A Publication of Local Umbrella Media VOLUME 9 | WINTER 2023 |
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Eli Holland / Zebra in Ramona! Singer Eli Holland, formerly of the Original Starfires, is busy putting together a new group, touching on his work in the mid1970’s with electronica pioneer, Peter Baumann of Tangerine Dream. On November 3, those plans took a slight change of direction when Holland was asked to sit in with Louisiana-based platinum-selling hard rockers Zebra during their performance at the Ramona Mainstage. He sang a version of Led Zeppelin’s song, “Ramble On,” going down a storm with the crowd. The team-up was a long time coming. “The late 70s, early 80s was the peak of the NY tri-state area rock club scene, especially in Long Island,” explained Holland. “I was the lead singer for a band called Steeplechase, and we played the circuit doing originals and a lot of Led Zeppelin. Zebra came into NY from Louisiana and became hugely popular, also doing originals and a lot of Zeppelin. We were booked on a gig together and instantly hit it off personally and out of mutual musical respect.” After that, Steeplechase opened for Zebra regularly. “We would get together before the gig and decide who would do what Zepplin songs so we wouldn’t overlap. After I split with Steeplechase, I took a detour into synthpop when I co-wrote and performed the vocals on an album with Peter Baumann. I kept in touch with Randy, Felix, and Guy over the years and went to see them occasionally.”
dy that The Ramona Main Stage would be a good place to play. To my surprise, I saw that they were actually playing there on November 3 and got excited. I told Randy that I live in Ramona and would be there and he put me and my wife Michele on the guest list.” Holland’s request for an old favorite yielded unexpected results. “I made a request by asking him if they play “Ramble On,’ as it was a favorite of mine from the Steeplechase days. He said no, he does it on solo gigs, but the band doesn’t play it. So, we went to see them, and after the opening act, Headphone (which was very good), we went backstage to say hello before they went on. We did our hugs and reminiscing and then Randy said, “Oh, by the way, we learned “Ramble On” and you’re singing it.” I was totally f lattered that they did that and went out to watch the show. When Randy called me up on stage, I totally transported back in time and my muscle memory kicked in. The crowd was so into it and I had a blast. I could barely get back to my seat with all the high fives and accolades. It was an experience I will treasure.” What’s next for Holland? “I was putting together an 80s SynthPop tribute band, but it’s been hard to find competent musicians to commit, especially the keyboardist,” he said good-naturedly. “After singing with Zebra, I might have the itch to do a Zeppelin tribute.” www.facebook.com/eli.holland1
The last time Holland saw Zebra was in Laguna circa 2018. “At the time, I told Ran-
The 2023 San Diego Holiday Gift Guide The 2023 San Diego Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season is upon us! Looking for a hip gift for the discerning music lover in your life? One of the best ways to support local music is to purchase directly from the artist when possible. Here are ten fun options that’ll brighten anyone’s day!
Book / Scott Shaw!s Comix & Stories Just what it says in the title, this is a collection of legendary artist Scott Shaw’s comics and stories. Best known for his work on The Flintstones, The Simpsons, and other cartoon classics, Shaw has also provided artwork for numerous music-related projects including Rhino Records, The Ramones, San Diego music comp, Staring at the Sun Volume XIII, and The Spice Pistols. www.shaw-cartoons.com Magazine / Ugly Things Hands down the most in-depth music magazine going! Mike Stax’s publication recently celebrated its 40th anniversary and it’s still going strong, diving deep into music history, with each issue practically a book
unto itself. Pick up individual issues where you can, but a subscription is recommended so you don’t miss out! https://ugly-things.com Guitar / Tom Delonge Stratocaster Crafted to Delonge’s specifications, this is the ultimate Blink 182 collectible. The guitar might not
help you write hit songs like Delonge, but you’ll be able to sound like him. www.fender.com/en-US/electric-guitars/stratocaster/tom-delonge-stratocaster/0148020357.html Smoking Accessories / Jason Mraz Rolling Papers Themed to Mraz’s album, Lalalalovesongs, this is the perfect stocking stuffer for the dedicated smoker in your life. Insert Big Bambu reference here. https://jasonmraz.shop.musictoday. com/product/JZAM0104/lalala-lovesong-rolling-papers Art / Tamar Berk Painting Following stints in several noted indie bands, Berk has made a major impact with her solo music, most recently, the album, Tiny Injuries. Now she has also made inroads into the art world, with abstract paintings as well as pieces depicting animals.
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https://artempsychedelic. etsy.com Vinyl / Satanic Puppeteer Orchestra albums
When it comes to extras, nothing beats the Satanic Puppeteer Orchestra’s releases. Their latest album, Have An Existential Crisis, is a hand-numbered limited edition of 250 records across three colors, which includes a two-sided puzzle, red decoder glasses, and splintered reality maze and fea-
tures parallel grooves with either Robot or Human vocalists, including guests such as Pall Jenkins (Black Heart Procession) and Pat Beers (The Schizophonics). Collectible! www.satanicpuppeteer.com Clothing / Switchfoot Ugly Sweater Truth in advertising, but it’s still perfect for pending cold weather. Plus ugly sweaters never go out of fashion. https://switchfoot.com/collections/ apparel/products/ugly-sweater Musical Instrument / The Farmers Kazoo I can’t do better than the band’s own description of said item/
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stocking stuffer: “New. No slobber! Specially tuned for “Happy Boy” accompaniment in the key of
“wheeee.” https://thefarmersmusic.com/farmers-market Historic Artifact / Rory Gallagher Live in San Diego 1974 Officially released complete seven-song set from the late acclaimed guitarist, recorded in concert at the San Diego Sports Arena on February 8, 1974. Double disc vinyl! www.amazon.com/Rory-Gallagher-Live-Diego-2022/dp/B09PPM7W6M Gift Certificate / Your Favorite Record Store Can’t decide on just the right item? Vinyl Junkies, Folk Arts, Lou’s Records, M-Theory, and your favorite neighborhood record store can help. No music fan is ever going to be upset about receiving a gift certificate to a record shop.
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