Category Archives: TVD Los Angeles

Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

Now that you’ve found your paradise / This is your kingdom to command / You can go outside and polish your car / Or sit by the fire in your Shangri-la / Here is your reward for working so hard / Gone are the lavatories in the back yard / Gone are the days when you dreamed of that car / You just want to sit in your Shangri-la

Put on your slippers and sit by the fire / You’ve reached your top and you just can’t get any higher / You’re in your place and you know where you are / In your Shangri-la / Sit back in your old rocking chair / You need not worry, you need not care / You can’t go anywhere / Shangri-la, Shangri-la, Shangri-la

Nothing is ever truly perfect than a sunny, clear Friday morning in July. Well, let’s call it pretty fucking good. The weather in LA these past few weeks has actually been pretty ideal. Today we’re as lucky as we’ll let ourselves feel. Jonah went surfing with friends. Kid is turning 16 next weekend. I tired to take his photo but he said no and shushed me into the house for fear his buddies would see old rocker dad.

Meanwhile I’m absolutely over the moon to share my daughter’s new music project L’ESPIRAL. Over the past couple of years I’ve watched and listened to my lil “wild flower” turn her poems into songs and become quite the singer. Today’s debut release is a cover celebrating the one year anniversary of Sinéad O’Connor’s passing. Maybe it’s the Sidel way of ushering in a new “season of the witch.” Our country, our planet, needs you (females) to take charge!

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

I went to the market to realize my soul / ‘Cause what I need I just don’t have / First they curse, then they press me ’til I hurt / Rudie can’t fail / Okay! Okay!

So where you want to go today? / Hey, boss man! / You’re looking pretty smart / (Chicken skin suit) with your chicken skin suit / You think you’re pretty hot / (Pork pie hat) In the pork pie hat

Rudie can’t fail / Rudie can’t fail

I never seem to tire of cool rock bands like The Clash. Maybe that’s why, instead of relaxing on a Thursday evening, I’m up listening to old records, soothing myself with cool tunes, and creating this radio hour. I’m almost there. Where there is… might be at a relaxing poolside in a cozy lawn chair.

Rocking on. Happy Friday!

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The Rolling Stones delivered a masterclass in rock ‘n’ roll at SoFi Stadium on night one of a two-night visit to Southern California supporting their 2024 Hackney Diamonds release. From the moment Mick Jagger strutted onto the stage, clad in an eye-catching sequined jacket, to the first strains of “Satisfaction,” the band captivated a multi-generational audience with their timeless energy and magnetic stage presence. This show wasn’t just a concert; it was a testament to the enduring power of rock music and a vivid reminder that the Stones (at 60+ years as a band) in are still very much the Kings of Rock and Roll.

Opening Wednesday’s show at Sofi was Grammy nominated artist The War and Treaty. This husband and wife duo that has been blazing trails and making music since 2014, and they were a perfect fit to kick things off in SoFi. My favorites from the set were “Called You By Name,” “All I Wanna Do,” and of course my favorite “Blank Page.” While many classify the band as country, I walked away feeling they were a hybrid of that along with rock and blues. Their sound was amazing and left me wanting more when their eight song set ended. It was a perfect primer for what was next to come, The Rolling Stones.

The Stones 20-song setlist on Wednesday was a carefully curated journey through the band’s extensive catalog, kicking off with the unmistakable riff of “Start Me Up.” The crowd erupted, and from that point on, the energy in the stadium never waned. As Jagger emerged center stage (flanked by Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood), you could tell the Stones would be on point with an incredible energy and sonic presence that is truly second to none. At 80 years young, Mick Jagger has more stamina and energy than most bands in their early 30s and it isn’t even close. That’s not a brag, but fact.

Key moments from the evening included rousing renditions of “Tumbling Dice,” and “Paint It Black” (one of my all-time favorites). Another highlight was “Gimme Shelter,” which featured a killer duet with background vocalist Chanel Hayes. These two walking out hand in hand were simply amazing. And who can argue with one of the most recognizable Stones tracks of all time, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”? This one seemed to feature the entire group and highlighted to everyone in attendance what incredible stage presence this band actually has as a whole.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

Could I write a requiem for you when you’re dead? / “She had the moves, she had the speed, it went to her head” / She never needed anyone to get her round the track / But when she’s on her back / She had the knowledge / To get her into college / But when she’s on her back / She had the knowledge / To get her what she wanted

The stars of track and field, you are / The stars of track and field, you are / The stars of track and field are beautiful people.

Best to my British friends on tomorrow’s soccer match. I had recorded the game the other day and watched in bed after a long day of music business hustle. As my wife and kitty softly crashed, I laid back and watched the English football team hang on to a 1-1 tie.

