Jawning

A New Era (of sorts)

2007-09-03T12:07:00.000Z

Hello good reader(s). Long time, no blog. While it has been quite sometime since my last post, I can assure you that all has returned to a somewhat tedious norm. It hasn't been easy. Recent changes in my life left me feeling a bit disillusioned and disconnected. As a consequence, my "creative energies" went right out the window. I suppose that happens from time to time...especially if you're a relatively private person. Like I said before, life brings change.

Speaking of which, I've made the conversion to the new Blogger. Apparently, I had no choice in that particular matter. But I tried to retain as much of my custom template as possible (what a headache!). I hope the page looks alright in your browsers.

Thanks for reading. Cheers.

Hi-tech Coffee

2007-03-14T07:00:00.000Z

Last week, my organization got new coffee machines for the office kitchens. When I first saw them, I thought they were Star Trek "replicators". Not only do they glow blue (as if they are about to dispense some strange alien java), but they can service you in Spanish and/or French. Extraordinary.

"Ordinateur, double espresso. Chaud."

33

2007-01-08T07:00:00.000Z

Over the weekend, I became 33 years old. Happy Birthday to me. The past three months have been somewhat of a rollercoaster. It's funny how a relatively decent year can suddenly freefall into wistful disappointment. And it's rather frustrating to head into the Holidays when you know you're not in the best of moods. However, the New Year is here and I've added a new ring to my trunk. So, let's see what the future brings.

Next month, this blog will be one year old. Blogging has been a mildly interesting experience for me. But I admit the interest has waned as I have not given the process much genuine attention over the past several months. I believe that in order for a blog to be interesting and successful (i.e. have consistent postings, readers, feedback, etc.), it must have a "Voice". And I do not believe this blog has found its "Voice". Yet.

While I'm not abandoning the endeavor, you may find this place to be somewhat inactive for a little while. In the meantime, feel free to peruse the Archives. There might be a gem or two in there somewhere...

Go West, Young Man

2006-12-14T16:30:00.000Z

This edition of the "Hot List" is dedicated to the Old West. I realized that over the past few months I've inadvertently been reading and watching a lot of stuff with a decidedly western theme. So, here is a sample ranging from the silver screen to the written word:

Deadwood - Quite possibly one of the greatest shows I have ever seen. Deadwood's third (and final) season is long over now but I never get tired of praising this incredible series. If Shakespeare or the Greek poets wrote a vulgar drama about an illegal goldmining camp set in the Dakota Territory, this would be the one. Some find the language and dialog a little too ribald for their taste. Personally, I can't get enough of it. Not to mention the fact that Ian McShane's portrayal of the notorious Al Swearengen is one for the ages.

Brokeback Mountain - Anyone who is not moved by the last 5-10 minutes of this film is simply not alive. Because whether homosexual or straight, the film's story is based on the one universal theme we can all identify with = Love. I find it very difficult to watch someone as emotionally cut-off as Heath Ledger's character, Ennis Del Mar. There is something contained in that kind of repressed frustration and pain that I think is the root cause of a lot of this world's discontent. And for some reason, I felt rather lonely after watching this film. I suppose it would have been better to have experienced it with a significant lady-friend. No such luck at the time. How is that for base irony?

The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada - Directed by Tommy Lee Jones, this is a very unusual flick about friendship, faith, and a corpse. That's right. A corpse is dragged around for pretty much the entire duration of the movie. Not only that, but it becomes the focal point of what I thought were some very dark comedic moments. The film becomes somewhat surrealist at the end but it's a worthwhile effort by Mr. Jones.

The Proposition - Written by Nick Cave (!), this Australian western is set in the Outback during the 1880s. Actors Guy Pierce and Ray Winstone do some pretty intense work here as their characters "negotiate" a very unorthodox deal. This is one of the more unsettling yet impressionistic westerns I've seen. The scenery is amazing and it gives you a sense of the desolation and remoteness of the Outback. There are moments when you can almost feel the heat coming off the screen.

Dead in the West - A quick read and a guilty pleasure. Imagine a gunslinger-priest who arrives in a small western town that is suddenly attacked by zombies. Oh yeah! Total pulp fiction. Author Joe R. Landsdale also wrote the short story "Bubba Ho-tep" which was turned into a great film (of the same name) starring Bruce Campbell. Classic.

Blood Meridian (Or the Evening Redness in the West) - Quite possibly one of the most dense, dark, and disturbing novels I've ever read. Set along the Texas-Mexico border during the 1850s, the story centers around a young boy who gets swept into the world of a gang of scalphunters. Often considered to be author Cormac McCarthy's masterpiece, the story feels like a terrifying nightmare conjured out of the myths of the Old West and placed directly on the page. This is not a tale of redemption and the book is definitely not for the squeamish as there are some horrific images contained within. However, McCarthy's deft use of language and mixed symbolism make for an incredible read.

Do shut up, Gwyneth.

2006-12-04T18:35:00.000Z

Gwyneth Paltrow kills me. Did anybody else read this story? Well, check out these brilliant quotes:

"I love the English lifestyle, it's not as capitalistic as America." "People don't talk about work and money, they talk about interesting things at dinner." "I like living here because I don't fit into the bad side of American psychology. The British are much more intelligent and civilized than the Americans."

Now, I know the U.S.A is not the most popular place on the planet these days. But it sounds to me like Gwyneth lives in a very isolated and privileged world. This just reeks of a spoiled NYC/Hollywood/London socialite who just happened to marry a world famous "rock star" and can afford to purchase a $3000 baby stroller. Or, should I say pram? Which is the more intelligent and civilized, Gwyneth?

At what point in this guy's life...

2006-11-16T01:00:00.000Z

... did he decide he was never going to have sex again?

The Church

2006-11-12T23:25:00.000Z

Ah, The Church. Now here is a band whose sermon I would attend. Listening to these guys always takes me back to the daydream days of highschool when I stayed up way too late during the summer months.

The Church are one of those rare bands that combine lush soundscapes with rather deft guitar skill. Guitarists Marty Willson-Piper and Peter Koppes are two of the most distinct players to come out of the 80's/college radio era. Each plays a unique roll by sharing various riffs and dynamics. As a result, it creates a more complex and expansive sound that allows their individual guitar "voices" to ring out. I generally tend to dislike bands with more than one guitar sound/player. But The Church have always pulled it off to wonderful effect.

Below are some great live clips I found on YouTube. The first is an acoustic version of "Metropolis" from "Gold Afternoon Fix". It's followed by another acoustic performance of "Under the Milky Way" - the classic single from the landmark album, "Starfish". But the real treat for me here is the clip of "Hotel Womb". This is one of my favorite tracks on "Starfish". It's also a great showcase for the interplay between Willson-Piper and Koppes. The band sounds fantastic.

Metropolis

Under the Milky Way

Hotel Womb

Update: apparently the embedding for this clip has been disabled. But if you click on it twice, it will take you to the actual YouTube page and then play.

The Collected Sayings of My Friend, Marcus - Vol.1

2006-11-06T14:00:00.000Z

I imagine that everyone has at least one friend or acquaintance who is a virtual goldmine of unintended comedic relief. I'm lucky in the sense that I have several. Whether intentional or not, they simply can't help themselves.

