Monday, August 21, 2006
Thursday, August 10, 2006
It's a Girl!
Melanie had her 20 week ultrasound on Tuesday, and the doctor informed us that she has a baby girl growing inside her. The baby looked great, and we got to see her profile pretty well, and we got a good picture of the bottoms of her feet!
Now our family can all go crazy buying girl stuff, although they may want to wait until she's born. You know, just in case.
Now our family can all go crazy buying girl stuff, although they may want to wait until she's born. You know, just in case.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
More of my single dimension
I recently gave a listen to "Remember Right Now" by Spitalfield. It is pretty emo, almost too emo. And it makes me think of Fall Out Boy, whom I hate. But I don't hate this like I hate Fall Out Boy, so I'll give it another chance later.
On the flip side of the coin, I didn't hate "Irresistible Bliss" by Soul Coughing as much as I thought I would. I remember the song "Super Bon Bon" from many years ago, and that song used to annoy me. The album as a whole isn't too bad, although it won't be in my top 50 or even 100 bands any time soon.
I never got to see The Smoking Popes live their first time around, and have yet to see them after their reunion, so "At the Metro" was nice to hear. A collection of songs taken from their original reunion show at the Metro for some festival that I cannot recall. Something about flowers. Forgive me for not looking it up. This is a solid collection of Popes tunes, and they sound terrific.
To round out the S's, Shellac's "1,000 Hurts" isn't nearly as captivating as "At Action Park." I still haven't heard "Terraform," so I can't say that nothing Shellac has put out has come close to their first 3 singles and first album, but this one certainly doesn't.
The Mekons are freaking amazing, at least from what I have heard recently. The "Teeth-Kill" double 7", "Work All Week" 7" and "The Quality of Mercy Is Not Strnen" LP are all awesome. The problem becomes the sheer quantity of material this band has put out.
I found a fun little album by Harry and the Potters called "Voldemort Can't Stop the Rock." All songs are about the Harry Potter books. The band is interesting, in that their website promotes certain books each month and they go on library tours. It's actually not bad indie rock.
And finally, I sold my Tortoise records years ago, but just got a few recently. "Millions Now Living May Never Die" is quintessential Tortoise. If you like post-rock stuff, you have to seek this out. Of course, if you like post-rock, you probably already have everything they've ever put out. The album makes me recall seeing Tortoise with UI and Labradford.
On the flip side of the coin, I didn't hate "Irresistible Bliss" by Soul Coughing as much as I thought I would. I remember the song "Super Bon Bon" from many years ago, and that song used to annoy me. The album as a whole isn't too bad, although it won't be in my top 50 or even 100 bands any time soon.
I never got to see The Smoking Popes live their first time around, and have yet to see them after their reunion, so "At the Metro" was nice to hear. A collection of songs taken from their original reunion show at the Metro for some festival that I cannot recall. Something about flowers. Forgive me for not looking it up. This is a solid collection of Popes tunes, and they sound terrific.
To round out the S's, Shellac's "1,000 Hurts" isn't nearly as captivating as "At Action Park." I still haven't heard "Terraform," so I can't say that nothing Shellac has put out has come close to their first 3 singles and first album, but this one certainly doesn't.
The Mekons are freaking amazing, at least from what I have heard recently. The "Teeth-Kill" double 7", "Work All Week" 7" and "The Quality of Mercy Is Not Strnen" LP are all awesome. The problem becomes the sheer quantity of material this band has put out.
I found a fun little album by Harry and the Potters called "Voldemort Can't Stop the Rock." All songs are about the Harry Potter books. The band is interesting, in that their website promotes certain books each month and they go on library tours. It's actually not bad indie rock.
And finally, I sold my Tortoise records years ago, but just got a few recently. "Millions Now Living May Never Die" is quintessential Tortoise. If you like post-rock stuff, you have to seek this out. Of course, if you like post-rock, you probably already have everything they've ever put out. The album makes me recall seeing Tortoise with UI and Labradford.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
I'm so one-dimensional
All I can ever think to post about is the music I'm listening to.
Recently, I listened to Black Flag's "Damage," which was exciting because I haven't heard it in quite a while. I own it on vinyl, but sold my record player on eBay last year. I recently came into the possession of a digital version, though, so all is good. Rollins is insane on this record.
I also just got the chance to finally hear Mission of Burma's fantastic album "Vs." I am in love with this record. I had previously only heard Pegboy's cover of "Revolver" on "Earwig," so it is a treat to hear the band that created that song. I still haven't heard the original of "Revolver," but maybe I'll find that someday.
After listening to Prince's recent "Musicology," I thought I would venture to listen to some older material. What a mistake. I got the "1999" album, and it is an absolute mess. Lyrically, musically, conceptually, just a mess. I felt dirty listening to it, so I kept skipping past songs. And the songs are all ridiculously long.
Green Day's "American Idiot" was refreshingly good. I've been a fan of Green Day for a long tome, but not a huge fan, just enough that I enjoy their music every once in a while. I didn't enjoy "Warning," though, so I never followed up on "American Idiot". That was wrong of me, since this album is arguably their best to date. The songwriting is just as catchy as on early albums, but also seems more mature and just better. I love the two songs that have multiple movements. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, though, do they rip off (or is it homage?) "Ring of Fire" in one of the movements of "Jesus of Suburbia"?
Lastly (from what I can recall over the last few weeks), the Rolling Stones "Exile on Main St" really should be required listening. The album is incredible, particularly "Ventilator Blues."
Recently, I listened to Black Flag's "Damage," which was exciting because I haven't heard it in quite a while. I own it on vinyl, but sold my record player on eBay last year. I recently came into the possession of a digital version, though, so all is good. Rollins is insane on this record.
I also just got the chance to finally hear Mission of Burma's fantastic album "Vs." I am in love with this record. I had previously only heard Pegboy's cover of "Revolver" on "Earwig," so it is a treat to hear the band that created that song. I still haven't heard the original of "Revolver," but maybe I'll find that someday.
