Legacy to a Legacy: Hank III concert review by John M. Ellison IV

Where do I start with what happened on the night of 11/16/2011 and how it was a month in the making? Okay, I’ve been on this country music kick for almost a year…well actually since I started playing guitar in ‘99. Even when I was 8 year old, I would try to imitate Randy Travis’s vocal. I’ve always had a respect for Hank III and Hank Sr. In fact, my granddad enjoyed Hank Sr. and Willie Nelson in his younger years. So you can say I’m carrying on a “Family Tradition.” …Don’t worry folks; the puns get worse throughout the story. A fellow writer by the name “Brad Meathook” I knew from the social network Twitter brought to my attention that Hank III is going to be playing Ram’s Head Live in Baltimore, MD and asked if I was going. I realized that if I used my networking skills I can make a deal to review Hank III’s albums and get some tickets to the show. Wasn’t an easy feat but it was worth it. So, out of the albums they sent I reviewed “Ghost to a Ghost/Guttertown.”
Okay folks, rumors can help make or break an artist’s career. To put this in a diplomatic way, some imagery such as a rebel flag that Hank III uses to represent his southern heritage can attract an element of fans that can misconstrue such iconography for supporting bigotry.  One thing that made me kind of leery was the fact that you couldn’t find that many interviews with Hank III that gave you a better clue on who he was. Persona wise, a cloud of mystery can be good and bad for an artist’s image but depending what it is, it could also fuel negative rumors. Okay, that being said, I was kind of nervous to go…especially the missus. The missus is from the southwest and spent 10 years south of Dallas, Texas in a small town where they still have dial-up and not a lot of black people. She had to deal with a LOT of people that how I can put this eloquently…made the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” a success. Well, me too…I like Ron White and consider him an influence on my writing. The day of the show the missus was nervous and uttering phrases “We’re going to be the only black people there!”, “I’ve dealt with these kinds of people!”, and “We’re going to be out in the middle of nowhere!” I replied. “Uh, babe…it’s going to be in Baltimore city proper. Now if it was in Westminster or Fredrick, MD…I’d understand but it’s in Baltimore at a mainstream venue and not some shack in the woods.” She was still nervous…but somewhat relieved though.

After riding up to Baltimore, we headed over to will call to pick up the tickets. Fans are starting to come in, and I think see somebody I recognize…As I’m about to say hello, the missus yelps out “John! Don’t leave me!” Understanding what she went through, I said “babe, you’re going to be fine. I’m here.” So, we get our tickets, and get in line. The guy taking the tickets was surprised by my appearance…mainly because I cut my mohawk and wear glasses now. So, we get inside…the audience was a mix of metal heads, country fans, punks, greasers and NO HIPSTERS! I saw some dude in overalls that had on a Misfits band tee and a ton of guys that looked like they could be related to Hillbilly Jim from WWF (old school)…and some dude that looked like Danny “Boone” Alexander from country-rap band Rehab. Realizing it’s a standing room, we found a place to sit near the bar. I asked the security guy that I’ll refer to as “Bull” if the booth was for bar patrons or anybody? Surprisingly friendly, he said “it’s for anybody.” I rarely if ever drink so we just got a chicken and fry basket with a root beer.

While sitting at the bar, I saw the guy earlier that who I thought was Brad Meathook…I wasn’t sure if it was him earlier so I asked and he replied “Sketch of Maryland right?” I noticed that his voice kind of sounds like wrestler Chris Jericho. In the last story about Fishbone, I mentioned a guy by the name of Kaibutsu, since he’s out in Baltimore I realized he might want to check this out too…here’s the problem. The cell reception in Ram’s Head Live is spotty at best and my phone has a short or something in it, so when I called him my phone crapped out mid sentence. I’ll try to meet up with him at Katsucon. Later, the opening act came out so the missus and I walked closer and stood there watching the band. I didn’t know who they were but they reminded me of Black Sabbath…well their first four albums at least, Kyuss and Sleep. I saw the lead singer’s shirt and it said “Spirit Caravan.” It then dawned on me that the band was “Earthride.” This is actually interesting in the fact that back in 2010; Hank III didn’t use any opening bands. But in this case, it made sense that Earthride would be opening for Hank III since Dave Sherman did vocals on the title track to “Ghost to a Ghost” and Earthride is based in Maryland. So, after an hour of doom and stoner metal, there was a brief intermission. We got closer and found a wall to lean on and watch the show from.

