I picked up a couple of albums over the last few days.
While I was perusing Target, I spotted the new Spoon album on sale for $9.99. Couldn't pass that up. You shouldn't either.
Over the last year and a half, I've come to really enjoy Spoon. A very mellow rock sound, with an A++ in the Mutt Lange School of Production...fast, then slow.
Each album impresses me more with their range and lyrical abilities, and these lads from Britain continued in that spirit on Gimme Fiction.
Wednesday, I picked up the new Son Volt @ Best Buy. Again, I lucked out, getting the DualDisc CD/DVD with an additional Live DVD for only $11.99.
Still making my way through the disc, but very impressed so far. Jay Farrar sent the band on hiatus for about 7 years while he pursued his solo career.
Now, armed with all-new bandmates, Okemah & The Melody of Riot has a heavy, distorted sound to the mix, adding some punch and flavor to Jay's haunting vocals...no where more apparent than in "6 String Belief", a reinvention of Jay's previous released solo work.
While I like the older, acoustic version better, this one has a brand new feel to it. Definitely, a solid record with mounds of potential.
Here's what Rolling Stone says:
Son Volt Okemah and the Melody of Riot
(Transmit Sounds/Legacy)
On his recent solo albums, Son Volt leader Jay Farrar suffered from a serious case of the vagues, outfitting his half-legible folkie tunes with hazy atmospherics and gazing at American history like it was a Rorschach test. Those shortcomings make Okemah and the Melody of Riot especially welcome: As the first album in seven years credited to Son Volt, the band Farrar formed after the demise of alt-country pioneers Uncle Tupelo, Okemah replaces Farrar's indulgence with a gently rocking back-porch feel. With the help of three new bandmates, Farrar turns out thirteen elegantly wasted, begrudgingly tuneful songs: He rides to ragged glory on "6 String Belief" and turns "Afterglow 61" into an apt soundtrack for a summer road trip. Farrar drowns his sorrows on mellower cuts such as "Atmosphere," but by finding the right mix of pastoral beauty and bar-band swagger, Okemah usually keeps his head well above water.
(CHRISTIAN HOARD)
Two days. Two great new albums. Touche.
14 July 2005
12 July 2005
Real Men of Genius
Being a Show-Me State boy, there's a special bond one create with the unofficial state elixir, Budweiser.
Natty Light becomes a fixture of youth, and Bud Light the go-to brew of choice.
This is mainly due to the absence of LaBatt Blue at many fine establishment south of Michigan.
Ahhh, LaBatt...now that's a beer.
A special thanks to Aaron Online for compiling all these little slices of brilliance.
If you've heard any of these on the radio over the years, bon appetit.
If not, ready yourself of a keg stand of hilarity.
In case you didn't know: These were at one time called "Bud Light presents Real American Heroes"....but following the 9/11 attacks, the name was changed to Real Men of Genius.
Here's to you.
The Real Men of Genius Collection
Audio from http://budlight.whipnet.com/
Natty Light becomes a fixture of youth, and Bud Light the go-to brew of choice.
This is mainly due to the absence of LaBatt Blue at many fine establishment south of Michigan.
Ahhh, LaBatt...now that's a beer.
A special thanks to Aaron Online for compiling all these little slices of brilliance.
If you've heard any of these on the radio over the years, bon appetit.
If not, ready yourself of a keg stand of hilarity.
In case you didn't know: These were at one time called "Bud Light presents Real American Heroes"....but following the 9/11 attacks, the name was changed to Real Men of Genius.
Here's to you.
The Real Men of Genius Collection
Audio from http://budlight.whipnet.com/
B-C-MESS
The endless tweaking and tinkering with the biggest mathematical joke in sports continues with another change.
At least, I can agree that this is a step in the right direction.
Although, in my opinion, scrapping the whole thing could also be the way to go.
Just throwin' that out there.
Addendum: ABC's link to the BCS explanation says it all: null.
At least, I can agree that this is a step in the right direction.
Although, in my opinion, scrapping the whole thing could also be the way to go.
Just throwin' that out there.
Addendum: ABC's link to the BCS explanation says it all: null.
Catch "22"
Another day, another new band to pine over.
Good reader, I yield the floor to The 22-20s.
Understand that I've only heard the songs streaming here on their site, and "Shoot Your Gun" in its entirety (thanks to the Sat goodness of XM radio).
Still, I like what I hear so far.
Give it a listen, won't you?
Good reader, I yield the floor to The 22-20s.
Understand that I've only heard the songs streaming here on their site, and "Shoot Your Gun" in its entirety (thanks to the Sat goodness of XM radio).
Still, I like what I hear so far.
Give it a listen, won't you?
06 July 2005
Waiting For Superman
"It's just too heavy
for Superman
to lift"
-Flaming Lips,
"Waitin' for Superman, The Soft Bulletin"
The quote above is from one of my favorite Lips songs on their amazing album, The Soft Bulletin.
But, this post refers to a different artist, Sufjan Stevens.
This artist's quest to do an album focusing on every individual state in the Union, while daunting, is only 2 albums old, but controversy is already afoot in the Midwest.
After the successful release of the project's debut, Greetings from Michigan, The Great Lakes State, the follow up, due out July 5, hits a snag courtesy of The Man of Steel.
It seems that copyright issues with the cover of Illinoise led Sufjan's record label, Asthmatic Kitty, to stop sales of the album until the matter was resolved.
One day later, after an onslaught of the newly minted rare gem started hitting $80.00 in some places on eBay, Illinoise is back for sale....for now. The good news: The "Superman" cover is back for sale, but never to be printed again.
So, I'm off to Best Buy after work, hoping to find my Superman, if only for a little rare slice of album cover art not seen since the banned Tenacious D cover.
Wish me luck.
for Superman
to lift"
-Flaming Lips,
"Waitin' for Superman, The Soft Bulletin"
The quote above is from one of my favorite Lips songs on their amazing album, The Soft Bulletin.
But, this post refers to a different artist, Sufjan Stevens.
This artist's quest to do an album focusing on every individual state in the Union, while daunting, is only 2 albums old, but controversy is already afoot in the Midwest.
After the successful release of the project's debut, Greetings from Michigan, The Great Lakes State, the follow up, due out July 5, hits a snag courtesy of The Man of Steel.
It seems that copyright issues with the cover of Illinoise led Sufjan's record label, Asthmatic Kitty, to stop sales of the album until the matter was resolved.
One day later, after an onslaught of the newly minted rare gem started hitting $80.00 in some places on eBay, Illinoise is back for sale....for now. The good news: The "Superman" cover is back for sale, but never to be printed again.
So, I'm off to Best Buy after work, hoping to find my Superman, if only for a little rare slice of album cover art not seen since the banned Tenacious D cover.
Wish me luck.
Statler & Waldorf at the Movies
From the "Why didn't I think of that?" File:
Ready the Snooze-o-meter.
Statler & Waldorf review the movies.
This Week's Balconism: Dej-HAH-vous.
Ready the Snooze-o-meter.
Statler & Waldorf review the movies.
This Week's Balconism: Dej-HAH-vous.
04 July 2005
OG - Original Gmail (Update)
FYI-
I'm changing the email address on the site to my Gmail account, so I can access comments anywhere I go.
I'm hoping this will be much more conveinient for myself.
Per usual, the links for this account will be provided via my name on the footer of every post and on the Contact Me link along the right-hand side.
Again, you can reach me a little easier on my Gmail account at:
coryodonnell@gmail.com
I'm changing the email address on the site to my Gmail account, so I can access comments anywhere I go.
I'm hoping this will be much more conveinient for myself.
Per usual, the links for this account will be provided via my name on the footer of every post and on the Contact Me link along the right-hand side.
Again, you can reach me a little easier on my Gmail account at:
coryodonnell@gmail.com
01 July 2005
"War"-mongering
So, the first question that Kirsten (her review here) and I will end up asking one another after leaving the cinema is an fairly common one:
"What did ya think?"
The answer is usually "Good", "Great", or "Eh...", you know, a common response.
My answer after seeing War of the Worlds? "Intense".
That's about the only way I can describe it. If you're going to see it, hold on. If you're the slightest bit jumping, my hats off to your date.
As soon as the first 15,ooo feet of celluloid pass through the projector, the action takes off and does not stop. For 2 hours. Consider yourself warned.
I gotta hand it to Spielberg. 2 months ago, I was a little skeptical about this movie.
When I heard that he was going Hitchcockian with the aliens, just like the shark in Jaws, I was relieved. Thankfully, he wasn't seduced by the thoughts of relying heavily on the special effects. (Now, that doesn't mean there aren't tons of SFX....ILM did wonders in this film.)
Understanding that "fear lies in what isn't seen/less is more" approach, and sticking to it....that's what creates the feeling of doom in this film. Bravo, Mr. Spielberg.
Moreover, Dakota Fanning is so incredible in this role. I know that sounds like a broken record...but it still warrants mention.
Can someone please check and make sure she's human? Seriously, if there's anyone that more deserving of breaking Tatum O'Neal's Oscar age record....it's Miss Fanning. Scary good.
Cruise was...Cruise. No more, no less. A Cruisian performance, short of flashing his pearly whites.
All in all...I highly recommend plunking down the dough for this flick. It's worth it.
One more thing: I know this will sound weird, but...
War of the Worlds is the most intense movie I've seen in 7 years.
The last movie: Deep Impact. I know. I can't explain it either. Just trust me on this one.
"What did ya think?"
The answer is usually "Good", "Great", or "Eh...", you know, a common response.
My answer after seeing War of the Worlds? "Intense".
That's about the only way I can describe it. If you're going to see it, hold on. If you're the slightest bit jumping, my hats off to your date.
As soon as the first 15,ooo feet of celluloid pass through the projector, the action takes off and does not stop. For 2 hours. Consider yourself warned.
I gotta hand it to Spielberg. 2 months ago, I was a little skeptical about this movie.
When I heard that he was going Hitchcockian with the aliens, just like the shark in Jaws, I was relieved. Thankfully, he wasn't seduced by the thoughts of relying heavily on the special effects. (Now, that doesn't mean there aren't tons of SFX....ILM did wonders in this film.)
