a dark little dj from a dark little town

Four Sheets to the Wind in ...Jacksonville?

2008-07-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

YES!!! Finally, procrastinating pays off...well, not really, but things did work out in the end. I'm heading out of town in a couple hours, with a few V-89 DJs, to see Tom Waits in Jacksonville. Though i've known about the tour and the Jax date for a while, the plans didn't really start happening, or even come together, till yesterday, right after I got off work...when I finally found someone leaving later than noon (I had to work today). Of course once i got home the damn ticketbastard site had shut down sales. The operator said it did not necessarily mean they were sold out. So, when the venues offices opened I called to see if they still had some, and they did. So I called TM back and well...they said the promoter had pulled the remaining tickets. Well...this sucked and I was ready to throw-up...my hands in frustration, when I decided to try the site one last time. Not only were they now selling tickets but i'm in a very, very good seat near the front. Rawk! Tom Waits, i'm on my way man! See ya soon. (I added a photo I took with my phone...pretty close eh?)

Not a huge fan of Jax, but I'm ready for a little escape, and I (knock on wood) will finally get to see Tom Waits. Over the past ten or twelve years, every time he's toured anywhere near Floriduh, i've missed out for one reason or another. Now, I have my "virtual ticket" (this is a "paperless ticket show") in my "virtual wallet," i've got a backpack ready to go and just grabbed a shirt from home. I'm ready to head out. AND, since i'm not driving I brought a book and my cd player (yeah, my 6 year old MP3 player died) and some good tunes, in case the DJs have ideas of playing stuff I don't like. ANyway, wish me luck, there's still chances something could happen that would keep me from seeing the show...for instance, I think the djs are looking to leave after 5 (they said 4 originally) and the show starts at 8...so yeah, it'll be close.

Complete review probably this weekend...after I have recovered. :)

DJs and Dancers, beware...

2008-04-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Dancing is, evidently, illegal.

Just gotta love, D.C. It seems everyday something new comes up that makes me love it more and more. , < /sarcasm >

Here's the lastest from another blogger.

"The background: twenty people were at the Jefferson Memorial, dancing to the private groove of their own iPods so as not to disturb anyone. Apparently cops showed up and ordered them to disperse anyway, despite the fact that they were not doing anything obviously illegal. One of the libertarians joyfully (yet tastefully and quietly) celebrating the birthday of a favorite founding father questioned why they should have to move along--at which point one of DC's finest shoved them up against a pillar, cuffed their hands behind their back, and hauled them away." Read on...

Just love that it all happened on Jefferson's Birthday.

For all Electronic Music Fans...

2008-04-09T10:01:00.001-07:00

I'll be hosting the Artists Feature this week on WVFS, Tallahassee.

In celebration of 20 years of 808 State there will be produced, recorded and remixed music spanning the full 20 years by the 808 crew. Released and unreleased material will be heard (including a song or two from their new album, "Quadrastate") and some interview bits will be aired as well. Please tune in and if you have any ideas for requests please get them in early (reply here or email me), I like to try and have as much as possible pre-planned for this type of show.

Click for a larger version if you care to print one out or share on other sites...

By all means, please spread the word about this.

Thanks for tuning in.

Exactly what I expected...

2008-03-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

This was to be expected... In the states (or primaries) that allow this "cross voting" I knew that the Republicans would be out voting for Hillary. This is not because they like her, just the opposite. This is because they hate her so much they know it will bring out the "republican hate vote" in November, thus giving a boost to whoever gets the nomination for the republicans (McCain). They know Obama is probably the tougher candidate for them to battle, so they are helping their cause by any means necessary, even voting for someone they hate.

Fun with Politics...

2008-03-11T13:28:00.001-07:00

Something to think about...

2008-03-05T07:19:00.001-08:00

For many it's too late to worry about this kinda thing, but my cousin just sent me a very interesting article from Salon. It's all about candidate branding and the world view of the U.S. With Rush saying he's voting for Clinton (truly can't trust him) along with a few other neo-cons, I can't help but think they believe she is there best chance at keeping a republican in the White House. By this I mean they know they can rally there core AGAINST her as most republicans seem to actually "HATE" her. While my personal "core" choice has been out of it for a while, i'm still thinking about Obama for this very reason.
But, as my cousin said, it's nice to think of the possibilities.

Time for some tunes...

2008-03-03T13:09:00.000-08:00

Finishing up two different written pieces on Killing Joke and the latest Tonikom album out on Hymen (I think, I always mix-up Hymen and Ant Zen for some reason). Anyway, those will be posted soon with a few other short reviews of things like the new Boole release, DEATHKEY (as if there isn't enough out there about the DEATHKEY album) and maybe even the new Bauhaus.

But today I bring you new...FREE...music. Trent Reznor has ventured out on his own since leaving finishing his previous label contract. And Nine Inch Nails releases something "completely different." Titled Ghosts I-IV go to the nin.com site and you can download the first 9 tracks of the 36 track recording for free. OR you can pay $5 for the full 36 tracks download and a 40 page PDF about the recording. OR you can pay $10 and get the downloads and a 2CD recording send to your home with a 16-page booklet. OR you can go for the $75 version in a hardcover fabric slipcase which contains "2 audio CDs, 1 data DVD with all 36 tracks in multi-track format, and a Blu-ray disc with Ghosts I-IV in high-definition 96/24 stereo and accompanying slideshow." OR, get this, you can order the $300 version which includes everything in the $75 version plus "an exclusive four-LP 180 gram vinyl set in a fabric slipcase, and two exclusive limited edition Giclee prints in a luxurious package. Limited to 2500 pieces, numbered and signed by Trent Reznor." I kid you not.

I'll be downloading a copy momentarily, of course.

10 Years in the Future

2008-02-19T11:55:00.001-08:00

If we should all make it past 2012 AND survive the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, today the politicing passed a mile mark with the first country, actually a tag team of countries, petitioning to host the 2018 World Cup. Who!? you ask... well, Belgium & the Netherlands are the first bid to be accepted by FIFA. Of course others are interested, including the US, Mexico, Japan, China, Russia, Spain-Portugal, England and Australia (personally, I've always wanted to go to Australia), so this is only the beginning of the process. We shall see how this pans out.
Still haven't figured out why to stopped the "rotation system." It seemed like a fair way to make sure the World Cup didn't end up stuck in Europe or North America every other year. Evidently the new system is only the previous two hosts are ineligible. So for 2018 only S. Africa and S. America will be unable to put in a bid. Interesting.

The Greatest Music Collection(?) Needs A New Home!

2008-02-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

Not sure what gives this guy the right to call his personal collection "The Greatest," as i'm sure it is smaller (and probably less grand, though I've seen neither) than the collection at the Library of Congress. Semantics aside, "the world's greatest music collection" is up for sale.

