GatorRock 'n' Roll

IMELDA MAY on Jay Leno

2011-10-12T19:04:00.000-04:00

Click about 80% down the track... the song "Inside Out" is at the end of the show.

Red Sovine and Webb Pierce - Why Baby Why?

2011-07-26T16:10:00.000-04:00

I've been looking for this one for quite some time!

Jerry Lee Lewis - Down the Line - 2 Camera Video

2011-06-11T10:44:00.011-04:00

I just got back from a whirlwind road trip with my son that took us from Atlanta to Chattanooga, Nashville, Cleveland, and Mount Airy, NC. Before I post anything about that... here is a 2-camera version of Mr. Jerry Lee Lewis at the Viva Las Vegas Car Show on Easter weekend. Big Thanks to my friend in the UK - Allan, better known as Baldyal on YouTube. He shot the fantastic closeup shots, I shot the shaky stuff from afar. Be sure to check out all his other professionally-shot videos from VLV and elsewhere.

JERRY LEE

It was quite a performance!

Viva Las Vegas 2011 pt. 5

2011-05-24T10:09:00.030-04:00

Sunday Day 5

Easter Sunday at Viva Las Vegas. While many folks around the country were going to church or taking their kids on an egg hunt... the people at The Orleans were headed to the pool. The Rockabilly Pool party started around noon. Tara went early to save a bunch of chairs for the Atlanta crew. They were going fast. Due to her efforts we had a place to enjoy the sun, people-watching, and the live music.

Tyler and Brooke

Tyler, Brooke, Tammy, & Scott

Voytek enjoys Cherry Popper Rockabilly Cocktail with Tara

Voytek and Tiki Go-Go Gal

After a little rest back in the rooms, our group decided to have a dinner together at the Mexican Restaurant in the hotel. - La Costa Cantina. They were very accomodating to our large party with no reservation. We were joined by Melissa and her friend (whose name escapes me now) from Australia.

Kim Lenz and her Jaguars were the real highlight of the night. Kim and the boys put on a fantastic, energetic show.

MC Del Villarreal introduces Kim Lenz

Melissa and Tara

KISS AND TELL BABY

CHOCTAW BOOGIE

The night and Viva Las Vegas ended with a line-up of old-time Rockabilly stars. The band consisted of some of the finest musicians around - Bobby Trimble, Ashley Kingman, and Carl Sonny Leyland.

It was an amazing long weekend of music and memories. My reservations are already made for VLV 15 next year.

Monday morning, I drove Tara and Voytek to the airport, but my flight wasn't until the next day. I drove the rental car to Hoover dam.

Returning to the parking garage I noticed a small dent in the rear bumper. Some idiot had run into my vehicle then took off. Being in vacation mode, I tried to laugh it off. I didn't call the police (probably a bad move), and drove back to Vegas. I notified my insurance and I'm waiting to see what the outcome will be with that.

That night I visited the Paris Casino on the strip. I had a VERY filing meal at Le Village Buffet. Then, I lost a bundle at the casino. :( I should have stuck with the casino at The Orleans... I think the slots are a lot "looser" there.

The next day, I checked out, turned in the car (dealt with the dent), and caught the flight back to Atlanta.

Thanks for reading!

Viva Las Vegas 2011 pt. 4

2011-05-17T12:00:00.018-04:00

rSaturday Day 4

Saturday at Viva Las Vegas always means one thing - the car show. It's an all-day event in the parking lot behind the hotel. I knew it was going to be a long day. First to look at the cars, then to enjoy the music on the outdoor stage. Everyone was looking forward to the headliner - Rock 'n' Roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis.

Hundreds of classic cars and hot rods are on display at the VLV car show -- along with some hot pin-up gals.
The ladies were out and about, posing prettily beside the shiny hunks of steel and chrome. I took my dad's old Yashica medium-format camera to Vegas just for this event.

Here's a video I put together that I hope captures the spirit of the VLV car show:

I met up with Tyler and Brooke and we did some shopping at various vendors. I picked up a Charlie Sheen type Bowling Shirt.

At one point we literally ran into Gene Vincent's daughter and grand-daughter:

The Vincent Family with Tyler and Brooke

The Blasters were next on the big stage... we were stuck in the back of the crowd... but they sure sounded good:

Tyler, Brooke, and I ducked back into the hotel for an hour or so to recharge... and enjoy a few cocktails. Then it was back to the car show to get a good "seat" for Jerry Lee Lewis. We were able to get about 5 rows back from the stage. Of course we were standing the whole time.

Jerry's sister Linda Gail started the party with a few standards like "Blue Suede Shoes". Then, the man came out. He looked a little frail, but once he sat down at the grand piano... he was 20 years old again. Jerry Lee and the band put on a fabulous show. His voice was strong and his piano-playing was as good as ever.

GREAT BALLS OF FIRE

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

DOWN THE LINE

The crowd was very satisfied. It was such a contrast to the disappointing show the year before from an aging Chuck Berry.

Back inside the hotel, I headed for the showroom to see Deke Dickerson's Guitar Geek Festival. The auditorium was packed... so I looked around for an alternative. I found a door marked PRIVATE BOX. It was unlocked. I walked in and there was nobody there. It had a couch and a table and some seats in front against a railing. PERFECT. I got some great videos of the amazing performances.

