ELP Digest 4 July 2006 Volume 16: Issue 5 The "We've the most amazing show" Edition Special Tour Review Edition - Carl Palmer Band (April 29, 2006) - News Release: Carl Palmer & His Band (May 10, 2006) - Carl Palmer Review (May 26, 2006) - Carl Palmer - Toronto Review (May 28, 2006) - my Carl Interview (June 2, 2006) - CP Concert (June 3, 2006) - CP - CLE pics link from 6.9.06 (June 11, 2006) - Carl Palmer Band Rocks Portland (June 18, 2006) - 2006 Tour Pictures (Keith Emerson Band) (June 21, 2006) - Carl Palmer and Keith Emerson Live 2006 (June 21, 2006) - Emerson/Wakeman photos (June 23, 2006) - Keith Emerson Band - comments and memorabilia (June 23, 2006) - Carl Palmer at the Galaxy Theatre (June 24, 2006) - The KE Band @ The Chance & Tarrytown Music Hall (June 28, 2006) - Keith Emerson Band (June 28, 2006) - MoogFest Review (June 28, 2006) - Review - The Carl Palmer Band (July 2, 2006) Miscellaneous News - A couple of Korg webpages (June 29, 2006) - ELP featured on radio show "The Classical Connection" on July 6 (June 30, 2006) - Date Change (July 2, 2006) - Asia: Original Members Re-Unite For 2006 /2007 World Tour (June 28, 2006) =========================== Prelude =========================== Hi. As mentioned in Vol. 14, #4, this issue (#5) is a companion issue that focuses on commentary and reviews of the current Carl Palmer Band and Keith Emerson Band tours. Enjoy! - John - =========================== Special Tour Review Edition =========================== From: Sue Wealands Sent: Saturday, April 29, 2006 8:56 PM To: elp-digest Subject: Carl Palmer Band Having read Wendell's squeaks of delight at the thoughts of seeing Carl (& Keith) at close range, I thought I'd make you pea-green! I live in Newcastle-upon-Tyne (North-east England) & went to see Greg on 2 November 2005 at the City Hall. As you will have read in the Digest at the time, Greg's show was very poorly supported in the UK - great shame as he was brilliant. After the show, he AND the band came into the auditorium to chat, sign autographs & pose for photo's. Excellent show & great bloke. We also heard that Carl was due to play 26 November 2005 in Sheffield (about 150 miles away). Tickets were the princely sum of £16 sterling. The venue (Boardwalk) was miniscule - possibly 200 capacity; not even a theatre - more of a large room with a bar. We stood right at the front with our drinks on a speaker cabinet, maybe 5 feet away from the man himself! Thought I'd died & gone to Heaven! Just to top it all off, Carl came out after the show, chatted with folks, signed autographs & posed for photo's. If you enjoy it half as much as we did, you're in for a rare treat. Enjoy it, my friend, & savour the memories. Sue Wealands --------------------------------------------- To: ELP-Digest From: elptony Date: 10 May 2006 Subject: News Release: Carl Palmer & His Band For Immediate Release May 10, 2006 Carl Palmer & His Band Prepare To Embark On Historic 32 City 2006 North American Tour Rock legend will offer an entire evening of his music from his years with EMERSON LAKE & PALMER. Carl Palmer, among the most celebrated drummers in Rock History, is preparing to embark on his first solo North American tour with his own band. Entitled: "Carl Palmer & His Band - Celebrates The Music of Emerson Lake & Palmer," the show features bold new arrangements of many of the best-loved instrumental music of ELP. The tour runs from May 24th through July 3rd 2006 and will include 32 shows in the US and Canada. "I am very excited to be returning to the US and Canada with my new solo band performing an evening of ELP music," says Palmer. "I will be returning with another power trio, but this time, we have replaced the keyboards with electric guitar. I felt that was the only honest way to approach the music of ELP. I didn't want to have a singer trying to sound like Greg Lake. ELP did so much instrumental music, this format made sense to me. Hearing the keyboard parts done on guitar will certainly surprise many fans, I think." The group, which features Palmer on drums and percussion; guitarist Paul Bielatowicz and bassist Stuart Clayton; will serve up an evening of classic ELP music, presented with exciting and innovative new versions. An all-instrumental show, "Carl Palmer Celebrates The Music of ELP" promises to be among the most musically compelling live shows of 2006. Palmer has released three solo albums since the last ELP tour 1998. They are: DO YA WANNA PLAY?, a 2 CD anthology and WORKING LIVE VOL 1 and Vol 2. They have all been released on Sanctuary Records. What began as a modest 4 week "re-introduction" into America Tour, has mushroomed into 32 shows and six weeks covering much of Canada and the United States. "I have been performing with this band for the last five years all over Europe," says Palmer. "Now, the time has come to bring this music back to the part of the world where I have always had my biggest success." Palmer is planning on meeting fans after each show and signing merchandise at most venues. "I want to get close to my fans once again," says Palmer. "There are so many of them out there who are really heartfelt and have supported me through my entire career. I very much look forward to bringing it all back around again in intimate venues." The Carl Palmer Band will play nearly two hours and drum enthusiasts can expect an evening of compelling percussive theatrics, from the man who brought the drum set to the forefront of rock n roll music. FOR ALL THINGS CARL PALMER: www.carlpalmer.com --------------------------------------------- From: DOUGLAS SMITH Sent: Friday, May 26, 2006 10:24 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Carl Palmer Review Hi John, I was fortunate to catch Carl Palmer's opening show of his North American tour in Hamilton, Ontario CANADA on May 24th and would like to provide the following review for your readers. I'm by no means a professional reviewer put just a fan of Carl Palmer and the music of ELP. Anyone with any sense of fondness to ELP is strongly encouraged to go to the show and experience