Tuesday, October 25, 2005
2000 + and counting...
Read this article. Very sobering. Remember at just over 200 "Mission Accomplished!".
I am always surprised by some music critics.
The current Neil Diamond tour has been getting mostly high marks and the press anticipation for his new Album "12 songs" ( a collaboration with Rick Rubin) has been very exciting (if not overly optimistic). So the following review surprises me a bit.
It's not exactly negative, just a bit snarky.
Singer-songwriter brings both substance and glitter to Monday's performance.
By JEFF VRABEL, The Times-Union
The two sides of Neil Diamond -- the fantastic Tin Pan Alley songwriter and the glitter-dripping Vegas bush elephant -- coexist in a state of uneasy peace, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Leno and Letterman, or Cartman and Butters.
They're cool at the dinner table, but you get the sense that the minute no one's looking, they're thinking about how totally great it would be to stab the other with a salad fork.
Before we go any further, full disclosure: I'm 30 years old, younger than many of the songs Diamond uncorked to the nearly full house at the arena on Monday night, and my allegiances lie with that first Neil. Sweet Caroline Neil. Cracklin' Rosie Neil. Anything-That-Doesn't-Involve-Love-On-Any-Rocks Neil.
So when you're writing your hate mail in about five minutes, I urge you to begin with a snarky gag involving my age (and please, stick with e-mail. If you leave me a voice mail, no one will hear it. Not even my chair).
Because to an observer who wasn't around for those Solitary Man days, what's so fascinating is how the seemingly counterintuitive chapters of Diamond's past assimilate into a whole that, at a fantastic-looking 64, can produce a show at the near-mathematical midpoint between pure magnificence and hideous terror.
For example, Cherry Cherry and Forever in Blue Jeans came off as near-perfect pop timelessness, while I spent a medley of songs involving a seagull dreaming up ways to kill myself with my shoelaces.
Diamond sticks to the lower register these days, his band doesn't have much punch in it and he doesn't prowl the stage so much as saunter around it as if looking for his reading glasses. But the man's a showbiz cyborg -- "I go where the noise is," he challenged the crowd early on, in just one display of old-school stage-patter genius -- and a consummate-to-the-point-of-being-kinda-weird professional.
And he served up two precise hours of what can best be described as a musical comfort cheese tray, and one of America's most enduring at that.Few could argue that Diamond's at his best when he cedes the spotlight to his melodies, as he did on the one-two punch of I'm A Believer and Sweet Caroline, or the expertly soaring Holly Holy, or a schticky but potent Red Red Wine that gave a backhanded high-five to the UB40 version.
And when he pulls out the lonely stool for I Am I Said, or puts on his acting face for You Don't Bring Me Flowers -- which, like every song performed on Monday, was brought to closure by a sweeping hand gesture that one might perform were one to release a baby white dove into the wild -- a wave of viscous liquid cheese pours off the stage and down into the crowd, threatening to destroy everything in its path. Introducing that suite from Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Diamond said, "It is a journey painted on the canvas of the soul."
Uh . . . right. Who needs a beer?
None of this is to suggest that Diamond is no longer bringing it -- he is certainly in good, if no longer top, form. He wielded the acoustic guitar for You Got to Me and Kentucky Woman. He did Thank the Lord for the Night Time with the energy of a man half his age. And then he dug into America, which, after all the years, remains overwrought and obvious enough that it's a wonder Meat Loaf didn't think of it first, and Love on the Rocks, garnished with a series of facial grimaces that you might expect from a man who's passing a live squirrel through his colon.
Anywhere else, repeated exposure to such stylistic turbulence could cause a permanent shifting of one's posture, but at the Neil show, it's just the way the world spins.
It's that ragged back-and-forth that keeps Diamond from enjoying the level of songwriting acclaim he deserves, and ends up giving him a lot of acclaim he doesn't. And since everyone is quite happy with the arrangement, that's the way it'll be for the forseeable future, until Neil's battery runs out. Meantime, pass the cheese, please.
jeff.vrabeljacksonville.com, (904) 359-4288
To be fair, I wish I would have thought of that "passing a squirrel through his colon" line. It is funny. A friend suggested that she wished his shoe laces had been longer to which I responded that this poor guy can't be very happy. What is it they say about guys with small feet?
