Living Like Skyscrapers

Meteor showers and Young Galaxies

2007-04-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

A meteor shower has been easy to see the last few nights in New Hampshire, and somehow, I think it was all publicity for today's release of Young Galaxy's self-titled debut (buy it here). Young Galaxy is a b'girl band of Stephen Ramsay and Catherine McCandless, with both trading vocal roles. They show quite a bit of range from an almost shoegaze "The Sun Is Going Up and My Plane Is Going Down" to the quite folky "Embers". "Outside the City" is a bit more rocky and comes at a good time. The opener "Swing Your Heartache" has received a bit of press, and sounds like the 90s really influenced its sound. I'm a fan of these guys, especially when they sing together, thus showing the benefits of a b'girl band. My favorite song on the album has to be "Searchlight" though; its a short little drum-lead sing-a-long.

In other news, I rode on a motorcycle today for the first time since my aunt's accident. It was surprisingly nice to have the wind just blowing and feeling free. Back to the lab.

Breaking Up: Owen Styl

2007-04-17T08:43:00.000-07:00

Breaking up sucks. You spend so much energy getting to know a person, finding things you really like about them, and then it just falls apart. Its even worse when you both fall in love and become so emotionally invested in each other. As a side note: I'm completely happy I did it; I just don't know what I'm supposed to do now.

Owen (Mike Kinsella) is a breakerupper's medication. He helps you wallow in self-pity (even when it was completely not your fault) while getting over the stupid person that broke your heart.

Here are three of his takes on breaking up:
Owen "Who Found Who's Hair in Who's Bed?" -Simply knowing that something is going on with someone else drops your heart down into your stomach. At first you try to tell yourself that its not happening, but then you realize that that's that. Its not your fault. People make really fucked up decisions, and this is the song I've been listening to repeat for the last few days. Its got a relaxed beat that calms me down and keeps me from getting riled up. Simple guitar picking and layering with a well-you-sure-messed-up tone are perfect balance that let you get on with your life.

Owen "The Ghost of What Should Have Been" - This is for all of those who keep getting reminded of that significant other. Its the little things that hurt the worst, and for Owen its an avacado pit. How someone can move on so quickly after a long relationship really suprises me sometimes, but it could be that they are just running away from it all. So when you feel haunted by the ghost....

Owen "The Sad Waltzes of Pietro Crespi" - It was just my luck that I first heard this song right as I was reading One Hundred Years of Solitude. Pietro Crespi is this incredibly beautiful, charming foreigner that comes to the town of Macondo and brings European novelties such as music boxes, movies, and harpsichords to this small jungle town. He goes through a lot of pain but is always there. It reminds me that life moves on and there is always someone better. I almost wish I could date Pietro Crespi and receive love notes.

Good Friends = Good Music

2007-04-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, one of my best friends is coming out to Hanover this week. I'm super excited cause he is like the first friend to actually make the trek out east to see me. So much has gone on this weekend, but it ended nicely (me drinking Guiness in Boston with some cool people and napping the whole way home). My family also made a semi-suprise visit up to New Hampshire, so I was delighted in showing them the school and making my sister want to come here.

Anyhow, Jon and I have been friends since fourth grade. He's going to be a writer or soemthing like that some day. Anyhow, the first present I got him was Third Eye Blind's Self-Titled Album. It was our favorite and of course we didn't realize how bad the lyrics actually were (honestly, who thought "Doing crystal meth will lift you up until you break" was a drug reference?).

Third Eye Blind "Semi-Charmed Life" I should mention that they are coming to Dartmouth very soon.

And Jon's favorite band, I think, is Kings of Leon. He got me into liking them with this song off of Youth and Young Manhood. "Wasted Time" Oh yah, their ablum Because of the Times came out almost a week ago. I like it from few listens.

Mexico

2007-04-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Yah, I was in Mexico for the last few months and thus didn't post because my internet was the slowest thing ever. At home, I sat on top of my dresser to get the tiniest signal to check blitz. It was awesome. I'm glad to be back, but at the same time I miss so many things about our southern neighbor.

The Sun "Mexico" (buy Sun's Greatest Hits)

I lived in the wonderful city of Puebla, home of mole poblano, Cinco de Mayo, and of course, La Franja. In the family I lived with, my brother Chero played this professional soccer team. I would go to all the games and sing crazy songs like "Soy Poblano". I miss it a lot.

And I fell in love with Mexican food and culture. Here are a few songs that played on heavy roation:
Julieta Venegas "Eres Para Mi" (buy Limon y Sol)- This is latin pop with North American and Brit influences. It translates to you are for me. Yah, cheezy but the video is just as tongue in cheek.
Nikki Clan "No Me Digas Que No" (buy Nikki Clan)- We rocked out to this song quite often and for most of the time we didn't bother with any lyrics but "NO ME DIGAS QUE NOOOOOOOOOOOO". Yes, we were the easy to spot drunk Americans, but hey, at least when we were on break in Acapulco we could get the people to give us discounts cause we weren't that gringo.

BONUS: Cause I know y'all aren't all fans of Spanish language music, here is a little Iron & Wine "Jesus, the Mexican Boy". Its my favorite Sam Beam song and it reminds me of some of the countryside we saw.

Best Music of 2006

2006-12-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

Album of the Year -Floating World by Anathallo

The famous wood block prints of the Edo period in Japan are called ukiyo-e (it translates to pictures of the floating world) and depict landscapes, samurai, theatre, and other forms of entertainment. Upon listening to Floating World, one can see that Anathallo tried to stay true to this when they made the album.

Japanese culture greatly influenced the band as the core of the album is four songs; Hanasakajijii (parts 1 through 4) tells the folktale of a farmer that owns a dog and how his neighbor steals the dog in a fit of jealousy and is punished by karma. Two other songs are old Japanese singsongs.
Instrumentation throughout the song is grand and extravagant. After listening to all of Floating World, you feel as though you accomplished something. Not that it is difficult to listen to, but because it is an epic. Moods change throughout different songs, and at one moment a faint whisper turns into a massive emotional wall of sound. Every single note of Floating World seems intentional, and I am glad.
If one does not immediately fall in love with Floating World, it is understandable. It is a lot, and it doesn't quite fit into any genre. Yet, it has something for everyone, and after a few listens, one can understand the bedtime story quality of it to truly let the fable take over.
Listen to "Hanasakajijii (Four: A Great Wind, More Ash)" - the star of this amazing work

Song of the Year that Is Probably Disqualified Due to Technicalities - Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin "House Fire"
There is debate whether this one counts because Broom was released widespread in 2005, but it was remastered and released by Polyvinyl Records late this year. Nonetheless, this is one of my favorite songs of all time (as noted by iTunes). Why? Because this song has amazing metaphors, repetition of key lines, and a weird sense of optimism. Add to this mix minimal subtle female vocal backing against John Robert Cardwell and Philip Dickey with interesting guitar work. I read somewhere that SSLYBY sounds like that local band that should have, but never actually, got big. Its true, and that's why this song seems so honest. Its a great pick for any time and any mood.

Video of the Year - Danielson "Did I Step On Your Trumpet"
Its innovative and catchy. Simple, yet very organized. Watch, you won't be disappointed.

Band of the Year - Bishop Allen
It was such an ambitious project to release an EP every month this year (buy any or all of them them here). They somehow succeeded with great songs on every album. Did I mention they were on tour for part of the year? Seriously, through hard work and dedication, these guys rocked this year.
Listen to "The Same Fire" off June and a year ending appropriate "Calendar" off December

Best Song by a Woman-lead Band - Headlights "Owl Eyes"
Man this song drives. I always start off tapping my heel to the "boom boom boom" bass drum that opens this gem. By the two minute mark, I'm slamming my foot up and down to the beat. Sure, you think this song is cute, but it also rocks. Not in that heavy metal hard rock stuff, but like true old rock and roll. The piano adds a little, but its the basic drums that carry "Owl Eyes" and Erin Fein's gorgeous voice that hovers over the music that make it so great. (buy Kill Them with Kindness)

Best Song by a Wolf Band (and we thought we got done with them on last year's lists...) or Best Song by a Side Project - Sea Wolf "Middle Distance Runner"
Alex Church has a side project that I love even better than his other band Irving. The song is uses metaphors of track to describe his inability to really get into a relationship. Awww... Guitar picking is phenomenal. Raspy lyrics feel intimate. And you know what, I may only be a middle distance runner myself.
BONUS (because I love Sea Wolf so much): "You're A Wolf" and "Black Dirt"

Hottest Track of the Year - Justin Timberlake "My Love"
JT's newest album FutureSex /Love Sounds really is pure aural sex. "My Love" is no exception, but the lyrics actually show that it is romantic, consensual, and really loving. He wants to marry this girl, not just use her as an object. Oh the ex-boybander really has a soft-side, how cute. Joking aside, this is a standout on a truly amazing record. I have a lot of respect for Justin Timberlake and the way he's been able to reinvent himself and try to really be a tiny bit experimental. Yeah, its produced like crazy, but its done well and makes me dance. Can you ask for anything more? Oh yeah, a hot video, but he gave us that too...