After listening to Prince's recent "Musicology," I thought I would venture to listen to some older material. What a mistake. I got the "1999" album, and it is an absolute mess. Lyrically, musically, conceptually, just a mess. I felt dirty listening to it, so I kept skipping past songs. And the songs are all ridiculously long.
Green Day's "American Idiot" was refreshingly good. I've been a fan of Green Day for a long tome, but not a huge fan, just enough that I enjoy their music every once in a while. I didn't enjoy "Warning," though, so I never followed up on "American Idiot". That was wrong of me, since this album is arguably their best to date. The songwriting is just as catchy as on early albums, but also seems more mature and just better. I love the two songs that have multiple movements. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, though, do they rip off (or is it homage?) "Ring of Fire" in one of the movements of "Jesus of Suburbia"?
Lastly (from what I can recall over the last few weeks), the Rolling Stones "Exile on Main St" really should be required listening. The album is incredible, particularly "Ventilator Blues."
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Music as of late
I haven't been very good at keeping up with my "Album of the Day" posts. But I have been trying to listen to a new album almost every day anyway. Here's what's been on my iPod lately:
Prince - Musicology: Not bad, actually. I need to listen to old-school Prince before making a decision as to whether this is a good album from him. I enjoyed the title track a lot. I really dislike his use of "2" for "to" or "too" and his use of "4" for "for", i.e. "4oreign".
Beastie Boys - To the 5 Boroughs: Best Beastie Boys album ever. Seriously, I like it more than Paul's Boutique. Standout track is "Open Letter to NYC," a song that uses the Dead Boys' "Sonic Reducer" as its foundation. I listened to this for about a week straight.
Johnny Cash - American V: Brilliant album. I can't get enough of this one, either.
Beck - One Foot in the Grave: I never feel like listening to Beck, but am always glad when I do. Odd, no?
Slint - Tweez: I can't believe I never listened to these guys before. I had heard a few songs here and there, but never an album. This album is awesome, I don't know if it reminds me of Big Black, or if Big Black reminds me of Slint. I wonder which came first; I'll have to look into that. mewithoutYou has elements of Slint in their music as well. I'm listening to "Spiderland" now, but I think "Tweez" may be better.
Sonic Youth - EVOL: I should have bought all this band's output when I was in high school.
Shellac - At Action Park: I have this on vinyl, but sold my record player a while ago so I couldn't listen to it. Now that I can listen to it on my iPod, I'm reminded how great it is. Listening to this and Slint back to back is wonderful.
I can't remember what else I have listened to lately.
Prince - Musicology: Not bad, actually. I need to listen to old-school Prince before making a decision as to whether this is a good album from him. I enjoyed the title track a lot. I really dislike his use of "2" for "to" or "too" and his use of "4" for "for", i.e. "4oreign".
Beastie Boys - To the 5 Boroughs: Best Beastie Boys album ever. Seriously, I like it more than Paul's Boutique. Standout track is "Open Letter to NYC," a song that uses the Dead Boys' "Sonic Reducer" as its foundation. I listened to this for about a week straight.
Johnny Cash - American V: Brilliant album. I can't get enough of this one, either.
Beck - One Foot in the Grave: I never feel like listening to Beck, but am always glad when I do. Odd, no?
Slint - Tweez: I can't believe I never listened to these guys before. I had heard a few songs here and there, but never an album. This album is awesome, I don't know if it reminds me of Big Black, or if Big Black reminds me of Slint. I wonder which came first; I'll have to look into that. mewithoutYou has elements of Slint in their music as well. I'm listening to "Spiderland" now, but I think "Tweez" may be better.
Sonic Youth - EVOL: I should have bought all this band's output when I was in high school.
Shellac - At Action Park: I have this on vinyl, but sold my record player a while ago so I couldn't listen to it. Now that I can listen to it on my iPod, I'm reminded how great it is. Listening to this and Slint back to back is wonderful.
I can't remember what else I have listened to lately.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Another Album of the Day update
Once again, I have listened to a number of albums lately, but have been remiss in writing about them daily. So here is a collection of music I have been listening to over the last couple of weeks:
The first disc of Johnny Cash’s "Unearthed" boxed set is quite a collection. A few songs show up here that I’ve heard before, like "Old Chunk of Coal," but for the most part it is all new. One of my favorites from the disc is "The Fourth Man in the File," which is preceded by a scripture reading from Cash. I would listen to Cash read from Leviticus.
I first listened to Two Gallants after listening to Cash, and thought they sounded remarkably similar to Cash. So I waited some time, listened to other stuff, and came back the them. Their album, "What the Toll Tells" still reminds me of Cash, especially the opener "Las Cruces Jail." To me, they stand somewhere in the middle of Cash, the White Stripes and the Gun Club. They have that folk-punk thing going on, where songs will start off with lilting guitars and then blow up into a controlled fury. The vocals have a passion and earnestness that reminds me of Kurt Cobain on songs like "Pennyroyal Tea" and "Where Did You Sleep Last Night." The kind of voice that manages to swell and fill the room on even a slow-tempo, quiet song.
I continued my pursuit of the appeal of the Beastie Boys with "Paul’s Boutique." I remember this album from my high school days, but it was mostly used as the soundtrack to my trips with friends to Taco Bell or the movie theater. It also reminds me quite a bit of my old high school art classes, because of the classmates there who were big Beasties fans. This is probably the first Beasties album that I like for the most part. The highlight for me is still "Looking Down the Barrel of a Gun," but that may be because it’s one of the few songs I recognize. I also really enjoyed the medley "B-Boy Bouillabaise." The album still has a lot of filler I could do without. I may have finally found the great Beasties album in "To the 5 Burroughs," but I’m not through it yet, so that will have to wait.
