PUNMASTER MusicWire by David Gross

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November 3, 2024

Whoa, Substack lightnin'
Shinin' just like gold
Why don't you hear me cryin'?
A-whoo-hoo, a-whoo-hoo, whoo

Musical Déjà Vu: Bob Dylan and the Quirky Sound of Rainy Day Women #12 & 35

Did you ever have one of those moments when a song comes on, and for a fleeting second, you’re convinced it’s something completely different? Like the opening riff of a classic rock anthem morphing into a jingle from an old commercial? Well, here's a musical brain-teaser that might just make you double-take: the opening of Bob Dylan’s “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” and Napoleon XIV’s “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!”

Let’s set the scene. It's the mid-1960s, a time when music was as experimental as it was expressive. Bob Dylan, the poet laureate of the counterculture, was pushing boundaries with every chord. Enter “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” from his seminal album Blonde on Blonde. With its rollicking, brass-heavy intro, it feels like a Mardi Gras parade on a strange and whimsical detour.

Now, dial the quirk factor up to eleven and you have Napoleon XIV’s novelty hit “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!” Released just a few months later in 1966, this oddball track has an opening that sounds like the soundtrack to a surrealistic comedy. You know, the kind where people are chased by invisible forces and the protagonist keeps looking over his shoulder in bemused paranoia.

Play these intros back-to-back, and it’s hard not to notice a certain, let’s say, sonic kinship. The repetitive, almost hypnotic percussion and the playful, yet slightly off-kilter rhythm of “Rainy Day Women” can make you wonder if Dylan had a bit of a whimsical moment himself.

It's not just the musical elements, but the vibe too. Dylan’s song famously includes the refrain, “Everybody must get stoned,” which has been interpreted in various ways, from biblical references to a cheeky nod to recreational activities. Meanwhile, Napoleon XIV’s number is all about descending into madness, which, in its own kooky way, isn’t far off from feeling like you’re in a reality that’s just one step to the left of normal.

Of course, this similarity is likely pure coincidence. Dylan, known for his deep dives into blues, folk, and rock traditions, probably wasn’t aiming to echo the novelty sounds of Napoleon XIV. But it’s these unexpected overlaps that make music such a fascinating landscape. It’s as if the universe decided to have a little fun, nudging us to look twice and listen thrice.

So next time “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” kicks off, let your mind wander. Imagine a world where Bob Dylan and Napoleon XIV share a stage, each bringing their unique brand of storytelling and musical mischief. And remember, in the grand, unpredictable playlist of life, sometimes the most delightful discoveries are the ones that make you go, “Wait, haven’t I heard this before?”

In the end, whether you’re being serenaded to get “stoned” in Dylan’s cryptic vernacular or whisked away to a padded room by Napoleon XIV’s cheerful yet chilling beats, one thing’s for sure: the 60s were a wild ride. And every time you catch that familiar opening, it’s a ticket back to a time when music was not just heard, but experienced in all its madcap glory.

Back in Overdrive: Randy Bachman and BTO Announce 2025 Canadian Tour with April Wine and Headpins

Rock and roll enthusiasts, get ready to rev your engines! The legendary Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO), famous for timeless hits like "Takin' Care Of Business" and "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet," have announced their highly anticipated Back In Overdrive Tour 2025. This extensive tour will see the band crisscrossing Canada in April and May, promising an electrifying experience for fans old and new. Joining them on this epic journey are fellow Canadian rock powerhouses, April Wine and Headpins. Tickets go on sale next Friday, November 8, so mark your calendars and get ready to rock.

Randy Bachman, the driving force behind BTO, has kept the band's spirit alive with relentless touring throughout 2024, concluding with a series of US dates next week. The current BTO lineup, featuring Bachman's son Tal Bachman, blends classic rock nostalgia with a contemporary twist, ensuring every performance is a high-voltage experience. This father-son duo brings a dynamic energy to the stage, celebrating the legacy of BTO and Randy’s previous iconic band, The Guess Who.

"Years ago, BTO rocked Canada coast to coast, sharing the stage with acts like ZZ Top," reminisces Bachman. "Now, we're excited to return, bringing along Canadian rock legends April Wine and Headpins. Get ready for a night of 70's classic rock that continues to dominate the airwaves. I'll be playing all the Guess Who and BTO hits with my band, BTO, and with April Wine and Headpins joining us, it's going to be an unforgettable evening. Crank up the hits! Canadian rock is back, and BTO is back!"