a true legend in an up close and personal setting - they won't be disappointed. THE CARL PALMER BAND Hamilton Place Theatre Wednesday, May 24, 2006 A locomotive roared through Hamilton Place Theatre last Wednesday conducted by legendary percussionist Carl Palmer with Paul Bielatowicz on lead guitar and Stuart Clayton on bass. Simple, yet powerful, the band delivered most of the material from Palmer's Working Live, Volumes 1 and 2 albums that included instrumental ELP pieces such as Barbarian, Trilogy, Tarkus (Eruption / Aquatarkus) and Hoedown as well as Carl Palmer pieces such as LA Nights and Carmina Burana. Palmer was extremely personable and made a true effort to connect with the audience by introducing each song and providing some interesting and oftentimes humourous background. References were made to contributions and involvement from his former band mates Greg Lake and Keith Emerson, always in a positive manner. This effectively embraced the true spirit of the show being billed as "A Celebration of ELP Music." ELP fanatics will say that it is impossible to do justice to any ELP renditions without keyboards, however last nights show adequately demonstrated what we have known from listening to the aforementioned Working Live Volumes 1 and 2, that the virtuosity of lead guitar Bielatowicz with the bass support of Clayton would put a very favourable spin to the music. It is a bit of a different taste but one that brings to mind the question of what ELP would have been like had the rumoured alliance with Jimi Hendrix taken place. Likewise, the lack of vocals was more than compensated by Palmer's drumming. Critics of Love Beach would be silenced with the band's performance of Canario. Tocatta, taken from the Brain Salad Surgery album was executed in all its haunting splendour but the highlight of the show was certainly Fanfare For A Common Man that included one of Palmer's signature drum solos. As well as explosive force and delicate touch, the man still has the blurring speed and dexterity to leave the impression of multiple Palmers and multiple sticks working his drum kit. The only things missing were his gongs that emblazoned with Chinese dragons would at one time resonate throughout the hall during his solo. Nonetheless, the audience showed their appreciation with a standing ovation that continued and brought the band onstage for a well deserved encore. When once during the stadium filled heyday of ELP, Carl Palmer and his revolving drum kit would be situated deep in the stage, this tour brings him to the front of the stage up close and personal with his audience. The venues provide a unique opportunity to experience the music and artistry of a true legend. Carl Palmer was simply outstanding and after speaking with him briefly after the show, it was evident that he had left nothing in the "Tank" yet the personable nature to the show continued when Palmer emerged after the show to greet his fans and sign memorabilia. For this, he must not only be recognized as one of the best percussionists out there but also respected as a consummate professional. Doug Smith, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA --------------------------------------------- From: organicturf Sent: Sunday, May 28, 2006 10:55 PM To: elp-digest-request Subject: Carl Palmer - Toronto Review I am sending this review in support of the Carl Palmer Band. I recommend that if you have a chance, don't hesitate to see the show. You will not be disappointed! The Carl Palmer Band Lee's Palace Toronto, Ontario, Canada May 26 2006 I attended the Carl Palmer Band show at Lee's Palace in Toronto and I found it to be electrifying ! The show started around 11:30pm, perking up the patrons, right from the first beat of the drums. ..... Starting with Peter Gunn was fantastic, loved it ! Everyone liked it so much that several people were asking if it was recorded on any of the CD's being sold at the merchandise table. Lee's Palace being a small venue made the show intimate and personable. Due to the fact Carl introduced every song, as well as giving a little history on some songs, was a nice touch. The crowd was mesmerized by the music, not believing a guitar could replace an organ in some of the ELP songs. However, they were most impressed by Carl himself, how fast and agile he is. He did not disappoint his fans for a second. They quite enjoyed the new renditions of Tocatta, Tank and Tarkus. Due to the late start time, the show did seem a bit rushed, however at the end of the show, after 5 minutes of thunderous clapping and cheering from the crowd, the band came back on stage, delighting everyone with an encore. All customers purchasing merchandise were advised that Carl would be available for autographs after the show. Once again Carl did not disappoint anyone, signing his last autograph around 1:30am. I spoke to Carl, I found him to be very down to earth and personable. What a wonderful way to end a perfect evening. I truly hope I get another opportunity in the future to see this band. I could never get tired of their sound ! Linda, Toronto, Ontario, Canada --------------------------------------------- From: musicallyrics Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 2:37 PM To: arnold Subject: my Carl Interview Hi, This is going to be on the NEWears (newears.org) site in a couple of days. I thought I would send you a copy for the Digest. This venue in Arlington sounded amazing. It was full and everyone is going to be at Keith's show too! It is going to be incredible. Carl was a wonderful host and very kind as always. Thanks, Carla CARLA'S CORNER - NEWEARS.ORG The Carl Palmer Interview -BOSTON MA MAY 2006 What can you say about the legendary drummer, Carl Palmer? Absolutely the consummate musician! Carl is a seasoned veteran of super groups like Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Asia, Atomic Rooster and Arthur Brown. His pioneering work in progressive music led to much of the advancement and high technology that drummers enjoy today. Carl's mix of classical, jazz and rock