In Memoriam

IN MEMORIAM: TV on the Radio bassist Gerard Smith, 1975-2011

POSTED: Thursday, April 21, 2011, 3:00 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam

If you caught TV on the Radio at the Electric Factory a few weeks back, bassist Gerard Smith was not on stage. Due to his battle with lung cancer, Smith has not been performing with the band on the current tour. Yesterday morning, it was announced on the band's website that Smith passed away. They left the following message:

"We are very sad to announce the death of our beloved friend and band mate, Gerard Smith, following a courageous fight against lung cancer. Gerard passed away the morning of April 20th, 2011. We will miss him terribly."

In happier TV on the Radio news, this video cut from their extended live taping for Letterman last week is making the rounds on the Internet and features a long-sought-after live rendition of "Young Liars." Other favorites like "Wolf Like Me" show up on this 40-minute set, as do newer songs like "Caffeinated Consciousness."

Posted by Ryan Carey @ 3:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Elizabeth Taylor, 1932-2011

POSTED: Wednesday, March 23, 2011, 1:00 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam

Film icon Elizabeth Taylor passed away today in Los Angeles at the age of 79. The reported cause is congestive heart failure. The two-time Academy Award-winning actress appeared in over 50 films, including Cleopatra, Raintree County and, my personal favorite, the film version of Tennessee Williams' Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. And besides dazzling movie goers for more than 70 years, she put her celeb status to good use as a devout champion for AIDS-related charities, founding the American Foundation for AIDS Research and the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.

Rest in peace, sister. We'll miss you dearly. Oh, and give Michael Jackson our best "hee-hee!"

Posted by Josh Middleton @ 1:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Nate Dogg, 1969-2011

POSTED: Wednesday, March 16, 2011, 11:00 AM

Filed Under: In Memoriam

Death Row Records alum Nate Dogg (aka Nathaniel Hale) passed away yesterday in Long Beach, Cali. The cause of death hasn't been reported but the well known hip-hop collaborator, who famously worked with rappers like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, suffered from two strokes in recent years. He was only 41.

Posted by Josh Middleton @ 11:00 AM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Microsoft Zune bites the dust

POSTED: Tuesday, March 15, 2011, 2:00 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam

(fanpop.com)

Like 127 Hours hiker Aron Ralson, Microsoft has decided to sever one of its mainstays, the Zune. But in this case, the boulder that came between them and success is the iPod.

Released in 2006 (I was working at a Best Buy at the time, and I remember this being something of a big deal), Zune was Microsoft's attempt to cut into Apple's digital music ubiquity. Microsoft wanted Zune to be the Facebook to Apple's Myspace (which, admittedly was one of the more astounding usurpations of market dominance in recent memory). These were lofty goals for sure, but at first it wasn't doing terribly with a nine percent market-share after the first year. It was promising, even. Were it to continue in that direction with any amount of consistency, by today it could have approached competitive numbers with the iPod, and would have at least established itself as the standard iPod alternative worth keeping in production.

What it turned out to be, though, was LiveJournal to Apple's Myspace; RC Cola to its Coke.

Now, Zune is getting dropped and there is no alternative to the iPod. Not in any meaningful sense. This is great news for investors, who will benefit long run from Zune's attempted assault. Whatever small change profits Apple lost to Microsoft in that sector will certainly be made up by the value of the company now that they're seemingly competition-proof. Microsoft publicly demonstrated that taking on the iPod is not a profitable strategy, and it's now far less likely that Sony, LG or Amazon will attempt a similar coup.

Posted by Ryan Carey @ 2:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Brian Jacques (1939-2011)

POSTED: Wednesday, February 9, 2011, 6:00 PM

Filed Under: Arts | Critical Mass | In Memoriam Books

I came relatively late to the Redwall books, at the ripe age of nine or ten. Many of my classmates had become fans the year before, but at the time, the 300-page tomes seemed too thick for my undivided attention, and I struggled with the British accents as written on the page. But when, in fifth grade, I finally entered the world of Matthias the mouse, I was captivated, and quickly devoured the original trilogy: Redwall, Mossflower, and Mattimeo. When I heard that Brian Jacques died this weekend, I wanted to take a look back at the series that cast a spell on my childhood self.