Randy Bachman's illustrious career as a guitarist, songwriter, performer, and producer has cemented his status as a rock legend. With over 120 gold and platinum albums and singles worldwide, his contributions to the rock genre are unparalleled. His songwriting prowess has topped radio playlists in over 20 countries, and his music has sold over 40 million records globally. Randy’s songs have been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless TV shows, films, and commercials, creating a rich soundtrack for the past three decades of popular music.

The Back In Overdrive Tour 2025 promises to be a monumental celebration of Canadian rock. With the combined talents of BTO, April Wine, and Headpins, this tour is set to deliver an unforgettable experience, reigniting the passion for classic rock across the nation. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic tour – grab your tickets on November 8 and get ready to rock!

Tour Dates: (Full list of dates and venues to be announced on the official BTO website and ticket outlets.)

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit BTO's official website.

New Music Releases

Willie Nelson - Last Leaf On The Tree

Willie Nelson, now in his seventh decade as a prolific songwriter, performer, and recording artist, remains a master of song interpretation. Throughout his extensive career, he has imbued a vast array of songs with his unique touch. In his 91st year, he brings us his 76th studio album and 153rd overall, Last Leaf On The Tree. This album features a selection of tracks from rock legends, distinctive singer-songwriters, alt-rock icons, and indie folk artists, creating a beautifully cohesive meditation on themes of loss, love, and resilient hope.

Produced with care by his son Micah Nelson, Last Leaf On The Tree showcases Willie's covers of moody indie rock (Beck), psychedelic alt-pop (The Flaming Lips), and folk-punk (Sunny War, Micah’s Particle Kid), alongside thoughtful soul jazz (Nina Simone) and hidden gems from legends like Tom Waits, Neil Young, Keith Richards, and Warren Zevon. The album also includes a new rendition of one of Willie’s earliest tracks (“The Ghost” from 1962) and a fresh collaboration with Micah (“The Color Of Sound”), adding to Willie’s repertoire of reflective classics.

Micah Nelson not only produced the album but also played many of the instruments and designed the album cover. The project features a host of celebrated musicians, with guest appearances from iconic producer and musician Daniel Lanois, The Doors' John Densmore, and harmonica virtuoso Mickey Raphael, who has been a mainstay in Willie’s band for over five decades.

Last Leaf On The Tree is a testament to Willie Nelson’s enduring talent and his ability to breathe new life into diverse musical works. This album is a celebration of his legacy and a demonstration of his openness to exploring new sounds and ideas, making it an essential listen for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Vanilla Fudge "Where Is My Mind - The Atco Recordings 1967-1969" 9CD Box Set

This definitive 9CD boxed set, titled "Where Is My Mind - The Atco Recordings 1967-1969", captures the complete works of Vanilla Fudge during their prolific period with Atco Records. Spanning their career from 1967 to 1969, the collection showcases the band's evolution from psychedelic rock pioneers to influential architects of heavy rock. Each album has been meticulously remastered from the original master tapes, offering fans an unparalleled listening experience.

The set includes:

• "Vanilla Fudge" (1967) - Both mono and stereo versions of their groundbreaking debut album, featuring their radical, slowed-down cover of The Supremes' "You Keep Me Hanging On," which became a US top 10 hit. The album also includes imaginative renditions of songs by The Beatles, The Zombies, and Curtis Mayfield.

• "The Beat Goes On" (1968) - Presented in both mono and stereo, this ambitious concept album integrates classical music with rock and features covers of Beatles songs and other 20th-century standards.

• "Renaissance" (1968) - Showcasing the band’s growing complexity and depth, with highlights like "Season of the Witch."

• "Near The Beginning" (1969) - Featuring the epic 23-minute "Break Song," recorded live, and showcasing their jam band prowess.

• "Rock & Roll" (1969) - Their final album for Atco, blending hard rock with soulful melodies, including tracks like "Need Love" and "Lord in the Country."

Additionally, the set includes a 2CD live recording from their New Year's Eve 1968 performance at the Fillmore West, capturing the raw energy and improvisational skills that made their live shows legendary. This live album features standout performances of "People Get Ready," "You Keep Me Hanging On," and an extensive medley incorporating "Moonlight Sonata" and "Eleanor Rigby."

Complementing the music, the set comes with an illustrated booklet featuring a new essay and exclusive interviews with band members Mark Stein and Carmine Appice, offering insights into the band's history, creative process, and lasting impact on the rock genre.

