Here Today... Gone To Hell!

For any updates. Can't wait for this sold out show and maybe last US show for awhile.  :beer: 

and later tonight too!  Someone should add a thread if they can help do updates.  Already midnight here in PA, doubt I'll be up at 5 or 6am, but would like to check back later.  These are the last couple shows for awhile, so hoping to hear plenty of updates,reviews, more photos!


@DjASHBA via Twitter


Guns N' Roses - Wiltern Theatre - Los Angeles - Tonight! Hope to see you all there!

I won't be attending and will sell my 2 tickets for face value: $288.  Let me know if interested and we can meet tomorrow before the show.  I have hard tickets.  Send me a PM.

I'll be there , I was wishing there were some other HTGTH members to hang with in line.

anyone know who the opener is?

Hows the line currently? Be heading down in a few.

Im going tonight, cant f'n wait!

I hope not ! There is nothing better then going to see GNR ! But they've been great to the US with the arena and threatre tour so can't complain !!!

Down the street at the cabo bar, hope there is no line

Standing in line, need to take a leak

Just ran into Tom mayhue great guy, should have come sooner
Though I'm nearly in the back of the line

Finally inside

Opener just went on

Eddie Trunk tweeted there's a rumor that Steven Tyler will join the band onstage tonight.

(https://p.twimg.com/An2WnUwCAAAYF_O.jpg)

CD
Jungle
Easy
Brownstone

Brains here, playing congos

Holy Shit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is awesome!

(http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/421007_10150571831237723_14222457722_9481354_966422243_n.jpg)

Wow! Welcome back to the Brain!  : ok:

This is insane!! Brain is one of my favorite drummers ever and the second best GNR drummer (behind Josh Freese). Pretty awesome that he's reconnecting with the band lately between his appearence at this show and his gig with 4tus on Jimmy Kimmel this Wednesday. I hope he's involved in the next album, and hopefully becomes a full time member again.

Dead flowers

Insanity!

Is Brain still there?

Only onstage for youre crazy and rocket queen

Always loved the GN'R version o' Dead Flowers. Cool they are playing it, what next Heartbreak Hotel?

Robin on stage playing better

That's awesome, i miss Robin  :beer:

Looks like reunion came earlier  : ok:

Damn! awesome show!
Robin on stage.
Brain on stage
bring on buckethead
paul tobias!

My michelle with sebastian

(http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/422146_269746839769927_149578221786790_616411_1819860513_n.jpg)

Looks like a magnificent show! Nice special guests and everything  :peace:

Mama kin

NR

Do we have a complete setlist so far? Seems like Better,michelle,mama were played strangely early in the set.

Setlist

Intro
Chinese Democracy
Welcome To The Jungle
It's So Easy
Mr. Browstone
Sorry
You're Crazy
Rocket Queen
Estranged
4tus Solo
Live and Let Die
This I Love
Used To Love Her
Dead Flowers (Cover)
Motivation (Tommy on Vocals)
Shackler's Revenge
Dizzy Solo
Street Of Dreams
You Could Be Mine
Ashba Solo
Sweet Child O' Mine
Another Brick In The Wall
November Rain
Ron Solo
Don't Cry
Better
My Michelle
Knocking On Heaven's Door
Mama Kin
Jam
Nightrain

Jam
Madagascar
Whole lotta Rosie
Patience
Jam
Paradise city

Events :
Dead Flowers first performance in 19 years
Axl Piano is white
Brain played bongos
Robin Finck played lead guitar on Better
Sebastian Bach singing My Michelle
Eddie Trunk in the building

Thanks for the updates  :beer:  sounds awesome!

Wrong set, friend!!!

Now, playing Riff Raff, with only Ron on guitar!

(http://gunsnrosesitalia.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/an26kuicaaa5xrk.jpg?w=2000&h=)

(http://gunsnrosesitalia.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/428721_10150679644431907_694316906_9444638_47965318_n.jpg?w=1200&h=)

(http://gunsnrosesitalia.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/431277_292126577524325_111007095636275_698411_178099603_n.jpg?w=2000&h=)

Thanks to gunsnrosesitalia.com

Sounds awesome!

Thats a hall of fame band right there!

You want reunion? Well...there you go .

At first I thought you people were joking with the updates, what a nice surprise to see Robin and Brain back.

And also Dead Flowers, Mama Kin ... hope someone recorded these!   :D

Reunion starts now!;) I hope at least on the next record we'll hear Robin and Brain parts and songs.

But comeback both of them would be even better ;)

Glad to see that Brain and Robin got on stage w/the band.  Awesome!  : ok:

So did Steven Tyler go on stage for Mama Kin?

Robin?? that's a surprise.

very cool

Serious?  Never liked Brain, he never seemed into the GN'R gig.  Frank is a much better fit.  As far as Robin, I really enjoyed him being in the band, but DJ is such a better fit.  He brings so much more to the table.  Cool they played with the band again, but thanks and see you later Brain and Robin.

yep, it was a cool way to say "hey guys, you're still in our family!" but please no, don't consider any additional musicians, just record and release a fucking album by the current lineup ;)

Wow.

Sounds like an amazing show and a great finale to this leg of the tour! :)




/jarmo

Great to see Finck on Better!  Can't wait for a video.  : ok:

Would of loved to see Robin play This I Love! Just to have the
Proper image of the man who wrote the solo playing along side Axl!
Love the L.A. surprises !  : ok:

Riff Raff was NOT played.

Great fucking show, Steven couldn't make it tonight so he didn't sing. Still played Mama Kin.

Well, maybe you're right but in my opinion Brain just made a incredible drumming (November Rain!) and that's the most important for me and from my mailing with him it's seems like GNR mean a lot to him. Yes, you have right, Ashba better fit in GNR but only in old GNR style. And I'm not gonna bashing Ashba or anyone, I just prefer GNR style when Robin was in the band,  for me current line up is a step back from new direction of GNR music. ;)

But anyway, it's really cool when former members play from time to time.

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ROBIN PLAYED WITH GN'R.  :drool: :drool: :drool:

I can't tell everyone on the board how excited this has made me, I can't wait to see footage. (just came back from work)

What makes me the happiest is to know that Robin is indeed still on good terms with the band, and it never ended badly. I love GUNS N' ROSES and I love ROBIN FINCK.

THANK YOU AXL FOR MAKING THIS HAPPEN. :love:

Ok, let's fix it

DJ is perfect playing the old song, and good for playing the "new" songs
Robin is good for playing the old songs, and perfect to playing the "new" songs

If there is a "new album" or something, they should finish the 2nd and 3rd part of the trilogy, and that includes recordings from Robin, buckethead, brian and paul.

What an incredible end to that leg. Incredible! And Brain too!

But just reading this morning that Robin got up on stage.... blew my mind. So awesome.


rO BiN rules  :smoking:

I wonder how Axl introduced Robin? I'm more than happy with DJ in the band, but Robin had such a unique sound and stage presence !!!

Hooooooly shit.

What an amazing setlist!

Video??? Come on guys, who went to the show?  I keep looking on youtube, but now seeing anthing.  Post asap!

Roooobbinnnnnnnnnnnnn  :love:
Braiaaaannnnnnnnnnnnnnn  :love:

 :beer:

I almost hope he said something like, "I'd like to welcome our old guitarist to the stage" just to see people jump to conclusions. ;)

Looks like an amazing show. Pity Steven couldn't make it to play Mama Kin, but having Robin and Brain there was cool. :)

Brain should have played the drums!

Excelent News, Robin & Brian Good Vibe Whit GN'R... Hope New Music

 :beer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxRwosIu5bo

You're Crazy!

It's easy to forget just how long it's been since we saw Robin and Brain onstage with GN'R...

Robin's last performance with GN'R, before last night was in 2007 in Japan. (5 years)
And Brain's was in 2006 at The Inland Invasion. (6 years)

My heart is overjoyed to know that they both played again with Guns, last night. Just them being there, with the GN'R family is enough to make me smile ear to ear. I bet Robin and Richard loved catching up together, and they should have played "Beautiful".  :drool: Would have Pwned...  ;D

 :beer:

Well done GN'R, and all of the member's who played last night..... from former friends..... Love You Robin and Brain...forever GN'R members.  :)

I thought the last time Brain played with GNR was in 2006.

Awesome You're Crazy video.

AWESOME set list and to see that my ole favorite got up and played better  :smoking:

Wow I am flying high right now - and I didn't even attend the show (floating here in NYC!).  Robin is one of my favorite ARTISTS, and of course guitarists - been a fan of his since '94 when I saw him play with NIN and have been hooked since.  When he joined G N' R it was a dream come true.  So you can imagine how I felt when he was not a part of the band anymore.  Though I respect and am grateful for what Dj has done in the band so far.

But to see Robin play again with Axl is fantastic; I really hope he can be a part of some future projects with G N' R, and/or still be a part of some past endeavors that still remain to be released.

I really hope someone was able to capture some great video of Robin playing.  And Kat, Fernando and Del snapped some fine photos  ;)

Robin is awesome

I keep seeing the bands really hot blonde photographer, I hope she's back for the UK tour  ;)

Totally agree!

One question: Did DJ left the stage during better?

Your Crazy ft Brain on the Bongos!!! THere ya go!!
Axl sounds amazing!! defiantly got stronger towards the end of a long U.S. tour!! ( always a good thing)

Thanks Guns Camp for the Long U.S. arena/theater tour!! it was an honer to have seen three shows!
Amazing like always !!

Rocket Queen with Brain

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCV6Kn0w1h4&list=UUNWeUUBFigjLtVuN76HMMsg&index=3&feature=plcp

Guns N Roses - Mr. Brownstone - LA House of Blues on Sunset - 3/12/12

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUH97sewuGE

Guns N Roses - Welcome to the Jungle - LA House of Blues on Sunset - 3/12/12

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpHujWepSl0

Guns N Roses - Rocket Queen - LA House of Blues on Sunset - 3/12/12

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCV6Kn0w1h4

Guns N Roses - You Could Be Mine - LA House of Blues on Sunset - 3/12/12

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcQYmGSxGZ8

Sebastian & Axl singing My Michelle at HOB, Hollywood. 3/12/12

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zbjDl1Eh10

WE NEED A VIDEO OF BETTER!!!

Live Review: Guns N' Roses ? House of Blues, West Hollywood

Tue, 13 Mar 2012

It's time for rock 'n' roll fans to stop worrying about inductions, awards ceremonies, press opinions, message boards, empty industry accolades, and meaningless back-patting.

None of that has anything to do with the actual music.

Were Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin fans in the 1970s concerned with Soundscan numbers? It's highly doubtful. When Master of Puppets dropped in 1986, did the Metallica faithful worry if the band would get a Grammy or an induction thirty years down the road? No. Facebook statuses and tweets shouldn't define the zeitgeist?nor should critical diatribes. Fans need to experience music and immerse themselves in it on their own.

In its purest form, rock music isn't created to achieve any of those aforementioned falsities or to appease corrupt corporate machinations controlling the business. Rock wasn't even made to accrue the trappings of excess that have often unfairly been pinned to it over the years.

Those men on stage are "artists" at the end of the day, and their music is "art". That notion should never be forgotten. It's crucial. Like classic Greek theater boasting a catharsis at the end, rock music has forever been about providing a release for both the fans and the artists. That's what Guns N' Roses were always about from day one, and they still are to this day. Closing out their historical three show "L.A. Takeover" at the sold out West Hollywood House of Blues, Guns N' Roses solidified their status as the greatest American rock band of all time once more.

There's no one like Axl Rose. He's still the most magnetic and talented frontman in the game. From his uncontainable energy on stage to his divine pipes, he's the personification of rock 'n' roll. Guns N' Roses?Axl, DJ Ashba, Richard Fortus, and Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal [Guitarists], Tommy Stinson [Bass], Frank Ferrer [Drums], and Dizzy Reed and Chris Pitman [Keyboards, Piano]?marvelously ushered the start-studded Hollywood crowd through every era of rock music, on their own terms. Everything commenced with the distorted industrial twitch of "Chinese Democracy". DJ Ashba ripped through the opening riff authoritatively as Ax moved to the center of the stage to overwhelming cheers. His voice remained utterly flawless for the three-plus hours to follow. He hit the bellowing baritone of "Chinese Democracy" on the verse and then elevated the chorus to a vocal level beyond comparison.

The guitar trifecta of Ashba, Fortus, and "Bumblefoot" added an element of precise thrash danger to "Welcome to the Jungle" as Axl lyrically stomped through the mean the streets that birthed Guns N' Roses with inimitable charm and towering vocal range. Ferrer flawlessly laid down the rhythmic foundation for "It's So Easy" preserving the song's punk panache while bringing an element of personal groove. "Mr. Brownstone" also gave the three axemen another chance to brandish their fiery fretwork, deepening the classic tune.

From Chinese Democracy, "Sorry" simply soared as Axl hit one resounding high note before the last chorus that sent chills through everyone in the building. The band slowed down "You're Crazy" with a funky, R&B swagger that nodded to Jimi Hendrix and James Brown simultaneously.

Afterwards, Axl grinned, "That's an interesting smell."

Laughs abounded as puffs of smoke rose from the crowd intermittently. Quickly Stinson perfectly plucked out the sexy intro of Appetite for Destruction closer "Rocket Queen" as the rest of the band steamrolled into a bluesy metal explosion of musical mastery and scantily clad models adorning the jumbo screen from them. It was about as rock 'n' roll as this generation gets.

Reed and Pitman's pianos drew the intimate audience in even closer into the band's embrace at the start of "Estranged". During those Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II epics, everything sounded so majestic. Like "November Rain", "Estranged" rose as a symphony does with different movements from "Bumblefoot" and Ashba's echoing leads to Axl's incredible delivery. Every element converged for pure rock bliss. The same magical phenomenon occured a little later during another modern masterpiece from the band, "This I Love".

Finishing "Estranged", Axl spoke again, "Thank you. I mean that. I want to thank everyone that came out to the arena, club, and theater tour and the fans for making it a great success."

