That's right, thanks to a super spiffy new computer (courtesy of my father and Christmas) I am once again able to update the blog. So instead of trying to catch up and recap my life over the last few months, I've decided to do the obligatory year end lists and whatnot so that I can start up again fresh here soon. I have also decided to split this stuff into separate posts, because I'm wordy enough as is and I'd like people to be actually finish reading it.
2008 Year In Review Part One: Top 10 CDs (you saw that coming, right?)
10. The Black Keys-Attack And Release
I'm not really sure what took me so long to get into these guys, I just never bothered before. The wait has been worth it. This disc is a mix of blues, roots rock and pure sludge that is alternately rocking, droning and oddly beautiful. Not an easy listen and one I have to be in the mood for, but really good.
9. R.E.M.-Accelerate
A fine return to form, and the most rock they've put on a CD in years. Plus, it's got one of my favorite lyrics of the year: Life's pretty final/I'm collecting vinyl/I'm gonna DJ at the end of the world. Okay, it sounds better when sung but I still dig it.
8. Mudcrutch-Mudcrutch
Tom Petty reunites with his old band to make the country-rock record he's been trying to make for the past ten years. That's all you need to know.
7. Tift Merritt-Another Country
She's usually classified as a country artist, but Tift Merrit is more in the folky, singer songwriter type mode. Usually that would turn me off, but this is a great CD. Her voice is very pretty, but just rough enough around the edges to signify the hurt, longing and healing portrayed in these songs. A gem.
6. Old 97's-Blame It On Gravity
A great Old 97's record, every song a winner.
5. Motorhead-Motorizer
When you buy a Motorhead CD you basically know what you're getting. Some are better than others, and this is a good one. The differences disc to disc are pretty subtle but to a fan they are important. "Motorizer" took a while to grow on me, but those are the types of discs that usually become favorites. A must for all hard rock fans, or at least all Motorhead fans. Which, come to think of it, ought to be the same thing.
4. Hayes Carll-Trouble In Mind
In a perfect world, Hayes Carll would be the next big thing in country music...but the world isn't perfect and country radio sucks, so he's got to rely on the live show and word of mouth. Well, my mouth's a-flappin'. This record sounds like the best old school outlaw record never made. The songs are poetic, gritty, and occasionally funny as hell. Carll's Texas drawl spits out the lyrics perfectly and combined with a crack band he's made the country record of the year. And his live sets are great too.
3. Metallica-Death Magnetic
I believe I speak for all old school metal fans when I say it's about damn time. Metallica have made the record I've been waiting for them to put out since 1989. Some may say too little too late, but they're not listening properly. It keeps getting better with every listen.
2. Drive-By Truckers-Brighter Than Creation's Dark
Yeah, I'm surprised it's not number one too. It is a great album, though flawed. With its formidable length, there are bound to be a few moments not up to par. but the rest of the tracks make up for them. I do feel that there could be a few more rockers on the record, and that some of the connector songs could have been dropped or fleshed out a little more. Still, my objections are really pretty minor and it's only because DBT are my favorite working band that they matter at all. Otherwise a sprawling work that would fit well in anyone's collection.
1. Ray Davies-Working Man's Cafe
A masterpiece. Everyone who knows anything about anything knows Ray Davies as the leader of The Kinks. The trouble is, most people don't look beyond 'You Really Got Me" and "Lola", and therefore don't understand the breadth of Davies' work. Melancholy, anger, joy, wistful nostalgia and a firm British sense of humor were all a part of The Kinks sound and are all on display here. It's his best writing in years and the best CD of the year hands down. If the rumored Kinks reunion happens and the new music they produce is half this good 2009 will be a good year for music indeed.
Other Stuff:
Best Live Record:
Smithereens-Live In Concert
(And that says something when The Stones, Rush, Squeeze and The Clash all put out great live discs this year!)
Guilty Pleasure:
Def Leppard-Songs From The Sparkle Lounge
Disappointment Of The Year:
Alice Cooper-Along Came A Spider
(Not bad by any means, but could have been better)
Worst Album Of The Year:
Black Crowes-Warpaint
Best Song From An Average Album:
"Saints Of Los Angeles"-Motley Crue
Other Stuff I Drug:
AC/DC-Black Ice, Supersuckers-Get It Together, James Hunter-The Hard Way, Allison Moorer-Mockingbird, The Kooks-Konk, Hank Williams III-Damn Right, Rebel Proud
Stuff I Missed:
She & Him-Volume One, Judas Priest-Nostradamus, Duffy-Rockferry, Eagles Of Death Metal-Heart On
Okay, that's it for the music stuff. Be back soon (tomorrow maybe?) with a year end round-up and my resolutions for 2008.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Misc. Stuff
Okay, so I was going to do a whole blog about the election, but as usual my computer has been acting up. So I kinda feel like I've missed the mark. Therefore, I've decided to just keep my opinions to myself and wait until the inauguration to do a proper post. I think a lot of what I have to say will still be relevant, and maybe I'll have some new stuff too.
So here's some other stuff instead.
1. Christmas and Thanksgiving are both on their way. These are my two favorite holidays and they fall in my least favorite time of year. Hate cold, hate snow...love family, love food and love presents (giving and getting). I also love Christmas music, which is not very rock and roll of me but I don't care.
2. Speaking of Christmas, I've got some charity stuff going on here soon. Apart from my monthly stint at the food pantry, my family and I are sponsoring a family as part of our church's "Christmas Wishes" program. Also, I might be working a Christmas tree lot a few nights this year. I don't mean to toot my own horn here, just stating.
3. There are too damn many CDs and DVDs coming out right now. I don't know what to buy and what to put on my list. Today I panicked and bought Sammy Hagar's new record (called Cosmic Universal Fashion). Yeah, yeah, I know a lot of people can't stand the guy, but i still like him, and I'm in St. Louis so it's all okay. Anyone wondering if it's better than the last one, the answer is yes. Granted, it wouldn't be hard, but there's some decent stuff here, and a little experimentation going on too. Now I've only heard it once, and it's not perfect (I won't even listen to his cover of "Fight For Your Right To Party), but my initial review is positive. If you're a fan, you'll probably find something to like.
4. For some reason, as I type this, The 700 Club is on in the background. Everyone on it is full of shit.
5. I might be going to see Reverend Horton Heat on Friday. He's coming in with Nashville Pussy who I didn't even know were still together. I was supposed to see them years ago with Motorhead, but Ruyter got sick and they cancelled. Wow, that was like 1999 or so. That's a long time to wait for a band I only half liked. Also on the bill is a band called Reckless Kelly who I'm not familiar with but sound like they could be cool from what little I've seen online. At any rate, The Rev puts on a good show, so it should be cool.
6. I have some vacation days next week. Monday and Tuesday are vac. days, Wednesday is my normal day off, and Thursday is eatin' day. Awesome. I still have to go back on Friday (retail), but the time off is much needed.
I'll try to check back in next week.
Bye.
So here's some other stuff instead.
1. Christmas and Thanksgiving are both on their way. These are my two favorite holidays and they fall in my least favorite time of year. Hate cold, hate snow...love family, love food and love presents (giving and getting). I also love Christmas music, which is not very rock and roll of me but I don't care.
2. Speaking of Christmas, I've got some charity stuff going on here soon. Apart from my monthly stint at the food pantry, my family and I are sponsoring a family as part of our church's "Christmas Wishes" program. Also, I might be working a Christmas tree lot a few nights this year. I don't mean to toot my own horn here, just stating.
3. There are too damn many CDs and DVDs coming out right now. I don't know what to buy and what to put on my list. Today I panicked and bought Sammy Hagar's new record (called Cosmic Universal Fashion). Yeah, yeah, I know a lot of people can't stand the guy, but i still like him, and I'm in St. Louis so it's all okay. Anyone wondering if it's better than the last one, the answer is yes. Granted, it wouldn't be hard, but there's some decent stuff here, and a little experimentation going on too. Now I've only heard it once, and it's not perfect (I won't even listen to his cover of "Fight For Your Right To Party), but my initial review is positive. If you're a fan, you'll probably find something to like.
4. For some reason, as I type this, The 700 Club is on in the background. Everyone on it is full of shit.
5. I might be going to see Reverend Horton Heat on Friday. He's coming in with Nashville Pussy who I didn't even know were still together. I was supposed to see them years ago with Motorhead, but Ruyter got sick and they cancelled. Wow, that was like 1999 or so. That's a long time to wait for a band I only half liked. Also on the bill is a band called Reckless Kelly who I'm not familiar with but sound like they could be cool from what little I've seen online. At any rate, The Rev puts on a good show, so it should be cool.
6. I have some vacation days next week. Monday and Tuesday are vac. days, Wednesday is my normal day off, and Thursday is eatin' day. Awesome. I still have to go back on Friday (retail), but the time off is much needed.
I'll try to check back in next week.
Bye.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Tomorrow Is Election Day
Appearantly, spell check isn't working, apologies for any mistakes that follow.
So after all the hubbub it's finally here...election day. I love election day. I like the experience of casting my vote and doing my part. I like watching the exit polls all afternoon and the coverage all night long. The drama, the spin and the last minute arguments, all of it.
Having said that, here are my thoughts on the current election. As I've stated before, I'm not 100% behind my party's candidate, Senator Barack Obama. I have come around for the most part, but there are still a few things that bug me. The man is very eloquent and quick on his feet, but I often think he's not saying much when he talks...he just says nothing much better than most. Still, I try not to believe more than 75% of anything that comes out of a politician's mouth so I guess that evens out.
Also, I'm not sure he's got it right on education. In the commercials, Obama says that parents need to be more involved, and he's right. Trouble is, that's almost impossible to enforce. As a result, the focus (from both parties) seems to be on punishing teachers for the poor performance of students. That's kind of like blaming the farmer because there was no rain and the crops failed. The difference is that the government will bail out the farmer, and they want to fire teachers. Sound ridiculous yet? The other solution is to take money away from under performing schools, which is like taking away the farmer's tools. So the money that is available goes to schools that already have money and are doing well. This makes no sense. The policy makers need to focus more on the students themselves, and standardized testing doesn't cut it. Not all kids are going to respond in the same way, so it's flawed from the ground up. I'm not claiming to have the answers, but at least I understand the problem.
Fortunately, this is all I can really find to disagree with Obama on. Unlike Senator John McCain.
Talk about not understanding the problem. This man is going to perpetuate the same financial policies that have led us into a recession/depression. As with every Republican tax plan I can remember, the rich stay rich, the poor stay poor, the middle class goes nowhere. Smaller government and conservative fiscal policies have led us to where we are today. Thanks guys.