LOS STRAITJACKETS

CRAZY JOE

It was back to the Showroom again at 10:30pm for the Burlesque Competition. I cheered on Atlanta's entry Miss Tallulah Love. Unfortunately she didn't win.

My roommate Derek was at the front of the room, taking hundreds of photos. Mine are no where near his quality.. but here's Tallulah.

shot from big screen monitor

Due to Nick Curran's re-occurrence of cancer, he and the Lowlifes had to cancel their Saturday night performance at VLV. Deke Dickerson was asked to fill-in... and he did. He brought Crazy Joe and drummer Chris "Sugarballs" Sprague along. They kept the audience (and a bunch of idiotic drunk women in front) entertained as the guys played quite a few originals and classic covers. They made it interesting as they traded instruments between each other... sometimes several times in the same song!

You can imagine what a long, yet satisfying day it was. I slipped back to the room to get some sleep and get ready for the final day at Viva!

Go to the FINAL day Blog of Viva Las Vegas 14

Viva Las Vegas 2011 pt. 3

2011-05-16T08:25:00.006-04:00

Day 3 - Friday

I got up relatively early and had a wonderful breakfast with DJ/MC Del Villarreal. Over eggs and bacon, we had a great discussion about the state of rockabilly music. Then he gave me a rundown of each of the bands performing at Viva. I ran into Del numerous times again during the weekend... and I hope to see him again down the road. Great guy.

I was getting a bit weary of the inside of the casino... and mostly losing money on the slot machines. So Voytek and Steve Barnett (from the Psycho DeVilles) and I jumped in my rental car to drive to downtown Vegas. Our mission was to see the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop -- made famous by the History Channel show "Pawn Stars".

Ridiculous Line

No Parking Spots left

Crazy

Well, as you can see the line was around the block. We didn't get to see Rick, Big Hoss, the Old Man, or even Chumlee. There wasn't even a place to park. So, we cruised back toward the hotel. The line at "In and Out" was also too long... so Voytek suggested the "Jack in the Box" for lunch. It was pretty disgusting. Not recommended. Back to the Orleans.

Even though the official pool party was set for the weekend... I went back to the pool for some cool drinks and hot sun.

The big event for the Atlanta crewe at VLV was the Friday night appearance by our friends "The Psycho DeVilles". It was set for 6pm in the Bienville Room.

Del Villarreal introduces the Psycho DeVilles

Hot Rod Walt

A very large crowd really enjoyed the high-energy show.

Tammy and Scott from the ATL

Tyler Atomic, Denise, and Tara. The girls are holding the famous bowling pin cocktails.

Walt, Steve, and Paul - The Psycho DeVilles

The Psycho DeVilles made a lot of new fans that night. Afterward, with the encouragement of the band's Atlanta friends, the crowd bought a lot of merchandise.

I wasn't able to get a ticket for the Burlesque show at 7:30pm. The line to get the free tickets was astronomically long. But that was fine because at 8pm, Gambler's Mark were playing in the Bienville Room. They put on a great show.

I had to duck out of Gambler's Mark to get in the front row for the Horton Brothers over in the main ballroom. These talented guys from Austin, Texas write songs that combine great lyrics, harmony, and some jazzy hillbilly guitar licks. The phenomenal Dave Biller adds his guitar skills to Bobby and Billy Horton's vocal collaborations.

Here's a song from their new CD "Songs in the Key of Lonesome". The title is "Box of Knotty Pine" ... quirky lyrics... great tune:

This another good one ... with that trademark ~~Everly Brothers~~ Horton Brothers harmony.

I've been looking forward to seeing Jessie and the Orbits. She may just be the next new hot girl singer on the international rockabilly scene. Jessie is a knockout and the band is very hot too.

Jessie

I was fading fast by midnight... for some reason. But I had to stay for a couple songs from Big Sandy y Los Straitjackets. The stage lights weren't working correctly, but nobody cared.

Paul and Robbie from The Stumblers (and a friend)

GO to Saturday Day 4 Blog!

Viva Las Vegas 2011 pt. 2

2011-05-05T21:53:00.024-04:00

Day 2 - Thursday

Despite the late night, I was up early to get in line for registration and receive my wristband.

The registration line snaked its way through the slot machines.
Along the way, we met some nice folks, including a fella from British Columbia who said there was still snow on the ground in his yard.

The is what we came for.

With wristband in place, Voytek and I went to the pool to join Tara and a gal from Sacramento named Desiree.

Poolside at The Orleans

A little bit later I was off in the rental car again to pick-up my roommate Derek at the airport.

I passed the Hard Rock Hotel on Paradise Drive.

Back at the Orleans, I checked out the vendor area.

The vintage and retro clothing stores were a big hit, especially with the ladies.

There was a very cool selection of some of the latest discs.

Okay, it was finally time for the music. The first act in the big Mardi Gras ballroom was Li'l Mo and the Dynaflos. They are a high-energy doo-wop group that really got the crowd going.

Li'l Mo and the Dynaflos

In the smaller Bienville Room at the Orleans, The Still Creek Brothers were starting up. They're a rockin' band from Vancouver with traditional hillbilly harmonies.