Finally, Last Exit’s "Headfirst into the Flames: Live in Europe," given to me by my friend Kendrick, who has also given me some stuff from Last Exit’s saxophonist, Peter Brotzmann, is amazing. The 1989 live album is a piece of avante-garde jazz genius. The band melds rock with jazz and I absolutely loved this.
The first disc of Johnny Cash’s "Unearthed" boxed set is quite a collection. A few songs show up here that I’ve heard before, like "Old Chunk of Coal," but for the most part it is all new. One of my favorites from the disc is "The Fourth Man in the File," which is preceded by a scripture reading from Cash. I would listen to Cash read from Leviticus.
I first listened to Two Gallants after listening to Cash, and thought they sounded remarkably similar to Cash. So I waited some time, listened to other stuff, and came back the them. Their album, "What the Toll Tells" still reminds me of Cash, especially the opener "Las Cruces Jail." To me, they stand somewhere in the middle of Cash, the White Stripes and the Gun Club. They have that folk-punk thing going on, where songs will start off with lilting guitars and then blow up into a controlled fury. The vocals have a passion and earnestness that reminds me of Kurt Cobain on songs like "Pennyroyal Tea" and "Where Did You Sleep Last Night." The kind of voice that manages to swell and fill the room on even a slow-tempo, quiet song.
I continued my pursuit of the appeal of the Beastie Boys with "Paul’s Boutique." I remember this album from my high school days, but it was mostly used as the soundtrack to my trips with friends to Taco Bell or the movie theater. It also reminds me quite a bit of my old high school art classes, because of the classmates there who were big Beasties fans. This is probably the first Beasties album that I like for the most part. The highlight for me is still "Looking Down the Barrel of a Gun," but that may be because it’s one of the few songs I recognize. I also really enjoyed the medley "B-Boy Bouillabaise." The album still has a lot of filler I could do without. I may have finally found the great Beasties album in "To the 5 Burroughs," but I’m not through it yet, so that will have to wait.
Finally, Last Exit’s "Headfirst into the Flames: Live in Europe," given to me by my friend Kendrick, who has also given me some stuff from Last Exit’s saxophonist, Peter Brotzmann, is amazing. The 1989 live album is a piece of avante-garde jazz genius. The band melds rock with jazz and I absolutely loved this.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Album of the Day - Art Brut "Bang Bang Rock and Roll"
I finally listened to the full-length from this British band, and I like them quite a bit more now. Originally, I listened to their EP and the more somber, goth-tinged iLiKETRAiNS right next to each other. Listening to "Bang Bang Rock and Roll," I have a better handle on the unique aspects of their sound.
To begin with, the vocals do not really echo those of iLiKETRAiNS as I previously stated. They are a little bit like Aaron of mewithoutYou or Steve Albini, in that they are kind of spoken rather than sung, but they also veer into a Billy Childish type of sound. The British thing probably makes me think of Childish. But the instrumentation also reminds me more than a little bit of Childish, particularly his work with Thee Headcoats. Both bands have a similar sense of humor. Art Brut's "We Formed a Band" really sounds like it could be a Thee Headcoats song.
I'll definitely keep an eye out for these guys in the future.
To begin with, the vocals do not really echo those of iLiKETRAiNS as I previously stated. They are a little bit like Aaron of mewithoutYou or Steve Albini, in that they are kind of spoken rather than sung, but they also veer into a Billy Childish type of sound. The British thing probably makes me think of Childish. But the instrumentation also reminds me more than a little bit of Childish, particularly his work with Thee Headcoats. Both bands have a similar sense of humor. Art Brut's "We Formed a Band" really sounds like it could be a Thee Headcoats song.
I'll definitely keep an eye out for these guys in the future.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Album of the Day - The World I Know: A Tribute to Pegboy
Pegboy is one of the most important punk bands hailing from the Chicago locale. Featuring members punk rock legends Naked Raygun as well as the Effigies and Bhopal Stiffs among others, Pegboy was virtually a punk rock supergroup. Their albums overflowed with passion, brutal honesty and super-charged, anthemic choruses. Larry Damore displayed a penchant for writing unforgettable lyrics that needed to be sung along to.
A tribute album recently came out immortalizing and memorializing this great band. I don't know whether this tribute serves as a eulogy; whenever I hear the band is done, they show up for one more set somewhere. And everytime they decide to show, I do my best to make it out to see them. Last time I saw the band, Damore needed to sit through a couple songs. They were all a little older, some fatter than others. And some, Damore particularly, worse for the wear. Even so, they soldiered on, putting on one of the finest punk rock shows I've ever had the pleasure to witness. Plowing through a song like "Never a Question" would reawaken the young man in Damore, and give him the energy to go crazy for 3-and-a-half more minutes. He spends most of his time with half his body in the crowd, getting spit on by the fans (who are also a little older and a little fatter) who are screaming along with him.
The tribute album includes some gems, some clunkers, like any other tribute album. Some of the highlights are Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio doing an acoustic version of "Field of Darkness" and the Blonde Alibi giving "Sinner Inside" the hardcore treatment. I should disclose that I work with the singer from the Blonde Alibi, so I may be a little biased. I also really enjoyed Haymarket Riot and Vic Bondi, and, even though both of these do nothing more than ape the original, The Story So Far (with Denis from 88 Fingers Louie) and the Dutchmen both turn out performances that tap into the same energy that Pegboy did.
If you are already a fan, I would recommend picking this album up. If you are not a fan, become one. Pick up "Strong Reaction" and the "Fore" EP to begin with, then move through the rest of the catalog. I only lament that you are not likely to have the opportunity to see the band live. But then again, never say never.
