8/15/10

Hi Everybody.

I'm getting ready for today's Fine Tuning program, which airs every Sunday at 4pm on Ann Arbor's 107one (www.annarbors107one.com). Today I'll be featuring new music by Bryan Ferry (at last!), Brian Wilson, John Mellencamp and JJ Grey.

Next Sunday, Aug. 22, I'll play an interview with the Black Keys, who played an amazing concert at the Fillmore Detroit last night.

Best,

Martin

8/6/10

Hi Everybody.

Hope you can listen in to my Fine Tuning program this Sunday at 4pm on Ann Arbor's 107one, as I'll be interviewing my ol' buddy Stan Ridgway, the former leader of Wall Of Voodoo.  Stan's getting ready to release a brilliant new solo album, "Neon Mirage," and I think it's one of the very best collection of songs he's ever recorded.

Besides the Stan Ridgway interview, I'll also be featuring new music by Richard Thompson and the Black Crowes, plus some vintage tracks by Spirit.

Best,

Martin

7/26/10

Hi Everybody.

We had our fair share of rain during the Ann Arbor Art Fairs, leading to the cancellation of some of our live music scheduled on the 107one/Sesi Mazda mainstage. But hats off to hometown heroes Tally Hall, who moved their gear down the street and into Pizza House for an inspired set of old and tunes before a jam-packed crowd. What a great night!

Best,

Martin

7/4/10

Hi Everybody...and Happy 4th of July!

This month is a busy one for me on a couple of fronts. Today I've got my Playlist review column in the Sunday Detroit Free Press (freep.com), plus I've got a column in Ann Arbor.com.

And look for my interview with Carlos Santana in the Free Press on Thursday, July 8 and Gaslight Anthem on July 15.

Ann Arbor's 107one is sponsoring two free nights of music this week at Top of the Park, part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Join me at Ingalls Mall (right next to Hill Auditorium) and enjoy October Babies and The Ragbirds on Thursday, July 8. Then it's Groove Spoon and The Macpodz on Friday, July 9. Music begins both nights at 6:30pm.

Later in July, check out the 107one/Sesi Mazda mainstage at the South University Art Fair for four days of free music performances, with Ann Arbor hometown heroes Tally Hall back in town for a concert on Friday, July 23.

More about that soon.

Happy summer,

Martin

6/21/10

Hi Everybody.

What an incredible experience it was to curate and host the Come Together concert at Power Center this past Saturday!

Big thanks to Robb Woulfe, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, for asking me to be a part of this Beatles tribute, where we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the band's first concert. A big hats-off as well to the Festival's General Manager Amy Nesbitt for all of her assistance, and to the tech crew at Power Center.

Best,

Martin

5/17/1O

Hi Everybody.

I'm honored to be the curator and host of a concert taking place at Power Center on Saturday, June 19th. The show is part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival and is entitled Come Together: Beatles 50th Anniversary Celebration.

The lineup includes Chris Bathgate, The Brothers Groove, Lucciana Costa, Thornetta Davis, The Hard Lessons' Augie Visocchi with students from the School of Rock, Hot Club of Detroit Trio, Frank Pahl's Little Bang Theory, Dick Siegel & The Brandos, and Sole Transit --- all covering songs by the Beatles.

For tickets and more information, please go to www.annarborsummerfestival.org --- or call (734) 763-2538.

Hope to see you there!

Best,

Martin

5/9/10

Hi Everybody.

Ernie Harwell forever and ever.

With love,

Martin

4/29/10

Hi Everybody.

Cool news --- I have the honor of curating and hosting a concert at this year's Ann Arbor Summer Festival! The show takes place at 8pm on Saturday, June 19th at Power Center, and is entitled "Come Together: Beatles 50th Anniversary Celebration."

Yes, this August will mark the 50th anniversary of the first Beatles concert, and I'm putting together a bunch of top shelf, Michigan-based musicians to interpret Beatles tunes at Power Center in June.

Keep checking this website for updates, as I'll post the final lineup as soon as it is complete.

Tickets are now on sale for the Come Together concert at:

http://www.annarborsummerfestival.org --- hope to see you there.

Best,

Martin

3/29/10

Hi Everybody.

Spring is here, temperatures are on the rise, some great new music has just come out with more arriving soon...plus the Detroit Tigers home opener is a week from this Friday --- things are looking up!

I'll be back at Borders 01 in Ann Arbor on Wed., April 21 to emcee our next Studio A2 on the Road event. This one will feature a free, live performance by the great singer-songwriter Martin Sexton, who's got a new album out soon entitled 'Sugarcoating.' Martin will sign copies of his new CD immediately after his live set of tunes. Showtime is 12:30 at Borders 01, located on Liberty St. in A2 --- right across the street from the Michigan Theater. Hope to see you there, and if you can't make it in person make sure to listen in on www.annarbors107one.com.

Look for my next article in Ann Arbor. com this Sunday, April 4 --- I'll be speaking with one of my favorite human beings on the planet --- guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Patty Larkin, who plays at The Ark on April 8.

Currently grooving on the new Broken Bells, Betty LaVette (not out officially 'til May), the final Ali Farka Toure & Toumani Toure collaboration, Jeff Beck and Laura Marling....plus the usual stuff: early Traffic, Dylan's Time Out of Mind, Maurice Ravel, Frederic Chopin, etc.

Best,

Martin

3/13/10

Hi Everybody.

What an incredible week for music this has been in Ann Arbor!

To kick things off I welcomed Tally Hall back to my morning show last Tuesday for an interview. The guys were kind enough to play -- for the first time anywhere -- a song off their much-anticipated 2nd album Good & Evil, due out later this year.

Then on Tuesday afternoon I had the pleasure of being the emcee at Borders 01 for a sensational performance by the Avett Brothers before a jam-packed crowd.

And to top things off, I witnessed Kinks leader Ray Davies in peak form at the Michigan on Thursday night, playing hit after hit along with rare gems with the Kinks catalogue. An enthralling, emotional night of music with one of the greatest singer-songwriters on the planet.

This Tuesday, March 16 I'll be speaking at the grand opening of The Orpheum, a new music studio at Ann Arbor's teen center The Neutral Zone. The event is free and runs from 4-7pm. More info at

www.neutral-zone.org.

Best,

Martin

2/22/10

Hi Everybody.

What a spectacular night with Patti Smith at Borders 01 in Ann Arbor last Thursday! In great spirits and super-generous with her time, Patti read from and signed copies of her excellent new memoir "Just Kids," played and sang a few songs, and took questions from fans in attendance. What a honor to emcee this event --- something I will remember for a long, long time.

I'll be back at Borders 01 to host a free, live performance by the Avett Brothers on Tuesday, March 9. The Avetts are generating a big buzz with their Rick Rubin-produced major label debut "I And Love And You," and will sign copies of their new CD after they play some songs from their new album. See you there -- showtime is at Noon on the 9th.

Don't forget to wear black this Friday, Feb. 26 --- Johnny Cash's birthday.

Best,

Martin

2/2/10

Hi Everybody.

I'll be back at Borders 01 on Liberty St. in Ann Arbor on Thursday, Feb. 18 for a truly extraordinary event involving the legendary Patti Smith.

Patti has just written a new memoir entitled "Just Kids," and will be reading from her book and signing copies at 6pm on the 18th. I'll be doing a Q&A with her, she'll take some questions from the audience, and rumor has it she'll also bring a guitar and play a song or two.

Although admission is free, wristbands will be needed to attend this event with Patti Smith, and they will be available sat Borders 01 beginning at 9am on Feb. 18. Hope to see you there!

This Sunday, Feb. 7 at 4pm on my 107one Fine Tuning show I'll be featuring music from Massive Attack's new CD "Heligoland," their first in many years.

And Ray Davies of The Kinks is playing at the Michigan Theater on March 11...how cool is that?!

Best,

Martin

1/17/10

Hi Everybody.

Finally...finally!

Here is my Top Ten film list for 2009:

1. AN EDUCATION

2. FANTASTIC MR. FOX

3. CAPITALISM: A LOVE STORY

4. THE CLASS

5. 500 DAYS OF SUMMER

6. UP IN THE AIR

7. AVATAR

8. BAD LIEUTENANT: PORT OF

CALL NEW ORLEANS

9. BRIGHT STAR

10. THE PRIVATE LIVES OF

PIPPA LEE

Best,

Martin

1/11/10

Hi Everybody.

I will finally post my Top Ten film list by this Sunday, January 17th at the very latest. One final contender - Tom Ford's A Single Man - is not opening until this weekend, so once I catch that one I will be able to compile my list --- reallly sorry it's taken so long. Thanks for your patience!

Speaking of films, listen to Fine Tuning at 4pm this Sunday, Jan. 17 on Ann Arbor's 107one for my interview with Scott Cooper. Scott directed & wrote the screenplay for Crazy Heart, which features an Oscar-worthy performance by Jeff Bridges.

Best,

Martin

12/11/09

Hi Everybody.

As promised, here is a list of my top albums for 2009:

1. SONIC YOUTH: THE ETERNAL
2. MARK KNOPFLER: GET LUCKY
3. BOB DYLAN: TOGETHER THROUGH LIFE
4. SUFJAN STEVENS: THE BQE
5. BEBEL GILBERTO: ALL IN ONE
6. ANDREW BIRD: NOBLE BEAST
7 NEKO CASE: MIDDLE CYCLONE
8. AMADOU & MARIAM: WELCOME TO MALI
9. GRIZZLY BEAR: VECKATIMEST
10. MARK EITZEL: KLAMATH

I will be featuring songs from my top ten list this Sunday, Dec. 13 at 4pm on my 107one Fine Tuning program.

Best,

Martin

12/08/09

Thanks one and all for helping Ann Arbor's 107one reach its goal of raising over 200 tons of food to benefit Food Gatherers during this year's Rockin' for the Hungry! A final tally is coming soon.

Please check back here on Friday, Dec. 11 for my 2009 top ten album list! I will be playing songs from my list this Sunday, Dec. 13 at 4pm on my 107one Fine Tuning program.

Best,

Martin

11/16/09

Hi Everybody.

Bob Dylan and his band played an excellent show at the Fox Theater on Nov. 6, and it was very cool to see guitarist Charlie Sexton back in Bob's group. Charlie added extra energy and oomph to the proceedings with each and every one of his guitar licks, and was instumental in making this night a special one.

Ready or not, the holidays are around the corner, and I want to remind you of two important things.

First off, please visit one of the Borders stores in Ann Arbor, Brighton, Canton and Novi and pick up 107one's new CD "Live From Studio A2, Vol. 2," with proceeds to benefit the Michigan Theater. With exclusive performances by Feist, John Hiatt, Vienna Teng, Indigo Girls and 12 others, the CD makes for a delightful Christmas gift. Great music for a great cause, and I urge you to grab copies while they last.

Next up, please stop by the Busch's Market in Ann Arbor on the corner of S. Main and Ann Arbor-Saline Road from Wednesday, Dec. 2 through Sunday, Dec. 6, when 107one goes Rockin' for the Hungry in support of Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank.

Please bring non-perishable food items to donate, or else donate by cash or check to help Food Gatherers help people in need. The whole 107one crew will be on hand to help out --- hope to see you there.

Best,

Martin

10/21/09

Hi Everybody.

Sure been busy at Ann Arbor's 107one as we prepare to release Live From Studio A2, Vol. 2 on Tuesday, Nov. 3. This new CD will feature exclusive Studio A2 and Studio A2 on the Road performances from Feist, Indigo Girls, John Hiatt, Brett Dennen, Vienna Teng and 11 other artists, with proceeds to benefit the Michigan Theater.

I will be broadcasting my 6-10am morning drive show from the Borders 01 in Ann Arbor the morning of Nov. 3, so please stop by to say hello and be the first to purchase a copy of Live From Studio A2, Vol. 2. We'll also have a slew of special musical guests and other surprises.

My Playlist this Sunday (Oct. 25) in the Detroit Free Press will include reviews of the new R.E.M., Rickie Lee Jones, Sufjan Stevens, Swell Season and more, and in AnnArbor.com this Sunday look for my interview with one of the coolest musicians on the planet: Chris Smither.


Best,

Martin

9/21/09

Hi Everybody.

Got back to work at Ann Arbor's 107one this morning after my usual post-Labor Day jaunt to the Toronto International Film Festival, commonly known these days as TIFF.

Highlights were plentiful, and no film hit me harder in the gut than Michael Moore's extraordinary new documentary "Capitalism: A Love Story."

For all of us Michiganders just trying to hang onto our jobs, our houses and our dignity, Moore's look at the systematic destruction of the middle class at the hands of the obscenely rich and powerful was pungent, emotional stuff. This one's easily as powerful as "Roger and Me," in fact I think it ranks as his best film to date.

