The commentators- schram & carlson: must see radio!

Nobody could believe it (least of all us) but BlatherWatch talked our way into Fisher Plaza's studios and the inaugural show of "The Commentators," Monday morning.

We have a feeling there were plenty of listeners, but in case you weren't one of them, "The Commentators" is KOMOAM's (1000 KHz) first in years, foray into political talk. It's a weekdaily (10a-12p) hard-scrabble debate between KVI's veteran talker John Carlson (m-f, 3-5p) and KOMO TV's resident lip, Ken Schram.

(Don't confuse this with KKOL's upcoming cooking show, "The Common 'Taters" to hopefully compete with Tom Douglas' elitist, foodie Saturday (4-6p) show on KIRO that deals with truffle oil and the kind of leeks you can't take behind the garage).

We were scuttled through tunnels and funny stairwells into the labyrinthine building by KOMO drones we'd bribed with promises that we'd humiliatingly blog-trash their bosses. We were sat down on a folding chair, a glass separating us from the mics behind which sat Schram, Carlson and much to our delight, the mighty mouth of Christian thought and action: Rev. Ken Hutcherson, who was seated next to the diminutive Schram. (Ok, Schram is not that small- anyone seems puny next to Hutcherson, who once played hockey or one of those violent pro-sports where you have to pray to survive- hurting people gave him his spiritual edge).

Schram and Carlson sat directly across from each other at a "decent distance" and separated by a "cone of silence." The 50-something Schram wearing a turtle neck and jeans, the 40-something Carlson, of course, wore a tie.

Schram came out punching, a brave act considering the weight difference and that he was in easy reach of the giant, shave-headed Rev (did we mention he's black?) who looked like one of Michael Jackson's security posse. Schram said something like: last time we talked, I called you a bigot, and Hutch said yes, you did.

The argument ensued with Hutcherson jabbing the air with all manner of "finger pointing," like the R's are always accusing us liberals of.

Schram put up a strong offense to which Hutcherson responded deftly with his usual provocative, but predictable talking points. ("I know many ex-gays," he said," but there's never been an ex-blackman- Michael Jackson doesn't count.")

Hutcherson's politics go only so deep. Push him past the glib sound-bites (as Schram did)- and you get the B-I-B-L-E. He, like many of his evangelical cohorts, are not really political- they have a religious agenda they're trying to make us all dance to, or as Schram put it- [they're] "trying to make the community at large be bigoted." But when it comes to the consensus-building that's our political system, they don't buy it. Giving up a half a loaf doesn't pack it if it's God's bread, they say. Click here for some of our favorite Hutcherson sound-bites.

After some Seahawk talk, Hutcherson left and during the break, we ventured into the studio where Carlson greeted us and asked if we'd like to stay in the real studio and catch the rest of he show in the seat Hutcherson had just vacated. 

There are no callers on "The Commentators," just the play between Schram, the unpredictable libertarian liberal and Carlson, a doctrinaire conservative and the guests. What makes it compelling is the chemistry between these two. It's obvious they genuinely like each other, which creates a tension not unlike family dinner table argument where everyone pounds the table but gets up still liking each other.

Schram & Carlson look each other in the eye, and the insults are as much for each other's enjoyment as the audience's. Heated exchanges are always with smile, and subtext is like, "Gotcha, motherfucker," and, "Not bad, sucker, now take this..."

We must note: Carlson would NEVER say motherfucker (even if his mouth was full of it) and Schram, it's fair to say, would.

Carlson is good on his feet, having cut his teeth appearing weekly for years with southpaw Walt Crowley in a popular point-counter-point format on KIRO TV; having done talk radio for nearly 15 years; and being a veteran of many political campaigns, some successful like the anti-American, anti-affirmative action I-200, the abomination against justice, 3 Strikes You're Out initiative; and his own quixotic gubernatorial campaign in 2000. Carlson has a nice-boy demeanor, but he's a political gut fighter in the real world. He's had some spectacular failures, (can you say I-912?) but he's a force to contend with in the state political scene and, we have to admit, a great broadcaster.

We don't know why Schram is the way he is. He's from the Bronx, which may account for some of it. He's a veteran broadcaster- he even had a short-lived 9-ta-noon talk show on KOMO in the mid-90's. His TV editorials are brash, rude, contrarian, and very popular.

Although Schram is deeply liberal, progressive partisans will never like him; because, if there's any way he's predictable- it's that he'll probably climb up the ass of any partisan message-bearer even if he agrees with the message.

Today's phone interview with newly-elected State Democratic Party Chair Dwight Pelz is a case in point. We know Pelz well enough to know he's no wimp in a debate. But he has just got himself a new job- one where shooting from the hip isn't usually the best idea.

So when Mr. Chairman was greeted and introduced by Schram, he got no customary Seattle Shit Sandwich- (you know- the compliment with a little criticism and plenty of mayo layered in, then topped with another compliment).