Biggest Secret Pleasure - Fergie "Fergalicious"
Fergie makes my day with this song. Its sugary sweet, and its saccharine character is evident in the lyrics she chooses. She plays the sexy vixen, but she's great. I especially love the ^^Fergalicious def-^^ breaks, and of course, check out the Willy-Wonka-esque music video. (buy The Dutchess)

Best Ballad - Owen "The Sad Waltzes of Pietro Crespi"
At Home with Owen was a huge leap of progress for Mike Kinsella, and its my favorite work by him thus far. The help he enlisted and professional recording made such a difference, the piano work is wonderful. Kinsella's voice still has its trademark imperfections, but would I want them changed? NO! Pietro Crespi is a character from One Hundred Years of Solitude, and this song inspired me to pick up Gabriel Garcia Marquez's work. This song might not be as good as this book, but its a great love song.

Best Dance Song - Cansei de Ser Sexy "Lets Make Love and Listen to Death From Above"
Lovefoxxx and the rest of this Brazilian getup might be the coolest hipsters alive, especially because they shout out to the now defunct Death From Above 1979. I feel like they are just a bunch of fun loving musicians that make music for all the right reasons. Karma's rewarded these guys, and I can't wait for more stuff to dance to. (buy Cansei de Ser Sexy)

Best New Sound - Beirut
Who would have guessed that the indie scene would fall in love with the gypsy folk influenced music of Zach Condon? The new sound was a breath of fresh air. Gulag Orkestar, with light sounds and traditional sounds, made music fun to listen to again. Listen to "Postcards from Italy" and "Mount Worclai (Idle Days)"
Simplest Song of the Year - Matt & Kim "Yea Yeah" off Matt and Kim
A little guy/girl group that makes drum and keyboard music. I love 'em, and you will too.
Check out their funny music video:

Cantique de Noël, or The Best Christmas Song Ever

2006-12-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

We didn't sing my favorite Christmas song at church today. O Holy Night is such a beautiful classic. The range required is difficult, and if done right, the carol is haunting. No version is nearly as good as a congregation singing it with few instruments backing a multitude of voices, but a man's voice is critical.

Sufjan Stevens "O Holy Night" - Sufjan, I really have mixed opinions about this song. There are parts I love, and then there are parts that grate my ears. I guess that is how holy night was when Christ born, it wasn't all halos and a beautiful baby in a suprisingly clean stable with hay underfoot. Its how Christmas ends up at my house, its happy, then the afternoon is wierd, and then its happy as everyone leaves. The highlight of this song is when the little drummer boy type drums come in to bring this folky song back home. (buy Songs for Christmas)

Anathallo "O Holy Night" - This is one of the only versions of the song that I like that isn't traditional. I especially commend the way they chose to switch between a more rock sound and a more hushed familiar coral voice. One of this band's greatest quality is their ability to make any song an epic, and this is no exception. The trumpet and the rest of the brass add a texture matched by very few innovative versions of Christmas songs. Sure to put any music snob in the holiday spirit. (buy Anathallogy) Ps. they have a funny video on their website...

And because everyone likes it: Rockapella "Carol of the Bells"
(if you look closely, Mary and Joseph are really David and Victoria Beckahm, with Kylie Minouge overhead and others...)

Happy Festivus

2006-12-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Festivus (the holiday for the rest-of-us)!

This holiday was created by Frank Costanza in opposition to the commercialism of Christmas. Let me familiarize you with some events of this wonderful and bizzare holiday.
Snowden "Anti-Anti" (buy Anti-Anti)

The Festivus Pole (buy one here) - Normally, an unadorned alumnium pole is set up in a family room, much like a Christmas tree. Alumnium is used because of its high "strength-to-weight ratio." Some people have begun adding tinsel and garland to their poles in order to make it more cheery, but the more orthodox followers refuse to add anything. Yes, that is the Wisconsin governor with a pole...
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah "Heavy Metal" (buy Clap Your Hands Say Yeah)

The Airing of Greivances is a time of reflection. Starting with the eldest person or host, each person at the table gets to tell their fellow celebrants what they did not approve of since the previous Airing of Greivances.
TV on the Radio "Mr. Greives (Pixies cover)" (buy Young Liars)

After the feast, comes the Feats of Strength ceremony. The host normally challenges one in a display of great honor. When the host is pinned, Festivus ends. As a Festivus gift to you, I give you the most Festivus song I made this year: "Sirens"

Y is for Yarmulke

2006-12-21T18:27:00.001-08:00

There are two more bands that really rock the Jewish scene: Yo La Tengo and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Yo La Tengo translates to I have it, and I bet they're talking about their yarmulke. (Apparently, it is a New York Mets baseball reference which means I got it, but they do got chutzpah). They really rock and they've been around for so long. Sadly, they didn't play their 8 days of Hanukkah at Maxwell's this year. "Be Thankful for What You've Got" listen to Spoon's cover of "Decora"(buy Little Honda EP)

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs rock. Sadly, I'm not sure if Karen O is Jewish, but I bet she got a present from Brian Chase for Hannukah. All my love goes out to Karen O for her great voice and Nick Zinner's put some great riffs out on his guitar, but the Yeah Yeah Yeah's wouldn't be so amazing if Chase didn't blow my mind with his slammin' drumming. "Maps" listen to Arcade Fire's cover of "Maps" (buy Forever to Tell) (buy Arcade Fire)

Scientologist blasephemy

2006-12-17T16:54:00.000-08:00

Beck is a Jew, but both his parents are Scientologists. I remember when I first heard about it, I thought about Sea Change. Its such a wierd album to my ears.
"Paper Tiger" - Backed by an ebbing string section, his vocals creep me out, but in a good way. The song is really pessimistic, but its shows Beck's ability to come out with something new and original. It also shows his flexibility.

I am actually suprsied Beck rebounded from it so well. Guero is my favorite of his thus far.
The reason I like Beck is because he challenges standardized genres. You might say he's indie, but he's a bit electronic and he's done a song with Timbaland in Moulin Rouge. Guero is not afraid to show its Latin American influences.
"E-Pro" - Tying it into the last entry, the Beastie Boys helped write this song. Its got a great distorted guitar riff, a bouncy lyric line, and those damn catchy na-na-na-na-nas. This song really captures the feel of a comeback and Guero as a whole.

"He's A Mighty Good Leader" - My favorite Beck song, its a little sing-a-long folk diddy. The way each note is hit on a slightly out of tune guitar makes it feel more intimate. I'm not sure, but it may be about scientology...(buy One Foot in the Grave)

Happy Hanukkah

2006-12-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I'm not Jewish. But Hanukkah is a great holiday. Not only does it represent the rededication of the Temple, its eight days long. True, you may say, there are 12 days of Christmas, but thats Christmastide. Kids get presents for 8 days. I know cause I took Intro to Judaism (Religion 6) this last term (and somehow managed a B)...

So in honor of this and my Jewish friends, I am instituting 8 days of Jews. In my all of my posts until the end of the last candle on the menora, I will include Jews. Most are probably non-practicing, but its a cultural thing you know. Think of how many of you only go to Church on Christmas and Easter. Yes, I'm talking to you.

Starting off are probably the musicians most Jew-youth are proud of: The Beastie Boys.

It may be a little known fact that BEASTIE really stands for Boys Entering Anarchistic States Towards Internal Excellence.

"Paul Revere" - What kid that likes hiphop doesn't know this famous opening? With simple rhymes and a basic beat, they stormed into the Top 50 on hip hop charts. This song is a classic and should be played at every Bar Mitzvah. (buy Licenced to Ill)

"Girls" - Paying homage to their oldest ancestor, Adam, they declare that all they really want is girls. God gave Adam one as a compainion, and Mike D, MCA, and Ad-rock just wanted ones too. So sophomoric, but incredibly catchy.

