Discussion - Jan 03 1997 to Feb 15 1997

January 3, 1997 - February 15, 1997

Wow. Some of this conversation is really taking me back. I'm only 30 years old, but at 18 I was an assistant manager at a record store in Fresno, Cal. where I went to college. A large portion of my paycheck was left behind each week as my record, tape, picturedisc, and collectable stockpile grew to parent-infuriating levels. Guadalcanal Diary was a favorite-- thanks Andrew, that was a band I hadn't heard mentioned in many a year. I'd love to get something from them on cd, but I don't know if anything's ever been available from them. Speaking of that mid-eighties period, an album I really liked has just been issued on cd for the first time. "Change, No Change" by Elliot Easton-- the lead guitarist of the Cars, is just out. It's got several bonus tracks on it, and his writing partner was... Jules Shear! (See my last posting.) Anyhow, just thought I'd pass that along. Now, back to Marshall... I too remember the first time I heard him: it was a COMMERCIAL for his first album on KIQQ radio in L.A. They just played clips of two or three cuts, and said it was "The debut from one of the great young songwriters..." I rode my bike to Tower Records and bought the thing "sight unheard" for $4.99-- (Are record execs ever gonna keep their word and lower cd prices?)-- and so began the love affair with Marshall's music. I thought "Field Day" was great, too. That album mesmerized me for my entire senior year of high school. I distinctly remember reviews for it being mixed, which surprized me. Steve Lilywhite's production came under fire for making Robert's drums sound "bombastic," and for the overall aggressive, harder-edged sound. At least that's what the L.A. critics said. I didn't pay them any mind. Finally, let me just give a hearty thumbs-up to "Downtown." (Many respected music-related tomes describe this as Marshall's masterpiece.) I *love* the sound of this record, and was elated when this and "Field Day" finally came out on cd-- on the same day no less. "The Distance Between" is one of Marshall's best tunes. Ver underrated by the participants of this site. And speaking of four great songs in a row, how about the four that kick off "Life's Too Short?" I'd put those up against any four in a row from Marshall's catalogue... Just a few thoughts. BTW-- congrats to Jeff on this site. Definitely the best music-oriented site I've found, especially the discussion section. I'm a big fan of Squeeze for example, but the Marshall discussion page puts that one to shame! Keep up the great work!
Michael <michael.bennett@kslnews.com>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA - Sat Feb 15 9:34:47 1997

Love the new site, Jeff. Keep up the great work.

As for "last of the great MidWestern surf bands" -- somebody out there needs to check out the pride of Dayton, Ohio, The Mulchmen. They've got a great 45 out with self-penned surf tunes. Nick Kizirnis is the lead guitarist and songwriter (I think) -- he also plays a mean Theremin and is a really, sincerely nice guy. They've got a website and Kramer, if you're from Dayton (where I just moved from) you really should check them out. A lot of fun.

For what it's worth, I always thought of Downtown as MC's Rubber Soul -- understated, maybe, but a masterpiece.

Wasn't Roy Loney the lead singer of the Flamin' Groovies? As for other great new records, check out The Fountains of Wayne (not sure if anyone else has name-checked them yet), harder edge than MC,but still mining the same pop vein. Teenage Fanclub is also worth looking into (especially Bandwagonesque from 1991) -- sort of Nirvana plays the Beatles. Good stuff.

I heard recently that someone is reissuing all the Robert Gordon LPs on CD sometime early this year, so we'll be able to check out some of those old Crenshaw tunes that he never put out himself, like "Wastin' My Time" (I think).

Happily surprised to see all the activity on here.
kevin walsh
USA - Sat Feb 15 9:13:48 1997

Oh, in case you thought I'd forgotten about Marshall: I don't remember the first time I heard the first album. However, I have a vivid memory of looking through the bins in Bleecker Bob's sometime in 1982, being distracted by a particularly beautiful woman who was dancing around and singing "There She Goes Again" while browsing. It's still my favorite Marshall tune!
Andrew Tomko <dtomko@warwick.net>
Warwick, NY USA - Fri Feb 14 21:03:35 1997

First of all, congratulations to Jeff for breaking the 10,000 mark, although I wonder how many of those visitors were, uh ... me. Second, Lynn, I was in college from 80 to 84 and stayed in Albany until late 86. Hey Michael, what station were you on at that time? "My Ex," I hadn't thought about that tune in ages; thanks Lynn. I visit Capital-land now and then, and I know about the guys from Blotto and their careers. Yeah, Sarge hasn't changed much. By the way, they were excellent at their reunion gig at the Chance a couple years ago (even Blanche was there). How about those other Albany locals, Fear of Strangers, formerly the Units? The lead singer was starting to get some notice in NYC sometime in the late 80s; what was her name - Val Haynes or something. Also, Downtown is a superb album; just thought I'd get that in. One more band from that time I really liked - Guadalcanal Diary - remember them? Let's here it for all of us who are old enough to have record collections!!!!
Andrew Tomko <dtomko@warwick.net>
warwick, NY USA - Fri Feb 14 20:43:14 1997

Regarding "Downtown"... I've always considered it to be MC's weakest album by far, an anomaly among the wondrous music on his other albums. I listened to it a half-dozen times after I bought it and for some reason it has never come close to reaching me the way his other albums do. On the other hand, "MJ&9O" is one of my favorite albums of all time, and it's my favorite MC album in terms of production, musicianship and especially songwriting. Does that make me weird?
Jim Keller <James.S.Keller@HealthPartners.com>
Plymouth, MN USA - Fri Feb 14 15:47:29 1997

I'm visitor #10000! What, no door prizes?!?
Anyway, I just wanted to say that of all the Crenshaw albums and other records that I have listened to, "Downtown" was probably the most ANTICIPATED album by MC that I have ever known. All three of my brothers and I were simply captivated, and almost mesmerized, by "Field Day" for two years by that point. It was rich without being really over-produced. T-Bone Burnette did a fantastic job, I think. I'm positive from memory that he didn't produce every song on it (can't identify which ones since I don't have the CD handy). But I firmly believe it was his best produced album until "Miracle of Science." Even though I fell instantly in love with the record, it still grew on me as time went on. I don't think I heard a better string of four songs in my life until I first listened to the first four of Downtown.
And as time wears on, I still hold "The Distance Between" as one of my absolute favorite songs by anyone. It is a great album from start to finish. I don't think any other record of his really demonstrates his diversity in musical ability as well as that album does. I still love it.
Keep on rockin'!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Thu Feb 13 21:59:04 1997

Kramer,

Downtown is my favorite MC album. I don't understand why
response to it here is so lukewarm, either.

