Ten Ton Truck

Stuff of the Week 28 (Sort of)

2009-07-02T23:27:00.007-05:00

OK GUYS! I am about to leave to go camping, but I have had such good luck with sweet jams this week, I just had to make a quick post. So...CHECK OUT THE SWEET TUNES BELOW!

OUCH, THEY SO GOOD THEY HURT!

MUSIC
These are the three jams you need to get your weekend going right! DAGGUM!

Mew - Introducing the Palace Players
The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition
Regina Spektor - Eet

Also,

HAPPY 4th!

Latly, please check out The Officer Winslow Society. Its a blog that me, my bro and my bud work on. Its sweet.

Stuff of the Week #27 - RETURN OF THE STUFF!

2009-06-24T14:46:00.020-05:00

So, it has been a while since my last post. Almost a year actually. What can I say? I'm sorry. Forgive me? I love you. Kiss? Kiss.

Actually, I was re-reading some of my old posts and, I gotta tell you, I am one funny dude. You should definitely check out some of the old videos I posted...there are some classics!

LIFE

It seems pretty rare that a major company does the right thing, especially when that "right thing" involves just one person. Pixar, the near-perfect movie company, has done just that by reaching out to a family whose child was dying of cancer. The full story can be read here. Basically, 10-year-old Colby's dying wish was to see Pixar's "Up", but her illness would not allow her to travel to the theater. Upon hearing this Pixar sent a representative with a pre-released DVD and movie merchandise to Colby's house for a special screening. The story is very moving and I would really encourage everyone to read it. I appreciate the OC Register's willingness to print good news, something that seems just as rare as major companies looking out for the individuals who buy their product.

VIDEO

I can do an awesome impersonation (im-monkey-nation?) of this little dude.

MUSIC
Who Do You Love - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists

This song is just great. Perfect summer song. Some people say its about politics, but that is probably just Ted Leo fans getting a little hyper.

Lyrics I like:

We live for the city, we work for the beach
And when the weekend seems to be just out of reach
Just make the most of what you're paid, dear

Daylight - Matt and Kim

Just try and listen to this song in your car with the windows down and feel and not feel great. I dare you. I double-dog dare you. I triple-dog dare you. I have to admit though, I do not know much about Matt and Kim, but the critics over at Breakfast at Sulimay's seem to agree with me. If you did not click that last link, you've made a mistake. Please go back. Now.

Lyrics I like:
I have five clocks in my life
And only one has the time right
I'll just unplug it for today
I'll just unplug it for today

FILM
Now, I have not seen Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen, so take this with a grain of salt. Make sure it is a pretty small grain though, because the guys over at Ain't It Cool News are some of the biggest nerds around, as well as some of the best movie critics around. Based on this, I don't think I'll catch this one on the silver screen. Probably NetFlix it tough. Queue it up, baby!

Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen
Review by: Harry at Ain't It Cool News

"The film is padded by an hour of completely unnecessary, worthless, offensive and repugnant sequences that do nothing but tread water. Be it the family dogs f---ing, twice. An extended sequence of Mom hopped up on pot brownies on a reefer madness binge. The well talked about racist foul-mouthed robots that are built in monkey proportions, have a big shiny gold tooth and do nothing to advance the story an inch. It's almost like Michael Bay showed the script to George Lucas and Uncle George let loose with another of his awesomely inappropriate animated racial slurs. But the racial stuff isn't limited to just the animated variety. There's a black man with bad teeth working in a Butcher Shop to earn new teeth that kinda blew my mind. But my problems with these things aren't so much of the PC variety.

The film will make a mint, undeservedly so. Steven Spielberg should be embarrassed to have his name on shoddy storywork like this. Shame on you Steven. Kids will be lining up for this - and they'll be met with dog f---ing, cussing, racial stereotypes and more. I seriously wonder if Spielberg was thinking of Mudflap & Skids as he watched the inauguration of Barack Obama - because he'd read the script at that point, he knew what his name was bringing, and yet he still had the gall to attend.

The filmmakers, studio and toymakers behind this film should be ashamed. To spend this type of money to bring this sort of hurtful and repugnant work to screen - it is an insult to every DREAM that so many have WORKed for, for years.

I'd like to ask you not to support this film, but those of you with young boys, I know there isn't a chance. But realize you'll be taking them to see a film with the lowest forms of humor, stereotypes and racism around. Not only that, but its packaged for our children. Which makes it all the more offensive."

PICTURE
I love realistic depictions of animated characters. Love them. It is surprising how deeply Mario has plumbed (see what I did there?) his way into our culture. Art is being made out of him. Art. An 8-bit plumber. Art. Also, Bowser is looking SNAZZZ! Go King Kopa! OW!

Mario

Luigi

Bowser

Stuff of the Week #26

2008-08-21T16:14:00.009-05:00

LIFE

An amazing, yet sad look at a man's passion and society's approach to music.

A Stream of Consciousness Essay
by Seth in response to the video above:

Since the induction of the mp3 format, music has suffered some incredible losses, one of which is the compression of music files. Another often overlooked loss is the lack of linearity in albums. Before the connivence of skipping tracks as introduced by CD's, most albums were listened to from start to finish due to the difficulty of switching tracks on a cassette tape or vinyl record. The "skip" feature took away the need for artists to approach albums as a balanced cohesive whole, and allowed the jumbled, hectic CD track listings we know today. Don't believe me? Pick an album that was originally only available on vinyl and listen to it. Then, pick an album that was originally introduced on CD and listen for balance between tracks, thoughtful transfers between tracks or even progression of subject matter. I think you will find the vinyl to be superior. Of course there are exceptions, plenty in reality. This dissection of the album became all the more severe with mp3's which remove the need for the album as a whole and let's people choose song-by-song, creating a music industry that is only interested in creating singles and forsaking the deep and meaningful experience that a complete album can provide. Even the size of albums have gotten smaller. From 12" records to invisible mp3 files. Album artwork is slowly going the way of the buffalo. The entire packaging of an album should enhance it's message or feeling (see The Smith's or Yes' artwork). A 12" record sleeve was practically a work of art as compared to the "digital artwork" that iTunes provides. WIth all the advancements in music technology, let's not over look the loses we are creating. I love mp3's and all the great new opportunities that they provide in conjunction with the internet, but I think that we could all take a lesson from the great work of Paul Mawhinney and his record collection. The fact that his amazing archive is being sold for 47 million dollars less than what it is worth is a sad statement about modern music.

VIDEO

My son is gay?!

MUSIC
I do not know if I can accurately convey how much I love this song. It captures so much emotion while remaining completely relatable. When you listen to the lyrics it sounds like things that you yourself may have said or heard your friend say. Mike Skinner is one of the best lyricist in modern music.

Either Way (Remix featuring The Streets and Professor Green) - The Twang

FILM
PINEAPPLE EXPRESS

Seth's Review: 3.5/5 Stars

Stoner through and through. This movie is junk food for the eyes. The story gives you everything that you could wish for in an over-the-top comedy/action flick. Being disappointed with the content or lack of depth in this movie would be like being disappointed with what you would find in a dirty diaper. It's gross, it smells and it makes your eyes water...what else did you expect? One of the major strengths of this movie is that it balances it's humor with a decent plot that does not take itself to seriously. Crude? Yes. Drug-fueled? Yes. Funny? Yes. Not a film for everyone, by any mean, but if you enjoy movies like Half-Baked or other stoner classics, then this movie is for you. This movie gives you everything that the trailers and posters have advertised and, for the movie's own good, not a thing more.

Joel's Review: 4/5

My expectations were through the roof for this film and I was surprisingly not disappointed. It was funny from beginning to end but more importantly the story and characters were original and fun.

PICTURE
More at Garfield Minus Garfield

Stuff of the Week #25 - OLYMPICS!

2008-08-12T10:05:00.010-05:00

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LIFE

A brief wiki history of the Olympic Rings: The emblem of the Olympic Games is composed of five interlocking rings (blue, yellow, black, green, and red respectively) on a white field. This was originally designed in 1913 by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. These five rings stand for passion, faith, victory, work ethic and sportsmanship. Also, the represent the five continents. These five rings -- blue, yellow, black, green and red -- represent the five parts of the world now encompassed by Olympism and ready to compete against each other. Moreover, the six colors (including the white background) thus combined represent those of all nations, without exception. The blue and yellow of Sweden, the blue and white of Greece, the French, English, American, German, Belgian, Italian and Hungarian tricolors, the yellow and red of Spain are side by side with the new Brazilian and Australian flags, the old Japan and the new China. It is a true international emblem.

If you want to stay up to date with who's winning what medals for the 2008 Beijing Olympics you can just search "olympics" in Google and the top three appear or you can visit here. Competition Information

VIDEO

So this is an official promo video for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The animation is from the new production 'Journey To The West' which features music and animation by Jamie Hewlett and Damon Albarn. If those names sound familiar it probably because they both are the masterminds behind Gorillaz.

