|
Entry
#225
Thursday, December 8, 2005
The Shark, Meme Chris Tucker and myself all took a little ride last night
out to Jim Salamone’s place (AKA Keith Jones) to pick up the mastered
version of The
Situation’s debut album (and to go through his extensive collection
of Rolling Stone concert programs). I have to say, after listening to
it a few times over, I’m really pleased with the way it came out. It almost
makes all the fighting and BS we went through over the last four years
worth it. And I’m really proud of my bandmates as well as everyone else
who had a hand in putting it together - everyone did a great job. Anyway,
it’s been a long time coming and I sincerely hope everyone out there likes
it as much as we do. It gets released on Elephant
Stone records, February 2006.
Entry
#224
Wednesday, December 7, 2005
Not only is today Pearl Harbor Day, it’s also the anniversary of Delaware
being the First State to sign and ratify the Constitution. That’s right,
hatters, everyone one else followed us! We’re the first, the original,
the classic.
And I know a lot of you are thinking “Whatever, Castro, you don’t even
live in DE anymore, nor were you born there you dirty bastard.” Yeah,
that’s true, but I did grow up there, so back off bro. I’m not one of
those self-hating-in-denial-Delawareans like the rest of my band. Besides,
no one else gives the First State love, so it might as well be MJC.com,
know what I mean?
Speaking of The Situation,
we still need volunteers to help fill up the bar stools at Silk City this
Monday night for our video shoot. There’s no cover charge, so what do
got to lose? Be there at 6:00PM and bring your A-game.
Entry
#223
Tuesday, December 6, 2005
I spent most of the past weekend, locked away at home, listening to records
and happily painting the hours away. I should have a few new ones posted
as soon as I can find a digital camera to mooch off someone for a few
hours. In the meantime, here are two new collages. One is called La
Vie and the other Parliament.
Let me know what you think.
Anyway, with the onslaught of recent skate-docs (Dogtown, Who
Cares, the making of of Animal Chin, etc.), it seems like every other
skater out there all of a sudden has some film coming out about him. This
one, however, is definitely going to be a trip. For those unfamiliar with
Jason Jessee, he was, well, one of the most out-there and insane vertical
skaters of the late 80’s. Definitely watch
the trailer ‘cause it’s funny as hell. BJM’s got nothing on this madness.
Speaking of films, Carl Barat (the other half of The
Libertines) recently posted a video for his brand new band’s first
single. It’s probably closer the Lib’s sound than Babyshambles
and definitely proves that Mr. Doherty wasn’t the only creative force
behind Up
The Bracket. Check out the Dirty Pretty Things’ new video here.
Entry
#222
Monday, December 5, 2005
I had the privilege (and, yes, I mean privilege) of seeing Damian
Marley at the Electric Factory last night and I have to say it was
one of the best concerts I’ve seen in a long, long time. Seriously - he
brought the fire to the factory! As good as the album is, it was even
better live. No joke. There’s nothing like watching a band that tight
bring that much energy and passion to an audience to make you realize
the little band you play in ain’t shit. He even did a medley tribute of
some his dad’s more political songs (including War and Zimbabwe) that
had JP and I picking our jaws up off the floor. Their high energy two
hour set included a Rasta version of Bez,
dancing the night away while waving the Red, Gold and Green Lion of Judah
flag. See him now in a small venue before he blows up and hits the stadium
circuit.
X-Clan
kicked off the night with an impressive opening set, although I was a
bit disappointed that they didn't come out rockin’ their old
school outfits.
Anyway, thanks to Hampton for making it happen. And congrats on the new
baby, man - that’s awesome!
Entry
#221
Friday, December 2, 2005
I finally heard that new Black
Eyed Peas song this morning while eating my Breakfast cereal. You
know the one I mean - “My Hump, My Hump, My Lovely Lady Lumps” What, are
you a frikkin’ camel or something? I kept imagining someone sitting at
home with a pen and a pad, scribbling those lyrics down, shaking their
head in approval and thinking “yeah, this is great. this is genius.” I’m
sorry, but that song's just ridiculously awful. I have no doubt it'll
be huge in the clubs, though.
Ok, it’s time for this weeks Mighty Top Five. Actually, I liked this one
so much, I’m making it a Top Seven. It comes from a woman who recently
told me I have the taste of a 4 year old, her favorite color, if you’re
wondering, is purple and she’s a very funny lady. So here she is, the
one and only - Ms. Zenzi! For the record, all these stories are true,
only the names have been changed to protect the guilty. Take it away,
Zenzi!
Zenzi’s Top Seven First Date Warning Signs That Let You Know It
Might Not Work Out.
1. Has to take you out in the early afternoon because
his parole officer has him on a Sundown curfew.
2. Demands gas money because you live "out of the way".
Car subsequently breaks down and the 2 of you push it to the nearest gas
station. You take a cab the rest of the way home (no "refund" of gas money
is issued).
3. He brings his girlfriend along (but apologizes the
"mishap" later)
4. Blind date spends entire initial phone call trying
to find out if you're a "fattie" without asking directly (asks questions
like "how often do you work out?” "what's your best feature?")
5. Date sneaks a "40" into the movie theatre and talks
loudly to the screen during the feature horror flick ("look out, bitch!!")
6. Date chooses dinner location based on soon to expire
2 for one dining coupon (Ummmm...Olive Garden!).
7. "Romantic" Date consists of meal from 7-11 eaten in
the room he rents in a communal house. You watch "State Property" with
him and try to figure out where you went wrong in life.
Thanks, Zenzi.
That’s all I got. Have a great weekend, everybody!
Entry
#220
Thursday, December 1, 2005

Congrats to Langhorn, PA’s own Chris Cole who was recently voted Thrasher
Magazine’s Skater of the Year for 2005. No big surprise there, really,
especially if you’ve seen his part in Zero’s
New Blood video. The kid’s on fire. Hell, even I voted for him.
OK, listen up - The
Situation needs you! We will be filming a video for “Modern Dances”
Monday, December 12th at Silk City and we're looking for people to just
hang out, do their thing and have a good time. How hard could that be,
right? Most of you'll probably still be hung over from the weekend anyway
so you might as well swing by for some of the hair of the dog that bit
ya. You’ll need to be there around 6:00 PM. Filming should last no longer
than two hours. And remember - dress to impress bro.
Entry
#219
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
I just heard this morning that not only did Stan
Berenstain (creator of the Berenstain Bears) pass on, but legendary
guitarist Link
Wray of “Rumble” fame did as well. How depressing - the great ones
are dropping like flies, I'll tell ya.
Anyway, one of the creepier things I’ve seen this year is this insanely
realistic robotic monkey head. I’m not sure why someone would drop
$150 bucks on it nor am I really sure what you’re supposed to do with
it once you get it home but, whatever - at least the video’s funny.
