STS9: Shock & Awe

STS9 should be the ruler of all late night festival shows. No one does it better.

Great article. Its nice to see bands pushing their fans to think. The world needs serious help.

marymoor bitches!!!!!!!!!!!!

"When people can't feed their families you'll see a real discontent we haven't seen before. We don't trust our government the way we did during the Great Depression, and if you hit people with the same kind of economic hardship today it isn't going to be the same."

Our economy isn't the greatest right now, and it has been better, but it is most certainly not reminiscent of the great depression. Will it ever be as bad as black Thursday, I don't know. But I have faith that people have a better understanding of credit than they did back in the '20's. I could be wrong, maybe lending people money with interest will prove to be something that prohibits societies from reaching their potential.

I haven't listened to a lot of STS9, but from what I have just pulled off the archive, and from the first video, I have come to this conclusion: it sounds good for the first couple minutes. After that, it becomes monotonous. Prove me wrong and tell me which show to download and I will gladly give it a listen.

So, I wrote a comment on the editing of this article and Jambase took it off. Whats with the censorship

They did send a thank you in my PM box though for my comment...good lookin Jambase

i think they should BOLD the writers words to avoid confusion in the piece. it's a strange flow without seeing an obvious seperation in what the writer is saying to them and vise-versa.

great piece though.

Zach Velmer is Mike Gordon's favorite drummer.

acomma, listen to the album interplanetary escape vehicle. this brings the funky side of sts9. then listen to offered schematics suggesting peace. this is more of the peacefulness of sts9. and then listen to artifact, which is the start of the electronic era for them. 3 completely different albums, but all great

What can I say....BLAST PEACE!!!! And keep doing what you do Tribe....

soundtribe is cool for sure, but i think sometimes their songs lack that sweet tootsie roll center i'm searching for.. like they will begin and end really well, but a lot of times just get stale in the middle... would still see them any day though, they do a lot of very creative stuff.

this is really cool>>>>>>>>"It's easier to maintain power if the general population are kept busy with trivial things – like say voting for American Idol in greater numbers than the presidential primaries – but real freedom isn't just having the option of cheese or no cheese on your burger. The overemphasis on individual tastes and desires is a socially engineered dynamic designed to keep people from understanding and exercising their collective power.

STS9 by C. Taylor Crothers

"That's been the policy of many Western nations – dumb down their people. The only way to hold onto their power is to dumb down the world. America in the last twenty years or more has set up its model to do that. Keep the people occupied with entertainment and things that don't really matter, and then those in power can do what they please," says Murphy. "People just continue to take it and be slapped around. I try to have faith that we will only allow this for so long. Hopefully, America will be the first country to have a real revolution without having to go to war with its leaders. Our government is there to be changed by us when the people see fit. It's up to the people of America to wise up enough to say, 'We're not going to stand for this.' Hopefully that happens. These were all the things we were talking about when we made Peaceblaster."

Excellent article. A bold decision by S9 to play their cards where it matters most. Its time to take an active role in change. Ascension. The word is out and the need for change has never been so great. Stay true to yourself with honest intentions is really what this article is all about. Sound advice for us all. Its time for everyone to do their part whether spiritually, socio-politically, or culturally. Lead the charge S9 I'll see you on tour.

Great article. Too bad we have such a hard time accepting change. Kudos to the 9 for evolving and for sharing their art with us.

STS9 is a great band, and they are pushing the envelope...but in my opinion, their music is getting worse....they have progressed from a jam band to straight electronic...am I the only person who recognizes this? they are a fun band, but by no means are they blowing me away....back in 01-02 they were the shit! but they are evolving into something new, just not worth the money they charge anymore!

Sound Tribe is cool. Im not real into jamtronica, but sound tribe is something special.

Great article! I felt like the author was well versed in the band's music and critical at the same time. It was a good read, stick this guy on more stories please. I'm not really a fan of STS9, and I'd like to see quality writing on here more.

I love STS9 but I agree that there music is getting a bit more static as they are progressing especially in the past year....not to say that it is necessarily a bad thing but the last few live show I have caught have had far less improvisational components that older shows that I have been too. I must say though that I was huge into tribe after hearing escape vehicle and schematics. The first time I saw them live was in 2001 and it definitely was my first show where the entire thing was a space odyssey I was hooked for at least the next 2 1/2- 3 years but then for some reason I kinda fell off a bit but then with the release of Artifact it was as if I had a new awakening with this band started to hit up a ton of shows and was again blown away by the new sounds that they had integrated even though it was at the expense of some of there older more organic type of jams, but in the past year I have yet again had another letdown as far as the live performances go. I don't feel that great energy and spirituality that I had gotten from so many of the shows in the past. Don't get me wrong I do own peaceblaster and enjoy the album but he live shows at the current time just aren't doing it for me like they used to and I think it is do to the lack of variation in each of the songs which kinda is expected with a shift more in the electronic direction. Still have all the love in the world for STS9 and respect them for everything that they have done and are still doing especially now that they are raising their voices to social issues (although they have been doing conscious alliance forever). I just hope like so many other things in life that this is just part of their cycle whether it be to get more heads informed or explore themselves each personally and that in another year or so I can attend one of their shows and again feel that pure bliss and euphoria that has attracted me to this band since the first time that I heard them. I suppose part of it to is I miss the crystal backdrops and jazzy space funk. Anyway keep up the good work guys much love and respect!

