Must say it was the most interesting place I've seen a show. I'm Jay Porks, and Welcome to the twenty second installment of the Jay Porks Never ending concert series for Dinosaur Jr!!!!... tonight takes us to Williamsburg, to the Brooklyn Bowl, which I know- sounds like a bowling alley. It actually IS a bowling alley, along with being a pseudo-fancy restaurant, it's equipped with16 bowling lanes(each lane with a big screen on the end, showing a movie) ... Read More

Joseph Arthur 01/23/10 The Troubadour - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com   As I shared here recently as a FROM THE VAULT post, the last time I saw Joseph Arthur, we didn't really connect.  In the weeks and months that passed after that warm summer night, I actually began to get angry.  What was wrong with me?  I have listened to this man and his music time and time again and I allowed weird vibes and distractions ruin our brief time together.  Not permitting my ... Read More

Joseph Arthur 07/15/2008 The Troubadour - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos by Justin (note, this review was first published at MTVnews.com.  I have shared it From The Vault as I will be paying Mr. Arthur a return visit at The Troubadour this Saturday Night.) The teams were supposed to be even - 3 straights and 3 gays. However, at the last minute one flip flopped and we found ourselves with the upper hand at 4-2. As we sat open, pillow-filled booth down the street from the Troubadour ... Read More

USELESS KEYS 01/08/10 The Viper Room - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Video by Justin/concertconfessions.com Often times in Los Angeles, music fans blow off opening acts and only show up for the main event. On the second Friday of 2010, I did the exact opposite. Last summer when I walked in on USELESS KEYS’ set closer at The Roxy, I was so impressed I promised myself I would seek them out again. Not one to break a promise, the Los Angeles-based band’s set at the Viper Room ... Read More

Steel Panther (with Delta Rose & TARSHA) 12/28/2009 House of Blues - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com Racist, Homophobic and degrading to women, one would think that a band like Steel Panther would never survive liberal West Hollywood, CA. Yet the band once known as Metal Skool has used Monday nights on the Sunset Strip to organically grow their mock metal musical onslaught from underground buzz to worldwide domination. Having not seen the boys since their name change/major label record deal, a co-worker and ... Read More

The Affliction Christmas Concert w/ TSOL, Suicidal Tendencies, Pennywise & Danzig Long Beach Arena - Long Beach, CA 12/19/09 Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com It would be very easy for me to use this review to blast Affliction.  It is of course the second most popular t-shirt company for douche bags after Ed Hardy.  However it is the holiday season and why hate when you can be grateful that you got free all access VIP tickets to the sold out $5 Affliction Holiday concert featuring TSOL, Suicidal ... Read More

[gallery][gallery] First, many thanks and gratitude to Justin and Mr. Robertson for getting me that "precious" photo pass (and may this not be the last time i get it lol). i am a huge fan of Hatebreed but i am not that big on the "deathcore" scene, still i had a blast at this show, and after all i'm becoming a fan of Born of Osiris and Unearth. i used 2 digital cameras plus an old but trusty 35mm cam. i was the ... Read More

91X Wrex The Halls featuring 30 Seconds To Mars 12/13/2009 - Viejas Arena -San Diego, CA Words by WarChild490 Videos taken from YouTube/Shot by user Kobefan131 Photos by Daikou Coming from someone like myself, who hasn't set foot outside of the city of Los Angeles in over ten years, taking a trip to San Diego was exciting enough. When the reason for the trip is a band you've been wanting to see play live for the past 4 years, not even lack of sleep could stop me ... Read More

Neil Diamond 10/01/08 Hollywood Bowl - Los Angeles, CA Words/Videos by Justin aka concertconfessions.com This article first appeared on MTVnews.com Hot Autumn Nights - Neil Diamond Peforms At The Hollywood Bowl In the magical summer of 1995, my parents needed a break from raising their two young sons. So they packed our bags and sent my younger brother and me a few hours north to the wine country of Northern California. There we spent a week with our grandparents. Many important things happened that week. We played ... Read More

The 90's are back! did they ever left? who would have though that in 2009 musical groups that began their carrers in the 90's were going to be crashing the party in the new millenia? With the return of bands like BLINK 182, LIMP BIZKIT (touring in europe), JANE'S ADDICTION, CREED, NO DOUBT, PHISH (justin's hippi-fave), THE CRANBERRIES, THE PIXIES, SUGAR RAY and STONE TEMPLE PILOTS (2008 tour) and adding the continuing carrers of NIN, PEARL JAM, ROB ZOMBIE, 311, PAPA ROACH, GREEN DAY, ... Read More

The Black Dahlia Murder 12/03/09 The Roxy Theatre - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com A few years before I was the concert confessing cubical warrior who hangs at Hollywood hotspots with Tom Morello and that dude who gets paid to beat the snot out of people, I drove various video tapes around in a highly decorated Scion XB.  While there were many terrible things about making $9.00 to deliver digital betacam’s with Judge Judy episodes or Lexus commercials, there were some experiences that I ... Read More

My Morning Jacket 09/21/09 Greek Theatre - Los Angeles, CA Words/Photos by Justin/Concertconfessions.com Editors note:  This piece made it's original debut on mtvnews.com.  I am basically reposting here to test out and see if I can insert youtube videos into a blog. Jim James For President - My Morning Jacket Campaigns in Los Angeles For most of the decade, every jaded junkie brown nosed rock critic scumbag has declared My Morning Jacket saviors of rock and roll. MMJ front man Jim James has been dubbed the second ... Read More

