Wednesday, December 30, 2015

2015 -The Soundtrack To My Year

As is customary right around New Year's, I'm doing my year end  "favorite records" post. It was a bit of an off year for me, not as much music caught my ear in 2015 as in years past. Part of this is because I have been working on my own project and kinda got lost in that for a while (more details coming soon). Another reason is that I spent a good portion of the year with a little less disposable income and had to be a little bit choosy about where my entertainment dollar went.

And then there's my stubbornness. I am a die-hard old school record collector. I don't download music unless the songs are only available in that format. I don't like ordering online either, this is used as a last resort. I like to actually go to the record store and buy the physical product. Dinosaur stuff, I know, but that's just how I am. I like hunting records down. I like the artwork, feel, and even smell of hard media. Limiting perhaps, but much more satisfying as a collector.

Sorry, I got side tracked there. I think this year's top ten (and the ones that almost made it) is pretty cool. As always there are a few things I missed, (and I am sure I'll look at this list a month from now and want to change it a little bit) but this is how it stands now. Ready? Let's go.

MY FAVORITE RECORDS 2015

1. Bottle Rockets-South Broadway Athletic Club
     -A fantastic record by one of the most underrated bands in the alt-country genre. Not a bad tune here from start to finish. A lot of fun songs here to be sure, but also a lot of lyrics about your average Joe and the day to day of just trying to get by. And any record that can get me to sing along to an ode to the singer's dog has to have something going for it, right?

2. Motorhead-Black Magic XXXX
     -This record starts with Lemmy defiantly spitting out the line "Victory or Die!" and doesn't let up. Instantly a top five the moment I heard it. This one's a little bit angrier than some of my favorite Motorhead records, and darker too. But it rocks and really gets you going. Long time fans were thrilled to know that Lem and the boys could still deliver 40 years on, and with Lemmy's recent passing, this is a fitting final statement. And no, Lemmy's death didn't move this record up in the standings; it really is that good.

3. Grace Potter-Midnight
     -Grace completely shocked and surprised her long time fans by turning her back on her more soulful indie/blues/alterna-rock thing and making a shiny, glittery. dance pop record. By all rights I should be furious at her for the change, but I love it. Even if it is disposable pop music, Grace has infused it with enough grit and soul to make it a step above most everyone else working in the genre. Total fun.

4. Chris Cornell-Higher Truth
     -I have always liked Chris Cornell's voice. Although I am a casual Soundgarden fan, I have enjoyed pretty much everything else he's done and this is no exception. Confessional style writing and a stripped down arrangement make this one of the best records in the man's catalog. Intimate, dark, yet holding on to hope, this is a highly emotional record worthy of every fan's attention.

5. Courtney Barnett-Sometimes I Sit and Think and Sometimes I Just Sit
     -Wow. Debut of the year. Courtney is a singer songwriter who actually rocks. Her lyrics are truthful, often conversational, funny and serious, and she delivers them with a combination of rawness and aloofness that takes the listener a bit off guard and makes her the coolest person in the room. I also love the fact that her Australian accent is proudly on display-no pandering for an audience here. 100% authentic and awesome.

6. Faith No More-Sol Invictus
     -I wasn't sure what to expect from a new FNM disc after all these years, but was very happy with what I got. Gone are the riffs and hooks of their MTV days. Gone too is the weird for the sake of it vibe from the "Angel Dust" era. What remains is the high artistic bar they set for themselves, and  they have delivered a beautiful, haunting, heavy record that demands your focus and rewards it more with every listen. A bit subdued for some perhaps, but well worth investigating.

7. Bunnygrunt-Vol. 4
     -Garage rock quality sound mixed with power pop hooks and a sense of humor. Dig the Black Sabbath parody cover and opening joke. Bunnygrunt is a St. Louis based band but have made a mark on the national indie scene. This record proves why. It could never be a hit, but these songs will stick in your head. Great band, fun listen, all you really need.

8. Scott Weiland and the Wildabouts-Blaster
     -When it came out this record was dismissed  by many as little more than watered down Stone Temple Pilots. While that criticism isn't entirely inaccurate, it's not entirely fair either. Sure, there are a few STP rip off riffs, and an entirely unnecessary T. Rex cover, but once you actually begin listening to the songs it's a pretty decent pop rock record. It would have been nice to see Scott go out on something great, but this is a much more solid effort than it gets credit for. Give it a listen.

9. Tame Impala-Currents
     -Wait, what? Did I just put this in the top 10? Yeah, I did, and I understand your confusion. This is a synth record, which I am normally opposed to. But when I listen to this I hear everything from Kraftwerk to ELP to early Pink Floyd to The Art Of Noise, mixed with some EDM touches just because why the hell not? Tame Impala is really just a guy in his basement with a bunch of synths and drum machines and a guitar or two writing songs that are almost pop, almost prog, and almost disco without actually being any of the three. This record fascinates me and frustrates me at the same time. Which is what makes it art, and why I have included it here. Quite simply I have heard nothing else like it all year.