So if you're not familiar with The Onion already that's alright. Basically, they're a spoof/parody/satirical news crew that makes up news and stretches the truth. This is their "educated" discussion table concerning Beijing's attempt to trap us all at the Olympics.... let's watch.

MUSIC
So here are the corresponding Olympic videos to the songs with the links underneath.

Björk - Oceania
We all (should) know Björk and love what she does to our ears when she sings. This song is not only a star from the Medúlla but the best from all Olympic performances to date. Another thing that people don't realize, disregarding a bass synthesizer one one song, the whole album is a cappella. The track is composed 100% of human voices featuring a choir and beatboxer Shlomo and requires you to listen attentively immediately. Oh and yes, that is her dress expanding to make a map of the world.

Tõnis Mägi - Олимпиада (Olympiad) (LIVE)
What sport is it where all the runners are jumping off a platform over a water pit? Isn't that a Double Dare obstacle?

FILM

D2: THE MIGHTY DUCKS

double review

Gordon Bombay's Review:
4/5 Stars
Its pretty hard to make a sequel to a movie as great as The Mighty Ducks was. Then Director Sam Weisman (The Out Towners, and one episode of "Monk") was up for the task. He combines slap-stick comedy with good ol' fashion sports melo-drama. The only reason why this movie didn't get a 5/5 for me is because they change out of their USA jerseys and change into the new and improved "Duck" jerseys. We're USA, baby. These colors don't run, no matter how big the Iceland team may be! Nonetheless, I loved this movie growing up and will still find myself cheering just as loudly as I did waiting for the dreaded "knuckle puck."

Josh's Review:
4/5 Stars
Since I'm 100% that we've all seen this movie I won't waste my time with attempting to quote the entire movie and just right down to it. This movie is a personal favorite of mine since the first time I saw it. Don't let the fact that I only gave it 4 stars negate from the fact that I'm rating the movie, not how much I liked it. It's hard not to love such an incredibly exciting, hilarious, lovable story with star actors like Emilio Estevez and the bash brothers. Watch this film if you haven't and if you have, watch it again. In fact, I'm going to go watch it again right now for the 3rd time today.

PICTURE

Aldi - mascot of 1972 Olympic Summer Games in Munich, Germany: Obviously... they best mascot... ever.

Amik - mascot of the 1976 Olympic Summer Games in Montreal, Canada: This was big step forward for beaver fans.

Misha - mascot of the 1980 Olympic Summer Games in Moscow: Remember, although it looks cute... it will tear you a part, limb for limb.

Sam the Eagle - mascot of the 1984 Olympic Summer Games in Los Angeles, USA: Kinda predictable.

Hodori - mascot of the 1988 Olympic Summer Games in Seoul, Korea: He's grrrrrrrrrrrrrreat!

Cobi - mascot of the 1992 Olympic Summer Games in Barcelona, Spain: Awesome, because no one really knows what he is... and he is naked.

Izzy - mascot of the 1996 Olympic Summer Games in Atlanta, USA: Kinda lame. Just weird. Like a bad sugar rush.

Syd, Olly and Millie - mascots of the 2000 Olympic Summer Games in Sydney, Australia: We get it. You are Australian. You have weird animals. Although, I am happy to see the inclusion of God's little joke, the platypus.

Athena and Phevos - mascots of the 2004 Olympic Summer Games in Athens, Greece: These two look like they stepped out of one of those cartoon movies from the 70's that people watched when they were high.

Beibei, Jingjing, Fuwa, Yingying, and Nini - mascots of the 2008 Olympic Summer games in Beijing, China: I heard that the Chinese chose their mascots when they are only 3 years old, take them from their families and make them train all year long. I also heard that they were computer generated and one had to lip-synch as a replacement for an uglier, rejected mascot. Seriously though, FIVE mascots! Why does everything in China gotta be so epic... sheesh!

Stuff of the Week #24

2008-08-01T10:23:00.008-05:00

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VIDEO

Hilarious...and so true.

MUSIC
Well, since it is the first of the month that means my brother has compiled a new "Monthly Alphabet Playlist". This month's theme is "The End of Summer", so go check it out by clicking right......... HERE!

If you just cannot wait for that link to load, then check out this sweet jam by Hot Chip. A song which is about wrestling, Willie Nelson and nothing else!

Hot Chip - Wrestlers

FILM
AMERICAN TEEN

double review

Seth's Review:
3.5/5 Stars

A very heart-warming and, at times, concerning look at the high school experience. "American Teen" succeeds at seeming unforced, as its subjects appear to be very comfortable with Burstein's documenting style. While it probably will not win "Documentary of the Year", this film contains a level universality that is well beyond par. In other words, viewers will probably find themselves relating easily to the movie, and maybe more so than to any other movie this year. Gone are the picture-perfect-24-year-old "teen" actors, and in their place are people you will swear you went to school with. American teen provides all the drama and humor that is usually associated with teen movies, without sacrificing the integrity of its documentary focus. I would defiantly recommend this anyone, wether or not they attended high school.

Josh's review:
4/5 Stars

As I watched this above average documentary about average teenagers I longed for nothing more then more. It's funny, it's sad, it's nerve-wracking and it's a must see for any documentary fan. I know this doesn't directly relate but if you like "This American Life" then you will like this one.

PICTURE
Check it out, video game scenes in real life!

Excitebike

Donkey Kong

Super Mario Kart

Stuff of the Week #23

2008-07-24T21:50:00.004-05:00

THE LOVE ALLIANCE WON! Thanks to any readers who voted for The Love Alliance! Check out their victory page here.

also..

Like this site? Become a Facebook fan!

VIDEO

Oh, yes.

MUSIC
OK, so last week I wrote about Feist and her awesomeness. This week...I will do the same. Her freshman album, "Monarch (Lay Down Your Jeweled Head)" is really hard to find, at least it was for me. Sometimes, an original copy of the CD turns up on eBay, but it usually sells for several hundred dollars. YIKES! However, during the past week, as fate would have it, I came into possession of the album, and like "Let It Die" and "The Reminder", it does not disappoint. The tracks I have posted today are some of the more commonly shared songs, I would encourage you to listen and then do what ever it takes to buy ever Feist album ever. Period. "."
Feist - Monarch
Feist - Le Sirena

FILM
2 Reviews of

THE DARK KNIGHT

Review 1: Josh

4/5 Stars

Okay, granted, this is the best superhero movie to date. Congratulations. Yet as a movie itself I found myself wanting more. Not wanting more as in I want more LOTR but wanting more to make it a better movie. Granted to story is amazing, the acting i s above par and the directing is dark... again. I'm sure I would have liked this movie more if I could have seen it but then again he is "The Dark Knight" so where's my argument? It's definitely worth seeing if you liked "Batman Begins" or even any of the other installments and also if you just want to be entertained for two and a half hours. I know it didn't feel that long at all but it seemed as if there was too much story for too short a movie... also (SPOILER) Two-Face dying???? I mean come on! All that foreshadowing for only 20 minutes of infamy? Poor choice with that one Nolan. I guess overall it's great and Heath Ledger is amazing, does that sum it up enough?

Review 2: Little 2

5/5

This movie was brilliant. The best adaptation from a comic to a movie… ever. Note: EVER. However, it is very rare that you go see a movie with either Superman, Batman, or Spiderman in the title and you forget about the superhero. This was one of those movies, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. It was long, but I would have been just as fine viewing a few more scenes with Heath Ledger, playing the role of The Joker that made me ask myself, “Jack Nicholson played the Joker?” So here’s my take: For the past 2 years we’ve seen two of the most masterful villains, arguably, in cinematic history: Forrest Whittaker as Dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland and Javier Bardem as Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men. We’ll see if another actor is rewarded next year for another masterful display of a villain that I think we’ll be talking about for years.

PICTURE
In the spirit of Batman...this is awesome:

Stuff of the Week #22

2008-07-18T10:30:00.015-05:00

Take 5 minutes of your time and brush of that dusty MySpace account. Head on over to the Impact Awards and vote for The Love Alliance.

also..

Like this site? Become a Facebook fan!

LIFE
Josh is writing a "How To" guide for being awkward or avoiding awkward situations. Here is part of the first chapter which deals with roommates:

CHAPTER A - ROOMATES

(Warning: this is graphic) In order to fully fulfill the exercises, extreme, uncensored, unnecessary, and excessive nudity are needed.

There are several ways to go about properly getting rid you of a roommate in college so that you may have the entire dorm room to yourself. This is Option A (Operation Z as in Zepheroff).

Step 1. Make sure you arrive to your dorm before your roommate. This may require arriving a few days earlier than usual in order to succeed.

Step 2. Completely unpack everything, specifically your clothes and make sure they are somewhere they can be seen.

Step 3. Get completely naked and be prepared not to leave the room for several days. Stock up on food and a few issues of "Highlights Children Magazine". Actually you might want to prepare first and then get naked.

