Supper (An Androgynous Moustache Production)

Another short from the old group...Enjoy.

Bill, the Thespian

See Bill, the Thespian: Top Left. This picture is ridiculous, as he is holding a man-purse. But this story needs telling, so let me be:

For the last couple of weeks, Mr. Bill has been a co-star in a local San Antonio theatrical production entitled Marrying Terry. I have yet to see the play, but I expect to enjoy it. He is a moderately good actor. When I was younger, he was the lead in a famous play called Our Town (a local production), in which he played a lawyer - go figure. But seeing your own Dad on the stage is kind of a trip - because he somewhat takes on the roll of someone else. My immediate thought is, 'Who is this guy?'

Once on a BOY SCOUT trip to ALASKA, we stopped in with our group at a local production house to see a small-musical at a theatre in SKAGWAY. By the way, Alaska kicks an incredible amount of ass. Pristine and somewhat still untouched. It's one of the last places where you can drive on the road and see three grizzly bears getting their grub on.

Anywho, Bill was called up on stage to be a participant. I was weirded out, and proceeded to put on my aviator shadiators. After the production, one of the actresses came up to me and said: "You know it's rude to wear shades inside a theatre while a production is going on." I apologized, but all I could think of was how sorry I wasn't sorry, because it's just weird watching someone be someone else, even if for a hot minute. So moral of the story, wear your shades whenever and wherever you want. Do what you want to do.

I am going to see the play this Saturday. Apparently Bill plays somewhat of a jerk in the production. Maybe I'll post a review of it another time. But most likely I won't - - because I am too busy trying to find awesome tunes like this one: BAM.

Mr Big Stuff (Matty Blades Mashup) by MattyBlades

Surface Thoughts & The Cosmic Soul & Funk Mix Hour.

People of the World: We gotta talk. First, I want to suggest you all try and cook up some Chicken Marsala. It is one of my favorite dishes and I find myself without hesitation when thinking of returning to the counter for plates 2, 3 & 4.

Secondly, bike riding with headphones is in. Running on concrete? Not gonna happen. If I haven't gone for a run in awhile, and I try to hammer out a 4-miler, my shin's will hate me for the better part of a month. So - biking it is. And it rocks. On recent bike rides, I have been listening to: Marc Cohn's 1970: Listening Booth (Marc Cohn is awesome, btw. He was the originator for 'Walkin' in Memphis').
I have also been listening to the latest single from the Fleet Foxes, "Helplessness Blues." I posted it a couple days ago. The song is very, very large in scope. And to round it up, some People Under the Stairs. Additionally, my good friend is attempting his first marathon soon. Follow his journey here: thetarahumarakid.blogspot.com .

Third: If you ain't on LinkedIn, change that. We gotta network, people. Help a brother out.

Fourth: NBA Trade Thoughts: Surprised that K. Perkins is out in Boston. And Nate Rob in an OKC jersey? Could be fun. He was never essential to the C's anyway.
I'm Not surprised about Melo. I don't have an Eastern team, but if I had a gun to my head - it would be the Knicks. I love Chauncey Billups. He goes hard in the paint and keeps getting looked over by figurehead sports analyst. Holla at me, Wilbon. Final East Prediction (s): Chris Paul is out of New Orleans after his contract. Who do I like in the East? After tonight, Chicago.

Let's Recap: Chicken Marsala, Biking with headphones (mountain bikes are more comfortable), LinkedIn, NYK may be back & Chicago looks solid. But Viva Los Spurs. Always. Enjoy these funk astroid jams. I gotta get some sleep.

In The Middle Of The Night (Dinner City Sounds, 12", 2011) by Volta Cab



Superman - Commodores (Hawk re-edit) by Hawk Edits




GENERAL CROOK - What Time It Is (BB edit) by Bill Brewster

J.M., Inc.

Spike Jonze's Being John Malkovich was a solid add to my 'instant' queue on Netflix last night. I remembered reading a review on the film by Roger Ebert shortly thereafter in which he states - 'The first 30 minutes keeps you guessing, just as much as the last 30.' Something to that tune. But Ebert is spot on. When John Cusack auditioned for the lead role of Craig, it was because he loved the script, having immediately fallen in love with it. While this film is merely 15 years old, it is a fine, fine piece of cinematic art - and even ranks on many top 100 lists. The film essentially deals with identity, being someone else, and becoming something of true significance. Check the lineup: Cusack, Cameron Diaz (who looks nothing like her self in this - frizzy, red hair, frumpy jeans, etc.) Catherine Keener (a woman who continues to be in decent pictures, while maturing gracefully) and J.M. himself.

For my generation of pop-culture feeders, Malkovich goes essentially unrecognized as an iconic man of the theatre and the silver screen. Don't let Burn After Reading fool you - Malkovich is the man, pulling off an incredible transformation in the film from himself to Craig, who inhabits his body through puppeteering. I'm not here to deliver a synopsis, but rather pay homage to a great piece of cinema that totally and completely came out of nowhere! We need more films like this...

Odyssey

Odyssey - Easy Come, Easy Go (Leftside Wobble Edit) by Leftside Wobble

Working on two short film projects right now. Hoping to have both done by the end of the week. Sellin' Belts, for what it's worth, is now in the hands of one film festival. I don't think it has much of a chance to be screened at the actual festival, but hey - why the Hell not?

City Talk

Nothing On The Best Thing (B.o.B. ft. Bruno Mars vs. Ray LaMontagne) by Wild Ginger

Dujeous feat. Sharon Jones - Spectacular (Main) by INgroovesmarketing

Sauced Oscars

Above is a photo from the film Leaving Las Vegas. Nowadays, people are shocked to find that he (Nic Cage) actually won an Academy Award for this film in 1995. But it's true - - Best Supporting Actor. On another note, I hope everyone had a great National Margarita Day. I spent $ I didn't have soaking up some fine rita's at Bombay Bicycle Club in historic San An. Here are a few tracks and mashes I came across in the last 24 H's to commemorate the event.