It's not exactly negative, just a bit snarky.
Singer-songwriter brings both substance and glitter to Monday's performance.
By JEFF VRABEL, The Times-Union
The two sides of Neil Diamond -- the fantastic Tin Pan Alley songwriter and the glitter-dripping Vegas bush elephant -- coexist in a state of uneasy peace, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Leno and Letterman, or Cartman and Butters.
They're cool at the dinner table, but you get the sense that the minute no one's looking, they're thinking about how totally great it would be to stab the other with a salad fork.
Before we go any further, full disclosure: I'm 30 years old, younger than many of the songs Diamond uncorked to the nearly full house at the arena on Monday night, and my allegiances lie with that first Neil. Sweet Caroline Neil. Cracklin' Rosie Neil. Anything-That-Doesn't-Involve-Love-On-Any-Rocks Neil.
So when you're writing your hate mail in about five minutes, I urge you to begin with a snarky gag involving my age (and please, stick with e-mail. If you leave me a voice mail, no one will hear it. Not even my chair).
Because to an observer who wasn't around for those Solitary Man days, what's so fascinating is how the seemingly counterintuitive chapters of Diamond's past assimilate into a whole that, at a fantastic-looking 64, can produce a show at the near-mathematical midpoint between pure magnificence and hideous terror.
For example, Cherry Cherry and Forever in Blue Jeans came off as near-perfect pop timelessness, while I spent a medley of songs involving a seagull dreaming up ways to kill myself with my shoelaces.
Diamond sticks to the lower register these days, his band doesn't have much punch in it and he doesn't prowl the stage so much as saunter around it as if looking for his reading glasses. But the man's a showbiz cyborg -- "I go where the noise is," he challenged the crowd early on, in just one display of old-school stage-patter genius -- and a consummate-to-the-point-of-being-kinda-weird professional.
And he served up two precise hours of what can best be described as a musical comfort cheese tray, and one of America's most enduring at that.Few could argue that Diamond's at his best when he cedes the spotlight to his melodies, as he did on the one-two punch of I'm A Believer and Sweet Caroline, or the expertly soaring Holly Holy, or a schticky but potent Red Red Wine that gave a backhanded high-five to the UB40 version.
And when he pulls out the lonely stool for I Am I Said, or puts on his acting face for You Don't Bring Me Flowers -- which, like every song performed on Monday, was brought to closure by a sweeping hand gesture that one might perform were one to release a baby white dove into the wild -- a wave of viscous liquid cheese pours off the stage and down into the crowd, threatening to destroy everything in its path. Introducing that suite from Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Diamond said, "It is a journey painted on the canvas of the soul."
Uh . . . right. Who needs a beer?
None of this is to suggest that Diamond is no longer bringing it -- he is certainly in good, if no longer top, form. He wielded the acoustic guitar for You Got to Me and Kentucky Woman. He did Thank the Lord for the Night Time with the energy of a man half his age. And then he dug into America, which, after all the years, remains overwrought and obvious enough that it's a wonder Meat Loaf didn't think of it first, and Love on the Rocks, garnished with a series of facial grimaces that you might expect from a man who's passing a live squirrel through his colon.
Anywhere else, repeated exposure to such stylistic turbulence could cause a permanent shifting of one's posture, but at the Neil show, it's just the way the world spins.
It's that ragged back-and-forth that keeps Diamond from enjoying the level of songwriting acclaim he deserves, and ends up giving him a lot of acclaim he doesn't. And since everyone is quite happy with the arrangement, that's the way it'll be for the forseeable future, until Neil's battery runs out. Meantime, pass the cheese, please.
jeff.vrabeljacksonville.com, (904) 359-4288
To be fair, I wish I would have thought of that "passing a squirrel through his colon" line. It is funny. A friend suggested that she wished his shoe laces had been longer to which I responded that this poor guy can't be very happy. What is it they say about guys with small feet?