Step 4. Find a location in the room that is a little awkward and has easy access to your food and facilities. (the more uncomfortable the better). Notable places are: underneath their desk. (this will be easy because your desk will be completely set up already), on top of their dresser or right in front of the door. Remember, you will have to sleep, eat and stare here so make sure it’s comfortable enough but looks uncomfortably awkward.
**NOTE TO THE PERFORMER: You may have to miss some classes or initiation activities for this plan to work, but just think of how much better your life will be when your pesky roommate is gone. **

Step 5. Sit immobile, wait patiently, stare (making eye contact as frequent as possible), don’t talk at all (completely ignoring the cell phone adds to this element), and make sure you grunt/snore/yell obscene remarks in your sleep.

Step 6. Mess with your roommate’s thing while s/he is out of the room. Leave their toothbrush on the floor, unfold all their clothes, and hide their cell phone battery. Putting hate and/or love messages on their mirror/window might also be needed, but we leave that up to you.

Step 7. If both steps 5 & 6 fail, or if you just want to add this one to the mark, turn everything in the room upside down while they are out. Then gather your friends (or some hobos), have them get naked, sit and stare and have them join you in the room all the time.

If by now your room mate hasn’t moved out, appreciate them with a hug, put on some clothes, pack your things and drop out of school.

VIDEO

A new record!

MUSIC

Feist is truly amazing. Easily one of the best pop makers around today. If you do not know about her, then by all means...know about her. Her most recent album "The Reminder" took off not to long ago thanks in part to Apple's use of "1 2 3 4" in an iPod commercial. Major corporate backing or not, the girl was destined for greatness. Her sophomore release "Let It Die" is outstanding as well, but has more of a jazzy feel to it. Prior to both of these releases, Feist worked with Broken Social Scene and also released her debut album "Monarch Lay Down Your Jeweled Head", which is insanely rare and easily goes for $100.00 + on ebay. Heavy stuff, man.

1 2 3 4 - Feist
1 2 3 4 (VanShe Remix) - Feist

FILM
HANCOCK

Reviewed by: Mystery Guest

2.5/5 Stars

Hancock: Mindless Entertainment. And I mean that in the best way possible. If you are looking for a movie where you can sit back, enjoy some laughs, and catch some good action scenes, then definitely go see Hancock. If you think that you're gonna get a "new kind of superhero" or walk away "blown away," then save your $10 and wait for Dark Knight. Overall, I enjoyed myself, but its definitely a one-timer.

PICTURE
OK, these optical illusions are kinda morbid, I know...but you should still check out all the other non-morbid cool moving illusions here.

Stuff of the Week #21

2008-07-10T16:59:00.027-05:00

Take 5 minutes of your time and brush of that dusty MySpace account. Head on over to the Impact Awards and vote for The Love Alliance.

also..

Like this site? Become a Facebook fan!

VIDEO

Sigh, I miss 4th of July...

MUSIC
Here is a good band (from SC, none the less) that should be popular, but probably will never be. Their freshman effort "No Disassemble" is a great, pop-laden album that has really not gotten the nice attention it deserves. I imagine that it has something to do with the fact that they write catchy melodies, fun lyrics and none of them appear to have a coke problem. What a crazy world we live in...ha HA! Anyways, if you like what you hear, check more of their stuff out...it only gets better. I know I can be cynical about the state of music and radio these days, and most of the time I am being over-dramatic for the sake of it, but you have to wonder why more bands like this are not on the radio and Nickleback are millionaires.
Slow Runner - Redneck Bar

Here is another band with the same story as above.
The Research - Lonely Hearts Still Beat the Same

FILM
WALL-E

4.5/5

Reviewed by Josh

This clean, laugh-filled ride is by far the best movie I've seen all year so far. It kept my laughing all throughout the entire movie and I can't remember the last time that happened. The visuals in this movie are the best I've seen to date in cinema or video games, the emotion shown by that which isn't supposed to is more than I can say for most acting jobs to date and there is no wasted dialogue. This is by far a magnificent movie that cannot be missed or under appreciated. Yet there is too much that I can write about this film without getting to my conclusion of this spectacularly extravagant, reassuring masterpiece that indeed, Disney-Pixar has done it again. See this movie now, it's worth the money.

PICTURE
Check it out...geek vandalism

Stuff of the Week #20

2008-07-04T09:52:00.016-05:00

CHECK OUT THE LINKS OVER HERE -------------------->

VIDEO

Here are some videos of animals doing things that are a little too human...

Balance dog:

Bears wave and point to mouth for food.

Dog says "ELMO!"

MUSIC
I am not going to lie. I love "So You Think You Can Dance", mostly for the choreography of Mia Michaels. Last week a couple danced to this song on the show and it blew my mind. Not only was the dancing great, but the song was so powerful. The whole neo-soul thing that is happening is great and should not be ruined by Amy Winehouse's antics. It is nice to hear a real voice supported by smart instruments with actual arrangements played with real instruments. I have heard some of Adele's other songs, and I must say they are all quite good. If you like this song, check out her album entitled "19".
Hometown Glory - Adele

My friend Boot (whose band you should check out here) first turned me on to the atmospheric/trip-hop styles of the Cinematic Orchestra. I always liked what I heard, but never paid too much attention for no apparent reason. Well, as of the other day when I say commercial for "Greensburg" with an amazing song in the background and then found it was CO, I will be paying a lot more attention. This is a shortened version of the song, but it is the main part that will soon have you addicted.
To Build A Home - Cinematic Orchestra

FILM
Check out my bro's review and of EVERY movie he saw in 2007 and the subsequent "Best Of" list at his site.

WANTED

3/5 Stars

This movie takes the best of "The Matrix", "Office Space", "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe", "Willard", and "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" and creates a modern action movie experience that is, to say the least, unique. Personally, I think it would be impossible to say that this movie is either "good" or "bad"...it just exists, for better or for worse. Obviously, this movie is not going to be liked by everyone, but I would challenge any individual to try and walk away from it and not be entertained. "Wanted" is fun like a circus freak show is fun. You pay too much to see it, but it is so crazy that afterwards you forget the $7.00 you just lost to some crazy carny. As far as I am concerned, "Wanted" is hands down the best comedy of the year!

PICTURE
Slow week for pictures, but I thought this was pretty funny...

Stuff of the Week #19

2008-06-28T09:59:00.007-05:00

VIDEO

Kid friendly...but not really.

MUSIC
I like this song for two reasons: 1) It sounds like it is about to fall apart at any moment and 2) it is really simple. I think that playing this song along with last week's "Lazy Eye" by Silversun Pickups would be a great way to start any summer day. In fact, I am almost sure of it. Also, another plus to this song are the really approachable lyrics. Now, I do not know that much about Grandaddy, and I only ever heard this song because it plays in the grocery store scene of "28 Days Later". Now, if you have seen that movie, it is obvious that that scene is one of the best in the movie and due in large part to this sweet jam. If you have not seen the movie...then stop reading and do it now...seriously...go...now.
A.M. 180 - Grandaddy

Now, I will go on record saying that ol' Connor Oberst is a touch overrated, but that does not change the fact that the man can write a mean folk/electronic/rock/or whatever song. "Bowl of Oranges", is, in my opinion, his best to date. Lyrically, it rocks my world and everyone should take the time to listen/read the lyrics so as to get the full effect. That is all I will say about Connor and his Bright Eyes. (Sigh, he is so dreamy...)

Bowl of Oranges - Bright Eyes

FILM
MY KID COULD PAINT THAT

4/5 Stars

I think this movie deserves a higher rating that probably its production merits, due in large part to many of its unique strengths. While director Bar-Lev's film is not necessarily the best documentary of the year, it is in many ways one of the best documentaries I have seen in a while. A documentary, by nature, is largely dependent on its subject matter, and the focus of "My Kid Could Paint That" is enthralling. Overall it raises questions about what can and cannot be considered art, the exploitation-style reporting of the media, the responsibilities of parents and the idea of "prodigy". While the star of the film is no doubt "Marla", she is in some ways an anti-star as she is somewhat camera shy and her authenticity is questioned. Another major strength about "My Kid Could Paint That" is the fact that it is an in vivo documentary. That is, many documentaries are based on hindsight, going back and gather information and conducting interviews about something that happened in the past. Bar-Lev had the insight to follow this story as it was developing, which creates the environment for the film not only to capture the unfolding story, but become a part about it. This brings a whole other element of story to the forefront, allowing even the director to question the purpose of his film and the authenticity of his subject matter. Overall, a very strong documentary that could and should be enjoyed by everyone.

PICTURE
Movie Monsters in Classic Paintings

Stuff of the Week #18

2008-06-20T15:10:00.006-05:00

VIDEO

"Here's the pizza, baby!" = Amazing. If these girls do not win, then I am never watching TV again.

MUSIC
OK. So I usually do not like to re-post anything, but the new Girl Talk album just came out and...it is AWESOME! I stayed up to 3 am, listening to it last night wishing that I will be Gregg Gillis in another life. Daaaaaaagum, how does he bring the funk so hard?! This song is sweet and if it don't get you to move your feet, you had best check your heartbeat! BULAH!