The Swell Season - The Rain by okannie



Broken Summertime by Calum Macdonald

 Florence and The Machine - Dog Days Are Over (Slick Werk Dubstep Remix) by Slick Werk

John Mayer - Heartbreak Warfare ($pecial K Club Mix) by $pecial K (No Body)

Youth Hero

I LOVE HELPING THE YOUNG FOLKS.

Stick Around Town, For A Nels Cline Solo

I can't wait to use this incredible solo for a short film. See your way to it at about 2:30..ish.

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky - Impossible Germany by pcagx

Speedway

Blindsided Bon Iver Jugoe Remix by Jugoe

Fleet Foxes, Jackson Browne, Eddy Sharpe Remix. Embedded!

Well, it has taken me long enough - but Orcas will - from this moment on - be bringing music in these download-friendly, embed-friendly music players. Enjoy! We have finally caught up with the present.


For A Dancer - Jackson Browne by rockonguy

Home (Whole-Z Remix) - Edward Sharpe by GBZGBZ

Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues by subpop

Pt 2.

Reginald's Groove (Classixx Remix) - Cosmic Kids by Classixx (Official)

Collegiate

One of many great shorts filmed at the Shelby House. You can watch the rest @ youtube.com/androgynousmoustache

Bedroom Shades & Arcade Fire

People: Here is my PSA for the Day.

Turn your shades up! Sunlight is going to creep through if you have them turned down.

Turn them up!

Old Wes'

Hate It Here

Hollywood in the 1970's Pt. I

There are two books that I have read within the past year that are in many ways unlike other books I have read: Easy Riders, Raging Bulls and You'll Never Eat Lunch In This Town Again. Both books revolve around the state of the motion picture industry in the 1970's and provide a truthful insight regarding the players in the game. Some key points I have gathered from Easy Riders, Raging Bulls:


If anyone has slept with more women that Wilt Chamberlin, it was Warren Beatty.

The nerds of Hollywood were Spielberg and Lucas.

If there is a director who makes films solely for the purposes of the unconventional, it is Robert Altman.

Leonard Cohen does an amazing soundtrack for McCabe and Mrs. Miller. But, throughout the movie - one frequently asks - WTF is the purpose of the western period peace.

Martin Scorsese had a terrible coke problem and is sort of a hypochondriac.

Jackson Browne's music video in Taxi Driver was the only song used from the period. The rest was a haunting and original score from Elmer Bernstein.

All the President's Men (Redford, Hoffman) is really a story about good journalism, not Watergate.

Terrence Malick is a literary, script-writing genius who never gets the credit he deserves (and then exiles himself, temporarily - abroad).

Martin Sheen is the man. My God. What a talent. Especially in Badlands.

Godfather Pt.II is the best film in the trilogy. If you disagree, I can convince you otherwise. But it accordingly goes to the tune of: Young Vito's (De Niro) rise is totally in sync with Michael/the family's demise - which is often overlooked. Brilliant, Francis.

Jaws, may likely have ruined Hollywood. While still a great film and can still scare the Hell out of me, it was the beginning of the Summer Blockbuster - which has since been known to produce feces.

Mark Hamill ruined his face in a car accident after Star Wars. Look closely in Empire Strikes Back (opening scene, when he get's whacked off of his snow llama). Yes, that mug was somewhat shifted.

Harrison Ford evolved in to an actual real-life pilot (thanks, Millenium Falcon). I was in the Grand Tetons one summer. My cab driver told me about some mountain climbers who got stuck on South Teton. Old Harry Ford took his chopper up and saved them. Then was fined by the state for some reason along the lines of a license, or using a radio signal out of his jurisdiction.

The Deer Hunter is my favorite movie with Huge, Huge flaws. Character building, racism, story-line. We can talk about it if you disagree. I've read four essays on the flaws of The Deer Hunter. I hated reading them, but I couldn't argue.

The Day of the Jackal - later inspired The Jackal (Bruce Willis, Richard Gere). Great movie. Keeps one guessing.

More to come later.

The Quan Kwon: Montego Slay

It's good getting reconnected with music you forgot you had (usually as a result of a computational crash or a stolen/lost iPod). Enough said, Let it Spin People.

To The Moon & Back

...The mission was launched on April 11, 1970 at 13:13 CST. Two days later an explosion crippled the service module upon which the Command Module depended. To conserve its batteries and the oxygen needed for the last hours of flight, the crew instead used the Lunar Module's resources as a "lifeboat" during the return trip to Earth. Despite great hardship caused by limited power, loss of cabin heat, shortage of potable water and the critical need to jury-rig the carbon dioxide removal system, the crew returned safely to Earth on April 17. NASA called the mission a "successful failure" ...

Shielded: Feel The Break

The beautiful Alyssa shielded by a hoodie on the West Coast. Enjoy the song (Thanks Hood Internet). I took the liberty of throwing a photo up and uploading it for the social music community.

New Film

Musical Punctuation

Another remix from another blog, but I applied video (pic) to make it youtube accessible. Power to the people! Enjoy this one, it's one of my favorites.

Stock Rising

Hitting up some of my California photography and applying it to some new remixes I have come across via animalswearingtuxedos.blogspot.com Thanks to Ror for making that a great music blog with some excellent photography. I'll try and get one more of these up today. Hang tight, Stocks are rising.

Lissie, the Organic

First off, I hate any youtube video advertisement that precedes a video. Additionally, now when I see 'Consumer Reports' or some credit card report agency, I am equally disappointed. So, bear with this video which has a minute intro by the service who put it on (I guess they do deserve a small spot for their work).

Here is Lissie, playing a very organic version of "Little Lovin,'"which I think is easily enjoyable. And take a look at those sweet spectacles she is rocking. No microphones here, just a couples Axe's and a guy who doubles on the bass and drum. When I saw them live at Antone's the other night, their set up was exactly the same. Mighty impressive. The more I listen to this girl, the more I understand why she is a pretty raw talent.