It was a tender and gracious moment that seamlessly launched into a vicious "Live and Let Die". The group collectively adopted a fun honky-tonk hop during "Used to Love Her" and a searing cover of The Rolling Stones' "Dead Flowers".

Axl went on, "It's really fun to be ending this little run on sunset. It's a bit of a homecoming for me."

That homecoming proved to be the utterly perfect rock show. Remember, the music is all that matters at the end of the day and Axl always delivers on stage and in the studio. Guns N' Roses still rule rock 'n' roll, and if you have a problem with it, to cite a line from "It's So Easy", "Why don't you just fuck off?"

?Rick Florino
03.13.12

http://www.artistdirect.com/entertainment-news/article/live-review-guns-n-roses-house-of-blues-west-hollywood/9910623

+1

A reunion I really dont mind. Now let's get back to business. More touring coming up and new album hopefully.

Video of "Better."  PLEASE!?

It is obvious that at the beginning of "You Could Be Mine" Axl had just received word that Robin had shown up to play.  :hihi:

"FUCK YEAH!"

 :rofl:

Better Video, Better Video, Better Video, Better Video....."repeat after me"... :hihi:

But seriously, we better have at least some video footage of The Finckster up on stage with Guns again........I'm dying here.  :drool:

This whereisjerry cat has some great videos.  I hope he got "Better!"

Someone put the Fernando bat signal in the sky and see if he can track us down a photo or video of "Better!"

Soon is the word as in a week or so.  ;)

Contrary to most of you, I want a video of Mama Kin so much  :hihi:

No One Ever Told Me When I Was Alone
They Just Thought I'd Know Better.............Better

"Work of art my friend"

Robin on guitar = magic

 :beer:

(http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm70/AXLDEMOCRACY/batsignal.jpg)

and dead flowers!! first time they played that in 19 yrs  :hihi:

I have video of Dead Flowers, Better, Mama Kin and a clip of Michelle. Will be awhile before they're posted seeing as I am in California and not home in Minnesota.

Right on!  At least we know we will be getting a video of "Better!'  Thanks, mate!  : ok:

Not Video, Not Youtube...

We Need BluRay, Mp4 !@!@

 :hihi:

Maybe we could see a pro-shot posted of 'Better' from the GNR crew much like the others posted a short time ago! : ok:

Wow, this concert looks like so much fun.  I know we have to be happy with what we got, but they seem so hot right now that they need to jump into a studio and keep the momentum going.  Great job guys. 

Right on.  That's why I put the Fernando "bat signal" out.  Maybe we can get one.

(http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/427995_258546067564826_129566153796152_555545_1123583203_n.jpg)

FUCK YEAH!!

Great photo!  Thanks for the shot Tony.  And for the post w.a.r.

I want those too!  Holy fucking shit!  Hurry home Redman.

Where are all you West Coast mofos with your videos and photos!?  More, more, more Finck PLEASE!

(http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/425784_287645844642724_107222226018421_705959_164721637_n.jpg)

(http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/419476_287645201309455_107222226018421_705958_833939885_n.jpg)

All of my photos will be on my site soon, but ill be posting a couple photos in about an hour on my fb page.

fuck yeah mista fincksta! I love that string bender

That's what I'm talkin' about! Woooohooo!

Motherfuck-YEAH !#@ Thanks ROBIN !@

 :beer: :love: :beer:

2006

(http://i41.tinypic.com/jr6xec.jpg)

2000

(http://i42.tinypic.com/4j00o8.jpg)

 :love: :beer: :love:

Why was my post deleted? Are we not allowed to prefer Finck to DJ?

Looks like this was a one in a million show, would have loved to see a stream :peace: Wow!!

LOS ANGELES TIMES / Entertainment

Review:

Guns N' Roses At The House Of Blues On The Sunset Strip

Around the third-hour mark of Guns N? Roses' House of Blues set, which wrapped up a three-date club swing Monday, a guy and his girl understandably looked as if they needed to call it a night. They put on their leather jackets and moved toward the club's exits around 3:15 a.m. Then, from their left, a drunk guy with a wispy blond pate swooped upon them. Like a circling falcon that had just spied a wounded hare, he cornered the two back into a grotto of the club. ?This is GN?R on the Sunset Strip!? the stranger slurred. ?You can?t go home yet, dude!? 

The dude and his date stayed.

For those who have been waiting decades for the iconic L.A. band to return to the scene that birthed it fully formed as lithe, riff-slinging gods, this wasn?t just a kind of hard-rock Gettysburg reenactment. It was a cri de coeur for the idea that rock music -- played on guitars, sung by dudes in ripped jeans and vests with no shirts -- has not only never died but also has kept up a kind of underground resistance movement to the crafty, sleek dominance of pop. And that Axl Rose, for all the volatility and budget-sapping concept albums and curious sartorial choices, had become the movement?s Che Guevara.

To leave GN?R before the final curtain call -- even at 3:30 on a Tuesday morning -- was a kind of treason. The lifer fans at  the House of Blues were having none of that.

For those who?ve caught a recent arena date at the Forum or one of the other club shows, this most recent GN'R appearance is but further encouragement for the devoted. Acolytes of late-era GN?R lineup changes will be pleased to know that cameos from former drum ace Bryan Mantia and guitarist Robin Finck suggest that all?s well in those camps (fans expecting a certain top-hatted axman to return to the fold should, at this point, find a new improbable fantasy to pursue). Skid Row?s Sebastian Bach went toe to toe with Axl wailing on ?My Michelle.? They covered Aerosmith?s ?Mama Kin? and the Stones? ?Dead Flowers,? both early-'90s covers for the group.  We heard Lana Del Rey was in the audience.

The band?s taken a lot of undeserved guff for being, to the purists, not really ?Guns N? Roses? but ?Axl and a Bunch of Dudes.? But this lineup is probably the most well-honed mercenary army in modern rock: the guitar troika of Richard Fortus, DJ Ashba and Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal tossed licks on ?Appetite for Destruction?-era tracks such as ?It?s So Easy? and ?Mr. Brownstone? that hit like live grenades. For the cool kids, the Replacements? Tommy Stinson held down a savage low end.

And the band?s perennial X factor, the wayward native son of Lafayette, Ind., looked as healthy and serpentine as ever. His falsetto might have lost a half step in the intervening decades. But for someone in the early '90s placing bets on Axl?s status in 2012, Rose?s hip-swinging lechery at the House of Blues would have more than covered the spread on that wager.

The existential question of any Guns N? Roses set -- what does Axl do when he disappears into his side-stage curtained chamber? -- might never be solved. Some think it?s for a hit of oxygen, some suspect it?s just for costume changes, some have more radical and spurious ideas. About every three songs or so, he'd slip away for the duration of a long guitar solo.

But while Axl had a literal Rock and Roll Fortress of Solitude onstage, so too did his fans at the House of Blues. GN?R back on the Strip was, for three hours and change, a place where survivors could cordon off the outside world and breathe the pure, invigorating air of the music they know. Not just the songs themselves, but the idea that men with guitars can still command crowds through force of will and implied sexual prowess. Guns N Roses is making what?s perhaps the last stand of an entire value system in music, and that resonates in its fans? marrow.

There has always been a sadness to Guns N' Roses -- and not in the spectacle of a 50-year-old man wearing a snakeskin-patterned fedora onstage. When Axl sat alone at a piano before the forlorn ?Patience? (and we defy any of you children running around South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, this week to write a better ballad), he showed the side of his personality that fights his war out of love. The man has seen and done things in Los Angeles to make Pharaohs blush, and yet there he was, past closing time, playing a lonely melody on a barroom instrument.

Yeah, the whole set was indulgent and exhausting and completely out of step with irreversible tides in pop music and its demographics. ?Chinese Democracy? probably didn?t need to come out.  But GN?R on the Strip in 2012? Dear reader, it was worth staying to the end.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2012/03/review-guns-n-roses-house-of-blues-sunset-strip.html

 ::)  :hihi:

?This is GN?R on the Sunset Strip!? the stranger slurred. ?You can?t go home yet, dude!? The dude and his date stayed.

That's what I call priceless! Great review btw, apart from a lill patience mistake ;-)

(http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/429548_258642280888538_129566153796152_555673_747059825_n.jpg)

We need that Better video!

Hopefully Finck took notes from DJ on guitar soloing 101 on TIL : ok:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYXcZBYEfog (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYXcZBYEfog)

That's the stuff!

That's simply badass, boys and girls  :smoking:

Fanfu*ckintastic!!! ROBIN!!!!!!!

He looked a bit hesitant up there which is totally understandable - especially on such a small stage. But really gets into towards the middle and end! Loved his patent Robin leg extensions across the stage, and his solo was beautiful!

What a badass performance! Robin ROCKED ''Better''!

Robin is the best thing that ever occured to GNR after Axl. I would love to see him back in the band at some point. He's the greatest guitar player GNR has ever had.

Finally a video shows up. 8)

Thanks for posting.

By the way: I think i've seen the immense majority of the ''Better'' performances from 2009 to now, and this was THE BEST of them all. Axl's voice was tight, and the lead guitar was THE PROPER. 'Nuff said.

We need him back. Nothing against DJ, but Robin is the fucking man to be next to Axl. His stage presence is huge. He's one of the most magnetic artists I've ever seen. I have to be fucking cursed, because I was never able to see him live (even though I saw GNR 10 times :( )

I really miss Robin... that performance was friggin awesome!!! beyond words to describe what I felt when I watched that vid...

Yeah Robin is truly badass. That was the coolest GN'R video in a long time. He sounded so good and it was perfect. I don't think DJ would ever leave or be fired at this point so I think the chance of him being able to come back is slim. I would love to have seen him play The Blues solo as well.  :drool:

That was so fucking insane! Holy shit. Robin Finck is a god-damn legend! A true artist. I love he just engraves himself into a song. No one else can do it like him. A true musician that plays from the heart. It amazes me how he can go up on stage and play with a band he hasn't performed with in 5 years, and just get into the song right away and enter his own world on stage.

Robin Finck is a motherfucking master of his craft. There is a reason he's played with two of the biggest bands of all time - because he's that fucking good. Is he the most technically advanced player of all time? No. Is he the cleanest player ever? Hell no. But listen to his playing....watch his movements. His solos on Chinese Democracy are some of the most soulful peices of the century.

And no joke - somehow he brings out the best in everyone. I mean I don't know if it's just me, but Axl fucking nailed that!

The end with him leaning against Axl as the song ended....just amazing....

Please Robin....come back to GNR. NIN isn't touring and it's a damn shame that you aren't being utilized by one of those bands. The world needs more Robin Finck.

Hopefully Robin and Axl were able to talk about things afterwards (if they hadn't talked since 2008?) and Robin will be a part of future projects and still included in past endeavors.

I don't see him returning to the band as Dj is doing a fine job and Robin seems to be pretty busy in his personal life right now.   :)

Let's just enjoy this performance and celebrate Robin and Axl playing together again!

Agreed 100% with you man, specially the sentence I've bolded  :beer:

Just In This Moment FINALLY Movie END OF DAYS & Play '' OH MY GOD ''. Togheter VIEW Better !@!@

 :beer:

Great performance and I loved Robin when he was in GN'R, but I think this is the best band they have had since the original, right now.  I like these guys as much as the original.  Very cool to see you Robin, wish you never left, but you did and I am very happy with the current line up.  Best to you in the future.

Amazing !@!@ ROBIN RLZ !@!@

 :beer:

Feel like im in the twilight zone.....

Dude Quit on you guys TWICE

I never liked Robin with GNR, but really liked him with NIN.  With that being said I really don't like DJ Ashba and I would welcome the return of Robin if it meant DJ would go.  Its nice to see Axl welcome Robin and Brain back to play a few songs. 

Absolutely agree on the solo.  Plays it the way that he wrote it.  I actually like DJ's playing on most of the tunes; however, whenever I watch a performance of "Better" it leaves me wanting to hear it the way Robin plays.  Awesome!

Yes, but he fits well with the band.  Saw them twice in 2006 with Robin and think his style has a genuine quality that is a good thing for GnR.

Brain and Robin in the dressing room

(https://p.twimg.com/An2jqrLCAAIqo9K.jpg:large)

 :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool:

Fantastic !@ I Happy

Dead Flowers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UODNsB7YKFQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player
/Thanks Mr. Redman\

Just seriously AWESOMENESS , I'm still processing it all,  what a hell of a show, and I wasn't even there. Just wow, I am so happy to have gotten to see the band 3 times in a 4 month span, folks in Europe hold onto your seats!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psxNvpbAimY&feature=channel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psxNvpbAimY&feature=channel)

Mama kin

Man all you Robin lovers freak me out. Where were you when he was in the band? He was always ridiculed and his playing was trashed.

I was always a Robin fan but it is interesting all of a sudden this nostalgic love just kicks in.

Anyway I wonder how this happened? Did DJ just watch from the side of the stage? If so was he feeling uncomfertable?

Absolutely insanely good. Even for the audio on that, Axl's voice and the band are so loose and groovin.

Top shelf. Hat doffed. Thumbs fucking WAY up. Fuck yeah!

As Chris Farley would say --- 'That was AWEsome'

Robin rocks.

GUNS N' ROSES Rejoined By Former Guitarist At West Hollywood Show; Video Available - Mar. 14, 2012

Ex-GUNS N' ROSES guitarist Robin Finck rejoined his bandmates on stage this past Monday night (March 12) at the House of Blues Sunset in West Hollywood, California to perform the song "Better". Fan-filmed video footage of his appearance can be seen below.

Finck left GUNS N' ROSES in early 2009 to rejoin NINE INCH NAILS and was replaced by DJ Ashba.

Robin "continues to be part of GN'R, by virtue of GUNS' history and his involvement in 'Chinese Democracy'," GUNS N' ROSES said in a March 2009 press release announcing Ashba's addition to the group.