Amongst these funny people is my good pal, Marcus. Marcus may be one of the most forward and uninhibited people I know. There is no subject he will not broach and no stranger he will not approach. He's simply not afraid to make an ass out of himself. (Indeed, I've had to avert my eyes on more than one occasion.) And he's the kind of guy who gets me into strange situations on nights like this.

Making use of my cellphone's "Notepad" function, I've been able to collect several of Marcus's more random statements over the past few months. Below is a small sample of his intoxicated brilliance which I have thankfully recorded for posterity. And although they do not approach the philosophical insights of Marcus Aurelius, there is a unique wisdom contained within his words. It may be that he is simply wise beyond his beers.

Volume 1:

- Her teeth are fake but her eyes are real.
- If you had to judge a place by its handtowels, this place is right up there.
- Hey man, pick up your phone!!! I'm in liquor limbo here!
- Hey man, I'll tell you...manners is where it's at.
- Alcoholic fortitude is just flat-out impressive.
- Dude, she's hot. She's like the Beanie Baby you want to marry.
- World War III at IHOP would be pretty money.
- Hey, I was BEYOND sober!
- I don't know. He may not be able to get into certain places.
- It's like a big party...which I believe I am.

Spring Forward, Fall Back

2006-10-30T19:15:00.000Z

Sometimes you get a little sidetracked. Sometimes you start dating someone new. Sometimes you don't see your best friends for awhile. Sometimes a new relationship will suddenly stall. Sometimes a family member will be involved in a rather bad automobile accident and receive a nasty bump on the head. Sometimes people get married while others get divorced. Sometimes you realize you haven't touched a guitar in two months. Sometimes family will visit from out of state. Sometimes you turn your clock back an hour. Sometimes you wonder where the time has gone.

The Return of Battlestar Galactica

2006-10-06T17:50:00.000Z

That's right. The fight for humanity's survival returns tonight with the Season 3 premier of "Battlestar Galactica". Without a doubt, "BSG" is one of the most intense and well written programs you will find on TV. It's pretty hard to believe that this remake of a campy '70s sci-fi show has turned into one hell of a social-political commentary steeped in post 9/11 allegory.

I've been with the show since the mini-series pilot and it has been neat to see the amount of critical acclaim it has received over the course of the first two seasons. Not to mention the fact that some good friends of mine (both male and female) who normally wouldn't be caught dead watching a sci-fi show, are now loyal, converted fans. It's dark, smart, and edgy stuff. Check it out.

Cocteau Twins - Iceblink Luck

2006-10-04T13:50:00.000Z

Ahhh, the lovely Cocteau Twins. Anyone remember this little ditty?

This is the video for "Iceblink Luck" from "Heaven or Las Vegas" - probably my favorite Cocteau Twins album. Yet, this was not always the case. There was a time in my life when it had the ability to turn me into an emotional puddle. But it's such a dreamy record. Who could forget the ethereal vocal stylings of Elizabeth Fraser? Has anyone ever made near glossolalia sound so beautiful? And as a guitar player, it's very easy for me to get lost in Robin Guthrie's watery-fuzz guitar sound.

What I like most about videos like this is the sense of minimalism. There are no big set pieces. It's more about the mixing of color and sound and how they seem to compliment each other (while also letting the song stand on its own merits). As a dilettante musician, this is of a particular interest to me = I often see colors and shapes when playing or listening to certain pieces of music. I wonder if there is a word or phrase for that phenomena...

Backtrack here if you're looking for some more nostalgic shoegazin'. Cause everyone needs a little My Bloody Valentine.

Leaves are falling...

2006-09-28T20:55:00.000Z

This morning as I headed out to work, I noticed that several brown leaves had fallen on the windshield and hood of my car. I paused for a moment, took a look around at the trees in my neighborhood and realized that the season is already changing. It's pretty hard to believe considering how beautiful a day it is today. But there is no mistake, the leaves are turning and Fall will soon be on the march.

It's wistful moments like these that bring to mind just how fast this year has been cruising by. I admit that I'm not entirely comfortable with the passage of time. Lately, it seems that I've been thinking increasingly about my age, family, friends, and certain unrealized dreams and expectations. As time goes by, the reality of these things sharpen in focus. And the only guarantee is that life (at some point, some day, somehow) will bring change.

Something unexpected happened to me last Friday. And without jumping to conclusions, it could signal a coming change in my life. I'm both excited and cautious. I suppose time will tell...as always.

Anyway, my apologies for the recent lack of posts. There are more on the way.

Notes to self: 1. Be more vigilant in finishing blog drafts. 2. Pick up a birthday card. 3. Purchase a new pair of casual dress shoes. 4. Believe only in what people do and not what they say.

The Sad News of Steve Irwin

2006-09-04T06:11:00.000Z

Wow, this is really sad and really bizarre. Apparently, Australia's famous "Crocodile Hunter", Steve Irwin, has died from a stingray barb through the heart. He was just 44 years old.

For a guy who used to wrestle crocodiles and tangle with the world's most poisonous snakes, I suppose you could say he walked a dangerous tightrope. But to be killed by a stingray?! Crikey.

As crazy as he may have seemed, it was hard not to get caught up in his infectious enthusiasm for animals and nature. There were always risks involved. And he took many. It's just such a shame that he now leaves behind a wife and two very young children. RIP, mate.

Keith Olbermann on Donald Rumsfeld

2006-08-31T16:25:00.000Z

Last night, Keith Olbermann delivered an incredible commentary on Donald Rumsfeld's recent fascism remarks to the American Legion convention. I have to say, I was very impressed.

Over the past several months, I have become quite the fan of Mr. Olbermann. Although I usually don't subscribe to the various talking heads and pundits, I think his show, "Countdown", has really started to come into its own. I also happen to find it much more relevant in tone than the increasingly smug "The Daily Show".

Crooks and Liars has the video here and the transcript here. I think you will find it worth your time.

Boy, you go to the beach for a few days and the Solar System loses a planet!

2006-08-24T20:10:00.000Z

Pluto...we hardly knew ya. -- I'll be back with more later after I recover from this shocking news.

Want A Cheap Romance?

2006-08-14T19:30:00.000Z

Ladies, you know you do...

I love this ol' t-shirt of mine. I suppose I've had it for roughly 12 years or so.
As a jogger who runs Arlington's popular Wilson/Clarendon Boulevard four nights a week, I'm constantly amused by the reaction I get whenever wearing this shirt. It never fails to turn some heads.

Truth be told, it's actually a walking advertisement for BJ's Books in Warrenton, VA. BJ's is a longstanding used-bookstore and an old highschool hang-out of mine (if ever there was one). But it's funnier to think that I wear this shirt as part of a goofy ploy to find sweet, cheap love...

The Heat...the Burn...the Cool.

2006-08-08T16:40:00.000Z

Have you ever caught yourself having a true moment of clarity? For example: you build up a certain situation in your mind, it gradually becomes a source of anxiety, and then it occurs to you that it should have never become so in the first place. Well, earlier this week, I found myself having this exact experience. It's certainly not the first time and I know it probably won't be the last. But why do we sometimes forget a lesson already learned?