It was (and may still be) on eBay and only one bid of just over $28 million has come in (unfortunately, this bid fell through). The owner has estimated the collection at closer to $50 million, and with super rare albums (such as an "unreleased, untitled Rolling Stones album of early singles. Originally recorded in mono, the songs were remastered in stereo for FM radio stations in the early 1970s. Mawhinney estimates the album is worth between $5,000 and $10,000.") some say the estimate is pretty darn close.

If this thing were anywhere near N. Florida, I might make the trek just to say I got to see this massive collection. In stead i'll probably just be jealous of whoever buys it and figure out when I can visit the LoC collection at a much later date. (Some other D.C. visits are higher on the list, including Mt. Vernon and George Washington's whiskey distillery.)

MINISTRY's "Final" Show (in the U.S.)

2008-02-18T12:58:00.000-08:00

So, i'm all set to attend the two shows Ministry has listed on their site as their final tour dates in the U.S. which is supposed to be their "final tour." Today...they announce...ANOTHER DATE! I'll be there for the May 8th and 9th but cannot afford third concert in a row at the House of Blues in Chicago. Unfortunate, had I known I would have made sure to attend "THE FINAL" show. Oh well. That's how things go I suppose. Then again, i'm betting Jourgensen will be out doing some other project within a year or two after this anyway.

Sevilla FC!!! And other futbol stuff...

2008-02-18T11:55:00.000-08:00

So, it looks like things are getting better for Sevilla FC... at least on paper. I'm getting frustrated as they really have not televised many of their matches on Gol TV...at least not compared to last season. Anyway, according to this article they handled Espanyol rather handily and the three points pushes them further up La Liga's rankings.

"...Luis Fabiano and Frederic Kanoute struck within (the first) 11 minutes for a Sevilla side looking close to their brilliant best..."

I know they are basically out of the race for the league championship, but finishing strong will keep them in contention for the UEFA Champions League (I believe they need to finish 4th or better) and the UEFA Cup (which they have won the past two years).

Their next match is Wednesday in the Champions League against Fenerbahçe SK. Let's Go Sevillistas!!

Learned something new today...according to Wikipedia (I'll research its reliability as soon as I can):

"The Primera División is currently first in the UEFA rankings of European leagues based on their performances in European competitions over a five-year period, ahead of the English Premier League in second and the Serie A in third. The 2005–06 average attendance of 29,029 for league matches is the sixth highest of any domestic professional sports league in the world. In professional football (soccer) leagues Primera División was third-highest, behind the Bundesliga in first and the Premier League in second."

I get so tired of people knocking La Liga (or putting the English Premier league up on a pedestal). Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the other leagues as well, and what's not to respect about the EPL or Serie A (Italy for you non-fans) or even the Bundesliga (Germany), but don't put down what evidently is currently the highest ranked league in Europe. Even though i'm no fan of Real Madrid (still consider them the NY Yankees of La Liga), between them, Barcelona FC and Sevilla FC, you've got three of the finest clubs in all of Europe.

And speaking of the Yankees of La Liga, learned something else this weekend. For those of you that see Manchester United in a similar light, I just found out about this team, FC United Manchester. They are a semi-pro team that came about after supporters of Manchester United got fed up with Malcolm Glazer (the team's American Owner) and his "business before team" style of ownership. I've found stickers and posters that read "Love United, Hate Glazer." Anyway, sounds like an interesting newish team for me to follow. Since their inception two years ago (yeah, i'm late on the bandwagon) they've done rather well, working their way up the English system. They are currently listed as 7th in their league this season.

"FC United's (first) two seasons were successful. FC United entered at the tenth level of the English football league system (the second division of the North West Counties Football League) and they were confirmed as champions on 15 April 2006 and followed that up by being crowned as champions of Division 1 on 18 April 2007 and will play in the Northern Premier League Division One North for the 2007-08 season."

THE BATCAVE 25th Anniversary Tour

2008-02-15T09:31:00.000-08:00

The Batcave comes to the U.S. for a 25th Anniversary Tour:

WITH:
ALIEN SEX FIEND AND
SPECIMEN (ORIGINAL LINEUP - all members!!)

The Batcave is touring across the USA THIS SUMMER - with the bands that ran the bloody place! This has not happened since 1983!

With all the decadence, glam, and gore of the original, with some very special surprises in store...

The bad news: tickets will be available via Ticketmaster...

They will be offering a limited quantity of Early Presale VIP packages to the general public!

Batcave 2008 Tour Dates (subject to change, updates to follow - stay tuned):
June 11th Atlanta, GA - Venue TBA
June 13th Washington, DC - Venue TBA
June 15th New York, NY - The Fillmore at Irving Plaza
June 17th Cleveland, OH - Venue TBA
June 18th, Detroit, MI - Venue TBA
June 20th, Chicago, IL - Venue TBA
June 22nd, New Orleans, - Venue TBA
June 23rd, Houston, TX - Venue TBA
June 25th TBA
June 27th San Francisco, CA - Venue TBA
June 28th Los Angeles CA - Henry Fonda Theatre

Sooo... want to attend the New Orleans show...just not sure how DJ will take this one...it is in June though... ;-) (make note of the tags...anyone reading this)
OH, gotta do some research, think I have a discount for ticketbastard from my last purchase with them...must find it!

Rhino is at it again... oh, and The Clash on PBS!

2008-02-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

Not sure what to think about this. First Joy Division reissues, which I really want, and now The Replacements. Don't get me wrong, I love the new stuff that gets released...well, mostly. But, it's so difficult (on a budget) to go and re-purchase albums you already own. I still haven't caught up on The Cure re-issues with extra cds (and they also just put out a 2CD edition of "Blue Sunshine" by the Glove, with the second CD containing the album as it should have been released, with Mr. Smith doing the vocals). Anyway, here's the news about those Minneapolis Madmen, The 'Mats.
Side note: what's with the manager dealing with this, there are (important) band members still among the living...?!?

From CMJ.com: "The bulk of the Replacements' rudimentary material will receive a face-lift of sorts. On April 22, the Minneapolis-bred band's Twin/Tone catalog — including the 1981 debut Sorry Ma, Forgot To Take Out The Trash, the 1982 EP Stick, the 1983 sophomore disc Hootenanny and the quintessential 1984 release Let It Be — will be reissued in extended, remastered form by Rhino. As some of the original members have (sic) deceased, these larval releases were readied for restoration by the Replacements' manager Peter Jesperson. The partial-catalog reissue is only the beginning, as Rhino will press on, reissuing the Sire releases, which constitutes the latter half of the Replacements' expansive career."

