I recently emceed a very cool smart culture event for Blackberry's Playbook (digital tablet) at their pop-up shop in Chelsea. Not only did I conduct interviews with artist Peter Max, blues pianist Henry Butler, and indie band The Kin, but with two outstanding rock photographers -- Mick Rock and John Scarpati.
Mick is the more well-known of the two, having captured iconographic rock images from the late '60s through the '70s of Syd Barrett, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, David Bowie, Queen, Sex Pistols, Blondie, and more. But John has done amazing work as well, just during a different time period on the West Coast, more specifically L.A. bands during the '80s. Many folks have seen his photos of Fishbone, The Cramps (image left), Jane's Addiction, Poison, L.A. Guns, Social Distortion, Redd Kross, et al. He did album covers, press photos, magazine shots, and more. He was...
Mick is the more well-known of the two, having captured iconographic rock images from the late '60s through the '70s of Syd Barrett, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, David Bowie, Queen, Sex Pistols, Blondie, and more. But John has done amazing work as well, just during a different time period on the West Coast, more specifically L.A. bands during the '80s. Many folks have seen his photos of Fishbone, The Cramps (image left), Jane's Addiction, Poison, L.A. Guns, Social Distortion, Redd Kross, et al. He did album covers, press photos, magazine shots, and more. He was...
- 7/24/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
This song is for freedom fighters everywhere. It was inspired by Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land" and the simple phrase -- "it's about time" -- uttered by filmmaker and video director Ernie Fritz about the Occupy movement. MP3 available at Amazon, iTunes, et al.
Written & produced by Dusty Wright. Video produced by PetRock, Inc. and directed/edited/shot by Ernie Fritz. The song was mixed by David Lee and recorded by Danny Garcia at Arlene Grocery, NYC, 2012. Additional vocals recorded at Casa PetRock, NYC.
Dusty Wright - vocals & acoustic guitar, J.P. Bowersock - lead guitar, David Ashdown - electric guitar, Peppy Castro - bass guitar, David Lee - organ, Neil Nunziato - drums, Neil Scott Johnson & Terry Radigan - background vocals.
©2012 PetRock, Inc./Bmi. All rights reserved.
Written & produced by Dusty Wright. Video produced by PetRock, Inc. and directed/edited/shot by Ernie Fritz. The song was mixed by David Lee and recorded by Danny Garcia at Arlene Grocery, NYC, 2012. Additional vocals recorded at Casa PetRock, NYC.
Dusty Wright - vocals & acoustic guitar, J.P. Bowersock - lead guitar, David Ashdown - electric guitar, Peppy Castro - bass guitar, David Lee - organ, Neil Nunziato - drums, Neil Scott Johnson & Terry Radigan - background vocals.
©2012 PetRock, Inc./Bmi. All rights reserved.
- 7/8/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
While our managing editor Steve Holtje has done a bang-up job sharing phenomenal Jazz and Classical reviews, I thought I'd share some of my favorite new rock, pop, and soul picks for Summer 2012. It's time for BBQs and beach blanket bingo parties. Time to get your swag on, peoples.
"Radiator Sister" - The Mynabirds Generals (Saddle Creek) - Infectious, bubble-gum snappin' tunes abound on this sophomore long player from singer-songwriter Laura Burhenn. All aptly produced by Richard Swift, but for my limited ducats this iPod-friendly ditty is the bees-ness. Equal parts Bow Wow Wow and T.Rex, with its two-note piano hook.
"Among the Leaves" Sun Kil Moon Among the Leaves (Caldo Verde) - Mark Kozelek remains steadfast in his musical offerings; familiar turf, but still so damn compelling. Alt tunings, heartfelt ballads, and lyrical dexterity all remain firmly in place.The gentle tug of his band behind him keep...
"Radiator Sister" - The Mynabirds Generals (Saddle Creek) - Infectious, bubble-gum snappin' tunes abound on this sophomore long player from singer-songwriter Laura Burhenn. All aptly produced by Richard Swift, but for my limited ducats this iPod-friendly ditty is the bees-ness. Equal parts Bow Wow Wow and T.Rex, with its two-note piano hook.
"Among the Leaves" Sun Kil Moon Among the Leaves (Caldo Verde) - Mark Kozelek remains steadfast in his musical offerings; familiar turf, but still so damn compelling. Alt tunings, heartfelt ballads, and lyrical dexterity all remain firmly in place.The gentle tug of his band behind him keep...
- 6/19/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
A few weeks ago my friend Sal lamented that he would miss his annual pilgrimage to JazzFest this year. (Thanks, economy.) I thought at the time, who cares, we've got plenty of culture right here in the Big Apple. Plus I'd spent a long JazzFest weekend in 2004 the year prior to Hurricane Katrina's devastation. But as I rewind through this past weekend in New Orleans as part of the collective that descends annually to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, I was struck by the undeniable and infectious vibe of the event.