Girl Talk - Hands in the Air
Note: If you like this track, you can name your own price (anywhere from $0.00 to $10.00) to buy Girl Talk's new album at this site.

This song is sweet and you need to listen to it now and all summer long. I love it. "Lazy Eye" has such a 90's through back feel, without being to heavy on the nostalgia. Now, I have been trying to pay more attention to lyrics, and while I have an idea at what this song is getting it, it seems to aim to create more of a feeling as opposed to hitting you over the head with a message. ANYways, put this song on in your car, roll down the windows and drive in the sunshine and I guarantee you will know what I mean.

Silversun Pickups - Lazy Eye

FILM
THE HAPPENING

1.5/5 Stars

M. Night Shyamalan reportedly decided to make "The Happening" as a B-movie. Now, for those of those less familiar with the term "B-movie", it could be defined as the term that refers to a motion picture made on a low or modest budget and intended for less-publicized distribution. Right away, M. Night has failed in trying to create a movie in a category that is a by-product of production, not its focus. Apparently the way that he tried to create the B-movie feel was to enlist great actors and tell them to act as dead-paned, static characters. This followed with some obvious attempts to re-create throwback camera tricks, and his struggle to make the gore in his movie live up to its R rating created a very poor and overly self-aware final product. Everything about the movie could have been so much better had it not been for M. Night's poor, and possibly egotistic, choice to intentionally create a B-movie. Instead of an interesting and thought provoking final product, the audience is left with a movie that not only is it unable to relate to, but beats the viewer over the head with its message. If you listen closely you can almost hear M. Night yelling in the background, "I'm the greatest! I am so great that I can choose to make B-movies!" No, M. Night, you can't. Go back to making sweet films that actually treat the audience like that have an ounce of intelligence.

PICTURE
I love this theme. Check out more of Denis Darzacq's work at his site.

Stuff of the Week #17

2008-06-07T09:07:00.011-05:00

Still the only blog about politics that makes sense... Life in the Field.

VIDEO

Wait for it....wait for it...

Speaking of animal cute-lty (get it? like "cruelty", but cute?!)

Also, have you seen this:

MUSIC
OK, so I don't know how many of you will enjoy these tunes, as some might consider them "weird". Personally, I love them, of course. Now, is what you just read more likely to make you take a listen to these tunes...or not?! How pyshchologicalallish of me, hehehehe ;-) ! Also, make sure to check out Breakfast, lunch and dinner for a new monthly playlist!

Mew is awesome. Like, AWESOME-awesome. There music is so big that it should only really be place in outer space...whoa! Seriously, the melodies and song structures that these guys come up with always blow my mind. Now, there is some debate as to what "156" is actually about. In reality, I don't care because it is a phenomenally built piece of music. If you fet this song, put in on a CD, put it in your car, turn it up loud and drive around your city at night, then your car just might take off.
156 - Mew

Now, sometimes dubstep can get a little annoying. However, there is an exception to every rule, and Burial is that exception. His/Her (the musician is anonymous) music is so textured that if you actually feel it if you put your hand in front of the speaker while it is playing. Burial is great and his/her most recent album has received a lot of critical acclaim, so if you don't like it...you MUST have bad taste. Sucks for you.
Etched Headplate - Burial

FILM
I will be honest. My film watching has taken a hit since school has amped up. The good news is, my brother just got out for the summer and he watches movies all the time. Thus, without further delay...a review from my bro!

THE HOURS

4.5/5 Stars

In all my days I have never seen a movie like this. I went into this literally knowing nothing about the movie other than the cover and I suggest you do the same. I had to pause the movie to recollect my thoughts when I figured out what was going on, that's how good this is. It kept my interest the whole time, the characters are wonderful and superbly portrayed and the plot/story is unprecedented and excellent. It had me guessing, laughing, thinking about who I am as a person and who I am to the world.

Personal note from Seth: I remember when I went to see this in the theater with two other friends. After the movie was over we went outside and sat on in front of the theater for about 10 minuets in almost total silence. Needless to say, this movie is not "party movie", but one that will really have an affect on you (one way or the other). I remember loving the film, my other friend, Erin, i think she was unsure at first, but came around to liking it, and Melinda hated it and said it made her feel funny. Now you may read that and think, "Why on earth would I want to see a movie that is going to give me a weird reaction?" I would encourage you to ask yourself when was the last time you saw a movie that touched you at all. Movies can be art, and art is supposed to pull on us and challenge us in many different ways. I know that may sound strange as the state of movies is lost among a sea of "Madea" and "Not Another...whatever movie" movies. But a truly great film creeps out of a major production house ever so often and we should all put ourselves in the way of experiencing it.

PICTURE

Look at this up close....then far away. E=Happy Birthday Mr. President!

Stuff of the Week #16

2008-05-30T07:51:00.011-05:00

Still the only political blog worth looking at: Life in the Field .

VIDEO

I have laughed at this video so much that I now have abs like an American Gladiator.

Also hilarious.

MUSIC
OK, I just tried writing some really light and interesting paragraph that would both describe Sigur Rós' music and hopefully hook you into listening to more of their music, but it just was not coming out right. In short, Sigur Rós is one of the most unique bands of the past several years. Their creativity and song-craft are outstanding. The make music that seems to truly have a heart and life of its own. If you don't know or like Sigur Rós, I recommend you listening to them for the first time or again. They are putting out a new album this year called "Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust" or in English, "With a Buzz in Our Ears We Play Endlessly". In preparation, they have released a single called "Gobbledigook" for download on their website...for free. Check it out at their website. Be warned though, their new album's cover has a picture from the 1970's of four naked people running. You see their booties.
Gobbledigook - Sigur Rós

Hot Chip. Fun. Violent. British.
The Warning - Hot Chip

MOVIE
(not an ad) Coming soon: Netflix on your TV! How sweet would this be? If you answered "pretty sweet" then you win! YEAH!

INDIAN JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL

2/5 Stars

This movie was disappointing on so many levels. Now, it should be clarified that I did not expect greatness from IJATKOTCS (HA HA!), but I did expect it to be a fun, cohesive movie-going experience. This expectation was not met. The movie is over-stuffed and far to aware of itself. Watching this movie is like hearing someone talk about how great he is for about two hours. It seems like George Lucas took all his rejected ideas for other Star Wars and Indiana Jones movies, rolled them into one big fat mess and then slapped a hideously long title to it. I would not be surprised if Steven Spielberg directed this thing as a favor to ol' Georgie boy. The movie is all rising action that resolves itself not on the merit or growth of the characters, but on pure Lucas-styled chance. The action scenes are ridiculous and actually had people in the theater laughing for all the wrong reasons. It seems like Harrison Ford said about 10 lines, and the rest was heavy breathing, yelling, and grunting. All this culminates in a movie that has no direction or point, besides making sure that the audience walked away knowing that it was unmistakably Indiana Jones (by George Lucas) they saw on the screen. Whether or not you are an Indiana Jones fan, skip this movie as it is not worth your 7-10 dollars. It is mindless, self-indulgent, junk-food entertainment that is reflective of the poor state of hollywood and its "blockbusters".

PICTURE
This guy took a picture everyday from 03/31/79 until 10/25/83. It is an amazing collection and traces American culture from a unique and intimate perspective.

10/15/79

10/25/83

02/18/95

Stuff of the Week #15

2008-05-23T09:06:00.011-05:00

Do you like politics? More importantly, do you know and love Will the Thrill? Regardless of your answer, you should head over to Life in the Field and get educated.

VIDEO
Two videos this week, because I just could not choose.

kaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-POW!

Yes, this for real. That is how the get people on the trains in Japan. SARDINES!