backgrounds brought his drum-kit out from the background shadows and led to a whole new role in percussion. If you ever get a chance to listen to one of Carl's admitted favorites, Brain Salad Surgery, you will hear the incredible synthesized percussion during Ginastera's "Tocatta" that Carl broke ground with. I have been privileged to watch Carl in action since I was a young girl. The man is as good today as he was 20 years ago. His lightning fast work on the foot pedals still never ceases to amaze me! His recent tour with younger musicians Paul Bielatowicz on lead guitar, and Stuart Clayton on bass has really showed that Carl can still hold his own in any band. Carl Palmer's latest cd, Working Live 2 features a lot of his new arrangements of past ELP music and even though his guitarists were too young to remember ELP live, they do an amazing job of balancing out Carl's intense drum work and are bringing new life into the older music. Carl's show at the Regent Theatre was a night to remember. Classy, talented and now working in helping to spread the gift of music to disabled schoolchildren around the world, Carl Palmer has always been the drummer's drummer. It's been eight years since Carl has played in the US. If you haven't seen him on this tour, you still have a chance to catch him on the upcoming Asia reunion tour. A busy man, Carl graciously took time before his show to speak to us at NEWears...... NEWEARS: You are known as a world-class drummer and member of some of the greatest bands of the past 40 years. You also have another side to you and have been working holding drum clinics for schoolchildren in the UK and have a special interest in teaching disabled children. How did you get involved in this work? CARL: Originally I started to hold drum clinics at music shops and private schools. I helped develop a program for first teaching the disabled, as in blind, and then deaf children, music. Some of these children are so talented. We have classes in which there are groups of about 50 students in a class. We never mix disabilities though as it makes it more difficult to teach. The blind students can still enjoy playing the music and do quite well, the deaf students have a different program in which they have to rely on touch, visuals and sensitivity to pressure and vibrations help them relate to this. We instruct all the students to even take off their shoes and have bare feet so that they can pick up the vibrations through the floor. It's really incredible what these kids can do. NEWEARS Notes: Carl while currently on tour delighted the children at the local Beachmont Middle School in Revere, MA. Many of the young students were present at his performance in Arlington the next evening. NEWEARS: This work has obviously changed the lives of these children, but how has it changed you and touched your heart? CARL: Well as I said, we started off holding clinics in shops etc. and the interest was there and I found I really enjoyed it. We went off to some of the private schools and it was a great thing to meet all these people, the teachers, students etc. and it went out from there. NEWEARS: You may have heard that many of the schools in the US are now cutting out their music programs in favor of sports programs. Being that you are an athlete as well as a musician, do you have any particular insight into this problem? CARL: Well I really don't know how they work things in the American school system, but in the UK we have specialized schools at a fairly early age so that if a child is interested in music he can attend a school that has what he likes. If someone is interested in studying music, then they have the choice of attending school in a different borough if they have to. NEWEARS Notes: Carl has always had an active lifestyle as well as his physical demands with his music. He is accomplished in the martial arts as well as an accomplished fencer. NEWEARS: I heard that Asia is coming back with a new concert tour, and a more progressive sound. Can you tell me what will be different with the new music and dynamics of Asia at this time? CARL: Well this is going to be an Asia Anniversary tour. There will be no new music, no new cd's, just strictly a tour celebrating the anniversary of the band. As far as the dynamics go, I really don't know, as we haven't played together yet, we shall see won't we? (smile) NEWEARS Notes: Stay tuned to the Asia website for details on the upcoming US tour. NEWEARS: Your recent tours have been focused on smaller venues as opposed to larger concert halls of the past. Do you prefer the intimate setting of the smaller venues or the larger arena crowds. CARL: Well actually the arena's make a lot more money. (laughs). It actually makes no difference to me, I can't see more than the first few rows from where I am anyway. (more laughs) NEWEARS: Desert Island Question- One cd, one book, one food, that's all you can have, what would they be? CARL: Oh wow, this is tough, hmmm one cd.....Steve Winwood "Arc of a Diver. One book? Let's see, how about a years supply of National Geographic? Hmmm, food, that's hard, I eat mostly anything really. NEWEARS: Well what couldn't you do without? I personally know you like chocolate yogurt! CARL: Yeah, that's it, chocolate! Couldn't live without chocolate. I think they sell M&M's here somewhere when we came in? NEWEARS Notes: At the end of the evening I parted with my own personal stash of M&M's and gave them to Mr. Palmer as he never eats before a performance and the lobby shop had closed. NEWEARS: Your new cd, Working Live 2 is out. What cuts on that cd proved to be the most challenging? CARL: Well nothing really. We just wanted to do some different arrangements of Emerson Lake and Palmer music and we had a great time doing it. NEWEARS: OK, this quick and painless interview is now over and it is time for the end... In 30 words or less finish this statement....Carl Palmer is _______________________, and don't you dare say tired! (laughs) CARL: Yeah, tired...