In addition to sole original member Axl Rose, the current lineup of GUNS N' ROSES includes guitarists Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, Richard Fortus and DJ Ashba, bassist Tommy Stinson, keyboardists Dizzy Reed and Chris Pitman and drummer Frank Ferrer.

"Chinese Democracy", the 2008 album released by the current edition of GUNS N' ROSES after a 15-year wait, was officially certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 2009 for shipments in the United States in excess of one million copies. The long-in-the-making, 14-song CD finally arrived 17 years after the last full-length collections of original GUNS material, "Use Your Illusion I" and "II", were released, and nine years after the non-album track "Oh My God" surfaced on the soundtrack of the movie "End Of Days".

"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy.

The original five-piece group, along with drummer Matt Sorum and keyboardist Dizzy Reed, will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland on April 14.

http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=171174

I have always loved the influence that the Stones have had on this band.  This is one of my favorite covers they have ever done.  Keep playing it boys!

I've always loved Robin. However I did not post much on GNR forums when he was in the band.

Robin is one of my favorite GNR members of all time. Perhaps my favorite. DJ on the other hand....least favorite by far.

Absolutely amazing seeing those 2 back together, and back onstage with Guns N' Roses. Robin and Brain seemed really relaxed, and they were having a real good time.  ;D

Also seen the brilliant video of Robin performing Better with GN'R..... and again I'm speechless. How I missed that energy and stage presence, and it was good seeing Robin up there in attire which reminding everyone of the clothes he wore in 2006/7. I also noticed in Better, guitar lines and the feel of the overall song, was much more rounder, and it seemed thicker..... and I was hearing guitar lines in the song that I hear on the album.

Also, it goes without saying but Robin ripped that solo a new one, really sounded fuckin ace, and again missed hearing it played with that vibe that's present on the album.

I can't deny my love and preference to Robin, in an ideal world, he would be back in GN'R, but everybody knows that. I LOVE his musical style, his whole look and attitude.....and I LOVE his stage presence and persona. I also sensed that Axl was very grateful to have Robin there, and showed it by giving an awesome performance of Better and putting his arm around Robin at the end as if to say "Thank You".

Can't stop watching this awesome video.

Better with Robin Los Angeles. HOB 2012..... :love:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYXcZBYEfog

Is it just me or is that the alt Riad artwork on the screen in the background during Mama Kin?

Edit: TIL too

Not alt artwork, thats the real artwork...but yes, Red hand cover art was used on the screens.

Wow, what an amazing show. Loved the vid of Axl and Baz belting out My Michelle. They always have such a great connection onstage and their energy is so intense it jumps off the screen at you.

So cool to have the guest performances from Brain and Robin as well. Mind you, I'd never want to lose either Dj or Frank as I think they're both a perfect fit for GN'R and great ambassadors for the band as they're so fan-friendly, as well as being great musicians.

Congratulations to the band, the GN'R family and all the crew for a highly successful romp through the US. What a fantastic way to end the UCAP leg of the tour - although you're welcome to extend it when you visit the UK if you like, lads.  ;)

I really, really hope Robin is still going to be on some of the unreleased music that's coming out...eventually.  :drool:

I noticed this also and got me thinking...the Chinese Democracy material is much harder to replicate than past material.


Indeed.


I'm sure this will happen.

However in the end Guns N' Roses out of the studio is not a band for Robin....it is too unpredictable and you have to commit 100%. How many times have we heard members drop everything once they get that call from management?

Robins unpredictability is part of what makes him so epic.

Lets be honest. Robin is and always will be Axl's first choice.

DJ is nothing more than the audiance participation guy as far as I can tell. Seems he only wants the GNR gig so he can sell more AshbaSWAG and promote himself. I don't like his image, his attitude and his whole get-up. His playing is good but, on a stage with Ron and 4tus it just doesn't cut it. And I really am not interested in listening to songs he wrote for GNR...we don't need a Motley Cure or Sixx AM sounding album.

I love the current lineup. Seen em' 6 times and loved every second of it. But Robin is GNR and always will be.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2HyvtEYMsI&feature=share
Another version of Better.

Don't jump to conclusions yet....I'm sure the next GNR album will be the greatest GNR album of alltime! (CD will be hard to top though)

You asked him?

 



What a close minded thing to say.

Does Riad N' The Bedouins sound like Tommy's solo material?

One of Axl's gifts is that he makes people work together. It won't sound like anything other than GN'R.




/jarmo

I think some people are surprised at just how overwhelming the reaction has been to Robin sharing the stage with GN'R again. It just shows you, just how many Guns fans from all over the world, loved Robin in GN'R, and I'm really happy that people are expressing their love for someone who put 11 years into Guns N' Roses.

It's all over Facebook, GN'R forums, it's being reported in the media..... and I personally have heard a few passengers talking about it at work. I work at Birmingham Airport, and I was talking to a couple today who came through. And we got talking about GN'R as one of them was sporting a 2006 tour shirt, and they straight away said did you hear the news about Robin joining Guns again.....and we chatted about it for 15mins.

So, I for one am overjoyed at the overwhelming positive reaction from the GN'R community......and I'm so happy for the support Robin has got over the last few days.  :)

He's probably more popular among GN'R fans now than when he was in the band...


People love to whine and find things to complain about until that thing goes away. Then they miss it.


Some of these fans are "upset" that GN'R are touring the world.



/jarmo

No I didn't ask Axl if Robin was his first choice as a player. But it's fairly obvious for various reasons.

I fail to see how my comment was close minded. I've heard various things DJ Ashba has done for various bands and they all sound generic and boring to me.

No, Riad doesn't sound like Tommy solo material. Tommy Stinson is a great talented song writer. DJ isn't as far as I'm concerned.

You defend everyone in the current band like it's your job (it probably is). If Robin rejoined tomorow you'd flop back to his defense.

I have no doubt that an Ashba written GNR album will be sub-par in comparison to CD era material. And I don't have any interest in an Ashba/GNR album, when there is CD era material I've been waiting to hear for YEARS with some of my favorite musicians of all time...That's what I want to hear!

Just my opinion. DJ can take a hike.

Nice to see Finck back! Still prefer DJ but its cool to have a few old members pop up now and again  : ok: Shame the bucket wasnt there  :drool:

And il put it this out there, why why WHY! did Finck not come out and do his TIL solo!!  >:( :(

I couldn't tell you one good thing Finck did outside of GnR, and his stuff on chinese was great, so lets not judge DJs past work on what he would be like on a gnr album, example Slash stuff has been nowhere near what he was writing with Guns back in the day, past work means nothing.  : ok:

cool story bro

Been waiting to hear that one again for years :peace:! AWESOME (doing the voice)

+1

Agreed 100%

lol, ever heard of Nine Inch Nails?

Hey, I'd love Ashba/GNR material to blow me away. Nothing would be cooler. But I personally can't say I'm too excited about it for now especially when there is Bucket/Finck/Brain/Tobias material still waiting to be heard.

Yeah I have, now name me one solo that finck did or wrote with NIN that comes close to Street of dreams, TIL, CD, Better.....

NIN isn't really much of a "guitar solo band" if you know what I mean.

But you never said anything about solo's. You just said he hasn't done one good thing outside GNR. Just because he didn't play awesome solo's in NIN doesn't mean he wasn't fucking epic with them onstage.

Wasnt arguing that fact, and i love Finck his guitar playing is different which I love, my argument is, judging what DJ is gonna write with gnr before he's written it, past work means fuck all.

I'm not judging it before I've heard it. I just personally can't say I'm too excited for it based on what I've heard of DJ. Hey, who knows? Maybe it will be the most amazing music of all time...

But I'd rather hear the songs I've been waiting for for years with the musicians I've loved for years.

It's like asking someone "What are you more excited for? The new Aerosmith song or the new Jonas Brothers song?" Just my opinion. If the DJ/GNR material turns out to be an awesome, I'll be the first one to say it.

Maybe... But ALL Albums Excelnt !@

 :smoking:

Totally agree!!  :smoking:

I'm glad we get to see the true colors of some of you.

Bashing the current guitar player just because the former joined the band for one song.


At some point Robin decided he didn't want to be in the band anymore and left.

That doesn't make him a better player all of a sudden. Or worse for that matter.

GN'R with Robin was great, GN'R without Robin is great too.



Some of you guys sound as boring as anybody else who talks about the past and how great it was.

You're in the same fucking boat with those people. Hope you're enjoying that ride while the rest of us are out there enjoying the current GN'R that exists in this real world....





/jarmo

Wow I loved the HOB version o' Dead Flowers..But....I prefer the other lyrics.."Another whore to take(chase) my blues away".

Well lets hope Axl doesn`t do anything with the old members at the hall of fame some peoples minds will get frazzled who will they know who to bash first ;)

DJ & ROBIN Is Part Of GUNS N' ROSES !@

 :smoking:

I have to say that my thought process is not too far from this...

It's all down to personal taste at the end of the day, and the fact is no matter how you want to dress it up. You are not going to favour one guitarist over another, purely because they are now in a band called Guns N' Roses and your favourite isn't. I've always loved Robins style and he was the reason why I fell in love with the Chinese Democracy era of GN'R.

What makes Robin more attractive to me is the fact that he is his own person, and he is a true individual......a true artist. I have come to like DJ alot, but everything he stands for is just not to my taste personally. He reminds me too much of a "Motley Crue" type of artist, and that's not surprising seeing as he is close friends with all those guys, and will naturally strive to be like them.

I prefer Robins songwriting and overall personality and vibe, and I'm not taking shots at Ashba here.......just my opinion. Like it or not, but another reason why I consider Robin as a true artist and my favourite, is because while he was in GN'R, he never once promoted anything to do with himself. But he gave his all for GN'R, while DJ has a clothing line, media company and he obviously tries to mention them every opportunity he gets, even on the guitar rig video(s)......again not taking a dig, but it's a fact.  :)

I'm not going to choose DJ over Robin based soley on the fact that one is in GN'R currently, and one isn't.....

I actually think that DJ has improved alot since joining GN'R and has become a fan favourite, but at the end of the day, I will always love Robin Finck.....and obviously I would want Robin back in Guns N' Roses.

I love all era's of Guns N' Roses, and I'm going to be doing alot of travelling this summer following the band. BUT that doesn't stop you favouring a member who you truely love, and feel alot of affection for, simply because they are not "currently" in a band called GN'R.

GN'R is much more than a name, what makes it great is everyones contributions.......and it's human nature to have favourites.  :D

the fact that Robin can perform one song with them and people go from bragging about the current lineup and how great they are live to rambling on and on about how much they don't like DJ and want Robin back is exactly why I hope the old lineup doesn't play at the hall of fame because it'll be like this but about 100000 times worse.

THIS!

1 ? Robin is more original than DJ. Ok, I give you that.
2 ? My wild guess is: if Robin stayed, he would be seen as one of the best guitar players in the world. But he?s not so social, he has his weird style (that makes him so cool) n? for those reasons, many people don?t like him or don?t recognize how good he is
3 ? It?s early to judge DJ for studio work since there ain?t nothing yet. But for all I heard from Beautiful Creatures/Sixx AM/His solo record, he?s damn good.
4 ? Robin did his job very well keeping the dream alive in terrible times. But he left. DJ is out there, kickin? ass. So kudos for Robin for the past n? kudos for DJ for the present.
5 - It?s not fair to judge DJ or point fingers ? I personally love Robin but DJ is one hell of a guy, good player n? the band is doing well, so no reason for the bashing.
6- Not fair to say CD is Robin ? Bucket n? Paul did many monstruous n? incredible things there n? Richard n? Bumble added some good work too.

I Agree

 : ok:

Why can't we be friends...why can't we be friends?

Maybe  Robin and Brain could make a side project and record an album together, maybe with Buckethead?

He performed one song.  They've also played with Izzy, Duff, and Brain.

Izzy Whit Robin // Dj Whit Duff // Robin Whit GN'R 2012, Also SEBASTIAN

 :smoking:

Two comments.

The re-appearance of Brain and Robin shows, again, the respect Axl has for previous band members. If you were believe everything ever said about Axl, then you would assume that nothing like this could ever be possible.

Secondly, Guns are an epic band, they have epic albums, their concerts are epic, and the making of albums is also an epic process. I know the latter has been a thorn for most GN'R fans, but I think it's been interesting in some ways. AFD represented the band members at that time, UYI was a jumble, to me it represented the shift in tide at the time, and in it's own way is a classic. CD is Guns with a Brain, Robin and Buckethead influence, and the next album will represent the new line-up. I think once the whole journey is over, people will forget about all the nonsense that has been attributed to GN'R during the journey and will appreciate the albums for what they are, and the era that they represent.

Well said. 

people just love to babble about the old vs new again and again, just for the sake of doing it. hard to blame them, talking about newly released studio stuff or official video stuff would be much better, but there's nothing at the moment, so all we have is a few bootlegs and fans hungry for at least something to talk about.

Well said...I have to agree with these comments.

Perfect M. !@!@ Cheers !@

 :smoking:

It is cool, very cool.  But nothing else has come of it. ;)

I totally agree with this comment also, really good points...

I'm just glad that this has happened, and it went down in the best way you could have imagined. And to top it off, the GN'R fanbase reactions have been absolutely second to none, and that's what I love about our fanbase.......honesty and integrity.  :)

And to a certain extent, I don't agree with the comment jarmo made about people complimenting Robin over DJ, in "being in the same boat as reunion fanatics". The fact is, is that before Robins appearence with GN'R the other night. Most of the people who are praising Robin over DJ today, kept respectful and supported the current band and contributed to the forum in a positive manner.

And this thread is about a show where Robin made a special appearence, and played his signature song "Better". People are naturally going to discuss this, and come to the conclusion how much better "Better" sounded, with the songwriter paying it as it is on the album. As this discussion is going on, some more people might go further and state how they prefer Robin over DJ, etc......This is not disrespectful when the thread is to do with a show, in which Robin (A member who Axl still classes as a member of GN'R) made an appearence.

I think that is way different to reunion enthusiasts, who can never say a good word about the current band. And always decide to cause trouble by mindlessly ignoring the positives about the current band, for the sake of pointing out all the negatives.

