Danse Manatee

2007-02-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

I hate to leave you dear Danse Manatee, and I promise that I will be back one day, but until then, I am teaming up with cool-person Dean so that you, dear readers, may have twice the updates and twice the fun and, like, 3x the commas. New blog is called Less Rock, More Dock and if you are my mom or dad, I cannot tell you what it means. If you are a friend, I encourage you to talk to me for information or do what you kids know how to do best: wikipedia it. But the former is better because we've got official hand "shakes" and dances and such. Anyways, go get your read on because it's fantastic

P. S.

2007-02-08T00:49:00.000-08:00

I've been telling everyone this because I'm still really excited about it. So you (whoever you are) should know too: Thursdays, 12-2pm I help my friend Jason with his awesome radio show The Stacks on KZSC 88.1. You should listen to it now and then because I happen to think it's pretty rad. It's accessable by old fashioned ghettoblasters and also by going to kzsc.org. Jason plays rock, I play pop. He says less talk, more rock, I say less rock, more dock. You know how it is. Beaucoup de musique indie. Duh.

Hot show, hot sex: Scissors for Lefty

2007-02-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I saw a few bands play including locals Bear on Bear, hotties Scissors for Lefty and fairly-awesome Tempo No Tempo. I'm going to skip a couple to get to the best part: Scissors for Lefty. They had a few key components which get this lady super excited: a super sexy lead singer, hot dance music, and David Bowie-esque vocals. Music can be your hot hot sex with all these components. I suggest you go to their m. space asapular and fall in love (check out "Lay Down.." + "Ghetto Ways"), especially if you're already a fan of Ima Robot (which I for sure am). Or if you saw Kissing Tigers live and the effects of the lead singer's pheromones lasted more than 2 days, you'll be pleased to know that this lead singer is even hotter. Subtract some gay and add in him looking at every single girl in the audience, noticeably longer when lyrics like "I wanna makeout" pop up, and you get a big fat equals sign with lots and lots of hotness placed after it. Can I say hot again? This band is HOT, foolios. So hot I might actually buy some of their songs on iTunes and illegally post them here once I get through my copyright infringement punishment. So, next up Tour Dates!

Feb 8 - UCSB free show!
Feb 28 - LA - The Troubadour w/ the French Kicks
Mar 1 - San Francisco - Noisepop @ Slims w/ the French Kicks
Mar 3 - San Diego Indie Music Fest

JFK went inside half of mankind

2007-02-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

First things first, Brad Neely, creator of the infamous George Washington vid, has created a new video called JFK. Don't expect it to live up to Here Comes George status, but that was a rare case of pure geniosity. This video is def. LOL worthy and def. catchy. Give it some lovin.

Plus, there's another vid called Bible History #1 which is also pretty hilare. I suggest you check it out.

And if you really havent gone to Creased Comics.com yet, I suggest you head over there and get your Neely on.

Let's call this the comeback

2007-02-03T19:21:00.000-08:00

I'm unable to upload picture, mp3s, etc. for one more week but I'll be coming back soon wiiiiiith:
.Of Montreal show
.Bear on Bear (of Santa Cruz) show
.Dinosaur exhibit pics
.Brad Neely vids

aaallllmost there. Almost.

(Temporary?) Move

2007-01-16T21:17:00.000-08:00

I'm moving it all over to LJ for community purposes. But this year, music, fashion, AND hilarity. I'm not really sure what I'm doing yet, but I'm doing it.

http://DanseManatee.livejournal.com

Mashup with Knives

2007-01-09T18:57:00.000-08:00

Thank God I checked Gorilla vs. Bear today. Why? A mashup of The Knife's "Heartbeats" and Grizzly Bear's "Knife". Yes, it is pretty wonderful. Go steal it at Brooklyn Vegan.

For the Lovers

2007-01-09T16:19:00.000-08:00

Herman Dune is by far one of the cutest premature balders ever. His songs are super sweet like when you first fall for someone and everything's hella cute and not too serious. Like falling in love at age 26 in order to feel like you're age 6. Here's the video for "I Wish That I Could See You Soon" as well as the mp3 for the song and one other that is super super cute. "And you know how other people shorten people's names to show their affection? Like if you call me Ray if my name was Raymond. Well your name ain't Susan but I would call you Sue to show you how bad I like to be with you." Oh, and PS: the drummer/percusionist is frucking hawt.

Oh, and as my sister pointed out to me, the little blonde boy who climbs onto the cube to the right does the cutest/funniest little boogey dance.

I Wish That I Could See You Soon
1-2-3/Apple Tree

So by the looks of it you'd probably say I'm into super cuteness, super prettiness, etc etc lately. But actually I've been way into dancy rock that makes me feel cool/trendy: Chinese Stars and Tokyo Police Club. But cuteness never fails to win my heart over. Of course.

Chinese Stars - Electrodes in Captivity
Tokyo Police Club - Nature of the Experiment

And now I must employ your help. Chinese Stars sound exactly like _________. Please help the lady out with this one.

And Tokyo Police Club's whole album is really super awesome. "Nature of the Experiment" is of course the hit, which is why I posted it, but there's tons of awesomeness compacted into the rest of the 8-track A Lesson in Crime, so expect some more mp3s later if you're too lame to download them all now.

Pure beautiosity

2007-01-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

This song is, like, incredibly beautiful. It's the way he forces that first word out and then lets the words that follow flutter and blow away like a gust of wind. I'm sorry for the awful description, but this song simply blows me away. To the point where I have to close my eyes and breathe in deeply every time he begins a new line of beautiful words.

Just listen.

Califone - The Orchids

PLUS, here's "Aloneagainor" by Calexico. It was actually originally done by a band from the 60s called "Love" off the album "Forever Changes". Yes, Love Forever Changes. I like it too. My Dad introduced me to them and I've got to say they are a very good 60s band, but that Calexico still manages to do their song a little more smoothly and boldly. Anyways, this song is amazing if you haven't already heard it.

Calexico - Alone Again Or

And yes, I have been spending my days in the 'C' section of my iTunes.

NEON BIBLE

2006-12-15T12:42:00.000-08:00

The Arcade Fire is slowly but surely finding it's way into my beloved top 10 fave bands. I'm not even sure what my top 10 is, but they're making it up there. I didn't realize how great their album was until I went away to college and someone sneakilly put it on and made me swoon. And THEN. THEN, ladies and gentlemen, they release a new single in quite possibly one of the coolest ways ever. In order to hear the song titled "Intervention", you have to call 1-866-NEON-BIBLE x7777. How rad is that? Apparently the name comes from a book of the same name, of which I have not read and therefore can not tell you anything about it. Says Gorilla vs. Bear:

The message was sent (sort of) through a cryptic spam-looking email from a dude named F. Murray Conscription. Here's a snippet:

Subject : is it ne0n Bi*ble? She likes it

You and her both are looking for NE0N BIB*LE; Revolutionary safe new Program really works. Count on Time to work it out. *wink* *wink*

1-866-NEON-BIBLE ext. 7777

Um. COOL! And yeah, I listened to the song, and yeah, I totally dig. There's a lot of love eminating from my anticipation (for upcoming album) filled heart. Of course, bloggers are out there to ruin the fun for you and rip the song and let you download it online, but I'm just not gonna tell you where to find it because the whole phone thing is just way too cool. Gah. neon bible. hah! I want a tee-shirt already.