Then Hank III comes out with a four piece backing band that featured most of the personnel from the Ghost to a Ghost/Guttertown album. For the record, I noticed in some YouTube videos that when he performs the traditional country set that he uses acoustic instruments that are amplified with some effects like phaser. So, the overdriven guitar of “Ghost to a Ghost” is missing. Hank III took the stage with a kind of “happy to be here” demeanor and with a voice that sounds surprisingly similar to his grandfather Hank Sr. but of course the material is quite different. The precision and intensity of the band was amazing.

The crowd was lively to say the least; in fact half of the fun of the show was there was this one dude that looked like Billy Gibbons with a septum piercing and a Harley Davidson vest, one dude had a pentagram and the band “Gorgoroth” logo scribbled on his denim vest and a mullet. Another guy that was near us was a really nice Asian guy in a wheel chair who asked if he was in our way to be accommodating. Interesting enough, there was another black guy there that I’ll refer to as “Greg” was really into the show and when Hank slipped into a few zydeco numbers, “Greg” really got into it. Not surprisingly, a lot of people were drinking. It might be a misnomer that I mention that they were drinking but it comes into play later. As cliché as this might sound, this show was like a heavy metal hoedown that focused on the albums “Rebel Within”, “Damn Right, Rebel Proud”, “Straight to Hell”, the controversial “Hillbilly Joker” album and of course the “Ghost to a Ghost/Guttertown” albums. “Ghost to a Ghost” was a duet with Dave Sherman that had fans either drunkenly doing the tango…or seriously attempting to tango to the shifting blast beats. Then when he went into “Day by Day” a dude in a rebel flag shirt started doing an ironic hillbilly jig that was quite amusing to witness. Also some dude on crutches waved one of his crutches during “Outlaw Convention.” The atmosphere at the show was quite the contrary to what some would’ve expected.

There were some tense moments where the show stopped. Hank III said to the guy “bad move…” or “wrong night…” something to the effect. Next thing I know security has this guy restrained… he was literally being carried off by security but his struggles for freedom had him moving in my direction. Well, I learned this golden rule from years of watching wrestling,”if you ever see a flying chair coming at you…duck.” So, I first moved the missus out of harm’s way because he was getting too close for comfort for us. After the dude got booted, I asked Bull “Did you see the guy that got thrown out?” He replied “Which one?” We both chuckled at that. “Well, I mean what did he do?” He legit didn’t know.
So, after the matter was settled the band went back into “Six Pack of Beer.” The whole night wasn’t all bad; in fact there was also an opportunity to slow dance, so the missus and I watched the drunken couples sway to “Not Everybody Likes Us.” Yeah, we were one of them…the difference being was sobriety was an ally in our case. Around 10:40 pm, he started his Hellbilly set. The Hellbilly set which focused more on “Hillbilly Joker” album was enjoyable…even though I was kind of disappointed that he didn’t do “I’m Drunk Again” but he’s been doing that song for years so I don’t blame him for “sobering up for the night.” Then, around 11:00 he switched it up so his other backing band “Attention Deficit Domination” took the stage and this was more focused on the albums “3 Bar Ranch Cattle Callin’” and “Attention Deficit Domination.” Out of the albums I got, I didn’t focus on “Attention Deficit Domination.” I listened but didn’t go through the usual analyzing process. So, the albums were fresh to me still. The set included theatrics such as this weird green lighting, a projector screen that included a montage of B-Movies, war footage and this vocal effect that was similar to Ozzy’s use of a Leslie speaker on Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” album. Half of the Country/Hellbilly fans left by this time for a smoke break and some just left. I ran back into Brad and he noticed the crowd left and we pretty much agreed “Attention Deficit Domination” sounded like Black Sabbath produced by Yanni or Brian Eno stubbing his toe and venting his frustrations musically.

By this time the alcohol everyone consumed kicked in and almost everybody was stumbling drunk and some patrons were ejected due to their behavior. Remember, the missus and I am leaning against a wall and kind of out of dodge. A guy walked up to me and started talking, he noticed that I was taking notes and wondered what I was doing. To say he was inebriated would be an understatement, to keep his anonymity I’ll refer to him as “Shawn.” Shawn was a traditional country fan who stayed around because his friend was still there and he was in no shape whatsoever to drive. In this case, he actually lost his CDL license due to a DUI. He felt awful because he realized that a stupid mistake cost him his career and tarnished his spotless criminal record. I told him “Was anybody hurt in this?” He said “No” and I said “That’s why you got that DUI. The universe was keeping you from harming you or anybody else.” Remember, Attention Deficit Domination was LOUD and at points the band would change dynamics so they would be even louder, so I heard half of what Shawn said. Honestly, it was reminiscent of the cone of silence bit from Get Smart. The “Cattle Call” and “Attention Deficit Domination” set were more like a test of endurance than performance. Most couldn’t handle the brutality of it so they bolted…or were ejected because they were drunk and were causing somewhat of a stir. In fact, I started making a tally of drunks that got tossed out.

