RADIO
The Bopst Show
88 reasons to listen to the Bopst Show
Chris Bopst
Friday January 16, 2004
Let me, Chris Bopst, your humble, music loving radio show host and obsessive scribbler of words, start off the this week’s column to inform you, the valued Internet user, that the Bopst Show can now be heard live on the web (Thursdays & Fridays 5-8PM Eastern Standard Time, United States). In order to hear the show, you will have to have a Windows Media Player installed on your computer, which Microsoft now offers a version of the popular program for Macintosh operating systems (for a free download, go to: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/players.aspx). The site, if you can call it that at this point, is beyond minimal, but there you can listen in to WCLM 1450 AM broadcasts. In the coming weeks, the site will go through a radical revision so please excuse the exceedingly simple site that is now currently up.
To hear the Bopst Show live on the Internet, go to: http://www.wclmradio.com/
To those of you unfamiliar with this column, I am a music fan to the core of my being. I am eternally fascinated, enthralled and enchanted with all forms of audio expression. A life without music, in its many forms and guises, is a life not worth living in my opinion.
So with that in mind, I’d like to offer the following list of music heard on last week’s editions of the Bopst Show as an example of the type of show I do. All of these songs and artists are more than worthy of your valuable time and for one thoroughly debatable reason or another, these musical expressions are locked off the nation’s commercial radio airwaves.
The Bopst Show Set List from Thursday, January 8th, 5-8 p.m.
1. I Gotta Have a Song: Stevie Wonder- One of the hundreds of immortal songs composed and written by this great American musical icon. Taken from the Motown release, “Sign, Sealed and Delivered”. For more information on Stevie Wonder, go to: http://www.steviewonder.free.fr/
2. Linus & Lucy: The Vince Guaraldi Trio (The Bopst Show Theme)-One of my favorite songs of all time. Most people think this song is called, “The Peanuts Theme”. If you are looking for a song to break you out of a bleak mood, this little instrumental jazz ditty is a good place to start. The dance steps aren’t have bad, either. For more information on Vince Guaraldi, go to: http://www.vinceguaraldi.com/
3. Mid Atlantic: Ashern & Blue Black- Recorded here in Richmond, Virginia, Ashern & Blue Black lay down an old school song of praise to the hip-hop being made in our neck of the woods. A basic, dance floor created mini-anthem by these two prominent, up and coming regional rappers.
4. Baby, We’re Really in Love: Hank Williams- A sweet love song written and performed by the acknowledged king of country music, Hank Williams. Found dead in the backseat of his car at the age of 29, Hank Williams left a legacy of music that’s influence knows no bounds. If you are looking to find the true heart of country music, this is the place to start. For more information on Hank Williams, go to: http://www.hankwilliams.com/
5. Got to Feel (it): The Maytals- This vocal trio from Jamaica rose to international fame in the late 60’s/early 70’s after years of dominating their country’s music charts. Hard-hitting rhythms support the group’s precise vocal harmonies in this solid dose of pure emotion. The group reached its zenith with, “Funky Kingston”, but that was recorded after the original group disbanded. “Got to Feel (it)” is a sign of the greatness to come. For more information on the Maytals, go to: http://www.tootsandthemaytals.net/toots/
6. Blind Man’s Penis (Peace & Love): Ramsey Kearney- As you might well imagine, this is an unforgettable tune. Demented yet strangely soothing, this song won’t soon leave your head after your initial listen. Taken from the release, “American Song-Poem Anthology, the: Do You Know the Difference Between Big Wood And Brush” available on Bar None Records.
7. Apollo: Pappa Susso- Recorded at Minimum Wage Studios in Organ Hill; Pappa Susso is a master Gambian Kora player carrying on a tradition of music that spans generations in his native land. Rhythmically complex and melodically challenging, Pappa Susso sings the stories of his country’s people to always stirring effect. For more information on Pappa Susso, go to: http://www.mustrad.org.uk/reviews/susso.htm
8. Don’t Credit My Stuff: Cedar Creek Sheik- An early 1930’s tune that questions that quality of one man’s weed of choice. A great, whirlwind of frantic acoustic jazz/country glee, Cedar Creek Sheik must have been one awesome spectacle live. Taken form the release, “Dope & Glory: Reefer Songs of the 30’s & 40’s”.