John McShame(sorry, that was cheap, and too easy) is also going to extend this ill-advised, poorly executed and compleltely senseless war we've got going on. Almost forgot about that, didn't you? Not only does he want to extend our stay in Iraq, but he's made it very clear that he will not hesitate to go into other countries as well. Now, I mean no disrespect by this, but can someone please explain to me why a prisoner of war would want to keep going to war? I realize that I have no room to talk here, as I can't possibly relate to his experiences, but I just can't fathom it. Yes, I appreciate his service and acknowledge the man as a hero, but it doesn't make him right.
The other problem with the Republican ticket is Sarah Palin. She's funny in small doses, and God help me, even likeable sometimes. She's also completely in over her head. I mean, the woman just looks like a deer in headlights most of the time. Also, she's kinda nuts. This is not the person I want to take over in case McCain doesn't complete his term. Before you start, it's not because she's a woman. I think a woman in power would be great, as President or V.P. Just not this one. I mean, gosh, if you think America's become a laughing stock under George W. Bush, well, boy howdy wait till ya see what happens if she gets in. We'll be up the creek without a canoe then, sure, you betcha. Okay, that was cheap and too easy as well, but I'm not sorry.
So there's where I stand. You can agree with me or not, I don't really care. See, that's the great thing (well, one of them anyway) about this country. We have the right to disagree. Each individual has the right to their own opinion. We can discuss, debate, and persuade all we want to but no-one has the right to take your opinion from you or tell you what to think. That, my friends, is worth preserving. And the way to do that is to be a part of the process, and vote.
Be sure to go to the polls tomorrow, no matter which side you're on. I'm Dave Brink, and I've approved this blog.
So after all the hubbub it's finally here...election day. I love election day. I like the experience of casting my vote and doing my part. I like watching the exit polls all afternoon and the coverage all night long. The drama, the spin and the last minute arguments, all of it.
Having said that, here are my thoughts on the current election. As I've stated before, I'm not 100% behind my party's candidate, Senator Barack Obama. I have come around for the most part, but there are still a few things that bug me. The man is very eloquent and quick on his feet, but I often think he's not saying much when he talks...he just says nothing much better than most. Still, I try not to believe more than 75% of anything that comes out of a politician's mouth so I guess that evens out.
Also, I'm not sure he's got it right on education. In the commercials, Obama says that parents need to be more involved, and he's right. Trouble is, that's almost impossible to enforce. As a result, the focus (from both parties) seems to be on punishing teachers for the poor performance of students. That's kind of like blaming the farmer because there was no rain and the crops failed. The difference is that the government will bail out the farmer, and they want to fire teachers. Sound ridiculous yet? The other solution is to take money away from under performing schools, which is like taking away the farmer's tools. So the money that is available goes to schools that already have money and are doing well. This makes no sense. The policy makers need to focus more on the students themselves, and standardized testing doesn't cut it. Not all kids are going to respond in the same way, so it's flawed from the ground up. I'm not claiming to have the answers, but at least I understand the problem.
Fortunately, this is all I can really find to disagree with Obama on. Unlike Senator John McCain.
Talk about not understanding the problem. This man is going to perpetuate the same financial policies that have led us into a recession/depression. As with every Republican tax plan I can remember, the rich stay rich, the poor stay poor, the middle class goes nowhere. Smaller government and conservative fiscal policies have led us to where we are today. Thanks guys.
John McShame(sorry, that was cheap, and too easy) is also going to extend this ill-advised, poorly executed and compleltely senseless war we've got going on. Almost forgot about that, didn't you? Not only does he want to extend our stay in Iraq, but he's made it very clear that he will not hesitate to go into other countries as well. Now, I mean no disrespect by this, but can someone please explain to me why a prisoner of war would want to keep going to war? I realize that I have no room to talk here, as I can't possibly relate to his experiences, but I just can't fathom it. Yes, I appreciate his service and acknowledge the man as a hero, but it doesn't make him right.
The other problem with the Republican ticket is Sarah Palin. She's funny in small doses, and God help me, even likeable sometimes. She's also completely in over her head. I mean, the woman just looks like a deer in headlights most of the time. Also, she's kinda nuts. This is not the person I want to take over in case McCain doesn't complete his term. Before you start, it's not because she's a woman. I think a woman in power would be great, as President or V.P. Just not this one. I mean, gosh, if you think America's become a laughing stock under George W. Bush, well, boy howdy wait till ya see what happens if she gets in. We'll be up the creek without a canoe then, sure, you betcha. Okay, that was cheap and too easy as well, but I'm not sorry.
So there's where I stand. You can agree with me or not, I don't really care. See, that's the great thing (well, one of them anyway) about this country. We have the right to disagree. Each individual has the right to their own opinion. We can discuss, debate, and persuade all we want to but no-one has the right to take your opinion from you or tell you what to think. That, my friends, is worth preserving. And the way to do that is to be a part of the process, and vote.
Be sure to go to the polls tomorrow, no matter which side you're on. I'm Dave Brink, and I've approved this blog.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Halloween Movie List 2008
As most people who know me will tell you, I love horror movies-yet I hate Halloween. I suppose it's okay for kids, I mean I'll give out candy and let my daughter go out when she's older, but adults dressing in costumes and going to haunted houses and all...I just don't get it. But I'm not out to spoil anyone else's fun, so I've decided to put in my two cents and publish a list of some of my favorite Halloween type movies.
This list intentionally avoids the obvious stuff (how much more can be said about Evil Dead?), but instead I've decided to focus on some slightly more left-of-center films. Some you've probably never heard of, others you've heard of but maybe not seen, and some most people have seen but I feel they've been underrated and deserve a second look.
So here it is, in no particular order, Dave's Halloween Movie List 2008:
1.Creepshow
So far the only movie to be referenced on this blog twice. This one is more about fun than fright, but it's got a few scary moments. As a tribute to the old E.C. horror comics it succeeds wonderfully, even if sometimes it drags a little as a film. A mixed bag at best, but when the mix is made from Stephen King and George Romero it's still pretty good.
2.Henry:Portrait Of A Serial Killer
A truly disturbing movie, not for the timid. The film is based on real life killer Henry Lee Lucas, who it turns out may have made up some of his confessed killings (which, if you think about it is kinda scary in and of itself). The movie stars a very creepy Michael Rooker in the title role as Henry and his ex-prison buddy (or more?) go around getting their jollies by killing people. This is not a slasher film, although there is some bloody gore involved, but not a lot by today's standards. It is instead a psychological study of the minds and relationships of some truly messed up people. Definitely recommended if you don't mind feeling creeped out for a few days and sleeping with the light on.
3. Blood Harvest (a.k.a. The Nightmare)
Typical 80's slasher flick with a few scenes that are actually pretty effective, although that's probably an accident. Anyone who's seen any horror movie knows who the killer is from minute one, there are buckets (literally) of blood, and some fairly misogynistic stuff even for 80's slasher flicks. So why do I recommend it? Tiny Tim as a borderline retarted man who dresses as a clown. Yeah, you wanna see it now, don't ya?
4.May
Okay, this one's just weird. It's the story of the slightly sympathetic weird girl, socially and sexually confused, who talks to her freaky-ass doll. She realizes, as all outsiders do, that people are pretty on the outside but ugly inside. As she becomes more and more alienated she takes her mother's advice: "If you don't have a friend, make one." And she does, literally. After the first shocking image, this movie unfolds very slowly, not becoming a horror flick until about midway through. As May grows ever more emotional and...well, batshit, we learn to important lessons. Don't break up with the weird girl, and don't let her volunteer at the school for the blind.
5.Mr. Sardonicus
I'm not really sure how to describe this without giving it all away. The movie is directed by William Castle, often referred to as the "poor man's Hitchcock". This was the guy who rigged up various movie seats to deliver a small shock during The Tingler, if that tells you anything. The gimmick for this movie was that the audience could "vote" on the fate of the villain. Moviegoers were given cards with a thumbs up/thumbs down emblem on them and were prompted to vote during the movie. Now, that's cheesy as hell, but the rest of the movie is really good, full of great acting and a classic Gothic type story. It requires a major suspension of disbelief, but definitely worth seeing.
6.Two Thousand Maniacs (1964)
Sing it if you know it: "Yee-haw! Oh, the South's gonna rise again!" Short version: Couples on vacation drive into a small town in the rural South during their bicentennial celebration and are invited to be the guests of honor. Trouble is, the travelers are all Yankees and these ol'boys still have a sore spot about the Civil War...and soon the festivities take a turn. Low budget movie with some decent gore effects for the time, and another flick that works in spite of itself. A favorite. A remake came out a few years ago, but I haven't seen it and don't intend to. Neither should you-see this one.
7.In The Mouth Of Madness
My favorite John Carpenter film. It's basically one big tribute to both Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft. How can you not love that? The storyline is that a detective is hired to find a horror author who has gone missing before turning in his latest novel. As the search continues to a small New England town, it appears that maybe the stories he writes are based on fact, and are indeed coming true which would kinda sorta bring about the end of everything. Under-rated by some because there's not much violence and you actually have to pay attention. Great movie though, see it.
8.The Wicker Man (1973)
Not the piece of crap Nicholas Cage remake, but the original with Christopher freakin' Lee, and the guy who played The Equalizer. This is definitely a movie that rewards your patience. A lot of the imagery of May Day is lost on Americans since we don't celebrate it, but it can be followed if you pay attention. Many people are also thrown off by the singing in the film, but it deals with Pagan religions, and in that context it's perfectly acceptable. From the very beginning of the movie you just know that something's going on, and as the film unfolds, the viewer gets more and more intrigued, with one of the best endings in horror movie history. A must see for anyone who enjoys story and intelligence over violence and blood. Or if you just like Christopher Lee, and who doesn't?
9.The Vanishing (a.k.a. The Man Who Wanted To Know) (1988)
Not the piece of crap remake with Keifer Sutherland, but the original with a bunch of French people. This is probably the least horror of all the movies on this list, it's more of a whodunnit movie with a twist. The viewer knows who did it-we just don't know what he did. A man's fiancee goes missing from a gas station convenience store while he is outside. As the years go by, he becomes obsessed with figuring out what happened. He is then contacted by the abductor and given the chance. This is another fabulous ending, without the stupid tripe added on to the American version. awesome movie, subtitles and all.
10. Motel Hell
Anyone who came of age in the 70's or 80's has probably seen this one. What most of us don't know, or at least I didn't, is that it's supposed to be a send up of the horror movies of the day. Actually, that knowledge makes it a little less cool. I think it's much better if you just take this as it comes. It's the simple story of a farmer who owns a motel/meat factory, falls in love with a young guest, creating a love triangle with his brother. Oh, and he uses people in the meat. He keeps the people in a secret garden in the back of the motel, buried from the neck down like crops. He also cuts up the meat while wearing a pig mask. See, isn't it better if you don't know this mess was intentional? Either way it's incredibly, laughably weird and worth a look. Or two.