Plus, there's going to be a new documentary about The Clash on PBS! The Clash Live: Revolution Rock will mainly be comprised of live footage that spans the band's entire career, and will include in-studio TV performances too. The movie will premier on PBS in March, which is good, because the constant reruns of those doo-wop reunion concerts were starting to piss us off. Check TheClashOnline.com for air dates, since PBS affiliates are allowed to shuffle their schedule (sadly no Tally-ho airing just yet). Or if you can, wait until the DVD is released April 15. It will include extras like the band's appearance on ABC's early '80s, ill-fated Saturday Night Live rip-off, Friday's (guess this will be my option).

An odd take on things...

2008-02-13T07:52:00.000-08:00

So, Speilberg has decided to boycott helping China with their Olympic preparations until they help put pressure on Sudan to "help stop the crisis in Darfur." Am I the only one that finds this odd considering the human rights violations that China itself has been perpetrating? The violations in Tibet alone are among what some call "the worst in the world," which has created an apartheid system which has denied Tibetans equal social and economic status in their own land. But sure, let's have the Olympics over there and pressure them to help out with some other country's system of genocide. Yes, I understand the genocide in the Sudan is probably a notch or two worse than what's going on in Tibet, but it just seems odd to even try and "team" up with them to work on another human rights violation. Why not try and get their situation fixed first...for that matter why have the Olympics there when it sounds like things are not getting any better.

A good site for more information about China's human rights violations is here at The Human Rights Watch site. I see they also posted a story about Speilberg, so it's getting out there. They bring up this same point in their piece as well. It seems as though the Chinese government is NOT sticking to the human rights pledges it made to bring the Games to Beijing. Here is another interesting "protest" site called Tibet Truth. Without getting too deep into the site, i'm curious why they are only asking for the English athletes to show their support with a blue ribbon. Check it out, it's worth it just for the imagery on the first page of the site.

It's all about the music...isn't it?

2008-02-12T21:00:00.001-08:00

Finally getting around to checking out ALL the winners from this past weekend's Grammy Awards. Here's a few that i'm glad were winners...

Record Of The Year
Rehab
Amy Winehouse
Mark Ronson, producer; Tom Elmhirst, Vaughan Merrick, Dom Morley, Mark Ronson & Gabriel Roth, engineers/mixers
Track from: Back To Black
[Universal Republic Records]

Album Of The Year
River: The Joni Letters
Herbie Hancock
Leonard Cohen, Norah Jones, Joni Mitchell, Corinne Bailey Rae, Luciana Souza & Tina Turner, featured artists; Herbie Hancock & Larry Klein, producers; Helik Hadar, engineer/mixer; Bernie Grundman, mastering engineer
[Verve]

Song Of The Year
Rehab
Amy Winehouse, songwriter (Amy Winehouse)
Track from: Back To Black

Best New Artist
Amy Winehouse

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance
Rehab
Amy Winehouse
Track from: Back To Black

Best Pop Instrumental Album
* The Mix-Up
Beastie Boys
[Capitol Records]

Best Pop Vocal Album
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse

Best Electronic/Dance Album
We Are The Night
The Chemical Brothers
[Astralwerks]

Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance
Radio Nowhere
Bruce Springsteen
Track from: Magic
[Columbia]

Best Hard Rock Performance
The Pretender
Foo Fighters

Best Metal Performance
Final Six
Slayer
Track from: Christ Illusion

Best Rock Instrumental Performance
Once Upon A Time In The West
Bruce Springsteen
Track from: We All Love Ennio Morricone

Best Rock Song
Radio Nowhere
Bruce Springsteen, songwriter (Bruce Springsteen)
Track from: Magic

Best Rock Album
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace
Foo Fighters

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance
No One
Alicia Keys

Best Male R&B Vocal Performance
Future Baby Mama
Prince
Track from: Planet Earth

Best Urban/Alternative Performance
Daydreamin'
Lupe Fiasco Featuring Jill Scott
Track from: Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor

Best Country Collaboration With Vocals
Lost Highway
Willie Nelson & Ray Price
Track from: Last Of The Breed

Best Contemporary Jazz Album
River: The Joni Letters
Herbie Hancock
[Verve]

Best Comedy Album
The Distant Future
Flight Of The Conchords
[Sub Pop]

Best Boxed Or Special Limited Edition Package
What It Is!: Funky Soul And Rare Grooves (1967-1977)
Masaki Koike, art director (Various Artists)
[Rhino]

One question...
How did Trapped In The Closet Chapters 13-22 by R. Kelly get beat by Madonna's Confessions Tour for Best Long Form Video?

A Season of Joy

2008-02-11T20:24:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I didn't write up something about "Control," the movie about Ian Curtis. Took DJ to see it the night it opened here in Tallahassee. At this point I'll just say it was a great movie, definitely shows a bit of a slant as it was Deborah's story, but well made, emotional, somewhat informative and very entertaining.

I was just in a discussion in a Side-Line forum about how even a documentary would not be able to get Ian's full story since it died with him...and now this gets tossed around. A promotional video for the "new" documentary called "Joy Division" which was released (or at least it was shown at a Manchester film festival) back in 2007. So far, what i've read about it, granted a lot of it is blogger stuff, has been very positive. Regardless, i'm lookin' forward to this one just as much (maybe even more so). I'm guessing it will be better than the "Wired:Joy Division" two part mini-documentary a Factory Records promotional (UK 1988 (Factory FAC 211) [promo]).

If this isn't enough...then watch this as well...it's probably better than all the other videos on here put together.

A nice little weekend...

2008-02-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

Dropped by Finnegan's Wake for a few drinks after work on Friday. Nothing too exciting, spent some time with the wife and workmates until they headed for the winery. I stayed back and watched a replay of the Tottenham v Man Utd match. Painful to watch knowing what was going to happen in the last 15 seconds of the match (by my count). But the Spurs didn't capitalize on a few chances that would have made that last minute goal mean nothing. I'm looking in your direction Robbie Keane. Though I suppose a draw against the second place team is much better than a loss (and they did win against Derby this weekend, Keane finally decided to put one in the net in this match).

Saturday I watched some soccer and recovered from the night out. Mostly kept myself occupied waiting to see the Sevilla v Barcelona match. BIG MATCH. Ended in more frustration. First, I have to say, I think this was a match that the ref stepped into which is rarely ever a good thing. Next, Sevilla had more chances to give their side an extra goal or two but in the end only scored the one goal in the first half. Barcelona was VERY lucky to only be down by the one at the break.

