in my article). I even liked Peter Moore’s version of The Current. Gavin Rossdale did a great job and his voice fits the song better (but then again, I’m biased), but Peter Moore did an excellent job.

And the show is nearing an end. Rock Concert Movement # 456, fire copious amounts of graffiti and streamers into the audience. Ok, so this is not a rock concert standard, but it’s a Blue Man Group standard. I enjoyed the show; it made me laugh, pump my fist, bob my head, stomp my foot, and it made me forget about the heat! This show is highly recommended, see it if you can. For more Blue Man Group information visit their site: http://www.blueman.com

Fans of Broken Glass

After approximately 16 years in the making, I have finally seen a live performance of the Smashing Pumpkins. I became a fan of the Pumpkins late in high school, somewhere around '93 or '94. I never had the money or the right timing to see a show live. After the breakup of the band in 2000, I never thought I'd get a chance to see them.

This incarnation of the Pumpkins only retains Billy from the original mold. The other members are returning guitarist Jeff Schroeder (from the Zeitgeist album), bassist Nicole Fiorentino (formerly of Veruca Salt), and drummer Mike Byrne. Unlike the Zeitgeist tour, this short 15 city tour is comprised of just the four members.

Let's start with Jeff. He's a talented musician who is very "quiet" musician on stage. Not much movement but he is into the moment, very much like I was when I was on stage...just not as stoic or statuesque as i was.

Mike Byrne. Perhaps one of the luckiest cats in the music business. This kid is just that, a kid. When Jimmy Chamberlin left the band after the Zeitgeist tour, auditions were held for his replacement. This then 19 year old kid got the gig, who worked at McDonald's prior to joining the Pumpkins. And the kid is like a freak behind the kit. From the angle I was at it was hard to see him due to all the crash hardware, but he was definitely laying down some body shakin' thumps. Jimmy Chamberlin is still a better drummer, but the kid is young.

I think I fell in love when Nicole Fiorentino first walked on stage. Long legs, beautiful hair and an assertive, but very feminine walk to her spot on stage. I was further blown away by her stage presence. A very sexy, nay, sensual playing style. She reminds me very much of Melissa Auf der Mar (formerly of Hole and the Smashing Pumpkins), who I also find very attractive. In fact, I would say that Nicole was influenced by Melissa. Her moves include what I call the Melissa Auf der Mar backwards lean and leg step. To me, it is a very sensual rock move. Love it! Not sure if Melissa penned that move, but she is the first one I've seen do that move. And it didn't hurt that Nicole always seemed to have that sexy-come-hither-i-want-you look upon her face. Adorable. I swear she looked my way...more than once!

And front-man Billy, who seems really happy with this incarnation. Multiple times throughout the show, Billy was seen smiling and telling stories and jokes. Yet, Billy is very serious about his art and wants it to be the best rock show he's ever played, every time. There were a few technical issues, but the band played right through them and Billy was able to orchestrate his crew on to the solution. Billy is still an amazing artist and musician.

The stage. For a small to medium venue, there isn't much stage space for a big time act such as the Smashing Pumpkins. Lining the back of the stage was a series of scaffolding and rigging that contained banks of lights. These lights would later be used as an assault on human function. These lights contained blinding power, as well as, a way to impeded human thoughts and functions as the brain seizes from the high frequency strobe effect. For the weak minded, this could be nauseating. Add in color and there is a wide spectrum of feelings and emotions. Book-ending the wall of lights were two identical towers, each containing a large 6 bladed windmills of broken mirrors, fans of broken glass, to help construct the kaleidoscopic effect. These blades would spin with the intensity of the emotion of the song. A battery of directional lights would fire their beams of energy towards the mosaical mirrors and in turn bathe the reflections upon the eager and energetic crowd. The stage setup was simple but effective.