Okay, that's the list. Hopefully I've given you a few ideas for your Halloween (or any time really) viewing pleasure. Happy viewing and pleasant dreams.
This list intentionally avoids the obvious stuff (how much more can be said about Evil Dead?), but instead I've decided to focus on some slightly more left-of-center films. Some you've probably never heard of, others you've heard of but maybe not seen, and some most people have seen but I feel they've been underrated and deserve a second look.
So here it is, in no particular order, Dave's Halloween Movie List 2008:
1.Creepshow
So far the only movie to be referenced on this blog twice. This one is more about fun than fright, but it's got a few scary moments. As a tribute to the old E.C. horror comics it succeeds wonderfully, even if sometimes it drags a little as a film. A mixed bag at best, but when the mix is made from Stephen King and George Romero it's still pretty good.
2.Henry:Portrait Of A Serial Killer
A truly disturbing movie, not for the timid. The film is based on real life killer Henry Lee Lucas, who it turns out may have made up some of his confessed killings (which, if you think about it is kinda scary in and of itself). The movie stars a very creepy Michael Rooker in the title role as Henry and his ex-prison buddy (or more?) go around getting their jollies by killing people. This is not a slasher film, although there is some bloody gore involved, but not a lot by today's standards. It is instead a psychological study of the minds and relationships of some truly messed up people. Definitely recommended if you don't mind feeling creeped out for a few days and sleeping with the light on.
3. Blood Harvest (a.k.a. The Nightmare)
Typical 80's slasher flick with a few scenes that are actually pretty effective, although that's probably an accident. Anyone who's seen any horror movie knows who the killer is from minute one, there are buckets (literally) of blood, and some fairly misogynistic stuff even for 80's slasher flicks. So why do I recommend it? Tiny Tim as a borderline retarted man who dresses as a clown. Yeah, you wanna see it now, don't ya?
4.May
Okay, this one's just weird. It's the story of the slightly sympathetic weird girl, socially and sexually confused, who talks to her freaky-ass doll. She realizes, as all outsiders do, that people are pretty on the outside but ugly inside. As she becomes more and more alienated she takes her mother's advice: "If you don't have a friend, make one." And she does, literally. After the first shocking image, this movie unfolds very slowly, not becoming a horror flick until about midway through. As May grows ever more emotional and...well, batshit, we learn to important lessons. Don't break up with the weird girl, and don't let her volunteer at the school for the blind.
5.Mr. Sardonicus
I'm not really sure how to describe this without giving it all away. The movie is directed by William Castle, often referred to as the "poor man's Hitchcock". This was the guy who rigged up various movie seats to deliver a small shock during The Tingler, if that tells you anything. The gimmick for this movie was that the audience could "vote" on the fate of the villain. Moviegoers were given cards with a thumbs up/thumbs down emblem on them and were prompted to vote during the movie. Now, that's cheesy as hell, but the rest of the movie is really good, full of great acting and a classic Gothic type story. It requires a major suspension of disbelief, but definitely worth seeing.
6.Two Thousand Maniacs (1964)
Sing it if you know it: "Yee-haw! Oh, the South's gonna rise again!" Short version: Couples on vacation drive into a small town in the rural South during their bicentennial celebration and are invited to be the guests of honor. Trouble is, the travelers are all Yankees and these ol'boys still have a sore spot about the Civil War...and soon the festivities take a turn. Low budget movie with some decent gore effects for the time, and another flick that works in spite of itself. A favorite. A remake came out a few years ago, but I haven't seen it and don't intend to. Neither should you-see this one.
7.In The Mouth Of Madness
My favorite John Carpenter film. It's basically one big tribute to both Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft. How can you not love that? The storyline is that a detective is hired to find a horror author who has gone missing before turning in his latest novel. As the search continues to a small New England town, it appears that maybe the stories he writes are based on fact, and are indeed coming true which would kinda sorta bring about the end of everything. Under-rated by some because there's not much violence and you actually have to pay attention. Great movie though, see it.
8.The Wicker Man (1973)
Not the piece of crap Nicholas Cage remake, but the original with Christopher freakin' Lee, and the guy who played The Equalizer. This is definitely a movie that rewards your patience. A lot of the imagery of May Day is lost on Americans since we don't celebrate it, but it can be followed if you pay attention. Many people are also thrown off by the singing in the film, but it deals with Pagan religions, and in that context it's perfectly acceptable. From the very beginning of the movie you just know that something's going on, and as the film unfolds, the viewer gets more and more intrigued, with one of the best endings in horror movie history. A must see for anyone who enjoys story and intelligence over violence and blood. Or if you just like Christopher Lee, and who doesn't?
9.The Vanishing (a.k.a. The Man Who Wanted To Know) (1988)
Not the piece of crap remake with Keifer Sutherland, but the original with a bunch of French people. This is probably the least horror of all the movies on this list, it's more of a whodunnit movie with a twist. The viewer knows who did it-we just don't know what he did. A man's fiancee goes missing from a gas station convenience store while he is outside. As the years go by, he becomes obsessed with figuring out what happened. He is then contacted by the abductor and given the chance. This is another fabulous ending, without the stupid tripe added on to the American version. awesome movie, subtitles and all.
10. Motel Hell
Anyone who came of age in the 70's or 80's has probably seen this one. What most of us don't know, or at least I didn't, is that it's supposed to be a send up of the horror movies of the day. Actually, that knowledge makes it a little less cool. I think it's much better if you just take this as it comes. It's the simple story of a farmer who owns a motel/meat factory, falls in love with a young guest, creating a love triangle with his brother. Oh, and he uses people in the meat. He keeps the people in a secret garden in the back of the motel, buried from the neck down like crops. He also cuts up the meat while wearing a pig mask. See, isn't it better if you don't know this mess was intentional? Either way it's incredibly, laughably weird and worth a look. Or two.
Okay, that's the list. Hopefully I've given you a few ideas for your Halloween (or any time really) viewing pleasure. Happy viewing and pleasant dreams.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Finally!
Finally...
My computer is working consistently enough that I can start blogging again!
People are beginning to realize that even though they may like Sarah Palin as a person, she's basically a whack-job who should be nowhere near the oval office.
It's been long enough since George Carlin's death that I don't feel the need to quote him in every post. From time to time, sure, but not every time.
Metallica has put out a CD that us old school fans can love, and reclaim our band. And yet, there are people complaining that the mix is too loud. That's right, Metallica is too loud. Anyone who feels this way has officially given up their right to be a card carrying rock fan. Too loud. Idiots.
The St. Louis Rams have made some personnel changes that may actually bring some wins this season. Well, probably not but a guy can dream, right?
Blue Tattoo is making moves to get some gigs around town. It's high time we let people know we're here...and we're awesome.
Autumn (why is there an "n" in that word?) has arrived, which means that jacket weather is coming...and I love jacket weather. Not coat weather...jackets. Also, it means that Thanksgiving (and the family reunion on my Mom's side) is on its way. This will be the first time that most of these people meet my daughter Tessa. I'm just going to hand her off to the first person I see, eat all day, and pick her up when I leave. Good times. It also means Christmas is coming soon...but more on that later.
The new T.V. season has started. I watch more shows lately than I think I ever have. So is television getting better, or am I less selective? How does one decide? I'll have to do a study on that topic sometime. When nothing's on.
And finally...
I've run out of stuff to type.
My computer is working consistently enough that I can start blogging again!
People are beginning to realize that even though they may like Sarah Palin as a person, she's basically a whack-job who should be nowhere near the oval office.
It's been long enough since George Carlin's death that I don't feel the need to quote him in every post. From time to time, sure, but not every time.
Metallica has put out a CD that us old school fans can love, and reclaim our band. And yet, there are people complaining that the mix is too loud. That's right, Metallica is too loud. Anyone who feels this way has officially given up their right to be a card carrying rock fan. Too loud. Idiots.
The St. Louis Rams have made some personnel changes that may actually bring some wins this season. Well, probably not but a guy can dream, right?
Blue Tattoo is making moves to get some gigs around town. It's high time we let people know we're here...and we're awesome.
Autumn (why is there an "n" in that word?) has arrived, which means that jacket weather is coming...and I love jacket weather. Not coat weather...jackets. Also, it means that Thanksgiving (and the family reunion on my Mom's side) is on its way. This will be the first time that most of these people meet my daughter Tessa. I'm just going to hand her off to the first person I see, eat all day, and pick her up when I leave. Good times. It also means Christmas is coming soon...but more on that later.
The new T.V. season has started. I watch more shows lately than I think I ever have. So is television getting better, or am I less selective? How does one decide? I'll have to do a study on that topic sometime. When nothing's on.
And finally...
I've run out of stuff to type.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Tessa's Dedication (or What I Did After Seeing The Dark Knight This Weekend)
"Every Sunday after church, my mother and I would buy the Sunday papers and walk home together. Then she'd get drunk and try to make pancakes."
-George Carlin
Well, sometimes I have to reach a little to make these quotes fit in with the blog topic. This is as close as I got.
On Saturday August 16, 2008 my daughter, Tessa Sharron Brink, was dedicated at Morning Star church. It was during a group ceremony, so there was quite a lot to take in, as the church does both baptisms and dedications at the same service. So basically there were tons of babies, kids, teens, adults and families getting prayed over, sprinkled or dunked.
We chose to dedicate Tessa for a few reasons. First, we thought it was the best compromise between Valerie's Catholic upbringing and my Baptist upbringing. Some may not agree, but it's not your kid, or your decision to make. We did what we felt was right for our family and our child, and we're both very happy with our decision.
Secondly, we know that we want to raise her as a Christian, and we feel that a good way to start is to make a public commitment to do so in front of our church and before God. We want her to know that she can always rely on her faith and relationship with God, whatever life brings her way.
"But Dave," you say, "you ain't exactly the ultimate role model in this department. How you gonna do all that without being a hypocrite?"
Okay, first of all, your grammar is atrocious. You do have a point though. I'm not your stereotypical Christian. I swear too much, drink, am a little too proud, and enjoy quite a lot of music and movies that are, at best, of questionable moral value. Well, as Johnny Cash once said, "I'm a D minus Christian, but I am one." See, I don't believe that stuff is as important as my faith and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. I'm not perfect, but he knows it, and loves me anyway. He loves you too, by the way, bad grammar and all.
The third reason we dedicated our daughter is that we have found a church that works for us. They're not much for tradition, and are fairly laid back about a lot of things, but there is a definite, real love of God and people at Morning Star church. One of the things they stress in the dedication is that we are all, as a church, responsible to help each other out on our spiritual journeys. From the infants brought in to the Kingdom of God to the grown man accepting Jesus for the first time, we're all in it together. I like that idea, and I like the church.