During the match one of the ways the ref "stepped into the game" was by stopping play too often, an example of this was when he gave Keita a yellow card for what was barely an offense at all. Personally, I don't think it should have been a call at all, much less a carded offense. Unfortunately only a few minutes later, after Barcelona had tied things up, Keita dove in with a hard tackle, which was definitely a yellow card offense...which meant he now had two...giving him reason to find a nice quiet place in the locker room to reflect. A tired Sevilla now had no chance against Barcelona. Luckily it remained tied at one at the final whistle. As much as I would have preferred a Sevilla win, this was especially painful because I'd prefer to see anyone but Real Madrid end up on top at the end of this season...and Barcelona have the best chance, so the tie hurt their chances as well. All the way around it was a hard ending.

After this, I had a match of my own and it was worth attending for the pre-game discovery alone. Someone "found" my lost (EPL) match ball. Granted it had my name and phone number all over the thing, but two or three weeks later it shows up at a match. As I approached the fields from the parking area, I discover someone bouncing a familiar red and white ball up the sidewalk on the way to their match (which happened to be against my team). After going to another field to return someones shin pads I had to borrow last week, I walked over towards the field we were about to use where there was a small group of players from both teams.

"Oh my gawd, someone found my ball, who found it?" I said, glancing "blindly" at the guy that had been bouncing it, his friend and then all the others. I got very little response other than a return glance and a slight grunt of sorts.

The match was pretty close for the first two-thirds, but in the final third we took over and won it. Made the win that much nicer. Funny thing is neither the ball nor the shin pads cost me very much. (I can only guess I accidentally left them on the pitch after a match where we were rushed off by the lights being turned off.) But the ball is a nice and expensive one, that was a gift from the traveling god(s), so losing it meant a lot more to me, it's a damn good match ball...and now it's back. (Probably to be lost again at an Over 30s match.)

Sunday, I watched a bit more on the tube, did some house work and computer work (organized and got rid of a lot of stuff I didn't need). My computer desktop was starting to look more like my desk's desktop. Then the wife and I went over to a neighbor/friend's place for a drink and to chat for a bit. Eventually we left to get some dinner and to watch "Blades of Glory". Another typical yet hilarious Will Farrell movie that had me laughing so hard at some points I hurt. Had to rewind it a couple times.

After the movie we watched the majority of the Grammy's. Mostly uneventful but thought Amy Winehouse did a good job considering and the Beyonce and Tina Turner bit was pretty cool. OH, and most of the Daft Punk performance was cool...really wish I'd seen them when they toured the U.S...oh and Herbie Hancock's rendition of Rhapsody in Blue (along with someone else I don't know) was pretty cool as well.

Some web discoveries to bookmark:

After keeping up with the FC St. Pauli match (another painful draw) with a gamecast and the UK forum posts I did some more exploring and found this (Unofficial) U.S. St Pauli Fan Site. The person that set it up seems to be translating local newspaper articles about the team and their matches. Useful for me since I've only received my news from the forum site which is not exactly complete either. Between the two sites I think it's a pretty good representation of what's going on with the team. I sent in my email to "become a member." Shall see what that means. They have "meetings" that maybe someday I could be a part of...if the timing is right. AND, I just read they have a "spring pilgrimage" that I'd like to be a part of, but that's less likely. Let's go Boys in Brown!!

Not really a new site, but one that I was recently reminded of is Where's George. If you aren't familiar with it, check it out as soon as possible and enter some bills in this thing. I have only had a few over the past few years that were entered by others but it's fun to watch where your money goes (or where it came from). Try it out...they have a Where's Willy version for you Canadians as well.

An interesting news story I found this morning is all about the world wide protests of "Anonymous" against the Church of Scientology. The story includes a link to the video of Tom Cruise which I heard people talking about a couple weeks ago, but I was never able to find online, evidently because the Church of Scientology had hastled the original posters of this video and made them remove it from their sites...or stop showing it on their television programs. I'm off to watch it now.

More later...

Back in the Saddle...

2008-02-04T13:40:00.001-08:00

No, i'm not going to make this into my new, hey check out these websites i've seen journal...though it's all i've used it for lately. And today will be no different.

First, I'm really sorry I missed out on the Puppy Bowl. As i'm more of a futbol (soccer) fan, the Giants and the Patriots mean very little to me, so this looks much more entertaining to me as an "animal person." Love some puppies, though i'm sure my cat would prefer the half-time show.

Next up, it's about time someone stepped up to the plate. Excuse the mixing of metaphors but it sounds like hip-hop is finally getting a much needed shot in the arm. Bill Cosby, that's right Mr. Hip-Hop-Hatin'-Cosby, is putting out a rap album. I'm sure it will debut at #1 in all charts...maybe even country. You know I used to be a huge fan of his, I own several of his earliest albums, now he just doesn't seem so funny.

My friend, who my wife and I helped transport some kitties overseas, has started blogging (still not comfortable using that as a verb) with Serious Eats.com. I'll have to put this in my links/places to go column over on the right side of this blog for everyday use. If you are a food person, especially if you are an Italian foods person or a sweets person, you should check out this blog! And check out her book when you get a chance as well!

Whoa, think this might be my first post without a single picture...maybe next time.

I'm off to finish work and get back into a routine with running.

WEBLOG

2008-02-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

As it was first created, a weblog, or "blog," was supposed to be a log of websites a web user had visited which they wanted to either share with friends or just keep a record of the sites for themselves. Today, I have a few of those for my own blog...for myself and for others to check out as well.

First, a new installment has been made in the Yacht Rock series. For those of you unfamiliar with this series, it's a fine little history of "yacht rock" that's sort of like Spinal Tap vs 70s Soft Rock. Be sure to watch it in order (#1 is at the bottom) if you are new to this.

Next, everything can be studied academically, take for instance the web-phenom "2 Girls 1 Cup." While there has been a "study" of the actual video, it is not the most academic. Now, we have a law professor studying people viewing the 2 Girls 1 Cup video. Not sure what else to say but good luck. And, if ou are among the few that have not yet seen the original video...DO NOT worry about it, you probably don't need to.

Also, there will be a Falco movie, due out rather soon. I don't know much German, but a) Grace Jones will be in it, b) It's A FALCO MOVIE!!! and c) It seems to suggest his death may have actually been a suicide. I believe it is only being released (in Feb '08?) initially in his homeland, Austria, but with any luck, there will be subtitled versions on DVD hitting other countries in the very near future. Crossing our fingers, Der Kommissar.

And last, I just found out the "Irish" have something to "fear" this year. St. Patty's Day must be moved due to the catholic calendar. What an odd concept. Beware the Ides of March!

Interesting outcome...

2008-01-31T08:24:00.001-08:00

So...

What does your government look like when it isn't "in session" often enough?

Nice...

2008-01-30T11:34:00.001-08:00

Two things found while catching up on my Doonesbury...which I've missed since leaving for Italia.

First, a nice little quote, which I hope harkens the withdrawal from the race for Mr. Giuliani.

