UMC Semi-Finals Week 1
And the winners are…
Rölling the Stönes and Mönsters öf Röck. Congratulations both you, “Bringing-it-when-it-needed-to-be-brought” mofos! See you in the Finals!
So, it was Rölling the Stönes which, once again, came out first, slammed the jam, smoked the stroke, and set a bar which arguably wasn’t surpassed until the last set of the night, if ever.
Man, oh man, I had so much fun last night. The only thing that sucked was that all 4 bands couldn’t go forward. For the record, I enjoyed every one of your sets and will be keeping an eye out for future gigs. True story.
Here are you db readings:
Rölling the Stönes topped the meter at 117.4, followed by Mönsters öf Röck at 116.7, The Mighty Untöuchables at 116.1, and Firëfly at 114.6, which means the crowd and I agreed upon the two winners, and overturned Alicia and Dave’s top pick of The Mighty Untöuchables.
Indeed, Dave and Alicia overtly expressed their disdain for my decision to stiff The Untöuchables and, predictably, pulled their, “We-are-musicians-and-we-know-better-than-you” card, on which I called bullshit. More on that later.
Here are your numbers:
1. Band Totals
Rölling the Stönes – 262.5
Mönsters öf Röck – 256.5
Untöuchables – 232.5
Firëfly – 211.5
2. The Judges’ Picks, Collectively (total band score minus audience response categories):
Mönsters öf Röck– 207
Rölling the Stönes – 206
Untöuchables – 194
Firëfly – 181
3. Judges’ Individual Picks (minus audience response categories)
Dave Patrone
Untöuchables – 69
MöR – 65.5
Stönes – 65
Firëfly – 55
Alicia Champion
Untöuchables – 71
Stönes – 69
MöR – 66
Firëfly – 63
Edwin Decker
MöR – 75.5
Stönes – 72
Firëfly – 63
Untöuchables – 55
(from the MöR website)
So it seems my scores are quite out of whack from the other judges. Especially with regard to the Untöuchables, which they both had first, and I had last, causing a bit of a rumpus between us. And I will say this: in hindsight, I am displeased with my scoresheet. In fact, in hindsight, this was my worst judicial outing since starting UMC some 3 years ago. Indeed, if I were to judge my judging abilities of last night, I think it would go like this:
SHOWMANSHIP
1. Stage Presence – 8 (cuz I’m cool on da mike)
2. Energy – 8 (I’m energetic)
3. Charisma – 8 (I’m very charming, as you know)
4. Overall style – 4 (I have marginal style)
JUDGING ABILITY (Here’s where I falter)
1. Judging Vocal Performances – 4
2. Judging Music performances – 3
Giving me a total of 42 points (“Judging Ability” category counts as double)
There are many reasons for my grand-scale suckage here. For one, it was a very close night yet my scoring did not resemble that. I should not have given the Untöuchables such a low score. Nor did Mönsters deserve that high of a score. If I had to do it over again, my grades would’ve looked more like this:
Stönes – 72
Mönsters – 71
Firëfly – 69
Untöuchables – 68
The reasons why I thought I scored Mönsters too high was because:
1. They had several moments of dynamic technical muddiness.
2. They made a bad song choice (“Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth).
3. Ron forgot the opening lyrics to “War Pigs,” which was blatant, and a bit of a disappointment, albeit a good recovery. Apparently, he also bungled the lyrics on “Symphony of Destruction.” Not that I would know nor care since Dave Mustaine blows assface. It is beyond me why Mönsters would ever play Megadeth, except, maybe, to make Megadeth look like chumps by comparison – in which case I approve.
I thought the Rölling the Stönes came out huge, really huge– goose pimple-huge – despite the fact that I have no use for “Satisfaction,” being that it is in the top ten of all-time most overplayed songs in the history of rock. And when Jackson (a.k.a. Këith RiffHard) opened with that guitar riff – the second most famous guitar intro in the world – I thought, Oh god, really? Are you really going to make me sit through 4 or 5 minutes of this soul-jacker of a song?
But, I have to say, they coughed new life into “Satisfaction” and the set was officially off and running. Then, “Heartbreaker” which was an excellent song choice and masterfully executed (with goose pimples remaining on skin). “Wild Horses” was a bold decision considering the abrupt tempo plummet. However, they couldn’t have placed it better, built it back up to a brilliant, goose-pimpling climax, and dove headlong into “Gimme Shelter” (at this point, goose pimples fully erect and running from wrist to elbow). The Gimme Shëlter girl shuttered the song with a titanic vocal display that, dare I say, bested Merry Clayton’s version on the original track. It was easily the best musical moment of the night. They lost me on “Rocks Off,” though, (at which point the goose pimples took a dinner break) but came back strong, albeit goose pimple-free, with the “Honky Tonk Woman” finale.
Overall, an outstanding set.
As for Shëlli and Firëfly, I’m more than a little depressed they’re not moving on. I just dig them so much; absolutely adored their show and disagreed with the other judges that she was pitchy out of tune.
Of course, Shelli herself would probably agree with Dave and Alicia, as she was fighting through some throat mold, could not hear herself in the monitor and was not entirely jazzed about her performance, but I just loved Shelli’s rendition of “Alone” and if I missed her out-of-tuned-edness, it was probably because I was singing along so loudly, I couldn’t hear it. The Who’s “Baba O’Reilly” was a nice touch for an opening, though they cut it short, which was disappointing. The Pink song, “Trouble,” was a great song choice for the slot (kept that energy going) but lost me a bit with the Muse tune. No worries though as they brought’er home via Heart, ZZ Top and Zep.
Girl, Shell, you can sing, moldy throat be damned. And Chris, drummër, like I said last night, yer a banger man. Bang on!
Finally, the controversy du jour: The Mighty Untöuchables:
My magisterial colleagues tore me a new sphincter last night because I had them last on my list. However, I stand by the decision. For me, the main problem was “Black Magic Woman.” I also thought they dragged the tease on “How Deep is Your Love” just a little too long and had some problems on Kansas’, “Carry On.” In their defense, it was a bold call to play that song, a song that is as big as tornado and twice as powerful. In fact, the whole set was delightfully risky, going from Earth Wind and Fire, to Carrie Underwood, to Kansas, Bee Gees and Beyonce. That took ‘nads! The male lead singer, Leonard, was sublime. Danielle and Juliette are no slouches either. But it was Leonard’s display of depth and emotion on “How Deep is Your Love” that struck my chords. The harmonies were sick. The rearrangement of the Beyonce song was clever, to say the least, and “Get Away” by Earth Wind and Fire was an absolute brain basher. All in all, a lovely, exciting set, but again, it was that damned “Black Magic Woman” which secured a bottom position on my scoresheet.
Aside from being, what I consider, an utterly overplayed tune, I thought there were some chaotic moments (not the good kind of chaos), with guitar volumes abruptly dropping in and out, (not in the good way) and the drummer inexplicably speeding and slowing the tempo (not in the good way).
Alicia and David couldn’t have disagreed more. And boy, did they let me have it; talking about how the tempo and volume disparity were part of their reworking of the song; talking about how the abrupt key changes were not only difficult, but had been nailed; talking about the intended shock value of a key change; talking about the nature of a key change as a whole; talking about key changes as if I was some sort of piano-banging retard who thinks “key change” is what happens after your woman throws you out of the house.
I told them, yes Dave, Alicia, I know what a key change is – and I know they can be difficult to pull off, but it still has to land on an appropriate key, regardless of the difficulty. It’s like a gymnast botching the dismount after a triple, doozy, whammy, flip-a-roony. No matter how hard the stunt, the dismount must still be landed.
Anyway, that was the debate. I will leave it up to Blog Nation to decide who’s right.
In the meantime, I’d like to reiterate, despite our (the judges) many disagreements, despite all our critical nitpicks and minutia-excrucia, the one aspect upon which we all agree is that four extraordinarily talented bands graced us with their presence last night, and two of them will be sorely missed. True story.
Ëdwin Dëckër
Judge #3 (The Cörrecter Judge)
Well, let me tell you how it went down last night, from my point of view, we, RTS, played first, and we thought it went pretty good. then the mighty untouchables played, they were great and had what looked like the biggest crowd of the night and i got worried. their keyboard/timbale player is from another dimension, wow, he is one of the best musicians i have ever seen. then came firefly, who i had not seen, but i was told they were like a great top 40/wedding band, not so, that woman wailed, what power, and the band was top notch too, i thought their first song was not the strongest, but when she did ‘how do i get you alone’ by heart, i thought holy shit batman! by the way ed, no amount of alcohol could get me alone with you, i love you pal and thanks for the tongue offer last night, but you are not my type. then the climax, MOR, the monsters continue to blow me away, why Ron is not touring the US making huge amounts of money is beyond me! that guy is so world class!! the monsters just rock your ass off, period. so, by this time we are sitting there thinking that there is no way the MOR and the mighty untouchables could not win, Monsters get announced for second place and i figure that’s it, the untouchables won it, great show, biggest crowd, mathematically they win. i was so overwhelmed that an hour later on the way to the south forty to get my truck and load up, i actually got choked up, as i walked through the parking lot alone (Keith can cry, just not in front of anyone). i am also in awe of the job that Casey, and Rick, and the rest of the stage, sound and light crew manage to put together, difficult job to say the least, and they are so cool about it, rick is a great stage manager, he is patient and knows how to get the job done right, kudos to you buddy. we had so much fun, we really want to thank all of our friends and fans who came to see us, and i love meeting the new folks that come up to say hi, i love to press the flesh, and get to know people. that was our third show together, we are still working on getting this band off the ground, we have the support of some incredibly selfless people in our corner, Andrea gordon, Dana marver,(booking agent extraordinaire) our sweet wives who do our costumes, hair, and makeup with out complaining, and put up with us. lastly, i want to thank the judges for their honesty, we want to improve, we need to, and we appreciate the input tremendously. i told Ed’s wife last night, “can i kiss him?’, he then stuck out his tongue, and opened his mouth and i said “no ed, i meant Italian style’ so he offered me his cheek and i admit it, i did kiss him. Alecia had some good constructive criticism for us, which we heartily welcome, you have to if you want to improve, and i know she knows what she is talking about. i am the equivalent of a high school drop out when it comes to musical knowledge, i am completely self taught, i do not read, hell i have trouble reading tablature, and she knows stuff that i don’t even understand (is a major second, like a whole step?). last but not least, DP, the man, the marine, the artist, the musician, a true renaissance man for our times, and in spite of all that class and style, when i begged a piece of chocolate from him, he says to me when i make my choice from the See’s box, a dark chocolate covered peanut cluster, “how do you like my nuts”, how can you NOT like this guy? he can create a work of art with one hand, and with the other hand, change the oil on his car, while shooting a deer, and picking up a babe, and do a one-handed push-up simultaneously! i am stunned. the only thing missing last night was Bruce, Alice of the cooper gang, i know he was busy with a big family event, but he was missed, i guess seeing Phil take on the Eddie role was almost as good. i also got to meet Dave m. and the lovely Mary from our UMC blog here, great folks, like i said, one of the best things about this contest is meeting new people, be sure to come up and say hi to me, i will be there next week to cheer on my buddy, Alice cooper, i’m going back to bed now, after i shoot a little recreational heroin, cheers love, Keith Riffhard
“It’s good to be here…….. it’s good to be anywhere!”
Ed, I’m responding to your comment about “landing in an appropriate key” when doing a key change. In verse two of Black Magic Woman, TMU took the song up a Major second – one whole step up. That’s the most schoolbook, most appropriate key change one could choose to execute. And again I emphasize, they nailed it. Casey, please share that you agreed?
Casey did agree, I will give you that, but I know what I heard, and dozens of people agree with me – many of them, musicians also. Maybe they tried to land on the next full step up, but it sure sounded like they missed it, cuz it sounded wrong, and how it sounds is all that matters, no?
Where are you dozens of people who said they agreed with me? Don’t leave me dangling. Come forth and tell it like it is.
Jackson, say what you want about wanting only the Italian kiss, I could see it in your eyes what you really were hoping for. Eyes don’t lie.
“Ed” don’t ever doubt yourself remember
“You Are King”
In my opinion you Nailed It![no not Eddie-you wish!]
But the order in which each band placed!
Sure i think you were abit cruel when it came to some of your numbers,
but you nailed it when it came to which band deserved which spot!
The fact that My Picks were in the same order as Yours can only lead me
to believe that[like myself]you Reign Supreme.
“Long Live Our King”
All kidding aside just because a change, or movement within The Music is
“Musically Correct” does’nt mean it’s Correct! If it’s not Correct to
your “Ear”. No Juilliard Master Of The Arts can tell you your wrong
if it does’nt Sound Good.The Word Step[in Musical terms] is Preferable to “Tone” which literally means “Sound”.
Just because your walk up landed you on the right Step does’nt mean
that “Step” fits That “Staircase?” Just a Thought?
I Heart The Chick
Whether they nailed the key change or not, regardless of difficultly, I like it the way it was originally written best.
There’s something really important that needs mentioning. I spoke with members of all the competing bands before and during the contest. There was nothing but support and good vibes all around.
All these guys (and gals) are as classy as they are talented, and it was a pleasure sharing the show with them last night. My best to all.
Let’s call a spade a shovel shall we? I saw the friggin show, and as a world class accordionist, I believe I qualify to make a few calls on the semi-final show, regardless of public – 95% of them are sheep anyway – opinion, I will divulge. Rolling The Stones, a pretty damn good time and a scarily close rendition of the real thing, and personally i like the choice of a song that is not well known. The judges bitch when it is a well known, or should I say overplayed song, waa waa waa, then they bitch when they don’t know one, make up your frigging minds you bitches. I could not hear the guitars very well, especially in the solos and I am not sure if that is the sound guys or the band pussyfooting around, play it like you mean it boys, don’y be pussy-footing around like, well, pussies. The Mighty? Untouchables were doing ok at the opener, but the Kansas tune sucked, every keyboardist and guitarist in the room knew it, will they say it? I don’t know but it was a bad choice for them, and somebody was off key the whole time vocally, where was Alecia’s Berklee ear for that one? Then they took like almost 2 minutes to do some skit setup or something, and I could not see what was going on, I could hear the guy mumbling something, but the steam of the show was gone like a fart in the wind. Last but not least was the rape of the Santana song, the guitar work was really bad, really, really. a butchered result which the friends of the band can call a ‘rearrangement’ all they want, we musicians know better. I thought Firefly was pretty good, I did not see any real mistakes, the first song the vocals were not that good, but that chick warmed up pretty good and she can sing. The guitar player had a good little gimmick jumping up on his amp til he did it a second time, and believe me sir, once is enough for any dog and pony trick. They seemed a bit out of their league except for the drummer who was awful damn tight. I decided to stick around for Monsters of Rock and although I am by no means a Metal fan, they can do it well, although it seemed like their singer was a bit, well, drunk. He seemed to be doing some weird shit up there and was just acting strange, I thought. I do not know any of those songs well enogh to notice missing lyrics, but I noticed a couple of seemingly botched guitar solos, and I thought that one appearance by the dummy, or whatever that halloween type knucklehead is, was enough. So they changed his outfit, big deal, maybe they should have Mr. Patrone do it with his suit and little hat, that would be cute, he says he like that Creature so much he had posters of him on his wall, I had Farrah Fawcett you dingleberry, explain that obsession bro, strange taste. I honestly could not call any clear winner last night, except maybe the gay Stones or The Munsters which is the way it went down anyway. I did notice that the judges seemed to get worse in their observational skills as the night went on and they continued to pound free drinks, they are free for you quacks, aren’t they? try to slow it down for the sake of integrity boys and girls, your reputation is on the line here, so at least ACT like you care. my apathy overfloweth. your friend, Al
Ed… I think we agreed (ow! ow!) again. See my last post Week 8.
“Al” — Kinda scary to me is that you, Ed and I all seem to agree on Stones and MOR being the picks of the night!
~~Peace (from your friend)
Al – the fact-mangler, returns.