One thing I've noticed through the years is that there are certain patterns in my life. The patterns aren't necessarily set behavior. Usually, they tend to be more broad based and tangential. (I'm sure most folks can relate.) But every so often, I find myself re-experiencing a certain feeling or situation and I have to ask myself: "Haven't I been through this before?". I'm going to refer to this little premise as: "The Heat...the Burn...the Cool".

The Heat - This is the moment when someone or something new has suddenly stumbled into your life. It's a clear moment; you are immediately aware of what's happening and all your senses are open to it. You feel like you're on fire. The excitement is such a rush that you don't realize you may have inadvertently left yourself wide open for disappointment. (Such is life, no?)

The Burn - This is the period of time when you begin to dwell on whatever has transpired. At first, you are excited by the possibilities and you feel like the sky's the limit. But you start to replay bits of conversation in your mind and find that you're second guessing your initial feelings. You begin to suspect that the situation may not be everything it was cracked up to be. You become frustrated with doubt which you know is completely unwarranted. Suddenly, the single most burning thought running through your mind is: "I need to know what the Hell that was all about!".

The Cool - This is when you decide to take action. The uncertainty has finally reached a level which is no longer acceptable. The whole thing feels silly. The time has come and you make a move. Now, the result may not be what you were hoping for. Yet you may also find that there is more to the story. What truly matters is that you did something about it. You realize that the bag of bricks you've been carrying should have never been picked up in the first place. That weight is now off your shoulders. The moment of clarity follows soon after: "Everything is cool. So...why did I get so worked up about this?".

Now, if it seems like I'm being intentionally vague here it's because I am. Not too long ago, I felt the Heat for about three weeks. I nursed the Burn for about 5 months. And as of last week, I finally stepped into the Cool. It's such a relief.

James Carville = Funny looking man.

2006-08-07T22:04:00.000Z

This morning, as I was walking into work, I had myself a little James Carville sighting. I suppose you could say that it would be pretty hard not to recognize him. He is a funny looking man. But I got a kick out of the fact that he was all "incognito" wearing a simple black t-shirt, jeans, a pair of hiking shoes, and some hipster glasses.

I have no idea what he was doing in Courthouse - Arlington. But as we passed each other, I turned to watch him get into a huge, black Cadillac waiting for him along the plaza sidewalk. It was all I could do to keep from saying, "Hey, sweet ride there, Carv!".

It's Friday. I feel like Shoegazing.

2006-07-28T12:41:00.000Z

"Swallow" - My Bloody Valentine. I really miss this band.

"50 Most Beautiful People On Capitol Hill"

2006-07-26T19:16:00.000Z

Just when my faith in the people who work in and around Capitol Hill couldn't possibly be tested further...I stumble upon this. That's just super. Good for them. How cute. How irrelavent. And it's comforting to know that there are contests for this type of stuff. For some reason, it takes me back to the glory days of Washingtonienne.

Jawning (Slight Return)

2006-07-26T06:16:00.000Z

Hey kids - my apologies for the lack of new posts. The past few weeks have been a little busy and, as a consequence, I let slip my blogging duties. I wish I had a whole bunch of cool, exciting, blog-worthy stuff to post. Unfortunately, none of that has really been going on. Life took one of those random reflective turns and suddenly everything became nostalgic.

The good news is that I bought a brand new laptop computer. This thing is going to help make my life a lot easier in so many little ways. I've already begun to spoil myself with the freedom of wi-fi. So, I'm back in the game. More to come soon...keep an eye open.

The Writing On The Wall

2006-07-01T21:56:00.000Z

At one of my favorite Arlington bars (Dr. Dremo's), you can find the following graffiti written on the wall of the upstairs Men's Room:

"Just because you've read a Pynchon novel does not make you intelligentsia."

I have no idea where this statement comes from or in what context it was meant. But it kills me everytime I see it.

Drinks and Wagers

2006-06-27T18:22:00.000Z

One night in late May, I was drinking heavily with a buddy of mine at a local Arlington bar. I say "drinking heavily" because on top of my normal rate of consumption, a couple of bar regulars thought it would be a good idea to buy everyone within earshot several rounds of cocktails. Whatever we wanted - they were buying. So, who am I to say no to a few free Bourbon Manhattans?!

Anyway, in the course of this increasingly rowdy evening, several topics of conversation were covered. Items such as: women, drinking, our favorite TV shows, Iraq/Iran, Democrats vs. Republicans, and starting a flag-football match with the patrons of the bar across the street. And as the revelry progressed, it was becoming quite clear that we were entering that phase of drinking when opinions somehow become increasingly heated and focused. This never fails to amuse me considering alcohol's ability to render one's mind useless. Yet, it was through that exact haze of impairment that I witnessed two of this bar's regulars wager a most interesting bet.

The Bet - the United States will destroy Iran's nuclear facilities with a nuclear attack by the end of the month of June (aka June 30th).

The Players -

For: a middle-aged regular, probably in his mid-5os, told a funny story about how they all witnessed a guy masturbating outside of the bar one night, works for the Department of the Interior and claims to have it on "good authority" that the U.S. will nuke Iran sooner than we think (thereby making it "the 3rd time such a weapon will have been used in warfare"). He declared the bet and set the wager at $200.

Against: a younger regular in his mid-20s, works for General Dynamics, proceeded to drink several varieties of liquor including Vodka, wine, and bourbon, was already loaded upon our arrival, sweated profusely and compulsively bit his lower lip while speaking...leading my buddy to believe that he was gay and high on cocaine. He was willing to grant the older gentleman 5-to-1 odds in the belief that the U.S. will not attack Iran by the end of the month.

The Stakes - If the attack does not occur, the younger guy gets paid $200. However, should the lunacy actually take place, the older gentleman receives $1000.

The Witnesses - My buddy, several regulars, the bartender, and myself.

The Reminder - This Friday is June 30th. What are the chances that this bet actually goes down?

Financial Identity Theft - It's a bitch.

2006-06-21T15:40:00.000Z

A few weeks ago, I received a telephone call from my bank's ATM card security company. They were calling to make an inquiry regarding some "suspicious activity" that had recently taken place on my card. Suspicious activity as in:

"Did you buy gas in Virginia this past Friday? OK, did you then make a purchase in a Canadian health spa and drop a ton of cash in Japan less than 24 hours later? We thought we should check with you on this."

Indeed! It turns out that someone actually gained electronic access to my ATM card (including my fabled PIN number) and went on a wild shopping spree in strange foreign lands. A shopping spree totaling nearly $800. Well, after making it abundantly clear to my bank that it was not me spending this lavish fortune abroad, I was informed that my card had been frozen and that a new one would have to be issued...PIN and all. And although the "suspicious activity" was "flagged" by the security company, the bank advised me to monitor my account just in case the transactions do, in fact, post.

Long story short, I was going through my new bank statement last night and three of these rogue transactions appear to have gotten through. Shocker. So, now I've got to visit my nearest bank office and sign an affidavit which declares that it was not me who spent $723 in Japan. Afterwards, I should be reimbursed the full amount.

