Reminiscing Ramones
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Like so many in the rock world, I was completely saddened by the passing of yet another member of the Ramones, when Johnny Ramone lost his battle with cancer last month. Forever to be remembered for his bowl haircut and spread-leg stance on stage, the Ramones guitarist left behind legions of fans. Many of them were in attendance for the celebration of the Ramones 30th Anniversary, a star-studded event held at the Avalon and sponsored by super-cool radio station indie 103.1. I got there in time to see the Dickies kick off the show, followed by local heroes X. Host for the evening Rob Zombie kept the crowd amped by bringing on guest speakers such as Tommy Ramone sharing his memories of the group. Since Johnny Ramone’s illness kept him from attending, Zombie rang him up on his cell phone from the stage and let him hear the roar of the sold-out crowd. Nobody knew at the time that we would lose Johnny three days later, but it’s a slight comfort to know he got to hear for himself that the Ramones are still more popular than ever.
I caught the set by Johnny’s pal, Rooney singer Robert Carmine before I wandered upstairs to find glass cases filled with a coveted collection of Ramones memorabilia put together by the band’s long-time art director Arturo Vega. After catching up with fellow scribe Lina Lecaro and “Rock N Roll High School” director Allan Arkush, we raced back downstairs to witness a set by the Red Hot Chili Peppers who put out an utterly impressive performance. Not so impressive was Pete Yorn whose voice didn’t exactly fit the Ramones style of belting it out, but props to him anyway for the tribute. Between sets a big screen rolled out clips of Ramones videos, photos and documentaries that had the audience more fixated on the footage than socializing. The place really heated up when Marky Ramone and Rancid’s Tim Armstrong came out, followed by a surprisingly brilliant performance by Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder. The grand finale was clearly marked by an appearance by Sex Pistol/indie DJ Steve Jones and Henry Rollins who led the crowd through a ultra-energized set including “Blitzkrieg Bop” and a rowdy audience chant of “Hey Ho Let’s Go!”
The show was a touching and lively tribute to a band that changed rock ‘n’ roll forever, even if they never realized it in the moment. For those who couldn’t make the show, be sure to check the recently released documentary, “End of the Century: The Story of the Ramones,” directed by Jim Fields, which traces the band’s roots and influence with classic footage and candid interviews from Ramones members and circle of friends and family including Arturo Vega, former manager Danny Fields “Please Kill Me” co-author Legs McNeil, Joey Ramone’s brother Mickey Leigh, punk peers Blondie, the Clash and many more.
When living in a tourist destination such as Los Angeles, we tend to become numb to our surroundings and everything this city has to offer. But on one particularly hot LA night, I rediscovered gorgeous Malibu for a sunset dinner at Paradise Cove Cafe. Located on the famous surfer’s beach that once served as a set to movies and television shows, including “Gidget,” “Beach Blanket Bingo,” and “Malibu Run,” it’s a true pearl of Los Angeles living. Have a café cocktail outside at wooden tables, literally on the beach, and wiggle your toes in the sand as sun worshippers frolic in the water, or dine on ultra-fresh seafood with a picture perfect sunset view. After dinner, the beach area around the restaurant is perfect for a romantic stroll and snuggle as one of the few places in Hollywood where you have a crystal clear view of the stars — the ones in the sky that is!
Speaking of stars, I recently got the new solo CD from Tommy Stinson, “Village Gorilla Head.” The former bassist for the brat pop icons the Replacements and former bassist for the ever-procrastinating Axl Rose and his new GNR project (now almost 10 years in the works!), Stinson finally returned to his own singing and songwriting and continues to display his impressive talents. Harking back to his 1993 Bash and Pop release (one of my all-time favorite albums), Stinson again delivers his knack for infectious pop hooks, endearing self-depreciating lyrics, and wearing his heart on his plaid suit sleeve. He’s been making the rounds playing live including a recent show at Spaceland, check out his web site for 
upcoming dates in your area: www.tommystinson.com
I had a rollicking night of fun down in LA’s theater district when I caught one of the final performances of “Hairspray” the lively musical, based on the film by John Waters. Filled with music and some great comic moments, especially with actor Bruce Vilanch as Edna Turnblad, and a high-energy cast, including lead Marissa Jaret Winokur as Tracy Trunblad, the play was filled with great and poignant moments. I had a smile on my face the entire show, especially watching the groovin’ ’60s dance numbers and steal-worthy fashion looks from my favorite era.
If you missed Hairspray’s festive run in LA, catch it on Broadway in NYC or view scenes online at “www.hairsprayonbroadway.com“
And finally…
Are you pissed off about the war? Are you taking the risk of going without health insurance? Are you struggling because you can’t find a decent job? Don’t bitch, do something about it and VOTE! Get registered, get involved, make a donation to the candidate that supports your views. It’s the few minutes out of your day that CAN make a difference!
It’s time for a change to make the Whitehouse “cool” again. Deadline for voter registration in California ends October 18 and Election Day is November 2. Get out there and “Rock the Vote!“
Kerry on, K.
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