10. Iron Maiden-The Book Of Souls
     - This is Maiden's first studio double album. It is grand, soaring, epic, and is 100% Maiden through and through. Which is also the problem and why it didn't rate higher. This album is simply too long. While there are definite gems, it's almost impossible to listen to in one siting. Therefore I feel some songs get looked over, or are unfairly compared to the longer epics. "The Book Of Souls" has a balance problem and would have benefited from being shorter. Trim a few sections here and there, drop maybe one song and it would be a great single disc instead of a good overlong one. Still, it's hard to complain about too much of a good thing from one of my all time favorite bands. So the length is forgiveable, but the drum sound is not. Seriously...

AND  THE ONES THAT ALMOST MADE IT

Sleater-Kinney-No Cities To Love (very nearly on the list!)
Halestorm-Into The Wild Life (better than it deserves to be)
Squeeze- Cradle To The Grave (loves me some Squeeze. I will probably regret this one not being in the top 10)

GUILTY  PLEASURE

Def Leppard-self titled (what can I say? I grew up in the 80s and am still a sucker for arena rock now and again.)

So that's it. There are a handful of  discs I never got around to buying (why did I never pick up Jason Isbell? Or the Libertines? Or Supersuckers? Or...) so I can't really include them, even if I have heard the records. I only count stuff I own at the time of the list-making. I won't list my disappointments this year either, because I'd like to keep it positive and focus on the good stuff. But I am mad at David Gilmour. Oops. Sorry, that slipped out.

Anyway, thanks for reading all this. I said earlier that it wasn't a big year for me musically but upon reflection it was pretty awesome. Looking forward to the new sounds 2016 will bring.





Monday, November 9, 2015

Red Cup Theories

I believe it's safe to assume that by now we have all heard about the big ruckus with the red Starbuck's cup and how they don't have Christmas designs anymore. That is, unless your life is much more interesting than mine or you have been living under a rock. In which case, I either need to hire you as my life coach or borrow your rock.

It seems as though some Christians are all up in arms about this particular situation and are accusing Starbuck's of being anti Christian, anti Christ, and perpetuating the so called "war on Christmas". The rest of us are like whatevs, it's a cup. Oh, and by the way, stuff like this is why people are leaving the Church in droves and are so critical of Christianity and Christians.   Not because of the message of God's love and Christ's salvation. It's because of the extreme fringe who make us all look crazy.

Anyway.

I have two theories about "the cup" and what the real story is.

Theory #1:
It costs a lot less in printing and production to make a plain red cup than one with a bunch of stuff on it. The company doesn't have to pay a design team and  the marketing people just slapped together the "it's a design that welcomes all our stories" line over lunch one day and boom. Done.

That is probably accurate. But it's not a whole lot of fun. So let's have a little fun with this. Stay with me here, this is neat.

Theory #2:
The guys in charge at Starbuck's are geniuses.

The latest push back by the offended parties is to go into a Starbuck's, place your order and give your name as "Merry Christmas" thereby forcing the evil ones to acknowledge Christmas and winning the battle.  Passive aggressive protest at its finest! Sounds like a victory, right? A small, petty one, sure, but a victory nonetheless.

Except that that's exactly what Starbuck's wanted all along.

Now for this theory to work we have to accept two things. One is that there is no such thing as bad publicity. The other is the very possible idea that Starbuck's is among the many retailers who use what is referred to as guerrilla marketing. For those who may be unaware, guerrilla marketing is a strategy that is designed to have businesses promote themselves in an unconventional way. It uses unconventional advertisements  and direct contact to make the product more personal to the consumer, cause an emotional reaction, and ultimately get serious buzz going about the product. This technique was originally used by small businesses but big business has embraced the concept and run with it as well.

So let's follow this logic. The company takes away the design on the cups, which is just the kind of silly little thing that Americans get upset about at any time of year, but messing with the holiday stuff is just adding that little extra bit of juice to rile 'em up even more. So people get angry and take to social media to make Starbuck's the bad guys. Remember, Starbuck's has the "all our stories" line to fall back on so they can make themselves out to be the innocent victim.

But wait! There's more! You see, the geniuses over at Starbuck's anticipated the "my name is Merry Christmas" thing (it's completely obvious and  really not that clever) and knew that their employees would follow protocol when the time comes. So now they've got people organizing over social media to go and "trick" Starbuck's into making them a Christmas cup. Some of these people will have never had a cup of Starbuck's coffee before but will come in and spend their money on principle.

That's right. These people are STILL SPENDING THEIR MONEY AT STARBUCK'S. Then you have the people who think these "protesters" are out of their minds and will probably go out of their way to buy an extra cup or two just to make their point. It's a win-win. More publicity and more money.

Here's the other thing. Americans have grotesquely short attention spans and very little long term memory when it comes to these minor squabbles. So by the time Summer rolls around and nobody is thinking about Christmas anymore the same people who were upset about the red holiday cup will be buying extra coffees when they are drinking from the "red patriotic cups"  (really just the unsold holiday ones) round about the Fourth of July. And Starbuck's can keep this cycle going for a few years if they want to. Until, of course, they bring back the "special limited edition" holiday cups because they have listened to their customers and are giving them what they want. At an extra fee.

A bit of a stretch? Maybe. But then again maybe not.

