Talking to God on the Playa

Many people try to talk to God but few expect a response. Here on the Black Rock playa you can reach out and touch divinity. The higher power is just a phone call away. What may look like an innocuous phone booth positioned on the esplanade at the Burning Man festival, is connecting burners to the divine wisdom of fellow playa dwellers. It’s a plain wooden phone booth with a simple sign reading “talk to god.”

God can take many forms. Five-year-old children have been known to take the throne. Anyone on the playa can play God. The line is connected to a platform across the street where the willing can share their divine knowledge. As the God of the moment told me, “It’s the role of a lifetime. Whether people realize it or not they’re on the playa to learn about themselves.”

Robbie Herring with Camp O-Bop, said the project had such a large impact, that Burning Man officials asked the camp to set it up again. This will be the fourth year of the divine connection.

“Talking to God had opened this door for many, that they thought may be closed,” Herring said.

Herring says individuals have gotten married, been coached through crises or learned to ask themselves the right questions, just from talking on the god phone. We are truly blessed here on the playa.

P.S. I'll be producing a video on this so watch for it. The file is too large to upload from my romote link.

Weekend show picks -- count 'em, 3

The club: Ciao, 7111 S. Virginia St., 851-9463
Who's playing: Apollo Sunshine and Benevento/Russo. Boston's Apollo Sunshine (pictured) lands squarely between the quirk-rock of Flaming Lips and the sugary pop of Fountains of Wayne. Whatever the formula, the band has found a sweet spot, as it's gathered mountains of acclaim from the music press in the past year. They’ll play with Benevento/Russo, a New York duo consisting of just drums and keyboards. Earlier this summer, the duo rounded out Trey Anastasio and Mike Gordon’s (of Phish) new band. The show is at 9 p.m. Sept. 4. Cost is $15. The two bands also play Sept. 6 at the Crystal Bay Club Casino. That show costs $10 in advance or $12 at the door.
What’s flowing: Mojitos, pomegranate martinis, more than 30 wines by the glass and tap beers like Blue Moon, Stella Artois and Fat Tire.
Also this week: Tony Cataldo Trio on Sept. 7.

Bonus picks: A coupla other free shows this weekend will be worth your time, and the money you save on the show can be spent on some lip-smacking ribs. The English Beat (with singer Dave Wakeling) plays Saturday at 7 p.m. on Victorian Square. The band played here last summer when the Golden Phoenix still had a pulse and was doing a bunch of '80s shows (I caught Flock of Seagulls). The English Beat was/is a British ska band from the early 1980s, whose best-known song is probably "Save it for Later." The band is also known for splintering into the bands General Public and Fine Young Cannibals as the '80s pushed on.

On Sunday, singer-songwriter Susan Tedeschi plays. I don't know a whole lot about her (and sorry, I don't feel like going to research her right now), but she does get a fair amount of play on radio station The X. I'll be at this one at the request of my wife, who has a decent enough taste in music for me to trust her. That show's also at 7 p.m.

The most adorable race ever

With the arrival of the Nevada State Fair came all the unique events along it had to offer. Carnival rides, petting zoos, demolition derbies, and wiener dog races. As odd as it sounds, these races feature dozens of tiny dachshunds competing to race a 50-foot sprint along with dozens of people laughing and cheering them on. The competition is so cute, it's sickening. On my way to the fair I sped down the street dodging traffic and cursing the fact that I had to film the race after waking up in a bad mood. I had a change of heart when I arrived after seeing all the adorable dog faces and tiny feet. Their goofy smirks make me giggle as I filmed these tiny dogs waddle along as fast as they could. I interviewed Jason Hamill of Reno and his 'daughter' Maggie about the race. Maggie is Jason's five year old dachshund who was eyeing a few chickens as I spoke to him. She likes to hunt birds such as quails back at their home. What a fierce little dog! Unfortunately she never made it to the end of the race because she made a sharp turn left towards the door where Jason and her had entered. Jason didn't mind however, how could you be mad at a face like this? I'm really glad I went because I love dogs and this was an event you have to see to believe. They seriously put me in a better mood for the rest of the day. For a gallery by Julie Sullivan, click here. For my QuickTime film, click here.
Now if only someone would buy me a dachshund...

Rural tour delivers comfort and surprises

This weekend I did something I should have done long ago: I visited (briefly) some of those parts of Nevada outside of Reno that so often are dismissed with scorn by city dwellers. I did a big loop from Reno, down to Carson on U.S. 395, turned west onto U.S. 50 and passed the turn offs for the Kit Kat Club in Mound House and the signs that pointed me toward Virginia City. I continued on through Dayton and miles of sagebrush into Fallon, where my friend Linsay Oakden grew up on a farm on the east end of town.

The Oakdens' cozy home is decorated by Linsay' mother's paintings and photographs. Their farm is shady and green with alfalfa. The country sounds of mooing cows and the country smells of fresh air -- tinged with skunk whenever the dog walked by -- made me long for my five years living in Genoa and my grandparents' Ohio farm.

Linsay showed me around the spread and then another friend, Paulo, showed up and we took off to a family birthday party where we had plate upon plate warmly forced upon us. We made our excuses early so we could head over to Oaks Park where country band the Derailers were inspiring much boot scootin'in the cool night air. Families and dogs and drunken couples filled the park and danced as the band played originals and covers of Johnny Cash and Buck Owens tunes. They even sampled a little bit of The Doors. The highlight of the night, though, was watching those who couldn' resist the siren call of the music, despite their various abilities.

After the Derailers called it a night, the families headed home and the rest of us walked across the park to the Oaks Park Arts Center for drinks and desserts. The center is much more than I could have imagined. It is a work of art itself and filled with many beautiful objects. Head over to the arts blog to check out pictures of that.

The next day, Linsay and I drove a few miles east of town to the Grimes Point archaeological site to see the rock art. There are a couple of short trails there with plaques that point out the squiggles and shapes carved on the rocks about 6,000 years ago. It's so interesting to look at sagebrush and rock as far as the eye can see and imagine it a peninsula poking out into a vast network of lakes, populated by a people who made their clothes and homes out of tulle.
After accepting invitations for return visits, I said goodbye to the Oakdens and drove back down the loneliest highway and turned onto U.S. 80 at Fernley.