PS: Upcoming shows

2006-12-13T13:11:00.000-08:00

Saturday 7pm
"Pajama Party" (wear pajamas or pay $2)
Maria w/ Catwalk, Northern Two, My Little Red Toe @ The Fountain 760 Borrego Way, Oxnard

Sunday 2pm
Deepakalypse w/ Lilywater @ Grady's Record Refuge in Ventura

Big big boy band crush!

2006-12-13T09:07:00.000-08:00

Remember a while back when I wrote about the Kooks and basically said that it's not worth getting their album, but that they're really fucking cute? Well, since then, I've developed a huge school girl crush on this British boy band. "How?", you might ask. Well, if you guessed that I'v listened to their record a few more times, I would say you're a dumb ass. If you, on the other hand, guessed YouTube, I'd say you're a genius. Or else you own a computer, in which case YouTube is like the answer to everything. Anyways, It turns out that bands with hotties in it can make it if their music is mediocre. It's a balance thing. If you're ugly, you're music better be really fucking good. So I began watching their videos on YouTube. And the lead singer is, like, really fucking sexy. I really like his accent and his wonky teeth and his big lips and his perfectly curled couf. And their music is totally catchy. I'd just about sell my eggs to go to one of their concerts and get sweaty and dancy while watching that hottie pretend to be a rock 'n roll god. So here's the vids, sent to you with love from me. But don't listen to "She Moves in Her Own Way" too many times because I'm kind of really in love with that song. I have to use all the power in my body just to press the >> button (that means next track, btw). It causes me a great deal of pain to turn away from it, but I really don't want to get a toothache from all that sweetness.

Oh, turns out they have like 3,000 videos. Here's 4 of the best, I guess.

"She Moves in Her Own Way"

"Naive"

"Sofa Song"

"Eddie's Gun"

More weirdness, more goodness.

2006-12-12T17:48:00.000-08:00

I download a lot a lot of music that ends up unlistened to, sadly sitting in my iPod and waiting for the day that I will actually put my pod on shuffle and stumble upon it's warmth. Thank God I fell upon White Flight while on shuffle mode one day. The music is mostly cool blues rock n roll with an electronic pop edge. The drumming is in my fave BSS-ish style and the guy's voice is quivery weird and crazy. There's something about a smooth southern sound with crazy mixed in that drives me wild. "Solarsphere" has a lot of the blues and rock n roll that I was talking about (and is my fave track and the one that I stumbled upon), "Now" is a little more poppy with the BSS drumming and a fun loop, and "Obsidian" is soulful smooth but still a little crazy tough. Um, please listen?

Now
Solarsphere
Obsidian

I don't know if you actually want to know what the guy looks like, but here's a video for "Now". I find his grungy skinny craziness to add to the music a little bit.

Ima Robot + The Sounds @ The Fillmore = awesome!

2006-12-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

Sunday night I saw The Sounds and Ima Robot play at the Fillmore, with Tommie Sunshine DJing. The Fillmore is an awesome venue and the bands were both incredibly awesome.

Ima Robot, despite being the opening act, were the best band of the night. They were sexy, crazy, danceable (yet clever) madness. The lead singer is out of his mind which makes for a really awesome performance. Watching him is like continually watching someone lose it while holding it all together. He oft. sounds like David Bowie, which is pretty fucking cool.

The Sounds put on an amazing performance, complete with outfit changes, music fucking, stage diving, cigarete flicking, lighter-waving, and synth pad pounding. That last part was one of the best things. The two hottest guys from the band go to the center of the stage and each one begins pounding their own synth pad. It sounded awesome and looked awesome and really pounded energy into the crowd. Maja (the lead singer, pronounced "Mya", thanks to my superior googling skills), was simply incredible. She's extremely sexy and gritty, with platinum blonde hair that is partially shaved on the side that totally expresses her hardcore sexywoman whos tougher-than-your-boyfriend-ness. I simply love her and, if reincarnation is possible, I would like to be reincarnated as her.

(See those 2 guys shes holding in this picture? She treated them like that at the concert, too. I wouldn't be surprised if they actually are her personal sex slaves)

Final Analysis: So after the show I finally went home and listened to these bands' CDs. The Sounds, I'm dissappointed to say, are at least 15x better live. Whoever produced their record didn't really bring the noise and grit into the album that the band has live. Ima Robot, on the other hand, are awesome both live and recorded. Different experiences of course, but (almost) equally as great (because live music has so much energy, and because you dont get to get AS sweaty when you're just dancing in your room by yourself). They're my new obsession, my new dance partner, my new boyfriend.

TRACKS:

Ima Robot - Song #1
Ima Robot - Dirty Life
Ima Robot - A is for Action
Ima Robot - Black Jettas

The Sounds - Song With A Mission
The Sounds - Queen of Apology

This just in..

2006-12-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

Of Montreal at The Attic on January 31st. yayyy!

Amy Winehouse make me drunk, takes me back to black

2006-12-02T10:59:00.000-08:00

Oh, Gorilla vs. Bear, how you always have the best musical recommendations! Newest best = Amy Winehouse, who sounds a little like Lauren Hill, with bold and beautiful vocals, 1950s/60s smoothness, hip music with a lot of hop. Best thing about her? Hot Chip remixed one of her songs. As you can imagine, it's golden.

Rehab (Hot Chip rmx)
Rehab
Back to Black
Tears Dry On Their Own

This Week

2006-11-29T19:54:00.000-08:00

Joanna Newsom

Friday @ The Rio Theatre, Santa Cruz

The Sounds

Sunday @ The Fillmore, San Francisco

I must say, Sir, that you mix a lot.

2006-11-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, they are all good, and yes, you do have to download them all. Delete later if you wish, but download all.

HOT CHIP - Sexual Healing
FRIDA HYVONEN - You Never Got Me Right
THE SHIVERS - Half Invisible
THE SHIVERS - Beauty
KYLE ANDREWS - Amos in Ohio
HER SPACE HOLIDAY - Something to Do With My Hands
DRUGSTORE - Solitary Party
MIXEL PIXEL - Coming Up Xs
THE LOVEKEVINS - Private Life of a Cat

Freaky Folky so lovely lovely: Elf Power

2006-11-28T11:48:00.000-08:00

I've been doing my best in recent times to discover this genre called "Freak Folk", mainly because Animal Collective is categorized under it and they just happen to be one of my favoritefavoritefavorite bands (that's 3 favorites) ever. Elf Power's Back to the Web is characterized by steady, heavy, creeping drums and even creepier underlying chanting/moaning (or maybe that's an understated didgeridoo, I'm not sure). But it's not totally dark, and that's why I like this. There's something pretty and natural about their songs, with this underlaying creepiness which totally gets my love and attention. I've come to think that Freak Folk is a mix of the natural and the creepy. But those are 2 of my favorite things so maybe that's why I see that. Anyways, here are the 2 opening songs from Back to the Web.

Come Lie Down With Me (And Sing My Song)

An Old Familiar Scene

The albums cover art is also pretty neat considering the title:

Hair that high? You must be McFly.