The show finally ended, after enduring an additional set of blast beats, down tuned riffs…and samples of auctioneers, fans definitely got their money’s worth at this show.

I got a photo with Hank III, autograph and gave him my card so hopefully I can get an interview with him for the site. The night was over. The missus and I headed back home.

Also if you’re wondering, yes, somebody did yell “Freebird” at the show.

Check out Hank III’s official website

Hank 3’s official website

Distant Family Reunion: When Fishbone Played Lincoln Theater by John M. Ellison IV

Distant Family Reunion: When Fishbone Played Lincoln by John M. Ellison IV

On Friday 11, 2011 (or 11/11/11) Fishbone played the historical Lincoln Theater. In some ways, this wasn’t just a concert; this was like an extended family reunion.

On November 3rd, 2011 I checked my Facebook page and saw that I was tagged in a message from a fairly new member of the Afropunk site named CaliforniaAfrican. With that, I was made aware of a screening of the Fishbone documentary “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone.” I was tagged in along with some O.G. Afropunk comrades. One of them includes a longtime friend of mine that we’ll refer to as Nadira. Nadira is somebody I’ve corresponded with since 2004 and actually it was a surprise because she lived in the area. But due to circumstances on my end, it wasn’t like we could just meet up at any time. But we did meet back in ‘05 and again back in ‘06 in New York at CBGB’s. Needless to say, she’s somebody that I’ve always kept tabs on and is a very dear friend of mine. W.M. helped me realize that even though this was a free event I needed tickets for entry. They gave out two tickets per person for free…Kind of like WCW (World Championship Wrestling) did back in the day. Needless to say, I bolted over to the Lincoln Theater like the Bad Brains song…you know “With the Quickness.”

Although a dreary drizzly day, my mom, sister, my sister’s godson that I call “lil’ dude” and I zipped over to the Lincoln Theater. Mom and sis helped out by picking up some tickets. Since I had extra tickets I thought that it would be cool to invite my other friends. Since most of my other friends are female than male (kind of a 3/2 ratio) I would’ve looked like I had an all girl kung fu army. I said “Babe! Get me a kufi and a loud African print shirt! Dolemite’s back!” The missus and I decided that we wanted to get to know D.C. better and hang around people more akin to our interests. Even though the missus and Nadira knew of each other very well, they hadn’t met each other yet. Originally we were to meet at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Because…well it’s a D.C. institution. Not to eat though, because the food’s kind of greasy. The missus and I walked up and saw Nadira, it was a quick introduction between the two. The missus was a little nervous at first but after some quick banter over the difficulty to cross the street we warmed up to each other. Afterwards, we shuffled into the Lincoln Theater with our tickets in hand. Since I wanted to talk to both of them and I’m used to sitting in the middle of my mom and sister I was next to both of them. The audience was a cross section of young fans who were here to witness the legend that is Fishbone, to the neo-soul crowd who appreciates the eclectic nature of the band and middle age fans who were probably there when Fishbone first appeared at Lollapalooza.

After every one settled in around 7:05 the program started. The curator for Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture was hosting it. After a quick rap to the audience, she mentioned that some project is going to start December 2012. I leaned over to the right and said to the missus “To really fuck with their heads, they should make the start date December 22nd 2012.” She laughed. I told the same joke to Nadira and the same reaction. The movie started…we cheered and some dude in the back kept yelling “Fishbone!” The movie itself was very bittersweet. It was reminiscent of The Wrestler (starring Mickey Rourke) and music documentary “Electric Purgatory: Fate of the Black Rocker.”

If you know the Fishbone story, then you know how in 1979 they were assembled by brothers John Norwood Fisher and Phillip “Fish” Fisher on bass and drums respectively and how everyone met and how the band formed. Honestly, they kind of reminded me and others of Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids. They also touch on why Kendall Jones (their original guitar player) left the band. Unfortunately, his story isn’t uncommon. It also covered the struggles of the band and how to market them, with a combination of amusing moments to heart wrenching scenes how they inspired a ton of other bands and just an all around token to perseverance and never giving up. After the movie was over, it was a brief Q&A with Directors Chris Metzler and Lev Anderson, Angelo Moore and John Norwood Fisher. The band mentioned how it was an honor to be in D.C. and cited Bad Brains as an inspiration to the band and John Norwood Fisher’s first bass guitar is now in the Smithsonian.

“Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” – documentary trailer from Tilapia Film on Vimeo.

Then a brief intermission, I saw another Afropunk OG, W.M. Dekooning walking to the back and he noticed us. Dekooning and I met a few times but usually talk online. He was there with his girlfriend. We talked. After intermission was over, the concert started…

A strong set of hits and new material that included “Everyday Sunshine”, “Bonin’ in the Boneyard”, “Party at Ground Zero”, “Lemon Meringue”, “Sunless Saturday”, “DUI Friday”, a Go-Go influenced version of “Cholly” and many more. Angelo Moore is an energetic front man with Stevie Wonder influenced vocals that’s reminiscent of a punk rock Sonny Rollins if he was drawn by Tex Avery brought to life. Rocky George of Suicidal Tendencies fame is the current guitar player and brings that punk/metal edge that he had in Suicidal Tendencies to the current Fishbone lineup. George was rocking an Ibanez guitar and a gigantic afro. Aside from playing metal-influenced solos he can play great clean funky guitar as well. John Steward was fantastic on drums; Jay Armant and Dre Gipson provided great brass work as well. Overall, the closest thing to describe their live act is “P-Funk All Stars on speed.”

Some of the most notable moments during the show included an overzealous middle aged fan jumping up onstage and sang with Angelo for half a bar and stage dived off.

The encore included a surprise performance with H.R. of Bad Brains and the band doing “Jah Calling Dub.” H.R. is a lot more subdued now than he was 30 years ago…because it’s 30 years later. I actually ended up behind H.R.’s old bodyguard. I overheard him having a conversation with another fan. He said “Y’know, I’ve known him for 30 years and I still don’t know what he’s saying *laughs*.” The band also went into an “Institutionalized” vamp as Angelo Moore stage dived again.

After the show was over Nadira, the missus and I chilled in the lobby we talked, caught up and Nadira learned the purpose of wearing sensible shoes. I ran into W.M. again he mentioned that I lost some weight…which was the second time I heard this from another AP’er by the name Polari. Apparently, I was fatter than I thought I was the last time they saw me. In fact just recently Ron White sent me “peaches and a light salad.” We also noticed a lot of Rastafarians there. Nadira and the missus noted that they both smelled incense. I off the cuff replied “…yeah and some other smell that I can’t figure out…anybody hungry all of the sudden?”

I walked over to the merchandise table and spoke with John Norwood Fisher. I told him “Dude, the legends are true. You guys are the best live band I’ve seen.” He was gracious but he’s probably heard that fact a billion times. I mentioned that his band, Bad Brains, 24-7 Spyz and Living Colour are all a huge inspiration to my music. Technically, Fishbone was the first band I got into thanks to the movie “Back to the Beach” and “The Mask” soundtrack. I said “Hey, I’m talking to some peeps but I’ll be right back to pick up a CD.” Five or ten minutes later after talking more with Nadira and the missus, I bought a CD and Fisher signed it. I gave him my card and mentioned that I want to do an interview for my site. By this time he seemed more impressed. I said “I was serious *laughs* you guys paved the way for the kind of music that I do!” I got a picture with him.

Then I noticed Angelo Moore sitting next to him wearing a poncho and signing an autograph. I asked him “Two questions: Are you a fan of Frank Zappa?” He replied “Yes” “Okay 2nd question, ‘is that a real poncho or is that a Sears’s poncho?’ He replied with a smile “I got it in Cancun!” I got some contact information on Angelo Moore. I regret not getting a picture with him though.

We headed back out, my mom and sis picked us up due to public transportation being shut down. We shared some laughs on the way to drop Nadira off back at home. Mom, sis, the missus and I went to McDonald’s and went back home settled in. That was truly a perfect ending for a great night.

In closing, if you’re a musician and you feel like you’re in a rut and get a chance to see Fishbone with some longtime friends of yours…take it. You more than likely wouldn’t regret it.