Here, the landscape took a decided turn, too. Instead of miles of nothingness and flat land with hills way in the distance, I was driving through the steep hills with the Truckee curving alongside, with an occasional huge factory. I'd always wondered what was west of Sparks and now I know. I'm glad to say I've covered a few more miles of Nevada and experienced a tiny bit more of this dusty adopted home.

A Week of Burning Man

Congratulate me. I’m going to spend a week in one of the most inhospitable climates to encounter larger-than-life works of art. I’ll be surrounded by thousands of people unabashedly pursing creativity and inspiration. That’s one of many interpretations of the festival.

I’ll be posting blogs and pictures from Tuesday to Saturday (assuming no technical difficulties. Which, I hear is a large assumption.) Send in your own photos and blogs. Share the joy. You can submit your photos here and send your blogs to klarsen@rgj.com.

I know I’m in for an adventure. Since this is my first year I can use all the advice I can get. Please write in and let me know about your adventures on the playa. Share the experience. Participate. Don’t be a lookie-lou.

Ladies and Gentlemen...This is Hip Hop

How unique is the Greenroom? One night you can catch The Atomiks, another night Hellbound Glory, and another Abstract Rude. That's why it's my favorite bar in Reno, excellent music and an ensemble of friendly employees.

This Saturday at 10pm is the Universal Zulu Nation Northstar Chapter Show. The show features Who Cares, Northstar Zulus, and Element. Also as part of the tour on Friday at the Record Street Cafe at 6 pm (Free all ages) there is a Emcee Battle and Graffiti Show featuring the Northstar B-boys and DJs.

I won't be able to make it to the Friday show but you best believe I will be at the Saturday show! It's 21 and up, $5 and at 10pm.




See you there!

Hot Country Love

Last Saturday I stopped at the Greenroom because I heard a loud explosion of music. As I peeked inside I noticed a bunch of folks screaming, dancing and belting out: "Yeeeehaaaaaa!"

What the heck was going on? I thought. I noticed my old friend Brock and his mop of dreads standing near the door of the show room. "You're in for a real country show!" he smiled at me.

Now first of all let me say this, as you may have noticed many of my blog entries about shows have been basically rock or hip hop; I'm not the biggest fan of country music...at all. Yet what I heard wasn't your average Brooks and Dunn style country that makes run away.


This is hard, in-your-face, dangerous country that would send any of those country pop stars shaking in their boots and tight jeans. Hellbound Glory is a Rockabilly, classic country band that reminisces of the old days of countryand rockabilly with influences such as Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Jerry Lee Lewis and Hank Williams. Believe me; I was actually enjoying what I heard. The band is Leroy Bowers (guitar/vocals), Andrew Barron ( bass), Adam Steele (pedal steel) and Chico (drums).

This gang of outlaws put on a spectacular show delivering country music the way it was intended to be. Leroy is an excellent performer; decked out in stylish cowboy attire complete with shiny boots to match. During one of their songs, he busted out the familiar cords to"Misirlou, most popular as the Pulp Fiction theme song.

Ladies, watch out for this one, a lady killer indeed. Whether you believe me or not youll catch yourself staring at him for much longer than you think. I looked over at the crowd and saw that the majority of the ladies in the room were giving him google eyes and flirtatatious smiles. I even started to catch myself staring way too long.
Dont judge me; you have to see it to believe it!
It doesn't matter if you dont like country, go see them.

If you like a good show you have to check them out! They are always playing, check their MySpace for upcoming shows. They will be playing at Fritz Bar and Grill on Sept 22-be there!

An overwhelming performance for sure, I guarantee you'll be pounding your boot against the floor for some good ol' country music.

*All photos provided by Hellbound Glory

Carmen Electra, Jenny McCarthy at South Shore club

Harrah's Tahoe reports that model Carmen Electra and whatever-she-does-now-person Jenny McCarthy (I can only remember her from her MTV days, and last I heard from her she was talking about post-pregnancy hemorrhoids) will walk the red carpet to the Vex nightclub on Saturday. Vex is your typical boom-boom dance music, bump-n-grind club, but not that typical -- Reno doesn't have one (yet, there is one in the works at the old Reno Live building downtown). So if you fancy rubbing elbows with Hollywood jet-setters, this is your chance. Vex opens at 10:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Details at 775-586-6705 or here.

Club show pick: Red Jumpsuit Apparatus at the New Oasis

The club: New Oasis, 2100 Victorian Ave., Sparks, 359-4020.
Who’s playing: Jacksonville, Fla., emo-rockers Red Jumpsuit Apparatus (pictured). The band formed in 2003 and came up the ranks quickly, releasing its debut album on Virgin Records last month. While the band really doesn’t offer much more than bands like Taking Back Sunday, Hawthorne Heights or The Used already have, Jumpsuit’s album, “Don’t You Fake It,” is a decent debut. The all-ages show, with openers Monty Are I and This Calendar Year, is at 8 p.m. Aug. 25. Cost is $12 at the door.
What’s flowing: Mostly cheap beer in a can, which varies from show to show, but usually costs $5. If you’re underage, there’s a cinema-style snack bar available.
Also this week: Lostprophets and Kill Hannah on Aug. 31.

Be beary aware of Tahoe's furry neighbors

Eydie Scher wrote this blog of her bear sighting. If you’d like to write about a hair-raising experience send it to me at klarsen@rgj.com and I’ll post here. Thanks Eydie.

Our eyes locked. I was mesmerized. It took a few seconds to process what she was. I wasn't afraid at first. Then it hit me. I was facing down a good size brown bear. Could I outrun her on my bike? It was time to find out. Racing around the corner to my house, I glanced over my shoulder. No, she didn't follow me.

Who'd believe I just saw a brown bear? I needed proof. Get the camera. Get my husband. We took the car for safety concerns. Please let the camera work and let the bear be where I left her.

Yes, I have the proof. Along side of the bear was her adorable cub who I hadn't seen before. It's a good thing I guess. The shot missed the cub but got the momma bear, the camera shot, that is. We watched in awe as they trotted off, this time seemingly oblivious to our presence. Garbage remains strewn in their retreating path. I went back to the exact spot day after day hoping they'd return but they didn't.

Bears visit our street on a pretty regular basis. It must be the tasty tidbits we discard. Usually they come in the darkness of the early morning. The evidence of their strength and determination litters driveways. Only the newer bear-proof containers thwart them in their tracks. Nothing else is safe or beyond their amazingly strong grasp. The tasty trash is savored while bear bottles are left behind. Maybe they had a few drinks and left on the woozy side.