Michael Aarons <maarons@notes.cc.bellcore.com>
Piscataway, NJ USA - Thu Feb 13 17:51:08 1997

If anyone out there is into the Del Fuegos, Dan Zanes put out an AWESOME album last year called "Cool Down Time".
Check it out.

Maybe you heard me on the radio, Andrew, if you were in
Albany in that timeframe. I was across the river at the
time. The dudes from Blotto, French Letter, Chefs of the
Future, and others would judge at airband contests we
used to hold.

I saw Dave Alvin at Pauly's Hotel 5 years ago (wow!) and
ran into Sarge (who still thinks he's God's gift) and
Lee Harvey (who's now a lawyer)....

AND, believe it or not, Johnny Rabb is still giggin' around
up there.
michael aarons <maarons@notes.cc.bellcore.com>
Piscataway, NJ USA - Thu Feb 13 17:46:30 1997

Ahh, the Sex Execs - My Ex! I remember playing that stuff
on the radio too!

Michael Aarons <maarons@notes.cc.bellcore.com>
Piscataway, NJ USA - Thu Feb 13 17:33:22 1997

Andrew Tomko, just when were you in college? We had to be in college at about the same time, because our musical tastes are so damn similar! Blotto? I must have played "I Want to Be a Lifeguard" about a zillion times on my shows on WZBC at Boston College. From there you can guess the connection to the Del Fuegos. I could go on and on with obscure bands from Boston from the early '80s: Mission of Burma, Vinny, Pink Cadillac, The Orbits, Sex Execs, Robin Lane and the Chartbusters.....

Boston is where is first saw MC (at the Paradise, on his first tour), and I've seen every tour since.

(BTW, listeners of WXPN in Philly picked MOS as #34 in their annual top 50 cds.)

Andrew, thanks for dredging up some wonderful memories (and sending me scrambling to my record collection)!
Lynn Jackson <Ljackson@eclipse.net>
Bedminster, NJ USA - Thu Feb 13 11:31:12 1997

I get the impression from comments here that "Downtown" is not considered a great MC album. This may be true -- but then so-so MC is still lots better than "good" MTV tripe.... Regarding "Downtown," it does contain one of my favorite MC tunes: "Blues Is King." What are other people's all-time favs?? And, do you remember the first MC tune you heard? And where?? For me, it was "Whenever You're On My Mind." I was in Maryland, driving down Rt 3 from Baltimore to Crofton. First time I heard "Blues Is King" was when I was living in San Antonio. What a song.... Feedback, people...!!
kramer <henfran50@aol.com>
dayton, oh USA - Wed Feb 12 23:13:59 1997

BTW, I don't own WRNR, don't work there, don't have any family members who work there, do not have a financial interest in the station :-)
Annamarie <decarlo@cua.edu>
Annapolis, MD USA - Wed Feb 12 16:11:55 1997

WRNR 103.1 FM, Annapolis, MD, is a great station and it has a great website . . . and it has listed MOS as one of the top albums of 1996. For more info, go to http://www.wrnr.com/music/.
Annamarie <decarlo@cua.edu>
Annapolis, MD USA - Wed Feb 12 16:08:50 1997

Almost forgot, the mailing address for ordering from Schoolkids' is:

Schoolkids' Records
523 E. Liberty
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Tue Feb 11 18:39:46 1997

How could I forget to include The Kingbees on my list?!?!? Dumbdumbdumb. But Jim is right, they're from Hollywood, and were led by Jamie James. They're the real deal when it comes to bands playing rockabilly after the days of Gene & Eddy. A really great act!
Their two albums have been rereleased on an independent label called Schoolkids' Records. They are both on one CD titled "The Kingbees 1 & 2." Coincidentally, this is the same label that my brother Mike's group, The Steve Nardella Band, has cut its CD with; "Daddy Rolling Stone."
And to wrap this up with a little humor, the other day I stopped at a record store to browse a little. Before I left, I bought three CDs: The Pretenders - "Learning to Crawl;" Pure Prairie League - "Firin' Up;" and Vince Gill - "I Never Knew Lonely." After I went to the register, my eyes almost bugged when I saw the final charge after tax: $25.41 (honestly!). Hey, cheesy, I know, but I was gonna go nuts if I didn't share it. Thanx for readin'!
Keep on rockin'!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Tue Feb 11 18:35:39 1997

Just read the comment by Andrew Tomko about the BoDeans being a group that is putting out some good stuff. AMEN ! I had their live CD "Joe Dirt Car" in my player for over 3 months. Some of the songs are damned near a religious experience, especially when the crowd sings with them. It reminds me of the MC concerts that I have been to, where the people actually know who MC is. Oh yeah... one another thing, I failed to mention how much I LOVE the new look on this site... I'm Sorry (but so's Brenda Lee).
Tony Mota <skipm@erols.com>
Glen Allen, VA USA - Tue Feb 11 15:55:09 1997

Another band visitors to this site would probably enjoy is The Kingbees. I think they only released two albums around 1980 or so. Their first one has ten tremendous songs (out of ten on the album). I think they were from L.A. and I think their guitarist's name was Jimmie James. Never owned the album myself but I taped it off a friend's copy. It has a cover of a song called Ting-a-ling which I think Buddy Holly wrote. If you can find it you are in for a major treat.
Jim Keller <James.S.Keller@HealthPartners.com>
Plymouth, MN USA - Tue Feb 11 12:09:06 1997