I despise general admission shows, as you are herded amongst the masses to gain the best viewing position possible. Most people are not respectful of your personal space and don't mind pushing into you to gain the advantage of a better, closer glimpse of the artists at work. I will say that this crowd was not that bad, at least from my vantage point. There were only a few instances where my personal space was violated, mainly by a woman that did not know the extent of her girth, or she just didn't care. Once she moved a little to the left, she was out of my airspace and I didn't feel as confined anymore. As with any show, there are the inebriated and the stoned, or the individuals are in some phase of getting to that end item. About 10 feet from me was an individual that ended up puking due to his inability to monitor is alcoholic intake. Luckily, I did not have to suffer the unpleasantness that comes with someone purging their evening meal. And of course, there are several that enjoy partaking in a strong herbal element. Unfortunately, some of those were in very close proximity to me. I'm pretty sure I had a contact high. I was a little hungry following the show. At one point during the show, Billy exclaimed, "It smells like puke and weed in here...it's a strange combination..." I'm guessing this is not his first experience...

Another reason I dislike general admission shows is the tendency for moshing and/or crowd surfing. Since I'm usually a non-violent person, I tend to shy away from events with tendencies for stupidity. This show was void of moshing, but there were a few individuals that felt the need to do some crowd surfing. One guy was even in his business suit. As the individuals reached the front the bouncers quickly snatched them from the crowd and shuffled them out of sight. And these burly guys weren't nice about it...they seriously yanked them from the crowd as if they were nothing more than a light weight bean bag. You could tell that Billy was quiet aggravated with the whole scene. He has been known to stop a show until the crowd surfing stopped. As Billy continued to sing and play the current song, his eyes followed the business man from surfing to his exit. Sure enough, as the conclusion of the song, he made a few remarks in a non-rude manner to stop the crowd surfing. I remember the time at a Finding Reason show where 3 individuals, you know who you are, tried to do the 3 man crowd surf. It was pretty funny.

On to the show itself. There were no fancy entrances. I like the simpleness of it all. Although, I do like intricate and elaborate entrances. The lights went dim and the directional spots illuminated the stage in a calming bluish hue. And the Pumpkins took the stage, and I let out a muffled, "Wow!". Well, it was a lot louder in my head, but that's when I saw Nicole stride across the stage. Yeah, I was stunned. Billy walked from one side of the stage to the other acknowledging the eruption from the crowd. He waved his hellos and thanked the crowd for their undying support. Once everyone took their places with their instruments of tonal bliss and aural destruction, the show began.

"The Fellowship" was the opening song. This is off the new and upcoming album,Teargarden by Kaleidyscope. Teargarden will be an epic multi-disc album spanning approximately 44 songs. Songs are currently being released one at a time and once the project is complete one should be able to experience a story of sorts. Almost immediately the seizure inducing flashes began to attack the central nervous systems of those taking in the spectacle.

"Bullet with Butterfly Wings" off of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness was next on the list. I immediately knew the tune as this was one of the covers that I did with Finding Reason. This version had a little more rock to it. It didn't transition from quiet to loud as much as the studio version. I think that is what attracts me to the Smashing Pumpkins. I enjoy the transitions from quiet to loud and then back to quiet, only then to be hit in the chest with a powerful thrust of distorted guitar and bone crushing low end. The anticipation of the climax, the rise and fall, the quickened pulse...that's the taste of good rock 'n roll. Still the light show persisted as if being abducted by the aliens of rock, only to be brought back to the land of normalcy in the quiet, darkened night...

Reaching from the return album, "Tarantula" from Zeitgeist was next to feed our never ending hunger.

"Eye" from the movie Lost Highway was transformed from the original electronica version to rock version without the synths. I almost didn't recognize it at first, but then it all came back to me.

Billy paused to tell a quick story about the next song. He told of a romantic encounter he had with a woman from Houston who first informed him of Lithium. This song was dedicated to her. And perhaps one of the most recognizable intros in all of the Pumpkins catalog began to dance upon our eardrums. The sweet sounds of "Today" from Siamese Dream filled the venue. Perhaps one of the quintessential rock anthems of the '90s. I pulled out my cell phone and began recording video of this piece. Unfortunately (or fortunately) the video doesn't have audio. Probably for the better since it wouldn't have sounded like anything but a garbled mess.