Still Creek Brothers

Back in the main Ballroom, The outlandish Pachuco Jose & Los Diamantes brought their LA style of fashion and music to the stage ... en español!

Pachuco Jose & Los Diamantes

I was looking forward to hearing Miss Lauren Marie. I had seen her at the Continental Club in Austin a couple years ago, and I was smitten. As it turned out, this was her last U.S. performance. She is moving to Germany to start a new life. Lauren Marie put on a great show, backed-up by the incomparable Horton Brothers.

Red River Valley

Careless Love

Between the acts Thursday night, I spent my time checking out the vendors room and the folks in the hallway.

One of my favorite performances of the entire weekender was the Modern Don Juans. The band consists of Tony Estrada (Star Mountain Dreamers), Bobby Trimble (Big Sandy & his Fly Rite Boys), Tjarko Jeen (Ronnie Dawson), Todd Wulfmeyer (Marti Brom & her Jet Tone Boys). They really put on a high-quality show, and the crowd ate it up.

Mondern Don Juans

Afterward, I bought their CD, and chatted with Todd, Tjarko, and Bobby. What a nice bunch of boys.

The last performance Thursday night was the 1am set by Los Straitjackets in the main ballroom. The crowd was really ready for their brand of stylish rock 'n' roll instrumentals. The time difference was getting to me a little bit... but I hung in there... as did Tara and Voytek.

Los Straitjackets

I think it was after that song that I snuck out of the ballroom and made my way back to the room, to prepare for further adventures and fun.

Click to go on to Day 3 -->

Viva Las Vegas 2011 - 5 Days to Rock!

2011-05-03T21:36:00.022-04:00

Day 1 - Wednesday

It's been a few weeks since my return home from Las Vegas... and only now can I sit down and write about the experience. The 14th annual Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender - what a fantastic time! It's not just the bands (which were great, on the whole), but also the cool cars, the burlesque ladies, the pool partying, and of course the phenomenal people-watching.

After my nearly 4 hour flight from Atlanta, I arrived at The Orleans on Wednesday morning... ready to get things started. I rented a car, which turned out to be a mistake... but I'll get to that later. I checked-in and looked out the window of my hotel room. It reminded me of the movie "The Hangover"... I was looking at the roof of the casino below... perhaps a good place to get stranded and have your buddies forget about you.

The Rockin' Gators at the entrance of The Orleans are a nice touch!

Denise, Tara, and one of my roommates, Voytek arrived later in the afternoon. I picked 'em up at the airport and we got together for a cocktail or two.

VLV officially kicked-off on Thursday night... but on Wednesday, we were looking forward to the WILD WILD WILD pre-party, sponsored by Wild Records at the Las Vegas Country Saloon on Fremont Street downtown.

The Atlanta crowd took a couple cabs there and we were just a bit too early. We staked out a big table and bought a round of the $5 24-oz PBRs. As the night went on, more people finally arrived... and the bands cranked up. High Energy Rockabilly is the best way to describe the music put out by the Wild Records label.

Voytek, Robert, Dawn, Roland, Denise, and Tara

The dancing was hot.

Roland, Tyler, Al, and Voytek

Tara enjoyed her PBR a lot.

Voytek made a life-long friend.

These German girls added some mysterious powder to their vodka.

DJ Del Villarreal and Robert "Big Sandy" Williams are good friends, really.

Melissa is from Australia. Robert is from Tennessee.

So I can't really remember if we stayed until the end, but we finally tumbled back into a taxi and returned to The Orleans. We were all looking forward to the official start of VLV the next day.

Click HERE to see what happened next. Vegas day 2

Music City USA

2011-03-28T09:26:00.001-04:00

Shot in 1966, this pseudo-documentary about the Nashville Music scene featured many of country music's biggest stars. Disc-Jockey/Announcer T. Tommy Cutrer is our host as we visit the Ernest Tubb record shop, Shot Jackson's steel-guitar store, Roy Acuff's museum. Later, Cutrer takes a group of visiting DJs to a TV show, Webb Pierce's home (and his guitar-shaped pool), and to several nightclubs in Music City USA. Some of the stars in the movie include: Webb Pierce, the Wilburn Brothers, Loretta Lynn, Dave Dudley, Jean Shepard, Warner Mack, Autry Inman, Jimmy E Newman, and many many others.

Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys at the Star Bar

2011-03-08T10:08:00.007-05:00

Big Sandy and the boys come to Atlanta just once a year .... and it's always quite the event. Somehow I managed to get the next day off!
Here are a collection of videos and pics for you to enjoy. (click for larger image)

Opening number: "Just as Long as You Love Me"

Big Sandy's old friend Paul Diffin tries to keep him on his feet

It's all good

Ashley Kingman

Huge crowd at the Star Bar

Rockabilly chicks downstairs in the lounge

with the lovely Michelle

with old friend, Erika

Tyler and Paul practice Ninja moves

with Michelle from our sister network In Session

Erika and dance man David

Before Big Sandy, We were entertained by

Caroline and the Ramblers, and The Stumblers

Kim Lenz at The Star Bar

2011-03-08T09:56:00.006-05:00

with
Kim Lenz at the Star Bar

Kim with Reverend Andy

Kim Lenz at the Star Bar Feb. 23 2011

2011-02-08T18:07:00.000-05:00

I hope to see you there!!!