2006-11-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

When things like this happen, I'm usually drowned in an intense feeling of confusion. How is it possible for someone to be geniusly talented, foreign, and hotttt as hell? I don't know either, but these videos are really effing awesome. This hottie artsy Norwegian guy named Lasse Gjertsen basically sat in front of a camera, fooled around with a piano, a drum set, and his mouth, and then went back later and chopped it all up to form the most kick ass music + vids ever. These two are by far the best so far, but the other ones prove 2 important things about him: 1. he is really hott and 2. he's a little morbid. Please, right now, telegram the gent and let him know that there's no need to swoon me anymore. Seriously. Hottie. Seriously.

This next one's awesome film-wise but it's not musical. If you're already in love, though, I suggest you watch it.

(Thanks Do Copenhagen for the links!)

Voxtrot is so hot!

2006-11-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

They really, really are. Flawless indie pop rock? Yes please! Their songs are ultra super catchy deliciously fun and I can't get enough. Here's the best of the best of their EPs (someone please tells these guys to release a full-length soon!):

Trouble
The Start of Something
Mothers, Sisters, Daughters & Wives
The Warmest Part of Winter

City of God = must see mooveee!

2006-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

Last night I finally got to see City of God. It was, in the most common, generic, yet accurate word, beautiful. First of all, the artistic quality of the film is amazing. The colors are striking and gorgeous and change with the mood of the film as the story progresses. There's some amazing camera work in there along with some awesome music.

Second of all, it's a true story. It's about the flavelas in Rio de Jeneiro, which are just dicrepid, cramped neighborhoods where the drug dealers rule and the police are afraid to go. It's incredibly interesting just to get a glimpse into a world so different. The interesting thing is that most people in the flavelas like the "hoods" (gangmembers) because they protect them and take care of them, get them medicine when they can't afford it. Even more interesting is the absense of any racial messages. Everyone in the film is of a different race: there are (hottie) boys who look like they're straight from Kenya alongside red-headed, pale skinned white boys and brown skinned Hispanics. But there is never any mention of race, which I think is beautiful and progressive in itself. I mean, the story isn't about race, so why include the topic just because it's there? The issue of morals is ever prevalent: There's a scene where the hoods all get together and pray before they begin their war. At first I thought of that one bible passage about how the devil can recite bible passages to support his cause (I really should learn what the real passage is). But then I thought, no, these guys aren't devils. These guys are playing God's game based on what He handed them. They're playing by the rules they've been given, and I do not at all consider all of these guys bad people. That's the thing: everyone in this film seems to kill someone at some point. They become desensitized, but in the end there are still boys who care about people, no matter how many people they've killed. It's hard to bring words to this, but I think it's an important idea that's brought up in the film.

I insist that you go see this film just because it's so moving. And because I think that getting a glimpse into another world is an eye opener, is essential to your overall understanding of the world. But I will warn you: there's a ton of guns and shooting and it seems like nearly everyone dies. However, I'm not going to say that you shouldn't see it just because you don't like violence. This story is about violence. It's about desensitized people trying to get by and it's about the means by which they must do this. It's really just an overall incredible film. A must see. It won't make you cry, but it'll make you feel and it'll make you think.

Review 1: The Kooks

2006-11-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

The Kooks are essentially a Mediocre+ pop-rock British band. Butttttt there's something really enjoyable about the lead singers voice/accent. And ladies, look at the pic above. You may not be able to see faces, but I see hottie-alert postures, outfits, and haircuts. If I were 16 I'd totes be obsessed. Basically what I'm saying is, don't get the whole album unless you're really in need of some candy rock music. BUT, if you haven't already, download She Moves in Her Own Way. It's way fun and way danceable. Or at least rhythmed walking-able. And it makes me feel special. Awwww!

NEW MUSIC!

2006-11-19T21:06:00.000-08:00

I just got a bucketfull of music for me to review and send out to all you lovers. I don't know why I'm telling you now since I won't be able to review it for a few days, but whatevs maign. I have THREE custom made awesome super special mix CDs to listen to as well as an Elf Power album and another by The Mystic Tapes which looks super awesome but is potentially really lame. I'm supposed to read the album artwork/comics while I listen to it, so we'll see how that goes. At least it came with an awesome popup picture and at least it was used aka cheap. Anyways, I guess what I'm trying to say is keep your ears open and your blog clicking ready because there's gonna be some upcoming awesomeness.

Video Tyme!!!

2006-11-18T10:47:00.000-08:00

Number One: That commercial that geniusly (no, it's not a word) combines Coldplay music with Star Wars clips. Keyword here def. being "commercial" (hence the italics. hmmmm clever!). This is not one of those fan clips that someone makes because they happen to love Evanescence and Kingdom Hearts a little too much. Nope, this is a full blown commercial. Meaning that someone was paid money to create this. Meaning I should definately look into the field of retarded internet nerds making money. Anyways, someone cleverly managed to get each scene to line up perfectly with Chris Martin's incredibly touching words. The result is (hold on, don't be surprised here) an incredibly touching video. Awww! My fave partido is when Chrissy Wissy sings his line about "fixing you". I bet you can't guess what happens then..(!)

Oh crap I think I'm crying a little now. Moving on...

Number Two: The best Court TV clip you will ever, ever see. Of course the narrator's clever dramatics and spicy music help this clip move up the hilarity scale, but what really gets it going is this super fly drunk guy who pulls the most ridiculous stunts in order to rob a gas station liquor store. Not only does he fall out of the fucking ceiling, he also gets a number of bottles smashed in his face. You're not going to believe what happens at the end, and I'm not going to tell you. Let's just say, it's what causes this video to hit the top of the hilarity scale and send a cascade of balloons and confetti falling down on our heads. And yes, that does happen whenever things are funny.

(Sorry folks, no embedding here. Please move along. I mean move up to those links. Yep, that one. And that one too. Oh and the one that's coming up really soon.)

Number Three: Tom Cruise Kills Oprah. Do I have to say more? Can you guess what's going to happen? Turn your volume up and enjoy this quick clip of laughy taffy. I mean laughy...ness. Laughiness. Yeah, that's it. Laur-harharharhar-ness.

Jolie Holland plays Santa Cruz

2006-11-16T11:14:00.000-08:00

Yayyy! The time has finally come for Jolie Holland to play downtown at the Attic. She'll be playing tomorrow (Friday) night at 7:00, tickets are $17. Here are some of my favorite tracks of hers, and yes, they are all off of her older album Escondida. I actually listened to Springtime Can Kill a little bit but I swear Escondida is much better. Here's the lovin:

+ Amen
+ Poor Girl
+ Old Fashioned Morphine
+ Mad Tom of Bedlam

The 4 jellybeans left in the bag

2006-11-13T16:01:00.000-08:00

So I've made a couple new playlists lately which will most likely float this way: "#1 Mondern Indie Rock Hits" as well as "#1 Moderns of Today". It's essentially a NOW series of songs by yours truly. Sooooo instead of posting all of either, I'm going to post a little bit from both. They're shizzle that's either new + awesome or awesome + I finally got obsessed with it.

