The great Brann Dailor of Mastodon graces the cover of November’s Modern Drummer, where you will also find my long-awaited article on Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden. Out to subscribers now, on newsstands everywhere October 6th!
Tag Archives: 2009
RIP Patrick Swayze
September 14 2009: Actor and classically trained dancer Patrick Swayze, star of the blockbuster films Dirty Dancing and Ghost has passed away in Los Angeles after losing his two year batter with pancreatic cancer. He was 57.
Remembering Guitar Legend Les Paul
Les Paul, inventor of the solid-body electric guitar, passed away on August 13th, 2009 at the age of 94, due to complications from pneumonia. This news makes me so sad, I can’t even think of anything to say about it right now, but you can read an obit from the New York Times at This Link.
Must-See Film of the Week: District 9
I’ve never been much of a fan of the Star Wars or Star Trek franchises of movie making, but I do love a good, straightforward science fiction film on the rare occasion that one makes it to the big screen. After what seems like a very long wait, that occasion has finally arrived. Last night Geoffrey and I were squealing like little piggies with excitement at a screening of the new Peter Jackson produced film, District 9; a film that everyone will be talking about. Directed spectacularly by first time director Neill Blomkamp, this film has a seemingly simple plot which unfolds into one of the deepest, most thought-provoking back stories I can recall seeing in a film in possibly decades. I fucking loved this movie. Continue reading Must-See Film of the Week: District 9
RIP Legendary Jazz Drummer, Jim Chapin
1919 – 2009 (Image Source)
I just found out late last evening that the legendary jazz drummer and educator Jim Chapin passed away last Saturday, July 4th, 2009 (Jim was the father of the late folk rock singer, Harry Chapin). Many of the world’s great drummers credit their skills in part to Jim’s teaching and his groundbreaking books, including Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer. At 89, Jim had a good long life; nevertheless, this is such a huge blow to the drumming community, and he will be sorely missed. There’s an excellent obit and recap of Jim’s life and career at this link. RIP, Jim!