9. La Hamaca: Bio Ritmo- Richmond, Virginia’s salsa explosion. Taken from their recently released self-titled CD, La Hamaca is a testament to the blazing Latin furry this beloved local group has made its good name since starting in the early 90’s. Hands down, Bio Ritmo is the city’s best dance band. For more information on Bio Ritmo, go to: http://www.bioritmo.com/
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10. Full Rinse: Squarepusher- This Warped Records artist redefines the limits of what can be called music with each of his numerous releases. A bass player of immense ability, Squarepusher has the most inhuman beats of any drum & bass artist going. If you like your music slightly or totally askew, Squarepusher is for you. For more information on Squarepusher, go to: http://www.squarepusher.com/
11. Don’t Be Like That: Lionel Hampton- The master of the vibes, Lionel Hampton’s career in jazz has spanned decades either as a leader of a group or a much sought after sideman. Capable of delicate beauty or scorching speed, this acclaimed musician is a man amongst boys when it comes to jazz. For more information on Lionel Hampton, go to: http://www.uidaho.edu/hampton/
12. Universial Corner: X- Taken from their second release, “Wild Gift”, this song is the perfect mix of punk rock fury, rockabilly guitar and memorable vocal harmonies. For more information on X, go to: http://www.xtheband.com/
13. Ironweed: Tulsa Drone- Another local group that is more than worthy of your attention. This hammered dulcimer led group creates soundtrack music for movies yet to be made. Think Friends of Dean Martinez meets Brian Eno with a shared Les Paul & Mary Ford fascination. For more information on Tulsa Drone and their new release, “No Wake”, go to: http://www.tulsadrone.com
14. Shining Star: Earth, Wind & Fire- If you don’t know this song, something is seriously wrong with you.
15. Casey Bill: Earl McDonald’s Original Louisville Jug Band- Jug music was a descendant of the minstrel and early ragtime traditions, and in some cases touched by the jazz that was developing in New Orleans and Chicago, and as it traveled down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, Memphis also became center for distinctive jug band style. This memorable tune by Earl McDonald & his Jug Band is indicative of all the infectious, down home fun the genre was known for.
16. Music Has No Meaning: Consolidated (Street Request)- Before I went to the studio, a friend of mine asked me to play this politically charged hip hop group from the 90’s. Taken from their release, “Friendly Fascism”, this tune sums up the state of corporate music and its sickening need for money in ways that are sadly still relevant today. A potent mix of brains and brawn, Consolidated is the Noam Chomsky of mid 90’s dance music.
17. Chan Chan: Buena Vista Social Club- Ry Cooder’s genius musical excursion to Cuba, The Buena Vista Social Club exposes the island’s great musicians to western ears. An incredible group no matter how you slice it more than capable to give the listener an accurate surrey of Latin music. For more information on the Buena Vista Social Club, go to: http://www.plume-noire.com/music/live/buenavista.html
18. Young Man’s Blues: Mose Allison (Call In Request)-I first heard this song covered by the Who on the group’s, “Live at Leeds” record. Mose Allison is a master of sly, devious wit whose slick keyboard playing and timeless knack for the hook is beyond compare. I love that someone called to hear Mose Allison. ” What song do you want to hear?’ I asked and the caller replied, “any. They’re all good.” I couldn’t agree more. For more information on Mose Allison, go to: http://www.moseallison.net/
19. The Wrong Thing: The Congos- Another seminal Jamaican vocal trio, the Congos, with the help of legendary producer Lee “Scratch” Perry, made one of the truly great reggae records of all time with 1978’s, “The Heart of The Congos” which this song is taken. Haunting, rhythmic and beautiful, “Heart of the Congos” rarely leaves my CD player.
20. Sleeping Man: Vic Chestnutt- The cranky brilliance of this Georgia native can be an acquired taste. Vic Chestnutt bares his conflicted soul for all to see without ever becoming a pity party as some country infused rockers become. An indefinable talent, Vic Chestnutt plays by his own rules and nobody else’s, God bless him.
21. Rockin’ Robin: Bobby Day- The original version of the song a young Michael Jackson made into an international hit. This version is basically the same, but has a more slowed down R&B feel to it. A classic.
