NO CRAZY EDDIE

In response to Robert Hilburn’s Q&A; session with Eddie Vedder (“All Revved Up,” Nov. 20):

Hilburn says Vedder is “the most passionate element” in the ever-so-popular band Pearl Jam. I’m not so sure of that anymore. Time and again, whether I read it in an article or watch an interview on TV, Vedder confesses to one thing that has been consistent throughout his career: “I don’t want to be part of the whole celebrity trip.”

He has said it repeatedly, yet it seems that the more he says it, the more popular he gets. I believe there is a reason for that. Vedder’s songs reflect the alienation and anger among many young people today, so what better way to promote yourself than to practice what you preach?

Vedder has an understanding of his large audience, which relates to his music; if he feels alienated himself and asks not to be put in the spotlight, then his fans would relate to that too. Results: more T-shirts, tickets and albums to be sold. It’s a business, and Vedder has the upper hand.

CHRIS GULDALIAN

Montebello

*

Boring, boring, boring. I feel like I’m the only one who’s sick of hearing about Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam. They’re so overrated it makes me sick.

My favorite band is Queensryche, which continues to be ignored by most of the music press, including your paper. How about an interview with them?

Pearl Jam sucks, Queensryche rules Seattle--and everywhere else. Ryche and roll!

DAVID A. MENNIE

Oak View