I like the part about Western society being dumbed down. The STS9-crazed fans around here (Tennessee) seem to be borderline retarded. Hopefully, this will make them think.. about something.. more than rolls and dancing.. please?

does anyone else think those shots of them dressed as reporters are AWESOME?!? some of the best pics ive seen

STS9 ARE THE KING OF LATE NIGHT!! I do admit their sound changed a lot, less jam and more of the same stuff. But I love them to death, and never had a bad time at their shows. Keep on Groovin Tribe,

yea but if they had lyrics they wouldnt need a jambase cover story to explain themselves. but even so i love where there head is at, im glad that they are taking initiative that my other fav bands seem more apathetic in comparison. bisco and umphreys are good about being involved but voting is only one step, tribe is calling for a revolution of the people and their minds, a social revolution. i love it. hope some other bands in this scene will stop and say that while partying is great there is a real world as well

Dennis -

Kuddos to your article; enjoyable reading as always.

As Murph stated, Sound Tribe is reflecting back to us what is going on into todays world through their musical art. They are doing this very well. And it shows for sure. Even though a fan since 98' I have not bought tickets for a show in over a year and will not be buying the Peaceblaster after listening to the tracks. It's dark, boring, just blaugh, and well frankly, there is enough darkness in life these days. Back in the Clinton days, their sound and our society was a lot more happier, lite, and with open hearts along with the fan base. Perhaps those days will evolve once again somehow in time, and smiley faces and happy feet will once again dance. However, stay true to your roots, you guys are amazing musicians and one the most consciousness bands promoting truth. I just choose to go into the lite for now. Peace -

my 2 cents....

Great Article. I understand through witnessing many peoples concerns about the evolution of STS9's sound. But why call something a good thing and never change it, isn't that largely what this article is about? I give props to dropping the ego and coming together to creating new art, laws that harbor a community which keeps the best interest of the people first. We have had enough lies in the last 8 years, lets break it all down and build it back up right! Who's coming with me....See ya'll in CO!

"No one ever said, 'I have too much power. You're right, I'm wrong, so let me give you my power.' That hasn't happened in the history of the world without a fight. It's a truism about the way power works. If I were given all the power in the world I'd probably be the same and wouldn't give it up without a struggle. It's a part of human nature that can be different but I understand why it isn't [laughs]."-Murph

Didn't George Washington step down from being President after two terms because it was too much power?

good article but I dont think you can compare peaceblaster to headhunters

chaseman you say the things i dare not. thank you!

Greatest band in the world. Too bad that they are getting so popular. It was a way better environment 5-6 years ago but i cant blame them for wanting to get better they still do a lot of good for the music community and fan appriciation.

Blunts&bisco i really wish that youre computer would break so we never had to see your name on jambse again your comments are all absolute garbage.

Interesting article. I disagree with Murph's message that America and other Western nations are attempting to dumb down their societies. Last time I checked, I pay federal taxes to send people whom I will never meet to school. I'm sorry that Murph feels this way. The opportunity to succeed in America is available to anyone and everyone! Not everyone wants to put the WORK in though, so whose fault is it when someone realizes they aren't where they should be. The road was and is still there for everyone...

yeah i see bluntsnbisco on every single article saying something stupid, don't they moderate these things ban his account or something

Well put Lord K. You summed up my feelings about STS9 perfectly with your comment. I've been trying to do it myself but it's not so easy, thanks again.

What a ignorant fucking comment gmoo, u are so wrong its almost funny. Go ahead and vote for mccain you fucking moron, its people like u that are to thanks for the dispicable state that our country is in, douche bag.

Well written article. I love the tribe, for me artifact is an album that will never get old. FOr the last couple years i have listened to countless shows off archive, watched many videos, bought their dvd, but had never seen them live and had built up a great hunger to do so. My first show was rothbury, although i had a grate time and it was among my favorite shows of the weekend it hadnt nearly met the expectations i had built up. At certain parts i was utterly filled with joy (aimlessly) and three minutes later it would go completely stale and dull, ablsolutley no momentum to the show. Although the crowd was crazy and it was impossible not to have a good time the band pushed their new stuff (peaceblaster is really not good and i hate to say that for i highly respect and appreciate this band). I talked to some guy at my campsite the next morning who had seen 30 plus tribe shows and all he said was "very mediocre".

read Shock Doctrine!

wow, what a well thought out comment tranceful delight....