Tessa's dedication was quite meaningful, but quick. Our pastor, Mike Schreiner, held her and said a prayer for her and us in front of the congregation. Some super cute slides of the girl were displayed on the screens, and we had our little moment with the church, each other and God. As sweet as that was though, the coolest thing about the whole evening was that at the end of the service, Pastor Mike decided to open it up to anyone who may want to be baptised, something that he normally doesn't do. At least eight people, possibly more, came forward. It was awesome. Sure, there may have been a few who were swept up in the emotion, or felt they were supposed to do it, but I believe The Holy Spirit was there that night and working in the hearts of those people. That was the best thing I witnessed all weekend.
"The Dark Knight" came in a close second. Amazing movie, well worth the wait and my eight bucks. Heath Ledger's Joker rules. Great story, great acting, nearly flawless. It demands that you pay attention to it, and rewards you big time. If you haven't seen it yet, GO!!!
And go to church this weekend too.
-George Carlin
Well, sometimes I have to reach a little to make these quotes fit in with the blog topic. This is as close as I got.
On Saturday August 16, 2008 my daughter, Tessa Sharron Brink, was dedicated at Morning Star church. It was during a group ceremony, so there was quite a lot to take in, as the church does both baptisms and dedications at the same service. So basically there were tons of babies, kids, teens, adults and families getting prayed over, sprinkled or dunked.
We chose to dedicate Tessa for a few reasons. First, we thought it was the best compromise between Valerie's Catholic upbringing and my Baptist upbringing. Some may not agree, but it's not your kid, or your decision to make. We did what we felt was right for our family and our child, and we're both very happy with our decision.
Secondly, we know that we want to raise her as a Christian, and we feel that a good way to start is to make a public commitment to do so in front of our church and before God. We want her to know that she can always rely on her faith and relationship with God, whatever life brings her way.
"But Dave," you say, "you ain't exactly the ultimate role model in this department. How you gonna do all that without being a hypocrite?"
Okay, first of all, your grammar is atrocious. You do have a point though. I'm not your stereotypical Christian. I swear too much, drink, am a little too proud, and enjoy quite a lot of music and movies that are, at best, of questionable moral value. Well, as Johnny Cash once said, "I'm a D minus Christian, but I am one." See, I don't believe that stuff is as important as my faith and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. I'm not perfect, but he knows it, and loves me anyway. He loves you too, by the way, bad grammar and all.
The third reason we dedicated our daughter is that we have found a church that works for us. They're not much for tradition, and are fairly laid back about a lot of things, but there is a definite, real love of God and people at Morning Star church. One of the things they stress in the dedication is that we are all, as a church, responsible to help each other out on our spiritual journeys. From the infants brought in to the Kingdom of God to the grown man accepting Jesus for the first time, we're all in it together. I like that idea, and I like the church.
Tessa's dedication was quite meaningful, but quick. Our pastor, Mike Schreiner, held her and said a prayer for her and us in front of the congregation. Some super cute slides of the girl were displayed on the screens, and we had our little moment with the church, each other and God. As sweet as that was though, the coolest thing about the whole evening was that at the end of the service, Pastor Mike decided to open it up to anyone who may want to be baptised, something that he normally doesn't do. At least eight people, possibly more, came forward. It was awesome. Sure, there may have been a few who were swept up in the emotion, or felt they were supposed to do it, but I believe The Holy Spirit was there that night and working in the hearts of those people. That was the best thing I witnessed all weekend.
"The Dark Knight" came in a close second. Amazing movie, well worth the wait and my eight bucks. Heath Ledger's Joker rules. Great story, great acting, nearly flawless. It demands that you pay attention to it, and rewards you big time. If you haven't seen it yet, GO!!!
And go to church this weekend too.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Gall Bladder Blues (or Why I Didn't See "The Dark Night" This Weekend)
George Carlin once claimed that we shouldn't trust doctors, saying that "it's all a bunch of guess work in white coats." For the most part, I agree with him. I mean, really, how many people do you know who have been misdiagnosed and either suffered for years or completely ignored a serious condition because of it? Or, consider eggs. Traditionally they've always been good for you, and suddenly when I was in my teens we were told to avoid them. Then later we were told to avoid the yolks. Now some folks say the yolks are okay on their own without the whites, but only as part of some new diet fad. If the medical world had their shit together, I'd know how to make my omelet; and every elderly relative I have who breaks a bone wouldn't suddenly die of fuckin' pneumonia in a month. Once again, George is right and doctors are winging it. Sure, they go to school for years and most of 'em have a pretty decent success rate...but a guess is a guess.
However, there are times when one must throw caution into the wind, bite the bullet and go see a doctor. Sometimes it's because you've been hurt, and sometimes it's because you get really sick. The latter happened to my wife Valerie this past week.
Wednesday night, she couldn't sleep because of a severe stomach pain which crept into her back and made her puke a lot. Then it went away. Unfortunately, it came back on Thursday and it was worse. She got to the point where she couldn't sleep, couldn't stand up, couldn't keep anything down, and was relatively sure she might die. When she started making me promise that I'd finish Tessa's baby book, just in case, I began to suspect that this might not just be a stomach bug or food poisoning.
This conversation happened around three a.m.
Valerie: IT HURTS SO MUCH!!! Oh god oh god oh god (stop giggling you pervs, the woman was in pain)...David pray for me please!
Dave: 'Kay.
Dave says silent prayer asking God to help get her through this pain as quickly as possible. Valerie pukes. Dave thinks God has a weird sense of humor. The decision is made to go to the E.R.
So by seven-thirty a.m. it is determined that Valerie has a problem with her gall bladder. An ultrasound is taken, and a surgeon is to take a look and give an opinion. At this point we are led to believe that she'll be given some pain medicine and sent home, and we'll make a future appointment to remove the stones. Okay, fine.
By about nine a.m. we're being admitted and taken to a room, the surgeon deciding that stones or no stones Valerie's gall bladder is bad and needs to come out A.S.A.P. Now for those who don't know, the gall bladder basically assists the liver in processing fatty foods. Many people suffer from gall bladder attack for years before they have to have it out. At least, that's the best guess. Sometimes, though, women have the organ injured and inflamed during pregnancy, which is what happened to my wife.
The surgery is major, though not overly invasive. basically, they shove a camera up your belly button so they can see what they're doing (cutting down on the guess work part), cut some other holes to access the gall bladder, and pull it out the camera hole. Valerie's surgery went well, and by one o'clock the whole process is over. My wife is all drugged up, but also all better and facing just two weeks of recovery time.
So all in all, not the most fun Friday we've ever spent. Still, everything turned out okay. Sure, there was a lack of sleep, and the next few days are going to be a little difficult. In the end however, it's best that everyone is happy and healthy. As for the movie, I'll see it soon I'm sure. Besides, it can't be more interesting than sitting in a hospital room all day long, right? Right?
However, there are times when one must throw caution into the wind, bite the bullet and go see a doctor. Sometimes it's because you've been hurt, and sometimes it's because you get really sick. The latter happened to my wife Valerie this past week.
Wednesday night, she couldn't sleep because of a severe stomach pain which crept into her back and made her puke a lot. Then it went away. Unfortunately, it came back on Thursday and it was worse. She got to the point where she couldn't sleep, couldn't stand up, couldn't keep anything down, and was relatively sure she might die. When she started making me promise that I'd finish Tessa's baby book, just in case, I began to suspect that this might not just be a stomach bug or food poisoning.
This conversation happened around three a.m.
Valerie: IT HURTS SO MUCH!!! Oh god oh god oh god (stop giggling you pervs, the woman was in pain)...David pray for me please!
Dave: 'Kay.
Dave says silent prayer asking God to help get her through this pain as quickly as possible. Valerie pukes. Dave thinks God has a weird sense of humor. The decision is made to go to the E.R.
So by seven-thirty a.m. it is determined that Valerie has a problem with her gall bladder. An ultrasound is taken, and a surgeon is to take a look and give an opinion. At this point we are led to believe that she'll be given some pain medicine and sent home, and we'll make a future appointment to remove the stones. Okay, fine.
By about nine a.m. we're being admitted and taken to a room, the surgeon deciding that stones or no stones Valerie's gall bladder is bad and needs to come out A.S.A.P. Now for those who don't know, the gall bladder basically assists the liver in processing fatty foods. Many people suffer from gall bladder attack for years before they have to have it out. At least, that's the best guess. Sometimes, though, women have the organ injured and inflamed during pregnancy, which is what happened to my wife.
The surgery is major, though not overly invasive. basically, they shove a camera up your belly button so they can see what they're doing (cutting down on the guess work part), cut some other holes to access the gall bladder, and pull it out the camera hole. Valerie's surgery went well, and by one o'clock the whole process is over. My wife is all drugged up, but also all better and facing just two weeks of recovery time.
So all in all, not the most fun Friday we've ever spent. Still, everything turned out okay. Sure, there was a lack of sleep, and the next few days are going to be a little difficult. In the end however, it's best that everyone is happy and healthy. As for the movie, I'll see it soon I'm sure. Besides, it can't be more interesting than sitting in a hospital room all day long, right? Right?
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Playing Catch Up
Well, it's been a long time since I posted last, so here's a quick(ish) catch up on what's been happening.
First of all, the main reason I haven't updated is because my computer got a virus a few weeks ago. So that shut things down for about a week. Then we bought the latest Kaspersky virus protection, which protects your computer from all kinds of bad stuff and comes with the added feature of slowing your computer down to a snail's pace. It's still not 100%, but it's usable.
Okay, that happened, and kind of put me in a bad mood, which was only made worse by the general public, particularly the ones at my job. Everyone has those days (weeks) where they can't stand their job. You know those days where every little thing annoys you and you don't even have a reason? I got there for a while. It seemed like every part of my job was a chore, even the easy stuff that I normally don't mind a bit. My frustration level with the customers was at an all time high. I actually was angry with people just for showing up. Most people who work with the public go through this from time to time, and lately it's been my turn. Now, I never exploded at work (a small miracle), and I'm pretty sure nobody at work had a clue. The fact remains though, that I was in a funk from about 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. every day.
But then I had a good week. July 15th was our 2nd anniversary. We didn't celebrate until the next day, which I had off. Valerie and I went to an early dinner at Yaccovelli's (the site of our wedding rehearsal dinner) and went to see a movie. Having a child hampers your ability to go to the movies, so what used to be a fairly regular and easy date becomes something special. And what did Valerie want to see on this romantic night? Hellboy II! Why? Because a). my wife is awesome, and b). we saw the original on one of our early dates so that made it appropriate (good flick, btw, complete fantasy and a touch long, but cool).