Here's what it all boils down to folks. This red cup thing isn't about Christmas, Christ or customers. It's about money, pure and simple. Money. And Starbuck's knows how to make a lot of it. Well played, Starbuck's. Well played.

Monday, September 21, 2015

On The Subject Of Suicide Prevention Month

I want to tell you a story about Mike. I didn't know him very well but I want to tell the story anyway.

This goes back to the late 90's, when I was in my late twenties.  I was working overnights for a building maintenance company in St. Louis. I'd go to four different buildings a night and do whatever was needed. For a while I worked two of those buildings with a guy named Mike. We worked well together, were very efficient, and had enough in common to carry on conversations and not get bored. I liked Mike a lot, he was a good guy.

At one point, Mike started asking me if I wanted a beer after work. I'd always turn him down. After all, it was only midnight and I had two more buildings to hit. Also, he kept his beer in the trunk of his car, in the Summer. Honestly, that did not appeal in the least. It also made me wonder if he was an alcoholic. I still don't know the answer to that question.

Anyway, this kept up for a few weeks on and off and I would always refuse as nicely as possible. One night, a Thursday if I recall, Mike started asking me before we were done working. He just kept going on about it, saying we should hang out after work and have some beers. "Come on, man, just for a little while. Just hang out with me. Just for a while." Again I said no. I told him that maybe we could get together the following weekend. He was disappointed. His whole face sunk. I told him to have a good night and I'd see him tomorrow. Except I wouldn't. I drove off and left him to drink his warm beer in the HealthSouth parking lot.

The next day I got a call from our manager, Brad, at the main office. He said he would meet me at the start of my shift and work with me that night. So Brad shows up at 6:00 looking a bit haggard. I asked where Mike was working that night, since obviously Brad was working with me for some sort of evaluation.

"You know that nature area out off of Manchester and 141?"

"Yeah. Drive by it almost every night."

"Mike drove out there last night and shot himself. He's dead. His parents called me today to tell me. And I had to ask his mother if I could come get the keys he had in his pocket so we could open these buildings tonight."

Then he gave me the keys. Needless to say I was taken aback quite a bit and it was a horrible night.

That was the first time someone I knew committed suicide. Sadly, it was not the last.

Today would have been my cousin Patrick's birthday.  I wrote about him on the blog in April of 2014, so I won't rehash it all here, but you can check it out in the archives if you wish. He killed himself that year, and I think about him a lot.

There are other stories, but I'm not going to dwell any longer. I feel a little bit of guilt attatched to both of these stories. No, I don't feel responsible for what either man did. But I feel guilty that I wasn't closer to my cousin as an adult. And as for Mike, I always wondered if I shouldn't have made more of an effort to be a friend.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. It's hard to predict a suicide, and harder to prevent one. Because you never know what's going on in another person's head. Look at how shocked people were when Robin Williams died. You just never know.

And that's why I'm writing this post. It's not up to doctors or medical professionals to help prevent suicide, like it is with disease. Suicide is a personal thing and the reasons and symptoms differ from person to person. It's up to us.

So here's the deal. BE INVOLVED with the people you love. Family members, friends, co workers, etc. You never know who needs some kind words and support. We all have a mask that we put on so we don't have to show our vulnerabilities to the world. But we've all got them, and sometimes the breaking point is reached. So be there for the ones you love. Or like. Or even if you don't like them all that much but they seem to need a positive word. Even a smile and small compliment could save a life.

And if you need help, get help. Don't be afraid to take off the mask when you need to. We all do from time to time. Find a friend, family member, pastor, or co worker to talk to. If you can't do that then call this number 1-800-273-TALK. There's a sympathetic ear waiting. Don't be a statistic. Live your life. There's another birthday and another warm beer waiting for you. And that's so much better than the alternative. Trust me.


Wednesday, September 9, 2015

On The Subject Of Gun Control

As I said a few blogs back, I am going to start tackling some serious topics here. No doubt I will anger or offend some. That is going to be unavoidable and I regret that. But if you don't mind hearing and thinking about an opposing viewpoint now and again, read on. Thanks for taking the time.
                                                                                                                                                         -Dave
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------          

So. What's it going to take? What's it going to take for us to have a real conversation in this country? I mean a real, honest, respectful, logical conversation about gun control? One think that it would take multiple mass shootings, and people being murdered on live t.v. for us to all wake up and talk.

Evidently it takes more than that.

Let me state this up front, before too many people get ticked off and go straight to the comments to leave all kinds of messages. I don't want to take your guns away. I'll repeat that, it's important.

I. Don't. Want. To. Take. Your. Guns. Away.

I think we need a discussion about gun control, not abolishment. First off, yes, we do have the right to bear arms in this country and I am not naïve  enough to think that's going to change. Besides, the gun culture is so prolific in America that even if banning guns were on the table as a viable concept it would be virtually impossible to actually accomplish. So let's just throw that out right now and move on to real nuts and bolts stuff here.

I believe that most gun owners are responsible. Certainly not all, but most. They follow the laws of their own state to a "t' and have gone through training on safety and proper usage. These people lock their guns away when not in use, or at least keep them in a safe place where children are unlikely to come across them. They are used only for hunting or skeet/target shooting and then put away. I have no problem with this.