" " - Hello Nasty was a real return for these guys as they went back to their proven original sound. I doubt more than a handful didn't agree with this decision. My favorite Beastie Boys song, I used to rap along every time I heard this song. The greastest part comes at 2:33 when Adrock says "Beastie Boys known to let the beat drop".

"You'll Shoot Your Eye Out"

2006-12-14T17:53:00.000-08:00

Put this song on while you read the following article from the Modesto Bee. You'll read why.
Chin Up Chin Up "The Architect Has A Gun" (buy We Should Have Never Lived Like We Were Skyscrapers) - this is the first time it has shown up on my site, I swear.

Horseplay among co-workers triggers standoff with police

A police standoff in downtown Modesto ended peacefully Tuesday morning when police discovered that what they thought was a masked gunman was in fact a group of co-workers playing with toy guns.

Police closed several blocks around Dow Diversified Inc., a construction company on the 1100 block of 14th Street, after a passer-by called 911 at 8:39 a.m. and reported seeing a man with a mask and a gun running on the street, Sgt. Craig Gundlach said.

Officer Jesse Garcia approached the business at 8:49a.m. He said he looked through the business's glass front and saw a man holding what appeared to be an assault rifle to his shoulder and aiming it inside the business.

Garcia retreated and called for backup. Dozens of officers and deputies from the police and sheriff's departments and the California Highway Patrol flooded the area. Police began to alert businesses in the area of the potential danger, and some, including The Bee, locked doors and kept employees and customers indoors. No public schools were closed, Gundlach said.

Shortly after 9 a.m., police stopped a man in a silver Taurus one block from the business and ordered him out of the car at gunpoint. The man was identified as Joshua Kemper, 28, of Turlock.

A Dow Diversified employee said Kemper had been inside the business with four other male employees playing with Airsoft guns — replica guns that shoot plastic pellets — and planning a paint-ball excursion this weekend.

"We were just horsing around in the office," said Greg Adams, 43, of Gustine.

Adams said Kemper had left the building to put paint-ball guns in his trunk. For unknown reasons, he put on a dark-colored mask when he left the building.

The other men remained in the office, Adams said.

"We were all standing around talking when we heard all these sirens," he said.

One of the men looked outside and saw Kemper surrounded by police, Adams said. "So we all walked outside to see what was going on."

Outside, the men found dozens of officers aiming guns at them, including a sharpshooter on a roof across the street.

Police cuffed the men and held them in a nearby parking lot. Officers searched the business and found three toy handguns and one toy assault rifle, Gundlach said.

The guns are "very realistic-looking," Gundlach said.

"I can guarantee you, if a subject had come out with that (fake assault rifle) and did not immediately comply with officers' orders, we would have shot that subject," Gundlach said.

No arrests made

The three fake handguns had orange tips, as required by state law. The fake assault rifle also had an orange barrel, but it had been painted black. Nobody was injured and police did not arrest the men.........

Brand New "Okay I Believe You, But My Tommy Gun Don't" - Seriously, the whole police department was there? Woah. I especially love the sniper. Good thing the cops didn't shoot before they knew what was going on. (buy Deja Entendu)

Indian Moon "Sleeping With His Gun" - This song is dark, but in the mood of Iron & Wine. In fact, Scott Wheeler sounds a lot like Sam Beam. I want to see him if I go down to San Diego this break. We'll see.

Gorillaz "Kids With Guns (Hot Chip Remix)" - This doesn't sound like a normal Gorillaz song, but its kinda poppy. I think more people should hear it because its a nice studying song. A lot of people think if you give kids guns at a young age, they'll grow up to be killers. I mean, these adults were playing with toys. Look at the trouble they got into. I believe the only guns kids should be able to play with are the old Nintendo Duck Hunt Ones. (buy El Manana/Kids With Guns)

Finally back to business

2006-12-12T21:06:00.001-08:00

I know I haven't posted in ages, but for whatever reasons, I didn't have a lot of time or energy to post. Whatever, I'm here now. and by here i mean home.

And its time to do a playlist. The end of the year is coming up and I gotta follow the crowd and make one.

Here's the first list of the Top ___ season:
Top 5 songs I'm not putting on my Top 25 of 2006 for some reason or another:

5. Lady Sovereign feat. Missy Elliot "Love Me or Hate Me Remix" - My two favorite female rappers in one song? It had to be a hit and I'm sure no fans are dissappointed. There is so much attitude in this track that not even the biggest bitch could put up a fight. Missy is extremely talented and Sovereign is just getting started, and the song feels like it has a bit of both. SOV's part is a bit repetitive and doesn't truly show her skills, but the beat is kinda addicting. It doesn't make the list because its a remix, and I was going to name this the top 5 remixes. Its a good listen nonetheless and a rare female rap duo jem. (buy Public Warning!)

4. Sufjan Stevens "Chicago (Multiple Personality Disorder version)" - Oh Sufjan! How you continue to amaze! However, you made a mistake. This is the song you should have included on Illinoise. The upbeat syncopated rythms are hot. Your ego got the best of you, but its okay, I will not hold it against you. Just make another CD soon with new material. I promise I will not complain if it sounds like anything you've done before. Just hurry so the internet can continue to offer its praises. (buy The Avalanche)

3. Portastic "And I Was A Boy From School (Hot Chip cover)" - I love this cover. Even though it doesn't stray to far from the original (which is awesome), it still has a completely different feel. Scratchy vocals and guitar strings inject emotion written in the original lyrics into the dance hit. It didn't make the list because the original made it and I couldn't make a decision between the two. Forgive me.

2. Nelly Furtado feat. Chris Martin "All Good Things (Unreleased)" - Yeah, this songs been around the block more times than Anna Nicole Smith, but there is a reason. Its gorgeous. I wish this song had been fully mastered and made a secret track on Loose. I remember putting it onto a CD after the first time I heard it and then on the drive, I think I may have gotten teary eyed. Not on my list because it wasn't released. Take that Nelly Furtado, Timbaland, and gang.

1. The Knife "We Share Our Mother's Heath (Ratatat Remix)" - People think The Knife's "We Share Our Mother's Heath" is the best dance track of the year. What? I think Ratatat's "Wildcat" is. Wait, here is a compromise that is synergetic! It retains the scary vocals of the Swedish duo on top of the driving electronic sounds of the New York rockers. If this doesn't make you dance, go listen to some Cher. (buy the Knife's Silent Shout and Ratatat's Classics)

back

2006-09-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

I got my computer back and I'm thrilled. I broke my hand last week though and I may not make it back in time for any polo tournaments this season. I'm loaded with work tonight, but i'll get music up here soon.

Party Ben "Computer Talk" (Coldplay vs. Kraftwerk)
Broken Social Scene "Its All Gonna Break" (buy Broken Social Scene)

2006-09-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around. My computer died and I have been traveling heavily. Expect a return to posting within the week.

Ixodes scapularis

2006-08-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting this week. I was in Berkeley for a couple days and blogger wasn't working when I got back.

Yesterday, I was exerting my masculinity by working on our cabin. I was out in the sun with my shirt off scraping paint off railings, lifting heavy things, and using power tools (too bad I missed NASCAR...) There are apple and pear trees behind the cabin, and it looks as though deer have gotten to them. I haven't be up early enough to catch a glimpse of them this summer, but deer are such gorgeous creatures. I'm not just talking about Bambi either.

There has been so much talk about this project called Deer Tick. Supposedly, their new album is going to be AMAZING, but I'm not their biggest fan. John McCauley is the man behind the music, and his voice isn't the greatest. Its slightly scratchy and it seems extremely forced. Despite this, I could listen to it for hours. Its strangely addicting even though I think that I could change it to a better song. Deer Tick is unabstrusive; McCauley gets it right by going for a classic sound, inovative because of his use of Old Western style. Give them a chance more than a first runthrough. You'll be suprised at how much they grow on you, but don't be suprised with their lack of punch.

Deer Tick "That Old Black Magic"
Deer Tick "Diamond Rings 2006"

2006-08-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around much lately. Good news is that my best friend got back from Central America on Monday afternoon. Even better news was that he was safe despite traveling to a country that could have been risky.

In honor of his trip and his newfound proficiency in the Spanish language, here is a post dedicated to this. (and I'm very sorry I do not have any Buena Vista Social Club)

Andrew Bird "Spanish for Monsters" - My favorite of all bands with a violin (forgive me Owen Pallett and Patrick Wolf, I love you too), Andrew Bird and whatever band he takes with him is absolutely a fantastic muscian. He knows how to use phrasing with his voice to build up the tension needed to make a song rock. Maybe its because he refrains from doing anything to avant garde; whatever it is though, this song is a prime example. A simple starkness of the sharp violin against a simple and steady rhythm on strings. (buy some Andrew Bird)

Magnolia Electric Co. "Spanish Moon Fall and Rise" - Just you wait for my review of Fading Trails, which is set to be released September 12. This song is classic Jason Molina and gang. You'll like it.