Yeah, and if you couldn’t guess, things are pretty slow here today and,
unfortunately, I’m all out of the kind witty banter people seem to crave
on this so-called information super-highway. Honestly, I think you’re
better off checking out this website on the artwork
of Ray Johnson instead.
Entry
#218
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Well,that’s
one down, but there’s still plenty more where that came from, for
sure. It’s nice to see some politicians finally get taken to task.
Anyway, former schroeder guitarist Nick DiMaria recently sent along another
of his excellent DJ mixes. Click
here to get your own party started, bro. Be warned though, it’s a
large file but definitely worth the wait. Word on the streets is that
my man’s gonna remix The
Situation’s Cherry in the not so distant future. Stay tuned.
Entry
#217
Monday, November 28, 2005
I haven’t seen a band with this kind of idiotic genius since Dread
Zeppelin (well, except for maybe El
Vez). They’re called Beatallica,
and they mash-up Beatles and Metallica songs into one giant pile of heavy
metal parody. My favorites were “Got To Get You Trapped Under Ice” and
“Everybody’s Got A Ticket To Ride Except For Me and My Lightning” The
singer’s definitely got the whole Hetfield growl down! They’re scheduled
to destroy the North
Star in Philly this Friday night, bro.
Anyway, here’s a great mini-documentary
on Danny Way’s Great Wall of China jump. I still can’t believe he made
it with his ankle that tweaked. The guy’s a machine.
And I finally saw Walk
The Line over the weekend and loved it. Reece Witherspoon was especially
good as June Carter. Definitely check it out if your a fan of Sun
records and early rock-n-roll.
Entry
#216
Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 24, 2005
The China-men built the railroad
The Indians saved the Pilgrim
And in return the Pilgrim killed em
They call it it Thanksgiving, I call your holiday hell-day
Cause I'm from poverty, neglected by the wealthy
Nas, What
Goes Around, Stillmatic
You know, I can’t help but have so many mixed feelings about Thanksgiving.
When I look back on that holiday myth that we’ve all been force fed through
years of schooling, and I contrast it with the realization that we’re
living on a stolen land where for years Pilgrims and other settlers killed
millions of Native Americans either through violence and the spreading
of disease, I feel a mixture of disgust and depression. I mean, honestly,
we might as well be Germans celebrating the holocaust, because, in many
ways, that’s closer to how it was. And what’s worse is that after all
these years, the native peoples of America still don’t get the respect
or equality they deserve. I can't help but sometimes feel that this holiday
is nothing more than a yearly slap in their faces.
On the flip side, though, I know in my heart I’ve got much to be thankful
for. I’ve been blessed with a pretty charmed life and I do my best to
keep that in perspective on a daily basis. I’m thankful for my health,
for the breath in my lungs and for my family and close friends, without
whose love and support I can’t even imagine where I’d be today. Thank
you all so much. I love you all.
Anyway, enough sappiness and enough preaching. I hope you and your family
have a safe and healthy holiday. For more information on the truth aboutThanksgiving,
click
here or, to make a donation to the Native American Rights Fund, click
here. It’s the least you can do.
Have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#215
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
I got to work this morning and was pleasantly surprised by a nice little
write-up about tonight’s show in the Philadelphia
Weekly. Apparently we’re about to blow up and leave Philly forever.
Why am I always the last to know these things?
Anyway, definitely head down to The
Fire tonight and join us in a little pre-Thanksgiving revelry. Things
should get cooking around 9:00 PM with Drew Mills, followed by The
Situation and then, rounding out the night, The A-Sides. Contrary
to other reports, The Lilys are not playing. I mean, what better excuse
is there to drink wild turkey than in celebration of Thanksgiving?
And, yes, Laz will be performing with us. Every time he tries to leave,
we just pull him back in, bro.
Entry
#214
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
On the news this morning, they kept showing all these people who camped
overnight in the rain on Toys R’ Us’ doorstep just so they could be the
first in line to get a new X-Box. Of course, as they were interviewing
the soaking wet yet still proud diehards, all you saw behind them were
people strolling in a few minutes late, fresh from a good nights sleep,
and picking up one of the hundreds that were still sitting on the shelves.
Are gamers really that competitive that they have to be #1 at everything?
I’m sorry bro, but I just don’t get it.
Anyway, Meme Chris Tucker just got an email from the enigmatic Jason C.
who was last seen heading off to Zambia for his stint in the peace core.
Here’s what’s new with the former Young Vulgarian’s frontman:
I'm learning and using five new languages. I was supposed to give
a speech on zambian national television in kikaonde, the new language
I'm nearly fluent in, but the guy who like was one of my favorite people
in my training group fell out of a 4th story hotel window and died. Now
I'm in the capital, Lusaka, for the funeral, watching crocodiles swim
around the lobby of the second best hotel in the country. The aids rate
in town is 1 in 4 people. Last week I killed a cobra with a machete --
then, a couple days later, a black mamba. I've eaten giant rat, impala,
bush baby, caterpillars... some guy pointed an AK47 at me and accused
me of being an angolan border raider. The witchcraft situation is absolutely
nuts. Okay -- must run. I'll write you more in a letter, after i get
your address.
-jason
Anyone who interested in corresponding with Jason C., feel free to send
your cards and letters to:
Jason C.
box 130050
mufumbwe, nw province
zambia
Entry
#213
Monday, November 21, 2005
I stopped by Urban Outfitters over the weekend and hit the jackpot, picking
up not only Shepard Fairey's book, "Post
No Bills," but also Aaron Rose's memoir of his Alleged Gallery entitled
"Young
Sleek and Full of Hell," both for a grand total of $7! That's over
$65 dollars in art books. I am the human coupon. Viva la Clearance Rack!
I also stopped by the Rengarde Art Coalition's Skateboard
Transformation Exhibition in West Chester on Saturday which featured
100 boards painted, recreated and donated by over 70 different artists
including Chuck Terrece and Mike V. I especially liked the boards that
were cut and shaped into snakes as well as the one that was cut in two
and bound into a book. Overall the turnout was great and the show seemed
to be well received. It' nice to see so many new DIY art scenes sprouting
up. Look for more shows in early 2006.
Speaking of skateboarding and art, here's a link to a humerous article
about the man who (along with Neil Blender) arguably started it all -
Skateboarder Magazines 16
Things You Didn't Know About Mark Gonzales. Viva La Gonz!
Entry
#212
Friday, November 18, 2005
If anybody goes to see Walk
the Line this weekend, let me know how it is. I had the privilege
of seeing the Man in Black perform years ago at the University of Delaware
and he was amazing, a class act all the way.
