Mercedes Lander is 17 years old and will kick you in the head. Kittie’s drummer explains it all to Matt Cibula.

A side of jazz ignored by Ken Burns’ documentary is explored in Philip Freeman’s new book, New York is Now!: The New Wave of Free Jazz. But is the book any more valid a document of jazz than Burns’ film was? Bob Pomeroy has the answers.

…used the world over where people can come together to bitch…” Yes, disgruntled former DJs, more angry A.F.I. fans, and pissing off the French: it can only be another dip into the Ink 19 virtual mailbag…

Peripherique, Petit Pale, and Grain (Zarek). Review by Nirav Soni.

Soul Activated (Shanachie). Review by Roi Tamkin.

The Ultimate Collection (Hip-O) and Bad News is Coming (Motown). Review by Brian Kruger.

The Melvins are not only one of the most influential bands in the history of rock, they’re also one of the most prolific. Christopher R. Weingarten cornered drummer Dale Crover in a rare moment between touring and working on yet another new record.

Closure (Victory). Review by Matthew Moyer.

Various Artists (Last Beat). Review by Kiran Aditham.

New Union… Old Glory (Lookout!) Review by Brian Kruger.

David Lee Beowulf’s fond remembrance of ten years of Ink 19 history continues, with the early days just underway…

For more than 25 years, Cheap Trick has been making irresistible power pop that has become permanently ingrained in the pop culture consciousness. Julio Diaz caught up with drummer Bun E. Carlos to discuss the band’s place in history, the secret to their longevity, and why they never attended Rock N’ Roll High School.

Home Is Where It Hurts (Domino). Review by Joshua Krause.

Various Artists (Musicblitz). Review by Julio Diaz.

James Mann remembers growing up with The Ramones.

Beautiful My Child (Six Degrees). Review by drew West.

Samatha 7 at Penny Road Pub in South Barrington, IL on January 27, 2001. Concert review and photos by Cindy Rivers.

Jeff Beck at the Tabernacle in Atlanta, GA on March 5, 2001. Concert review by James Mann. Photos by John Davisson.

They don’t play major label politics (even sacrificing a full album because of it), they’re not a lounge act, and they don’t want their lead singer to be thought of as a sex symbol. So what are Elysian Fields? Even singer Jennifer Charles and guitarist Oren Bloedow have trouble explaining that to Gail Worley.

When you’re the guitar prodigy son of a music legend, the pressure’s on before the first note is played. How does Dweezil Zappa handle the expectations of life in the shadow of musical genius Frank? By just having fun with it! Gail Worley shoots the breeze with the strangely named scion of the Zappa family.