I consider writing about music to be part of a conversation. For me, it’s all about continuing the conversation that the music started. When I love the music, sometimes it’s just not enough for me to simply listen. I don’t play (very well), and I prefer to read, write, or just talk about it. So yes, I want my writing to be taken seriously, but as seriously as you would take a passionate and well informed friend. Sometimes it’s all facts mixed with opinion, and sometimes the passion and curiosity lead the way.

When I’m making an unfounded, but not that out the question accusation, I make my judgment as to whether to include it in a published piece. In this case I decided to include it with a disclaimer. I knew I wanted to say something about my thoughts on his sobriety because it was part of the conversation I was having with friends after the show. His behavior at his two most recent shows was something worth noting. So, I noted. I can’t say if I normally do this, but I will say that when I do, I’ll be responsible about it. And while I don’t know what Mr. Adams did backstage, I do know he’s a recovering addict (see link in above post). It’s part of the pain that makes me get so much out of his music.

Thanks for the suggestion about doing research. This is actually how I came to make the speculative comments at the end of the review. It’s also how I double checked all the dates and album references. When I take the leap toward speculation, I’ll make sure the reader knows. I don’t think it was out of the line or irresponsible. I try and stay above tabloid level gossip, but let’s be honest about it, it’s part of the conversation. I do think there’s a way to approach “gossip” in a responsible manner. If done right, it can capture the honest reaction of the listener and lead to enlightening conversation. In this case, I was reminded of his other medical condition and I also found myself defending my writing.

Just trying to get the conversation beyond: “So and So Rocks!” Because to me, that is enjoyable.

dear Mr. Gerber-do you normally throw ignorant speculations into your writing? Do you go by the pen name Perez Hilton sometimes? I suggest you do your background research on a musician before writing a piece, whereas your writing might be taken seriously and viewed as intelligent, not ignorant. Unless you prefer to be known as an ignorant writer. your choice.

dear Billy Shears-it was indeed advertised ahead of time as “blue cave”, which refers to an acoustic show.

dear Elizabeth-thank you for your comments. Ryan Adams ROCKS!

Moving on, thanks for the info about Meniere’s disease. It sounds like a performing musician’s worst nightmare.

Your inference about the “falling off the wagon” is really uncalled for, Mr. Gerber. And all the talk about “dry drunk” or whatever you are going on about. Are you an interventionist in your spare time? Sheesh.

They put a March 8th show in there because there was the cancellation of the Langerado Festival in Miami and some dates to fill…It is a shame that the fact it was acoustic was not properly advertised. It certainly was billed as such on the fan based web site Ryan Adams and The Cardinals endorse: RAA. In any case, yes, the tour wraps for good in Atlanta March 20th at the Fox. It will be electric. And newly married Mr. Adams will, indeed, be totally sober.