I just don't think you can put those 2 types of people in the same category to be honest......sorry  :P

The cool thing about Guns is they have had all these line-ups. Axl has been able to showcase very different, and very talented musicians, and it has bought people from all walks of music life together to discuss the single entity that is Guns N' Roses.

Amazing  :beer:

True colors? lol

Seriously, what is your deal? What is wrong with prefering some members to others? Why do you feel the need to be so condescending when people don't agree with you?

I love this band. That dosen't mean I have to like every single member of the band to death just because they are in the band....I'm not a fan of DJ. I've never been a fan on DJ. Ask anyone that's seen my posts on other forums...What is the problem? Does that make me any less of a fan?

I've seen this band 6 times. I support them and love everything they do.

No one is bashing anyone. When did I bash DJ? It's called having an opinion. I don't like him in GNR...so what?

If Robin rejoined you'd do the same thing if people started saying they prefered DJ. It's hard to take you seriously.

When did I say Robin leaving made him a better player? I've been a Robin Finck fan from day 1. I didn't start liking him after he left. I always supported him in the band and always didn't like DJ in the band. This recent appearence of Finck at the LA show has had absolutley no impact on my opinon. I've been saying all the stuff I've said in this thread for a long long time...I can provide links if you want?


Are you even listening to yourself? You sound ridiculous. What the hell is wrong with enjoying the past? What is the issue. Why are you so anti - anything that isn't RIGHT NOW. Why so hostile towards anything in the past. Why not enjoy everything?



I've seen this current GNR that exsists in the real world 6 times as I've already stated. I love the current band.

But there is absolutley nothing wrong with enjoying certain band members more than others. And it's absolutley absurd to me how you criticize people for simply having preferences. 

dead flowers sounds great! love his vocals on it. he doesn't need to screech all the time. his regular singing voice is sometimes much more fitting. nice mix in it all.



and how great was it seeing finck playing his signature song  :smoking:

What's your problem with me saying as I see it?

A bunch of you were quiet until Robin joined the band for one song and you start bashing Dj.


I don't have a problem with what you prefer.

I have a slight issue with the way some of you present your opinion.

It's sad to see.






It's hard to take somebody, who thinks any songwriter writing songs with/for GN'R will sound like Motley Crue, seriously.





I don't give a fuck how you think I sound. I say what I think.


I don't have problem with the past. I listen to Robin's work with GN'R all the time.

Just because I do, doesn't mean I have to disrespect Dj and wish he wasn't in the band.


I get it, he replaced your hero. Your hero chose to leave.

It's not Dj's fault...






It's absurd to me that you get so sensitive when I point out that some of your "opinions" seem disrespectful to me. :)




/jarmo

I have never been quiet about this at all. I only joined this forum recentley but I have been a member on many other GNR forums and I can link you to MANY posts I've made where I've said all the same things I've said here. It has nothing to do with Robin joining the band for one song. I've been saying it for a while. As for others, well of course having Robin back in the fold for a moment will cause discussion about Robin...and some people prefer Robin over DJ.

I never bashed DJ. I just don't like the kind of music he plays outside of Guns. Again, it all comes down to preference. I never bashed him. I even said he is a good player.

Why? He's written for Motley Crue. I don't think it's a wild stretch of the imagination to think that...



I'm not disrespecting DJ. I'm just presenting my opinion. I prefer Finck to DJ and wish he was in the band instead of DJ. That doesn't mean I hate DJ or GNR. I wouldn't have seen this lineup so many times if that was the case.

I don't see how saying I'd rather have Finck in the band instead of DJ is disrespectful. It's just a personal preference.

I never said it was DJ's fault that Robin left.



I'm not sensitive. I just think that people should be allowed to express their opinions without the admin being condescending and making it seem like people who don't absolutley 100% LOVE everything about every aspect of current GNR, or prefer former members, are somehow less of a fan than anyone else.

fuck yeah! a great gigs thread ends like this. only this is nowhere near the end of it. i'm poppin my pop corn rite now!

call your friends and tell em to bring booze, we're in for a treat!

But not me?




I posted an observation. It wasn't aimed at you. But for some reason, you took it personally.

I wonder why.


I still stand by what I said.

Some of the Robin fans, and no there's nothing wrong with liking Robin, sound like any other fans who wish somebody was back in the band, and a current member was gone.


For example:

There's a difference in saying "My favorite guitar player is X" or "I prefer X in band Y" to "My favorite guitar player is X. I wish Y would quit/be fired so X could be back!" and "I prefer X, Y can't write songs and it'll all sound like Band A".


One is praising somebody. The other is stating your preference while putting somebody else down or wishing they were fired/ that they would quit.






/jarmo

Well, sometimes you need to lose someone to realise how much valuable this person was. It happens in love relationships, in family, in sports, music and all kinds of areas.

But I think you should admit that the people who love Robin (and will always prefer him over Slash and DJ or whoever can join the band in the future) are not ''whiners''. We worshipped him when he was in the band and we miss him since the day after it was official he was gone. And, differently to the majority of Slash fans (who will hate everybody filling what they consider ''slash boots''), we support the current GNR lineup, we pay tickets to attend the shows, and we support DJ.

It's not unlogical to love Robin. Axl wanted Slash out of the band. That was not Robin's case: Axl was obsessed with him in 1996, he wanted him in the band badly, and its pretty safe to say Robin would be still in the band if he wanted that. A lot of us like Robin, just like Axl.


I think you're wrong here. I think Robin is 1000x better under any possible point of view than DJ, and I've seen the band with DJ 10 times in 5 different countries. If I had more money and time, trust me I'd do even more.


I highly doubt (in fact, it wont happen for obvious reasons) that the AFD lineup can sound better live than the current lineup. They are one by one less skilled musicians than the ones in the real Guns N' Roses.

What happens with Robin is that the band not only SOUNDS better with him: it also FEELS better with him, and LOOKS better with him than with DJ.

Anyway, I dont want a AFD reunion either. That is exactly the last thing I want for this band. I think it could be catastrophic for its future.


No doubt about that. To me, he's the only GNR member ever with the capacity of overshadowing Axl onstage. Both IN GNR and NIN, the guy is a show in his own.


We were all here, why? But you need to know that, differently to slash fans, we support the band and we dont feel the need to spoil every discussion with ''how greater things were when Robin was in the band''. We moved on, that's it. Anyway, this is not the best place to express your feelings about Robin or any other past member and I ACCEPT that and also think it's a fair decision.


I think you're being EXTREMELY rude but I cant say I do not agree with you.

For some reason, that's often the case with GN'R fans.

Some, not all, will always find something to complain about.

For example. "I don't like the setlist". Well, then when you have no shows you won't have that to worry about!

But then these people will want shows... Only to complain about the setlist.... Round and round...





It's not that simple. I've seen how disrespectful some can be...

It's too bad Robin left. I liked him in the band too. But he made a decision and I respect it.

Dj came in, and the band is kicking ass. I got no complaints.







But he didn't want to...





What I meant is, people think the band touring is bad because "they want an album". And when they get an album (2008), they were all wanting a tour... See above.





/jarmo

I don't see the issue with stating you want a member back. It's not like I'm attacking DJ personally. It's just a band. And I'd prefer Robin back in it over DJ.

I'm not putting him down. I just personally would rather have Robin in the band instead of him. :shrugs: I still love and support the band. I'm just not a big fan of DJ.

i enjoy both DJ and Robin! cool that Robin played better with the band as a nice treat. but i think he prefers doing his own thing....seems a bit like Izzy in that way to me.

some of this is starting to remind me of that one show in i think 06 where Ron was in a bad mood over his grandfather being ill which for some strange reason turned into a huge "OMG RON IS FIRED AND BUCKET IS GONNA BE BROUGHT BACK!!!!" discussion....

I'd say claiming that the only reason he's in the band is to promote his clothing line and himself comes off like you're putting him down.

I don't see what the big deal is here...

Robin AND Ashba are both members of GN'R presently (according to Axl). Robin has done his live duties, and more than enough of his album contributions and has now decided to not tour with the band. DJ is currently playing live with GN'R, and no doubt he'll be contributing to future albums as well.

Some people including myself, prefer Robin as a performer and as an individual over DJ. Does that mean we hate current GN'R, and put the band down at every given opportunity, no it doesn't. The reason why these discussions have started is because Robin made a special appearence with GN'R, and it's only natural for this type of talk to start.  :o

I'd like to state again, that all of these fans who are sticking up for Robin, and are stating they would rather him be in Guns rather than DJ, are not haters. I don't see any other "Robin" fans, put the current band down on a daily basis, we SUPPORT the current line-up.

Same thing with Brain and Frank........people who love both drummers, but would prefer Brain in the band because of his history with GN'R. And all of his work on CD, and his 01/02 amazing shows with GN'R. Are those people also against current GN'R, because they have an opinion that Brain was a better drummer all round............of course not.  :P

...................................................

I'm not at all pressing this for attention..... But people supporting Robin, and who favour him in GN'R over DJ, CANNOT be put in the same category as reunionists. We support the current band, but that doesn't mean that it's "hating" on the current band when you state that you simpy prefered a guitarist who spent 11 years with GN'R, and who went through the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in those Chinese Democracy sessions........and someone who did all he could for GN'R.

I liked robin when he was in the band and was sad to see him leave. With that said, I never heard of DJ per guns and I am a huge fan. His presence in the band has ignited something we haven't seen since the AFD days. Everything guns is today is in large part due to the energy he brings the band members I.e. successful tours, 3+ hour shows, UCAP shows, potential new music on the horizon, web sites, band communication etc . . .  These are the best GNR years w e have had since the ILLUSION tours, maybe even better. 

Don't get me wrong, they all have a huge part in the above, but I truly think that DJ has sparked something in this band and that spark could lead to them being relevant in the industry again.

None of the above means that I do not like Robin or any previous band member - they have all added great things to the band but this just happens to be a different chapter.

Rock on and quit the bitching'

Goddamn!  Awesome shit...glad to hear they played Dead Flowers again.  Hmm, I didn't notice a change in lyrics from how Axl sang the tune back in the '90's.  Yeah, it sounds like he sings chase instead of take at HOB.  Still sounded damn cool to me.

I agree with this 100%!  I feel like Guns has been re-awakened since DJ joined and they have made a lot of progress in improving some of the negative public perception of them from the past (with the general public and casual fans).  I have also read a few interviews with current band members that say this group has amazing chemistry and they refer to DJ as being a factor in that.  He is not Slash.  He is not Buckethead.  He is not Robin.  He is DJ Ashba.  Obviously, everyone is entitled to their own opinions and musical preferences.  I think the key is remaining positive about this current lineup, and accepting the direction Axl has chosen to go with the band.  

I enjoyed watching the video of Robin joining them for Better.  To be fair, it is Robin's song...it only seems logical it will sound more like the original CD version than DJ playing it in concert.  Don't hold it against DJ.  Until he has the opportunity to get into the studio with the band, the truth is he is playing material written by others, that's not his fault.  I do not believe anything he has a hand in recording with Guns will sound like Motley Crue.  He's worked with a lot of different artists....I don't think his collaborations with Neil Diamond sound anything at all like his work with Crue.  Also, he formed Ashba Media back in 2003 I believe.  He needs more of a creative outlet than just music alone, I don't think that is a bad thing.  He's excited about the future of his design company as well as his music.  

It's great that former members can join them band, like they did at this show.  But the gossip that ensues from something like that HAS to make Axl slightly worried about any potential collaboration with the original lineup for exactly that reason.  

We should respect all members' contributions (past and present), and continue to be excited and open-minded about the direction of the current band.  Yes, we all have our favorites.  We can agree to disagree, as long as we are respectful and positive about the future!

Robin is no way, shape or form presently a member of the band.  He has been out of the band for four years now.  No ifs, ands or buts about it.

Ali

my photos from the show http://tony-trujillo.com/p9096129

I was surprised and extremely pleased to see Robin rejoining the band. I never thought it would be possible for him to reappear with the band onstage. I appreciate that they are all on good terms, and how happy Axl was to have him there.

I agree with Mysteron and One.In.A.Million's comments. I've made my points known about Ashba, I prefer Robin for his musical technique and style. Unfortunately I don't have any affinity with Ashba at all, but there's nothing I can do about it. He's there, and that's that.

That was quite brilliant.

I love everyone's comments here. Maybe GUNSNROSES Cirque du Soleil could possibly happen! I remember how you said that Robin had alot of connections to them.

Awesome :hihi:


"I noticed a rather, a rather interesting, a rather interesting smell"
"??like a contact high"
"You know, they never talk about the virtues of second hand smoke"

Fucking AWESOME video! I bet this was a sick show!!!

I love the guy screaming when he saw Robin :hihi: fucking great stuff

Great pictures  :D

I could sit here all night and listen to Dead Flowers and Mama Kin.  Fucking amazing.  ;D

In my opinion if you're a huge fan of Robin just focus on the fact that it was a cool moment that really has nothing to do with who replaced who in the band or who's the better guitarist arguments. Personally I liked Robin in the band and I like DJ in the band currently and don't feel the need to compare them or pick a favorite everytime one of their names is mentioned.

Ok can I just add something here for the people saying DJ sucks and his contributions will be 'Motley" style?

I don't like Motley Crue at all but I have to admit Saints of Los Angeles was one of their better albums...and guess what? DJ was a writer for most of the songs. Now imagine his writting with Axl's and everyone else's influence?  : ok:

I never liked Robin in GNR, but I really REALLY don't like DJ.  It comes off like he is more concerned about how the crowd reacts to him than with playing the actual music.  So like any political election, you have to decide between the lesser of two evils, and Robin is definitely the lesser of the two evils for me. 

This is a weird discussion, since most people were completely down on Finck during his time in Guns. To be fair, he wasn't always the tightest on some of the solo sections, and from a guitar player's perspective Ashba is a much better technician (or better rehearsed, at the very least). For those saying that he is trying to get more of a crowd reaction than actually playing the songs, maybe you'd prefer that he stand in one place and look down at his guitar for the entire show. Rock music is entertainment. Lastly, Axl's not going to release an album that sounds like Motley Crue - that's one of dumber suggestions I've seen in this thread.