No.

When Pelz started reciting his talking points about how the Bush administration is screwing everybody, and Americans need access to healthcare, Schram kept interrupting him, saying, yeah but- what specifically are the Democrats going to do about it? As Pelz kept trying to gain a little control,and get back to the business of busting the R's, Schram kept interrupting. (Carlson interjected, " For the record, I'm loving this interview.") Pelz was caught off-guard, he's smart enough that this won't happen again when he comes back, which we believe he will, because we think this show will become a crucible for serious politicos elected and otherwise.

Schram was as hard on the new Republican Chair, Diane Tebelius, who, forewarned by Pelz's preceding her, did a little better. Schram called her an "attack dog,"(memo to Ken: not good calling a woman any kind of dog) and excoriated R's for firing salvos at D's without giving solutions. She's a tough cookie (with better legs than Pelz's, the boyz concluded) and she exhibited what might be a sense of humor- though it might have just been indigestion.

Carlson said, "Talking points will not work around here." And even though it was he that said it- we were energized at the prospect- (we've been so disappointed with the No Spin Zone).

KOMO saw a niche- the kind you could drive Mike Webb's Lexus through- it was the 9-ta-noon, with a faltering Rush, a room temperature Procaccino, a syndicated Hartmann, and a Tony Snow who's right-wing and even more tepid than Procaccino.

Who's idea was it? They might have been just trying to lube him, but Schram & Carlson say it was KOMO/KVI Program Director Dennis Kelly. "We decided in my contract negotiations that I should spend half my time at KOMO," says Carlson. "They decided on a format and then looked for someone to do it with me." They settled on Schram, Carlson claims, after 11 other KOMO talents, (including Cindi Rinehart) turned it down.

We're excited about The Commentators for several reasons. First, it's a new idea- we're tired of the same-old in local talk radio, and we're pretty sure a lot of other listeners are too. just read our comment strings! Second, we like the chemistry between these two and the fact that the debate is hot and happens without them disrespecting each other, talking over each other or stepping on each other's arguments. Third, we think listeners will respond as we have. And lastly, we see the possibility of KOMO emerging as the inheritor of the once-mighty KIRO's place in the local talk radio world-at-small.

Maybe that's wishful thinking- we have no information that KOMO, all news and Mariner's (with the exception of the 'Tater Boyz) will become more talk-centric, but we're hoping. We've been harping for a long time about how there's money to be made with progressive talk in this town- Air America's KPTK has ignored the possibility, and KIRO has fallen into chaos and despair. Maybe KOMO will save the day. (Or maybe we'll all have to go back to NPR).

The first show ended with Carlson and Schram giving high fives all around and Schram saying, "Well, at least I didn't say 'fuck.'" Travis Box, Assistant Programming Director said wryly, "Well, Ken, tomorrow's another day."

We'll be there tomorrow.

Comments

[JC]

Can someone also at the event verify that Hood was part of a "we" at the event? If so, how many people were part of the "we"?

[robinz]

Of course this is on in the one span of time during the day that I can't listen. Any chance of this being pod cast or rebroadcast?

[Jeff Richardson]

You mentioned having to go back to NPR. Why can't we have our own show, something that respects labor and people of color? Something that studies a diverse array of populist thought?

Something on Air America perhaps, locally based?

[drool]

"I know many ex-gays," he said," but there's never been an ex-blackman- Michael Jackson doesn't count."

I presume that means Hutcherson wants religion removed as a protected status too.

[Seabeck]

I forgot to tune in. John Pacino put me to sleep.

[windie]

is there a stream for KOMO? I can't find it on their site.

[JDB]

It might be an interesting show, but in return, we are getting one less hour of Carlson, and one more hour of Bryan Suits. How is that fair?

Windie: http://www.komonews.com/radio/ for the stream, and it appears they are podcasting too.

[Andrew]

I'm disapointed with the new Schram/Carlson show.

- It's like eavesdropping on a two way phone call between a couple best friends.

- They barely disagree with eachother most of the time.

- They are clearly in love with eachother. They need to get a room.

- Carlson is super boring. I can't believe he has his own show. That's incredible.

- Schram talks about 75% of the time.

- They cover allot topics they are in full agreement over from the start.

- Lots of god damned commercials. Lots.

There were tiny pockets of interesting radio but it was mostly boring as shit banter between two established friends. They need to plan it out much better.

[Lump]

Andrew sez, "I'm disapointed with the new Schram/Carlson show."

Andrew, you're always disappointed or upset or just plain whining all the time. Go take a happy pill and go sit in the corner.

[Andrew]

Why don't you stop complaining about me? Live and let live.

[sparky]

is this show like when they paired Mike Webb and Bryan Suits? That was just plain weird....