MUSIC
OK, so I am really excited about the new Coldplay album, if the single Viva La Vida is any hint, this album is going to be great. I have to admit I am nervous about being excited about an album, as recently any of them I have gotten excited about has been pretty disappointing (Except for the new M83). This has forced me into the deep cavern of scouring the internet to find great old jams, cool new singles and creative recreations. While, I have found some good stuff on my pilgrimage, I want to feel that excitement of pulling the plastic off a new CD and being blown away. I don't know what it is, maybe its not the music...maybe its me. Whatever the problem, I hope Coldplay can help straighten it out. So, Good Music, if you are reading this right now...I miss you, come back to me. What I have posted here is a mash-up called Fish Tacos by IMMUZIKATION, which follows this formula, Coldplay - Viva La Vida + Weezer - The Greatest Man That Ever Lived + Cut Copy - Far Away + The Blow - Parentheses + M.I.A. - Boyz + Reading Rainbow Theme = Fish Tacos. Basically, if you don't like this mash-up then we are no longer friends and I have nothing else to say to you.
Fish Tacos - IMMUZIKATION

I don't know how many of you read my essay-thingy at Blac Lilacs, but I have been on a rediscovered mixtape journey lately. This nostalgic trip has taken me to some great old jams, and some songs that are pretty embarrassing, as well as some originals by yours truly that I may post if I lose enough shame. Anyways, I was riding along with a friend the other day, enjoying some old Tooth and Nail jams via mixtape, and she asked me if I was a Plankeye fan. What a jolt! I had forgotten all about them and their great "Relocation" album. I about burned a whole in that disc when I was a kid. The whole thing is really good and offers a glimpse as to what greatness the band might have achieved if their fan-base included more than just youth groups. If you have not heard of the band or if it has been a while since you dusted your copy of "Relocation", I highly recommend you do so, as you will not be disappointed. To wet your musical whistle, here is a great track from the album:
Goodbye - Plankeye

FILM
TEETH

2/5 Stars

The very fact that a movie/story about a girl with teeth in her vagina exists is a feat in itself. I think it would be easy to give this movie a very poor rating just based on the shock/offense factor, but the fact is that there is both good and bad things about how this film came out. First, the good: The movie makes the wise choice of not taking itself too seriously, even to the point of being classified as a black comedy. Also, "Teeth" does not shy away from its content. The movie seems to say "Yes, her vagina has teeth. Yes, you will see severed penises. What did you expect?" However, this focus on the teeth is also a weakness of the film as they seem to steal the show. The characters, the plot, and everything else seem to only serve to bring about as many extreme scenes of violence as possible. I would have liked to seen more integration of the plot device into an actual story, but maybe that is asking too much. Also, the movie is about as stereotypical as possible, depicting all men as sex-crazed rapists. A stereotype that has no higher purpose than justifying the several attacks smattered throughout the film. Overall, the acting is marginal and the plot is thin, if barely existent. This said, the movie does its job of satisfying any curiosity of what havoc a girl with teeth in her vagina could have on the unsuspecting male population.

PICTURE

I drew this a few weeks ago, and I really like it.

Stuff of the Week #14

2008-05-16T08:10:00.010-05:00

***I wrote a little essay about mixtapes over at Blac Lilacs. Check it out, along with a lot of other cool contributions.***

VIDEO

This is pretty weird, but pretty cool too.

MUSIC
Remember to check out my bro's monthly-alphabetical playlist (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)....it is quite a feat.

Where I live there is, believe it or not, a good radio show called "The Late, Late Rock Show" (even though it starts at 10 pm, which I think is only deserving of one "late", but who am I to complain). Anyways, they actually play good music that does not automatically fall into the "new" category. As such, I often find myself hearing for the first time sweet jams from a few years back. Last night I heard this track by the Kings of Leon (which I have always confuse with Fountains of Wayne for some reason). When I heard the track, I didn't know the name of it or who it was by, forcing me to remember the lyric "Take off your overcoat, you are staying the weekend" so I could google it later. Well, that later has come and gone and I hope you like the song as much as I did and do.
King of the Rodeo - Kings of Leon

DJ Shadow. What more do I need to say? If you are not familiar with him, educate yourself. This track is from "Endtroducing..." (the first fully sampled album...ever). LIsten for the drum cuts at around 2:50, and have a change of pants ready.

Building Steam With a Grain of Salt - DJ Shadow

FILM
25th HOUR

5/5 Stars

A movie that has been overlooked far too often. This is easily my favorite of Spike Lee's joints. Edward Norton delivers a great performance (as usual) and is joined with other great actors such as Hoffman, Pepper, Dawson, Paquin, and Cox. The whole ensemble makes this story that could have been dry in the hands of others and gives it a life that is deep and moving. Part of this film's greatness is derived from the simplicity of its story, which allows for more complex undercurrents to develop. Often, character development takes a back seat to what actually happens in a movie. "25th Hour" does just the opposite. The action of the movie is properly used to transport the viewer along side its developing characters. There is so much good and right about this movie that no review could ever capture it all. My suggestion; watch it again and again.

My brother's Review:
5/5 Stars
As I watched Spike Lee's magic flow through this masterpiece of a movie I was touched in ways a cinematic experience has never done so before. Throughout Monty's (Norton) riveting journey I found myself cheering, crying and wanting more. Under appreciated and wonderful.

PICTURE
I love realistic depictions of comic characters.

Stuff of the Week #13

2008-05-08T15:27:00.018-05:00

Check out Blac Lilacs which is another blog of a friend of mine, and I have been asked to contribute to it. The site encourages art in response to experiences and is pretty dang sweet.

VIDEO

M83+Spike Jonze+slow motion+explosions=AWESOME

MUSIC
WANT 26 MORE SWEET JAMS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER? Head over to breakfast, lunch, and dinner for my brother's monthly alphabetical playlist. This week he asked me to put it together for him. Neat!

Damien Jurado is great. The first time I ever heard him was on the Tooth and Nail Rock Sampler Vol. 1, along with Pedro the Lion. That week changed my life, although I wouldn't realize this fact until a few years later. When some one describes music as "pure", little do they know it but they are referencing Mr. Jurado. While I don't know if I would say this is my all-time favorite Damien Jurado song (that would probably be "Frustrated" or "Ohio"), but this is probably the song I listen to the most...strange as that may be. Anyways, check it out and if you like it, well then you are in luck because the guy just cannot write a bad song.
Paperwings - Damien Jurado

OK. So, Sebodah is considered by many to be one of the most important low-fi rock bands of all time. They are probably right. I hardly know anything about them, but I do know they make some sweet jams. So instead of talking about who they are, their influence and yadda yadda, I will leave that to someone else. Just go down to some local record store and find a guy wearing a "Dinosaur Jr." or "Pavement" shirt and say to him "I head Sebodah was a lot like Fall Out Boy", and he will tell you everything you could want to know about the band. Anyways, "On Fire" is a great, great, great song. Lyrically it is one of my favorites because of its subject matter. Interested? Well then take a listen.
On Fire - Sebadoh

p.s. whoa, two black-and-white band photos...so indie.

FILM
IRON-MAN

2.5/5 Stars

OK. I know, it's a SUPERHERO movie. I get it. However, the fact remains that I think it kind of stunk. For my dollar, I'll take "The Rocketeer" over this misogynistic boom-fest. The characters are static...everyone of them. The movie has no depth, and just because the special effects are great, does not mean they are creative. The only thing that changes or happens in this movie is, the main character, Tony Stark gets a cool crazy-suit. Now, I wondered if I was taking this too seriously, but to me if the kind of technology existed to make a crazy-suit, much less install a crazy-suit assembly line in a basement, then shouldn't it be used to reduce fuel costs? That would be a real hero. Anyways...don't get me wrong, the movie is fun, but not great, just barely good. Will I see the sequel? Yes. Will I see the "The Avengers" movie? Yes. I guess, I just like my movies with a little substance.

PICTURE
OK. So it is hard to find interesting pictures every week. So, if you doodle or use a camera or anything like that and have something you want to share let me know at SAJRainwater@yahoo.com.

These are like sleveface...but, slevebody.

Stuff of the Week #12

2008-04-27T07:30:00.010-05:00

Better late than never, right?
Also, if you want to go back to any past posts, you can use the links on the left-hand side. Only 4 posts at a time will pop-up on the main page now to cut down on loading time.

VIDEO

Ouch...ouch...ouch.

MUSIC
Now, I know that I posted a lot of covers last week, but I just can't help myself with this one. If you don't know who Daniel Johnston is... well, then you have some homework to do. I will go ahead an tell you know that many (most?) of you might not like Mr. Johnston, but the fact is: he is wonderful. He writes songs that are so straight forward and uninhibited that it is hard not to think "Yeah, I felt exactly that way before" when hearing his voice squeak a lyric or two. In hope of getting this point across I posted this cover song which has with Daniel Smith (from Danielson Family) singing, with a little help from ol' Sufie.
Worried Shoes (Daniel Johnston cover) - Sufjan Stevens and Daniel Smith

Honey Is Cool was a band n Sweden until 2000. It is rare that I can find one of their songs, but I have been lucky over the years. When you hear it you may think "Is that Bjork singing?" The answer is, no. It is in fact Karin Dreijer Andersson who sings for The Knife. "Who is The Knife?", you ask, well looks like even more homework for you!
Something About the Mountains - Honey Is Cool

FILM
ATONEMENT

4.5/5 Stars

This movie was fantastic. It takes full advantage of the medium of film, without beating the viewer over the head with special effects or other tricks of the trade. The depth and dimension that Atonement offers is dynamic and multifaceted. The writing is very strong, and the actors (yes, even Keira Knightley) are excellent. What takes the cake in this drama is a three way tie between the musical score (which it one an Academy Award for), the art direction (especially the cinematography), and the skill of director Joe Wright. I would easily say that this was the second best movie of 2007, failing to surpass There Will Be Blood. Atonement is a startling good film and should be enjoyed by all, but probably will not be. To be honest, I cannot wait to see it again.