+ Amos in Ohio - Kyle Andrews
+ Yours to Keep - Teddybears
+ Yours to Keep - Annie
+ She Moves in Her Own Way - The Kooks
+ Launch Yourself - Adem (Hot Chip remix)
+ Take It On the Chin - William Elliot Whitmore
+ I'm a Vampire - Future Bible Heroes

Cat Stevens is a swooner

2006-10-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

Ugh, Stereogum, my love! Today they posted a new Cat Stevens track! I know everyone and their mamas are psyched. Or maybe just me and my mom because we talked about it for about an hour today. Neither she nor my sister believed me (given the fact that he denounced his previous geniosities). But it's true and me and my little socks are really happy. So of course today I got out my tired Greatest Hits CD and gave it a whirl. Why is he so wonderful? Even when his songs aren't sad they make me cry! I'm going to post a few because, Jesus Christ, it's Cat Stevens, and he's got a new song, and we've got a freakin war going on. In my opinion those are ALL good reasons.

+ Heaven/Where True Love Grows (NEW)
+ Wild World (old)
+ Oh Very Young (old)
+ Moonshadow (old)

Oh my god, and the Harold and Maude video? I think I'm required to rent that movie again now. Sooo good!

Check out the Stereogum article here.

Yes is my favorite answer

2006-10-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time I created a playlist called "Songs that make you Cry". I didn't get very far but it's still kind of beautiful. Don't be afraid of the title, they're just some of the prettiest songs that I've ever heard. Sure, I may be late on the pretty-song-bandwagon, but that's just kind of how it goes. Now go watch a sunset or take a bath or something. And if you cry... well, honestly I think that'd be a good thing.

Cocorosie - Terrible Angels
Cocorosie - Butterscotch
Bright Eyes - Walk Away
Okkervil River - Red
Okkervil River - Black Sheep Boy
Neutral Milk Hotel - King of Carrot Flowers Pt. 1

Cocorosie is probably the group you know least about, so I'll just tell you it straight out: They're two sisters and they're weird and have beautiful voices. That's about all there is to know. One of them plays with toys in the songs which I find kind of weird, but I guess it works to make the songs more gritty. But really, those dinosaur calls can get kind of annoying sometimes. Other than that their voices are just so incredible that I can't stop listening.

I'm sorry

2006-10-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

I swear to god I'll post music either tonight or tomorrow, but right now I kind of have an obsession. It's called Stuff On My Cat. According to the website, Stuff + Cats = Awesome and I can't really disagree. So let the cuteness begin...

My personal fave is "Squirt" so what's yours?

What I'm listening to this week

2006-10-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

1. Black Rebel Motorcylce Club -- A new friend introduced me to this band, and I haven't been able to get enough. I don't know how to describe it other than high-quality rock and roll. Now, I'm not a huge rock n roll fan, I don't even like classic rock that much. But this band is just.. um.. for lack of a better word, AWESOME. They're skilled musicians with really well constructed and written songs. I don't know how to prove this other than to link to some free MP3s bitchesss!

+ Stop
+ We're All In Love

2. The Hot Chip remix of Adem's "Launch Yourself". Download it now and launch yourself into feelgoodness.

+ Launch Yourself

3. The Blow. They're just awesome. Period. The music is so good and fun that you won't even care about the lyrics, but then when you listen to "Parentheses" for the 50th time you'll actually hear what she says. And love it. And then hope for a vegan boyfriend. If you like, Gorilla vs. Bear put in a good deed by sharing a whole EP of theirs. It doesn't include their top hits, but it's still good

+ Parentheses

4. Bad Veins. I'm having a lot of trouble finding tracks from these guys, but I think they're amazing. High quality indie rock electro beautosity. It's not extremely complex, but it's promising. I'll be sure to buy some of their tracks so that I can share more.

+ The Lie

5. Suburban Kids with Biblical Names. I couldn't help downloading them just because of the awesome name. But surprise surprise, their name isn't the only thing that's awesome! The band uses mouth music (bah bah bahs) and a poppy sound but have really deep voices that sound a little bit bored/depressed. The contrast really works. Oh, and apparently the guys want to ”turn all the dance floors into a burning inferno of Ba-ba-ba”. Um, cuuuute!

+ Rent a Wreck

Rent-a-wreck VIDEO:

6. Voxtrot. More cute indie poprock. Their other songs aren't as cute but they're also not as catchy.

+ The Start of Something

A Clockwork Orange

2006-10-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

I'm reading the book lately, which is filled with the most bizarre and delightful slang and last night came upon a passage that describes Alex's ecstacy when he listens to his classical music. It reminds me of the first time I listened to You Forgot it in People stoned. Anyways, it's pretty great and I thought it was at least partially relevent for this blog.

" The little speakers of my stereo were all arranged round the room, on ceiling, walls, floor, so, lying on my bed slooshying the music, I was like netted and meshed in the orchestra. Now what I fancied first tonight was this new violin concerto by the American Geoffrey Plautus, played by Odysseus Choerilos with the Macon (Georgia) Philharmonic, so I slid it from where it was neatly filed and switched on and waited.

Then, brothers, it came. Oh, bliss, bliss and heaven. I lay all nagoy to the ceiling, my gulliver on my rookers on the pillow, glazzies closed, rot open in bliss, slooshying the sluice of lovey sounds. Oh, it was gorgeousness and gorgeosity made flesh. The trombones crunched redgold under my bed, and behind my gulliver the trumpets three-wise silverflamed, and there by the door the timps rolling through my guts and out again crunched like candy thunder. Oh, it was wonder of wonders. A then, a bird of like rarest spun heavenmetal, or like silvery wine flowing in a spaceship, gravity all nonsense now, came the violin solo above all the other strings, and those strings were like a cage of silk round my bed. Then flute and oboe bored, like worms of like platinum, into the thick toffee gold and silver. I was in such bliss, my brothers."

This Week in Live Music

2006-10-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

Monday 10/16

Ghostland Observatory will be playing at the Attic. I'm not a fan. BUT if you happen to be a guy I suggest you go. Why? Because Gorilla vs. Bear said so! According to the blogger, the girl to guy ratio was "like 5:1". Get your pimp on. But I'm not even gonna post an mp3 because they're not worth it.

And that's it? Sorry. But here's stuff to look forward to:

Ocotober 30
Bummer that this is the day before Halloween, but Bonnie Prince Billy will be playing at the Attic that Monday. Chances are you won't go because you'll be too excited about the day after. Or you'll be pre-drunk for the day after. Whatever the case you should still try to go.

November 11
Yayy!! Jolie Holland will be playing at the Attic next month, and I couldn't be more excited. I feel in love with her last album because of her beautiful, beautiful voice and the 1940s jazz/bluegrass feel that holds them up.

Sound Team's also playing that same day at the Catalyst. Feel free to take your pick, even though Jolie will be better.

And in San Francisco there are about 5,000 shows that I would love to make but can't because of transportation and schooling conflicts. Highlights:

Aberdeen City this Saturday at the Independent
Ladytron Monday at the Fillmore
Beirut Oct. 20 (Friday) at the Great American Music Hall
Devendra Banhart & Death Cab Oct 20. (Saturday) at the Shoreline Amphitheatre
Regina Spektor Oct. 29 (Sunday) at the Fillmore
MSTRKRFT Nov. 1 at the Mezzanine
OK GO Nov. 2 at the Great American Music Hall

TRACKS:

+ Bonnie Prince Billy - Let's Start a Family
+ Jolie Holland - Sascha
+ Sound Team - Movie Monster
+ Aberdeen City - God is Gonna Get Sick of Me

*random mp3 posting coming soon!