July 18th was my birthday (neat how that works, huh?), and we went to dinner again (at Lonestar steak house, so, y'know, nothing special-but steak!). After dinner, we met up with the guys in my band at The Brewhouse, to see Men Without Rogaine play. For those who are unaware, MWR are an acoustic cover duo comprised of my good friend and best man (tying the anniversary back in) Tim Heeley and all around good guy Lee Nix. After the first set, and a few drinks, Tim asked if we'd like to play a song. Yes, please. We had to improvise a little, not having our own instruments and being an electric outfit, but we were grateful for the opportunity and rose to the occasion. We wound up doing two songs, one in each set, and were well received. Blue Tattoo has had their first gig, impromptu though it was, on my birthday. That's cool.
My birthday was celebrated again the next night with family from both sides, giving everyone an opportunity to give me presents and visit with 3 month old Tessa. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention that the 15th was Tessa's three month birthday. Not that we made a big deal about it, but it's another thing that happened that week. Kinda interesting, at least to me.
So I guess the point is that as frustrated as I get with the mundane day to day stuff I deal with, my life is actually really good. Things seem to be going in the right direction for Blue Tattoo, I have a happy marriage with a beautiful daughter, and a family that loves me. Overall, I'm a pretty lucky guy.
Okay, that got long. I'll be back soon with a bunch of ranting (and Carlin quotes) like normal.
Bye
First of all, the main reason I haven't updated is because my computer got a virus a few weeks ago. So that shut things down for about a week. Then we bought the latest Kaspersky virus protection, which protects your computer from all kinds of bad stuff and comes with the added feature of slowing your computer down to a snail's pace. It's still not 100%, but it's usable.
Okay, that happened, and kind of put me in a bad mood, which was only made worse by the general public, particularly the ones at my job. Everyone has those days (weeks) where they can't stand their job. You know those days where every little thing annoys you and you don't even have a reason? I got there for a while. It seemed like every part of my job was a chore, even the easy stuff that I normally don't mind a bit. My frustration level with the customers was at an all time high. I actually was angry with people just for showing up. Most people who work with the public go through this from time to time, and lately it's been my turn. Now, I never exploded at work (a small miracle), and I'm pretty sure nobody at work had a clue. The fact remains though, that I was in a funk from about 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. every day.
But then I had a good week. July 15th was our 2nd anniversary. We didn't celebrate until the next day, which I had off. Valerie and I went to an early dinner at Yaccovelli's (the site of our wedding rehearsal dinner) and went to see a movie. Having a child hampers your ability to go to the movies, so what used to be a fairly regular and easy date becomes something special. And what did Valerie want to see on this romantic night? Hellboy II! Why? Because a). my wife is awesome, and b). we saw the original on one of our early dates so that made it appropriate (good flick, btw, complete fantasy and a touch long, but cool).
July 18th was my birthday (neat how that works, huh?), and we went to dinner again (at Lonestar steak house, so, y'know, nothing special-but steak!). After dinner, we met up with the guys in my band at The Brewhouse, to see Men Without Rogaine play. For those who are unaware, MWR are an acoustic cover duo comprised of my good friend and best man (tying the anniversary back in) Tim Heeley and all around good guy Lee Nix. After the first set, and a few drinks, Tim asked if we'd like to play a song. Yes, please. We had to improvise a little, not having our own instruments and being an electric outfit, but we were grateful for the opportunity and rose to the occasion. We wound up doing two songs, one in each set, and were well received. Blue Tattoo has had their first gig, impromptu though it was, on my birthday. That's cool.
My birthday was celebrated again the next night with family from both sides, giving everyone an opportunity to give me presents and visit with 3 month old Tessa. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention that the 15th was Tessa's three month birthday. Not that we made a big deal about it, but it's another thing that happened that week. Kinda interesting, at least to me.
So I guess the point is that as frustrated as I get with the mundane day to day stuff I deal with, my life is actually really good. Things seem to be going in the right direction for Blue Tattoo, I have a happy marriage with a beautiful daughter, and a family that loves me. Overall, I'm a pretty lucky guy.
Okay, that got long. I'll be back soon with a bunch of ranting (and Carlin quotes) like normal.
Bye
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Can we?
"The next time someone gives you that civic bullshit about voting, remember that Hitler was elected in a free democratic election."
-George Carlin
More people should have thought of that back in 2004.
Okay, so unless you're really stupid you've figured out that I'm going to get all political here. Now I'm not a super political guy, but I try to keep up with what's going on, and I try to form logical and educated opinions. Around election time this is especially true. So why am I having such a crisis right now?
As stated over to the right, I am a democrat and have been pretty much since day one. I think I've only veered away from the party twice. One was in the 2000 election when I voted for Ralph Nader. I wanted to send the Democrats a message about how their choice of nominee, Al Gore, who had no personality, a royal bitch of a wife (those little "Parental Advisory stickers on CDs?? All her.), grandiose delusions about his involvement with the Internet, and a positive but unrealistic view of the environment and what we should do about it. I mean, hey, I love this planet too, I just don't have a hard-on for it. We should all do a little more to help the earth, true, but as Carlin once observed, the planet is fine. It's survived the ice age and the dinosaur, it'll survive us too. In view of all this I threw my vote away and cast my ballot for Nader, again, to send the message. I knew Nader wasn't going to win, but I didn't think Bush had a chance in Hell of winning either, so I assumed this was a safe choice. Oops. Sorry America.
The only time I voted Republican was in a local election, and I don't even remember when it was or who was involved. All I remember is the Democratic candidate came door to door, and I didn't like him. Plus, the asshole woke me up.
Anyway, the point is I am a Democrat and I sincerely want to believe in Barack Obama and vote for him in November. However, as of right now I'm having trouble with that idea. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Obama as a person, he's clearly an intelligent and pleasant man. I just don't buy his rhetoric. Any time a politician starts talking about how they're going to change things my bullshit detector starts going off. Where is the change coming from, what's it going to be, how will it happen?
Granted, having an African-American President would be a huge change in and of itself, and I support that. What else ya got? Sure, there's lots of talk about change, but I haven't heard much about policy. At least, nothing that differs much from standard liberal policy anyway. It seems as though the media go out of their way not to discuss it. Maybe I'm just watching the wrong shows and reading the wrong articles, but I haven't seen a thing.
Also, people seem to be under the delusion that his "lack of experience" is a good thing and a catalyst for change. Wrong! First of all, Obama is a senator. That's experience. Maybe not quite the same as other politicians have, but it's a start, and it's more than most of us have, so it's a non issue. Secondly, it's a nice romantic notion that an outsider can come in and fix a broken system, but more often than not they just wind up getting eaten up by the system, and becoming part of it. Sorry to burst your bubble kids, but that's how it works. Maybe Obama can prove me wrong. I hope he does.
The other thing that bothers me is he's already giving people fodder to call him a flip-flopper, an experienced politician move if there ever was one. Granted, the guy's got a right to change his mind, but still..., let's look at the big two instances. First, remember when Obama gave that speech about how he could no more turn his back on Rev. Jeremiah Wright than his own family? Well, we know how long that lasted. In fairness, he did the right thing here, but it doesn't look good when questioning his loyalties.
Another thing people tend to be all excited about is the fact that he's decided not to participate in the public financing process. Originally, he'd promised to do so if Sen. McCain did the same. So what does Obama do? He decides to pull out of that and make himself out to be a revolutionary thinker while making McCain look like an antiquated asshole. Dirty political pool, that's all it is folks. And by the way, does anyone else wonder what happens to the money he didn't take? Does John McCain get it? Does it go back into the fund? how about this idea: Obama takes the money and instead of using it for his campaign, he donates it to the Red Cross and the Salvation Army so it can be used to help the flood victims all across the Midwest get their lives back on track? That's probably impossible, but it would bring him my vote.
So that's where I sit right now. Clearly this is going to be an interesting campaign season. If any fellow Democrats out there can direct me to some good information about Obama's policies and what changes I'm supposed to expect (and a sense of connection to government doesn't count-that's bullshit speak too), feel free to leave me some links in the posts. Maybe I can get on board and I won't have to make the same mistake I did in 2000. Once again, sorry.
Happy 4th!
Dave
P.S. The above is not an endorsement for John McCain, nor is it intended as such. And don't leave me nasty comments questioning my patriotism-if I wasn't patriotic, I wouldn't care!
-George Carlin
More people should have thought of that back in 2004.
Okay, so unless you're really stupid you've figured out that I'm going to get all political here. Now I'm not a super political guy, but I try to keep up with what's going on, and I try to form logical and educated opinions. Around election time this is especially true. So why am I having such a crisis right now?
As stated over to the right, I am a democrat and have been pretty much since day one. I think I've only veered away from the party twice. One was in the 2000 election when I voted for Ralph Nader. I wanted to send the Democrats a message about how their choice of nominee, Al Gore, who had no personality, a royal bitch of a wife (those little "Parental Advisory stickers on CDs?? All her.), grandiose delusions about his involvement with the Internet, and a positive but unrealistic view of the environment and what we should do about it. I mean, hey, I love this planet too, I just don't have a hard-on for it. We should all do a little more to help the earth, true, but as Carlin once observed, the planet is fine. It's survived the ice age and the dinosaur, it'll survive us too. In view of all this I threw my vote away and cast my ballot for Nader, again, to send the message. I knew Nader wasn't going to win, but I didn't think Bush had a chance in Hell of winning either, so I assumed this was a safe choice. Oops. Sorry America.
The only time I voted Republican was in a local election, and I don't even remember when it was or who was involved. All I remember is the Democratic candidate came door to door, and I didn't like him. Plus, the asshole woke me up.
Anyway, the point is I am a Democrat and I sincerely want to believe in Barack Obama and vote for him in November. However, as of right now I'm having trouble with that idea. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Obama as a person, he's clearly an intelligent and pleasant man. I just don't buy his rhetoric. Any time a politician starts talking about how they're going to change things my bullshit detector starts going off. Where is the change coming from, what's it going to be, how will it happen?
Granted, having an African-American President would be a huge change in and of itself, and I support that. What else ya got? Sure, there's lots of talk about change, but I haven't heard much about policy. At least, nothing that differs much from standard liberal policy anyway. It seems as though the media go out of their way not to discuss it. Maybe I'm just watching the wrong shows and reading the wrong articles, but I haven't seen a thing.
Also, people seem to be under the delusion that his "lack of experience" is a good thing and a catalyst for change. Wrong! First of all, Obama is a senator. That's experience. Maybe not quite the same as other politicians have, but it's a start, and it's more than most of us have, so it's a non issue. Secondly, it's a nice romantic notion that an outsider can come in and fix a broken system, but more often than not they just wind up getting eaten up by the system, and becoming part of it. Sorry to burst your bubble kids, but that's how it works. Maybe Obama can prove me wrong. I hope he does.
The other thing that bothers me is he's already giving people fodder to call him a flip-flopper, an experienced politician move if there ever was one. Granted, the guy's got a right to change his mind, but still..., let's look at the big two instances. First, remember when Obama gave that speech about how he could no more turn his back on Rev. Jeremiah Wright than his own family? Well, we know how long that lasted. In fairness, he did the right thing here, but it doesn't look good when questioning his loyalties.