Does anyone see a decent video of My Michelle? :(

LOL, way to go to the extreme.  I am at peace with the rest of the current band, they play their faces off and seem to genuinely enjoy doing it which I appreciate.  I think DJ is a showman first, musician second.  If crowd interaction is important to you, then by all means DJ Ashba is your man.  I won't disagree that DJ handles the spotlight better than anyone else in the band not named Axl, in fact I think he loves it.  But I would be shocked if anyone told me he wasn't an only child.  He acts like he needs people to pay attention to him at all times. 

Keep in mind I avoided reading all setlists and watching videos of the DJ Ashba GNR until I finally saw them at the Izod Center in 2011.  That first time I saw him I was just so annoyed with him.  After a few songs all I kept saying to myself was "just play the damn song!". 

I think that's an exaggeration or distortion of how DJ is on stage.  He plays the songs, and plays the lead guitar parts well.  He interacts with the crowd a great deal, but that's part of being a live performer.  Drawing conclusions about his personality from his stage presence is a bit extreme.  Axl works the crowd a great deal, the entire stage in fact, but you barely hear anything about him when GN'R is not active, so you can't claim he needs attention.  I've known so many singers who love to perform and interact with a crowd, but are immensely shy and introverted off stage.  The two don't go hand in hand necessarily.

Ali

I would've acted the same way.

I just want to ask an admin if they could possibily delete both of Uzi Suicide Records' posts on the previous page. He has tried to quote me, and somehow wrote his message right in the middle of my quote, so it's totally messed up, and it looks like I've said what he wanted to say in his post.

Totally messed his posts up twice...

Would be totally greatful if a Moderator or Admin could do that.  :)

Thanks...

Don't have to be a sour puss in life  :smoking:

Didn't he get his start in the business as a songwriter and producer? Not a lot of opportunities for showmanship in the control room. He's still tighter on most of the older Guns stuff than Finck was, and actually has some chops up his sleeve, per his playing on the Beautiful Creatures album. I think you're making a pretty superficial assessment of his abilities, especially compared to a guy whose main claim to fame is playing in Trent Reznor's live band and some sloppy renditions of solos written by another guitar player.

 ::) I mentioned earlier that I liked Robin in NIN and not GNR, but I like Robin more than DJ.  And when you are looking to break into showbiz you will take any gig you can get.  Because he started out as something where he didn't face the crowd every night is not some earth-shattering discovery. 

That's fair Ali, but I think his onstage antics overshadow his talents.  He is more annoying to me than anything else.  If some people like him, that's cool, but he just bothers the hell out of me.  A little crowd interaction/participation is fine with me (like what Ron does), but DJ makes sure people are paying attention to him. 

DJ is a showman and a business man first and formost in my view, and if you dig that, then that's fine nothing wrong with that. You've got his clothing line, guitar line, guitars that look Tim Burton-esque, his guitar apps, tuner, guitar mini replicas etc....(I could go on).  :hihi:

That's what I think alot of people have come to realise about Robin, is that when he was in GN'R....he gave his ALL to GN'R. He never promoted himself in any which way, but always strove to be loyal to GN'R, and to make GN'R his one and only priority.

Even judging by live performances, I don't think you can argue that Robin is much more of a musician. Robin feels the notes, and plays as if he is IN the song at that exact time, feeling all of the emotions that go along with it......where as DJ, makes sure he has a cigarette in his mouth and his tophat on.  :o

I just prefer a musician like Robin... :)

At the risk of stating the obvious, you don't get gigs as a producer and songwriter based on showmanship. You have to be able to demonstrate aptitude - it's not like getting a job as a producer is somehow easier than getting a gig playing guitar in a band. The opposite is actually true.

As far as Robin in NIN vs GNR, sure he's better there - the guitar parts are a lot less challenging.  :)

I agree.

That was good!

Wow

Some of you people are going a little  extreme.   Robin was awsome when he was in the band and the other night. His contributions have been enormous.  BUT he left the band and the same can be said for the 10 members before him, they all helped GNR but lets enjoy his guest spot for what it is. 

Negative stuff about DJ is just absurd. He might not of wrote past songs, but he is very talented and I'm sure his presence will help shape the future.  Think hard back over the last couple years.  DJ when he was in the media he was always going out of his way to give positive press to GNR and Axl.  DJ appears to be very close with Axl.  DJ is great for GNR. 

 The band over the last couple of years have been the best in my opinion. Look at all the shows, the communication, web site, fan club, streaming shows etc ..............  Im a diehard 20 plus year fan. Things now are the best they have ever been. Axl is happy truly happy on stage.  I think DJ has helped in a big way on and off stage.  I meet him in AC and I have to say, he was the nicest guy you could ever imagine. 

Stuff has been perfect,  we could only dream things were going to get this good. Hell it looks like it is going to keep getting better.  The past is the past and lets enjoy the present. If that includes a special guest spot or guest song writting fine, but lets ejoy things for what they are now. 

You have a very selective memory.  Robin strove to be loyal to GN'R?  How do you garner this from his actions?  He left months before the album he and the band worked on for so long was finally released.  He left in 1999 as well to tour with NIN.  In what distorted, warped world do those things display loyalty and GN'R being his one and only priority?  ::)

Not to be condescending, but, seriously, how in the hell can you possibly know that Robin is "feeling all of the emotions that go along with it"? And even if that were true, how in the hell do you know that DJ doesn't?

Ali

I'm talking about how it comes across to the crowd, and why as a fan I prefer Robin. All these factors make me come to the decision, and it's all down to personal preference. I've already explained all of the reasons why I love Robin, and why I prefer him over DJ.......some will disagree, and that's fine.

Of course I can't speak for DJ, but I'm speaking what I see as a fan who has followed this band religiously since 2004. It's my personal opinion, and some people will prefer Robin and some DJ, and that's all apart of being a fan. Some people might see DJ's "branding" and posing onstage as cool, but some might see it as cheesy.

Some people will prefer Robins calm and reserved nature, and love how he shows his passion on stage through his actions and face expressions..... it all depends on what kind of person you are, and what you look up to.

It's not a conspiracy, everyone's entitled to an opinion.....and since Robins appearence with GN'R, it's natural for people to post positive things about Robin.  :)

I think you make assumptions based on your emotions towards Robin.



/jarmo

I think Jarmo's right in that you're making assumptions, and perhaps more to the point, projections of what Robin and DJ are feeling or not feeling or what they are like, based on your feelings towards the two.  I think they both show their enjoyment of what they do, but in different ways.

And, I can't help but notice the lack of response to the loyalty issue.  Let's face it, Robin may have worked his ass off in the studio and on stage while with GN'R, but GN'R was never his one and only priority.  If that were the case, he would've never left GN'R TWICE to go on tour with NIN.

Ali

Finck is THE emo-artist, lots of soul in his playing and not too conventional usage of the guitar. I had wet dreams of Buckethead + Axl and more stuff like OMG/SR, but it is de nue harte 4 me instead I guess... With DJ writing songs it will be a bit more classical rock and mainstream I think, and Axl's voice which is just out of this world now. Hope he sings more heavy songs and records while he is "tourhot". Godlike performances now :peace:

You two are right on the money, I'm making assumptions based on my emotions towards Robin. And how have I developed my emotions?, by observing Robin for all the years I have followed Guns, and made a conclusion based on my opinions.......not rocket science is it?.

Again there is no conspiracy, I prefer how Robin shows his emotions and I prefer his playing style, and his overall attitude to life. I'm not saying DJ's feelings are not genuine, but aren't I allowed to have an opinion about who's approach to GN'R I prefer?........come on seriously.  :P

About Robins commitment to GN'R, overall he was with the band for for 11 years. And granted he went back to NIN, in 1999 but let's face it GN'R was not active at that time and he had written loads of material for Guns at that point which was waiting to get completed.....he must have expected alot more from his 2 years with GN'R when he joined, at least in terms of live duties alone...... the guy needed to make a living.  :yes:

And when Robin was with GN'R, his priority was in fact Guns N' Roses. DJ has alot of side projects as well as alot of members of GN'R currently, but Robin always made sure he was FULLY into giving his all to GN'R, and I think this should be commended.

I prefer Robin over DJ, FULL STOP......not hating on DJ, and I'm not doubting his respect and loyalty to Guns. But I just prefer Robin, as a guitarist myself.....I prefer him.

And I will end this with this short phrase from Brain.

?Brain would like to thank: Christ, Viagra, and the Right To Choose.?  :D

I don't see why saying you prefer one guitarist to another is such a big deal here...

It is not a big deal, but it is a slippery slope when it is a ex-member.  What if ...........  Seriously what if in the near future a old first generation member did something musically with Axl even if it was for 30 seconds.  All hell would brake loose on here with fighting. 


He quit on GNR , he quit on Axl, he quit on us the fans. He moved on.....

The past is the past until GNR makes it the present.   I think it is best to enjoy it for what it is. A guest spot for a song.

You're making a horrendous straw man argument here.  No one's saying you can't prefer one to the other. 

What's absurd is your statements about what Robin "feels" vs. what DJ does.  You have no clue, none of us do.  We're not mind readers.  It's one thing to say you prefer one person's stage presence to another, but talking about what they feel as if you have some clue, is absurd.

And your arguments about loyalty and priorities are weak.  Robin quit TWICE on GN'R.  You can make up an excuse that you find justifiable if you want for the first time he left, but the 2nd time was a mere months before the album was finally released.

You can't ever call someone who quit not once, but TWICE, for another project someone who is loyal to GN'R and has them as his top priority.  Those actions completely and utterly contradict your arguments about loyalty and priority.

Ali

You can prefer one to another. Not a problem.


But when you start thinking like you know how somebody feels and so on just "by observing", or in your case, admiring somebody, it gets a bit....  Weird?



If you label how Robin was in GN'R as loyalty, how would you describe Dizzy?




/jarmo

I did actually clarify in my last comment that I'm not trying to discuss DJ's true feelings, and if they are genuine or not. I was talking about how they both display that onstage, and I and many other people love how Robin smiles and pulls funny faces onstage, and get's right into the music........even Richard has been seen on many accasions laughing at Robin for this.  :yes:

Again, I'm not claiming I "know how DJ feels". But I as a fan have the right to choose who I prefer based on my feelings, and my observations on both players......I just prefer Robin, no big deal.

And yes, of course Dizzy has been exceptional in his dedication to GN'R. But Robin, doesn't come from the same scene that Dizzy did with the band. He came in as an outsider, who was required to replace an icon and take all the flack because of it. He was also heavily involved in Chinese Democracy, which was a very lengthy process to say the least..... doesn't make him a bad person. He made some decisions that was his choice, I'm not going to think behind his reasons, he can do what he wants.

When he has been away from GN'R, he has not once used his involvment with GN'R to benefit himself in anyway whatsoever.....unlike other former members.

This isn't a contest, I have no problem with DJ. But I'm not going to lie and keep my lips sealed about my love for Robin, in a thread in which he made a special appearence with GN'R, and played for the first time since 2007...

I'm sure we will all go back to supporting the current band, out on the road this year and I can't wait....  ;)

I like Robin......you might have known this by my avatar, and my picture of when I met Duff with me wearing my Robin Finck t shirt.....

Again, it's not rocket science.....just my opinion guys.  :D

It would be nice to look at this topic and read a few reviews and see some video`s and pics rather than who`s better than who, for a show that looked like alot of fun this topics turned into something very boring!

It  was just a nice little appearance by a guy who helped make CD,  now can we just  leave it at that, Look forward to a european tour, and stop bickering like school children, it should be about  the music! thankyou.  : ok:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQPOyomlf78 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQPOyomlf78)

Agreed 100%

The key here is genuineness: Robin is a unique musician, he's genuine. You may like his style or not, but its HIS style. That is something you dont find too often, and I guess that's one of the main reasons why two masterminds and fabulous performers like Axl and Reznor chose him as lead guitarist.

DJ looks like he has a plan to follow, like he has an acting to do every show, something like a choreography: he *needs* to put off his cigarrettes in one specific guitar, he *needs* to cheer people up before playing his solo, he *needs* to use a drumstick in his guitar in Madagascar. Robin was genuine: he does what his hearts tell him at the moment. He plays with his heart, and that's why all his solos are different, even the AFD ones (lots of people hated him for ''ruining'' them, couldn't disagree more: I dont want a cover band, anyone can copy slash. Hello DJ! You're note here to copy anyone! Slash is gone, now YOU are Guns for god's sake! I say this because DJ has expressed several times he's proud of cloning Slash parts...)

Robin is the only musician ever in Guns that was capable of overshadowing Axl onstage, even though he never had no plans or ''tricks'' or choreographies to execute onstage. He's not desperate for attention, but he conquers it just for being him, not acting. I think DJ seeks for attention all the time.

And last, but not least, there is no doubt Robin was THE guitarist in 2001/2007. If there was one of the three impossible to replace, it was him. He was the true lead guitarist, and Ron and Richard were absolutely overshadowed. Now with DJ in the lineup the figures of Ron and Richard have grown a lot IMO. Now its not possible to say who's the lead guitarist regarding stage presence, personality, etc, and even some of Robin's solos are now played by Ron and NOT DJ... and to my eyes, now the most ''replaceable'' guitarist in this lineup is... DJ. When Robin left the band, we all agree it was catastrophic. Now, I dont even think DJ is necessary at all

Agreed with this pretty much 100%.

I hate jumping in - in the middle of an argument like this but I can't resist.

You really feel like DJ isn't necessary? I'm very surprised by this.

Believe me, I'll be the first to admit that when the news broke that DJ Ashba was joining Gn'R I was one of the folks who questioned his fit, (in all honesty, having never heard a lick of his music). But I didn't like his "modern rock look" - those are my words.