Psycho DeVilles - Psycho Cadillac (stereo)

2011-01-23T11:46:00.001-05:00

At World of Wheels ... on a Saturday afternoon. The dancers appeared to be connected to Garage 71 internet radio station.

Happy Birthday Ray Price

2011-01-12T10:27:00.000-05:00

The finest voice in country music turns 85 today.

Dog in the Snow - January 10, 2011

2011-01-10T14:06:00.000-05:00

Imelda May - Mayhem Music Video

2010-10-26T09:33:00.005-04:00

A Genuinely Great Voice that revs like a Hot Rod at the Starting Line - MOJO

Cash Bash 2010

2010-10-25T20:53:00.014-04:00

Saturday Night October 23rd.

Lots of Bands ... lots of Good Times...

"Understand Your Man" by The Stumbers

"One Piece at a Time"by Ghost Riders Car Club

"Fool's Hall of Fame" by Caroline & the Ramblers

"309" by The Atomic Rockets

Imelda May's New CD - "MAYHEM"

2010-10-25T20:23:00.001-04:00

Like her figure, Imelda's new record is hot and spicy.

Ruby Ann - The Big Bounce

2010-10-13T20:46:00.002-04:00

Available on her CD - TRAIN TO SATANVILLE

Ruby Ann with Eddie Clendening:

Psycho DeVilles - Psycho Cadillac

2010-10-12T17:19:00.000-04:00

At the 2010 Drive Invasion!

Pictures of Drive Invasion!

2010-10-12T15:39:00.003-04:00

Carl Smith on Porter Wagoner

2010-09-09T20:53:00.002-04:00

Rev it Up & Go - Rockabilly Showdown

2010-07-10T17:51:00.014-04:00

I arrived in time to see the final songs of my friends The Atomic Rockets.

Atomic Rockets - Cruisin' Down 85

Next, those wildcats from Nashville, the Hillbilly Casino. Nic Roulette kept the ladies lusting.

Hillbilly Casino - Georgia Tornado

"Georgia Tornado" tells the true story of Aug. 2, 2008, when Rev. Andy invited Hillbilly Casino to Atlanta (from Nashville) to play a Saturday night Rockabilly show at Lenny's Bar. An hour or so before the show, a tornado whipped through that area of downtown - knocking out power to a large area. Despite the stifling heat inside, and no lights, the show went on. People who were there remember it to this day. It was more like a sing-a-long around the campfire than a club show. As the song says, they didn't make a dime... but we were all the richer for the experience.

Here's a look at that night:

Now back to the Star Bar Friday night...

Hillbilly Casino - Debt with the Devil

Hillbilly Casino - Tennessee Stomp

The Three Blue Teardrops dropped in from Chicago ...with their brand of no-nonsense Rockabilly

Three Blue Teardrops

The Psycho DeVilles were the final performers... and it was a special treat because for the first time, champion fiddler Aerin DeJarnette played with them live.

Psycho DeVilles - A Better Man

Psycho DeVilles - Doin' Fine

Click the thumbnails for larger view in a new window:

AnimeNEXT 2010

2010-06-19T09:41:00.001-04:00

Carmen and I travel to New Jersey for some Anime excitement.

Bubbapalooza 2010

2010-05-30T15:13:00.015-04:00

For the 19th year running, The Star Community Bar in Atlanta's eclectic Little Five Points neighborhood was host to a Memorial Day weekend ritual -- a gathering of bands, fans, and friends, called Bubbapalooza. The annual event began in 1992 as the brainchild of guitarist and songwriter Gregory Dean Smalley... a larger-than-life guiding force in what was then called the "Atlanta Redneck Underground."

This is how Greg Reese (Georgia musician 'Redneck GReece') describes Smalley on his website:

Gregory Dean Smalley, the original mover and ass-shaker, consolidated Atlanta's Redneck Underground Movement with the relentless energy, devotion, and promotion. Greg, being the jokester that he was, played with all-too-familiar phrases naming his creation the "Bubbapalooza" festival. He even went so far as to trademark the term. The yearly festival at the Star Community Bar continues his legacy, showcasing bands in the genre that Greg set out to help

Performing until the very end, Smalley died of complications due to AIDS in 1996. His spirit is remembered in the music and festivities of Bubbapalooza.

The 2-day event began on Friday with a heavy dose of rockabilly... and classic country.

Down-Home Country specialists "Slim Chance & The Convicts" and Atlanta Rockabilly legends "The Blacktop Rockets" continued their tradition of appearing at nearly every Bubbapalooza. Also on Friday night's band line-up: The Downer Brothers, AM Gold, and The Wheel Knockers. Closing the long evening (starting their set around 2am) were The Psycho DeVilles, arguably Atlanta's most popular 'Billy' band.

Saturday night, the music started early... just after 6pm. The lucky folks who arrived first were treated to some free BBQ in the downstairs lounge. The line-up looked like this:

The Billygoats
Dex Romweber Duo
Charlie Pickett
Caroline & The Ramblers
Ghost Riders Car Club
Western Union Messenger (downstairs)
Pinche Gringo
The Madiera

I managed to arrive Saturday, just in time for some cole slaw, beans and Ghost Riders Car Club's twangy medley of Buck Owen's hits.