Vanilla Fudge, originally known as The Pigeons, formed in 1967 and quickly gained fame for their innovative approach to covers, transforming contemporary hits into heavy, psychedelic masterpieces. Their music left an indelible mark on the rock landscape, influencing bands such as Deep Purple with their heavy rhythms and powerful organ-led sound.

For fans of classic rock and newcomers alike, this boxed set is an essential addition to any music collection, capturing the essence of a band that helped shape the sound of late 1960s rock.

To Purchase: Cherry Red Records\

Hot Buttered Singles 1969-1972

Isaac Hayes' legacy as a pioneer in the world of Soul music remains undiminished sixteen years after his untimely passing at the age of 65. Renowned for his profound influence on the genre, Hayes' work with Stax's Enterprise label set the gold standard for what came to be known as 'symphonic soul.' His albums continue to captivate, their brilliance undimmed by the passage of time.

Hayes was more than just a master of the album format; he was a dominant force in the singles market as well. Between 1969 and 1976, he secured 16 consecutive R&B chart hits, many of which also achieved crossover success on the pop charts. While his biggest hits have been anthologized before, "Hot Buttered Singles" breaks new ground by presenting the A and B sides of all of Hayes' 'Yellow Stax'-era singles in their original, chronological order. This comprehensive collection features several tracks making their CD debut, offering a fresh experience even for long-time fans.

"Hot Buttered Singles" is more than just a musical journey; it's a meticulously crafted homage to Hayes' genius. Each track is presented as it was originally heard on soul and pop radio stations over fifty years ago, capturing the authentic sound that made Hayes a household name. The collection is extensively annotated and beautifully illustrated, reflecting the high esteem in which Hayes is held. Available on both CD and double vinyl, this release is a fitting tribute to an artist whose impact on Soul music is immeasurable. Isaac Hayes' "Hot Buttered Singles" is a treasure trove for both new listeners and devoted fans, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the work of one of Soul's most iconic figures.

Bolan Boogie: The Very Best Of T.Rex

The reissue of T. Rex's definitive collection on double vinyl LP is a celebration of a band that defined an era and set the stage for the glam rock movement of the 1970s. Fronted by the charismatic Marc Bolan, T. Rex captivated audiences with their electrifying performances and groundbreaking sound, becoming a phenomenon akin to Beatlemania. This compilation, aptly titled "Bolan Boogie," brings together 36 tracks that highlight the band's meteoric rise and enduring legacy.

"Bolan Boogie" is a treasure trove of hits and deep cuts that showcase T. Rex's versatility and Bolan's genius. The collection spans the peak years of the band's career, from 1970 to 1977, featuring anthems that topped the UK charts and resonated with fans worldwide. Among the standout tracks are the number-one hits "Hot Love," "Get It On," "Telegram Sam," and "Metal Guru," alongside other iconic songs like "Ride A White Swan," "Jeepster," "Children Of The Revolution," and "Solid Gold Easy Action." Each track is a testament to Bolan's ability to blend rock, pop, and a touch of the otherworldly, creating a sound that was uniquely T. Rex.

The album also includes megahits such as "20th Century Boy," "I Love To Boogie," and "The Groover," tracks that not only defined a generation but continue to influence artists today. "20th Century Boy," in particular, will be featured in a major Absolut Vodka campaign starting in the summer of 2024, reaffirming the song's lasting impact.

Beyond the music, T. Rex's influence can be seen in popular culture, with their songs appearing in films like "Hot Fuzz" ("Solid Gold Easy Action"), "Billy Elliot" ("Cosmic Dancer"), and Quentin Tarantino's "Death Proof" ("Jeepster"). These appearances underscore the band's pervasive influence and the timeless appeal of their music.

This reissue of "Bolan Boogie" is more than just a compilation; it's a celebration of Marc Bolan's legacy and T. Rex's place in the pantheon of rock history. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, this collection offers a chance to experience the magic of T. Rex in its most definitive form. The double vinyl format ensures that the sound quality is as vibrant and dynamic as Bolan's performances, making this a must-have for any music lover's collection.

A blast from the past…

Grateful Dead England 1970 (The Lost Film)

The lost documentary of the Grateful Dead's first trip to England in May of 1970. As the story goes, the camera crew was dosed during filming and the project was abandoned. Leaving the film in a rough unfinished state.

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It's time to get down to the Main Gazane with Big Dave!

Big Dave Presents:
The Saturday Night Album Trax

Saturdays 9-10 pm on the KRUSH 95.9 FM

BREAK OUT THE HEADPHONES!
Hosted by Big Dave, the Saturday Night Album Trax features some of the greatest albums ever recorded. Deep cuts, live albums, extended tracks, rarities and themes. Plus get the background and inside stories on these classic albums.