Actually media does dumb down our society Gmoo.....quite a bit examples Fox news, TMZ, Hollywood Tonight, local news from most average size cities, and the list goes on as far as the news media feeding pointless stories to the people watching them living their pointless lives. A good song explaining this in good detail is by The Yohimbe Brothers with Vernon Reid and DJ Logic also featuring Taylor McFarrin check out the song Words they choose it is a dope song that no one has probably ever hear-http://www.myspace.com/yohimbebrothers. In addition the opportunity to succeed is not available to everyone I work in secondary education and we must implement soecial classes for the less privilaged students that come to a university completely unprepared with minimal class choices and these classes that they are offered leave them completely unprepared to succeed at a collegiate level. Sure you'll say then then would not get accepted....not true ever heard of affirmitive action and meeting quotas required by law? So they are accpeted and the sad part is they are accepted and have already been set up to fail by the education system of our country. Trillions of dollars for war but no money for education. Gmoo your federal taxes are going to fund wars, in Iraq, in our own country (CIA, FBI, colvert Ops) aka drug war which is a bad thing to call it but I'll use that term for no one that is better. Do your research see how much of federal tax revenue is spent on military spending should I send you to a chart? http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/interactives/budget07/categoryPie07.gif

What will your next argument be that the Washington post is a liberal paper? Go look at the federal chart put out by the gov't it is basically the same but does not break down 27% that education is contained within. About 3% on education at the federal level Gmoo your comment is a joke.

no money for education?....really?...truth is MOST money for education comes from states in form of property taxes...so judging it on amounts from feds is fanciful to try to make a point....but misses completely when 80-90% comes from states....you've got to include that 80-90% of their budgets to get even close to a truthful comparison...(public schools)

also, the chart from the washington post looks accurate...at least as far as looking smilar to others i've seen over the years....and add it up yourself....social programs far exceed defense spending....defense spending IS astronomically high, but so is social program spending...clean up the fraud in ALL of those categories before asking me for more money (add up social security, medicare, income security, and health and you 58%; over half the trillions of dollars go to social programs)

sts9 is most definitely the best electronica, fusion, jam band out there today. Blew my mind at rothbury. I've been downloading shows ever since and i love every single one of them. I need to see them again sometime soon. On an entirely different note i wanted to ask bluntsnbisco how it felt to be the biggest joke on jambase.

Ok I was just responding to Gmoos statement on federal taxes I understand that individual state taxes pay for the majority of education in each respective state by property taxes. So what happens in the areas where property taxes are lox i.e public housing, not the suburbs rural areas, run down parts of cities and towns. Property taxes there are low thus education. In this country it matters where you come from. You come from a neighborhood with high poperty taxes and i.e. wealthy individuals you are going to have a great k-12 education but what if you live in a rural area or other locations where the prperty taxes are low b/c no one wants to live there,etc. etc.? Then what happens to the value of your education? In addition the same can be said for teachers salaries those that live in rich suburbia are going to pay there teachers well and thus get top notch teachers those that live in low income areas are going to pay the teachers shit or at least a lot less thus a far more inferior education. Say what you will but the education system in this country needs a huge overhaul.

education DOES need an overhaul, but just throwing more money at it will do nothing....just my opinion but i think the teachers unions doing more to keep teachers their jobs at all costs (including a lot of crappy ones)than fight for quality in schools is a huge part of the problem....i know that 99.9999% of teachers hated bush for implementing NCLB, but personally i thought it had its strong points by FINALLY putting some accountability on the schools....it has it weak points as well, as a student is more than a test score, but the unions have argrued that point forever and look at where it has got us....making schools accountable for the education was revolutionary thinking, as before NCLB there wasn't much of anything holding them accoutable....one of the few things i've agreed with that bush has done....as fpr the property taxes, it is but a part of the overall state funding, much comes from the actual "state" and is therefore divied up over the state and not just funded by a community....but your point still stands as poorer areas do take a hit on the property tax side compared to richer areas

Thoughtful discussion on social policy? Sweet. This beats the hell out of the usual "my band rules, your band sucks it sideways" banter. Nicely done, and I think very much in the spirit of what STS9 is hoping for these days.

I'll tell you when I realizes that I didn't want a band like soundtribe in my life.. the first time I saw them for a new years show and I glanced on stage and saw them playing on computers.. what the hell is that all about? They may play their hearts out but they HAVE NO SOUL in their music no feeling.. it's like eating a hamburger cooked in the microwave as opposed to cooked on a grille.. It's got this plastic taste that it leaves in your mouth and I hate to generalize against a whole group of fans but damn do sts9 fans do a shit load of drugs! THE whole point of live music is that it's live that it has a human tone to it that there is room for errors which doesn't happen when machines are involved!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

bluntsnbisco you are the dumbest most obnoxious person on the planet. How many times did your mother purposely drop you on your head when you were little. Must have been thousands.

can someone tell me whats wrong with the lowdown please?

