Audio Vault

Since my first job at KFMY in Eugene, Oregon, I've been proudly playing "One Toke Over the Line," an anthem for the time it was written and still very appropriate in today's world. It's amazing that 40 years later it still has that punch. Michael talks about what happened after the song was released and climbed up the charts, being on Nixon's enemies list, what Spiro Agnew had to say about them, having the song done as a "modern spiritual" on the Lawrence Welk show, and the years between which find the duo still performing.

Ian Anderson calls Iris from London to talk about the upcoming concert at McMennamins Edgefield on June 17th. I must confess, Ian is such a brilliant man and I am such a fan that I'm surprised that I can form a complete thought when in his presence, either in person or on the phone. We discuss his favorite venues around the world, Facebook, why he doesn't want to write a biography, Aqualung, and more.

Styx rocker, Tommy Shaw, has taken a bit of a turn with his newly released "The Great Divide." The album is a celebration of bluegrass, the music he grew up with, and a collection of songs that he wrote or co-wrote. With guest mucisians including Dwight Yoakam, Alison Krauss, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, and more, the album is number two on the bluegrass charts, right behind banjo virtuoso, Steve Martin. It's always so great to talk to Tommy, and hear his passion for music. SO...rockers, open your hearts and minds to Tommy's "The Great Divide."

I had just finished reading John Elder Robison's first book "Look Me In The Eye" and was delighted to hear that he was about to release another book, somewhat a more practical guide to living with and dealing with people diagnosed with Aspergers. I found it was just a great read, and a fine guide for anyone who is deemed "different" in our society. John designed the exploding fire guitars for Ace Frehley, and was at the forefront in video game design. His story is an amazing journey of triumph and I recommend it highly. He will be appearing at Powell's on April 20th. Enjoy the interview.

Jean M. Auel has just released the sixth and final book in the Earth's Children series, "The Land of Painted Caves." While she's been a Portland resident since the 50's, Jean was calling from New York on the day of the book's release. In 1982, Mayor Ivancie declared September 8th, "Jean Auel Day" in Portland. She is a Portland treasure, and a beloved author as well as a graduate of Portland State, and University of Portland. I'm a fan! Enjoy the interview. -Iris

Jennifer Lauck, author of "Blackbird," "Still Waters," "Show Me the Way," has a new book dealing with her experience of adoption titled "Found." I was instantly hooked on the subject, since I too am adopted. Her journey has similarities to other stories of adoption but is unique in the discovery of the feeling of loss that comes with the situation, and how to overcome the difficulties associated with being adopted. March 22, 2011 -Iris

After seeing The Doobie Brothers at Edgefield this summer, I am so ready for this new album. It's called "World Gone Crazy" and will be released on September 28th. Guests on the album include Willie Nelson, Billy Payne, Gregg Bissonette, Mic Gillette and even Michael McDonald on a backgroud vocal. Having heard 3 cuts on the album already, I know Doobies fans will love it! An instant classic! Enjoy.

Okay, I'll confess that Amy the KGON'sider and myself are great big geeks for this band. We love the production elements, the visuals, the musicians, the holiday feeling that you get when you are sitting in the Rose Garden Arena with wild pyrotechnics, lasers that rival any show on the planet, and well, there's Al Pitrelli. We LOVE this man to pieces. If TSO was a circus, we'd run away and join it!

Local music hero, Tommy Thayer, will be inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame on October 9th at the Roseland Theater for his work in Black 'n Blue. They haven't played together in 20 years, but they will when they are inducted into OMHOF! Tommy tells the story of how they formed the band, who helped along the way, and how they opened for KISS which started a personal path for Tommy to become a member of that legendary band. We talk about the old music scene in Portland, old haunts, and others that should be inducted into the OMHOF.

Carlos Santana has just released an album of cover tunes called "Guitar Heaven" and he played several songs on the TV show "Dancing With the Stars" the night it was released in the stores. Carlos Santana is amazing and wise. It's great to catch up with him about the shows in Las Vegas, how "Guitar Heaven" came together and how he faces his fears. He's a delight to talk to and one of the top five people that I'd like to have lunch with, and I think I'd still have questions for him. Enjoy this little chat.