The Spirit

After seeing Citizen Cope at Stubb's last spring, I came to realize that he was more of a performance artist as opposed to an entertainer. I'm not sure if that makes total sense, but he isn't the kind of artist that you go to sing-a-long with, or get fired up to, or passionately passionate about. Seeing Lissie the other night was a different story. She was so dynamic and authentic. I will have more to say about her later, along with some live footage. Also, I have some comments regarding her opening act - Dylan LeBlanc. He was absolutely awful live. Totally inept in terms of Sounding C.L.E.A.R....However, he is dynamite in terms of what he can do in a studio. I also feel as though he ripped off the song "Wings" by Gustavo Santaolalla (which I posted at an earlier date), which I am highly upset about. "Wings" was the title score to Brokeback Mountain. I have more to say, but I am maliciously hungover and trying to organize a volleyball competition for this afternoon, seeing as how the weather is magnificent today in Central Texas.

BTW, this song below kills - but was meant to be performed in a studio - as opposed to live. It is the last-track-back-track to "Somehow," but "John Lennon" packs a passion punch, which I dig.

Sellin' Belts & Paper Boys: A Review by A.L. Fallin of Central California

Below is my most recent work, Paper Boys. But first, I shall post one man's review of the aforementioned and of Sellin' Belts. The author of this review is Austin Lloyd Fallin. He is an Officer of some sort in the US Air Force and he is also a highly adequate musician. Look for him here @ http://www.reverbnation.com/austinlloydfallin
Austin and his music are also on Twitter & Facebook.

Austin's Review:

A critique of Paper Boys (in 1001 words or less)

First off, it’s good. It’s the first of Orcas in the Park film I've seen with a real sense of plot and suspense, not that those are necessary, as evidenced in Sellin' Belts, but a moving story line definitely adds another dimension to the film. I went into the film expecting to see Pat and Paul throwing papers to Arcade Fire (a lengthy one-act which I personally would have been satisfied with) but what I got was much more. It's still very simple, which is key, and the storyline, while playful, lacks gimmick. It has just the right amount of young compassion that puts it into a lighthearted demeanor without coming off as overly-sophomoric. The third act doesn't play out like a punch line like it might in the hands of some kid grown bored of masturbation.

What sometimes bothers me about “hip” art, be it music, literature, performance art, whatever, is that it often takes itself far too seriously. I don't want someone to try and force an unknowable truth upon me, shaking me and yelling "look! Can't you see how IMPORTANT this is?!" I want simple, creative, elegance. It is much easier for me to find beauty in that natural innocence than in something overly-complex and weighty. The best writers of intellectual literature are those who retain the element of simplicity in their structure, their flow, their metaphors, their sentences, which makes their ideas, however heavy, simple to appreciate. I find that especially in your last two films. There is a warm comfort in them. It is as if looking through a forgotten family photo album. I have to note that some of my attraction to them is subjective, being closely associated to the actors and even the setting; it incites nostalgia that plays into that sense of comfort. But were they actors from and acting in Michigan, I believe I'd still experience the same feeling I get when the opening credits to The Wonder Years roll. It’s the sentiment of happiness for no other reason than it feels good to smile. The camera work adds to all of this. It doesn't feel like the camera was held in a too-ambitious tween's hands. It has just the right amount of craft and youthful ingenuity required to make the viewing experience fun but not saturated in sticky sugar.

If there is a fault to be found with Paper Boys, it would be the intention of being cute, which can be off-putting. But in that risk is found success. When Pat peeks his head out from around Paul's, well that is solid gold. Really the only irksome aspect that I noticed was the transition from Arcade Fire to Booker T. While both masterful pieces, and both very fitting to their respective acts, the two don't fit very well side-by-side.

Overall, out of the four Orcas in the Park films I've seen, I put this right below Sellin' Belts. What puts Belts a notch above Boys is its completely upfront nature. It’s called Sellin' Belts, and what do we get? A dude sellin' belts (and smokin' cigs). The intrigue of the film lies in the quirky capitalistic psyche of our antagonist. Door-to-door, on the side of a busy road, daringly fill up the tank, stop for some pizza, back to work. It's the wayward realization of the American Dream all set to some crazy loon rambling about whatever Dylan's rambling about. No bullshit, just belts.

I showed it (Sellin' Belts) to my roommate and his reaction was "I don't get it." There's not much to say to that response. I see what he's saying, which is essentially "What was the point of that? Nothing happened." And fine, some will miss what is to be appreciated about a piece lacking the typical tension found in almost all media. It is very Chekhovian, and he received much criticism for having a lack of narrative moral perspective or any sense of climax in many cases. Instead of giving his readers that, he gave them something much more precious: the unadulterated presence of there-ness. It is a style of presentation that allows the reader to be far closer to the story, the characters, everything. There is third person perspective, to be sure, but it is forever open, whimsical even when gaunt. The audience has legitimately fluid freedom to accept the art in whatever way they want without the pressures of right/wrong, good/bad pressed upon them by an overbearing narrator. It is the defining literary quality of the (good) haiku. But some people are uncomfortable with that amount of freedom. It allows the mind to wander too far into the possibility of challenging what they know, what they have always known since that very knowledge was germinated (probably from what they were once told). And where these more common critics will find frustration with the nebulous nature of Sellin' Belts, they will find solace in the structure of Paper Boys.

Paper Boys does something that Sellin’ Belts cannot. It takes the viewer into the realm of struggle. While there is implied struggle in Krevnash’s character in Sellin’ Belts (namely the tiresome grinding of the lower-level capitalistic gears), the struggle in Paper Boys is given to us forwardly in an alley with two men face to face. The scene is easily associated with the Western stand-off, and thus provokes similar suspense. This structural occurrence generally promotes the use of a three act format, and in Paper Boys, the three acts fulfill their roles classically. There is set-up (a familiarization with the setting and the circumstance of characters), tension (the point where the antagonist(s) cannot return to the consonance they knew before the dissonance now acting upon them) and resolution (which we are given in spades in our third act).

Ultimately, this flash film embodies the essence of storytelling with remarkable efficiency. There is no need for dialogue, for over-exaggerated expression, for some over-the-top deus ex machina. It is complete in its smooth rolling story of two Paper Boys.     

Junkyard Clogs

I read two Hemingway short stories this morning when I got up, both of which have always been favorites of mine. The first is The Good Lion and the second is The Faithful Bull. Both are just under 2 pages. They are essentially children's stories and are overlooked in the voluminous library of Hemingway, but if you stumble across them - sit down for a minute and scope.