Yet, now that I'm thinking about it...I can see myself spending some cash in Japan. Whoever this person was that hacked my ATM card...they were probably having a ton o' fun. So, why not give me a heads-up? Why not ask if I'd like to tag along instead of robbing me blind? You never know...I might like to go to Japan. Hell, I'd probably spend more than $723. Just show me where to go and I'll make sure we rock the Land of the Rising Sun. Now would that be considered some sort of weird Stockholm Syndrome thing?

Weekend - A View of the Shore

2006-06-13T19:28:00.000Z

Corolla, North Carolina - 6/12/06.

The beach, old friends, cocktails and wedding nuptials. Thanks to everyone for such a great time and a long drive home...

Ben Roethlisberger

2006-06-13T00:10:00.000Z

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was in a motorcycle accident this morning. Apparently, he is banged-up real good. Ben. Buddy. My football champion. For now on, just wear the helmet. OK, dude?

Oh, come on Blogger!

2006-06-09T19:24:00.000Z

Unfortunately, Blogger's unscheduled maintenance problems killed the energy I had to complete two of yesterday's intended posts. So, here are the "Reader's Digest"/condensed versions:

- Young Women Love Anderson Cooper!

CNN's Anderson Cooper visited my favorite local Olsson's bookstore Wednesday evening. He was making a promotional stop for his new memoir "Dispatches From The Edge". Unfortunately, he only spoke for about 10 minutes and did not take any questions from the audience. Apparently, it was more of a book-signing-only-type thing. But he did manage to relay a very funny story about how he ran into Steven Seagal (!) in New Orleans during the Hurricane Katrina aftermath. One thing I learned from Mr. Cooper's appearance (despite the speculation of his sexual preference): young women love Anderson Cooper! They came out en masse for the guy! Once again, something to help prove my theory that DC area women like their men shiny.

- Speaking of Ann Coulter...

What a whore. The statements made in her new book "Godless: The Church of Liberalism" are causing quite the firestorm in the media/blogosphere. Click here and watch her flail away in a desperate attempt to defend the indefensible. The woman's point is clear: she has none. Unless of course, you count the willingness and desire to say anything in order to make a buck. But what do you expect from a walking, talking, uber-conservative-praying-mantis in a cocktail dress? So sad. So empty.

Apocalypse...now?

2006-06-06T14:10:00.000Z

June 6, 2006 or 6-6-6 = an ominous date. Yet, I suppose one can't deny the fact that we seem to be living in ominous times. Considering what is going on in the world, it doesn't really surprise me the rumored fuss surrounding today's date. The stress of world events eventually takes its toll on folks. I think it gets to everyone at some point. When you take into account Iraq, Iran, recent earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, Donald Trump's hair, and the fact that Ann Coulter still walks the planet...it's hard not to feel that it's all building up to something.

There are times when I don't know what upsets me more - the self-appointed "doomists" and naysayers or those who blindly believe in and apparently look forward to an end-of-days-type scenario. (I hate to think that my world may come to an end simply because some fool thinks that is what was supposed to happen. Seriously, what could be more lame than a self-fulfilling prophecy?)

I work with a gentleman who is originally from Syria. He is a great guy, married, father of three. He is Muslim (a very moderate Alawis). Everyday he consumes himself with the events of the Middle East. In particular, the Iraq War. For his lunchbreak, he usually takes his food to a conference room in order to watch CNN. Unfortunately, his keeping track of all this worldly "bad news" has lead him to believe that something huge and terrible is on its way (we're talking Koran-like, Biblical, wrath of God-type stuff). At times, his anxiety over this is clearly visible.

Last Friday, I agreed to join him for lunch. As we discussed current events, CNN began to report particular developments going on within Iraq and Israel/Palestine. And I suppose it was only a matter of time before he finally threw his hands up in frustration and began hurling expletives at the TV screen. So, lunch kind of ended on a bum note. Feeling somewhat concerned for his sudden change of mood, I quickly emailed him this short message:

"Hold steady, believe in the goodness of people. If and when something crazy and horrible happens, it will be the goodness of people that will get us through it."

Later that afternoon, as we passed each other in the hallway, he actually gave me a hug and said that was exactly what he needed to hear.

Now, maybe I'm naive. I just hope that I'm right.

The Wisdom of Manny Coon

2006-05-23T14:20:00.000Z

I had quite the socializing time this past weekend. Between Friday evening and early Monday morning, I managed to watch some live music, play some live music, hear from old friends, make a couple new ones, peruse the shops of Arlington, make smalltalk with an "exotic dancer", enjoy several cocktails, drop a ton of cash, and stay up way too late for three straight nights. And there appeared to be some college graduation stuff going on over the weekend, too. For whatever reason, it became a topic of conversation with two totally different people on separate nights. Both discussions shared amusing observations on college commencement speeches and the strange assortment of people who give them.

Last night, while trying to recover from my weekend's activities, I decided to lay down and watch a few episodes of The Kids In The Hall on DVD. The Kids have a nostalgic place in my mind and were probably one of the greatest sketch comedy troupes to ever garner a laugh. As I scrolled through the scene selection portion of the DVD menu, I stumbled upon a long forgotten "Manny Coon" sketch. The premise: Manny Coon is a world famous artist who looks like he's on a five day bender. He has been chosen to give the commencement speech to a graduating class of art students. Now, I must have watched this bit about three times over. The speech's delivery is comedy gold. Considering the nature of the past few days, I felt my laughing at this finally brought my weekend to a close. It managed to tie a few random "themes" together quite nicely.

So, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the wisdom of Manny Coon as performed by the one and only, Scott Thompson of The Kids In The Hall. If only every commencement speech was as enlightening as this one...

---------------

"Good evening, graduating class of the Ontario College of Art. My name is Manny Coon. And I've been asked to speak to you about art. Yet when I look out over your sea of vacant faces, I feel like...to puke. 'Cause I don't think any of you have suffered like ol' Manny Coon here has suffered.

I was born in a brothel, in a town which now no longer exists. When I was born, my mother mistook the afterbirth as my twin. And the cuter one, too, apparently as I was immediately sold to the cleaning woman for a stamp. The cleaning woman went by the name of Magda...lived out on the edge of town in an abandoned freezer....with a bum named Lucky.

Magda and Lucky used to fight over who's turn it was to beat me. So, to distract myself from the misery of my surroundings, I began to draw. And I drew whatever I could get my hands on. Flattened Kleenex boxes, tin cans, fruit. But nothing fresh. I never had a fresh piece of fruit until I was 21. And it was a lime. I still take the existence of peaches on hearsay...

I was kicked out of the freezer when I hit puberty. So, I hit the open road in search of fame and fortune. For the next ten years I wandered, sorta like that German Shepard...Hobo. Except I don't lick strangers faces unless I'm fucking them.

My school was the open road. Pain and suffering, my textbooks. My teachers, the gypsies and rapscallions I met along the way. The only constant in my life was art. For you see boys and girls I, Manny Coon, am enslaved to the harshest mistress of all...my muse. That bitch rode the right side of my brain for all she was worth. Always driving me on to find that shade of blue that makes you cry, that red that makes you hot. And always...always, to paint bigger and better tits.