Understanding that "fear lies in what isn't seen/less is more" approach, and sticking to it....that's what creates the feeling of doom in this film. Bravo, Mr. Spielberg.
Moreover, Dakota Fanning is so incredible in this role. I know that sounds like a broken record...but it still warrants mention.
Can someone please check and make sure she's human? Seriously, if there's anyone that more deserving of breaking Tatum O'Neal's Oscar age record....it's Miss Fanning. Scary good.
Cruise was...Cruise. No more, no less. A Cruisian performance, short of flashing his pearly whites.
All in all...I highly recommend plunking down the dough for this flick. It's worth it.
One more thing: I know this will sound weird, but...
War of the Worlds is the most intense movie I've seen in 7 years.
The last movie: Deep Impact. I know. I can't explain it either. Just trust me on this one.
Pomp & Comedia
Longing for the days of college?
Wondering if you could have just one more chance...to hear a really good commencement speaker....one that didn't bore you to tears?
Me neither.
But, these speeches are pretty damn funny, anyway.
Enjoy.
Jon Stewart - William & Mary
Will Farrell - Harvard (2003)
Conan O'Brien Harvard (2000)
link via Clicked
Wondering if you could have just one more chance...to hear a really good commencement speaker....one that didn't bore you to tears?
Me neither.
But, these speeches are pretty damn funny, anyway.
Enjoy.
Jon Stewart - William & Mary
Will Farrell - Harvard (2003)
Conan O'Brien Harvard (2000)
link via Clicked
28 June 2005
Major Threat
Look at the two pictures on this page.
Can you see the problem? I can.
I'm not the only one (thanks for pointing this out, Will).
You know, there are ways to reach an audience without pandering to shamelessly ripping off someone else's art.
I'm looking at you, Nike.
I know I'm the last one to harp on this subject, since a large majority of my humor is lifted.
But, I'm not profiting from said unoriginality...plus, I've proven to show some creative ideas a time or two. At least, I hope so, since technically, my job is in creative services.
I put it to you, herr reader: Take one step forward if you're capable of producing original thought.
Not so fast, Hollywood.
-------------
Addendum: Nike Pulls Major Threat Ad, Issues Apology
Below is the apology in full:
June 27, 2005
To: Minor Threat, Dischord Records and fans of both
Re: Major Threat East Coast Tour Poster
Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes for the creation of a tour poster inspired by Minor Threat's album cover. Despite rumors being circulated, Wieden & Kennedy and Odopod had nothing to do with the creation of this tour poster and should not be held accountable. To set the record straight, Nike Skateboarding's "Major Threat" Tour poster was designed, executed and promoted by skateboarders, for skateboarders. All of Nike employees responsible for the creation of the tour flyer are fans of both Minor Threat and Dischord Records and have nothing but respect for both.
Minor Threat's music and iconographic album cover have been an inspiration to countless skateboarders since the album came out in 1984. And for members of the Nike Skateboarding staff, this is no different. Because of the album's strong imagery and because our East Coast tour ends in Washington, DC, we felt that it was a perfect fit. This was a poor judgment call and should not have been executed without consulting Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
We apologize for any problems this may have caused, and want to make very clear that we have no relationship with the members of Minor Threat, Dischord Records and they have not endorsed our products.
Every effort has been made to remove and dispose of all flyers (both print and digital). Again, Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes to Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
Sincerely,
Nike Skateboarding
Unfortunately, Nike still gets what they and every corp wants in the end: attention and press. Ultimately, they'll come out a winner in all this.
A sad state, indeed.
Can you see the problem? I can.
I'm not the only one (thanks for pointing this out, Will).
You know, there are ways to reach an audience without pandering to shamelessly ripping off someone else's art.
I'm looking at you, Nike.
I know I'm the last one to harp on this subject, since a large majority of my humor is lifted.
But, I'm not profiting from said unoriginality...plus, I've proven to show some creative ideas a time or two. At least, I hope so, since technically, my job is in creative services.
I put it to you, herr reader: Take one step forward if you're capable of producing original thought.
Not so fast, Hollywood.
-------------
Addendum: Nike Pulls Major Threat Ad, Issues Apology
Below is the apology in full:
June 27, 2005
To: Minor Threat, Dischord Records and fans of both
Re: Major Threat East Coast Tour Poster
Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes for the creation of a tour poster inspired by Minor Threat's album cover. Despite rumors being circulated, Wieden & Kennedy and Odopod had nothing to do with the creation of this tour poster and should not be held accountable. To set the record straight, Nike Skateboarding's "Major Threat" Tour poster was designed, executed and promoted by skateboarders, for skateboarders. All of Nike employees responsible for the creation of the tour flyer are fans of both Minor Threat and Dischord Records and have nothing but respect for both.
Minor Threat's music and iconographic album cover have been an inspiration to countless skateboarders since the album came out in 1984. And for members of the Nike Skateboarding staff, this is no different. Because of the album's strong imagery and because our East Coast tour ends in Washington, DC, we felt that it was a perfect fit. This was a poor judgment call and should not have been executed without consulting Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
We apologize for any problems this may have caused, and want to make very clear that we have no relationship with the members of Minor Threat, Dischord Records and they have not endorsed our products.
Every effort has been made to remove and dispose of all flyers (both print and digital). Again, Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes to Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
Sincerely,
Nike Skateboarding
Unfortunately, Nike still gets what they and every corp wants in the end: attention and press. Ultimately, they'll come out a winner in all this.
A sad state, indeed.
26 June 2005
A New Favourite Band for You
Guess what I'm offering.
4 free downloads of your new favourite band, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah.
Check these guys out. Very David Byrne meets James...same as it ever was.
Amazing stuff...and, if you don't like it, what are you still doing here?
Enjoy.
(right click - "save target as")
>> Tidal Wave
>> Lost and Found
>> Details of the War
>> Home on Ice
4 free downloads of your new favourite band, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah.
Check these guys out. Very David Byrne meets James...same as it ever was.
Amazing stuff...and, if you don't like it, what are you still doing here?
Enjoy.
(right click - "save target as")
>> Tidal Wave
>> Lost and Found
>> Details of the War
>> Home on Ice
Engineers of Beauty
This new band called the Engineers from across the pond sound pretty incredible.
All I've heard are 30 second clips from their website....but I'm impressed so far.
All I've heard are 30 second clips from their website....but I'm impressed so far.
My Vote for President
Why can't we get this guy to run in 2008?
Seems that I'm not the only one who thinks so.
Read on...that's the man I want leading my country.
Seems that I'm not the only one who thinks so.
Read on...that's the man I want leading my country.
23 June 2005
Life A.E. - After "Ed"
"(TBS) can kiss my Stuckeyvillian ass!"
-slighty altered quote by Ed after the Festival of Ducks(episode 6)
I guess because the evil empire of TBS will soon be taking my favorite midday show off the air on June 30, I need to get this off my chest. BTW...it's being replaced by Becker. Becker?!?!
Bear in mind, I've seen every episode of this masterpiece set in Stuckeyville, and I'm fully aware of all that happens in the complete 4 seasons.
Think of this more as a open question to anyone that can answer it for me.
Let me begin by stating that I hate Dennis Martino. So, how on God's green earth could Carol Phyllis Vessey hook up with him? Is it just me? What could she possibly see in him?
So, I guess the way to Carol's heart is this:
1. Be dismissive to her.
2. Break her down verbally, summing up her life in one continuous thought.
3. Treat her like dirt.
Effect: She kisses you.
Forget about aligning the stars, throwing waffles at her bedroom window, even the knight in shining armor thing...that just scares the crap out of her....
Whew....sorry about that...a little frustrating, this show is.
So, come June 30th, I fully expect a riot to unsheath itself on the TBS HQ. The casting aside of this great show will not go without a fight. The only way that I could be happy with this is seeing NBC resurrect Stuckeyville and restore it in all its glory back on the primetime peacock.
Or...give Warren Parker Cheswick the spin-off he has earned and deserves.
Vaya con Dios, Edguardo.
The floor is yours, dear reader. Shave my poodle.
-slighty altered quote by Ed after the Festival of Ducks(episode 6)
I guess because the evil empire of TBS will soon be taking my favorite midday show off the air on June 30, I need to get this off my chest. BTW...it's being replaced by Becker. Becker?!?!
Bear in mind, I've seen every episode of this masterpiece set in Stuckeyville, and I'm fully aware of all that happens in the complete 4 seasons.
Think of this more as a open question to anyone that can answer it for me.
Let me begin by stating that I hate Dennis Martino. So, how on God's green earth could Carol Phyllis Vessey hook up with him? Is it just me? What could she possibly see in him?
So, I guess the way to Carol's heart is this:
1. Be dismissive to her.
2. Break her down verbally, summing up her life in one continuous thought.
3. Treat her like dirt.
Effect: She kisses you.
Forget about aligning the stars, throwing waffles at her bedroom window, even the knight in shining armor thing...that just scares the crap out of her....
Whew....sorry about that...a little frustrating, this show is.
So, come June 30th, I fully expect a riot to unsheath itself on the TBS HQ. The casting aside of this great show will not go without a fight. The only way that I could be happy with this is seeing NBC resurrect Stuckeyville and restore it in all its glory back on the primetime peacock.
Or...give Warren Parker Cheswick the spin-off he has earned and deserves.
Vaya con Dios, Edguardo.
The floor is yours, dear reader. Shave my poodle.
21 June 2005
"Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish."
Why couldn't I have enjoyed the luxury of a college dropout speaking at my commencement?
The Stanford brass get it...that's the true inspiration: Being innovative, even if it's sans a college degree.
Here you will find Steve Jobs' commencement speech at Stanford University. Maybe if he spoke at your commencement, you wouldn't nearly sleep through the walk.
The Stanford brass get it...that's the true inspiration: Being innovative, even if it's sans a college degree.
Here you will find Steve Jobs' commencement speech at Stanford University. Maybe if he spoke at your commencement, you wouldn't nearly sleep through the walk.