Even though this game had been played hours prior, I tapped into the feeling of British origins of hope and suspense. In a small way I was walking a tightrope between glory and gloom.

Eighty minutes into the match, coach Gareth Southgate took a leap of faith and subbed a young player for team captain and “futbol” legend Harry Kane. At ninety minutes Ollie Watkins became a legend! It’s only soccer, but it’s nice to know a prevailing wind can change.

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The recent sold-out concert featuring Foreigner, Styx, and John Waite at the Honda Center in Anaheim was a night to remember, a true celebration of classic rock that brought together fans from all walks of life. The evening was filled with legendary hits, epic performances, and unforgettable moments as each band took to the stage to deliver a show that highlighted their enduring appeal and musicianship. This event not only showcased the bands’ iconic songs but also their ability to connect with the audience through music that has withstood the test of time. Pound for pound, one of the best rock shows I have seen in 24’ and it’s really not close.

John Waite kicked off the night, setting a high bar with his impeccable vocals and charisma. The 8-song set comprised classics from his solo work, The Babys, Bad English, and even a few covers. His renditions of hits like “Missing You” were poignant and powerful, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of rock’s great voices.

And Waite’s not just an amazing vocalist, but a consummate storyteller too which bleeds out on stage during every performance. And if you haven’t seen his 2022 documentary, John Waite – The Hard Way, you absolutely should. It’s one of the best I have seen in years and highlights in spades why John Waite is so loved by so many all around the world. Waite has always been one of my favorites, and his incredible performance didn’t disappoint on Friday night.

Styx took the stage next, igniting the venue with their dynamic presence and intricate musical arrangements. Their 11-song set was a perfect blend of rock anthems and ballads, with highlights including “Come Sail Away” and “Rockin’ The Paradise, and “The Best of Times.” The band’s energy was infectious, compelling everyone to stand, sing, and celebrate the timeless nature of their music.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

Fell into a sea of grass / And disappeared among / The shady blades / Children all ran over me / Screaming tag / Hey you are the one

He trips her as her sandals fail / She says “Stop I’m a girl / Whose fingernails are made of mother’s pearl” / Yellow buttercup helicopters / Orange buttercat chasing after / The crazy bee mad about somebody

Me and my girlfriend / Don’t wear no shoes / Her nose is painted pepper sunlight / She loves me / I mean it’s serious / As serious can be

I kept my nose to the grindstone and worked hard this week. After last night’s Presidential debate it’s very clear that our future is uncertain. Today I am going to thank my lucky stars and surround myself with amazing songs, cool old friends, and family.

I’m just gonna let “summertime roll” and paint my nose with pepper sunlight.

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On June 21st, metal-heads from all over the Southern California gathered at the Honda Center for The OC Hair Metal Meltdown. It was a dazzling spectacle that transported fans back to the golden era of ’80s hair metal (if we can call it that). This one-off show featured powerhouse performances by Great White, Quiet Riot, Slaughter, and Vixen, and the overall show was nothing short of a nostalgic feast for fans in attendance on Friday night.

As the lights dimmed, the crowd roared in anticipation as Vixen took the stage. Before kicking off their set, the iconic all-female band first introduced their newest member, vocalist Rosa Laricchiuta. After a rousing ovation from loyal fans who came early, Vixen kicked off their set with “Rev It Up” and there was no looking back from that point forward. They delivered an abbreviated 6-song set that was both electrifying and empowering. Hits like “Edge of a Broken Heart” and “Cryin'” showcased their enduring appeal and incredible musicianship.

Next up was Slaughter, whose energetic performance cranked the Honda Center to a whole new level after Vixen’s amazing performance. Mark Slaughter’s high-pitched wails and the band’s tight instrumentation brought classics such as “Up All Night” and “Fly to the Angels” to life. My favorite, however, was Spend My Life,” as it immediately transported me back to a time and place where all that was mattered was the music. Wow.

The crowd’s reaction to Slaughter’s set was overwhelming, with fists pumping and voices singing along to each and every song. And hats off to bassist Dana Strum. This guy was 100% energy from the very beginning and never dialed it back during their 9-song set of true Slaughter classics. Best-in-class performance on Friday and it wasn’t even close.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

Now when the water’s calm and everything is right / Ain’t no catfish gonna make us fight / Hold your sails to the wind and keep your ship in gear / ‘Cause if we sail together we got nothing to fear

You threw me your line and now you know I’m your bait / You got me hooked and line and sinker, let them other fish wait / Call me fin flappin’ mama who’s learnin’ to float / Hold on captain, you are rocking the boat / I need your power, it’s really outta sight / Let’s wade in the water where everything is right

Coming off the summer solstice and Juneteenth, there’s a bunch of stuff to “riff on” and dream about. I had a week filled with doctor and dentist check-ups booked months ago thinking I’d have the time once school broke for recess.