For you see I, Manny Coon, had a cri-de-coeur one day. "Manny", I said, "What is it that gets to the people?" It was the tits. From there on I only painted tits! Green tits...yellow tits...blue tits...tits with three nipples! Tits over Atlanta. Tits in wool and fur. Installation tits. Tits, tits, TITS!!! And the result?! Now my work hangs in all the best galleries on the planet. The art world is lined up to collectively kiss my ass.

So, here I stand before you, drunk...smug...impotent. The only way I can cum is to be hit by a bus. And I'm supposed to give you advice about art! The only advice I can give you is...every morning paint something. I don't care what it is. A bottle of wine, a carrot, your favorite member of Menudo. Me? I like to paint a genital first thing. If I'm too hung over, I photocopy my balls. If you're worrying about chromosome damage, don't bother. Artists shouldn't have kids.

I don't really give a shit what you do. Just don't do it in my livingroom. Good luck!"

A Lewis Black Moment

2006-05-15T14:52:00.000Z

It's funny the strange things you may hear people say out loud in public. Earlier this morning, as I walked out of my usual coffee joint, I noticed two young women approaching me from the left. Trying to look devilishly handsome while I sipped my delicious cafe mocha, my ears began to pick up the first signals of their oncoming conversation. Just as I began to cross the street, this is what I heard them say verbatim:

- "Oh my God, that is sooo cute! Where did you get that?"

- "At the funeral service."

Now, I don't have the slightest clue what these young ladies were talking about. I'm not even sure I would understand. Unfortunately, this little conversation is going to replay itself over and over in my head. And it's going to make me go cross-eyed with insanity.

*If you're unsure, click here for the Lewis Black reference...

"Run To The Hiiilllsss!"

2006-05-12T14:25:00.000Z

Good Lord!!! Have you ever had a special dream? What about a special Rock n' Roll dream? Take a look at this guy and tell me he doesn't have a super-duper special Rock n' Roll dream. This guy is pumping out more hard rockin' than you can possibly imagine. I'm actually thinking of turning in my Guitar Players Union card...

Point of interest: not only would I like to know how this guy's voice sounded, I would love to know what song he was belting out. It definitely looks like it required some power. (Photo courtesy of Bubba "Geezer". Thanks.)

A Featured Speaker

2006-05-10T15:16:00.000Z

I had somewhat of a random evening last night. After work, I decided to make a quick stop at my local Olsson's Books & Records. While strolling through the CD racks, I noticed that the store was set-up for an in-store guest appearance. Turns out that the featured speaker was the former Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security, Clark Kent Ervin. Not being in any particular rush, I decided to hang around and check it out.

Apparently, Mr. Ervin is on a small promotional tour for his book, "Open Target". Speaking for about half-an-hour, he reiterated the primary focus of his book which is: America is still vulnerable to terrorist attacks. And, nearly five years after 9/11, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) still doesn't have its act together. (This really shouldn't come as a shock to anyone who has been paying attention. It's thoroughly embarrassing.) Afterwards, he answered questions from the audience and autographed a few books.

My impression of Mr. Ervin is that he is quite short and diminutive in stature. He is also soft-spoken and extremely polite. Almost too polite. Therefore, I had a hard time imagining him in such a hard-ass position as the Inspector General of the DHS. But overall, I found his presentation informative and fairly interesting (especially the Q&A period).

I did consider buying a copy of "Open Target" and even thought of asking him a question about 9/11. Instead, I opted to buy copies of the new Editors and Animal Collective albums. Oh well.

AFL, Round 7

2006-05-08T18:14:00.000Z

FYI: I dig Aussie Rules Football. I just received my AFL Footy Tipping Competition results for Round 6. Out of 8 weekend matches, I picked (tipped) 7 winners. This put me in first place and 2 matches ahead of everyone else in my league. The weekend's results helped to push my overall AFL Tipping Competition ranking to #12,306 out of 123,086. I'm gonna brag a little here because that's all we're playing for: bragging rights.

Last season, my favorite team was the West Coast Eagles. Despite losing the final, they were magnificent all year. This season, they started off undefeated: 5-0. However, this weekend the Fremantle Dockers finally handed them their first defeat. Fremantle barely walked away with a narrow 5pt. victory.

And as much as I like the Eagles and their impressive middle line-up, I have to say that the Collingwood Magpies are really coming on strong. At 5-1, Collingwood has already won more games than they did all of last year. It's been quite the surprise. They now find themselves at the top of the "Footy Ladder" after having destroyed Carlton by 72 points. That's a certified thrashing.

So, it's time to gear-up for Round 7. And lookie here - West Coast and Collingwood will be squaring off at the Subiaco Oval. The footy is going to be intense!

UFO?

2006-05-02T22:25:00.000Z

Or, just some girls dancing at a club? You decide. My memory of this is a little...fuzzy.

Happening Scene

2006-05-01T14:06:00.000Z

* Disclaimer: I've been a dilettante musician and have played in various bands for roughly 18 years. From time to time, I try to write songs. As a guitar player, I feel fortunate that producing new music has never really been a problem. I'm lucky there. However, lyric writing has always proved to be a slow, arduous process. For me, it's a little like trying to get blood from a stone.

Over the past two weeks, I've been sorting through the various lyric sheets, poems, outlines, and random ideas that I've accumulated over the years. It's been an interesting exercise; one that is intended to get me more into a creative headspace, jumpstart new ideas, and finish some older ones.

Below is one of the few quirkier ideas I found titled, "Happening Scene". It's an unfinished song lyric that was written sometime during 2000-early 2001. Around this time, I was listening to a number of bands like Pavement, Guided By Voices, and Archers Of Loaf. These bands are of a genre of music that I used to affectionately call, "Loser Rock".

Anyway, this song idea falls under my influences at that time. It was supposed to consist of some clever, self-deprecating wordplay centered around a catchy melody and a repetitive chord progression. Musically, I thought the song would have some great band dynamics and the melody had tremendous sing-along potential. (I can still hear it in my head!) But ultimately, the song just never seemed to work. These goofball lyrics may have something to do with that. As an example, they show that not every idea I've had was a good one...

--------------------

Woke up early morning and had a cup of caffeine brew.
Took a long look in the mirror and thought about what I should do.
Made an appointment with a stylist and thought about a new hairdo.
Cause those guys on the TV always look so hip and cool.

Well, it's a casual affirmation / attempt at motivation
some kind of nonsensical ego stimulation
supposed to cure my aggravation / all my hesitations
and make me feel like a million bucks.
And if I can get that clearance / based simply on appearance
won't have to worry about internal interference.
All my troubles will be over / and with a four leaf clover
I might just get to rock it out / rock it out / rock it out.

Well, I've got my act together and I'm ready for a happening scene.
Moved on all the latest trends and I read up on the magazines.
Tips on "How To Manage Money" and "Find The Girl Of Your Dreams".
Learned all the latest techniques on just how cool I can be.