"The beast is dead."
-- former NYC mayor Ed Koch, on Rudy Giuliani's defeat in Florida

Second, this little gem, about a plague on earth called war, our government's benefits for soldiers, man's inhumanity to man...and music.

A tale of two matches...

2008-01-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

Both of which I was unable to see this weekend.
Read this interesting story about the difference between the Osasuna v. Sevilla match and the Havant & Waterlooville v. Liverpool match. Not a lot in the way of comparison if you ask me but plenty to contrast... I'm off to see if either will be rebroadcast over here in the near future.

Havant & Waterlooville celebrate taking one of
their two leads during the match with Liverpool.

If you read the full story above, you might also want to visit this blog that talks about blogs and how the Osasuna coach and a Sevilla blogger are wrapped up in a grand confrontation. The whole thing will be interesting to watch for both bloggers and journalists alike.

A new favorite...

2008-01-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

There will be much about Roma, Italia...just not yet.
I'm still recovering from whatever illness I picked up
from one of the other passengers...or just from being
totally exhausted on the return. In stead I bring you...works I gots to do.

moar funny pictures

New Year/End o' Year stuff...

2008-01-02T06:13:00.000-08:00

I will be posting a end of the year music blog in the very near future, but after reading a couple great end of year soccer pieces online I have to make note of them as well...

JUST got finished reading this one about the losses that soccer suffered this past year. Of course Puerta was the reason I had to check it out but there were other big names including Alan Ball.

"Today is one of the saddest days in the history of Sevilla FC," the Andalusian club's president, José María Del Nido said following the announcement that Puerta, aged just 22, had passed away on 28 August.

And, I was sent another blog I need to start reading more often...even if it is an EPL heavy site there's a lot of US soccer info on it as well. This particular year in end review is pretty nice, has several videos on it from this year including my favorite, the INCREDIBLE "sweet spot" shot of Benny Feilhaber to put the US ahead of Mexico in the Gold Cup. But if you aren't partial to this one, I believe it has links to other sites with year end reviews.

Thoughtful Graffiti...

2007-12-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

Henry David Thoreau graffiti on the bathroom wall at V-89. It's my new favorite graffiti at the station. Definitely adds a suggestion of contemplation with each visit to the restroom.

New Summer Tour Rumors...

2007-11-30T08:20:00.000-08:00

So, by now many of my friends know of my excitement about the Ministry tour set for next year. The Final Tour. And, THE FINAL SHOW in Chicago. Well, another tour I will have to TRY and see MIGHT be coming to the US next summer. I'm guessing many of my friends will not even glance at this twice (ya punks!) but it is a big one for me. Hell even the rumored opener (who has helped spread the rumors of the tour themselves) is someone I'd really like to see. Anyway, the rumors are spreading far and wide that Led Zeppelin are going to tour the US in the summer. And evidently it's the chosen openers, The Cult, that are spreading the rumors, see the article i've linked. As a long time fan of both, I would love to see them on a stage together.

I've never actually seen either live and in person. With Zeppelin, since the age of about 12, I watched "The Song Remains the Same" so many times my parents had to buy me a new copy one Christmas while I was in High School, the tape had stretched and I couldn't view it any longer. Granted, by then I had been introduced to V-89 and the underground sounds of "alternative" music and "punk," and was not all that into watching it anymore. Eventually my only "real" Zeppelin connection for a while was picking up an album here and there that J.P. Jones had produced. The closest I came to seeing Zeppelin in person was my senior year of high school, I got to see Robert Plant in concert (first road trip concert actually). It was in Jacksonville and the best part, CHEAP TRICK opened (THEY know how to put on a show). Anyway, it was a "wishful" road trip as I was not a huge Plant solo fan, liked a a few songs (I had been one of the many bit by the "Big Log" bug and Now & Zen definitely filled a little of the Zeppelin hole in me, it had Zeppelin samples in it for Pete's sake!), I just hoped to see one or two actual Zeppelin songs in person. It happened, but it just didn't seem to really do the job.

THEN there's the Cult. I was introduced to them with Electric but quickly got into their earlier work, especially the Southern Death Cult stuff (none of this was a huge jump for me at the time, my two favorite bands up until then were Zeppelin and THE DOORS). Granted the SDC stuff is long gone, but with the new album Born Into This...it seems as though they've hearkened back to some of the older Love and even some Electric type of work. They definitely stripped things down and got away from the "overly produced" sounds of late. I've had two chances to see "The Cult" live (well, once as The Cult and then once it was Ian's project, The Holy Barbarians, after the break-up) but both times it was during that not so good early to mid-90s phase when I was NOT all that interested in seeing any Ian Astbury...and both times it was at a local club that I was not a big fan of either. So now they're back creating some good tunes and maybe I'll have another chance at seeing them as well.

Suppose that was a long way to go just to let you know there are some major rumors going around that Led Zeppelin with The Cult is a possible summer tour for '08, but you have an idea of where I am on the whole thing. I also found it interesting that the website I linked above, with the story about the rumors, wrote things up quite differently from another on line magazine. N.M.E. basically took the rantings of a possibly drunk*, fanboy, on stage, during a show as "confirmation." No need to double check with any P.R. people, or booking agents, or label managers or reps, we'll just take what we heard was said at this one concert as the "truth," the tour is confirmed. Heh.

Now if only they would book that show in Chicago on the Friday or Saturday after Ministry's final show...guess that would be too much to ask.

* I have no idea if Ian drinks or not, but it adds to the idea of there not being any real reason to print it as a "confirmed tour."

Halloween Night in Tally

2007-11-06T17:31:00.000-08:00

Finally able to post about Halloween...

So, with darkness falling earlier and days growing shorter, the "trick or treaters" were out before I really got a chance to prepare for them. I barely got home from work (and "cleaning duty") before the first ones were knocking at the door. Had to cut short the first call from DJ to avoid the college kids who didn't even seem to be in costume.

Then "the" call came shortly there after, the Roberts were getting ready but running a little late (which was good, because I was too). I still had to pack records for the Beta Bar gig AND get into my own costume. So, I fill the bowl with "body parts" (best new gummy candy for Halloween) and Hershey's mini-chocolates. The boys came over in Darth Vader and Yoda costumes (personalities did NOT match).

After they left, mere seconds later, a knock at the door and I knew I had to get it (don't want any tricks played on me and they HAD to have seen me sending off the Roberts crew). So, I grab the bowl and open the door, two girls who had to be late high school or early college age...again, not sure what the costumes were. Actually, the first one had put some effort into it, but don't ask me what she was, it was her partner that IMMEDIATELY grabbed my attention...she didn't say "trick or treat" ... because SHE WAS ON HER CELL PHONE!! Had she said, "Can you hear me now?" I would have let it pass...instead I was just in shock. I grabbed a couple chocolates for each and sent them on their way, wishing I had sat and waited for her to finish her call. THAT WILL NOT happen at our house again.