Anyway, is it just me, or has this been, like, the slowest week ever?
Is anything exciting going on this weekend? I feel like I’m out of the
loop now since Meme shut down his blog spot.
Well, as a treat for all you “footie” fans out there, this week’s Mighty
Top Five comes from our resident oddsmaker, the “Jimmy the Greek”
of MJC.com (minus the racial slurs of course), Philadelphia filmmaker
and soon to be director of The
Situation’s “Modern Dances” video, the one, the only, Justin Clowes.
Take it away, man. Oi! Oi! Oi!
Justin’s Top 5 Countries Most Likely to Win the World Cup.
1. Brazil - Odds on favorites. Can't disagree with that
one.
2. Argentina - Talent + cheating = winning. Almost as
good as Brazil
3. Germany - Host nation. Even when they're bad they're
good.
4. Portugal - Europe's version of Brazil.
5. Czech Republic - Sleeper choice.
England - My ticker can't take another penalty shoot
out. I've seen them choke too many times. About as likely as the Stone
Roses re-forming.
France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands are all in with a shout. For more on
the world cup, click here.
Thank Justin. For information on Football (or if you just want to head-butt
the guy“football fan style” over his picks) you can usually find him sitting
at the bar at the Dark Horse whenever ManUnited is playing.
That’s it for me - have a great weekend everybody!
Entry
#211
Thursday, November 17, 2005
I had lunch today at the Union League and all I kept thinking about was
“wow, this is where they filmed Trading
Places!” Anyway, I got to meet the woman who created Barney,
who, in my opinion, has a lot to answer for (namely that awful song that
drove everyone crazy a few years back.) Captain Noah was there too, as
was DJ John DeBella.
I’ll tell ya - the life of a rock star is one non-stop party, bro.
Entry
#210
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
I caught the new Gorilla’s video while inhaling my breakfast cereal this
morning (yeah - I woke up late.) It’s called “Dare” and it features the disembodied
head of former Happy Mondays’ frontman Shaun
Ryder, which is pretty funny considering DARE
is also an acronym for “Drug Abuse Resistance Education.” I must admit,
the man gets bigger and bigger everytime I see him. Who ate all the pies?
I don’t know, but my guess is it’s between Shaun and Matthew Sweet. And
don’t get me wrong - I'm a fan of both of their work. Knowing my luck
as well as my addiction to chocolate chip cookies, I’m probably heading
down the same path myself. To quote Mr. Ryder, “I’m just taking the piss”.
Entry
#209
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
People have been asking for it, so here it is - the latest on The
Situation:
1. Have you guys found a bass player yet? No.
2. Have you finally gotten your debut CD mastered? Of
course not.
3. Have you found a new practice space yet? What do we
look like - real estate agents? No. No. No.
Look, man, later for all that - what’s important is that we’re playing
a special pre-Thanksgiving blowout party at The Fire (in
Philly) on Wednesday, November 23. So follow our lead, put off baking
that pie or whatever else you should be doing and enjoy the sweet sounds
of The Situation, The A-sides, Drew Mills (of Bloodfeathers) as well as
a fourth unknown band who we haven’t even asked yet. Procrastination is
the new sensation. You know how we do it.
Entry
#208
Monday, November 14, 2005
A favorite new pastime I discovered this weekend involves bombing the
hills of Swarthmore’s beautiful college campus on my mountain
bike, weaving in and out of the Ivy League students who are leisurely
strolling along their scenic wooded walking paths. Is that wrong? It also
doesn’t hurt to have a few extra cups of coffee beforehand or to don this
cheap Tupac mask that I bought for 8 bucks this past Halloween. Extra
points if it’s fall and you can plow through a four foot pile of leaves,
bro.
I also rented one of the worst movies ever this weekend called Modigliani, starring Andy Garcia. It’s supposed to be about
the famous Parisian painter but I later found out it’s not actually based
on truth or fact or anything. They even concocted some weird rivalry between
him and Picasso, who, for some unknown reason, is about 80lbs heavier
than he was in real life. Did I mention it was absolutely horrible? You’re
better off watching Fingerbanging
- seriously.
Entry
#207
Friday, November 11, 2005
Alright, it’s Friday which means we’ve all got plenty of things to do,
what with the weekend around the corner and all, so let’s get down to
business. Unless, of course, you're one of those lucky SOB's who got Veteran's
Day off today who are bored at home, probably lounging around in some
slippers, hung over from the night before and just leisurly surfing the
web. You make me jealous AND sick (ok - just jealous)
Anyway, this week’s Mighty Top Five comes from a friend of a friend with
whom I recently spent a good part of an evening swapping humorous public
transportation horror stories. Honestly, I don’t know much about her,
other than the fact that she recently got a book of her photography published,
which means I can’t really give her one of my super over-the-top-James-Brown
introductions. Instead, we’ll do it Mad
Libs style: So, her she is, the_______ of ______, the girl who puts
the _____ in ______, NYC’s finest, Megan! Take it away, homegirl:
New York Megan’s Top Five Subway Stories
The Penis and the Man
One afternoon, I was coming home from the airport via the A train. Tired,
bored, and minding my own business when I turn to my right and notice
this guy smiling at me. Annoyed, I looked away but noticed he had his
penis out of his pants and was pleasuring himself! Panicked, I took my
bag and hit him with it, causing his glasses to fly off his face and break.
Although, this did not interrupt his masturbating, he did yell an expletive
at me, which got the attention of the other riders who luckily came to
my defense.
The Sniffer
It was the first day of my new job, and I was riding the 1 train downtown.
As usual, I was minding my own business, when I suddenly felt this warm
breeze on the back of my neck. I turn around to find the source of this
creepy sensation and see a well-dressed, normal seeming “business man”
shamelessly inhaling me! “God, you smell great”, he smiles at me. Horrified,
I move away from the sniffing freak. From what I’ve heard, I’m not his
only victim.
Five Vomiting Dorothys
Halloween 2004 must have been the year of the slutty Dorothy from the
Wizard of Oz costume. My friends and I were coming back from the parade
and waiting for the W train to Queens. We were chatting and observing
those around us, especially five women decked out in ridiculous slutty
Dorothy costumes. These Dorothys were very drunk and causing quite a commotion
with their yelling and hanging all over each other. One of them begins
to aggressively vomit onto the subway tracks. As is on cue, the other
four join her in the vomiting. All five of their frilly behinds were extended
in the air as they emptied their alcohol consumption onto the tracks.
Luckily, they did not get on the W when it arrived, but proceeded onto
another platform to continue the vomit party.
The Frightened Cop
Are you afraid of rats? I’m not really. One morning, waiting for the V
train, a cop approached me. “Excuse me, ma’am-are you afraid of rats?”