And all those girls in their Capri pants / looking for some romance
they're dying to show off that UV bed tan
to anyone that's watching / and got the proper fashion.
Dressed to impress with brand name flash.
They're always wearing too much makeup / and talking 'bout some break up.
The love of their lives that they just can't change.
I take them at their meaning / and understand their feelings.
But I just want to rock it out / rock it out / rock it out.

These Spiders Are High

2006-04-27T21:53:00.000Z

This is totally random and just what I need after a rather hectic couple of weeks. If you have ever wanted to see a web that's been spun by a spider on drugs, check it out...

Hot List

2006-04-14T17:32:00.000Z

Here is a little "Hot List" of things to check out for the month of April...

Silver Screen (DVD):

The Squid And The Whale - A great indie-drama/dark comedy. The story centers around two intellectual "elitist" parents going through a separation and the undo strain they put upon their two young sons. As a child of divorce, I found that the central themes resonated easily with me. But it was the smaller character moments and clever observations (such as the parents trying to establish dominance over one another) that I found to be spot-on. Also, I've grown increasingly impressed with Jeff Daniels' body of work. I think he is one of the better American actors working today.

DiG! - This is a great rock n' roll documentary about the supposed rivalry between The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Dandy Warhols. Filmed over a period of 7 years, the film focuses on the relationship between bandleaders Anton Newcombe (BJM) and Courtney Taylor-Taylor (The Dandies) and how it evolved from admiration to contempt. Being somewhat of a "hobbyist musician" myself, I found this film to be fascinating, hilarious, annoying, and frustrating. Despite how you feel about someone's music, it's hard not to admire the artistic madness that consumes some musicians. But there is a downside = musicians tend to be full of BS. And when the slightest reward is given to one for his/her art, even the most humble strummer can turn into a full blown egomaniac. I know some people very similar to those portrayed in this film. So, there was a lot for me to laugh at and think about. (Be on the lookout for the BJM tambourine player, Joel Gion. He steals the movie.)

Honorable TV Mention:

Frontline - A fantastic investigative journalism show on PBS. I try to watch this as often as I can. I find the reporting to be very level-headed and fair and the tone is appropriately somber since most of the topics tend to be a bit "heavy". The most recent episode entitled, "Tank Man" was about the tragic events of the Tiananmen Square Uprising in China. They presented a fascinating juxtaposition of China during the events and China as it exists today. It was interesting to see the progress that's been made and at what cost. Also, they attempt to answer what happened to the man who stood in front of the tank in that famous image seen around the world. I highly recommend checking out the "Frontline" link above for more information.

* I hope to get something a little more creative and insightful going on here soon. Time will tell! In the meantime, Happy Easter.

A Quote For Today

2006-04-13T19:40:00.000Z

"Some people see things that are and ask why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask why not? Some people have to go to work and don't have time for all that..." - George Carlin

"Soaked with the Power of Prayer"

2006-04-07T21:40:00.000Z

This week, I received the most ridiculous piece of junkmail I think I have ever seen in my life. The mailing is from the Saint Matthew's Churches (Friends of Jesus for 55 Glorious Years of Service!). Essentially, it's a solicitation for their "Prayer By Letters" program. Enclosed is an explanatory letter, testimonials, and a "Prayer Rug".

The letter states (with grammar the likes of which I have not seen since elementary school) that they are loaning me the "Prayer Rug" which contains God's holy blessing power. I am to use the Prayer Rug for a period of 24 hours and then return it to Saint Matthew's Churches with my generous monetary donation and my "prayer needs" checked off. The use of the Prayer Rug is intended as follows:

"...go into a room where you can be alone (just God and you). Turn off the television and radio and try to be by yourself when you kneel on this Holy Ghost, Bible Prayer Rug, or spread it over your knees."

"Timing is important to God. After you kneel on this Church Prayer Rug, or place it over your knees, place it in a Bible on Philippians 4:19. (If you don't have a Bible, it's okay-just slide it under your side of your bed, for tonight, if you can. If you can't do this, it is okay. Leave It There No Longer Than Tonight Only! God sees. Then, in the morning it is a must that you get this unusual blessing Church Prayer Rug out of this house and back to us, here at the church's chapel prayer room, in faith. We must also have this letter back, with whatever you need prayer for printed on page two. You must get this Bible Prayer Rug back to us so we can rush it onto another family that's in need of a blessing. Do this without fail. Please do not break this flow of power between us."

The Prayer Rug is about as creepy as it gets. It looks like a miniature Oriental rug with a purple-hued image of Jesus Christ wearing the Crown of Thorns located in the middle. The image is apparently designed much like those old optical illusion games (stare at the image long enough, eventually it will turn into something else or reveal something in the background). The instructions located at the bottom of this thing read as follows:

"Look into Jesus' Eyes you will see they are closed. But as you continue to look you will see His eyes opening and looking back into your eyes. Then go and be alone and kneel on this Rug of Faith or touch it to both knees. Then please check you needs on our letter to you. Please return this Prayer Rug. Do not keep it."

And turning the Prayer Rug over, reveals the following:

"This Prayer Rug is Soaked with the Power of Prayer for you. Use it immediately, then please return it with your Prayer Needs Checked on our letter to you. It must be mailed to a second home that needs a blessing after you use it. Prayer works. Expect God's blessing."

Well, color me impressed. Because according to the "testimonials", the damn thing works. Check it out:

- C.D. from Pennsylvania says, "God blessed me with over $5,000.".
- T.F. from Texas says, "Our Lord...Has blessed us with a big 6 room house...".
- R.T. from Delaware says, "God made it possible for us to buy 17 acres of land...".
- Y.G. from (?) says, "...$46,888.20 has me out of debt!".

Wow! Y.G. got exactly the amount of money he/she needed!

Unfriggin'believable.

The Boat Has A Leak

2006-04-07T15:26:00.000Z

Well, it appears that in court papers filed in the CIA-Plame leak case, Lewis "Scooter" Libby (the former VP Chief of Staff) has stated that it was President Bush who authorized the leaking of classified information to the press in an effort to discredit Iraq War intelligence critic, Joe Wilson. It's funny when you consider that back in 2003, Bush declared anyone found to have illegally disclosed classified information would no longer work for his Administration. He also stated that since it's a criminal action, he "look(s) forward to finding the truth". I believe Senator John Kerry said it best during two separate cable news interviews given last night - Bush must have been "looking for himself the past two years".

It's interesting. The Office of the Presidency does have the capacity to de-classify classified information. However, there is usually a customary review protocol/process that must be completed in order to ensure that the ways-and-means with which the information was acquired remains protected. It appears that this process was completely bypassed. (I can already hear the semantics of the "Law vs. Presidential Powers" debate which is sure to follow.)

Yesterday, Bush spoke before the World Affairs Council at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC. And whether you utterly despise Bush or believe in his professed good intentions, I think it's fair to say that at this point, everyone should be asking themselves, "What in the world is going on?!" and "Why isn't anyone openly confronting Bush with the country's voice of doubt?!". Well, Harry Taylor is one who got his chance to say a few things to the President. (Interestingly enough, he did so in a quiet, appreciative manner.) Although what he said didn't go over too well with those in attendance, you could almost hear a round of applause coming from another audience - the country.