Everyone seems to have a bear story these days. At the beginning of our street is a historic log house. It is not immune to bears. One of the owners was startled when coming across a bear in close proximately. Laughing, she chided her husband for wearing a bear costume in the house and it wasn't even Halloween. Yikes, he didn't respond in a timely manner as she realized that this was NOT a human. She ran outside, never looking back at what the bear might do to the house. Luckily, this bear was not interested in home furnishings.

A woman at another location was in the shower when she heard loud noises coming from her kitchen downstairs. It was probably just her family. The noise intensified. No one answered when she called down. Finally, she walked down the stairs and into the kitchen where she came face to face with a huge bear that was dining in her pantry and on the uncooked turkey sitting on the counter. Her kids came running when she screamed. They banged pots and pans. Slowly, methodically, the bear walked out the front door with the turkey in its teeth.

Can you stand just one more story? A Tahoe resident had killed a deer and stocked packages of venison in his freezer in the garage. The bear picked the lock with ease, ate the entire contents of the freezer, over 200 lbs., and left the freezer and the garage in shambles.

Why are there so many more bear sightings lately? Perhaps it's due to the long, snowy winter we had. Or maybe they know that this is just a good area for home cooked or uncooked meals. Or maybe it's just our high class garbage!

Red Hot Rock Show

Thursday night at Fritz Bar and Grill delivered a perfect rock show featuring Reno's own Red Hot Radio. The show started around 8:30 p.m and brought in a huge crowd of fans.


Red Hot Radio's lead singer Kevin O'Connell was celebrating his 23rd birthday so shots were going all around-especially for the birthday boy. The crowd had their own special: $5 dollar pitchers of beer, a Fritz' favorite. Red Hot Radio is made up of Kevin O'Connell (singer/guitarist), Aidan O'Connell (guitar), and CJ Hillstead (bass). Last night they had Jamie Locks of Reno Rock band 'Beercan' played for them last night because
They recently split from their last drummer.

Red Hot Radio had the crowd head banging and dancing around to their powerful sound. The thing with Red Hot Radio is that they sound like a rock band should; their sound is almost perfect and it feels like your listening to an actual famous band. These guys take their music seriously and it’s very apparent. They played a bunch of songs while leaping and dancing all over the stage.

Guitar player Aidan O’Connell was throwing his guitar and bouncing around ala Pete Townsend from The Who. It’s obvious that this band will make it big because not only are they awesome musicians but have breathtaking stage appeal. They are true performers.

Half way through the show Reno’s wild punk band Beercan members Josh.Can and Bill.Can dominated the stage by playing a special song for Kevin’s birthday.

The Show was unbelievable to say the least and both these bands are well known and well respected amongst the Reno rock scene. I seriously suggest seeing these two bands perform, and prepare to rock your socks off!

A very close and personal show

So you readers might have noticed that I didn't have any pictures or blog up for the Living Blue Show. I'm sorry to say that I got pretty sick for that show and had to miss it. I hope some of you were able to go because I heard it was amazing. I'm sorry to disappoint you dear readers but fear not, I have regained my health and back in good shape.

I went to an amazing show on Monday night at my friend Andrew' house-a.k.a DJ AFS at XOXO. The show featured Reno's own 'Think in French', 'Back Harlow Road' and San Francisco's 'Tenebre'.

Although Andrew's house is really tiny and perfect for just one, he manages to have unbelievable shows. They're always loaded with awesome intimate performances, cheap beer and fun loving kids having a great time. ‘Think in French’ played first and of course rocked everyone’s socks off. If you like going to hear local Reno bands than ‘Think in French’ is a must.

Second was ‘Tenebre’, an amazing rock band from San Francisco that only play music-no lyrics. Their sleek sound captivated the audience, causing them to purchases a few cds of theirs after the show.

After Tenebre finished, Reno’s own ‘Back Harlow Road’ started to set up. Around this time I had the idea to get out my camera for, what else, It’s Your Weekend. It wasn’t the weekend but I figured it was a perfect opportunity to blog about the show. I’ve seen ‘Back Harlow Road’ perform so many times but I never wrote anything about them. I felt as if I under appreciated them, how could I have neglected them so? I grabbed my camera and started snapping away at their powerful performance.

‘Back Harlow Road’ is always hyped for a performance and Andrew’s tiny living room was no exception. As you will see in the shots, I frantically snapped pictures from odd angles. I was trying not to blind the guys in the band and also the two agitated looking fans right in front of me. The flash was incredibly bright and I’m surprised nobody had a seizure.

Here are a list of photos I took...enjoy

1.)Back Harlow Road 1

2.)Back Harlow Road 2

3.)Back Harlow Road 3
4.)Back Harlow Road 4
5.)Back Harlow Road 5
6.)Back Harlow Road 6
7.)Back Harlow Road 7

Club show pick: Quincy Coleman at Walden's Coffeehouse

The club: Walden’s Coffeehouse, 3940 Mayberry Drive, 787-3307.
Who’s playing: Quincy Coleman. The L.A. musician walks the line somewhere between Norah Jones and Chris Isaak, wrapping it all up in a Francophile, old-timey feel. Her music appeared on the “Crash” soundtrack and she recently performed on the influential Southern California radio show “Morning Becomes Eclectic.” The show starts at 7 p.m. Aug. 19 with The Touques, followed by Coleman (pictured) and ordinary. Free.
What’s flowing: Walden’s features a BrewBar, which can make coffee your way by the cup. There also are chai teas, beer, wine and premium sodas.
Also this week: Open-mic hosted by Todd South with Jon Crocker at 7 p.m. Aug. 18; Young Chautauqua at 6 p.m. Aug. 23. Open-mic with Glen Dinning on Aug. 25.

Listen in on my Ben Harper interview

I had an interview with Ben Harper a couple weeks back (me and about 10 other journalists, actually), the results of which appear in Friday's Calendar section and its online counterpart. This time I got the full audio of the interview we all did while he was waiting to perform on "The Tonight Show." I used to post the audio from my artist interviews quite often a couple years back. It can be a time-consuming process, however, and I haven't found the time to do it lately. Luckily for me and you, the place that set up the conference call sent me an mp3 of the call, which makes it a heck of a lot easier to get it to the peeps. Listen to the whole 42-minute shabang right here if that trips your trigger. I found Ben to be a real down-to-earth guy. I come in at about the 17-minute mark.