Then there are the collectors who actually appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into the design of a gun. Some feel a connection to history, some just appreciate a quality piece. Again no problem.

What I have a problem with is the total lack of support or willingness to even consider restrictions on what kinds of guns and ammo can be sold to whom and how. In my experience with gun owners (and I know a lot of them), even the slightest suggestion of a new change in the law is met with a hostility that is deep and volatile enough to be frightening. And this from the type of people I described above.

I mean, if you classify yourself as a responsible gun owner, why is it a problem to make sure that there are rules in place to keep everyone on the same page? It is understandable that there may be the fear of  the whole "give 'em an inch" idea, but again, as long as we're not talking about abolishment where's the issue? It really does look bad to the rest of us. Because you're the responsible ones and it makes y'all look irresponsible.

And you know who I mean by the irresponsible ones. These are the people who give loaded automatic rifles to six year olds and take them out to shoot. These are the ones who pose for family pictures in gun belts and holding their weaponry. The ones who start communes. These are the guys who are armed to the teeth and are afraid that "the ty-rannical gub'ment's comin'" to take their freedon and that they'll actually be in (and win) a standoff with our nation's military when the revolution comes.

Do you want to be part of that? Because that's what it looks like from over here. So let's just talk, okay?

Before we move on, I'd like to point out one place where I find a little bit of common ground. I have heard it said quite a bit recently that the biggest problem involved in the mass shootings that are becoming more frequent (and less surprising) is mental health, not guns. I agree whole heartedly that mental illness is a huge problem that we as Americans tend to sweep under the rug, and we don't put enough time, attention, and resources into this area at all.

So the theory says that the person should be blamed and not the gun. And here is where I have some questions, because the fact is that in a mass shooting a gun is used. Why? Because they get the job done. Nobody goes into a crowd with a loaded slingshot and gets the same results. There have been instances where people have used knives, but the numbers are smaller and largely the damage less severe. Nope, when these events have happened (from Columbine to Sandy Hook to Charleston and all points in between) the perpetrators have all wanted to either be a martyr, or be famous, or just show mom and dad, and they all chose to use a gun. So, that's kind of damning to the whole firearm industry is it not?

But then that leads us to availability and ease of purchase. For now I am going to leave the black market out of the discussion, as this is a problem that the local law enforcement and I believe the military should be taking on. Hey, send the army after the black market profiteers and maybe they can get back some of their stuff. Let's just discuss this topic in effect of the average Joe.

It shouldn't be easy to get a gun. And no, I don't think a three day hold is good enough. Classes should have to be passed and permit received before the first purchase. Criminal records and medical records should be accessed. Screw the HIPAA laws, this is public safety and an exception should be made. Or at least a doctor's note. Oh, and collectors, sorry, but pick out the piece you want at the show and then go through the hoops and waiting period before the gun is shipped to you. I know how collectible trade shows work and this idea is not impossible nor will it destroy any one's business.

And NO GIFTING of guns should be allowed. Ever. Remember, the scumbag who shot up the church in Charleston (I won't  acknowledge him by name) got the gun as a gift from his father, who knew that his son had issues. In fact, if my information is correct, the kid wasn't able to get a gun due to local laws, so the dad filled out the paperwork on his own and got the gun for his son. Responsible gun ownership? Responsible parenting? I think not. So, to bring this full circle, if I can't blame the gun, can I blame the person who gave the unstable person a gun? And shouldn't he be up on  charges too?

Okay, one more thing before I finish. The pro gun side needs some better arguments. I'm not talking about self defense here (although concealed carry scares the crap out of me, and I have seen it abused by people armed in places they are not supposed to be on more than one occasion). If you believe a gun is your best home security option I won't argue with you, I'll just pray you never have to use it.

I will now deconstruct my favorite argument against gun control. It's phrased differently  from one speaker to another, but goes something like this: "If you don't have to give up your car because others drive drunk with theirs, then why do you have to give up your gun because others commit crimes with theirs?"

Okay, see...this is just ridiculous. It seems clever on the surface but the argument is a nonsensical one. The flaw in this logic is that it assumes that cars and guns are like objects, and that improper use has the same outcome. Again, I don't want to take your gun, but I can't let this one go.

Let's look at the car. The automobile is a machine designed to transport the driver and passengers from point A to point B.  When operated improperly, via drunk or distracted driving, yes accidents do happen and deaths can occur.

However, a gun is a tool that is designed to shoot a bullet into something or someone. The idea is to put a hole through the object the gun is fired towards, often killing it. If a gun is operated improperly, you miss and are a bad shot. See the difference?

Alright, I'm going to stop here. We could get into crime rates and safety concerns and a whole lot of other stuff but this is already long enough. I hope that this tirade hasn't offended too many or lost me any friends. I tried to keep the snark to a minimum (except that last part) and truly hope this made you think instead of just angering people.. And no, I don't assume I changed anyone's mind about the issue. I just want people to really start talking and maybe we can start to find the middle ground. America has some healing to do  and hard decisions to make. So we have to talk about these things. Once again, thank you for letting me have my say.