Fact: Nobody bitched about any songs being well known or not. Dave Patrone merely asked what the name of the Stones 5th song was because he did not know. Can’t know them all you know. He went on to, rightly, criticize the song based on its merits, not it’s familiarity.
Fact: The song in question, “Rocks Off” happens to be a well known tune, being the first cut off of one of the real Stones most critically and publicly lauded albums, Exile on Main Street.
Fact: Lots of young boys had a poster of Eddie on their wall. Eddie is a monster, and the mascot for a heavy metal band. For young males, monsters and heavy metal bands = bliss. Having posters of pinup girls, however, is pathetic. All my childhood posters were of musicians and bands. Not one ridiculous girly poster.
Fact: The drinks are not free for judges.
Fact: Only one judge drank last night. that would me. Patrone NEVER drinks, Champion has the occasional cocktail, which ain’t really “drinking,” and then there’s me – who needs to 12-15 Rumplemintzs just to get to the top end of sober, so I guarantee you my wits and integrity were intact.
Fact: The accordion is not an instrument,it’s a toy.
Fact: Next to “nice,” the word “good” or “pretty good” is the lamest adjective one can use when describing anything, especially music.
as in:
“I thought Firefly was pretty good, I did not see any real mistakes, the first song the vocals were not that good, but that chick warmed up pretty good and she can sing. The guitar player had a good little gimmick jumping up on his amp”
Geez Al, thesaurus much?
Well Ed, …you made me post finally. I’d have to correct you on that last part. I believe the correct lamer, or shall I say lamerer adjective would be “Neat.” (Used backstage by Kevin Costner as he told Madonna what he thought of her concert)
“Nice” could pass as an appropriate descriptive adjective in a cool way if it were said with a certain tone. Perhaps by a stoned surfer. But then again, I believe “Sweet” is the new “Nice.”
…and yes, I do agree two times on my amp was a little much. I like the view from up there and have gotten used to jumping up on my cabs at least once a show. One time I jumped up wrong and the cab fell and my rack unit got smashed. Way to end a show. …but that’s another story.
As for the accordian player, I knew your pics by your instrument. As the saying goes:
“Welcome to heaven. Here’s your harp.”
“Welcome to hell! Here’s your accordian!”
MoR matches with that, and RTS were tight with the Hell’s Angels. Both bands ROCKED, and I laughed my ass off when I saw those devil forks held up with that high note. It must have looked like a mini hell from the judges table with the forks moving through the crowd.
Then on to the Untouchables. I can say for certain that they totally unsucked! Their exalted display of musicianship was mind-blowing and left me humbled beneath my amp.
I agree with Ethan, above. ALL the musicians were “class acts” and in a total attitude of support for each other. It was great to see those of you that I already knew and to meet those of you that I hadn’t known before last nite. You Monsters of Rock chicks that were out on the dancefloor dancing during our set…WOW! I’m speechless at the level of graciousness & generosity in that! THANK YOU, you classy-rock-chicks!!!
For the record, Ed, the “mold” is not in my throat…but in my coastal abode…which is a hazard of living in paradise I suppose…add to that the smokey environment to exascerbate the condition, and oversinging the first couple of songs cuz I couldn’t hear myself in the monitor. I just WASN’T up to my usual self, vocally.:( And which would also explain why I NAILED the set in multiple rehearsals in a mold & smoke free environment…BUT…I’ve sung in countless smokey bars in my career, and it just is what it is, and every musician has had to deal with it. No excuses. I just wasn’t physically up to my usual standard of performance, and as such, was NOT satisfied with my performance. I DID, however, think my boys were ON FIRE!
I had SO MUCH FUN last nite, and in our first round of UMC! It was a GREAT experience & I have to say congratulations to Rolling The Stones AND to Monsters of Rock! …AND to The Mighty Untouchables! Just to work so hard and put yourselves out there in SUCH a HUGE way…tells ME that you are ALL consumate PRO’S…and winners in the most obviouse ways. I enjoyed ALL your sets. Best of luck to RTS and MOR in the finals!!! YOU SO DESERVE TO BE THERE!
Rock On!!!
I agree with Shelli. Everyone of the musicians are giants. The judges did a great job and they too are giants. My thanks to all of you for a really great time. See you next year!
Mr. Shelli Frances
“Shelli” Your One Hell Of A GREAT VOCALIST!!
I’ve never heard you before but I was Upset[alittle]Angry when I heard
comments about you being Sick, or there was a problem with your voice?
“Hello” I can’t even imagine how “Great” a vocalist you must be on
your “Best Night!” if[in their opinion]this was’nt one of them?
You, and Ron of MOR were the Best Vocalist of the night!
The blond female singer in The Untouchables was also Very Good, and also
RTS has Two of the best Back up singers around.
But Girl You Got It! “Pitchy” PLEASE!!! more like Jealious “Bitchys”
Who wish they could sing like Ann Wilson or Plant in his days with Zepp!
The only thing that i think would make your band better was drop kick
any, and all songs that don’t highlight you as a Vocalist!
With a voice like yours the music your band showcases should center
around you! Your Guitarist can play, and also sings good, and you have a
killer band backing you up but never forget every band has “A Star”
and that Star is You! Don’t get stuck playing “Cover Band Dance Hits”
in Bars unless those Hit Songs were originally Sung by Great Vocalist
otherwise your just wasting your “Gift”, and Your time.
To be Honest if I sang like you it would be all about Playing nothing
but Originals! and if your not a good Songwriter yourself find someone
who is. Lifes to short to miss out on that “Dream” that is still in your
Reach.Look around you there are, and there always were Very Few Real Good
Female Rock Vocalist out there! The Boys really out number the Ladys
So if You Got It! Go Get It! and You Got It!
Sorry I know I Wondered From The Topic of This Blog “The Contest”
but who cares? if people don’t like it they can Scroll Down!!
Chick,
Even Shelli agreed she was flat on some of the notes in “alone” so get over it. We noted it and noted that it was because of her “throat issues” but we are only judging the performance of that night, not an artist’s potential or past performance.
Shelli is an awesome singer and we noted that too!
WOW CHICK! Thanks SO MUCH for your support here( you too DP)…but yes, I HAVE been battling some major throat issues for MONTHS now, much to my frustration. My husband and I have pretty much resigned ourselves to the fact that the coastal area we live in is the primary contributing factor (MUCH TO OUR DISMAY!!!). We are actually looking into moving slightly further inland to escape the mold that pretty much grows in the walls and plantlife where we live. I seem to be EXTREMELY allergic to it. That being said, with my throat in an already compromised condition, it only took those couple of songs oversung from lack of monitor volume to put my voice in complete stress. Perhaps I will have a healthier environment to live soon, and get this stupid thing resolved so I can get myself back in optimal vocal performance…then, I truly hope you will have the opportunity to hear what I REALLY sound like when I sing “ALONE”.
On the other point you made, I DID record some original songs some years ago in Nashville (Nashville writers)at Curb Studios…several of those songs are up on my MySpace page…the record deal was 4 days from signing when 9/11 happened…..Whadaya gonna do??? You just move forward and keep doin’ whatcha do…I am a lyricist who is ALWAYS looking for a good songwriter/co-writer to work with on original material. KNOW ANYONE???
Thanks again for the complements! I DO LOVE MY JOB FOR SURE!
So Hey “Chick”…Viejas has decided to put together a couple of UMC “follow-up shows” with some top favorite picks that did not make it into the finals…and they have invited Firefly to do a 1 hour set for the first follow up show! Come on out and support Firefly and the other cool bands and let Viejas know that there IS an audience for genres other than top 40 dance bands! We got an early timeslot so it won’t conflict as much with everyone’s Monday work schedules…we are up Sunday, July 5th, from 7:30-8:30pm. Hope to see ya there!!! Come up and say “Hi”!
I found the judges last night to be particularly, well shall we say gushy. It actually seemed to be a bit of a love fest at some points which apparently resulted in some emotional scoring. At the semis, I would think expectations would be elevated and therefore there would be more criticism, along with the praise of course. Can’t help but wonder if the “morning after” critiquing had actually happened when it mattered and subsequently considered in the scoring if perhaps the results would have been different. I also think the loud volume level allows for the average ear to miss many of the bands’ mistakes. Ed, while I love your writing and find it quite brilliant, maybe next year there should be a real third judge and by real I mean a top level musician (I nominate Pat Yandall) and Ed, you be the “write up guy”. These adjustments along with maybe not eliminating but decreasing the importance of the crowd noise factor would take this competition to another level, at least musically. I don’t say this to take anything away from any of the bands – they all deserved to be in the semis and are all professionals. Rolling the Stones has the duplication down to a science and the female singer put Gimme Shelter over the top. Even if last night’s set had a few kinks in it, The Mighty Untouchables feature some of the absolute best players in town. Firefly put on a great performance (and I thought the most dynamic) despite the fact that the lead singer apparently wasn’t feeling 100% and they are a smaller group competing against larger arrangements. Not a metal fan so tough to comment, but Monsters of Rock seem to do what they do well.
I’ve said it a million times LTM, I call it like I see it. I’m never mean or critical for meanness sake, and I’m never gushy because I’m afraid to be critical.
If you’re a great band, and you move me the way those bands moved me last night, I’m gonna gush, and I don’t care who hates it. If your band needs work, I’ll be critical, and of course, then it will be to a chorus of boos, but I’ll be critical anyway because that’s what is called for.
LTM, doesn’t it make sense, that all the bands who won in the prelims, largely because we loved them so much, would please us again, if not more in the semis.
My advice to you, with all due respect, bring a couple agro douchebags with you the next two weeks to get your fill of obligatory negativity because I have feeling, based on the bands upcoming, there’s gonna be a lot more judicial gushing.
AS for The morning after critique potentially changing the outcome, do the math – it would’ve been the same outcome, except RTS wins first, MOR gets second.
Ed baby, maybe I should have been more specific. I do get that the bands in the Semis will get some gushing, after all, they made it to the Semis. I really was referring to YOUR repeated “I Love Ya Man” sentiments to MOR last night with no real critique of some real mistakes. All the bands did some good things and some not so good things. I just think you forgot to mention the latter with MOR. Just caught up in the moment, perhaps? Too bad you can’t review via video and if so I think you would see your responses were a little over the top for a supposedly unbiased judge. As for the math, maybe you meant vice versa (RTS vs MOR), but I was really referring to also taking into account my opinion that the crowd factor should be mitigated. But, hey, I’m not saying you’re not skilled, just that your musical preferences are apparent and maybe in a judging capacity they shouldn’t be. But Ed, I still love you man, I mean you know, I really love you, you’re great, I mean it, I really, really love you!
LTM, buddy, I’m hearing you. But please allow for a distinction. If I’m gushing over any one group, I am gushing over the group itself, and not “my musical preference (i.e. genre).”
I gushed over Cash’d Out, I gushed over Detroit Underground, I gushed over Nutty. To me, great music is great music, genre be damned.
It’s no secret that I love Monsters of Rock. And in that sense, I AM biased. In that sense, I’m SUPPOSED to be biased. I’m supposed to give high marks to the groups that I think are best. The fact that they are metal has nothing to do with it. In fact, I’m not even really a heavy metal fan. Not the darker stuff like Maiden and Megadeth anyway. I prefer more classic hard rock like Zep, Rush, Floyd etc. Half of the songs MOR played last night, I did not even like that much. They are just, in my mind, a really really great band. Even when they aren’t so great, they are great.
Of course, so is a lot of the other bands at this level and I’m telling you right now, most of them are right up there with MOR, so, expect more gushing.
I do agree that it was not a slam dunk last night, and, in hindsight, should’ve graded them closer – but what I said on the mic, i stand by 100 percent. I gushed about all the bands, cuz they were all gush-worthy.
I also agree, and so do the other judges, and now, management as well, that the crowd response category has too much weight, and next year, we are going to fix that.
Ed, as good as the contest is now, I am glad to hear it is going to get even better next year. Y’all (casino staff and judges) do a good job in a challenging environment – a standing room only crowd filled with the band members’ friends and a bunch of musicians!
Ed, I should have said that it’s admirable you are owning it, a bit, albeit a day late. Hey, I might even buy your poetry book.
Thanks LTM, for you, half price.
Last night was my first experience at the UMC. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening, but based on the outcome would suggest Ed change the name of the event. Since he suggested the band previously known as “The Untouchables”, change to “The Mighty Untouchables”, I’m suggesting you change the name of this event to the “Ultimate ROCK Challenge”. It was clear that is your preferred genre, Ed, so notice should go out to all non-rock bands that they basically have no chance in this contest. That said, ALL of the bands last night were great; great instrumentals, timing and vocals. While I enjoyed Rolling the Stones, I personally find it interesting that a tribute band would be in contention for this contest, let alone “win” the night. While they were spot on in their individual characters and were phenomenal players, I feel a tribute band lacks creativity and therefore relies on how well they portray their roles to be accepted. In a similar vein, the MOR were awesome in their musicianship, power and performance. That lead singer is sick and can REALLY scream. However, we again go back to the creativity issue. Instead of trying to channel Black Sabbath, why not try to bring some new twist to it? Ozzie didn’t become Ozzie by trying to copy someone else. The final straw for me with MOR was the last song where the chicks drug in the zombie in chains. I thought this band was tight and showed real power. The zombie act with the devil pitchforks reduced these guys down to the Monsters of Schlock. They were much better than that and didn’t need the gimmick to be successful.
I mostly enjoyed Firefly and The Mighty Untouchables. Why? Neither group locked themselves into a stereotype and showed great chops in all they did. Ed mentioned that he had never heard a chick sing “Tush”. Well, neither have I and and the novelty of it and her performance added to the mix. She SANG the crap out of that tune. The rasp in her voice was perfect for their overall vibe and all the players in the band are beyond stellar.
The Mighty Untouchables were the band that REALLY took the chances and in my opinion, proved themselves worthy. What a versatile group they are mixing the styles and sounds in such a cohesive way. Were they perfect? No, but neither were the other bands. However, TMU “rocked” in their own way and proved their overall chops are not limited to one specific genre or tribute of someone else.
Ed, its good to see that you can man-up and admit you were wrong in your overall view of the evening. However, just like the missed call of another Ed, Ed Hochuli changed the outcome of the Chargers-Broncos game last season, your missed call last night sent a deserving band home that should still be in it. Food for thought next time.
You do realize that the “Zombie” is a part of every Iron Maiden show, right?
About the Zombie: We know that, that’s why we thought it was funny, appropriate and a nice touch.
DP (speaking on behalf of all the judges)
Brad, I agree about the tributes… if you read back in the blogs there is considerable discussion about this very topic, cover vs. tribute. I have voiced my opinion before that I think the tribute bands get invisible “style points” for their impersonation skills that give them an advantage over variety bands that have to pull off musicianship, vocals, creativity, diversity, etc. while looking like, umm… themselves.
Oh Brad, Brad, Brad – your comment/suggestion about changing name to “Ultimate ROCK challenge” is an absolute riot.
When I read it, hot coffee came up my nose.
Brad, homey, friend, pal – I suggest, in the future, re-editing, or at least re-scanning, any post you are about to make public.
If you did that, a phrase like this would hopefully never slip through…
“Last night was my first experience at the UMC… based on the outcome would suggest Ed change the name of the event.
Wow, really – you come out to the event ONE TIME, and now you’re an expert on all that has transpired here.
Do you have any idea how many times somebody has come in here and made some ridiculous comment about the event, based on their first nights attendance of it.
Loathe am I to do this, let me just share with you the winners of the last 2 years of Ultimate MUSIC (yes music) Challenge, both of which, I judged.
Year 1 – Cash’d Out (it should be noted that NO traditional rock bands even made it to the finals that year, going against Lady Dottie [blues], Crush [dance, R&B] and Detroit Underground [Motown])
Year 2 – Detroit Underground (it should be noted that, that year, 3 other rock bands made the finals [Monsters of Rock, Anger is a Gift, Alice and the Cooper Gang] and the motown band beat them all.
So no,Brad a notice to the bands that you don’t have a chance if you are not rock will not be necessary.