The bad part about conference calls is you don't get to ask many questions. The good part is some of the other writers ask better questions that I would have anyway.

Harper plays Sunday at Harvey's Lake Tahoe.

A true living Legend: Chaka Khan

Truly, one of the greatest performances I've ever seen was that of the great Chaka Khan at the Reno Tahoe Blue festival on Sunday evening. The festival was a two-day event sprawling from Saturday afternoon to Sunday evening at Rancho San Rafael Park.

I hurried to the festival around 6:30 p.m. just to catch this legend. As I said in a previous blog, Chaka has always been an important figure in my life. I grew up listening to her thanks to my parents and even had the nickname “Chaka” as a child because of my enormous untamed curly locks.

After parking near West Wood apartments I power walked as fast as I could down Sierra Street, through San Rafael, and towards the tents. It was a gorgeous evening that gave a light violet sky and a cool breeze, a nice aftermath from a scorching day.

7:30 p.m. hit and the crowd was getting anxious, a long day came with an exciting ending. The crowd began to simultaneously chant “Chaka, Chaka”. The familiar tune of “I Feel For You” began over the loud speakers with the infectious rap section, “Chaka Kahn, Chaka Kahn, Chaka Khan, let me rock you Let me rock you, Chaka Khan Let me rock you, that's all I wanna do”.

The crowd roared as the queen herself strutted the stage. She came out looking as beautiful as always, an explosion of maroon locks bounced all around her head and a sexy black dress wrapped around her curvaceous body.

I ran as close as I could to snap pictures of her but the security held me back. Okay, so I understood that I couldn’t get too close, it didn’t help that I lost my RGJ pass so I couldn’t prove that I worked for the newspaper. I apologized politely and backed away to a farther corner.
I snapped some more pictures when this moody security guard woman approached me screaming, “I’m going to take your camera away if you don’t stop taking pictures.” Excuse me? I looked around the crowd and saw hundreds of cameras flashing, including a few right next to me. “I can’t take pictures?” I asked. “No!” she snarled at me like a wild cat. How is she going to take my camera away when every one else has a camera?

I walked away furious but soon calmed down, I wasn’t going to let this crazy lady ruin my concert. I went around the other corner of the stage, still taking pictures (HA!) and dancing to all of Chaka’s hits.

She performed my favorite, “Tell me Something Good”, her 1972 hit with ‘Rufus’ and a group of fans jumped up to do the Electric Slide. Many came over to join the group including Mary and Barbara Stricklyn from the Bay Area.

The Stricklyns are long time fans of Chaka Khan and have seen her perform before at a blues festival last year. “She was great last year and she’s great this years; always great.”, they both agreed. "She still has the looks and still has the vocals." said Mary and Barbara Stricklyn from the Bay Area about Chaka Khan at the Reno Tahoe Blues Festival on Sunday. "She's always good, just look at her [many] followers."

They both agreed that Bobby Rush who performed earlier in the day should have also been a headlining act-along with Patti LaBelle and Chaka Khan of course. The show was amazing, but I wasn’t too surprised.

I was star struck peering over my camera staring at this legend. A beautiful woman with a beautiful voice, someone who I’ve always loved and admired. If you weren’t able to go to the festival this year than go next year even if Ms. Khan won’t be there. If you haven’t seen her perform live, you better cause it’s a must.

I wasn’t able to get the best pictures at the event due to my constant harassment, so if you readers were at the Reno Tahoe Blues Festival, I encourage you to send in your pictures so we can put them up here at It’s Your Weekend.

Until next time..

Blues and food are serious fun

Who knew having the blues was so much fun? This Saturday and Sunday the second annual Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest rocked Rancho San Rafael Regional Park with classic soul and funky rhythms.

Millie Jackson’s performance, sopping with attitude and whit, was one of the many acts that kept the audience from becoming listless under the 91-degree heat. But even Millie couldn’t entirely resist the brutal effects of the sun’s rays in her full-body, rhinestone encrusted denim outfit.

True to Millie’s expletive-heavy style, she swore about the stage lights being on, and complained that she couldn’t perform in her underwear as the heat made her want to.

But even under the blistering heat, Millie appeared to be every inch a powerful black woman who was unafraid to be unconventional and ahead of her time. Her 1973 recording of “If Loving You Is Wrong I Don’t Want to Be Right” was her first gold record. She said at the time the album outraged men because she was “talk’n about how she didn’t want to wash anybody’s funky drawers but her own.”

Now, she said she’d have to change the song for the 90’s to “If Loving Me Is Wrong I Don’t Want to Be Right”

But even though Millie’s attitude piled up higher than her mountains of curls, she was accessible to the audience and seemed to be advising from her sorrows. When one woman boldly asked to shake Millie’s hand, Millie stopped her performance, walked over, blessed her, and chatted briefly with her.

Blues fan Bernadine Waters said, “When somebody gets up on stage you feel like, ‘I’ve been there,’ or ‘I know someone who’s going through that.’”

Waters is a member of the Amigos Blues Social Club of northern California, a group that knows and hobnobs with numerous famous blues musicians. They threw a 69th birthday party for Bobby Rush. On Saturday, Waters was wearing a custom-made shirt featuring pictures of the times she’s spent with blues musician Kenny Hill. Members of the Amigos travel around the world to enjoy blues concerts and often cook soul-food for the musicians because traveling musicians have difficulty getting home-cooked meals.

“It’s like a family, we all take care of each other,” Amigo-member Ronnie Waters said of the more than 45 members and the musicians who befriend them.

He said what the Amigos cook up is true Southern Hospitality. That includes banana pudding, fried chicken, mackerels (fish cakes), greens, black-eyed peas, outta-sight chili, fried okra, and hot water (fried) corn bread.

“Don’t get them started cooking,” Ronnie Waters said laughing, “You’ll hurt yourself eating all that food.”

For the Amigos Blues Social Club, blues and food are serious fun.

“Where ever there’s a festival an Amigo will be there,” Ronnie Waters said.

Rail Fest splits train time between VC, Carson City

I took my son up to Virginia City Saturday for Rail Fest. He's gotten into trains big time in the past six months. He can spot Thomas the Tank Engine from 50 yards, so I figured a ride on the V&T at VC would do the trick.