Neutral Milk Hotel "Communist Daughter" - I'm sad about Neutral Milk Hotel. This is one of those bands I wish I was around to know what was going on back then. Word on the street is that On Avery Island will be re-released in October. I'll keep my eyes out. Jeremy didn't come back with a communist daughter, but alas, he had a great time anyway. (buy In the Aeroplane Over the Sea)

8/28 Slim's in SF

2006-08-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for the show a week from tomorrow (8/28) at Slim's in SF. Look at the list of great bands playing that night.

Anathallo - Floating World is still riding high as my favorite album of 06. I'm excited to see all of them onstage. Normally, my favorite band to watch is the openers because the venue can still be somewhat empty, and although I've never been to Slims, I'm sure I'm going to feel like its a bit more personal.
listen to "Hanasakajijii (three: the man who made dead trees bloom)".

Rainer Maria - Rainer Maria has had such a profound effect on indie rock. Caithlin De Marrais has such a powerful female voice to keep the band going. Their recipe is simple, but it still comes across rocking.
listen to "The Contents of Lincoln's Pockets". buy A Better Version of Me

Street to Nowhere - They're a band from Oakland that I hadn't heard of before I looked at Anathallo's tour dates. I kinda like them, but I haven't heard enough to be sold on them. Hopefully, they will fill the place with energy for the Format and I'll buy their stuff.
stream songs on their myspace.

The Format - Oh the headliners. I'm normally dissapointed with the last show of the night at west coast shows. The band always seems too tired or drunk because the tour isn't new to them anymore. HOWEVER, these guys know how to make the crowd turn into a party. Their music always makes me want to dance rediculously. I'll probably look like an idiot at the show dancing to their music, but I promise I'll keep my clothes on, unless I hear that it'd be better otherwise...
listen to "Time Bomb". buy Dog Problems.

More info? See Slim's website. Tickets are $13 and doors open at 7. Show starts at 7:30 and you best be there.

snakes on a plane

2006-08-18T00:14:00.000-07:00

I just saw Snakes on a Plane.

Amazing. Hilarious. Exillerating.

Unnecessary nudity. Unnecessary gore.

Necessary abuse of cheezy lines and computer generated snakes.

Cobra Starship "Snakes on a Plane" - I've posted it before and I'll post it agian. I'm so in love with this song. They play the music video during the credits and I was singing it at the top of my lungs. Everyone was suprised I knew the words, but I think I looked cool doing it. Its just a heads up to look like the guy with the hookups. (buy Cobra Starship and check the music video out at their site)

Cobra Verde "Temptations" - This has nothing to do with the movie except the band's name means green cobra. Its a good song with a nice little guitar riff. Watch the movie and listen to the song to make more connections. (Buy Easy Listening)

Farewell to politics

2006-08-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my last day working for the Congressman. My poor boss has to find a new intern to help him pass the days away.

Here's to all the debates I've gotten into: Coldplay "Politik" (buy A Rush of Blood to the Head)

Here's to the fact that his heart bleeds for all those warm fuzzy causes like babies: Jimmy Eat World "Bleed American" (buy Jimmy Eat World)

And of course,

Here's to our theme song: Nelly Furtado "Crazy" (Gnarles Barkley cover)

holy water

2006-08-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

My friend Andrew and his siblings got baptized today, so I went to their church. My church is changing pastors right now because our old pastor and his wife are going to be missionaries in Guam. I don't even know if they speak English in Guam.

Sufjan Stevens "Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing" - Andrew is a great guitar player, and I wish he would play this song for me with his mother singing, his sister playing strings, and his brother and dad on bells, drums, etc. Its probably my favorite old hymn, and Sufjan's version is one of the best recorded versions I've heard. By starting simply with just some twangy banjo plucking and slowly adding instruments and choral backing, he builds it into a magnificent song of worship. (buy something from Sufjan)

Iron & Wine "Wade Across the Water" - Sam Beam brings out some easy flowing lyrics in this song. I'm not sure if it's about baptism, but I've always thought that way. (buy some Iron & Wine)

Congrats again my brother. Congrats.

In the news...

2006-08-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

Apparently, some bloggers have noticed that there are some inconsistencies in AP photos used in the stories about the conflicts in Lebanon and Israel. Looking at these two photos, we notice that the woman is the same in both pictures (look at scar on cheek), but the photos are two weeks apart and two different locations. Both say that she is mourning the loss of her house. This is one of more than a couple inconsistencies in various media outlets dealing with this conflict that has now lasted for about a month.

Metronomy vs. Spoon "Trick Photography (Lady Byrd Mix)" - When I found this song, it immediately went on my "Makes Me Dance" playlist. My solution to the all conflict in the Middle East: hold a huge dance party, play kicking hits, and mingle. Realize that you are just like your neighbor because you both can't dance, but you like the music anyway. And if you can dance, then you can win a reality TV show.

Enough is enough...

2006-08-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

I found the Snakes on a Plane song. Its crazy and I like it. So over the top, just like the movie. This is one of those movies I wish I could have a private screening of and invite all my friends at the same time. I'm guessing I'm going to want to talk through the whole thing, so they'd all be annoyed with me.

Cobra Starship "Snakes On A Plane (Bring It)" - Check this out. 5 stars. I could place money on the idea that they chose the band to play the song based on their name. (Buy the soundtrack here!)

Army Navy "Snakes Of Hawaii" - Why not while on the topic of snakes? I heard Army Navy years ago, and then someone recommended this song in May, I couldn't believe they were still around. Its decent, but it ain't Snakes on a Plane. (buy an EP!)

bullet strikes beauty student

2006-08-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

In Modesto on Friday, a 17 year-old girl was seriously wounded with a gunshot during a beauty school class she was taking.
Who shot this young lady?
Well, the guy sitting behind her is a security guard that was carrying a handgun in his backpack because he takes beauty school classes in between shifts. Mick Rubalcava faces three charges including carrying a concealed and loaded firearm without a permit and possession of a firearm on a school campus. For more info, check modbee.com

The absurdity of this story astounds me, but this is the life we live in the Valley.

Indian Moon "Sleeping With His Gun" - If I could get more info on Indian Moon, I would have know more about these guys. Alas, I only have two mp3s that I stumbled across a couple months ago. The song sounds so Southern, and they make a night affect by imitating bayou noises.

I just found their myspace, so I feel stupid. Check them out.

new owen

2006-08-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

I just realized the title of this post is a pallendrome. Sweet.

Owen's new album is due out soon but not soon enough for my tastes. The two songs I've heard are awesome though. This time, Mike Kinsella didn't do it alone. He had his brother help out, yet its still true Owen.

Bad News - Classic Owen lyrics. Classic Owen melodies and strumming. Classic Owen layering and intricate rhythms. Mike's voice is clearer than he's ever allowed it before. It creates a fuller sound that is not as shy and tempered as on Owen or No Good for No One Now. Its a great opener to a new CD.

The Sad Waltzes of Pietro Crespi - Peitro Crespi is a Italian musician from Gabriel Garcia Marquez's masterpiece One Hundred Years of Solitude that commits suicide because of failed love. Its a great song, and it makes me excited to hear the other songs on the album. Also, it reminds me I need to pick up a book to read.

roads upon roads

2006-07-31T20:05:00.000-07:00

I'm actually starting to get sick of driving. You know you like it so much when you don't have it and then when you're forced into doing it, you just want to sit in the passenger's seat. Either that or this is in honor of Mel Gibson's little run in with the law...
Of Montreal "On the Drive Home" (Buy The Bird Who Continues to Eat the Rabbit's Flower)

This post goes out to Jeremy Blackman, one of my greatest homies on Earth. He's in Central America (don't ask me where 'cause he's a world traveler) right now. It was his birthday yesterday. Why is from Berkeley, so I thought it'd be appropriate.
Why "Gemini (Birthday Song)" (Buy Elephant Eyelash)

I got some new songs off the Headlights' new ablum Kill Them With Kindness. I'm really liking what I've heard so far. Its not in stores yet, but here is a sample. Keep an eye out for it.
Headlights "Owl Eyes" (Buy their music)

Why Can't Everyone Just Get Along

2006-07-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

Israel has agreed to stop their offensive for 48 hours. I guess its a start. I'm sick of this conflict already. However, it does let me post more Beirut songs in honor of Lebanon. As much as I don't like the U.N.--not what it stands for mind you, but the organization is just full of flaws--I do think that I would like to work there to help people. There are always people that need help.