Regarding NCLB please correct me if I wrong because I very well could be misinformed but is it not true that the sample data that they use to produce statistics claiming that the program is working and increasing test scores exclude those schools who did not meet the initial criteria required by the standardized tests? I have heard that those lower performing schools that do not score well on the standardized tests-therefore losing funding are then also not included in the final presentation of statistics that has been used to try to argue that this program is working. Obviously is you are excluding data from some schools (the poorer performing ones) of course it is going to look like the program is working. Not that I disagree that teachers should not be held accountable on some level, but it is more than teachers it really falls back on the parents of students and the help, support, and encouragement that they receive at home. Social Revolution ;)

Oh and bluntsandbisco it's all about about comebacks and smartass wise crack comments those are the things that are gonna take you places in this world.

on NCLB, the only data not "in" that i know of are populations of students (ie minority groups) that are less than 40 persons in a school....so if a school of hundreds or thousands has a group, lets say 20 asians in this case, then those 20 test scores ARE in the schools data as a whole; but NOT as a segregated group of "asian scores" for that school....there are something like 98 ways for a school to fail because all of these scores are broken down in so many ways different ways (problem i'll address in a moment)....this "omitting" (though not technically really omitted at all from the "whole school's" scores) prevents a school from not going into decline over such a small group because percentage wise in such small groups 1 or 2 kids can make a huge difference in percentages....now back to the 98 categories (or thereabout)....a huge problem with NCLB is that a school can be doing great (even excelling) in 97 of those categories, but take that one other category not making enough progress for 3 years straight and bammo school is "in decline" and the state starts to make sanctioons and give parents letters stating their kids school is "in decline" and they may take their kid to another school if they choose....now that letter is not (by any means) the only consequence.....the state starts making teachers more accountable with their lessons....more professional developement for teachers is given.....more state money (and maybe federal) is given to that school to offer more tutoring and other programs....so the end game is not the state (or feds) trying to shut down the school or take it over, but give it additional resources to help improve whatever of the 98 categories they are not gaining enough year to year......now to the largest problem (as i see it) with NCLB, is that in however many years from now (something like 10 years or so) all schools will have to be attaining growth until it reaches ALL (100%) passing the state tests.....now that is crazy as anyone in education or even half way thinking about it will know that is impossible.....even when it starts to get into the 80 or 90'%'s it gets close to impossible for schools to attain that type of goal since home life is such a huge part of how well a particular kid does in school...and as far as home life's go, there are kids out there that have the most ridiculous circumstances that 30 years ago were less than 1% of the school population and now can be above 30% depending on where the school is located....like kids with no parents at all, kids speaking english (those scores still counted), family members in jail for 1st degree crimes....none of that is at all accounted for in NCLB.....BUT the great thing is that FINALLY schools (not just teachers) ARE being held accountable because before no child left behind they just weren't.....schools with over 50% dropout rates kept on doing the same thing year to year with no real change because they (the school) didn't HAVE to...well now they do have to change something or eventually the state WILL take over the school....so technicalities of how scools are being held accountable need to be revised, but NOT holding schools at all accountable is exactly what will happen if NCLB is dropped (and one of the candidates does want to drop NCLB, with no other accountability system to take its place, which would be bad)

i meant "not" speaking english about 3/4 of the way down.....

where to begin i guess from the start....the first time i even heard of Sound Tribe was bonnaroo '05, my younger and brother and mutual friend of ours said i need to come check these guys, it was around 1230 or so when we made our way fromt he RV to the other tent where their late night set was scheduled to perform, and from the outset i was taken back by their sound and engery , and the energy from the crowd, i was furhter taken back when a good 'ol boston locals the Mr. lif and Acrobtic hit the stage. Fast forward to today and i am huge sts9 fan. sts9 has been about "the dark & the light" "the yin & yang" and so on. I agree with who ever said peaceblaster material is a bit dark and refenced their earlier matieral being lighter w/ durring the clinton days. it would seem that their music has moved with the ebb and flow of american culture and political climate, because regaless of political views one might have it is hard ot argue that we live in darker times than almost a decade ago hence their darker take on things. back in the days of the clinton administration we enjoyed a great economy, low gas prices, a surplus in federal spending, and we weren't at war. not that clinton didn't drop a few bombs, if im not mistaken he did some time in around columbine massacre. america has always made its presence felt aournd the world whether it be a military or relief presence in time of peace or war. now in 2008 we have been at war with an foe that is one particluar country by rather religious & idealist fanatics spread out over many countries. gas prices countinue to sky rocket, (except durring our midterm elections gas actually dropped below $2 slightly and as soon as it was done they went higher than before, the country is running a national defict, forclosures on homes are at an all time high. america has it's own fanatics fighting over many many issues (abortion, gay marriage, direction of the war, stem cell research take your pick of the litter there is an issue one for every one).

being at the ripe age of 22 i fing meself having having to consider all this and factor it into my own life and choices as i move forward. my family has been involved in massachusetts poltics for a long time so i find my self keeping my ear to whats going in my own state, america and the world. when considering all the issues present it helps to listen to our peers opinions and agree or construtively critize ( not bash out right) and also listen to the people we put stock in like muscians or polticians. it does a world of good to see people like sts9, franti, and bisco who bring their views to the spot light with them for the sole reason being they can.

we, the music comminity can make changes, we are already together whether we know it or not. we show up in the thousands on a regular basis for the sole purpose to shake ass in any way we see fit. we actually help the economy by spending our money to get to a from the fests, buying food, drinks, clotheing from the companies present, buying propane for our grills, stakes for our tents, ponchos for the rain, glow sticks, light up frisbees you name it believe it or not it helps make the world go 'round.

we are a turing point in the world and we are all citizens. no matter who you are or what you do, it is time to make a choice and act.