[Andrew]

OK, I have something good to say. I realy like listening to Prococcino. He's open minded, friendly and respectfull to callers and people with oposing opinions. He's brings that mellow NPR vibe to KIRO.

[Fremont]

How come YOU got to sit with the royals, Mr. Blather? Do you have an inside track with KOMO or a nepotism card?

[Fremont]

Leave Andrew alone, Lump...at least, he whines in the right (left) key and does it with mellifluous style...

[joanie]

I still like Erin and Frank as a duo. She was just the perfect remedy for his superior attitude.

[Scrilla]

Fremont...trust me, don't ask. Unless you want blatherMikey to turn into Tom Douglas at a Red Robin, just move on.

[Fremont]

Don't you think BlatherMikey LOOKS like Tom Douglas, Scrilla? An amazing resemblance....and a foodie, too!

[Andrew]

I suppose the best kind of debate is the kind which involves hurt feelings and bruises, but maybe that's to much to ask for anyone to endure two hours a day five says a week.

The one host /one hour/ one topic formula can get firy and abusive to but alteast the host has a dump button and there's allot of different callers so absorb the venom.

Off topic: Some states are trying to push anti abortion laws. Lincoln said "united we stand, divided we fall" but if all the red states are capable of going nuts with their own convervative laws then in a sense we will be divided into two countries even without a civil war, The U.S. of Canada and Jesus Land. Imagine you accidently cross over to Idaho one day and find yourself suddenly stoned to death.

[blathering michael]

I never sat with the royals but with a bunch of cranky producers and board ops who deeply resented me, then a couple of prima donna talents who think blogs are lower than the public relations business.
I'd never speak ill of Tom Douglas or Red Robin. They both look like me, true, but neither could stand up to the scrutiny of me porcelain eye and palate of fine Corinthian leather. But thanks for askin'...

[ExDem]

We have a republic that consists of 50 different states. The States were intended to have the ability to establish their own local customs and laws. The concept of democracy was intended to be exercised locally, for the most part. The Federal government was not intended to take such an expansive role.

The Constitution, in the Bill of Rights, itself states

Amendment X

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

If we no longer wish to have that type of country, then someone should try to amend the Constitution and change what the 10th amendment says. Personally, I think local government works best, if we hold it accountable. The Federal government has some important functions like national defense, making treaties, monetary policy, etc. Most other functions probably would work better if the people in charge were people we either knew better or that we could actually see/touch. There has been a migration toward increasing the role of the Federal government - and that's less personal. I think we're losing the concept of a government of the people, by the people, for the people.

[Lump]

Andrew sez,"Why don't you stop complaining about me?"

As soon as you take your happy pills.

[JDB]

Interesting local coverage between KVI and KTTH. KVI goes with Carlson and Kirby, each hosting SOTU parties (fundraisers for the party?). KTTH goes with Sytman and Boze in studio. Best line of the night goes to Boze for "Well, this certainly is not 'The era of big government is over.'"

But where is Medved? In Minnesota doing a SOTU party (fundraiser?). And this a day after anouncing that he had a new "home" station on a FM station in Portland (which is good, 'cause the old station in Portland had sucky reception).

I'm starting to think that the days of hot talk on KTTH are nearly over. Which would you rather have lead into the Sonics, Michael Savage or a sports talk show?

[Trip]

"There has been a migration toward increasing the role of the Federal government - and that's less personal. I think we're losing the concept of a government of the people, by the people, for the people."

Then you might want to take that issue up with your so-called "conservative" President, who's been busy as a beaver expanding the power of the federal government by recording your phone calls and grabbing your Internet search queries without any pesky warrants, spending your tax dollars like a sailor in Bangkok, starting unnecessary and unprovoked foreign wars, neglecting our soldiers, allowing the destruction of our cities through incompetence and cronyism...

On that front, your man has been doing the work of THREE men...

Moe, Larry, and Curly.

[Andrew]

Wow, nicely put!

[ExDem]

What exactly is it that the Federal government is supposed to do for cities? Do you want the administration to take over NY, Chicago, LA, etc. and start running them? I understand you don't favor the national security approach of the current administration. But I don't get your point about "allowing the destruction of cities". Please explain.....

[Joe]

I can't believe it. I tuned in to the show this morning as they tossed stuff back and forth with Rob McKenna and was reall impressed. John and Ken work great with each other. The show flows as if these guys had worked together for years, which in a way they have, but the combination exceeds the individual parts. I think it's the best thing to happen to local talk radio in years and well worth tuning in.

[KS]

I like Schram, because he tries to be his own person (I agree with him about 65% of the time) and isn't afraid to be politically incorrect - a bit like O'Reilly (I know that will spur on the O'Reilly haters - both conservative and liberal). I also enjoy the banter between Carlson and Schram and listening to both sides - because they usually don't agree, except sometimes on the more important issues. There is some intelligent commentary - unlike Air America and certain other shows on KIRO, KTTH and KVI.