Also making a strong impression was "An Education," scripted by Nick Hornby of "High Fidelity" fame and featuring a breakthrough performance by the young actress Carey Mulligan. "The Private Lives of Pippa Lee" also featured an unforgettable performance by an actress, this one from veteran Robin Wright Penn.

Nicolas Cage is utterly sensational as a out of control, drug-addicted cop in Werner Herzong's "Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans," an extremely loose re-make of Abel Ferrara's "Bad Lieutenant" film from several years back.

Also enjoyable was the free, outdoor screening of Jonathan Demme's "Neil Young Trunk Show," capturing Neil and his band live in concert from 2007.

Please join me at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders store on Liberty St. as I'll emcee upcoming performances and CD signings by Brandi Carlile (Monday, 9/28), Howie Day (Friday, Oct. 9), Mike Doughty (Wednesday, Oct. 14) and Ingrid Michaelson (Wednesday, Oct. 28. All start at 12:30pm, with the exception of Mike Doughty's, which will begin at 1pm.

Love those Beatles box sets, along with the new albums by Mark Knopfler and Chris Smither. Will be featuring these and other new releases throughout the fall on my Fine Tuning show, Sundays at 4pm on 107one.

God bless you Ernie Harwell.

Best,

Martin

8/27/09

Hi Everybody.

Can't believe that I'll be in Toronto in two weeks for the Film Festival. Just can't recall a summer going by quite so quickly as this one. The roster of films this year doesn't look mind-blowingly great, but there are some hot ones on the docket for sure. Must-see movies include works by Michael Moore, Pedro Almodovar, Jane Campion and French New Wave master Alain Resnais. Two documentaries have also piqued my interest, as they are about turtles and bees, both of which I have great interest in.

I had a terrific time as emcee for the performance with Racounteur Brendan Benson last week at the A2 Borders. His new solo release - My Old, Familiar Friend - is a delicious slice of power-pop and I highly recommend it. I also was videotaped interviewing Brendan before he took the stage with his band, and that footage should be viewable soon at www.borders.com.

Right now I am totally engrossed in reading jazz vocalist Anita O'Day's autobiography High Times, Hard Times. She led one helluva life, that's for sure.

Look for my column each Sunday in AnnArbor.com - this Sunday (8./30) I get all sentimental about brick-and-mortar record stores, and the following week (9/6) I'll do a Q&A with Michigan Theater President and CEO Russ Collins.

This Sunday in the Detroit Free Press I'll be interviewing R&B vocalist KEM, and my next Playlist review column will appear on Sept. 13.

Go Tigers!

Best,

Martin

8/8/09

Hi Everybody.

August isn't typically a busy month for me, but I've got a few special things going on to tell you about this time around..

This Tuesday (Aug. 11) at 9am I'll be joined on my 107one morning drive program by singer-songwriter Maia Sharp, who'll be performing a couple of songs live in advance of her Tuesday night concert at the Ark. Maia is a gifted musician and I look forward to seeing her again -- her first album in four years recently came out ("Echo") and I highly recommend it.

Look for a Q. and A. with Mais in tomorrow's edition of AnnArbor.com.

Then on Friday, Aug. 21 at 12:30pm, I will emcee a live performance by Brendan Benson (his other main preoccupation - The Raconteurs - are currently on hiatus) at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders on Liberty St. Brendan is getting ready to release his first solo album in a number of years ("My Old, Familiar Friend"), and plays a concert the night of the 21st at the Blind Pig. As always, the event at Borders is free and open to the public, and Brendan will sign store-bought copies of his terrific new CD right after he plays his set on the 2nd floor of Borders.

I will profile Brendan in the 8/16 edition of AnnArbor.com.

Best,

Martin

7/20/09

Hi Everybody.

A long overdue update after an incredibly busy couple of weeks, during which I emceed the Los

Lobos concert at Power Center, interviewed ex-Luna leader Dean Wareham on my morning show and then later saw his '13 Most Beautiful' presentation at Power Center, emceed My Dear Disco and the Macpodz on two successive evenings at the A2 Summer Festival's Top of the Park series, went to the Rothbury Festival for two nights to see Bob Dylan & The Dead and many other fantastic acts, co-emceed the 5th annual Townie Street Party to kick off the A2 Art Fairs, emceed two nights of performances on the 107one stage at the South University Art Fair (headlined by Serena Ryder), saw Yo La Tengo and the Don Was Super Session II at the Concert of Colors, and emceed Dick Siegel's performance just last night at the Concert of Colors.

I have also been very busy giving support and spending a lot of time with my Mom, Helen Bandyke, who recently had successful hip-transplant surgery and is due home from the hospital in a couple of days

WHEW!

Back to a normal work schedule this week and things are finally starting to calm down significantly.

Besides my regular contributions in the Detroit Free Press, look for my weekly column on the new website AnnArbor.com beginning this Friday, July 24, and then each Sunday beginning on July 26. I'll be covering the entertainment scene in Ann Arbor, and look forward to writing about the vibrant arts scene there.

Best,

Martin

7/6/09

Hi Everybody.

Rockbury rocked!

More details here soon....and please check out freep.com for my Rothbury coverage.

Best,

Martin

7/2/09

Hi Everybody.

I just witnessed Dean Wareham & Britta Phillip's brilliant performance at Ann Arbor's Power Center of "13 Most Beautiful - Songs for Andy Warhol's Screen Tests." The two former members of the much loved indie-pop Luna and their band played live while mid-60s footage of Lou Reed, Dennis Hopper, Nico and others was projected on a screen above and behind the stage. A magnificent pairing of evocative music and images.

This was the first time I'd seen Dean and Britta since Feb. of 2005 at one of the last-ever Luna shows at St. Andrew's in Detroit.

This Saturday I'm off to Rothbury -- look for my coverage in the Detroit Free Press and online at freep.com and right here at martinbandyke.com.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Best,

Martin

6/20/09

Hi Everybody,

What a blast seeing Los Lobos in concert last night at the Power Center in Ann Arbor - it was the band's first headlining show in Southeast Michigan in almost four years! Got a chance to hang out with Los Lobos' saxophonist and keyboardist Steve Berlin after the show, and besides being busy with his own group's current tour, he's also been producing projects for other artists. He played some cool-sounding songs off a new album he's doing for Alec Ounsworth, the guitarist and vocalist from the indie rock group Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. That one will be out later this year on the Anti- label. He's also been working with Backyard Tire Fire, who hail from Indiana. Didn't hear anything from that project, but Steve spoke highly of them and said that they are label shopping right now and hope to release it soon.

And as for Los Lobos, Steve told me that their album of classic Disney covers will finally be out in early September, and that will fulfill their cocntract with Hollywood Records. They just signed a new deal with Shout! Factory Records, with a new studio album down the line, probably in 2010. And maybe, just maybe, Los Lobos might be the opening act for Bob Dylan at some of his shows thus fall. Fingers crossed.

Best moment of last night's show was definitely the medley of Buddy Holly's Not Fade Away and the Grateful Dead's Bertha.

Look for my interview with Sonic Youth in the Detroit Free Press this Thursday, June 25 -- and hope to see you at the Dean & Britta performance at Power Center on Thursday, July 2 - their first appearance in Michigan since their days in Luna.

Best,

Martin

6/9/09

Hi Everybody,

Got back to work recently after spending almost a week vacationing in Las Vegas wife my wife Kim. I had a fantastic time and enjoyed it there much more than I thought I would. Hard not to enjoy the sunny days in the mid-90s with almost no humidity, plus we caught Cirque du Soleil's production of Love, based on the music of the Beatles. This was an abolutely magnificent show and I highly, highly recommend you check it out if you ever have the chance.

Summer starts real soon and that means it's time for the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, which will feature Los Lobos and Dean & Britta (formerly of Luna) in separate concerts at the Power Center. LL perform on Friday, June 19, and D&B perform on July 2 in front of Andy Warhol's screen test films shot in the 60s. Los Lobos have not headlined a concert in Michigan since 2005, and Dean & Britta's show will be their first appearance in Michigan since Luna played one of its final concerts ever, also in '05.

I'm working on a Los Lobos studio performance while they're in Ann Arbor, and Dean Wareham will be on live with me for an interview during the 9am hour on July 2. More details soon.

Look for my Playlist review column on Sunday, June 14 in the Detroit Free Press --- I'll be covering new ones by Bettye LaVette, :Levon Helm, Tortoise, Sonic Youth, Bruce Hornsby and more.

Best,

Martin

5/22/09

Hi Everybody,

This Sunday at 4pm on my Fine Tuning program I'll be featuring an interview with Gret Kot, pop music critic at the Chicago Tribune, about his new book 'Ripped,' where he details how the laptop generation has revolutionized the music industry.

Sunday is Bob Dylan's 68th birthday, so of course I'll also squeeze in a few Dylan tunes, plus I'll play tracks off the new Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood CD 'Live From Madison Square Garden.'

I'm taking a little time off for some rest and relaxation, but will return to my 107one morning show on Tuesday, June 2 and will be back doing Fine Tuning on Sunday, June 7.

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day!

Best,

Martin

5/10/09

Hi Everybody.

Happy Mother's Day!

Last night's Leonard Cohen concert at the Fox Theatre --- his first show in Detroit in some 16 years --- was an eloquent and elegant marathon that lasted well over three hours. Backed by a superb band, Cohen delivered brilliant renditions of his finest songs, including 'Suzanne,' 'Everybody Knows' and 'I'm Your Man.' The sight of Cohen literally skipping offstage with delight is an image which will stay with me for a long, long time.

This Saturday morning-- May 16 -- I'll have the honor of being the M.C. at Walk & Wag 2009, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Humane Society of Huron Valley. This will be my third as M.C. and something I really look forward to each year. Lots of fun for an important cause. Details at www.hshv.org,

Best,

Martin

4/26/09

Hi Everybody.

The Indigo Girls put on a stellar performance last Wednesday at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders in front of a couple hundred delighted fans -- thanks to everyone who stopped on by!

This week on my 6-10am morning show on WQKL-FM (107.1/annarbors107one.com) I'll be giving away a bunch more passes to the Rothbury Festival, plus tickets to see O.A.R. with guest Brett Dennen this summer at Meadow Brook.

Love that new Bob Dylan album 'Together Through Time.' and am particularly thrilled that David Hidalgo of Los Lobos plays accordion on virtually every track --- how cool is that?!

Best,

Martin

4/19/09

Hi Everybody.

After welcoming Vienna Teng and Raul Malo to 107one for a couple of live performances last week, this Wednesday (April 22) I'll be at the Borders on Liberty St. in Ann Arbor for a live performance and CD signing featuring the Indigo Girls. Stop on by at 12:30pm on Wednesday for what promises to be another memorable event at Borders --- and I recommend arriving early, as we're expecting a big crowd.

Best,

Martin

4/11/09

Hi Everybody.

What an absolute joy to be at the Tigers home-opener against the Texas Rangers yesterday, and how cool to witness a blowout, 15-2 victory!

This Wed. (4/15) on my 107one morning show, singer-songwriter Vienna Teng will stop by for a live, in-studio performance, and stopping by this coming Friday (4/17) to perform will be my ol' buddy Raul Malo, formerly of the Mavericks.

Start times for both in-studios will be around 9am, with Vienna playing at the Ark this Tues. & Wed., and Raul hitting the Magic Stick next Friday.

Happy Easter!

Best,

Martin

4/5/09

Hi Everybody.

Don't forget to come out to the Ann Arbor Borders store on Liberty St. this coming Wed. (4/8) at 12:30pm for a free, live performance by Chicago-based multi-instrumentalist Andrew Bird. Unfortunately, we've just gotten word that Andrew will not sign CDs after he plays, but pre-signed CDs will be available for purchase at the store.

Just announced -- the Indigo Girls will do a free performance & CD signing at Borders on Wed., April 22 -- I'll emcee both of these Borders events, as per usual.

Looking forward to the Tigers home opener this Friday against Texas --- what kind of year we'll have is anybody's guess --- I'm just glad that baseball is back!

Best,

Martin

3/29/09

Hi Everybody.

Got some real good guests lined up for my morning drive show this week. Harmonica master Peter Madcat Ruth will perform live at 9am this Tuesday (3/31), Festifools Director Mark Tucker and University Musical Society President Ken Fischer will stop by for separate interviews during the 7am hour on Wednesday (4/1), and James Steward -- the Director of the University of Michigan Museum of Art -- will be by for an interview at 8:30am on Thursday (4/2).

Speaking of Madcat, look for my spotlight on him in the Detroit Free Press this Thursday (4/2). I've also got a 5 questions piece with indie-pop band Los Campesinos! in the Free Press on Thursday.

Last but certainly not least, I'll be playing a brand new song by Bob Dylan tomorrow morning!

Best,

Martin

3/22/09

Hi Everybody.