He liked it a lot (that's him and me in the photo -- OK, I give up on the photo, as my browser keeps crashing when I try to upload it -- it's cute, trust me), and didn't even flinch when we got to Gold Hill, where a deafening gunfight broke out as part of the ride. I hadn't ridden the train in some years. Today it was being pulled by a diesel engine, but I remember it being pulled by a real steamer in the past. I know because I can remember being choked by the steamer's black smoke when chugging uphill to VC through a tunnel.

VC has train rides every weekend, so today's event was just a bit more of a blowout, with some live music by a guy on banjo and his daughter on washboard, some model trains and rail memorabilia. The event, a fund-raiser for the reconstruction of the V&T to Carson City, continues Sunday with rides from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Nevada State Railroad Museum on U.S. 395 in Carson City.

Chaka Khan at the Reno-Tahoe Blues festival!

If you didn't know already, The Reno-Tahoe Blues Festival will be happening this weekend at Rancho San Rafael Park.

It should be pretty amazing but the whole reason I'm going is to see the dazzling Chaka Khan. Ms. Khan is responsible for some of the funkiest hits of the '70s and '80s including "Through the Fire", "I Feel for You", "I'm Every Woman", and my personal favorite "Tell Me Something Good".

I just got a ticket for free from my co-worker and friend Geralda Miller. I'm extremely excited to see her because I've grown up listening to her thanks to my parents. My chidlhood nickname was actually Chaka because of my enormous and wild hair that could never be tamed.

So I will be at the festival around 7.pm. when she goes on, snapping pictures and staring in shock and awe. I mean come on, Chaka Khan! Come to the festival that will be occurring both Saturday and Sunday featuring legends like Kenny Neal, Eddie Cotton, Millie Jackson, Buddy Guy, and Patti LaBelle on Saturday. Sunday features Larry McCray, Shemekia Copeland, Bobby Rush, Keb Mo and of course Ms. Khan.

Hope to see you there!

Boats, Buoys, and Tahoe Toys

Eydie Scher has spotted a new Tahoe trend and sent us this great report. If you’d like to report a fun weekend activity or event send it to me at klarsen@rgj.com and I’ll post here. Thanks Eydie.

The water skis sit idly in the shed, not on the boat. They are a relic from the past. The good news is you can still enjoy careening around on the Lake without having to learn how to get up on a single ski, a skill that left arms sore for weeks. Once up on a ski, especially in Lake Tahoe, you had to try and stay up indefinitely since stopping or God forbid, falling, left you in the throes of the icy water for longer than the body hungered for. Even the wearing of a wetsuit did little to ease the body's chill.

It's the Bays that are most crowded, especially on weekends. Boats are hauling around passengers, mostly kids, in what's known as ‘towables.’ You can't miss them. It's the latest summer craze. One, two or even three passengers kneel in inflatables that are towed by powerboats the way they used to tow skiers. The boat circles and occupants of the towable ride the wake, bouncing around and giving the thumbs up sign to the spotter for the boat to go faster. The captain carefully obliges.

Recently, friends of our family gave us a taste of what being in a towable is like. The grandkids loved it. Even the five year old gave the thumbs up for speed. Grandma's today are not what they used to be. I wasn't that fond of bouncing around over the wake but I did it and guess what? I didn't even get my hair wet. It is not absolutely necessary to subject your body to full water exposure, though blasts do hit pretty hard.

It is the in thing this summer season. I am researching the trend. How much are these towables? Where do you buy them? What are the extras you need? I stop at Squaw Valley Sport Shop in Tahoe City. This is a family business that has served the Lake clientele for 30 years. Dax Willard shows me the ropes, literally. The ski rope we used is not acceptable. A towable rope is better and costs up to $30.00. Towables, as you might imagine, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, although round seems to predominate. An inflatable single goes for $99 - $109. Higher end twins (for two) are $199.

There are two, three and even five person kits that come with pumps. If it doesn't a separate foot pump runs from $9.00 to $29.00. An electrical one like the one you use for your car's cigarette lighter is about $39.00. Filling takes about 10 minutes. A patch kit is included with each kit with the hopes that you never need it.

They also sell rafts. Its close proximity to the Truckee River makes it an excellent starting point for your excursion. Kayaks round out the summer toys.

If you're not totally ready to jump in and buy a towable or raft, you can rent one at West Shore Sports. Two and three passenger towables rent for $25.00 for 4 hours or $38.00 for a full day. Kayaks are also available to rent. A single rents for $40.00 for _ day and $50.00 for a full day with a two passenger kayak renting for $55.00 and $60.00 respectively. At the end of the season, they discount the price on sales.

Time is running out. Back to school sales are in full swing, constantly reminding us that summer is waning. Get those toys out now. The weather is perfect, the water is actually warmer and you only have so much time left to play before Tahoe turns to Fall.

Photos:

1. Granddaughters Siena and Briana enjoying the ride.

2. An assortment of towables at Squaw Valley Sport Shop.

3. A raft at Squaw Valley Sport Shop.

4. A three-person towable at West Shore Sports

In the mood for Rock

Lately I've been in a Hip Hop phase. I've been playing the hell out of my albums like Dave Chappelle's Block Party. Blasting artists such as Kanye West, Talib Kweli, Erykah Badu, Aceyalone, Abstract Rude, and De La Soul. I listened to my One Self album so much that it actually broke! Such a catastrophe, I had to order another copy from Amazon. If you never heard of One Self, I'm telling you fools, ya ain't heard nothing'! The best Hip Hop show I ever saw!

Anyway, I've been in such a huge hip hop phase because my faith in rock has disintegrated. A few years ago I listened to nothing but rock like Modest Mouse, CKY, The Misfits, Death From Above 1979, The Pixies, and Pantera.

It’s nice to hear a good rock band now and then. Every time I put on the radio all I hear is this whiney girly-man music where the dudes wear eyeliner, but only because its 'trendy'. The original punks, Depeche Mode and Glam rock heroes were the only guys who looked hot with eyeliner…HIM too.

Back onto the subject, It’s really nice to hear some real rock that makes you wanna jump up and down. I just heard that The Living Blue would be coming to Satellite Cocktail bar and lounge. They’re the first rock band in a while that made me smile. I’m pretty eager to see this show.

The lead singer has a voice that sounds a wee bit like Pete Doherty, the tragic genius behind The Libertines and Baby Shambles but guess what, he’s not English. The guys are from Illinois and the fake English accent doesn’t sound corny yet intriguing.