Designing Man
I've resigned myself to the fact that, in life, there comes a time when HGTV becomes phenomenally entertaining.
Entertaining to the point where you're always watching it.
For me, that time has come.
Can I explain it? Not really...Kirsten's obsession with the channel doesn't help, but I'd be lying if I didn't say that I get sucked into the shows myself.
It looks like my machismo has finally checked out.
Now, where did I put that feather boa?
Entertaining to the point where you're always watching it.
For me, that time has come.
Can I explain it? Not really...Kirsten's obsession with the channel doesn't help, but I'd be lying if I didn't say that I get sucked into the shows myself.
It looks like my machismo has finally checked out.
Now, where did I put that feather boa?
13 June 2005
Musica de Midtown en Revue
As seen on Kirsten's blog, we made the trek to see Music Midtown XII. (For more on the venue, you can read band reviews and blogs from the fest (access required) at ajc.com.) Since I already had previous business to attend to earlier in the day (just a checkup), we missed out on Red Letter Agent, who were apparently quite good. Oh well. Needless to say, the rest of the weekend turned out pretty good. Below you will find the bands that we caught along this smorgasboard of music:
Friday
Lou Reed
8:45 pm - 9:45 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Everyone was wondering if he would play any Velvet...one song in after we arrived, the familiar open to "White Light/White Heat" sealed the deal. Further, Lou rocked so hard for the Friday night crowd that he blew his amp 20 minutes into the show. After a brief stopdown, he broke out a vintage kit, saying that he was going to take it easy from then on: "I can't replace this one", he quipped.
Easy there, gramps.
Good show, made great by seeing Lou Weed for the first time.
Interpol
8:45 pm - 9:45 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
What can I say? Their onstage persona is exactly as I thought it would be: dark, mysterious, no-nonsense brooding rock. The boys never really got into the set, breaking a little early.
I can say that I blame them...the crowd was impatiently awaiting the Stripes, so I wouldn't expect them to welcome Interpol with open arms.
A good, tight set IMHO, taken away from by the waning mood.
The White Stripes
(in their only US concert for the entire year)
10:30 pm - 12:00 am - Miller Lite/99x Stage
Two words: F%*&ing incredible. Out of all the performances of the weekend, this one finishes third by the slimmest of margins.
Jack and Meg are definitely meant to be seen live. The power of their dual romp through the recent catalogues cannot be justly served on vinyl, let alone the CD. It is meant to be shouted from the rooftops, and their beautiful setup and gorgeous red, black and white theme fades quickly to the genius of their dynamic: The (new) Blues.
As our good friend, -B explained about the Stripes:
"All I'll say is that Jack & Meg have mastered this thing called rhythm and blues. Man it's good."
Indeed. I hope all of you can one day see them live. It's an experience.
Saturday
Bloc Party
4:15 pm - 5:15 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
I'm slightly biased. This is one of my favorite new bands. Their new album, Silent Alarm, is wonderful. So, how did they sound live?
Starting out the day at a festival stage usually means you're fighting an uphill battle. Not many people know you, so you're getting the stone-faced, arms-crossed look from the fans, basically saying, "Prove to me that you're worthy of my attention".
Message received from quite a few fans in front of us: These blokes from the UK passed the test.
My verdict: Another band that's better live. Amazing. The drummer was spectacular. Having a backbone like that really allows the other members to explore and create, making for a magnifique performance. A close third for the weekend.
MetalSome Monday
Various Times (Friday - Sunday)
(A heavy-metal karaoke band in Atlanta. They were awesome! I recommend visiting their website) - KO
Kirsten says it all. Unbelievable idea for a great moneymaking scheme. Why can't I think of these things?
Robert Randolph and the Family Band
6:00 pm - 7:15 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
(if you've never heard of them, I pity you. An amazing show.) - KO
I had seen these guys on Conan a few months back, doing their version of Hendrix's "Voodoo Child". I was blown away. That was on television.
This was easily the second-best show I saw, and I knew it would be unreal. No dissappointment at all...in fact, it exceeded my expectations.
If you're lucky enough to see them, don't miss it...regardless of your musical tastes and preferences.
This is a band of musicians, to which playing "musical chairs" with all the different instruments is a key attraction.
I'm done....for fear of my life. This is a very dangerous band...don't let the "family" stigma fool you. Consider yourselves warned.
John Fogerty
8:00 pm - 9:15 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
(sounding just fine without CCR, thank you very much)
How old is Johnny now? 60? Still a rock staple...the catalogue is mind-boggling.
Don't even get me started on the whole CCR crapfest that's been ongoing for over 30 years. It's an injustice, to say the least.
What this man has done for rock n' roll....it should be taught in schools and revered in Contemporary American History.
And, he still kicks ass.
The Killers
8:45 pm - 10:00 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
Great band. Great prescence. Hey, does it matter what I say? The 12-year-old girls that rule the world we live in love these guys. They're set for life. At this point, KO and I are about done with the rain. We're re-grouping, but struggling mightily.
Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
10:00 pm - 12:00 am - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Great band. Pretty good set. I couldn't really get into it. I remember in between the raindrops being stunned by the large turnout for Petty. Do that many people like him? KO, myself, and the older folks...but the young people? Really? Shocked, I say....shocked.
The Pixies (reuinited and touring after 12 years)
10:30 pm - 11:30 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
They ended their set 30 minutes early, so we almost missed them. Glad we didn't, as they sounded as great as I had hoped.
Only got to hear about 3 songs, including the classic, "Where Is My Mind?" Great, great, great...did I mention that I liked it?
All in all, a fitting end to a rain-soaked day. Man, please don't rain tomorrow...
Sunday
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Kickin' ass and playing all her classics. Hard to fathom that she's been around over 30 years...a great, ass-kicking show.
Def Leppard
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Here's your number one show..undisputed. What did Def Leppard have that R. Randolph didn't? Try about twice as many people, inifinitely better scenery (1 clue: many girls on shoulders, doing what girls sitting on shoulders do), amazing crowd surfing, and some great music to boot, including a cover of Badfinger's "No Matter What".
Midtown was thoroughy rocked after they left the stage.
Well done, boys.
(Oh, and it made KO very, very, very happy. 'Nuff said.)
DEVO
7:15 pm - 8:30 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
(That's right. I said DEVO. As in "Are
we not men? We Are DEVO! The first show of their 2005 tour. They're in their 50s now, and look like they're having a blast!)-KO
Oh, DEVO. The moment was here. A band that I have worshiped from about 10 years...begins its first tour in over 20 years...in Atlanta. Yellow jumpsuits. Synthesizers. Red "Energy Dome" hats. Heavenly. Amazing. Funny. Smart. Goofy. A showstopper. The weekend was capped off by picking up a DEVO tour shirt that you can see similar to this shirt here, only in black.
Ties for second with Robert Randolph...and I couldn't think of a better way to end the fest.
KO and I had a blast this weekend.
Thanks, Music Midtown...and a word of advice...keep the fest in June.
Rawk on.
Friday
Lou Reed
8:45 pm - 9:45 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Everyone was wondering if he would play any Velvet...one song in after we arrived, the familiar open to "White Light/White Heat" sealed the deal. Further, Lou rocked so hard for the Friday night crowd that he blew his amp 20 minutes into the show. After a brief stopdown, he broke out a vintage kit, saying that he was going to take it easy from then on: "I can't replace this one", he quipped.
Easy there, gramps.
Good show, made great by seeing Lou Weed for the first time.
Interpol
8:45 pm - 9:45 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
What can I say? Their onstage persona is exactly as I thought it would be: dark, mysterious, no-nonsense brooding rock. The boys never really got into the set, breaking a little early.
I can say that I blame them...the crowd was impatiently awaiting the Stripes, so I wouldn't expect them to welcome Interpol with open arms.
A good, tight set IMHO, taken away from by the waning mood.
The White Stripes
(in their only US concert for the entire year)
10:30 pm - 12:00 am - Miller Lite/99x Stage
Two words: F%*&ing incredible. Out of all the performances of the weekend, this one finishes third by the slimmest of margins.
Jack and Meg are definitely meant to be seen live. The power of their dual romp through the recent catalogues cannot be justly served on vinyl, let alone the CD. It is meant to be shouted from the rooftops, and their beautiful setup and gorgeous red, black and white theme fades quickly to the genius of their dynamic: The (new) Blues.
As our good friend, -B explained about the Stripes:
"All I'll say is that Jack & Meg have mastered this thing called rhythm and blues. Man it's good."
Indeed. I hope all of you can one day see them live. It's an experience.
Saturday
Bloc Party
4:15 pm - 5:15 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
I'm slightly biased. This is one of my favorite new bands. Their new album, Silent Alarm, is wonderful. So, how did they sound live?
Starting out the day at a festival stage usually means you're fighting an uphill battle. Not many people know you, so you're getting the stone-faced, arms-crossed look from the fans, basically saying, "Prove to me that you're worthy of my attention".
Message received from quite a few fans in front of us: These blokes from the UK passed the test.
My verdict: Another band that's better live. Amazing. The drummer was spectacular. Having a backbone like that really allows the other members to explore and create, making for a magnifique performance. A close third for the weekend.
MetalSome Monday
Various Times (Friday - Sunday)
(A heavy-metal karaoke band in Atlanta. They were awesome! I recommend visiting their website) - KO
Kirsten says it all. Unbelievable idea for a great moneymaking scheme. Why can't I think of these things?
Robert Randolph and the Family Band
6:00 pm - 7:15 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
(if you've never heard of them, I pity you. An amazing show.) - KO
I had seen these guys on Conan a few months back, doing their version of Hendrix's "Voodoo Child". I was blown away. That was on television.
This was easily the second-best show I saw, and I knew it would be unreal. No dissappointment at all...in fact, it exceeded my expectations.
If you're lucky enough to see them, don't miss it...regardless of your musical tastes and preferences.
This is a band of musicians, to which playing "musical chairs" with all the different instruments is a key attraction.
I'm done....for fear of my life. This is a very dangerous band...don't let the "family" stigma fool you. Consider yourselves warned.