(i would like to note that my spelling and grammer are not always spot on, particularly in this little comment box, as you guys know.)

P.L.U.F. Peace. Love. Unity. Fun.

micapawgroove-

I appreciate your comments, but are you a teacher? Do you understand the effects that NCLB has had on classroom instruction and therefore on student learning? Yes NCLB is "accountability" but accountability for what? Mostly for improved student scores on standardized tests. Even if certain districts, particularly low-income districts are seeing improved performance as a result of increased accountability, is the nature or quality of education in America, especially in low-income communities with at-risk youth, and the intelligence and skills of young people improving? Not really...so instead of REAL educational reform, NCLB has simply added a massive federal bureaucracy to the equation, while schools and teachers are being hog-tied to improving standardized test scores, while courses in the arts, environmental sciences and humanities are being cut to make way for READING/MATH READING/MATH READING/MATH. By NCLB's standards for AYP (annual yearly progress), it is predicted that something like 97% or California's schools will be non-compliant by 2015. So how then is NCLB successful? It may be an "accountabilty" system but it's totally asinine.

i am a teacher for about 20 years and yes because of the "100%" passing by whatever year all schools will be noncompliant...we will have most of ours in arizona noncompliant by then too.....but hopefully by the time that comes to fruition they will have new accountability standards for what is "compliant" and then schools will no longer be "noncompliant"...i agree that in its present form with THESE accountability techniques it is asinine.....but before that with NO accountability was just as asinine....so what i'm saying is keep NCLB and just tweek how schools are measured by it...and as far as "massive federal beauracracy" i TOTALLY agree with you....hell, i'll raise you one and say get rid of MUCH of the federal government because it is just a massive freakin beauracracy with layer upon layer of meaningless stuff that duplicates itself over and over again......give me a system that holds schools accountable that is better than NCLB and i'll be right there cheering you on!!!!....but until then NCLB was a MAJOR step in holding schools accountable, which needed to happen....big time

and to say NCLB is totally unsuccessful would be wrong...it IS hogtying some schools to do this and that (depending on what areas not meeting AYP), but some schools NEEDED to be hogtied to do this and that because we could go around the nation and name district after district that had over 50% dropout rate, students "graduating" that couldn't read or write....and that happened for years and years and years with some of the scools not doing a damn thing about it (because they didn't HAVE to do anything about it, they may have "wanted to" but kept dragging their feet because they didn't HAVE to)....i appraciate how hard it is going to make it for some programs to "make it" such as art and other electives...and i hate that....but they (students) really do need to know how to read and write first and formost over everything else (and i'm NOT an english teacher, i teach math and would love to teach art)....so NCLB has forced districts that weren't stepping up and doing something about their failure rates to step up and do something about it (and not alone but with extra funds, programs, and developement from the state)....so NCLB is not a TOTAL failure by any means in my opinion

and let me clarify the "students have to learn to read and write first and formost over everything else" comment.....if a person can not present themselves as an educated person in writing and/or in person verbally then they have little chance of improving their lot in life in america....wether the are trying to become employed or become an employer (start a business) you HAVE to be able to communicate

I love that Hunter has a democracy now t-shirt on - that's dope. if you aren't familiar, get familiar.

>>> www.democracynow.org <<<

and please, for your sake, and everyone's sake, VOTE this year. it's more important than any other things you might be doing on that day...

STS9 is good. but not great...got a good niche carved out...a great group of dedicated fans...This is obviously my opinion.

I love STS9, Rothbury late night was great one of my favorite shows in a long time. I hear what they are saying about things needed to change. So what should we do to change things?

I cannot believe I just read that comment ^. What should we do to change things? Jesus man, you might as well ask them what you should eat for breakfast lunch and dinner. STS9 is fun, but its the same shit every time. How can they say theyre bringing a forum for political change? Are their fans really as idiotic as zachph7 that they have to ask the band how to do things? Totally disappointed.

Hey does anybody know why the theLOWDOWN is down? It hasn't been working for about a week now.

Hey micapawgroove,

I just don't get it. You are an obviously smart person and eloquent speaker(and by speaker I mean writer) but the way you throw your support behind some of these right-winged policy's and won't even hear anything about health care and obama's tax proposals etc-it's crazy man!