Another thing people tend to be all excited about is the fact that he's decided not to participate in the public financing process. Originally, he'd promised to do so if Sen. McCain did the same. So what does Obama do? He decides to pull out of that and make himself out to be a revolutionary thinker while making McCain look like an antiquated asshole. Dirty political pool, that's all it is folks. And by the way, does anyone else wonder what happens to the money he didn't take? Does John McCain get it? Does it go back into the fund? how about this idea: Obama takes the money and instead of using it for his campaign, he donates it to the Red Cross and the Salvation Army so it can be used to help the flood victims all across the Midwest get their lives back on track? That's probably impossible, but it would bring him my vote.
So that's where I sit right now. Clearly this is going to be an interesting campaign season. If any fellow Democrats out there can direct me to some good information about Obama's policies and what changes I'm supposed to expect (and a sense of connection to government doesn't count-that's bullshit speak too), feel free to leave me some links in the posts. Maybe I can get on board and I won't have to make the same mistake I did in 2000. Once again, sorry.
Happy 4th!
Dave
P.S. The above is not an endorsement for John McCain, nor is it intended as such. And don't leave me nasty comments questioning my patriotism-if I wasn't patriotic, I wouldn't care!
Monday, June 23, 2008
A Tribute To George Carlin
So as we all know, George Carlin died yesterday. George was a hero of mine. No, he is a hero of mine. From roughly 1992-2000 I was a semi-professional stand up comic. I did a lot of local shows and did a fair amount of road gigs as well. Carlin was probably my biggest influence in my writing and delivery. So all you bastards who said I was too wordy-blame him!
I believe I first discovered Carlin in my early teens on an HBO special, either "Carlin At Carnegie" or "Carlin On Campus", I can't remember. Apart from being amazingly funny, I was immediately struck with how smart his material was. Yes, it was dirty (a prerequisite for comedy in your teens), but it also was highly observational, confrontational and still goofy. From then on, any chance I had I rented the videotapes and listened to the records. They all made me laugh, and they made me think. In many ways, I was getting an education.
George taught me some important lessons. He taught me the power of words. If you have something to say, and a clever way of saying it, people will listen to you. It's just a matter of finding the most effective and eloquent way to say it-and profanity is okay as long as you use it properly and with purpose. The seven dirty words bit isn't just about cussing-it's about deconstructing language and the effect it can have on others. Weigh your words carefully, use them wisely, and make no apologies.
The other big lesson I got from George (I think he'd be okay with the first name thing) was a healthy mistrust of authority. The more I think about it, he probably did more to shape my attitudes about society than most of the rock bands I've listened to. Musicians like to scream about an unfair society and questioning authority, but George analyzed it, laid bare the hypocrisy, and ridiculed all of it. His was the voice I needed, and he always delivered.
During the later years of his career his attitude changed, as often happens in any art form. However, George didn't sell out or get soft-he got more hardcore. I have nothing but respect for this. His social commentary began to take over the comedy in the 90's and in the past few years it all but eclipsed it. Sure, it wasn't as funny but when I laughed I still laughed hard. George was honest and raw, and that can be uncomfortable to watch. For better or worse, he stuck to his guns and I love him for it.
A few years ago I got to see him perform. He was trying out new material for his next HBO special, ironically titled "Life Is Worth Losing". The show was hit and miss, but all George. Interestingly enough, the show I saw was much funnier than the special turned out to be, but that's how art works sometimes. In any case, I'm glad I was able to go.
I actually had a chance to see him around 1997 or so. Ralph Tetta, a fellow stand up, came in to do a set at Comedy Etc., my home club. Ralph was working for George at the time as an assistant. I remember him telling us stories about his travels with George over a late night Denny's breakfast (a staple of every comic's diet) and inviting the three or four of us who were there to come see the show the next day. It was a Sunday show in Columbia Missouri a few hours from St. Louis. Of course, none of us took him up on it and we all kicked ourselves for miss sing the opportunity to meet an icon. Someday I'll do a blog on all those missed chances and it'll be long too.
I will always love George Carlin. I'll always need to hear him talk about needing a place for his stuff, people he can do without, why he worships the sun, dirty words, dogs and cats, and close with the perfect cheer. In tribute to his passing, I'll be putting up the "Carlin Quote Of The Week" in each blog I do for a while (and they'll actually be his quotes, unlike some sites on the net!). As the first quote, I've chosen some helpful advice:
"We're all fucked. It helps to remember that."
I literally couldn't have said it better. Rest In Peace George.
I believe I first discovered Carlin in my early teens on an HBO special, either "Carlin At Carnegie" or "Carlin On Campus", I can't remember. Apart from being amazingly funny, I was immediately struck with how smart his material was. Yes, it was dirty (a prerequisite for comedy in your teens), but it also was highly observational, confrontational and still goofy. From then on, any chance I had I rented the videotapes and listened to the records. They all made me laugh, and they made me think. In many ways, I was getting an education.
George taught me some important lessons. He taught me the power of words. If you have something to say, and a clever way of saying it, people will listen to you. It's just a matter of finding the most effective and eloquent way to say it-and profanity is okay as long as you use it properly and with purpose. The seven dirty words bit isn't just about cussing-it's about deconstructing language and the effect it can have on others. Weigh your words carefully, use them wisely, and make no apologies.
The other big lesson I got from George (I think he'd be okay with the first name thing) was a healthy mistrust of authority. The more I think about it, he probably did more to shape my attitudes about society than most of the rock bands I've listened to. Musicians like to scream about an unfair society and questioning authority, but George analyzed it, laid bare the hypocrisy, and ridiculed all of it. His was the voice I needed, and he always delivered.
During the later years of his career his attitude changed, as often happens in any art form. However, George didn't sell out or get soft-he got more hardcore. I have nothing but respect for this. His social commentary began to take over the comedy in the 90's and in the past few years it all but eclipsed it. Sure, it wasn't as funny but when I laughed I still laughed hard. George was honest and raw, and that can be uncomfortable to watch. For better or worse, he stuck to his guns and I love him for it.
A few years ago I got to see him perform. He was trying out new material for his next HBO special, ironically titled "Life Is Worth Losing". The show was hit and miss, but all George. Interestingly enough, the show I saw was much funnier than the special turned out to be, but that's how art works sometimes. In any case, I'm glad I was able to go.
I actually had a chance to see him around 1997 or so. Ralph Tetta, a fellow stand up, came in to do a set at Comedy Etc., my home club. Ralph was working for George at the time as an assistant. I remember him telling us stories about his travels with George over a late night Denny's breakfast (a staple of every comic's diet) and inviting the three or four of us who were there to come see the show the next day. It was a Sunday show in Columbia Missouri a few hours from St. Louis. Of course, none of us took him up on it and we all kicked ourselves for miss sing the opportunity to meet an icon. Someday I'll do a blog on all those missed chances and it'll be long too.
I will always love George Carlin. I'll always need to hear him talk about needing a place for his stuff, people he can do without, why he worships the sun, dirty words, dogs and cats, and close with the perfect cheer. In tribute to his passing, I'll be putting up the "Carlin Quote Of The Week" in each blog I do for a while (and they'll actually be his quotes, unlike some sites on the net!). As the first quote, I've chosen some helpful advice:
"We're all fucked. It helps to remember that."
I literally couldn't have said it better. Rest In Peace George.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Where's My Cake, Bedelia?
Ten points if you got that reference.
Yesterday was my first Father's Day. I suppose I started the celebration early by going to see Willie Nelson on Saturday night, kind of a Father's Day present for myself. Okay, so I didn't really know that it was the night before Father's Day when I got the tickets but it worked out anyway. The concert was great, as expected. He and his band Family played plenty of hits, snuck in a few surprises and a handfull of new stuff as well. I had a good time, and between my brother and I we made a nice dent in the merch table (he even bought me a shirt in honor of my first Father's Day).
I mention this for two reasons. One, to brag about being there. The second reason is because I bought a semi-wooden-ish souvenir toy guitar decorated with Willie Nelson art. I bought the guitar for two reasons. One, because it'll look cool in my media room. The second reason is so I can share it with my daughter when she gets older.
Unsurprisingly, I want to share my love of music with Tessa. Not that I expect her to be a music geek like me, in fact it would probably be best if she was a little more, um, normal. Still, I think it might be an area where we can bond together. Plus, how cool is it to have a Willie Nelson model for your first guitar? Maybe I'll get to take her to one of his shows when she's old enough. I have a feeling he might still be around.
So anyway, Sunday was Father's Day. We started the day by going to church where there was, of course, a lot of talk about being a good father. It was a good service, lots of emotion, and one of the few times I've cared for Stephen Curtis Chapman. His song Cinderella was featured, and as a little girl's Daddy, it hit home. The lyrics are about taking the time to spend with your kids now, because all too soon they'll be gone, married and on their own. It's a bittersweet song, made all the more poignant due to Chapman's daughter's tragic death. Needless to say, it got me thinking.
I've got a lot to teach this little girl. I've also got a lot of encouraging to do, patience to have (already working on that one!), laughing, crying, learning, and most of all loving to do. You see, I've always thought that I had the best dad in the world. Not the most perfect one...I mean, I could give you a list...but the best one. Any flaws, lack of judgement, poor decisions or mistakes he might have made were always overshadowed by the fact that my father supported me, encouraged me, loved me, and was my friend as well as my dad. Those are some big shoes to fill, but I think I'm up to the challenge. I want to be all of this and more for Tessa, and I believe I'm off to a good start. I had great training, and I'm already proud to be her dad.
So I guess the lesson here is to love your kids (even when it's hard), love your parents (even when it's hard), listen to Willie Nelson (even when it's hard), and never promise your next blog post will be less wordy.
Oh, and in case you're wondering...I got my cake. Cupcake, but still.
Yesterday was my first Father's Day. I suppose I started the celebration early by going to see Willie Nelson on Saturday night, kind of a Father's Day present for myself. Okay, so I didn't really know that it was the night before Father's Day when I got the tickets but it worked out anyway. The concert was great, as expected. He and his band Family played plenty of hits, snuck in a few surprises and a handfull of new stuff as well. I had a good time, and between my brother and I we made a nice dent in the merch table (he even bought me a shirt in honor of my first Father's Day).
I mention this for two reasons. One, to brag about being there. The second reason is because I bought a semi-wooden-ish souvenir toy guitar decorated with Willie Nelson art. I bought the guitar for two reasons. One, because it'll look cool in my media room. The second reason is so I can share it with my daughter when she gets older.