jmarkmiller.net

The series, which now numbers more than 20 books, chronicles the adventures of the small creatures living in and around Redwall Abbey. Those living in the abbey itself are peace-loving but frequently forced to defend themselves when under siege by rats and other unsavory characters. Mice and hares are called upon to go on quests; vicious stoats don't hesitate to try and slit their throats (Jacques never held back on the violence). The books had everything I needed to feed a 10-year-old imagination: young male protagonists wielding swords; rich, ever-expanding geography; old, wise figures studying dusty volumes of abbey lore. A standout feature of the novels was the complex history of Redwall. From the series' start, the books darted back and forth in time, with the first one following the second chronologically and the third coming after either one. It was a welcome challenge to try to reconstruct the overall story from individual tales that were completely out of order. (Many fellow readers have told me they loved the lavish descriptions of abbey feasts, but I have to say those didn't interest me much.) For several years I lugged Redwall books to school, eager for silent reading period when I could imagine myself into Matthias' small shoes. As I got older, I moved on to other novels, but I could never bring myself to relegate the series to the attic: it stayed on my bedroom bookshelf. Once or twice in college, I looked back at Redwall, hoping it had retained its magic. I'd love to be able to say it did, but in fact I found myself troubled by unanswerable questions—of scale, for example: I'll accept the tiny swords, but how could a mouse realistically befriend a rabbit? And why are rats uniformly evil? Still, the books had left a mark, helping to awaken the Anglophile in me. When I spent a semester studying in Norwich, England, I noticed an advertisement for a Brian Jacques appearance at a local bookstore. When the night arrived, it was clear that Redwall had retained its hold on new generations, even in a Potter-dominated world: I was the oldest non-parent there. I'd expected an audience of people my age, former fans eager to weigh in on the series' hidden literary merit. Jacques swept in, wearing a cape and a huge grin. He told his own life story, and read excerpts from a new book, acting it out as if it were a play. Then, loving every moment, he took questions from the awed young listeners. At a time when the line between children's and adult books is becoming blurred, this event was all about the kids—the author aimed at their imaginations. He had no wish to be grandiose: Jacques' job was to tell stories, and he knew how.

Kim Woodbridge

Posted 2011-02-09 13:25:38

I was surprised and saddened by his death.  I've read some of the books as an adult and my daughter also loves them.  How wonderful that you got to meet him.

Could you please change the year of death in the headline?  It's 2011.

Matt Cantor

Posted 2011-02-09 14:47:11

Duly noted re the date! Whoops. Thank you, and thanks for your note.

Chris Haines

Posted 2011-02-09 15:38:48

I'm glad to see that people are talking about his death, I always felt in a lot of ways that he was under appreciated by very many people, but to me I think he is by far the best there has been for a long time.
Truly a great inspiration to those like myself who are in the world of story telling.
Thank you for noticing the wonder of his works, I'm glad to be proved wrong, and to see that a great many people did appreciate his books as I did.

Allison Fine

Posted 2011-02-09 17:31:37

I actualyl never read or heard of Mr. Jacques books and I am a writer myself. I cannot wait to hit my local bookstore and begin reading the series, I have a feeling that although he aimed his work at young readers, like all great writers his work resonates with people of all ages! I love his inspirational sources, his working class ethic, the jaunty smile on his face--I really regret not ever having seen or met him. Harry Potter leaves me cold, but I love the sly humor in this man and I am sure he will be missed--but I am equally sure he is a happy soul looking back over a life of wonderful creativity and a lot of joy.

Joel

Posted 2011-02-09 21:09:41

The Redwall books were a major part of my childhood, and are the reason I love books. I have never been this sad about a famous person dying. He will be missed very much.

John Lasher

Posted 2011-02-09 21:37:00

I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Jacques backstage during the original run of the "Legend of Redwall Abbey" musical/opera 14 years ago (I was 14 at the time). He was an enchanting gentleman, a fantastic storyteller, and kept us enthralled with the tales of his life and journeys.

He was truly one of the under-appreciated great ones, and he will be truly missed.

Stephen

Posted 2011-02-09 22:42:31

Joel, you say it perfectly. I also think I have never posted a comment on an article on a news source before this. The Redwall series was hugely formative for me and I only wish I could have thanked him for his contribution to my, and other's, love of reading and stories.