Here is a link to my latest Playlist review column in the Sunday Free Press:

http://www.freep.com/article/20090322/

ENT04/903220338/1039/

New+music+from+Indigo+Girls

++Amadou+&++Mariam++more

On Wednesday, April 8 at 12:30pm, I'll be at the Borders store on Liberty St.in Ann Arbor to host a 12:30pm performance by Chicago-based singer-songwriter Andrew Bird. Stop on out for this free, live event --- Andrew will sign CDs after he plays that afternoon.

If you can't make it to Borders, you can catch the performance live on 107.1 FM and online at annarbors107one.com.

Best,

Martin

3/15/09

Hi Everybody.

It feels great to be back on the air at Ann Arbor's 107one, and I'm pleased to say I'll also be back at the Borders store in downtown Ann Arbor to emcee a couple of free, live performances soon.

This Friday, March 20, please stop by for a 12:30pm performance by the Script, a young Irish band who'll be performing that night with Adele at St. Andrew's Hall.

Then on Wednesday, April 8 at 12:30pm, Chicago-based singer-songwriter Andrew Bird will perform at Borders before his show that night at the Michigan Theater. Both artists will sign CDs after they play.

If you can't make it to Borders, you can catch the performances live on 107.1 FM and online at annarbors107one.com.

Happy St. Patrick's Day and Happy Spring!

Best,

Martin

3/6/09

Hi Everybody.

Life is strange...but beautiful.

Exactly a month ago I was laid off from my job at WQKL-FM in Ann Arbor due to budget cuts, and yet just today I finished my first week back at the station because you cared enough to protest my dismissal and demand my return. To be in the middle of this situation - with things out of my control - was a difficult thing. But your support sustained me through the ordeal and I simply can't thank you enough.

Please join me this Sunday, March 8 at 4pm on ann arbor's 107one for the return of my Fine Tuning program.. I'll be featuring the new Van Morrison album 'Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl' in its entirety, plus you'll hear new music from Neko Case, Raul Malo, Madeleine Peyroux and Neil Young.

Bless the weather.

Best,

Martin

2/25/09

Hi Everybody.

My guests this coming Monday, March 2 -- my first day back at Ann Arbor's 107one --will be Eileen Spring of Food Gatherers and Colleen Crawley of Motawi Tileworks.

We will have some sensational giveaways for you as well --- make sure you tune in!

Please keep checking this website for updates, plus I invite you to follow me on Facebook.

Thanks again to all of you for your incredible support !

Best,

Martin

2/19/08

Hi Everybody.

I have some incredible news for you --- due to listener demand, I am returning to Ann Arbor's 107one starting Monday, March 2!

Words can't begin to express my gratitude to everyone who asked for my return, from listeners to advertisers to business & community leaders.

Your voices have been heard, and I am deeply thankful.

I am also extremely grateful to Ann Arbor Radio and Cumulus Media for their efforts on my behalf.

Besides my 6-10am morning drive show returning to the airwaves on March 2, I'm pleased to announce that Fine Tuning will also return to its regular 4-6pm Sunday timeslot starting Sunday, March 8.

Best,

Martin

2/14/09

Keep hope alive! Here is a link to an article in today's Ann Arbor News about my situation:

http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/ann-arbor/index.ssf/2009/02/l

fans_rally_around_dismissed_wq.html

I also invite you to go to Facebook and join the protest to get me back on 107one.

Best,

Martin John

2/11/09

Hi Everybody.

Overwhelmed. Humbled. Grateful.

These are just a few of the words to describe how I feel after your outpouring of support in these first few days since I was let go from 107one last Friday.

I am trying to send personal thank-yous to everyone who has written, which may take a while, but please know that your kind thoughts and good karma mean the world to me.

I do indeed hope to be back on the air in some way, shape or form, right here in Southeast Michigan, sometime soon. Keep checking this website for the latest developments.

Best,

Martin John

2/6/09

Hi Everybody.

Got the bad news this morning that I was laid off my job as morning host at ann arbor's 107one due to budget cuts. I had a truly exciting time working at the station for the last three years and will miss all the great listeners and guests I had on the air. I hope to be back with you on the radio in some way, shape or form very soon. Keep you posted. My final Fine Tuning will run this Sunday (2/8) at 4pm.

Best,

Martin John

1/31/09

Hi Everybody.

Just after I finished my 107one morning drive show on Thursday (1/29) I received the gut-wrenching news about the death of the brilliant singer, guitarist and songwriter John Martyn. He was 60.

John's music has always hit me on the deepest, most profound personal level, and I can not adequately express how much his soulful sounds will be missed.

God bless you, John Martyn --- your music will always be with us.

Love,

Martin John Bandyke

1/27/09

Hi Everybody,

This Sunday (Feb. 1) at 4pm on my 107one Fine Tuning program I'll be paying tribute to Buddy Holly, who died 50 years ago on Feb. 3, 1958 - The Day The Music Died, as Don McLean once sang. I'll also feature new music from Bruce Springsteen and Franz Ferdinand.

A week from Sunday (Feb. 8) on Fine Tuning listen in for an interview with author Steve Knopper about his terrifiic new book 'Appetite For Self-Destruction: The Spectacular Crash of the Record Industry in the Digital Age.'

Two free events are coming up soon at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders on Liberty, both of which I'll be MC-ing. Stop by and see singer songwriters Griffin House (Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 12:30pm) and Brett Dennen (Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 12:30pm). Both will play mini-concerts followed by CD signings

And in the 'how-time-flies' department, tomorrow (1/28) marks my 3rd anniversary at WQKL-FM in Ann Arbor.

Can't wait for winter to be over --- that Detroit Tigers home-opener is only 63 days away!

Best,

Martin

1/11/09

Hi Everybody.

Happy New Year --- let's hope it's a fine '09!

Forgive me for taking so long to come up with this list of my Top Ten films of 2008. A case of too many films released around the holidays and not enough time to see them --- as usual.

1. SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

2. THE WRESTLER

3. GRAN TORINO

4. MAN ON WIRE

5. GOMORRAH

6. SYNECDOCHE, NEW YORK

7. FROST/NIXON

8. VICKY CHRISTINA BARCELONA

9. UN CONTE DE NOEL

10. SOUL POWER

I ALSO THOROUGHLY ENJOYED:

SHINE A LIGHT, ROMAN POLANSKI: WANTED AND DESIRED, MILK, WALTZ WITH BASHIR, L'HEURE D'ETE, RACHEL GETTING MARRIED AND IT MIGHT GET LOUD.

RIP, Ron Asheton --- your music lives on!

12/15/08

Martin Bandyke's Top Ten Albums of 2008

1. RANDY NEWMAN: HARPS AND ANGELS (NONESUCH)
2. ELBOW: THE SELDOM SCENE KID (GEFFEN)
3. NEIL YOUNG: SUGAR MOUNTAIN-LIVE AT CANTERBURY HOUSE 1968 (REPRISE)
4. NICK CAVE & THE BAD SEEDS: DIG, LAZARUS, DIG!!! (ANTI-)
5. RODNEY CROWELL: SEX & GASOLINE (YEP ROC)
6. RON SEXSMITH: EXIT STRATEGY OF THE SOUL (YEP ROC)
7. NEIL DIAMOND: HOME BEFORE DARK (COLUMBIA)
8. PAULWELLER: 22 DREAMS (YEP ROC)
9. AIMEE MANN: @#%&* SMILERS (SUPEREGO)
10. THE BLACK KEYS: ATTACK & RELEASE (NONESUCH)

Martin Bandyke's Top 5 Box Sets and Reissues of 2008

1. BOB DYLAN: TELL TALE SIGNS (COLUMBIA)
2. HANK WILLIAMS: THE UNRELEASED RECORDINGS (TIME LIFE)
3. JOHN MARTYN: AIN'T NO SAINT (UNIVERSAL/ISLAND U.K.)
4. THE KINKS: PICTURE BOOK (SANCTUARY U.K.)
5. DENNIS WILSON: PACIFIC OCEAN BLUE (EPIC/LEGACY)

12/12/08

Hi Everybody.

Last Sunday marked the finish of 107one's Rockin' for the Hungry benefit for Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank and food rescue program. I'm happy to report that an all-time record was set -- 226 tons of food were donated - how spectacular

I did manage to make it out to the Palace of Auburn Hills later that night and saw Wilco and Neil Young in concert. Wilco did a fine job, even though vocalist Jeff Tweedy professed from the stage that he wasn't feeling well. Neil Young and his electric band rocked the house with a 2-hour plus set that featured many of his greatest hits. Got a chance to meet Neil backstage, the 2nd time I've had the pleasure of doing so. What a gracious, kind and attentive man he is -- and what a performance he put on at the Palace Neil never ceases to amaze me.

My top ten list of albums for 2008 will appear here this coming Monday, Dec. 15 - stop back by then...

Best,

Martin

11/30/08

Hi Everybody.

This Wednesday through Sunday I will be broadcasting live from outside the Busch's market at the corner of Main and Ann Arbor - Saline Rd. as part of 107one's "Rockin' for the Hungry" benefit for Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank. Please stop by with non-perishable food items or a donation of cash or a check to help those in need in our community. 2008 has been a staggeringly bad year for Michigan's economy and there are more people than ever in desperate need of something to eat, so please visit Busch's and make a contribution. I'll be there from 6-10am this Wed. through Sat (Dec. 3-6) and from noon 'til 3 on Sunday (Dec. 7).

If I have any energy left on Dec. 7 after "Rockin'" wraps up I will be heading to the Palace of Auburn Hills to see Neil Young and Wilco in concert. Neil is doing pretty much a greatest hits show on his current tour, and I am hoping to both interview him for the Detroit Free Press and say 'hi' to him backstage after the concert --- we'll see how all that goes.

I will run down my Top ten albums of 2008 on the Dec. 14 edition of Fine Tuning on 107one, and promise to have them posted here the following day.

Where has this year gone?? Can't believe it's top ten time...

Best,

Martin

10/27/08

Hi Everybody,

Finally catching my breath after finishing up an extremely busy but rewarding week.

I had the great pleasure of hosting a discussion at the 2nd annual Ypsilanti Songwriting Festival a week ago Saturday with Jon Langford of the great indie-rock band the Mekons along with the critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter Paul Birch.

Two super smart and super nice guys, we had what I thought was a pretty informative chat about the art of writing a good song. Best of all, Jon & Paul brought acoustic guitars and played a bunch of tunes. Kudos to Lori Coryell at the Ypsilanti District Library for putting on this worthy event!

Last Monday I was honored by the Humane Society of Huron Valley at their Compassionate Feast fundraiser with an Animal Humanitarian Award. I have been a lifelong animal lover, and do what I can to bring awareness to the HSHV on my 107one morning drive program. Every Thursday at around 8:30am I host a Pet-of-the-Week segment, and have had the pleasure of hosting the HSHV's Walk & Wag fundraiser the last two years. What a beautiful night it was, all for one of the most noble causes on earth.

Last Tuesday I did a live broadcast from the A2 Borders on Liberty St. to celebrate the release of "Live From Studio A2, Vol. 1," 107one's first-ever CD of Studio A2 and Studio A2 on the Road performances. I urge you to grab a copy while they last - only $12.99 - so that you can hear exclusive performances by Patty Griffin, Steve Earle, Martin Sexton, Bruce Cockburn and many others. The CD is only available at Borders stores in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington, Novi and Brighton, and proceeds will go to benefit the Michigan Theater.

To top off the week I fundraised on WRCJ-FM (90.9) this past Saturday morning - my first time there - with Dave Wagner and Dave Devereaux, and that was a total blast. I do have to say, however, that I did not miss having to stay on the air for days and days during a fund drive like I did when I was at WDET!

November's big event is Bob Dylan's one and only Michigan appearance this year on the 8th at Kalamazoo's Wings Stadium -- wouldn't miss it for the world.

Best,

Martin

9/28/08

Hi Everybody.

I had a terrific time at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this month - I first attended the fest back in '82, and then after going to the New York Film Festival in '83 and '84, I returned to Toronto in 1985 and have been there every September since. How truly amazing to see this event morph over the years into such an essential event for film makers and film lovers -- it is now second only to the Cannes festival in terms of importance.

Independent cinema is going through wrenching changes right now, with fewer films finding distribution and audiences dwindling for art house fair. But there were numerous high quality films to be seen in Toronto, the two best being The Wrestler and Slumdog Millionaire. The first is directed by Darren Aronofsky, whose previous work (Pi, Requiem for a Dream) I have not been a fan of at all, but here he drops the arty pretensions and tells an intimate, straightforward story about a professional wrestler who has to give up his career due to a serious health issue. Starring Mickey Rourke in a sensational comeback role, the film avoids all the 'Rocky'-style cliches and is extremely powerful.