The week found my turntables bouncing from genre to genre. A client reminded me I turned her onto Marlena Shaw’s “California Soul.” When I dug the record out I ended up grooving on Shaw’s version of “Let’s Wade in The Water.” Now there’s a Juneteenth “spiritual.” Google says slaves used to use songs as instructions to escape to freedom.

I’m certainly looking for that “freedom.” Lord have mercy!

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Delivering a night of infectious tunes, Vampire Weekend mesmerized a crowd of 17,000 at the Hollywood Bowl on Wednesday night (6/12). 

Warming up the audience for the main event, The English Beat took to the stage with a reggae cover of The Staple Singers’ hit song “I’ll Take You There.” Serving up a hearty dose of nostalgia with their choice of tunes, it was impossible not to bop along as the stadium filled to capacity.

Formed in 2006, Vampire Weekend shot to fame with their 2008 debut album release, notably due to hits “A-Punk” (famously played by the band at Lollapalooza three times in a row) and “Oxford Comma.” Leaving a lasting imprint on the music industry, their Indie rock style with murmurs of a jam band are incredibly easy to listen to yet seemingly hard to replicate.

Kicking off their set with some fan favorite tunes from their 2010 album Contra, lead singer and guitarist Ezra Koenig, drummer Chris Tomson, and bassist Chris Baio graced the stage with charisma that only 20+ years of experience performing can bring. As their “Vampire Weekend” backdrop cascaded to reveal their full band, the energy continued to increase as the crowd watched, danced and sang on in awe.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

everyone loves you when you’re gone. / with five leaves left from the day / and no body wants to sing those songs / today it’ll be okay. / everytime your record skips / wish your drunk out of home / pushing and fighting with two fat lips / playing your fishes trombone / we’re all alone, cause no body cares. / so cmon love, cause no body wants to see you cry, kisses for the misses tonight.

Musically I’m all over the map this week. Old punk hippie indie sleaze baller. “Steady as I am.”

Last weekend my friend Archie and I rolled to SoCal’s latest festival No Values. Maybe for me it should have been called Nu Values. It was at the Pomona County Fairground and I’ve never seen such a big parking lot with so many fucking cars. They actually ran out of spaces by 4PM and had to park us on a race track! Although it was super long walk to the festival grounds, it was honestly pretty cool to drive and park on a raceway.

The festival-like week was filled with old friends. We watched our pals The Garden and found friends on the side of the stage watching The Damned. Some pals did a fine job playing in Iggy’s band, and Turnstile showed us why they are the rock band of the hour.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

The golden age of rock and roll will never die / As long as the children feel the need to laugh and cry / Don’t wanna wreck, just recreation / Don’t wanna fight but if you turn us down / We’re gonna turn you ’round / Don’t mess with the sound / The show’s gotta move everybody groove / There ain’t no trouble on the streets now / So if the going gets rough don’t you blame us

Oh oh oh gotta stay young you can never grow old / Oh oh the golden age of rock and roll

It’s no secret that I’m a highly emotional and over sentimental rock ‘n’ roller. As my 15 year old son Jonah barks at me, “Dad, you old hippie. What, you gonna cry? Fucking pussy.” He’s not far off, ha ha! It’s my DNA make-up and it’s become clear that songs have the ability to transport my emotional state to a time and a place.

These last couple of weeks I’ve been triggered by a playlist I compiled of favorite albums from 1974. It’s totally insane, surreal and frightening that I’m recounting summers past in the late 1970s, but it’s the first week in June. Final exams have been taken, books, pencils, and computers tossed to the side. There is an exhale of relief… and then joy. The joy of possibility. The freedom of youth. I feel it, like voices on the wind.

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WORDS AND IMAGES: CHRIS LOOMIS | Death metal in an arena . . . YES it happened in epic form on Saturday, May 25 as the Viking Metal Gods Amon Amarth made the final stop of their Metal Crushes All Tour 2024 at the 18,000 capacity Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. This culminated the 24-date trek across North America that had fellow Death Metal heavyweights Obituary and Cannibal Corpse in direct support with Dallas Texas youngsters Frozen Soul opening the show. This was without a doubt the must-see heavy metal event of the year.