The show is on Saturday at 10pm. They’re playing with Think in French who I’ve heard nothing but good things about. Click here to go to their MySpace page and check out their music. I’ll be at the show on Saturday night so I hope to see you there!

Take Care readers!

Roots, Rock, Reggae!

As you may know tonight is The Roots, Rock, Reggae Festival at the Reno Hilton and I'm sad to say that I will be missing it.

I know, its definitely a tragedy but I encourage all of you readers to go to this concert. It features Ziggy Marley, Stephen Marley, Bunny Wailer and the opening act, Ozomatli. The show should be amazing, especially if you love reggae-i.e. Bob Marley.

I can't go because 1.) I'm broke and so are my friends. 2.) I'm taking my braids out tonight which is at least a three hour long process. If you know me you know me than you know that I've been looking ragedy lately and need to take them out. I'll also be enduring a 10 hour hellish process on Saturday to get new ones put in. It's worth it!

In the meantime, I want to recommend some amazing and talented reggae artists named the Easy Star All-Stars. These fantastic performers have taken Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon to a whole new universe, by recreating the classic album into some smooth Reggae to create the acclaimed 'Dub Side of the Moon'. You totally have to hear it to believe it. Go to their main page and listen to their songs on their EasyStar radio.

Believe me, I'd be the first to say whether this was a bad idea or not. I love this cd!
If you love Reggae, if you love Pink Floyd, if you love good music...you have to get this CD!

Also coming soon-RadioDread-Easy Star All-Stars take on Radiohead.

Don't forget Roots, Rock, Reggae tonight!

Until next time... :D

Learn the best place to hike in Northern Nevada

Hey fans of the great outdoors. Sundance Bookstore will be hosting a book signing and slide show by Reno local Mike White for his book, Afoot and Afield Reno-Tahoe, A Comprehensive Hiking Guide. It features more than 175 trips in a diverse range of terrain around the Lake Tahoe region and the communities of Reno, Sparks, Graeagle, Truckee, Echo Summit, Mt. Rose, and the Carson Valley.

These trips are tailored for every type of hiker, and many are suited for mountain bikers. Routes range from less than a mile to an 18-mile point-to-point challenge from Tahoe Meadows to Brockway Summit.

If you want to know more about local hikes from an authority whose feet have actually beaten the trails, arrive at Sundance Bookstore (1155 W. 4th St., Suite 106, Reno, Nevada) on Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 6:30 pm. The slide show will start at 7 p.m.

Mike White is the author of twelve previous outdoor guides to California and Nevada, as well as numerous articles in popular magazines. Mike is the author of Top Trails Lake Tahoe and Backpacking Nevada. He teaches hiking, backpacking, and snowshoeing classes at Truckee Meadows Community College.

Update from Controlled Burn

Update from Controlled Burn – Elaine Hirt, Mistress of Communications of Controlled Burn, informs me that they’ll be at John Champion Park every Wednesday night starting at 9 p.m. for a community burn. For those who are unfamiliar with the group see videos from their performances (Mac, PC). (A music video produced by Diarmaid Horkan) or read previous blogs.(Controlled Burn is hot! - See Video)

Hot Rod Bad Girl for Life

On Thursday night I was sent to film the Hot August Nights prom which was so utterly cute. Dozens of couple relived their youth in a 1950's style prom with a cover band that delivered the hits.

As I wandered through the crowd I was captavated by a woman who stood above the rest. She stood out like a fierce wild fire; a big black dress with flames and custom made headlight buckets on her chest. Her jet black hair was pulled back in a pony tail and Betty Page style bangs drapped over her forehead. I had to talk to her!

Photo by Julie Sullivan/RGJ

She told me her name was Aquanetta, 'Hot Rod Bad Girl'. This lady totally made my weekend. She was in Reno for the week for Hot August Nights showing off her 1932 Deuce Coupe and of course her fabulous style.

She came all the way from Coupeville, Washington. "You have to have a Deuce Coupe to live in Coupeville you know." she told me with a devilish grin. Her date was Johnny Angel, a handsome young man there to protect her from the wolves that eyed her. His real name was Jason and he's her assistant.

I told her that I would be heading over to the Peppermill on Friday to find a car of the day for RGJ.com and asked if I could interview her for Saturday's car of the day. She agreed with delight. This lady is awesome, I don't know if I can emphasize it enough.

(Here is a video I took of the 20th anniversery of the Hot August Nights Prom featuring Aquanetta herself.)

The next day I filmed Aquanetta and her beautiful Deuce Coupe that has won many awards in different car shows. She was dressed in 1950s attire like always. Aquanetta makes her own clothes and designs and creates her own poodle purses. Her hair was made up in a giant beehive hairdo with a pretty bow on top.

Her interview was by far my favorite car of the day for the week. Watch it for yourself and embrace this fantastic lady! (Click Here for the Windows version)

I came back the next day to take a picture of her for Its Your Weekend. She'll probably kill me because I didn't get her shoes in the picture but this was indeed my favorite picture of her. If you didn't get a chance to see her, buddy you missed out! Have no fear, she'll be back next year.

Check out her website for the amazing story of this dangerous lady.

Friday night's alright for Satellite's

I used to go to Satellite Cocktail lounge and bar all the time when my buddy Andrew used to DJ there. I haven't been there in awhile but as always I do enjoy the chic atmosphere.

The Satellite is a snazzy bar that features amazing performances by local bands and even a few big names. I first heard Brilliant Red Lights at the Satellite, a tech-pop band from Sacramento whom I covered for UNR's newspaper The Nevada Sagebrush. Shiny Toy Guns, an L.A. Indie electronic band, has played to a packed house and will hopefully come back in August. If you haven't heard Shiny Toy Guns, listen to them NOW!

Anyway, Friday night brought three California bands: ModWheelMood, Monsters are Waiting, and Mellowdrone. These three Indie bands filled up the place, which made it incredibly hard to take pictures, or to move for that matter-but made a great ending to a rough week.

I have to say ModWheelMood impressed me the most. They were the first band to play using guitars, and a massive sound system. Their lead singer, Alessandro Cortini was kneeling on the floor of the stage belting out a powerful soprano sound while playing with the controls of the sound system. Their sound was very original and captivated the crowd. Their rendition of Depeche Mode’s “Home” was almost perfect. It’s a more obscure song, which intrigued me even more.