Unsurprisingly, I want to share my love of music with Tessa. Not that I expect her to be a music geek like me, in fact it would probably be best if she was a little more, um, normal. Still, I think it might be an area where we can bond together. Plus, how cool is it to have a Willie Nelson model for your first guitar? Maybe I'll get to take her to one of his shows when she's old enough. I have a feeling he might still be around.
So anyway, Sunday was Father's Day. We started the day by going to church where there was, of course, a lot of talk about being a good father. It was a good service, lots of emotion, and one of the few times I've cared for Stephen Curtis Chapman. His song Cinderella was featured, and as a little girl's Daddy, it hit home. The lyrics are about taking the time to spend with your kids now, because all too soon they'll be gone, married and on their own. It's a bittersweet song, made all the more poignant due to Chapman's daughter's tragic death. Needless to say, it got me thinking.
I've got a lot to teach this little girl. I've also got a lot of encouraging to do, patience to have (already working on that one!), laughing, crying, learning, and most of all loving to do. You see, I've always thought that I had the best dad in the world. Not the most perfect one...I mean, I could give you a list...but the best one. Any flaws, lack of judgement, poor decisions or mistakes he might have made were always overshadowed by the fact that my father supported me, encouraged me, loved me, and was my friend as well as my dad. Those are some big shoes to fill, but I think I'm up to the challenge. I want to be all of this and more for Tessa, and I believe I'm off to a good start. I had great training, and I'm already proud to be her dad.
So I guess the lesson here is to love your kids (even when it's hard), love your parents (even when it's hard), listen to Willie Nelson (even when it's hard), and never promise your next blog post will be less wordy.
Oh, and in case you're wondering...I got my cake. Cupcake, but still.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Old 97's Review
I went to Twangfest on Friday night with my brother Derek to see the Old 97's. Good show. For those of you who don't know, Twangfest is a yearly fest here in St. Louis featuring mostly alt. country bands that stretches over four nights and multiple clubs throughout the city. It draws in both local and national acts that range from country rock to Americana to singer songwriter types. I've never done the full fest, but I have gone to a night here and there, and have always enjoyed it.
Anyhoo, I had a few things to do around the house on Friday, so we got to the concert a little late (completely missing a band called I Love Math which seems appropriate because I hate math). Miles Of Wire were on stage when we arrived, who I believe are local. Didn't see much of their set, but I liked what I heard. The next act was some dude from Texas called Hayes Carll. I really liked his set. I'd definitely recommend checking him out if you like artists such as Steve Earle, Townes Van Zant, Rodney Crowell, etc. I liked it so much I picked up his CD at the merch table and have been listening to it since.
The headliners were, of course, Old 97's. They put on a good show. I think I may have gone in with a somewhat inaccurate expectation, as I've heard that their gigs were sweat-soaked barnstormers for years. So I expected a bit more of an out and out rocker with a few of the mid tempo songs thrown in. Actually the set was more balanced than that, with quite a few slower songs, but that's okay, it was really good, just not what I expected.
The musicianship was top notch. Philip Peeples, the drummer (who does the theme from Endless Summer), does a lot of that cross handed drumming stuff which looks so cool and I love. Guitar player Ken Bethea is very energetic and fun to watch. Murray Hammond has an interesting thumb based technique for playing bass that is part John Entwistle, part Johnny Cash. Also, his songs are among the best in the band's catalog. Murray rules. Which leaves us with front man Rhett Miller. He's the skinny cute guy in the band, and probably ten years younger than his band mates. Picture Michael Kelso fronting a band and you're there. Some of his hip shaking and half-assed windmills were a little silly, but so is Mick Jagger's stage stuff so whatever.
My only complaint, and it's a small one, was the length of the show. At almost 2/12 hours, I felt it was a little long to headline a festival type show (even if I didn't see all of the acts.) Hey, I'm all about getting your money's worth, and as far as that goes, they delivered. It's just that with all the slower and mid tempo stuff they did, the show dragged a little from time to time and I left feeling tired. Not tired in an exhausted way like a Motorhead or Drive By truckers show, but sleepy tired. Still, the good stuff well outweighed the bad. I'd see them again, but maybe in a few years, not every time they come in.
Wow, that was long and rambly. I'd planned to go into some stuff about my band, Blue Tattoo, and a couple of other things but I've already been typing too long and I'm not sure anybody's still reading anyway. So I'll check in with all that soon, and a Willie nelson concert review next weekend (a little less wordy I hope).
Bye.
Anyhoo, I had a few things to do around the house on Friday, so we got to the concert a little late (completely missing a band called I Love Math which seems appropriate because I hate math). Miles Of Wire were on stage when we arrived, who I believe are local. Didn't see much of their set, but I liked what I heard. The next act was some dude from Texas called Hayes Carll. I really liked his set. I'd definitely recommend checking him out if you like artists such as Steve Earle, Townes Van Zant, Rodney Crowell, etc. I liked it so much I picked up his CD at the merch table and have been listening to it since.
The headliners were, of course, Old 97's. They put on a good show. I think I may have gone in with a somewhat inaccurate expectation, as I've heard that their gigs were sweat-soaked barnstormers for years. So I expected a bit more of an out and out rocker with a few of the mid tempo songs thrown in. Actually the set was more balanced than that, with quite a few slower songs, but that's okay, it was really good, just not what I expected.
The musicianship was top notch. Philip Peeples, the drummer (who does the theme from Endless Summer), does a lot of that cross handed drumming stuff which looks so cool and I love. Guitar player Ken Bethea is very energetic and fun to watch. Murray Hammond has an interesting thumb based technique for playing bass that is part John Entwistle, part Johnny Cash. Also, his songs are among the best in the band's catalog. Murray rules. Which leaves us with front man Rhett Miller. He's the skinny cute guy in the band, and probably ten years younger than his band mates. Picture Michael Kelso fronting a band and you're there. Some of his hip shaking and half-assed windmills were a little silly, but so is Mick Jagger's stage stuff so whatever.
My only complaint, and it's a small one, was the length of the show. At almost 2/12 hours, I felt it was a little long to headline a festival type show (even if I didn't see all of the acts.) Hey, I'm all about getting your money's worth, and as far as that goes, they delivered. It's just that with all the slower and mid tempo stuff they did, the show dragged a little from time to time and I left feeling tired. Not tired in an exhausted way like a Motorhead or Drive By truckers show, but sleepy tired. Still, the good stuff well outweighed the bad. I'd see them again, but maybe in a few years, not every time they come in.
Wow, that was long and rambly. I'd planned to go into some stuff about my band, Blue Tattoo, and a couple of other things but I've already been typing too long and I'm not sure anybody's still reading anyway. So I'll check in with all that soon, and a Willie nelson concert review next weekend (a little less wordy I hope).
Bye.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Been A While
So I haven't been blogging much lately...sorry. It's pretty difficult to find the time here lately. I've thought of things to say, but when I finally get some free time, I'm usually too tired to do anything about it. Translation: being a Daddy takes a lot of time.
Even feeding the girl is difficult. Last night it took about two hours to feed her a 5 oz. bottle. She does a lot of stopping and starting, and gets over excited to the point where the whole thing's just ineffective.
Getting her to sleep can be difficult too. Daytime nap or out for the night, sometimes Tessa just won't sleep. add that on top of my existing schedule, and you can see how there's a lot of work and my free time (not to mention my wife's) is compromised. Let's be honest here folks, blogging ain't exactly number one on the catch up list, but I'll work on it.
So I do have a few things I'd like to talk about, but once again they'll have to wait. I'll check in this weekend with a band update, a review of the Old 97's concert tonight (I do have some free time!), and maybe a few other things as well. I Promise. Maybe.
Even feeding the girl is difficult. Last night it took about two hours to feed her a 5 oz. bottle. She does a lot of stopping and starting, and gets over excited to the point where the whole thing's just ineffective.
Getting her to sleep can be difficult too. Daytime nap or out for the night, sometimes Tessa just won't sleep. add that on top of my existing schedule, and you can see how there's a lot of work and my free time (not to mention my wife's) is compromised. Let's be honest here folks, blogging ain't exactly number one on the catch up list, but I'll work on it.
So I do have a few things I'd like to talk about, but once again they'll have to wait. I'll check in this weekend with a band update, a review of the Old 97's concert tonight (I do have some free time!), and maybe a few other things as well. I Promise. Maybe.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
A couple of things I've been thinking about:
1. With John Edwards backing Barack Obama, it's officially over for Hillary Clinton. Sorry, it just is. Move on now.
2. The above has me thinking about this whole Primary election process. Usually a nominee is chosen fairly quickly but this year's elections are just dragging on. As someone who voted on Super Tuesday I can honestly say that I've gone back and forth a few times since then. So one can only imagine that people who are voting now have changed theirs too. I wonder how the voting would have gone had we all voted on Super Tuesday. Wouldn't it make more sense if we did?
Here's my idea. All fifty states should vote in one massive primary where the top two people become the candidates for their respective parties. Then, after a few months of campaigning we all vote again. At that point the nominees for each party are decided and we can get on with the business at hand of electing a new President. Doesn't it feel like we're just wasting a lot of time here?
Think about it, there's a reason we don't drag out the Presidential election, so why are we doing it now? I admit that my solution is not perfect, but it's got to be better than what we're doing.
3."I didn't know whether to shit or go blind, so I closed one eye and farted." that's the best quote I've read for a long time. Apparently Willie Nelson said it to Woody Harrelson, but I have no idea the context. I also don't know what it means. How are going blind and defecation related? My daughter poops a lot, should I be concerned? Did the one eyed fart make everything okay? What the hell was the problem in the first place? I'll probably never know, but I'm fascinated nonetheless.
4. How do the people at those home shopping channels sleep at night? I mean, I'm not against people making money but they rip people off right and left. I know because I work in a business where we buy certain used items from the public (I won't use specifics so no one gets upset). A few times a month someone brings in some items that they think are highly collectible but are basically worthless. Without fail, they bought them from t.v. Never buy from these weasels. Ever.
5. Baby puke is gross. Popsicles are awesome. I'm not sure how those things relate either.
Okay, that's enough random crap for right now. I've got some episodes of "How I Met Your Mother", "My Name Is Earl" and "The Simpsons" on the DVR to catch up on. Blog ya later.
1. With John Edwards backing Barack Obama, it's officially over for Hillary Clinton. Sorry, it just is. Move on now.
2. The above has me thinking about this whole Primary election process. Usually a nominee is chosen fairly quickly but this year's elections are just dragging on. As someone who voted on Super Tuesday I can honestly say that I've gone back and forth a few times since then. So one can only imagine that people who are voting now have changed theirs too. I wonder how the voting would have gone had we all voted on Super Tuesday. Wouldn't it make more sense if we did?
Here's my idea. All fifty states should vote in one massive primary where the top two people become the candidates for their respective parties. Then, after a few months of campaigning we all vote again. At that point the nominees for each party are decided and we can get on with the business at hand of electing a new President. Doesn't it feel like we're just wasting a lot of time here?