Back in New York, we think we know and own all culture. In many ways we do, and it is often measured by the media by how loud we bray and beat our collective cultured chests. And it's certainly one of the main reasons I moved here in 1981. Then the East Village music and art scene was second to none.
Back in New York, we think we know and own all culture. In many ways we do, and it is often measured by the media by how loud we bray and beat our collective cultured chests. And it's certainly one of the main reasons I moved here in 1981. Then the East Village music and art scene was second to none.
- 5/1/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Here's eleven of my favorite new rock tunes for your early spring listening pleasure. Enjoy the melodic sunshine, people.
"Eskimo Kiss" The Kooks Junk of the Heart (Astralwerks)
Not sure why my fellow critics insist on dropping the "sounds like The Strokes" tag on these Brits. And some scribes have whined they aren't "edgy" enough. So what. I hear more of The Kinks and The La's as reference points. And to me, that's much better company if you love more pop in your rock. Case in point, the infectious ear candy of "Eskimo Kiss," my pick hit from their latest long player (LP). Currently on tour in the U.S. of A.
"Stay At Home" Yellow Ostrich Strange Land (Barsuk)
Speaking of the Strokes...I hear more than a hint of their aggro-guitar pop rock in this very fine track from former Wisconsinite/current New Yorker Alex Schaaf. His newly...
"Eskimo Kiss" The Kooks Junk of the Heart (Astralwerks)
Not sure why my fellow critics insist on dropping the "sounds like The Strokes" tag on these Brits. And some scribes have whined they aren't "edgy" enough. So what. I hear more of The Kinks and The La's as reference points. And to me, that's much better company if you love more pop in your rock. Case in point, the infectious ear candy of "Eskimo Kiss," my pick hit from their latest long player (LP). Currently on tour in the U.S. of A.
"Stay At Home" Yellow Ostrich Strange Land (Barsuk)
Speaking of the Strokes...I hear more than a hint of their aggro-guitar pop rock in this very fine track from former Wisconsinite/current New Yorker Alex Schaaf. His newly...
- 3/7/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
As is the case every year, I start reading year-end lists posted by trusted peers/journalists and discover I've missed plenty of deserving culture. With the glut of films, music, theater, TV shows, books, et al. on numerous websites, TV screens, bookshelves, and periodicals, it's fairly easy. Truth be told, in addition to P.J. Harvey's much-deserved kudos, other women singers/songwriters/bands really stepped up their game this year, making many top ten year-end lists, and I missed out on discovering some of them. With that in mind, here's some additions to my 2011 year's end list.
St. Vincent: Strange Mercy (4Ad) - Quirky alt pop with flourishes of art rock and off-kilter guitar hooks. This Dallas-bred artist and former Polyphonic Spree guitarist/singer released her third and most favorably received album in 2011. Annie Clark has the look of an existential art girl who has known plenty of emotional scorn for her empowerment,...
St. Vincent: Strange Mercy (4Ad) - Quirky alt pop with flourishes of art rock and off-kilter guitar hooks. This Dallas-bred artist and former Polyphonic Spree guitarist/singer released her third and most favorably received album in 2011. Annie Clark has the look of an existential art girl who has known plenty of emotional scorn for her empowerment,...
- 1/25/2012
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Seems like the major labels will continue to mine the nostalgia angle with the hope that they can squeeze a few more ducats from aging music fans everywhere. Fine by me, if the music merits the "super-deluxe-never-before-heard-or-seen" treatment. And since I've been sucked into that black hole with the Dead, Stones, Rush, Hendrix, Jesus & Mary Chain, et al., I've missed some amazing music and culture this past year. No excuses now as I cram a full year's worth of culture down my gullet before Christmas. You can check out more of my favorite culture from 2011 in these Spring, Summer, and Fall articles.
Mia Doi Todd: Cosmic Ocean Ship (City Zen) - I was struck by her otherworldly vocals after copping her major label debut in 2002. Her ninth effort picks up where her critically acclaimed 2008 self-released effort Gea left off. And it's quite apparent that her time on the road opening...
Mia Doi Todd: Cosmic Ocean Ship (City Zen) - I was struck by her otherworldly vocals after copping her major label debut in 2002. Her ninth effort picks up where her critically acclaimed 2008 self-released effort Gea left off. And it's quite apparent that her time on the road opening...
- 12/25/2011
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
One of the coolest things about Macworld's past was always Steve Jobs' Apple keynote address at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. In 2007, I had the grand fortune of running the podcasting symposium for Macworld. That opportunity afforded me a "golden" ticket to witness Mr. Jobs in person was certainly something I will always cherish.
Being in the hall was exciting as any rock concert I've ever attended, and that includes seeing Led Zeppelin in '74 and The Clash in '79. Jobs was magnetic and dynamic in such a low key cool geek dude kinda way. The crowd was drinking the Koolaid by the buckets. (They had in the past, they would in the future.) After wowing us with the iPhone, a device that changed mobile handheld device for eternity, he rolled out John Mayer to play! Kudos to the marketing crew at Apple for targeting the geeks that...