Fishbone Documentary website

Jhon 3:16 by John M. Ellison IV

A friend of mine is going through a lot right now…

Hey folks, a friend of mine is going through some issues right now and is looking for some help with some obstacles that life has tossed at her. Here’s what’s going on with a long time friend of mine…

I have never been one to complain about my life and i have always tried to live by doing things for myself and others and just making it work. We have all been there. I hope that this letter will not sound strange, but I really need some help. I left a very bad marriage, with the skin of my teeth (thank god), and i have move back home to get my life back together, but it came at some major costs. I lost everything. Medically, I am going blind in one eye, and my health isnt all that great either. He left me financially ruined and didnt find this out until after I left. This is ok, but now I need help, so I am asking everyone if you can find in your heart to help me, to only send me only 5 dollars and words of encouragement please. I know that these are tough times, so I am only asking for 5 $. If you have more, then great, but thats all my heart will allow to ask. I have get my divorce, car fixed asap, so that i can work, (i work a hour away from my house) and my windsheild is cracked. I have already been stopped about it, so I am desperated and scared about it. Anyone needing proof, I will gladly give. I believe that God is real and he will help me, but I am also asking my friends for help as well. Thank you again for any help that i can recieve.

So, if you’re willing $5 and a prayer, contact me for more information on how you can help. Peace.

You’re Anti-Social!: Dealing with Asperger’s Syndrome by John M. Ellison IV

When I was about 15, my mom and I were at the grocery store doing some shopping. In the peripherals, there was a fieldtrip going on. My mom noticed this one little boy that wouldn’t walk down the aisle that had very pungent cleaning agents. My mom noticed this and asked the woman that led the group “what was wrong with the boy? My son had the same problem when he was younger and still kind of does.” The woman explained that he was autistic. My mom had an epiphany and we rushed back home to look into autism.
Back at the house, I remember being in my room reading some book on music theory or something. My mom walked into my room with these papers she printed out. I noticed she had this energy that emanated an aura of good news and resolution to a longtime confliction. She explained that I fit the profile of being on the autistic spectrum and what I have is called “Asperger’s Syndrome.” I read the print out and I could see a parallel to parts of my personality and the symptoms. To understand what Asperger’s Syndrome more, we went to a therapist who specialized in autism for an official diagnosis. Our suspicions were confirmed that the findings were accurate.

To anybody reading this, this shouldn’t be that much of a revelation. I’ve talked about this or I’ve referred to me being on the “spectrum” on my twitter account a few times but never really went in-depth about it. I guess I’m only talking about it because April is “Autism Awareness Month.” Understand, like fingerprints or snowflakes, no two cases are exactly alike. I underlined, highlighted and added an addendum to my symptoms and how they differ from the text book definition. Some of these symptoms I still deal with but some of these have actually weaned over the years.

I guess I’m expatiating on this because I’m tired of people that are on the autistic spectrum being seen as weird or perceived as incompetent and to explain to people that they’re different degrees of Asperger’s Syndrome/Autism. If some of my readers are parents and have a child on the autistic spectrum, hopefully this can help the parent understand them better.

Not pick up on social cues and may lack inborn social skills, such as being able to read others’ body language, start or maintain a conversation, and take turns talking.”

Unless it’s a concert with my preferred genre of music, a convention that’s subject I’m interest in (ex. comics, anime, music etc.) When I’m out my realm, it gets a bit awkward on my end.

“Dislike any changes in routines.”

Saying “Yes” would be an understatement.

“Have a formal style of speaking that is advanced for his or her age. For example, the child may use the word “beckon” instead of “call” or the word “return” instead of “come back.”

Well, when I was in Kindergarten, some kid walked in on me while I was in the bathroom I was embarrassed by this and told the teacher I was “humiliated.” She never heard any kid in her class use a 5 syllable word and I also was reading at a high school level in 2nd grade.

“Avoid eye contact or stare at others.”

Hence the reason I wear sunglasses like 95 percent of the time. It’s nothing personal, I learned with some people that you happen to be looking in their direction while deep in thought and they…putting it eloquently “go ape shit.” To even add more fun to the equation, it’s been ingrained in our society to assume that people who don’t make eye contact are shifty. If we ever meet in public and I’m not looking right at you, don’t take it personally.

“Have unusual facial expressions or postures.”

I’ve been told that I wear my expressions on my face.

“Be preoccupied with only one or few interests, which he or she may be very knowledgeable about. Many children with Asperger’s syndrome are overly interested in parts of a whole or in unusual activities, such as designing houses, drawing highly detailed scenes, or studying astronomy. They may show an unusual interest in certain topics such as snakes, names of stars, or dinosaurs.”

Well, let’s see…I have a website about music, politics and other subjects that’s basically an extension of my personality since I was about 8. It was either writing about this or I just babble on with somebody. Also, who decides what’s considered an “unusual” or usual interest? At least I try to “broaden my perspective.”