Speaking of film dimension:

I want to add a further note here: Atonement is a great example of film dimension. What do I mean by film dimension? Well I think that when you see a movie, it should suspend your reality will inserting the one presented within the story. This is only achieved when the story is not overrun by other "essential" movie elements like special effects, or a hit pop song in the sound track, or product placement, or whatever. In my personal opinion, movies have two good dimensions. The first is 2D, which entails the viewer not being aware of the camerawork, special effects, directing, or other elements of the movie until looking back at it. This is the most common dimension that is sought for, but though it may sound ordinary and common, it is not easy to achieve. If you look back at many movies, you can see where some element of the actual movie production spills on to the screen, ruining the suspension of reality that the story is trying to create. Now, the other dimension of film is 3D in which camerawork, special effects, direction and other elements are obvious, but so meticulously interwoven that they become part of the story. Example of film with this level of dimension are Atonement, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Fight Club, and Ameile, among others. To achieve this overall effect is very difficult because it requires a delicate balance of excess and subtlety (Fight Club, subtle?...yes). In between these two dimensions are movies that are overstuffed and have a "junk food" quality, or in other words, any most major-movie-blockbusters. Anyways, like I said, this is my personal opinion, which you all knows means that it is right.

PICTURE
"The Many Faces of Mr. Potato Head" - Which one will be the next Tickle Me Elmo?!

Luigi Head

Jason Head

Garfield Head

Nacho LIbre Head

Peanut M&M Head

Kill Bill Head

Stuff of the Week #11

2008-04-18T09:09:00.012-05:00

VIDEO

I lost count of how many times I have watched this, but it just never gets old. It might be the best video on YouTube...ever.

MUSIC
So...cover songs. I love cover songs. To find a true cover song is a rare thing these days, more often than not bands copy songs, but fail to add a their own flavor or twist to it. What I have found is that the better the band, the better the cover. Often times these "better" bands have been influenced by The Smiths, which some (not me, mind you) would contend is the most influential band of all time...even beating The Beatles (don't believe me? check the UK magazine giant NME for the proof). While I LOVE The Smiths, I am not about to put them at numero uno, but they are definitely near the top. The Smiths are known for a lot of things besides their music such as drama, allegations of nationalism (which are false), celibacy, and the most shocking of all...vegetarianism! I like to look past all that and focus on the sweet jams. Now, I could probably type on and on about Morrissey and his status as a pop icon and the implications this has The Smith's current influence and how Johnny Marr's recent involvement in Modest Mouse fits into the whole thing and how their will never be a reunion (or will there?!) and stuff like that, but I am not going to. Instead, let's turn our attention to the music.

Now the original is about as near perfect a pop song as there was ever created. There is a lot of theories about what the lyrics mean, I have read them all...if you really want to know I suggest you just make up your own.
This Charming Man - The Smiths

Here we have a copy/cover by Death Cab For Cutie, who would undoubtedly not exist if it were not for The Smiths. Basically, any modern pop song whose lyric's have literature feel or make obscure cultural references (excluding rap), while maintaing depth and emotion exists because The Smiths did it first. DCFC would definitely fall into this category.
This Charming Man - Death Cab for Cutie

Here is Braid's copy/cover. See above paragraph and switch "DFCF" with "Braid".
This Charming Man - Braid

OK, here is a cover. While this lounge style is not typical for Stars, it does not stray to far from the band's feel. Stars is another band that owes its existence to The Smiths.
This Charming Man - Stars

A-cappella. What else do I need to say?
This Charming Man - Bostonians

Symphonic covers are great, but overdone. You can walk into any Best Buy and find a "String Tribute" to any band...including Avril Lavigne. What is great about Litmus' cover is that it takes liberties with the structure and melody and gives a true symphonic voice to the song.
This Charming Man - Litmus

FILM
Instead of a review this week I wish to direct your attention to this article: Guide of the Dead - An RT Romero Retrospective. If you know me, you know I love zombies. They are without a doubt the best monster of all time. "Why?", you ask. Well, in my personal opinion they are superior to vampires, werewolves and other ghouls due to the fact that their existence is based on the core mankind. Zombies are basically nothing but a big bundle of Id walking around. You see, other monsters are usually distinctly non-human, while zombies are basically humans with no impulse control. They mindless walk around and consume all they see. Zombies are a reflection of humanity with all the social norms stripped away. Thus any zombie movie is basically about mankind fearing the deepest and darkest parts of themselves. Not bad for a bunch of undead brain-munchers, huh? Let's not kid ourselves, zombie movies are also great for the crazy gore and violence too...oh well, so much for philosophy.

PICTURE
I love this website. It is genius. Check out PostSecret .

Stuff of the Week #10

2008-04-11T09:16:00.010-05:00

VIDEO

I just don't know how to feel about this...wonderment ...fear ...hungry? I don't fully understand, but I think the fact that elephants are painting means either that 1)the future really is now or that 2)the apocalypse is just around the bend. Either way you can buy those elephant paintings for a couple of hundred bucks here.

MUSIC
I love, love, love this song. It easily one of my favorite songs of the past few years. Now, usually I don't pay attention to lyrics...at all. I used to when I was a teenager, in fact I was rigid about lyrics. I had a rule that unless I could relate to every word of a song, then I would not allow it to be one of my favorites. I can remember really liking this song called "Andrea" by MxPx (whoa, two MxPx references in two weeks!), but because I didn't know anyone named Andrea I had to pass on it being one of my favorites. Well, since then I have abandoned that idea as it only allowed for about 6 songs to be classified as a "favorite". Recently, however, I am wondering if I have swung too far in the opposite direction. That is, I could not tell you the lyrics of half of my current favorite jams. I just don't pay attention, I listen to the voice as an instrument, like the guitar or drums on the track. To me lyrics are just the way someone is "playing" their voice. Thus, I am making an attempt to understand song's lyrics, perhaps it will open up a whole new level for my favorite songs...we will see.
I Am John - Loney, Dear

This is one of my bro's favorite songs. I had kind of forgotten about it until recently he was like "Dude, you know that song 'After the Curtain'? It is awesome!" So to spread the jam I decided to bless your ears with this quirky tune. Some people say this song is about the "iron curtain" and the "left" and "right" sides of it. Maybe, this is where lyrics really fall into that grey (gray?) area of interpretation. While I have never lived on either side of the fallen curtain, I still really like this song.
After the Curtain - Beirut

FILM
FRIENDS WITH MONEY

3.5-4/5 STARS ( I am so wishy-washy!)

This film is really, really great. It strikes a healthy balance between being a very unique story, while still embracing common movie themes and elements. This is not meant to be a criticism, but rather a praise of Director Holofcener's ability to add depth and dimension to what could have easily been a typical "chick-flick". The characters are well acted and developed in proportion to their role in the story, the movie has a good pace, but what really steals the show is the dialogue. There are so many levels to the writing of this movie that new elements seems to turn up with each viewing. This is only strengthened by the fact that the movie does not beat the viewer over the head with obvious lines or plot developments, but rather allows the skilled craft of the actors and director to reveal what is hidden in the subtlety of the story. Easily, this film is way too underrated and overlooked. While it may not break any new ground, it tells a wonderful story in a skilled manner, something that most movies struggle to do these days.

PICTURE
What if somethings were invisible?

Stuff of the Week #9

2008-04-03T20:20:00.016-06:00

VIDEO

I have been a Japanese kick, or as I like to call it JapaTV. Catchy, no?

MUSIC
OK. So to an extent I have no idea what this song is about, but I love it. I think it has got to be the best track of Midlake's album, "The Trials of Van-Occupanther". The band is pretty great. I really recommend it. I think that is about all that needs to be said.

Head Home - Midlake

Again, Maritime is a pretty good band and this song is very catchy. Some of you might now The Promise Ring or the Dismemberment Plan, well if you do and if you'd liked those bands, then you will probably like Maritime as it contains members from both.

Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts - Maritime

FILM
THIS IS ENGLAND

3.5/5 Stars

This movie is flat-out great. It balances several elements and has a great message that is delivered without beating the viewer over the head with it. In this film elements of coming-of-age, skinheads vs. nationalists and friendship are explored. Often times movies about skinheads (not to be mistaken with neo-nazis) miss the mark, but this one seemed to really capture a lot of the crucial elements involved in what many would consider the true nature of this group of people. With a great story line for a foundation, Shane Meadows does a super job of directing an excellent ensemble, notably Thomas Turgoose. A great film through and through.

(I may bump this up to a 4/5...I am such a pushover and movie ratings are oh, so important.)

PICTURE
I found these pictures on a website entitled "If Celebrities Moved to Oklahoma".

Tom "Crazy Guy in Accounting" Cruise

Jennifer "I Wrote A Cookbook" Aniston

Johnny "Cheeseburger" Depp

Gwyneth "Yes, that is a prize-winning ferret" Paltrow

Stuff of the Week #8

2008-03-29T08:20:00.013-06:00

VIDEO

Totally insane.