Much more epic in scale is Slumdog, directed by Danny Boyle, best known for the film Trainspotting. This one is about a young man from the slums of Mumbai, India who find himself on the verge of winning the top prize on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be a Millionaire. The plot probably sounds pretty lightweight, but there is so much more to this enjoyable work --- an engrossing story, incredible music, tons of action, insightful social commentary, brilliant cinematography and compelling performances by the cast, just for starters.

Two music documentaries were real standouts as well. The first is called Soul Power, directed by former U of M student Jeff Levy-Hinte, which captures the star-studded 1974 music festival in Zaire, Africa that was the companion event to the Muhammad Ali - George Foreman 'Rumble in the Jungle' fight. The previously unseen footage includes blistering performances by James Brown, BB King, Bill Withers & Celia Cruz and is a total blast.

The other cool doc in Toronto was It Might Get Loud. which focuses on guitarists Jack White, Jimmy Page and The Edge. Directed by Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth), the film includes a ton of archival footage as well as contemporary interviews with the 3 guitarists, who hang out together to play some tunes and discuss their work.

A couple of other flicks to watch for soon include Jonathan Demme's Rachel Getting Married, with a breakaway performance by Anne Hathaway, and two nice films from France: Un Conte de Noel, starring Catherine Deneuve, and L'Heure d'ete, featuring Juliette Binoche.

I've been back to work for the last two weeks and am now looking forward to taping a performance soon with singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell for broadcast on the Oct. 12 edition of Fine Tuning. Also be on the lookout for upcoming performances on my morning show by two great Ann Arbor bands: My Dear Disco (Thursday, Oct 9) and the Macpodz (Friday, Oct. 10). Both of these will happen around 9am.

Will also be taking part in the 2nd annual Ypsilanti Songwriting Festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, when I'll talk to Jon Langford of the Mekons. The event is free and open to the public --- Info at ypsilibrary.org.

Best,

Martin

8/27/08

Hi Everybody.

I'll be leaving in just over a week for the Toronto International Film Festival, which I've attended every single year since 1985. Actually I first went to the Fest in 1982, then attended the New York Film Festival in '83 and '84 before getting wise and sticking with Toronto, which shows far more films and is much easier to negotiate.

I just received my program book today and will be spending hours poring over it so that I can filter out the must-see from the must-skip films. A few things I'm pretty likely to check out this year include: Who Do You Love - a biopic about Leonard Chess, founder of Chess Records Lorna's Silence - directed by the Dardenne Brothers, who have won the Palme d'Or twice at Cannes. Of Time and the City - this one is a documentary about the city of Liverpool that slayed critics when it was shown in Cannes Happy-Go-Lucky - directed by the great Mike Leigh and another big hit at Cannes earlier this year

I've just barely scratched the surface of what I hope to see in Toronto, and I also hope to catch Spiritualized and Paul Weller perform at the Virgin Music Festival while I'm there. Have a safe and happy Labor Day and enjoy these last few weeks of summer...I'll be back in a couple of weeks with my impressions of Toronto, and please listen for my reports from Toronto on Ann Arbor's 107one while I'm away. Best, Martin

8/7/08

Hi Everybody,

Quite a pair of contrasting concerts I went to recently: Neil Diamond at the Palace of Auburn Hills last Thursday and Radiohead at the Blossom Music Center in Cuyhoga Falls, Ohio this past Monday.

Both were stunningly brilliant and expertly played and beautifully staged - hmmm, maybe they're more similar that I thought!

Regardless of that, it was about darn time I saw Neil Diamond play - he's one of those artists I had never gotten around to seeing before, and with the release of his Rick Rubin-produced album Home Before Dark earlier this year, it was high time I caught his show. He brought with him something like a 14-piece band, but overall the concert was less glitzy and more restrained than I thought it would be - I had no problems with that, and no problems with Neil doing hit after hit along with a selection of songs from the exquisite Home Before Dark.

This was my 3rd visit to Blossom to see Radiohead, an incredible venue that holds 20,000 and reminds me of a much bigger version of Meadow Brook. But what a shame that Radiohead can't work something out with a venue and promoter in Michigan so that they will play here once again. As Brian McCollum reported a few months ago in an excellent Detroit Free Press article, the band won't play venues with advertising directly by the stage, and apparently no outdoor shed or indoor venue in Michigan satisfies their requirements. So that meant another drive to Cuyahoga Falls, OH to see Thom Yorke and company. It's about 3 hours from Detroit and about half an hour south of Cleveland.

Radiohead's set list was filled with a few too many slower and less compelling songs for my tastes, but it was still an overwhelmingly powerful concert. Sheer genius.

Thanks to Jo Mathis at the Ann Arbor News for writing (and videotaping) an article about me for the paper. Here's a link to the piece, which originally ran on 8/4:

http://blog.mlive.com/annarbornews_multimedia/2008/08/

whois_martin_bandyk.html

Up next: Los Lobos at Meadow Brook on Aug. 10, then before you know it, the Toronto Film Festival!

Don't forget to read my Playlist column every third Sunday in the Detroit Free Press. I'm writing this Sunday (8/10) about the new Randy Newman, Stereolab and (gulp) Jonas Brothers.

Best,

MB

7/17/08

Hi Everybody,

A busy, fun weekend is coming up and I hope to see you at the 107one stage at the South U Art Fair and/or the Concert of Colors in Detroit. Tomorrow (Friday) I'll be the emcee on our 107one stage at the South U Art Fair. The great A2 singer-songwriter Chris Bathgate, Detroit rockers The Hard Lessons and Vanguard recording artist Matt Nathanson are a few of the folks who will be playing on Friday. Music begins at 3pm and runs through 9pm. Full details at annarbors107one.com.

Saturday I have the honor and pleasure of being the emcee for Rickie Lee Jones' 8pm performance at Orchestra Hall as part of the 16th Concert of Colors, Detroit's diversity music festival. I hope to catch some of the other acts at the COC, including Mavis Staples and Don Was. Details at concertofcolors.com.

Enjoy an incredible weekend of music in SE Michigan, and make sure to stay hydrated in the hot weather!

Best,

Martin

7/3/2008

Hi Everybody.

Well I won't be at the first Rothbury Festival this weekend, as I've chosen to stay closer to home and hit some shows at the Comerica CityFest in downtown Detroit. I'll be checking out Ann Arbor's hometown heroes Tally Hall tonight, then Saturday I'll be back at CityFest to see the great Calexico in concert. Will be interviewing them beforehand - I'll air that interview in late August or ealy September, closer to the release date of their new album Carried To Dust.

Had a blast hosting Studio A2 performances on my morning show this week by American Mars and Nomo, and next week I'll be interviewing the Executive Directors of the four Ann Arbor Art Fairs. Also cooking up an interview with Mr Jeff Daniels, who's busy with a number of new projects. Will let you know when that one will air as well.

Oh yeah, Ellis Serras (of the A2 Main Street Area Association) and guests will be on the morning show this coming Thursday (7/10) to talk about the Rolling Sculpture Car Show, and my buddy Russ Collins will be on Friday (7/11) to talk about upcoming films at the Michigan Theater.

The week after that it's time for the Ann Arbor Art Fairs, and 107one will be hosting 4 days of free, live music on stage at the South U Fair at the corner of Church and Willard. This runs from Wed., July 16 through Sat., July 19 with our dear friend Matt Nathanson headlining the proceedings at 8pm on Friday, the 18th.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July, everybody - let freedom ring!

6/9/08

Hi Everybody.

Yesterday I was at Grillin' 08, the signature warm weather fundraising event for Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank and food rescue group. Hot temps and a brief thunderstorm did not deter over 1000 folks from showing up to this 'picnic with a purpose' to benefit those in need in the greater Ann Arbor area. Thanks one and all for stopping by and lending support for an important cause!

I've got just enough time to catch my breath before the first of three 107one Top of the Park free concerts at the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. These take place on Ingalls Mall, right next to Hill Auditorium and Burton Tower, and are always a fun and relaxing way to enjoy some fine music.

Our first night is Monday, June 16, when The Ragbirds and The Terraplanes will take the stage, then on Friday, June 20 it'll be Money Mark and Mason Jennings, then we'll close it out on Friday, June 27 with Bump and Serena Ryder. Please stop on by, enjoy some free tunes and say hello - as always, I'll be the guy in the grey straw hat!

I had a terrific time at the Tom Petty/Steve Winwood show at the Palace a week or so ago. Have to admit I got a bit misty when Winwood played Blind Faith's Can't Find My Way Home and Traffic's Dear Mr. Fantasy back-to-back. Astounding to think I last heard him do Can't Find My Way Home with Blind Faith at the old Olympia in Detroit some 39 years ago - damn!

Just around the corner is a must-see performance by Calexico at the Comerica CityFest in Detroit's New Center area on Friday, July 4, and how about Van Morrison coming back to Detroit again for a show on July 9 at the Fox - wow, Van in Motown 2 out of the last 3 years after not playing here for over 25 years - wonders never cease! Here's to the start of summer!

5/25/08

Hi Everybody.

Forgive me for the long, long delay between updates! April through June is a ratings period for me at Ann Arbor's 107one, and that means that I've been doing much in the way of shakin' hands and kissin' babies, which translates as: making lots of office calls throughout Ann Arbor and emceeing all kinds of events. In addition, my Playlist column for the Sunday Detroit Free Press - plus my semi-regular '5 Questions' column for the Freep- have kept me hopping as well.

This extended Memorial Day weekend is my first time off since the first of this year, so besides catching up on old episodes of The Wire and doing a bit of exercising, I've been watching the Monanco Grand Prix (congrats, Lewis Hamilton), Indy 500 (same to you, Scott Dixon), Tigers, Red Wings and Pistons. Notice that much of these activities involve reclining on a couch - that's no accident.

As far as upcoming events, I'm looking forward to this Saturday's Steve Winwood/Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers show at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Can't believe I have never seen Petty in concert before, and it's been decades since I last saw Winwood - I believe I caught him when he was in Traffice at a show in Ypsi in the 70s. I also had the honor of seeing him in Blind Faith - with Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker & Ric Grech - at Detroit's long gone Olympia Stadium in 1969. I still remember the show very well, including the rather scandalous poster I bought that night (something to do with a scantily-clad woman hanging on a cross!).

On June 8 I'll be broadcasting and stage-emceeing from Grillin' 08, one of the biggest fundraisers of the year for Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank and food rescue organization. Full details on this worthwhile event are at: foodgatherers.com

107one is sponsoring three nights of free music at the Ann Arbor Summer Festival's Top of the Park series - me and the rest of 107one gang will be at Ingalls Maill (next to Hill Auditorium) the evenings of June 16, June 20 & 27 as the Ragbirds, Money Mark, Serena Ryder and other artists take the stage. Details at: annarborsummerfestival.org

Another update with more June events coming up in a week - I promise!

Best,

Martin

4-6-08

Hi Everybody.

Today is a big day for me as it marks the first time I’m appearing as a regular columnist in the Sunday Detroit Free Press!  Yep, I’ve been contributing tons of music reviews and articles to the Freep for several years now, but as of today I’ll regularly be writing about music every three weeks in The Playlist column in the Freep, alternating with their full-time critics Brian McCollum and Mark Stryker.

In today’s Playlist column you can read my thoughts about new releases from The Breeders, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Steve Winwood, Death Cab For Cuite, Jakkob Dylan and others.  It’s truly a thrill to be a regular contributor to the Sunday Free Press - hope you enjoy it, and please let me know what you think.

I’m back on the road this week making office calls after my 107one morning program, so if you work in Washtenaw County, please request one by emailing me at martin@martinbandyke.com - I’m hand-delivering the brand new Martin Bandyke wall clock, a gift package from Espresso Royale Coffee and a gift from Floral Surroundings.

This Thursday I’ll be welcoming the Detroit-based band the Hard Lessons to my show for a live, Studio A2 performance at 9am.

Spring is here and it feels great, but what’s the deal with the Tigers?!

I’ll be seeing the Rolling Stones concert film Shine A Light early this week - the combo of Scorsese and the Stones looks like a winner.

Best,

Martin

3.17.08

Hi Everybody.

How nice to see the date March 31 drawing near -  that for me is the real first day of spring, because it's the day of the Tigers home opener!  "World Series bound and pickin' up steam" - so goes the old song from the 1968 campaign - it's on my mind again bigtime in '08.  Play ball!

I've got the Lansing-based band Steppin' In It booked for a live performance on my 107one morning show for Tuesday, March 18 around 9am - that's two days before their CD release show at the Ark.

Look for me out and about at the Ann Arbor Film Festival, which runs from March 25 to March 30 at the Michigan Theater. I'll be there on opening night and will be the emcee for a film screening on Saturday, March 29 - more details soon.

I'm also in the midst of writing a piece on the band Tally Hall for the April issue of the Ann Arbor Observer magazine, in conjunction with the Atlantic Records re-release of their terrific debut album 'Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum,' which has been partially re-recorded and completely re-mixed. 