Don: Yer comment re midwest surf bands reminded me of growing up in Cleveland and listening to the Euclid Beach Band on WMMS. Their signature tune was "Ain't No Surf In Cleveland." Fun little song. WMMS was one of the last great rock stations before mass-market programming took over. They championed Springsteen early on and lots of other new artists, as well.
kramer <hensnake@aol.com>
dayton, oh USA - Tue Feb 11 10:33:16 1997

Just to add to the ASTIGAFA discussion, I unearthed a Musician magazine fom July 1982 from a crate of college stuff in my parents' basement a few weeks ago. There's a pretty long piece on Marshall in which the following appears: "Crenshaw played in a succession of teen bands until his graduation from high school in 1971. He doesn't like to talk about it, but he spent the next few years performing in a cover band known as Astigafa. 'Original material was tough to do when I was coming up. The scene evolved around cover bands, the Stooges and the MC-5.'" Personally, I'd be interested in hearing the early stuff even if it is dreadful, just for the sake of Marshall archaeology! Reading the lists of performers posted here brings back college memories. I saw the Blasters in a free concert behind the student center at SUNY Albany in 83 or 84. Anybody remember the Del Fuegos? It strikes me that there was a ton of great, underappreciated music in the eighties that couldn't compete with the MTV crud. I think the BoDeans are one band putting out some decent stuff these days. Here's my pitch for obscure band - Blotto. Albany locals, did a lot of really funny, quirky material, always a hoot in concert - recently reunited for a few gigs a couple of years ago.
Andrew Tomko <dtomko@warwick.net>
Warwick, NY USA - Mon Feb 10 22:51:52 1997

Mitchell,
I can see where you're coming from about ASTIGAFA. "There and Back Again" has a feel about it as if it were originally titled "Ode to Gary Sussman." But try not to be so harsh. Let's face it. The old 45s from the Great Ape label are gems, regardless of what you may think of the music compared to what Marshall has accomplished artistically since then. Maybe they were the last of the Midwestern surf music bands, but that doesn't have to make it unenjoyable. My brother Mike is proud of his collection. And I don't blame him in the least bit. The odds of finding it, anywhere, is one notch short of impossible, at best.
And as always, everybody. Keep on rockin'!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Mon Feb 10 19:00:23 1997

Kramer: Regarding Crowded House's Crenshaw sound-alike "Don't Dream It's Over," you're not crazy. In fact, I bought that first Crowded House album way back when (and others since) because a reviewer compared their sound to Marshall's -- a rave review in my book!

Also, to Tony P., the Buzz Zeemer song "Crush" gets fairly regular play on WXPN. I've been trying to get their CD "Plaything" for months now, but I'll probably have to head into Philadelphia to get my hands on it.
Martha <hickson@attmail.com>
Washington, NJ USA - Mon Feb 10 17:46:08 1997

Michael, Could you possibly be talking about Marshall's concert at "Mabel's" in Champaign,Il? If so, I have what I believe to be about 75% of it on what is probably an equally worn out copy. But if you'd like it I'd be happy to send you a copy. I had the pleasure of seeing Marshall prior to one of his "Truck" tour dates, and gave him a copy. He was his usual affable self, was very appreciative. After the concert he told me he was jamming to it before he took the stage. Just thought you and the rest of the "Crensh-heads" out there would get a kick out of that. Oh! I almost forgot, when I asked Marshall which version of "Favorite Waste of Time" he liked better-- Bette Midler's or Bellamy Brothers he stated he hadn't heard the latter's...WOW! score another 100% on the humble meter for Marshall, what a class act. Enough from me, but i'd appreciate more Marshall close encounter stories from the rest of you out there.
Russell Wood <illini nav @aol.com>
Tucson, Az USA - Sun Feb 9 22:31:27 1997

Alright Mitchell, you said the magic words: "board and rehearsal tapes." You can't just throw out something like that out there and walk away!! Where's a hard-core fan gonna find something like that? In '83, when I was still in high school, the college radio station in my town broadcast an hour-long Marshall concert which of course I taped. I wore the thing out listening to it, and to this day kick myself for not keeping a master copy! Help me out here! Also, since everyone seems to be chiming in with their thoughts on other worthy artists, I may as well jump into the fray. A couple of days ago I revisited what was perhaps the best album of '92-- "The Great Puzzle" by Jules Shear. WOW. Great songs. Great sound. I see this disc all the time in 'used' shops, and I'd recommend it highly. He's a songwriter who's penned hits for others; "All Through The Night" for Cyndi Lauper and "If She Knew What She Wants" by the Bangles come to mind, though his own versions are superior. He was also the original host of MTV's "Unplugged." Weird, top-of-the-fretboard style on guitar, and a voice that takes some getting used to. But a stud nonetheless. Sorry my two cents worth wound up being a buck!
Michael <michael.bennett@ksl.com>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA - Sun Feb 9 15:23:04 1997

As far as ASTIGAFA is concerned, I'm gonna set the record straight. A group of nice guys, but any comparisons to Marshall's records is a bad joke, and at best wishful thinking on the ex-band members and their friends part. A bad version of the Doobie Bros./Beach Boys from the 70's is more like it. I don't wanna hurt anybody's feelings, but the proof is this; Have you ever heard Marshall mention the band? Has anything or anybody from this era ever appeared on one of Marshall's albums, of course not. Anybody expecting a rare Marshall gem will be severely disappointed. If you're looking for rare (and good) stuff, there are lots of board and rehearsal tapes from the first two tours around, "Shake Record's EP's" and Robert Gordon's "Are you gonna be the one" Not to be to severe to Tom Picard et-al, but get real.
Mitchell Crenshaw
Mitchell Crenshaw <mitchcren@earthlink.net>
Dallas, TX USA - Sun Feb 9 14:42:29 1997