The Burning of Rome

2006-10-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

Today at KZSC I processed one of the most interesting bands I've heard in a while. They're called The Burning of Rome (an event which lead to persecution of Christians). My first impression was that it was very "horrorshow"ish (like Primus) with clowny organs in "Hard Times". But then I heard the 80s fun feel of "Dancing Like a Dead Drunk Soldier". Then I heard the beautiful "Too Late, Too Bad" and "Less Forgotten". And THEN I heard "Dear Israel" which starts as a frightening rock delicious clash and then abruptly becomes the cutest ukelele-ridden melody which then turns back into rock 'n roll pop fun. And then "the war is over". It's an incredibly interesting track, and stood out among all the others. I suggest you take a listen just because I don't even understand them. Avant-garde? Maybe.

TRACKS:
+ Hard Times
+ Dancing Like a Dead Drunk Sailor
+ Too Late, Too Bad
+ Less Forgotten
+ Dear Israel

You can download all the tracks from the band's website and buy it from CD Baby.com.

Yayyy!

2006-10-08T15:40:00.000-07:00

Time for a makeover! I'm switching gears over to a Santa Cruz-centered music blog. Uh-huh. It'll be awesome. I got a new file server that'll hopefully make this a whole lot easier/better. Psyched!

NIN penetrates Star Trek

2006-09-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Which is funnier: this or the Gay Bar Bush/Blaire mashup?

slightly lazy tuesday morning bin of Extras

2006-09-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

+ Land of Talk: "Speak to Me Bones"

For some reason I never posted this band's best song and I appologize for it.

+ Grizzly Bear: "Don't Ask" (Final Fantasy remix)

Because there's a good chance that you've got a hankerin' for more Bear.

+ Sufjan Stevens: "Chicago"
"The Henney Buggy Band"
"Adlai Stevenson"

I never posted anything about Sufjan's "Avalanche" album because, well, how much more Sufjan do you need? But if by chance there is a hole in your collection, or if you're thirsty for some relaxing and refreshing Sufjan, I suggest you download these hand-picked tracks that are, I swear, the best on the ablum. And if you dig "Chicago", there are actually three versions of it on the album!

So Hot Right Now: Grizzly Bear outshines every barbershop quartet ever

2006-09-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

Pitchfork gave Grizzly Bear's new album Yellow House a good review, so of course everyone's raving. I was a little bored, especially after hearing one blog call them a mix of BSS, Animal Collective, and Arcade Fire. (They seriously said that and I nearly shit my pants, I kid you not.) But then I saw this video on YouTube of them performing their song "Knife" while walking on the streets of Paris with beers in their hands. It truly doesn't get any cooler than this.

So I gave them a fresh listen, and this just in: they are pretty great. Here are some pre-approved tracks for your listening preasure.

TRACKS:

+ Grizzly Bear - "Knife"
+ Grizzly Bear - "On a Neck, On a Spit"

And I know you're wondering, so I might as well address it: Yes, there is at least one hottie in the band. And yes, the only reason I posted that picture was for the hottie in the shower and the gay relations. There are more pictures which are more awesome in a non-sexual way, and I do suggest that you go look at them at their myspace page.

Ellen Delesbian and Kaaalie embarrass me

2006-09-07T16:01:00.000-07:00

Check out Ellen DeGeneres on her show making a fool of every blogger out there. And every blog reader. I feel nerdy for caring, but this is soooo embarrasing. Why does a 17 year old girl from Long Beach get to represent the blogosphere? I'm sorry to sound so self-riteous, but I think blogs are a POWERHOUSE! of information that are changing the way music and reporting are done. Oh, kAAAlie, what are we going to do with you?

(Thanks to BWE for the clip)

Ratatat remixes the Shout Oud Louds, makes awesome video, looks hot

2006-09-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

If you didn't already know, Ratatat remixed "The Comeback" by the Shout Out Louds and the result is awesome. Ratatat is musically superior to the Shout Out Louds and the Shout Out Louds are vocally superior to Ratatat (mainly because they ahve vocals), so of course there was nothing but hotness to be made. Here's the video, which is also great:

TRACKS:

+ The Shout Out Louds - The Comeback
+ Ratatat - The Comeback Big Slippa Mix

I also found this video for their song "Germany to Germany" of their self-titled album. The video is on fire... literally. Where else can you get two hot bois playing guitar in front of a red sports car as well as clips of fire and smoke and lights?

Truly Sadly Deeply

2006-09-06T13:12:00.000-07:00

It turns out that I'm still in 8th grade and that the most satisfying thing in the whole world is, no, not seeing Lindsay Lohan's gross vagina, but watching people get rejected.

A while back a video emerged thanks to TMz of Tara Reid getting denied entrance to Hyde, a hotshot club with a not-so-hot name. The drama princess in me loves it way too much. Click here in order to scornfully laugh at disgusting people looking sad and rejected and their friends trying to pretend like they're still cool. It's painfully good.

That was just the appetizer. The main course is Paris Hilton, along with Brandon Davis and P. Diddy getting turned away from Bungalow 8. Paris almost cries, and it makes me smile. Go to Best Week Ever to get a full recap. You won't be disappointed.

In the MIX

2006-09-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

1. Paris Hilton's CD gets scammed in the UK.

Head to The Gossip Rag to see the rest of the pictures and find out more!

2. Listen to Snowden
+ Anti-Anti

3. Also listen to Menomena
+ Shirt

4. I Am Fuel, You Are Friends posted a bunch of tracks from the Sub Pop Singles Club and they are all incredible. Go there to get the best tracks ever from the Mountain Goats, Bonnie "Prince" Billy, and Modest Mouse among many, many others.

* And I insist you download "Jam Eater Blues" by the Mountain Goats because it's true, life's too short to not eat jam out of the jar. (Come on, I'm a sucker for the cutesies!)

5. Don't forget to check out my last post for more awesome music!

Land of Talk

2006-09-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

What is it with bands from Montreal? They all bring the hotness along with the popness. It's like a popcorn machine of music! Anyways, enough of that analogy, I recently heard a band called Land of Talk. I was mainly hooked by the lead singer, Elizabeth Powell's vocals which remind me very much of the girls from Broken Social Scene. The music (of course) isn't as skilled as BBS's but it's melodic and a little bit gritty.

Tracks:

+ Breaxxbaxxx
+ All My Friends

The band currently only has one CD out which consists of only 8 tracks. A dissappointment especially when compared to Sufjan's Avalanche (21 tracks) and Devendra's Cripple Crow (22 tracks), and even more so considering 4 of the 8 are floating around in the Hype Machine. Even so, the band is worth a listen and possibly even a buy.

Your favorite celebrities are on TV!

