News and Tidbits: Lao Da, Rustic, Diders, 2 Kolegas, Devils and DDC
tons of little tidbits and news from around the scene:
Lao Da in bad condition
The man we affectionately call Lao Da, Zhao Yi Ran, is in pretty bad shape. Coming back from a gig in Xinjiang, he’s been hospitalised and the whole Ningxia crew is pulling ranks to support him. I’ve once described him as a the love child of Joan Baez and Woody Guthrie.. he’s so much more than that.
Keep an eye for a the September 12th benefit gig at Mako with the likes of Shan Ren, Lidong, Hanggai and more. Our prayers go out to him.
See him in this Mogo episode
http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XMzAyNzkzMDg4.html
Rustic Rocking
In case you haven’t been paying attention, Rustic is back in the fold. And they’re doing pretty good at it. It’s like those years of separation never happened. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing but we’ll give them a few more months to get back in full gear and see if they have something new in them.
Diders Last Call
These cats have been the toast of the town lately…. They’re playing a few more gigs in the city with the original lineup before the inevitable split happens and i really encourage you folks to go check them out if you can. They’re playing night #2 of Temple 3 year anniversary party.
2 Kolegas Music Festival
There’s a two day extravaganza being planned for mid august so keep your ears open. It should follow what is now the standard 2 Kolegas format with indoor and outdoor action over 2 days. Lineup is still being worked on.
Devils at the Crossroad
The Devils have been kicking it with the new lineup for a while now. If you haven’t had time to see them yet, it’s safe. The band is finding their space as a 4 piece but there is a marked departure from the blues/punk feel of old. It’s definitely more stoner/hard rock now.
DDC – Dusk Dawn Club
The ever amicable 69 did it and opened his new art space/livehouse. It’s a beautiful venue that almost too classy for rock shows but i have some high hopes. Opening party is this weekend.
I’m gonna reserve judgement until they get a few weeks under their belts. That said, it should be pretty kickass considering 69’s pedigree.