With an early start at 6:30PM, Frozen Soul took the stage as fans were filtering into the venue, although the first third of the floor was already jammed packed with death metal die-hards. Vocalist Chad Green wasted no time getting the early-birds fired up as he belted out some serious guttural vocals and demanding the crowd to do push-ups in the pit. The band squeezed in seven killer songs in their short 30 minutes on stage and proved they are indeed part of the next wave of death metal giants to carry the metal torch for years to come.

Having toured with Amain Amarth on The Great Heathen tour in late 2022, Florida’s Obituary took the stage next with a seven-song set that weighed heavily on their latest album Dying of Everything. Opening with the killer instrumental “Redneck Stomp” then into the brutal track “Barely Alive,” John Tardy owned the stage with his unique Death Metal vocals. Tardy joined his brother Donald on the drums for the killer rhythms of “Slow Death” as the band proved their longevity in the death metal scene is not a fluke and that Obituary in 2024 is delivering their most brutal music and stage performances of their 30-year career.

Now things were about to get exponentially more brutal as Cannibal Corpse took the stage. From the first note of “Scourge of Iron” to the last beat of “Hammer Smashed Face,” Honda Center may have just experienced the most brutal performance in the venue’s 31-year existence. Vocalist George “Corpsegrinder” Fisher not only has the thickest neck in death metal, the most haunting, guttural voice in death metal, but he can headbang and do hair whips like no other human being can.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

A thin moon me in a smoke-screen sky / Where the beams of your love-light chase / Don’t move, don’t speak, don’t feel no pain / With the rain running down my face

Your matches still light up the sky / And many a tear lives on in my eye

Down in the city just Hoople and me / Don’t I love her so / Ooh Don’t I love him so

Hope you enjoyed Memorial Day weekend. My Idelic long weekend set was stymied again by tech issues on my computer, but thanks to a new friend my addiction to broadcasting continues. So here I am dropping records for imaginary lovers driving fearlessly into the desert night.

Being a Southern Californian, long summer weekends always have me reaching to classic rock for long drives. As I drove south, the radio was blaring hits from 1974—the year that found me wandering the streets of New York City. Record stores were plenty and essential. There was five shops within two blocks of our apartment.

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On Sunday night in front of a packed house at YouTube Theater, rude boys and rude girls from all over Southern California paid homage to ska legends Madness with hometown heroes Berlin and The Untouchables. The sold-out venue was electric from start to finish, with fans skanking to classic tracks all night long. With perfect acoustics and an incredibly lively fan base, the evening proved to be an unforgettable celebration of music that won’t soon be forgotten. Madness and their long-awaited C’est La Vie Tour was truly one for the ages.

The evening’s festivities kicked off with The Untouchables who immediately set the tone for the night with their unique blend of ska and soul. Their hometown performance was a high-energy spectacle that engaged the audience right from the start. Original vocalist Chuck Askerneese was on fire from the start and had the crowd skanking to hits like “I Spy (For the FBI),” “Mandingo,” and “Be Alright.” All these classics showcased their musical versatility and were incredible to catch live. However, it was “Free Yourself” that truly captivated everyone, with its powerful lyrics and infectious rhythm. The audience responded with enthusiastic dancing and loud cheers, setting an incredibly positive mood for what was to come next.

Following The Untouchables, Berlin took the stage and transported the audience back to the ’80s for a 9-song set of their classics—and it didn’t disappoint. Starting with back-to-back hits like “Masquerade” and No More Words,” the crowd was immediately captivated. Their rendition of “The Metro” (my favorite Berlin song) was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and the live performance of “Sex (I’m A)” was both provocative and captivating. However, my favorite track of the evening was their cover of The Cult’s “She Sells Sanctuary.” Wow. Berlin’s charismatic stage presence (courtesy of original members Terri Nunn, John Crawford, and David Diamond) was incredible and kept fans fully engaged from start to finish. And a special shout out to Carlton Bost. This guy’s guitar work is second to none and was so amazing to watch on Sunday night.

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Greetings from Laurel Canyon!

My my my I’m so happy / We gonna join the band / We are gonna dance and sing in celebration / We’re in the promised land

Oh, there is a train that leaves the station / Heading for your destination / But the price you pay to nowhere has increased a dollar more / Yes, it has! / And if you walk you’re gonna get there / And though it takes a little longer / And when you see it in the distance you will wring your hands and moan

Yesterday was the son’s last day of 9th grade. Unlike his “idelic rock ‘n’ roll dad,” Jonah is not very sentimental.

Oh, that feeling of racing home to drop the needle on Alice Cooper, throwing on my favorite t-shirt, and heading to the school yards to party with my crew.

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