Even the horrible screw-ups like NCLB you are defending somewhat. This totally baffles me. You just said that throwing money at education was the wrong thing do but do you realize that NCLB dramatically increased federal spending on and authority over public education in America. The Bush Administration's budget request of $24.4 billion for NCLB in 2008 would be a 41 percent increase over 2001 spending(which was asinine if of itself for a flawed policy). You seem to be a defender of state's rights but the NCLB policy is an unprecedented federal infringement on teacher and state rights.

I know you probably think I'm some super democrat cheerleader but I'm no dem, I like to call myself a "progressive." but I sure as shit wouldn't touch most neo-con policy's with a ten foot pole (unless it involved stomping it to shit out of it with that pole.) But that being as much as the two-party system is sooo FRAKED I thinks its essential that people work together in someway to get some changes a working. Most people, regardless of their political affiliation think we need real change and its not gonna happen unless people work together.

Geez after all that I forgot to post what I came hear for. STS9 has such a strong place in my life, heart and soul. They move me. Not since the likes of PHISH has a band really nailed me on the head like they do. I love their new stuff(old as well) but they have to progress. What, do you guys wanna see a nostalgia act? I sure as shit don't.

Zach Velmer= most nuts and passionate drummer out there

both sides have their good points, their bad points.....(i'm just a little freaked out)...but the way you speak of the "right wing" and neo-con, it doesn't sound as if you're really willing to work together....and we've got to really think about WHY some very educated people on whatever side of the isle would think the way the do and find those good points that seem invisible at first.....we've been through the tax stuff and healthcare stuff recently so i won't address that again....but i'd advise that one kid that said "what should we do?" (and everyone else) to do YOUR OWN RESEARCH to as big a degree as possible....find out who is supporting and funding where you get your info from....since none of us can PHYSICALLY be everywhere at once (or even over time) you've got to get your info somewhere and just know what their agenda is...because they ALL have an agenda...ALL of the media....every single source has SOME agenda trying to persuade you one way or another....i'm not saying "don't get informed from anywhere", but just be aware of what they are leaving out of their story, what stories they leave out altogether, and try to find their agenda....i can't think of a single news source that is just "there to inform"....i'm sorry, but that type of "journalism" just doesn't exist....so get informed from what looks like left wing agenda driven outlets and get informed from right wing agenda outlets (even if it hurts to listen to it) and get informed from wherever else you can....but they ALL talk about the stories they WANT to talk about and leave out stories that make their side look bad...they ALL frame their stories as to make their side look better.....and those that claim to be "unbiased", watch them closely, because they ARE biased, they just want you to think they are unbiased

also Barjazid....i could say the same thing of "why don't you support NCLB" and the education bills signed in by Bush during his first term....the policies were written by a kennedy (ted), throw tons of money to the schools, and give the fed government more authority....so it seems a somewhat left leaning person would love it...why don't you (not saying you should, you just didn't say WHY you thought it an abomination)....and to say NCLB was a total screw up would mean that you prefer NO ACCOUNTABILITY in public schools....if you want some accountability in schools, then NCLB was the first step in having some, so you've got to give it some credit IF you want schools to be held accountable to whatever degree......

STS9 > Bisco.

24/7

STS9 is doing what all great artist do, making a statement to stir the minds of their patrons. It's obvious by the comments that they've elicited. If you are so uninformed to realize that the dumbing of america isn't a reality, then you're the reason for it. Why do you think the inner cities have slums that are plagued with crack? Why do you think herion came to town before nam? Do you own a big screen, a gaming console, or play fantasy? We are all a part of it, but a movement in the collective consciousness of america is exactly what our nation needs. For those of you who have never met with success in your lives, listen to John Carry (sp) on Nightline. The ego is more addictive than any drug. Once your high on it, your blind to the world. At least, these guys, read STS9, are not consumed by ego and are actually trying to make the world a better place. Congratulations. Any naysayers about the message here are simply part of the problem, become part of the solution.

Peace

Oh BTW, anyone who thinks that NCLB is a "step in the right direction," know nothing about it. Let me quote a line I saw on this board, "...keep your mouth shut and let us think your stupid, don't open it and confirm for the world." Serously, if you honestly believe that NCLB has been good for education, then you didn't take advantage of yours.

Pranaam

Amen pheelalrights you summed it up perfectly.........here is another quote to ponder Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe. -Albert Einstein...although I think stupidity should be changed to arrogance or ignorance but those kinda go hand in hand

bluntsnbisco, i love how you piss people off. you have some funny posts as well. keep it up!

you're sorry typing too fast

sts9 is SICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

how about explaining WHY nclb is so bad....and in the same, please explain how no accountability HASN'T led to the dumbing down of america and its schools.........no accountability is the way it was prior to nclb....how again was that GOOD for education in this country??.....so you guys are saying that no accountablility had absolutely nothing to do with the state schools are in????....really??

I love STS9 for all the purple hamburgers, green yuckyfaces, blue dolphins, shard-shifters, and dental appointments i can get. Keep up the good work!

Brilliant comments, does my heart good to hear actual intelligent debate on a jambase forum .. . . .