Beirut "Rhineland (Heartland)" - This song has the most cultural feeling of the songs on Gulag Orkestar, and right now, the people of Lebanon and Israel are feeling for their heartlands. The war is over land, much like WWII was partially about the Rhineland. Land is such an important thing to a people. The Israelites of the Old Testament wandered in the desert for 40 years to get to their promised land, a land now scarred with centuries of violence, where blood flows at least as often as milk and honey.

say hi to your mom show last night

2006-07-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

Just so that I can get it out of my system, I was thoroughly dissappointed with Say Hi To Your Mom last night. However, everyone else was totally awesome, so it was well worth the gas and the tickets.

After slowly losing everyone else in our party (it almost felt Oregon Trail-ish, minus the cholera), it turned out to be just Jon and I going up to the show. We made it a great drive by grabbing slurpees before we left (Passion Fruit is super strong sugar, but yummy) and listening to our favorite college radio persona, DJ! (pronounced Dee Jay Shift 1). When we got to Berkeley, we wandered, shopped, and saw my boss (I'm kind, so I'll protect his privacy). Then off to the show.
correction---food first at this random mexican food shop that may have been part of a chain and made us scrape off our plates---now to show specs:

Tartufi was amazing. I liked thier layering skills and they really got the crowd into it. Yes, they are openers and I wasn't expecting a lot, but they turned out to be the best part of the show*. Listen to "Nurses". (Buy Trouble EP).

Dirty on Purpose did a good job. They seemed a little full of themselves, but hey, I love a band with a singing drummer. They brought a lot of friends, and they rocked pretty well. They also sounded better live than they do on their songs. Hey, with as much beer as they drank on stage, I'm proud of them. Listen to a live set. Listen to "Mind Blindness". (Buy their new CD)

Say Hi to Your Mom. Eh, maybe they would have been better if their singer's eyes were creepily opened or the guy standing front and center wasn't as distracting. No, he wasn't being a jerk to the band; rather, he was just wierd. He had a 10 year old boy's hair cut, a 12 year old's clothing style, a wristband that said you were 21, 60 year old granpda glasses, and a 16 year old punk rock dance thing going on. seriosuly, so wierd, so creepy, so blah. They didn't play any of my favorite songs until the last song of the set. Listen to "Snowcones and Puppies", a song they played that I didn't like. (Buy the Implecable Blahs)

*We left early cause I was so dissappointed with SH2YM, so we didn't see Irving. Hey, we had a good time and Tartufi made a fan of me.

elevator

2006-07-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

There is a scene in Fight Club where Edward Norton's character says the person you sit next to on a plane is a single serving friend because everything that comes on an airplane is single serving. Real clever, huh? Well, I've got sick of something even worse. Bite sized friends you meet waiting/on the elevator. Why strike up some forced conversation if you obviously have nothing to talk about? When I rode in the elevator with the lady who turned out to be my friend's mom, that is one thing because she recognized me (and she was a MILF). I am not interested in the weather anymore. We all know its hot outside (the 106 right now feels kinda cool), so you don't have to remind me. On the flipside to that though is the guy who wears an iPod and plays music waaaaaaaay too loud. He's probably early 40s, but he plays pop hits so loud. I hope I don't end up like him.

Lady Sovereign "Random" - If I met Lady Sovereign on an elevator, I'd really be intrigued. First, she is raelly short (a midget I actually think). Secondly, she's British, so I'd be like "Why is she talking in an accent?" So basically, if there was a random encounter between me and her, I'd be wierded out and not enjoy the experience. Eh, maybe if she dropped some raps I'd be cool with it.

hot hot hot

2006-07-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Its been rediculously warm in the Valley. Literally, records are dropping about as often as bombs in Beirut and Haifa. However, today it is nearly 10 degrees cooler than it was yesterday at this time. Its 91 out, so it might only be about 100 today. I am probably jinxing it as we speak, but this heat is KILLAH. Yes, I've been listening to a lot of bass-bumping beats, so I thought I'd rep it here too.

Snoop Dog "Drop It Like It's Hot" - If I was a rapper, I'd want to be like Snoop. He hails from the left side, which is the best side. What makes this OG a rap legend is his intonation and pronunciation, not to mention his great inovation in creating new words. (buy Drop It Like It's Hot)

Missy Elliott "I'm Really Hot" - Missy is my favorite female in music. She is bad*ss. Its basically cause she makes me just want to dance. And when I dance, sometimes I think I'm hot like Missy. She may not be hot in an attractive sort of way, but she's hot like wildfire (oh, we've been having a lot of those too). (buy This Is Not A Test)

In addition, I don't like the new M.I.A. song, so I'm not posting it. Its not because she name drops Osama bin Laden; honestly, I understand what her family went through and freedom of speech. Its more cause I don't like it. Something about it doesn't get me the way anything on Arular did. Dang it. I still want to see her live.

Show this friday

2006-07-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

So, we're getting a group together to go see Irving and Say Hi To Your Mom Friday, July 28, at Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco. Its honestly going to be great. Irving is one of the top bands this year, and with tickets on $10 a piece ($8 in advance). Doors open at 8:30, and show starts at 9.

Irving "I can't fall in love" - This isn't off their newest album, but it was the first song I heard of theirs. Its quite lighthearted, and I hope they play this live.

Say Hi to Your Mom "Pop Music of the Future" - I kinda wish I had a girl like the one in this song. Yes, I know it makes fun of people like me who entertain the notion that I listen to good music, but she sounds like she'd be a great person to hang out with. Some people have a problem with the vocals being "too ______", but I like them. So they aren't perfect, but they make the song sound more honest. I think the line: ^^She's a shaker but not a mover^^ is one of my favorite lines of all time.

Run, Friends, Sleep

2006-07-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been so busy lately...

It seems like I'm always on the run lately, but when I get to where I'm going, its a whole lot of waiting or hanging out with my friends. I know it sounds silly, but it seems like I'm doing meaningless things. Not to say my friends are meaningless; in fact they are the most meaningful part of my day. Other than that I sleep. If I had an mp3 player, it would be awesome, but instaed, I have to listen with my car stereo on CDs I've burnt. Yah, same songs over and over, but here are two running songs I love to hear:

Sea Wolf "Middle Distance Runner" - I love Sea Wolf, and I wish I could see them live. They are playing next week down in San DIego and L.A., but I don't have the time to go. This was the first song I heard by them, and instantly, I knew I wanted to buy their album. You should too.

Bishop Allen "Making Friends" - Off of their first EP of the year (they're doing twelve and finished 7 thus far), I kind of don't understand this song. Its about making friends but going to hell? (buy January)

The Eames Era "Go to Sleep" - Ashlin Phillips has one of my favorite voices, and she could tell me to go to sleep anytime. The music adds the perfect bit of cheer and lollipop to this song, but its still got bite. ^^If you said what you meant right, they can't accuse you of lies^^ I'm a firm believer in that. (buy Double Dutch)

SUPRISE!!!

2006-07-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

My sister's friends threw her a surprise party today that she unknowingly helped plan. Pretty genius because the only thing we had to do was get her there late so that the other kids could set up the signs and stuff. My parents almost blew it though because my dad was acting so strange about what time she was going to be home and how long lunch was going to take. I hope it went well though. I'm going to crash it in a bit. I'm with a maple syrup concomerate in Vermont?

Radiohead "No Surprises (LIVE)" - I always love being surprised with good things. Surprises have to be one of my favorite things. Up there with a good vanilla milkshake. Ohhhh surprise me with a good vanilla milkshake and I'll be your friend forever. (Note...I'm having such a hard time remembering the first r in surprise. I've only got it right once the first try). (buy OK Computer)
+/- "Surprise!" - This is why some people don't like surprises. This guys voice is kind of creepy. The beat is hot though. I'd still be stoked though to hear that I had a surprise waiting for me. (buy You Are Here)

if you want to destroy...

2006-07-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hear ye! Hear ye!

Weezer is dead.

Now we can all get on with our normal lives.

A tribute:
Buddy Holly - I thought I was so cool for knowing all the words. It was their biggest hit probably. It spawned a generation of thick glasses. Yah, the good old days.