Think about it, there's a reason we don't drag out the Presidential election, so why are we doing it now? I admit that my solution is not perfect, but it's got to be better than what we're doing.
3."I didn't know whether to shit or go blind, so I closed one eye and farted." that's the best quote I've read for a long time. Apparently Willie Nelson said it to Woody Harrelson, but I have no idea the context. I also don't know what it means. How are going blind and defecation related? My daughter poops a lot, should I be concerned? Did the one eyed fart make everything okay? What the hell was the problem in the first place? I'll probably never know, but I'm fascinated nonetheless.
4. How do the people at those home shopping channels sleep at night? I mean, I'm not against people making money but they rip people off right and left. I know because I work in a business where we buy certain used items from the public (I won't use specifics so no one gets upset). A few times a month someone brings in some items that they think are highly collectible but are basically worthless. Without fail, they bought them from t.v. Never buy from these weasels. Ever.
5. Baby puke is gross. Popsicles are awesome. I'm not sure how those things relate either.
Okay, that's enough random crap for right now. I've got some episodes of "How I Met Your Mother", "My Name Is Earl" and "The Simpsons" on the DVR to catch up on. Blog ya later.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Chris Gaffney, R.I.P.
I've been kinda wrapped up in my own little world here lately so I missed the news on this one. Chris Gaffney, singer/songwriter/guitar and accordion (!) player for one of my favorite bands, The Hacienda Brothers died on April 16, 2008 from liver cancer. You know how sometimes a death of someone you don't really know just blindsides you? I had that. I didn't know Mr. Gaffney, but I did meet him a few times. Let me give you the story.
A couple of years ago Valerie and I took a trip to Nashville for a week, my second trip, her first. If you haven't been, it's a pretty cool town. Yeah, liking country music is a plus, but you could probably enjoy yourself even if you only tolerate country. Anyhoo, one night after a plate of the best ribs in the universe at Jack's we were trying to decide which bar to go to and hear some music. I can't remember for the life of me which one we went to but it was on BBroadway a few doors down from Jacks. The sign on the door said "Tonight: Hacienda Brothers. Free." Okay, works for me.
We came in as the band was doing a sound check, got our beers, and wondered why more people weren't in the free bar. after a song or two, Gaffney pointed to our table and asked if the vocals were okay. I gave him the thumbs up, and he said "Alright, we'll start then." By the third song I was blown away. By the ninth song (and a few more beers), I was drunkenly calling my friends back home on my cell to make them listen. The set was a mix of originals and covers, every one a winner. For some reason we had to leave early that night, and I had a brief chat with the band before we left, telling them how much I enjoyed it. When I asked if they had a CD available Chris said "Naw, we're recording it. Got a t-shirt. I guess you can't play that for people though." I laughed, we shook hands and I made my exit.
Fast forward one year, The Hacienda Bros. self titled CD came out. It was a lot more mellow than the show I saw, but still great. The slogan "Western Soul" was applied to it and it fit, but the emphasis was on the Western part. The next year the second CD "What's Wrong With Right?" was released and this time there was much more of the soul element. I must admit that I didn't like it as much but it still had a lot to like on it. I remained a fan.
In 2007 Th Haciendas did a show at Off Broadway in south St. Louis. Naturally Valerie and I went, and although the band didn't come on until almost midnight, we had a blast. Once again I spoke with some of the guys in the group, about seeing them in Nashville and the music. Nice guys all around, especially Mr. Gaffney and Dan Gonzales (great guitar player, formerly of the Paladins).
So here we are in 2008. I just happened to visit the Bros. website and boom, there it is. I just thought it was sad, because they're such a great band, and he struck me as such a good guy. Also, I was looking forward to the new disc, I have a feeling that the balance of Western Soul is about to be struck. It comes out in June, so we'll see. I was hoping it would be the one that brought them from cult status and critical faves into a larger audience. Now it can be little more than a cap on a too short run.
Apart from The Hacienda Brothers, Chris Gaffney also had a solo career with his band, Chris Gaffney and the Cold Hard Facts (Porter Wagoner reference, maybe?), and he played with Dave Alvin and Lucinda Williams. Until his death I was not aware of this work...looks like I've got some stuff to seek out. Right now I'm going over to the Hacienda's site and buying the limited edition live CD (which I've been meaning to for a long time), and maybe another T-shirt. I'd recommend you do too.
Thanks for reading this and letting me ramble. Oh, and Chris, thanks for the tunes.
A couple of years ago Valerie and I took a trip to Nashville for a week, my second trip, her first. If you haven't been, it's a pretty cool town. Yeah, liking country music is a plus, but you could probably enjoy yourself even if you only tolerate country. Anyhoo, one night after a plate of the best ribs in the universe at Jack's we were trying to decide which bar to go to and hear some music. I can't remember for the life of me which one we went to but it was on BBroadway a few doors down from Jacks. The sign on the door said "Tonight: Hacienda Brothers. Free." Okay, works for me.
We came in as the band was doing a sound check, got our beers, and wondered why more people weren't in the free bar. after a song or two, Gaffney pointed to our table and asked if the vocals were okay. I gave him the thumbs up, and he said "Alright, we'll start then." By the third song I was blown away. By the ninth song (and a few more beers), I was drunkenly calling my friends back home on my cell to make them listen. The set was a mix of originals and covers, every one a winner. For some reason we had to leave early that night, and I had a brief chat with the band before we left, telling them how much I enjoyed it. When I asked if they had a CD available Chris said "Naw, we're recording it. Got a t-shirt. I guess you can't play that for people though." I laughed, we shook hands and I made my exit.
Fast forward one year, The Hacienda Bros. self titled CD came out. It was a lot more mellow than the show I saw, but still great. The slogan "Western Soul" was applied to it and it fit, but the emphasis was on the Western part. The next year the second CD "What's Wrong With Right?" was released and this time there was much more of the soul element. I must admit that I didn't like it as much but it still had a lot to like on it. I remained a fan.
In 2007 Th Haciendas did a show at Off Broadway in south St. Louis. Naturally Valerie and I went, and although the band didn't come on until almost midnight, we had a blast. Once again I spoke with some of the guys in the group, about seeing them in Nashville and the music. Nice guys all around, especially Mr. Gaffney and Dan Gonzales (great guitar player, formerly of the Paladins).
So here we are in 2008. I just happened to visit the Bros. website and boom, there it is. I just thought it was sad, because they're such a great band, and he struck me as such a good guy. Also, I was looking forward to the new disc, I have a feeling that the balance of Western Soul is about to be struck. It comes out in June, so we'll see. I was hoping it would be the one that brought them from cult status and critical faves into a larger audience. Now it can be little more than a cap on a too short run.
Apart from The Hacienda Brothers, Chris Gaffney also had a solo career with his band, Chris Gaffney and the Cold Hard Facts (Porter Wagoner reference, maybe?), and he played with Dave Alvin and Lucinda Williams. Until his death I was not aware of this work...looks like I've got some stuff to seek out. Right now I'm going over to the Hacienda's site and buying the limited edition live CD (which I've been meaning to for a long time), and maybe another T-shirt. I'd recommend you do too.
Thanks for reading this and letting me ramble. Oh, and Chris, thanks for the tunes.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Tessa's Pictures (Finally)
This one's my favorite. She's a scally cap away from being in the Dropkick Murphys.
Daddy loves Tessa.
Jake sniffs Tessa.
Mommy loves Tessa.
Daddy and Tessa in the delivery room.
First picture with eyes open.
These are my faves of the 30 or so that are floating around. Hope you like them.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Welcome Tessa
Tessa Sharron Brink was born on April 15, 2008. She was 7 lbs. 13 oz. (she's lost a little now), and 21 inches long (which she still is).
Sorry this post is so late, but my wife Valerie was in the hospital for 4 nights, which is standard these days for a c-section. For whatever reason the hospital doesn't have wi-fi available for patients so I couldn't post from there. Also, I've been a little busy what with this whole fatherhood thing and all. We took a bunch of pics, but I haven't downloaded them yet so that'll come in a day or two. She's beautiful though, trust me.
As for Tessa herself, she's a sweetheart when she's awake and conteented. Of course, this only happens about 10 minutes at a time, the rest she's either sleeping, eating, screaming or pooping. And believe it or not, she can do them all at once. But that's okay, she's only a couple of days old and that'll ge better right? Right?
Valerie and tessa are both sleeping now so I think I might have a nap myself. I'll get those pics up soon.
Bye.
Sorry this post is so late, but my wife Valerie was in the hospital for 4 nights, which is standard these days for a c-section. For whatever reason the hospital doesn't have wi-fi available for patients so I couldn't post from there. Also, I've been a little busy what with this whole fatherhood thing and all. We took a bunch of pics, but I haven't downloaded them yet so that'll come in a day or two. She's beautiful though, trust me.
As for Tessa herself, she's a sweetheart when she's awake and conteented. Of course, this only happens about 10 minutes at a time, the rest she's either sleeping, eating, screaming or pooping. And believe it or not, she can do them all at once. But that's okay, she's only a couple of days old and that'll ge better right? Right?
Valerie and tessa are both sleeping now so I think I might have a nap myself. I'll get those pics up soon.
Bye.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Welcome
Welcome all to my first blog. Do you love me yet?
Okay, so here's the latest and the greatest for ya. The demo from my band, Blue Tattoo, is completed and sounds awesome. We should be able to move forward soon, doing shows and getting the website up and running, photos and all kinds of stuff. Stay tuned.
I am going to be a Daddy. Tomorrow, Apr. 15th. Pictures, name and info about my little girl will be posted soon. We haven't told anyone the name yet, partially because we want it to be a surprise. Also because it annoys people and that's fun for me.
My wife, Valerie, will probably be annoyed that I mentioned the band first. Again, that's fun for me.
Also, Rush's new live CD comes out tomorrow too, as does a live e.p. from former Drive by Truckers guitarist Jason Isbell. Just thought you should know.
Okay, gotta go. Be good...or at least be yourself.
Dave
Okay, so here's the latest and the greatest for ya. The demo from my band, Blue Tattoo, is completed and sounds awesome. We should be able to move forward soon, doing shows and getting the website up and running, photos and all kinds of stuff. Stay tuned.
I am going to be a Daddy. Tomorrow, Apr. 15th. Pictures, name and info about my little girl will be posted soon. We haven't told anyone the name yet, partially because we want it to be a surprise. Also because it annoys people and that's fun for me.
My wife, Valerie, will probably be annoyed that I mentioned the band first. Again, that's fun for me.
Also, Rush's new live CD comes out tomorrow too, as does a live e.p. from former Drive by Truckers guitarist Jason Isbell. Just thought you should know.
Okay, gotta go. Be good...or at least be yourself.
Dave
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