(laughs) Carl Palmer is ...happy! I am doing a job I love, I can make my own hours, travel around the world. I find it very fulfilling actually. I want to be part of leaving a legacy. Making a difference in the world. Leaving some sort of legacy is very important to me. I am very happy. NEWEARS: You certainly are leaving a legacy, and not just in your music, but in your work at educating these children. You are giving the gift of music to future generations and touching people's lives. Thank you so much Carl for sharing just a bit about this great work and I hope you have a really great time on your tour! NEWEARS NOTES: DON'T FORGET THAT KEITH EMERSON WILL BE OUR GUEST AT THE REGENT THEATER ON JUNE 26, 2006. THANKS, TO CARL FOR AN OUTSTANDING EVENING AND INTERVIEW! --------------------------------------------- From: Wendell Wickerham Sent: Saturday, June 03, 2006 9:17 AM To: John E. Arnold Subject: CP Concert From the front lines in Boston. It was a great two days for this fan here in greater Boston! Of course, the highlight was Carl's show here in Arlington at the intimate (300 seats) Regent Theater (site of Keith's upcoming show at the end of June). But the day before that, I was invited to attend a "semi-private" show put on by the students at the Beachmont School in Revere, MA. Tom Maffucci, a music teacher at the school, leads a group of students in a percussion based orchestra that plays the music of ELP. When Tom heard of Carl's impending trip to the Boston area, he made a call to the promoter - on a lark - asking if Carl would be interested in coming to hear his kids play... ...and the next thing you know, Carl accepted! You can read all about the day at the following link: http://www.revereps.mec.edu/palmer.html Carl, and band members Paul and Stuart, all listened intently, and then, during the orchestra's rendition of "Rondo", Carl got up out of his seat and sat down at a drum kit all set up by Tom (just in case), and proceeded to trade licks with the orchestra's drummer (who was pretty hot in his own right!). A really wonderful Q&A followed, and demonstrated to this observer that Carl truly is a down to earth guy who is sincerely in interested in music for its own sake, and everyone's enjoyment of it, with no pretensions, and no ego at all involved. I suspect that he left there as impressed with these kids and the work that Tom has done with them, as those kids and parents were charmed and thrilled at CP's interest and sincerity! And then there was Wednesday evening... It's been over 20 years since I saw ELP live the last time, and of course, it was from quite a distance. Now, it was about 30 feet away! Carl has lost none of his technical prowess, and for a fellow his age (only 3 years my senior!), incredibly impressive. Unbelievable, in fact. The show was loud - dare I say almost too loud, and this from a hard core concert goer! But that aside, no complaints. Paul Belatowitz (Carl kidded that he was only 16 years old - 26 is the truth!) is quite amazing. His guitar chops are a perfect complement to Carl's rapid-fire, technically stunning drumming. Stuart Clayton was no slouch either by any stretch! Both he and Paul had a long interlude half way through the show while Carl took a break, and played some amazing jazz fusion, and both tore the place up with flurries of torrid licks, before CP re-joined and finished out the show. Carl stepped away from his kit after every tune to chat with the audience and introduce the next song, which was a great touch! Self-deprecating and amusing. Show began with Peter Gunn, ran through a variety of tunes from ELP's catalogue (I didn't take notes, but Toccatta, Tank, and a variety of others filled the bill) and ended with a resounding Tarkus followed by Fanfare for the Common Man, during which CP pulled off yet another classic solo, leaving the crowd with what they came to hear! An encore of (I don't recall - too musically sated, I guess!) and the night was done. But Carl and the guys were not. After about 10 minutes, they reappeared and signed autographs and chatted with the 50 or so fans who hung out to see them. What a pleasure to see "big rock stars" so down to earth and eager to sincerely entertain their fans! Good luck to them all on the balance of their tour! I promise to take better notes for Keith in a few weeks!! ;^) Wendell E. Wickerham [ Editor's Note: I was also invited to attend Carl's visit to the Beachmont School in Revere and I can echo everything Wendell said. The kids were just amazing (esp. for a middle school band!) and Carl, Paul, and Stuart were sincere in their appreciation for the kids talent, skill, and work ethic. They all answered questions from the kids and parents. A highlight for Tom and the kids surely was that Paul and Stuart wore their 'Beachmont Percussions Ensemble' t-shirts (given as a thank you gift) on stage at the next night's show in nearby Arlington, MA. While Carl was chatting with Tom in the school parking lot waiting for his ride, I had a chance to introduce myself and thank Carl personally for the time he spends with the kids (here in Revere and around the world). As all accounts indicate, Carl is just as personable in person as he is on stage. - John - ] --------------------------------------------- From: Neil C Sent: Sunday, June 11, 2006 8:51 PM To: elp-digest Subject: CP - CLE pics link from 6.9.06 just a quick note...below is a link that you can post on the fan photo page of brain-salad.com as well as include in the next ELP Digest. http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v484/AmishCake/Carl%20Palmer%206-9-06/Neils/ thanks, neil --------------------------------------------- From: Curt Cassingham Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2006 11:46 PM To: elp-digest Subject: Carl Palmer Band Rocks Portland Dear John and the Digest Readers, We saw the Carl Palmer Band last night at the Aladdin Theater here in Portland (Oregon). Carl, guitarist Paul Bielatowicz and bassist Stuart Clayton played to a small, but very enthusiastic ELP/prog crowd. It made for a more intimate exchange between performers and audience! The