22. Hot Sauce: The Sugarman Three-A new group playing a boogaloo style of Hammond organ driven soul jazz. The perfect music to get the body moving. For more information on The Sugarman Three, go to: http://www.sugarman3.com/
23. Gore Gore O Banke Chhore: Lata Mangeskar- A lengendary singer from India who made her name in the courty’s movie industry known as Bollywood. Lata Mangeskar’s voice has graced the soundtrack to over a 100 films and is capable of amazing emotive depth and range. Either fronting a large orchestra or small ensembles, she has endeared herself to millions with her vocal talents. For more information on Lata Mangeskar, go to: http://www.indiatarget.com/music/music.shtml
24. Crosstown Traffic: Gil Evans Orchestra- An over-the-top cover version of the Jimi Hendrix standard featuring trumpet, flute and vibe solos from this exceptional assemblage of players. Recorded in the mid-70’s, this version matches the intensity of Hendrix, which is no small feat. For more information on Gil Evans, go to: http://gilevans.free.fr/
25. Blackmail: The Swans- New York’s kings of icy ballads and primal release, The Swans give melodic voice to life’s seedy underbelly, as few would dare. Ideal music for a cold winter’s day. For more information on the Swans, go to: http://www.swans.pair.com/
26. The Good Egg: Carl Stalling (Call In Request)- The king of animation music, Carl Stalling is the most famous composer you may have never heard of. If you are a fan of Warner Brothers Cartoons, then you are already well acquainted with the man’s immense musical talents. The person who requested this asked if I would play that crazy instrumental music that I have a fondness for playing on the air. “You mean Carl Stalling?’ I asked. “Yeah, play that Bugs Bunny music if you have It.” she replied so I did. For more information on Carl Stalling, go to: http://www.nonstick.com/wdocs/stalling.html
27. Children’s Story: Black Star (Mos Def & Talib Kweli)- A great song by two of hip-hip’s pre-eminent rappers from 1998. For more information on Black Star, go to: http://www.inkblotmagazine.com/rev-archive/Black_Star.htm
28. No Restricted Signs: The Golden Gate Quartet (Call In Request) Berkley, Virginia’s gospel greats, The Golden Gate Quartet set the standard for what hard gospel would later become. A group of astounding range and unlimited ability, this song of racial equality never fails to give me goose bumps. One of my favorite groups of all time.
29. One of These Things First: Nick Drake- This singer is just recently starting to get his due. Criminally neglected during his brief lifetime, Nick Drake’s fragile lyrical brilliance and fret board wizardry is simply astounding. His confessional style of songwriting is something the current crop of singer/songwriters wished they could be. For more information on Nick Drake, go to: http://www.algonet.se/~iguana/DRAKE/DRAKE.html
30. Break Down The Walls: Mikey Dread (Call In Request)-“Hey, can you play some reggae?” the voice on the end of the line asked and I played this to fill the order. I found out about Mikey Dread from his numerous collaborations with the Clash. Taken from the 1980 release, “World War 3”, this song has all the throbbing bass and toasting mastery of the era’s greatest performers. A hard to find classic.
31. Down: Harvey Milk- No, not the first openly homosexual mayor of San Francisco murdered in 1978 (For more information, go to: http://www.harveymilk.org/), but a hard rock trio from Athens, Georgia that is no longer a performing entity. Taken from their final release, “The Pleaser”, Down is what the James Gang would have sounded like if they were a punk band. Originally known for excruciating slow and repetitive songs that made the Melvins sound like speed addicts, this recording was their attempt at classic rock. If you like rock music, seek this baby out. You won’t regret it.
32. Pussy, Pussy, Pussy: Light Crust Doughboys- A Texas swing classic about a boy looking for his long lost cat. Think Spike Jones mixed with Bob Wills Texas Playboys.
33. Devil’s Pie: D’Angelo- The R&B sensation from good old Virginia. D’Angelo updates Al Green for the hip-hop era and has spawned countless sexual escapades with his near perfect 2000 release, “Voodoo”. I can’t wait until his next CD.
34. Speedball (live): Lee Morgan- Recorded live at Hermosa Beach, California, Speedball showcases the trumpet talents and compositional skill of the late great Lee Morgan. Full of razor sharp turns and breath taking solos from the master and his stellar backing band, this Lee Morgan group played on the point of combustion. For more information on Lee Morgan, go to: http://members.tripod.com/~hardbop/mogie.html
35. Romance Flamenco: Juan Serrano- The king of flamenco guitar, Juan Serrano turns the 6-string into a beacon of Latin seduction. For more information on Juan Serrano, go to: http://www.csufresno.edu/music/Bios/Serrano.html
36. Looking for a Kiss: New York Dolls-Pioneers of Glam and Punk, The New York Dolls were about 10 years before their time. Often compared to the Rolling Stones, this New York group was brazenly loud and degenerate in an age that brought us the sanitized pleasures of the Eagles, Abba and Yes. When Kiss first started in 1972, they’re main goal was to be more outrageous than the dolls. Though they achieved little commercial success when the band was a functioning entity, the group is commonly considered as one of the most influential rock bands of their time.