2006-08-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Leslie Hall made it on MTV and since I'm obsessed, I thought I'd have to post it. Not only does Leslie talk about her highschool years, she also performs LIVE!! (I dare you to watch her say thank you and TRY not to fall in love)

Dewdrop Lane?? She is pure genius.

And here's Peter Pan on VH1, being a little more real and a little more weird. Leslie Hall totally beats him in the being awesome field, but not in the being sweet field (awww!)

I go Youtube crazy, you go just straight cRaZyy!!

2006-08-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

But the real question is: How do I get into the Paris Hilton?

Reasons to be happy

2006-08-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

1. Leslie Hall
2. Snakes On a Plane came out this week and it was fantabular.
3.

Leslie Hall

2006-08-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Leslie Hall might just be the greatest musician ever. See for yourself:

More videos over at Leslie and the Lys.com

If you're in So Cal, she's playing at the Hard to Find in Goleta on the 14th of September, and then in Hollywood and LA.

WE are the internet!

2006-08-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

Catchiest song to hit the bandwidth:

These are all internet celebs, although the only one I actually know personally is Peter Pan, but Leslie Hall Keeper of Gems and Tron Guy seem pretty awesome too. They're trying to get the word out about Net Neutrality, which is us internet lovers' name for fighting a stupid political ploy to make everything on the internet not free. Which is kind of like an oxymoron, right? Anyways, head over to We Are the Web

Your latest "so hot right now" music

2006-08-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

My file server is currently down, so please excuse the blog linkage, but I've been meaning to post about a few bands lately. Well, really, I just wanted to post about:

Devendra Banhart. He's the latest in "freak folk", the latest hippie to tell us to grow our hair out and to not support the war. He's also the latest to be so simple as to be boring once you've heard each song one and a half times. I still suggest it, but I won't give it an extended-use warranty. Go to Rewriteable Content for "Long Haired Child", hold tight for the better "Cripple Crow" which I'll deliver as soon as my file server is up again.

So who I really want to post about is:

The Theater Fire

These guys are incredible. They've been called "alt-country" because of their country twang and banjos, but there's something much more lurking there. A lot of the songs make you feel as if you're in an old bar (or a saloon if you please!) singing songs with a big group of drinking buddies, or better yet, the whole town. They're joyous but at the same time there's a very light eariness that is weaved into the songs, mostly due to the background noises, recording quality, and the singers' voices. "The Fiddleback Weaver" includes Mariachi-style music, which sounds almost crazy but feels as normal as can be. They're very skilled musically and their songs all create a thick and entertaining atmosphere. It's like stepping into a new land. If you saw "Big Fish" you might remember the strange town where nobody where's shoes and at night the whole town comes out to dance in the grass while surrounded by Christmas lights. That's kind of how The Theater Fire is, but sometimes with more grit and more dirt. It's magical and beautiful and it suspends you in disbelief. You're not in California anymore, kids.

TRACKS:
download everything at Aquarium Drunkard as well as "Swimming" (or whatever else you'd like) over at musicisnotdead

And today I just heard "The Bicycles", the newest in twee, and they aren't too shabby. Go to The Smudge of Ashen Fluff and download "Paris Be Mine"

Belated Picture Post

2006-08-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

**Click on picture to view source and better pictures

Miss Richie shows us all how to look like you're from the Rescuers Down Under (also indirectly shows hatred for Holocaust survivers)

Photographers can't get enough of old men sweeping

Lindsay Lohan wears potato sack, can't afford a bra.

And as a refresher, the lovely Christina Aguilera shows us what a superstar really looks like.

You just got PULSATED!

2006-08-14T23:38:00.000-07:00

Too bad that line isn't in the movie. Saw Pulse tonight due to continuous obsession with horror films. There are two reasons to see this movie:

and

Ian Somerhalder, first photo, is given a bit of a visual boost due to a red filter which means he has less of a "rosy" look. He also has a bit of stubble. Basically, he looks more like a man than usual.

Jonathon Tucker, second photo, is given a bit of a hit against the head due to his name. Isn't there a movie out right now called "John Tucker Must Die"? And didn't he die in Pulse in the first 10 minutes? Bummer.

Other than that, it's terrible. It's not scary enough and it has a stupid story: internet virus kills people (sound familiar? ahem FEARDOTCOM ahem), takes over the world wherever internet, cell phone reception, etc can reach. So the theme? Technology is bad. Also, red tape "keeps it out". Unfortunately, no one cared enough to make this mean anything. Stupid object, no meaning. Hopefully the Japanese version was better. Don't waste your money.

Update: Okay, I lied. I did get scared quite a few times. But not enough! And the story was so dumb that the scares weren't even worth it. I did scream, but it was because of the mix of boredom and terror, not just sheer terror.

Snakes in a Toaster

2006-08-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Ebay is currently hosting an auction for Snakes on a Plane toast. I know, it sounds ridiculous, but check out the actual auction. It gets weirder. Number one: Why is someone paying $143 for toast? Number two: Memory loss? And Number Three: This "toastologist" says he knows the answer to everything, so ask away!

First question on the auction: "Has this toast ever been in your pants?"
And answer: "Another great question, iamtywebb. I'm going to be honest with you. Yes, the toast has been in my pants, but I was drunk. I know, it shouldn't have happend and I normally wouldn't do such a thing, but after 2 O'Douls, I had no idea what was going on. I'm kidding! The toast has not been in my pants. In fact, nothing has been in my pants for quite some time. Unfortunately, I have the Abe Lincoln sex life; my last four scores were seven years ago."

Um.. question: is seller available for marrage?

Unicorn Island

2006-08-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Remember Montreal band the Islands? I wrote about them a while ago. Since then I bought Return to the Sea, which is an awesome album. It's so much fun and really sticks to it's theme of islands, ocean, etc. But then I got Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone, an album by the Unicorns who are actually pre-sea Islands. Islands pumped up the cuteness, but Unicorns pumped up the awesomeness. The main reason for the awesomeness lies in one track:

"I Was Born a Unicorn"

But I've got to say that Return to the Sea is still pretty darn wonderfully super cool and "Rough Gem" is a great song. It adheres to the island theme despite the boop bleep boops that remind me so much of Super Mario Bros. My favorite lyrics are "You can scoop out my brain shape it into an ear and then tell me your pain"

And if you're feeling the island theme, check out Blueberry Boat by the Fiery Furnaces, which you should really already own. They're another brother and sister duo, with a little less cuteness and a little more weirdness (plus awesomeness, duh!) Check out:

Blueberry Boat
Chris Michaels

Electronic Extravaganza

2006-08-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

the 2nd best electronic band to pop up in blogheaven?

Hot Chip

Over and Over.m4a
And I Was a Boy From School.m4a
(Just Like We) Breakdown.m4a

as well as:

Ratatat

Gettysburg.mp3
Wildcat.mp3

and:

MSTRKRFT
(who do their own songs, produce others' songs, and best of all do some awesome remixes)

Metric's "Monster Hospital" remix: Monster Hospital.mp3
Wolfmother's "Woman" remix: Woman.mp3

The Knife

2006-08-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Brother and sister electro duo the Knife are one of the best bands I have discovered recently. The Swedish Olof Dreijer and Karin Dreijer Andersson have been making music together since 1999 and have recently received a high amount of popularity due to (wait for it) the blogosphere!! as well as a cover that Jose Gonzalez, also Swedish (with Argentinian parents), did of their song "Heartbeats" that later became a massively popular TV ad. This song is really quite great. Here are both music videos for your viewing and listening pleasure:

The Knife version:

Jose Gonzalez version:

And the commercial that started it all:

I recently bought their album Deep Cuts and trust me, their tracks don't go below a certain level of standard. Karin's voice is almost intoxicatingly addictive and the sound often carries a level of creepiness which is right up my alley.