Sure, I have more knowledge about rock music than any other genre, but that’s because it’s my first encounter, since falling in love with the Beatles, when I was 7.
However, as I grew older, I started getting into all types of music and have emerged into the type of person who just loves it all.
Even if what you said were true, I still don’t judge the bands based on what I like personally. Case in point: Firefly. During the preliminaries, I hated every song in their set. They played Celine Dion for crine out loud! I hate Celine Dion! But she, they, nailed it, and the rest, and advanced to the semis. But you wouldn’t know that, being, um, your first night.
As for your tribute band remark, saying a tribute band lacks creativity is like saying an actor lacks creativity, or a photographer.
Saying the bands should try to put a new twist on Ozzy, or whoever, rather than recreate it is like saying Martin Landau should’ve put a new twist on Bela Lugosi when he portrayed him in Ed Wood. Sure, many bands add a twist (see Geezer, Nutty), and the judges appreciate it. But this competition allows for both. When you start your own music competition you can make whatever rules you want, but we here at UMC, who have been judging, performing, working, and attending it now for weeks, if not years, love the unabashed fun we have for fun’s sake watching with amazement how close Rolling the Stones look act and feel like the real thing, we like to marvel at Ron from Monsters when hr rocks it like Ozzy in one song, Bruce Dickinson in the next, and Dave Mustaine (yuck) in the next. I like the fact that Ron has his own CD of original music too. But last night, I was happy as a lark to have heard him rock it like Ozzy – not a particularly easy thing to do.
This is what I always say to music snobs who think there is no art or skill in being in a cover or tribute band.
1. On the skill tip, don’t even try it. Having bartended in live music clubs for over 2 decades, I have seen countless cover bands try, and miserably fail, trying to cover the work of other musicians. It is an incredibly difficult thing to do. The EASIEST thing to do is be yourself. It’s much harder to be someone else, epeicially if that someone else is,say, Steve Perry or Celine Dion.
2. Maybe it’s not art. But why does it have to be art to enjoy it. A cup of coffee is not art, but it sure is yummy. A quick dip in the pool or ocean isn’t art, nor a bicycle ride
Enjoy it for what it is, don’t hate it for what it aint.
The King has spoken.
One other thing… tribute bands are good for 1-2 sets, while a variety cover band generally has to have 4-6 hours of material from multiple genres. There’s a place for both, but maybe not in the same contest. I’m just sayin’…..
Well said, Lovin’ The Music! I’m a singer, but would most likely sacrifice certain parts of my anatomy to be able to sing with all the skill of Leonard in TMU. To be truthful, I’d like to be able to SCREAM like the dude in MOR, but I ain’t got it. I’d have to overachieve even on my BEST day to even be in the same room with those guys while still looking like… myself. Kudos to Mick Jagged for looking the part. Actually, I get the impression he LIVES the part. Most likely has wife/spousal equivalent/significant other named Jerry Hall and daughter (or goldfish, maybe?) named Bianca. HOWEVER, he has the challenge of living up to someone else’s legacy and image rather than creating his own. Life is full of choices. He made his.
Wow Al… what’s with the rage, dude? And for the record, I did bring up the faults in “Carry On.” I was also the last of the three judges to speak in that round. Ed and Dave had already mentioned the weak points of the set; Dave went into detail about the issues in “Carry On.” There’s no use to belabor a point, especially a negative one. I mentioned it briefly, said I agreed with Dave, and that was all I needed to do. Having a good ear as a judge goes further than just listening for musical accuracy. You have to listen to, and take the musicians’ sensitivity into account as well (cause God knows we’re the most sensitive buggers on planet Earth). Why beat a dead horse, Al? To make a band feel worse? To be just plain mean? Then again… judging from how you wrote that post, one could fairly assume that to be your agenda.
LovinTheMusic said above that the judges were “gushy” last Sunday. Let me say that it SUCKS to give negative criticisms. None of us enjoy it, and as this competition goes on, it gets more and more difficult to do so. And quite frankly, every band deserved the praise they got last night. They all deserved to advance.
HERE HERE!
It’s so nice when there’s a band, or group of bands that are so good, we can “gush” without feeling guilty about it
To clarify for the record… I am not saying the bands didn’t deserve praise. I get it that there is a reason all these band made it to the Semis. I am making a distinction between “praise” and “gushing with no critique”. If you have to separate who is going to the Finals from who isn’t, the praise has to be balanced with criticism. All things considered, I don’t think it was a slam dunk regarding which bands advanced and which didn’t.
Come on Alicia, don’t go all Paula on us!
Thanks for the lesson, Ed! (sorry about the ASNER thing with the coffee). You are right in correcting me as a first timer. However, I am not a music snob. I’m simply stating what I witnessed last night. I did enjoy it for what its worth. While I’ve never been a Metalhead, I actually grew up listening to my older brother playing his lp’s of everything from Black Sabbath and Blue Oyster Cult to Poco, The James Gang, all the way to Gino Vanelli and everything in between. I have eclectic tastes based on those early experiences… and I also love The Beatles! Can’t blame a guy for observing and expressing his opinion, can ya? I’m guessing that’s how you arrived at where you are currently.
As to my comments regarding Rolling the Stones; I thought they actually WERE better than the real thing! I realize to even come within a whiff of one of the iconic groups of all time, SKILL is an absolute necessity. Mick JaggeD can out-sing Mick JaggeR anyday of the week, as far as I’m concerned. They are eons beyond all the overweight men in the world that step into a white rhinestone jumpsuit, don the wig and sunglasses and strut around AS IF they were Elvis. My point is that if you take what great skill you have and lend it to someone else’s persona, in a way you diminish yourself. I understand your analogy of an actor, but unless you are acting in a biography, you are creating a new character; the personification of the writer’s idea. I in no way am trying to diminish their skills. Shoot, they were giving the double whammy as they had to act AND use there musical skills at the same time. Talent, indeed, but still not original.
As for my first UMC experience; you invited comments on the blog. I am merely following through on the invitation.
Thanks for your response Brad. And no worries about the nose, I’m snorting Vaseline now and am recovering quite well.
Dude, I have no problem with you coming on the blog and expressing your opinions. You are right, you were invited, and I’m glad you are here. I just take issue with people coming down for one performance, and then judging the entire competition based on what happened on that one performance. There’s a word for that. It’s called “anecdotal evidence.”
It would be like someone, say, in Latvia, who knew nothing about the U.S., and then moving here and writing a letter home saying, “Americans only vote for black presidents.”
As for this comment, “Talent, indeed, but still not original,” keep in mind, it is not an “original” music competition. Originality is not necessary, or rewarded even. This is the crux of my point.
Regardless, I appreciate your participation. Really, and apologize if I came at you too hard.
You coming down next week?
Hey everybody,
Thanks for all of the cool comments and even the negative ones on this rambunctious blog. Hey, what doesn’t kill you just makes you stronger I always say. We actually had a lot of fun and we would like to thank all of our friends and family for coming out last night. It was overwhelming to see so many people out there. You guys are the best. The bands last night were incredible and every single person that we met was very cool back stage and very supportive of one another. Most of us had friends in all of the bands which was way cool. For a band that’s only been together for 3 months it’s been one hell of a ride so far and we’re all looking forward to many years of playing whatever pops into our heads. Much love from The Mighty Untouchables…
Ed, you did not come down on me hard. You crack me up. Just adding other thoughts to the blog. And since it is YOUR blog, (as you mentioned, you are the King in this little fiefdom) feel free to instruct me in the ways of Ed… I don’t usually contribute to blogs in general, but find this one to be stimulating, so will continue to monitor and throw in my two cents.
Not sure about next week, but will certainly give it a shot. If I’m there, I’ll say hey.
please do that
We in RTS had a truly wonderful time and know by the support of everyone in the room that it was reciprocated. Sincere thanks.
Yes, many of us in RTS, TMU & Firefly have all played together at one point or other, it’s that small of a community, and you know what? Everyone IS so supportive & way cool. Love you guys & girls. Everyone deserved to move on. What talent in the room all at once! I’m humbled and amazed.
To those that have written about us in the blogs and supported us, cheering for us – THANK YOU! We won’t let you down in the finals!!!
On to the topic of tributes. We’ve been at this thing for almost a year now since the initial ad went out there. It took AT LEAST seven months before the five RTS members all came into the picture, hundreds of hours of rehearsal, finding just the right mix of personalities, finding the right support people willing to put as much effort as anyone else into RTS, especially the spouses. Relentless tone changes, the right instrument to make the right sound, three Micks, endless Ronnies, etc etc etc. No small task believe me. That we resemble the real deal is icing and will help propel us. That said, you still have to deliver. A band is only as good as it’s last note.
We have always thought of this concept a bit higher than the usual, as actors in a musical play, as an entity that we can be proud of. I can’t tell you how many hours of watching nine Stones concerts ad nauseum that it took to get the feel of a real Stones show feel, mannerisms pretty much down, and we know that there’s still room to improve. No resting here. Understanding how you look, move and sounds takes a bit of humbling. Last, the public doesn’t want a trib to put a new spin on tunes. They want it just how they expect it – right off of the recording.
We do this for a few reasons; because we care about who we work with, because we can, because the public largely loves it AND appreciates it when done to near perfection, for the bank (let’s be honest, eh?). One look at an audience’s face, the joy that’s spread, is enough to convince most musicians. All the bands last night feel that way. What great, truly enthusiastic crowds we all brought!
What makes RTS tick in particular are the coolest people ever. I’ve NEVER been in a band where it’s a real love fest. We support each other through thick and thin, period. RTS hopes that the chemistry shows.
To LTM: One or two sets eventually evolves into one hundred or so songs in the Stones case. With over 440 songs, I have probably 300 ‘favorites’. LOL!! You don’t have to twist my arm to play any of them, even ‘Rocks Off’. lol. Bands that only do 20 or so tunes might get tired of the same old same old night in night out, trust that. A variety (of sorts) for sanity’s and creativity’s sake is still desired. In our case there’s enough to choose from, no?
Also, you don’t want to bore your core audience. You want them returning for more.
For the record, our ‘Gimme Shelter’ vocalist’s name is Sherr, my sister in music. The ‘Live With Me’ vocalist way back in week one is Justine Ducloux. My other sister in music. Tough duo to top.
Judges: we take your comments to heart. You’ll see. Patrone, I’m in only one band now.
Decker, get ready for more goosebumps. Alicia, more than glad that we pretty much lived up to your expectations. Thanks for the wonderful feedback, all.
My lovely wife and I will be there this Sunday. It’s been a wonderful event.
Charlie/Vince
Brad, pull your pumpkin from your assholio dude, it is apparent you have LSD, lead singers disease, and you know not what you do. how you, and the judges can overlook the giant dead pause in TMU’s set, and the horrible rendition of the Kansas song (talk about stairway to heaven Ed) and the absolute sodmization of Santana is beyond me. apparently the judges feel that no one remembers what they say on Sundays, well I do, Patrone mentioning how the guitarist in TMU was his buddy and they had played together for 10 years bla bla bla, then he votes for them to win? yeah, i believe what you all say about no conspiracy, but the near nepotism is apparent. Alecis honey, I ain’t mad, women always go there nowadays, they say to men ‘you are so angry’ like it’s a bad thing, first off, men get angry, it is a tool. for flight or fight, to lift cars off of over compensating whackos like yourself. i wonder what your connection to TMU is, have you doinked one of the members somewhere in time? rage is not my bag, just brutal honesty, as I see it. Now, i could be wrong, I am willing to admit it, but I DON’T think so kids. I will agree with everybody who feels it was way too close to call, and Viejas reducing the impact of the DB meter in the scores will help, now if they can just get some real pro’s to do the judging, they need like record company execs, A&R guys who have not had sex, or been in a band with some of the competitors. God I crack myself up, it’s my hobby. Let’s all try to do a better job next week, remember, I am watching you. Al-o-rama P.S. when will somebody knock that stupid hat off of Patrone, and step on it before they hand it back? maybe a woman (would he smack her? in public? with witnesses?) i would pay to see that, hell yeah, a $100.00 bounty for DP’s hat tapped off and stepped on.
If you were paying attention you would have heard that I actually said, I have been “watching” Jorge play jazz guitar around town for 10 years. He and I have never been in the same band. I have never been in the same band with any of the musicians in any of the bands in the UMC this year; however, I know a lot of the musicians who played last night.
you are obviously angry.
Offering a bounty for someone to damage someone else’s property is a crime. It is punishable as Solicitation and/or Conspiracy as well as communicating a threat etc… and you can be prosecuted from your comment here on this blog whether it happens or not.
Your comment also borders on solicitation and conspiracy to commit assault which I believe is a felony.
Obvious troll is obvious.
Last night was awesome. All the bands brought something to the table. I am not a Stones fan but Rolling the Stone brought me some new found respect for their music (great job!!!!) As a long time MOR fan I can say I was happy to see them move on to the finals, but their showing last night was not one of their best. I have heard Ron perform for many years and I don’t think I have ever heard him mess up lyrics twice in one set!…. The overall “talent” of MOR is what moved them along last night. They are one “cover band” that will tackle even the most difficult Metal songs. Oh…. and as for the judges that said several of the songs “sounded the same”…I think they need to “tune their metal ear…”
Thanks for all the great music…love the UMC!!
Al, I’ll gladly remove the pumpkin and admit to the “LSD”, but I’d still rather have those maladies than to suffer from whatever you ingested that seems to be causing all of the noxious fumes fueling your missives here. It would appear you have a bad case of Accordion Angst and prefer to lash out at everyone. Constructive Criticism is one thing. Just plain criticism is another. Apparently, you opt for the latter. Its your right to do so, but it doesn’t mean you have to throw the baby out with the bathwater. If all the bands and judges suck so much in your mind, then why bother attending? … unless that IS the reason you attend.
Ethan. You’ve the set, dude, especially the Tush keys. Shelli, way to go, girlfriend!
Charlie
It is illegal to change the rules of a contest during the run of the contest. No aspect of the contest can be changed until next year’s contest when any changes to the rules are approved by the California Gaming Commission; so, the scoring will remain the same throughout the rest of the contest.
So will all of the other rules and aspects of the competition.
While it’s easy for Al to say whatever is on his mind, it’s not so easy saying what you want being a competitor in the competition unless you’re just going to say flowery things about everybody. No one wants to offend a musician, fan or judge. On the other hand sometimes I feel if I say nothing we will walk away from this competition with nothing. And Al, there are some kids playing on your front lawn to yell at.
So for the flowery stuff – thanks to all the fans, family and friends who showed up. Your support is overwhelming and we’re nothing without you. To the other bands, you’re all great bands and (almost) every musician I met was very down to earth, friendly and humble. To the judges, I know your job is very tough and you do it well.
Now on to the ass ripping…
Just kidding, only some opinions to which I hope no feathers get ruffled.
Ed, you’ve gone and bastardized the metal umlaut. Shame on you! “several moments of dynamic technical muddiness” – yes that’s fair. We can’t always hear each other on stage. Not the crews fault at all, they are great. But the contest rules regarding the sound check procedure isn’t optimum. It’s the same for all bands, so no excuses – just letting you know. Ron forgetting lyrics – he absolutely did and hope the band will join in with me at next practice when I slap him around, poke him with a sharp stick and kick him in the nads. But, “They made a bad song choice (“Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth)” come on. Did we butcher the song? If so, points off. If you just hate Megadeth then we should be supplied with a list of all the bands you hate.
As far as Ed being a judge – I’ve seen Ed “gush” over any band he likes regardless of genre (especially if they have a woman in a hot dress)and I think the fact he’s not a musician gives him a different perspective that’s needed. Does Alicia give an extra point to a band with a female vocalist or Dave give an extra point to a band who has a horn section? Who knows, but if they do then Ed helps to keep things in balance. Everyone is biased is some way and music is subjective. It’s not all science.