After that I did get a few kids with their families, which was amazing considering the Roberts were the only ones to come by last year. Seems as though we got some of the run-off from the big Democrat story about our neighborhood putting on a great Halloween party of sorts.

Then it was time for me to get ready. I had the entire costume planned in my head, even went to Publix on my lunch break to pick up a single red rose. But, what I didn't plan on was my "pet bat" going AWOL. I spent way too much time trying to find it, and it never was found actually, luckily the Beta Bar was running late as well. (Tardiness, it's a Tallahassee thing.)

Anyway, got the records together, a pretty good selection i'd say. Then got into costume and even took a few pictures. "Slicked" back hair, nice "tux" shirt with small pillow underneath, bow-tie, dressy leather jacket and nice slacks. Now, add to this the gauze in the cheeks and some dark make-up on the eyes and cheeks (you'll just have to imagine the stuffed bat that I would pet periodically). Yes, I went dressed this Halloween as The Gothfather.

Got to the Beta Bar in time to see the last half of one of the opening acts, even though it was well past the time DJ Vadim should've been on. Very low turn-out, not good for an artist like Vadim, I can only guess the Beta Bar bank account took a beating on this one. Sad that Tallahassee doesn't bring out more for shows like this. Eventually he went on and had two singers on stage with him. Overall great show, interesting singers with a very US3 kinda vibe, just wish there had been more of a focus on the DJ. Quick side-note: You know you're at a low turn-out show when one of the singers calls out EVERY SINGLE AUDIENCE MEMBER, she even asked my name because I came in after she had already asked everyone's name prior to taking the stage...lovely.

Early on there were not many costumes, probably due to the timing of the early show. It was easy to single out the person I knew to get a good photo of them. Ian came as a Zombie Security Gaurd of sorts... his blood was quite realistic when first "applied," oozing and dripping and eventually drying in place. He added after a certain point, everything gets everywhere and it's just damn sticky...I reminded him of the "Body Bag Scan Show Intro."

After we kicked out the 12 Vadim fans, the decorating began. I didn't have much to do but helped set up the speakers and such. Eventually just sitting back to watch the hangings go up and check out the other costumes. Not many grabbed my attention as "outstanding" ideas, but some were cute. I got so caught up in it that I forgot to take pictures of individual costumes...think I was a little nervous about DJing for the first time in front of a decent sized audience. I think my music selection was pretty damn good, even Truewill commented that he came over to check out three different songs...but it was my mixing that got the poor grade. I just was not in it for some reason. I think my first 4 or 5 were fine but it quickly went down hill. To add to this they had brought in some CD players but I never got trained on them (the new fangled cd mixers) and it wouldn't have mattered because as DJ Miami came on he found out they weren't even plugged in for sound...good thing I brought plenty of vinyl.

With the crowd being of "average" club going age, and the Beta Bar crew busy since they were working I was lucky to have DJ Brad Ashwell around. Rarely get to hang out with him and it was nice to finally get to chat with him even if it was rather brief. Little bit of music talk, little bit of "man we're gettin' old" talk and then he had to hit the tables himself. Played a great set of house, which has been his big "thing" lately. Started off with some Beat Pharmacy and worked his way, eventually, into some Aphex Twin from Early Ambient Works I. At some point, I actually made the decision, "I'm having a drink (or two) and gettin' some dancing in since it happens so infrequently." Got some of the special "Beta Bar Brew" and after downing it rather quickly (maybe too quickly) I hit the floor and had some fun sweating quite a bit under my Gothfather costume. Had a good time, except for the part where we watched the long, drawn out costume contest, and as Brad got back to DJing I realized they were staying open VERY late again...it was already 2am and he was just getting back on the tables. (Now I just need to get him on the radio show.)

I said no thanks to the offer of another set, I had brought plenty of tunes, but my old bones and the need to be at work at 8am was not a good combo for djing into the wee small hours like i used to...maybe on a weekend.

Overall, had a good time...just wish I could've done better mixing that evening.

All Hallow's Eve

2007-10-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Tonight i'll be DJing (in a club) for the first time in a long while. And as it's Halloween, i'm that much more excited about it...NOT to mention DJ Brad Ashwell is on the bill as well (don't think i've DJed with him in over...wow, i'll just say in a very long time, it was the 90s, just won't mention what part of the 90s it was). Anyway, got my costume together, now I just need to put together some records (don't think the set-up at the Beta Bar is very CD friendly...unfortunately, too much new stuff to mention). I'm sure photos or at least a story or two will need to be posted late tonight or sometime this weekend. Me, DJ Brad Ashwell and someone by the name of DJ Miami...should be interesting.

Final(ly) see "him" live and in person...

2007-10-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

So, the excitement of the new Cream Abdul Babar tour had me forget about all that's going on right nearby. Luckily I dj'ed last night, at the radio station, and was reminded of a HUGE show (well for me it's a huge show) at the Club Downunder Saturday night. So, instead of going to Atlanta tomorrow, i'll be headed up to Savannah today right after I get off work. Then after catching CAB at The Jinx I'll head back Saturday morning so that I can see JESU right here in TALLAHASSEE! For those of you not in the know, this is one of Justin K. Broadrick's many projects. Broadrick is the man that HEAVILY influenced my musical tastes back in the late 80s into the early...well, to really think about it he's always influenced me in some way since I got into "underground" music...anyway, his band GODFLESH was a big deal for me. TWICE I was to see GODFLESH when canceled tours (or cut short tours) kept me from seeing them live before they disbanded. Well, he's back in the states and this time with Jesu...I'll be there this time...right in my own backyard.

Off to Atlanta...

2007-10-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

So weekend before last I made my way up to Atlanta on my own. The purpose of the trip: to finally witness TURBONEGRO live and in person.

Drove straight into Atlanta's "Little 5 Points" for the usual afternoon of shopping at Criminal Records, Wax n Facts and A Cappella Books. You'd think by now i'd have branched out a bit and found other stores to visit. Well, time was an issue since I didn't arrive till close to 4:30p. But i've never been a huge fan of clothes shopping and a lot of the other stores (including Junkman's Daughter) have always seemed a bit on the "trendy" side for me. Anyway, picked up a handful of records both at Criminal and Wax n Facts (including a Yello vinyl tribute with Cosmic Baby on it) and only one book from A Cappella (Brad Warner's "Sit Down and Shut Up: Punk Rock Commentaries on Buddha, God, Truth, Sex, Death, and Dogen's Treasury of the Right Dharma Eye").