And finally, look for '5 questions' with Steppin' In It, American Music Club and Joe Jackson in the Thursday Play section of the Detroit Free Press in the weeks to come.  

Best,

Martin

2.18.08

Hi Everybody.

I want to let all of you know about a big anniversary I'll be celebrating on Thursday, Feb. 21. That day will mark my 25th anniversary as a radio host!  Back on Feb. 21 in 1983, I began co-hosting the weekly Dimension program on WDET-FM.  Dimension started in 1971 and was first hosted by the trumpet player Charles Moore, known for his work with everyone from the MC5 to Yusef Lateef. 

In September of 1991, I switched over to the weekday morning shift at WDET, then started doing weekday afternoons in June of '92, which is where I stayed until WDET went mostly news/talk in December of 2005. 

I joined WQKL-FM, aka Ann Arbor's 107one, as the 6-10 a.m. morning drive host in January of '06, and beside that shift I also currently host the freeform Fine Tuning program on Sunday from 4-6 p.m. on 107one.

Plans are being finalized for some kind of public event to celebrate my silver anniversary - quite possibly it will involve a concert in Ann Arbor featuring a major, Grammy-nominated vocalist. I will let you know the details as soon as possible.

I'll have a bunch of special CD and ticket giveaways on my Feb. 21 morning show, including FRONT ROW tix to see Joe Jackson and Steve Earle in separate concerts at the Michigan Theater along with tickets to the just-announced Rothbury Festival in west Michigan.

On the Feb. 24 Fine Tuning program I'll play songs that I was playing back in 1983.  Think R.E.M., New Order, Prince, Echo & the Bunnymen, etc.

I remain proud of the fact that I've survived and thrived on the radio in Detroit and have played some really cool music for the last 25 years. Endless thanks and much love to all of you for your support over the last quarter of a century...and I ain't done yet!

Best,

Martin

2-3-08

Hi Everybody.

Lots to catch up to as we're getting back in gear on 107one with a bunch of Studio A2 on the Road performances and more.

First of all, the Humane Society of Huron Valley, one of my pet causes - pun very much intended. Every Thursday morning between 8:30 and 9 a.m., an HSHV representative will visit my show with an adoptable dog, cat, bird or reptile in need of a loving home. View these very special in-studio guests by clicking HERE.

Our first Studio A2 on the Road of '08 will be on Wednesday, Feb. 6 when Matt Nathanson will play tunes from his new album Some Mad Hope at the downtown A2 Borders on Liberty.  

Next will be two grand opening performances at the brand new Borders at 3140 Lohr Road in Ann Arbor. Vocalist/pianist Sara Bareilles will play on Saturday, Feb. 23, and then Matt Costa will play on Monday, Feb. 25.  

As usual, all of these performances are absolutely free, they start at 12:30 p.m., will be followed by CD signings, and will be emceed by yours truly.  If you can't make it in person, catch them on 107one or at annarbors10one.com.

Best,

Martin 

1-13-08

See 2007 Best of Lists by clicking HERE.

12-9-07

Hi Everybody and Happy Holidays!

You know that it must have been an incredibly great year for music in '07 when Neil Young and Lucinda Williams don't turn up on my top 10 list.  Having said that, here is my list of top ten CDs for the year, and I promise to get my top film list on the website by Dec. 31 - still have to catch up to a few movies that have already opened and some that will open in the next few weeks.

Soon as I finish this note I'm off to the final day of Rockin' For The Hungry, the biggest benefit of the year for Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County's food bank/food rescue organization.  The goal of raising 150 tons of nutritious, non-perishable food has already been reached, so today we're going to try to boost that amount up to an unprecendented 200 tons of food!  Many, many thanks to all the generous folks who have already visited us during our live broadcast at Busch's Market at Main St. & Ann Arbor - Saline Rd. in A2.

Our final live music event this year at the downtown Borders in A2 is this Wed., Dec. 12 at 12:30pm, and it features Ingrid Michaelson, a NYC-based singer-songwriter whose music is being heard everywhere from Gray's Anatomy to Old Navy commercials.  I'll emcee her free, live set of tunes on Wednesday, then she'll sign CDs immediately afterward.

This Friday, Dec. 14 will be my last Espresso Royale live broadcast of the year, so stop by the 214 S. Main St. location in downtown A2 anytime between 6-10am to say hello and pick up an MB limited edition coffee mug, concert tickets and CDs.  Wow, where this year gone?!

Before I go, hats off and very best wishes to my dear friend Terry Lawson, film critic at the Detroit Free Press, who accepted a buyout offer and no longer works for the paper.  I will deeply miss his astute and elegantly-written movie reviews, along with his insightful Sunday column, one which often dealt with music.  Beyond his encyclopedic knowledge about both music and movies, plus his ridiculously high work ethic, he remains a genuinely humble man and an all-round great guy.  The Freep won't be the same without you, Terry!  Best of luck on your next adventure.

MB

11-7-07

Hello Everybody.

So Rocktober more than lived up to its billing with a bunch of sensational shows. 

I topped off the month with a quick visit to Chicago Oct. 29 to see the final date of the Bob Dylan/Elvis Costello/Amos Lee tour. The show earlier in October at the Convocation Center in Ypsilanti was excellent, but I was hoping that Bob and Elvis would sing a song together that night, and it did not happen. I figured the final show of the tour might be the time where Bob and Elvis would have to sing a duet, and I was not disappointed. During the first song of the encore Elvis and Amos Lee both joined Bob and his band for a stirring, emotional version of I Shall Be Released - what a moment!  It made my overnight drive back to Ann Arbor worth it.

I couldn't make it to recent Spoon or Pinback shows but I did see much of Wilco's show at the Fox, where the band was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd. Speaking of the Fox, I'l be back there on November 10 to see Neil Young and his band to play what looks like the last truly major concert of 2007.  Look for my review of the show in the Detroit Free Press, and of course I'll talk about it on Ann Arbor's 107one and play lots of Neil's music on Fine Tuning (Sundays from 4-6pm).

I'll be emceeing two free, live performances this month at the Liberty St. Borders in Ann Arbor - start time is 12:30 p.m. for the John Butler Trio on Wed., Nov. 14 and Tegan & Sara on Tue., Nov. 27. Both artists will sign CDs bought at Borders immediately after their performances. 

Hope to see you there, or else at the remaining live broadcasts 6-10 a.m. Fridays at Espresso Royale coffee shops in A2.  This Friday, Nov. 9 (my birthday!) I'll be joined by the award-winning singer-songwriter Billy King at the Espresso Royale at 2871 Carpenter Road at Packard, then I'll be live on Nov. 16 at the Espresso Royale on 2264 S. Main, Nov. 30 at the shop on 2603 Plymouth, and our final stop will at 214 S. Main on Dec. 14.

Best,

Martin

10-17-07

Hi Everybody.

Rock-tober (I can't resist, forgive me) continues with a whole bunch of shows and special events this week and beyond. I'll be at Borders on Liberty St. in Ann Arbor to emcee a free, live performance at 12:30 p.m. (simulcast on 107one) this Friday, Oct. 19 with Raul Midon.

On Saturday, Oct. 20 I'll be participating in the first-ever Ypsilanti Songwriting Festival, which takes place mostly at the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker). No, I won't be picking up a guitar and singing you songs myself (that'll be the day!), but I will be moderating a songwriter's panel at 5 p.m. and doing a Q&A with acclaimed singer-songwriter Freedy Johnston at 7 p.m.. For more info, go to: http://www.ypsilibrary.org/events/ysf07_files/page0001.htm

So Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello were magical at the EMU Convocation Center in Ypsi last Saturday, as expected. Next up is the Wilco show this Wednesday at the Fox, with Neil Young's show coming up on Nov. 10, also at the Fox.

I taped an amazing performance with Steve Earle that'll I play on the Oct 21 edition of Fine Tuning on 107one. He was joined by his wife Allison Moorer on vocals on a couple of tracks, and you'll be knocked out by this one, I promise!

Best, Martin

9-25-07

Hello Everybody.

So sorry it's been such a long time since my last message. Much of my August was devoted to recovering from some minor but much needed knee surgery - all those years of jogging and fast walking finally caught up with me!  I'm feeling much better and have already resumed my regular walking/running activities.

I was back on my feet in time to make my usual trek to the Toronto International Film Festival right after Labor Day. With the exception of the years 1983 and '84 - when I went to the New York Film Festival - I have attended the Toronto Fest each and every year since 1982. What an incredible thing to witness how it has grown into one of the top 2 of 3 festivals in the world, with seemingly every significant independent and studio release getting screened over its 10-day duration.

Music-oriented films were certainly in evidence in Toronto this year, starting with the North American premiere of the Bob Dylan biopic (of sorts) I'm Not There, directed by Todd Haynes and starring 6 actors portraying a musician obviously based on but never called Bob Dylan.  Cate Blanchett is particularly spectacular as Dylan in his frizzy-haired, Blonde On Blonde period. Overall the film is quite experimental  and technically spectacular, but not terribly involving emotionally. But it's still a must-see with its stellar soundtrack and audacious approach.  

So who would've thought even one, much less two films about the great post-punk band Joy Division would ever be made? Amazingly, that's what I witnessed this year in Toronto with Anton Corbijn's biopic Control and Grant Gee's documentary Joy Division. Both were simply stunning, with Control's lead actor Sam Riley perfectly capturing the moody, tortured genius of JD's vocalist Ian Curtis. A natural double-bill, I sure hope these two come to the area very soon.

Fave film at Toronto this year? The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, directed by Julian Schanbel, and based on the best-selling book by the late Jean-Dominique Bauby. Utterly gripping, visually sumptious and sure to overwhelm your emotions, this a magical work of art for the ages. 

OK, so back to work after Toronto and back to Borders a few weeks ago for another magical experience - a live, solo set of songs from (Leslie) Feist, Candadian singer-songwriter extraordinaire. 400+ people packed into the downtown A2 Borders on Liberty - on a football Saturday, no less - and cheeed Feist on as she enthralled us all. 

I'll be at the new Borders in Canton - 43425 Ford Road, near Ikea - to emcee a free performance by R&B vocalist Ryan Shaw on Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 pm.  Ryan will sign copies of his debut CD 'This is Ryan Shaw' immediately after his set.   

I'll be taking the Martin Bandyke Program on the road every Friday from Sept. 28 through Dec. 14 as I'll be broadcasting live from various Espresso Royale coffee shops in Ann Arbor. I'll be giving away CDs, concert tickets and limited edition MB coffee mugs, plus there will be coffee drink specials. Here are the dates and Expresso Royale locations I'll be at over the next month - please stop on by and see me!  

9/28: 214 SOUTH MAIN STREET

10/5: 324 SOUTH MAIN STREET

10/12: 2603 PLYMOUTH ROAD

10/19: 2264 SOUTH MAIN STREET

10/26: 2871 CARPENTER ROAD  

Concert-wise, there are a ton of major shows, including Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello at EMU's Convocation Center on 10/12, Spoon at the Majestic on 10/13, Wilco at the Fox on 10/17 and Annie Lennox at the Music Hall on 10/22, and that's just for starters. Gonna need a lot of coffee to keep up the pace!  

Best,

Martin

August 9, 2007

Hi Everybody,

So the month of July just flew by, and the highlights were many: Spoon's fine performance at the Comerica CityFest, Bob Dylan's wondrous set at Freedom Hill (he actually smiled, repeatedly!), the Police's well-received show at the Palace of Auburn Hills - the band's first performance in Michigan in some 24 years, the excellent turnout at 107one's South U stage at the Ann Arbor Art Fairs, and last but not least, 107one's fantastic showing in the Arbitron ratings - we are now #1 in Ann Arbor!

I'm taking a bit of time off from work as I recover from arthroscopic surgery on my left knee.  I took up running when I gave up smoking some 20+ years ago, and I guess all that wear and tear finally caught up with me.  Everything went well and I should be back in action and at the microphone in just a few more days.

I may be hobbling a touch tomorrow night but I wouldn't miss Stan Ridgway's show at the Magic Bag for the world. It's rare for the ex-Wall of Voodoo leader to play a show outside his home state of California, plus he'll be featuring a bunch of material from WOV's Call of the West album, yep, the one that has Mexican Radio on it.  Should be a blast.

Raul Malo, the former vocalist of the Mavericks, is stopping by my morning show on Thursday, Aug. 23 to sing and play a few songs off his terrific new album of country covers, After Hours.  Listen in around 8:30-9am to hear Raul live.  He plays at the Ark on Aug. 23 and 24.

After Raul's live set at 107one I'll be heading to the downtown A2 Borders to emcee a free performance by the talented young singer-songwriter Kate Voegele, and I'll be back at Borders the next day (Aug. 24) to emcee a another free performance, this one by A Fine Frenzy, aka Alison Sudol, an enchanting young singer who's been called a mix of Ella Fitzgerald and Radiohead - I'm intrigued already!