37. Old Hen Cackle: Coleman & Harper- Taken from Joe Buzzard’s collection of amazing 78’s from the early 20th century, this song brims with a warmth and melodic innocence that has been lost in modern music. For more information on this recording and Joe Buzzard’s must have CD, “Down in the Basement: Joe Bussard’s Treasure Trove of Vintage 78s 1926-1937”, go to: http://vintage78.com/siteCF/
38. Allergic: Terranova- This is a great remix of the funky, punky sounds of the Slits mixed by a man who plays, mixes and reshapes Reggae, Hip Hop, Blues, Punk and Elektronika in more ways than one.
39. Agent Who: John Cacavas- A slinky 2minute instrumental, complete with sax and vibe melodic runs, from an imaginary crime drama. Anybody got a light?
40. There’s a Break in the Road: Betty Harris- a rare side of solid New Orleans 70’s funk from one of the genre’s most forceful female practitioners. For more information on Betty Harris, go to: http://www.oldies.com/artist/view.cfm/id/2527.html?print=true
41. Bhasobha (Watch): Ladysmith Black Mambazo- South Africa’s pre-eminent vocal group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo’a breathless vocal dexterity is what makes life worth living. Brought to western ears by Paul Simon, the group is a musical force to reckon with. Sweet, moving and engaging, you would be hard pressed to find another group of singers capable of such stunning beauty as Ladysmith Black Mambazo. For more information on Ladysmith Black Mambazo, go to: http://www.mambazo.com/
42. Keep on Working: Pete Townshend- From the Who guitarist’s solo release, “Empty Glass”, this tune sums up one man’s joy, with medallion, guitar and banjo a compliment, concerning growing older. Yet another memorable tune from a man who is known for his immense songwriting ability. For more information on Pete Townshend, go to: http://www.petetownshend.co.uk/
43. I’ll Be Your Man: Black Keys- Akron, Ohio’s two man blues saviors from their debut release,” The Big Come Up”. A plodding number in the vein of the best Delta Blues. For more information on The Black Keys, go to: http://www.theblackkeys.com/
44. The Time has Come: Slim Smith-A moving reggae number calling for social and racial justice. Amazing back ground vocals supplement the stirring clarity of Smith’s plaintive cry. Late 70’s reggae at its finest.
The Bopst Show Set List from Friday, January 9th, 5-8 p.m.
1. Hail to the Redskins (Full Version): The Washington Redskins Orchestra-This tune holds a special place in my heart and with the announcement that Joe Gibbs, the coach that lead the Redskins to three Super Bowl titles is back at the helm of the storied franchise, this fight song made a logical choice to start off this show. The fight song is almost a lost art form, but this rallying cry for the Redskins reminds the listener of the glory of a well-executed and composed sports anthem. Here’s an interesting side note: This song was composed by original Redskins owner George Preston Marshall’s wife, Corinne Griffith, a retired silent-movie star, a.k.a. the “Orchard Lady of the Screen”. The song proved immensely popular with the team’s fans and has been played at every Redskin home game since it was first introduced in 1938. When the Dallas Cowboys learned that Marshall was going to veto their inclusion to the National Football League, then owner Clint Murchison decided to copy write the anthem and forbid the team from playing the song until Marshall changed his vote. Marshall begrudgingly relented and this was the start of the long and storied rivalry between the two NFL teams.
2. Linus & Lucy: The Vince Guaraldi Trio (The Bopst Show Theme)-See above.
3. Monkey Spanner: Dave & Ansil Collins- This call and response reggae ditty over a pulsating, 2-riff beat was a minor hit for the duo in the early 1970’s best known for their single, “Double Barrel.”
4. That’s What I Call Sweet Music: Paul Specht & His Orchestra- A classic early big band romp from the late 1920s from the R. Crumb collection of vintage 78’s entitled,” That’s What I Call Sweet Music: American dance Orchestras of the 1920s”. Buy this CD immediately.