The Knife usually does not tour. They are very pretentious about public appearances, because they like to keep themselves (as people) out of the spotlight so that their music stands alone. In fact, everytime they have a photoshoot they are seen in masks or makeup which attempt to visually depict their music. I have no idea what they look like and I don't really mind (because how many times have you been turned off of and okay band because they turned out to be uglier than expected?) After learning about their publicity celibacy, I was overjoyed when I found out that they're currently touring! They're in Europe right now, and in November will be hitting Los Angeles and San Francisco

Tracks:
Jose Gonzalez' Heartbeats
Knife's Heartbeats
You Take My Breath Away.m4a
10 Is It Medicine.m4a
Pass This On.m4a

OK Go makes us excited

2006-08-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

I believe that OK Go has had the power to renew dance spirit in everyone. If you didn't already read my Danse Lesson post, you'd better tune in quick. Why? Because OK Go is having a dance contest!!!. And to all you current-news-via-blog-eaters: so what if I'm the last person to jump on the bandwagon and care?

Go for the gold you internet bloggies!

Broken Social Scene for breakfast

2006-08-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

Since the first time I heard them I have been totally hooked on Broken Social Scene. I can't even put into words how great everything they do is (except for the boring "landscape" songs, but pretend I didn't just say that). There's something about having too many band members in a band which just makes it really awesome.

WELL, I just found a bunch of live Broken Social Scene tracks from a KCRW session at Surviving the Golden Age. I'm kind of very stoked and just happen to be listening to it right now. If you're not already a fan, don't bother, but if you are, I wouldn't miss this. Why? Because nothing they do can be bad. I'm convinced.

And to celebrate, I thought I'd post their TOP 5 Most Awesome Music Videos.

5:
A little less Garden State, a little more Fall Out Boy. But hey, I dig it. But mainly because of the line "Can't we just make it instrumental?"

4:
Why? Because a football player says "Let me tackle you." And because it's super gay and I'm super down.

3:
I'm not really into totally romantic stuff, but this music video is still kind of amazing. It captures, in two and a half minutes, the feeling of a first kiss or a new love. The blue color of the ocean paired with the fluctuating time of the ocean and those incredible violins is almost too much.

2:
Why is this video awesome? Whats his name and Leslie Feist are, first of all, soooo cool when they dance together! (Where do they get that sort of energy?!) But I've already proven that. Also, the scenes in the car make me really want to take a cold, gloomy road trip. Maybe not with a zebra, but definately with and oh-so-indie cassette tape and a super-cool ,hip hop boom box. Plus, this song is so raw and crazy and real! (please excuse the terrible adjectives)

1:
Duh. You knew it'd be on here.

Suri Cruise is scary

2006-08-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

These pictures have been all over the internet lately:

But honestly, I'm not sure if I believe it. First of all, why is Katie (or whoever that cloudy figure is) standing in the window like some creepy ghost from Are You Afraid of the Dark? I mean, she doesn't look like she's even capable of moving. Is Madame Tussaud behind all this? Perhaps a Scientologist herself with duties to protect the Cruise Clan? And second of all.. I don't really want to see Suri. I'm much happier with her remaining an exciting, gossip-inducing mystery that looks, in all our minds, like this:

Would that be so bad?

Apparently Vanity Fair has bought the rights to the first Suri pictures. I'm disappointed. I'm going to continue to pretend that it's all some elaborate conspiracy that those alien-worshiping Scientologists managed to brew up.

Blast From the Past: episode 1

2006-08-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

Check out that lingo. Check out that hair. Check out that outfit! This was definately before Melissa Joan Hart became a loser and before she got old, had a baby, and complained about people still thinking she was a teenager. You know why that was, Melissey? Because you hit your peek when you were about 16. Honestly. And we all still wish so very hard that you could remain that age.

Unfortunately, this is the only clip of Clarissa Explains It All that you can get on YouTube. To that I say WTF? There are plenty of clips from The Secret World of Alex Mack (see below) and from Are You Afraid of the Dark? but no more Clarissa! We can't even see her at her prime age of 16!

Well, if you really are desperate for some of her handy knowledge, for her annoying brother Ferguson and for Sam to climb through the window and not have sex with her, then you can go to Amazon and buy the episodes on DVD. You can also get Pete & Pete (easilly) and Alex Mack if you really try (and that might be worth it)

But enough blabber, go watch some YouTube! I highly suggest Alex Mack, especially because the "mean girl" is played by a young Jessica Alba. Are You Afraid of the Dark is also great. It's still just as frightening as it was when I was a kid. If you decide to go the scarier route, make sure to scroll down about half way when you search until you see a description that says "The Lonely Ghost". That's where the episodes begin. Enjoy!

The newest edition of Why America Sucks

2006-08-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

I have always been a huge fan of horror movies. So when I went over to the UK last summer and my cousin told me about a new film from the creators of Dog Soldiers and 28 Days Later, I was psyched. I watched the film and decided that it was one of the best I've ever seen. Since then, I've been following it's progression to American theatres via the IMDB message board. I was naturally dying to see it again when The Descent came out in theatres. Now, I knew that they were re-editing it for American audiences, but I didn't expect it to be as bad as it was. First off, the whole ending has been cut out. Yes, the American ending is, in the original version, just a dream. They cut out many meaningful symbols, including the daughter with the birthday cake. Sure it was included, but did it make any point? Was there any use for it? And the scares were so cheap! It's been totally Americanized to a cheap version of an amazing film and I don't know what to do. My first thought was to get out of the country (I really am serious about my horror films!). But instead I think I'll just buy a multi-region DVD player. Yes, just so I can watch this movie. Phooey. I hate Americans.

Whitney Houston Lite

2006-08-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

I'm honestly freaked out by this video of Britney Spears that recently popped up in internetland. What's wrong with her, y'all?

Attention Venturans:

2006-08-03T15:24:00.000-07:00

Remember the old Mann theatre? Remember how they converted it to a $2 theatre plus once a week they play old movies? Well, for the next month or maybe longer, they're playing tons of Stanley Kubrick films (I'm a big fan). I suggest you go see at least the best of them. Here's the schedule + link:

Today: Dr. Strangelove
August 10: 2001: A Space Odyssey (make sure to get high before going!)
August 17: A Clockwork Orange (go just to see Alex's bulge enlarged)
August 24: The Shining (the sounds the tricycle makes are worth seeing it in the theatres)
August 31: Full Metal Jacket (I don't care because I haven't seen it)

That's it for now. You can check the website yourself if you'd like. They play every Thursday. Don't miss out!

The Dylan/Cash Sessions

2006-08-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

If you like it, head over the The Aquarium Drunkard for some great tracks, including (and I highly recomend it) "One Too Many Mornings"

Are you down with G-O-D?