I was wrong. Waaaaay wrong. Turns out Axl knows more about what's good for his band than I do, who could have guessed.
Anyway - I agree that DJ appears to be playing a role of sorts - - on stage. His job (IMO) is to play the Slash parts in all the classic tunes. Sure, the other fellas play some solos too, but neither Richard or Bumble have that classic les paul sound. DJ does, and I think when it comes to those tunes he INTENTIONALLY does it this way - to please me (the fan). He's said as much in interviews. I respect him for it. He knows that a lot of fans - probably the majority of the fans at a given show want to hear the older tunes that they grew up on, and they want to hear them like they remember them. I think it takes a big set of balls and a certain humility to cater to that when you're a perfectly credible musician in your own right, like DJ is.

All of that said - I think that DJ's greatest contribution is yet to come. I think he's going to be the greatest asset in the studio.

For whatever reason (just my opinion) I think Axl can see the type of music that DJ is going to bring to Gn'R or the influence he's going to bring to the group collectively. I am really looking forward to this.

By no means is this meant to put Robin down at all. I miss him dearly and I even agree that during his tenure he definitely seemed like "the guitarist" but I think that has less to do with him and more to do with Ron and Richard. I think they're comfortable now, and with that comes a certain confidence that perhaps wasn't there before. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but that's my take anyway.

Disagree completely with virtually everything said here.  I don't recall DJ every saying he's proud of "cloning Slash's parts" so much as he is proud of doing them justice.  There is a BIG difference and your choice of words is poor and distorts the reality of the situation.  Your use of the word "genuine" is misleading as well.  Again, we have another example of someone who is reading into Robin's intent and assuming what he's feeling and seeing it in a positive light because he likes him while at the same time reading into DJ's actions and emotions as being disingenuous simply because of a preference to Robin.  What you consistently label as "need" may in fact be simply nothing more than a sincere "want", yet, again, because of a preference for Robin someone is seeing DJ as being disingenuous.  

As far as Robin being the only one able to overshadow Axl, uh, no. That's highly debatable.  I would add Buckethead and Ron because of their sheer talent.  And Robin was ONE of the lead guitarists.  He was never, ever THE lead guitarist.  Not with Buckethead and not with Ron.  I don't even agree that he ever overshadowed Richard.  Richard's a better player than him.  And, no, we don't all agree it was catastrophic when Robin left  ::)

Ali

Ironic....back in 2001/2002, everyone on this board was bitching and whining about "how dare this goth/industrial guitar player dare play GnR tunes".    :hihi:

Robin is a great musician and talent and it was great to see him back on stage.  Personally, I still prefer Bucket over Ron and Robin over Dj.  (Hell, I'd love to have the RiR III band back together)  The guys that are there now and playing for the fans ARE IN THE BAND and the other guys left.  Get over it. 

At the end of the day arguing over this is silly. Everyone has their own opinions of Robin and DJ and that's really all there is to it.

But I can't help but feel like people just say they like DJ because of the fact that he's in GNR and not really for any other reason. I mean, what is there to like really? He's a great showman but that's really it. On a stage with Fortus and Ron, his playing doesn't stand out at all...and he hasn't written anything yet for the band so I just don't get what he has going for him.

I don't like how he messes up solo's and in my opinon ruined a good portion of them. TIL is just terrible. Better doesn't feel right. He messes up SCOM, I'd say half the time. I know some would say Robin messed up solo's but, he didn't. He changed them intentionally and played what he felt. Robin's SCOM solo is better than the original as far as I'm concerned. I mean, sometimes it was hit and miss (November Rain is a good example), but atleast Robin took risks and went out there and did his thing...and it was always HIM. He made everything his own. And he was always spontaneous. Robin was the kind of guy that would jump in the crowd, not in a planned way or planned song like DJ. Robin was the guy who could come out onstage in an indian costume because he felt like it. He's just such a spontaneous artful person and that's why I love him.

I'm not saying DJ is a bad player. I think it's kind of like comparing apples to oranges because they are so different. Personally DJ just doesn't appeal to me.

Come on now, no sour grapes just because DJ can multi-task.  ;D


Ha ha, in your dreams...   ::)


I don't know about catastrophic but Robin's timing and manner of departure certainly wasn't done with the best interests of GN'R at heart. Axl chose DJ to replace Robin and has stated that he'd been aware of him for quite a while. And, with all due respect, I think that Axl has a greater knowledge of DJ's ability and place within the band than you do.

All these Robin fans are making all kinds of disrespectful comments about Dj and his "needs" to do this and that.

None of them accuse Robin of similar things. Based on what?

They know so much negative things about Dj based on watching him at shows and on Youtube, and know how amazing Robin is based on the same?

You know a person's personality based on that?

Robin had no need to be seen or noticed? What do you base that on?


The guy who left GN'R twice is a saint and Dj, who's in the band, isn't because he likes to express himself certain ways during specific moments in the show?


Silly.....

It's ok to have a man crush on a guitar player. Don't worry.



/jarmo

Fortus is a must have in the band too !

I love Fincks playing in GNR, he had a very distinct sound and major stage presence. However he chose to leave the band unfortunaly.

Fortunately we have someone like DJ playing his ass off, interacting with the fans and helping give GNR and the current band more positive mainstream media attention.

I'm not sure what you're talking about but since you say "all these Robin fans" I suppose that includes me. I have not attacked DJ or said anything about his personality.

Since when is saying that DJ has a routine on stage attacking him? He does. You of all people should know that. I saw DJ with GNR live 6 times. DJ does the same thing at every show. It's all choerographed to a tee.

I don't see why people need to get upset over anothers preference in musicians. It's all just opinion and the great thing is we don't all have to agree with each other. But, there's no need to try to tell someone they are wrong just because you don't agree with them.

Not sure why you need to be so condescending when talking about "Robin fans".

Robin did not just change the solos intentionally, he made mistakes, too.  To say otherwise is a distortion.  He's a human being after all.  As far as what DJ has going for him, he has a history as a songwriter and producer.  So, he's very much not just a showman.

Ali

Of course he made mistakes. I'm not saying he is perfect. I even said his November Rain solo was less than steller.

What I meant is that, Robin changed the solo's intentionally and made them his own. Thus, changing the solo's wasn't a mistake but his interpretation of the solo in his own way.

As for DJ, I was reffering to his position in GNR. Meaning in GNR, for the moment being a showman is the main thing he has going for him since he hasn't yet written anything with the band or played on any original songs, and his guitar playing live is nothing special.

Word by word, 100% agreed.


I honestly cant see where are the disrespectful comments.


I think we, the pejoratively called ''these robin fans'', have seen the band live several times. That's all we can do: attending the shows when they occur near us. We dont tour with the band, and we are not supposed to interact with the band members because we are FANS, not staff. Yours is a one in a million case, and its not the first time you accuse other fans of ''youtubers''... what's wrong with that? I dont want Robin or DJ to be my friends, I want music, not friendship. I dont need to know how good DJ treats his mascots to prefer Robin over him. I base my opinion in what I see in the shows and the feelings they provoke on me.

Yes: im a common, standard, and mortal fan. Never got a VIP pass (never asked for one either), never talked to Robin, and I dont know how good or bad DJ is as person and I dont really give a shit either. What do you expect from me/us?


What a stupid argument... I'm asking myself if I should say something or not...

Axl wanted Robin in the first place, badly. DJ is in the band JUST BECAUSE Robin decided to leave.

Axl wants Robin, just like we ''these robin fans''. He (we) cant have him, the show must go on, a replacement is called. And I thank God (and Axl) for that.


I ask myself the same, and I've seen the band with him 9 times, noticing that exact routine show after show. Jarmo attended many more shows than you and me together, and it would be extremely hypocrite not to accept this. Is it a sin having a routine? No! Not at all! Angus Young has his own routine too! No one ''attacks'' or disrespect DJ for saying he's got a routine and that he's not as spontaneous as Robin!

You're right, DJ is in the band because Robin left.  There is no reason to think that Axl didn't want DJ in the band badly as well.

And here's another fact to consider:  As much as DJ is in the band because Robin left, Robin was in the band because Slash left. 

It goes both ways.

Ali

Not to nitpick since I think the argument is pointless anyways, but that's not exactly true.

There is a huge difference. Axl didn't know Robin or know of Robin when GNR was starting. However according to DJ, Axl had followed his entire career. Meaning he knew of DJ when he brought Robin into the band.

Robin quit the band twice. He didn't wanna be in your favorite band and perform all those "personal interpretations" of GN'R songs for you guys.

How does that make you feel?



This whole discussion is silly.

He left. Just like most other former members. He didn't wanna be part of GN'R.

Dj isn't stopping Robin from being in the band. No need to have all these negative thoughts about him. He didn't kick Robin out and took his place. There was no duel.

Robin chose to leave. Twice.



Like I said in a previous post.

You prefer Robin. Fine.

No need to put somebody else down with your misguided biased "facts".




/jarmo

You're starting to get ridiculous. This is childish.

Robin quitting doesn't make me feel anything. People leave bands. That doesn't make them bad people and nobody has blamed DJ for Robin leaving. I'm sure Robin had his reasons and if he doesn't want to disclose them that's his buisness. Why are you trying to make him out to be the bad guy for quitting a band?

You make it seem like someone leaving a band makes them the antichrist. "How does that make you feel?"...lol give me a break

How is any of that even relevant to ANYTHING we are talking about here? Yes, we know he left....point?

Nobody is putting DJ down because of their feelings for Robin. Nobody is even putting DJ down at all. I really don't know what you're talking about or why you keep bringing up the fact that Robin quit the band.

Saying your opinion on a musician, isn't putting them down. Nobody has insulted DJ personally or attacked him.

You make it seem like preffering Robin over DJ is a crime.

Spot on 100%

I know what you're implying, that Robin was chosen over DJ originally, but, I think that is nothing more than a twisted interpretation of Axl's words. If you had read some of DJ's interviews, you'd know that he met Axl when production on CD was already underway. So, sorry, there is nothing to support your suggestion there.  Nice try, though.

Ali

I didn't know exactly when DJ met Axl. Still, just because he met Axl during the production of CD doesn't mean Axl didn't know of him previously and couldn't have sought him out if he had really wanted to.

Point is, Robin was always the guy Axl wanted in his band. Originally Matt Sorum just wanted Robin to be rhythm guitarist but Axl saw something in him. Axl wanted him in lead. And after Robins two year contract was up, Axl got him back again after he toured with NIN. That is saying something in itself. He completely changed the dynamics of GNR forever by adding a third guitarist spot, because he knew after working with Robin that he was that good - to be in the band working alongside Buckethead even though it changed the lineup drastically by adding a third player. Axl saw something in Robin.

It's fairly obvious when you look at the history that Robin has always been important to Axl and been a big musical partner in his life. Even after Robin left, Axl didn't say anything bad about him (and we know that isn't the case with many ex members of GNR) and even said Robin would continue to be a part of GNR by virtue. The fact that Robin appeared with the band again at this LA performance only backs up that Axl and him are on good terms. And Robin has written albums worth of material for GNR...material that we will hopefully hear some day.

He may not be a member of the band anymore but, just like Brain and Paul, his contributions will continue to be shown in the future.

Robin has always been and always will be Axl's first choice.

Is it ok to say we really like DJ, but we prefer Robin, the Bucket, and Brain?

I really doubt that DJ is giving an exact quote of what Axl said a decade ago. It was probably more of a figure of speech.

I'm not saying Axl doesn't appreciate DJ's talent and see something in DJ as well. If he didn't he wouldn't be in the band of course.

I just think it's safe to assume that Axl is very very connected to Robin and has had a history with him that shows he is Axl's "Boy wonder". He made him the lead player, brought him back after the NIN tour tour - thus adding a thid player to the fold and changing the dynamics of GNR forever, and even after Robin left, if you read the 2008 online chats, he seemed open to Robin returning and was probably hoping he would...

i dont really get what all the whining and shits about

if you prefer one over the other, than all the more to you. but why piss all over such a badass GNR moment with all this back and forth little high school girl crap??

Robin was in GNR. Robin left to rejoin NIN. DJ is now in GNR. DJ is also going out every night and busting his ass to ensure that we as fans get what we paid for and have a good fucking time.  

he is doing the same exact thing Robin did until he decided to pursue something else.

I remember all the robin bashing on all the boards even though im not certified as a "MOD" or "LEGEND" or whatever you people call it. i've been around for a while.
you said he was weird.. fucked solos up constantly.. was too marilyn manson for GNR..
now you turn around and act like hes the second coming while saying those exact same things about DJ.

theyre both immensly talanted and a part of GNR's history. just be appreciative of what they both bring to the table instead of whining and going tit for tat.

Well, one thing is for sure, you cannot question a GNR fan's passion when it comes to the band  : ok:

I think the general consensus here is that we all prefer different players in the band... whether its the classic lineup, the 1992 lineup, the 2001 lineup, the 2006 lineup or the current lineup. 

But the common theme is that everyone is happy that Axl Rose is out there still making music and playing shows.  Even though I don't agree with everything Axl or anyone who was ever associated with the band does or has done doesn't mean I don't appreciate the music they have given me in my lifetime.  I will acknowledge that if it were not for DJ we may not have a touring GNR right now.  So for that, thanks DJ!  As long as the guys in the band keep Axl motivated to continue with his musical career I will follow them.  I may not like DJ like I have previous members, but he has kept the band alive and while he may annoy the hell out of me at times he will always have my respect as a member of the band. 

Amen now can we move on Jesus Christ, the HOF is a few weeks away god knows what we fans will be discussing(bitching bout ) after that.lol

That's big of you - bet Dj'll appreciate that.  ;). Funny how you dismiss Dj's quote instantly. I wonder if a comment by Robin would get the same treatment. Probably not, seeing as in your world any onstage mistakes Robin made were intentional alterations to well-known and much-loved solos.


