"The revolution will not be televised." So says the famous 'statement' song from Gil Scott-Heron, way back when in 1970. That sentiment is out the window, as we are watching the Egyptian protests and demonstrations devolve. Last weekend, it was on the hotel's monitor as we were setting up for our Paul Thorn concert, but the marching was peaceable then. Now the situation in Cairo has turned violent. It is an effort to democratize, to get out from under a dictator, to move toward a more perfect union. We wish the Egyptian people deliverance and Godspeed, no matter what God they worship. I saw a quote on TV a couple of days ago from a man on the street, "Without democracy, what is life worth?" And what is it worth without peace? But you just hate to see it reduce to conflict and chaos. And I don't know about you, but when I watch this rage on TV, I always wonder if it could happen here one day.
Photo Credit: K. GrippRoger Clyne and the Peacemakers' music is saturated with the pathos of struggle. There is something about the infusion of that layer of Mexican flavor that speaks to conflict. It is a quickening, a flash of eye and teeth and temper. Afterwards, when the peace and the sweetness come, it means that much more for the intensity of the troubles. Ah Life! We were so happy to have Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers visit our studio in the Steamboat Grand during MusicFest. A long time ago, we recorded them at the State Theatre in Falls Church, but it was just a direct patch from the soundboard. We wanted the opportunity to have Aaron do his magic music mix the next time around. And so it was, when they played MusicFest in Steamboat Springs. We bring you a brand new tune, forthcoming on the spring release from the band. Accompanying Roger are PH Naffah, Jim Dalton, and Nick Scropos. Here is "Marie."
- Jessie Scott