“Ugh, no” I replied. “Well, would you mind scaring that one away?” I shook
my wet umbrella and the rat scurried along. “Wow, I never met a woman
who wasn’t scared of a rat.” Well, now you have.
The unassuming Nudist
Okay, this didn’t happen to me, but to my friend Dan. It happened on this
very morning as he was riding the F train to work. The glazed over eyes
of the riders of this train almost did not notice there was a NAKED woman
just sitting there on a subway seat. Yes, completely naked and yes, sitting
on a subway seat. No one asked her is she was okay, or if she was a performance
artist or whatever. It seemed to be an everyday occurrence to her, and
maybe it was.
Thanks, Megan! And have fun jumping the turnstiles. I’ve been to Queens
- I know how they do it out there.
That’s all I got - have a great weekend everybody!
Entry
#206
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Years back, I was at this huge outdoor party called “Wilburfest” and,
as the night was winding down, I heard someone behind me yell “Land Shark”
really loud. So I turned around to be greeted by four frat boys, each
pretty plastered, carrying their recently passed-out-and-buck-naked comrade
proudly above there heads, with half a pizza box stuck in the crack of
his ass like a shark fin! They then ran off with him into the night somewhere,
screaming the theme from Jaws at the top of their lungs. Hey - that’s
what friends are for, right?
Anyway, that story has no real relevance. I just remembered it last night
for some reason while driving home and it made me chuckle. More funny
stories to come tomorrow, bro. Stay tuned.
Entry
#205
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
I don’t understand why people are all of a sudden so excited that Philadelphia’s
getting this reputation of being known as the “6th borough” I’m sorry,
but is that supposed to be some kind of compliment? Don’t get me wrong,
I love New York (I was born there, actually) but Philly’s got it’s own
thing going on. We don’t need to be treated like the Big Apple’s red-headed step child anymore. Philadelphia can stand
tall all on it’s own.
Ok, ok, enough ranting.
Never mind, f-that dawg. Why the hell are they remaking King
Kong for a third time? Did you see that awful version from the 70’s?
I don’t know - maybe it’s because scientists have recently discovered
thatgiant apes
really did exist! Kong is for real, bro! Anyway, you’re right, I’ll
probably go see it, being a sucker for monkey’s and all.
Word on the street is that Meme Chris Tucker has baked a mad batch of
his homemade chocolate chip chip cookies for his gig tonight at the Standard
Tap! It’s BYOM, though, so come prepared. You bring the milk, he’ll
bring the music - it’s that simple.
Entry
#204
Tuesday, November 8, 2005
I don’t know why, but people keep emailing this
link to me. Honestly, although I’m probably only one of the handful
of people who enjoyed The Brown Bunny, I really have no desire to purchase
any of Vincent Gallo’s sperm. Besides, dude’s a pro-Bush Republican and
I don’t usually swing that way, bro.
Anyway, that’s all I’ve got for today. I don’t know - go watch Fingerbanging again or something. Oh wait - it’s election
day! Get out and vote!
Entry
#203
Monday, November 7, 2005
Travelling west through Pennsylvania this weekend, I was woken from a
nice little nap by someone pounding my arm with their fist, yelling to
wake up and listen to some ridiculous song called ”Honky
Tonk Badonkadonk.” I have to admit - it was as funny as it was awful,
and will no doubt be a big hit on the country music scene ala the equally
horrible “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy”. Be forewarned, people, it’s coming.
Anyway, while in Gettysburg, we also went on one of their many “haunted ghost tours,” which was a lot of fun. Apparently,
wherever there’s a location where a lot of people have been killed, they
now claim that it’s haunted likewise start a tour to cash in on all the
tourists, which means the haunted tour of Camden,
NJ should be opening any day now.
Hey, did I mention that Mr. On-The-Wagon himself, Meme Chris Tucker is
playing a solo show this Wednesday night at the Standard
Tap in Philly? Well, to quote Big Poppa, “If you don’t know, now you
know”
Entry
#202
Friday, November 4, 2005
We’re getting right down to business today because this week’s Mighty
Top Five comes from one old friend that I definitely don’t hang out with
as much as I’d like to, which is a shame because, honestly, the guy’s
funny as shit. A lot of you may remember him as the man behind Newark’s
Sans
Film Festival (which, I’ve heard through the grapevine, he may be
resurrecting) or, if you’re really old school, from his stint as lead
singer for the much under-rated Knotch. Or maybe you just saw him skating
the old curb in front of Wooden Wheels once. Regardless, the guy does
the best impression of James Brown ever which is why I decided to give
him not one, but 5 Top Fives. So, without further ado, here’s my man,
filmmakerScott Shaw!
Take it away, Dolemite.
Scott Shaw’s Top Five Top Fives
Top 5 Best Kill Sequence in a Movie
1. Nicolas Cage in "Wild at Heart"
2. Willem Defoe in "Wild at Heart"
3. Clarence takes out Gary Oldman in "True Romance"
4. Terminator 1 - Sara Connor ? BLAM dead house wife.
5. Wicked Witch of the East gets slammed in "The Wizard
of Oz"
Top 5 Reasons Why Delaware Sucks Ass
1. No one knows what state it's in
2. No sales tax - big deal, we have like, two good places
to shop
3. Our beaches are over-run with out-of-towners
4. The two good places to shop are a mall and the outlets
5. NO FUCKING MUSIC OR FILM SCENE - I'm trying to change
one of them.
Top 5 Reasons Why Delaware Kicks Ass
1. It's my place of Birth
2. We don't have an accent, everyone else does.
3. The Barn Door, Deer Park, and the East End
4. No good places to skate.
5. and MOTHER FUCKIN CAPRIOTTI's Started here bitch.
Top 5 Reasons Why No Man Is Funkier Than James Brown
1. The Hair
2. The voice
3. The legs of fire
4. The soul
5. The HuuuaHH!
Top 5 People Who Deserve a Serious Can of Woop-Ass
1. ANY Politican Democrat or Republican, they all suck
ass
2. People who fail to use their blinker
3. Starbucks employees who fuck up my bev.
4. Cops who pull me over for speeding.
5. Punk-ass-bitches
Thanks Scott. Did you know that Scott and I now share the same hairstylist.
That’s right, I finally took the plunge and got my wig trimmed by Roberta
at Lux Design Corp on Main Street in Newark, DE (302-368-5575.). She’s
excellent - drop on in and get your dome done right, bro.
Well, we’re about to load up the gear and head off to our show tonight
at the Knitting
Factory. Hopefully We’ll see you there. Have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#201
Thursday, November 3, 2005
Everyone knows that I’ve pulled more than my fair share of pranks that
went over the line but
this is ridiculous. Thor is already claiming it’s a hoax ala the finger
in the Wendy’s chili. You heard it here first.