Meanwhile, this continues with no apparent end in sight. Now, is it just me or does anyone else feel like there is a political levee about to break?

Getting "LOST"

2006-03-30T21:34:00.000Z

Last night on "LOST", John Locke stumbled upon this hidden map (which was illuminated by blacklight) located on an interior blast door of "The Hatch". WTF?! How frustrating and addictive is this show?!

Odds & Dobbs

2006-03-29T14:57:00.000Z

Lou Dobbs - Did anyone else see Lou Dobbs go off while talking with Wolf Blitzer in "The Situation Room" the other night? It was in response to the breaking news that nuclear material had been smuggled across the borders in a covert test. I can't recall the last time I saw a TV network reporter/personality (in this case CNN) go all-out in his remarks regarding the current government. There was no attempt to disguise it as an "editorial" either. He was "pray(ing) to God we don't have another attack" and stating that our border policy is "a sham perpetrated on the American people". Yeah, he was a little hot under the collar. And after having just watched "Good Night and Good Luck" this past weekend, it was a welcomed change of pace.

Rahman - For some reason, I am really relieved for this man. "Arrivederci!" Afghanistan. "Ciao!" Italy.

Eclipse - Nothing I can say. A total eclipse of the sun...

Chuck Sheen Is On The Case.

2006-03-21T22:37:00.000Z

Interesting. Well, I'm certainly comforted to know that Terrorist Attack Forensics Expert, Charlie Sheen, has joined "a growing army of other highly credible public figures" in questioning the events of September 11, 2001.

You gotta love conspiracy theories though. Seriously. How many people would you have to buy-off in order for something on the scale of 911 to work? 1,000? 10,000? 100,000? Would you have to hire ILM to create the holographic projections of the planes placed over the missiles? Cause believe it or not, I've heard that one, too.

Gospel Pains

2006-03-20T19:39:00.000Z

Sunday morning I managed to catch the replay of ABC's "Nightline" story on Kirk Cameron. All I can say is - Mike Seaver...we hardly knew ya. Now, I'm not usually given over to making critical remarks concerning one's particular faith or religion. However, in the case of Mr. Cameron, I may have to make a slight exception.

My main issue with organized religion has always been the stigma of fear that permeates nearly all of its forms. I generally believe that the central message of any great faith gets caught in this dogma noose = the fear that one may not be living a "correct" life in the eyes of God(s). Now, when you combine that fear with one's compulsion to "spread the word", an interesting thing seems to happen. You begin to notice a strange, unsettling fire in their eyes. You can see it in the faces of the Evangelicals, the radical Islamists, and just about every fundamentalist of every type. It's almost as if the giving of oneself over completely to God(s) leaves one not entirely there. Of course, some would say that is the point. But I wonder...

Kirk Cameron's message and beliefs seem to have materialized out of a literal "fear of hell". Now, he aggressively seeks to bring his personalized message to as many of the unenlightened as he can. And that message is all too familiar: if you follow my way of Christianity, I can save you. Well, after watching him speak on "Nightline", I could tell he means business. He had that strange, unsettling fire in his eyes. I'm sure he means well. But don't they all?

Curious...when Kirk speaks to God, does God sound like Alan Thicke?

Beannachtam na Feile Padraig!

2006-03-17T16:05:00.000Z

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone. If you are Irish (or even just a wee bit), celebrate appropriately. If you are not Irish...bloody pretend to be. Seriously, drink well but be safe.

Wow. The Universe and the Big Bang. Whoever thought inflation could be so amazing?! I find this stuff fascinating and it increases my belief that the universe is something meant to be explored and understood. The more we know, the more superstition falls by the wayside and the less there is to fear.

Fear is a big part of our world today. I would very much like to see us "wisen up" a bit. So, I wish everyone the "Luck of the Irish". May you find yourself enjoying a Guinness with family & friends at your favorite watering hole. Even if it's at the end of the Universe...

Cheers.

Earl Grey Tea. Hot.

2006-03-16T18:41:00.000Z

Actor Patrick Stewart's character Jean-Luc Picard on "Star Trek: TNG" was right. Earl Grey Tea served hot (with just the right amount of sugar) is pretty money.

Random Tidings

2006-03-15T23:04:00.000Z

Last week marked the "One Month Anniversary" of this blog. I'd like to thank the Academy and the 16 strangers who viewed my profile for helping me make it this far. It has been a somewhat random couple of weeks. I hope to settle into a more consistent and frequent chain of thought here. So, in celebration of "all-things-random", here are a few selected links. What their relationship may be to one another is entirely up to you...

Glenn Greenwald. - This guy's blog has apparently generated some "blogosphere" buzz. I'll try to read up and see what gives.

"Brownie". - In the wake of Katrina, I find this interesting. The re-evaluation of former FEMA Director, Michael Brown. Apparently, several well known online personalities have "lightened up" on the guy after new information/video came to light. I suppose that's what happens when bloggers designate themselves as judge, jury, and executioner.

NESARA. - Strange creepy stuff here...

Pete Doherty. - What a doofus. Everytime I check out the latest UK music news, this bloke is either canceling gigs, getting arrested for drugs, or is making another court appearance. Seriously, it's a daily thing with this guy. If there was a genuine sense of rock n' roll mischief about him it might be funny. Where is Keith Moon when we need him?

"Two men enter..."

2006-03-08T16:21:00.000Z

Now, wouldn't it be ironic if our Iraq War "Exit Strategy" was to actually go into Iran? Because, as one would expect, the roosters are puffing their chests out and they're starting to crow. Since the UN seems to be completely neutered these days, why don't we just settle these global disputes with good ol' gladitorial combat. What do you say? Do you think President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad would step into the ring with Dick "Nice Shootin' Tex" Cheney? Or, am I just being glib in the face of further war?

"This business will get out of control. It will get out of control and we'll be lucky to live through it." - The Hunt For Red October

The "Hot List"

2006-03-02T22:15:00.000Z

Now that February is over, I thought I'd share some thoughts on what I've been reading and listening to over the past month and a half. (TV and movies are gonna need a separate post.) So, let's call this my "Hot List". And here is the first installment...

The Written Word:

The Giver - This is a "young adults" book which I probably should have read back in Junior Highschool. (Apparently, the book is now being made into a film.) Basically, it centers around an Utopian society and the hypocrisy therein. Thanks to current events, I suppose I've grown weary of the trendy hunt for modern day allegory (i.e. "1984"). I'm not particularly fond of allegory and yet it was on this pretense that the book was recommended. However, it was a quick and very worthwhile read.

The Boy Who Heard Music - What a fascinating concept. This was a "serial-novella" maintained by a personal musical hero of mine, Pete Townshend. The blog itself was a living experiment = Pete would publish one new chapter of the novella every week. Bloggers could then participate in the creative process by posting criticism and personal insight as the story gradually unfolded . The plot is a bit difficult to explain but the imagery and ideas (The Method!) contained within are quite evocative. The finished story has been archived but it's unclear what is to become of the blog. It's a shame I never got around to posting any comments of my own.

