Widespread Soul
“When after all, it was you and me…”
--The Rolling Stones
…A few quick words from the crossroads…
These are dark days dear reader…when you see the Devil and the deep blue sea…when sinister shadows hound the soul and one’s life epitomizes a war torn saga operating on a tightrope between darkness and light…everyone feels this way sooner or later, and if you don’t understand now, in time—you will. All great artists make you face the gritty reality and force you see a beauty in ruthless change. In such strange transitional times one resorts to work and art—music, literature, film, old friends, new loves—comforts of the soul…the show must go on…
It was in this eerie sentiment tonight that I called Widespread Panic drummer Todd Nance for our Swampland/Mystery & Manners interview. I’ve known Todd for 15 years from my old days in Athens, Georgia. Todd used to frequently visit the apartment I shared with Danny Hutchens and Eric Carter of Bloodkin--a band Widespread Panic admired and cover a variety of their songs.
Widespread Panic never catered to plastic industry types and record companies who expect a band to live up to false formulas. This two hour interview ranks as one of my personal favorites as it portrays a brilliant journey through the past which leads up to this very moment. Todd sheds light on Panic’s rise in the music industry, Capricorn Records, Col. Bruce Hampton, relentless touring, the early days, classic recording sessions, the sad passing of Michael Houser, musical influences, love, loss and the everlasting beauty and savage pitfalls of rock and roll’s truth and illusion...
Todd proved willing to discuss anything I wanted with a trust and resonant soul that verified all my old instincts about one’s glorious past. He's a great musician, and we're lucky to have him with us. So, rest assured when I tell you…this interview will be worth reading and referring back to as history rolls on.
To thicken the plot, I will interview the legendary musician and producer Jim Dickinson on Saturday. Dickinson has played with Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Duane Allman, Albert King, Ronnie Hawkins, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Mavis Staples to name a few. Dickinson plays a vital role in the sound of his sons—Luther and Cody’s--band, the North Mississippi Allstars.
Stay tuned to these interesting developments…you won’t be bored, and you might even learn a thing or two. I suggest you visit every day to read another piece in the cosmic puzzle Swampland constructs for the glory of its readers, subjects and participants…
I’d like to send out prayers to Stanley Booth and his wife Diann Blakely during a perilous time for them. Now, in the face of adversity, it’s time to roll the tape and tell the story. Even as a sheep among wolves—think of Gram Parsons, Blind Willie McTell, Eddie Hinton, Townes Van Zandt—keep on the sunny side…all things must pass…
Until a little later,
James Calemine
JCalemine@swampland.com
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Comments
Vinnie74 says...
James you always do a great job. Todd is the man and I cant wait to see a show or 2 during the spring. take care man
stellaguitar says...
I met Todd at a show a few years ago and we talked. He is not only a fine drummer but also a great, great guy. Would love to see you interview Dave Schools sometime. He's funny.