Mark

Posted 2011-02-10 00:00:12

I feel truly sad about the death of Brian Jacques.  I have read all of the Redwall books and to this day "Triss" is the only book to have ever brought a tear to my eye.  I met him at a book signing at Notre Dame and he told me "As long as you wake up in the morning, every day will be a good one."  R.I.P. Brian Jacques

Megan

Posted 2011-02-10 02:39:35

Rest in peace, Mr. Jacques.  And thank you for being the spark that ignited one 9 year old boy's love of reading.  That boy, and his parents, are very sad tonight.  We will open your cookbook this weekend and prepare some Dibbuns Delight, and toast you with a Strawberry Fizz.

Emma

Posted 2011-02-10 03:49:40

To quote the Pearls of Lutra:

"Fare you well upon your journey,
to the bright lands far away,
where beside the peaceful rivers,
you may linger any day.
In the forests warm at noontide,
see the flowers bloom in the glades,
meet the friends who've gone before you,
to the calm of quiet shades.
There you'll wait, O my beloved,
never knowing want or care,
and when I have seen my seasons,
we will walk together there."

R.I.P., Brian. Thanks for everything.

Samantha

Posted 2011-02-10 05:04:40

I don't think his books were meant only for children. They were so intricate, full of underlying complexities and character subtleties. Although certainly entertaining for a child, I don't think a child can fully appreciate the artistic vision in the Redwall series. Just because they're technically stories about talking animals doesn't mean they're inherently childish.
I read them in high school the first time around and, as soon as I'm done my PhD and actually have time for pleasure reading again, I fully intend to read them all again with an even greater appreciation and vigor. In fact, they're all sitting on my bookshelf right behind me in my office. All of this talk since Jacques' unfortunate passing has made me want to make time for them again so badly!
I can't believe there will never be any more stories of Redwall. I think that's what makes me saddest of all.

Marcia

Posted 2011-02-10 10:21:28

I am deeply saddened by Brian Jacques departure from this world.  I cannot imagine having raised my children (ages 19 and 16) without him.  We were lucky enough to hear him speak twice and to meet him after one of his talks.  I spent countless hours reading Redwall books to them and enjoyed every minute of it. He is part of the permanent fabric of our family.

Janie

Posted 2011-02-10 16:31:53

Brian Jacques' characters are interwoven with our family.  How do 2 kids, 10 years apart develop a common sense of siblinghood? Through the antics and heroics of Long Patrol hares, the creepy villains, Gonff, dibbuns and hinfants; through molespeak and Guerilla Unions.  At a book signing, BJ carefully inspected a dagger my then 10 yr-old son brought to show him, and declared "Hm, stilleto, 16th century Italy, used by assassins to stab between the 3rd and 4th ribs into the heart." Wow - what a story teller. We will always love you.

JoyBelle

Posted 2011-02-11 00:53:07

Matt Cantor,

What an tribute of honor you article has given Brian Jacques.  Thank you for letting us see a glimps of him.

Heather

Posted 2011-02-11 02:35:58

I came to Redwall books when I was in Middle school, sixth grade.  Ironically, I read "Redwall" first and immediately fell in love with his characters.  For years I asked for books, ONLY his books, for Christmas, my birthday, ANY holiday where I would get a present, that's what I asked for.  He's been a great part of my life, his books helping me through some rough spots.  He will be greatly missed, I am pleased that people have taken notice of his death.  He's given all, whom has read his books, great stories and adventures.  So descriptive, I could lose myself in them easily.
All who have met him in person, you are so lucky.
Thank you Brian...for everything.
--Heather from KY, USA

Heather

Posted 2011-02-11 02:37:00

That's very good Emma.  And, I think, fits the occasion and person very well.
--Heather from KY, USA

john

Posted 2011-02-13 15:38:21

EULAIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

john

Posted 2011-02-13 15:39:54

EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
LOGALOGLAOLOG!!!!
REEEEEEEEDDDDDDWWWWWWAAAAALLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

mark

Posted 2011-02-14 06:26:13

RIP brain EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
EULALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Matt Cantor @ 6:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Pete Postlethwaite, 1946-2011

POSTED: Monday, January 3, 2011, 3:45 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam | Movies

Postlethwaite in The Town

Just heard via Film Junk that British actor Pete Postlethwaite died yesterday due to complications from a long battle with cancer. He was 64. According to FJ, Postlethwaite didn't let his treatments slow him down from working:

[Postlethwaite] put in some memorable performances this year in The Town, Inception and Clash of the Titans. Spielberg supposedly referred to him as the "best actor in the world" at one point after working with him on The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Amistad. ... He still has one more upcoming role in a movie called Killing Bono that is still to be released in 2011.