show consisted of their interpretation of the music of ELP. The set list (Warning: Spoilers! If you don't want to know in advance, don't click!) is here: http://www.curtcass.com/cp/. Photos of the stage setup are on Carl's site: http://carlpalmer.com/northamericantour.html. I was disappointed he didn't have has Paiste cymbal-brass set, but I guess I wouldn't want to haul that heavy thing around, day after day after day... At first, we were a little skeptical about how they'd pull off replacing Keith's keyboard parts with a single guitar, but for the most part, it worked well. Guitarist Bielatowicz played Keith's melodies and chord structure pretty nicely, and bassist Clayton added not only bottom, but much assistance on chords and lead. Both were quite adept at right-hand "hammer" style playing, including Clayton's handling of certain ostinato bass lines. Bielatowicz's site: http://www.myspace.com/paulbielatowicz/ Clayton's site: http://www.myspace.com/stuartclayton/ Please check Carl's site for tour dates, and attend a show. Help support Carl and band; maybe it'll encourage Keith and Greg to turn their attentions to an ELP reunion. Best, Curt & Bonnie --------------------------------------------- From: Geren W. Mortensen, Jr. Sent: Wednesday, June 21, 2006 8:53 AM To: elp-digest Subject: 2006 Tour Pictures (Keith Emerson Band) Good morning, Just a quick note to let you know I've got a set of pictures from last night's show at The Ramshead Tavern in Annapolis, MD that you're free to link to or use for the site. All I'd ask is a photo credit. The images may be found here: http://www.gerenm.net/photos/album/musicians-keith-emerson/ Geren W. Mortensen, Jr. http://www.gerenm.net --------------------------------------------- From: Elp5000 Sent: Wednesday, June 21, 2006 3:26 PM To: elp-digest Subject: Carl Palmer and Keith Emerson Live 2006 I went to see Keith in concert last night 6/20/06 in Annapolis, Maryland and it was fantastic they played for about 2 1/2 hours. They took a small break after about 1 1/4 hours, I think there may have been a problem with the moog, problem fixed, then they came back on stage and blew the roof off the building. I got lucky because I was at the venue when the bands tour bus arrived so I was able to get some items signed (although Keith did a meet & greet after the show, but I did not know that at the time) and talk with the "Master Keyboardist". They took the stage about 8:20pm and it was great to see Keith play again. He is still the crazy man of the keyboards. He has got a great back up band with him and they all seemed to be having a great time playing, telling stories between some of the songs. Keith was real relaxed and talkative. One of the highlights of the show was the ribbon controller, guitar duel between Keith and Marc during Tarkus (full version). To sum it all up, it was a great show and I am glad I got to see it. The topper was that Keith hung around after the show for a meet and greet for at least 150 people. Always the showman. The low point of the show was this jerk at my table yelling "moog, moog, moog" during "From the Beginning". Also saw Carl Palmer on 6/3/06 at the same venue. He was also amazing and has a great band behind him. He played for about 2 hours and still has not lost any of his power behind the drums. He came out from behind the drums after each song and told a story about the next song they were going to play. Once again he stuck around after the show for a meet and greet. If you get the chance to see either Keith or Carl go see them. They both seem more laid back on stage with their own bands but I would still like to see a Farewell Tour from ELP, but I don't think that will happen. Sorry for the long post but I figured I would just combine my rants for both shows all at one time. --------------------------------------------- From: robert Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 9:16 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Emerson/Wakeman photos rhliberman has invited you to view a photo album on Yahoo! Photos Hope you enjoy! http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/rhliberman/album?.dir=/3c19&.src=ph&.tok=phzBpEFB4ediZBG7 [ Editor's Note: These are photos of Keith Emerson and Rick Wakeman taken at the MoogFest in June. - John - ] --------------------------------------------- From: Robert Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 9:16 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Keith Emerson Band - comments and memorabilia Hi John, As usual, kudos on the newsletter and keeping things alive. It's been a pretty exciting couple of weeks for me - I have attended concerts by Carl Palmer's band, Rick Wakeman and, finally, Keith Emerson's band. The real highlight for me was getting both Rick and Keith to sign my Minimoog synthesizer. Rick signed the back, but only Keith would sign the front! I also get Keith to sign my Tarkus cd cover - also signed by Carl Palmer, and he signed my copy of Brent Woods' infamous transcription of The Three Fates - one of my favorite compositions. I'm sure others have done a much better job writing reviews of both Carl's and Keith's concerts but I'll just add a few comments. Carl is touring with a guitar player and bassist, playing lots of ELP songs with the guitar covering the keyboard parts. While the very young guitar player was very fast and did a commendable job, it just wasn't the same and it was so loud that it really ruined it. Carl didn't disappoint, though, and his playing was absolutely great. Rick Wakeman is currently doing a grand piano tour. Frankly, I have not been a big fan since he left Yes but he put on a very nice and entertaining concert. In between songs he told stories, did some shtick and was very funny. Most importantly, though, although I feel he never had the keyboard technique that Emerson had, he still plays as well (or even better) as ever. He was genuinely interested in my Minimoog and was very polite, friendly and gracious. Both Carl and Keith seemed very aloof and more interested in keeping the