Even if you are not a metal fan you should be able acknowledge that what we do has a high degree difficulty. Has anyone tried playing the bass line on the Immigrant Song? It’s a mother fu*@#r! Or perhaps try to pull off the vocals of Geoff Tate? We made mistakes – all the bands made mistakes. A slam dunk? No way. But I did notice some songs played, even if they made “bold choices” left out some of the technical riffing which makes them easier and safer to play. I think in this contest that should be more important than playing crowd pleasers. Some people just like what they like and that’s all that they like. I would not have been shocked if we didn’t advance but, I don’t think any one band blew the others away. I am happy, grateful and humbled that we have advanced. Thank you.
Dearest Tom, you know that’s not true about any bias towards a female vocalist, right? You were there in Week 7 and heard what I had to say to The Jackstones, and their chick singer who bounced up and down in that ridiculous veil, yes?
No Alicia, I was just making a point if any judge were to have any personal preferences toward a genre or what have you, that’s why there are three judges to balance things out. Not that I think they do. I believe the three of you care more about your integrity than that and call them as you see them.
Right on. Didn’t want you to think differently, especially after this week when I was particularly tough on the band with the sole female lead vocalist and all…
Well said Tom…STAR
Tom, just in case you thought so… my comments weren’t meant to minimize MOR’s performance or what you guys do. I’ll say again that is very obvious that you guys do what you do very well. You are true professionals and play your asses off. And, you have a large and enthusiastic fan base. I also wasn’t implying that you shouldn’t have advanced. I was just addressing what I see as flaws in the system. That said, I know it can’t be perfect. Still enjoyed the show all the way around.
You know Al… I could further engage you in this discussion, but that would mean lowering myself down the dreadful hole you’re digging, and I could really care less to do such a thing.
You’ve now called me a “quack” and an “over compensating whacko,” generalized the entire female gender, and then justified your anger just to follow it up by saying that “rage is not your bag.”
Hmmm… OK, honey.
“Every blog has its Al
Just like every pup has its growl
just like every China has its sweet, sweet Mao
ev-ery blog has its Al”
Ok Tom, here you go –
The Official, Unabridged List of Every Song Ed Hates So Much That If You Play it In the UMC You Are Likely to Lose, So Don’t
1. “My Girl Likes to Party All the Time” by Eddie Murphy (What, was that supposed to be a joke?)
2. “Sensual Seduction” by Snoop Dogg (The title alone makes me want to vomit
3. All Songs by Celine Dion
4. All Songs by Creed
5. All Songs by Megadeth
6. “We Built This City” by Starship (Once the “Jefferson” came off the name it was over)
7.”Dude Looks Like a Lady” (If for no other reason than single-handedly converting Aerosmith into wankers)
8. “Achy Breaky Heart” By Billy Ray Cyrus(Did I even have to say it?)
9. “I Would Do Anything for Love But I Won’t Do That” by Meat Loaf (Will you impale yourself on a microphone stand before you ever perform this song again?)
10. “Lick it Up” by Kiss (Their first hit with the makeup off, proving that the makeup was always the star)
So there you go people, these are the songs that will drive me into an insane, Al-like rampage should I hear them. Play them at your own risk.
Now THAT was funny!!!!
OK Guys. We can proceed with our plans for next year’s song list:
(Everybody) – Mustang Sally
Terry Jacks – Seasons In The Sun
C.W. McCall – Convoy
Coven – One Tin Soldier (The Legend of Billy Jack)
Thanks Ed!!
funnny Ethan
What about
Ray Stevent – Guitsrzan??
Let me try that again with fingers instead of thumbs
Ray Stevens – GUITARZAN
LOL AGAIN
or may be
Popcorn by Hot Butter?
Hey David! This thing is still on? I figured it would be obsolete after last night’s show.
I had to BBQ for my kids last night in honor of Father’s Day. How was the show?
“We had joy we had fun
we had seasons in the sun
but if you try and play this song
then your season will be done”
he he he’s a poet… LOL
loved the article Ed and so fitting
more more
your stuff is like literary crack
on hit and you are hooked
lol
see no caps I am NOT YELLING!
Still chuckling that I did not know what a dead thread was
what a blog virgin!
Go ahead and hate our songlist
Go along with all the trends
Do it for “artistic integrity”
You’ll be justified in the end.
“Cause we gotta an awful set list
rockin’ through the night
Yeah we gotta an awful set list, ain’t she a terrible sight?
Come on an’ join our set list, ain’t nothin’ gonna git in our way
We’re gonna roll this truckin’ set list, cross the USA
Set list.”
Ed, based on your list I just can’t wait to hear MOR do their Barry Manilow medley. I’m guessing that is one set for which you would PRAY for them to add their own originality. Can you hear Ron singing “Mandy”?
Congrats to RTS and MOR you guys killed it.
I would pay a lot of money to see Ron singing “Mandy,” or, even better, lets see what he can do on Harry Nilson’s “Without You,” perhaps the most difficult ballad climax to sing ever.
Not that I tried
Put de lime in de coconut and drink it all up
Put de lime in de coconut and drink dem both together
Put de lime in de coconut and you feel better
LOL….Ron singing “Mandy” and “Without You”….totally on this Metal Girl’s dream set list….Sing it RON!!!!! (handing Ed some cash….)
Oh Pansy,
it’s gay but they like a gay song list
just as long as it pays
Oh Pansy
I think we could take up a healthy collection to hear you sing that!
Ok, so I was informed my parody was not politically correct and will be sentenced to sensitivity training. I will try to refrain from such outlandish behavior in the future.
At the UM
UMC contest
Where fans came expecting an Oz Fest
At the UM
UMC Contest
Ron started “Mandy”
Which Al thought was dandy
At the UM
We lost our minds…
We (The Mighty Untouchables) were considering doing that Manilow medley if we would have made it to the finals, we would have put a lot of stupid keys changes and a 5/4 measure oh wait that’s how it is originally.
ooooooooh, a felony. Nice try Patron-ski, I never offered a bounty, IF you read what I said, i just suggested I would pay to see it and that if a bounty,$100.00 was offered…talk about angry! Alecia, sweety, dear, sugar, honey-pie, I am never angry, and i love women, just not when they wish they were a man, not that you do, just sayin… I do love to stir the pot though, and I do it well, who-o-o change my life… Ed my boy, I am pretty sure I have seen Senor El Patron imbibing….and my last thought is this, just give the money to Sirens Crush now, MOR second, DSB third and the Groaning Stones (gay) fourth place. I have spoken, wit, does that mean I am the little man behind the curtain??
I can guarantee you haven’t seen El Patrone imbibing in the last 3 years, two months and 16 days
Unless of course you meant Rockstar
The simple fact that you said you would pay to see it is still considered solicitation and possibly conspiracy. Your wording could easily be construed as solicitation in a court of law.
I write the songs that make the whole room stink
I write the songs that are a waste of ink
I write the songs that suck the energy die
I write the songs I write the songs
All I can say is WOW!! I missed the first half of the competition,so I didnt get to see all the bands do their first performances, and,I didn’t really know what to expect. What a great show! RTS were phenomenal,and the “monster” from MoR was great.( not to mention all of their head-banging songs) And, for The Mighty Untouchables, to sing a Bee Gees song,and pull it off VERY well,was incredible. I was (probably) the only person in the room without a lighter, so I held up the candle from our table! Firefly was a great act also. I left that night just wondering WHO was going to win, because I couldnt make up my OWN mind as to who I thought would win. Nice job all, and I cant WAIT till next week,because I’ve SEEN their first acts,and it is going to be yet ANOTHER GREAT show. Just a word of caution to everyone: PLEASE watch out for me, because I will be the girl in the wheelchair feverishly fighting her way to the front of the stage to get a good view of the bands! (its kinda hard to see when you’re 1 or 2 lower than everyone else!) Thank you. See ya next week!!
Renee, I’ve been to every Sunday performance since UMC 1. This year is the BEST one yet! ALL the bands who have played have been good (a few), very good (a few more) and OUTSTANDING!!(most) I keep wondering… if next year is better than this one, WOW!
Congrats RTS and MOR! I had a blast at the show! I can’t wait for the finals!
I happened to think that the Megadeath song was pretty sweet. “Trust” would have been a wayyyyyy better choice though. =]
The lovely Mary and I showed up just before the Stones started… hoping to find a good seat. NOTHING! Even upstairs was packed!
We watched Rolling the Stones up there standing in the back.
I saw a few hiccups from the Stones, not surprising because they are still new as a group. I like Charlie’s description of their show as a musical play so I don’t see any of those rough edges as mistakes since they stayed in character. Thoroughly entertaining! “…and he stood just like Bill Wyman, now I am their biggest fan.”
The Mighty Untouchables had the most individual musical talent on the stage at one time. Mikey, I dig you drumming style! My first reaction? I think the diversity strategy was a mistake. I would have liked to seen your strongest songs instead. I agree with the lovely Mary’s sentiments that the guy singer should have been featured throughout the set. Ed, I didn’t hear a problem with the key changes in particular but I did hear some rough areas. The rendition of Kansas was performed well but with the rock edge missing. Like listening to Itzhak Pearlman jam Charlie Daniels.
Firefly took it up to the next level! YOU ROCK! I though band had a “feel” problem with Baba O’Reilly. Probably from being locked into the keyboard pattern. I thought Shelli had a way better look for the stage this time too. The lovely Mary enjoyed “Alone”
Mary and I took it to the dance floor for Mönsters öf Röck! It was a fun diversion to rock upfront for a change. I was surprised the floor wasn’t more packed? It doesn’t sound as well from there but we got to participate in the rock. Fist pumping! Rock sign (no thumbs out) screaming and yelling. I got a little nervous when one guy tried to crowd surf. I noticed Ron trying to direct the pitch fork dudes to walk around (some of them didn’t get it) I contemplated taking over pitchfork duties for a second ha ha. Ron almost crashed with his mic stand (speaking of empalement). I don’t have a critique for the music as I really couldn’t hear the singing or the leads clearly so I didn’t pick up on the flubs. Tom! 10 points for confiscating Ron’s mic during the critique, YES… too funny.
Mary and I enjoyed shootin’ the shit with Casey from 6ONE9 and Keith Riffhard. Ed, thanks for the V invite but we had to shoot outta there. Looking forward to next week.
To stick with your theme of the evening, “How many drinks does it take….” – Well, how many drinks does it take for you to screw the best band out of the competition? Apparently, you had a few too many because your scoring was way off!
The Mighty Untouchables deserve a spot in the finals and because of your scoring disparity (which even you acknowledge), you robbed them of that spot. There was no doubt that they belong in the finals -that is why it has become a controversy. Obviously, whats done is done and you can’t take away a spot from the other 2 bands, but an exception should be made to allow TMU in the finals to make up for your inadequate scoring.
I also agree with Brad that maybe there should be an Ultimate Rock Challenge and possibly an Ultimate Tribute Band Challenge because it is difficult to combine such different genres into a contest and choose the best ones. Monsters of Rock were great for there genre but made a lot of mistakes and Rolling the Stones were an awesome tribute band and were dead on in their impersonations, but it is difficult to pit them against one another as they are too different and doesn‘t seem like a fair match up. However, if this was the Ultimate “Music” Challenge, then the Mighty Untouchables showed the most musicality, skills and chops. Also, I agree with Lovin’the Music that less consideration should be given to the audience response meter as it is pretty easy to put together a bus load of people to show a louder fan base and takes the integrity out of the contest. These bands should be judged on skill and with that said – Mighty Untouchables – you were robbed.
Um, Christine, perhaps you’ve had a few too many drinks yourself as your math skills seem to be a bit off right now.
My “Day-After” scoresheet would not have changed a thing had I given those scores instead.
MOR and RTS would still be in the finals and the other two would not, regardless of which of my scoresheets had been used.
Geez, I’ve been doing this thing for 3 years (drinking all the way through I might add) and make one mistake and all Hell breaks loose.
The right bands won in my mind and the only thing I was not happy about was the disparity on the sheet between bands, which is why I felt the need to share. Because I wanted those bands to know i felt more strongly about them then the numbers suggested. But, I still knew what I was doing. I still made sure that RTS and MOR had the highest scores on my sheet cuz those were my picks. That has not changed.
Yes, I felt Untouchables were closer, but not nearly close enough to overcome the crowd response for both MOR and RTS.
As for the drinking, what can I tell you? I’m a bartender, a rock critic, and an author of a hedonistic biweekly column called “Sordid Tales.”
Drinking comes naturally to me. Not to brag, but in my defense, it takes a lot of booze to get me drunk.
And, since all my scores all year long were right in line with the other judges’ scores, and I drank during those too, then I highly doubt it was the booze that caused me to falter this time.
I think the reason I fumbled on my scoresheet is this affliction known as “You can’t be perfect-itus.” I guess I have it.
Perhaps you also missed the fact that Mr. Patrone also ranked MOR in the top two as well.
Christine,
Looking at Ed’s changed scores: according to the judges scores, untouchables would have been in second; however, after the decibel levels were tallied, they would have still been in third overall.
DP, take a chill pill Napoleon. if my grandma had balls, she’d be my grandpa. that’s my ‘if’ line. maybe, perhaps, possibly, a chance, could be, might, wait, how about no way in hell, thrown out of court so fast it would make your bald head spin. wait, theres that noise again, it sounds like a baby crying! waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. I’ve seen nitpicky and anal before but this taking it to the friggin limit. do ya like Randy Newman songs? I hate to hear a grown man cry, jeez.
Lovin the Music….Appearences are important equally..Even Cover bands should take pride in thier stage dress….A Tribute band is a Cover Band to “ONE” Artist, a Cover Band is a Tribute Band to a variety of Artists
PJ… I wasn’t referring to pride in stage dress. What I’m saying is that I truly think a tribute band’s appearance can contribute to their score while I doubt this happens, at least to any measurable degree, with a variety band no matter how good they look.
I disagree, we take it all into account
Well that’s certainly good to hear. Hmmmm…..
I had the pleasure of attending Sunday nights show. Missed Rolling the Stones, but stepped into The Mighty Untouchables set. Wow, what a difference watching these shows as an audience member and not a participant.
Rolling The Stones: I’ll have to check them out in the finals. To come in first on such a great night, must be something special.
The Mighty Untouchables: Great, seasoned band, Harmonies were pristine and lead vocals were strong. tasty song selection too. These guys will be around for a long time and have much success.
Firefly: By the time your set came on we found a table right up front/center. I had a smile on my face that felt like it stretched across the entire stage. Every song had power, felt like they never missed a beat. I hope Viejas books them soon cuz I’d sure love to see them on that big stage again.
MÖR: As they were setting up and I heard them warming up it took me back to the days when I used to play metal at the Soma (I’m talkin’ old school Soma too, the downtown “dungeon” when Len used to make us local bands compete to open for the big acts on the upstairs stage).
“Take hold of the flame” is one of the first songs I ever heard live in concert when they opened up for Metallica in 89. You guys absolutely nailed it. You had it all, Priest, Sabbath — Mustain’s unique “snearing” vocals. even the Marty Friedman solo was dope (great job Sergio).
Your closing number, when I heard that intro I couldn’t believe what you were about to play. I mean if you’re going to attempt Dickinson you gotta do it all the way and honestly, that was so Maiden that I enjoyed it more than watching Blaze Bayley fumble through an old school maiden set. The best Maiden I’ve heard since …well, Maiden.
Then, Eddie comes out…wow, You deserved the win. The minute Eddie stepped out it was over. It should be in the rules: “in the event a zombified demon comes back from the grave during a band’s performance to taunt Satan and prance around in chains on the casino stage, then all other bands must forfeit”.
What a set. Was it musically perfect? who cares, it was perfectly awesome. Sometimes you gotta be a true fan to appreciate the true genius you guys displayed that night. It’s a shame to think some people don’t have that sixth sense known as “metal” to be able to enjoy you like I did. Now bring on some “Powerslave”, “Somewhere in Time” or “In my darkest hour”.
Vic – Siren’s Crush
Hey Vic. Thanks for the kind words. It was truly Epic appearing with such fantastic bands on Sunday. You’re in for a treat when you see Rolling The Stones. Best of luck in your semi-finals.