Sunday, August 9, 2015

What's Going On Today

In 1971 Marvin Gaye put out a record called "What's Going On'. For those who may be unfamiliar, let me catch you up. This is going somewhere. Promise.

In the late 1960s and early 70s, the country went kind of nuts. Marvin Gaye noticed, and decided to say something. He'd had lots of success singing what are now classic soul songs ("Heard It Through The Grape Vine" anyone?) but was frustrated that his music wasn't reflecting the world as it was. So he created an album that fixed that. It was a song cycle in which all the songs were connected musically and thematically with nary a break between the songs themselves. Musically this was practically a first for soul music and the record would be remembered for that alone.

But the key here is the lyrics. After a career in Motown made out of the "baby, baby" stuff that the label and his fans were used to, Marvin hit 'em with a punch to the gut and the mind by hitting on topics that were not sung about in soul music at the time. Topics that were real. Topics that are still here today,

Basically, "What's Going On" is Marvin Gaye saying "Hey, guys, doesn't anybody see all this? Doesn't anyone else think it's weird and wrong? Is it just me? Anybody?" This record came out a year before I was born, but I fee like that pretty much all the time. About a lot of the same things.

Here's why this stuff still resonates, by topic, and what I think it all means.

THE TREATMENT OF VETERANS: The character in the song "What's Happening Brother" has just come home from the war, has no money, no prospects and is out of sorts. This hasn't changed, and we still don't seem to care. I am about as anti war as it gets, but we can do better by the survivors of war.

HEROIN ADDICTION: Marvin sings "Flyin' High In The Friendly Sky" about heroin addiction, using the slang "Boy" for the drug. Heroin use is currently at epidemic levels in St. Louis. The boy is still here and as active as ever.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS: "Mercy, Mercy Me (The Ecology) is a save the planet song from 1971. We may be more aware now of the hazards we pose to the planet we are supposed to steward but how much progress have we made?

INNER CITY PROBLEMS: "Crime is increasing/Trigger happy policing/Panic is spreading/God knows where we're heading...Make me wanna holler/and throw up both my hands."  This is the one year anniversary of Michael Brown's death and the Ferguson protests. Just saying.

MAN'S RELATIONSHIP TO GOD: Though the theology may not be 100%, there are two modern day hymns on this record, suggesting that the only solution may not be found in man but the only hope is in divine intervention. These songs play like pleas as much as praise and that's a feeling that many of us are familiar with.

So what's the point here? What's going on? What does it say about our society that these troubles are still with us and are getting worse?

Simple answer number one. WE DON'T LEARN. As a people, we refuse to learn. We still can't get it together to take care of one another and put in a little self sacrifice every once in a while for the greater good.

Simple answer number two. WE CAN'T CHANGE THINGS. Mankind has been wrecking things since the beginning of time. All we do is just keep on destroying. As much as we may want to, none of us can change the world, or even the country. It's too big and the problems too ingrained.

However, we can change ourselves. We can learn from our own mistakes and those of others. We can make an impact on our own little corner of the world. We can pray for help from above. We can do the best we can, and maybe, just maybe a cumulative effect will begin to take shape.

"What's Going On" is considered one of the greatest records of the 20th century. And if you haven't heard it you really should. It is a testament to the genius and memory of Marvin Gaye. It has held up extraordinarily well over 40 plus years. One day I would like my grand kids to hear it. I just hope they don't understand it, that they can't relate. That would be the biggest tribute to God, Marvin, and to us all.

Sunday, August 2, 2015

Starting

There's a lot going on.

I mean, really. There are just so many big issues out there now, I don't know where to begin. More importantly, I don't know how to address all of them.

You see, in the past I would just spew out any opinions or emotionally charged reactions and arguments I had and I didn't really care who's toes I stepped on, whether or not I offended anyone, or how the words came out sounding to my readers. I just thought people would deal with what they read, like it or lump it, and if they didn't agree or couldn't take my sense of humor they weren't worth my time.

Things have changed. I have matured quite a bit over the years (no really, I have. Stop snickering!)  and I care more now about how I communicate. I no longer wish to just beat people up with my opinions and I am more willing to listen to the other side. Provided that the dialogue remains respectful I am happy to have conversations about sticky topics. Which is not to say that I will always be crystal clear in my writings or that I won't push some buttons or get up on my high horse now and again. What's changing, however, is that I no longer want to purposefully write or communicate from that perspective.

An unforseen side effect of all this is that I have found myself saying very little or nothing at all in any sort of public forum. And that's just not me. It's time I start talking again for better or worse.

So, I shall be writing about some serious stuff here soon, after I organize my thoughts a little better. My ideas and world view may still offend and step on some toes, but I hope to present my arguments in a rational way that invites thought and productive dialogue. Although I reseve the right to a snarky comment here or there, but I'll try to back them up as best as possible and keep them to a minimum.

There you have it. This is both the disclaimer and intro to the next few blog entries coming your way. Stick with me and maybe we'll all come out the other side with more understanding and respect for one another. Sorry if that sounds hippie. What I mean is, let's stay taco bros. And, um, salsa sisters? ...I dunno, I gotta work on that.

Blog ya later.