Monday, October 24, 2005
In November I wrote...
it's all about tomorrow
Time for a fresh outlook. Time to think about the future. Time to stand together for what we believe and to work to make a genuine difference.Now that the election is over I have a few thoughts.I have been an "Anybody but Bush" person. I think the reasons are clear. But now that the election is over I have changed my mind. Cheney would be worse.In 1973, Agnew was forced out of office for reasons having to do with tax fraud - the details are foggy, I was only 12. That opened the door for Ford before Nixon was forced out.We need to hope that Haliburton brings down Cheney before the secrecy, lies and cover-ups of this administration bring down "W".So, Who shoud replace Cheney? We haven't much time really. to stick to the time-frame of 1973 it must happen this spring.Your thoughts?
Sadly, my words may have been prophetic. It seems now that the investigation that has been swirling around Rove and Libby may have encircled Cheney as well.
I cannot begin to imagine how "W" would survive without these three at his side.
Time for a fresh outlook. Time to think about the future. Time to stand together for what we believe and to work to make a genuine difference.Now that the election is over I have a few thoughts.I have been an "Anybody but Bush" person. I think the reasons are clear. But now that the election is over I have changed my mind. Cheney would be worse.In 1973, Agnew was forced out of office for reasons having to do with tax fraud - the details are foggy, I was only 12. That opened the door for Ford before Nixon was forced out.We need to hope that Haliburton brings down Cheney before the secrecy, lies and cover-ups of this administration bring down "W".So, Who shoud replace Cheney? We haven't much time really. to stick to the time-frame of 1973 it must happen this spring.Your thoughts?
Sadly, my words may have been prophetic. It seems now that the investigation that has been swirling around Rove and Libby may have encircled Cheney as well.
I cannot begin to imagine how "W" would survive without these three at his side.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
"Hello Again"
The 25th aniversary edition of "The Jazz Singer" was released on October 18 in DVD format. I am delighted by this but unfortunately it brings out all the snarky critic types who find more need to criticize than to enjoy.
Take the movie for what it is: not much of a plot, credible but stiff acting on the part of just about everyone (save Lucy Arnaz), great music and overall a fun time.
This movie came out the same year I graduated from high school. A few things struck me. First, Bubba asks Molly if she has any Charlie Parker "albums". Remember what parties were like back then, having to change the vinyl disk every 15 minutes or so?
Molly ambushes the producer "Eddie" and puts a cassette into his car stereo. That's right, there was a time that cassettes were considered top of the line.
I have read a few reviews that say the black-face scene is offensive. What in the hell are these people thinking? This is an obvious and amusing nod to Al Jolsen. To see it as anything more or less than that is just stupid. Some reviews point out, rightly, that Neil was to old for the role (39 at the time). But, these too I think miss the point.
I have a dvd of this movie from some years back. The quality on this new production is far superior. Add to that my LCD widescreeen flat tv and a dvd player that upgrades standard dvd to hd quality and the experience of watching this movie is like visiting with an old friend.
No, Neil probably didn't deserve any acting kudos but the fact that the music from this film was ignored by his peers is a disgrace.
My recomendation is to buy or rent this DVD, grab yourself a glass or bottle of red red wine and enjoy the evening.
Take the movie for what it is: not much of a plot, credible but stiff acting on the part of just about everyone (save Lucy Arnaz), great music and overall a fun time.
This movie came out the same year I graduated from high school. A few things struck me. First, Bubba asks Molly if she has any Charlie Parker "albums". Remember what parties were like back then, having to change the vinyl disk every 15 minutes or so?
Molly ambushes the producer "Eddie" and puts a cassette into his car stereo. That's right, there was a time that cassettes were considered top of the line.
I have read a few reviews that say the black-face scene is offensive. What in the hell are these people thinking? This is an obvious and amusing nod to Al Jolsen. To see it as anything more or less than that is just stupid. Some reviews point out, rightly, that Neil was to old for the role (39 at the time). But, these too I think miss the point.