Being in the hall was exciting as any rock concert I've ever attended, and that includes seeing Led Zeppelin in '74 and The Clash in '79. Jobs was magnetic and dynamic in such a low key cool geek dude kinda way. The crowd was drinking the Koolaid by the buckets. (They had in the past, they would in the future.) After wowing us with the iPhone, a device that changed mobile handheld device for eternity, he rolled out John Mayer to play! Kudos to the marketing crew at Apple for targeting the geeks that...
- 10/6/2011
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Check out the groovy vibe of the indie rock, Chicago-based sextet Scattered Trees. If you were a fan of Luna or dig Wilco, you'll dig them, too. No foolin'. Take a listen to "Love and Leave" and download it for free. But please buy the entire album Sympathy when it drops on April 5th via Roll Call Records/Emi.
peace, Dusty Wright
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peace, Dusty Wright
read more...
- 1/27/2011
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Culture Catch and Bennett Media Studio Present The Manhattan Monologue Slam! on Friday, October 23rd at 7:30pm at The Center.
Actors perform theatrical monologues in front of a panel of industry experts and a packed house. It's "Masterpiece Theater meets American Idol!" Come for the Championship Set, or sign up to perform 30 second Audience Actor Set or just come to watch!
Oct. 23rd Panelists: Adrienne Stern, Adrienne Stern Casting, Ed Bennett, Former CEO VH1, Dusty Wright, Co-Founder Culture Catch, Scott D. Edwards, Harden-Curtis Associates
Thanks to our fab sponsors from Jump Shoes, Izze, and Magnolia Bakery.
read more...
Actors perform theatrical monologues in front of a panel of industry experts and a packed house. It's "Masterpiece Theater meets American Idol!" Come for the Championship Set, or sign up to perform 30 second Audience Actor Set or just come to watch!
Oct. 23rd Panelists: Adrienne Stern, Adrienne Stern Casting, Ed Bennett, Former CEO VH1, Dusty Wright, Co-Founder Culture Catch, Scott D. Edwards, Harden-Curtis Associates
Thanks to our fab sponsors from Jump Shoes, Izze, and Magnolia Bakery.
read more...
- 10/20/2009
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Genius or Pop Culture Celebrity?
This episode Dusty and Ed discuss the impact of Michael Jackson on pop culture. Has his early demise pumped up his legacy or was he deserving? Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. (Sponsored by Sony.)
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
read more...
This episode Dusty and Ed discuss the impact of Michael Jackson on pop culture. Has his early demise pumped up his legacy or was he deserving? Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. (Sponsored by Sony.)
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
read more...
- 7/4/2009
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Twitter & Web Ads Dissected!
Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. This episode Ed and Dusty examine real and imagined effects of Twitter and On-Line Ads. Is it hype or part of our cultural fabric? (Sponsored by Podkive.)
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
read more...
Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. This episode Ed and Dusty examine real and imagined effects of Twitter and On-Line Ads. Is it hype or part of our cultural fabric? (Sponsored by Podkive.)
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
read more...
- 6/27/2009
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Culture Catch & The Center present a literary salon on Monday evening May 11th with one of Britain's most noted music critics, Barney Hoskyns. He'll read from his new Tom Waits bio Lowside of the Road: A Life of Tom Waits. The salon discussion will be moderated by Cc co-founder and host Dusty Wright.
This extraordinary event affords a select group of invited guests an unprecedented opportunity to meet Mr. Hoskyns and wax poetic about Mr. Waits. The evening begins with a private podcast interview by host Dusty Wright, followed by the Salon and a private concert by world-famous guitarist Gary Lucas performing Tom Waits covers.
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This extraordinary event affords a select group of invited guests an unprecedented opportunity to meet Mr. Hoskyns and wax poetic about Mr. Waits. The evening begins with a private podcast interview by host Dusty Wright, followed by the Salon and a private concert by world-famous guitarist Gary Lucas performing Tom Waits covers.
read more...
- 5/7/2009
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
Damien Hirst & Susan Boyle Called to Task!
Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. They'll discuss why you do or don't need to see, listen, or read the latest or lamest. This episode dissects artist Damien Hirst, Susan Boyle, and two favorite songs; "Venus in Furs" and Art Brut's "Moving to L.A."
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
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Subscribe to this short, topical podcast with Ed Bennett & Dusty Wright discussing the latest entertainment news plus favorite new songs, movies, art, theater, books and more. They'll discuss why you do or don't need to see, listen, or read the latest or lamest. This episode dissects artist Damien Hirst, Susan Boyle, and two favorite songs; "Venus in Furs" and Art Brut's "Moving to L.A."
Listen -- Subscribe -- iTunes
read more...
- 4/29/2009
- by Dusty Wright
- www.culturecatch.com
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