BETTER THAN EZRALast week marked JACK's official start to the summer concert season, so my show was live from the Crossroads KC concert venue. The only thing that could possibly improve a Better Than Ezra show under the stars? How 'bout a huge slice of Grinders pizza!
The future's so bright, Better Than Ezra's gotta wear shades. Left to right: drummer Travis McNabb, moi, singer/guitarist Kevin Griffin, and Bear Bob from JACK's Department of Free Stuff That Rules. Sample the new album via their MySpace page.
PRICE CHOPPER
Speaking of live broadcasts, thanks to the crew at Price Chopper in Bonner Springs for letting us hang with them for the weekend. The sky was clear, the Johnsonville brats were hot off the grill, the watermelon was on sale, and JACK was booming over the big speakers. They were even making up fresh strawberry pies all day, now THAT'S how you know it's summertime!
WENDY'SThat reminds me, keep your eyes peeled for the JACK Hummer at your local Wendy's restaurants. We've been handing out free breakfasts on Wednesday mornings, to demonstrate why they're waaaay better than fast food. Ain't nothing better than a Frosty on a hot day either!
CONCERT SEASON
So many huge shows in the upcoming months, and I've already seen a few good ones. A few that stood out:
Best Sound
The Breeders at the Bottleneck
Friday was the perfect night for a short road trip to Lawrence, Kansas. But how do you choose between the Breeders and Wilco just a few blocks apart? Breeders won by a nose on the strength of Kim Deal's tenure with the Pixies. The crowd was enthusiastic, the sound was impeccable, and the beer was ice cold.
Most Rabid Fans
David Cook at Blue Springs South High School
The day started with a bang on JACK's Big Breakfast, as American Idol David Cook arrived for his homecoming reception. If the screaming fans lining the halls weren't enough, then the subsequent performances in KC and Blue Springs sealed the deal. Experience David Cook Day all over again on Bryan Truta's blog, featuring video footage shot by Yours Truly.
Best Cover Songs
Stolen Winnebagos on the KC Live! Stage
Nothing like a Cinco de Mayo party in the Power & Light District, with note-perfect renditions of everything from Cake to Black Sabbath. Viva la Winnebagos! And thanks to Miller Lite for sponsoring the JACK-FM VIP section in the balcony, complete with free food and Miller Chill.
Best Awe-Inspiring Megamixer
DJ AM at the Ink Magazine launch party
Forget that he was a member of Crazy Town, the one-hit wonder band that did "Butterfly." Forget that he's recorded with Papa Roach and Madonna, hung with Jim Carrey and dated Nicole Ritchie. DJ AM is a ninja master of the digital turntable mix, equally at home mixing Beethoven, Little Richard and the Beastie Boys. Click HERE for Ink Magazine's homepage.
WOO HOO, WE'RE AT THE ZOO
JACK spent a good part of the weekend broadcasting at the Kansas City Zoo. We were showcasing $11 million in renovations to the entryway, funded by private donations. The kids loved the new Missouri Trails exhibit, especially the swimming otters. Our thanks to the crew from My KSMO for keeping us company!
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