Caroline & the Ramblers never fail to satisfy the Rockabilly purists (like me) in the crowd. Caroline Hull Engel's amazing voice rocked the crowd on tunes by 50's Rock 'n' Roll greats like Elvis, Janis Martin, Buddy Holly and Wanda Jackson:

Next came Charlie Pickett and his band. They brought their brand of South Florida trailer-park country punk that rocked bar-rooms across the Southeast in the 80s.

Dexter Romweber (guitar and anguished vocals) and his sister Sara (shitkicking drums) comprise the Dexter Romweber Duo. He's the former frontman for the world famous psycho-surf-rockabilly-garage-punk combo 'Flat Duo Jets'.

The Billygoats were the final act of Bubbapalooza, and they closed down the event with an amazing, crowd-pleasing performance. The Rockabilly-Country-Americana band is a bit hard to categorize. Perhaps the best way to describe their music is "the way country music SHOULD sound." The Billygoats have been Star Bar favorites for years... but the band broke-up over creative differences. The group, led by singer Fred Schreck, now only gets back together for special occasions... like Bubbapalooza.

The Billygoats - Boo Hoo
Uploaded by Gatorrock784. - Explore more music videos.

We'll see you next year for the 20th anniversary of this Redneck tradition.

Honky Tonk Tuesday Night

2010-05-19T23:44:00.000-04:00

Tuesday night can be a good time when it's Honky Tonk Tuesday Night at Lenny's Bar.

Several bands performed to an adoring crowd.

Marti Brom in Viva Las Vegas

2010-04-19T16:24:00.004-04:00

Marti performed with California's "Quarter-Mile Combo" ... her sassy style won her some new fans.

Ambushed

Blue Tattoo

Tom Cat

"Blue Tattoo" and "Tom Cat" were both written by Austin Texas songwriter Teri Joyce.

Down in the Basement

2010-03-29T09:00:00.003-04:00

It's vacation time...

I'm heading to Nevada in a couple days for the VIVA LAS VEGAS Rockabilly Weekender.

But before I go ... here are some hastily recorded basement sessions:

Al on Guitar - Going Steady from Al Schrack on Vimeo.

Ruby Ann and Eddie Clendening

2010-03-20T23:51:00.000-04:00

Here's Ruby Ann with husband Eddie Clendening at Billy Bob's Saloon at Disneyland, Paris. Eddie now stars as Elvis Presley in the new Broadway Musical "Million Dollar Quartet"

Ruby Ann - Eeny Meeny Miney Mo from Al Schrack on Vimeo.

Ruby Ann and Eddie Clendening at Disneyland Paris

Billboard Magazine 1956

2010-03-13T02:39:00.002-05:00

Renegade Grinder Presents

2010-03-07T14:36:00.006-05:00

Renegade Grinder is a new online magazine devoted to Rockabilly Music and the Rockabilly lifestyle. The good folks there sponsored an event last night at Sam Stone Studios in Atlanta. The place is a little unusual for a Rockabilly music venue (it's in a slightly dangerous part of town, south of Turner Field stadium). None-the-Less, the folks that turned out were treated to some great music courtesy of:

Sonoramic Commando, Atomic Boogie, and Flathead Mike & the Mercurys

Nick Curran's "Reform School Girl" - One Heck of a Disc

2010-02-19T19:47:00.001-05:00

It's hard to describe this CD... the easiest way I guess is to call it "pure, unadulterated rock 'n' roll"

Take a listen to the title track:
REFORM SCHOOL GIRL

and this is..
TOUGH LOVER

Nick is a guitarist's guitar player. He's forever been the go-to session guy for that special track when a song needs a certain something.

He's also suffering from Oral Cancer.

You can paypal him to help with the expenses towards his radiation treatment.

Paypal him here: nickykay77@yahoo.com

Johnny Cash - Home of the Blues

2010-02-13T12:55:00.002-05:00

Luther looks sporty in this clip from Country Style USA.

Hank Williams Jr. in 'Country Music on Broadway'

2010-01-25T21:37:00.003-05:00

(1965) Hank Jr. sings two of his Daddy's songs ("Cold, Cold Heart" and "Long Gone Daddy") in the film financed by his mother. You can see Hank Jr.'s half-sister Lycrecia standing beside the bass player in the back. Junior seems a bit ill at ease. He was probably 15 or so when this was filmed.

El Barto

2010-01-23T15:46:00.001-05:00

Billygoat Night at the Star Bar

2010-01-17T16:06:00.012-05:00

I braved the monsoon, and drove the 33 miles to The Star Bar last night in Little Five Points. It was well worth the trip. There was a great line-up of bands... I missed the debut of the Wheel Knockers (country). When I got there The Mystery Men were about to start. It's a 4-piece Surf Instrumental band... with the delightful addition of two swinging Go-Go girls.

Next Up, Caroline and the Ramblers. They were real crowd-pleasers... doing great rockabilly covers from Ricky Nelson to Janis Martin to Johnny Burnette. Caroline has a super-strong voice and the band kicks ass.