5. Freaks: Kool Keith-The king of MC’s in my book. Raw, nasty and vital, Kool Keith is the real McCoy if you looking for unfiltered hip-hop. For more information on Kool Keith, go to: http://www.koolkeith.co.uk/
6. Little Footprints in the Snow: Arthur Smith & Don Reno-Bluegrass legends playing what they do best with heart and emotion in this live recording from the early 1960’s. Sweet & tender, this ballad gives both of these two great American music legends ample room to strut their time-honored stuff.
7. Jan Pahecan Ho: Mohamed Rafi-Another musical giant from India, this tune was featured in the beginning of the movie, “Ghost World”. An interesting mix of 60’s rock guitar and Indian rhythms, Mohamed Rafi leads this tune of spirited movement with his trademark vocal skill and dynamic sense of timing. A legend in Bollywood, he is the country’s equivalent of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley rolled into one. For more information on Mohamed Rafi, go to: http://www.smashits.com/oldies/
8. If I Was With a Woman: Ian Dury & The Blockheads-Taken from the unheralded masterpiece of English pub rock of the late 1970’s, “New Boots & Panties”, Ian Dury & The Blockheads mixed, funk, punk and jazz that still sounds as fresh today as it did when it was first released. A landmark album, “New Boots & Panties” has remained in my steady rotation pile of recordings since I first heard it. For more information on Ian dury & The Blockheads, go to: http://www.iandury.co.uk/
9. Corporate Welfare: Howard Zinn- A controversial historian, I first become aware of Howard Zinn’s work when I read his book, “The People’s History of the United States” in high school. His unbiased, exhaustive and sometimes unflattering view of American History blew my fragile, eggshell mind back then and he continues to expose the hypocrisy of this nation with his subsequent work. Corporate Welfare is taken from his Alternative Tentacles spoken word release, “A People’s History of the United States”. For more information on Howard Zinn, go to: http://www.alternativetentacles.com/bandinfo.php?band=howardzinn&sd=L6K9-GSr9UdeUvyv27H
10. Money Jungle: Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus & Max Roach-A more impressive display of musicians would be virtually impossible to find. These three men, together and separately, changed the face of 20th century music. A spellbinding exercise in the limits of jazz, this trio made a profound influence on every musician who came after them. Brilliant.
11. Ain’t We Funkin’ Now: The Brothers Johnson-These brothers helped introduce slap bass into public music consciousness. Full of melodic hooks, The Brothers Johnson redefined what it meant to be funky.
12. Deny Everything: Circle Jerks-The first song off their classic debut release, “Group Sex”, the Circle Jerks helped to issue in a whole new genre of music called hardcore. Loud, fast and mean, The Circle Jerks made mince meat of bloated corporate rock with tight, short nuggets of white, suburban fury. Sadly, they were never able to recapture the glory of this release with subsequent recordings. For more information on the Circle Jerks, go to: http://www.officialcirclejerks.com/
13. I Clowns: Nino Rota Conducted by: Carlo Savina- Nino Rota wrote and scored the music heard in Fellini films. This Italian composer was never for a lack of creative ideas and his music brims with a vivacity on par with classical music greats such as Beethoven and Bach. Nino Rota compositions have an ingenious capacity to make odd melodies and passages sound strangely normal.
14. Vaccination: Neba Solo- Here is a brief history of this seminal African musician?Souleymane Traoré – better known to music fans as Neba Solo – was born in the Kenedegou region in the south of Mali in 1968. Born and raised in a traditional Senoufo peasant family, Souleymane grew up in the village of Nebadougou where his father – a musician and renowned local instrument-maker – initiated him to the joys of the balafon. Dividing his time between agricultural work and his passion for the balafon, Souleymane went on to make a name for himself on the local music scene, performing with his elder brother.
Adopting a new stage name, Neba Sola, Souleymane left his native village and moved to the regional capital, Sikasso (first port of call for Malians looking to emigrate to neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire). Neba’s music career went from strength to strength in Sikasso and, thanks to his original playing style, he soon established himself as the “balafon genius”. Reputed for his complete mastery of the instrument – “he plays so fast it almost looks as if the balafon is playing itself,” remarked one critic – Neba has marked himself out from the crowd by changing the traditional tuning on his big bass balafon and adopting the highly unusual technique of playing the instrument from left to right.
