Alexei Navalny Marching In 2017

The Greatest Martyr of Our Times: Alexei Nawalny

Listen, I’ve got something very obvious to tell you. You’re not allowed to give up. If they decide to kill me, it means that we are incredibly strong.

Alexei Navalny

As the world lies in shambles, I find myself wrestling with a sorrow that feels as vast as the night sky. The news of Alexei Navalny’s passing isn’t just a headline; it’s a tragedy that leaves a huge void in my heart. Navalny, a beacon of hope in the oppressive gloom of Putin’s Russia, has been extinguished, and with him, a piece of my own hope dims.

This loss is weirdly personal. Navalny’s courage, his unyielding stand against a regime that knows no bounds of cruelty, has always been a source of inspiration for me. His fight was not just for the soul of Russia but for the universal values of freedom and justice. To know that his voice has been silenced is to feel a cold shadow fall over the very ideals I hold dear.

The comparison between Putin and the tyrants of history, like Hitler, is a stark reminder of the darkness that can consume nations when power is unchecked. Navalny stood against this darkness, armed with nothing but his conviction and the belief in a better future. His murder is a chilling testament to the lengths tyrants will go to maintain their grip on power, and it echoes a history we’ve vowed never to repeat.

I struggle to find words that can adequately express the depth of my grief. It’s a sadness that seeps into the bones, a sense of hopelessness that is hard to shake. Navalny’s fight, his sacrifice, resonates with a part of me that believes in the power of standing up for what is right, even in the face of insurmountable odds.

This isn’t just the mourning of a public figure; it’s the mourning of a kindred spirit, a fellow warrior in the fight for a world where justice prevails. Yet, in this moment of deep sorrow, I am reminded of the resilience of the human spirit. Navalny’s legacy is not just in the battles he fought but in the indomitable will he embodied. It’s a legacy that challenges us to carry forward the torch of freedom, to stand against tyranny with the same courage and determination.

As I navigate through a sea of sadness, I am struck by the realization that our fight is far from over. Navalny’s spirit, his unwavering belief in a better future, serves as a beacon in these dark times. It’s a call to action, a reminder that we must continue the struggle for justice, for freedom, for the very soul of our humanity.

In honoring Navalny’s memory, I find a glimmer of hope amidst the despair. It’s a hope that springs from the conviction that ultimately, light will prevail over darkness. This journey is fraught with pain and loss, but it’s a journey we must undertake, inspired by the lives of those like Navalny, who dared to dream of a better world.

To Alexei, your passing has left a void that words cannot fill. But in my heart, and in the hearts of countless others, your legacy lives on. You inspire everyone to fight for for freedom.

Rest in peace, Alexei Navalny. Your battle may have ended, but your spirit marches on, a guiding light in our darkest hours.

Alexei Navalny has two children. He is survived by his daughter, Daria Navalnaya, and his son, Zakhar Navalny. Daria has been notably active and vocal in advocating for her father’s release and human rights in Russia, especially during the periods of his imprisonment. The involvement of his family, particularly Daria, in speaking out against the injustices faced by Navalny has brought a personal dimension to his political struggle, highlighting the impact of his fight not just on the political landscape but on his family as well.

To Navalny’s wife, children, family, and friends: your pain is felt by those of us who, from afar, have admired and been inspired by Alexei’s courage. I cannot begin to comprehend the depth of your loss, but I stand with you in your grief, honoring the memory of a man who gave everything for the belief in a better world.

Peter Gabriel i/o

Peter Gabriel’s “i/o” Album Review: He’s Back, Better Than Ever Before

Peter Gabriel’s latest album “i/o” stands not only as a testament to his enduring creativity but also as a potential crowning achievement in a career already brimming with groundbreaking work. Gabriel, a legend in the music industry, has been known for his innovative approach to music, particularly through the 80s and 90s, and “i/o” might very well be considered his best work to date.

The Legacy of Peter Gabriel

Gabriel’s influence on the music world has been profound and multifaceted. Rising to fame with Genesis in the 1970s, he quickly established himself as a visionary artist. His departure from Genesis and subsequent solo career in the 1980s and 90s saw him breaking new ground, particularly with albums like “So” and “Us.” These works were not just commercially successful; they were also artistically daring, blending world music with electronic and art-rock elements, and they solidified his reputation as an innovative and fearless artist.

Groundbreaking Work in the 80s and 90s

During the 80s and 90s, Gabriel was at the forefront of the world music movement, integrating sounds and rhythms from various cultures into his music. His use of innovative recording techniques and embrace of new technologies set him apart. Albums like “So” (1986), with its hit “Sledgehammer,” showcased his ability to merge artistic depth with mainstream appeal, featuring groundbreaking music videos that revolutionized the medium.

“i/o”: A Culmination of Artistic Evolution

Now, with “i/o,” Gabriel seems to have distilled his decades of musical exploration into a singularly impressive work. The album encapsulates his signature sound while pushing into new territories. The dual “Bright-Side” and “Dark-Side” mixes are a clear indication of his continued innovation, offering listeners two distinct ways to experience the same music.