MUSIC
Girl Talk is awesome. Listening to one of his songs is liking listening to a week's worth of radio in a few minuets. What is really neat about his style is that it can 1) make a really crappy song seem awesome and 2) bring out parts of good songs that are generally overlooked. The whole mash-up/bootleg album thing is just great and everyone should check it out. There is nothing like hearing James Taylor, 50 Cent, The Pixies and Weezer all in the same song. Oh, for those who don't like rap or cuss words..be warned...this song has BOTH! For those who love rap and cuss words...you are in luck...this song has BOTH!

Here are all the songs sampled in "Hold Up":
0:00 Mariah Carey - "It's Like That"
0:00 James Taylor - "Your Smiling Face"
0:12 Ludacris - "Number One Spot" (which itself includes a Quincy Jones sample)
0:21 50 Cent - "In Da Club"
0:21 Timbaland & Magoo - "Indian Flute"
0:32 Pixies - "Where Is My Mind?"
0:40 Young Gunz - "Can't Stop, Won't Stop"
0:43 Nas, Puff Daddy - "Hate Me Now"
1:25 Matt and Kim - "It's A Fact (Print and Stained)"
1:46 D4L - "Laffy Taffy"
2:08 Buckwheat Boys - "Peanut Butter Jelly Time"
2:28 Weezer - "Say It Ain't So"
Hold Up - Girl Talk

The Get Up Kids, while they were still around, were awesome. When they were not too busy staring in the now debunked emogame, they were making great, great music. Here is a true story: I am 16 years old standing in my town's local record shop (which had to close due to a Best Buy and Target being opened). The record shop was called Manifest Disks and Tapes and it was the best music store I have ever been in. Anyways, there I am in all my hormonal teenage glory trying to find a new CD too listen too. I checked the "Punk" section, but could not find MxPx that I didn't already have (for shame!), I checked the "Heavy Metal" section, but only to scare myself by looking at Cannibal Corpse and GWAR album covers. Feeling defeated I headed over to the "New Release" section where you can preview CD's. There I saw The Get Up Kid's "Something To Write Home About". I loved the artwork on the album and so I put on the headphones and heard "Holiday" and my musical life was literally changed at that moment. The guitars, the energy, the angst, the pop-sensibility...I could hardly contain myself! Now, The Get Up Kids didn't break any new ground, but they were the right band a the right moment for a teenage kid lost in a world of Christian pop-punk. I don't know if I can ever explain why I think this band is so great, but if you have ever had the experience I just described, maybe you already understand.

Holiday - The Get Up Kids

FILM
HAROLD AND MAUDE
Reviewed by the brothers Rainwater

Seth:
3.5/5 Stars

Way ahead of it's time, Harold and Maude set the tone for pretty much every existential crisis and teen angst movie to follow. Wes Anderson's "Rushmore" and the like would not be if it were not for this gem of a film.

Josh:
3.5/5 Stars

Amazing and hilarious. While in shock, I was also laughing histarically. The characters are deep and the pressure of the mother is like that every teenager feels. The independence Harold seeks, nay, has is that which we all have searched for. This tennage connection breakthrough should be celebrated and given credit.

PICTURE
CREEEEEEEEPY!

Stuff of the Week #7

2008-03-20T21:21:00.024-06:00

VIDEO

If you have not seen this...then you just have not lived. It is as simple as that.

MUSIC
This band/guy comes from Tulsa, OK. They/he have put out a new album, but this one is from the debut "I Sold Gold" and remains my favorite. I like the sound of this song a lot in part because I think it is hard to classify. Any band that you can say "Well, its like half this and half that" is not really breaking too much ground...I mean that is how rap-core happened and need I remind you of the punishment that Limp Bizkit put us through?
The Suggestion Box - Aqueduct

Billy Bragg is awesome. I am pretty sure this is technically a cover of a Kristy MacColl song, but not 100% sure, so whatever. ANYways, Billy Bragg is awesome because his music is like no one else's. I mean, a lot of this guys catalogue consists of just his merely average singing voice and a guitar, but his a lot of his songs have more depth and color than full bands with big budgets. What really helps his music stand out are the lyrics. If you are ever looking for music that you actually have to listen to, then check him out. By the way, this is my favorite song of his...years of angst captured in just a few minuets.
A New England - Billy Bragg

FILM
HORTON HEARS A WHO
Reviewed by Joel Isaacs

4/5 Stars

Hilarious! After seeing Mike Myers ruin Dr. Seuss with "The Cat and the hat", It was refreshing to see a Dr. Seuss movie that won't have him rolling over in his grave. I actually laughed out loud multiple times while enjoying the excellent animation and enjoyable characters.

PICTURES
Here is a collection of rarely seen faces (part 1)

Darth Vader

Dr. Claw

The Nanny from "Muppet Babies"

...I guess we will never know...

Stuff of the Week #6

2008-03-11T13:56:00.017-06:00

OK...Now I am married. Sweet. Since I did not get to share any gnarly stuff with everyone the past few weeks, and because this weekend will be super busy too...I decided to post this catch-up post, with extra goodness! YES!

VIDEO
Frozen Grand Central Station

I have been an Improve Everywhere fan for a while now, it is pretty awesome what people can accomplish when they work together. Check out more at their YouTube site.

Movie Pitches

These guys are pretty funny...sometimes. Also, that Mel Gibson movie does look AWESOME!

MUSIC
OK, so this song was out in the 90's and I loved it then like I love it know. Talk about a one hit wonder though, and I am using "hit" generously there. I could not even find a picture of this band (not that I would know what they looked like anyways). Anyways, this song is great only like a 90's pop/rock song can be, complete with with out-of-place-reggae-rapping. Best lyric: "Hey, what's your favorite song? Maybe we can hum along."
Got You Where I Want You - The Flys

The Magic Numbers are one of the only bands I know that can make a 5:00 minuet pop song that never looses it edge. Part of what makes "Love Me Like You" so great is the way the song changes at the end, seriously I don't know how The Magic Numbers can pack so much into one song...AWESOME!
Love Me Like You - The Magic Numbers

OK...I am not a big Grey's Anatomy fan, but you know that catchy song during the opening credits? Well, that is by a band called Psapp (pronounced "P-sap"). The band is part of a genre called toytronica, which means they use an assortment of toys and toy instruments to make their music. Pretty creative, huh?
Hi - Psapp

FILM
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

4.5/5 STARS

This movie is fantastic. The Coen brothers are able to deliver so much more than just a story with a beginning, middle and end. The depth of the characters and unique focus of the film only serve to compliment the plot of this neo-western. In any other hands, this movie would be typical cops-and-robber/CSI-type story, but the acting, scenery and directing really bring out the core of this film and story. There are layers of man's natural character and the universal struggle between good and evil that I don't think anyone could fully unpack. A must see movie that is unlike any other.

PICTURE
These are sweet! Enough said.

Stuff of the Week BEFORE I GET MARRIED#5

2008-02-22T00:11:00.028-06:00

Yeah, that is right...wedding bells are ringing! About a week from today I will be married to the coolest, prettiest, most swell gal I know, HOT DOG! As you can probably guess I gots matrimony on the mind, so this week's stuff will have a wedding/love theme...ain't I the sweetest?

VIDEO

This will be me on my wedding day, no doubt about it...GLORY!

MUSIC
(remember, you can listen to these tunes by clicking the little play button next to them or you can use the link!)

This song has been out for a while and was getting a lot of attention, but most of that seems to have died off by now, which I think this is a shame. This is a beautiful song and and one of the best examples of a "cover" song I have ever heard. I am biased, however, because this song got a lot of play time as my fiancee and I were just beginning to date. Regardless of my sentimental attachment, this is a amazing song that should be heard by all.
Heartbeats (The Knife Cover) - Jose Gonzalez

In contrast to the mellow jam provided by Mr. Gonzalez, I thought I would share a nice tune that will make you want to get up and dance! Jens Lekman is from Sweden. He is kinda weird, but he writes better pop music in his unique lo-fi way than a lot of other major bands with million dollar budgets. I can't say that his music will be liked by all, but I will be danged if this song does not want to make you cut a rug!

A Sweet Summer's Night on Hammer Hill - Jens Lekman

FILM
I don't watch a lot of wedding movies, so I picked this movie because it is one of my fiancee's favorite movies:
GARDEN STATE

3.5/5 STARS

I am not going to lie, I have had a love/hate relationship with this movie. At first when I saw the trailer for Garden State, I loved it. Then when it became more of a soundtrack than a movie, I hated it. Now, I have come to terms with the fact that I really, really like this movie. While it has its weak points and suffers from trying to do too much at once, the characters and world created by Braff are really charming. Without a doubt, Sarsgaard gives the best performance, but it seems that the unspoken relationships between the characters that steal the show. Now, I know this movie is often criticized because it is "scene" or whatever that means, but the fact stands that it is a really interesting and engaging movie. The dialogue between characters is sharp and filled with very memorable lines, the humor is not too pushy and the cinematography is simply wonderful. As stated earlier, "Garden State" seems to be filled with every trick Braff could think of, but this is not uncommon in debuts. Lucky for us, most of his tricks are pretty good.