Don: I know and love almost everyone on yer list.... Some good tunes there.... John Hiatt is a lot like M.C. -- lots of critical praise, a devoted audience, and mass indifference everywhere else. Brinsley Schwarz (the band) was an all-timer.... Nick Lowe's "Cruel to be Kind" is in the M.C. mode -- super tune. Roy Loney is new to me -- I'll check him out. The Blasters were in a cool little semi-cult film called "Streets of Fire." Fun movie, fairly shitty Jim Steinman music in the Meat Loaf vein, though.... But the Blasters are great.... Question: does anyone else besides me think that the Crowded House tune, "Don't Dream It's Over," sounds a hellava lot like M.C.?? I mean, I thought it was the Man when I first heard it.... Feedback, please.... Later skaters....
kramer <henfran50@aol.com>
dayton , oh USA - Sun Feb 9 12:55:52 1997

Donna,
Rockpile was the band formed by Edmunds and Lowe during their partnership, so to speak, in the late '70s. The only released one album under the name Rockpile titled "Seconds of Pleasure." This would be great for your archives. The Blasters were fronted by Phil $ Dave Alvin. Love Sculpture was the band Edmunds played with when he first hit the scene in the late sixties. Lowe started out with Brinsley Shwarz.
Roy Loney is really obscure. Only the most die-hard fans of rockabilly and rhythm and blues (that is, when Chuck Berry and Little Richard were called that) know who he is. John Doe was the lead singer/bassist for the band X. Your best chance of hearing his stuff is on the Rhino release "Love Gets Strange: the Songs of John Hiatt." Also on that CD is Marshall's rendition of "Someplace Where Love Can't Find Me." It still sounds great.
Billy Kirchner is touring and recording with Nick Lowe. And the Paladins could be the next big thing in Rock 'n' roll/blues crossover music. They have recorded with Aligator records in the past, and have just released a live album with Warner Brothers. Hopefully they won't get the same treatment that Marshall had dumped on him. Can't figure real music, so just shelf it. You know.
I was primarily looking to see if anyone could match my brothers and me in levels of obscurity as far as musical tastes go. When you think about it, we are the fortunate ones as far as knowledge of who to listen to goes.
Thanx for responding!!!!! And keep on rockin'!

Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Sun Feb 9 3:18:31 1997

Jeff just wanted to post this....haven't been here for a while but the new format is OUTSTANDING!!!!! As for some of the other postings...as for your list, Don, the first five are favorites of mine but after Rockpile all but the Blasters I am not familiar with...Should NRBQ be included in that mix, btw??? Michael Arons, found your list interesting as well...was quite a Tommy Keene fan, and took some flak at WTSR when I dj'd in college...was somewhat disappointed when the re-mixed "PTAG"..Do you remember the original opened with the play by play of Bobby Thompson's famous home run? While you're looking at groups of that era, anyone remember Doug and The Slugs??? I had a lot of fun with them when I first started dj'ing.
Also, has anyone heard anything about Buzz Zeemer?? Apparently, Tommy Conwell (of Young Rumblers fame) is in this band and they have turned some heads in Philadelphia. It's too bad he and Chris Dey couldn't keep it together in the Rumblers, though....Thought they were outstanding but other than the independent album never captured the raw energy of their shows on disk....In the words of RR..."They're I go again...." Thanks for tolerating my ramblings...
tony piscotta <yual66a@prodigy.com>
Hamilton Sq., NJ USA - Sat Feb 8 10:58:38 1997

Hey Don:
1-4 on your list sound good to me. i'll need help with numbers 5-11. perhaps you could recommend your favorite album from each of these i should pick up on so that i can broaden my musical horizons. MC still be the man!
donna sue <

>
arlington, va USA - Fri Feb 7 13:54:34 1997

After all of the discussions about what people who log into this page listen to, I was curious as to how many of the following artists/bands that any of you good people have listened to or at the very least heard of:

1 Robert Gordon (too easy, I know, but you never can tell)
2 Nick Lowe
3 Dave Edmunds
4 John Hiatt
5 Rockpile
6 The Paladins
7 Love Sculpture
8 The Blasters
9 Roy Loney
10 John Doe
11 Billy Kirchner

Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Big Rapids & Royal Oak, MI USA - Fri Feb 7 11:42:09 1997

in looking thru past discussion of the last few weeks, i see no mention of the MC appearance on MSNBC's Edgewise show the weekend of january 11th (i think). was i the only one to catch it? host john hockenbery confessed to being a longtime fan/follower of MC's music while chatting then MC sang a little Christmas ditty (after the holidays no less!). while chatting, got in a plug for MOS. edgewise is doing a musical retrospective show this weekend coming up with a few guests but MC is not mentioned as one of them. go to the on air section of msnbc's page for a list of who's gonna be on the show. perhaps a flood of e-mail to edgewise@msnbc.com by us MC appreciaters will get something rolling, it may be too late for this weekend, but hoepfully will encourage them to have MC on again soon. edgewise is on saturday nights and repeats on sunday night. its worth watching any weekend, MC or not...
donna sue <donna@ez-move.com>
arlington, va USA - Wed Feb 5 8:35:12 1997

I'm Sorry that it took me so long to find you...but Only An Hour Ago i had an absolute Field Day browsing with Wild Abandon thru the MC page. it is A Wondrous Place! gives this Cynical Girl One More Reason to go home Tonight and do the Usual Thing...Live It Up! my non-enlightened friends say There She Goes Again...Cryin, Waitin, Hopin for an MC concert in Our Town. but Life's Too Short to miss One Day With You (MC). All I Know Right Now is that I'll Do Anything for a live MC fix. as of Right Now i'm a regular visitor to your site. This Is Easy to say...thanks for the Laughter and for giving us such a Good Evening! DaSaSa and Delilah (my cat, really!)
Donna Sue <donna@ez-move.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Mon Feb 3 15:32:36 1997