line moving than listening to what I was saying. Before making comments regarding the Keith Emerson band concert, I must make a disclaimer. As a keyboard player who started playing in bands in 1970 when I was 14, there never has, nor ever will be, a single musician who has had more impact for me than Keith Emerson. I own his entire discography - cds and dvds, all published (as well as unpublished) sheet music, etc. In short, I am a huge, HUGE fan. I saw ELP in 1974 and 1977 and will never forget those concerts. Ok, that being said I need to be honest about something and it pains me deeply to say it - Keith Emerson can no longer play even remotely like he used to. He still has an amazing left hand, but anybody who heard him in his prime - for example, his Piano Improvisations from the Welcome Back live album from 1974, cannot disagree with this fact. For the most part, he appears to be able to use only the first 3 fingers on his right hand and his playing is choppy and uneven. It's hard to believe that he is the same man who I have adored for all of these years. It is so sad. Still, he is ever the showman and did not disappoint the crowd, and even if he never regains his amazing technique, he is who he is and his legacy will live on. And, my longtime dream was fulfilled when he autographed my Minimoog - a prize possession since 1973. Thanks again for your hard work in keeping the journal going. I must say that I always held out hope that there would eventually be one more ELP album but now I'd rather remember them for what they were. Regards, Robert Liberman --------------------------------------------- From: Steven Wilcox Sent: Saturday, June 24, 2006 7:20 PM To: ELP Digest Subject: Carl Palmer at the Galaxy Theatre Hello All I saw Carl and his band at the Galaxy Theatre (http://www.galaxytheatre.com/) last night 6/23/06. I was on the third tier first table to the left of the center isle. 5-6ft from the sound board. The room is smaller than this picture would have you believe. Less than 500 people total and I was less than 80ft from the stage with a great view of Carl since his drums were on the front edge of the stage. There were 2 opening acts both local, Units of Measure and Dan Sartain. They started a little after 8pm. Both of them did very well, worth seeing if your in the area. Carl's group came on at 9:50 and played until 11:38 an hour and 48 minutes show. The room was kind of warm and Carl lost a stick or two during the set. The set list in order Peter Gunn Barbarian Hoedown Enemy God Trilogy L.A. Nights Then, Paul Bielatowicz the guitarist played 3 songs of his own, I didn't get any titles, but this KID is GOOD! Carl came back on stage in a DRY shirt, you could the sweat flying off of him during the show. Jazz Piece The Bassist (Stuart Clayton) did 2-3? solo songs of his own again, this guy is good lots of talent. They rejoined and then played Tank Bull Frog Toccata Canario Tarkus Fanfare for the common man Drum Solo with some very fancy "Stick Tricks" Fanfare continues. For the encore Romeo and Juliet Another song that I can't remember the title but think of Keith stabbing that Hammond organ!! could it have been "The Hut of Baba Yaga"? Carl was great, playing very strong all night. He talked to the audience often, telling stories along the way. I was surprised on just how well the keyboard parts could be replaced by the guitars. They really did an all out effort for this show. Afterwards the band did do autographs even though you could tell they "Carl especially" were tired, I left after getting mine at 12:30 and he still had another 10-15 people behind me. All I can say Carl is thanks for making the trip across the pond and please, come back SOON! Steve --------------------------------------------- From: eriko Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 1:04 AM To: elp-digest Subject: The KE Band @ The Chance & Tarrytown Music Hall My 8-year old son and I had the opportunity to see Keith and his band in the front row right in front of Keith at The Chance – the first concert in this US east coast tour. It was something to see his piano playing techniques in person so close. It was nice to see Phil and Pete. It was strange not to see Dave on stage… no Dave, no diary of the tour??!!?? But Marc Bonilla certainly had his own presence, and there was the very good chemistry between Keith and Marc. Somehow he reminded me of Joe Walsh... My son was disappointed not to see Keith stabbing the dagger on the keyboard (I used to defend our babygrand from him who was imitating Keith) but he was fascinated by the Moog. I force-fed him ELP/Keith’s music along with various other music since he was in the crib. He recognized most of the set list, and thoroughly enjoyed the concert (although it took him sometime to get comfortable with the loud sound). Every piece of music was the “last song” material and quality, and I hated to see the concert end. It was a pleasure to hear the new song “New Orleans” and it was absolutely great to hear Nutrocker. My friend and I went back to Tarrytown venue. Set list was the same but the jokes were different! Keith also used the Steinway baby grand (it definitely looked the baby grand) and Ribbon Controller at this venue. The band looked more relaxed together on stage. I wish that they would consider releasing DVD/CD of this tour as we were only a handful lucky ones to be able to see them! P.S. Why doesn’t Keith play “Close to Home” any more?? Eriko --------------------------------------------- From: Bill Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 11:01 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Keith Emerson Band Hi John, Was able to catch the Keith Emerson Band in Tarrytown NY on June 19th. It was extremely well done. Keith is as sharp as ever. His band was well polished especially the lead guitar. It was 30 years since I saw them last up in Saratoga , NY and and as was as entertaining. He gives you your money's worth playing for just under 3hrs. Hopefully another tour comes this way soon. Thanks for your time and