Metalfest featuring Dirge Within, Hate Eternal, Born of Osiris, Whitechapel, Unearth, Chimaira, Cannibal Corpse, Trivium & Hatebreed The Palladium - Hollywood, CA 11/28/2009 Words/Photos/Video by Justin While many used Thursday to feast and give thanks, I managed to wait till Saturday to truly celebrate Thanksgiving.  Armed with two comp tickets and a fancy photo pass (thanks KM), I hit the Palladium in chilly Hollywood, CA for a day long metal festival.  With a lineup featuring rising acts like Whitechapel, legends such as Cannibal Corpse and ... Read More

Fungo Mungo, Will Haven, Shaun Lopez (FAR), Greg Puciato (The Dillinger Escape Plan), Robert Trujillo (Metallica), Rocky George (Suicidal Tendencies), Dave Lombardo (Slayer), Daron Malakian (System of A Down), Alexi Laiho (Children of Bodom), John Dolmayan (System of A Down), Shavo Odadjian (System of A Down), Max Cavalera (Soulfly), Deftones and many more! November 20, 2009 -- Avalon: Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Karla Serrano After witnessing night one of Chi Chengs benefit show I thought to myself, "There's no way in hell they could top ... Read More

Mastodon & Dethklok 11/20/09 The Palladium - Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin On the night of Sunday, November 15th, 2009 I was sitting on the floor of my bathroom puking into my recently cleaned toilet when the unthinkable happened.  With no warning at all, warm liquid poop flowed right out of my bottom and straight into my underwear.  As I sat with vomit dripping from my beard and pants full of feces, I knew that it could only get better.  No matter how rotten I felt ... Read More

A Benefit For Chi Cheng - Featuring P.O.D., Far, Cypress Hill, Tommy Lee, Mark McGrath, Greg Puciato, Ben Kenney, Xzibit, Richie Cavlaera, Rodleen Getsic and the Deftones 11/19/09 - Avalon: Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com   When I read on blabbermouth.net last year that Chi Cheng, bass player for one of my all time favorite bands was in a coma from a serious car accident, my heart sunk deep into my gut.  For 12+ years, I have seen his band – the Deftones all over the great state of ... Read More

the cranberries - linger live from new york[gallery] If you blink, you'll miss it. The Cranberries are back after a long seven year absent. The group was one of the most successful rock acts of the '90s and sold over 14.5 million albums in the United States alone. On this new york city show at the Nokia Theater Dolores and the boys played for an hour and a half of mostly hits, a couple of dolores' solo songs plus a brand new, very ... Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words/Videos by Justin Note: Minus some video of Free, with full memory cards I decided to simply enjoy the music vs. messing with my camera)  As I made the long walk from Hunky Dory to the concert field for the last time, cold can of beer in hand, I stopped for a few moments and just took it all in. The phans, the security and of course the beautiful mountain backdrop which the sun sank ... Read More

Hey All, With various Phish blogs linking here, I would like to take a moment and say that anyone and everyone is welcome to write for concertconfessions.com.  If you are hitting Phish Fall Tour (or New Years) 09, or any show for that matter, and want to share, well lets just say this is me begging you to do just that.  So sign up, snap some photos and share your thoughts with the world. Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin Sunday morning/early afternoon at Festival 8 was nothing short of perfect.  I made my way to the venue pretty early in hopes of getting an 8 shaped donut and coffee along with a free scoop of Phish food in exchange for a busted old cell phone.  While I managed to get my ice cream, I never made it into the 45 minute line for a free donut and coffee.  Why would ... Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Word/Photos by Justin Writers note:  All encounters as told below are true.  Names are changed/made up to protect the not so innocent.  It is suggested that you make a strong drink or eat some paint chips before reading this report on Phish fans, as it is NOT to be taken seriously and does not reflect the entire Phish community (I am talking to you PHISHMEAT).    Phans #1 – Kid A (and Deb) I met Kid ... Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin I was somewhere near Life On Mars Ave when the news began to take hold.  It was Halloween 2009, and I was in the middle of the f’n desert where Phish would be covering Exile on Main St by The Rolling Stones in just a few hours.  If my father has taught me anything, it’s that The Rolling Stones are nothing more than a glorified bar band, and out of 99 ... Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30/2009 -11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words by Justin  It was a week ago to the moment that I was at the beautiful Casino Morongo in Cabazon, CA when I saw a tweet that more or less said the following:   Got raped by security going into @phishfest8.  Thought I could hide a bottle of beer in my anus, but boy was I wrong.  #F8   I can’t lie; this brought a Secret Smile to my face.  You see, I hate authority, especially ... Read More

Phish – Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 – Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin A few hours after the sun crept below the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountain range, a thick cloud of smoke hung above the Hunky Dory (named after David Bowie’s classic 1971 record) campground deep inside the Empire Polo Fields.  With no open fires or BBQ’s allowed within the lush campground (declared the nicest out of all 8 campgrounds by Jamtopia.com) it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out what was ... Read More

Phish - Festival 8 10/30-11/01/2009 - Empire Polo Fields: Indio, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin Writers Note:  In honor of the 8th Phish festival, I plan to write 8 separate confessions of my four days in the desert with Phish.  Having left the Hunky Dory campsite 30 hours ago, I have still not fully processed everything I experienced within the grounds of the Empire Polo Grounds.  In the event that some non-phish fans read this, I have tried my best to provide links on lingo that ... Read More

