Letters posted here are associated with the following Salon Premium Member:
Published Letters: 2
I think SNL could use some new writers. Maybe those reporters and Tony Snow can fill the requirements.
Yays:
Crowded House - I was a true Househead from 1987-1993. Never missed a show and never saw a bad show. I'm hoping they're able to revive that brilliance on their upcoming US tour.
Paul Kelly - variously called the Bob Dylan or Bruce Springsteen of Australia - literally one of the most brilliant singer-songwriters of the past 30 years. No doubt about it! And he's a consistently outstanding live performer, with or without a band.
Richard Thompson - never disappoints, in large or small venues
Radiohead - riveting every time
You Am I - blistering Aussie band
Maktub - Lead singer Reggie White has charisma to burn
Black 47 - Irish punk with a heart
Nays:
1) Seeing shows in gigantoriums. If someone is playing in a venue that holds more than 3000 people, I won't go unless it's Radiohead, who seem to be able to surpass that constraints of any venue. The larger the venue the more distractions. I'd rather watch it on TV
2) Cellphones (people turning them on and the lights shining in a dark room; people who take photos of themselves and/or the artist - for what purpose, I ask???!!!; people who text and or talk on them during the show. These people are EVIL and socially retarded!
3) Artists who say "I love you X (insert City)." Come on! You do not! As Feist (a fantastic live performer) said just this week at the Fillmore, "I don't know you so how can I love you?!"
4) Ticketba#$ard "convenience" and mailing fees. Support your small local club and buy your ticket at the venue.