Best,

Martin

07.03.07

Hello Everybody.

July is shaping up to be the biggest month of '07 in terms of major must-see concerts.  I'm off to catch the Austin, Texas indie-rockers Spoon at the Comerica CityFest (formerly known as the Tastefest) tomorrow, just in advance of the release of the band's fantastic new cd "Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga," a title designed to make radio djs sound silly on the air!  This is easily one of the best recordings of the year so far, right up there with Paul McCartney, Wilco, Patty Griffin, Lucinda Williams, etc.

Also at the CityFest this Saturday is another great indie-rock band, namely Yo La Tengo, so I'll be there for that show as well.

Next Tuesday, July 10, I'll be hosting a free, live performance at 12:30pm with Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders on Liberty.

Then comes Bob Dylan at Freedom Hill and the Toledo Zoo Amphiteater next week - I'm actually taking a coupla days off so that I can stay up late, enjoy an adult beverage or three and not have to worry about being too fried doing my morning show at Ann Arbor's 107one after I see the incomparable Mr. Bob.

Much more to come this month, as ex-Television leader Tom Verlaine makes an extremely rare visit to the Detroit Film Theatre on July 13, when he and fellow guitarist Jimmy Ripp will accompany  a series of avant-garde films from the U.S. and Europe. What a rare treat this should be. On a side note, I'm sad to hear that Television has apparently broken up for good, and what's doubly sad is the fact that Television's other guitarist Richard Lloyd is recovering from a serious illness that struck him just before the band's final-ever concert in Central Park last month.  Perhaps there will be a final, final Television show somewhere down the line - get well soon, Richard!

Then it's that massive Police reunion show at the Palace of Auburn Hills on July 17, followed by the Concert of Colors at the Max July 19 -22, featuring Eddie Palmieri, They Might Be Giants and the Neville Brothers. And oh yeah, can't forget the 107one stage at the South U Art Fair, July 18 - 22. Free, live music all four days, with excellent homegrown bands (the Macpodz, Flying Latini Brothers) along with national acts (Tyrone Wells, Ari Hest). We'll be set up at the corner of Church and Willard, one block south of South U.  Full details at annarbors107one.com.

To top off the month in a big, big way, I'll be back at the A2 downtown Borders to host another free performance and cd signing, this time with the acclaimed singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega.  She's releasing her first album in six years, "Beauty and Crime."

Is that enough live music for ya or what?!  Hope to see you at a show - just look for the guy wearing the grey straw hat.

Best,

Martin

6.26.07

Hello Everybody.

Sorry it's taken me a bit to give you this update - it's the busiest time of the year for me at Ann Arbor's 107one and the joint is jumpin'!

I recently had the pleasure of emceeing Grillin' 2007, a major fundraiser for Food Gatherers, the food rescue/food bank in Washtenaw County. Under sunny skies at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, almost 2,000 folks ate gourmet sausages & BBQ chicken and other goodies while enjoying the sounds of George Bedard and the Kingpins along with Back Forty. Revenue at Grillin' was up 10% over last year, which is pretty fantastic considering how tough the Michigan economy is right now. 

The other major event I emceed recently was Walk & Wag, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Humane Society of Huron Valley. That was another gigantic success for HSHV, as they raised almost $100,000, a new record!  Tons of people came out with their dogs in tow (or the opposite, in some cases!), and even some damp weather didn't lessen the joy and enthusiasm of all the supporters of the Humane Soceity. Speaking of which, my wife Kim and I just adopted two beautiful kitties from the Shelter!

I'll be helping to emcee our Top of the Park concerts soon, which take place at Ingalls Mall (right next to the Burton clock tower) and are part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. On June 27 it'll be the Verve Pipe's Brian VanderArk along with Matt Wertz. And don't forgot the other major shows coming to the A2 Summer Festival, including Cesaria Evora at Power Center on June 19 and the dynamite duo of KD Lang and Lyle Lovett at Hill Auditorium on June 28. 

Best,

Martin

5-15-07

Hello Everybody.

Spring is here and the joint is jumpin' at Ann Arbor's 107one!  Look for an interview with Roxy Music's Bryan Ferry on an upcoming Fine Tuning program, where Bryan and I discuss his new Bob Dylan covers album, plus we'll talk about that long-awaited Roxy reunion album. 

I'll also be airing soon on FT a taped performance with the intriguing singer-songwriter Laura Veirs, whose latest CD Saltbreakers is on the prestigious Nonesuch label. 

I'm continuing to visit offices in the greater Ann Arbor area delivering more Martin Bandyke wall clocks along with coffee from Espresso Royale - register for an office visit by emailing me: martin@annarbors107one.com. 

Had a nice time last week broadcasting live from the opening Wednesday at the A2 Farmer's Market - thanks to everybody who stopped by to say 'hi'! I have the pleasure of hosting Walk & Wag on Saturday, May 19 - this is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Humane Society of Huron Valley, which serves all of Washtenaw county.  The event runs that morning from 9 a.m.-noon, rain or shine, and you are cordially invited to walk your dog, collect donations and have lots of fun.  Info is at hshv.org.

Concert-wise I saw Elvis Costello at the State on May 11, and then of course there's the fantastic news that Bob Dylan is playing three shows in the area - Interlochen on July 10, Freedom Hill on July 11 and the Toledo Zoo on July 12 - will be there for at least two of those shows, plus I'm also looking forward to seeing Spoon play at the Cityfest in Detroit's New Center area on July 4.

Music-wise I'm loving the new releases from Paul McCartney, Suzanne Vega, Cinematic Orchestra, Wilco and Githead...

Best,

Martin

4-25-07

Hello Everybody.

I've already hosted 3 Studio A2 on the Road performances at the downtown Ann Arbor Borders in April, with Jonatha Brooke, Martin Sexton and Matt Wertz all drawing big crowds and putting on terrific performances. 

We have our 4th and final Studio A2 of the month, and it should also be astounding, as the incomparable singer-songwriter Patty Griffin will play a free, live set at Borders on Thursday, April 26 at 12:30pm. 

You'll be part of the filming of the event for the Borders Live at 01 online webstream, so look pretty!  Of course, we'll be broadcasting Patty's set live on Ann Arbor's 107one in case you can't be there in person.

The Stooges triumphant show at the Fox Theatre April 13 was as beautifully ballistic and out of control as their reunion concert at DTE a few years ago.  It took a shirtless Iggy all of three songs before he was diving into the audience!  A relentless whirling dervish of primal energy, it is truly hard to believe this man is 60 this month! 

Everyone else in the band was in fine form as well, with Scott Asheton pounding out monolithic grooves on those sparkling silver Gretsch drums, his brother Ron holding the fort with slashing guitar riffs, Steve McKay giving the proceedings a bit of an R&B edge with his saxophone work, and new Stooge Mike Watt providing solid groundwork with his propulsive bass playing. 

I was simply too whipped from the Iggy and company experience to see Lucinda Williams April 15 at the Michigan Theater in A2, but will be heading off to the Elvis Costello show at the State on May 11.

Currently listening to and playing new music by Bebel Gilberto, Cowboy Junkies, Wilco, Patti Smith and Mavis Staples.

Best,

Martin

3-18-07

Hello Everybody.

What an incredible way to end a tour! Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band put on a whale of show last night at Cobo Arena - could this really have been his final live performance?  I somehow doubt that, and would not be at all surprised if he does play a few shows later this year.

Regardless, his concert at Cobo yesterday was a hit-filled, 2-hour plus extravaganza that featured such highlights as Ramblin' Gamblin' Man, Still The One and Turn The Page, concluding with a truly rousing version of Rock & Roll Never Forgets.  

The evening was filled with history and nostalgia, and not only because Seger's Live Bullet album was done at Cobo more than 30 years ago. As I looked around at the pumped-up, jubilant crowd, I was thinking about so many other sensational shows I've caught at this legendary, if  worn around the seams venue - The Rolling Stones (on their first tour with Ron Wood), Pink Floyd (on its Dark Side of the Moon tour!), Bob Dylan, the Kinks, Jefferson Airplane, the Pretenders with Iggy Pop as the opening act, etc., etc.

The next big show for me will be the reunited Stooges in concert at the Fox on Friday, April 13, in support of their first CD in 30+ years, The Weirdness.  People still talk about their blistering performance at DTE Energy Music Theatre in '03 - yes, I was there & it was astonishing - so I'm really looking forward to this small-venue show from Iggy & Co. next month. 

On the film front, I'll be presented two screenings at the 45th Ann Arbor Film Festival, which unspools at the Michigan Theater in A2 from March 20-25. I'll be at the Theater to host the 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. screenings on Fri., March 23 - please stop by and say hi. Info at aafilmfest.org.

And of course the Tigers home opener is coming up shortly and I wouldn't miss that for the world.  Lots of Studio A2 on the Road events will be announced soon, so keep checking back here for more updates.

Best,

Martin

2-28-07

Hello everybody.

Well you never quite know what to expect from an artist who's as, well, artistic as Rickie Lee Jones, and our Studio A2 on the Road at Borders with her on Feb. 20 certainly proved that! 

Rickie and two members of her band took the stage to wild applause, but then Rickie professed to have forgotten the chord to every song she'd ever written.  It was strangely comforting to know that even a musician as experienced as her could still have a bad case of stage fright. 

After receiving a quick tutorial from her bandmates about the chords to the first song, she then launched into "Nobody Knows My Name" off of her new release "The Sermon On Exposition Boulevard" and everything was fantastic after that. She played another 3 songs from the album, spiced with anecdotes between tunes, then signed tons of the new CD afterward for her adoring fans. 

I went to the Majestic later that night to see her full-length concert, where she played a mesmerizing hour-and-a-half set filled with old classics ("Coolsville," "Last Chance Texaco") as well as new material.  It was quite an amazing day with a truly unique musical visionary.  

Look for our next Studio A2 on the Road at 12:30pm on March 6 at the Liberty St. Borders in A2, when Ann Arbor's 107one presents Paolo Nutini performing live - he's the guy behind that new hit single "New Shoes."  

Lots of great music to recommend to you that's just come out, including "West" by Lucinda Williams, "Children Running Through" by Patty Griffin, that new Rickie Lee Jones, of course, plus ex-Luna members Dean & Britta's "Back Number," and last but not least,  "Country Ghetto," from a soulful bunch of guys from Florida, JJ Grey and Mofro.

Best,

Martin

###

2-6-07

Hi everybody.

Details on that big...

STUDIO A2 ON THE ROAD

WITH

RICKIE LEE JONES

BORDERS, 612 E. LIBERTY, ANN ARBOR
TUESDAY, FEB. 20 AT 12:30 p.m.

FREE PERFORMANCE AND LIVE BROADCAST ON ANN ARBOR'S 107ONE WQKL-FM)

CD SIGNING SESSION WILL FOLLOW

Singer-songwriter Rickie Lee Jones is a two-time Grammy winner, best known for her 1979 self-titled debut, which included the smash hit "Chuck E's In Love." She's touring to support her new release "Sermon On Exposition Boulevard."
Rickie Lee Jones does not tour that often these days, and rarely does in-store events like this one, making her appearance at Borders all the more special.

It's going to be one very special event! Hope you can make it. If not, listen in online.

Best,

Martin

###

12-7-06/1-7-07

Hi everybody.

With apologies for the delay, here is my list of the Top Ten Films of 2006. My Top Ten CDs of 2006 are below as well. Happy New Year!

Martin's 2006 Top Ten Films

1. LITTLE CHILDREN
2. LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE
3. NEIL YOUNG: HEART OF GOLD
4. THE QUEEN
5. VENUS
6. PARIS, JE T’AIME
7. THANK YOU FOR SMOKING
8. VOLVER
9. AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH
10. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Martin's 2006 Top Ten CDs

1. BOB DYLAN - MODERN TIMES

2. JOHNNY CASH - AMERICAN V - A HUNDRED HIGHWAYS

3. BECK - THE INFORMATION

4. ZERO 7 - THE GARDEN

5. LOS LOBOS - THE TOWN AND THE CITY

6. TOM VERLAINE - SONGS AND OTHER THINGS / TOM VERLAINE - AROUND (TIE)

7. CALEXICO - GARDEN RUIN

8. ELBOW - LEADERS OF THE FREE WORLD

9. ROSANNE CASH - BLACK CADILLAC

10. TOM WAITS - ORPHANS: BRAWLERS, BAWLERS & BASTARDS

11-21-06

Hi everybody.

Van Morrison delivered a strong performance Nov. 7 to an enthusiastic, sold-out house at Masonic Temple - his first show in Michigan in 20 years!  Highlights included stunning versions of Moondance, Back On Top and Backbiters and Syndicators, that last tune a tip of the hat to Detroit blues legend John Lee Hooker, who wrote and first recorded the tune. His 10-piece featured the amazing Cindy Cashdollar on pedal steel, who worked on Dylan's comeback classic Time Out Of Mind.   