"Ava Adore" from the Adore album and "Drown" from the Singles soundtrack rounded out the next two songs.

We were then treated to another aural drop of fuzzy distortion with "Freak" from Teargarden. "Life is not a dream..."

The heavy weapons of mass distortion and searing solos were traded for a softer sonic pleasing sound...the acoustic guitars. Billy and Jeff picked up the acoustic guitars for Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide". The cover is off of the Pisces Iscariot album. We were afforded a reprieve from the onslaught of visual stimulation as well.

Going back to the Mellon Collie album, "Tonight, Tonight" rang in the air. Next in line was a less ballad-y and more amped up version of "Stand Inside Your Love" from Adore.

Rounding out the set was Siamese Dream's "Cherub Rock" and Mellon Collie's "Zero". Both rocked in expected fashion.

The band left the stage and we were left wanting more. The cheering continued and the chants began. After a short break, the band returned to the stage. "Astral Planes" off of Teargarden was the first encore song. The light storm was in full effect and the windmills of shattered dreams spun with a dazzling effect. And the final song of the evening was "Heavy Metal Machine" from the Machina/Machines of God album. I will say that I was a little let down by the final encore song. I had hoped for something a little more prolific and intense. However, it was a show that ended much too early. I wasn't ready to go home. I wanted more.

Billy carefully set down his guitar which was still grinding away on the last chord struck. He waved his goodbyes and allowed his fans to pay homage to his work. We fans kept cheering and giving him, and the rest of his band, the acknowledgment they deserved. Billy threw the remaining guitar picks into the audience who ferociously fought for the right to be the new owner of said picks. As I was close enough to be a recipient, one did not come nearly close enough. Mike, the former McDonald's employee turned rock star, walked over to my side of the stage and flung several of his drum sticks into the eager masses. Again, the prizes fell close...but not close enough.

The house lights began to burn and the peasants of the rock gods began the journey home to dream of what was and what could have been. The adrenaline coursed through my veins for much of the night, making sleep a near impossibility. It made me miss the stage and guys I once shared it with. Maybe one day I will return to the stage. And I'd be content with a fraction of the success that the Smashing Pumpkins have earned through time.

I wasn't able to get an actual copy of the set list, like I have done on occasion. Usually the beautiful girl I'm with has what it takes to get the set list. I, alone, do not have those qualifications. Perhaps the next show.

Here is the set list from the December 5, 2010, Smashing Pumpkins show in Houston, TX:
1. The Fellowship
2. Bullet with Butterfly Wings
3. Tarantula
4. Eye
5. Today
6. Ava Adore
7. Drown
8. Freak
9. Landslide (Fleetwood Mac cover)
10. Tonight, Tonight
11. Stand Inside Your Love
12. Cherub Rock
13. Zero

Encore:
14. Astral Planes
15. Heavy Metal Machine

I found this nifty website that has the studio versions of the songs. Check it out if you have the time.

Below is a picture I took with my cell phone. Had I known cameras were allowed, I may have brought a better camera. I'm sure there are better photos out there, so I'll link to them if I can find them. For now, enjoy my crappy photo.




My first Smashing Pumpkins experience was great. I should've never waited 16 years to see them. As far as concerts go, this one makes my top 3 list, with David Bowie still taking the top spot. I still haven't decided if S.P. will be number 2 or number 3, but it was a great show.

UPDATE: Here is an article with better pictures from the show.

10 Years

The International Space Station has been the home to a permanent human presence for 10 years now. In fact, it has just surpassed the old record of the Russian Mir space station. I am proud to say that I've been with the space program for better than 10 years now. There have been headaches, long nights, countless hours of work that seemingly goes unnoticed...but there have been moments of awe, satisfaction, and sheer enjoyment. We work hard. We are making progress. You haven't seen the fruits of our labor yet. But one day you will. We are not done yet...

I have made many friends along this 10+ year journey. I have friends in Japan and Russia. Never would I have imagined that I would get to do the work that I do and meet the people that I have met. I am truly lucky to have had these experiences. I am saddened by those that are no longer with us on this journey...those that have gone before us and those that departed not on their own accord. But remember, that those people had a role in getting us to where we are now. Be proud of that fact.