These are the good old days!

STREAM IT LIVE at KRSH.com

TODAY'S EASY BAKE TRIVIA QUESTION

Six months before folk-rock became a national sensation with groups like The Byrds and Buffalo Springfield, this group was written up in the Los Angeles Times and pegged as being a “folk-rock” group.

The answer will appear in the next MusicWire...

The trivia question from the last MusicWire was:

What’s the connection with these artists?

Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Band, Grateful Dead, Mountain, Johnny Winter, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Melanie, The Paul Butterfield Blues Band. 

ANSWER: They all played the Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 1969, BUT did not appear in the theatrical release!

THIS DAY IN MUSIC

You Can Quote Me On That…

"I think it is just terrible and disgusting how everyone has treated Lance Armstrong, especially after what he achieved, winning seven Tour de France races while on drugs. When I was on drugs, I couldn't even find my bike."
- Willie Nelson

“You start out playing rock ‘n’ roll so you can have sex and do drugs. But you end up doing drugs so you can still play rock ‘n’ roll and have sex.” - Mick Jagger

I've been through more cold turkeys than there are freezers." - Keith Richards

"Mick needs to know what he's going to do tomorrow. Me, I'm just happy to wake up and see who's hanging around. Mick's rock, I'm roll." -Keith Richards

"I don't know anything about music, In my line you don't have to." - Elvis Presley

"I opened the door for a lot of people, and they just ran through and left me holding the knob." - Bo Diddley

"The only Maybelline I knew was the name of a cow." - Chuck Berry

"A lot of fellows nowadays have a B.A., M.D., or Ph.D. Unfortunately, they don't have a J.O.B." - Fats Domino

"It's not the size of the ship; it's the size of the waves." - Little Richard

"Hippies? Why, I'm the original." - Jerry Lee Lewis

"The older I get, the harder to get around....gravity's got me down." - Barry Goldberg

“I'm one of those regular weird people.” - Janis Joplin

"There are more love songs than anything else. If songs could make you do something we'd all love one another." - Frank Zappa

"I've always felt that blues, rock 'n' roll and country are just about a beat apart." - Waylon Jennings

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

"Rock is so much fun. That's what it's all about -- filling up the chest cavities and empty kneecaps and elbows." - Jimi Hendrix

"I taught them everything they know, but not everything I know." - James Brown

"David Gross (Punmaster's MusicWire) is the Arianna Huffington of music news!" - Barry "The Fish" Melton

"The older you get, the better you were!" - Leslie West

"It's much too late to do anything about rock & roll now ..." - Jerry Garcia

"Albert King wasn't my brother in blood, but he sure was my brother in Blues" - B.B. King

"More bass." - Jerry Wexler

"I'm as country as a dozen eggs." - Elvin Bishop

"I liked the first sixties better...." - Al Kooper

"I still have all my vinyl. You can’t roll a joint on an iPod.” - Shelby Lynne

"I think I just killed somebody." - Phil Spector

"The problem with history is, the folks who were there ain't talking. And the ones who weren't there, you can't shut 'em up." - Tom Waits

"The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side." - Hunter S. Thompson

"I want my more money & I want my more fame" - Chubby Checker

"When you don't know where you're going, you have to stick together just in case someone gets there." - Ken Kesey

"I smash guitars because I like them." - Pete Townshend

"It's a good thing I had a bag of marijuana instead of a bag of spinach. I'd be dead by now." - Willie Nelson

"Rock journalism is people who can't write interviewing people who can't talk in order to provide articles for people who can't read." - Frank Zappa

"You can learn something, both good or bad, watching any guitar player. You learn what to do or what not to do. Over the years I've learned things from Carlos, Mike Bloomfield, Clapton, George, Garcia, Knopfler and let's not forget Robbie Robertson." - Bob Dylan, 2002

"There 'is' a difference between rock and rock and roll; beware of inferior imitations (avoid contact with any musician who doesn't know how to play Chuck Berry music)." - Cub Koda

"This heah is Rufus Thomas....I'm young and loose and full of juice. I got the goose, so what's the use." - Rufus Thomas

"Mike Love, not war." - Scott Mathews

"I have outlived my dick" - Willie Nelson (2008)

"Anybody with a trade can work as long as they want. A welder, a carpenter, an electrician. They don't necessarily need to retire...Every man should learn a trade. It's different than a job. My music wasn't made to take me from one place to another so I can retire early." - Bob Dylan