THANKS FOR THE GREAT PAGE.I HAVE BEEN A BIG FAN OF MC
FOR MANY YEARS. I HAVE SOME STUFF ON VIDEO (1986 MTV
CONCERT FROM THE RITZ NYC) & SOME AUDIO. WOULD LIKE
TO TRADE WITH ANYONE. I AM LOOKING FOR THE FIRST MTV
SHOW(1982).
art mcdermott <grape@webtv.net>
lowell, ma USA - Mon Feb 3 1:55:28 1997

For Michael in Salt Lake City,
I never did write down the web-site, but while I was net-surfing I caught I music page that had a short blurb about Marshall going, and it quoted MC as saying that the Gin Blossoms approached him about the possibility of colaborating with them. Considering that their first album had gone gold, how could he resist? (please excuse the plagiarism)
And Tom Picard, where are you from originally? My brother Mike went to high school with Gary Sussman's younger brother John, who joined the Navy after graduation. My family has known the Sussmans for years, excuse me, decades now. Sounds like we could do some reminiscing here. And by the way, are you any relation to a Dave Picard who plays bass with Mike(drums) in the Steve Nardella Band? It doesn't seem too far fetched if you're from the Detroit area.
And Jeff, this site looks great. It keeps getting better!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Mon Feb 3 0:00:02 1997

Hey Tom,

Thanks for that nugget. Any chance your brother has any sound checks laying around in your mom's house?
Lynn Jackson <Ljackson@eclipse.net>
Bedminster, NJ USA - Sun Feb 2 4:38:59 1997

To Whom It May Concern,

A little bit of info on the band ASTIGAFA:

1) This was an extremely talented group of young guys who
played bars around Detroit and other midwest cities in the early 70's. I have most of the Marshall Crenshaw CD's, and, as good as they are, I think he did some of his best stuff when he was lead singer for this band (a bit 'o bias here: my brother, Zip, was in the band). These guys wrote and played some very innovative music...interesting lyrically and always dishing out great melodies.

2) As I remember it, the other main members of ASTIGAFA were Dan Logan(vocals/bass), Dave Monaghan (vocals/acoustic guitar/songwriting), Zip Picard(vocals/keyboards/ songwriting), and brothers Gary and Ron Sussman(Gary on vocals/lead guitar and Ron managing). Apologies if I have forgotten anyone or if this info isn't totally accurate....it was a long time ago! Anyway, I was only eight years old when these guys were practicing in the basement of my mom's house in Huntington Woods, Michigan, but if any of them are reading this...thanks to all of you for your beautiful music. 25 years later 'Green Grocer' and 'Wingnuts' still sound great!

Tom Picard
Singapore
Tom Picard <tpicard@lehman.com>
Singapore - Fri Jan 31 12:39:38 EST 1997

I've been a Marshall fan since 1982...thanks for the page!
Natalie <Nphoebe@aol.com>
Reno, NV USA - Wed Jan 29 6:55:19 1997

Michael, KSCA in Los Angeles is going off the air in just a couple weeks and all their "Music Hall" CDs are long sold-out. It's too bad - they were the only AAA station in Los Angeles (except for a public radio station that plays some AAA stuff for a few hours each night).

There is an article from the neo online magazine here in which MC tells the story behind his collaboration with the Gin Blossoms.
Jeff Castel De Oro <jeffcdo@primenet.com>
Upland, CA USA - Tue Jan 28 2:24:36 1997

I just finished reading the Metro News article, (thanks for sharing it!), and found it quite interesting. As someone who has worked in the radio field for the past five years since graduating from college, I want to tell MC fans that while money does make the radio world go 'round, not every Program Director is a "pay-for-play" person. The best PD I ever worked for, (Don Parker, in Fresno Ca. at an alternative station-- he's now at a station in Phoenix), invited on-air "talent" like me into his office on a regular basis to listen to new releases and vote for our choices for "adds." I bugged the hell out of him for almost a year to add songs off the Gin Blossoms' first lp. He finally did, and three successive tunes from that record were huge. (And I felt vindicated.) I guess my point is that there are some good guys out there, even though Marshall and other deserving acts out there don't always get their due. BTW, there's a great AAA station in L.A.-- KSCA-- but it's undergoing an ownership change and may undergo a format change. They've released three cds of live-on-air performances, the most recent of which contains teriffic stuff by Elvis Costello, Sting, Suzanne Vega, Howard Jones, the Wallflowers and a dozen others. If you have a friend in L.A., have him get a copy for you! Lastly, speaking of the Gin Blossoms, does anybody know how they hooked up with Marshall to write "'Til I Hear It From You"? When I talked to Marshall a couple of months ago after his (excellent) SLC show, I forgot to ask him. Just curious!!
Michael Bennett <michael.bennett@ksl.com>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA - Tue Jan 28 1:03:23 1997

Finally, a copy of the Mary Jean cd has come my way after a four-year search. Thank you to everyone who sent helpful info over the last six months. A million thanks to that special Marshall fan who made this reunion possible!
:)
Diane Hinze Kanzler <diane.hinze@diversifiedtech.com>
New Haven County, CT USA - Mon Jan 27 16:55:54 1997

Speaking(writing, whatever) of airplay, in the D.C. area WRNR (103.1 FM) plays Marshall regularly. It's where I first heard "What Do You Dream Of" before it came out. These guys are great, but they are a small station with a small transmitter, so you need an antenna amp in most places. They have a website too (WWW.WRNR.com), so check them out. Their founders are some of D.C.'s original Rock&Roll goodguys who have been supporting artists like Marshall for 20+ years (they started D.C.'s WHFS & gave it their great reputation, which the new guys are tarnishing).