1. "Method" - Vic Bondi
2. "Strong Reaction" - Full
3. "Louisiana" - Rollo Tomasi
4. "Mr. Pink" - the Phenoms
5. "Superstar" - Munition
6. "Through My Fingers" - Haymarket Riot
7. "Walk on Bye" - Deminer
8. "Spaghetti Western" - Shot Baker
9. "Planet Porno" - Dreadnok Ripper
10. "Blister" - My Big Beautiful
11. "Locomotivelung" - the Matics
12. "Field of Darkness" - Matt Skiba
13. "Sinner Inside" - the Blonde Alibi
14. "Never A Question" - Bill Henderson (from x ONE WAY x)
15. "Time Again" - Break the Silence
16. "You" - the Invisibles
17. "Still Uneasy" - Nine Lives
18. "Dangermare" - the Littleman Complex
19. "My Youth" - Lynyrd's Innards
20. "Minutes to Hours" - Robotboot vs. What's Missing From Your Life?
21. "Fade Away" - Don't Worry About It
22. "You Fight Like a Little Girl" - the Dutchmen
23. "Hardlight" - Dead Town Revival
24. "Line Up" - the Story So Far
A tribute album recently came out immortalizing and memorializing this great band. I don't know whether this tribute serves as a eulogy; whenever I hear the band is done, they show up for one more set somewhere. And everytime they decide to show, I do my best to make it out to see them. Last time I saw the band, Damore needed to sit through a couple songs. They were all a little older, some fatter than others. And some, Damore particularly, worse for the wear. Even so, they soldiered on, putting on one of the finest punk rock shows I've ever had the pleasure to witness. Plowing through a song like "Never a Question" would reawaken the young man in Damore, and give him the energy to go crazy for 3-and-a-half more minutes. He spends most of his time with half his body in the crowd, getting spit on by the fans (who are also a little older and a little fatter) who are screaming along with him.
The tribute album includes some gems, some clunkers, like any other tribute album. Some of the highlights are Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio doing an acoustic version of "Field of Darkness" and the Blonde Alibi giving "Sinner Inside" the hardcore treatment. I should disclose that I work with the singer from the Blonde Alibi, so I may be a little biased. I also really enjoyed Haymarket Riot and Vic Bondi, and, even though both of these do nothing more than ape the original, The Story So Far (with Denis from 88 Fingers Louie) and the Dutchmen both turn out performances that tap into the same energy that Pegboy did.
If you are already a fan, I would recommend picking this album up. If you are not a fan, become one. Pick up "Strong Reaction" and the "Fore" EP to begin with, then move through the rest of the catalog. I only lament that you are not likely to have the opportunity to see the band live. But then again, never say never.
1. "Method" - Vic Bondi
2. "Strong Reaction" - Full
3. "Louisiana" - Rollo Tomasi
4. "Mr. Pink" - the Phenoms
5. "Superstar" - Munition
6. "Through My Fingers" - Haymarket Riot
7. "Walk on Bye" - Deminer
8. "Spaghetti Western" - Shot Baker
9. "Planet Porno" - Dreadnok Ripper
10. "Blister" - My Big Beautiful
11. "Locomotivelung" - the Matics
12. "Field of Darkness" - Matt Skiba
13. "Sinner Inside" - the Blonde Alibi
14. "Never A Question" - Bill Henderson (from x ONE WAY x)
15. "Time Again" - Break the Silence
16. "You" - the Invisibles
17. "Still Uneasy" - Nine Lives
18. "Dangermare" - the Littleman Complex
19. "My Youth" - Lynyrd's Innards
20. "Minutes to Hours" - Robotboot vs. What's Missing From Your Life?
21. "Fade Away" - Don't Worry About It
22. "You Fight Like a Little Girl" - the Dutchmen
23. "Hardlight" - Dead Town Revival
24. "Line Up" - the Story So Far
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Music of the Day - Art Brut, iLiKETRAiNS and Jesu
I guy at work gave me a CD with a bunch of music. All bands I have never heard of, which is fantastic because I can go into each with a completely open mind. No genres to be biased for or against. Nothing to compare to prematurely. I wish I could approach all music this way.
Art Brut's EP "Emily Rose" has sort of spoken vocals over an arty type of punk rock. It makes me think of the band Catholic Discipline, featured in the documentary "The Decline of Western Civilization," but since I have not seen that since my high school days, the comparison may not be valid. I enjoyed the EP, and look forward to listening to their album "Bang Bang Rock & Roll."
iLiKETRAiNS is similar to Art Brut in the deep, British vocal department, but this vocalist gets a little closer to singing. He reminds me at times of Nick Cave. The music is extremely melancholic; I told my friend at work that I picture the singer looking forlornly out the window of a small apartment into the dreary, rain-battered London streets. The best track is "Terra Nova," which I guess is one of their newer songs. I don't believe the band has ever put out an album; it seems to be all 7" singles and demo cassettes.
Jesu "Silver" EP -- I don't even know how to describe this, but it was my favorite find. It has soft vocals, and walls of sound of guitar and drums and ambient synth. It is a beautiful sounding EP. I had heard that Jesu was a new project form the guy from Godflesh, but I wasn't familiar with that name. Then I looked Jesu up, and saw that it is also the guy from Napalm Death. You wouldn't believe how different this is from the sonic assault that was a Napalm Death song. I cannot wait to listen to this EP again.
Art Brut's EP "Emily Rose" has sort of spoken vocals over an arty type of punk rock. It makes me think of the band Catholic Discipline, featured in the documentary "The Decline of Western Civilization," but since I have not seen that since my high school days, the comparison may not be valid. I enjoyed the EP, and look forward to listening to their album "Bang Bang Rock & Roll."
iLiKETRAiNS is similar to Art Brut in the deep, British vocal department, but this vocalist gets a little closer to singing. He reminds me at times of Nick Cave. The music is extremely melancholic; I told my friend at work that I picture the singer looking forlornly out the window of a small apartment into the dreary, rain-battered London streets. The best track is "Terra Nova," which I guess is one of their newer songs. I don't believe the band has ever put out an album; it seems to be all 7" singles and demo cassettes.