John Fogerty
8:00 pm - 9:15 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
(sounding just fine without CCR, thank you very much)
How old is Johnny now? 60? Still a rock staple...the catalogue is mind-boggling.
Don't even get me started on the whole CCR crapfest that's been ongoing for over 30 years. It's an injustice, to say the least.
What this man has done for rock n' roll....it should be taught in schools and revered in Contemporary American History.
And, he still kicks ass.
The Killers
8:45 pm - 10:00 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
Great band. Great prescence. Hey, does it matter what I say? The 12-year-old girls that rule the world we live in love these guys. They're set for life. At this point, KO and I are about done with the rain. We're re-grouping, but struggling mightily.
Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
10:00 pm - 12:00 am - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Great band. Pretty good set. I couldn't really get into it. I remember in between the raindrops being stunned by the large turnout for Petty. Do that many people like him? KO, myself, and the older folks...but the young people? Really? Shocked, I say....shocked.
The Pixies (reuinited and touring after 12 years)
10:30 pm - 11:30 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
They ended their set 30 minutes early, so we almost missed them. Glad we didn't, as they sounded as great as I had hoped.
Only got to hear about 3 songs, including the classic, "Where Is My Mind?" Great, great, great...did I mention that I liked it?
All in all, a fitting end to a rain-soaked day. Man, please don't rain tomorrow...
Sunday
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Kickin' ass and playing all her classics. Hard to fathom that she's been around over 30 years...a great, ass-kicking show.
Def Leppard
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Ford/Best Buy Stage
Here's your number one show..undisputed. What did Def Leppard have that R. Randolph didn't? Try about twice as many people, inifinitely better scenery (1 clue: many girls on shoulders, doing what girls sitting on shoulders do), amazing crowd surfing, and some great music to boot, including a cover of Badfinger's "No Matter What".
Midtown was thoroughy rocked after they left the stage.
Well done, boys.
(Oh, and it made KO very, very, very happy. 'Nuff said.)
DEVO
7:15 pm - 8:30 pm - Miller Lite/99x Stage
(That's right. I said DEVO. As in "Are
we not men? We Are DEVO! The first show of their 2005 tour. They're in their 50s now, and look like they're having a blast!)-KO
Oh, DEVO. The moment was here. A band that I have worshiped from about 10 years...begins its first tour in over 20 years...in Atlanta. Yellow jumpsuits. Synthesizers. Red "Energy Dome" hats. Heavenly. Amazing. Funny. Smart. Goofy. A showstopper. The weekend was capped off by picking up a DEVO tour shirt that you can see similar to this shirt here, only in black.
Ties for second with Robert Randolph...and I couldn't think of a better way to end the fest.
KO and I had a blast this weekend.
Thanks, Music Midtown...and a word of advice...keep the fest in June.
Rawk on.
09 June 2005
Me Read Pretty One Day
For your reading enjoyment....a New Yorker piece by one of America's funniest authors, David Sedaris.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
07 June 2005
Colby Collage
Some pictures of the newest first round pick of the St. Louis Cardinals, Colby Rasmus:
Baseball America's take on Mr. Rasmus:
(28th pick overall)
St. Louis Cardinals
Colby Rasmus, CF, Russell County HS, Phenix City, Ala.
"Rasmus’ tools grade out average or above across the board. He covers 60 yards in 6.7 seconds and has a plus arm, throwing fastballs up to 91 mph off the mound. Besides his tools, scouts love his maturity and savvy for the game. Some compare Rasmus to Steve Finley, while others believe he evokes Shawn Green; it depends on whether the scout believes Rasmus can stay in center field. He has a short, simple lefthanded swing that he repeats, and the barrel of the bat stays in the hitting zone a long time. While he could use a better load to his swing, he at times produces good leverage, leading scouts to believe he'll hit for at least average power."
Baseball America's take on Mr. Rasmus:
(28th pick overall)
St. Louis Cardinals
Colby Rasmus, CF, Russell County HS, Phenix City, Ala.
"Rasmus’ tools grade out average or above across the board. He covers 60 yards in 6.7 seconds and has a plus arm, throwing fastballs up to 91 mph off the mound. Besides his tools, scouts love his maturity and savvy for the game. Some compare Rasmus to Steve Finley, while others believe he evokes Shawn Green; it depends on whether the scout believes Rasmus can stay in center field. He has a short, simple lefthanded swing that he repeats, and the barrel of the bat stays in the hitting zone a long time. While he could use a better load to his swing, he at times produces good leverage, leading scouts to believe he'll hit for at least average power."
Keepin' It in the (Pujols) Family
The new Pujols....literally.
Say hello to Albert's cousin, Wilfredo, taken by the Cards with the 200th pick.
The resemblance is uncanny.
It's like looking in a mirror...if you were Albert Pujols.
Can the Cards catch lightning in a bottle twice? It doesn't hurt to find out.
Here's a look at the other picks through day 1 of the draft:
Cards' 2005 Draft Picks through 200
28. Colby Rasmus/CF/Russell Co. HS
30. Tyler Greene/SS/Georgia Tech
43. Mark McCormick/RHP/Baylor U
46. Tyler Herron/Wellington Comm. HS
70. Joshua Wilson/RHP/Whitehouse HS
78. Nicholas Webber/RHP/CMSU
110. Daryl Jones/CF/Spring HS
140. Bryan Anderson/C/Simi Valley HS
170. Mitchell Boggs/RHP/U Georgia
200. Wilfredo Pujols/RF/Fort Osage HS
Say hello to Albert's cousin, Wilfredo, taken by the Cards with the 200th pick.
The resemblance is uncanny.
It's like looking in a mirror...if you were Albert Pujols.
Can the Cards catch lightning in a bottle twice? It doesn't hurt to find out.
Here's a look at the other picks through day 1 of the draft:
Cards' 2005 Draft Picks through 200
28. Colby Rasmus/CF/Russell Co. HS
30. Tyler Greene/SS/Georgia Tech
43. Mark McCormick/RHP/Baylor U
46. Tyler Herron/Wellington Comm. HS
70. Joshua Wilson/RHP/Whitehouse HS
78. Nicholas Webber/RHP/CMSU
110. Daryl Jones/CF/Spring HS
140. Bryan Anderson/C/Simi Valley HS
170. Mitchell Boggs/RHP/U Georgia
200. Wilfredo Pujols/RF/Fort Osage HS
06 June 2005
Fight The Power!
The following is excerpted from MSNBC.com:
"The principal at a Georgia high school cancelled the journalism class and halted production of the school paper. As a recourse the students started a blog."
Interesting stuff on this blog, including an "email trail" dealing primarily with the principal, journalism instructor, and eventually, the school district.
It seems that in the midst of all this controversy, these students still have a voice.
A voice that goes stronger with each post made by someone like me, championing their cause.
"The principal at a Georgia high school cancelled the journalism class and halted production of the school paper. As a recourse the students started a blog."
Interesting stuff on this blog, including an "email trail" dealing primarily with the principal, journalism instructor, and eventually, the school district.
It seems that in the midst of all this controversy, these students still have a voice.
A voice that goes stronger with each post made by someone like me, championing their cause.
Good luck to them all.
05 June 2005
I Beat "The Pounder"
Days off. There's nothing like 'em.
Today, Kirsten and I got to play the happy couple as we had a day off together. This is an exciting event indeed, as it only happens about 4-5 times a year.
Because of this rare occurence, we always feel the need to capitalize on the situation by getting out of town and striking while the iron is hot. Today that meant heading 45 minutes west to the home of the Auburn Tigers for shopping, a big burger, and a slice of heaven in a cup.
After hitting the Tiger Town Shopping Plaza in Auburn, Kirsten and I headed up to Cheeburger, Cheeburger, where I ate "The Pounder" (basically a burger with a pound of beef), while KO enjoyed the more-subdued Half Pounder ("The Serious")
Afterwards, we walked down the square to sip the world's best fresh-squeezed lemonade at legendary Toomer's Drugs on Toomer's Corner. We only hope you three readers out there get the opportunity to sample this euphoric treat.
It was a great capper to a fun day, and with that, I'll be expecting that check from the city of Auburn for plugging their quaint, wonderful hamlet.
War Eagle!
Today, Kirsten and I got to play the happy couple as we had a day off together. This is an exciting event indeed, as it only happens about 4-5 times a year.
Because of this rare occurence, we always feel the need to capitalize on the situation by getting out of town and striking while the iron is hot. Today that meant heading 45 minutes west to the home of the Auburn Tigers for shopping, a big burger, and a slice of heaven in a cup.
After hitting the Tiger Town Shopping Plaza in Auburn, Kirsten and I headed up to Cheeburger, Cheeburger, where I ate "The Pounder" (basically a burger with a pound of beef), while KO enjoyed the more-subdued Half Pounder ("The Serious")
Afterwards, we walked down the square to sip the world's best fresh-squeezed lemonade at legendary Toomer's Drugs on Toomer's Corner. We only hope you three readers out there get the opportunity to sample this euphoric treat.
It was a great capper to a fun day, and with that, I'll be expecting that check from the city of Auburn for plugging their quaint, wonderful hamlet.
War Eagle!
04 June 2005
Musica Tag Residue
Earlier, we shared the fodder left from a fun music meme from Kirsten.
Our friend, -B, has compiled his scribbling and answered the call on his musical memories here.
Also, here are Brian's offerings for mass consumption:
The Last CD I bought:
"Blueberry Boat" by The Fiery Furnaces
This brother and sister pair are friggin awesome. You can tell they spent way too much time listening to The Who as children. It almost sounds like snippets from a musical at times. These guys will hook you and you'll never be the same. (That is how it happened for me)
CD Playing Right Now:
"The Throes" by The Two Gallants
It is like Neil Young meets Dylan meets Neil Diamond, but recorded like Bright Eyes. These two 21 year olds from San Fran are sweet. This album will not disappoint.