“Talk a lot, usually about a favorite subject. One-sided conversations are common. Internal thoughts are often verbalized.”

See the previous answer. As awkward as I am, if you give me like 15-20 minutes to feel comfortable around you or if I can feel in the situation then I usually can’t shut up.

“Have delayed motor development. Your child may be late in learning to use a fork or spoon, ride a bike, or catch a ball. He or she may have an awkward walk. Handwriting is often poor.”

A definite on learning how to ride a bike, but being 260-ish weight wise, yeah you can assume that I know how to use a fork. I guess I don’t have a “swagger” when I walk I just…walk. My handwriting…not too bad but could be better.

“Have heightened sensitivity and become over stimulated by loud noises, lights, or strong tastes or textures.”

Yeah…let’s just say that the clanging metal of shopping carts really sucks.

In closing, “Does it suck to have Asperger’s?” I usually respond, “Well, it could be worse, I could be ‘normal’…”

For more information:
http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/tc/aspergers-syndrome-symptoms

Here’s a list of famous people on the Autistic Spectrum
http://www.asperger-syndrome.me.uk/people.htm

So…I Was at the Arlington Draft House Friday by John M. Ellison IV

I remember first seeing comedians Erin Jackson and Bryson Turner open for John Witherspoon at the “D.C. Improv” comedy club in 2008. After the show, I found both of their respected Myspace pages and corresponded with Erin and Bryson. In fact, I even sent Erin some of my earliest attempts at being “funny.” Rule number…something, never TRY to be funny! Being funny on purpose is a lot like hemorrhoids. It’s painful, unwanted and easily prevented. I’ve been meaning to check her out whenever she’s in town, but due to scheduling issues on my end I couldn’t check out her set. I even tried to make it to her New Year’s Eve show in 2010, but the “road crew” and I were in Texas on a family vacation. But for every show I couldn’t make, I always got the word out that she was performing so people could check it out.

On April 22, I was checking out my Facebook messages and I noticed invite from Erin Jackson. She was doing a one night only show in Arlington, VA at the “Arlington Draft house.” Well, Arlington isn’t that far from where I am also mom and sis had to pick up my sister’s godsister’s baby in Arlington anyway. So, the missus and I bought two tickets at the gate and mom and sis went to pick up “lil’ dude.” When the missus and I were in the lobby, I noticed that we were surrounded by HIPSTERS! But to be fair, they were friendly though…probably because of the booze. Also I think I offended a drunken hippie with my kind of off color comments while standing in line with the missus.

After we found some seats, we sat down and waited for the show to start. Then the announcer introduced the first comedian Mike Way to the stage. Mike Way was quite funny, more of an observational kind of style. The second set was with comedian Jason Weems, more observational humor that went with the tone of the show but Jason Weems more animated. Either way, both were funny!

The announcer then introduced Erin and when she hit the stage she received quite an enthusiastic reaction from the sold out crowd. There were some familiar jokes that I remember her doing back in ‘08, some material that I read on her blog and some newer material as well. Erin’s set was a great mix of observational humor, public confession and all around very smart comedy.

The thing that I dig about shows like this is the “meet and greet” the performer has with the fans afterwards. Here’s the trouble with me and these moments of fan interaction. You can ask anybody that knows me offline or anybody who I’ve met and made some impression on can confirm that I am REALLY nervous around people I haven’t seen in awhile or meeting for the first time. Basically turn into a very jumpy version of ““Boomhauer”” from “King of the Hill”…well for the first 15 minutes that is.

Anyway, there was a line to meet Erin but she was talking with some fans and I didn’t want to intrude. To not look as awkward by just standing there I saw Jason Weems at the merchandise table with his comedy special on DVD “Jason Weems Intellectual Property Vol. 1.” We spoke briefly; apparently we both dig the same comedians and then I realized who he was. I also picked up a copy of his DVD that I’ll probably do a review on later. Remember, I’m still in “Boomhauer” mode at this point and I was legit afraid that I was going to say something dumb that would take me from my status as “very supportive fan” to “creepy yet helpful stalker.”

So after some comforting words from the missus I stayed in line, then when it was my turn I walked up to Erin and I barely whisper “hi.” From her expression, I could tell that she recognized me from somewhere and said that I looked familiar. In my timid state I said “it’s me…uh, John or SketchofMD on Twitter.” She was pleasantly surprised that I made it out to the show and gave me a hug. What surprised me was that she recognized me by my real name. I also explained to her that I’ve been meaning to check her show out since ‘08 but since I couldn’t make those shows I always made sure that I would get the word out that she was performing. She noticed that I did that for all this time and appreciated it.