I have a dvd of this movie from some years back. The quality on this new production is far superior. Add to that my LCD widescreeen flat tv and a dvd player that upgrades standard dvd to hd quality and the experience of watching this movie is like visiting with an old friend.
No, Neil probably didn't deserve any acting kudos but the fact that the music from this film was ignored by his peers is a disgrace.
My recomendation is to buy or rent this DVD, grab yourself a glass or bottle of red red wine and enjoy the evening.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
A few thoughts on Katrina
Given that the calendar is fast approaching 9/11, I can't help but think that in that tragedy there were candles burning, calls for prayer, unifying voices wanting to give the "new" president the benefit of the doubt.
Granted that was a senseless attack and there was a requisit call to arms with the necessary psuedo patriotism. But why now, when many more were killed, do we find ourselves less inclined toward the spirit of unity and prayer that overtook us at that time.
Don't get me wrong. The response for help is overwhelming from my perspective. But my guess is that if our current leaders could point the blame at some foreign enemy and use that as an excuse to go to war against them, they, along with the media, would have us all racing off to Walmart to buy our Chinese made, plastic US flags for our cars.
Still, having a strong religious bent myself, I wonder: Where are all the candle vigils?
Granted that was a senseless attack and there was a requisit call to arms with the necessary psuedo patriotism. But why now, when many more were killed, do we find ourselves less inclined toward the spirit of unity and prayer that overtook us at that time.
Don't get me wrong. The response for help is overwhelming from my perspective. But my guess is that if our current leaders could point the blame at some foreign enemy and use that as an excuse to go to war against them, they, along with the media, would have us all racing off to Walmart to buy our Chinese made, plastic US flags for our cars.
Still, having a strong religious bent myself, I wonder: Where are all the candle vigils?
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Friday, July 22, 2005
So Good, So Good, So Good...
July 25 and 26 Neil will be in Omaha. I hope to see folks there and will update with reviews of the shows.
Paragraph labeled "S" for secret from classified memo
found to be source of information about CIA agent outed by Rove. We all know "W" doesn't read but I doubt Rove will be able to claim stupidity. Doubtful too that the expert in covert political operation could claim he didn't know what the word meant.
"W" and Karl had better hope that another Justice or two retires otherwise they won't be able to keep this from the mainstream media much longer. The debate will turn into what the meaning of theword "S" is.
Stay loyal to your friend "W". We love ya for it.
"W" and Karl had better hope that another Justice or two retires otherwise they won't be able to keep this from the mainstream media much longer. The debate will turn into what the meaning of theword "S" is.
Stay loyal to your friend "W". We love ya for it.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Some are asking:
"Should Rove resign or should he be fired?"
I don't care. If he were muslimand accused of treason (with credible evidence no less) he would be arrested and detained without the benefit of counsel. That sounds like a great place to start to me. The fired or resign thing can be figured out later. I also think it would be harder for W to stand by his man if his man is in prison. But please, not abu grab - ain't no way I want to see this guy naked.
I don't care. If he were muslimand accused of treason (with credible evidence no less) he would be arrested and detained without the benefit of counsel. That sounds like a great place to start to me. The fired or resign thing can be figured out later. I also think it would be harder for W to stand by his man if his man is in prison. But please, not abu grab - ain't no way I want to see this guy naked.
Friday, July 08, 2005
One Year Ago... Humble beginnings
Welcome to "A Page that Aches..."
This title comes from the words of Neil Diamond's song "Be" from the soundtrack for the movie "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" based on the book of the same name by Richard Bach.
Lost
on a painted sky,
where the clouds are hung
for the poet's eye.
You may find him
if you may find him.
There
on a distant shore,
by the wings of dreams,
through an open door.
You may know him
if you may.
Be
as a page that aches for a word
which speaks on a theme
that is timeless,
while the sun God will make for your day.
Sing
as a song in search of a voice
that is silent
and the one God
will make for your way.