PICTURE
Well, we have all heard of it...the ELVIS WEDDING, but how many of us have seen it? I looked through the internet and found what I consider to be some of the best examples of this amazing American tradition. Enjoy these amazing glimpses into a world so foreign from our own. To be honest, the pictures inspire me; maybe I can talk the wife-to-be into renewing our vows at a Vegas wedding chapel for our 50th wedding anniversary. I can imagine it now: Elvis will conduct the service (of course), my wife will dress like Catwoman and I will be Snoopy...oh, and we will be skydiving. Anyways, here are the pictures:

This is a picture from what appears to have been the greatest wedding ever. Note the two essential items: Elvis and Trekkies.

Stuff of the Week #4 - BRO EDITION

2008-02-14T22:19:00.025-06:00

Check it out! This week's stuff is brought to you by my brother. Basically, he is a genius, fo' real, so this week's stuff should be reeeal good. You can check out more of my brother's sweetness at his blog, Breakfast, Lunch 'n' Dinner.

VIDEO

This commercial is for a local dealership near where my brother, Seth, lives; he loves it. Funny thing is, somebody actually thought that this ad was a good idea. Check out The Auto Connection for more sweetness like this. MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE "MEET MACK MACK" SECTION!

MUSIC
This is a pretty underrated Death Cab for Cutie song. It is still able to connect to the listener without loosing any of its pop sensibilities. "I loved you Guinevere."
We Laugh in Doors - Death Cab for Cutie

This was the first song that I ever heard by Milosh. It really helped to broaden my view of electronic music beyond dance, and include the downtempo-melodic pop stylings of this underrated artist.
Your Taste - Milosh

FILM
JUNO

4/5 STARS

This coming of age movie addresses the idea of accepting all walks of life in such a way allows you to connect on a more personal level than any other teen movie I've seen this year. It's quotable, clean, personal, funny, and romantic.

PICTURE

This piece of art was done by Banksy. He is awesome. We should all try to be him when we grow up.

Stuff of the Week #3

2008-02-07T23:18:00.002-06:00

VIDEO

This is rock and roll.

MUSIC
HOLYMOLEY! This song is great! OK, Ok! Do you remember "The O.C."? Of, course you do. Well, that ever-catchy theme song "California" was preformed by Phantom Planet, with who Jason Schwartzman used to play. You probably know Mr. Schwartzman from sweet films like "Rushmore", "I ♥ Huckabees" or "Marie Antoinette". Anyways, it appears that ol' Jason has been making some sweet new jams under the guise of Coconut Records. His song "West Coast" blows that other California song away...at least I think so. Press the play button to hear the tunes now, or use the link!
West Coast - Coconut Records

According to my friend Wiki, "Rihanna's 'Umbrella' reign at number-one in Britain occurred as the country was hit by extreme rainfall and flooding, which led some people to jokingly suggest the two events were related, the media referring to it as the 'Rihanna Curse'. Interestingly, the precise day the song was knocked from the #1 position by Timbaland, the weather seemed to improve. A similar situation occurred in New Zealand, where the song hit #1 in the early winter of 2007 as the country was experiencing some of the worst storms in its history. In Greece, 'Umbrella' was released at a time when people were suffering through a summer of several major heatwaves topping 47C/117F, and the worst forest fires of modern history, killing 60 people. When the song peaked at #4 in the Greek singles chart in October 2007, the country experienced significant rainfall. Spain also experienced one of its wettest summers in decades, and the coldest August since the beginning of the 20th century during 'Umbrella''s chart run."

Aaaaaannnyways...Rihanna's "Umbrella" is "recognized as the most successful song of 2007 on the United World Chart....It has been announced as the 9th most successful song of the last decade and has received three Grammy Award nominations; Grammy Award for Record of the Year, Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration." My question is, "WHY?!" Regardless, below are some pretty neat covers of this pop sensation:
Umbrella (Rihanna cover) - Brave Horatius
Umbrella (Rihanna cover) - Mechanical Bride

FILM
THE KING OF KONG: A FISTFUL OF QUARTERS

3.5/5 STARS

Some documentaries try to pretend that they are above being entertainment or being "interesting". Others try to stuff their subjects with meaning instead of letting the current of reality to carry the story. "The King of Kong" is NOT one of those documentaries. While not great in all regards, the film does a really good job telling a story with the facts it has been given. The story line is not forced, the "characters" seem genuine and real...because they are genuine and real! There are lines in the film that no writer could have thought of, and the characters have a depth beyond what many actors could portray. What is amazing about this film is that you will find yourself totally enwrapped in what's going on, despite wether or not you find video games interesting or not. The director does a great job of bring out surprising Western tones of "good vs. evil" or "David vs. Goliath" within the story (this aspect is shadowed by the title's nod to a classic western movie). My brother Josh put it well when he wrote in his review, "A great view of the struggle of one man's dream and the deception of another to keep his own." Overall, "The King of Kong" could be enjoyed by many...and it should be.

PICTURE

OK, so this is not a "picture" per say, but dang it if it isn't creepy!

Stuff of the Week #2

2008-02-01T00:06:00.001-06:00

VIDEO

THIS IS EXTREME PETE!!!!!! HE IS SO EXTREME!!!!!!!!

I like the music in this video better because it is more EXTREME!!!!!!!!!!!!

MUSIC
This is a split jam week. First we have a sweet new band called Vampire Weekend. These guys play simple pop music that will make you want to gather up your pals and skip school. Check out this song right now by clicking on the play button or use the link. If you like the song you should check the rest of their self-titled album that came out this week.
A-Punk - Vampire Weekend

Next we have an oldie but a great-ie. Third Eye Blind is one of my favorite bands and one of the best modern pop/rock bands to come out of the 90's. Don't believe me? Take a second and think about how many different Third Eye Blind songs you have heard on the radio and how many you actually know the words too... surprising, no? Anyways, I think this song was a b-side from their last album "Out of the Vein". It is awesome and I have no idea why it was cut. Check it out, I guarantee you will listen to it more than once.
Persephone - Third Eye Blind

FILM
MEAN STREETS

3/5 Stars

I think this movie is often rated too highly due to hindsight and Scorsese's recent work. The fact of the matter is that that while this movie has some major strengths, it has some major weaknesses as well. Many of the strengths include filming techniques, especially with cinematography. The story line is also strong and unique for the 70's. De Niro and Keitel are able to deliver performances that are on par with the script, which is where one of the film's weaknesses lies. The story is supposed to convey a message that mixes religion and crime as they pertain to redemption, but this theme is severely underdeveloped. I don't care who is directing, a film's message needs to be accessible, no matter how complex it is. With a muddled concept, the movie comes of as like a bunch of friends with a Super 8 camera. While this sounds horrible, Scorsese's main intention for the film was to give the viewer a feeling of some his personal experiences growing up in Little Italy. Thus, in that regard this film accomplishes its goal. "Mean Streets" should be appreciated as one of Scorsese's first times to spread his wings and try out ideas that would later be parts of the foundations for some of the greatest films of all time.

PHOTO

I cannot help it...I love these.

Stuff of the Week #1

2008-01-25T01:00:00.001-06:00

Hey, I am going to try to add new items to this every Friday...so if you like it, check it out next week!

VIDEO

I love these kids...so funny

MUSIC
Has anyone not seen the new MacBook Air ad? If you find that song in the background oh, so catchy then check out the full version by Yael Naim. Also, she covered Britney's "Toxic"... awesome. Press the play button next to the songs to have a listen or use the links below to download the jams.

New Soul - Yael Naim
Toxic (Britney Spears cover) - Yael Naim
Buy the CD at Amazon.com.

FILM
LOLITA

4/5 STARS

This film, though it has its weak points, was ahead of its time. In many ways it paved the road for current suburban dramas such as "American Beauty". Kubrick's skill in telling an extremely provocative story within the censorship stands of the 60's is a testament to his vision. A strong film through out, it at times relies too much on Peter Sellers and narration to propel the plot. In a lot of ways, this movie is one of details with each scene dropping hints as to what is occurring between the characters, instead of parading the subject matter in a vulgar and obvious way. It seems to me that this film is judged too harshly, as the censors and restrictions of the decade must be taken into account. In my personal opinion, I think that the minimalist approach to the subject matter only added to the tension of this complex and layered story.

PICTURE

This startaling picture was done by Skarbakka, who writes, "Heidegger described human existence as a process of perpetual falling, and it is the responsibility of each individual to "catch ourselves" from our own uncertainty. My work is in response to this delicate state. It questions what it means to resist the struggle, to simply let go, and the consequences of holding on. The images stand as reminders that we are all vulnerable to losing our footing and grasp, symbolizing the precarious balancing act between the struggle against our desire to survive and our fantasy to transcend our humanness." Check out more at this website.