Neba’s reputation soon ratcheted up from local to national level after the jury of the “Doudounba Top” festival unanimously voted him Best Festival Artist. Neba and his percussion group – made up of two balafons, two bara drums and traditional Malian percussion instruments, the titiara and the karignan – also went down a storm on national television, appearing on the popular Malian TV show Top Etoiles. Not surprisingly, Neba and his group went on to win the award for Best Malian Band of the Year in 1996.
This victory soon brought the “balafon genius” to the attention of international ‘world’ music promoters and invitations to perform concerts outside Mali soon began flooding in. First off the mark was Philippe Conrath, director of the popular Africolor Festival held in Saint-Denis in the Paris suburbs. Conrath invited Neba and his band to appear at the festival in 1998 where they brought the house down at one of the famous Mandingo nights. Following this success Conrath whisked Neba into the studio to record his debut album, “Kénédegou Folly”, released on Conrath’s Cobalt label in 1998. Any questions?
15. Push It/No Fun: Too Many DJ’s (A mix of Salt & Peppa and The Stooges)-Innovative collage techniques mixing wildly different music forms is what these two DJ’s from England have made their good name on. They have put out an impressive body or work in a relatively short time and their recordings are always thoroughly enjoyable listens. For more information on Too Many DJ’s, go to: http://www.2manydjs.org/
16. Mississippi Goddamn: Nina Simone-The High Priestess of Soul with a seething anthem of pain and resentment that become a rallying cry to the civil rights movement of the 1960’s. “Y’all gonna die and die like flies?” she sings to the state’s vicious racists in what she called a show tune for a show that hasn’t been written yet. A great song by one of my favorite artist of all time. For more information on Nina Simone, go to: http://ninasimone.com/welcome.html
17. Prohibition Blues: Clayton McMichen-An old white blues/country tune from the 30’s about the hardships prohibition brought the working classes.
18. Honey Come Forward: U-Roy-Credited with inventing toasting, U-Roy was the first DJ to toast, to speak over pre-recorded music, during his traveling days in early 1970’s Jamaica. U-Roy is the godfather of rap and enjoyed artistic and commercial success in his native land and Europe throughout the 70’s. A potent DJ who always had the skills to keep the party going sometimes for days on end. For more information on U-Roy, go to: http://u-roy.20m.com/
19. Zarabanda: Miguelito Valdes- Zarabanda: Miguelito Valdes- One of the greatest and most revered Cuban vocalists, Miguelito Valdes (1912-1978) recorded the original version of “Babalu,” later to become the theme song for Desi Arnaz. Valdes began his career performing on radio in the early 1930s. In 1936, he took a job with the Orquesta Los Hermanos Castro, but soon left the band in order to have more control over his career. Valdes and arranger Anselmo Sacasas then founded the Orquesta Casino de la Playa, which would quickly become one of the most popular and influential Cuban dance bands of all time. This was in no small part due to Valdes’ phenomenal vocals — though he often favored schmaltzy, corny romantic material, he could also belt out African-flavored sons and guarachos with the best of them. In 1940, Valdes shifted gears again and moved to the United States, where he took a job as featured vocalist in Xavier Cugat’s band, and later became a bandleader himself. Later in life, Valdes hosted a latin dance television show, and had a successful comeback which lasted several years.
20. The District Sleeps Alone Tonight: Postal Service- A new group that has garnered critical success with their organic brand of beat laden electronic music on their debut release on Sub Pop records entitled, ” Give Up”. Postal Service rose from the ashes of the popular indie band, Death Cab For Cutie’s. For more information on Postal Service, go to: http://www.subpop.com/bands/postalservice/
21. Say Man: Bo Diddley (Call In Request)- A kindly older gentlemen called in to request some old school rock & roll and I suggested and proceeded to play this little known, happy-go-lucky Bo Diddley number to fill his order. He called back to thank me for playing it and I thanked him for requesting it. A great song.