And we dance
to a whispered voice,
overheard by the soul,
undertook by the heart.
And you may know it
if you may know it.
While the sand
would become the stone
which begat the spark
turned to living bone.
Holy, Holy
Sanctus, Sanctus
Be
as a page that aches
for a word which speaks on a theme
that is timeless
while the sun God will make for your day.
Sing
as a song in search of a voice
that is silent.
And the one God
will make for your way.
Words by Neil Diamond
These words create an atmosphere that I hope we can live up to. respect for persons with diverse opinions will be expected. Whether weighty or whimsical, I hope the topics found herein will be interesting enough to provoke an occassional response.
posted by Jonathan at 7:10 AM
Sept12, 2001
How many recall the remarkable outpouring of human spirit extended from around the world after the tragic events of 9/11/2001?
One very impressive and memorable event for me was the solidarity shown us by the people of London where the US flag was flown and a vigil was held where many songs were sung including our national anthem.
How many in the US have even given a thought to flying the flag of Great Britain? I would guess not many.
Before anyone dare respond that the 40 odd lives don't compare to the magnitude of 9/11 I would simply add that we need to remember that we are all in this together.
I would further add my disappointment in Tony Blair and GW Bush for their thoughtless comments on the day of this tragedy. To say that we won't change our behaviors, attitudes and "ideals" (s0-called) or that we will not yeild to "these people" even before we know who "these people" are is the height of arrogance.
My heart goes out to our brothers and sisters in London and to all who feel vulnerable as they go about their daily routines. For me this event causes me to reflect on the presence and nature of sin in all its forms.
The choice before all of us, of course, is to evaluate our own lives and make personal decisions based on how they effect the world around us. I think particularly this is true when making decisions as a consumer.
One very impressive and memorable event for me was the solidarity shown us by the people of London where the US flag was flown and a vigil was held where many songs were sung including our national anthem.
How many in the US have even given a thought to flying the flag of Great Britain? I would guess not many.
Before anyone dare respond that the 40 odd lives don't compare to the magnitude of 9/11 I would simply add that we need to remember that we are all in this together.
I would further add my disappointment in Tony Blair and GW Bush for their thoughtless comments on the day of this tragedy. To say that we won't change our behaviors, attitudes and "ideals" (s0-called) or that we will not yeild to "these people" even before we know who "these people" are is the height of arrogance.
My heart goes out to our brothers and sisters in London and to all who feel vulnerable as they go about their daily routines. For me this event causes me to reflect on the presence and nature of sin in all its forms.
The choice before all of us, of course, is to evaluate our own lives and make personal decisions based on how they effect the world around us. I think particularly this is true when making decisions as a consumer.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Click here for Neil Diamond fun !!
These clips for "Sweet Caroline" and "I'm a Believer" are from the current tour on it's way to a venue near you. Buy tickets and save me a seat.
Friday, June 10, 2005
This article should make you think.
Despite Rhetoric, GOP demonstrates clearly that the whole political game is about keeping and using power. All the lofty precepts about smaller government and personal responsibility fall away when held up in the light of the reality or four plus years where all branches of our federal government are controlled by one party.
Just maybe we will learn that the two-party system has indeed fianlly failed. I just hope these clowns don't succeed in securing a stronghold that completely shuts out the dissenting voice. It would help, however if the dissenting voice would do more than whine about lack of fairness and begin to speak out on behalf of the real minority- the poor, the voiceless, the powerless.
Just maybe we will learn that the two-party system has indeed fianlly failed. I just hope these clowns don't succeed in securing a stronghold that completely shuts out the dissenting voice. It would help, however if the dissenting voice would do more than whine about lack of fairness and begin to speak out on behalf of the real minority- the poor, the voiceless, the powerless.
Okay, It's been a long time, Is anybody out there?
I am feeling terrible about neglecting this site. Frankly, after my trip it felt more like labor than love. But before I get worked up and start adding posts I am curious about whether or not anyone is looking. Let me know.
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