“i/o” is rich with the thematic depth and stylistic diversity that have defined Gabriel’s career. Tracks like “Panopticom” and “The Court” reflect his enduring ability to fuse diverse musical styles while tackling complex themes. The reflective nature of songs like “Playing for Time” and “So Much” suggests a maturity and introspection that might resonate deeply with longtime fans and new listeners alike.

In a career marked by constant evolution and boundary-pushing, “i/o” might be seen as Peter Gabriel’s most comprehensive and compelling work yet. It’s an album that not only reflects his legendary status but also reasserts his relevance in the contemporary music scene. For those who have followed his career since the Genesis days, or those just discovering his genius, “i/o” is a testament to Gabriel’s unwavering commitment to artistic exploration and innovation.

“i/o” marks a remarkable return to the music scene, offering a rich tapestry of sound and themes that reflect both his enduring legacy and his forward-thinking artistic vision. This long-awaited album, released track by track every full moon, showcases Gabriel’s unique approach to music-making and his ability to blend a wide range of styles and themes into a cohesive whole.

The Evolution of Sound and Style

The album’s opener, “Panopticom,” is a standout track that immediately sets the stage for what’s to come. It combines acoustic elements with electronic influences, creating a soundscape that is quintessentially Gabriel. The use of a 12-string guitar alongside Tony Levin’s deep bass tones and a blend of electronica exemplifies Gabriel’s knack for combining traditional and modern elements. This stylistic choice echoes back to his previous works, especially “Up” and “Us,” while introducing new textures and tones.

Exploring Deep Themes

Throughout “i/o”, Gabriel doesn’t shy away from diving into complex and often challenging themes. For instance, “The Court” revisits the tribal rhythms of his earlier work while layering in a haunting choir that contemplates the nature of justice in the era of cancel culture. Similarly, “Four Kinds of Horses” is a sensitive exploration of the corruption of religious faith into terrorism, backed by an evocative musical arrangement.

Personal Reflections and Contemplations

The album also has a deeply reflective side, with songs like “Playing for Time” and “So Much” exploring themes of mortality, hope, and renewal. These tracks reveal their layers over time, both musically and lyrically, providing a sense of peace amidst the inevitability of aging and change. This introspective quality is further exemplified in tracks like “Olive Tree,” which is not only the most commercially accessible song on the album but also a celebration of life and resilience.

Celebrating Life and Rebirth

Tracks such as “Road to Joy” and “Olive Tree” stand out as more upbeat, celebratory moments on the album, offering a counterbalance to its more contemplative moments. These songs embody a sense of joy and rejuvenation, resonating with themes of rebirth, which is particularly poignant considering the long hiatus since Gabriel’s last album of new material.

The Production and Collaborations

The production of “i/o” is notable for its use of both “Bright-Side” and “Dark-Side” mixes, showcasing the postproduction skills of producers-engineers Mark “Spike” Stent and Tchad Blake. This dual approach adds depth to the album, allowing listeners to experience it in different lights. Additionally, the involvement of artists like Brian Eno adds another layer of sonic depth to the album.

A Culmination of Artistic Journey

At 73 years old, Gabriel demonstrates that his creative spark is as bright as ever. “i/o” is not just a collection of songs; it’s a complete artistic statement that encapsulates Gabriel’s career-long journey of musical exploration and innovation. It’s a testament to his ability to stay relevant and compelling in a constantly changing musical landscape.

In summary, “i/o” is a rich, multifaceted work that showcases Peter Gabriel’s unique talents as a songwriter, composer, and musical innovator. Its blend of introspective lyrics, diverse musical styles, and thematic depth make it a noteworthy addition to his already impressive discography. For fans of Gabriel’s work, and for those new to his music, “i/o” offers a profound and rewarding listening experience.

Order or listen here.

Aaron Spears: A Rhythm That Never Ends

The music world has been left with a void that’s hard to fill with the sudden passing of Aaron Spears. Although I never had the chance to witness his artistry live, his music and influence have deeply resonated with me.

Aaron was not just a drummer; he was a musical savant whose talents transcended what one might expect from a “typical” musician. He had an uncanny ability to craft complex rhythms and melodies that were not just technically demanding but emotionally profound. His drumming was a language of its own, speaking to the hearts of those who listened.

Interestingly, while the artists he drummed for – names like Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Usher, and Chris Brown – never quite aligned with my musical taste, Aaron’s drumming itself was a different story. His skill and artistry were so compelling that they transcended genre and personal preference, serving as an inspiration to me and countless others.

Aaron was a pioneer, always pushing the boundaries of what music could be. He was a master at blending different musical styles, creating something entirely new and groundbreaking. His work in various genres, from pop to jazz to gospel, showcased his versatility and depth as an artist.

But Aaron was more than just an extraordinary musician. He was a man filled with warmth and humor, inspiring those around him. He had the rare gift of creating an atmosphere of community and cohesion in a room full of strangers. His humility and genuine love for his craft made him not just respected, but deeply loved by his peers and fans alike.

The news of his sudden death at the age of just 47 has shaken us all.

My heart is with his family, his friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him or been touched by his music. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched and in the music he leaves behind.

Aaron will be sorely missed, but his music and influence will eternally reverberate.