Finally, around Midnight, The Billygoats appeared on stage. I've really never seen the Star Bar so packed (a sell-out), or such a loud welcome for a band. This was the first time in something like 9 years that the band had played together. I'd never heard them before so I was looking forward to the experience. They are one of the tightest bands I've been fortunate enough to see. Their original songs were incredibly good. They were country but with a real power-pop flavor. Lots of great hooks! Unfortunately, the battery on my HD camera had died by this point in the evening. I was forced to use my old digital camera to shoot the video... so the audio quality is not so great.

The guys took a break ... and I had to leave (1am)... my bum knee was throbbing with every drum beat. Ouch.

Al Does His Thing

2010-01-14T16:55:00.003-05:00

Here are a couple recent performances by yours truly.

The first is at the Goatville Jam last week.

And ... here are some from the basement studios of GatorRock:

Webb Pierce - Teenage Boogie

2010-01-10T12:29:00.008-05:00

Webb's nasally tenor really makes this song. The telecaster on treble-overload is pretty cool too!

Webb was just a bit flamboyant. He wore the gaudiest rhinestone suits he could find.
He drove a customized Pontiac Bonneville convertible with chrome pistols and rifles on the side, longhorns in front, and silver dollars on the dash. He annoyed his Nashville neighbors by inviting tourists into his home and showing off his guitar-shaped swimming pool.

Star Bar January 2, 2010

2010-01-03T12:18:00.007-05:00

I got there a bit late but I was able to see The Arkhams from NYC

...and of course, Hot Rod Walt and the Psycho DeVilles.

See you all next time!

AL's LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR

2009-12-24T22:26:00.003-05:00

for metro Atlanta, etc.

STUFF THAT I LIKE...

SAT JAN 16TH THE BILLYGOATS with CAROLINE & THE RAMBLERS
@ THE STAR BAR ATLANTA

FRI JAN 29TH DALE WATSON
@ SMITH’S OLDE BAR ATLANTA

SAT JAN 30th HOLLYFEST - celebrating the music of Buddy Holly
- FLATHEAD MIKE & the MERCURYS
- THE COGBURNS
- THE ATOMIC ROCKETS
- BRYAN MALONE (THE FORTY-FIVES)
- ATOMIC BOOGIE
@ THE STAR BAR ATLANTA

FRI FEB 12TH PSYCHO DeVILLES with JASON and THE PUNKNECK
@ THE STAR BAR ATLANTA

SAT FEB 13Th FLOGGING MOLLY
@ THE TABERNACLE ATLANTA

FRI FEB 19TH BIG SANDY and his FLY-RITE BOYS
PSYCHO DEVILLES
ATOMIC ROCKETS
@ THE STAR BAR ATLANTA

SAT FEB 20TH ROCKABILLY RUCKUS
- BIG SANDY and his FLY-RITE BOYS
- KIM LENZ
- KNOCKDOWN DRAG-OUT & many others….
@ SKIPPER’S SMOKEHOUSE TAMPA, FLA

SUN FEB 28TH REV. HORTON HEAT with GRINDER NOVA
@ THE EARL EAST ATLANTA

MON MAR 1ST REV. HORTON HEAT with CAROLINE & THE RAMBLERS
@ THE EARL EAST ATLANTA

FRI MAR 19TH WAYNE “THE TRAIN” HANCOCK with SLIM CHANCE
@ THE EARL EAST ATLANTA

Merry Christmas to You!

2009-12-13T20:12:00.001-05:00

The Chipmunk Song

...as performed by me on accordion

Are You Teasing Me

2009-12-12T18:51:00.001-05:00

by Carl Smith

G D7

When we're all alone dear and I'm in your arms

Are you teasing me when you're telling me

How you thrill to my charm

Are you teasing me

C G

Are you un-true when I'm not with you

C D7

When we're apart are you free

G D7

Tell me darling while our love is still young

Are you teasing me

G D7

You say that my kissing set your heart in a whirl

Are you teasing me

And that you'll be mine till the end of the world

Are you teasing me

C G

You tell me my love makes your life complete

C D7

And tied in my arms you want to be

G D7

Tell me darling while our love is still young

Are you teasing me

Star Bar Benefit for Mike and Angelica

2009-12-03T11:35:00.004-05:00

Four Bands and a lot of friends...

Mike and Angelica were carjacked and assaulted after a show a few weeks ago. The Atlanta Rockabilly community came together to help pay the hospital bills.

The Psycho DeVilles

The Atomic Rockets

Dave Weil & Friends

Caroline & the Ramblers

A fun night... with a purpose.

Country Music Musicals - 3 cool Videos

2009-11-22T19:10:00.001-05:00

Here are a few widescreen videos from the 1966 movie: "Second Fiddle to a Steel Guitar" It was produced by Hank Williams' widow Audrey on a shoestring budget. It was the sequel to "Country Music on Broadway", and was exhibited in theaters and drive-ins throughout the South.