Well he certainly has the tights for the role.   :hihi:

Don't really see how it's big of me. I don't see how someone can remember exactly what someone else said ten years ago. Sounded more like DJ was trying to convey the fact that Axl liked his playing and work on Beautiful Creatures then an exact quote. If Robin made a similar claim I would have a similar reaction. Your bias is amusing though.

I think you need to read my posts again. I clearly stated Robin has made mistakes. My point was that changing the solo's isn't a mistake. Didn't think it would be that hard to understand.

Robin guests at the GnR gig and there is so much LOVE on stage between the players and the to/from the audience.

And all you maniacs can do .. is rag and bitch and compare and offer conspiracy theories?



See the video again. See Robin's face. He's proud, he's happy. See Axl's face. See Tommy. Check out Richard! These guys are FRIENDS. They are mates and Robin guesting was a beautiful thing.

ENJOY IT!

Notice how Robin respectfully left the stage fast, just as DJ left the stage for him to do BETTER alone. I'm sure Finck and Ashba get along fine.

Shape up, folks.


It was a great moment. Stop the whining.

Word! It was a nice moment for the band and the show.
The smile on Axl's face at the end of the performance was worth more than a thousand words, so stop whining indeed... that's the magic of GN'R, anything can happen..
The former members are part & will remain to be part of the legacy, you can't change history but you can enjoy it though :peace: Carpe Diem, just enjoy...

Wow, i can't believe this is still going on. But since it is... here's my humble opinion on the DJ v. Robin argument. Personally, i love the new music that Robin helped create on CD. As a musician, i think he is great. I could never stand his stage presence. To me, his skirts and the way he high steps around stage made him look like a complete clown. But hey, that's his thing, obviously a lot of people thought he looked cool. I'm into this band for the music first, but there is definitely an image factor with the band as well. Like i said, i love the new music he contributed. And playing live, i thought he sounded awesome--on the new music. But i didn't like how he sounded on the old songs. If he did do it on purpose, then i'm glad they're back to sounding more like how they were originally. I always thought Robin was really into the songs he helped create, but maybe not so much into playing other people's stuff. I could be wrong (hell, we all could be wrong about what any of these guys is thinking or feeling). All i know is that to my ear, it wasn't an improvement on the old songs, it just sounded like shit. (I think the guys now still put their own stamp on the old music, but in a way that stays true to its original sound. It's familiar, but heavier and more layered) As far as DJ--i wasn't really thrilled about him at first, but after seeing him with the band a few times now, he has grown on me. I do want to see what happens when the current guys record something. As far as stage presence, the people i've taken to see GnR on this last tour thought DJ was awesome. Chicks seem to really dig him (the girl I took to Camden told me not to get upset if she thinks about DJ when we were having sex after the show. I told her i'd probably be thinking of Taylor Momsen. She said she might be thinking about her, too. Anyway...) and the guys that went along thought he was cool the way he runs all over the stage, etc. Personally, I prefer the way he does the older songs over Robin. I still think Richard is a better guitar player and wish he got more of the solos, but again, that's me. DJ is kind of in a weird position because he is covering Slash's stuff and Robin's. But that's why Axl hired him. At the end of the day, i'm just glad the band is touring. Axl and DJ have a great chemistry, DJ's doing the job he was hired to do. I like how he plays and I think he fits in great with the band. You gotta love his energy. I think it's awesome that Robin got onstage with the band for a song. He is a part of the GnR history and contributed some incredible music, but i wasn't sad to see him go and really don't want him back. Hell, I think it would've been cool if Buckethead joined them for a solo. I just hope the new lineup gets something recorded sooner rather than later. No matter who your preference is, you gotta admit that Axl has a knack for surrounding himself with amazing musicians. Yeah, they aren't going to please everyone, image-wise or musically, but it is ultimately all part of Axl's evolving vision for the band, and i do trust that.

Having said all that, this DJ/Robin thing has me completely convinced that if Axl decides to play even one song at the HOF ceremony with Slash it will be a nightmare for anything he's trying to do with the new lineup.

Amen now can we move on Jesus Christ, the HOF is a few weeks away god knows what we fans will be discussing(bitching bout ) after that.lol
[/quote]

Exactly! Christ knows what any of Guns "feel" whilst they are performing at any one gig or during any particular song, we could only guess that, but the whole band look so happy and on fire as a team as of now.  I'm really fkn happy for that, and for my part, I think Dj rocks and is a very valued member of this band.  I really like his two solos he's done for Guns and we know he's already written more music - so more is to come.  I like what he brings onstage - and that the band perform as a band - and obviously enjoy interacting with each other as well as with the crowd.  Nice to see Robin and Brain again on this occasion and that's it.

Couldn?t agree more!  : ok:

Fact: DJ is better than Robin for Guns N' Roses.

Fact: That's an opinion

Fact: This entire argument is stupid and counter-productive.

I think, a new album wouldnt be a 100% DJ album, because there are still 7 other members in the band. So at first, Axl writes the bulk of the songs, and then, other members adding solos and stuff like that.
So maybe the new album would be only inlfuenced 20-30% from DJ, because of the other band members.,
Remember: GN'R isnt Sixx:AM, where here is one of the main songwriters.

Fact: This argument is not counter-productive its just stupid  : ok:

Not sure about that...how come the band is more accepted especially in the US since DJ joined them?

Regarding your first point. I'm reposting Dj's quote because you seem to have misinterpreted it.  Dj wasn't having to remember a comment made by Axl ten years or more ago, the comment was made shortly after Dj joined the band. I'll say that again for clarity: they met 10 years or so ago certainly, but the comment, "If I knew you would have been up for this, I would?ve came after you years ago." was only made during a conversation shortly after Dj joined GN'R.

"What really surprised DJ Ashba was how closely Axl followed his career over the years. ?The first time I sat down with him after joining the band, he had known about my entire career. It blew my mind,? he said. ?He remembered meeting me ten years ago, probably even longer than that now, when Sharon Osborne introduced us, while I was making the Beautiful Creatures album. He said, ?If I knew you would have been up for this, I would?ve came after you years ago.? I didn?t even know I was on his radar, so it was pretty flattering.?

And as for your second paragraph, my point is that if Robin changed a solo you didn't consider it a mistake but an intentional variation. However, if Dj changes anything, you consider it a mistake (see your reply #251). You're the one with the clear bias and double standards. Here are your responses on the subject, starting with your original post (reply #251).


Subsequently, when Ali pointed out that Robin wasn't infallible, you backtracked with this post:


Surely you can see the contradiction in your posts.

I have no real interest in all this back and forth bickering and find it infinitely more interesting that they played Dead Flowers and wish they'd do so more often.

Dj is excelente Guitar, producer, marketing, beatiful, blah, bla...

Robin Is ARTIST.

fact Some fans prefer Robin Finck in Guns N' Roses, rather than DJ.

fact Some fans prefer DJ in Guns N' Roses, rather than Robin.

fact Everyone has the right to an opinion in a democratic society, and has the right to express this view.

Let's just leave it at that, I'm fed up with people twisting things and making something, an issue when it's not. But I will say this.....

If you consider Guns N' Roses as a band, and not an Axl Rose solo project. You have to appreciate the players, and look beyond the name as if it makes everyone who is currently in GN'R, the best it's ever been. Some people seem to be scared to challenge anything that isn't "current" with the band...

If DJ left GN'R tomorrow, the fans who have come to love him.....will be just as upset as the Robin fans are, if they are insulted for being "stuck in the past", everytime they tried to compliment him to the detrement of whoever the "current player" may be.  :yes:

Think this thread deserves to be locked now, lol, I think we all get it, its redundant now.

Perhaps they are more accepted because of the overall flow of the show as opposed to past tours, and the presentation of the band. In past tours solo's were drawn out, spotlight solo's that ruined the momentum of shows and always were prone to critisim. There were also long delays inbetween songs. Now, the solo's are more like jam's with the full band and aren't too long, and the overall show flows much smoother with no delays. The band also looks more like a rock band now as opposed to the alien circus look of the 2002 era and the braided/footguitar/stange outfit look of the 2006 era. If you really want to attribute the eaiser acceptance of GNR in the US to DJ, then you are overlook quite a lot of things.

And since when does success in the US determine how good someone is anyways? What does popularity have to do with musicianship and talent? So I'm assuming your favorite artists are Justin Beiber and the like, eh? facepalm


I was unaware the DJ quote was from recentley. I don't really read many DJ interviews. However I still believe he meant it in more of a figure of speech type of way.

As for my posts about Robin, I can see how you can mistake what I meant when you post those out of context quotes. But if you go back to the original quote, I was trying to explain that DJ messed up a lot. Then I siad that people may think Robin messed up because he made the solo's different but, that they weren't mistakes. They were his interpretations. By saying that, I didn't mean that Robin never made mistakes. I just mean that changing a solo isn't a mistake because I was anticipating a reply like "Robin messed up solo's all the time. The SCOM solo doesn't even sound like the original" or something to that extent.

To clarify, changing a solo and improvising isn't a mistake. And yes, Robin and DJ have made plenty of mistakes.

This is a GREAT post, which i agree 100%. But I really cant understand why some of you get so nervous with this discussion... relax! Some of us like Robin, some of you like Ashba, and its all fine because the important thing is having GNR alive and rocking and planning things for the future! We're just discussing, losing our free time discussion our passions, and that's fine, no need to talk in terms of ''disrespect'' or ''bash'' or ''whine''... lets get rid of the drama a little bit for god's sake!

I would support GNR even if Barney the dinosaur played lead guitar, and that's something I could swear. To me, the band is bigger than the individuals, and it will always be that way.

Now, with all these things being said and clarified: can we PEACEFULLY express our opinions and PEACEFULLY debate? Robin Finck fans are not trolls, like a lot of the Slash fans that would terminate this band to start a new one that includes him and that HATE Guns N' Roses just for being alive without him.


LOL, you're damn right! The band changed some CRUCIAL things to be ''more accepted'' not only in the USA but worldwide in my opinion. Attributing that to DJ is just hilarious. I can accept he can be ONE of the reasons for a part of the audience (a lot of casual fans will always prefer for GNR slash-styled players... I can admit DJ is an easier to diggest player for the masses, a ''safer'' option than Robin), but not *the* reason for that: all the things CIAT mention cant be ignored. And IMO, these ''changes'' were made in 2006, not in 2009... and in terms of stats, I'm pretty sure  the 2006/2007 was the best selling lineup in terms of number of sellouts and the size of the venues they've played.

DJ is more true to the Guns N Roses sound

Robin was the choice to take band in a different direction

there! argument solved ;D

Honestly, the fact Axl lets these guys come back kinda shows how insignificant they are...

Axl has busted his ass to push this band to the level they are on now. So letting them play is seen as a non threat cause majority of GNR fans never liked Robin anyway for this band. There is a very small hardcore percentage.. but if u polled GNR fans it would be more thumbs down than up. guarantee it.

It actually pissed me off, DJ wasn't on the stage... DJ has earned the right to not take a backseat to anybody



DJ reminds me of Scott Weiland *Keep reading*

When i went to see VR, I was there to see the old Guns guys... Spent 90 percent of the concert watching Scott. he stole the show

At my GNR show.. I went to see Axl.... Spent 50 percent of the time watching DJ who was constantly in my section walking the rails, interacting and doing killer shit while playing flawlessly and true to the material i have grown up worshiping. DJ somewhat STOLE the show in Nashville for me.

Wow, a little extreme there buddy.  Maybe Axl let him come back and play because he is still his friend.  Look, Robin left GNR like I have left jobs in my lifetime.  I have worked for and with people who I had a great relationship with.  Its just business.  GNR wasn't the right fit for Robin anymore so he left.  No big deal.  I am sure he wished him well and they went their separate ways.  That doesn't mean the friendship ends there.  It has nothing to do with them being a threat or a non-threat.  Otherwise there is zero chance Axl would have invited Duff and Izzy onstage with him. 

Right but Robin left Axl high n dry right before album was released and he was needed the most for promotion/videos etc

 I am convinced, and Sorry Axl if u are reading this, that a BIG reason we never saw "Better" video is cause Robin left... and woulda been weird having a new video featuring a guy no longer in the band..

instead of concentrating on major release strategies.. they had to find another guitar player.

Point is.. Robin could guest star every stop on the tour... There will be no out cry for a CD lineup reunion

U throw another guy up there though....

see the difference?

lol. Seriously?

You really think Robin is the reason we didn't get the Better video? You think Robin is the reason Axl failed to promote the album?

And how would having Robin the music video be any different than having him on the album if he isn't in the band anymore? Or Buckethead, Paul Tobias and Brain for that matter?

How did this conversation even turn into such a Robin hate fest? It's like the second someone leaves the band they become the antichrist on this forum....when/if DJ leaves will you all turn your backs on him?

Enough with the conspiracy theories. Jesus.

Some people like Robin. If you don't, fair enough but why try to blame him for things that none of us know anything about?

LOL, what?  Dude the reason we didn't have a 'Better' video is because Axl didn't think it was the right time.  Now I don't think Axl is infallible, but come on!  In the end who gives a shit about a music video?  We got CD!  Even though the album didn't meet my expectations I still am ecstatic that Axl was able to release the album.

You are taking Robin's decision way way too personal.  Axl is 50 years old, he has been in this business long enough through thick and thin, let him take care of the problems in the band. 

I will say again, I never liked Robin, and I like DJ even less, but if they influence Axl to continue making music, then I welcome them both with open arms!  Here's to another release soon  :beer: and if not, I will read updates from this site each night about what is going on in Axl's world.  But if I want to read about ex-Gunners I will go elsewhere  : ok:

U guys aren't even considering this though:

Your lead guitar player quits a few months before album release? how can u tour, make appearances do anything when u are holding guitar auditions?

And abso fucking lutely.

U can't have a new Guns N Roses video, first video from the band in i don't know how many years, that features guys NO longer in the band........ Talk about confusing people etc.
Axl finally broke through the "Where's Slash" crap, so now, u are gonna have a situation where people are like,"well, where's Robin, or that guy in the video?" That Axl can't keep a guitarist rhetoric flies instead of people focusing on music or video.