Brand New w/ Manchester Orchestra/The Builders & The Butchers 10/17/2009 - The Palladium: Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Reverend Justito! It is pure dumb luck that I ever gave Brand New a chance.  Sent on assignment to check in on the emerging y’alt rock hipster scene coming out of Portland, OR, I ended up watching Brand New steal a poorly planned festival gig from two veteran alt rock bands.  With an outstanding new album called Daisy I headed into my old stomping grounds to finally experience ... Read More

For years, I have been a fan of sharing live music.  While some folks call them bootlegs, I prefer the term live concert recordings.  After all, I have never (and will never) make a cent off the music of someone else.  For me, I have met many wonderful people from my years of trading concert CD’s across the country and even world.  For me there is nothing better than being able to relive a live moment I was lucky enough to see ... Read More

It is no accident that i love taking pictures. in fact i graduated with a Graphics Arts Degree and worked in the advertising field for a time. though i make my living as a state employee my love for picture taking has never waivered. To "compose" a concert photograph and be given a few seconds to do it, is a challenge that i want in order to get that ultimate shot that is so rewarding. Now! i am not a professional photographer ... Read More

u2 - 360 tour[gallery] U2 360 tour 2009 is the best stadium tour that i have seen. mind you i have only been to 5 stadium gigs over the years, but the staging is very fan-friendly and awesome to look at.  the proximity of the stage from the audience was the first thing i noticed.  the stage, in the round just a bit off center gave not a bad seat/spot in the house. the speakers were hanging from this "spider-like" claws that held everything in place, including ... Read More

Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 09/17/09 - Fox Theatre: Oakland, CA Words/Photos by Jhallead Ben Harper is my favorite.  I have been a fan of his since he opened for Pearl Jam in 1995.  I have always loved the fact that although he is an outstanding person and musician, he did not get incredibly big in the music world.  This means that I can typically get very up close and personal at his shows.  This show was the closest I have ever gotten which ... Read More

Michael Burks 09/12/09 Cozy's - Sherman Oaks, CA Words/Photos by God Frank Howdy Concert Confessionites! Long time listener, first time caller here. I've been debating posting a review on this site for a while, and after seeing the lack of blues reviews I finally decided I had to contribute. Back in April while in Laughlin, NV for the Blues and Brews Festival (and some marathon poker playing) I discovered blues man extraordinaire Michael Burks. I spoke with Michael one day during the festival and he told ... Read More

P!nk w/ The Ting Ting's Staples Center - Los Angeles, CA 09/18/09 Words by HJunderpants I’ve seen P!nk live  three times now, and this last show in promotion of her latest album “Funhouse” was by far the most overall entertaining. Having separated her shoulder days before her L.A. show, P!nk far from disappointed, and opened by being lowered in a cloth rope swing while singing the AC DC favorite “Highway to Hell" to almost 20,000 amped fans at the Staples Center. At this point she has ... Read More

 The Vans Warped Tour 15th Anniversary Party 09/06/09 - Club Nokia: Los Angeles, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin It was 1997 when I first walked through the gates of Kevin Lyman’s wonderful world known as Warped Tour.  While that was not the first year of the ever evolving punk rock summer camp, it’s hard to believe that the festival has now wrapped 15 successful years.  Having missed all three Southern California stops on this years traveling circus show, I made sure not to miss the 15th ... Read More

Nine Inch Nails (with special guests Queen Kwong and Mew) Wave Goodbye Tour 2009 Hollywood Palladium, Hollywood, CA 09/02/09 Words/Video by Justin/Photos by Justin & Sylvrtail (Editors Note:  I did not take many photos last night, as I used the laxed taping policy to video tape a good chunk of the set.  I am going to create a nice DVD of it, stay tuned for details). November 1994: Somewhere between San Francisco and San Jose on a cold and damp afternoon.  I am down on my knees ... Read More

Autolux/Queens Of The Stone Age/Nine Inch Nails 10/01/2005 - Hollywood Bowl: Los Angeles, CA Words by Justin Editors Note:  With LA on fire once again, and tonight being the "last" time I see Nine Inch Nails, I figured it was appropriate to share with you the very first concert review I wrote (for my myspace blog).  In going back and reading this today, I was not only reminded of a wonderful night I had, but am rather amazed to see how far my writing has come.  ... Read More

Epicenter Festival 09 Fairplex: Pomona, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin Why waste time with a long introduction about the Fairplex at Pomona (you know, where they race ponies) lets just get to the f’n music! Street Sweeper Social Club: Chances are I would not have shown up to this festival till much later in the day if it was not for SSSC opening up the cavernous main stage.  As someone who spent their formative years (musically speaking) in the 1990’s I was not about to miss a chance ... Read More

 Judas Priest 08/15/09 St. Augustine Amphitheatre - St. Augustine, FL Words by theronman714 Photos (used by permission) by Mattdaddy @ www.FLmetal.com   The Whitesnake/Judas Priest show in St. Augustine August 15, 2009, was probably a disappointment for a handful of fans that were there to see Whitesnake. Lead singer David Coverdale developed vocal cord problems and Whitesnake was forced to cancel the remainder of their U.S. tour, including their stop in St. Aug. Fortunately, I wasn't one of those disappointed fans. I was there to see and ... Read More

Coheed and Cambria/Heaven and Hell Greek Theatre: Los Angeles, CA 08/11/09 Words/Photos by Justin (Note, I got no Coheed photos as I mainly took video during their set.  As soon as we have net access in our new home, I will add the videos).  Sometimes, the stars and planets align and things work out, despite the fact you didn’t think it actually would.  I was disappointed knowing I would not be able to make it to the beautiful Greek Theatre here in Los Angeles to see ... Read More

Blazed and Confused Tour 07/24/09 Shoreline Amphitheatre: Mt. View, CA Words/Photos by jhallead My boss comes up to me at 3pm on a Friday asking if I want our box seats for the Blazed and Confused Tour at the Shoreline.  With no time to change, headed north with my white hippie shirt and flip flops. What did I have to drink you ask?  Gin and Juice, what else?  I was actually surprised that Snoop opened for Slightly Stoopid.  Sorry Slightly Stoopid fans, but I think they ... Read More

No Doubt 07/25/09 Shoreline Amphitheatre: Mt. View, CA Words/Photos by jhallead The last time I saw a No Doubt show I was 16 years old, convinced I was going to marry Gavin Rossdale, and didn't really like Gwen too much.  I did not like Gwen only because I was jealous of her.  Now, 12 years later, obviously passed my Gavin obsession, I was still jealous of her.  Jealous of her abs of course.  Gwen looks amazing.  I cannot believe she had a baby less than ... Read More

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - St. Louis, MO - 8/3/09 Words/Photos by iheartmoshing This is the 15th year for Warped Tour but for me, it was only my third year attending. Out of the three I've been to, this ranks as the best, not only because of the awesome bands on the tour, but of the great experiences I had while I was there. My day at Warped Tour included seeing: I Set My Friends On Fire, Underoath, Black Tide, NeverShoutNever, Breathe Carolina, A Day to ... Read More

7/24/09 King Thief, a local band from Saint Louis and two other bands, Makeshift Gentlemen and Sybris played at Cicero's tonight on the famous Delmar Loop. I am a huge supporter of a King Thief. Actually I've been a fan of them for over two years now. I first saw them at a Music Spotlight show at The Pageant back in March 2007 with Cavo and a couple of other bands. They definitely stood out to me. A few months later, I saw ... Read More

Coldplay 07/13/2009 Shoreline Amphitheatre: Mt. View, CA Words/Photos by Jhallead Okay, so most of my friends are in love with Chris Martin.  They think he is the cat's meow.  Me, not so much.  The only thing I can think of when I see him is how he is married to Gwyneth Paltrow and has a daughter named Apple. I would say I am a fan of Coldplay, but not a crazy super fan.  I was lucky enough to attend the concert with a few girlfriends ... Read More

Blitzen Trapper/Jenny Lewis/Ray LaMontagne w/ The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Hollywood Bowl: Los Angeles, CA 07/12/09 Words/Photos/Videos by Justin There are a million things I could write about the KCRW World Music Festival at the Hollywood Bowl (featuring Blitzen Trapper/Jenny Lewis & headliner Ray LaMontagne w/ The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra). I could write all about how it will be the last show I be able to walk to at the historic venue (as we are about to move across town from Hollywood closer to the great ... Read More

Useless Keys/Into The Presence 07/09/09 The Roxy Theatre - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Video by Justin So there I was Thursday night, standing outside the Roxy Theater chatting with The Maldonado brothers when adult film legend Ron Jeremy strolled by. As scenesters sucked on cancer sticks oblivious to their surroundings, we watched as a homeless man tried to sell the King of Porn roses as he made his way up the strip to the Rainbow Room. Just another Thursday night in Hollywood, I suppose. A few hours ... Read More

"Shit is Fucked Up Tour" 2009.  What a way for the Offspring to embark on a north american Sojourn.  Yes the economy stinks, people are unemployed...kids are way beyond bored! and this tour came at the right FUCKIN' time.  The show started with a punk/folk guitarist by the name of TURNER.  Ok music, not my cup of tea. he should have employ a band cause he really scream every word of every song.  Next up SUM 41.    i remember these guys a ... Read More

Ahoy, Rotterdam, The Netherlands - July 2, 2009 Dear Caleb Followill, Everyone has their good days and their bad days. No matter how much money you make, when it's uncomfortably hot in a 10K capacity venue, filled to the rim with people coming and paying to see and hear you - the heat is still uncomfortable. I get that. When you just got off a, say, one hour flight from London but with 7 hours time difference to make up for, you will start your show ... Read More

Ani Difranco.  July 1st.  Mountain Winery, Saratoga California Words/Photos by jhallead   "She just get's it"   That is what my best friend and I must have said to each other 5 times during this concert.  Ani Difranco is absolutely amazing.  This was the first time I had seen her live and it was the best concert I have ever been to....and I have been to many.  Granted, it was at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga, California, which is one of the best venues around.  The crowd ... Read More

Death Cab For Cutie W/ The Los Angeles Philharmonic (Special Guests: The New Pornographers, Tegan and Sara) Hollywood Bowl - Los Angeles, CA 07/05/09 Words/Photos/Videos by Justin For as much as I love the historic Hollywood Bowl, I often wonder if we would be better off having the venue burn down in a forest fire. Don’t get me wrong, I love a summer evening under the stars in the venue that 9 out of 10 times will allow you to bring your own food and alcoholic ... Read More

Aretha Franklin (with the Los Angeles Philharmonic) 06/26/09 Hollywood Bowl - Los Angeles, CA Words/Photos/ by Justin If the King of Pop had not passed away Thursday afternoon, I would not have spent my Friday night in the presence of the Queen of Soul. Driving past the Hollywood Bowl on my way to work Friday morning, the name on the marquee seemed to stick out just a bit more. Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, A living legend. Perhaps I should go I thought to ... Read More

Warped Tour 2008 Seaside Park - Ventura, CA 06/22/08 Words/Photos/Videos by Justin (With Warped Tour kicking off this week, and things a tad slow here I figured we would look back at my experience on the long running festival last summer.  Note, this first appeared on MTVnews.com) A good rock festival is very similar to a good meal at a buffet. If planned correctly, you can get a nice sample of everything you love, try something new, and hopefully avoid items that you simply don't agree ... Read More

Richard Cheese & Lounge Against The Machine Plaza Theater Orlando, Florida June 13, 2009 Words/Photos by Theronman714 I was first exposed to Richard Cheese when I saw the "NEW" Dawn of The Dead back in 2004. I heard this swanky, cheesy, Sinatra-esque song that sounded oddly familiar. It was in fact, Disturbed's "Down With The Sickness." I was hooked! I've included a link to Wikipedia which pretty much explains all of what Richard Cheese is about. His Myspace as well as Youtube will have music that you ... Read More

Lazarus AD, Unearth & Testament House Of Blues - West Hollywood, CA 06/11/09 Words/Photos By Justin (note, all photos taken with an iphone as House Of Blues does not allow cameras) Standing up against the bar alongside stage left inside Hollywood’s House Of Blues Thursday night, I was distracted from the on stage action by a young man who fit the exact description of a heavy metal stereotype:  A young Latino with long fluffy hair, black denim jeans, a faded leather jacket and 1980’s white high-top sneakers.  ... Read More

hello earthlings here melo writing to you  about an observation i made and keep making if you will. maybe you all know about it? have you notice that LIVENATION is offering a "free fee wednesday" for many LN shows?  also warped tour was selling sans convenience fee or that jones beach arena box office was offering $20.00 upper seats to the upcomming JUDAS PRIEST show without the extra fee when buying at their box office?  yes folks the economy is hitting the concert business.  Up ... Read More

Street Sweeper Social Club/Nine Inch Nails/Jane's Addiction 06/07/09 Jones Beach Amphitheatre - Wantagh, NY Words/Photos By Melorocker When the announcement of a reunited jane's addiction, to tour this summer along with nine inch nails was made it  gave me chills and  brought back some old memories of my first jane concert back in 1990 at the garden in n.y.c.  this was a great show from start to finish.  opening the gig was tom morello and boots riley's  Side Street Social Club.  SSSC is a very hard and ... Read More

Peaches 06/06/09 Music Box @ Fonda - Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos By Justin Saturday Night on Hollywood Blvd. The smell of hobos, trash, bad perfume and bacon wrapped hot dogs. Sitting soaked in sweat, twittering about some random star upon the blvd, I just had to take a few moments to contemplate what had just happened. Wow, did that really all go down? Did I really consume that many chemicals? Did I really show up here with five beautiful women on my arm, only to be ... Read More

King's X 06/05/2009 Key Club - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin   It is a well known fact to musicians that King’s X are the Rodney Dangerfield of Rock & Roll. For 20+ years this three piece has toured the world bringing their muscular mix of metal, gospel, funk and blues to anyone willing to listen. From stealing the show Friday night at Woodstock ‘94 to playing every club/bar across the world King’s X always brings their A game when they take the stage. That’s ... Read More

Atmosphere w/ Brother Ali The Pageant - St. Louis, MO 05/21/09 Words/Photos/Videos by BeeZnutZ   I have been down with Rhymesayers Entertainment for about 5 years. My friend took me to the store to buy "God Loves Ugly" in 2003. I also believe he got Sage Francis "Sick of Waiting Tables" the same day. We rolled around St. Louis checking out graffiti throughout the city relaxing bumping this hip hop in his car. Hip Hop is a whole lifestyle and Atmosphere to me represents. I liked his ... Read More

2009 Rock On The Range Festival 05/16/2009 Crew Stadium - Columbus, OH Words/Photos by larganation So this was my first trip to the east coast. Im from Oregon and thats mainly where I stay. I decided to take this trip to Ohio to go to the Rock on the Range festival, a 2 day show with three stages and tons of bands. The band I mainly went out there to see was Slipknot and I was not dissapointed at all. but I will get to that in a bit. I ... Read More

Mandy Moore 05/26/09 Amoeba Music - Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos By Justin For years, I have had a crush on Mandy Moore. If my wife and I were to play that silly game where we made a list of those we are allowed to cheat on, she would be close to the top of that list. I mean lets be honest here, I went and saw License To Wed in theaters and it was not because of my fellow Bay Area native Robin Williams. So when ... Read More

Days before my 18th Birthday, my Mother took me to San Francisco for an event dubbed Sky Concert by local radio station KFOG.  As mobility challenged Red Cross Volunteer, she needed my help to haul all of the supplies to and from the First Aid station she would run at the event.  While I would like to say the reason that I agreed was to help my Mother, truthfully I went to check out an exciting new band I had recently discovered.  ... Read More

 Pointfest at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. The first summer concert of 2009. Here was the the lineup: The New Translation, Street Dogs, Inimical Drive, Greek Fire, Parlor Mob, Framing Hanley, Hed P.E., Shiny Toy Guns, Cavo, Hurt, Anberlin, Blue October, Ludo, The Used, Sick Puppies, Taking Back Sunday, Chevelle, The Offspring and 11 local bands.   Here are the bands I watched: Killer Me Killer You: Local band. The funny thing was my brother had given me their cd a couple of weeks ago, but i ... Read More

Fleetwood Mac 05/21/09 HP Pavilion - San Jose, CA Words/Photos By Jhallead Video Found On YouTube  (click link in review) What an amazing show!  Even though we did not have the best seats in the world it was one of the best shows I have been to in a long time.  One of my favorite things about going to a concert is when the artists connect with their audience.  Lindsey came out and said "We are not here to sell a new album, we are ... Read More

LINKS w/ Misdelphia 05/20/09 Alterknit Lounge @ Knitting Factory - Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin Just nine short subway stops from the venue where the shocking conclusion of American Idol was held, two unknown bands were being judged by a much smaller, but just as important audience. As I walked into A&R Knight inside the Alterknit Lounge @ Knitting Factory Hollywood, I was greeted to the sounds of five young men who call themselves Misdelphia. Hailing from San Diego, I caught the last two songs ... Read More

Julien K 05/15/09 Jerry's Pizza - Bakersfield, CA Words/Photos by Krazy For Korn Just wanted write a quick review of the events in Bakersfield California 5-15-09  at Jerry's Pizza. Who was there??? Julien K!! And they were amazing. The venue is a very small place and lots of body heat. Sound was not so bad considering the venue but Julien K pulled it off. Great performance and the guys were so awesome. They were kind in signing everybodies stuff and doing pics with them. Ryan the lead singer is ... Read More

Meat Puppets 05/11/09 Amoeba Music - Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin (Editors Note - Per Amoeba Staff Members Videostaping for sharing was approved for this show.) With the milestone age of 30 weeks away for me, I was in high school when Nirvana introduced the world to Meat Puppets. During their now classic appearance on MTV Unplugged, the Arizona band performed three songs (only two song appeared on the original broadcast which our webmaster has on VHS) at the request of Cobain who couldn’t figure out ... Read More

May 2, 2009 My main problem with singer/songwriters is their live acts: if it don't rock my socks off, it's going to bore me to no end. The pretty songs that singer/songwriters produce, are more suitable for cozy nights in front of the fireplace rather than an evening in a smokey club, smelling the armpit of my too-close neighbor. After a couple of songs, you start feeling your feet getting tired, your back screaming in protest of having to arch in unusual ways ... Read More

MusiCares Salutes Anthony Kiedis Words/Red Carpet Photos By Justin Live Photos By Sylvrtail Club Nokia @ LA Live: 05/08/2009 Thanks to a friend, my wife and I were fortunate enough to attend the 2009 MusiCares Benefit honoring Red Hot Chili Peppers front man, Anthony Kiedis. MusiCares supports musicians trying to beat their addictions to drugs and or alcohol. With tickets for the benefit being rather expensive, we were very blessed to be able to witness an amazing night of music, even if one of my favorite ... Read More

Britney Spears (with The Pussycat Dolls) HP Pavillion - San Jose CA 04/12/09 Words/Photos by jhallead   First of all, my friend and I got screwed on the ticket price with the whole TicketNow thing.  We paid $150.00 per ticket for nosebleeders.  When we got to the show we had to use the bathroom so we snuck into the club level and then went to the bar.  When the Pussycat dolls came on we decided to look into the seats on the first 20 rows.  Since there ... Read More

(Editor Note:  These reviews first appeared on our myspace blog.  I figured I'd bring it over here since it has been a slow week so far.  Words by Justin, Photos by Justin and his wonderful wife Erinn)   12/02/08   As any fan can tell you, it's not easy being loyal to The Smashing Pumpkins.  Being a fan of The Smashing Pumpkins is much like being in an abusive relationship.  They break your heart and beat you down, yet you keep coming back for more.  In ... Read More

 Katy Perry Goes to Dinah 2009/Photos/Review by Itookurphoto.  Earlier this month at Dinah Shore in Palm Springs, CA Katy Perry made a special appearance at the Club Skirts White Diamonds party (which I must say was a great move on Club Skirts' end because I don't think any other Dinah Shore White Party was quite like this one). I have to say, it was pretty awesome. It was nothing like what I expected, having seen some of her live performances on TV. I assumed ... Read More

Depeche Mode 04/23/09 Jimmy Kimmel Live (Hollywood/Vine - Hollywood, CA) Words/Photos by Poppers 620   So on Thursday, April 23 I got to finally see Depeche Mode. Not that they were a band I was dying to see, but one of those bands where I grew up listening to their music and knew all their songs, but didn’t want to necessarily pay to see them. So when my friend Adam called me saying he had snagged some of the free tix that Jimmy Kimmel Live was ... Read More

A Hometown “Idol” Experience Ameristar Casino, Kansas City April 22, 2009 Words/Photos By KC Music Gal For the past fifteen months, it’s been nearly impossible to escape the name David Cook in Kansas City. While David has been playing music in Kansas City for over five years, his “big break” occurred when he auditioned for American Idol last August in Omaha, Nebraska. The local Fox affiliate provided a quick interview with David and his brother Andrew prior to their Omaha audition and well, we all know ... Read More

How can you go wrong with a line-up consisting of Headliners DISTURBED with support from KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, LACUNA COIL and CHIMAIRA? well the economy ofcourse.  It was evident to see that at this venue all the mid to top level section were curtained off.  out of the possibilitiy of 15,000 thousand fans only 6,000 thousand attended this event.  in the grand scheme of things i dont care, i had a blast. everyband was in an above average top form. Chimaira seems to be another ... Read More

Prolific songwriter, Leonard Cohen, has been penning and performing music for over four decades. Saturday night at the Nokia Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles, he proved that, despite a fifteen-year hiatus from the live stage, his music not only holds up to the test of time, but transcends it to resonate with multiple generations of fans. Upon arriving at the sleek venue, it was difficult not to notice the diversity of the crowd in attendance. Patrons ranged from the predictable baby boomers, who ... Read More

This past Tuesday night, I headed to Club Nokia here in Los Angeles to check out the first annual Epiphone/Revolver Golden Gods Awards presented by Honda Fury. I met up with our contest winner Jeff (cool guy) and fellow talesfromthepit.net user Cheryl (a.k.a. Krazy For Korn/also very cool) to check out the whose who of heavy metal (the show even included a black carpet instead of the traditional red). Despite the fact that the winners list leaked on blabbermouth.net a few hours ... Read More

There is a time to think for yourself, and question authority.  There is also a time to simply respect the wishes of someone you deeply admire.  At Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles this past Saturday night, I listened to the pre-taped video message by Major Douche (AKA Maynard James Keenan), and did not take flash photography or videos (I did sneak one cell phone photo) of Puscifer (pronounced by most as pussy fur), the latest mind blowing project by the Tool/A Perfect ... Read More

It had been a decade and a half since the classic Bay Area thrashers Forbidden played live in Los Angeles. The City of Hollywood got the long awaited taste of some infamous thrash metal at the Key Club March 26th and surely did not disappoint! Los Angeles was the first stop on a very short California tour that would end up meeting quite a few loyal fans that have awaited a long while to see a piece of metal history. Right beside ... Read More

No Fear Energy Tour Featuring Municipal Waste/God Forbid/DevilDriver/Children Of Bodom & Lamb Of God: The Palladium - Hollywood, CA 04/03/09 (note - all links will send you to video footage of the show) There is nothing more shocking than showing up to a show in Los Angeles on Friday night at the early hour of 7:30pm only to discover that the main floor is operating at capacity and you are stuck in the very back of the already packed auditorium. How could this be I ... Read More

Saturday January 24th was a day I had been anticipating for a long time. You see thanks for my Older role model up the street i got turned onto slipknot at a VERY young age. We are talking in 98 right before ozzfest and all that shit. I was going to see these guys at POP'S. First slipknot show i saw them, they were a fuckin opening band. Here was the line up. It went Dope, Slipknot, Coal Chamber, and Soufly. I ... Read More

This past Monday night, for 30 minutes I was blessed enough to speak with Luis Carlos Maldonado & Tim Alexander of Into The Presence.  I am well aware that this is a live site (and fingers crossed a new ITP review will be posted Sunday) but this was something very special for me, and I would like to share it with you (as well as expose this great up and coming band).  The interview (posted on MTVnews) is in two parts and ... Read More

The Palladium - Hollywood, CA 03/28/09 Walking into the Hollywood Palladium just past 9pm on Saturday night, my heart was split 50/50. The left side had hope, the right side was full of natural fear. After all, this is LA and Suicidal Tendencies are about to throw down in their home town. I had high hopes for violence, mayhem, disorderly conduct, nudity, a bit more violence, a few beers and of course a few good tunes serving as a backdrop for a full ... Read More

[gallery] R.E.M. - Leaving New York This is in responce to the post on Modest Mouse. Having been an R.E.M. fan for a long time, this Madion Square Garden show   was my first time seeing R.E.M. in concert. Modest Mouse gave direct support to R.E.M. and they were ok.  I was more into watching (daydreaming) guitarist Johnny Marr, the former SMITH legend, wishing that it was them on stage.   R.E.M. has stood the test of time, their music played so well going from the early 80's jangly "(Don't Go Back To) ... Read More

So on wed. Nov. 26 I faced Thanksgiving Eve traffic and headed to downtown LA to the Nokia Center for my first ever New Kids on the Block show. Some people gave me a lot of shit for going to this show, but I didn't care. And to be honest it was one of the best shows I have ever gone to. I was a little worried that since I started listening to them 18 years ago and stopped 15 years that ... Read More

Friends,   It has been brought to my attention that some of you have not received confirmation e-mails after signing up (this seems to be a major issue with yahoo).  If you do not receive a confirmation e-mail within 15 minutes of signing up for our site(s), please follow these steps:   1)  Check your SPAM folder:  Sometimes they are sent there.  Make sure to mark that this is not SPAM.   2)  If it is not in your SPAM folder, please e-mail tales_from_the_pit@yahoo.com   IMPORTANT:  Please e-mail me the ... Read More

(This review was originally published on MTVnews.com in June 2008) In 1993 I walked from my parents’ house to the only music store in San Carlos, California. The store was called Rod’s Records Videos & Tapes, and on one warm summer day I slapped my hard-earned Hamilton down on the counter. In exchange for the cash that I had earned sweating away over the lawn mowing and bathroom cleaning, I was handed a cassette tape by Stone Temple Pilots called Core. I removed ... Read More

(First published by MTVnews in 2008)   I am looking forward to the George W. Bush tax rebate check that I still have not received. $600 bucks to inject back into the economy. Being a good American, I have decided to take that chunk of change and spend it. I live within walking distance from the Hollywood Bowl, and I really wanted that money to go back into my community. Tonight I was rewarded for the first donation I made with a chance to ... Read More

As Gov’t Mule played a bluesy two hour set, I watched many physically challenged Dead Heads struggle to get to their seats. As much as it was a struggle for the aging fan base to reach their seats, it was even more of a struggle for me to stay awake. I really do enjoy Gov’t Mule, and it was cool to hear “Lay Your Burden Down” & “Soulshine” again after all these years. For me, with an evening of slow blues based ... Read More

[gallery] One of my favorite bands Interpol, hails from New York City and are seen as the Dark Princes of Pop. Comprise of Paul Banks, Carlos D., Daniel Kessler and Sam Fogarino.  Interpol has attain an immediate level of success thanks in part to their song craft and to the visual appeal of the band,  greatly manifested in bassist  Carlos D.  The cult of Carlos D. has been covered by many magazines and T.V. channels over  the years.  Carlos does oozes city cool, but it is his playing ability ... Read More

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[gallery] taken from my response in the slipknot forum. "well i'm back from the concert and it was a real blast. i wished slipknot would have played more songs from AHIG. first things first. that emai about early entry for ot9 that was not being used at madison square garden was done in error. there was a ot9 yellow section for early entry and meet and greets. would you guys believe that i was the only one being escorted by ot9 for early entry. everybody was looking at me as ... Read More

Papa Roach delivered the goods on this anniversary show,  the second of two (california being the first show).  It was also guitarist JERRY HORTON' s birthday, though  the fans got all the presents in the form of 15 delectable papa songs. the show started with Days of War/Change or Die from their forthcomming METAMORPHOSIS and after that an-onslaght of classic, great papa songs made their way. Getting away, ...To be loved, Broken Home and many more.  I was happy that they played Time is running out and that Scars, a great song ... Read More

A Night to Remember By: Jen Bonfiglio Thursday, March 19, I was so excited to head down to one of my favorite venues, BackBooth. In my opinion, it is one of the best places to see a show. My friends and I have been looking forward to this night for more than a month. The lineup was awesome: In Violent Times, Hydrosonic, Awestruck, and The Rise of Defiance. These are some of the best local bands around right now. I couldn’t wait for it ... Read More

The Key Club in Hollywood is always (in our opinion) the best place to see a Metal show. The Security is cool, the food and drink is delectable (though they recently shortened and changed their dinner menu) and there isn’t a bad spot to stand in to see the mayhem that takes stage. Matt & I have been here many, many times and it’s usually busy. Rarely have there been shows that have been light in attendance. The show for Armored Saint ... Read More

Beginning Thursday, March 12th, pre-order the new Neverender DVD or purchase any Coheed and Cambria T-shirt at the Burbank Town Center Hot Topic location ONLY and receive a wristband that guarantees the opportunity to meet Coheed and Cambria on March 26th!* Need more info? Call the Burbank Town Center Hot Topic at 818.843.8630. *Available while supplies last. Space is limited. Offer not valid online. Limit one wristband and one autograph per person. See associate for further details. Hot Topic Burbank 201 E. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA ... Read More

When you meet A Donnie Wahlberg and give him a cupcake....You get Hooked up by a Joey Mc intyre, A Jordan Knight, A Jon knight and a Danny Wood....I was Lucky enough to meet these guys before their 2008 tour started now they love my friend and I and we get hooked up....The lil 13 yr old in me could have only imagined whats happing to the 33 yr old me! Read More

The Forum: Inglewood, CA 12/18/08   It was somewhere during their second song during their second night in Los Angeles (ok, Inglewood) that I realized – I have never actually seen Metallica live.  Sure, this was my 5th Metallica concert, but every time I have been in the back of the arena/stadium/amphitheatre.  Not this time however, as I lucked into a below market value pit ticket for the greatest heavy metal band on the planet.  I hoped into my car and after two hours ... Read More

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The Music Box @ Fonda - Hollywood, CA 02/04/09 A long long time ago, I was a student in Mrs. Machado’s kindergarten class. I played with blocks, learned my letters and came down with head lice on three separate occasions. It was during this time that three men (Fat Mike, Smelly and Eric Melvin) were forming a crappy little punk rock band. 25 years later, I no longer have head lice, or play with blocks. I may have learned the letters N-O-F-X in ... Read More

Into The Presence 01/30/09 On The Rox - West Hollywood, CA Words/Photos/Videos by Justin/concertconfessions.com [caption id="attachment_47" align="alignnone" width="600" caption="Into The Presence - On The Rox 01/30/09"][/caption] Friday night, I took another $12.00 cab ride down the Sunset Strip to check out the exciting new rock band Into The Presence. After being blown away by their set two weeks ago, I knew I could not miss the final Friday of their month long residency On The Rox. After saying hello to the venues wonderful door woman Stephanie, ... Read More