Ten years. We are not done yet...

Finally!!

A moment at least 15 years (perhaps more) in the making is building in my head. It will be hard to contain my excitement as the date approaches. I will be beyond giddy.

I will be seeing the the Smashing Pumpkins play live at the beginning of December. Well, the current incarnation of the Smashing Pumpkins anyway. I never did get to see the original incarnation...the power house band that was relentless in the 90s. I can't quite recall when I became a fan, but it was in the early 90s. I never have seen them live before. This will be an epic moment. I know i'm making way too much of it. Some would just say that it's just a concert. Get over it. Yeah, perhaps. Music is what gives me the feeling of life. And the Pumpkins are a major part of that for me.

Now several years ago I did see a different incarnation of the Smashing Pumpkins...when they were called Zwan. That was a good show. I expect this show to be even better than that! The only thing that could make this even more special is if I were to get the privilege to meet the band. OR better yet, give them a tour of the place i work...that would be awesome. I suppose being an opening band for them would be awesome too. Since i'm not currently involved with that, that will have to wait...

Now...to start thinking about how to plan that evening so that my guest will enjoy more than the show...

She's Mine

This morning I paid the balance of my loan on Delilah. And before the jokes start, Delilah is my 2008 Infiniti EX35. I paid for her in full in less than 27 months. It always advantageous to pay a little extra per month on any loan. Ok...so I paid a lot extra per month...but i turned a 6 year loan into a 2.2 year loan.



I feels good knowing that what i was putting aside for the loan is now going into savings. As for what I will do with the "extra" money, I have a few home improvement projects on my list and I am throwing some ideas around for a second vehicle. But I'm in no hurry to spend the money...so savings it will go.

Hodgepodge

Yes, go ahead and berate me for not posting. I deserve it. Truth be known, i grew tired of blogging. I find that facebook is a better outlet for my different moods and, frankly, didn't involve so much time to prepare.

So, now, i give you a hodgepodge of topics to read about...in no particular order.

Finding Reason...I'm sure, by now, you have realized that you haven't seen much from me with regards to Finding Reason (either here or on Facebook). Well, the reason for that is that I am no longer a member of Finding Reason. I was replaced by someone with more talent than myself. Yes. It's true. The band that I help start released me of my duties at the beginning of June. Yes, it sucks. And yes it hurt. I miss playing with those guys. There were no creative conflicts or personality issues. I just wasn't playing to the level that would take the band to the next level. It was a business decision. I have no hard feelings towards those guys, although i do wish things were different. Will I make a return to the music scene? Unlikely. However, i do hope to find some time to take some lessons to help me get better.

Sticking with the music theme, i recently saw a sold-out Lady Gaga show. It's been quite a while since i've been to a mainstream live music act. Normally, i would do a complete show review, but since it's been a while, i wouldn't be able to do it justice. I will say that I'm glad i did get to see the show. I called it a popera. pop + opera = popera. Essentially, Lady Gaga told a story and incorporated her music into the production. The stage setup changed with the different scenes. And of course, Lady Gaga herself had many wardrobe changes. And yes, her outfits were just bizarre. If you'd like to see her show, too bad...the next Houston performance is already sold out for April 2011. Lady Gaga was just a little too preachy for me, but it was an entertaining show...i think that was my first pop show.

Shifting gears...In July, i celebrated my 10th year in the manned space flight business. It's hard to believe that. I have seen and done a lot in that amount of time. I've gained so many friends here and on two different continents (Europe and Asia). Coming out of college...or heck, even high school, i never would have imagined that i would travel to Moscow, Russia (5 times) or to Tsukuba, Japan...or accumulate over 3500 hours of console time flying the International Space Station. The space station contract has been extended to at least 2020. Will i spend another 10 years in the human space flight business? Only time will tell...but i hope to be engaged in that for a while. It has been challenging of late (mostly due to management), but I aim to stay put for a little while longer.