From here I met up with Tradd and his man John at Eats. Eats will likely become a regular stop for me when visiting ATL. Good, southern cooking and the jerk chicken is amazing. Tradd brought along some drinks in case we didn't have time to go back to his place...which we didn't.

Went straight to Center Stage to get tickets for fear of it selling out. Didn't need to have that fear though there were a lot of people at the show. This venue is great for live concerts. They have a really good soundsystem and there isn't a bad seat in the house (set up like an old opera house with steep seating). Ian Mott ended up making his way up to see the show (lil' shit did it last minute so I still rode to and from ATL by myself). Also ended up meeting Andy and Kellie LePlegua.

So according to most listings Tradd and I found there was supposed to be two opening bands: Year Long Disaster and Mondo Generator. Well, there was no Year Long Disaster. Not a problem for me, I had only just heard about them because of this show and while they play some good, old fashioned metal, I didn't HAVE to see them. So, that leaves us with one opener, Mondo Generator. Really was looking forward to them since missing them opening for the Dwarves last year (or was it the year before?).
Fronted by former Dwarves bassist (known as Rex Everything) Nick Oliveri has seemingly pushed this band into "Nick Oliveri and the Mondo Generator" territory...which i'm not a fan of. Regardless, I was still pretty excited to see them live, some of their stoner rock stuff ain't so bad in my opine...but some of it ain't so good either...and it seems it was the later that filled much of their set. Nothing grabbed me, no great hooks, which made me kind sad...Forgot to mention, Nick was also a member of Kyuss, way back in the day.

So, enjoyed them somewhat, but definitely not what I was hoping for...between sets Tradd and Brent (from Mastodon) introduced me to one of the guys that was in Four Hour Fogger...and of course i've forgotten his name. (No biggie, Tradd couldn't remember it 5 minutes later either.) The break seemed long but that might have been the drinks, we had time for at least two, maybe three, rounds. The oddest part was realizing just how many Turbojugend there were in Atlanta (or visiting from parts unknown but wearing the "uniform").

Then it was time for the main act... TURBONEGRO!

It may have been a little crowded but I was able to make my way to the stage pretty easily. The floor area was only about 1/2 to 2/3 full of people. A couple small pits got started, but mostly by folks too drunk too really know what they were doing. The bulk of us jumped and sang along with every song...well, most of 'em.

I figured out early on that I was going to have to try and grab one of the playlists or at the very list snap a shot of one of them...just to have a decent document of proof of what they played. After singing along to two or three I got that feeling, "this is great...but how much will I remember." No, I wasn't completely "tanked" but you know that fuzzy/hazy feeling you can get. Anyway, after the first or second song that I didn't recognize right away I started getting that feeling. The first couple were from the new album, Retox, knew those rather well. The band seemed pretty on, even though Hank seemed to have some problems with his "ear monitor."

With the number of albums and e.p.s they have as well as the relatively new "Small Feces" collections, I'm not sure how they could come up with a playlist that covered it all. I was a little disappointed that nothing was played of off Never is Forever, one of their first I owned, so it's still a favorite. But I loved that they did "City of Satan" and followed it with "Bad Mongo." And though it was my first and only time seeing them, it all rocked me quite right...especially ending the first set with "All My Friends Are Dead!" They had two encores, the last one being "I Got Erection" and then Nick O. came out for the finale of "Final Warning." Truly a great show by a band i've only been into for a short amount of time.

So the show ends and I see they aren't going to do anything (at least not immediately) with their playlists which are taped to the stage. I jump up to grab the one that Happy Tom used. As I start to rip up the tape Happy Tom comes over and jokingly lifts his boot as if he's going to stomp on me. I freeze with hands up as if, "who me, i'm innocent." I then point out my St. Pauli t-shirt and he laughs and points to it telling me "go ahead." I wanted to shake his hand in thanks but he was headed into the crowd before I got the chance.
After the show, Tradd and I slowly made our way out, just makin' sure nothing crazy exciting was going to happen before we left. On our way home we passed by the Clairmont...I had to stop in. A bit surprised by the cover...it's been so long I don't remember it being so much but by that time...it didn't really matter. We stayed a while, had a few more drinks, almost got in trouble with one of the bouncers in a silly kinda way, danced a lot to old Michael Jackson and few other 70s and 80s tunes, then made our way home.

Tradd and John have a nice pad, which I didn't totally get to figure out till the next morning. I was given shower supplies but passed out before making it to the bathroom. Did browse threw one of Tradd's old yearbooks, that's always fun. His breakfast "shake" of health stuff was pretty good...but compared to what I had been putting in my belly the night before it was most appreciated by my insides.

The drive home was nothing to write home about. Listened to some good tunes, chatted with DJ a few times and once I got home I pretty much passed out from exhaustion.

Ah, the sweet, sweet livin'...

2007-10-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine, Gina DePalma, has finally had her first book published. If any of you are cooking/baking fans, please consider buying this book. It's called "Dolce Italiano" and it's filled with loads of Italian desserts and pastries. She's the head pastry chef for one of Mario Batali's restaurants, Babbo, in New York City and she did the pastry treats at my wedding (yes, i'm bragging, but also saying that as a reminder to those who were there). Anyway, I know about the sweat and tears that went into this thing and I really hope it does well. She sent me a pic of it in the window of her favorite New York bookstore, sitting next to books by Alan Greenspan, David Halberstam and Peter Cameron. It includes recipes from three different styles of desserts: "traditional Italian, Italian-American and American-Italian" ... I'd get into it more, but it's better explained on the Amazon page...just make with the clicky on the picture if you are even somewhat interested. My copy's on its way, or I'd tell you more about what's inside...just click...and buy. :)

Other Music For Uplifting Gourmandizers

2007-09-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

This is the time when i should write all about the amazing trip I just took. The good times with Donna and her folks, and the wierd times, but I arrived in town yesterday afternoon; I tried sleeping, which worked off and on; I tried DJing at the station, but was too tired and left early. I went back home and before finally passing out I read that Hilly Kristal died. I'd like to go on and on about what the man did for me (even though I didn't even know who he was until after my first visit to his establishment, and even then I wouldn't know him if he'd walked up and kicked me). But in case you don't know he opened CBGB's in New York City back in 1973 and in doing so helped kick start something amazing for music lovers around the world. There's tons of stuff you can read about him out there, right now i'll leave you with the CBGB Tribute site.

What really is important?

2007-08-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

It happened. Antonio Puerta died in the hospital today. I haven't even been able to read the story. The headline alone is all I really need to see right now. Not trying to be overly dramatic but, dammit, the man was only 22 years old.