The bottom line is: Marshall is getting airplay in D.C. and he is apreciated!
Jonathan Bosch <jbosch@direcpc.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Mon Jan 27 12:34:03 1997

Jeff,
After reading the AAA article from the Metro Times you made available, all I can say is: It doesn't surprise me. It's sad and disheartening, but it doesn't surprise me in the least bit. That's why I say thank goodness for stations like CIDR out of Windsor. The Canucks have a much truer sense of what they are about when it comes to radio air play, it seems like. They play "Starless Summer Sky" just about every day. If you get a chance to listen to their programming for a few hours, you realize that the people of CIDR have their own agenda, not a bloated profit margin to motivate them.
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Mon Jan 27 10:06:13 1997

I thought "Miracle Of Science" was one of the best pop CD's of last year!
Richard Walton <RTWALTON@aol.com>
Baltimore, MdMd USA - Mon Jan 27 9:18:53 EST 1997

Have you ever asked yourself Why don't I hear more --insert favorite artist here-- on the radio? I've added an article about AAA Radio which is a very interesting look at how radio works today.
Jeff Castel De Oro <jeffcdo@primenet.com>
Upland, CA USA - Sun Jan 26 20:49:01 EST 1997

Kramer,
I loved seeing him in "La Bamba." He even had a brief appearance at MTV's grand special about it's opening. Only two songs: "Crying, Waiting, Hoping" and "Mary Jean." MTV (Music To Vomit by) even did a fairly lengthy interview with Marshall and Setzer during the show. But it all turned out to be little more than "15 minutes of fame."
Marshall's part in La Bamba was all to short. Justice would have been served if he had been given the part back in '78.
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak & Big Rapids, MI USA - Fri Jan 24 12:07:55 1997

Regarding the Marshall-in-the-movies/Buddy Holly comments: of course, you all know that MC did indeed play Holly
in "La Bamba." Brian Setzer was Eddie Cochran.... Interesting casting.....

kramer <henfran50@aol.com>
oh usA - Thu Jan 23 14:50:17 1997

I just wanted to give a thumbs up to the facelift. I like the new look and the new picture of Marshall. Thanks Jeff for keeping us Marshall junkies happy! This is definitely the best looking music page I've seen. It's professional looking but doesn't have the glitzy look of some of the record company ones which seem like, because they are, little more than advertisements for the artists. Let's hope there's more news about Marshall in the new year - more touring. Marshall, come back; I'm going through withdrawl!
Andrew Tomko <dtomko@warwick.net>
USA - Wed Jan 22 22:19:25 1997

Hey MC fans...Anybody seen any sheet music or books of MC's music, especially for guitar? I would love to get my hands on some so I could learn then play Marshall's music all day long..Let me know..Thanx in advance
Bulldog
Bulldog <bulldog@axi.net>
St. George, UT USA - Wed Jan 22 19:53:49 1997

Isn't it amazing that EVERY time MC has a new release, Stereo Review hails it as musical genius. This time they have gone one step further... naming it one of the best recordings of the year. What's not amazing is that I've subscribed to that magazine for over 10 years, recognizing their knack for knowing the difference between music and crap. Marshall Crenshaw defined - the most critically acclaimed musician never to have been appreciated by the masses... and that is, "all I know right now".
Tony Mota <skipm@erols.com>
Glen Allen, VA USA - Wed Jan 22 15:59:23 1997

I would also like to add my congratulations to Jeff. The new site looks great! I also gotta hand it to you that you take exceptionally good care of the site, Marshall, and all of us!

I have seen quite a few lonely and neglected fan-generated web sites for other bands on the web, and just want to say thanks for keeping everything so up to date. It takes a lot of time and effort on your part, and it is greatly appreciated! :)
Kathy Paul <kmp@ms.com>
NYC, NY USA - Tue Jan 21 13:57:57 1997

I've been a long-time Marshall fan - this is a nice site. Thank you!
Spaceman Spiff <spiff@aol.com>
Portland, OR USA - Tue Jan 21 7:56:53 1997

Dan,
Yep, it sure is Marshall. And that question led me to this thought: Too bad someone in Hollywood hadn't discovered MC instead of Gary Busey for the "Buddy Holly Story." I like Gary Busey, but Marshall would simply have a natural choice.
Keep on rockin'!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Royal Oak and Big Rapids, MI USA - Tue Jan 21 1:23:02 1997

Jeff, the new site looks wonderful! Groovy typeface. Congratulations, my friend!
Lynn Jackson <Ljackson@eclipse.net>
Bedminster, NJ USA - Mon Jan 20 23:58:08 1997

I've been a Marshall fan since about 1984 when I first saw
him on a PBS broadcast siniging Cynical Girl.

I have a question. In the movie "Peggy Sue Got Married,"
is that Marshall in the band at the high school reunion in the very beggining
of the movie?
This is my first visit to the web site - nice work.
It's good to see that there are so many Marshall fans.
dan rhule <drhule@bright.net>
USA - Sun Jan 19 21:00:22 1997

All I can say is that Marshall is one of the true artists
left. I've seen him every opportunity that I've had and
his songs have a special place in my life... I recall
driving to propose to my wife while I played MC on the
tape player... As I parked in front of her house to pick
her up, "What Time is it" started playing. It was
perfect.
Jim Jagielski <jim@jaguNET.com>
Perry Hall, MD USA - Sun Jan 19 20:25:27 1997

Downtown is my favorite Crenshaw album. I don't know what ahppened to him after Maryjean and 9 others. The new one is okay but i wish he was working with a real band the way Costello had the attractions or G. Parker the rumour.
RJU <RJU@aol>
CA USA - Sun Jan 19 18:32:03 1997

Hello fellow MC and powerpop lovers, I have noticed that many people are having trouble finding MC's "Mary Jean"
album, all I can say is good luck, my advice to you is to
pick up any one you can find because there is always the fear that they will go out-of-print. As you may have already noticed, melodic pop music is misunderstood, underpromoted
by the industry, and just badly in need of respect. So pick
up every MC you can find now before they take em away!!!
nik everett <enik@del.net>
wilmington, de USA - Sun Jan 19 12:32:31 1997

Michael, If you ever see a copy of "Mary Jean" - buy it! There are many people looking for this CD; I get email from people asking about it all the time.