Jesu "Silver" EP -- I don't even know how to describe this, but it was my favorite find. It has soft vocals, and walls of sound of guitar and drums and ambient synth. It is a beautiful sounding EP. I had heard that Jesu was a new project form the guy from Godflesh, but I wasn't familiar with that name. Then I looked Jesu up, and saw that it is also the guy from Napalm Death. You wouldn't believe how different this is from the sonic assault that was a Napalm Death song. I cannot wait to listen to this EP again.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Album of the Day - Sufjan Stevens "Seven Swans"
All I have heard of Stevens is the Christmas EPs and when Kyle played Illinois for me, which I really liked, but it was purely background music. This is the first Stevens album to which I have listened with intentionality, and I must say I am underwhelmed. He seems to whisper all of the vocals on the album, which could be great on a couple of songs, but after a while I found myself wishing he could really belt out a couple of lines. It could be that he just isn't that kind of singer, which is fine, I just wouldn't be a fan.
I enjoy the instrumentation just fine, but not enough to make up for the vocals. I'll listen to Illinois again, and see what I think of that this time.
I enjoy the instrumentation just fine, but not enough to make up for the vocals. I'll listen to Illinois again, and see what I think of that this time.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Albums of the past few weeks
DJ Shadow - Endtroducing
This album is phenomenal. It's like Tortoise crossed with Nine Inch Nails crossed with Public Enemy. The avante-garde jazz meshes beautifully with the industrial and hip-hop sounds. Love it.
Eels - Electro-shock Blues
I have hated the Eels ever since I first saw an Eels video, probably back in high school. They were boring, and I hated that the frontman called himself E. Or maybe it was e. Either way, it annoyed me. But this album is pretty fantastic. Cancer for the Cure is my favorite track.
Cash - Unchained
Johnny Cash is the man. I love this album so very much.
Flaming Lips - Oh My Gawd!!!...The Flaming Lips
Weirder than Hear It Is, but still more rock n' roll than I was expecting. I could see myself finally becoming a real fan.
Beck - Odelay
I hated him in high school because of Loser, but I am slowly developing respect for him. A lot of his stuff reminds me of the Blues Explosion, so I can see why they had him remix one of their songs.
Gorilla Biscuits - Start Today and s/t
This is such an amazing hardcore band. I love Quicksand and Rival Shools, but never got into these guys. I wish I had heard this in high school!
This album is phenomenal. It's like Tortoise crossed with Nine Inch Nails crossed with Public Enemy. The avante-garde jazz meshes beautifully with the industrial and hip-hop sounds. Love it.
Eels - Electro-shock Blues
I have hated the Eels ever since I first saw an Eels video, probably back in high school. They were boring, and I hated that the frontman called himself E. Or maybe it was e. Either way, it annoyed me. But this album is pretty fantastic. Cancer for the Cure is my favorite track.
Cash - Unchained
Johnny Cash is the man. I love this album so very much.
Flaming Lips - Oh My Gawd!!!...The Flaming Lips
Weirder than Hear It Is, but still more rock n' roll than I was expecting. I could see myself finally becoming a real fan.
Beck - Odelay
I hated him in high school because of Loser, but I am slowly developing respect for him. A lot of his stuff reminds me of the Blues Explosion, so I can see why they had him remix one of their songs.
Gorilla Biscuits - Start Today and s/t
This is such an amazing hardcore band. I love Quicksand and Rival Shools, but never got into these guys. I wish I had heard this in high school!
I love coming home
When I put the key in the door, I hear my son begin to giggle. I hear my beautiful wife tell him, "Daddy's home!" I open the door, and Aidan runs toward me, laughing, saying "Hi!" in a bright, cheerful voice. He grabs me around the legs, and I lean over to kiss Melanie. Then I bend down and kiss Aidan.
These are beautiful moments.
These are beautiful moments.
Monday, May 01, 2006
The last few weeks...
I have yet to reveal the most important things happening in my life. I usually only have a few spare moments to throw together something about what I have recently heard, seen or read. But we have some important, tumultuous, anxiety-inducing, great things happening.
Mel and I last year attempted to move into a better home than we have now. Things didn't work out, and we decided to make the most of what we have. Between November 2005 and February 2006, we had our basement finished in order to add some extra living space to our otherwise crowded 2 bedroom condo. But again I got the bug to move, much to Melanie's "I wish he'd make up his mind" chagrin. I feel our family needs some extra space and though the new family room in our basement is nice (because of it we've been able to have some friends stay at our house for a weekend), condo living does not provide what I would like my son to experience. He loves the outdoors, but somehow 2 feet by 4 feet of grass does not quite cut it. He loves to run around and pound on things, but sharing walls with 3 neighbors precludes any truly jubilant expression of boyhood.
One more thing created in me a renewed desire to move: Melanie and are are expecting our second child. Tentatively due December 24th, this new reason to celebrate has awakened in me a need to give my family a better place to grow and play and learn and love. I cannot imagine keeping two dynamos of energy locked up in a tiny condo.
We just completed a whirlwind weekend rehabbing our kitchen in preparation for putting it up for sale. Crazy that after 5 years of saying "We should really fix up our kitchen," we are finally doing it just to sell it. Last Wednesday we tore out the old cabinets, then Thursday and Friday I laid a new tile floor. Saturday we put up the new cabinets and cut the new countertop, and Sunday we secured the countertop and sink and replaced the vent hood above the stove. The result is a completely new kitchen that looks fantastic. Our hope is we will be able to sell our house more quickly with this remodeled kitchen.
We also hope that we will find an affordable home to buy. If you know the market in the western suburbs of Chicago, you know what we're up against. We've been house-hunting and have seen some houses that are good candidates. We hope either that these homes remain on the market until we list ours or that similar homes come onthe market when we list. Either way, it will take a great deal of prayer and faith to get through this.