And Congratulations to Bullette
who won the City Paper’s “Best Album You Can Get For Free And Without
A Guilty Conscience” Award. I was secretly hoping The Situation would
win the “Longest Amount Of Time Taken To Get Your Manager To Finally Deliver
Your FInished Album To The Guy Who Is Supposed To Master It” Award but
no luck. I guess the three month wait didn’t cut it. Better luck next
year, boys.
Entry
#200
Wednesday, November 2, 2005
I just had lunch at the World Cafe Live - did you know they sell “eggplant
fries” there? I looked at the waitress like “What the hell are you talking
about?” Apparently, they’re just like regular fries only they use eggplant
instead of potatoes. Honestly, they taste just like onion rings so you’re
not missing much. Well, you heard it here first - eggplant is the new
potato.
You know, I think that’s probably the most pointless thing I’ve written
on here yet. Score one for me, bro.
If for some odd reason you’re stuck in Philadelphia Friday night and can’t
make it to The Situation’s
free show at the Knitting
Factory NYC, then you should definitely head over to the Shepard Fairey
art opening at Black Floor. That’s
where I’d be if I wasn’t busy playing “rock star.” There’s also a really
cool opening at the Drizzle Gallery (162 N. Third Street) the same night
featuring the photography of Tom Hawkins, which I’ve heard is really good.
Who needs a social planner when you’ve MJC.com?
Entry
#199
Tuesday, November 1, 2005
Damn, the new Damian
Marley album is f#ck’n good! Best reggae album since Sizzla’s Black
Woman and Child. Or maybe Buju’s Inna Heights - I’m not sure which one
came out first.
Anyway, if you remember a few month’s back, I was involved in an 24 hour
artistic benefit called Create-A-Thon. Well, the good folks over at Hypno
Design have recently put together a CAT
2005 website where you can view all the finished work as well as photos
and videos of the event. And in case you’re wondering, I was responsible
for all the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation pieces. Check it out
to see how much great work can be knocked out in a 24+ hour period.
Entry
#198
Monday, October 31, 2005
Happy Halloween! If you’re like me, then you’re probably already stuffing
your face with candy and all sorts of other treats. By the way, it looks
like we’re
all going to hell as well. Bummer.
Anyway, as previously mentioned, The
Situation will be playing a special free show in the Big Apple this
Friday night (November 4) at a party called “See Syd Run, Run Syd Run”
It’s basically a large scale hipster pep rally for our friend, Sydney,
whose running in the New York Marathon the following Sunday (and we all
know that nothing quite caps off a season of training better copious amounts
of alcoholic beverages!) So come on out and wish the girl “Best of Luck”
with her hideously long, grueling run. Hey, did I mention it’s FREE? The
festivities take place at the Knitting
Factory and is being presented by Audio Alchemy. I believe it a ll
starts at 8:00 PM in the Old Office.
Entry
#197
Friday, October 28, 2005
I did a new
collage earlier this week while watching Scream 2 on Monsterfest.
I guess it was a subconscious message to Neve Campbell or something. I’ve
finished a couple of new paintings as well which, hopefully, I’ll have
up on the site in the next few weeks. Stay tuned.
Oh yeah - before I forget: The
Situation will be playing a free show next Friday night at the Knitting
Factory in NYC. Details to come shortly. Again, you gotta stay tuned.
I can’t stress that enough people.
Hey, this guy Mitch Walker must be like, the MacGyver of demon hunting!
I mean, he
caught a 3 and a half inch succubus with only a bread crum and some paper
towels! Damn, those Landover Baptists are crafty!
Anyway, speaking of demons, in honor of all the spooky activities everyone’s
got planned for the coming weekend, this week’s Top 5 comes from the scream
queen of New Jersey (soon to be relocating to Philly, I believe?), the
rock-n-roll girl herself, Ms. Gina! Take it away, girl:
By no means an exhaustive list, but there are a few little known goosebump
inducing flicks I was happy to write about for Joe, a man who loves horror
films and dessert, but not necessarily in that order. I found many of
these on Netflix, although I’m sure you’ll find them just as easily in
your local video store, especially if said video store happens to be the
TLA. I tried to pick a variety of genres, from ghost story to slasher
to zombie flick for everyone’s, er, “tastes”.
Gina’s Top 5 Scary Movies You’ve Never Seen but Should:
The Convent: Has a very DIY vibe, but that’s not necessarily
a bad thing. Takes the cliché slasher movie characters and manages to
make an entertaining movie. The visuals are startling and if the Exorcist
creeped you out, better leave the lights on. Throw in a more mature but
still sexy Adrienne Barbeau as a cool ex Catholic schoolgirl packing a
shotgun and this graduates from straight-to-video cheesefest to semi-respectable
possession horror flick. Also answers the timeless question: Should you
accept the oral sexual advances of a reanimated demon spawn disguised
as a sassy Goth chick? Answer: No.
The Woman In Black: Classic British ghost story made
for TV with a Masterpiece Theater veneer, but effectively creepy nonetheless.
I literally had to pause it and walk out of the room into the light during
one particular scene that still makes me tremble just thinking about it,
even all these years later. No I won’t tell you which one. You’ll know
when you see it. Let’s just say I really wanted to sleep with the lights
on afterwards.
Stagefright: One of the cheesiest of the Italian slasher
films of the ‘80’s. Directed by Michel Soavi, the future genius behind
Cemetery Man. At that point though, he was still making a name for himself
as a horror director. This is great fun to watch with a group, and while
the plot is especially hard to swallow, once the action moves to the locked
up theater, the chills really come quickly.
Curtains: Fun Canadian slasher flick with an interesting
premise. A director asks an actress to do some research for a film role
by having herself committed. Unbeknownst to her, he has already invited
a different group of actresses to audition for the role at his secluded
mansion in the woods, leaving her to rot in the asylum. After she escapes,
the actresses begin turning up dead in rather horrible ways. The piece
de resistance is the ice skating on the pond scene. Didn’t think ice skating
could be terrifying? Think again. Tonya Harding is nowhere to be found
either…
Let Sleeping Corpses Lie (aka The Living Dead at Manchester Morgue):
Sort of a similar plot to The Grapes of Death (really), it deals with
pesticides that farmers have been using on their crops which cause local
townsfolk to turn into flesh eating zombies. Good gore and effects. And
how can you resist with a title like that?
Thanks Gina! I owe you a chocolate cip cookie for that one.
And, in case you didn’t know how to crash Satan’s Birthday party this
weekend, this
guy seems to have all the answers!
