I know he's been criticized for his "protest statement", but it's so simple...be a rock icon for 20 years, look around, gain some knowledge and intelligence...then you can make political statements that do more than bring attention to yourself.

The tribute to Joe Strummer and The Clash was excellent. Mr.'s Ghrol, Costello, Springsteen and Van Zandt stole the show...but you know who sounded the best? Little Stevie Van Zandt...he nailed it.

Who didn't nail it? Simon and Garfunkel...they were on for the first 2 verses, but the wheels came off after that.

I purposely waited and did not buy the latest Queens of the Stone Age album...because I knew I couldn't handle it. R - was genius. Quick and to the Pointless is a brilliant song. I knew I had to wait so I wouldn't...I almost wrote overdose, which leads me to the Feel Good Hit of the Summer. See? It's infectious.

Saturday, during my 3-hour stint at Waterloo Records, I bought it. I just made it past the first 5 cuts this afternoon. I recognize the difference, and it's not all Dave Ghrol. Well, it is and it isn't. You know how people will credit "superstars" (in any profession) for being superstars because the make everyone around them better? That's Dave Ghrol...but, he also influences the product. After a few more listens...I may change my mind. But...the last minute and a half of Song for the Dead is unreal.

I actually had a discussion group debate with someone between the talents of Jimmy Chamberlain and Dave Ghrol. I said it then and I will say it now...Chamberlain's good - but he couldn't hold Ghrol's jock.