Ice House Crouch Pounce

Watched Despicable Me last night. It was good. I enjoyed the character Vector and this song that I heard 3 times in the film. Boom.

Paper Boys - Teaser/Trailer

Here is a teaser for PAPER BOYS, my latest work. Hope to have the finished product up by middle-to-end of the week. ENJOY.

Sellin Belts. My New Short Film

Snow & Go

Snow Falls In South TX.

Those of us residing in South Texas are currently experiencing something we ain't used to. Nevertheless, love is still the heart of the matter. Snow falls, fires light, love soars and hearts crush. I have been a fan of this CC song for many a moment: Riding home from the picture-show or the 7th street Tavern in Fort Worth, or - - maybe anxiously awaiting some fridge leftovers or a late night text. But mostly, some time with my old roomie's dog, Dakota. I hope we can all find some semblance of joy in our own personal moments. Until then, stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the snow. It may be 20 years before it returns.

Homeless. In A Cold Town.

2nd short. No moral/point/objective. It is simply...just there.

New Activities

It is awfully cold out right now. Seems like almost all across the country there are power outages, abandoned cars and snowstorms.

As of late, some big activities have been formulating for myself. I had a productive interview yesterday with a company that sounds like it is doing something really innovative in terms of social media. Today, I take my ASVAB for the Coast Guard Reserves. And oh yes - I have fallen in love with making short films! More to come.

Round 2

My favorite youtube clip of all time, courtesy of TCM'S 100 Yrs @ The Movies. Stay with it. It's Golden.

Culture Club

Introducing Michael Collins as P. Ness. I am behind the camera. Thanks to the rollerskates that helped make this go as smoothly as possible. BTW, It was shot entirely with a still-camera on  video setting. Take that, Hollywood. Enjoy this short film.

Eyes on the Ocean

Coming Home: A Love Story (Beginning Videography)

This video was intended to be funny...but, the more I watch it -- the more I think it looks...somewhat.. 'serious.'  My thought was that - the guy on the board - had been away, like a semi-Surf-Ninja. And he oddly surfs in to the beach, which is totally a mindless concept, but still hilarious. Anywho, had a fun time editing, filming and incorporating a new favorite song that I finally have in my archive. This is only the beginning. Ready for more videography projects..

Somebody Serve Me Something Similar

Finally found this song. I am dumb

For: Another Time & Place

Venice the Menace

Out in California for the weekend. Things got started off with a bang last night...may they continue to continue...

Cinnamon Chasers

Pulled these guys off the hype machine a couple days ago. I really like the track below and 'Cuts Like Fire.'

The Season of Honorable Men

Time to dive in to some personal chat: Let's roll.

In life we are all given choices, opportunities, chances, etc, etc, etc. I have been fortunate and unfortunate in many such circumstances to choose who I surround myself with. We are all given such opportunities - - To make choices as to who we identify and relate with. I have straddled the fence over the last decade as to what kind of man/woman I want to be around. Without too much MommaDrama or BS chitter-chat, allow me to say this: Over the course of the past few weeks, I have been incredibly lucky to have some amazing characters surround me. It has been truly magnificent.

I think sometimes our egos and oddly-wired minds tell us the worst possible things. There is a lyric from a Third Eye Blind song that goes, "I would walk with my people, If I could find them." Hot damn! What a line. I have always wanted to find my people. And I want to walk with them. Whether you are Jesus H. Christ and your people are the poor, needy and downtrodden, or your Tim Duncan and your people are the citizens of San Antonio - with whom you would never abandon for a better salary, a better city, or a LeBron James fiasco, every person has their people.

A long-time friend of mine is bound for Argentina as of this weekend to teach English. In our youths, we would ride bikes to the market to munch on junk food, build forts, wrap houses, spit cuss-words when the parentals were out of ear-shot and we would hoop with a b-ball, and jam with our Dads' guitars. This may not have much to do with being honorable in terms of the aforementioned, but it is a small glimpse in to a world that I was lucky enough to share with someone who I consider an honorable man.

There are more out there. Everyone's mission in life, while it may seem unimportant, is to find your people. Find the people who care for you, make you think, challenge you, make you laugh, and aren't afraid to share. Sharing is vital. Don't share candy bars or baseball cards, but share who you are. Let them know who you are and what you are about. And listen - Listen to them & what they are about. Some of the biggest problems in today's world (I believe) -- root from people failing to listen. Always, always try to genuinely listen to people. Everyone's favorite word is 'ME' - Work on changing that. And maybe - just maybe - you might find your scenery changing - and suddenly, low and behold - you may find yourself in the company of honorable men. Keep it. Dig it. Cherish it. Embrace it.

The Afternoon. It MOVES. M-O-V-E-S.

Having chosen to forego viewing the State of the Union Address, Suburbanprotocol.blogspot.com and I ventured to historic Spurs, Texas yesterday in the deep afternoon to hit numerous happy hours.

Stop #1: The VFW Post 76, nestled along the river in a large, large, white house that looks like it belongs in To Kill A Mockingbird. The skinny: This place kicks hard bun. I had 2 Modelo Especials for $2.50, a whopping total of 5 bones. Additionally, they have a jukebox that plays 3 songs, for $1! That is magnificent. I am so tired of jukeboxes that feed the corporate scheme. My selections: (1) Garth Brooks' cover of "Night Rider's Lament" and Al Green's "Let's Stay Together." My lady friend and I ventured there with her family a few months back in the warmer months and listened to the same Al Green tune. *Touching* - But the bumblebees were a problem outside. Anyhow, I am ranting. Let's move on!

Stop #2: We drove to Josephine St. and ventured in for a look. No bar to sit at. See ya!

(However, I like a restaurant that has each table equipped with Worcestershire, AI & KetchUp. I recommend their CFS.

Stop #3: The Liberty Bar, which is under a new name - but the same ownership. As we all know, this Spurs, Texas joint is a staple to the city with it's leaning frame and authentic locale. We had an order of fried jalapenos, on the house and the following beverages: A black & blue, a G&T, and some whiskey-colas. The bartender snubbed us a bit, but all is fair in love and war.

