The Real Derivatives

The Black Crowes are not alone in being “shamelessly derivative” (“The Liberation of Pearl Jam,” Oct. 30). “Shamelessly derivative” describes Robert Hilburn, whose reviews consistently compare grunge groups like Pearl Jam and Nirvana to real musicians.

To mention Pearl Jam in the same sentence as Led Zeppelin and the Allman Brothers is most laughable. While Pearl Jam relies heavily on Eddie Vedder’s mystique and wavering voice, Led Zeppelin and the Allman Brothers were truly diverse bands with virtuosic musicianship and a heavy blues base that enabled them to stay grounded while experimenting with time signatures. Pearl Jam, a garage band made good, has little imagination and even less musical technique.

FRED FREDERICI

Los Angeles