During the performance something insane happened. A wooly haired woman who was clearly smashed was yelling at the bartender, a frightened little girl who was trying to defend herself. I’m not too sure of what happened but a little after that I noticed the Wooly haired woman looking at me. She stumbled towards me asked me if I could be scary. After a few awkward moments of silence she asked me to join her Roller Derby League. She said she would find me on MySpace and disappeared into the crowd. Don’t worry folks; I’m pretty sure that she didn’t remember the incident the next morning.

The next band Monsters are Waiting had a haunting vibe to them. Their lead singer Annalee was quite lovely with a sweet voice to match her look. When I looked at the crowd it was filled with google-eyed dudes salivating at her petite stature. Some guy actually yelled, “You’re hot!” at her, followed by random giggles.

By this time my camera had died once again so I wasn’t able to capture any photos of Mellowdrone. I enjoyed what I heard I wished that I could have snapped a few photos for you folks.

Looking outside the window and at the wild traffic I decided it was time to go before the Hot August Nights crowd swallowed me whole. Too late, the traffic was awful with wild heathens and hooligans literally dancing in the streets with their tall forties and loud Crunk music rattling the ears of innocent bystanders trying to pass through. Ah Hot August Nights, stay home during the late night folks if you want to avoid this.

So the show was great but my camera and fatigue held me back. I advise you to check out these bands for some great Indie rock.
And no I won’t be joining a Roller Derby League, but if the RGJ doesn’t keep me the thought may linger.

Controlled Burn is hot! - See Video

Pardon my extremely cheesy title, but the fire-spinning group Controlled Burn warrants high praise. But don’t take my word for it, watch this video of some highlights of their performance (Mac, PC). The flames danced and spun, and so did they. It was a highly entertaining show. The audience’s gaze was drawn to them like, well, a moth to flame. These proficient pyros are mesmerizing. Their eye-scorching performance appeared to be carefully-contained chaos. Just when one set of dance moves became predictable, the flames shifted into a new configuration. In their more romantic numbers, controlled burn knew how to set the mood. I believe it was more that the flattering firelight, but audiences have been wooed by lesser things. If you can, it is worth seeing in person. Just sit a little back to avoid the occasional splatter of lighter fluid from their whirling fire poi and staffs.

Performance art with strings attached

During Hot August Nights most of the muscle cars seen on the road are testament to the thousands of dollars owners are willing to pour into supporting a passion for things from an earlier era. But those who wander to Wingfield Park during weekend afternoons, may see a man truly fond of the ancient craft of puppetry.

In Bernie Beauchamp’s hands inanimate objects of putty, balsa wood and cloth become wailing and writhing performers from the twentieth century. He has an all-star cast of 10 puppets including Fats Waller, an African-American jazz pianist; Bessie Smith, a famous blues singer; Emmett Kelly, the depression-era clown, and the distinctive Sophie Tucker, who sang bawdy Vaudeville tunes that expertly employed double meanings so audiences of all ages could enjoy her crooning.

These cartoonish caricatures don’t come cheap. Beauchamp employs a man in New York $1,000 to create puppets that Beauchamp envisions. While his performances don’t earn him anything beyond gas money, he performs for the joy it brings him.

“It makes me feel like I’m channeling these old artists in a way that I’m somewhat at a lack to explain,” Beauchamp said. “When the puppets perform, I disappear.”

Beauchamp said shortly after college he toured with a puppeteer company for 4 to 5 months. Then he moved to Nevada and had a family and a mortgage. But for 25 years the idea of puppetry continued to percolate in his head. He said he couldn’t resist resuming his former craft any longer.

“I enjoy coming out here perfecting the craft,” Beauchamp said.

He plays old recordings while his puppets appear to bebop and bellow. Those who stop to watch his performances are not limited to any age group.

“Kids enjoy it, but they don’t have a very long attention span,” Beauchamp said. “The adults have a greater enjoyment of what I try to convey.”

As I interviewed Beauchamp, one man who looked older than 60-years old scolded me for interrupting the show. Later another man walked up and pointed to a raggedy-clothed clown puppet and said, “I know who that is. That’s Emmett Kelly.” When Beauchamp agreed, the man gave a nod of acknowledgment and walked away.

When Beauchamp performed, he was blissfully concentrated on his craft. He stood behind the puppet with a satisfied smile that crinkled up every muscle in his face.

Shakespeare, As You Like It – for free

The Nevada Shakespeare Company is bringing the flirtatious Shakespearian play “As You Like It” to Northern Nevadans. And on August 6 at 8 p.m. it’s going to be exactly how I like it - free. The first 100 people to arrive at the Hawkins Amphitheater in Bartley Ranch, Reno will also receive a free dinner. What’s not to like?

But if you miss this opportunity for free entertainment and food you will have other opportunities to see the play, but you’ll have to pay. It will be playing August 10-26 at the Gold Hill Hotel one mile south of Virginia City. Tickets are $28 for general seating and $37 for reserved.

Rock show tonight at Satellite!

While browsing through some hot shows for this weekend, I came across the line ups for Satellite. Tonight at Satellite three powerfrul indie rock bands will be gracing the stage: Mellowdrone, Monsters Are Waiting and ModWheelMood.
My buddy Andrew told me that it's going to be an amazing show with three bands that will blow anybodys mind!
The show starts at 10:00 pm at Satellites at 188 California Ave!
Better see you there fools!

The Home Tour, August 3, 2006

Here is another blog sent to me from Eydie Scher about the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society's 33rd annual home tour. Thanks Eydie for another great report. If you'd like to send in a blog, just e-mail me at klarsen@rgj.com.

The North Lake Tahoe Historical Society presents its 33rd annual home tour. About 400 people participate. I am lucky. My close friends and neighbors are chairpersons. Margy and Jim Arthur and Lois and Andy Skaff have devoted an enormous amount of their time to make this event happen.

Every year different houses are chosen. A shuttle takes us from the Homewood parking lot to our first two stops.

Fleur du Lac, the Flower of the Lake, is the name given to the property by Henry J. Kaiser in 1938. It practically screams out Godfather! Many of the stars actually lived on the estate grounds during the filming which was set in the 1930's. How many times we pass the front gate and wonder what lies beyond. Now I know. The Clubhouse is the only original building on the property. The adjoining boathouse is still in use. There are 22 lavish new or totally remodeled homes on the property today. If you are contemplating living in the neighborhood, be prepared to pay between two and eight million. The view alone is undoubtedly worth it!

