September 2004 Archives

Last night at Subliminal Projects on Wilshire, there was a promotion event announcing the upcoming release of Interpol's album, Antics. The release date is set for September 28, 2004. Shepard Fairy (Obey / Giant) did the posters and prints for the event. There were also ten short films commissioned by the band.

I thought the event was an interesting way to promote the new album. The art was really well done. The films were a little too abstract for my taste. The DJ was pretty good but I wish the floor space had been used as an actual dance floor. Hey, at least the reception had free drinks and the cutest little water bottles and mints.

If you get a chance, go check out the art. It will be up until October 1st.

Here is a statement/quote sent out by Marky Ramone's publicist today:

"Johnny Ramone was my bandmate and brother for over 15 years. The bond between band members was closer than any others in the Ramones’ organization. John kept things in control when they could have spun out of control very easily. I'll never forget the day he asked me to join the Ramones in 1978. I always admired his guitar playing. He was the originator of the down stroke 8th note guitar style, which is very difficult to do for hours on end like he did playing in the Ramones. Four months ago, I knew about the serious nature of his illness, but for a while, he had a turn for the better. This comes as a shock, but it was inevitable because of the severity of his condition which worsened more recently. We were lucky enough to talk and hang out a few months ago when he was strong enough to do the commentary track on the DVD "Ramones Raw", which was his last professional contribution to the Ramones. I spoke to him most recently when I was in LA for the 30th Anniversary concert that we put together for Ramones fans. Based on our last conversation, I felt this moment was coming. I'm sorry to see him go--like this. I hope the fans take the news as best they can. His legacy will live on in every band that has, is and always will be trying to duplicate the Ramones sound. It's a sad day for Ramones fans and a sad day for rock and roll." --Marky Ramone

R.I.P. Johnny

One of the founding members of the Ramones, Johnny Ramone, passed away today 09-15-04
I happend to listen to Indie 103 one night, during Joe Sib's set, and Johnny Ramone called to talk about the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Ramones show at the Avalon, which was this past Sunday.
I thought he didn't sound very good. I knew he was battling cancer but he just did not sound well.
I think he hung on to be apart and witness the 30th anniversary. Funny how life works that way.
I enjoyed when he was on Jonesy's show in the afternoon and how both, more Johnny then Jonesy, would tell their stories when punk rock was real. Very interesting and funny stories. I hope but I'm sure they taped those stories. A book would be great. The Ramones were and still are great.

If you haven't already gotten out to see The Scotch Greens, do so. The San Diego band has created a new musical hybrid by marrying punk with bluegrass. Think of the Pogues on speed... Not to be missed.

The band has a Tuesday night residency at Molly Malone's in mid-town Hollywood this month and will be at Alex's Bar with the Irish Brothers on Thurs. 11/30.