5 songs on heavy rotation:
(No time for writeups here: these arent my favs of all-time, but more of the songs I am listening to right now and when they come on I hit "back" on the dial to hear them again)
"Last Goodbye" Jeff Buckley
"Crow Jane" The Two Gallants
"Single Again" The Fiery Furnaces
"The Engine Driver" The Decemberists
"The Beast and the Dragon Adored" Spoon
The power of music. Gotta love it.
Our friend, -B, has compiled his scribbling and answered the call on his musical memories here.
Also, here are Brian's offerings for mass consumption:
The Last CD I bought:
"Blueberry Boat" by The Fiery Furnaces
This brother and sister pair are friggin awesome. You can tell they spent way too much time listening to The Who as children. It almost sounds like snippets from a musical at times. These guys will hook you and you'll never be the same. (That is how it happened for me)
CD Playing Right Now:
"The Throes" by The Two Gallants
It is like Neil Young meets Dylan meets Neil Diamond, but recorded like Bright Eyes. These two 21 year olds from San Fran are sweet. This album will not disappoint.
5 songs on heavy rotation:
(No time for writeups here: these arent my favs of all-time, but more of the songs I am listening to right now and when they come on I hit "back" on the dial to hear them again)
"Last Goodbye" Jeff Buckley
"Crow Jane" The Two Gallants
"Single Again" The Fiery Furnaces
"The Engine Driver" The Decemberists
"The Beast and the Dragon Adored" Spoon
The power of music. Gotta love it.
Shave My Poodle!
"Oh Carol, I know about your attraction to me... let's just stop torturing ourselves, and let's start doin' it already!"
- Ed Stevens (to Carol, in gymnasium)
I love Ed.
The show is one of my all-time favorites, and for the last 4 months, thanks to TBS, I've been watching every episode Monday through Friday at noon ET.
I know I've seen every episode already. I don't care. I get sucked in every day just the same.
With that, if you too share an occasional $10 bet to order a Shirley Temple in front of your date, check out Stuckeyville.com (link on the right as well) for all things Edward Jeremy Stevens.
In the meantime, shake the dust off that sweet bowling shirt and have that 10 spot at the ready, you magnificient bastard.
- Ed Stevens (to Carol, in gymnasium)
I love Ed.
The show is one of my all-time favorites, and for the last 4 months, thanks to TBS, I've been watching every episode Monday through Friday at noon ET.
I know I've seen every episode already. I don't care. I get sucked in every day just the same.
With that, if you too share an occasional $10 bet to order a Shirley Temple in front of your date, check out Stuckeyville.com (link on the right as well) for all things Edward Jeremy Stevens.
In the meantime, shake the dust off that sweet bowling shirt and have that 10 spot at the ready, you magnificient bastard.
03 June 2005
Tag Team en Musica
The last CD I bought was:
Absolution by Muse
-It's basically Bends-era Radiohead with a bit more of a melodic feel.I wish I had a better story for "discovering" the band, but the truth is I was perusing the music section @ Target and caught their video for "Hysteria" on the monitors and figured they were worth a shot for $7.99. They did not disappoint.
Song (CD) playing now:
"Banquet" by Bloc Party (Silent Alarm)
-This is a new band from the UK that are slowly taking over the States with their U2/Police punk-pop-rock sound (Though, in all honesty, trying to pigeon-hole these guys is a lesson in futility...one that proves fruitless in the end). Probably one of the tightest backbones in a band that I've heard in a long while. Their songwriting and arrangement remains very impressive and their influence seems to be as diverse as the band members themselves. A fan doth been born overnight.
Five songs I listen to a lot or that mean a lot to me:"To Be Young" by Ryan Adams (Heartbreaker)-Much like Kirsten, I wrote an essay about how much this song reminds me of home and listening to music with my best friends. This was during my "discovery" period where I was really working to expand my musical tentacles to all different genres, and this song always captured the spirit of that adventure.
Five songs that I listen to a lot or mean a lot to me:
"Across The Sea" by Weezer (Pinkerton)
-My favorite song on my favorite album of my (second) favorite band. A song written by a rock star after reading an anonmynous love letter from a fan living in Japan. A song that says, With all the attention, praise, and fandom surrounding them, Even rock stars get lonely.
"Alone Again Or" by Love (Forever Changes)
- This is a favorite song of mine from the moment I heard it in the movie "Bottle Rocket". I decided to include it in the list because it speaks to the power of sharing this art form at its most basic. Director Wes Anderson put this song in his movie, and thus unintentionally began a chain reaction that led me to buying Love's Greatest Hits album. After hearing some of their other songs, I became a fan of this short-lived obscure group from the late '60's. The power of music and its ability to touch upon perfect strangers is no more evident than in this exercise. Through music, the readers of these writings are connecting and sharing their experiences with one another.That is the power of a song.
"Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole (The Unforgettable Nat King Cole)
- This song just recently made the list. I sang this song at my brother's wedding for his dance with my mother and his wife Nicole's dance with her father. It's aspecial moment that I'll remember always, not only for the look on my mom's face, but, in a way, it was my introduction and acceptance into Nicole's family circle as well. Moments like those don't erode so easily. It's amazing what music can do to people.
"In Your Eyes" by Peter Gabriel (So)
- When most people hear this song, they think of Lloyd Dobler, arms outstretched clutching his electronic "love letter" and serenading Diane from the driveway below.When I think of it, I picture Kirsten and I, sweeping across the dance floor at our reception, gazing into one another's eyes. What a wonderful feeling to share.
Honorable Mentions:
"Let Down" by Radiohead (OK Computer)
"Sunken Treasure" by Wilco (Being There)
"Rusty Cage" by Johnny Cash (American II: Unchained)
"I Predict A Riot" by Kaiser Chiefs (Employment)
"Idiot Wind" by Bob Dylan (Blood On The Tracks)
"Born To Run" by Bruce Springsteen (Born To Run)
"Bohemian Rapsody" by Queen (A Night at the Opera)
"Razor Love" by Neil Young (Silver & Gold)
"Route" by Son Volt (Trace)
"What's So Funny 'Bout (Peace, Love, and Understanding)"
by Elvis Costello (Armed Forces)
Three people I will Tag:
-B. My compadre in all things music.
Amanda. The coolest TV anchor not named Kirsten that I know.
Brian. Another music savant that introduced me to some great artists. Just to see his list.
Absolution by Muse
-It's basically Bends-era Radiohead with a bit more of a melodic feel.I wish I had a better story for "discovering" the band, but the truth is I was perusing the music section @ Target and caught their video for "Hysteria" on the monitors and figured they were worth a shot for $7.99. They did not disappoint.
Song (CD) playing now:
"Banquet" by Bloc Party (Silent Alarm)
-This is a new band from the UK that are slowly taking over the States with their U2/Police punk-pop-rock sound (Though, in all honesty, trying to pigeon-hole these guys is a lesson in futility...one that proves fruitless in the end). Probably one of the tightest backbones in a band that I've heard in a long while. Their songwriting and arrangement remains very impressive and their influence seems to be as diverse as the band members themselves. A fan doth been born overnight.
Five songs I listen to a lot or that mean a lot to me:"To Be Young" by Ryan Adams (Heartbreaker)-Much like Kirsten, I wrote an essay about how much this song reminds me of home and listening to music with my best friends. This was during my "discovery" period where I was really working to expand my musical tentacles to all different genres, and this song always captured the spirit of that adventure.
Five songs that I listen to a lot or mean a lot to me:
"Across The Sea" by Weezer (Pinkerton)
-My favorite song on my favorite album of my (second) favorite band. A song written by a rock star after reading an anonmynous love letter from a fan living in Japan. A song that says, With all the attention, praise, and fandom surrounding them, Even rock stars get lonely.
"Alone Again Or" by Love (Forever Changes)
- This is a favorite song of mine from the moment I heard it in the movie "Bottle Rocket". I decided to include it in the list because it speaks to the power of sharing this art form at its most basic. Director Wes Anderson put this song in his movie, and thus unintentionally began a chain reaction that led me to buying Love's Greatest Hits album. After hearing some of their other songs, I became a fan of this short-lived obscure group from the late '60's. The power of music and its ability to touch upon perfect strangers is no more evident than in this exercise. Through music, the readers of these writings are connecting and sharing their experiences with one another.That is the power of a song.
"Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole (The Unforgettable Nat King Cole)
- This song just recently made the list. I sang this song at my brother's wedding for his dance with my mother and his wife Nicole's dance with her father. It's aspecial moment that I'll remember always, not only for the look on my mom's face, but, in a way, it was my introduction and acceptance into Nicole's family circle as well. Moments like those don't erode so easily. It's amazing what music can do to people.
"In Your Eyes" by Peter Gabriel (So)
- When most people hear this song, they think of Lloyd Dobler, arms outstretched clutching his electronic "love letter" and serenading Diane from the driveway below.When I think of it, I picture Kirsten and I, sweeping across the dance floor at our reception, gazing into one another's eyes. What a wonderful feeling to share.
Honorable Mentions:
"Let Down" by Radiohead (OK Computer)
"Sunken Treasure" by Wilco (Being There)
"Rusty Cage" by Johnny Cash (American II: Unchained)
"I Predict A Riot" by Kaiser Chiefs (Employment)
"Idiot Wind" by Bob Dylan (Blood On The Tracks)
"Born To Run" by Bruce Springsteen (Born To Run)
"Bohemian Rapsody" by Queen (A Night at the Opera)
"Razor Love" by Neil Young (Silver & Gold)
"Route" by Son Volt (Trace)
"What's So Funny 'Bout (Peace, Love, and Understanding)"
by Elvis Costello (Armed Forces)
Three people I will Tag:
-B. My compadre in all things music.
Amanda. The coolest TV anchor not named Kirsten that I know.
Brian. Another music savant that introduced me to some great artists. Just to see his list.
01 June 2005
A Confederacy of Blockheads
"Rumsfeld, You Blockhead!"
This base closing shit is really getting out of hand.
Curse you Rummy, and your consolidating power trip.
This base closing shit is really getting out of hand.
Curse you Rummy, and your consolidating power trip.
Pint Protection
Worried that your friends or significant other are gonna finish off your pint?