2 comments on comments that struck me though,

1. micapawgroove. . . . . you always come off as very intelligent, but do you honestly not see the flaw in your thinking that someone who would be against the nclb act would be saying that they want no accountability for schools? That is akin to saying that someone who believes in the decriminalization of marijuana wants to see every drug legalized and for sale, or saying that supporters of euthanasia want to see it enacted against the will of a patient. . . .. just because someone is against nclb (and there are good reasons for such) doesn't mean they want no accountability for schools, your arguement there essentially consists of twisting and implanting meanings in someone else's arguement that weren't necessarily made or felt . .. . . a bullshit tactic if you will, and not one that makes much sense considering the thoughtfulness of some of your points and arguements. . . . .

2. Yes George Washington did WILLINGLY relinquish power (for many reasons, but the most important were altruistic in nature), as did the ancient Cincinitus (sic) .. . . . . either 'could' have set themselves up their own little fiefdom if they wanted, but they preferred to give up their power in order to establish a governmental precedent that would be more beneficial to their citizens (for info on Washington read the third chapter of the book Founding Brothers). . . . so there are at least two examples of those in power who willing gave it up, but i'll admit that such people and situations are rare. . . . .

G'day. . . . .

Don't take ecstasy, listen to XTC

again....all i'm saying is that befor nclb there was no accountability in schools....there just wasn't....and to say nclb is total crap would then mean that that person doesn't even see that despite its flaws (and i ackowledge there are several) nclb at the very least started something called making schools accounttable for the education they are giving (or not giving) to the students.end of of my point

and pheelalrights....how about clearly stating your argument regarding nclb rather than just saying for me to shut up..and if i come across so ignorant then wouldn't you want me to just keep going so as to indirectly help your side of this nclb discussion...there were no consequences that meant anything prior to nclb in order for crappy schools to stop dragging their feet and actually change something to reduce dropout rates, to improve their teaching techniques, and to improve their quality of education......the teacher unions have argued forever that a kid is more than a test score, which they are, but it also a lazy, sneaky way to say "you can't judge us and we should not be held accountable for some schools educating kids poorly".....nclb changed that and i applaud the revolutionary concept of holding schools accountable.....

So 3% of federal spending on educating kids that I don't know and have never met is nothing? That's interesting. It's funny that I got 5 thumbs down for having a positive post telling kids that they have a chance. Why is my post a joke? I would have liked to have a decent conversation with you regarding education, but you had to put yourself on a pedistal. Tranceful_Delite, thanks for your contribution. Thank you for telling me that John McCain is a terrible candidate. And thank you for telling me how much of a terrible person I am for supporting him.

If this country is in such terrible shape...why do people fly by me (I drive 60 mph on the freeway) going 80-90 mph? People obviously have the money to waste by driving that fast, so how terrible is our economy really?

Talking about money won't save education. It never has and never will. I'M PRETTY SURE ALBERT EINSTEIN NEVER HAD A LAPTOP! Those who care will be educated and those who think it is a waste of time will not care.

Some of you act as if it is some great tragedy that children do not start their educational careers with the same resources. By calling this unjust, all one accomplishes is attempting to control something that includes an incredible amount of randomness and predisposition. INSTEAD OF FOCUSING ON SUCH THINGS, LET'S FOCUS ON THE CONTINUING THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS NO MATTER WHERE WE MAY BE IN OUR LIVES.

It's not where you start, but where you finish.

TO ALL YOU 'PROGRESSIVES', BRING THE THUMBS DOWN!

1radioheader....just wanted to adress your comment even more directly than i did 2 comments after yours.....i am NOT saying that everyone opposed to nclb thinks that schools should have no accountability, rather my commnt went to one or two that said nclb was TOTALLY crap, that there wasn't anything redeeming about it, or accusing me of not thinking straight because i supported nclb....i've clearly stated that nclb has its flaws and specified what those flaws were in my opinion and moreover that my support was not the details of nclb but the aspect of holding schools accountable

I worked for years for McGraw Hill as a supervisor in their standardized tests division. Anyone who cant pass a test like this has been failed by their teachers/parents/society. We have a 19% graduation rate in Indianapolis Public Schools--19%!!!!!! The school system is FUCKED by any standard. People in this country ARE being dumbed down, thats the whole idea of political correctness and standardized testing. They want to control how you feel and think. If people are feeling strongly, come to the RNC in Minneapolis, help man the blockades, etch some expensive windows, take over hotel lobbies/fight the cops and let your frustrations be heard.

AS for the tribe, Ive been hearing them for almost ten years and can tell you they have progresssed tremendously. I see maybe 2-3 shows a year of their as Im not into the whole electro thing the way I was in 1998-2002. This year the show I caught was dope. It flowed very nicely and I had a good time. Back in the day I remember shows that were so dissonant and it was hard to listen to at times.