On The Turntable:

Broken Social Scene - Their self-titled third album and it's quite amazing. Too many highlights to mention. Definitely a bigger, more consistent sound than "You Forgot It In People" and just as rewarding. Music like this really sets my creative wheels in motion.

The Constantines - Their third album, "Tournament of Hearts". Less rowdy than the previous album "Shine A Light" but a solid record nonetheless. Highlights include: "Draw Us Lines" and "Soon Enough".

Ladytron - Their new album, "Witching Hour". I had not heard any of their previous material before buying this record. But after a few listens, it has really started to grow on me. The music is electronic in its approach. Yet, it does manage to feel organic and has some surprising hooks. Highlights include: "Destroy Everything You Touch" and "Whitelightgenerator" (a beautiful song that channels My Bloody Valentine and Cocteau Twins).

The Stone Roses - "The Very Best Of...". Man, what a blast from the past. One day, for some reason, I popped this in and it's like I heard it again for the first time. This is pure Manchester, England. A few of the tunes are a bit too Brit-pop for me. But those that sport the "Mad-chester"/Hacienda vibe are just too bloody good. Highlights include: "I Wanna Be Adored, Waterfall, What The World Is Waiting For, and Fools Gold". It's interesting to note that you can clearly hear the influence these guys would have on bands like Oasis and Doves (one of my favorites).

The Public Image

2006-02-28T19:50:00.000Z

John Lydon (aka Johnny Rotten) has released an official announcement regarding The Sex Pistols refusal to make an appearance for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His hand-written letter statement is PRICELESS.

Being a longtime fan of the Pistols, this doesn't surprise me in the least. Despite the conflicting opinions of the dubious rock media, I think the Pistols may still be the only true punk rock band. (The light that burns twice as bright...etc.) And as for those who say that Lydon has become a mockery of himself - you just don't get it. He is one of the UK's great cultural icons. His glaring stare has essentially become a piece of pop-art. He is grumpy. He is incendiary. And no one else's voice sounds like his.

And to this day, no other record sounds like this.

"Cave of the Ghost"

2006-02-23T19:15:00.000Z

Holy Cow. Now, that's what I call a cave!

Freddy Will Rock You

2006-02-21T20:18:00.000Z

The BBC has an interesting little article on how Queen (essentially Freddy Mercury) has become the first rock act to receive an official seal of approval in Iran. The basic irony of this is not lost on me = Iran + Western music + homosexuality. And thanks to current events and the political posturing of the world, Iran has become quite the hot topic. Unfortunately, Iran has come under the control of a fundamentalist elite that seems satisfied with inflammatory rhetoric and reactionary policy steeped in religious fervor. They have sacked/replaced their moderate diplomatic corps around the world. They seem anxious to lay down a nuclear trump card. And, perhaps most importantly, they seem to have silenced a young majority who desperately seek reform.

So, how strange is it to think that a now deceased, bisexual, Parsi/Zoroastrian rock star could be viewed as a potential symbol of freedom on the streets of Iran? I know, it sounds far fetched. But I still believe in the "power of rock n' roll". I've seen it work. I've seen its influence. I've felt the spiritual comfort that certain pieces of music can bring.

It's funny because I've never been a big fan of Queen...but I do remember Live Aid. And if anyone could bring a crowd of people to its feet, it was Freddy Mercury. So, just imagine the image - Freddy Mercury & Queen - once again leading a vast assembly of people desperate for change in a rousing chorus of "We Are The Champions" or "Radio Ga Ga".

Well, you'll have to forgive me and my rock n' roll romanticism. I still want to believe that people can indeed change the world for the better. It's a fair bet that Freddy would probably agree.

Quote of the Century

2006-02-20T22:29:00.000Z

"We must throw off the yoke of monarchy and make our country safe for hypocrisy!!!" - The Three Stooges

Saturday Has Come (Redux)

2006-02-16T20:37:00.000Z

* In the interest of giving this blog some "pedigree" (and because of its personal and current deja-vu quality), I thought it would be interesting to include this entry. This post was originally written March 20, 2004 and is taken from a previous journal. -J.

Hmmm...definitely an interesting night last night. Yet, I suppose it's always interesting to spend a lot of time talking with someone that your friends are trying to set you up with. Normally, I shy away from situations where friends are trying to play "matchmaker". It sort of makes you feel like the world is watching and everything you say and everything you feel is twice as important as it should be. But I went along with them this time because they felt so strongly about it.

So, I don't think it should come as a surprise that after all the excitement and "dubious" momentum, I came home last night feeling a little drained and disappointed. (You can read between the lines on that I'm sure.) Maybe it's too early to jump to my normal conclusions...and maybe not.

Now, Saturday has come. And last night has got me thinking about today. About a week ago, I had agreed to a "Singles Only/Mixer Party" happening this evening. The girl-friend who invited me is the only person I'll know at this little shindig. So, I will be walking in completely uncharted terrain with only my wit and charm to guide me. Things couldn't look more exciting and dangerous for our hero.

Anyway, I'm thankful for my close circle of friends. And yet as I get older, I increasingly enjoy going outside of it. That's what life is all about...meeting new people, finding connections, and building lasting, trusting relationships.

So, do your best, find significant people, plant them in your circle, and watch it grow.

I want to believe...

2006-02-15T20:50:00.000Z

...that it's out there somewhere...

Valentine's Day...

2006-02-14T17:02:00.000Z

...as we all know, is a load of rubbish. So, thanks to present singular circumstances, I am treating myself to a lovely, tall mint mocha. Yes, that's right. I bought myself chocolate today. I love me. Happy Valentine's Day to me.

Seriously. Call someone up, give that rose, plant that kiss. Make someone's day a little sweeter.

Mission Statement

2006-02-13T23:05:00.000Z

Welcome. Well, after messing with several templates and various Html combinations, I've finally decided on a format and appearance for this blog. I hope the occasional/frequent reader will find it pleasant and easy on the eyes. Yes, it's quite simple but I believe it will satisfy my "aesthetic sense" for the timebeing.

I find the "blogosphere" to be simultaneously fascinating and exhausting. True: everyone is entitled to their own opinions, their own feelings and intuitions. Yet I tend to approach bloggers (both famous and unknown) with a bit of skepticism. No one needs to know the hourly minutiae of someone else's private life. And certainly, no one blogger has it all "figured out".

So, the basic premise of this particular blog is not to maintain an online diary or journal. (Although, I'm quite sure there will be many future posts of that type.) Instead, I would like to use it as a conduit for expressing fascination, ideas, and commentary. In other words, I'm sure I will do the obvious: write glowingly about the things I like...and scathingly about the things I hate.

However, I'm strangely interested in a more genuine, reflective interface. Which probably means that I'm looking for interaction and an exchange of ideas. It's all about the feedback. How I plan to go about doing this I don't quite know. (My visual/editorial skills are somewhat limited in this medium.) But I'm hopeful that I can generate some interest and move on from there.

In the meantime, it will be fun to use this space as a creative outlet. Especially while these things are still free...

Cheers.

The King Approaches

2006-02-08T22:21:00.000Z

I have arrived. Let the fun begin.