So celebrate with us the new life that is forming and pray with us for the future home of our family. Whether we find a new home or not, we know that God's way is better than ours.
Mel and I last year attempted to move into a better home than we have now. Things didn't work out, and we decided to make the most of what we have. Between November 2005 and February 2006, we had our basement finished in order to add some extra living space to our otherwise crowded 2 bedroom condo. But again I got the bug to move, much to Melanie's "I wish he'd make up his mind" chagrin. I feel our family needs some extra space and though the new family room in our basement is nice (because of it we've been able to have some friends stay at our house for a weekend), condo living does not provide what I would like my son to experience. He loves the outdoors, but somehow 2 feet by 4 feet of grass does not quite cut it. He loves to run around and pound on things, but sharing walls with 3 neighbors precludes any truly jubilant expression of boyhood.
One more thing created in me a renewed desire to move: Melanie and are are expecting our second child. Tentatively due December 24th, this new reason to celebrate has awakened in me a need to give my family a better place to grow and play and learn and love. I cannot imagine keeping two dynamos of energy locked up in a tiny condo.
We just completed a whirlwind weekend rehabbing our kitchen in preparation for putting it up for sale. Crazy that after 5 years of saying "We should really fix up our kitchen," we are finally doing it just to sell it. Last Wednesday we tore out the old cabinets, then Thursday and Friday I laid a new tile floor. Saturday we put up the new cabinets and cut the new countertop, and Sunday we secured the countertop and sink and replaced the vent hood above the stove. The result is a completely new kitchen that looks fantastic. Our hope is we will be able to sell our house more quickly with this remodeled kitchen.
We also hope that we will find an affordable home to buy. If you know the market in the western suburbs of Chicago, you know what we're up against. We've been house-hunting and have seen some houses that are good candidates. We hope either that these homes remain on the market until we list ours or that similar homes come onthe market when we list. Either way, it will take a great deal of prayer and faith to get through this.
So celebrate with us the new life that is forming and pray with us for the future home of our family. Whether we find a new home or not, we know that God's way is better than ours.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Album of the Day - I haven't given up
I just haven't had time to write recently.
I have listened to quite a few new albums. Cash's "American Recordings" is, as expected, a magnificent collection of songs. I can't get over the fact that he does a Danzig song.
The Flaming Lips' s/t EP and "Hear It Is" are both wonderful recordings. They remind me at times of the Melvins, which was unexpected.
I'm working my way through the 2nd disc of Outcast's "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below," but ahven't gotten through enough to say much.
X (the Australian band, not the Los Angeles band) has a fantastic re-issue of "Aspirations." I have never heard this band, but I do have a New Bomb Turks album that has "Good On Ya Baby" and I had no idea what band originally did the song. So it was great to hear this. The band is a snotty punk rock band in the vein of the Fun Things, the Viletones and the Sex Pistols. A really great find for me.
Lastly, I listened to the Raconteurs, featuring Jack White of the White Stripes. The Raconteurs sound more classic rock than garage rock. It's a very cool sound. I have a feeling I will listen to this one a lot.
I have listened to quite a few new albums. Cash's "American Recordings" is, as expected, a magnificent collection of songs. I can't get over the fact that he does a Danzig song.
The Flaming Lips' s/t EP and "Hear It Is" are both wonderful recordings. They remind me at times of the Melvins, which was unexpected.
I'm working my way through the 2nd disc of Outcast's "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below," but ahven't gotten through enough to say much.
X (the Australian band, not the Los Angeles band) has a fantastic re-issue of "Aspirations." I have never heard this band, but I do have a New Bomb Turks album that has "Good On Ya Baby" and I had no idea what band originally did the song. So it was great to hear this. The band is a snotty punk rock band in the vein of the Fun Things, the Viletones and the Sex Pistols. A really great find for me.
Lastly, I listened to the Raconteurs, featuring Jack White of the White Stripes. The Raconteurs sound more classic rock than garage rock. It's a very cool sound. I have a feeling I will listen to this one a lot.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Album of the Day - Outkast "Speakerboxxx"
I have thus far listened to the Big Boi half of Outkast's near-epic (at least in length) album, "Speakerboxxx/ The Love Below." The album is ambitious and is one of the most sonically interesting hip-hop albums I have ever heard. I got so tired of all of the lazy rappers out there; you know the ones who just barely enunciate their sloppily written, intellectually devoid lyrics over the slowest, sparest most boring Casio-sounding beats. I love hip-hop artists who are daring enough to move beyond the dull percussion-only tracks and put in some guitar, piano, or any other instrument.
"Speakerboxxx" seems to be pretty standard in its subject matter, but Big Boi's lyricism and ddelivery is more ambitious. He creates metaphors and imagery that make me wonder where in the heck he came up with his ideas. I remember one line along the lines of "Hip hop's there to destroy ya/ Leave a mother****** open like a foyer." I scratched my head inquisitively, but it's creative.
There are more interludes than I feel are necessary. It seems like commercials cutting into a TV show. I especially wasn't too cool with the one that featured a little kid using the mf word. I'm not particularly excited about adults who find comedy in hearing children use profanity.
Overall the album, particularly musically, is fun to listen to. I appreciate the chances that were taken on this record.
"Speakerboxxx" seems to be pretty standard in its subject matter, but Big Boi's lyricism and ddelivery is more ambitious. He creates metaphors and imagery that make me wonder where in the heck he came up with his ideas. I remember one line along the lines of "Hip hop's there to destroy ya/ Leave a mother****** open like a foyer." I scratched my head inquisitively, but it's creative.
There are more interludes than I feel are necessary. It seems like commercials cutting into a TV show. I especially wasn't too cool with the one that featured a little kid using the mf word. I'm not particularly excited about adults who find comedy in hearing children use profanity.