Dum Dum Dum Dum......http://www.longcountdown.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/tv-500x402.jpg

common ground, common ground lord-k..............for 2 weeks in april i have had my kids (students, over 150-180 per year for about 20 years) turn off the tv (and in the recent 5-10 years turn off computers, ipods, all screens).........it has sometimes been a lifechanging event for some families that choose to participate.....and i get most all to participate by making big time extra credit available close enough to the final exam (usually within 6 weeks later) that most middle schoolers want to try 2 weeks with no-screens to give themselves some leeway to not have to ace the final....i have them accountable trhough a variety of ways, if you want to know more just ask.........you have to teach them that there is a way to entertain themselves, because far too many are listening to the media and not being taught by their parents to do anything than turn on a screen and play a game, as opposed to actually going outside and doing something else

the majority of this nation is completely "Dumb". for the past 50 years it is increasing more and more. we work come home watch tv and buy shit. we are consumers and that is what the government has been trying to make us. they constantly feed us bullshit and it will continue to get worse. so may as well go rage for NYE in ATL w/ TRIBE.

zach velmer is everyones favorite drummer

All i have to say is that STS9 WAS Rothbury, best show of my life!

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz..........i'd rather listen to the Biscos

You dont get it carphishhead. I know about all these issues STS9 promotes. I have read david cay johnston books exposing the corruption of our government, what I know disgusts me but guess what......I have a mortgage and bills, Im not going to quit my job and start some crusade against the govt.... and for the most part there isnt anything that is going to change the way things are, that is the sad truth. Im not going to get all worked up and upset about things that I cannot control.....and please dont tell me to go a vote and that will change things.....the Dems are just as corrupt and warped as the reps. The only thing that could truly change the modern day govt is a powerful 3rd party and unfortunately that just is not going to happen anytime soon.

STS9=GREAT BAND=GREAT SHOWS

STS9 STANCE ON POLITICS=LEAVE IT OUT OF YOUR MUSIC GUYS

PEACEBLASTER=BIG DISSAPOINTMENT

STS9=STILL A GOOD BAND

STS9 is one of, if not the, best late-night festival band out there today. I was at Rothbury this year and got to see STS9 close out saturday night with a 3 and a half hour set (Which I would recommend to anyone and everyone for purchase off of their website) that absolutely blew all the other closer's of the weekend away. They are an amazing band that gives it their all each and every show while maintaining a message and a kick-ass sound.

I may be one of the folks uncomfortable with this bands changes.. "where folks attached to different portions of the journey aren't always comfortable with changes" I admit that someone else may think their changes are great however everyone I used to go see STS9 shows with seems to feel they used to be better.. These guys used to know how to use their instruments and make a crowd feel it. Something happened and now it is not the same. I used to call these guys my favorite band because they had a distinct sound and now I would rather just listen to a great DJ or a couple of DJ's together because the sound is more cohesive than STS9. I just hope that this band comes full circle back around to using their talents for making music and ditches all the computers. That said Zach Velmer is the best drummer and most talented guy out there...

Im disapointed that Im going out of town for the Red Rocks shows this year, last year was amazing! And Fridays after party at the Gothic! Im even more bummed out about missing Shpongle.

This article makes me think of a "conspiracy film" zeitgeist. A lot of people have probably heard of it/seen it, and well I admit some of it has a sensationalist conspiratorial bent, the vast majority of the information in the film is factual and can be verified if you do background research. There's definately a lot of humilitiless corruption and selfish surreptitious manipulation of the masses for the ends of a very small group of absolutely powerful, absolutely corrupt men. It's worth checking out, I'm no Nostradomous but I'd rather not having my Grandchildren live on a rotting, used up, decprepid planet while the other half 1% goes to Mars. Perhaps it's better to know too much than too little? Perhaps ignorance is not bliss but a simulated copy and paste image of bliss? I don 't know, that Zeitgeist movie's worth checking out and at least considering though. Soundtribe is awesome.

greengrass, I agree completely. No hate, but they have been losing me for the last two years. Just do not dig the direction they chose to go. I liked the lyrical element much more. And agree again, Zach is impressive to watch.

micapawgroove, I applaud your project in getting your students and families to unplug. I have a strong opinion that one should be able to live in one's own skin and brain and heart and learn to embrace stillness and silence instead of 100% stimulation. And 19% graduation, man that is a sorry statement right there.

"There's definately a lot of humilitiless corruption and selfish surreptitious manipulation of the masses for the ends of a very small group of absolutely powerful, absolutely corrupt men..."

^^^ I don't even know where to begin. Who is in this small group of absolutely powerful, absolutely corrupt men? So funny. My grandma owns some shares of Disney and GE...what a corrupt old lady. I can't believe she would support an evil company like DISNEY!!!

If y'all don't want to plug into reality, go ahead and drop out with Timothy Leary (good man btw). I hear Rainbow Gathering is nice.

OR.......

Detach yourself from all the marketing and corporate messages. It's really not that hard people. Learn how to make informed decisions and DON'T MAKE EXCUSES FOR OTHERS WHEN THEY DO NOT.

Tough love is necessary.

GROW OURS>>>GOT MINE