Personally, I remember him best as Father Laurence in Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet. Here's a clip, to take you back to 1996 for a minute.

Posted by Carolyn Huckabay @ 3:45 PM Permalink | Post a comment

Critical Mass

POSTED: Tuesday, December 14, 2010, 12:00 PM

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Posted by Nadya Harvey @ 12:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

Remembering Ari Up of The Slits

POSTED: Thursday, October 21, 2010, 3:00 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam | Music

Ari Up, lead singer of The Slits — a '70s/'80s-era British punk band that always turns up on my favorite rock ladies' list of influences — has passed away, according to the web site of John Lydon (aka Johnny Rotten, aka Up's stepfather). The post cites a "serious illness" as the cause. I only saw Up perform once at a Sugar Town show at the Balcony in February of 2002. Beforehand, Sam Adams interviewed Up for City Paper:

"It was OK for the Pistols, for The Clash, for the boys to be bad," Up recalls by phone from her Brooklyn pad, her voice a unique amalgam of her native German, British and a dash of patois from her long years living in Jamaica. "Or at least it was barely acceptable. With us, I mean, it was just unthinkable. They were spitting on me when I walked down the street. One guy stabbed me on the street. I just walked on the street and this guy tried to kill me! I was lucky it was winter and I had a really thick coat on. He was a disco type of guy, very slick looking — exactly one of those harmless-looking people that never got a bad reputation as being violent, unlike the punks. He stabbed me from top to bottom, but then it only caught my coat and then my butt. I still have the scar."

The show was really just insane, with Up — flanked by a few unnamed MCs — sing-talk-chanting her way through a loooong set full of reggae-punk and hip-hop. Then she refused to leave the stage when her time was up. Eventually somebody shut off the power, but Up was still up there doing some a cappella stuff before a befuddled and thinning crowd. I remember her cursing some people out, too, not sure why. The show was... not fun or good, but it was utterly unique and, considering one of the main tenets of punk is to not give a fuck, it was a fairly authentic experience. The Slits, who regrouped a few years ago, were actually fun and good — and also defiant, groundbreaking and influential — and I regret not making it out to see Up doing the kind of stuff she did best. But I don't regret seeing her then; it was unforgettable. (h/t Amy Phillips, Pitchfork)

Gabby

Posted 2010-10-21 10:13:49

shocking news. thank you for this video.

Posted by Patrick Rapa @ 3:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

Solomon Burke, 1940-2010

POSTED: Monday, October 11, 2010, 2:00 PM

Filed Under: In Memoriam | Music

Posted by Patrick Rapa @ 2:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

IN MEMORIAM: Greg Giraldo's dead and that sucks

POSTED: Thursday, September 30, 2010, 2:00 PM

Filed Under: Comedy | In Memoriam Stand-up

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Moment of Zen - Our Moment of Greg Giraldo

www.thedailyshow.com

You might've heard by now: Stand-up comedian Greg Giraldo — probably best known for his smart, angry, spraygunning performances at Comedy Central Roasts (or his maybe his work as a judge on Last Comic Standing) — died yesterday of a complications following a prescription drug overdose. Fans and some of his fellow comedians are mourning the loss on Facebook, Twitter and Reddit. Below are some choice clips; even the bleeped ones can be pretty NSFW.

Posted by Patrick Rapa @ 2:00 PM Permalink | Post a comment

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Q&A with SHARI SOLANIS: "The goal isn't pornography"
What we're trying to do this weekend
ICE CUBE: In Memoriam: Joe Tartaglia
Coming soon to Philly: Two cockamamie movie promotion schemes
SEXY TIME Q&A: I've never had an orgasm during sex with a man — and I'm 30!
Q&A with Tony Goldwyn: "Life is gray, and relationships are, too"
CONCERT REVIEW: Primus (3D & quadraphonic sound) @ The Tower 10/17
PHILLY LOVE NOTES: An ode to Spruce Street
CONCERT REVIEW & PHOTOS: James Blake @ TLA 5/11
ICEPACK ILLUSTRATED: The Archbishop meets the Geator, the Mayor goes suit shopping, Le Bec Fin fin.

About this blog

Featuring everything from event roundups to concert reviews and sex talk, City Paper's Critical Mass is a space for off-the-wall coverage of Philly's A&E scene.

Follow Critical Mass editors Patrick Rapa and Emily Guendelsberger on Twitter:

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