Overall the album, particularly musically, is fun to listen to. I appreciate the chances that were taken on this record.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Album of the day - Beastie Boys "Hello Nasty"
I've never been a Beastie Boys fan, although for a long time I've thought maybe I should be. When I was a youngster, during their "Licensed to Ill" era, I was afraid of them. I lived in Maryland at the time, and I remember hearing about the Beatie Boys kidnapping people and taking them to a concert. I was only 10 at the time, so I guess I didn't realize it was a conteast, and the people being "kidnapped" were winners. A 10-year-old hears "beastie" and "kidnap" and certain thoughts fly through his head. Hearing "License to Ill" 20 years later, the album hasn't really aged well.
The only other connection to the Beatie Boys I've had was in D.F.L., and awful hardcore band that Adam Horowitz produced (and allmusic.com claims he was once a member). The band was awful on record (I got a free copy of "Proud to Be" from Epitaph Records) and awful live (I saw them open for Pennywise, I think). Just truly awful.
But this is supposed to be about "Hello Nasty," an album that kind of confirms that I'm not a Beastie fan. Some songs on the album are good, although I didn't pay close enough attention to tell you which ones I enjoyed. But a lot of the songs fell into a mediocre category, and some I thought were absolute filler. Nothing grabbed me on this record, and maybe it's the kind of album that requires multiple listens to truly appreciate. I didn't outright hate the album, because their combination of rap, electronic music and rock is not unpleasing to the ears.
I'll try to listen to "Paul's Boutique" soon, and that will tell me for sure where I stand on the Beasties.
The only other connection to the Beatie Boys I've had was in D.F.L., and awful hardcore band that Adam Horowitz produced (and allmusic.com claims he was once a member). The band was awful on record (I got a free copy of "Proud to Be" from Epitaph Records) and awful live (I saw them open for Pennywise, I think). Just truly awful.
But this is supposed to be about "Hello Nasty," an album that kind of confirms that I'm not a Beastie fan. Some songs on the album are good, although I didn't pay close enough attention to tell you which ones I enjoyed. But a lot of the songs fell into a mediocre category, and some I thought were absolute filler. Nothing grabbed me on this record, and maybe it's the kind of album that requires multiple listens to truly appreciate. I didn't outright hate the album, because their combination of rap, electronic music and rock is not unpleasing to the ears.
I'll try to listen to "Paul's Boutique" soon, and that will tell me for sure where I stand on the Beasties.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Album of the Day, Part 2
Godspeed You Black Emperor "Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven"
GYBE plays what I would describe as orchestral rock music. The only other album I can think of that compares to this is the Melvins' self-titled album on Boner Records. LYSFLATH is made up of four movements, all that seem to begin slowly then build to a crescendo before falling back to a melancholic, glacial tempo.
I listened to this while at work today, and the album had me enraptured. The work is both abrasive and beautiful. By the fourth movement, I felt the music welling up inside of me, and I wished that it could continue longer. Rare is the record that does not outstay it's welcome.
I will definitely give this more listens in the future, but first I have many more albums to go in my Album of the Day project.
GYBE plays what I would describe as orchestral rock music. The only other album I can think of that compares to this is the Melvins' self-titled album on Boner Records. LYSFLATH is made up of four movements, all that seem to begin slowly then build to a crescendo before falling back to a melancholic, glacial tempo.
I listened to this while at work today, and the album had me enraptured. The work is both abrasive and beautiful. By the fourth movement, I felt the music welling up inside of me, and I wished that it could continue longer. Rare is the record that does not outstay it's welcome.
I will definitely give this more listens in the future, but first I have many more albums to go in my Album of the Day project.
Album of the Day - Fugazi "13 Songs"
Another album I can't believe I haven't heard before. Comprised of the "Fugazi" and "Margin Walker" EPs, this collection of songs has to be among the classic, essential punk rock albums. Fugazi has been descibed many times using better words than I can conjure up right now, so I will not attempt it. Suffice it to say, Fugazi is amazing.
"Lockdown" may be my favorite song on the album. It is anthemic, aggressive and forceful yet melodic and tuneful. Actually, that seems to decribe the album as a whole as well. These songs get under my skin, in a very, very good way.
"Lockdown" may be my favorite song on the album. It is anthemic, aggressive and forceful yet melodic and tuneful. Actually, that seems to decribe the album as a whole as well. These songs get under my skin, in a very, very good way.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Capote - Can't Think of Clever Title for This Post
Can a screenwriter and director make an interesting film out of the story of an author in the process of writing a true-crime novel? Watching someone hunched over a typewriter for two hours doesn’t stir thoughts of riveting drama. But some of my favorite films are about writers or the process of writing: "Wonder Boys," "Finding Forrester," "Barton Fink". "Capote" joins the pantheon of literate films about literary works.
The film opens when Truman Capote (Philip Seymour Hoffman) first reads a news item about the horrific murder of a Kansas family, and an idea for a new novel germinates. Accompanied by friend Harper Lee (Catherine Keener), Capote sets off for the Midwestern state, where he manages to endear himself to one of the accused murderers and work his way into close proximity of local law enforcement.
Hoffman, an actor of remarkable diversity, has previously given life to characters ranging from rock writer Lester Bangs (Almost Famous) to the lovable tornado chaser Rusty ("Twister") to gambling addict Dan Mahowney ("Owning Mahowney"). His Capote is a man of startling complexity. He is driven as much by his need to be the center of attention as he is by artistic excellence. He is that rare egotist who possesses abilities that back up his grand proclamations about his own superiority. He appears at high-society parties as the man whom everyone crowds around to hear what profundities he may deliver. Even as he is being celebrated for the earth-shattering power of the novel that he has not even yet completed, he finds it within himself to dismiss the success of his friend Harper and her novel-turned-film “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Keener, in her portrayal of novelist Lee, provides a grounded complement to the self-absorbed Capote. She stands by him, offers him help and encouragement even as he scoffs at her achievements. Keener always brings a down-to-earth quality to her roles, and here is no exception.