Undone (the Sweater Song) - Heavy with Nirvana influence, this song was my favorite. It has a lot of emotion. A whole lot of early teen boy emotion. (buy the Blue Album)

I'm off to the fair and I don't know how to get rid of this underline. CHEERS!

Bombs over Beirut

2006-07-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

Israel is bombing Lebanon. Again. Yes, our favorite hated country--except maybe ourselves...no, more people hate Israel's than us--is bombing thier neighbors. Well, its more of an attempt to disarm the terrorist/community building organization called Hezbollah. In honor of Israel's self-defense/aggressiveness, here are two songs that should play on the soldiers radios because seriously, if everyone just danced, there would only be battle dancing. And we all know that that solves the world problems. Much less bloodshed, I promise!

Beirut "Mount Wroclai" - Yet another reason I think this is a top album of the year. Believe me, you'll like it. I hope Beirut doesn't fall to ashes.

Outkast "B.O.B." - Bombs over Baghdad (I think those are still going on?) can easily be changed to Bombs over Beirut. This was my second favorite rapsong for most of my life. Its so good and quickpaced. I love it.

Zany Zizou

2006-07-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

You may think I'm behind on the posting, but really, its cause I've had indigestion of the brain lately. And the music I've been listening to has been of the Nelly Furtado variety. So for those world cup songs:

French Kicks "Trial of the Century" - This was arguably Zidane's biggest game of his life and he failed. I chose this song because they are called the French Kicks and well, there is an obvious reference to the 2006 FIFA World Cup LOSERS (ok, so they got second...but they didn't win the final, so I'm justified in calling them names). As for the song, its good, the guy hits good notes falsetto. Don't let the serene beginning fool you, it picks up. Not that it ever goes over the edge though! It keeps a thinking mood throughout. And well, the French still probably are thinking about that loss. I'm thinking that Zidane didn't deserve Golden Ball, but who am I to say anything?

Beirut "Postcards From Italy" - I can't remember where I first heard this song, but I knew that the Old World charm of Beirut's music completely win over my heart and soul quickly. So far, I think their album Gulag Orkestar is my favorite this year. I know the ever traveled Ursula thought this song was cool when she heard it, so with her blessing, I think its safe to say that this song is wonderful. On October 7, they are playing in Montreal, and I'd love to see them. Anyone else? Oh yah, Italy deserved to win.

IN OTHER NEWS
At work, Finance finally called me back and gave me numbers!!! YAYYYY NUMBERS!!! If I did more cheering people might think I'm freaking out about the book of the Bible. Let me just tell you that Numbers isn't the greatest book in there. My guide will go out to the printers in a couple days, and then it will be mailed to 70,000 households approximately. Wow, to think that my words are being read by that many people! True, its all about the City budget, but I wrote all 1100+ words on it. Mind you it was supposed to go out last week, but a few department heads wouldn't send me the required info. Today though, I just kept badgering them until they gave in. I guess I'm victorious like Italia.

In honor of the work I had to do because stupid bureaucracy that money gets thrown about in and my hip-hop crazy lately here is The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Mo Money Mo Problems". (buy Life After Death)

A good band to a good label

2006-07-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Italy won the world cup. If this was the first place you heard it, where have you been? I have songs picked out to honor our winners and poke fun at Zidane (and his crazy widow's peak). That move was even more insane than anything France's goalie Barthez has ever done.

IN OTHER NEWS
One of my favorite bands is Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin. One of my favorite labels is Polyvinyl Records. Honestly, I was supprised to see SSLYBY sign because I forgot they were unsigned. Whatevs. They are super schnazzy. I kinda do a shoulder twitch to their songs. They probably have my favorite guitar sound out there. Broom (buy it here!) was released in 2005 and I thought it was amazing. Here is a song:

"House Fire" - This is one of my favorite songs of all time. The drop at the start of the song can play forever in my head. The vocals (yes, I'm including the backup ones too) give some yearning, hope, a dash of anguish, and overwhelming amusement. The best line in the song is "We did what we did to keep this car from crashing," and of course its a metaphor for their relationship. Its chock-full of metaphors, but he can't deny that it just all was ruined in the end. He's ok though because he did all he could. Its so wonderful you just have to hear it for yourself. This song doesn't rock, it pulls you along with it.

BONUS: SSLYBY "Boring Fountain" - Its an older song. Its the song that sold me on these guys first though. I don't think you'll need to be more convinced after House Fire, but if you like that, you'll assuredly want to listen to this one.

my computer diede

2006-07-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

My computer died, and thus, I am on hiatus from blogging. Now, I'm getting ready to spend the weekend away. I wanted to do a shoutout to my beautiful friend Lindsay who is in Morocco right now.
My life is really busy and I have no idea what is on this computer. Bishop Allen just released their EP June. From what I've heard its great. This song is called "The Same Fire" and it rocks. I'm such a sucker for metaphors in songs, so basically, when he starts talking about the great fires throughout history, I get giddy. I also like when he says, "God damn! You're so beautiful," because its such an innocent background and it sounds so real. 'Cause sometimes you be like DAMN! Sorry, couldn't resist myself. I think I would have cut the song about 20 seconds before it ends, but hey, they are doing an EP every month this year, so I'll give it to them.

Bonus - The Dudley Corporation "Divil the Bit" - I really just like this song a lot. Its got its bits of hard yelling, quiet bits of folky picking, and bits of general happiness. Actually, not just bits, bunches. My sister is yelling now. This is wierd. I'm going to finish packing. Have a good weekend.

bye bye beckham

2006-07-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

England lost. I'm really sorry, Mr. David Beckham, that you never had the chance to win the World Cup. Its especially frustrating because its all because the apeman decided to be an idiot and step on a guy's crotch with the ref watching. However, you played great. I do not blame you for anything other than coming up with stupid baby names (yes, Brooklyn and Romeo have a lot to live up to). I really hope one of them plays cricket and the other joins a rock band; it would really be too much expected of them if either played soccer or sang in a boyband.

In honor of my trip yesterday to the city and England's "early" exit - I mean, excellent play in this world cup - here is another extremely overly hyped jem from the British Isles: The Arctic Monkey's "Fake Tales of San Francisco". Yes, this song is the stereotype for a hit! Its a British rock band (see The Beatles), its got a great baseline (see Red Hot Chili Peppers), it genereated a lot of hype on the blogosphere (see The Arctic Monkeys, what?), its poppy (see the Beatles), the words are easy to sing along with (see Beatles)...starting to see a trend? Its a great song yes, but they aren't the next Beatles. I like them, they just didn't live up to everyone's expectations. Whatevs, just like England was entertaining, so too is "Fake Tales of San Francisco". Hopefully, it'll cheer up the English as they watch Wimbleton. Tallyho! (buy Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I Am Not)

BONUS - Because its July and I really want to be ironic, today's bonus is Bright Eye's "June on the West Coast." Conor Oberst, everyone's favorite depressed child-star, has seemed to have faded off the radar. Now, I don't live anywhere near Winnetka, CA, but I know its near Burbank and Simi Valley. Anyway, this song is literally about seasonal depression. I also believe its about leaving stuff behing and moving to a place to start anew. California is so different from New Hampshire, and I although I love both places, there are things I long for that you can't have in each place. The people at Dartmouth can't be here with me now, and all my friends can't be in Hanover when I'm there. I miss taco truck when I'm in New England and I want snow when I live in Turlock. There is the exchange of college life for a family and the ability to be more mobile.

This song is so much lighter than most of Bright Eyes' others. It seems as though everyone familiiar with this song has a different favorite part. My personal favorite is the downward picking in the first couple seocnds of the song. I know people really like the lines "I went to San Diego, the birthplace of the summer, and watched the ocean dance under the moon." There is beautiful imagery in this perfect song for a summer mood. (buy Letting Off of Happiness)

Crappy Parking

2006-06-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

I got moved to really bad parking yesterday. Its like 3 blocks away and its nicknamed "Circus Parking." Totally lame. There is no shade and I have to walk across the train tracks. It is honetsly a little sketch.

To all of my friends who went to Berkeley today: I wish I could have gone with you. I'm too tired to post more.