Robin was in position to become a guitar hero/star and he blew it to go back sucking on Trent's tit.

Axl allowed him the freedom to create,write and to be a superstar.

Trent allowed him to be a backing guitarist

Will never understand that logic and OH, since he never gave an explanation why he LEFT the fans hanging, I shall assume/speculate anything I want..

Change Name of Topic"

ROBIN Is BACK !@

 :rofl:

G N' R sound before or after the split?

I think you are highly exaggerating.

Tons of people left GNR before CD came out. Atleast Robin saw it through. He finished something he started (11 years earlier for that matter). It's not like he left before a tour, or before he finished the album. He finished what he started and then he left...why? Know one really knows...I'm sure he had his reasons. It's unfair to attack him for leaving when none of us know the full story. And the fact that Axl had nothing but good things to say about Robin even after the split, and of course the fact that Robin appeared at this LA show only solidifies the fact that he didn't leave the band in any type of bad situation as you claim. And you seem to forget that Robin DID deny Trents invitation to tour with him in 2005 (I believe). It's pretty clear that Robin always had GNR as his priority. He saw it through to the end and he had every right to leave. It was his choice and if you ask me, he chose the best time possible to leave the band. There was no tour upcoming, and he finished the album. He literally had nothing to do. What better time to leave would there be?

Axl himself has even said he intentionally decided to not release video's yet for any CD songs on his TMS interview. Blaming it on Robin is silly.

And lol, seriously? When have ANY of the GNR guitarists since the original band become "superstars"? Not to mention, Robin doesn't really seem to care about fame or fortune. He is a true artist. And clearly, two of the biggest legends in Rock agree. He's literally had Axl and Trent at his beckoning call since the 90's...And good for him.  ;)

I think because so many "Robin fans" came out of the woodwork and claimed that Robin should rejoin the band because he's so much better than DJ.  It's equal to people saying they want Slash back.  Neither is happening.  DJ is in the band for the foreseeable future, like it or not.  I for one, like it, but it gets tiresome for some to come on and read about people downgrading current members because they prefer previous members.

It was a great moment for Robin to perform with the band the other night.  It's great that he's still on good terms with the band.  And it's great if he makes some special appearances down the road.  But IMO, he is in NO position to come in and kick DJ to the curb.  He had the job and decided to move on and DJ stepped in and filled the void nicely.  The chemistry in the band and the overall dynamic seems to be at an all time high, I wouldn't change a thing.

By the way, I don't think Robin is interested in getting his old job back, just referencing what some "Robin fans" are hoping for.

I don't see why people simply stating they prefer Robin to DJ is downgrading to DJ. Everyone has preferences. It's not like anyone has taken aything away from DJ here. People are just offering their opinion. I've posted on many forums and I've never seen people fight so much over preference of band members as I have on this forum.

Just because someone says they'd rather have Robin in the band then DJ doesn't mean they think it's going to happen (though personally I don't think it's out of the realm of possibily. It has happened before). Nothing wrong with wanting Robin, or even Slash back for that matter. Personally I wouldn't want Slash back at all but, if someone does what is the big deal? I think that in this forum's attempt to support the current incarnation of the band and counter the negativitey found elsewhere, it has sort of overshot it's point and become a place where if anyone even mentions something positive about former members it's almost taboo.

My Michelle

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWtavFJ6hqQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWtavFJ6hqQ)

^awesome

Preferring a former member to a current one is fine, or even saying you wish he was in the band or think the band was/is better with him.  But when people start saying DJ is a wannabe, Slash clone, doesn't have the stage presence, doesn't know how to work an audience, makes mistakes, etc., etc., etc.  It's a little overkill.  If you prefer Robin, fine.  No need to go and tear down DJ in the process, which I feel some people were doing.

Well to be honest with you, I've only skimmed a lot of the posts in this thread but I haven't noticed anyone say he is a Slash clone, doesn't have stage presence, or doesn't know how to work an audiance.

And what is wrong with saying he makes mistakes? He does...

Finally, thanks for posting. :smoking:

Stop ruining my show thread with your stupid arguments, bitchcakes.

CIAT - weren't you banned at MyGNR? What was that for?

Yes. I fail to see the relevance to this topic though. But if you must know, I was banned because I was a previously banned member. My initial banning was for making an account for a banned member.

Shows how hypocritical u Robin fans are


U guys used to go nuts when Slash fans would slam Robin and want Slash back and here u guys are doing the exact same thing to DJ who has stepped in and done an amazing job.

we are making your thread Legendary!!

I think that originality plays a huge part in this argument as well. As someone pointed out earlier, Robin made mistakes just as well as DJ. But the difference is that 90% of Robins so called mistakes was his actual playing style, and improvisal nature.....and that's what made him original. Seeing someone like DJ make mistakes on solo after solo, even though you know he is trying to play it the "right" way, is embarrasing.

Robin is original, and from what I've seen from DJ so far, he is not so original.....

And again I must clarify, I'm not bashing DJ.....just my opinion from what I have seen from both players.

I've never gone off on any Slash fans. I can respect anyone's point of view. Something some people here seem to struggle with.

And as far as I can see, no one is slamming DJ here at all.

This used to be a quiet beach community.

Please.  This here is MY biggest problem with this whole ridiculous back and forth.  In YOUR OPINION DJ makes mistakes, yet when Robin makes mistakes they are "intentional".  Excuse me, but HOW in the hell would you know that exactly?  How in the hell do you know what Robin and or DJ intends for each and every solo to sound like?

That's my problem.  To you "Robin fans" any "mistake" Robin makes is intentional, yet DJ is some buffoon who just doesn't know the material well enough to play it right.  I'm sorry, but I have a problem with that.  And THAT is why this discussion continues.  Say you prefer one or the other, fine.  But let's stop with the bullshit.  I know Robin has been bashed a bit in the past, so maybe you're just looking for some revenge, but seriously, it's unnecessary.

At least how I see it.

You don't see people bashing DJ, because AFTER they bash him they say "no offense to DJ".  That doesn't erase what they say.  Again, there is no problem with preferring Robin.  But people are going out of their way to point out DJ's flaws, when it doesn't seem all that necessary.  Honestly I thought people were sensitive when it came to Slash, but this whole Robin thing is on another level, which astonishes me.

my feeling is this:

DJ seems like a dude who was blasting AFD,Lies and UYI's when they came out.. he seems like a guy who would go see GNR back in the old days.. He respects the music, what the guys were able to accomplish and he is the perfect bridge from that to now.

Robin seems like a dude who joined a band he prob wasn't a fan of and that is why he had no awareness of just how special Slash's solos etc are to the fans.. so when he'd put his own spin aka butcher them.. he disrespected the hardcore fanbase as well as the music.

like painting a mustache or glasses on the Mona Lisa... its perfect. don't fuck with it.

Robin is more nu metalish whereas DJ has the same GnR musical roots.

It's quite simple really...

If people thought Robin messed up SCOM, NR or PC..... they are wrong as that's the way he played the songs for the whole duration he was in Guns. Sure there were the odd note here or there, in which he was jumping around too much or getting right in the action. But with DJ, you just have that feeling that he's under pressure to get the solo right, and you can often see this in his persona.

Another example of my view, is how some solo's that were previously handled by Robin have not been passed onto DJ, but Ron or Richard. Why can't DJ handle all of the SCOM solo?, and before anyone tries to get smart I'm sure everybody remembers that video of GN'R's tech showing us the rehersal audio from 2009. And let's just say that the part of the SCOM solo which DJ attempted in rehersal, which has been passed to Ron live, sounded horrible and was unlistenable..... so I wonder why Ron had to take up the whah part of the solo?.  :P

I also dislike DJ's tone, I think it sounds very weak as if all of the contour has been lowered to like 1 or 2..... again just my opinion, no need to jump on me.  :D

As a guitarist as well, it sounds to me as if DJ uses very flexible picks. I don't know if it's just me, but his notes have a feel to them as if the plectrum is bending alot and causing DJ to plam mute notes uneccecarily.

Really dude, you have to ease up.  You said it yourself right there.  You're ASSUMING DJ is trying to play the solos note for note and therefore "messing up".  You are also assuming whenever Robin messed up it was intentional.  There is no exact science to proving any of that, so there's really no debate needed.  You prefer Robin, fine.  But it just seems like you, and others, are just trying to make up for all the "Slash fans" who tore Robin to pieces for not doing his solos justice.  You didn't like that one bit, and now you're doing the same exact thing.  It's solving nothing.  If it makes you happy though, god bless.

I think the point alot of people are trying to make is you can let it be known that you like Robin without having to go into why you don't like DJ and even if you're not trying to start an argument honestly doing things like pointing out all these flaws and and going into things about DJ that you don't like while praising Robin will always result in fans of DJ firing back and a Robin Vs. DJ argument starting.

I think everyone knows that every guitar player makes mistakes. No one has called DJ a buffoon. You're putting words in people's mouths. All in all you just come off as very immature when you talk about "revenge" and group every "Robin fan" together. If people like certain things about one player, and don't like certain things about another I don't see why you feel the need to get upset over it.

I have yet to see anyone disrepect DJ here.



Well some people like that aspect of Robin. Personally GNR to me, has been a band that evolved to something entirely different with the 02 lineup. And I feel like DJ sort of devolves it. But it's all down to preference at the end of the day.

For me, I'd rather have a player who is original and creative like Robin, over someone like DJ who TO ME just kind of seems like a pretty generic sounding player. Idk, for me Robin was more exitcing. There is no right or wrong here. It's all just opinion.


I 100% agree with this post.

CIAT, give me a break.  Go ahead and call me immature, very big of you.  You're missing the point. 

YOU don't see people disrespecting DJ because YOU agree with anything negative about DJ that's being posted.  The disrespect is all over if you open your eyes and read it with an open mind. 

You try that, then get back to me.

I'm upset because this "discussion" jumped the shark about 10 pages ago and is completely ridiculous.  Yet you, and others, refuse to let it die.  I fault myself for getting involved in this at all.  I steered clear for as long as I could.  It's not worth fighting anymore.  You win.  Have fun with that.

It's one thing to debate, but no DJ fan was "starting anything" here.  Quite the contrary.  Seriously, if you read between the lines, it's not hard to see.

Sorry, I haven't seen any disrespect towards DJ here. If not praising someone and loving everything they do is considered "disprespect" idk what to tell you. Perhaps we have different definitions of disrespect.

I've posted on a lot of forums and I've never seen people get so uppity over such a simple matter of preference. People are just stating who they prefer and why. I'm really not seeing what you're seeing. Not because I agree with the things said about DJ. Infact, it seems to be the opposite. Many people here have questioned Robin's personality and loyality - much more "disrespectful" then saying you're not a fan of someones playing if you ask me. Agree to disagree I suppose.

the best thing to do at this point is just give up on this subject and move on it's essentially the same points being made over and over.

Axl was on fire on the My Michelle vid

So true! It was an epic performance and Axl was wearing his awesome Kronk Bones Bunny shirt!

Sooooooooooooooooo gr8 to see Robin on stage again!!

Its just not the same without him...his presence is unreal!!

(http://memberfiles.freewebs.com/54/92/35429254/photos/undefined/425846_363757653664328_156211814418914_1084947_1029663346_n.jpg)

dj, robin, slash....none are using the same effects or pedals, some have lower sounds some higher, were talking about 3 diverse musicians, slash being my favorite and obviously the best of the 3 uses the better effects, for instance at the factory dj was using a cry baby wah, i was in the front row and saw it, he also has it on auto and does not manually use the pedal, slash uses a jimi hendrix wah and manually bust out the tones, personally in my book slash will always win but its a matter of preference, if you dislike ashba's tone its because he's dj ashba not slash  not robin, each of those guitar players are diff and bring something different, personally i dont like rons sound at all for this group, i think guns n roses havent been this good until the fortus and ashba combo wich is why they after all this time as the axl rose solo band are getting the respect they deserve, axl has figured out the puzzle he just needed the correct pieces, i dont think ron or robin fit honestly in my opinion wich we all have our preferences, but id go out and support ron in a solo act or anotherr band anyday, i think he's a talent, and a wonderful person, just ive been a gnr fan 24 yrs give or take, and i grew up with gnr its a part of me, my whole life, i didnt really dig axl and the anybody's, i hated buckethead for gnr, and ron takes away from the gnr hype and excitement as well, though i dont really mind ron i just consider him the 3rd player and could do without him, robin eh i could deal with but not replacing ashba or fortus thats the sound of this current gnr axl ashba stinson fortus....as far as im concerned frank and ron could die and it would not change gnr, replacing ashba would be almost as stupid as replacing slash, hes a keeper and a funny motherfucker i was breakin his balls in philly after the show and he just seemed real down to earth but all of that bs aside cause it doesnt matter if we like them its about performance and i def would love a reunion but what axl has going he wont sell out stadiums but he's got the right pieces, thats why chinese sorta sux and did so bad in the market, now if they do a record im sure we could be proud of it, they finally are moving as 1 and not the axl show.....thanks guys

I love this picture, Richards face says it all really.  ;D


Totally agree...

Okay, we get it.  You really like Robin.


I think the point has been made. : ok:

Since this was the last show of the tour, discussion is going to go on about this show for longer than usual. If another show was a few days after it, I'm sure this thread wouldn't have been as active during the last few days than it has been.

Robin and Brain appeared at this show as special guests, which is a big deal for some fans, including myself. This means that people may still talk about Robins appearence at this show, as it has been the strongest subject of debate amongst users.

So rather than being smart and posting the comment that you did, why not just lock the thread if you have such a problem with the pro-Robin discussion?.  :P

Since you obviously have some kind of comprehension problems.  :P

I'll spell it out for you in plain English:


Pro Robin: Not a problem!
Disrespecting current band members: Problem.
Your man crush on Robin: Not a problem.
Preferring Robin to anybody else on the planet: Not a problem.
Assuming things only to make current band member(s) look bad: Problem



Thank you. Try again next time Robin plays with GN'R.  :P





/jarmo