info, Bill DeNovio --------------------------------------------- From: Anthony Cornicello Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 3:00 PM To: elp-digest Subject: Moogfest review As many of you may know, the Keith Emerson Band was the feature act at the 2006 Moogfest. First, a few quick words about the Moogfest. The opening act was forgettable, but the “School of Rock” kids were fantastic. Somehow, Bernie Worell showed up to play with DJ Logic – fun stuff, but we were all wondering why they were there as there wasn’t a Moog in sight. Jordan Rudess and Roger O’Donnell both came out to play solo sets – I wish they had both brought their bands, or used a house band. It was a thrill seeing Jan Hammer play with the Mahavishnu Project. I’m not a fan of hyperactive fusion (this stuff makes Return to Forever with Al Dimeola seem tame!), so I was a little taken aback by their playing. All the time, however, KE’s Modular Moog stood on the sidelines, lights blinking, waiting to be played. Emerson’s band was fantastic. In an odd way, ELP’s music works better in a quartet setting than as a trio. Most of the tunes were opened up for solos (never too long, I should add), and the musicians proved themselves more than worthy for the task. Most outstanding was Pete Riley on drums (using a reverse set-up, with the hi-hat on the drummers right), who played tastefully throughout the night. This was in stark contrast to the over-playing drummer for the Mahavishnu Project, who seemed to want to use every element in his kit in every phrase. Marc Bonilla’s vocals were a dead ringer for 70s Greg Lake, and Phil Williams provided an excellent bass, adding elements that were unknown to most bass players during the heyday of ELP. They started with “Karn Evil 9, 1st Impression, Part 2”, which was widely opened up for solos. The highlight of the evening was the half-hour version of “Tarkus”, once again with a lot of improvisation. Other numbers during the roughly hour-long set included “Lucky Man”, and the encores were “Fanfare for the Common Man” and “Nutrocker”. Overall, KE’s playing was quite good. I did notice that he was not using the 4th and 5th fingers in his RH, due to arthritis. It didn’t seem to affect his playing too much, as the high-energy set was full of keyboard licks and stabbing chords. There was a few instrument malfunctions (a part of life for any electric musician), but they weren’t really missed. If you were hoping for new material, you weren’t going to hear it that night. The Keith Emerson Band was also playing on 6/23, but I could not get to that show. I’m curious what they do for three hours – if they played that high-energy stuff for the entire tour, they’d be checking into a hospital soon! Overall, worth the price of admission! -- Anthony Cornicello Composer --------------------------------------------- From: Steve Andersen Sent: Sunday, July 02, 2006 2:15 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Review - THE CARL PALMER BAND THE CARL PALMER BAND I attended the Carl Palmer show at Lee’s Palace last Friday evening (May 26th). The band played to a 200+ standing room only crowd (insofar as Lee’ Palace has no seating to speak of). The show started at 11:30 and went on until a little after 1:00 AM without intermission. There was nothing new in the repertoire. The Carl Palmer Band performs a timbral, and to a lesser extent structural, re-working of the Emerson, Lake and Palmer repertoire. Although still a three-piece project, gone are keyboard and vocals, replaced by lead guitar. The show opened with Peter Gunn and came to a halt two bars later as guitarist Paul Bielatowicz was having sound problems. After a short fix, the show started up again and segued from Peter Gunn into the Barbarian. Other tunes included Tank, Scythian Suite, Hoedown, Trilogy, Romeo and Juliet (Prokofiev), Eruption, Aquatarkus, Toccata and Fanfare for the common man with Carmina Burana for the encore. Surprisingly, Tank had no drum solo to speak of. This was saved for the end of the show. Tank also came in at what sounded like 200 beats per minute, as compared to the 170 BPM on the first ELP album. This was speed for it’s own sake, adding nothing musically redeeming. Trilogy was a remarkable effort, given that ELP were not known to perform that number live in their heyday. The music generally shines, however all songs were played with an overpowering, muscular intensity that sometimes overshadows some of the subtleties in the progressive rock that they play. The band was also needlessly loud. I noticed a number of audience members were wearing earplugs. The problem with extreme volume is that, after a period of time, the listener loses sensitivity to pitch. As well, undesirable overtones manifest. The three musicians played very, very well. Guitarist Paul Bielatowicz is a 20-something wunderkind. He has pretty much mastered the melodic lines of the repertoire. My only reservation was that I thought the individual notes could have been brought out more cleanly and locked in more tightly with the rhythm section. Bassist Stuart Clayton plays a five string bass and does a lot more playing than Greg Lake did on the same tunes. (Greg, of course, also had to sing). Clayton’s bass lights up with a row of green LED’s, a rather colourful touch. Palmer played furiously throughout the show and gave fans what they wanted. Shouts of “Welcome Back Carl” were heard throughout the evening. The audience gave him a standing ovation (all night long apparently, insofar as Lee’ Palace has no seating to speak of). The performance provides intellectual and artistic stimulus for the audience and in this it succeeds. This is not, however, a show suitable for introducing the repertoire of ELP to neophytes. Because the pieces were originally written for keyboard, bass and drums, the presentation was harmonically thin. This is a structural problem, not a limitation in the player’s abilities. Both Guitarist Paul Bielatowicz and bassist. Stuart Clayton have superb control of their instruments and the melodic responsibilities