Jeff Castel De Oro <jeffcdo@primenet.com>
Upland, CA USA - Sun Jan 19 0:05:22 1997

MARSHALL! MARSHALL! MARSHALL! Love the theme song for Men Behaving Badly. The show really is not that bad, but the song is WONDERFUL. And all I can say is MORE MARSHALL, MORE MARSHALL, MORE MARSHALL!
Denise Fonke-Smith <dsmith@hclib.hcl.lib.mo.us>
Clinton, MO USA - Saturday, January 18, 1997 at 16:08:49 (MST)

I've seen a few comments questioning the availability of "Mary Jean" on cd. I was out of the country when it came out, and spent several years trying to find the darn thing since it has been out of print. I finally found a new, cutout copy a couple of years ago. Anyway, after moving to Salt Lake last year, I've come across a couple of used copies hanging around. I could probably pick up and mail a copy to someone who really wants one. Just let me know. Also, thanks for that ordering info on the UCP Christmas cd. I got my copy this week, and it's groovy!
Michael Bennett <michael.bennett@ksl.com>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA - Saturday, January 18, 1997 at 07:01:16 (MST)

For Andrew in Houston:

Still looking for other music to try out? Here are a
couple of names that got displaced in the rush of great music
which came out in the latter half of '96...

Lloyd Cole (and the Commotions) - the poor guy/band suffered
merciless comparison to Morrissey/The Smiths. Don't understand
why...

Tommy Keene - Yet another skinny white guy who wishes his
name was "Lou Reed", but who writes really good songs despite
the fact that his name is not "Lou Reed". Anyone remember
"Places that are Gone"?

Michael Aarons <maarons@notes.cc.bellcore.com>
Piscataway, NJ USA - Thursday, January 16, 1997 at 11:15:24 (MST)

More good news for MC..."Miracle of Science" was picked by Stereo Review as one of the best records of '96 (they mention 12 or so recordings, only three of which are rock or pop). Congrats to Marshall...and rev up the support machine Razor & Tie!
Mike Scaletta <Scaaaaa@aol.com>
St. Louis, MO USA - Thursday, January 16, 1997 at 07:14:19 (MST)

One thought that I felt I ought to share: A couple of years after Marshall released "Life's Too Short" my brother Mike and I were musing about whether or not MC had recorded his last album. It was a genuine concern of mine until this last spring when I happily stumbled upon this page through a web search. "My Truck Is My Home" is a great live collection, but it only served to fuel the fear that Marshall was ready to depart the music scene. I hope any success of the new record and the tremendous response that this homepage garners will strongly motivate him to stick with it. I would be willing to bet that anyone reading this might feel the same.
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Big Rapids and Royal Oak, MI USA - Wednesday, January 15, 1997 at 23:41:19 (MST)

Tony, Gary Graff is the former music critic from the Detroit Free Press. He was the critic for many years and did interviews with Marshall as far back as the very early 80's. I don't know about his educational background, but it all seems to fit, doesn't it?
Nancy Burke
Southgate, MI USA - Wednesday, January 15, 1997 at 09:45:44 (MST)

I've been in contact with the author of the book mentioned below. It has not been published yet. It should be available in about 4 weeks. I'm planning to include ordering information here at the Marshall Crenshaw web site when the book becomes available.
Jeff Castel De Oro <jeffcdo@primenet.com>
Upland, CA USA - Tuesday, January 14, 1997 at 18:08:22 (MST)

Found a new rock book via the Squeeze website that interviews various rockers, including Marshall. Here it is:

Wanted to pass this info on for you and hope that you can include it in your web site. I'm putting out a new book called Power Pop! co-written by myself and Doug Sulpy that ships in mid-January. It includes a chapter on Squeeze--main interview with Glenn with some quotes from Chris. (Needless to say, I'm a long-time fan: I first saw the band open for Elvis Costello on his "Trust" tour and have seen them in the U.S. and London since.) The 350 page book showcases 28 extensive and revelatory interviews with the following:

SQUEEZE
MARSHALL CRENSHAW
SMALL FACES
THE MOVE
THE NAZZ
THE RASPBERRIES
BADFINGER
BIG STAR
EMMIT RHODES
THE FLAMIN' GROOVIES
CHEAP TRICK
RICK SPRINGFIELD
SHOES
BAY CITY ROLLERS
DWIGHT TWILLEY
HUDSON BROTHERS
THE RUBINOOS
20/20
THE KNACK
THE BEAT
THE PLIMSOULS
THE BANGLES
THE GO GO'S
THE RECORDS
THE THREE O'CLOCK
JELLYFISH
THE POSIES
ENUFF Z'NUFF

The book also features an exclusive front cover painted by Cyril Jordan of The Flamin' Groovies

To order send a check or money order for $23 (postpaid) to:

poptomes
Box 1249
Willow Grove, Pa 19090

(Checks or money orders made payable to Ken Sharp/Doug Sulpy) OVERSEAS ORDERS ADD $13

If you're a fan of power pop, this book is a must. Any question please feel free to e-mail me at SHARPK@aol.com
Thanks!
Jonathan Bosch <jbosch@direcpc.com>
Kemp Mill, MD USA - Tuesday, January 14, 1997 at 13:02:22 (MST)

A very late posting, but the 12/19 Birchmere show was
great! Marshall's first words on stage were, "The rock show at the folk club," and he spent the next 90 minutes or
so pouring it out. I have a set list somewhere...somewhere, and if I find it sometime this month I will be sure to post it. It was worth the trip across the Atlantic!