FARON YOUNG

WEBB PIERCE

CONNIE SMITH

Also appearing in "Second Fiddle" are Little Jimmy Dickens, Carl and Pearl Butler, Lefty Frizzell, Bill Monroe, Dottie West, George Hamilton IV, Pete Drake and his infamous "talking steel guitar", Sonny James, Minnie Pearl, Billy Walker (fantastic!), Homer and Jethro, Johnny Wright (of Johnnie and Jack fame), Kitty Wells (Mrs. Johnny Wright, of course), fiddler Buddy Spiker, and Del Reeves.

Collins Kids at the Grand Ole Opry

2009-11-16T20:51:00.001-05:00

The year, 1956. Larry and Lorrie Collins head to Nashville for some bigtime exposure on the monthly Purina Grand Ole Opry show. They sing "Hush Money" and "Rockaway Rock". When Larry starts doing his guitar thing... the crowd roars with approval.

Charlie Louvin w/ Dexter Romweber Duo tickets at The EARL in Atlanta, GA on Friday, November 13, 2009 - 9:00 PM

2009-11-09T20:27:00.000-05:00

Buy Charlie Louvin w/ Dexter Romweber Duo tickets at The EARL in Atlanta, GA on Friday, November 13, 2009 - 9:00 PM

Hank Snow - Movin' On

2009-10-25T13:59:00.001-04:00

the Rainbow Ranch sounds like a fine place, right about now.

My New Look

2009-10-21T16:56:00.000-04:00

All business in the front...
party in the back!

2009-10-17T16:48:00.001-04:00

Carmen and I went to see Ray Price (83 years old) at the Cumming Country Fair... and we did... and lots of other things too.

Jimmy Evans - Pink Cadillac

2009-10-15T14:31:00.001-04:00

Hot Rod Walt could certainly sing this one.

Justin Tubb sings 3 Numbers

2009-10-09T21:34:00.001-04:00

The folks at Bear Family Records used this clip to promote their Country Style USA Season 2 DVD. I hope that doesn't get me in too much trouble.
Justin Tubb always seemed to be overshadowed by his daddy. He appears to be plenty talented though. This all-star band includes Don Helms on steel guitar, Spider Wilson on guitar, and Shorty Lavendar on fiddle among others.

Super Geeky Wide-Angle Lens Test

2009-10-07T17:16:00.000-04:00

Ernest Tubb - Remember Me I'm the One Who Loves You (High-Q)

2009-10-07T09:04:00.001-04:00

Such a great tune....

Alvin and the Chipmunks - Witch Doctor

2009-10-02T23:17:00.001-04:00

(1961) Alvin, Simon, and Theodore get their jungle boogie on. This is technically a "cover" of David Seville's hit from a few years earlier. "Witch Doctor" reached #1 on the Billboard charts in April 1958.

Flathead Mike and the Mercurys - 357

2009-09-27T09:57:00.001-04:00

At The Masquerade Saturday Night

The whole gang was there.

Boris Yeltsin's finest moments

2009-09-21T11:31:00.001-04:00

This ain't Rockabilly ... but it's Rockin'. Go Boris Go!

Ricky Nelson - A Teenager's Romance

2009-09-19T10:20:00.001-04:00

"Rhythm and Blues records usually express an emotion or tell a story...."

Hank Williams Gravesite

2009-09-15T18:29:00.000-04:00

YouTube - Hank Williams Gravesite

Not too long ago, we took a short trip to Montgomery, Alabama to see the final resting place of one of Country Music's greatest performers. It rests on the top of a hill overlooking the city.

Doing the Drive Invasion

2009-09-09T20:37:00.000-04:00

When it comes to Super Sundays... the NFL's version can simply not compare to what transpired at Atlanta's Starlight Drive-In on Labor Day Weekend. It was the tenth anniversary of the annual celebration of Hot Rods, Hot (mostly Rockabilly) Music, Hot Babes, and B-movies. It's an event I look forward to each year. This was my fourth experience at the Drive-Invasion... and definitely my best. Although the cars are fun to look at... the main attraction for me is the music. In past years, the Drive-In has hosted acts as varied as Blue Oyster Cult, Southern Culture on the Skids, The Legendary Shack Shakers, Big Sandy & his Fly-Rite Boys, and the Supersuckers. This year, if you've been following my posts... was really going to be special. All Atlanta Rockabilly fans looked forward to seeing the Queen of Rockabilly, Wanda Jackson. Her performance was exceptional. I've seen her three times before... (Green Bay, Tampa, and Austin) and her show in Atlanta was by far the best. It could be because of the talented Atlanta musicians that backed her up. An added bonus, was my luck in being able to get on the stage and video her performance from beside the drummer. But, I'm jumping a little too far ahead... let's first take a look at some more of the sights and sounds.

There were too many highlights to name... but I'll give it a try. The Woggles really impressed me with their brand of 60's Power-Pop.. sort of a Kinks sound on speed.

The guys in Grinder Nova have a unique act to say the least. Of course, it's another one of guitarist extraordinaire Johnny McGowan's many projects.

DEADBOLT had sort of a reputation as the most dangerous band alive. Well that was pretty much all hype... but they did a nice set of tunes

Atlanta's favorite Rockabilly band, The Psycho DeVilles, had a tremendous crowd and a fantastic set.

After the Psycho DeVilles, the crowd was really ready for Wanda. She came on in a glittery red top and her trademark big black hairdo. She seemed to be in a great mood and was playful with the appreciative audience.