With the holidays and the end of the ear looming, I know many of you are on the lookout for my list of top 10 CDs of 2006.  I should have that up on the webiste by around Dec. 1 or so.

We've got one more Studio A2 on the Road event at the Liberty St. Border's in Ann Arbor this year - it will feature Sonya Kitchell and Ben Taylor at 12:30pm on Friday, Dec. 1. Come on out and join me for this free mini-concert - BTW, Ben Taylor is the son of James Taylor and Carly Simon, so he definitely has some significant musical genes in him.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Best,
Martin

11-07-06

Hi everybody.

I thought I was levitating at Bob Dylan's concert last Thursday at the Palace of Auburn Hills, and no, it wasn't because of anything I was drinking at the time! 

The show was simply fantastic and at times overwhelming, with Bob and his superb band playing classic after classic, including Stuck Inside of Mobile..., Visions of Johanna and Positively 4th Street. High Water (off of Love and Theft) and 'Til I Fell For You (from Time Out of Mind) were also stunning, as were the new tunes he did from Modern Times. Whew, what a show.

Tonight I'll be off to see another legend, Van Morrison, in his first area performance in 20 years. What a banner year for artists who rarely visit SE Michigan - 1st it was Tom Waits at the Opera House this summer, then Randy Newman a coupla weeks ago at the Michigan Theater, and now it's Van. 

Hopefully he won't be too crabby and we'll be treated to some more musical magic.

This Thursday (Nov. 9) is my birthday, and what a present I'll be receiving when Robyn Hitchcock and the Venus 3 (including R.E.M.'s Peter Buck) stop by Ann Arbor's 107one for Studio A2 performance.  Listen during the 2pm hour when I'll jump in to host ths one.

Best,
Martin

10-22-06

Hi everybody.

Play the game. That's what Jim Leyland has told his Tigers all season long. That's what needs to happen if our boys want to win the World Series. I can't even believe I just typed those words, World Series. I attended Game 1 last night. Despite the loss, it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

Bob Seger kicked a** on "America The Beautiful" just before the first pitch. Except for his earliest material, I've not been a huge fan, but the new CD, "Face The Promise," won me over. He was a great choice to perform at the game.

I'm emceeing a major event at Eastern Michigan University's Pease Auditorium on Sun., Oct. 29 at 6:30pm.  It's a concert to benefit 826Michigan, a nonprofit writing lab and tutoring center for students ages 6-18. The lineup is sensational - it includes Cowboy Junkies, Stephen Malkmus of Pavement, Dan John Miller of Blanche, and authors Dave Eggers, Davy Rothbart, Julie Orringer and Ryan Harty. Go to 826michigan.org for info and tickets.

Looming on the calendar is Bob Dylan's show at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Nov. 2, where he is expected to play tunes from his magnificent new album "Modern Times." I may have to follow him to London, Ontario the next night for another Dylan fix!  

Claw the Cards!

Best,
Martin

10.10.06

Hi everybody.

How about them Tigers!!  I went to this past Friday's game, the 1st-eve post-season game held at Comerica Park, and I've gotta tell you it was just about the greatest baseball game I have even seen in my life! Kenny Rogers pitched masterfully, and the Tigers shut out the Yankees, the YANKEES 6-0. Unbelievable! 

The only game that I was at that ranked with this one was the time my dad took me to a double header in 1968, and Gates Brown won both games with some late-inning batting heroics.

I"ll be back at Comerica Park this Friday night for the first-ever ALCS game to be held there.

On the musical side of things, I can't wait to see Randy Newman this Sunday at the Michigan Theater, plus I'm hosting 3 Studio A2 on the Road performances at the Ann Arbor Border's for 107one, including Jonah Smith on Oct. 16, The Feeling on Oct. 19 and the Indigo Girls on Oct. 20.  All of these will start at around 12:30pm, so stop by and say 'hi'!

I'm also emceeing a major event at Eastern Michigan University's Pease Auditorium on Sunday, October 29 at 6:30pm.  It's a benefit concert to benefit 826Michigan, a nonprofit writing lab and tutoring center for students ages 6-18. the lineup is sensational - it includes Cowboy Junkies, Stephen Malkmus of Pavement, Dan John Miller of Blanche, and authors Dave Eggers, Davy Rothbart, Julie Orringer and Ryan Harty. Go to 826michigan.org for info and tickets.

Looming on the calendar is Bob Dylan's show at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Nov. 2, where he is expected to play tunes from his magnificent new album Modern Times. I may have to follow him to London, Ontario the next night for another Dylan fix!  

Go get 'em, Tigers!

Best,
Martin

9-13-06

Hi everybody.

Just got back from the 31st Toronto International Film Festival, which I haven't missed since 1985.  It truly is the most important film festival outside of Cannes, presenting over 300 films over its   10-day run. 

I can't say that this year was an outstanding one in terms of what Toronto unspooled. There were great things to see, but you had to really dig past some junk to find it. 

The most powerful film I caught was Little Children, based on the acclaimed novel by Tom Perrotta, starring Kate Winslet. Alternately darkly funny and deeply disturbing, this film sported excellent performances across the board and a mezmerizing screenplay.

Also highly satisfying was Volver, the latest from Spanish director Pedro Almovodar, which stars Penelope Cruz in a riveting role that will surely earn her an Oscar (you heard it here first!).

Other highlights:

Venus - starring the great Peter O'Toole and newcomer Jodie Whittaker in a May-September (make that April-October) romance that defies expectations.  A film that easily goes from super funny to super poignant.

For Your Consideration - an outrageously funny comedy from Christopher Guest, who wrote and starred in This is Spinal Tap, and directed Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show and A Mighty Wind.

Shortbus - a highly sexual film that was also quite charming and smart, too! Paris, Je t'aime --a collection of 18 short films directed by the likes of Alexander Payne (Sideways), the Coen Brothers (Fargo), Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting), all set in areas of Paris, of course.  The cast is astounding(Juliette Binoche, Nick Nolte, Natalie Portman, Steve Buscemi, Gena Rowlands, etc.), the music's gorgeous, it's super romantic and it's set in Paris - what more do you want?

Dates in my planner:

Sept. 28, Blue Jays @ Tigers

Oct. 4, 12:30 p.m., hosting performance by Barenaked Ladies at downtown Border's,      Ann Arbor
and
Yo La Tengo at Michigan Theatre

Oct. 16: Madeleine Peyroux at Michigan Theatre

Go get 'em, Tigers! Play the game.

Best,
Martin

9-9-06

Hi everybody.

It's that time of year once again. I'm in Toronto for the film festival. Will give you an update asap; I'll also phone in a report to ann arbor's 107.1 Monday morning during my program.

Dates in my planner:

Sept. 28, Blue Jays @ Tigers

Oct. 4, 12:30 p.m., hosting performance by Barenaked Ladies at downtown Border's,      Ann Arbor
and
Yo La Tengo at Michigan Theatre

Oct. 16: Madeleine Peyroux at Michigan Theatre

Go get 'em, Tigers! I believe!

More soon.

Best,
Martin

8.23.06

Hi everybody.

It took almost 19 years for Tom Waits to play a concert in Michigan and he put on a merely good, not fantastic concert at the Detroit Opera House. Set list was less than inspired, weighted too heavily toward newer material which was often abrasive or dull. Waits’ current guitarist, Duke Robillard, is no match for Marc Ribot, who’d worked extensively with Waits in recent years.

You had to laugh at Dylan’s recent comments about the poor sound quality on recordings of the last 20 years. But he was masterful at Fifth Third Ballpark near Grand Rapids. His current band, who were new when I last saw Dylan play in April 05, have gelled, working together almost telepathically now. Highlights – a powerhouse version of “It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding),” “Highway 61 Revisited” and “Maggie’s Farm.” He’ll be back here at the Palace later this year.

The death of Arthur Lee of Love hit me hard. At least he gained some recognition before he died. I feel fortunate to have seen him perform at the Magic Stick a few years back. Love’s third album, “Forever Changes,” is a flat-out masterpiece that appears on any serious critic’s list of top rock albums of all time. Lee was a troubled genius, ahead of his time. He deserves to be remembered for his huge impact on rock music in the 1960s.

This cool website, www.milifemitimes.org, was kind enough to interview me recently. My wife has been contributing to this site for several months, and they asked her to ask me some questions. The site has a wealth of interesting cultural info, music pieces by Gary Graff, restaurant reviews by John Horn and other fun insider tips from all over Michigan. Check it out!

Dates in my planner:

Sept. 10: Zero 7 at V Fest in Toronto

Sept. 11-15: Toronto Film Festival (I’ll be calling in reports during my weekday radio program)

Oct. 4: SPECIAL EVENT TBA (details coming this Mon., Aug. 28)
and
Yo La Tengo at Michigan Theatre

Oct. 16: Madeleine Peyroux at Michigan Theatre

Go get 'em, Tigers! I believe!

More soon.

Best,
Martin

07.28.06

Hi everybody.

It was so great to meet many of you at the 107one live music stage at the Ann Arbor Art Fairs last week. Thanks for coming out in the hot weather!. I heard some incredible local bands -- see my July 30 Fine Tuning playlist, 5 p.m. hour, to check them out.

This Tuesday, August 1, 107one and our sister station WLBY (Air America) are staging an on-air fundraiser for the Ann Arbor Film Festival, which lost state funding because of the controversial films it presents. Joining me Tuesday on the air will be actor/theater empresario Jeff Daniels and Detroit film critics Terry Lawson, John Monaghan and Tom Long, among others. If you're inclined to support this worthy cause, tune in Tuesday on the air or online.

Meanwhile, 107one’s Listener Co-op continues to seek your input on its musical selections. They’ve crunched the first batch of responses with eye-opening results, and round two is underway. I know your time is valuable. Respond if you can.

Dates in my planner:

Sun., July 30, Firestone 400 IRL race at Michigan Int’l Speedway

Fri., Aug. 11, Tom Waits at the Detroit Opera House

Sat., Aug. 12, Bob Dylan in at Fifth Third Park, Grand Rapids

See you around! Go Tigers!

Best,
Martin

07.13.06

Hi everybody.

It’s art fair time in Ann Arbor and I’m going to be right in the thick of it next week, having a blast. If you’re strolling around, stop by the 107one Stage at Church and Willard for some free live music. I’ll be there from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday – please introduce yourself!

Meanwhile, 107one’s Listener Co-op continues to seek your input on its musical selections. They’ve crunched the first batch of responses with eye-opening results, and round two is underway. I know your time is valuable. Respond if you can.

Did you know about the Ann Arbor Film Festival’s state funding being withheld? I’ll be on the air at 107one’s sister station, WLBY Air America, on Tuesday, August 1, helping out during an on-air fundraiser for the film festival. Stay tuned for more details.

Just a few days left for a compact but worthwhile photo exhibit and sale at the Art Gallery of Windsor. I truly enjoyed the work of Barrie Wentzell, a Toronto-based shooter of classic rock images including Diana Ross, Bob Dylan and the late, great Syd Barrett. It closes this Sunday. There are cool Detroit River and skyline views, and a tiny, chic restaurant at the AGW’s newish space as well.

Concert of Colors is this weekend – check out my article on this excellent annual free music event, now at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, in tomorrow’s Detroit Free Press. In the Sunday Free Press, watch for my Detroit Disc review of the latest release by Paul’s Big Radio.

Dates in my planner:

Thu., July 27, Gordon Lightfoot at Meadow Brook Music Festival

Sun., July 30, Firestone 400 IRL race at Michigan Int’l Speedway

Fri., Aug. 11, Tom Waits at the Detroit Opera House

Sat., Aug. 12, Bob Dylan in at Fifth Third Park, Grand Rapids

See you around! Go Tigers!

Best,
Martin

6-4-06

It’s been four months now since I became the “morning guy” at ann arbor’s 107one. It’s been intense, instructional and incredibly fun. In addition to the 6-10 a.m. weekday show and my Sunday 4-6 p.m. freeform adventure, “Fine Tuning,” I’ve been interviewing musicians, of course, and people connected to all kinds of cool local activities. The free lunchtime concerts at Borders Ann Arbor store are a blast. And it’s not every day you get to have a live saw whet owl in your studio, or visit the new local sanctuary where it will reside. I hope I’ve been a good conduit for music and community info thus far. Please let me know.

You’ll also be interested to hear that 107one has launched "Listener Co-op," seeking your musical opinions on its current selections and suggestions for future programming. Feel free to share your thoughts with the powers that be.