It’s still kind of blurry but I remember her asking where I was from; I mentioned that I was out in…well, not going to mention it on here but I originally lived near SE DC. I asked “whatever happened to Bryson?” and she said that he was in New York now. I asked her about her plans she was going to meet with some friends she hasn’t seen in a minute. During the exchange, the missus took some photos of us and she inquired in a friendly matter if they were going to be on my site. Honestly, I was elated that she even noticed my site.

So I scurry off to the side with the missus and after checking out the photos she took I was going to tell Erin that I was about to head back home but I noticed Erin talking to some other fans and I didn’t want to intrude on that. So the missus and I rolled out and headed back home. I’m proud of the strides that Erin’s making and she’s a great example of the power of a strong fan base, hard work and social networking can lead to a sold out show.

If Erin Jackson’s in your town and you’re truly a fan of comedy, it’s imperative that you check her out!

“I’m a Grown Ass Moron!” by John M. Ellison IV

You know what’s weird? The over use of the phrase, “I’m a grown ass *insert gender*!” Honestly, if you’re truly a grown ass man, woman, Martian or whatever you are…you don’t need to state it.

The catchphrase “I’m a grown ass man!” was coined by comedian Cedric “the Entertainer” during one of his stand up routines. I’m not sure when it was first used but I know that the phrase is used in the 2000 standup comedy film “Kings of Comedy.” This catch phrase has become a part of the urban pop culture lexicon and to some it’s a “movement” to express a sense of independence and maturity yet ironically their actions are still juvenile.

From the experiences I’ve had and still have dealing with people that use this phrase, I noticed that it’s often used by people that usually don’t have their…how can I put this eloquently? Oh…that’s right “shit together.” I say that because if you’re truly a “mature” adult you wouldn’t have to use a now over 11 year old catch phrase from a standup routine to declare your maturity to others!

Honestly, the use of the phrase is reminiscent of any idiot that brags about how “punk”, “hip-hop”, “gangsta”, “goth” etc. they are. But, notice people that “label” themselves or brag about their credibility whatever subculture are usually deemed posers or “fake” by others who are deeper in said subcultures. Remember “actions speak louder than words.”

In closing, if one’s truly an adult and who has reached maturity, your actions will show and stating that you’re “a grown ass whatever” will be redundant.

Settling Back Home After Vacation…

Hey folks,

As you probably know or don’t know, I was on a road trip with my family where we drove cross country from Maryland (East Coast) to Hollywood,CA (West Coast.) When people found out we drove, some were surprised by this. Why not? Anyway, I’m kind of loopy off of time zone shifts. But, I’ll get to articles, features as soon as I can. Also, I want to wish everyone a great 2011 personally and professionally.

Songs I’ve Had on Rotation by John M. Ellison IV

Hey folks, I don’t really have much to say today. Aside from the reviews and commentary, I’ve been working on some music and other projects too. I’m also looking into why the site sometimes loads slowly or doesn’t connect as well as it should. Peace

Here’s some songs that I’ve been listening too…

Fugazi-Waiting Room

Cowboy Troy-New Sheriff

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/new-sheriff-single/id408426899

The Ramones-Cabbies on Crack

Devo-The Rope Song

Frank Zappa-Muffin Man

Meet Your Idols, You Won’t be Disappointed

by John M. Ellison IV

On October Wednesday October 6th, 2010 wrestler/author Mick Foley had a book signing at Border’s in Rockville, MD. I’m not sure where to start with how important this is. For my readers who aren’t aware of who Mick Foley is, you might know him better as the outlaw Cactus Jack in ECW and WCW and also the Freudian Mankind and the tye dye t-shirt clad hipster Dude Love in WWF (Now WWE). When it comes to it, I’ve always been a huge fan of wrestling in general, especially WWE.

In fact, I was born the same year as the first Wrestlemania, 1984.

In 1998-1999 during WWE’s Attitude Era/Monday Night Wars, this was a moment that pro wrestling turned a corner in pop culture. Those moments being, the laughably bad “Exposed Pro Wrestling’s Greatest Secrets” and the monumental Barry W. Blaustien documentary, “Beyond the Mat.” I noticed a few conversations with other wrestling fans and some wrestlers on how they felt that “Exposed” destroyed the magic of pro wrestling. With me, I became more intrigued by the artistry behind the scenes as well as in the squared circle. I remember watching Beyond the Mat and out of all the wrestlers profiled, aside from New Jack, Foley’s was the most interesting.

When it comes to it, I’m in the entertainment business. More in the music branch, but the umbrella term is still entertainment. Wrestling/sports entertainment falls under the entertainment umbrella.
As a huge fan of wrestling, I see and recognize the kinship between all performing arts and I urge all artists to defend their creative brethren.

One of my biggest anxieties when meeting someone that I respect and admire is making a total ass of myself in front of them. I mean, I hate to say there is a slight stigma with wrestling fans being ignorant because
of their entertainment choices. But, to me the ignorance can be and in this case is a two way street.
I mean, the idea of someone thinking fans of wrestling in this day and age aren’t aware that pro wrestling isn’t predetermined are naïve themselves.

But I digress, with moments like this; I try to make an impression on people. So, the missus and I thought, well might as well do some “shameless” yet tasteful self-promotion. In this case, I made a t-shirt that had the “G” with liberty spikes but the color scheme was an allusion to the black and red flannel of Foley’s sleeveless shirt. The shirts were a process and a mofo to create themselves. But that’s an anecdote for another time.

So, after the shirts were made, “road crew” (my mom, sis, the missus) headed over to “Border’s” in Rockville. The idea of me meeting one of my pro wrestling heroes had me shakier than a meth head sitting on a la-z-boy made of jell-o. When we arrived at Border’s, I noticed nobody was there…I thought, did I get the right address? Was this the wrong day? Then I looked over and noticed a sign that said Mick Foley book signing. I realized it was on the third floor. So, sis and the missus and headed upstairs and purchased two copies, one for me and one for my dad who couldn’t be there because he had to work. So, after purchasing the books, we headed over to where he was.

The crowd was thick, but sis found a clear spot that was actually closer. So, thanks to this, the missus and I were roughly 12 feet from him. He read a few excerpts from his book including stories from his personal life, such as how a well meaning dead on impression of Rocky Balboa that he left on the answering machine into his son picking up the phone and him improvising and trying to get off the phone. He also explained how he became active with RAINN after meeting with Tori Amos.

Then with these events, naturally there was a Q&A section. Which was nerve racking, there was so much I wanted to ask, but I couldn’t think of a really good question.

I admit it, I blanked out. Then after the Q&A section, a line was formed where we could get all of our books signed. When we were lined up, the missus, my mom and sis were there and noticed how nervous I looked. So, they tried talking to me to help loosen me up. In fact, my sister took a picture of Foley and he gave his trademark thumbs up and sent it to my phone. I didn’t notice the picture until she mentioned it.

In the midst of the line, this woman in front of us who had the 60’s flower child look and vibe. I’ll call her “Moonbeam.” Noticed my sister “people watching” and making up goofy names for them. “Moonbeam” said she does the same. She was very pleasant and said she picked this book up for her son who is now in Florida and works at Disney. To paraphrase some of what “Moonbeam” said she explained that her son’s still a fan and he would be elated if he got this book. It was a pleasant conversation. She talked about how since her husband was in the military, she and her son lived in Germany and Japan. Everything was cool…until somebody (as my dude in Texas, Troy would describe as) had an expulsion of gas that was “Silent but Violent.”

After Moonbeam was up, she got her book signed and I was up next…I only had one thought repeating, basically a mantra of “don’t mark out, don’t mark out” He was very pleasant and he signed my book. I took a picture with him and walked off. The missus had the same book meant for my dad and Foley noticed a similar name with the book that the missus had. In this case, my dad’s book was John M. Ellison III. I overheard my name called; it was Foley flagging me back to talk a little bit! He thought it was sweet that I got a copy of the book for my dad since he couldn’t make it. He also noticed my shirt, with the flannel design and asked what Ghettopunkrocker was.

I explained what it was and he thought it was cool. Honestly, when he noticed my shirt, I actually for a split second forgot I had a site and didn’t know what he was talking about. I was elated that he recognized my shirt that I made for the occasion. There so many questions I wanted and still will ask him, but I was considerate for the other fans that were there also to meet their idol.

For example, I wanted to tell him about the time mom, sis, Keesh and I were decorating the Christmas tree and how my mom slipped and fell through the glass table.

I was in a trance, and I was grateful and glad to know that one of my favorite wrestlers was everything I expected him to be. So, the road crew and I headed back home and I proceeded to read “Countdown to Lockdown.”

Special thanks to my sister, Rishele for taking the pictures. Check out her site Risheleonline.com

Check out Mick Foley’s blog
The official Mick Foley blog

Pick up “Countdown to Lockdown” from Amazon.com.