From those crazy kids at Ben & Jerry, a new product that's locking in more than just freshness...it's locking in peace of mind, with a pinch of paranoia.
link via Clicked
From those crazy kids at Ben & Jerry, a new product that's locking in more than just freshness...it's locking in peace of mind, with a pinch of paranoia.
link via Clicked
31 May 2005
"Freedom" Tickler
Ah, the winds of change....they are a-blowin'.
It seems that the political dolt who started this whole mess of "freedom fries", (not to mention all its spawns, including such gems as "freedom" toast, "freedom" kiss, etc.) is now playing a different tune on the war.
No word on if the instrument of choice is, in fact, a "freedom" horn.
It seems that the political dolt who started this whole mess of "freedom fries", (not to mention all its spawns, including such gems as "freedom" toast, "freedom" kiss, etc.) is now playing a different tune on the war.
No word on if the instrument of choice is, in fact, a "freedom" horn.
Mailbox To Your Soul
All I can say is....What a beautiful, haunting, and inspiring site.
This is the one that moved me the most.
Below: a comment from an anonymous reader:
"This is the kind of thing that changes lives. I can't wait to see where this all goes. Thank you for such a beautiful gift to humanity"
-Florida
This is the one that moved me the most.
Below: a comment from an anonymous reader:
"This is the kind of thing that changes lives. I can't wait to see where this all goes. Thank you for such a beautiful gift to humanity"
-Florida
30 May 2005
"Sith"y Questions
Think you can outwit the most powerful Jedi in the galaxy?
"All too easy...Indeed."
Also, if you looking for some Darth Thoughts, check out Anakin's online journal here.
The prose is strong at that site.
"All too easy...Indeed."
Also, if you looking for some Darth Thoughts, check out Anakin's online journal here.
The prose is strong at that site.
22 May 2005
Where Ya Been, Stranger?
I wish I had a good excuse for not posting lately. I don't.
Laziness would be one good answer....but then, isn't that always my excuse.
You can only hear me cry "Wolf!" so many times.
With that, I promise to be more prolific in my musings in the near future.
Speaking of "muse", another album to check out....
Absolution by Muse (stream album here).
Think of OK-era Radiohead, but with more keyboards and a little more accessible.
Doesn't sound too bad, eh?
Laziness would be one good answer....but then, isn't that always my excuse.
You can only hear me cry "Wolf!" so many times.
With that, I promise to be more prolific in my musings in the near future.
Speaking of "muse", another album to check out....
Absolution by Muse (stream album here).
Think of OK-era Radiohead, but with more keyboards and a little more accessible.
Doesn't sound too bad, eh?
16 May 2005
Lib...with a Twist
Your Political Profile |
Overall: 10% Conservative, 90% Liberal |
Social Issues: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal |
Personal Responsibility: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal |
Fiscal Issues: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal |
Ethics: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal |
Defense and Crime: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal |
11 May 2005
Party Time Has Come
Do you like The Police? Franz Ferdinand? U2? Any f!%^&$& cool band?
If so, stop reading this post right now.
Didn't you hear me?
OK, if you're gonna keep reading this...you'd better already have your copy of "Silent Alarm" by Bloc Party in your possession.
If this is the case, put it in your player and press Play.
If you're just defying me, at least do me this solid as penance.
Run, don't walk to your store and pick up this album. My pick for album of the year at the halfway mark.
Not convinced? Check out this review.
OK, I'm done here people....got some packing to do...the little bro's tying the knot this weekend....wish him luck.
If so, stop reading this post right now.
Didn't you hear me?
OK, if you're gonna keep reading this...you'd better already have your copy of "Silent Alarm" by Bloc Party in your possession.
If this is the case, put it in your player and press Play.
If you're just defying me, at least do me this solid as penance.
Run, don't walk to your store and pick up this album. My pick for album of the year at the halfway mark.
Not convinced? Check out this review.
OK, I'm done here people....got some packing to do...the little bro's tying the knot this weekend....wish him luck.
09 May 2005
Victory Is Mine!
Which Family Guy character are you?
What the deuce? My favorite little genius.
I love it when a plan comes together.
The Fabulous Rasmus Boys
Photo courtesy BaseballAmerica
Funny how it took all season....all those games before I finally saw them play.
Russell County High School, just across the river a bit in Alabama, has been the No. 1 baseball team in America most of the season according to Baseball America, thanks in large part to the talented trio of Kasey Kiker, Colby and Cory Rasmus.
I could try to explain how good these guys are, but it's best to leave that to the experts.
With that, I finally got my first look at the Warriors on Friday in their State Playoff game 1 against Paul Bryant High (Tuscaloosa).
Long story, short...in the 2 innings I was there, they scored 6 runs, capped off by a Grand Slam by Kiker, to win 10-3.
Kirsten tells me that that was the worst she has seen them play all year...Frightening to think about.
BTW...Colby is the only senior, so next year, Cory and Kasey (widely considered already to be Alabama's top prep pitcher) will be around for their senior year, plus the youngest brother Cody Rasmus, only a freshman, will be back with a full season of seasoning under his belt.
Oh, yeah...one more thing:
Barring any of them leaving for big bonueses in the Draft, All 3 of them are committed to Auburn. In case you're wondering, Baseball America's pick for Player of the Year, Justin Bristow, also headed to the Plains.
War Eagle.
06 May 2005
So Long & Thanks for All The Fish
What do you think?
Does this sound like me?
Will "The Office" get a second season?
Discuss.
Oh, BTW, just for Kirsten....
Your Birthdate: September 21 |
Being born on the 21st day of the month (3 energy) is likely to add a good bit of vitality to your life. The energy of 3 allows you bounce back rapidly from setbacks, physical or mental. There is a restlessness in your nature, but you seem to be able to portray an easygoing, "couldn't care less" attitude. You have a natural ability to express yourself in public, and you always make a very good impression. Good with words, you excel in writing, speaking, and possibly singing. You are energetic and always a good conversationalist. You have a keen imagination, but you tend to scatter your energies and become involved with too may superficial matters. Your mind is practical and rational despite this tendency to jump about. You are affectionate and loving, but very sensitive. You are subject to rapid ups and downs. |
Rubin and the Weez
4 days remain.....4 days to #5.
Don't worry...the fact that producer extraordinaire Rick Rubin is producing Weezer's newest offering, Make Believe, is not lost on me.
In fact, I think only one thing could top it with album #6....that is, assuming Rivers doesn't relapse for good and a #6 stay locked within the dark recesses of his gray matter.
One thing, and one thing alone, can top this collaberation:
Paging Mr. Lange. First name, Mutt.
PS the boys in =W= graced the cover of Rolling Stone last month...you can check out their weird world here.
Don't worry...the fact that producer extraordinaire Rick Rubin is producing Weezer's newest offering, Make Believe, is not lost on me.
In fact, I think only one thing could top it with album #6....that is, assuming Rivers doesn't relapse for good and a #6 stay locked within the dark recesses of his gray matter.
One thing, and one thing alone, can top this collaberation:
Paging Mr. Lange. First name, Mutt.
PS the boys in =W= graced the cover of Rolling Stone last month...you can check out their weird world here.
03 May 2005
Phone Phorce
Brace yourself.
I downloaded "The Imperial March" as my new ringtone today. God, I'm a geek....let's just say, it won out over Chewy's roar and Yoda saying "An incoming call, you have".
Sad, but oh so very true.
Carry on.
FYI - New Ryan Adams & The Cardinals out today....Wal-Mart edges out Tar`ge with a price tag of $11.88 to $11.99.
Not bad for a 2CD album.
Heads up for the new Weezer next week...consider yourselves warned.
I downloaded "The Imperial March" as my new ringtone today. God, I'm a geek....let's just say, it won out over Chewy's roar and Yoda saying "An incoming call, you have".
Sad, but oh so very true.
Carry on.
FYI - New Ryan Adams & The Cardinals out today....Wal-Mart edges out Tar`ge with a price tag of $11.88 to $11.99.
Not bad for a 2CD album.
Heads up for the new Weezer next week...consider yourselves warned.
01 May 2005
Palmer's Back
First, a word of advice from the Democrats:
Stick Dennis Haysbert in a suit and run him for the high office in '08.
I'd vote for him. Right now. That's how bad-ass he is as commander-in-chief.
Hail to the F!%^&* Chief!
Stick Dennis Haysbert in a suit and run him for the high office in '08.
I'd vote for him. Right now. That's how bad-ass he is as commander-in-chief.
Hail to the F!%^&* Chief!
27 April 2005
Shopping For Some Steals
After dinner last night, KO and I headed over to one of our fine department stores for a little window shopping.
In the process, I suspect I was suffering for withdrawal. What began as a stroll around the store ended up with over $50.00 in new goodies to take home.
Among the haul we find the following:
- bought 3 albums:
Ben Folds - Songs for Silverman $11.98
Hot Hot Heat - Elevator $13.99
Kaiser Chiefs - Employment $7.99
Early reviews
- Ben Folds is ehhhh, OK.
- Kaiser Chiefs...amazing...check it out.
- Hot Hot Heat...I'll check it out tomorrow....got a feeling that I'll like it.
- Had to pass on the new "Queens" album, though...hey, I'm not made of dinero.
Other items:
- New STL Cards blue unstructured cap....already had the Sunday "bird on bat" fitted BP model...felt the old standby road adjustable was needed.
- $1 "Girls Night Out" Jenga game...first off, it's a gift. Second, Kirsten wanted it. It isn't for me. Really.
Bear in mind...I was planning on just looking around. So a big surprise was in store for me when I returned home after work.
While I was digging out my wallet and key from mi pantelones when I got home a few hours later, I found something that apparently didn't make it to the register. Oops. As you can imagine, I was genuinely shocked. I've only done that one other time.
As a little guy, I walked out of a Pamida with my mom and grandma with a Snoopy book in my hand that belonged to the store. Never returned the item...now, the same scene is playing out over 20 years later.
What else can I say? I'm driving the Winnebago to hell. Call me if you need a ride.