The film moves between the wealthy and affluent circles of New York and the Kansas cell that accused murderer Percy Smith occupies. In both worlds, Capote is selfish and manipulative. Director Bennett Miller traverses these two worlds as easily as does Capote. The posh nightclubs and restaurants are juxtaposed with Percy’s dank, cramped cell; the exotic Spanish vacation home with the warehouse where death row inmates are executed. It is in the place where these worlds intersect that the genius of Capote, the film, and the egotism of Capote, the author, is found.
I wonder, though, whether the graphic depictions of the murders were necessary. While shocking and effective in establishing the gruesome nature of the slayings, the flashback sequences were essentially superfluous. The audience could certainly imagine that what took place in the farmhouse was unpleasant, and Percy’s account of the murders would have been no less powerful and revelatory in the absence of the gratuitous violence.
The film opens when Truman Capote (Philip Seymour Hoffman) first reads a news item about the horrific murder of a Kansas family, and an idea for a new novel germinates. Accompanied by friend Harper Lee (Catherine Keener), Capote sets off for the Midwestern state, where he manages to endear himself to one of the accused murderers and work his way into close proximity of local law enforcement.
Hoffman, an actor of remarkable diversity, has previously given life to characters ranging from rock writer Lester Bangs (Almost Famous) to the lovable tornado chaser Rusty ("Twister") to gambling addict Dan Mahowney ("Owning Mahowney"). His Capote is a man of startling complexity. He is driven as much by his need to be the center of attention as he is by artistic excellence. He is that rare egotist who possesses abilities that back up his grand proclamations about his own superiority. He appears at high-society parties as the man whom everyone crowds around to hear what profundities he may deliver. Even as he is being celebrated for the earth-shattering power of the novel that he has not even yet completed, he finds it within himself to dismiss the success of his friend Harper and her novel-turned-film “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Keener, in her portrayal of novelist Lee, provides a grounded complement to the self-absorbed Capote. She stands by him, offers him help and encouragement even as he scoffs at her achievements. Keener always brings a down-to-earth quality to her roles, and here is no exception.
The film moves between the wealthy and affluent circles of New York and the Kansas cell that accused murderer Percy Smith occupies. In both worlds, Capote is selfish and manipulative. Director Bennett Miller traverses these two worlds as easily as does Capote. The posh nightclubs and restaurants are juxtaposed with Percy’s dank, cramped cell; the exotic Spanish vacation home with the warehouse where death row inmates are executed. It is in the place where these worlds intersect that the genius of Capote, the film, and the egotism of Capote, the author, is found.
I wonder, though, whether the graphic depictions of the murders were necessary. While shocking and effective in establishing the gruesome nature of the slayings, the flashback sequences were essentially superfluous. The audience could certainly imagine that what took place in the farmhouse was unpleasant, and Percy’s account of the murders would have been no less powerful and revelatory in the absence of the gratuitous violence.
Good Night, Great Film
"Good Night, and Good Luck" portrays that bleak time in America’s history when a Wisconsin senator steamrolled his way into the history books on falsehoods and rumor. By allowing us to see the events through the eyes and experiences of a limited group, the film brings a fresh quality to a story that, while only several decades removed, has already been told countless times. Rather than tell the story amidst ordinary American citizens, writers George Clooney and Grant Heslov choose to use broadcast journalism as its protagonist.
David Strathairn plays Edward R. Murrow as a man seeking to bring credibility, legitimacy and integrity to his role as a journalist. He is single-minded in his determination to seek out the truth, and considers dissent and disagreement to be the mark of a patriot. Strathairn’s every quality –voice, diction, posture, facial movements – turn him into a broadcast journalist. Likewise, George Clooney imbues Fred Friendly with an energy and a frenzy that complements Murrow’s more stoic, simmering fire.
As director, Clooney has enough confidence in his actors to fill the film with close-ups. The actor’s faces and their expressions seem to dictate the composition of the frame. There is little quick-cut editing in this film. True to the era which it describes, the film contains many longer shots, but Clooney modernizes the look with wonderful, sweeping pans. He uses the frame fully, finding beauty as much in close-ups as on long shots where the actors and the action seem likely to burst out of the frame.
"Good Night, and Good Luck" is not a fast-paced film. It is not likely to dazzle the viewer. Rather, its more labored pace and black and white photography allow the viewer to be slowly immersed in the atmosphere of fear and trepidation in which the characters live. Certainly, the film leads to questions about current events and the journalists who cover those events. The story lends itself easily to such a discussion, especially since McCarthyism has already been transplanted on various eras before and after its own time.
David Strathairn plays Edward R. Murrow as a man seeking to bring credibility, legitimacy and integrity to his role as a journalist. He is single-minded in his determination to seek out the truth, and considers dissent and disagreement to be the mark of a patriot. Strathairn’s every quality –voice, diction, posture, facial movements – turn him into a broadcast journalist. Likewise, George Clooney imbues Fred Friendly with an energy and a frenzy that complements Murrow’s more stoic, simmering fire.
As director, Clooney has enough confidence in his actors to fill the film with close-ups. The actor’s faces and their expressions seem to dictate the composition of the frame. There is little quick-cut editing in this film. True to the era which it describes, the film contains many longer shots, but Clooney modernizes the look with wonderful, sweeping pans. He uses the frame fully, finding beauty as much in close-ups as on long shots where the actors and the action seem likely to burst out of the frame.
"Good Night, and Good Luck" is not a fast-paced film. It is not likely to dazzle the viewer. Rather, its more labored pace and black and white photography allow the viewer to be slowly immersed in the atmosphere of fear and trepidation in which the characters live. Certainly, the film leads to questions about current events and the journalists who cover those events. The story lends itself easily to such a discussion, especially since McCarthyism has already been transplanted on various eras before and after its own time.
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