antoniodeste

Happy 2006, Jason! When are you going to publish a collection of your lyrics? I'm not joking. Truly, reflections that can certainly be defined as poetic. I would say that if La Bush read them, she would feel flattered. Go on & Best wishes. :)

For Frantz: So true: "too bad I'm no longer a child for too many years!" Indeed, what a pity.... Merry Christmas, I hope you can still dream of Santa Claus. :)

A greeting to Mr. Nobody accompanied by a touch of embarrassment for his compliments. I might be a bit slow, but... what does "(we met when I was still black)" mean? Don't tell me you succeeded where Michael Jackson practically failed! Anyway, Merry Christmas to you and feliz año nuevo to you and everyone reading. :))

Well, since I’m a few years younger than Symbad, I’ll contribute by admitting that in my case too, "Earthbound" represents something more than just a simple bootleg. This applies to both "Peoria" (a good observation) and also to the title track, as well as to the remarkable version of "The Sailor's Tale." I should point out that in the original (Islands), Fripp performs an (incredible and not easy) chord solo on the latter, while live he delivers a beautiful "traditional" solo with his typical distortion. It’s true, USA took a while to come out, and it’s not a bad document. It’s a fairly accurate snapshot of the state of things back then; however, in my opinion, it lacks bite and can sometimes feel a bit bland and unconvincing. Personally, I find Jobson "on point," but I speak as a supporter of the English violinist/keyboardist. "Asbury Park" is a great moment, as it always is when the KC would start to improvise on the spur of creative inspiration. Anyway, Marco, it’s great that you brought this chapter up, although, you’ll agree, "The Great Deceiver" is definitely more comprehensive (and fitting). Merry Christmas to everyone!!!

I’ve read plenty about this album, but this one, forgive me Ucca, is really quite poor and frankly a bit simplistic… I agree with Morrison’s observation. Indeed, for at least an objective overview of the English quartet's work, considering their vast production, it would be wise for the reviewer to listen to at least, let’s say… a third of their discography. Nonetheless, everyone has the right to express their opinions and related impressions (“Debaser: reviews written by those who want”) on certain works. However, it’s also true that everyone has the right, in one way or another, to criticize the reviews if they see fit. The resulting complaints from the reviewer when they are perhaps heavily attacked can be the price to pay when the "thing" may appear "down-to-earth," or worse, superfluous or useless, or addressed in a childish or overly simplistic manner. Anyway, Ucca, be brave, yes! “Dark Side…” is a great album. :)

Indeed, Clapton alone hasn't really done anything unforgettable... let's see what happens with the Cream reunion... :)

I think I agree quite a bit with Luca Reed... Merry Christmas to everyone! :)

For Hal: maybe you’re mistaken about the psycho thing. In reality, the divergences have finally found a way to break free precisely on the humorous level, right? At least I took it that way, and there was nothing metaphorical in my last intervention on the subject. I REALLY appreciated his contribution, and with my subsequent reply, I went along with it, it seems to me. I have NOTHING against him, just to be clear. I've taken good note of Katchè and also of your impressions on "In Praise..." which for me remains just a difficult transitional piece to decipher. When I think of Garbarek with Towner in the 70s or even "Witchi-Tai-to," I still get chills... but also "all those born with wings" or "it's ok to listen to the gray voice." I'm afraid that (unlike Weber) as he ages, Jan is getting confused and has lost a bit of his bearings. Regarding Dave Douglas, I must say I listened to him on the wave of enthusiasm from a couple of good friends and I also "viewed" him live a couple of years ago, in the summer. Uri Caine was on piano, and the concert was really nice (not unforgettable). However, in the end, inside, after the live "dimension," not much stayed with me. This, of course, without taking anything away from his great value. One note: live, I had the distinct impression that the devotion to the Davis of the '60s was at least evident (if not even embarrassing). I don't know, it doesn't really appeal to me much, at least judging from my personal attentions or purchases. Now I have "Slow Time" by Patrick O'Hearn (remember him?) from 2005 in my ears, and we're in electronic minimalism. It's only available by ordering it from his site (or almost). Stunning and dreamlike. Best wishes for Christmas to everyone, in the meantime. :)

Oh, finally! A GREAT sign of emotional serenity. Great Psyco! I like you just like this. Even though I don't have sisters, I would say that with your invitation I would wish to have one..... For the shirts, don't worry: the shirtmaker of Garbarek is the same as my sister's! As for the problems, yes, it's true, I believe I have some; after all, who doesn't have them? The cycle is complete; I hope. So long, friend.

I must admit, Hal, that there is some acumen in your distinctions. A peaceful and peacemaking way in the quest for possible clarity. As for me, I do not yet possess these qualities, and instinctively, perhaps in error, I tend to "skip" quickly over the "phases" I deem "useless," superfluous, pleonastic, as I feel strongly within me the conviction, even if my "methods" may seem rough and hasty. However, if the playful and, yes, provocative "tone" was not caught, it also clearly indicates, for those who want to see, a state of "impasse" in the one to whom it was directed and, let’s be honest, a certain, pernicious touchiness. If Psyco (who, mind you, is not at fault) takes it that way, he must reckon (if he deems it appropriate) only with himself. Putting forward hypotheses of mediocrity regarding me, you will agree, with the few elements (one) he had at his disposal heavily qualifies him negatively in my eyes and, excuse me, offends my intelligence. I really regret having to extend an intervention that should have been taken with the simple irony with which it started. You, Hal, put in your own effort, and you must be acknowledged for resolving a tangle that actually didn't exist from the beginning. In return, I repeat, I appreciate your undeniable qualities as a "clarifier." As for Katchè (I still remember the surprised face when I had him sign "Chalk Mark In A Rain Storm" by Joni Mitchell!), I haven’t had a chance to hear his work yet. I read a nice review in JAM, but nothing more. By the way, Hal, have you heard Jon Balke - Batagraf, a recent ECM release?