In the process, I suspect I was suffering for withdrawal. What began as a stroll around the store ended up with over $50.00 in new goodies to take home.
Among the haul we find the following:
- bought 3 albums:
Ben Folds - Songs for Silverman $11.98
Hot Hot Heat - Elevator $13.99
Kaiser Chiefs - Employment $7.99
Early reviews
- Ben Folds is ehhhh, OK.
- Kaiser Chiefs...amazing...check it out.
- Hot Hot Heat...I'll check it out tomorrow....got a feeling that I'll like it.
- Had to pass on the new "Queens" album, though...hey, I'm not made of dinero.
Other items:
- New STL Cards blue unstructured cap....already had the Sunday "bird on bat" fitted BP model...felt the old standby road adjustable was needed.
- $1 "Girls Night Out" Jenga game...first off, it's a gift. Second, Kirsten wanted it. It isn't for me. Really.
Bear in mind...I was planning on just looking around. So a big surprise was in store for me when I returned home after work.
While I was digging out my wallet and key from mi pantelones when I got home a few hours later, I found something that apparently didn't make it to the register. Oops. As you can imagine, I was genuinely shocked. I've only done that one other time.
As a little guy, I walked out of a Pamida with my mom and grandma with a Snoopy book in my hand that belonged to the store. Never returned the item...now, the same scene is playing out over 20 years later.
What else can I say? I'm driving the Winnebago to hell. Call me if you need a ride.
24 April 2005
A Insider Look | Chiefs 2005 Draft
Here's the Insider breakdown of the Chiefs' first 2 draft picks (Day 1) in 2005:
Derrick Johnson LB Texas
OLB (6'3", 242, 4.54) TEXAS
Scouts Grade: 96
Derrick Johnson LB Texas
OLB (6'3", 242, 4.54) TEXAS
Scouts Grade: 96
Round 1 - Pick 15 (15)
Strengths: Was one of the most active and productive linebackers in college football the last three seasons. Plays with a terrific motor and has outstanding athletic ability. Is fluid and fast. Can cover loads of territory if protected and given room to roam. He does a nice job of reading his keys, locating the ball carrier and taking the shortest path to the ball. Is on the taller side and he has a lean frame, but was able to add some bulk without losing mobility as a senior. Is a very reliable tackler. Tackles low, breaks down in space and also does a nice job of breaking down and wrapping up in the open field. Has outstanding potential in the passing game in the NFL. Has terrific speed and closing burst as an edge rusher. Is tall, has a wide wingspan and is extremely fluid in coverage. Has excellent range in zone coverage and can matchup one-on-one with most backs out of the backfield. Has terrific instincts in coverage. Also is a playmaker with excellent ball skills.
Strengths: Was one of the most active and productive linebackers in college football the last three seasons. Plays with a terrific motor and has outstanding athletic ability. Is fluid and fast. Can cover loads of territory if protected and given room to roam. He does a nice job of reading his keys, locating the ball carrier and taking the shortest path to the ball. Is on the taller side and he has a lean frame, but was able to add some bulk without losing mobility as a senior. Is a very reliable tackler. Tackles low, breaks down in space and also does a nice job of breaking down and wrapping up in the open field. Has outstanding potential in the passing game in the NFL. Has terrific speed and closing burst as an edge rusher. Is tall, has a wide wingspan and is extremely fluid in coverage. Has excellent range in zone coverage and can matchup one-on-one with most backs out of the backfield. Has terrific instincts in coverage. Also is a playmaker with excellent ball skills.
Weaknesses: Bulked up as a senior but doesn't play like a 242-pound LB. Much better fit at WLB than ILB. Has most trouble when teams run at him. He is cut a little bit high and tends to let blockers get into his body too much. Has improved technique but still can get better in terms of using his hands to get through traffic. Also needs to be more consistent with leverage at the POA. Will get engulfed too easily when bigger blockers reach him and must improve his ability to take on blocker in the phone booth. Not an explosive tackler. Got bigger as a senior but still lacks explosive upper body power.
Overall: Johnson played every game as a true freshman in 2001 and started two at outside linebacker. He was a fulltime starting outside linebacker for the Longhorns from his sophomore season in 2002 through his senior season in 2004. As a junior in 2003, Johnson led the Longhorns with 129 total tackles, including 29 TFL, two sacks and four INT's. He finished his senior season in 2004 with 130 tackles, 19 TFL, two sacks and one INT. Johnson has experience playing inside and outside linebacker but is an outside linebacker prospect that will best fit on the "weakside" in the NFL. He is a tall, somewhat lean, active, aggressive, athletic and fast linebacker with tremendous NFL potential. Johnson made an unexpected but wise decision to return for his senior season in 2004 and he became an even more complete player over the course of the last year, particularly in terms of his size, technique and consistency. Johnson still needs to improve his strength at the point of attack and his ability to take on blockers. However, Johnson is the best linebacker prospect in the 2005 draft class and he might be the best overall defensive player, which is why he projects as a sure-fire top-10 selection.
--------------
Dustin Colquitt
Dustin Colquitt
Scouts Grade: 67
Round 3 - Pick 35 (99)
Overall: Colquitt redshirted in 2000 and has been the Vols fulltime starting punter since 2001. He was a Ray Guy Award finalist in 2002 and 2003 and he finished sixth in the nation with a 45.3 yard per punt average in 2003. Colquitt averaged 40.8 yards per punt and he placed 17 of his 26 punts inside the opponent's 20-yardline in 2004. He was also a semi-finalist for the Ray Guy Award.
Colquitt is hands down the best all-around punter in this class. He has good size, excellent leg strength, an impressive understanding of angles and placement, and he has very good control of his punts. He gets great hang-time and he's as good as we've seen at the college level when it comes to placing punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Colquitt should be the first punter taken and he could come off the board as high as the third round.
* All Player biographies are provided by Scouts Inc.
Colquitt is hands down the best all-around punter in this class. He has good size, excellent leg strength, an impressive understanding of angles and placement, and he has very good control of his punts. He gets great hang-time and he's as good as we've seen at the college level when it comes to placing punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Colquitt should be the first punter taken and he could come off the board as high as the third round.
* All Player biographies are provided by Scouts Inc.
Originally posted 11:15 pm April 23, 2005
Day 2 | KC Chiefs Selections
Below are the Chiefs Day 2 selections (Analysis provided by ESPN Insider)
Craphonso Thorpe
WR (6'0", 188, 4.45) FLORIDA STATE
Weaknesses: For a defensive lineman he does not have great speed or quickness...If he changes positions he will have a lot of work to do and be extremely raw...Was not super productive and didn't do much in terms of sacking the quarterback.
Notes: Some teams are projecting him to the offensive line at the next level...An interesting player with some potential who could be a project some teams decides to take a chance on late.
- Scott Wright, NFLDraftCountdown.com
Craphonso Thorpe
WR (6'0", 188, 4.45) FLORIDA STATE
Scouts Grade: 66
Round: 4
Pick (Overall): 15(116)
Strengths: Is tall, has decent bulk and the frame to get bigger. Is at his best vs. man-coverage. He shows good burst out of his breaks and the ability to consistently separate from man-coverage in the intermediate area. Has very good concentration and hand-eye coordination. Does an excellent job of adjusting to the poorly thrown ball and of tracking down the deep ball in the air. Has long arms, good leaping ability and is a weapon on the fade route. Gives a decent effort and shows some toughness as a blocker.
Weaknesses: Was once considered a consistent threat to get over the top of DB's one-on-one. However, he suffered a broken right leg on 11/19/03 and was not been as confident or aggressive following the injury as a senior. Still flashes deep speed but didn't make as many plays vertically as a senior. Is improving as a route runner but still has work to do. Needs to do a better job of recognizing zone coverage and finding soft spots in it. Did not show the same burst and second gear in 2004 that he showed prior to 2003 injury. Has a good frame and top-end speed but lacks strength and explosive initial burst. Didn't get challenged much on film in press coverage but the few times he did he seemed to get frustrated. He needs to improve his upper body strength and develop more reliable moves in terms of his release. Also can improve as a blocker if he gets stronger and fills out his frame.
Overall: Thorpe, who also has led FSU to two outdoor (2002 and 2003) and one indoor (2003) ACC Track and Field championships, has been a contributor at wide receiver and in the return game since his true freshman season in 2001. As a junior in 2003, Thorpe led the Seminoles with 51 receptions for 994 yards and 11 touchdowns despite missing the final two games because of injury. Thorpe was expected to have a huge bounce-back season in 2004 but failed to meet expectations. He was suspended for one game and wound up with just 40 receptions for 496 yards in 11 games played as a senior. Thorpe is a tall receiver who possesses adequate bulk and very good speed. He still has room to improve as a route runner and he has some durability/character concerns following broken leg in20'03 and one-game suspension (failing to attend class) in 2004. He also seemed more hesitant and less explosive coming off the injury as a senior than he was prior to it in 2003. Thorpe does, however, have the speed and home run hitting potential that is difficult to find, which is why despite failing to live up to expectations as a senior he could still wind up getting selected late on the first day or early on the second day of the 2005 draft.
-------------------
James "Boomer" Grigsby
Scouts Grade: 51
Round: 5
Pick (Overall): 2(138)
Strengths: Is an intriguing small-school prospect that has flat-out dominated his level of competition. Has good size and strength. Also has good top end speed. Moves well laterally and forward. Is a search-and-flow linebacker with good instincts. Makes quick reads, does a good job of avoiding blocks and takes solid angles to the ball carrier. He has excellent closing burst and very good overall range versus the run. Is a powerful tackler with good pop at the POA. Also is a sound tackler in space. Is much better as a blitzer than he is when forced to turn and run in coverage. Has good instincts and closing burst as a pass rusher.