Irving is a band from L.A. I like them. One could say that they are a mellowed out Franz Ferdinand with hints of Interpol. There are traces of some 90s music in there too, but don't hold anything against them. They're hot like wildfire. As it gets close to the halfway mark in the year, I have been thinking of the greatest albums released this year, and I'm actually happy with the music we've had this year. On that note, "The Gentle Preservation Of Children's Minds" may be one of my favorite songs released in '06. One problem though is that I love all the songs on the album; some more than others yes, but there are a few that I can't decide which is my favorite. I mean with songs like "I wanna love you in my room", yeah. Their rock actually has influences from many decades as I catch traces of 60s and 70s rock and roll, some 80s synth too. I mean, I can't stop singing these guys praises. Edit: I just also think they sound like a better version of what Rooney was trying to get. Again, not Rooney, not bad. Irving is good music. (buyDeath in the Garden, Blood on the Flowers)

Bonus: Tapes 'n Tapes "50s Parking" - This is the song that got me hooked on Tapes n' Tapes. The lyrics are about finding parking, thus I think its applicable. (buy Tapes n' Tapes)

4.5 hour Dune miniseries

2006-06-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

Last night at Blockbuster, they said I got a free movie rental, but the caveat was that it had to be over a year old. Given that this Blockbuster has a horrible selection and the fact that we've been scoured their movie sections many times, there were not a whole bunch of movies that we wanted to see. That is why I chose Frank Herbert's Dune. I decided, heck, I read the book and I can't remember it, so why not watch the movie cause its free. I'm currently on hour 3 of this 4.5 hour marathon. My dad and I watched it eating dinner, afterward, and we had to take a break. I did some abs during a love scene, and now my dad is ditching me to go work out at the gym. Seriously, he says i'm chickening out by not going to the gym with him. I say he's chickening out on watching the movie. Wimp.

So, I stumbled upon this unreleased song by Chris Martin and Nelly Furtado called "All Good Things". Word has it that the song is not planned to be released because people are stupid. It is almost as though the song can't decide if it wants to be as dancy/hip-hoppy as the rest of her new songs. Don't think its a Coldplay song though. Martin is just lends his voice, which means he also lends his charm. I love the part when he sings in his signature falsetto hitting the same notes alongside Furtdado. I have a problem though: not all good things come to an end. Somethings just get changed and you have to work with the situations thrown at you. Seriously, I kind of hope this movie will end soon. Its decently good, so according to their logic, it will come to an end. Only then will I be free from this bond that is oppressing me.

To tie the posts from yesterday and today, here is Party Ben's "Computer Talk". Its a Coldplay and Kraftwerk mashup that is really nice. I actually don't have that many Coldplay songs on my computer, which I'm dissappointed about. They have great driving in the rain music.

In other news, most of my World Cup teams are out of the tournament. Right now, I'm hoping Argentina or Italy pulls through. Normally, I'd support Germany, but I want Argentina to win more, so boo to the hosts. They have enough support. On the topic of sports, I found out that I can no longer look at blitz or scores on the city computers; how do they expect me to be productive when I'm worrying about what blitzing I'm getting and how my cricket teams are doing? So, I'm working to find a way around that as well as getting a parking card. Right now I have to give them a ton of validation stamps, and today the lady took way more than she should have. She gave me a little smug look too. If I wasn't worried about losing my job (or getting arrested...), I would have wiped it off her face with a swift left jab. Shoot, now that I think about it I would have had to use my right cause I hand her my parking ticket with my left. Yah, that would have been a bad angle too. I'll remember that for tomorrow. I'll be like, "Steal my tickets now beyotch." And she'll take less cause she'll be seeing double. Man, this plan just works on so many levels.

))<>((

2006-06-27T00:26:00.000-07:00

I just got done watching Me and You and Everyone We Know. Its a great film about relationships between people. A recently divorced man, his teenage and elementary school-aged sons, an aspiring filmaker/artist, an elderly man, and two teenage girls all try to sort life out. In a way, its a coming of age movie for all the characters. Its funny in even a more subtle way than I (Heart) Huckabee's is, though I gaurantee the laughs are more enjoyable afterthefact. I hate to draw this similarity, but the visuals are Napoleon Dynamitesque, yet it is set in the present day and the costumes do more to set the mood and create the character than force a stereotype or conjure up simple sophomoric humor. Its one of the best movies that I've seen in a long time.

"Macaroni"

Today, I am posting a song Jon and I rocked out to in the car while eating TCBY waiting for girls to get dressed. What takes girls so long to get ready? I will give them leeway for wearing a bra because sometimes the clasps won't unhook as quickly as you'd like. Oh wait, you would be putting them on huh? Well, you do that everyday so you should be quicker about that. Make-up is something that I don't totally understand. Girls will wear it over to a friend's house to watch a movie, but in all honesty, we really don't notice if we just want to watch a movie. Did we mention we're friends who don't want benefits? And then when girls wear makeup before some athletic activity? That is about as sensible as pregaming mowing the lawn. It just won't look good when the effort needs to be kicked in. Anyhow, this song is possibly my favorite mashup. Seriously, it rocks. Here is Party Ben's Pump Up My Doornob by Eric B. & Rakim vs. the White Stripes.

2006-06-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

So today was really laid back. Also, Lauren said she really liked my blog. Lauren likes this band called Hot Chip. They have a song that says "Laid back" a lot. Using circular reasoning, I decided that Hot Chip's "Over and Over" was a great song to post.

Its just so poppy, yet it still rocks. Its even hip-hop, but hop cause you wanna dance to it and hip because its the type of song that'd you hear at a super cool joint. Hot Chip's The Warning is a contender for album of the year, and the hype its recieved is definitely worth it. Basically, all I wanna do is bob my head to this great beat. Seriously, this is one song that just speaks for itself. I think that The Warning is an album that can crossover into lots of different genres and thus, if you buy one album this summer that i suggest, you'd probably be most satisfied with this.

I have always been one to think that I was laid back. However, I have been told that I am not that laid back but that I make others laid back. My mom definitely does not think that; to her, I am super high stress and make her worried as all get out. Yes, my mom worries about me a lot. I think my laidbackness (or attempts thereof) is a subconscious challenge to my mom's high level on the freak-out-o-meter about everything I do. Apparently, my mom was fine when I went away from school (this is a lie) because she thought I would be safe and I felt very comfortable there. Now, this trend was reversed when I got arrested. Now, I understand if I was a delinquent that she would worry, but rushing the field during homecoming is a citation level offense. That, in normal citizen's terms, means it is on par with a parking violation. I personally think I was too laid back about the whole thing. I wouldn't get caught I told myself. And afterward, I didn't care or think anything major would happen. My dean even thought I was too laid back about not feeling remorse for my "bad judgement". Ummm...I made a conscious decision to participate in a Dartmouth tradition, and with great pride I ran around that field against administration's wishes. Administration isn't laid back. That is what I should use as a platform. Laidback. More politicians should be laidback. Eh, why get your panties all in a bunch over what defines a wetland? Who really gets hurt about defining gay marriage? Do we really worry about what the North Koreans think about us?

Ok, so I realize that we can't have laid back politicians. I could settle for more laid back drivers. I mean, sure, I don't like it when people drive 35 on Kristofferson (the speed limit is clearly marked at 40), but hey, they aren't wasting as much gas. They are enjoying life (hopefully), and that is all I want to do. So let someone pass you today. Enjoy the scenery.

Bonus - Hot Chip "And I Was a Boy From School"

Stalking

2006-06-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

You may think it a bit sketch, but I spent about an hour on facebook today trying to find guys to recruit for the water polo team next year. I'll admit, I had a pretty bad (as in a few self-calls and misrepresentations) facebook profile, yet these guys are hilarious. The number of people who put beirut or pong or beer pong (not beirut) in their interests are hilarious. As for the number of groups that they are already in, it merely needs no comment.

Last night on the ride home from dinner, "Mr. Jones" by the Counting Crows came on and I just started singing. To my embarassment, he noticed and said something positive, but it totally put me out of the mood. Today, on the drive home from work, I was loudly singing along like I normally do when I'm alone without fear of comment, when I started getting teary eyed. Oh Anathallo, why do you do this to me?

Anathallo "Hanasakajijii (Four: A Great Wind~More Ash)" - I love Anathallo's percussion session. It just pulls together every one of their songs and truly is what made me emotional in the car. The xylophone (I'm assuming) really brings beauty to this song, which is about a man who steals his neighbor's magical dog's ashes to make his yard grow faster. Oh, maybe I should mention that this whole album is based on a Japanese folktale. The movement within the song is so fluid that it only seems natural that it should progress from loud arragements to shushed vocals over just some guitar strumming. While this is the last part of the Hanasakjijii series, Four: A Great Wind~More Ash is the most epic and wraps them all together. I believe that Floating World is going to be a top contender on most lists for the best album of 2006. (Buy Floating World)

Anathallo "Kasa No Hone (The Umbrella's Bones)" - Apparently, this is a song that Japanese field workers sing, but I believe that it could be a lullaby. Again, the stirring drumming truly shapes this song into a powerful piece instead of just a little hymn. Here is a translation of the Japanese from SongMeanings.net:
^^The ribs of the umbrella
Have fallen apart;
The paper is also torn,
But with bamboo
Tied together.
Do not throw it away.
Though I
Also am torn,
Don't desert me.^^ We all have relationships right now that are somehow torn: by distance, words, egos, competition, differences, or just lack of effort. Don't desert those you care about because you are still tied together. Don't throw it out, work to repair it.