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Uniting Humanity Through Fast Food

I work on Saturdays. Yeah, I know but it is what it is.  Anyway, I usually go out for lunch on Saturdays, as most of the leftovers are already gone. Today I only had a four dollars and a hankering for some pretend Mexican food so there was only one solution. Jack In The Box tacos. Two for a buck, baby!

So I drove to the restaur...um..place, and ordered in the drive through. The transaction was brief and I began scarfing down the greasy goodness (stay with me vegans, there's a point coming) as I drove back to work. We only get a half hour for lunch and you do what you gotta. As I drove through the neighborhood streets I noticed a red truck following. I didn't think much about it as these were main connector streets between two heavily congested main ones, and anyone who is familiar with the area would take the same route. Always know your shortcuts people.

Anyway, when I got back to Olive Blvd. and got in the right turn lane, the truck pulled up next to me and honked. I turned my head to see two young men half my age holding up their half eaten Jack In The Box tacos, in a gesture of brotherhood. I returned their salute with my own  half eaten taco as if to say "Well played young men, your taste is impeccable and I approve." Then the light changed and we went our separate ways. But for that one moment, we made a connection. We three were united. We were Taco Bros.

And that's the point of this little story. Over the love of fast food, I made a real, albeit brief, connection with random strangers. Clearly we were divided by age, experience, opinions and musical tastes, but it didn't matter. It was a goofy little moment that brightened my day.

Think about this. Doesn't it seem like we are all divided with each other much more than we are united? We are divided by the old chestnuts of politics and religion. We are divided by social class, heritage, and upbringing.  Major arguments are caused by differences in how we parent, what we eat,
how we talk, the list goes on. I don't know about you, but sometimes I get too caught up in it all. I can be quite stubborn about my opinions and have trouble seeing or even acknowledging the other side.

But, you know what? Sometimes it gets to be a little much. It can feel like you're the only person in the world who makes any sense. You can feel isolated, angry, and alone. Or, you can feel superior and empowered to the point of devaluing other human beings. I have been on both sides. Neither one is much fun.

So next time you're complaining about the other side, stop for a moment and think about the human side.  I'm not saying you need to change your strongly held beliefs or become a doormat to the opposition. I just think that maybe we should start thinking about the ways in which we are similar, and look at other people as people, not a dissenting voice on the Internet or an object to be despised and ridiculed. Before we are Democrats or Republicans, Religious or Atheist, Gay or Straight, Black or White, Blue and Black or White and Gold, or whatever our differences, we are people. FIRST, we are people.

Maybe if we start from that one common place, maybe we can start to value each other more. Maybe we can find the compromise. Maybe if we connect on a base level, a personal level, we can begin to get some good back into this world.

Maybe one day...we'll all be Taco Bros.


Thursday, February 19, 2015

Snow Brings Heat (Capsaicin and Me)

This past weekend it snowed. It was a light, fluffy sort of snow, but there was enough accumulation that I needed to shovel the driveway. It didn't take long and wasn't too strenuous so I got the job done and didn't think too much about it. Until the backache started, that is.

As anyone who has read my Facebook posts knows, I spent the next two days in quite a bit of pain. The best way I can describe the pain is that it feels like jagged rocks had been placed strategically into my back. So, long story short, I went to the clinic and was diagnosed with a muscle tear underneath the right shoulder blade. But that's all background. I'd like to share a little bit about the treatment.

First of all, no good meds. Over the counter stuff seems to suffice (though barely). Also I was told to use rice packs instead of heating pads, I suppose because "wet heat" is better than dry heat. Whatever.

I was also prescribed Capsaicin. For those who don't know, Capsaicin is a topical analgesic, invented to help with shingles, but also works for muscular injury, and arthritis. I chose the "no fuss applicator" stick as opposed to the traditional ointment, but I'm not sure how much that has to do with the result. Anyway, it did help when I applied the medicine this morning. My back felt a little looser and nimbler.

But, here's the thing. Capsaicin is the ingredient found in cayenne peppers that makes the peppers hot.
Yup. I put pepper juice on my skin.

I'm not sure Capsaicin actually does anything to help the muscular pain. It just makes you feel like your skin is on fire. What happens is that you're so concerned with the third degree burns and blisters that you're sure are forming on your skin at that very moment that you no longer care about the original pain. It's kind of brilliant in its own way.

This does present an interesting conundrum though. Is it worse to have pain rocks under the skin, or fire on top? Pain rock...fire. Pain rock...fire. Which pain is preferred? I suppose the answer is fire, since it's supposed to help me, but...wow.

The other question I have is...How painful is shingles that the best solution anyone has come up with is "CLEANSE ME WITH FIRE!!"?? I can only imagine.

So what did I learn from this experience? Simple. Teach the kids how to shovel snow.

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Okay, I admit it...I'm a Globophobe

Phobias.

Many people have them. Most phobias are quite common and understandable, even to those who don't share that particular fear. The fear of heights for example. Or spiders. Or large bodies of water. All perfectly acceptable things to be afraid of. After all, if you're going to have a phobia, have a popular one.

But not me. Nope. I have a weird one. I have been able to get over most of my fears. Flying, for one. I still don't particularly like to fly but I have done it successfully and scratched it off of my list. I have gotten better about the arachnophobia as well. I mean, I still freak out at really BIG spiders, but your standard household variety I can gingerly walk up to and smoosh. However, there is one fear that is so illogical, so weird that I don't believe it shall ever be defeated.

I have globophobia-the fear of balloons.

No, really, I do. Stop snickering. It's a thing. Google it.

The prevailing theory is that us globophobes had something traumatic happen to us as children regarding balloons. Probably having one pop in our face or something of that ilk. In fact, the most common fear amongst my fellow balloon haters is the fear that of a popping balloon. Now, in the past I have gone on record stating other reasons for my condition. Usually something like "They just float there, man!" or some such nonsense. I have always been embarrassed by this but if the truth be told, yeah, I'm afraid the dang thing will pop.

But it's not a passive fear, it is intense. As soon as I see a balloon I get nervous, sweaty, my pulse quickens, and a part of my brain goes in to a hyper sensitive protection mode. I immediately size up the room and all possible popping scenarios. I need to figure out how many balloons there are, where they are in proximity to me, and if anyone in the room seems to be a little too happy or frivolous and might just make a play for the balloon. I have left parties I just arrived to because the balloon to human ratio was all out of whack.

Oh, and the most important question: are there any children around? Nothing is worse than a child who is allowed to play with balloons. Have you seen what children do with balloons? They ride them, sit on them, bite at them, kick them, hit each other with them, drag them on the floor, flail them about madly, and I don't know what else because by then I'm almost in panic mode and just want to go home. A child with a balloon is completely unpredictable and is not to be trusted.

In fact, balloons are not allowed in my house. My kids are limited to school/church functions as far as playing with balloons go. If they do happen to sneak one in it must remain in the basement, out of my sight, until it has withered down to nothing and can be easily disposed. A few weeks ago my daughter Melody was given an uninflated balloon by a friend. She  came up to me and said, "Daddy, do you know how to blow this up?" "No," I replied, "No I don't". I know it was mean but, seriously, what else could I do...inflate the thing?!!! Not an option.

I have read various tips on how to get over this condition. Everything from blowing balloons up yourself to playing with them on your own (no kids) and being "in control" of the popping. None of these have worked for me, they only make it worse. I am cursed.

Okay, having said all this I should make it clear that I have found ways to deal with my phobia. I mostly keep my mouth shut and suffer in silence. Those high school acting classes have paid off. I try not to make a big deal out of it and most people are unaware there is an issue. It's been a long time since I had a full scale balloon induced panic attack, and I have no reason to think I shall have another. But inside I still freak out just the same.

So, don't worry about me. Have your parties and your fairs and carnivals. Decorate with balloons if you need to. But if you've invited me, maybe don't use quite so many. Okay?

Thursday, January 1, 2015

2014 Top Ten Rock CDs-and More!

So it is time once again for my annual top ten records list. This year I mostly stayed away from anything too hipster, and got back into the old school metal bands who are still putting out new stuff. I also missed a lot of the alt-country stuff that came out, although that was probably more of an oversight on my part than anything intentional. And why did I not buy that new Prince stuff? I had it in my hand more than a few times and put it back. Seriously...

Anyway, here's how the 2014 year in rock broke down for yours truly. First, a few random notes then the list.

DISAPPOINTMENTS OF THE YEAR:

HOZIER-HOZIER: turns out I completely misunderstood that "Take Me To Church" song. Whoops. The rest is okay, but reminds me too much of Van Morrison, and we all know that's a no-no in my book.

JUDAS PRIEST-REDEEMER OF SOULS: Most reviewers found it a welcome step back on the right path. I found it to be plodding and predictable. Not bad by any stretch, but not exciting either.

BEST REISSUE:

THE KINKS-ANTHOLOGY 1964-1971: Come on, it's the Kinks! Beautiful pop, prototype hard rock and clever lyrics from the most important underrated English band ever. Essential songs.

INELIGIBLE BUT AWESOME:

HARD WORKING AMERICANS-HARD WORKING AMERICANS: Alt-country/hippie rock super group featuring Todd Snider and members of Widespread Panic and the Chris Robinson Brotherhood. It's an album full of alt-country covers, all good songs and done very well. It made me want to hunt down a few of the originals, which is what this type of project should do. But no originals, so it can't make the list by default.

Okay, here we go:

TOP TEN LIST 2014:

1. PIXIES-INDIE CITY

Yeah, I'm surprised this is number one for me as well. But every time I listen to it I experience it differently. Every time I began to think about this year's music, this was the first record that came to mind, so that pretty much says it all, right? Oh, and I know it's not the original line up, but I don't care either. I'm not a purist, purists miss out on so much good music due to their righteous blindness. Like this record, for example.

2. FOO FIGHTERS-SONIC HIGHWAYS

I know there are those who have a strong dislike for this record, and I understand why, but I completely disagree. This is the most unified Foos record to date. They have finally made a full, coherent statement and I love it. Their previous disc,Wasting Light was a strong record and, I believe, a fine end cap to the first half of the band's career. This sounds like the transition into part 2 and I can't wait to see where it goes. Fabulously interesting record. My only complaint is it's too short.

3. U2-SONGS OF INNOCENCE

Okay, for some reason people complained about receiving free music from arguably the biggest band in the world. In a time where the music industry is suffering due to so many people trying to receive free music. This was genius marketing, because even if you felt like your privacy was violated(really?), love it or hate it, U2 were on every one's lips for weeks. Fortunately the music holds up to the hype. At first listen it seems a little rushed and simplistic for U2, but the more I hear it, I think that was the point. The musical landscape is still broad and beautiful, and "The Miracle Of Joey Ramone" may be their best anthem in years.

4. THE BOTH-THE BOTH

I loves me some power pop, and when it's done intelligently and without falling into the traps of the genre, well, that's a reason to celebrate. The Both is a duo made up of solo artists Aimee Mann and Ted Leo. Both bring their own strengths and songwriting traits to this project and have come up with not just a copy of their own work but a cohesive blend that is its own thing. Melodic, smart, and fun with choruses that have stuck in my head all year long. "You can te-ell, it's a nucleus burning inside of a shell"... with hand claps. That's what this is.

5. DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS-ENGLISH OCEANS

A solid record by one of my favorite bands. This is a fine return to form from the baddest Southern band in the land. While not their best, English Oceans is their best offering in quite some time. With the song list split almost evenly between founders/writers/singers Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley there are delights aplenty to be had here. Hood's stories and songs see him as both the South's harshest critic and staunchest defender, while Cooley gets to the heart of the desperate human condition with his usual sarcastic wit.

6. PRONG-RUINING LIVES

A great, modern metal record by an underrated and misunderstood old school band. Okay, so it's really just like one dude now, but this disc is awesome! It's heavy all the way through with little moments of  thrash metal for good measure, without resorting to processed Cookie Monster vocals. Then there's just the right amount of melody to make the songs burrow into the brain, making it a real treat of an album. Prong came along late 80s/early 90s, and everyone from Helmet and Pantera to Korn and Nine Inch Nails were influenced by them. While "Ruining Lives"is a little more back to basics than that list might make you think, it certainly attests to the validity of Prong in general. And in a year when Overkill, Exodus and Accept all came back with excellent releases, being the best of the bunch is no small feat!

7. THE STRYPES-SNAPSHOT

Fantastic record. If you have ever been a fan of the "Maximum R&B" style of music from '60s Britain (think early Who), then this will make you happy. These guys attack their songs with passion and energy and they are so good. Especially since the average age of the band is about 19 and they weren't even born when this music was popular! The only reason this disc isn't higher up the list is because it has four cover songs on it and that's a little too much for my tastes. Otherwise, though, I really dig it. So good.

8. IMELDA MAY-TRIBAL

The queen of retro-cool returns. Imelda May has one of my favorite voices in along time. In the past she has mixed rockabilly style songs with 40s/50s style ballads to stunning effect. This record is much more raw musically and is almost a pure rockabilly record but is none the worse for it. Very enjoyable and one of those records that stands up to repeated listenings. Oh yeah, not only can she belt it out, but she writes her own stuff too.

9.BENJAMIN BOOKER-BENJAMIN BOOKER

Blues guitar? Punk riffs? Yes please. This is a young guy who's just killing it. He sounds Delta blues to the core, but mixes it with the energy of punk. On the few occasions where he does slow it down the effect is other worldly. Booker sings with a veteran, beat up old blues man's voice adding even more authenticity to the record. As a result, I have no idea what the man is talking about-could come straight from God or the Devil, I have no clue. But isn't that the way the blues should be? Legit.

10.JOHNNY CASH-OUT AMONG THE STARS

I know, I know, I'm breaking my own rule here that posthumous releases are ineligible, because they are not new. However, these songs are all previously unreleased. And I listened to this disc once or twice a week all summer long. The recordings are taken from what is generally thought of as a weak period in Cash's career and they are indicative of the time. But Johnny just sounds like he's enjoying these songs so much, he's just in fine form throughout and again, the songs haven't left my head.


HONORABLE MENTIONS

JENNY LEWIS-THE VOYAGER

Highly confessional pop to make you think and dance. Love that voice too.

OFF!-WASTED YEARS

Album #2 from my new fave hardcore punk band. Plenty angry lyrics and vintage sound. What's not to like? And the songs are all about 2 minutes-twice as long as their previous work. Nice to see a band progress.

OLD 97S-MOST MESSED UP

Another fun, singable record from a really good at country/rock band. First time they have ever dropped an f-bomb on a disc though, and they dropped it everywhere. Not offended, but a little disappointed ( and slightly impressed by the sheer volume). Still a good listen though.

AC/DC-ROCK OR BUST

I am a casual AC/DC fan, they were a favorite back in school. I pick up the  occasional disc on a whim, and of course you know what to expect. But this time I was curious since the band had a lot on their shoulders. They needed to honor Malcom's legacy (after having to quit the band he started due to dementia) and prove that they were worthy of carrying on. The band has succeeded here. Not only does it have the familiar trademark sound, but there are a few pleasant surprises here stylistically. In the end it's another AC/DC record, but a good one.

Alright, kids, that'll do for now. There are more records I could discuss but it's 2015 now and I have to save up some money for a few new records. See ya down the line.