Robert Ogburn, Cairo
Robert Ogburn <aiocairo@usia.gov>
Cairo, Egypt - Tuesday, January 14, 1997 at 03:45:16 (MST)

Caught Bad Boy finally....Have to say song is much better than show itself...As for any of you Tommy Conwell fans who may have responded to my last posting...WXPN informs me that he is playing with a band called (I believe) Buzz Zeemer...was a little bit of rave last year but haven't heard much, they played a free show at the TLA as part of a competition this past Saturday but didn't hear about it until today...Back to Marshall, though...About the RockHounds book...believe that is the title (not great with names tonite am I?) Does anyone know anything about the author Gary Graff??? Was roomates with a Gary Graff at William Paterson College and he was an English major with an unbelievable collection of music...Some of which he actually bought...just kidding of course..Anyway, I realize it's a long shot but could this be one and the same??? Thanks for any help you can give me...Sorry to say I missed the New York shows...again...at least TLA was great...both in person and on Prism...Of course I also missed the XPN re-broadcast...This work thing is beginning to be a real inconvenience!!!!
tony piscotta <yual66a@prodigy.com>
Hamilton Square, NJ USA - Monday, January 13, 1997 at 20:51:27 (MST)

just kidding (thought that would get somebody's attention) anyway, congrats to MC on being on Esquire magazine's best of list, even though it's one writer's opinion. This album gets better and better with repeated listening - which is pretty much the same story with any MC album (save maybe Downtown :) ) By the way, has "Mary Jean and Nine Others" ever had a cd release?
Mike <Scaaaaa@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 20:17:41 (MST)

is this page still in existence?
Mike <Scaaaaa@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 20:08:03 (MST)

Hey! I'm a big Marshall fan, and I have just about everything of his. I'm looking for the cd that has his Christmas tune on it. It came out in '94 if I'm not mistaken. Ca anybody help me find it? I'd be forever grateful... and willing to reciprocate with any info. Thanks!!
Michael Bennett <michael.bennett@ksl.com>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 13:44:42 (MST)

Everyone might be interested to read the new MOJO (British music mag) in which Crenshaw is asked what the best thing he heard all year was. He lists an album called "Delirium in Hi-Fi" by Andre Popt which he describes as a "the most extremely eccentric studio orchestra LP of all-time". Is anyone familiar with this "studio orchestra" genre?

He also mentions the Beck album and Merle Haggard's new album, along with "Paper WIngs" by Gillian Welch and "Take a Bow" by Madonna (was that this year?).

Incidentally, he is only the second person on the list following BritPop god, Noel Gallagher. Maybe this indicates some kind of UK popularity surge?
Kevin Walsh
USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 12:07:01 (MST)

Gee....... sorry about the spelling in the last message!!!
Mark Payne <mark5500@aol.com>
St Charles , IL USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 07:21:44 (MST)

Any wor on tour for 1997. I would like to Marshall come to the Midwest, more speciffically Chicago.

Miracle of Science is a great CD.
Mark Payne <mark5500@aol.com>
St Charles, IL USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 07:19:59 (MST)

Hey, Everyone!
It's good to be back. Not my geographic location, but to have my access to this page back! I see a lot of new names on many of the messages since I last could log on. I wonder where Andrew in Houston is. It's been interesting discussing tastes in music and artists. I hope this site lasts forever!
Don Kissick <kissickd@mailserv1.ferris.edu>
Big Rapids, MI USA - Sunday, January 12, 1997 at 01:38:29 (MST)

Yet another reason for me to hate the Grammy Awards! These things just always seem to be a popularity contest! Whoever generates the dough, gets the kudos. And aren't some of the releases that have been nominated seem like they've been out for a long time? When was the "Waiting to Exhale" soundtrack released? Seems to me it was more like 1995. I could be mistaken.

Anyway, I want to congratulate Stefan Sagmeister on his nomination. It goes to show you, not many people listened to Marshall's album, but a lot of people saw it!
Kathy Paul <kpaul>
nyc, USA - Friday, January 10, 1997 at 10:37:37 (MST)

Happy New Year, everyone!

Marshall's picture is in the latest edition of Entertainment Weekly magazine (Jan. 10, with the Star Wars cover, page 55). The article is entitled "Must Sing TV," and is about TV theme songs. There's a chart in which you're supposed to connect the artist to the song. Marshall is one of six artists pictured (Frank Sinatra, Cybill Shepard, John Popper, Brandy and David Cassidy). Must say it was a pleasant surprise to see his picture there!
Lynn Jackson <Ljackson@eclipse.net>
Bedminster, NJ USA - Tuesday, January 07, 1997 at 15:14:50 (MST)

Just got the e-mail from Edith about MOS being nominated for the best "Recording Package." What about the best "CD?" Anyway, any kind of recognization is better than none at all. Maybe someday (someway) the industry will wake up to what a great musician Marshall is! Cheers. The best of the new year to all.
Maryoline Sferruzza <Maryoline_Sferruzza@watsonwyatt.com>
USA - Tuesday, January 07, 1997 at 14:34:37 (MST)

Hi everybody.
There's a good 3 way inverview with MC,
Billy Bragg and Graham Parker in the new
anniversary of Musician magazine. Congrats
to Stephen the Sag-meister on his "Miracle
Of Science" album package Grammy nomination. Too bad the music itself was
not deemed worthy. But, hey Beck's "Odelay" is up for album of the year (!) and
Me'shell N'degeocello, Junior Brown, Garbage, John Hiatt, Richard Thompson,
Mavericks, and Dwight Yoakam are all in there, so it's not so bad.
Tony Lee <tlee@ea.com>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Tuesday, January 07, 1997 at 12:32:39 (MST)

One of the good things about the net is that I have found I'm not the only MC fan around. Being from Seattle area (is the best we can do grunge and Heart?), we miss a lot. MC was here last year and of course I hear about it afterwards. Hopefully, he'll make it to the west sometime soon.
Dan Vance <dvance1@aol.com>
Redmond, wa USA - Friday, January 03, 1997 at 08:23:45 (MST)