I loved the city of Sevilla, which I visited a few years ago, this is how I became a huge fan of their soccer team. Over the few years that I've kept track of them, a handful of players really stood out as either strong and skillful or as personable and/or interesting. Puerta seemed to be both. He was passionate about the game, seemed to really love his team and was very important in Sevilla's strong season last year.

I could go on and on about how this whole thing makes me feel and how it puts life in perspective, but I think right now I just want to say I wish his family, his friends and his teammates well, and my condolences go out to all of them. He will be missed, even by a fan as far away as Tallahassee, Florida.

Here's a little YouTube tribute video someone put together.

Then you remember what's important.

2007-08-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

So, I'm watching the Sevilla FC match in replay right now. Their season opener was with Getafe CF. It's a pretty important match for a team once again making a go at winning La Liga (the Spanish first division of pro-soccer for you US/non-fans). They did really well last year, got a little unlucky during season play, but still managed to not only win Copa del Rey, against Getafe actually, but were also UEFA Cup Champions and won the Supercopa de España (which is a match between the winner of La Liga vs. the winner of Copa del Rey, a bit of revenge against Real Madrid).

This season starts a little difficult as one of their greatest players, Dani Alves, is looking to make a move to the English Premier League. But they picked up a few good players and still have a lot of strength from last season.

Why all the build-up? Well, this opener was a bit difficult because Getafe was able to score rather quickly to begin the match and then were able to hang on to this 1-0 lead through the entire first half even though they had one player removed early on (22 minute) and then a second player was red carded in the last couple minutes of the half. They were still able to pull it out in the second half, finally picking up four goals with some rather impressive play, even if it was a couple extra players. But this is not the reason for this post...

The real reason is ... I ... watched a man have a heart attack. Near the end of the second half Antonio Puerta crouched down after a play and then collapsed onto the pitch. Players ran to his aid, some signaled for managers to come over, a close up on the player showed one of his teammates prying open his mouth to pull out his tongue so he wouldn't choke on it. Within a minute or two he was up and even walked off the pitch by himself. But according to at least one story he then collapsed again and was rushed to the hospital after being given cardiac resuscitation.

I had read a little about this prior to watching the match but it really was hard to actually see it happen. Even knowing prior, the build up and anticipation were not too bad, but when he actually went down I found myself screaming at the tv, "there he is, get him." Not sure where that came from but, man, he could have died right there. Evidently he still is having trouble, I've checked his wikipedia page and a few other stories that have him still in intensive care and in a "very serious" condition. Sevilla FC player or not, I wish him the best and I have to say I really appreciate the way the coach responded to questions after the match.

From the BBC story:

Sevilla coach Juande Ramos was in no mood to talk about his side's victory after the match.

"I don't have the mind to speak now. The reason I am here is because we are all professionals, but I have no desire to talk of the game or anything," Ramos said.

"I would like to see the player. The game does not have any importance compared with the health of a player."

Just a little reminder the game can be great, but there is always something much more important.

Edit: As a small addition to the Alves story... The small Brazilian international with a huge amount of talent and drive is up to no good. I always love watching him on the pitch. Unfortunately he's decided he really wants to leave the team and move "up" to the English Premier League. I'm not a fan of that for many reasons. Anyway, there was an offer on the table from a large team but it never came to fruition. Now he seems pissed and well...has decided to play hookie from the team, which makes nobody happy.

I don't know the full story, and he seems like a really nice and cool kinda guy from what little I've read about him, but this just makes me unhappy with whiny pro-athletes who get grumpy even though they are paid MILLIONS to play a sport I've enjoyed playing for free...or having to pay to be able to play it.

Again, I don't know the full story, but I'm slowly losing respect for him and hope this gets worked out quickly. He still wants to be traded this season, but I'm still hoping he'll stick around, help Sevilla win La Liga this season and then he can go to the EPL for even more money.

Queen's May is a doctor of the stars...

2007-08-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

So I mentioned this would be a good spot for music stuff...and here's my first mini-post with a tidbit of information for ya. Looks like Brian May has been quite busy...for more than 30 years actually. But he's finally finished his doctorate in astrophysics. Just check out this little story about the endeavor.

Evidently he's already co-authored a book about the history of the universe, it's called "Bang" so i'm guessing he's not siding with any creationists. And his thesis was rather weighty as well, "a 48,000 word study which seeks to prove planets and dust clouds in our solar system orbit in the same direction."

Somewhat entertaining news, but it just makes me wish I had A Night at the Opera with me at work today.

on the air...

2007-08-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, as mentioned earlier, I do a little radio show. It's on a college station (WVFS, the "Voice" of Florida State) and airs from 10p - 2a (EST) every Thursday evening...which is tonight...now. It's called Club Convergence and it's all electronic music...of many different genres.

Tonight I was reminded once again of how long i've been doing this. I started at the station almost right out of high school...and early on I knew I wanted to do this little show. Watched two other "elder" djs host the show during my first years at the station and was finally given control around 1992...yes, that's what I said, 1992. Which means i've basically been the show's host for the better part of 15 years (minus a short break I took in the late 90s...but we don't have to discuss that do we? Even though I just did...) Well after a short break from the show the station manager asked me to come back, without my prompting even, after two other replacements didn't work out so well).

Anyway...that was a long ramble for me to basically just put in a short plug for my little radio show. Check out the site I posted for it on Multiply.com. I've recorded shows, posted playlists and eventually i'll post a few more album and/or show reviews...seein' as the one's i posted are from last year. Stay tuned and enjoy.

Intro to make ya head grow...

2007-08-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

So, I'm at it again. My friend Zil has re-introduced me to blogger.com and i've decided to try and take full advantage of this thing. I started off with a livejournal and either got bored with it, fell into what seems to be rather common pitfalls or just gave up due to everything else in life distracting me.
Now I've got a few deadlines breathing down my neck, a renewed interest in my radio show and several reasons to try and conquer, get past or just learn from these other "life distractions" and maybe this little thingamabob can help me out. (I can't believe "thingamabob" didn't trip the "auto spell check.")
The deadline is for an interview and hopefully a couple album reviews for a new music/"culture" website and print magazine I just started working for (well, these will be my first contributions, I don't even feel comfortable saying I work for them just yet, but let's move on). Actually, though I haven't submitted anything yet, I have done a fair amount of work for SideLine magazine and was given a fine letter of recommendation from Caustic Mattie, I think I'll be ok, but I'm not going to promote it completely until I get something published.
So...I guess this will become my new (and probably alter ego) music blog...that or I'll just end up posting a lot of the same stuff on both...until I get comfortable with blogger.com. Do you subscribe to blogs on here? How do I browse my "friends' blogs?" How do I find my friends' blogs? or anyone I know is on here but that I don't know their email or their blog title (I'm pretty sure Justin K Broadrick is on here...or he was)?