Stop #4: Olmos Pharmacy Open Mic Night. We both got to play a couple of jams, amongst Bud Light drinkers and winos. A real classy time. Heard some amazing viola and vocals from the closing act. Some friends came and joined.

Stop#5: Broadway 50/50. It was fun. The arsehole wouldn't let me play the guitar there when he was on break.

Stop#6: Taco Stop.

And finally, #7: I tracked mud in the house. Mom came and told me about it this morning. But -- it was not a big deal -- just a small rule violation.

Going to Cali tomorrow for the weekend. JAWN HAS GOT TO SURF!

Sports, Man. S-P-O-R-T-S.

Big Mel & Bernard

Home Again

Went camping this weekend in a land known as Pike Davis, a stones throw North of Lyndon B. Johnson towne. I had a medium-to-medium-good time. The highlight was the Starbucks camping coffee and the Bluebonnet burger (fried bacon) at the Chrome Cactus on the way out this morning.

What Does Going Out Consist Of In Grade Eight

So, What does going out consist of in [Grade Eight]

Answer (courtesy of wikiHow): Dating in 8th grade consists of whatever the couple is comfortable with. Usually this may be going to a bowling alley once in a while, or seeing a movie, etc. It should not be composed of anything sexual. It is very harmful for the mental and physical health of the couple. It also depends on how long you've been 'going out.' If you have just started dating, I don't recommend kissing all the time. Save that for later stages.

Shatner Don't Shat

You Have To Keep Moving

Phrase application is the lifeblood of motivation. Right now, I have the phrase: 'YOU HAVE TO KEEP MOVING' in the rear of my dome. Apply it to your morning ritual or when you feel like you are in a rut.

Phoenix Friday

The Marinade

Spending more and more time on hype machine (hypem.com). Here is one Phoenix slashmash tune I came across. In other news, I am currently marinading a steak with the following ingredients: Bock & Brown Sugar Marinade, minced garlic, salt, pepper. Boom.

The Keg Is King

Really enjoyed some home brewing and charades last night courtesy of D. Arnold. Draft beer in a cold glass, pumped straight though a cylindrical keg, which was housed in an athletic cooler shell: Pretty fantastic. Looking forward to the next one. Have a great weekend!

Love Story

Revolving Icons

I like to keep my icons and role models on a revolving basis. There are times when I find some men and women whom I dearly admire and respect to be exposed at their worst moments. Without getting too long-winded, I often hear about Teddy Kennedy and the wonderful things he did throughout the course of his life, and most significantly - toward his latter years. But, nonetheless, when I hear the name Edward Kennedy - the first thing I associate with him is the incident at chappaquiddick. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the accident, please refer to some online source. Anyhow, it is ultimately impossible to pinpoint one icon or role model to be your forever inspiration, as we all know that humans are synonymous with imperfection (and for those with spiritual or religious icons, this point-of-view is coming from a strictly human & tangible basis). But at this brief juncture in my existence, I have recently (within the past 24 hours) stumbled across two figures who I have found to be of the utmost inspiration because of one singular move they made within their lives. This is not to say that I plan to buy a framed vintage photo of either, read their respective autobiographies or try to force my beliefs upon another person - but rather to make a critical point that I hope might be of some importance or relevance to you, and hopefully, in time, to myself. 

This afternoon I sat down to screen Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket. As an unpretentious, mostly uninformed student of Film, I have greatly changed my viewing habits when watching a movie. That being said, I keep my computer at hand whenever screening something by myself, as I can't go a mere 5 minutes without curiosity regarding the plot, the cost, the soundtrack, the actor/director/DP/producer bios, etc. 

As it turns out, R. Lee Ermy was a former drill sargent, something that is quite common knowledge seeing how his popularity has become a cultural phenomenon over the past 20 years, and many of us who watch TV and Film have become familiar with this historical anecdote. But, when Kubrick made the film, Ermy was hired on as a technical advisor - obviously for purposes of authenticity. But Ermy's move was critical to the way the rest of his life would unfold. He told Kubrick he would like to audition, and he was denied. However, Ermy made a 20-minute audition tape, improvisng insanely witty and high-charged Drill-type rants. Needless to say he nailed it. Kubrick is quoted as saying, "Ermy was a genius for this part." Boom. Ermy was a staple to Kubrick's film. 

The other night, a couple buddies of mine were having a conversation over drinks about music and we passed the conversational ball around again and again, until someone said: "Listen to Marty Robbins', 'The Ballad of the Alamo.'" Of course I failed to do this until the next day he sent me a video for the song, with the appropriate art applied in the background of the youtube video (see the menu at San Antonio's Alamo Cafe). By the way, they have some deliciously strong margaritas. 

After listening to it, and enjoying it for the most part - I did a wiki search on Mr. Robbins (as I truthfully only know his name by way of a Robert Earl Keen song), and to my bewilderment - discovered that he was also a NASCAR driver on the side. 

The story goes as follows:

May 7, 1972 Winston 500
Talladega, AL 1972 Dodge #42
Started 9, Finished 18th but disqualified himself for running the last 100 miles without carburetor restrictor plates. Marty also refused to accept the "Rookie of the Race" award, the money for an 18th place finish, or the Grand National Driver points. Marty was given $745 for a 50th place finish, and fined $250 by NASCAR.

In light of the cheating, Robbins' honesty is so unique, especially when fame and pressure are paramount in the celebrity culture. Yes, the doping of baseball players, Marion Jones, Floyd Landis (biking culture in general) really shows that their is a huge cultural dishonesty in the world. But this isn't groundbreaking information - we all know what is and has been going on. The story moral with Robbins is that: Hey, here is a guy who is pushing the limits, testing himself and when we did ever so well, he came forth and said, 'I don't deserve this.' There is a better narrative version on wikipedia, look for it there. 

In conclusion, this posting is testament to the idea that one right move can 1) change your life for the better 2) engrave your name eternally as an upright & honest man - something that isn't commonplace in the 21st century. God Bless & God Speed.

Now That's A Knife

Retrosexual

    


                                        

Toying & Truth

What a song. I first heard this when I screened Wes Anderson's Rushmore for the first time. I have posted this song as shown in the closing scene of the aforementioned film, but it deserves it's own plug for this fine Tuesday. So gritty yet clean. Love and blues. Acoustic axes and smack piano. Acceptance and rejection. Toying and truth.

