Monitor issues Invalid Format

Hello Folks,
Monitor took a crap on me so I bought a new flat screen. Im running Ubuntu 12 recieving an invalid format after the GUI login screen. How do I go about trying to change the resolution. FYI old monitor blew smoke so reconnecting it is not an option. From I understand their is no safe mode for Ubuntu.

[ubuntu] How to boot in safe mode ? - Ubuntu Forums

So how do I go about changing the resolution for the video card. tried using xrandr and keep getting Cant open display. How can I get the list of types of video adapters are being used. Figured it would be VGA1 since I only have one video card.

HOWTO: change resolution/refresh rate in Xorg - Ubuntu Forums