for the guitarist are formidable. There are limits however and two hands on two keyboards at once can communicate more musical information than two hands on one guitar. So be it. Lee’s Palace concert bar does not do justice to an act like this. The lighting is sub-par (no pun intended) and it seems that Lee’s policy is to have the headline act go on as late as possible in order to sell more liquor. This may simply be part of tour economics. Having said that, I found the band to be under-dressed for the occasion, to say the least. Bielatowicz and Clayton were dressed about as casually as audience members. We are all good comrades here, no one better than anyone else right? Wrong! You are stars. Dress the part. Carl looks very sharp on his promo poster in a black vest leaving arms free to work the drum magic. For some strange reason however, he felt compelled to model two wardrobe pieces from his Salvation Army bin collection. Stretch polyester top and blue public school pants with flare at the bottom are not hip! Thankfully, he kept his shirt on throughout the show. Fans might argue that the music is all that matters but, as one well-dressed bass player likes to quip, “the audience hears with its eyes”. We go to see a band as well as hear them. A master percussionist and legendary progressive rock artist merits better and so does the audience. Carl’s re-working and performance of the ELP repertoire is a gift to fans, one that deserves nice wrapping. After the show, the master took a well-deserved 15-minute break after which, looking as though he had had enough, still graciously autographed CD’s and posters for the fans. Regards Steve Andersen Seven Virgins & A Mule - Canada's only Emerson, Lake & Palmer Tribute. www.sevenvirgins.ca www.sevenvirgins.com =========================== Miscellaneous News =========================== From: eriko Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2006 2:04 AM To: elp-digest Subject: A couple of Korg webpages Hi John, I was surfing Korg’s website and found these... http://www.korg.co.jp/SoundMakeup/SoundBytes/KeithEmerson/ http://www.korg.co.jp/News/2005/0926/ The first one talks about KE Band in Japan (Keith’s surprise visit to Korg), and the second one is about Korg’s “Oasys”, which Keith reportedly used in the Japanese tour 2005. He is also using it during the current tour. Eriko --------------------------------------------- From: Paul Erdman Sent: Friday, June 30, 2006 1:16 AM To: elp-digest Subject: ELP to be featured on radio show "The Classical Connection" on July 6 Dear webmasters of ELP related sites, I will be featuring ELP and Modest Mussorgsky on the second episode of my new radio show on the Internet's premiere progressive rock radio station, Delicious Agony. Entitled "The Classical Connection," the music features progressive rock and related classical music. The show airs every Thursday at 2:00 Eastern time (6:00PM GMT). You can learn more about it at www.creativeprogression.com/classi-prog On July 6 I will be playing Pirates, followed by a unique presentation of Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition: each picture will be presented in one of four versions: the origional Mussorgsky piano score, the Ravel orchestration, and both the original live ELP recording and the newer studio recording. All the pictures will be presented in sequence, in one of the four versions. For a complete playlist, visit the show's website listed above. This is a unique chance for fans of ELP to hear Pictures as it has perhaps never been presented before. I invite you to post mention of this special occaision on your websites, and even inform the band members themselves. Sincerely, Paul Erdman --------------------------- Creative Progression 503-888-4715 www.creativeprogression.com --------------------------------------------- From: Steve Andersen Sent: Sunday, July 02, 2006 2:06 AM To: elp-digest Subject: Date change Dear Friends The good folks at Peel Pub gave us a show option for Saturday July 22nd in lieu of Friday the 21st. We took it with the rationale that people may have an easier time getting to the show and staying awake after having a restful Saturday rather than a hectic Friday. So... SEVEN VIRGINS & A MULE - A Tribute to Emerson, Lake & Palmer will be performing at Peel Pub 1660 O'Connor Dr. Toronto, (Eglinton and Victoria Park) Saturday July 22nd, 2006 at 10:30 No cover charge Come and enjoy good food and drink and great music. Regards Steve Andersen Seven Virgins & A Mule - Canada's only Emerson, Lake & Palmer Tribute. www.sevenvirgins.ca www.sevenvirgins.com --------------------------------------------- From: Gary Stokes Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 6:27 PM To: elp-digest-request Subject: Asia: Original Members Re-Unite For 2006 /2007 World Tour Hi John, The original Asia line up has US tour dates scheduled for August and Sept. 2006 Full details can be found at www.johnwetton.com, and also at The Official Original Asia Web Site (by following the links at www.carlpalmer.com) Thanks for keeping the ELP Digest alive! Best Gary =========================== Digest subscription, mailing address, and administrative stuff to: elp-digest-request@reluctant.com ELP-related info that you want to put in the digest to: elp-digest@reluctant.com Back issues are available from the ELP Digest web site: http://www.brain-salad.com/ Note: The opinions, information, etc. contained in this digest are those of the original message sender listed in each message. They are not necessarily those of the mailing list/digest administrator or those of any institution through whose computers/networks this mail flows. Unless otherwise noted, the individual authors of each entry in the Digest are the copyright holders of that entry. Please respect that copyright and act accordingly. I especially ask that you not redistribute the ELP Digest in whole or in part without acknowledging the original source of the digest and each author. Thanks! End of ELP Digest [Volume 16, Issue 5] **************************************