\

HarMonciaLewinsky

Evening RunDown: GTC and I were prepared for a late evening jam at Fawn Brook. A couple of acoustic axes, a harmonica and a lot of work regarding the harmonization of our vocal synthetic rhythms. Fortunately, an old friend from Royal Cove messaged me beforehand regarding having a beer at Stonestreet Pub. You see, his Pop (Frank) loves watching womens collegiate hoops (especially UConn). Captain Royal Cove would have no part of this, which was most understandable. While UConns' run has been impressive and the fundamentals of WNCAA hoops may be slightly inviting, the real honor lies in brotherhood at the bar. A few White Russians, a couple of Guiness' and a Shock Top or two later, the trio of suburban dwellers traveled to my abode at Fawn Brook. Between the hours of 10:00pm and Midnight:30 we traveled through an acoustic wonderland. We touched down in Van MorrissonTownship, Matchbox20ville, MMJmetropolia, CoryMorrowCounty and ultimately to Collective Soul Galaxy. Amongst the Modelos, we found it to be a most satisfying evening. There wasn't any space travel or wind riding, but simply some night moves that made us get back in touch with the soil.

Scrap Book

Moons ago, my friend and I took a trip down to Cancun for some snorkeling, underage drinking and Montezuma's Revenge. This number from Don Henley Themed Hard.

Kubrick's House

Icons in the Night, Pt. II

I just started watching Stanley Kubrick's last film, Eyes Wide Shut. While there is some controversy as to whether he felt like the film was, "a piece of Shit - - in which Kidman & Cruise had there way with me" (according to R. Lee Ermy), or his supposed best work, it was ultimately his final film. Compelled to do some researching, this man was a fascinating creature. I love several things about him. 1) His refusal of the Hollywood system 2) His reclusiveness 3) Full Metal Jacket, A Clockwork Orange, 2001: A Space Odyssey 4) His passion for the arts and his refusal for the media.

Oh, Kubrick. I have all the more respect for you because of the aforementioned shunning of the Hollywood monster.

Our current Hollywood system is a conglomerated hype machine. I watched 30 minutes of the Golden Globes tonight. In the process, all I could think of was how self-righteous these people are: Drinking fine champagne, leaning on their tabloid lovers, wearing fine-designer wear and giving speeches about the relevance of their roles. Ho-hum. Enough with this bunk-dumpington-hogwash. I need the arts. Renaissance, Pt. II: Invade our culture and rid us of the junk-skunkers. The only relevant film I have seen this year was The King's Speech. Get on it. Goodnight.

Questward Ho [California]

I don't know why these jackwagons had to split-up. They had something good going. Regardless, they left us a few good albums. Check out their CD: Dog Problems. Most notably: "Snails", "If Work Permits" and "She Doesn't Get It". Note: There is a worthy acoustic version of "She Doesn't Get It" that is worth applying your ears to.

With regards to Questward Ho, I am looking forward to a trip to Los Angeles at the end of the month. My Dad used to tell me stories about his ventures to Northern & Southern California after & during college to go surfing, using his VW bus as a transport mechanism. I will be flying by way of Americana Airlines, in which I hope to consume 1) blood-Marietta and ideally 2-3 bags of Mini-Pretzels. But yes, surfing is on the list of things to become comfortable doing. Wetsuit? Czech.

Some Sunday Poetry

There once was a boy named Gimme-Some-Roy...
He was nothin' like me or you,
'cause laying back and getting high was all he cared to do.
As a kid, he sat in the cellar...sniffing airplane glue.
And then he smoked banana peels, when that was the thing to do.
He tried aspirin in Coca-Cola, he breathed helium on the sly,
and his life became an endless search to find the perfect high.
But grass just made him wanna lay back and eat chocolate-chip pizza all night,
and the great things he wrote when he was stoned looked like shit in the morning light.
Speed made him wanna rap all day, reds laid him too far back,
Cocaine-Rose was sweet to his nose,
but the price nearly broke his back.
He tried PCP, he tried THC, but they never quite did the trick.
Poppers nearly blew his heart, mushrooms made him sick.
Acid made him see the light, but he couldn't remember it long.
Hash was a little too weak, and smack was a lot too strong.
Quaaludes made him stumble, booze just made him cry,
Then he heard of a cat named Baba Fats who knew of the perfect high.
Now, Baba Fats was a hermit cat...lived high up in Nepal,
High on a craggy mountain top, up a sheer and icy wall. "Well, hell!" says Roy,
"I'm a healthy boy, and I'll crawl or climb or fly,
Till I find that guru who'll give me the clue as to what's the perfect high."
So out and off goes Gimme-Some-Roy, to the land that knows no time,
Up a trail no man could conquer, to a cliff no man could climb.
For fourteen years he climbed that cliff...back down again he'd slide . . .
He'd sit and cry, then climb some more, pursuing the perfect high.
Grinding his teeth, coughing blood, aching and shaking and weak,
Starving and sore, bleeding and tore, he reaches the mountain peak.
And his eyes blink red like a snow-blind wolf, and he snarls the snarl of a rat,
As there in repose, and wearing no clothes, sits the god-like Baba Fats.
"What's happenin', Fats?" says Roy with joy, "I've come to state my biz . . .
I hear you're hip to the perfect trip... Please tell me what it is.
"For you can see," says Roy to he, "I'm about to die,
 So for my last ride, tell me, how can I achieve the perfect high?"
"Well, dog my cats!" says Baba Fats. "Another burned out soul,
 Who's lookin' for an alchemist to turn his trip to gold.
It isn't in a dealer's stash, or on a druggist's shelf...
Son, if you would find the perfect high, find it in yourself."
"Why, you jive mother-fucker!" says Roy, "I climbed through rain and sleet,
I froze three fingers off my hands, and four toes off my feet!
I braved the lair of the polar bear, I've tasted the maggot's kiss.
Now, you tell me the high is in myself? What kinda shit is this?
My ears, before they froze off," says Roy, "had heard all kindsa crap;
But I didn't climb for fourteen years to hear your sophomore rap.
And I didn't climb up here to hear that the high is on the natch, So you tell me where the real stuff is, or I'll kill your guru ass!""Okay...okay," says Baba Fats,
"You're forcin' it outta me... There is a land beyond the sun that's known as Zabolee.
A wretched land of stone and sand, where snakes and buzzards scream,
And in this devil's garden blooms the mystic Tzutzu tree.
Now, once every ten years it blooms one flower, as white as the Key West sky,
And he who eats of the Tzutzu flower shall know the perfect high.
For the rush comes on like a tidal wave...hits like the blazin' sun.
And the high? It lasts forever, and the down don't never come.
But, Zabolee Land is ruled by a giant, who stands twelve cubits high,
And with eyes of red in his hundred heads, he awaits the passer-by.
And you must slay the red-eyed giant, and swim the river of slime,
Where the mucous beasts await to feast on those who journey by.
And if you slay the giant and beasts, and swim the slimy sea,
There's a blood-drinking witch who sharpens her teeth as she guards the Tzutzu tree."
"Well, to hell with your witches and giants," says Roy,
 "To hell with the beasts of the sea--
Why, as long as the Tzutzu flower still blooms, hope still blooms for me."
And with tears of joy in his sun-blind eyes, he slips the guru a five,
And crawls back down the mountainside, pursuing the perfect high.
"Well, that is that," says Baba Fats, sitting back down on his stone,
Facing another thousand years of talking to God, alone.
"Yes, Lord, it's always the same...old men or bright-eyed youth...
It's always easier to sell 'em some shit than it is to tell them the truth."

