Letters

Editor:
As a music lover raised in the Seattle area in a virtual hotbed of various styles and trends, Mr. Pierre wrote a very interesting article I believe that hits a "chord", pathetic term I know, with many.

As an original heavy metal "headbanger" I continue to try to follow all new groups, singers, and trends to keep current and offer this perspective.

I too miss certain aspects of music such as keyboards, moog synthesizer, and horns. I must admit I still like loud heavy rock music but not at past decibels.

Nat King Cole was an exceptional talent with the all time recognizable voice. I can remember teasing my Dad mercilessly as he played Hank Williams, Slim Whitman, and Ernie Ford while my brothers and I enjoyed The Doors, Cream, and Jimi Hendrix.

My Dad did like Grace Slicks voice with Jefferson Airplane. Jimi Hendrix was ahead of his time, tremendous talent. His rendition of the Star Spangled Banner on guitar at Woodstock is genius to this day. Listen closely and the simulated bombs bursting are amazing.

Elton Johns' "Madman Across the Water" is an outstanding song with great lyrics and harmony heard live recently along with Billy Joel in Seattle. Both are true professionals with great music.

Metallica does have some great musical changes in many of their songs. I heard them with a full orchestra and it was great with similarities to Beethoven, hope he is not rolling over.

Heart, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, and Queensryche are a few examples of great Seattle bands with great musicians and all time strong vocals of Ann Wilson of Heart.

Alicia Keys has a great voice currently and Lady Gaga with all the theatrics can sing very well. I did enjoy a Queensryche concert a while back but had ringing ears for two days. Mr. Pierre does have a good point regarding hearing loss.

The beauty of music contains something for everyone and it is truly on-going entertainment for a lifetime of enjoyment.
 
Mike Murdock