Results tagged “robertcray”

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is so expertly crafted that one can't help but marvel at it from a technical viewpoint. As a story, however, the film is just so-so. Sure, it's a provocative premise, but Brad Pitt is almost lifeless as the titular character. Dustin Hoffman is one of the handful of actors whose movies I will always see. Last Chance Harvey is a poignant and wistful reminder that it's never too late to do all for love. What I said about Dustin Hoffman above, same goes for the amazing Michelle Williams. LOOK works better as an idea than an actual movie. Still, Rhys Coiro is fast becoming one of my favorite unknown actors.

The Long Beach Blues Festival

It was either 1986 or '87. LAist was living in Inglewood within walking distance of the Fabulous Forum. We were young and impressionable. We had heard of the legend of "Clapton is God", but we were also fascinated by a new guy named Robert Cray who was just breaking into the scene with a blues tune that was actually getting played on MTV - something unheard of unless your name was Stevie Ray. So we walked down to the Forum, bought some tickets for face value from the box office and sat in the very back of the arena. Cray's set was damn good and we thought, ok British legend, let's see what you've got. And let's just say that even in the back row of the Forum, this would-be blogger was so completely blown away that we too followed suit and scribbled "Clapton is God" in the men's room, which we are certain will be repeated late tonight after the former Cream guitarist converts some new blood.

Rock is back in a real way, including old school rock from some classic rock legends as well as Nicole Richie's dad! May we recommend the Black Keys, Catfish Haven, Everclear, Hella, Roger Manning Jr. (from Beck's band and Jellyfish), The Mars Volta, Los Lobos, (Santa Barbara's) Sugarcult, TV on the Radio, and yes even JT Basement Jaxx - Crazy Itch Radio (XL Recordings) Bettie Serveert - Bare Stripped Naked (with DVD; Minty Fresh)...