Speaking of Moscow and Japan, I was in Moscow in April and then Japan in June. Both were for work. That was my 5th trip to Moscow and my first to Japan. Interestingly enough, these two countries are 180 degree apart in almost every way. It was great to experience both and to make new friends. This is one of my most favorite parts of my job. The flight to Japan was much more pleasant than the flight to Moscow...even though it was 2 hours longer. I tried sushi for the first time ever...and it is not for me. Maybe future blogs will contain pictures...

Well, i don't want to overload you on this first post in over 3 months. I will end it here. I have more items to share with you, so i will be back...

New News

Sorry for the blog-neglect. I have been ultra busy as of late. Was in Moscow for early April. Dodging volcanoes. Off buying new computers in late April (new super laptop and a netbook). Started seeing Claudia in March. TAMU yesterday. Rockstar practice. Three Finding Reason shows currently booked with a hope for more. I have been busy, but it's been a good busy. Although, I do feel as though I am falling behind on some other necessary tasks. Must catch up. See ya soon...

Horelica House of Music -- Edition 28

Ok...I know, I know, you've been waiting for this for a while now. I've been pretty busy and haven't had much time to commit to this little project.

But without further ado, here is the latest installment of HHoM. I thought this band was so good that they got their own edition here.

Silversun Pickups is the band. Swoon and Carnavas are the two albums featured today.
Silversun Pickups are an alternative rock band from the city of angels. Melodic drum beats and distorted guitars and a chick bass player...it's all good! They came on the scene back in 2005, but recently became more mainstream. How did I not know about these guys for 5 years? Well, I am very impressed with this band. I just wish I could clear my schedule to go see them play next week when they are in town!

Take a listen and enjoy...

Pictures & More

Here are a few pictures from the STS130/20A mission. All pictures are courtesy of NASA.



As the crew was getting ready for their farewells, they took a moment and delivered this message:

It's Done

More than a year's worth of work is just about complete. Yesterday was my last shift of my second lead flight (STS130/20A). It was a bittersweet moment. Mated missions are a physical and mental drain. So, we were all looking forward to the end of our support. The end of this mission also means that was the end of my front room support for the shuttle program. So, while I was ready for this mission to end, I wasn't ready for it to be over.
Being a lead for a mated mission is probably the most rewarding thing that a flight controller will ever do in their flight controller career. It's amazing to spend a year or more planning, working the intricate details that many will never see, replanning, going to endless numbers of meetings, replanning, participating in simulations, and then finally watching it all unfold as you planned, er, replanned it. The smiles always seem to be more frequent at the end of it all, especially when things go smoothly.
Although, things won't go smoothly without a great team to support you. I had the pleasure to work with a superb team. They did an incredible job to keep the mission going. I know there were times when there wasn't much to do or they were tired of planning, but they kept on going. Awesome! So, many thanks to Moose, Nik, Melissa W.,Erin R., Cory, Melissa G., Kevin, Greg, and all folks in the GNC MER, especially Ford. And thanks to Ed and Chris for getting us ready for the tasks at hand.
I won't call this a successful mission until Endeavour and her crew are at "wheel stop". I have several pictures that i will share with you, but i forgot to get them before i left console. I'll post them early next week. I also have something to share with you that was a surprise to me on our last shift.
Stay tuned...

One Step Back

Finding Reason has released their drummer.
I won't disclose those details here.
We wish Daniel luck in his future endeavors.

With that, we won't be opening for Days of the New.

The original founding members will return to the studio.
It is with great confidence that i can say we will be back.

Stay with us and visit our sites for the latest news.

Rock on!

Finding Reason to open for Days of The New, Maybe...

Maybe! Unfortunately, we won't be able to play the show if the STS130/20A mission slips by one day. This is my lead mission, so i kinda need to be there.

Feb 18th is the day. Meridian is the place.

Here is the official event information.

Days of the New is a nationally known band that hit the mainstream in the late 90s. While their commercial success was mild, they did tour with Creed, Def Leppard, 3 Doors Down, and Metallica.

This would be a huge achievement for Finding Reason. But we aren't there yet. There are higher powers that need to be favorable to us...

we hope to play this show, and we hope to see you there...