Post-Solstice Bliss

2006-06-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, yesterday was the summer solstice. That means today is not the longest day of the year, but I worked for about 12 hours today. It was long to me, but I really enjoyed almost finishing my first solo publication for my city internship and doing field representation for my congressional internship. I went to a dinner for mentally handicapped adults and it was really something to hear their achievements and see their joy. I went straight from work and thus wore a white shirt, conservative red, white & blue tie, and navy slacks. OF COURSE it ends up being a Hawaiian themed ceremony, so I feel significantly overdressed, yet I took of my tie and threw on a lei. Great fun, I'll admit. Now I can officially say that I hope you're having a great summer. Send me a blitz; let me know what you're up to.

Beach Boys "Surfin' Safari" - This song was playing when I walked into the hall for dinner. Reminds me of Hawaii because its about surfing; not that I've ever been surfing or my Hawaii experience was that enjoyable. But handing out those awards to those guys really got me into the mood. I mean, this song is your stereotpyical Beach Boys poppy "rock and roll" song, when of course, it was more about rolling that rocking. I mean, they laid a foundation for the music we all love. I mean, its a basic summer hit for any playlist. (buy Beach Boys Greatest Hits)

Bonus Pas/CAL "The Brozened Beach Boys (Come On Let's Go)" (buy The Handbag Memoirs)

Working for the Man

2006-06-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

So today was my first day of double internships. Can I say that it was beyond exciting? Traffic wasn't bad on my commute to work in the morning, and I rocked out in my car to some People In Planes and Nathan Asher and the Infantry. Then at work, I walk in and have to go to Personell to fill out paperwork. Finally, I take the elevator to my office and my supervisor drops a binder litterally 4 inches thick and says, "We have to do a summary of this in seven days. Well, here is your computer. Shoot, I have to run to a meeting, if I don't see you before you leave, I'll see you tomorrow morning."

3 hours later, I read way too many numbers, wrote about 200 words, and realized that they expect way too much from me this summer. So basically, all horror stories will be real. I have to be there at 8 AM tomorrow, so I'm going to crash right now.

People in Planes "Moth" - I really like the backbeat on this one. I highly recommend this track to anyone. Yes, they do sound quite like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, yet this song could easily be a hit. Catchy and rocking, you'll blast it from the car speakers and sing (scream?) at the top of your lungs. (buy As Far As the Eye Can See)

Spoon "The Way We Get By (acoustic)" - Work sucks, but its the way you have to get by. Honestly, there are so many things I think I need to get by, but its really just about being with the people you love. There is a reason this is such a catchy tune: take it back to the basics that sound the heartstrings of the listener. I added the acoustic as a bonus cause everyone has the regular version. Plus, I heard that he played it live at a concert acoustic and the crowd went wild. I'm actually missing a concert right now, but heck, I'm getting by. (buy Kill the Moonlight)

Dad's So Special, He Gets Two Takes

2006-06-20T17:47:00.000-07:00

I thought about it last night, and I guess I owe a lot of my love for music to my dad. He let me rock out with him in our brown truck (nicknamed La Bamba) to classics like Zepplin, the Stones, Pink Floyd, and whatever other classic rock was on the radio. I remember him buying a Beach Boys tape one time, and he forced me to follow the traditional reverence for the Beatles. He's actually willing to give me his honest opinion about my music tastes by telling me that my music hurts his ears or lacks a good melody. He also is a secret rap/hip-hop afficionado when he doesn't understand the words. My favorite is definitely his mistake in thinking that Nelly's "Where the Party At?" was "Where's the Pontiac?" I am sure he probably just didn't understand why this Midwesterner wasn't dropping lines about Bentley's and Cristal.

Sufjan Stevens "For the Widows in Paradise, For the Fatherless in Ypsilanti" - While I cannot deny Sufjan's original Christian imagry about the sacrifice on the cross, this song is also about a father's love for his children. I hope one day to be able to say to my kids, "I did everything for you." To accompany the haunting hollow sound the steel strings, Sufjan's chilling voice is not a moan of burden but a sigh of relief. The phrasing that arrives with the young woman's voice adds great depth to the already emotionally deep tune.

Doron Diamond "For the Widows in Paradise, For the Fatherless in Ypsilanti (Sufjan cover)" - This cover is very similar to the original, yet it is shorter and more folky. The almost low-fi quality of the recording (word has it that it was somehow snagged from youtube) and the emptiness of the sound makes the sound less moving, but more comforting. It sounds as though it might a lullaby softly sung by a father to his child before bedtime.

Dia de los Padres

2006-06-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

If I haven't raved about him enough, my dad is super cool. We've gotten especially close these last few years, and I'll admit, I miss him a lot when I'm away. I need to stop talking about missing people; its really bringing me down.

Well, I know I'm a day late, but thats because I spent it all with my dad. We went and saw X-Men III. Pretty good. I won't give out the ending (Evan......), but I figured it would be kinda like that. But we just chilled all day. He did gardening while I ran errands. And now, I am doing nothing. Its just loads of fun here.

So in honor of Father's Day:

My Dad vs. Yours "Canyons (grand or otherwise)" - This band is great and Canadian. Even without words, their songs are more than just background music. In fact, they are somewhat easier and more pleasant to listen to than forced rhymes and failed attempts of clever lines. This song feels like it belongs in a season finale (if it shows up on the O.C....) as it gives the sense of both coming together and moving on. Coming together in the sense that it is beautiful and happy, yet not sacchrine or cheezy (two food related adjectives in a row, yes!). Close your eyes and relax. It's nice to be reassured that it'll all be ok in the end. (buy After Winter Must Come Spring)

Wolf Parade "You Are a Runner and I am My Father's Son" - This was the song that sold me on Wolf Parade. Its also the song that I listened to over and over again the last time I was home and my dad made me mad. That was mainly because I left my CDs in the house and this was the only forceful song in the stereo. Since then, its sort of my anthem if I'm frusterated or angry until the feeling passes. I really like the staggering yet driving drum beat that propells the piano and the guitar. The lyrics feel held back, like they want to be part of the action, so all he can do is make threats ("I'll draw three fingers on your heart"). At first I thought this song was about wanting to run away from home, yet not being able to because of the ties to home. Maybe it just rationalized me not being able to build the courage to actually do something drastic like that. One thing I cannot deny is that I am my father's son. (buy Apologies to the Queen Mary)

Do you remember?

2006-06-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

I'm still in the infant stages of this thing, so we'll see where it goes. I'm a huge fan of mp3 blogs, but I also like making them more personal. I sort of use it as a journal, just one that others can read. I might use code names, I might not talk about anyone at all. Tonight though, its all about how I feel.

Owen (the solo project of Mike Kinsella) is my favorite band, and I promised myself I would write an early post about one of songs. I've been a fan for a long time and sadly have never actually gotten to see him perform live (stupid 21+ shows and me not willing to get a fake). But anyway, he is absolutely amazing and sadly he doesn't update anything so no one knows what he's up to.

Owen "In the morning before work" - This song is about that feeling you get when you really miss someone or something. I really miss Dartmouth and everything along with it. The song starts out with some acoustic guitar (like most of his songs) and some seemingly simple lines of self-loathing. As it meanders along, the song recalls trivial events that reminds a guy about his signifcant other and how much those little things are the things he longs for the most. I miss the little things: little blitz jokes, asking what you were thinking, and random bump-ins. Ahh, I'm talking to Katie and Leah right now, and they make me miss Dartmouth too. Well, the song just sweeps; I can't think of any other adjective for the way it moves through the chorus. You almost feel how much he wants just a kiss on the back of his neck. That is when you know love is real. (buy THE EP)

My parents don't remember my first words

2006-06-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

I gave into my temptations. I am going to try to do a blog. Music maybe? Photo maybe? Personal maybe?

Today is just a day to play around and get my feet wet.