We move on. The next bus stop is the Simmonds Home. Built in 1941-1942, it sits by an inlet leading to Lake Tahoe. The front reminds me of an old style ranch house. A large stone porch leads to the entrance. Inside, there is wood paneling and narrow hallways. A private beach beckons to the Lake.

We are on our own for the next stop. The Mennick Home was built for entertaining during the Squaw Valley Olympics in 1960. First up is the huge stone courtyard. Wood beam ceilings meander throughout the home. It feels like you are in a Swiss Village. Of course, there is the view of the Lake.

Speaking of views, our next stop has them too. The Shepherd Home has two wrap-around decks. Even the master bedroom has views of the Lake. It's something no one gets tired of seeing. The stairway mural is not to be missed. But my favorite is the elk above the fireplace. On one side is the elk's head and on the other is the elk's butt. That is different. The contractor of the Shepherd House was instrumental in starting the Concours d'Elegance which is in its 34th year.

I expected to see a log home and I was not disappointed. The Skaff Home is made totally out of logs that were milled in Canada and shipped to Tahoma. Assembly was by number. Imagine putting an entire house together by numbers. Andy Skaff, the current owner paints his surroundings and does a beautiful job of it.

Are we hungry and thirsty yet? The last home on the tour is the Lonergan Home. It's original name, the Adjidaumo Lodge, comes from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's Song of Hiawatha. It was the name of the red squirrel. The Lodge's history dates back to 1899 when the twenty-two year old governor of Nevada built his summer estate there to afford him views of his beloved Nevada.

The first structure we pass is a guesthouse that was a former barn. It is adorable. The main structure is vintage 1926-1930. One side houses the family room and bedrooms. On the other side is an enormous modern kitchen.

Once you stop gawking at the gorgeous scenery, the olfactory nerves kick in. Under white tents are the most delicious hors d'oeurvres, sandwiches, dips, fruit, cheese, and those impossible-to-pass-up desserts. All of this was prepared and served by Tahoe's own local caterer Marlies, Your Personal Chef. .

I'm not the wine connoisseur in the family, my son-in-law is. I just know what I like and I like the wine I had. Kent Rosenblum of Rosenblum Cellars personally provided the glasses of white and red wines.

Could anything be more perfect? The weather cooperated. With food in one hand, wine in the other, and a feast for the eyes on the Lake, it was the most idyllic setting.

Reno has its Hot August Nights, Tahoe has its Concours d' Elegance and North Lake Tahoe has its Home Tour. It seems we enjoy the beauty of the old but the conveniences of the new. These homes are an excellent blend. All are occupied and meticulously decorated to reflect their period of history.

I've included five photos.

1.The Fleur du Lac Clubhouse.

2. Inside the Clubhouse where much of the action in the Godfather 11 movie took place. Just visualize the characters in their tender moments.

3. The tranquil scene taken from the Adjidaumo Lodge. Note the sailboat enjoying the serenity.

4.Our chairpersons, Margy and Lois. Applause, applause.

5. Five of the people who helped put this event together.
Marge Hartsfield, Sue De Voe, Dick Lonergan, Mary Lonergan and Margy Arthur.

More applause please and our heartfelt thanks for a job well done. I can't wait for the next one.

Burning Man fashion and fire

The Nevada Museum of Art was burning up last night as the fire dancing group Controlled Burn brought some of their signature playa performance to downtown Reno in celebration of the upcoming Burning Man Festival. The museum also hosted a burner fashion show with outfits ranging from eclectically care-free to dazzlingly detailed, glow-in-the-dark finery. Best of all, I caught the whole thing on video. I’ll be editing the footage of the Controlled Burn performance into a video to be posted this weekend. This one featured musical performances that hadn’t been seen during their Sunday Artown performances in July. In the meantime, everyone can enjoy this music video of Controlled Burn produced by Diarmaid Horkan.

Who is Keyser Soze?

For a little city, Reno has a grip of tremendous bands that will leave a powerful impact on anybody.

Keyser Soze, a well known West Coast band is made up of a group of lovable guys with unbelievable talent and great modesty. Jammal Tarkington, Rodney Teague, Brian Trotter, Mike Mayhall, and Justin Kruger have been around for a while as Keyser Soze and fame hasn’t gotten to their heads.

Their style is a vicious combination of ska, reggae, dub, hip hop and punk featuring striking vocals, blaring horns, phat bass and guitars riffs and a powerful drum beat. The band plays often in Reno and Sacremento and usually performs to raving fans at the Green Room.

Friday night brought giant groups of partiers who were ready for the weekend after a hectic work week. The Green Room is usually pretty busy later in the night near midnight. The sounds of the horns swept in local fans and even some curious ears hearing their unique sound for the first time.

Ernie Upton, also known as Borg One, spun a few brilliant sounds from his collection of music including Gnarles Barkley, Sade, and Yesterday’s New Quintet. Not only is Ernie the front man of Who Cares and a brilliant artist, he’s also a goof.

The place was a bit empty at first but by the time Keyser Soze played their first note, a wave of folks fell into the room. People were dancing like maniacs, passing drinks, and having an all out great time.

Tina Townsend, a good friend of mine who I hadn’t seen in a while was getting down to the funky beats. “I came out to see a band I’ve never heard of,” said Townsend. “But I must say that they sure got my body shaking!” Alicia Gonzales, another friend I hadn’t seen in years was new to the Green Room and the whole Reno music scene. “I’ve never really heard of these guys before but I love it!” said Gonzales. Even if you never heard of Keyser Soze, it’s an experience that you must hear for yourself.

Of course the band had their usual crew of die hard fans. “I love Keyser Soze!” said Brad Lampki. “I’ve been seeing them since they were The Mudsharks.” Joel Grer, a 22-year-old from Reno came out of the Green Room with a big smile. “Refreshing!” grinned Grer about the fantastic band.

After everyone was covered in sweat and a little buzzed from the dozens of kamikaze shots, the place started to die down. The band stayed to have a few drinks and chat with everyone. “The crowd was great,” said Jammal Tarkington, the saxophone player of Keyser Soze. “I really had a good time.”

If you haven’t heard Keyser Soze before, what are you doing? Get out there and see them; an awesome Reno experience for anyone with a passion for incredible music.