What was up with 2000? Something in the stars perhaps? Everything from the elections to people's choice in music pretty much blew. Boy-bands and Britney Spears not withstanding (too easy a mark), what was all of this screaming about? Hey, I'm as progressive and open minded as the next guy, but this inane testosterone-driven shit has got to stop. The critics seem to be hip to this but the fans -- well let's just say that Faith No More did it a lot better ten years ago. C'mon guys, get a clue! The most impressive shows of the year, to me at least, were Electronica performances. Rinocerous were great - they definitely rocked the Palace here in LA. These French guys have more than a few things to teach us Yanks. Cool grooves, great musicianship and the light show very inventive and entertaining. Even the most jaded, hardcore slammers could have gotten off on this music, if they gave it a chance. Another great show - BT! Never heard of him? Maybe you should. BT also rocked the house but in a different way. Playing the Mayan, the show reminded me of the way good rock shows used to be. Yes, that is what I said -- rock shows. Moving, theatrical -- hey, I heard he was mostly about turntables on the last tour. But this time, he had a full-fledged, slammin' band. Great female bassist, cool female vocalist (Toddy), a kickin' drummer, great songs - this concert ruled! I am starting to agree with Kurt Cobaine; maybe run of the mill rock really has outgrown its relevance. Think I'm wrong? Write me and let me know your thoughts on the subject. Talked to Doug Carrion over at Suburban Noize Records. He filled me in on details regarding the Kottonmouth Kings. Says they will be touring from December 1st until the end of February with Insane Clown Posse on the Bizarre Bizarre Tour. One of their other acts, Too Rude opened unplugged for KMK on the Ridin High Tour. Apparently, he was pretty well received or in Doug's words "I guess the Kottonmouth Kings...crowd loved the SoCal surf/ska/reggae Too Rude sound". Last but not least, he was more than excited about another SN act, Corporate Avenger a very political band that has a KMFDM industrial-metal sound. Their message is about finding your higher power without government or organized religion. It sounded like they were really stirring things up in a big way - what with arrests and some security problems. Remember, you heard it here first! www.IndieFilter.net Publicity and more....