Shel Silverstein

Thrash Bandicoot

One friend calls today, "Football Armageddon." The Ravens and Steelers game is bound to be a slobknocking grudge match. Steelers are - 3 pt. favorites. Why? SuperBowl/Playoff experience. Moreover, the trench is going to be in Pittsburgh, as opposed to MD. Oh Yeah, and Troy Polamolecules. Boom.

One Blood

Truth & Conquest Pt. II

Originally by Tom Waits, "I Don't Wanna Grow Up" is a timeless number. Simplicity and bravado packed with an authentic Southern punch. The lyrics? Eerily applicable. I have posted the original and Mr. Carll's version, you be the judge of which one you like. Happy Friday, Everybody. Got 4 big NFL playoff games this weekend. Also, if your looking for some global-throwback-blogging, one of my good friends has a real beauty in the works: suburbanprotocol.blogspot.com

Truth & Conquest PT. I

Hill Top Gliders

Courtesy of NPR. Let it glide.

Obtuse Angles

Yesterday at Super Target, I bought two pairs of sweat pants for just shy of $30 greenbacks. Today, I am looking to wear one of those pairs of sweat pants. Enjoy your Thursday Everybody.

For: The Proletariat

A Full House

Slibbert's Selection

Picture First. Explanation to follow.

It is ultra-rare that Little Sister provides a noteworthy selection. This one couldn't have been more obvious. She called me from across the hall last night to ask, "What is the song from the trailer of The Social Network?" After some quick youtube and google research, we found our Holy Grail of the moment and here it is. It's a cover of Radiohead's "Creep," and is pretty remarkable. The use of expletives in choral form is down-right honest and can find it's way in to the nooks of your brain that make you tick.

One quick note: When my family and I got off of the plane in Bonaire, we had been traveling throughout the entire night. Airlines don't seem to serve in-flight meals anymore, so I was hungry, swampy and a little bit irate. But My God - - There was a color in the air that was so fantastic. Mash an old technicolor musical with a Disney movie, slap it on a canvas - and let it sit for a few weeks. Then put it on display. I was foolish not to have captured it, or even to have tried to capture it myself, but the elder sister did. It somehow fuses with this "Creep" cover and somehow, at least in my mind, makes something really beautiful, collectively.

56th & Barbershop

Bleak & Dreary. Gray Clouds. Light Mist. Let Boombox infiltrate.

Hi-C

Spirit Guide: Maude

Seahawks/Saints

Chiefs/Ravens

Packers/Eagles

Colts/Jets

Who ya got?

Melting.

Ton of junk running through my head right now. We might have torn the place down last night. Couldn't have had a better time. It's so terrific when you walk in to a place expecting nothing but - (minus) $35.00 and absurd amounts of time trying to explain why my college's football team is better than yours -- but, my night was salvaged by the 2:00 am DJ. And while I was too enthralled with the beat at hand to specifically recount some of the better mashes he ran through, I have to admit an all to common commonality: Losing thyself upon the dance floor is a euphoric experience in which no one - Yes - no one - can invade your spiritual space. On an unrelated note, here is some HotDam Lamontagne.

Glen Y Marketa!

Wow! Have you guys ever seen the movie Once..? Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are two humbled souls who collaborate to make an incredible album. It's essentially a fictonalized-musical-documentary with a subordinating love story that never actually materializes. It's brilliant! The two have gone on to form a duo and this song is wonderful. Moreover, the video is fantastic. But yes, the vocalizations and the horns are stirring. So excited to post this. Also, the title of the band (The Swell Season) is based off of Glen's favorite book by Josef Škvorecký.

3 Wishes

Mainstream Fishing

It isn't everyday anymore that I find a song on the mainstream country music radio that I feel compelled to buy. But McGraw's 'Felt Good On My Lips' is a really enjoyable number. I like when I see a genre, or an artist from a genre (especially an all too easily generalized/stereotyped one like country) try to change with the overall cultural music scene. It seems like that may be the case with this song. There are four verses as opposed to the typical three, which is a nice break from the old -- all of which are fresh and catchy and seem to fit with the pop-cultural-dialect of the time. Spanish girl at the bar, fruity drink you don't wanna be seen with, muggin' down at the end of the night, who knows where a night out may take you during this day and age? Ah, Yes. McGraw might have something here.

I think this guy might truly embody the 21st century country music star. He has been in numerous films (Flicka, Black Cloud, The Blind Side, Friday Night Lights & the upcoming Country Strong). We all know about his wife, Faith Hill, also. But do we know about his political aspirations? I don't know anymore than the next guy, but I have heard rumors that this guy is a die-hard Southern Democratic who wouldn't run from an opportunity to be in the Senate. Just saying.