22. Café Batik: The Sun City Girls- This indescribable group from Arizona has been making a beautiful racket since the mid-80’s. Countless albums, singles, EP’s and compilation tracks by the group have explored a myriad of musical genres since their sun ?baked inception during the heyday of the decade’s American independent music scene. An uncompromising, challenging band, The Sun City Girls should be considered the Sun Ra of punk rock. For more information on The Sun city Girls, go to: http://www.furious.com/perfect/suncitygirls.html
23. Abundance: James Blood Ulmer-Free jazz guitarist who came to prominence playing with Ornette Coleman in the mid-70’s. A fractured melodic player of exceptional skill, James Blood Ulmer has continued to set the standard for free jazz guitarists for the past three decades and is still going strong. For more information on James Blood Ulmer, go to: http://www.wnur.org/jazz/artists/ulmer.james/
24. Satchel Mouth Baby: The Nat King Cole Trio-The undisputed king of popular jazz, Nat King Cole made his lasting musical mark in the annals of music history by writing and performing many top selling hits. Known for his silky smooth voice and subtle keyboard work, Nat King Cole will long be remembered as one the greatest American musicians of all time.
25. Too Many Angels: Firewater (Call In Request)- A woman called in to request anything she hasn’t heard before, “That’s my favorite type of music’, she added before hanging up and I picked this song by Firewater to appease her. From their circus of the absurd meets Tom Waits album, “Man On The Burning Tightrope” (Jetset Records) this disturbing little ballad to the subjective merits of virtue is one of the best things I’ve come across in many a moon. For more information on Firewater, go to: http://www.popmatters.com/music/reviews/f/firewater-manontheburning.shtml
26. Sugar Soup: Saka Acquaye & His African Ensemble- This amazing group plays a form of African music called, “Highlife”- a potent mixture of sound that incorporates rhythmic styles and instruments from Cuba and the Caribbean, jazz styles from America, and traditional music from West Africa. This group helped to make this style of music an institution in the 1960’s.
27. Use Me (Live at Carnegie Hall 1972): Bill Withers- An astounding live rendition of this soul classic by one of the great-unsung masters of rhythmic release.
28. Yuri-G: PJ Harvey (Call In Request)- A woman from the Fan called in to hear this one. From her seminal second release, “Rid of Me”, this guttural rock exercise showcases PJ Harvey at her finely tuned, blaring best. Not for the faint of heart. For more information on PJ Harvey, go to: http://www.pjharvey.net/
29. Baby Elephant Walk: Henry Mancini-Used to memorable effect in the movie, “Hatari”, this tune by world famous composer Henry Mancini will be making people pretend they have elephant trunks for generations to come.
30. Title in Burmese (?): Yadana Myit: An extremely rare 78 from Burma recorded in 1932 by a woman whose voice resonates with an eerie beauty over a din of droning violins, bells and percussions. Taken from the release, “R. Crumb: “Hot Women: Women Singers from the Torrid Regions of the World” (Kein & Aber Records)
31. Give Praises: Big Youth- Another influential Jamaican DJ who helped to revolutionize the dance floors of England as well as his native country with his defiant, compelling toasting. A true rebel, Big Youth blazed the path that today’s rappers and techno artists now freely walk. For more information on Big Youth, go to: http://www.geocities.com/studiowon/BigYouth.htm
32. State Street: The Sun Ra Arkestra- The man, the myth, the legend. One of the only true brushes of greatness I can brag about in my life is when Sun Ra, the intergalactic jazz genius from the Planet Saturn, bear-hugged me at the Virginia Museum several years ago. An artist whose recorded output numbers in the several hundreds, Sun Ra told music into realms where man has never been before. Using mere words to describe Sun Ra’s music can never accurately describe his bold innovative style that was equally adept at playing standards or exploring uncharted waters. If you know nothing about the man’s music, you are without true happiness and I suggest picking up any of the man’s records as soon as possible. For more information on Sun Ra & His Arkestra, go to: http://www.dpo.uab.edu/~moudry/
33. Train Travel: Big Lazy-New York’s instrumental kings of film noir inspired jazz, rock & beyond, Big Lazy, as evidenced by this song from their latest release, “New everything”, prove that language is an overrated means of communication. For more information on Big Lazy, go to: http://www.biglazymusic.com/
34. Thank The Lord For The Night: Neil Diamond- The king of AM radio, Neil Diamond is the musical stud that has been making suburban housewives hearts swoon since he started his career as a hunky, hairy beast of love in the early 1960’s. I used to think I didn’t like Mr. Diamond, but that was way back when I was totally stupid. Anyone who doesn’t appreciate or at least acknowledge the brilliance of Neil Diamond is no friend of mine. The master of the all-elusive pop hook.