That’s it for me - have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#196
Thursday, October 27, 2005
I’ve gotten quite a few emails lately from people wanting me to repost
a film Nick P and I did back in 2002 called “Fingerbanging” For those
not in the know, it was a fingerboarding send up of all the classic skate
videos I grew up watching as a teen as well as a response to the closing
of Love Park in Philadelphia skateboarders. Anyway, it got circulated
around the internet a few years back and got a pretty good response -
especially from “serious” fingerboarders who made it more than clear on
the Tech Deck message boards that I had no skills. I quickly responded
that they had no life. Honestly, I never expected anyone to take it that
seriously. We were just bored at work and looking for a way to pass some
time.
So, enough excuses - here’s Fingerbanging
Enjoy and spread the word.
Entry
#195
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Well, I don't have much to say today so instead of rambling on about some
subject that neither of us really cares about, I'm leaving you this short
film from 2002 entitled Nick
Learns How To Skateboard, filmed by yours truly and starring MJC.com
regular, Nick P. Enjoy!
Entry
#194
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
OK, it’s time to be honest - I’m a pretty horrible bandmate Last Sunday
was Situation
frontman Christopher Tucker’s birthday and I totally dropped the ball
and forgot to call the old man. No present. No singing. No nothing. I
know, I know, I’m an self-centered SOB, etc., etc. and I feel really guilty
about it. Anyway, feel free to hit up his myspace page with some belated
birthday wishes. I did.
And why did I miss it, you ask? I don’t know - I was probably too busy
laying around the house, listening to the rain and watching AMC’s Monsterfest!
I mean, come on - 200 straight hours of bloody chainsaws, blood sucking
vampires and teenage girls screaming in the woods. What’s not to love?
Entry
#193
Monday, October 24, 2005
Being rained in most of the weekend, I caught up on a couple of movies.
The first one was the German film, Downfall, which
is about the end of the Third Reich and Hitler’s last days in the bunker.
Not the kind of movie that you’d want to watch over and over again, it
was definitely powerful and leaves a mark. To be honest, in it’s raw presentation
of realism, it’s about as fucked as the Nazi party was. Very disturbing
and in many moments, extremely sad.
On a brighter note, I also picked up a copy of Mad
Monster Party, the 60’s cult Halloween film by Rankin
Bass, the creators of such holiday classics as “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.”
It’s a lot of fun, very 60’s in both it’s music and visual style. Worth
checking out if you’re into those kinds of things (like me). I’m sure
Tim Burton’s watched it more times than he’d like to admit.
Entry
#192
Friday, October 21, 2005
My stylist of three years recently dropped me due to irreconcilable difference
so, if anyone out there can recommend someone who will do a bang up job
clippin’ and trimmin’ my dome - please let me know because the fro’s got
to go. I need a haircut - really bad. Honestly, I think people should
be able to interview possible hair stylists before choosing one. I mean,
you need to know what kind of taste they have, right? What kind music
do they listen to? What’s their favorite color? What’s their style like?
You wouldn’t let some stranger dress you up or choose cloths for you,
would you? Well, basically, that’s what goes down when you take a chance
on some unknown clipper-jockey. So, if you know anyone whose talented
when it comes to the art of hair sculpture, help a brother out and drop
me a line. Help me Obi-Wan, you’re my only hope.
Thanks to everyone who made it out the Millcreek last night. Special thanks
to the boys in the band for helping me with my equipment and everything
- you guys are the best. And if you missed the Sky Drops set, definitely
catch them sometime in the future. They were awesome.
And today’s Top Five is from.... well, nobody, actually. Let’s be honest,
I’m running out of friends and I’m no where near as popular as I pretend
to be. Ok, actually, I waited until the last minute to ask someone and
I never heard back. Kind of like your senior Prom in High School, right?
Will this vicious cycle of procrastination ever end?
That’s all I got - have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#191
Thursday, October 20, 2005
I’ve got to admit that Vice
puts out some pretty funny stuff. This “Do
They Know It’s Halloween” song is great. And no, I’m not just saying
that because they like our band.
Speaking of Halloween, it’s Bela
Lugosi’s Birthday! So, go ahead and suck some blood tonight in honor
of everyone’s favorite vampire actor. Well, except for maybe George Hamilton,
who played an extremely well tanned Count in Love At First Bite - what a classic.
And, if you’re a resident of Richmond, Va (or just bored with a car),
be sure not to miss their first annual Richmond
Zombie Walk! If it’s anything like The Cramps’ Zombie Dance,
then you’re in for a good time.
Don't forget - The Situation is playing the Millcreek
Tavern tonight along with Rob
Montejo & Bullette's
new project, The Sky Drops. Definitely swing by and check it out. Personally,
I'll be hitting the Free
Library before hand to see a lecture by artists Charles Burns, Chris
Ware and Chip
Kidd, author of the excellent novel about freshman college graphic
design classes, The
Cheese Monkeys.
Entry
#190
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
While deleting some old files from my hard drive, I found this little
blast from the past which I figured I'd share with you. It's a bootleg
version of The
Situation covering The Jesus and Mary song, Never
Understand, live on some radio station in Cleveland. I think it's
from 2003. It's 3.5 MB so, if you're on dial-up or hand-crank or something,
then it may take a while for it to download.
Anyway, here's a poloroid I took over the weekend of Nick P. doing a boardslide
to fakie on the Moorestown mini-ramp. No lie - the guy was on fire
last Sunday! Duane
woud be proud.
Entry
#189
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Sorry, bro - I've got nothing today but a promise that tomorrow's update
will be so much better. How could it not, no?
Entry
#188
Monday, October 17, 2005
As many of you may have heard, Ed
Bacon passed away this past Friday. One of Philadelphia’s favorite
sons, Ed was responsible for designing Love Park in the 60’s and, over
the last few years, he
campaigned tirelessly to have it reopened legally to the legions of
skateboarders who flocked there from around the globe. I had the pleasure
of meeting the man briefly on a couple of occasions and, even in his 90’s,
he was still a class act, very friendly and full of life. R.I.P. Ed Bacon.
Entry
#187
Friday, October 14, 2005
What I am doing tonight? I’m going to see Franz
Ferdinand on Friday the Fourteenth.
Anyway, it’s the end of the week, which brings us to today’s better-late-than-never
Mighty Top Five from Laz’s brother, the meat monster of Little Italy himself,
my man, Frank! Take it away paisan!
Apparently, the lack of meat in Joe’s diet has affected his ability to
tell time. 15 days does not equal 1 month!!! I know that I was pushing
it, but it was hard to choose from the list of suggested Mighty Top Fives.
I had some for all, but not all for one. But anyway . . .
Frank’s Top Five Meals That Keep Him Eating Meat
1)The Cheeseburger
Ah, the almighty cheeseburger . . . nothing beats a thick, juicy, greasy
burger cooked medium on a fresh . . . well, any type of roll will do.