She probably did 8 or 9 songs... and I'll be posting most of them on YouTube one of these days.. but here's the incredible finale:

Wanda was a tough act to follow. The Detroit Cobras did what they could to satisfy the crowd. Singer Rachel Nagy called on all of her attitude to burn threw about 12 songs... each about 2 minutes long

The final act of the evening was Instrumental Lucha Libre artists "Los Straitjackets". They did a good set... unfortunately, the sparse lighting on the main stage was barely able to keep the guys in view.
After that it was time for the all night movies on the big screen. I was able to watch about a third of The Blues Brothers before I had to get home. I did have to work on Labor Day. It was a shame I had to miss "Shanty Tramp".

See You Next Year?

Mr. Lonesome Don Gibson

2009-09-02T19:04:00.000-04:00

Don Gibson is a Country-Music legend. Although he was probably better-known for his song-writing skills than his singing. You've probably heard Ray Charles version of Gibson's "I Can't Stop Loving You". That tune was originally the B-side to Don's "Oh, Lonesome Me".

In fact, a good many of his songs dealt with loneliness.

Here's Lonesome Number One
by Don Gibson

C C7 F
Lonesome, number one
C G G7
Just call me lonesome, number one
C C7 F
Although no titles have I won
C G7 C
I surely must be lonesome number one

C
Every love I've had...
G7
has faded like a dew
C
Every one I wanted..
G7
has wanted someone new
C C7 F
Heartaches hang around they always come
C G7 C
I surely must be lonesome number one

C C7 F
Lonesome, number one
C G G7
Just call me lonesome, number one
C C7 F
Although no titles have I won
C G7 C
I surely must be lonesome number one

GUITAR SOLO (CHORUS CHORDS)

C
Seems I'm always losing...
G7
love just can't come near.
C
Just when love gets close...
G7
it always disappears.
C C7 F
Sorrow always keeps me on the run
C G7 C
I surely must be lonesome number one

C C7 F
Lonesome, number one
C G G7
Just call me lonesome, number one
C C7 F
Although no titles have I won
C G7 C
I surely must be lonesome number one

Al on Accordion

2009-08-26T17:05:00.000-04:00

I started taking according lessons back in 1969. Damn! I was 9 years old. The once-a-week lessons were in the annex of the Music and Arts Center at Congressional Plaza in Rockville, Maryland. Mac Cridlin was my teacher. He was a cool dude that drove a motorcycle and played bass professionally. I took classes for about 3 years I think.
I recently started back up and I'm enjoying it a lot.

Baby, We're Really in Love - Al on Accordion from Al Schrack on Vimeo.

Down in the basement.

DRIVE-INVASION '09

2009-08-24T12:00:00.001-04:00

It's coming soon!

Here's a look at last year's festivities!

And this is 2006

See you there, Sunday, September 6th.

"BRAND NEW" Wanda Jackson Video

2009-08-23T14:37:00.000-04:00

YouTube - Wanda Jackson - Tears will be the Chaser for your Wine

In 1967, Wanda hit the stage of the Grand Ole Opry for a TV appearance with host Archie Campbell. By that time in her career, Wanda had moved completely away from Rockabilly and had scored several country hits like: "In the Middle of a Heartbreak", "Right or Wrong" and "Tears will be the Chaser for your Wine".

Johnny Cash: B-Movie Star

2009-08-22T15:50:00.000-04:00

Back in 1961, Hollywood took a look at one of Country Music's rising talents and decided he should be "in pictures." A star was born with the film ->

FIVE MINUTES TO LIVE (a.k.a. DOOR TO DOOR MANIAC)

Johnny Cash gives a riveting performance as a vicious psycho killer who holds a banker’s wife hostage while his partner-in-crime masterminds the robbery. Legendary singer, songwriter, guitarist Merle Travis appears and Johnny sings the title song. Johnny Cash, Vic Tayback, Merle Travis, Ronny Howard, Pamela Mason, Cay Forester, Norma Varden.

Here's the trailer for the re-issued "Door to Door Maniac" (slightly more lurid title perhaps:

YouTube - Johnny Cash in "Door-to-Door Maniac" (trailer)

And here is the full-length feature edited down to a manageable ten minutes. Trust me... you don't want to sit through the whole thing!

YouTube - Johnny Cash in "Five Minutes to Live"

Very Early Kitty Wells Rare Video

2009-08-22T09:14:00.000-04:00

YouTube - Kitty Wells - Searching

From Purina's Grand Ole Opry show 1955... introduced by Roy Acuff. Howdy Forrester on fiddle.

Good Love! Janis Martin the Female Elvis

2009-08-19T19:51:00.000-04:00

YouTube - Janis Martin - Good Love

Boy... do I miss Janis Martin. As much as Wanda Jackson, she defined the female Rockabilly voice...

Saturday Night was Right

2009-08-18T21:59:00.000-04:00

Smith's Olde Bar

Saturday night, the whole gang was there for the "Atomic Rockets", and "Junior Dolan & Cash".

YouTube - Marty Robbins - Most of the Time (widescreen)

2009-08-18T21:52:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Blog!

YouTube - Marty Robbins - Most of the Time (widescreen)