35. Acid Disco: Luke Vibert-this track approaches electronic music with a sense of humor. Eccentric and unpredictable, Luke Vibert is constantly evolving as a consistently interesting sound manipulator and has put out an impressive body of work in the last couple of years. If you are interested in all that can be considered electronic music, this is one artist you should pay attention to.
36. Mellow Moonlight: Roy Docker- This is an extremely rare slab of mid-tempo funk loosely based around Wilson Pickett’s, “Mustang Sally”.
37. Refer Man: Cab Calloway- The crazy man of Jazz, Cab Calloway was a consummate musician and first-rate entertainer who won over both white and black audiences with the sheer force of his personality. This tune is an especially funny little ditty about a man under the influence of marijuana in his trademark call and response style. Big band music never sounded as devious until Mr. Calloway came along. For more information on Cab Calloway, go to: http://www.cabcalloway.cc/
38. Ziggy Stardust (Live Peel Session Recording): David Bowie-Sometimes its easy to forget how in cinerary this group could be. Thankfully, John Peel (http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/alt/johnpeel/index.shtml) captured the group in their hard rocking prime before Ziggy sucked up into his mind. This pure, uncut British Glam Rock at it’s finest.
39. Banjo Bonnie: The Frogs-This song is but one of the many stupendous musical achievements by what many, myself included, consider to be the greatest band of all time. Don’t believe me? Well check out the lyrics to Banjo Bonnie?
Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho
Candyland Joe with his ass in a sling
He won’t be doing much playing around this weekend
Nevertheless he’ll do his best
Getting it on with black chicks by the dozen
He doesn’t know the possibilities of AIDS
He’s never heard of these things
He’s been a secluded priest
All his life he’s raped the sisters
Oh, la la la la di
All the candy’s falling out of his rectum
He keeps it in his rec room to die
In the light of day all the candy melts away
Candyland Joe with his ass in a sling for this weekend
Next week he’ll be available again for business
By then, oh…
Need I say anymore?
40. Candy Man Blues: Mississippi John Hurt- The founder of the delta Blues, Mississippi John Hurt laid the foundation for the blues and rock and roll with his somber voice and bad attitude. If you like your blues pure and uncut, this blues guitar lesson legend is for you. For more information on Mississippi John Hurt, go to: http://www.mindspring.com/~dennist/
41. Whistle While You Work: Brother Jack McDuff- The lord knows I can’t resist the sound of a Hammond organ and when Brother Jack MeDuff makes one wail, shout and moan, I’m in seventh heaven. As sweet as soul jazz ever gets and this reworking of the Disney standard, allows him to pull every last once of emotion out of his organ. This tune also features a young George Benson on guitar. For more information on Brother Jack Mcduff, go to: http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Jack%20McDuff.html
42. Kangaroo Blues: Cliff Bruner’s Texas Wanderers- More authentic Texas swing by a group that made it sound effortless. Crack players and a snappy tune always make for some unforgettable listening.
43. Lowside of the Road: Tom Waits-from his release, “Mule Variations” (Anti Records), Tom Waits just keeps getting better with age. When most artists are content to rest on their laurels, this musical vagabond keeps pushing the limits of his unique musical inspirations. He is a true musical visionary capable of expressing a wide range of emotions in ways most would never consider possible. For more information on Tom Waits, go to: http://www.officialtomwaits.com/
44. Them Bones: Eddie Kirk- This song is one of the many outstanding tunes to come out of Memphis on the Stax/Volt Label in the 60’s and 70’s that defined American soul music. For more information on Stax Records, go to: http://www.georgwa.demon.co.uk/stax.htm
45. Pete’s Madness: Pete Rodriguez- Best known for the hit, “I like it like that”, Pete Rodriguez is credited with creating a new style of Latin music called Bugaloo. Known for his insistent multi-layered rhythms and engaging on stage personality, Pete Rodriguez helped to expose salsa music to all corners of the globe with his constant touring and numerous chart topping hits.
Well, that will do it for me this week and always remember that it is my continued sincerest hope that you can find the time to give my radio show, The Bopst Show, a listen airing Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Solid Gold Soul, WCLM 1450 AM, the Heart & Soul of the City (available on the web at: http://www.wclmradio.com/). The request lines are always open and you can either leave your requests here on The Bopst Show discussion forum or by calling (804) 231-7685 during show hours. Don’t be shy.
Until Next Time,
Stay Clean