After all, it is the burger which is the important part. The only thing
that makes this classic better is some quality toppings. Lettuce, tomato,
pickles, ketchup, mustard, and relish are all acceptable as long as they
know their place as condiments. Vegetables go on the burger not in the
burger! Finally, there is the cheese. Any cheese will do as long as
there is lots of it.
2)Chicken Parmigiana
If made correctly, chicken parmigiana can tie the almighty, but it can
never beat it. After all, it is only chicken. The chicken breast has
to be pounded paper-thin, breaded, and then fried until golden brown.
After baking in tomato sauce which must be home made and never that store
bought jar shit, the chicken is covered in mozzarella cheese and broiled
until golden brown and bubbly.
3)Meatballs
Not just any meatballs will do. They have to be made with the right combination
of beef, pork, and veal with the garlic, parsley, eggs, breadcrumbs, and
spices. These balls should be baked and never fried and simmered in a
pot of homemade tomato sauce until they soften. Pure Italian bliss in
the shape of a ball: what more could you ask for?
4)The Italian Sub
This is my default sandwich, and it always seems to satisfy no matter
how crappily it is made. This combination of Italian lunch meats and
provolone cheese comfortably nestled in an Italian roll covered with tomatoes,
lettuce, and pickles is a work of art that should be appreciated and loved
by all.
5)General Tso’s Chicken
This popular Chinese dish has many incarnations, but they all have a couple
of things in common. They all contain some part of the chicken, they
are all fried, they are all covered in a gooey sauce, and they are all
good. There is a rumor that someone once heard me say that I like the
vegetarian version of General Tso’s chicken better than the original.
I will not confirm or deny making this statement. I will admit that
eating the vegetarian version is “safer” because you don’t have to worry
about what “part” of the “chicken” you are eating. Then again, who really
cares what part of the chicken you are eating as long as it is chicken
that you are eating?
All this talk about meat has made me hungry. I think I will go get me
one of those Meat’normous Omelet Sandwiches from Burger King. I just
wish that it contained a little more meat and a little less omelet.
Thanks, Frank. You make a pretty strong case . Actually, I’m surprised
you got through the whole thing without swearing once! What happened to
the foul mouth Frank we all know and love?
That’s all I got. Have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#186
Thursday, October 13, 2005
While watching MTV the other day, I saw the new Weezer
video, “We Are All In Love” which, on the album, is called “We All All
On Drugs.” Now I’m assuming they had to change it to insure airplay on
that beacon of counter-culture rebelliousness and rock-n-roll (note sarcasm)
MTV. Of course, the video was followed by a commercial for Zoloft,
which was priceless. The truth is an offense sometimes, I guess.
Entry
#185
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Is it wrong to say to a co-worker “Wow, your daughter must have a pretty
healthy sex drive” after she informs you that she’s going to be a Grandmother
for the third time in as many years?
You know, everybody always knocks myspace or whatever but, honestly, for
me, it’s been great and has gotten me in touch with a lot of old friends.
I recently got an out-of-the-blue message from Steve Kennedy, formerly
of such fondly remembered Newark, DE bands as The Houseplants and Nitrous. Apparently, Steve packed up and headed west about
ten years ago and is currently fronting the excellent Bay area band, Sciflyer. Definitely check
out their brand of shoegazer pop when you get a chance. Anyway, it
ends up that while in LA years ago, Steve befriended Ben Vendetta, who
would later found Elephant Stone records, home of The Situation and Smashing
Orange. It’s a small world I tell ya. It’s always good to see old friends
move on to bigger and better things and, if all goes well, we may play
some west coast/east coast shows with them sometime next year.
Entry
#184
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Situation
frontman Christopher Tucker will be performing a rare solo acoustic show
tomorrow night (October 12) at the Standard Tap in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia.
Here’s your chance to hear some of the songs the band turned down so can
tell us what fools we are and how bad our taste is. Rumor has it that
Mr. MEME will be spinning some platters that matter as well.
Speaking of The Sitch, in the better late than never category, Laz has
finally posted a nice batch
of embarrassing photos taken during the group’s west coast shows last
May. Take a look and have a laugh at our expense. Did you know that Laz
has a brother named Frank? Did you also know that I’ve been waiting a
month now for Frank’s Top Five list? Come on, boys - does tardiness run
in the family or something?
Word to the wise - if you spill yogurt on your desk at work, make sure
you do a really good job cleaning it up. Not just paper towels, bro -
use hot water, soap, bleach, whatever. And get extra thorough with that
stuff because if not, then your desk will start to stink like rotten yogurt
butt like mine does right now.
Entry
#183
Monday, October 10, 2005
This just in from Nick P - vampire gets arrested! Actually, that sounds like
a new Cramps song or something.
I love Halloween.
We watched Lords of Dogtown over the weekend and, while it’s chessy in parts,
it’s still decent. The original documentary is better though, especially
the footage of Jay
Adams. This 2 disc set has some cool bonus features including new
interviews with some of the original Dogtown crew.
The new My Morning
Jacket album, Z, is pretty good as well although it’s definitely a
departure from their “classic southern rock” sound. This one features
less guitar solo jams, a lot more keyboards and is a little more ethereal
overall. John
Leckie co-produced it, if that helps you any.
And speaking of music, Dan from Dead
Loretta flowed me a copy of their new demo a while and I have to
admit that I can’t get that damn “Miranda” song out of my head. It’s catchy
as hell (in a good way). Check them out live if you get the chance.
Anyway, today’s going pretty slow, I’m stuck at work and the Philly forecast
calls for nothing but rain for the next 10 days. Other than that, I’m
eating strawberry yogurt with blueberry granola right now. That’s life
in the fast lane for you.
Entry
#182
Friday, October 7, 2005
Ok - let’s cut to the chase. It’s Friday, which means another installment
of The Mighty Top Five. And guess what - I’m breaking precedent and we’re
running not one, but two Top Fives! Damn, it looks like Christmas came
early kids. Anyway, my friend Michael
Sanchez from The
Way It Is turned me onto this week’s guest. If you’ve been to Seattle,
then who knows, this mysterious stranger may have once saved your life
(or maybe you just saw him busking for change on some random corner singing
songs about bringing back pants.) That’s right, look out Justice League,
this week’s double Top Five comes from Seattle’s favorite singing superhero,
the people’s choice, Great
Guy! Take it up, up and away Guy!
Great Guy’s Top Five Women Who Want Me
1. That sweet little thing at the coffee shop around
the corner
2. Do animals count? I was at the zoo and this lioness
was eyeing me in a funny way
3. Adair from Mr. Spots Chai House
4. Winona Ryder
5. The really cute blonde chic from nsync
Great Guy’s Top Five Superheroes That Are Washed Up
1.Superman. - can you say one dimensional?