Some recent activities:

UMS Distinguished Artist Award ceremony for/with Dave Brubeck at Hill Auditorium
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland for opening of “Bob Dylan’s American Journey”

Films: “Thank You For Smoking” and “Inside Man”

Coming up:
Television concert in Toronto this Friday
Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint at Hill Auditorium June 13
Tally Hall at Ann Arbor Summer Festival July 6
Firestone Indy 400 at Michigan Int’l Speedway July 30

Hot new releases:
Nomo “Nu Tones” one of the year’s best releases thus far
Zero 7 “The Garden” in stores Wed. June 6

My next goal is stocking this web site with all the CD reviews I’ve been writing for a local newspaper for the last few years. Please stay tuned!

Best,
Martin

4.23.06

Racing! SUNDAY! SUNDAY! Remember those old Detroit Dragway commercials? You longtime listeners know I’m a huge fan of racing, mostly Formula One but also Indy Car Racing and yes, even drag racing.

This week I got the chance to visit Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn on a non-race day. Fellow members of Ann Arbor Radio and I had a wonderful meeting with members of the staff of the Speedway, and I even got a ride around the track – although it was in a street vehicle, not a race car! However, we’re putting together an amazing promotion that will involve a handful of you joining me at the Firestone Indy 400 on July 30.

We also hope to choose one very special person to join me in the winner’s circle right after the race – we’ll have our picture taken with, who else, the race winner!  Maybe it’ll be with Danica Patrick, maybe Helio Castro-Neves – whoever it is, it will be a total blast.

Spring brings the start of racing season as well as a bunch of new releases including Bruce Springsteen’s We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions and the collaboration between Mark Knopfler and Emmlyou Harris, All The Road Running, along with the 1st new music from Television’s Tom Verlaine in close to 15 years!  Also out soon are new ones from Gomez, Paul Simon and Alejandro Escovedo.

Sadly, I couldn’t stay awake late enough to make it to either the Elbow show at the Magic Stick or the Death Cab For Cutie/Franz Ferdinand show at the State. If you were there, please send me your email review.

Best,

Martin

3.31.06

Anybody going to Opening Day at Comerica Park? I'll be there, so happy that spring is pretty much here. And with spring comes the uptick in the number of new releases, so important for all of us!

I'm also happy to report that ann arbor's 107one is now streaming its air signal on the Internet. Those of you outside the station's broadcast range, welcome back! I hope you can check in with me sometime during the week, and certainly on Sunday afternoons for my Fine Tuning program.

The Fine Tuning playlists are available for your perusal anytime, in the Departments at lower right. I'm also going to try to list the upcoming StudioA2 free lunchtime concerts at Borders Books & Music in downtown Ann Arbor, in the hope that you will make it out to one and say hello.

How about a late-spring party for us? I'm checking out venues located near major freeways, so it's easy to navigate from anywhere in town. When the details are set, I'll post them here.

Best,
Martin

3.17.06

Just finished a live remote broadcast from Conor O’Neil’s Pub in downtown Ann Arbor. What a blast! People were indeed lined up to get in at 7 a.m. I truly enjoy these radio road trips, and meeting listeners who turn up to say hello. Maybe one of these events next week fits into your schedule.

At 12:30 p.m. this Wednesday, March 22, I’ll be at Borders in downtown Ann Arbor, hosting a live performance by English singer/pianist Jamie Cullum. These free concerts, part of ann arbor’s 107one’s Acoustic Lunch series, have been great thus far.

And from 3-6 p.m. Saturday, March 25, I’ll be spinning at the grand opening of Jimz Jamz, a new music store in downtown Oxford. Earlier that day, from noon-2 p.m., Brazil and Beyond will perform live at the store (24 S. Washington, 248-628-3047).

Great news! The station is just about ready to flip the switch to launch the Web streaming of its signal. We’re talking just days from now. I hope this will allow me to reconnect with listeners outside of 107one’s broadcast area.

Please check out my morning program, 6-10 a.m. weekdays, as well as my new weekend freeform program, Fine Tuning, airing 4-6 p.m. every Sunday. I’ve posted the first few Fine Tuning playlists for your perusal. Check them out at right.

Best,
Martin

3.2.06

Hello, Everyone.

This weekend I begin hosting a new weekly program on ann arbor’s 107one called Fine Tuning. It airs 4-6 p.m. Sundays. Longtime listeners will recognize the free-form format of the program, and my new radio friends will enjoy the musical adventure. Please check it out and let me know what you think.

This week on Fine Tuning, I’ll be featuring Neil Young’s Prairie Wind CD. Tthe film Neil Young: Heart Of Gold, directed by Jonathan Demme, opens at the Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor on Fri., March 10.

Meanwhile, during my 6-10 a,m, morning drive program, I’ll spin a couple of highlights from the next Fine Tuning show each weekday at 9 a.m. And 107one will begin Web streaming its signal shortly, I’m told.

If you can, please come out and say hello during one of my upcoming appearances:

At 12:30 p.m. Wed., March 22, I’ll welcome English singer/pianist Jamie Cullum for a live performance at Borders Books and Music in downtown Ann Arbor, as part of 107one’s Acoustic Lunch series.

From 3-6 p.m. Sat., March 25, I’ll be spinning at the grand opening of Jimz Jamz, a new music store in downtown Oxford at 24 S. Washington, (248) 628-3047.

Watch for playlists from Fine Tuning and the Oxford gig in the near future. And if you haven’t already, please check out our new content, at right.

Best,
Martin

2.16.06

Sorry to have been out of touch. My first few weeks at ann arbor’s 107one have been busy ones. Getting up for my 6 a.m.-10 a.m. program is challenging, but I don’t miss rush hour traffic one bit. I’m working with great people and learning new technical skills on advanced equipment. The program is evolving daily, with new features and interviews to complement the music.

Every weekday at 7 a.m., you’ll hear Martin’s Mix, two of my current favorites or hot new tracks. I deliver music news at 8:20 a.m. weekdays, and I’m blogging at the station’s Web site too. I also recommend the station’s comprehensive online concert listing.

Tomorrow (Thu., Feb. 16), I’ll be at Borders Books in Ann Arbor, hosting a live performance by Duncan Sheik at 12:30 p.m. Come on down and say hello if you can. Sheik’s “White Limousine” tour stops at the Blind Pig tomorrow night.

Starting Sunday, March 5, I’ll be hosting a new weekly program from 4-6 p.m. called "Fine Tuning with Martin Bandyke."And for those outside the broadcast area, plans are proceeding to stream the station’s signal over the Internet. I’ll post the details asap..

Check out my review of the new Ray Davies solo effort, “Other People’s Lives,” in this Sunday’s Detroit Free Press.

Thanks for visiting this site and expressing your support! And please keep in touch.

Best,
Martin

2.01.06

2.1.06

Hi, Everybody.

Great to be back in the saddle again!

Thanks to those who have tuned in during my new morning drive program at ann arbor’s 107one, as well as those who showed up at the Bivouac store in Ann Arbor Monday to welcome me to town. Kudos too, to the band Tally Hall for the stellar mini-concert right inside the store.

In addition to my 6 a.m.-10 a.m. weekday program, I’ll be doing a weekend show starting in the next week or so. And the station hopes to start streaming its signal online within six weeks, so anyone with a computer anywhere on the globe can listen. Please stay tuned for details.

New content! A shout-out to those who came up with my old “best of” lists, dating back to 1997. A fun look back.

Watch for my reviews of the new Beth Orton  CD and the Richard Thompson box set in this Sunday's Detroit Free Press.

Finally, keep me in mind for your musical needs as you plan that corporate event or family affair. I love to meet and entertain interesting people! I’m also tossing around potential venues for our next get-together. iLounge was great...where will we meet next?

1.24.06

I’m back in business!

So thrilled to be with “ann arbor’s 107one” (WQKL-FM 107.1), playing much of the same music you’re used to hearing from me. You’ll also hear a variety of interviews at 107one during my morning drive shift, 6 a.m.-10 a.m. weekdays, starting Monday, Jan. 30. If you’re in Washtenaw County or west of Telegraph in metro Detroit, you’ll pick up the station no problem. If you’re farther east, or elsewhere on the planet, don’t despair. 107one will be streaming its signal over the Internet very shortly. If mornings aren’t your thing, I hope to launch a weekend program soon. Please check us out on the air or at www.annarbors107one.com.

Meanwhile, I will keep scheduling DJ gigs throughout our area, to keep in close contact with you. Because several of you have asked, I’m also booking private party DJ jobs.

And yes, there will be more content on this site soon. All my Free Press CD reviews will be here as soon as the newspaper gives its OK. Watch for CD release dates and concert announcements. I’ll post a bio with some fun photos and a links page. And with your help, I hope to post all my “Best Of” lists from years past, which were lost in my job switch. If you’ve got any old lists, send ‘em in Thanks for your patience, as we build this site with pro bono assistance.

1.6.06

Finally, a sunny day I’d probably start my program with “At Last” by Etta James, slip in some Subdudes and Dirty Dozen Brass Band, maybe Patty Larkin. I’m working several strong angles aimed at getting back with you, musically speaking. It might not be too long. Stay tuned

This coming Friday, the 13th (yep ), I’ll be looking for you at iLounge in Pontiac, at my first DJ gig in a few months. Doors open at 9 p.m., admission $10. This new spot inside Clutch Cargo’s is lush and plush, a martini lounge with a good-sized dance floor.

Here’s a couple of suggestions to keep the energy up this weekend. Tally Hall plays an all-ages hometown gig tonight at the Blind Pig in Ann Arbor, but get there very early if you want in because this is one hot group. And this weekend, the Magic Bag hosts the Anti-Freeze Blues Festival, featuring Olu Dara tonight and on Saturday, from Chicago, Siegel-Schwall.

Hope to see you on the 13th.

1.2.06

Happy New Year One & All
My ears are itching This time of year, there’s so little new music, but if you can hang on until February 7, Other People’s Lives from Ray Davies and Comfort of Strangers from Beth Orton will hit stores.
Davies, the former Kinks frontman, has never before issued a solo release of all new material. It’s full of his witty observations and hooky melodies. Orton, the English singer-songwriter, makes a stylistic departure. The songs, produced by the inimitable Jim O’Rourke (Sonic Youth, Wilco), are sparser and stranger, but still captivating.
I’ll be spinning tracks from both Friday, Jan. 13, at iLounge in Pontiac, Amir Daiza’s slick new spot in the Clutch Cargo’s complex. Please stop by Doors at 9 p.m.; cover $10.
Thanks to all of you who have visited this site thus far. In the coming weeks, we’ll be adding a ton of content, such as CD reviews, as well as music news and career updates. What would you like to see here? Please let me know.
A big shout out to Ken Waagner of Smartley Dunn Solutions and Lyn Davis of LSDesign for their ongoing technical assistance. And to Mike Novak, attorney extraordinaire, my undying gratitude and friendship.

12.23.05

Sometime over the holidays, I hope you find a moment to sit down with a glass of something you like and listen to Vince Guaraldi’s “Charlie Brown Christmas” CD. Kim and I will be thinking of you as we do exactly that. I’ve already received the best present ever – your heartfelt support And I’ll never forget the contributions you’ve made all along, which put my midday radio program at the top of the fundraising heap time and again, surpassing donations made to NPR drive-time news programs. It’s my sincere hope that we will share great music, together, in 2006.
In fact, we can do just that, if only for one night. Please join me at iLounge in Pontiac on Friday, January 13, where I’ll be spinning music spanning my broadcast career beginning at 9 p.m. I would love to see you Club owner Amir Daiza is generously donating proceeds to yours truly. Cover is $10; iLounge is part of the Clutch Cargo’s complex, at 65 E. Huron, Pontiac. Call the club at (248) 333-2525 for details.
As a special treat, I’ll also be presenting some hot new music, from Ray Davies, Beth Orton, and an incredible young band out of Ann Arbor, Tally Hall.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Everybody!

12.16.05

In a little over a week, this website has gotten over 21,000 hits and I've received almost 300 emails from you - wow
It's still tough to really express how moved I am by your impassioned messages of support, which have literally been coming from all over the world. Whether you listened to me on WDET for all of my 22 years there or just discovered me during my last few months on the air, I thank one and all for listening and for your incredible financial support during the fund drives. It's important for you to know that my program was one of the top fundraising shows at the station, matching and often surpassing Morning Edition and All Things Considered. In fact, my last show during this October's fund drive raised over $30,000 - an all-time record for the program. Talk about going out on top
Gotta give big time thanks to those who have hired me for DJ work - I really enjoy playing music where I can actually see the audience, unlike radio Keep me in mind for work at your club or your next private party - you won't be disappointed.
Many of you have asked if I'll get on another public station, turn to a commercial venue or even jump to satellite radio. Well, it's no big secret for me to tell you that I am pursuing all these avenues with the hope that somebody out there will like me and hire me. I encourage you to write/call/email whatever outlet you feel would be a good home for yours truly (whether it's XM, Sirius, WXPN, WXRT, WRCJ, WCSX, WRIF, etc.) and tell management to hire me. People have the power, as Patti Smith once sang...
Keep the faith - Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays