Artists who still make a difference.

Over the weekend VH-1 had Pearl Jam Storytellers on. This was the lastest show in a series that has had some of my favorite bands, Pete Townshend, Elvis Costello, Bruce, and Green Day (this was one of my favorites because they played the entire America Idiot Album).

Watching this show it reminded me of seeing them 2 years ago on the Vote for Change tour. Eddie, Stone, Jeff, Mike, and Matt were their usual incredible selves and they all played with a HUGE chip on their shoulders. They played songs from their past and some from their latest CD (and yes I am pimping the boys new CD).

One thing that really resonated with me was when they asked the band about their politics. Eddid answered that they may have lost some fans, but they remained true to themselves. How many artists can honestly admit to accepting that fact? While other bands (3 Doors Down for example) cave when asked to play for something that would be supposedly disagreeable to them. Bands like PJ, Green Day, Bruce and the E streeters, and the Dixie Chick say FUCK YOU to all those people and stay true.

We live in an age that lacks truth (Thanks FUX "news" channel). We have so-called "reality" TV, that is more scripted than the WWE. We have a corrupt party in power with no accoutability (remember, a blow job is a bad thing as long as the other guy is doing it). WE NEED TRUTH. Pearl Jam gives us truth, if only for an hour at a time.

A few words about Pearl Jam's new album: If you like rock and roll influenced by Otis Reading, Pete Townshend, Kurt Cobain, Fugazi, the Ramones, Bob Dylan, and Bruce this is the CD for you!! It has a political edge that flows from "Life Wasted" all the way to "Inside Job".

Rock with purpose is not an outdated idea, music can still be educational and dangerours in the right hands. Just ask Billie Joe Armstron from Green Day who is considered by the GOP as a musical terrorist!

Supprt Independent film and keep music dangerous (and full of truth).

J