Guthrie

Dijon

Joshua Tree

One of my all-time-favorites by Charlie R. Try playing this song on an acoustic guitar, and you will come to realize that the progression between the 'D' & 'G' chords just can't do justice the way Charlie's original does. Was hoping to upload his rendition of the Boss' 'Racing in the Street,' but no such video found. Nevertheless, this song is an emotional journey through the American West with wonderful references to the landscape and the search for a lover. Enjoy.

   

Flight

One of the best film scores. Ever.    

Strength & Honor

Sun Clocks

Up & Down & Up & Down & Up & Down & Up & Down & Freedom.

Venomous Lionfish

Once a popular pet, most notably in Florida. Would eat anything & everything inside an owner's fish tank. Because they were such a problem, owners released them back in to the ocean. They migrated toward the Caribbean. It is there that they have multiplied and multiplied and multiplied, causing a real threat to the balance of the oceans ecosystem. They are highly venomous and intelligent, and will eat with a stunning voraciousness. Being stung by one may result in 2-3 days of numbness and no feeling in extremities.

Rush, Firth, Carter, Hooper

Saw this film the other night. I must say, it is fantastic. I didn't really know what I was getting in to - other than the basic premise - which is that of the Duke of York (younger brother of the King-to-be and son of the current king) has a stammer, studder, what have you and is unable to speak publicly. This story tells the amazing true happenings of how he overcame. If anything, it's a wonderful history lesson. Geoffrey Rush is also endearingly incredible. It's nice to see Helena Bonham Carter play a relevant role again, as opposed to the weirder/darker stuff she usually does. And lastly, Colin Firth is very solid. Even the supporting roles that feature Winston Churchill are good. Music, decent. Cinematography, delightful. Who needs a textbook when a director like Tom Hooper can make something this credible and relevant. Check it out, you starry-eyed dreamers. And pardon the short ad in the beginning --

Icons in the Night

- - The stuff that dreams are made of - - 

Red Meat

Been up all night on a plane to Bonaire, which is 30 miles North of the Venezuelan coastline. Pretty tired...Watched 180 Degrees South (a documentary about a small groups trip to the Patagonian landscape). Prominently features the men who started Patagonia Clothing company and the man who started the North Face (who has a huge reserve in Southern Chile). Much of the soundtrack features Modest Mouse, but this track was also used in one scene when they begin their expedition by learning to use the ice pick and strategies regarding bushwhacking -- which is Oh So Grim -- Enjoy.

Swanky Christmas in the Sky

Taking a jet plane to Bonaire in a few hours for some scuba diving. Will be sure to take pictures and get soul drench upon soul drench via flora, fauna, sunrise & set. God Bless & God Speed.

Tropic of Cancer

5, 280 ft = 1 mile.

Riding Giants

One quick thing: The last song in this documentary, when the credits are rolling is by Mike Scott & The Waterboys. It is fantastic. "This is the Sea," -- not to take from my earlier Zissou post title..Enjoy.

This is the Sea

The Riviera

The lyrics to Peter Sarstedt's 'Where Do You Go To My Lovely' contain a large number of references:

Marlene Dietrich: husky-voiced German actress and singer

Zizi Jeanmaire: French ballerina

Balmain: French designer of elegant fashions

Boulevard Saint-Michel: street in the Latin Quarter famous for bookshops

Rolling Stones: popular English rock and roll band

Sacha Distel: French singer

Sorbonne: University of Paris

Picasso: Spanish pioneer of modern art

Juan-les-Pins: fashionable beach resort on the French Riviera

Saint Moritz: fashionable ski resort in the Swiss Alps

Napoleon brandy: especially fine aged brandy

Aga Khan: World-travelling Islamic leader and racehorse owner

The Giant Tree & The Railroad

Moon Sours

Couldn't end today's posting on such a melancholy note, so Boom - here is a terrific song from Shawn Lee's Ping Pong Orchestra. It was used in the last episode of Eastbound & Down on season one.

Ships at Sea

Gonna drop a melancholy number today: OCMS's "We're All In This Together." While this is a slow song, there is something so inspiring about the chorus line when the vocals congregate. I think of this song as being a tribute/homage (if you will) to family, strife and struggle -- essentially any situation where the ship is sinking, the stuff is hitting the fan, or the bottle is flat-out empty.

Morning Coffee

Really wonderful to see some old friends tonight. Did we hit the rooftop twice? Thanks, Etch. This number has been in my head for a couple of days. Can't say I know my 'favorite foreign movie,' but I might have an idea or two.. But we'll save that for another time [ see below ] .. -- .. for your literary conclusion, here is some morning Orange Juice - - in the form of:

Bastards took my video away! Steely Dan - "Peg"

Un Prophete

Big Time Timmy Jim

Wasn't able to watch any football yesterday, but from what I have read via twitter, Peter King, and ESPN, it sounded like an incredible day for the sport. I was really anxious to see what Tim Tebow was going to do. I believe he went 8-16 for 138 yards, and had a 40 yd TD run (which was apparently a missed play-call). I am intrigued by this guy because he is the  underdog. Why is everyone so against him? I agree. His mechanics are a little wack, but they are getting there. Hey, Phil Rivers mechanics are wack, too. Tebow never seems to get discouraged, and this guy has had a lot of critical heat come his way. I remember playing the Tim Tebow drinking game in college: Drink whenever they talk about his legacy, or whenever CBS zooms in on his face and we see his Bible-verse-eye-black, etc. And now with Josh McDaniels out, who will be the new coach in Denver? Kyle Orton has had a pretty decent start, even though he has trailed off in the last few weeks. Let Tebow continue to develop and continue to play Orton, once his ribs heal. But know this, Tebow's days as the starting QB will come.

Orca Feeding

Been a big Radney Foster fan for awhile, as he is a staple to the Alt/TX/folk/country genre, especially as an established songwriter. Heard this on the way home last night from a Christmas party. Some nostalgia has been lurking with the recent graduation and the future upon el doorstep. Hence, the inspiration.