Drinking Up Denton
There's something in the water in Denton. I don't know what it is or where it came from, but you CANNOT tread it. That said, the bands that stay afloat for awhile are worth a listen. What a great place to see a show and meet some people who are passionate about music. It's nice seeing some write-ups on the locals for us out-of-towners to look into.
5 Ways To Die At Work, via dallasobserver.com
RTB2 is one of the greatest bands out there right now. Ryan Thomas Becker is an amazing performer/songwriter as well as a shit-hot guitar player, and Grady Don Sandlin, man, he ain't too bad either. The Both of It is a great album ("Yer Suite Blues 2" has my vote for song of the whatever, it still gives me the chills). But, live is where it's at with these guys. Thanks for giving them some overdue attention—maybe a full article next time?
Harold Lasvegas, via dallasobserver.com
It's good to see an article mentioning (though somewhat briefly—come on, Observer, use your words) RTB2 in the context of Denton music. They're genuine, intense and lovely, and one of the few bands I'll go see anymore. They balance somber introspection and "rock-your-face-off" without sacrificing sincerity or charm. They're more substance than "scene," and Becker and Sandlin pair beautifully together. I agree with [the previous writer], but I have to say that "Wishy Waltz" is the best song since somesuch. That song is heaven squeezin's.
Moustachecupcakes, via dallasobserver.com
"There's No Place Like Frisco," By Pete Freedman, May 22
Oops for Ozzie
This is a huge mistake. After one concert at this bloated money-swallower, I vowed never to return. When I had to pay $20 for parking, I knew I was too old for concerts. Then, when we were inside, there is very little shade. Reminded me of the old Texas Jams at the Cotton Bowl. Frisco can have their Pizza Hut Park, but it's not for me. Last, but not least, you have to pay to use the roads leading into the place. Money...I don't make enough, especially with gas prices these days.
Sandy, via dallasobserver.com
I think it is a nice nod to Dallas by the Ozzfest folks. But since they are having it in Frisco and not Dallas, I don't see how this helps bring another festival to Dallas. I think I'll just go to ACL where I'm sure to get my money's worth at a real music festival.
Mikey, via dallasobserver.com
"Terrain of Grief," By Megan Feldman, May 22
Powerful Stuff
A most powerful piece of journalism. Ms. Feldman's article is superb.
I did find what I believe is one small error. She cites that Sergeant Markham had gone out to "retrieve the bodies of some Air Force pilots who died in a downed Apache helicopter."
A quick search of the Military Times online casualty database "Honor the Fallen" for 28 May 2007 (http://www.militarycity.com/valor/honor_may_2007.html) lists what looks like the names of the helicopter and vehicle crews that also died that day. From this, I believe you can determine the true names and affiliations of those who perished during that mission.
Lieutenant Colonel William Thurmond, Dallas
Correction: Lieutenant Colonel Thurmond is correct. In the article, we state that Sergeant Jonathan A. Markham was killed on his way to retrieve the bodies of two Air Force pilots who died in a downed Apache helicopter. The two men killed in the helicopter crash were actually in the Army, not the Air Force, and the helicopter was a Kiowa, not an Apache. Army 1st Lieutenant Keith N. Heidtman, 24, of Norwich, Connecticut and Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Theodore U. Church, 32, of Ohio died after their aircraft came under enemy fire. We regret the error.