Vic – wow, that’s a very impressive review. I’m glad you enjoyed it. I guess people who didn’t live it don’t get it. We may have to shake things up in the final with the Barry Manilow to appeal to the masses I guess. You and Angie seem like good peoples. Good luck to you on Sunday. I will be there as I have been each week.
I’m going to give another plug to Ethan for his free software tool for bands at http://www.wheresthegig.com/ . We use it all the time. And another honorable mention to Jackson for being an all around groovey cat.
Thanks Tom. It turns out that The Mighty Untouchables are also using WheresTheGig. With Firefly that makes 3 out of 4 for our night of glory. Rolling The Stones needs to get with the program.
Allow me to explain exactly how and why appearance factors into the equation:
It counts, yes, absolutely, and why shouldn\’t it? Appearance counts for everything. It counts for the stores you choose, the girls you date, the produce you buy (that\’s why they inject gasses into bananas so they \”appear\” more yellow).
Let it also be known that, as far as UMC goes, \”appearance\” is not only about what, if any, costumes you wear, but how you present yourself on stage, your movements, your style, your grace – these things are important and to deny that fact is beyond silly.
That said, appearance does not factor into the equation nearly as much as musical and vocal skills which, if you look at our scoresheet, counts for more than double what appearance does.
I don\’t really understand the controversy here: Music, acting, directing, sports, business and life in general all depend on a certain amount of \”appearance\” to push them over the edge. It\’s a fact of life, it matters, and so it should matter, to some degree, in the UMC.
The King has spoken.
“The King has spoken”! Ed…you do make me laugh!
Oh hail thee mighty…. ha!
Christine, Totally disagree. Untouchables went over time, for one. I don’t think a band that goes over their time limit should be disqualified but they should lose points in my book. I mean, who doesn’t know how to read a watch? The young blonde is a talented up and comer but she’s not there yet and to feature her was a mistake. Hair flick twitch! ahhhrgh and her bizarre strut walk is not a good substitute for stage presence. Please don’t get me wrong, I think she is very talented and to be in a band with so many experienced players is a great place to be at her age.
The diversion off the stage was a big time waster and hurt the impact of their set. Sucked what momentum they had going up to that point. Their prop rings falling apart was cute… I don’t think that hurt them. They are really good and in my opinion, the best collection of individual musical talent of the night but they didn’t bring it enough to win.
Totally agree with you Dave! I’m glad someone else saw the blonde’s talent as did I. She will be very good in a couple years if she gets proper coaching!
I don’t think they went overtime, remember the bands get longer sets in the Semis
Out of curiosity you should ask Casey. I saw him trying to signal Mikey “1 minute” but he couldn’t get his attention. So he walked back to the drum riser to get his attention. Their continued for several minutes after that.
I asked Casey. He said he told them one minute when they really had two.
“it is pretty easy to put together a bus load of people to show a louder fan base”
If that’s the case then it’s really not a factor anyway.
Tom, once again your constant “crying foul” has made you come off like a whiney little girl.
It must not be THAT easy to put together a bus load of people. I was at the Masters of Rocking Chairs 4th & B show and it could have used about 20 more bus loads of people just to deaden the echo from it being so empty in there. I’ve been listening to this Tom guy bitch about how precision is more important than crowd response for weeks now…BULLsh!T!
If a well rehearsed tree falls in an empty venue….who the hell cares?
You’re in a COVER band playing other peoples music. A cover band performance is meant to entertain as many people as possible not just 3 judges.
Who cares how “technically good” your ancient band is? Obviously not that many people outside of this contest!!!
If you want to do something for your “own” enjoyment then go jerk the gerkin. But like your band’s performances, do it when no one else will witness it and do it very well.
It’s called the music BUSINESS for a reason!! That means putting the asses in the seats.
Thank god there is only 2 weeks left for you to massage the prostrates of the judges and chime in on every little thing like you’re the ultimate authority.
Just relax, make sure your Depends don’t need to be changed and let the event play out. You will be back to virtual obscurity soon enough. Here’s an idea… you could start planning a Mönsters öf Röck resort village up in Escondido??
Me crying foul? I was quoting Christine. That’s what those things called quotation marks are for. If the judges rank us at the bottom, but the crowd loved us are we going to win the contest? You are obviously a disgruntled fan of a band who didn’t advance and not musically savvy if you think “technically good” doesn’t matter in a contest. Yes, the local bar owner only cares about bar totals, but that don’t mean crap in this contest. And yes, we saved our “bus loads of people” for the contest. It was the smart thing to do. It sounds like you should start your own band and enter next year since you know it all.
Christine, I agree with Dave M. Untouchables lost the air out of their tires halfway through. Came out strong but lost itin the middle and never recovered. Their strategy of showing diversity was cool, but there are much stronger songs to show range.. A band that talented should be able to play anything and they didn’t bring it like the other bands.
Rolling the stones was OK but I guess you have to be a fan. Mor deserved the win but i think Firefly should have taken 1st place. They showed range too but didn’t lose me. I loved the heart cover.
D
Thanks Dustin. While it would have been great to progress (obviously), all of the bands were top notch, and the judges went on for quite a while about the high quality of all of the bands when they gave their final decisions. I feel that the outcome was fair, although I’m more aligned with Mr. Patrone with regards to his assessment of The Mighty Untouchables, but this could be a reflection of my personal musical tastes and proclivities as a keyboardist. Every band the other night just plain blew me away. They brought their game. All of them.
Ethan, Rolling The Stones has gotten, officially, “…with the program”
We’re looking forward to putting http://www.wheresthegig.com to good use. It looks like a great program! Thanks.
Thanks Ozzie. It’s been a really fun project for me to put out there for our community. Many of the really cool aspects of it were suggested by the bands that use it, so feel free to give me more ideas for improving it.
I just wanted to respond to these comments that Dustin M. made several days before the semi-final. So after carefully reading Dustin’s comments about MOR, it became apparent that he had never seen MOR outside of the Viejas venue…what a shame.
Dustin M
“Tell me that MOR isn’t going to play guns n roses at 4th&B next week to please what the venue needs which is radio friendly “homogenized” rock.”
“Even The Iron Maiden I’m sure MOR will rock next week is somewhat Homogenized meaning cleaned up for taste.”
OK, let’s see. Here’s the first half of our set list from the 4th&B show on June 12th.
Highway Star – Deep Purple
Let There Be Rock – ACDC
Electric Eye – Judas Priest
Mountain Song – Jane’s Addiction
Aces High – Iron Maiden
Neon Knights – Black Sabbath
Bark at the Moon – Ozzy Osbourne
Take Hold of the Flame – Queensryche
Gee, does this look like “homogenized” rock” to you? So we weren’t playing metal at 4th&B or Viejas? Are you out of your mind? LOL! All of the bands listed here are classified as
“heavy metal” with the exception of Jane’s Addiction (alternative rock/metal).
I think the other thing that is happening here is that some people, like Dustin, use the term “metal” too loosely to probably describe their favorite type of metal music. Which subgenre was Dustin referring to when he made these comments? Who knows. All I know is that Heavy Metal is the GOD of all metal! All of the following are subgenre and fusion-genre
of Heavy Metal:
Avant-garde metal
Black metal
Death metal
Doom metal
Glam metal
Gothic metal
Groove metal
Power metal
Progressive metal
Speed metal
Stoner metal
Symphonic metal
Thrash metal
Viking metal
Alternative metal
Christian metal
Crust punk
Drone metal
Folk metal
Funk metal
Grindcore
Grunge
Industrial metal
Metalcore
Neo-classical metal
Nu metal
Post-metal
Rap metal
Sludge metal
SOURCE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heavy_metal_music
And this concludes our lesson for today.
Brought to you by the performers of heavy metal music, MOR!
Flash,
The fact that you can find the sub-genres of “Metal” neatly categorized in wikipedia means just about all metal and what it stood for is now in one form or another socially homogenized. Cannibal corpse T-shirts at your trendy mall’s Hot topic?
I guess what I meant in my rant last week was metal that you had to search for back in the day. Underground stuff that you would read about from Kerrang or order from internatinal fanzines.
I get your point though and I do realize my earlier comment was immature. You proved me wrong and definitely brought true Metal to Viejas and that’s all that matters.
D
Let me help you put away your soapbox Gavin.
I liked all the bands and I can see how it would have been a tough decision. However, I picked Monsters 1st and it was a toss up between Rolling the Stones and TMU. I should of placed a trifecta or an exacta
Had a great time, and had fun judging the Judges 
I love to hear them talk about how much they know. To the “general public” Alicia sounded like she was boasting about her knowlege of Music and TMU drumming, but as a drummer, I’m glad she mentioned it. She was speaking my language- Mikey is a smokin drummer. If I were in a Gansta Mafia Gang with him, I would nick name him the ‘Vice’ or the ‘Crusher’ or something like that. I participated last year, drumming for ‘Surrealtime’ and Travelin Band’ and had a blast, but competing, musically is not my thing. I would rather just play to an audience for 2 to 4 sets, and take some cash home, each performance. Thats just me. . . Thanks Bands, you all rocked, and thanks Judges- Dave, I like your hat Bro, and if I see Al step on it. . . . . . . . …… ……….. I will pick it up and dust it off for you 
Ed, I have a love/hate relationship with you 
Drink more water this week. Thanks VIEJAS- The Grove is my favorite steak house- hit it up. Daisy’s Cafe is cool too (Breakfast 24/7).
Monsters! Monsters! Monsters! Monsters! Monsters!
See you next week.
P.S. Ronny-O-ho! It’s, “Generals Gathered in there Masses”. . .
You Rocked Brother, love you man . . . .
I get all the water I need from beer
Yes, you most certainly did have fun “judging the judges”….. loudly!
Interesting that you are defending Dave’s hat. 
It was fun hearing your opinions both here and Sunday night!!
~~Peace
“Viking Metal” has to be awesome.
I sure am glad people are starting to come around to my way of thinking, TMU blew it, how can anyone not say the Kansas song sucked air? come on people, I am not knocking the group, they as fine a group of musicians, or better than many of the top groups in town, BUT, they did two songs that were not great picks for them, they blew gobs of dead air with that romantic stunt, jeez, andthey did go over time, why was this not addressed? why was no one shutting down the PA, as Viejas has threatened, why were no points deducted? looks bad folks, let’s get real and make the rules the same for everybody, maybe the ’30′ minutes should be suggested, with point deductions for abusing it. In my opinion, Firefly was great, but not great enough, RTS was very polished indeed if you like that stuff, and the MOR were hot, except everybody seemed to have some kind of clutch slippage that night, maybe the phase of the moon, nervousness, PMS, who knows. it is done now, i must revise my predictions having had a chance to think about it, Viejas ringers and cute teachers pets, Sirens Crush first (hey, two dudes and a lesbian aren’t going to pick the hot chicks?) MOR second (it’s up a spot from last year!) RTS in third place (“not that there’s any thing wrong with that”, Jerry Seinfeld) and Alice and the Cooper gang in their usual fourth place, Viejas can’t afford $2500.00 for 4th? tight wads, those machines suck up that mush in 3 minutes!! shame, by the way, DP is ok, i just love to get his goat, yeah, the one he walks on a leash around town.
Beer is good…
Beer is good as a chaser….. but tequila’s better!!
You know what Ed? Just quit judging future competitions, as it’s clear you messed up the Untouchables. Don’t mess up the future of other very qualified genius’ just because you had one too many you Jack Ass! Go back to the “Reader,” which apparently you’re only good at writing and not musical qualities!!! Get out while you still can.
Diana,
If you really want to impress a writer with your opinion, I’d suggest proofreading your post before sending it.
I had a really great time on Sunday. The quality of the bands in the semi’s are always great. I don’t find myself having to look at my feet while a band struggles to finish a stinker of a song (if you know what I mean).
I am and will always be a huge MONSTERS fan. I have followed them for years and love their level of professionalism and the fact that they always put on an excellent show. They are just really good guys.
I was impressed with the amount of “fans” each band brought and I was shocked to see that the MONSTERS had the second highest crowd response since it seemed as if a lot of people went home early. I guess METAL fans are,um, a bit on the loud side?
I really enjoyed The Stones and thought they put on a good show. I’m sorry, I really didn’t much care for the Untouchables. I know that I may be called a simpleton… but I know what I enjoy and they just didn’t do it for me. I DO think they had a great energy and were good musicians, just not a band I would go and see again. Sorry.
I liked Firefly and it was great to see a rocker chick with a gutsy voice in the semi’s. I would definitely go and party with them again…
I think that on the blog this week there was a lot of good, honest debate happening… but Al, jeez, dude. You need to get back on your meds.
Ed, you know I love you…. and your wife is such a doll too!
See you on Sunday
Yeah I’m sure you have your motives Patti. Hum…love for Ed huh. I bet you both can’t wait for the Untouchable word to disapear in next week’s blog. Looks like you will both get your wish.
I have’nt told my Favorite Brother InLaw How Proud I Am of Him
and All The Guys In The Group!
Family or Not in my opinion you are One Hell of a Great Guitarist!
and a Member Of “One Excellent Band” and I dare anyone who
disagrees to just try playing, and singing some of their songs
and then maybe they’ll get a clue how Really Hard It Is….
I Can’t Wait to see You in The Finals! You Guys Rock!!!
Good job Ed. You were successful at getting your way. Both of the bands that were in your top two go on.
So I guess if Ed doesn’t like something that is said about him he deletes it from the blog. Wow what a coward and a whimp. You can dish it out but you certainty can not take it. No wonder this blog is so bias.
Ok Kim, you’ve forced me to “out” Ed! Edwin Decker is really a caring and sensitive man. He can get “riled” up at times, but generally it’s because he is passionate about music and knows good music when he hears it! Regardless of genre too! Ed does indeed like most genres! I learned that last year.
Ed does dish it out at times and BELIEVE ME… I’ve been on the receiving end of that dishing out several times over the years. But I am here to testify that he CAN TAKE IT too! He and I have gotten into many a heated discussion and yet even if he doesn’t agree with you, generally he will show respect where respect is shown.
Ed does not easily ban people from the blog, even when there have been times when I’ve wished he would. I respect that in him. If he banned people that didn’t agree or even respect him, A LOT OF PEOPLE would not have been able to post. Ed puts himself out there for the slings and arrows to be cast at him. Everybody knows who Ed is, but most of us on this blog post under the cover of anonymity. So no Kim my dear, you are wrong in your statement that Ed can’t take it!
Ed and I rarely see eye-to-eye, but we do agree to disagree. For me to come to his defense is, first of all not needed since he can take care of himself, unusual for me to do and is somewhat painful. JK! But you are new to this blog and may not understand that we all get “heated” at times and often disagree. In fact this year’s blog is somewhat calm compared to last year. But I encourage you to stay with us and bring your opinions to the blog, unless you are too timid to face the slings and arrows yourself. It can get brutal in here. Wear your armour!
~~Peace
“The Mighty Untouchables” you rock!!!! We haven’t see any band that can play Salsa/Latin, Classic Rock, Country, Pop and R&B Music like you guys do. I went to your website and listen to your demo. Can’t wait to see your band again at Viejas and hear you play the Bohemian Rapsody.
Hi Kim, regarding your comment:
“So I guess if Ed doesn’t like something that is said about him he deletes it from the blog. Wow what a coward and a whimp. You can dish it out but you certainty can not take it. No wonder this blog is so bias.”
Hmm, sure, ok, Kim, I have not deleted one single post from this blog, no matter how critical it was toward me, or others.
The reason your post did not appear immediately is because first-time posters require approval. That’s just the way this WordPress template is set up. Sorry if I did not approve your post fast enough but I have this thing, it’s called “a job” which at times keeps me from being able to moderate every single post the minute it comes in.
As for you other post
“I bet you both can’t wait for the Untouchable word to disappear in next week’s blog. Looks like you will both get your wish.”
Perhaps you missed the part where I said/wrote how awesome I thought the Mighty Untouchables were. Perhaps your crack scabs are creeping into you brainpan. Either way, Kim, I think you should visit a plier store so you can get a grip.
e.
Kim,
I don’t see how you could possibly think this BLOG is “so” biased. There is a tremendous difference of opinion on here.
Knowing Ed as I do and his commitment to debate, I truly doubt that he would ever delete something on here just because he didn’t like it; unless, it was blatantly inappropriate or seriously detrimental to the other readers of the blog.
For instance, if someone posted something here which was racist or excessively vicious toward another person on this blog it would probably get deleted by either Ed or even by me (but I probably wouldn’t without discussing it first as Ed and I are big supporters of constitutional rights like Free Speech; however, this is Ed’s Blog and he has every right to delete any post he deems fit to delete for whatever reason and has no obligation to explain it to you or me or anyone else)
I guess I should have refreshed before I posted
well I guess you heard it from the horse’s mouth…
“Naaaaaaay”
The Untouchables are a great band. Have you read their bio? Experienced, professional… but you can’t just show up and do whatever you want. If so, they could have played some scales, demonstrated their knowledge of music theory explaining the intricacies of key changes. Shown off their recordings and pictures with other music celebrities. You have to put on a winning show for your set. They just didn’t bring it good enough. Perhaps they over thought their strategy?
Dave, I just looked and they have a VERY impressive bio. Really nice group of people as well. To me on the Kansas song the keyboard just didn’t sound like a big Hammond B3 organ. Maybe you need to plug into a big Leslie speaker to get that sound, I don’t know, I’m not a keyboard player. The vocal harmonies were great though. Too bad they had to cut the drum and percussion solo short.
The vocal harmonies on that 1st song TMU did were sooo good. Really tight =) I loved the move with the fedoras too.
Ed, you didn’t comment on my other entry:
Good job Ed. You were successful at getting your way. Both of the bands that were in your top two go on.
Maybe on this one you should just reply thank you. Your profanity does little to hide your guilt.
Kim,
The reason I did not respond to that comment was because I didn’t really understand it. Are you saying that, because the bands I voted for had won, that I should be feeling guilty?
Why would I feel that? The bands I thought were best moved Up. I’m delighted. Especially because it happens so rarely?
The audience also got their way. The two bands THEY picked are also moving on to the finals. Should they feel guilty? Doesn’t the fact that most people agree with my picks (i.e. audience applause) mean that my picks were, at the very least, within reason?
P.S. My profanity was meant to be funny. That’s how I often write, profanely, but it seems you didn’t think so so I will remove it.
Kim, two judges had TMU in their top two picks. Two judges had MOR in their top two picks. Two judges had RTS in their top two picks. The db meter was very close on the bands. The judging was very close for all the bands. What exactly is your issue?
Under Judges Individual pics which judge got exactly what he wanted in regards to which two bands whould go to the finals?
Ed did. Does that make him evil?
Kim,
Here is your first lesson, “Breathe deep and slowly in through your nose. . . . and now, breathe slowly out of your nose.” Do this for a few minutes, go easy and be patient, and focus on calm, positive thoughts as you partake in this exercise.
I teach Yoga, and I think it may help. I will offer you and Al a package deal
The vocal and instrument abilities of TMU were amazing. I never seen a cover band even attempt to pull off “Getaway” by Earth Wind & Fire. That was awesome, they are great and I would higher them, and/or go see them again. However, I am a MoR phanatic and this is a competition, so I continue to scream for my favorite, sceaming singer, and his band. Monsters! Monsters! Monsters!! ” ” ” ” ” ” ” “
Earlier I might have implied that The Untouchables or Firefly didn’t bring it… Yes, They DID bring it! I was rockin’ all night long y’all. Sometimes all the talk about the little details makes it sound like I’m down on your performance.
I didn’t see that implication, but appreciate your clarification anyway
. I’ve enjoyed reading your postings. I like the diversity of opinions here (well, the non-offensive ones). The world would be pretty boring if we all saw things the same.
Dustin, you make a great point that sometimes commercialism (marketing, etc.) jumps on the band wagon and starts to homogenize (or water down) everything that’s initially cool about ALL of the metal genre. Kudos to you and thanks for support
Kim – Wow, you have some serious anger issues. Music is art and everyone has their own ideas about what they enjoy and what they don’t. Just because I don’t agree with you, and didn’t enjoy the Untouchables, doesn’t make me “right” and you “wrong”… it is just my opinion. Jeez.
And I didn’t say I want to MAKE LOVE to Ed for voting for MONSTERS. It was a simple statement, which Ed knows is a joke. I have been enjoying the UMC music challenge for a couple of years now and he knows what I meant. No conspiracy, so don’t be silly and just take it down a little. Really, posts that are over the top angry like yours make this blog a lot less credible and seriously less “fun”.
oh, and GO MONSTERS in the finals!!!!!
Well said Patti! And those of us who were bloggers last year understand your “love” of Ed! The “newbees” don’t know the history behind that statement, so perhaps we need to cut Kim some slack for not understanding the sentiment behind our statements when we tell Ed we “love” him!
And here I just thought it was a foregone conclusion that everyone loves Ed….
Life would be far less interesting without his pretty face!
I think that TMU is a great band too without question. But I felt that their first performance in the preliminary round was much more impressive and powerful than their semi-final round. The song selections, the way their whole set flowed (the transitions mostly), and their overall dynamics at the preliminary level were more profound to me.
I’m excited about this week’s semi-final round. I’m thinking that it will be “Big Toe” and Siren’s Rush moving onto the finals. I haven’t seen either band, but Big Toe is an excellent musician and Siren’s Crush beat 619 in the prelim round and they are a great band ~ I’m just sayin’….
Mark is an excellent musician and he plays with both Big Toe AND Alice and the Cooper Gang! Alice has more of a spectacle to their show so I see them over Big Toe.
Crush definitely has the chops but will they bring the upbeat show again?
Don’t Stop Believing is a fantastic tribute to Journey and the popularity of those songs is an almost unfair advantage (but not really). They don’t do anything special with their stage show and they are from LA so they won’t have a following present. However, the lovely Mary has them taking the top spot in the finals! hmmmm?
The Lovely Mary and I are in agreement! And I agree that I think Alice might join DSB in moving on. But… each night brings a new set of circumstances which is why I like the fact that each band starts with a “clean slate” and must bring their best for THAT night!
Should be fun!
Hmmmmm….I’m not an Alice Cooper and the Gang fan. I think that it’s all “show” and their music itself isn’t necessarily always very good. Sorry, I hear that the guys in the band are really nice though. I DO love Journey… Should be a great show on Sunday.
To reply to the comment of ” DSB not having a following “….um, I was there when they played last time,and three tables directly in front of us was FULL of fans of theirs,screaming like crazy,so, dont count on them NOT having fans this time! I think this week will be very entertaining. I thought Sirens Crush did an awesome job last time,Big Toe was amazing,Alice and the Cooper Gang was amusing, DSB was very good, and I hope ALL the bands are going to bring out their BEST and surprise everyone! Good luck to all of you! Thank you for such great entertainment! And thank you to the judges for doing a great job, and as for that Al guy.. what are you going do to keep yourself busy til NEXT YEAR?? haha!
And it hereby should be known, and written, for the record, that The Love is mutual, for all y’all.
This blog is a street riot and I love street riots, except for the brickbats, property damage and injuries, to which this blog only has as metaphor, which makes this blog better than a street riot and I have such love for all my fellow rioters, even you Al and Kim – because you drove in here and threw a few metaphorical Molotovs of your own, which was cute, and funny, especially when your car got overturned and you got dragged out by the rioters and metaphorically kicked and beaten until you were able to see the Light and the Way of the blog, which you looked upon and called it good.
The King has Spoken.
Ed,
I’m starting to get irritated at this new trend of second-guessing yourself…
It started with waffling your scores, now you’re removing profanity…
Where is that bastard Ed Decker who would place his foot down and leave it there!
Has all of the Alpha-Female and Beta-Malemanship on this blog made you weak?
David Patrone
Kind of bothers me too Ed, that you are relenting to censor your language! Where’s that f&*%ing wit with your “colorful” language? Your choice of “words” is what makes you, you! In that sense, you and “Al” are very similar!
You know I love you!!
dammit, now I’m second guessing my second guessings!
Al , do you have a cousin named Sheri H.? Just wondering.
Actually, I think that AL is now writing under the Pseudonym of Sheri H. That might explain a few things.
Actually I always suspected that Al was a chick anyway. Al stands for “Alpha-Lady” I don’t think it’s any surprise that Al is actually a woman.
Nothing surprises me after seeing Geezer lose a few weeks back. Now THAT was a tragedy.
What I would like to see is a simultaneous battle of the bands where TMU plays a tune, stays on stage and then Geezer plays a tune in reply, then back to TMU, then back to Geezer
Or TMU and Nutty. That would be good
No Wait!! Actually TMU facing Geezer backed by Nutty.
These ideas are the reasons I can’t sleep at night…
That and a few quarts of rockstar…
I LIKE that!! Kinda like “dueling bands” (jos). I can hear it now…
da-da, da, da, da,da, da, da, da…..
“Al” a chick…. I’ve always had that thought too, but geeze…. I’ve been hoping there is not a fellow chick who is so obnoxious as “Al”!!! But male or female the blogger named “Al”? I understand that soul! And hope s/he sticks around! Definately a different opinion!
~~Peace
Ummmm why is it that you think Al is a woman? Because he is ill-tempered, nasty and obviously just plain angry and mean? I’m pretty sure that women are the “nicer” of the species. (oh, except Kim, who, I suppose COULD be a man) You know, us women folk are soft spoken, kind, generous and thoughtful. Where have you been Dave? You must be hanging out with the wrong crowd
Patti,
It’s not just me. Many a year ago, all the way back in 1697, William Congreve observed the nature of a woman,
“Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned
Nor hell a fury like a woman scorned.”
Now I’ll admit that women are portrayed as the “Gentler” species; but, I’ve seen some things that would make your blood curdle and I’m here to tell you it isn’t true.
All I can say is, now i have heard that Casey warned TMU about the time, and they DID go over. I would like to see that addressed. rules are there to be enforced, if not, then don;t have rules! actually, i need no yoga, i meditate daily, but it still remains that there are discrepancies to be addressed and I am still in disbelief that no one judging saw the low dollar set I did from TMU. Thet are capable od SO much more, I admire their talent, they are incredible. That was never in question, what was is the fact that they ruined two songs and left the building (with Elvis) on that little skitty-poo. I think it was more of a three way showdown between RTS, MOR, and Firefly. so I like to nitpick, it’s what I do well. I also have to agree with DP, we are much more capable of hideous public behavior and blood-curdling acts of insanity than any mere man could achieve. Kudo’s to the smart ones who figured the gender bend in my moniker. I personally love all the posts, everyone contributes something that entertains me. Semi’s this week, sorry but Big Toe (BT) has to take the caboose, Alice can win through if he plays well, and pulls a good crowd, and DSB does not, Sirens Crush holds their fate in their hands and should take first, although personally, I would love to see Alice win, and DSB take second, I AIN’T holdin mah breath. Ed, you mere mortal, try not to slobber over those girls so much that it affects your voting, jeez dude, get a BJ before the show, it may help. I love the initial thing we have going on here, maybe we should come up with some more abbreviations. Howsabout KMA you crybabies? FOAD Kim?
I don’t know how anyone, especially the judges, could have missed seeing KC run up to the drummer of tMU and hold up the one minute sign. And they clearly played about five more minutes. But thats not what kept them from advancing. The Bee Gee song was great, but too s l o w and too l o n g, they should’ve cut it in half. The Santana tune was good, but not close enough to the original recording, which people know to well, the same goes for the Kansas song. Song choice plays a huge role in this game, as well as talent and fan base. All the bands are very good at what they do.
And it’s Thursday.
Firefly could have left out Zeppelin’s ‘Rock n Roll’ it was not a strong point to end on- should have ended with ‘Tush.’
“I know, I’m playing Monday morning quarterback.”
I didn’t think TMU went over in time; however if they did then points should be deducted, regardless, they didn’t win so it’s not a factor. even if they had gone over.
I did think that the tribute to “Kiera” went on a little long but I think it was improv and they just went with it. I think it was a ballsy move to do it during a competition and Leonard’s Vocals were awesome on that tune.
They certainly didn’t “ruin” two songs and although Ms Acosta was a little weak on the low notes on “Carry On” she otherwise had a powerful delivery when she dug into the rest of her solo and the huge harmonies were right on the money.
Still, The Mighty Untouchables’ performance required a level of expertise that couldn’t have been matched by most cover bands judging by what I have seen so far. The variety and level of talent in TMU far exceeds most other bands in this competition:
You have five professional-level vocalists and multi-instrumentalists in this band. Almost every musician in this group is a sought-after world-class musician and they nailed key changes, four part harmonies (including at one point a chromatic interval run in harmony), tempo mixtures, dance choreography and audience interaction. Musically they reached for a level of excellence that far exceeds the ability levels of nearly every performer in this competition.
That is a fact.
Whether or not they “rocked” you as a listener is irrelevant to my assessment as a judge except on one line of the score sheet. In all other judged categories they exceeded and dominated in a way that was apparent to all the musicians in the room. Keep in mind the decibel level difference was .7 between 1st and second and .7 between second and third. The human ear can’t even hear a difference between 90 and 90.7 decibels.
I encourage you to ask yourself two questions,
1. Could the musicians in TMU have played the sets that every other band here played?
In my opinion, Yes.
2. Could the other bands have accomplished the set that TMU pulled off?
In my opinion, not even close.
to me, it’s as simple as that.
I’m not gushing, they had flaws for sure; however, they were like the slight flaws in a diamond when in comparison, the other bands were showing off polished stones; or, “rocks” to continue the metaphor.
I thought every band was awesome on Sunday and I loved each set that was played; however, TMU clearly had my vote that night.
DP, I couldn’t agree more regarding your assessment of TMU. Despite not advancing I have no doubt they will be successful in their own right.
The Untouchables pulling off ‘War Pigs,’ ‘Take Hold of the Flame’ or ‘Numbers of the Beast’- would probably be equivlent to the Kansas tune.
I don’t see them doing those tunes justice my brother,
it just would’nt work.
“Rocks” you say? We were but rocks? That wasn’t very gneiss! In fact
I feel completely pumiced by the eruptive language of your post. But
I have little apatite for feldsparing with you in this matter,
metamorphically speaking.
So, ummm, a geologist while you are not keyboarding? Anyway, at least you’re a polished stone, pretty and shiny just not as expensive maybe?
Geology => Geophysics (Seismology) => Scientific software development => Systems (Applications and Database design). Gigs paid for college. That’s the basis for my creation of my site WheresTheGig.com. A blending of my day and night jobs.
The Untouchables, I’m sure will play more Corporate and Casino gigs then any of the bands that played last Sunday night. They are just that kind of band (They have a huge, diverse, variety and the talent to pull it off). They are. . . . (Untouchable) in that market. “Pardon the pun”
Edwin Decker has been found to be incompetent. He admits he messed up his Semi-finals Week 1 score card that was due June 14 after the final performance at the Viejas Ultimate Music Challenge. This score sheet will ultimately become a partial factor for the award of $20,000, $8,000 and $4,000.
Evidence of Incompetence:
I will say this: in hindsight, I am displeased with my scoresheet. In fact, in hindsight, this was my worst judicial outing since starting UMC some 3 years ago.
If I were to judge my judging abilities of last night, I think it would go like this:
JUDGING ABILITY (Here’s where I falter)
1. Judging Vocal Performances – 4
2. Judging Music performances – 3
I should not have given the Untöuchables such a low score. Nor did Mönsters deserve that high of a score.
Fact: Only one judge drank last night. that would me.
Geez, I’ve been doing this thing for 3 years (drinking all the way through I might add)
As for the drinking, what can I tell you? I’m a bartender, a rock critic, and an author of a hedonistic biweekly column called “Sordid Tales.”
Drinking comes naturally to me. Not to brag, but in my defense, it takes a lot of booze to get me drunk.
Ed’s main argument to this controversy has been that his “Day After” score sheet would result in the same two bands advancing to the finals. He claims it didn’t matter that he messed up his initial score sheet that Rolling the Stones and Monsters of Rock still won. He argues this with Chirstine.
Um, Christine, perhaps you’ve had a few too many drinks yourself as your math skills seem to be a bit off right now.
My “Day-After” scoresheet would not have changed a thing had I given those scores instead.
I will be the first person on this blog to say that Ed’s “Day-After” score sheet argument is invalid. I can’t believe that he has been getting a pass on this and getting away with it with no confrontation. Why is it invalid? Let me list the reasons:
The score sheet was due June 14th, 2009 after the final performance of Monsters of Rock. It had to be completed at the designated time, capturing the emotion and vivid memory of how each band performed. The next day would not have the gut reaction of the judge, having too much time to think about it.
Do you really think that Ed is going to come back the next day and announce, “Oops, sorry guys I screwed up. The new winners are The Mighty Untouchables! Sorry Monsters of Rock. See you next year!” Could you imagine the drama and uproar that this would cause? After much heat from David and Alicia for having a huge scoring disparity Ed realized his calculations were inaccurate. I can imagine Ed the next day scrambling on his new math figures. This time he would vote more in moderation and less in extreme while keeping his new figures from affecting the outcome of the competition that was already announced thus his bands continue on. If you didn’t realize it Ed’s top two bands that he listed on his initial score sheet are going to the finals. Not the same for Dave and Alicia. They both picked the Untouchables as their top number one band but Ed’s extreme low score kept them from advancing. Coincidence? We really will never know.
3. Judges’ Individual Picks (minus audience response categories)
Dave Patrone
Untöuchables – 69
MöR – 65.5
Stönes – 65
Firëfly – 55
Alicia Champion
Untöuchables – 71
Stönes – 69
MöR – 66
Firëfly – 63
Edwin Decker
MöR – 75.5
Stönes – 72
Firëfly – 63
Untöuchables – 55
So when Ed plays poker he gets to go around to the back side of his opponents and see what cards they have been dealt. Ed knew the outcome of the competition, having access to Alicia and Dave’s score sheet totals the next day. He also knew which bands won and lost. Now he knows exactly how to manipulate his numbers to get the results he desires. Did Dave or Alicia get this privilege? What might happen if Dave or Alicia got to do a “Day After” score sheet? They might say, “hum…since Ed voted high for this band that means I need to vote High here. And then maybe lower the score here. Oops that’s not enough…that should do it. Let me see what that comes out too. Yes Untouchables win!” The only way Ed’s argument would be valid would be if Ed had not known the outcome of the competition the night before and that he had no knowledge of how Dave and Alicia had voted. Run that past any judge in this country and I guarantee they will conclude that a next day calculation after knowing the outcome of the contest the night before is not going to give merit to Ed’s argument.
Some believe Ed was upset at the other two judges for giving him a hard time as they say he is not the “musician type”. Ed writes early in the blog:
Indeed, Dave and Alicia overtly expressed their disdain for my decision to stiff The Untöuchables and, predictably, pulled their, “We-are-musicians-and-we-know-better-than-you” card, on which I called bullshit.
Alicia and David couldn’t have disagreed more. And boy, did they let me have it; talking about how the tempo and volume disparity were part of their reworking of the song; talking about how the abrupt key changes were not only difficult, but had been nailed; talking about the intended shock value of a key change
Witnesses say they could see the judges arguing during the Untouchables set and with out a doubt there was a heated exchange between them during Ed’s review of the Untouchables. Ed made a comment about the key changes and tempo changes in Black Magic Women. The other judges corrected him as he did not use correct music terminology to explain himself. Many argue that Ed was upset at their belittling comments, claiming that Ed had been drinking and acted out of emotion because he knew that Dave and Alicia would be giving the Untouchables very high scores that he purposely “lowballed” their score. The only way Ed could get the Untouchables to not advance would be to drastically lower their score. I don’t know if I agree on this. I simply don’t know but I tell you the coincidences of all this does not work well for Ed. If anyone had a horrible night it was Ed.
Ed argues that he was not affected by the alcohol that it takes a lot to get him drunk. I would argue don’t drink at all. There is 32 thousand dollars at stake. I can not believe the Viejas Gamming commission looks the other way on this. Any bank, Mortgage firm or Law Group would consider a 32k transaction very serious. I guess its just pennies for a casino. But it’s a lot of hard work for musicians and singers who give up night after night, attending rehearsals and practicing only to come to an event where one of the judges is anything but professional. You know Viejas is getting a lot of bang for their buck if you consider most of the bands will walk away with nothing. Maybe Viejas can look into some of these issues and make some necessary changes.
I will end in saying that this blog entry I write should have been written no matter what band supposedly got the shaft. Many will ague that no one got the shaft. But there is enough people who will agree that there was some wrong done that it is worth writing. People will be mad that I bashed Ed so bad and I do apologize for that. But I would have no less mercy if Dave or Alicia did what he did. If you were an outsider, new to San Diego with full objectivity you can see where that person might have some issues with how this competition played out. Let us hope it doesn’t happen again. And I also agree with lots of people on this blog that it’s too bad that all four bands can’t advance because they were all awesome. Good Luck Rolling the Stones and Monsters of Rock.
Obviously Say It, I disagree with nearly everything you said here. Alas, I don’t have the inclination to bore everyone with a point by point analysis of all your fallacies.
But I will address this one:
“Do you really think that Ed is going to come back the next day and announce, “Oops, sorry guys I screwed up. . . Could you imagine the drama and uproar that this would cause? After much heat from David and Alicia for having a huge scoring disparity Ed realized his calculations were inaccurate. I can imagine Ed the next day scrambling on his new math figures. This time he would vote more in moderation and less in extreme while keeping his new figures from affecting the outcome of the competition that was already announced thus his bands continue on.”
Ok, so First of all, the scores we post at the end of the night are the official scores. If my Hindsight Scoresheet would have changed the outcome of the contest, that would not matter. What matters is how I scored that night, so, even if my new scores changed the outcome, there would be no change in the official outcome.
Besides, who is to say which “me” was the correct one? Was it the “Me” who was scoring in the heat of the moment, immediately after the performance when it was fresh in memory? Or was it the hindsight “Me” who questioned his own scores?
The answer is, I don’t know and it doesn’t matter. What I do on the night of the performance is official. Anything else is just fodder for the blog.
The only reason I posted my hindsight scoresheet was in the interest of being open and honest, which I believe is what this blog is for – for frank, honest discussions about everything related to UMC. So had I second guessings about my score, so what? It’s not that big of a deal.
But here’s the thing, you talked about how I “scrambled” to rewrite the scoresheet so that the numbers still worked out in MOR and RTS favor, and my response is, you are absolutely right. That’s exactly what I did. Because I still believe, both in hindsight, and at the time, that those were the best bands. As a judge, I do this all the time. Igrade so that, on my scoresheets, the bands I like best have the most points. The only reason I had a change of heart about the scores was because, while I still believe the right bands won, I didn’t believe, IN HINDSIGHT, that the Untouchables deserved that low of a score.
Even if I had second guessed myself on the night of the competition, I would have changed them, yes, but, again, not enough to make them beat MOR or RTS – ON MY SCORESHEET.
If that makes me incompetent as a judge then so be it. I’m sure you’ve never made a mistake before in your profession. And i’m not even sure I even made a mistake since, as I said, which “Me” was the correct “Me”? Nobody knows. and to suggest that I intentionally underscored MU to compensate for the other judges high scores is baseless and hurtful.
One more thing, I was tempted to say that it was a mistake to post my Hindsight Scoresheet, or to post my honest opinions about my scoring flaws because of accusatory comments like yours, but I’m not going to say it because, in the end, I prefer the open book policy. I’ve got nothing to hide and am happy to report when I have made a mistake as I am human, and have flaws. If I was as calculated and corrupt as you have suggested, why would I have mentioned it at all?
“As a judge, I do this all the time. I grade so that, on my scoresheets, the bands I like best have the most points.”
While this description may sound logical and reasonable, this doesn’t sound to me like the right way to score a band. If this is the appropriate way to score a band, then why have all of the different categorical scores? Why not just a single overall band score for each judge? The point of the categorical scores should be to force the judges to rate the individual components of each band independently from one another, and the final total, which is a composite of those categorical scores, is what it is. Again, if you are ‘making sure the bands you like best have the most points’, then there is truly no reason for the sub-categories of ratings.
I’ve got no problem with judges simply assigning overall points to bands on the basis of their overall impression of them, if that was how this particular contest was constructed. But it’s not. It sounds like you have circumvented the scoring rules. And, despite your dismissal of conspiracy, your method of scoring lends itself to such accusations as you remove the objective aspect of scoring (categorical ratings) and susbstitute it with your own nebulous and more potentially biased ‘feelings’. Again, not a bad thing if the contest was meant to be judged that way…but apparently it’s not (again, as evidenced by the existence of categorical scores).
To me, this doesn’t speak so much to an obvious attempt to make MU lose, but more of an attempt to make MOR win. After all, anyone who has been to these shows on a weekly basis can see how much the MOR guys buddy up to you. Sorry…it’s just an observation and I’m connecting the dots.
Ah, the secret is out. I’ve befriended Ed to win his vote and he never talks to any other of the bands but us. And I was trying to be so sneaky about it.
You’ll see me spending much more time at the front of the stage supporting the other bands than talking to Ed. Perhaps I shouldn’t.
Rick, I have said this so many times now, I’m getting kind of tired of repeating it. But, here we go again. The numbers we grade in the categories are not static. They change from week to week. What they are for is to use as a comparison with the bands that are playing that night. As D.P. has also, often said, a band that scored 200 points on Week 1, is not necessarily better than a band who scored 300 points on week 2.
The point being, when I am doing my scoring, and Band A is finished, I give them the scores I think they deserved. Then when Band B comes up, I look at each category and say, “Ok, so Band B was better than band A in the showmanship category, and grade them in relation to Band A in that, and all the other categories. And so on as the night progresses. This method is approved of, and endorsed by UMC and until I hear otherwise, will continue to grade as such.
As for my friendship with Monsters, yup, since they started playing UMC last year, I have become friendly with them. Why not? They are great guys, great musicians, and an honor to know them. I have lots of other friends in the competition and many who have long ago been 86′d. But I assure you dude, it does not grant them favor in the judging category. If anything, it is a hurdle because I am all too aware of ease to which people become attached to conspiracy theories so, if anything, I would be inclined to vote them poorly to protect myself.
Luckily for MOR, I don’t give a crap what anyone thinks. People who know me best know my integrity is intact, the rest of you are gonna believe what you want to believe. Regardless, I’m going to vote for who I think is best, and that will be that.
Jeez. Rick says “Sorry…it’s just an observation and I’m connecting the dots.” Which reminds me that as I child I once amused myself with a “Connect The Dots” project that was supposed to turn out to be a pirate ship but ended up looking like the “Horta” from the original Star Trek episode “The Devil in the Dark”.
And while it’s true that some of the MOR material has “Devil” overtones (undertones, and passing tones, too!), none of the band even remotely resembles a “Horta”. Not even “Eddie”.
My point here, which may not be clear to some, is that, given a bunch of dots, you can connect them to make anything you want to, especially if you are predisposed to something in particular.
So even if one makes the assumption that Tom spent considerable effort in befriending one or more of the judges, plying them when expensive beers and candies, and indeed succeeded in his efforts, the facts remain:
(1) The members of MOR are skilled musicians.
(2) The band is tight as a unit.
(3) Their front man is top notch in both vocals and showmanship.
(4) Their show ramped up nicely to a climax that included pitchforks
raised on cue to a high note and, of course, a zombie taunting Satan.
Given these facts, It’s hard for this competitor to feel that MOR didn’t deserve promotion. That is all.
“For every contest there must be a winner and a looser.” Ace Ventura
“Its all the same, only the names will change.” Bon Jovi
“Disappointed groopies will always cry conspiracy.” cry me a river
Mark here guitarist/vocalist and co- leader of the Mighty Untouchables.
I want to thank everyone for your support and critiques. This contest and weeklong debate has been a learning experience for me and hopefully everyone evolved. I have put the competition behind me and moved on. TMU is back to rehearsing/working/writing and recording.
The demo you here on our website is live at Valley View. The site has only been up one week and there are still mistakes being corrected. TMU was in the studio yesterday recording a new demo. To set the record straight, we actually have 6 lead vocalist and many of us play multiple instruments professionally. The band is only 3 months old, although most of us have played together in different bands and
On studio sessions for the last ten years.
TMU has a bright future and plan on being around for a long time. We take music serious and are striving to get better at our craft. We are trying to do songs bands don’t normally attempt. As for the big pause in our show, I agree with the criticism that was a mistake and should not have been there in my opinion also. Good and Bad news from the competition, bad we are out by Edwin’s low score and maybe the pause in the show,
The good is we did get a gig from the contest. Please come check out a whole night of the Mighty Untouchables at Viejas Dream Catcher Lounge on July 24.
I do have friends still in the competition and wish them and all the other bands the best.
Everyone back stage was very supportive of each other.
Guitarist let’s stick together and learn from each other. Work at your craft.
If you are not a school player, stretch yourself and learn how to read. If you are a schooled player, try to play with some feelin’. There are a lot of lessons on line from great teachers and players.
MOR guitarist your tones were great.
In closing we would like to Thank Casey, Alicia, David, Edwin and all the people that came out to see us.
We had a fun time.
I got nothing but love for ya.
Mark Fulton
Alrighty then!
I actually believe that DP and Alecia have rocks in their head, but not ‘rock’. Any one with half a brain can see what a ludicrous statement DP made about the bands doing each others material, i believe that TMU could pull off ‘War Pigs’ in a pig’s eye, or a Stones song that sounds like the Stones are doing it when pigs fly. I also don’t feel that MOR or RTS could do a Bee Gee’s song, mostly because it’s hard to play a sax, or wail on a Les Paul with vomit coming up the pipe. Now before you dismiss me as biased against the Bee Gee’s, consider this, there is too much evidence to the contrary that A. TMU went over the time limit, B. the DID rape the Kansas song which all three of the other bands could have done a better job on it, and C. that apparantly nepotism does have a place in the UMC. I cannot blame anyone, but I still insist that Viejas, who along with chintzing out on the 4th place dough, has schlogged off on their job on the websire (the bands were not listed until right after the contest started, and not in entirety. Well, I could go on, but some twisted free thinker will heatedly point out that “it’s their contest”, and “they are putting up the money”, and “it’s a difficult job, and they do it well”, whatever, all in all, the contest is a conglomeration of clusterfucks, and personal agendas, powerplays and ego trips. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, as we deal with humanity here. And then you may ask, then why do you attend, because of the great music, I have been there every week, and I have learned so much, seen so much, been so entertained, not just by the bands, but by the nerds who think they are cool now (ooops, those are the judges!) and met some really great people too. One last thought, I have in the past, and will again have the balls to admit to making mistakes, Ed’s comments regarding this lead me to hold him in very high esteem, I think he may have a chance, but DP’s ego has to smashed, it must or it will kill him. Alecia? there may be no hope there, as a megalomaniac with an inferiority complex can only be cured by herself, harsh judgements to be sure but the truth does hurt. I know, I am an asshole, (or should I say bitch) but I have a purpose (no, not a special one, unless you count the golden temple) and that is be a cog in the wheel of life, a safety valve amongst the checks and balances. I trust some of you will Have the intestinal fortitude to see some light, I do not expect anyone to see it all (‘cept Robert Plant). PS, I would sure love to see Alice Cooper do ‘Raped and frezzin’, I love it when the woman does the raping, can that actually happen? Al
Hey Al, come talk to me in person on Sunday. I’d love to put a face to all these lovely comments about me, and to find out just why you hate me so much. It’s so safe to stay anonymous in that big Dreamcatcher room and to post whatever you want to on this blog. But if your “rocks” are where they should be, come have a conversation with me during a band transition on Sunday. You know where my seat is.
“Alicia” of course “Al’s” Jealous of You “It” stole your first Two Initals!
Who would’nt feel abit of a sting of jealousy when they look at you.
your not only a Very Sharp Musician who knows her “SH##”[Stuff]
But “Beautiful” to Boot, and being a Female “Well” you know
“Its a Mans World”-atleast in the Pea Sized Brains of some Men!
But I guess for a Gal who goes by “Al” Pea Brain Fits?
and if “Mr Plant” as any Clue about What Your Talking About then all i can
say is “I thought your Days of using Hard Drugs were over Dude?”
Patti your funny. I’m from Japan where Kim is common boy name. I did not say I am girl
Man, this blog has really gotten icky. The judging was over last Sunday night. If you or your favorite band lost… well, listen to the critiques, practice and come back next year (with more fans).
I know the judges think that they have to be all technical and stuff… and I realize some bands may have had more experienced musicians than others… but that doesn’t necessarily make the band more appealing because, once again, music is art (not science) and it is subjective to every listener. This isn’t the “who has the best individual players” competition.
We are all equal in that we all have our own opinion of what we like and what we don’t. Simple, really. Now, can we all quit trying to analyze each other and stop saying shitty stuff? What purpose does that serve?
Oh, and acting ugly and mean isn’t gender specific. Anyone can be a jerk.
Al…
“ego has to be smashed or it will kill him…”
“megalomaniac with an inferiority complex…”
your dialog is starting to reveal your “programming”
It seems like Al is anonymous in more ways than just one…
It’s pretty grandiose of you to think that the world needs you as a “safety valve” maybe you should take an inventory of your own humility instead of trying to find your faults in someone else. I am not better than these musicians, I’m trying to be objective in a way that could be helpful. I’m also trying to be entertaining.
I take this job as a judge seriously because I would not want to be judged unless I could learn from it. Who wants to be told of their faults or put up against another and found wanting? This is why some people will not give their all; because, their ego rules their lives. If they hold back jut a little and fail; then, they can always claim to their innermost selves that it wasn’t their best.
This is why you choose to remain anonymous Al. You don’t have to account for your actions, wild accusations or the painful feelings you try to evoke in others; and, in the end you will hide under that other cloak of “opinion” and if you don’t like it, you don’t have to listen/agree. You may say to us, well I can’t be honest because I fear the public backlash or consequence of the “truth” I am gracing you with. I’ve seen it many times on blogs. You will pretend that you have given clues to your identity and therefore anyone who doesn’t discern who you are doesn’t have the intellect to have a valid opinion.
Ego and Fear… You think you’re opinion is imperative and your thoughts are unique and daring yet you fear the consequence of being wrong/found out/discovered…
That would be the definition of a megalomaniac with an inferiority complex and YOUR ego is the one that has to be smashed.
We were doing fine before we ever learned of your existence and we will be fine when you are gone…
Well put Dave!
Well put Dave!
“Ego and Fear… You think you’re opinion is imperative and your thoughts are unique and daring yet you fear the consequence of being wrong/found out/discovered”
Reminds me of many of my far left-wing Liberal friends
Wait a minute, Rick, Ego and Fearmongering are tendencies of right-wingers, not lefties. Where you been the last 8 years!
LOL – uh, the blog is about to get political.
Watch out bitches!
Have you applied that statement to the current administration Ed? We have a “rock star” in office who the media fawns over; meanwhile, they are not holding his feet to the fire like the media should.
Regardless, I’d like you to use that keen intellect of yours to do an honest assessment of the almighty one and the Czars he’s appointing who have no oversight; the bailout and the funds which are unaccounted for and the ties to the banks.
For instance, do you know who the newly appointed CEO of GM is? Edward Whitacre JR. who is the guy who built up AT&T. After he took the job, he publicly stated he has ZERO experience in cars.
You might wonder, why would Obama appoint a guy like him until you look at who was the BIGGEST contributor of funds to Obama’s Campaign (as well as others on both sides of the aisle). You guessed it: AT&T
Guess who else were the biggest contributors to Obama, McCain, Hilary, and Lou Dobbs?
AIG
Citycorp
Bank Of America
Bear Stearns
is this list starting to sound familiar?
I’m not sayin’ I’m just sayin’…
Who says Obama is really a true liberal? His actions sure s hell haven’t proved it.
This is a completely inappropriate place for this but I’m going to post it anyway…
“Obama isn’t a real liberal?”
Oh, that’s rich! I never saw this one coming! Now Obama isn’t a REAL liberal. I have to admit, I absolutely did not see that one coming!
As his policies and cronyism screw up this country and destroy the small business owner and tax the larger businesses into laying off hundreds of thousands of people per month, now the liberals are going to disassociate with him for actually following through on his promises… hahah! He’s redistributing wealth by destroying the value of the dollar.
I can’t believe it! His “Hopefulness” is now being abandoned because he’s not liberal enough?!? He’s was the MOST liberal senator and remains a practical socialist. This is exactly what you guys asked for. Welcome to it!
So called “Liberals” kill me. Obama said he was going to do all of this stuff and everyone listened to the “Hope and Change” rhetoric; ignorant of the reality of politics or economics or even his voting record and policy stance, and now that he’s doing all of the things he said he would do…
He’s not a real liberal? hahahaha!
He’s an ACTUAL liberal and what you probably don’t realize is that YOU are not a liberal. If you actually knew what liberalism stood for you, would most likely find out that you are REALLY a libertarian or independent.
I’ve got a question for you, if you really think you know your politics… If you think you DESERVE to vote… I think you shouldn’t be allowed to vote unless you can name me (without looking it up) just TWO Supreme Court Justices. Can you even tell me how many Supreme Court Justices there are? How about your own senators? Can you tell me what’s in the Bill of Rights? Who is the Senate Majority Leader? Minority leader? Have you any clue WHATSOEVER??
Do those of you who voted have any clue whatsoever about actual politics or did you just watch a BS video written and performed by a bunch of famous people who don’t know Jack about politics, using Human Rights as a wedge to advance the policies of a man who clearly stated that he doesn’t even agree with you on things like Gay Marriage??
Pay attention people! The reason we are in the situation we are in is because the typical American is not paying attention. The right to vote carries with it a RESPONSIBILITY to know what the hell is going on. We would not be in the situation we are in if more people actually paid attention and held their local and state representatives ACCOUNTABLE for their actions.
rant over, sorry, I couldn’t help it
WAKE UP FOLKS!
As I said before… I believe it was during UMC 2… when I was bartending, there were two taboos for conversation (of which Ed disagreed about) at the bar. 1. Religion and 2. Politics.
I believe same should hold true for the blog. Lets stick to music and the competion people. Politics, regardless of being left, right, middle or don’t give a shit position will only create more chaos here in the blogdom. And haven’t Al, Kim, Colleen, Ed, Dave and others done enough of that already?
WAKE UP BLOGGERS!!
~~Peace
We have to make the best choice with the choices we’re given. So it is with the judges in this contest and so it was during the last election. DP’s side choosing Sarah Palin (who demonstrably couldn’t pass DP’s tests listed above) sealed the deal for most of us as to who was the best choice. Imperfections and all, I’m glad it turned out as it did.
Peace to all and best of luck to the competitors tonight.
I’m a libertarian my friend; however, Sarah Palin wouldn’t have thrown 4 billion dollars into the wind and then said, “umm ahh ummm ahhh ummm ahhh I umm ahh, didn’t well, ah I uh didn’t don’t know where it went.”
nice job, Mr. Patrone!!
Anonymously spewed venom. Wow, how impressive.
This is the last time I am going to say this. Please refrain from using all caps on the blog. It is rude and annoying. All future posts containing excessive caps will be deleted.
The King has Spoken
NEWS FLASH!!!
Simon Cowell admits he makes mistakes! …really, the real Simon just said that really.
Choice quotes from Simon could have been from Ed this week…
“If, like me, you make a living from criticising people… then you can’t complain when people turn the tables and criticise you. And I don’t.”
Simon goes on to say, “However, as you might have noticed, the show has not been without controversies.
“The show has been accused of being a cruel circus that sets out to exploit the vulnerable in a cynical bid to boost ratings. And I, of course, am inevitably portrayed as the evil ringmaster.
So love the shows or hate them, the time has finally come for me to set a few things straight. And I’m the first to hold my hands up and admit I’ve made mistakes.
I didn’t get into showbusiness to make little children cry or upset a nice lady like Susan Boyle.”
I was going to substitute name in that last line but I don’t want to be nasty. ha ha
speaking on nasty, have you noticed that everyone posting gets a unique avatar attached to their posts?
We Al has three avatars! is that because Al uses three different email addresses? or maybe it’s more than one person. hmm?
do do do do <— Twilight Zone Theme Music (as performed by Nutty)
Very good Dave M. and I like you TZ music
I am starting to think that Ed is Al, for the sake of controversy in the Blog. That would be genius.
And Dave P. Al is getting free counseling from you. People pay good money for this kind of advice.
I’m not sure but i imagine that if you are not logged in or put in different information / delete your cookies, you can post as anyone you like and it will assign you a new icon.
Weak
mmmm…cookies… =)
Whoohoo! It’s friday!
Hope you are all excited about Sunday! I know I am!
Have a great weekend.
Ang-SC
Angie-I hope I get the chance to meet you this Sunday! Look for the girl in the wheelchair toward the front of the stage (until YOU go on, then I WILL be IN front of the stage if I can fight the crowd!!) Kick butt! Good luck,and most of all, have fun!!
I guess that raps it up for blog. Me so happy!
Colleen, you self-rightous bitch (Ed says it’s ok to use this term), I use it with much affection (similar to the love my pit bull showers on the water meter reader. People like you provoke witch trials, and lynchings, you and Patrone both are so obtuse that you know not what you do. By skewering me and others, whom you disagree with, you are engaging in EXACTLY the same type of behaviour. Tempered with a healthy dose of denial, you do what you condemn, just as you will not see evidence of it now, from reading my comments. Wake the f#*k up people! ‘Get it’ and win a prize, but I know that no one will, that means all of you reading this, everytime you call me an asshole, you are self-elevating your own psyche, trying to notch up your low self-worth with a pot shot at me (or any other annoying ass). Having gotten your feeble attention, I will reiterate my perspective on the circus known as the UMC, what I have been trying to say all along is this, while there is no conspiracy, there is an overwhleming amount of flaws in the judging system and the particular judges. I believe Ed, Alecia, and David when they say they are using frank judgement, integrity, and honesty in the process used to arrive at a decision for the weekly winners, HOWEVER, I sincerely believe they are all somewhat biased towards certain acts, and that the points get sown in a larger quantity in those particular acts fields, if I may use a farmer John type analogy. Hence the prediction that Sirens Crush is predestined to win, watch it happen and remember, I said it here. As I stated previously, Big Toe probably does not stand a chance, but Mark may go on with Alice Cooper, DSB holds their own fate in their hands (at least as far as second place goes tonight) based on whether they bring bodies or not. And remember, when I say Sirens Crush is going to win, I mean the whole enchilada, the big Kahuna, all the marbles, the whole kit and kaboodle, the whole shebang, get my drift? As for programming Mr. Patrone, I feel the corp did a good job with you, once a marine, always a marine, but lighten up sweety, and remember, you launched THAT topic with your little trumpet concerning a DOS. Me, you can take your hat off to me, I have done the right about face, and I can whet my whistle like a gentleperson, even if some of my other behaviours are not quite as genteel. I fault no one for any of the actions heretofore described, to be human is to be flawed, I merely point them out, and yes, I can do the same with myself. love and peace to all of you, Al Ice
“Al”
You always provide me with entertainment! Thank you! Whenever you post, I know I will not come away from reading your entry without some sort of emotion!
I understand…
~~Peace!
“Colleen” your to nice i would have told that B#T#H to Shut The F### Up
Just kidding…
Al – doesn’t matter what you look like, you are just plain ugly. You try very hard to be mean spirited. I’m sorry that you live in such an angry and bitter world. I hope that someday you find out what it is like to be happy and nice – it is so much easier, really. I’ll pray for you.
I don’t want to go political on this blog… I was about ready to respond to the political things said here but that’s not what this thread is all about.
I will just echo an idea that Patrone has emphasized here, If you want to feel so passionate about an issue then you better know what you’re talking about… educate yourself before you start puttin’ down.
PS if you are unaware of the advance of communism/socialism by our current fearless leader, as Mr Patrone said, you better wake up. In our home we have contingency plans for the utter breakdown of society, and that includes several ways and means to feed ourselves. Save yourselves, stop paying taxes. And another thing, Alecia, please stop trying to act like a man, inviting me over to ‘say it to your face’ is probably a precedent to asking me to ‘step outside’, you have female genitalia, deal with it. Believe me honey, I have no problem saying any of this to any one’s face, I am one bold bitch, but what purpose would it serve other than to give you an opportunity to spew more of your ‘opinion’ at me, and make you feel better (read vindicated, self-rightous, ‘right’, etc.). Mr Decker, you have shown yourself to have more heart (and soul) rthan either of the other two judges, i applaud your honest, and humility. There might be a chance for you Ed.
Great! If you have no problem talking in person, then I’ll look forward to your hello this evening. I don’t bite, and I don’t even retaliate with the name calling and insults.
Alicia for someone who is so obviously Jealious, and Threatened by you
you would think Ms Al would know how to spell your name right after all
those angry posts? Hey Al its Alicia not Alecia!
To UMC 3… this year we have been provided with… so many views…. so many opinions….. so much talent….. such good music…. so much ego….. so much graciousness….. so much venom….. so much love…. so much fun….. so much anger….. so many new friends…. and a few new foes!
You have to love UMC and Edwin Decker’s Blog! Our annual source for venting and expression be it kind or…. not so kind. It is what it is!
Tonight should be another awesome night full of “dynamics” and hopefully few “pitchy” moments!
To Mark… great speaking to you personally yesterday! I agree with you, I think you should change clothes between the two performances so people won’t notice that you are in both bands!!
Good luck tonight!
To all the bands… Good luck tonight! I know you will all bring your best (and your fans)! I KNOW all of us in the audience will be entertained!!
Colleen,
I think he should change his clothes to match the presentation of the band; but, maybe he should paint his toenails a different color between sets too? We might recognize those feet!
DP, I think you might be right! But which color for ACG? Black for the goth or red for Saten?
David, your dry wit humor is classic! or you sure your not Ed’s evil twin?
I love it! Also your 100% right when it comes to Our new leader of our
Country! The voters should have done alot more research then maybe they
would’nt have been so surprized![i know i was'nt]
Orrrrrr….. Bright pink to throw everybody off???
Hello all, i have been very entertained by all the goings on here on the blog. lots of fun and games, lots of pros and cons too.i have a question, how is the order of the bands decided? who does this?, is it done in the public eye? reason i ask is this, i find it interesting that sirens crush is playing in the headliner spot for the semi finals, i wonder who will get that spot in the finals? just a thought, i wonder if all these decisions are really made on the up and up. just curious, the rotten one.
Johnny Rotten, great question. I’m glad you asked. You are right to wonder if all these decisions are really made on the “up and up.”
Here is how the order of the bands is determined each week.
First, the judges, management and stage crew decide in advance who we want to win on any given night, and who we want to come in second, third, etc.. After a decision has been agreed upon, we slot those bands according to who we want to win, giving the best slot to our favorite, and down the line.
Then, we stage a bogus “drawing” to pretend as though the whole thing was random.
By doing this through the prelims, the semis, and of course the finals, This is how we guarantee our favorite band will win the entire thing.
Cordially,
Sid Vicious
Wow!
I can’t believe this is still going on. . .
Last weeks winners, were clearly the winners, as far as show, crowd response and song choice. Anyone who does not see this should put down there pipe and try sobriety for the next two weeks.
Renee-I looked for you after the show but didn’t see you =( Hope I get to meet you at the finals! =)
Congratulations Angie.
Thank you so much Tom!! =) I’m excited and honored to go to the finals with such amazing talent.
You guys rocked Angie!
Next week is going to be tough for the judges!
Looking forward to it!
Thank you so much! =) It is going to be a fun night!