2. Robin. - get your thing and stop riding Batman's coat
tails.
3. Wonder Woman. - how can you walk around in that get
up and not expect us to slobber. Damn, girl, put some pants on!
4. Aquaman. - no explanation necessary.
5. Me, - kind of.
Thanks Great Guy. And please tell Michael I said “Hi”. By the way - don’t
those tights itch? Seems a little uncomfortable if you ask me.
Well, that’s all I got. Have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#181
Thursday, October 6, 2005
If you read this column often, then you know I’m anti-small. And, no,
I don’t mean Nick P., bro. I’m talking about micro cell phones, iPod Nano’s,
mini-M&M’s, etc. So, I was pretty psyched when I saw this old
favortie come back bigger and badder than ever. Large is now in-charge
and big is the new black.
Entry
#180
Wednesday, October 5, 2005
Halloween is fast approaching, so here’s
a new take on an old classic, possibly the feel good hit of the year.
And since we’re discussing cinema, here’s
a nice article from The Spark on Scott Shaw and the ever blossoming
DE Film Scene. Some of you may remember Scott as the force behind the
late 90’s Sans Film Festival. Anyway, he’s my boy - we go way back and
used to skate around Newark together back in the day. He’s also recently
started an
independent resource website for aspiring film makers that’s worth
checking out.
Speaking of back in the day, as a senior in high school, I once cut 4th
period Chem class to pick up Public Enemy’s “Fear
of a Black Planet” on the day of it’s release. I figured I’d learn a whole
lot more about the world from that album than I would in DE’s sub-par
public school system. We’ll, right after work last night, I went out and
picked up PE’s latest effort, New Whirl Odor, which was released yesterday.
And looking back, I must say that, sadly, not much has changed - a Bush
is still in the White House, we’re at war in Iraq and good jobs are scarce.
And although this record is probably not going to be as groundbreaking
or have the impact that the early PE records had on me, I still support
Chuck and the crew. He’s one of the few vocalists who pulls no punches
and let’s you know how it is. Besides, who else could write a song called
“Superman’s Black in the Building?”
Entry
#179
Tuesday, October 4, 2005
The
Sitch will be playing a one-off show Thursday October 20th at the
Millcreek
Tavern to help kick off Rob Montejo’s mini-north
east tour. We’ll also be joined by a band from NYC called The Break-Up.
Laz has agreed to come back for yet another show so, if you haven’t gotten
your fill yet of the original lineup, come on out and catch it while you
can.
Speaking of The Sitch, we’ve actually begun making some progress on the
bass front and will hopefully be jamming with a few prospects within the
next few weeks. The artwork for our debut album is just about wrapped
up and word on the street is that it’ll drop around the third week of
January.
Can you believe that we actually had a bass player decline an audition
after reading our bio?
Anyway, Tucker
always mentions me in his blogs so I guess I should reciprocate. You got
the money you owe me bro?
Entry
#178
Monday, October 3, 2005
I
found this in a pack of Wacky Packages over the weekend! Didn’t they
used to come with a piece of gum or something?
Hey man, I loved the first Austin Powers movie as much as the next guy
but this just seems ridiculous!
Although I have to admit that I said the same thing when I heard Jamie
Foxx was playing Ray Charles. Isn’t he a little old to play Keith Moon?
Here’s another
case of someone overstating the obvious. You can add my site to your
list anytime you want bro. We’ve got no illusions of grandeur here.
Entry
#177
Friday, September 30, 2005
Today’s the 50th anniversary of the tragic death of James
Dean, star of one of my all time favorite films, East
of Eden. As corny as it sounds, I gravitated toward that movie in
particular as a lonely teenager after reading one too many Morrissey interviews
praising his acting talent. Once you get past all the over-hyped myth
machine surrounding the legend, you begin realize that the man was the
real deal and extremely talented. And, yes, I have been to Fairmount and
driven around ala the “Suedehead” video. RIP James Dean.
Rob Montejo is showing
some paintings throughout October at Homegrown Cafe
in Newark, DE. It’s worth the trip so definitely check it out when you
get a chance. And grab a Cafe Mocha at Brew HaHa while you’re at it.
Oh Newark, so much to answer for....
Anyway, enough Morrissey references, it’s Friday bro, which means another
installment of the Mighty Top Five. This week’s comes from former Northern
Hues drummer and a fan of old Mozzer as well, D$. Take it away, money.
D$’s Top Five Favorite Rock-n-Roll Films
1. 24
Hour Party People The tale of Manchester, England and its
influential music scene as told by record mogul Tony Wilson. All the major
players of Factory Records are featured including Joy Division whose plans
of breaking America are brought to a halt by the tragic suicide of singer
Ian Curtis.
2. DIG
The Documentary of two West Coast bands (Brian Jonestown Massacre
and the Dandy Warhols) and their drive to make it in the mainstream. While
one band succeeds in becoming a European chart topping sensation, the
other flounders on the brink of self-destruction fueled by jealousy and
rage due to a never ending supply of drugs and alcohol.
3. This
Is Spinal Tap A laugh out loud Mockumentary about the fledgling
British Heavy Metal band “Spinal Tap” and their encounters with groupies,
record execs and exploding drummers while on a never ending quest for
world domination.
4. La
Bamba Teenage sensation Richie Valens is the subject of
this movie depicting his sudden rise to the top of the charts and unexpected
death from an airplane crash that also took the lives of Buddy Holly and
the Big Bopper.
5. The Rutles
Showcasing the song writing genius of Eric Idle of Neil Innes,
this spoof of the Beatles chronicles the adventures of four lads from
Britain as they top the charts with the hit singles “All you need is Cash”
and “Ouch”
Thanks D$. Now everybody’s got nice little video list for the weekend
and an excuse to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket some popcorn.
Actually, Nero
sampled the film La Bamba on Digger, off of Sanguine. I love that movie
and still think that Esai Morales is very underrated.
Anyway, that’s it for me. Have a great weekend everybody.
Entry
#176
Thursday, September 29, 2005
What’s the deal with manufactures all of a sudden making everything really,
really tiny? I mean, have you seen the new iPod nano? It’s
like the size of a credit card or something - which means it won’t take
but a hot minute to misplace one of those bad boys. Between that and those
super-tiny cell phones, it seems like small is “in” and that size doesn’t
really matter anymore. Actually, that might not be so bad. There’s hope
for us yet, boys!
Lesson of the day: If you eat more than a handful of
candy
corn in one sitting, you’re going to feel seriously ill. Just trust
me on this one, bro.
|