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Saturday, December 10, 2011
News In memory of Rodney Lanier
Posted By Jeff Hahne on Sat, Dec 10, 2011 at 5:49 PM
The Charlotte music community lost one of its finest participants on Friday with the sudden passing of Rodney Lanier. Lanier, who performed with the groups Sea of Cortez and Jolene (among others), had been battling cancer since a recent diagnosis. Word of his passing spread quickly last night through Facebook and the Charlotte music scene.
I've spent the greater part of the last 17 hours or so trying to put my thoughts into words, ever since I heard of his passing. I can't say I was a close friend of Lanier's, though I wish I could. He was one of those genuine people with a quick wit that was always fun to be around. The big bear, aka Oso Grande, had a gravitational pull — a friendly face that greeted you whenever you were at the Evening Muse or passed him on the NoDa streets. I'll always remember Rodney for the brief conversations we shared in front of the Evening Muse and the moments when he told light-hearted jokes just to get everyone smiling and laughing.
A benefit concert for Rodney was held at the Chop Shop in October — an event that raised thousands of dollars to help with his medical bills and one that was attended by hundreds of people. You could see Lanier taking in the scene that night, appreciative of all the love in the room and trying his best to give it right back through his music.
John Schacht, who wrote a preview of the event for Creative Loafing in October, has posted his thoughts about Lanier here.
I'm sure everyone who ever crossed his path has a story to share, and when it comes to Lanier, I don't know if there's a bad one to tell. Hopefully, the planned Dec. 17 benefit at the Muse will still go on this week, but as a tribute to the passing of a talented musician.
You'll be missed, Rodney. NoDa and the music scene has lost a truly special part of its soul.
UPDATE: Funeral arrangements have been made for Rodney, they are open for his friends and family. There will be a viewing tomorrow night, Sunday from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home, KINDERTON CHAPEL 108 E. Kinderton Way, Advance N.C., 27006. The funeral services will be Monday at 3 p.m. at Bethlehem United Methodist Church 321 Redland Road in Advance, N.C. 27006. The family asks that donations be sent in lue of flowers to the Rodney Lanier Support Trust 4242 Folkston Dr. Charlotte, N.C. 28205.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Live Reviews Live review: Pile
Posted By Jenny Lou Bement on Fri, Dec 9, 2011 at 1:33 PM
Pile
The Milestone
Dec. 8
Although the population within was dwindling, the Milestone itself had a positive vibe of anticipation that could be felt throughout the building. It had been awhile since Boston's Pile had come through, and despite the low turnout of this Thursday night, those who were in attendance were stoked to the point that it didn't matter. The energy was still there.
After Our Years' feel good indie, Junkhat's White Stripes tinted classic rock and Public Relations' new and improved, more heartfelt-driven set with a new bassist, our locals stepped off, Pile set up their gear and with the first notes heard, everyone in the building ran into the room to experience the compilation they had been waiting for.
The title of their album may claim Magic Isn't Real, but Pile truly is magical to the eardrums. Their music cannot be classified — it ranges from heavy to mellow to heart-wrenching and so powerful they can bring tears to your eyes. Sometimes their progression mimics that of metal with heavy bass and driving leads; sometimes it's even seemingly indie with higher chords and catchy hooks. Overall, though, they have their own dynamic sound reminiscent of every 1990s rock band that was ever worthy of your time, with their own modern and original twist that immaculately straddles genres. “You promised you would suck!” a member of Junkhat exclaimed from the crowd. “We will, after the show,” Rick, their guitarist/vocalist responded in a sultry tone. Laughter filled the air and they continued into the remainder of their set, carrying on with their musical sorcery in every song they played and taking us away into their realm of originality, wrenching hearts, shaking hips and banging heads alike.
The next time Pile comes through town, it would be in your best interest to come out. They are something particularly special and worthy of your listening time and have the capabilities to captivate audiences of different archetypes with the same vigor of their own genre. They deserve a sold-out house and Charlotte should show them the courtesy of such a spectacle.
Music Menu Beards BeCAUSE's follicular finale - Tonight (12/8/11) @ Amos' Southend
Posted By Jeff Hahne on Fri, Dec 9, 2011 at 9:42 AM
Don’t think the words “local rock bands” mean a group of talentless hacks who are finally free of their garage/basement.
The trio of acts performing at this charity fundraiser are probably more worthy of being showcased on radio than the typical swill you’ll find there. From the female-fronted assault of Grown Up Avenger Stuff to the edgy alt-rock style of the re-imagined Evelynn Rose to the classic rock take of The Spiveys — it’s three great bands all for a great cause. Enjoy the music and fight domestic violence all in one night. You’ll be glad you did.
$15 donation. Amos’ Southend. www.amossouthend.com. Photo Credit: Aaron Nace
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
New Releases This week's new releases (12/6/2011)
Posted By Jeff Hahne on Tue, Dec 6, 2011 at 9:04 AM
Here's a quick rundown of what's new in stores this week:
The Black Keys El Camino — Too bad the CD doesn't come with someone to dance like the guy in the video for "Lonely Boy."
Chevelle Hats Off the Bull — When someone says this is an epic album, they probably mean Epic, the band's record label.
Korn The Path of Totality — Apparently nobody told these guys that nu-metal is dead.
The Roots Undun — Smartly done hip-hop from Fallon's house band.
Shakira En Vive Desde Paris — The best way to listen to Shakira is by watching her.
Robin Thicke Love After War — I can't get past the fact that he's the son of Mr. Seaver from Growing Pains.
Amy Winehouse Lioness: Hidden Treasures — Anyone want to guess how many posthumous albums we'll get from the chanteuse?
Monday, December 5, 2011
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Rain doesn't dampen the party with Kesha and Macklemore
Both sets cut short as storms roll through Charlotte, N.C.
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Live review: Fiona Apple, The Fillmore (9/26/2012) 16
Fans ate it up, but it was a trainwreck of tragic and frustrating proportions.
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Frank Ocean tops Village Voice Pazz & Jop poll
Annual critics list creates requisite buzz