2006-08-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

The Lord is all that, I need for nothing. / He allows me to chill. /He keeps me from being heated /and allows me to breathe easy. /He guides my life so that I can /represent and give shout outs in His name. / And even though I walk through the hood of death, /I don't back down, for You have my back. / The fact that He has me /covered allows me to chill. / He provides me with back-up/In front of player-haters, / and I know that I am a baller and life will be phat. / I fall back in the Lord's crib for the rest of my life.

--Actual quote from "The Hip Hop Prayer Book".

I'm just wondering why the rap has to suck so back. I'm not really suprised that someone decided to rewrite the Book of Common Prayer all in raps, but I am surprised that they didn't hire someone super cool and super talented to help them out. First off, that wording! It's trying way to hard. God doesn't try hard to be a baller, you shouldn't either. Second off, does this follow any sort of rhythm whatsoever? And no rhymes! I'd be so down with God if he had some sick ass rhymes to get me all giddied up in the Lord's name. Sheeet man.

source

Lessons in stYle

2006-08-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

So what if this is kind of really old, I am IMPRESSED.

OK Go's music videos are really, really cool. This first one reminds me of the dances I did in elementary school (okay, highschool, too) but a thousand times better. And somehow those dance moves are so stylin! This video is a lesson in style.

This video is a lesson in skill. Sit back, watch this, be in AWE. Cuz it's toaderlly AWESOME!

This video is a lesson in being Feisty. (hah!) Leslie Feist is some how an amazing dancer. I don't know what it is. She just seems to move to her own rhythm and it totally makes sense. And I love Broken Social Scene but that's another story (and another 500 awesome music videos) I like her groove, it makes me feel comfortable with my totally off-centered style.

Poached eggs

2006-08-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

WARNING: Don't watch this if you hate stupid people. In otro words: believers, not thinkers who pretend like their opinion is protected (even if it sucks) and they don't have to listen to other views. (yeah America!)

But I must say: How is it okay/reasonable that she cares so much about a fucking egg but truthfully does not give a shit about the kid once it's alive? I doubt she would donate any money, ever, to support orphanages and drug rehab facilities or any sort of program that helps kids who grew up in terrible, unwanted conditions and ended up fucking up their lives. Cool, Elizabeth. Real cool. Give a fuck about a stupid tiny egg that we have plenty of, but make sure to totally ignore it once it's an actual human being. Stop being so pretend-philosophical, so theoretical, and be rational, reasonable, and compasionate (you stupid stupid slut)

I love skinny slutties

2006-07-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

Actually, I just love The Superficial and I want you to love it too. There's a new picture of Lindsay Lohan in a bikini everyday (I don't know why I still love to see it), the writer's sense of humor is disgusting yet great, and you occassionally get stuff like a clip of Paris Hilton bathing in a child's poo. Click here to check it out/find a blog better than this one.

Utah is cool.

2006-07-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

News headline:
"Family Upset About Sign In Neighbor's Yard"

Okay, I admit that's kind of (really) lame and all, but check out what this authority figure had to say about it:

Fraser Nelson, Executive Director, Disability Law Center: "People with disabilities are probably the last group for whom we continue to use language that is hurtful and offensive. Instead of being someone who is mentally retarded, you are a person with a developmental disability and that means really what we are valuing is the person."

Um, I think that guy might be the retarded one. He's not really helping his cause by blurting out a bunch of balogna that I can't understand.

source

Side Note: Check out the couple that put the sign up. I'm pretty sure they're just pissed because she gave him ghonnorea/syphilis/herpes (yes, all at one time. They call the "Triple Threat" in Utah) and also because his mom is actually his sister who's his aunt but says shes his cousin and his dad couldn't deal with the confusion and left.

Musique Automatique!

2006-07-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to free myself from the $30 fee EZArchives charges (fek off, EZArchive!) I've decided to link to some blogs that currently have some songs that I just can't get enough of.

1. Joanna Newsom - Bridges and Balloons
This girl has a really annoying voice. I hated it the first time, was intrigued the second time, and now I think I might be on the way to loving it. It's definately interesting and it really works in this song. Oh yeah, and she's a classicaly trained harpist. That always helps.

2. Regina Spektor - Fidelity
Regina Spektor is a sweetheart, there's no denying it. She's quirky, powerful and yet so very (for lack of a better word) sweet. Sweet lyrics: "I hear in my mind all of this muuusic and breaks my heart, it breaks my he-e-ea-a-a-rt". (On the Radio and Musicbox are some good picks from her, too)

3. Islands - Don't Call Me Whitney, Bobbi
Kids like rhymes. Rhymes are perfect, they connect like no other and there's no room for technical improvement, only improvement in the meaning. Islands are still kids, just a little bit more grown up. This song is so much fun I can't help but shaking my limbs to their "doot doot doots" and their greatly rhymed lyrics about some bony girl that lacks "hidden folds". It makes me feel so down with the fat rolls!

4. Beirut - Postcards from Italy
I can't really sum up why I love this song like I love the others, but the little ukulele or whatever it is they've got is really nice.

5. Architecture in Helsinki - The Owls Go
And to end it all, another semi-childish song, but not as much fun. The whispering voice is kind of creepy paired with the Lolita-esque intro, bubble-pop sounds, and little girl singing "Attic in a basement with a knife serrated, I'll protect you". I can't really explain the mix of childhood elements with that creepy feel, but it works.

That's it for today! I'll probably post some more after a couple of days. I mean, I don't want to overwhelm you with good songs!

Newsweek saves the news

2006-07-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

In every Newsweek issue there's always a section called "Perspectives" which is a collection of quotes and cartoons that have to do with that week's news. It sums it the week up pretty nicely, and it's usually got at least one quote that is either ridiculous or hilarious, or in this case, both.

"Hate language is usually the early-warning signal that could lead to hate-motivated violence. And before that happens, we try to nip it in the bud." Provincetown, Mass., Town Manager Keith Bergman, concerned about a recent reports of gay residents' slurring heterosexuals by calling them "breeders"

Now that's what I call a slur!

source

Rasputin in a bottle

2006-07-18T19:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we've all seen Rasputin literally in a bottle already, but this time it's different. I was browsing the beer section of our local VONS the other day when I spotted something quite wonderful: Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout. Holla!

And what do you think is the slogan on the box? Well, I'll tell yer: "NEVER SAY DIE". If that's not a party beer, I don't know what is.

A State of Mind

2006-07-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

My enthusiasm for continuing this blog sort of died when I failed to find a way to post MP3s on here. But I've decided to push on past the hard times! So, here's the "trailer" for a wonderful film I just saw the other night. It's a film that follows two girls from North Korea as they prepare for this sporting event called the "Mass Games" (as you'll see below). Even if you don't care to understand such a mysterious country, the visuals (of the event) are incredible. Through the story, what comes through is people. Politics are partially laid aside, and through an unbiased view we get a glimpse of what it's like to live in a country that has developed on a set of beliefs that are entirely different from our individualistic and independent ideals. It's communism like you've never seen it before and it's kind of awesome.

Strange Beginnings

2006-07-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

A collection of politics, gossip, music, social commentary and whatever else inspires this lady.