Weaknesses: Has not played against top competition. Has a strong upper body and makes some big hits but lacks ideal base and needs to improve his lower body strength to anchor in the phone booth. Is still a little bit raw in terms of his technique. Runs around too many blocks. Does not show the consistent ability to take on and shed blocks in the phone booth. Must improve his hand usage and consistency in terms of his leverage. He gets away with running around blocks at his level but won't in the NFL. Moves well laterally and has very good straight-line speed, but his hips are a little bit stiff when forced to turn and run. He does not have great overall cover skills. Seems to lack a feel in zone coverage and does not do a great job of finding the ball in the air. His hands and overall ball skills must improve.
Overall: Grigsby is a late bloomer and very much a "sleeper" in the 2005 draft class. He was not heavily recruited out of high school, wound up going to Illinois State and took a redshirt year in 2000. However, as a redshirt freshman in 2001 he set the school's freshman record with 93 total tackles. He has been a fulltime starter since and has been an absolutely dominant player at that level. Grigsby was named the DI-AA Defensive Player of the Year as a junior and senior. He finished his junior season in 2003 with 179 total tackles, 12 TFL and three sacks and his senior season in 2004 with 129 tackles, 8.5 TFL and three sacks. There is obviously a concern about his ability to make the transition from DI-AA collegiate level to the NFL. Grigsby also lacks a strong base, runs around too many blocks and has some stiffness in coverage. However, Grigsby does have good size, very good top-end speed for his size and is a tough player that should be able to make the adjustment mentally and physically. Grigsby will have a huge transition to make and he will need to improve his lower body strength and technique in the meantime, but he shows enough upside to warrant mid-round attention in the 2005 draft. If nothing else, Grigsby has the right mentality, size and tackling skills to contribute on special teams and enough versatility to play a reserve role at a couple of LB spots.
--------------------
Alphonso Hodge
Scouts Grade: 55
Round: 5
Pick (Overall): 11(147)
Strengths: He has decent height, is well built, strong and has good top-end speed. Has upside because of his natural physical tools. Can do a good job smothering receivers at the LOS. Is strong in at the POA in press coverage. Is big and strong enough to matchup on the outside versus taller receivers. Has very good straight-line speed. Shows some acceleration and the ability to make up for some mistakes. He fills hard against the run and has good size and strength in that area. Has developed solid tackling skills and should also be a good fit as a cover-guy on special teams.
Weaknesses: Has improved with experience but still gambles a little bit too much and doesn't show great natural awareness. Instincts and recognition are below average. He often times takes too long to diagnose a play and will be a split-second late getting there. He has never been a big playmaker when the ball is in the air. He seems to struggle to find the football over his shoulder and his overall ball skills are marginal.
Overall: Hodge redshirted in 2000, played as a reserve cornerback as a redshirt freshman in 2001 and then won a starting job for the first seven games of the 2002 season before being demoted for the final five. He regained his starting cornerback job as a junior in 2003, when he started all 14 games and finished with 49 total tackles, nine PBU, but zero INT's. As a senior in 2004, Hodge started all 13 games and finished with 54 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, five sacks, zero INT's and six PBU. There's a lot to like about Hodge's physical skills as an NFL prospect. He is big, strong and fast. Hodge is aggressive in coverage and in run support, and he has developed into an effective blitzer when occasionally turned loose. However, Hodge still has a lot of work to do in terms of his recognition skills as a cover corner and he also has never developed into a big-time playmaker when the ball is in the air. Hodge will get drafted early on Day 2 because of his upside but he'll need time and good coaching in order to contribute on defense in the NFL.
--------------------------
Will Svitek
Scouts Grade: 30
Round: 6
Pick (Overall): 13(187)
Strengths: Has great size with the frame to continue getting bigger and stronger...Has long arms...Is a very good athlete...Tough and nasty...Smart player with good intangibles...Has a lot of experience.
Weaknesses: For a defensive lineman he does not have great speed or quickness...If he changes positions he will have a lot of work to do and be extremely raw...Was not super productive and didn't do much in terms of sacking the quarterback.
Notes: Some teams are projecting him to the offensive line at the next level...An interesting player with some potential who could be a project some teams decides to take a chance on late.
-----------------
Khari Long
Scouts Grade: 41
Round: 6
Pick (Overall): 25(199)
Strengths: Is a height/weight/speed prospect. Has intriguing upside as a rush-linebacker and special teams player. Has explosive initial quickness and good top-end speed. Can beat most OT's off the snap with his first few steps. Gets to top-speed in a hurry. Has outstanding COD skills and is a fluid athlete. Has explosive leaping ability and can bat down a lot of passes if his awareness improves. He also has outstanding upper body strength. Flashes the ability to use powerful upper body moves as a pass rusher. Can be effective versus the run when he is pursuing in space. Also can be an explosive tackler when he lines it up right.
Weaknesses: Has had durability issues (ankle in high school, right shoulder in 2001, concussion in 2003). Is unpolished and lacks great technique. Is undersized at DE. Lacks experience at OLB and has not dropped in coverage much. He lacks an ideal base and lower body strength. Gets engulfed at the POA too often and is a liability when teams run at him. Runs around blocks too much and can be undisciplined. Never was as productive on the collegiate level as his measurables would indicate. Needs to learn to use his hands better and to play with more leverage. Instincts are questionable. Misses too many open field tackles.
Overall: Long redshirted in 2000 and missed the first three games of the 2001 season with a sprained shoulder but saw action in the fin al seven games as a reserve DE. He started four games and played in 11 games as a sophomore in 2002, contributing both at the DE and DT positions. Long started 8-of-10 games in which he played in 2003, finishing with 31 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. As a senior in 2004, Long started all 11 games and finished with 58 total tackles, eight TFL and two sacks.Long is an intriguing late-round prospect. He is undersized as a traditional DE and he also lacks experience at the LB position. He is somewhat unpolished and had adequate but not great production on the collegiate level. However, he has an exceptional combination of upper body power (27 reps on 225-pound bench press), speed (4.69), leaping ability (38.5 vertical jump) and agility (1.64 10-yard dash, 4.07 short-shuttle, 11.35 long shuttle and 7.22 three-cone). If he can stay healthy, improves with experience and coaching, and gets a legitimate opportunity, Long could emerge as a steal in the late rounds, as he has the physical tools and upside to develop into a great special teams contributor and situational pass rusher as a rush-linebacker type.
-----------------------
James Kilian
Scouts Grade: 30
Round: 7
Pick (Overall): 15(229)
Strengths: Is tall, has adequate bulk and the frame to get even bigger. He has adequate arm strength. Shows enough zip on the deep out route but cannot fit the ball into some spots that stronger-armed NFL quarterbacks could. His accuracy and efficiency as a passer continues to improve. He shows the ability to throw on the run with good velocity and accuracy. He will do a terrific job of making things happen after the initial play breaks down. He is quick and elusive. Has a quick set, a good pocket presence and buys himself a lot of extra time with his mobility. He also is a threat to run, has adequate-to-good speed and is an elusive and tough runner in the open field.
Weaknesses: He's raw as a passer. Doesn't show a great feel for reading coverages and making check down reads. Will lock on to his primary receiver too much. Accuracy has improved but it still is not great. Needs to become more mechanically sound and consistent with his release. Can be impatient when his primary isn't open and will take off and run too early at times. He still needs to add bulk and get stronger. He has adequate-to-good arm strength but it's not elite.
Overall: Kilian redshirted in 2000 and started just three games from 2001-'02 before taking over as the Golden Hurricane's fulltime starting quarterback as a junior in 2003. He's a dual threat who completed 56.8-percent of his passing attempts and also rushed for 605 yards in 2003. As a senior in 2004, Kilian completed 54.6-percent of his attempts for 2,247 yards with 13 TD's and 16 INT's. He also rushed for 282 yards and eight TD's. Kilian is an intriguing priority free agent prospect because he has some developmental upside. He has loads of work to do in terms of his mechanics and ability to read defenses as a passer. Also, he still needs to grow into his frame and he hasn't played against top-flight competition much of his college career. However, he has the size, arm strength, athleticism and work ethic to at least be worthy of a shot in training camp.
--------------------
Jeremy Parquet
OT (6'6", 323, 5.34) SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
Scouts Grade: 71
Round: 7
Pick (Overall): 24(238)
Strengths: Is a mammoth ROT prospect. Has adequate strength but is more of a mauler than anything. Has better lower body strength than upper body strength. He will play with balance and show the ability to mirror and slide as long as he doesn't get over-extended trying to get set against top speed rushers. He is very difficult to disengage from after he has locked on. He plays with good leverage in the running take. Is experienced and technically sound in that area. Takes solid angles and shows good initial pop. Has strong hands and arms. Will lock on, drive his legs and show a consistent ability to finish his blocks. He is clearly a better run blocker than pass protector. He has been a durable and reliable player throughout his career, as well.
Weaknesses: Is not a good athlete. He can hold up in pass protection against power rushers and athletic high-motor rushers, but speed is what kills him. Will struggle to match up against edge rushers with good speed and athleticism, because he tends to over-extend when he is out-classed by speed, which leads to him getting off-balance and becoming vulnerable to the double move. He does not look smooth and fluid as a space blocker in the running game, either. Finally, while he has good overall size and strength, he clearly is stronger in his lower body than he is in his upper body. He needs to become more powerful up top. Lacks explosiveness in his punch.
Overall: Parquet redshirted in 2000. He started in one-of-six games played in 2001 before moving into a fulltime starting role as a redshirt sophomore in 2002 and was a fulltime starter throughout his last three seasons at Southern Miss. Parquet is a prospect with great size who has continued to with each season of experience. He is strictly a right tackle prospect, as he is a mammoth OT that engulfs defenders at the point of attack but lacks the ideal mobility and athleticism of a starting left tackle in the NFL. In our opinion, Parquet has the potential to develop into a starter in the NFL, which is why he grades out as a late-Day 1 or early-Day 2 prospects in the upcoming draft.
* All Player biographies (except Will Svitek) are provided by Scouts Inc. on ESPN Insider
--------------------
My first impression: Great pickup with DJ and Colquitt with the first 2 picks.
Thorpe is a project, with a massive payoff.
Grisby, Long, and Kilian are most likely longshots and special teams contributers.
But the last pick could have a huge impact: In terms of value, the Parquet pick in round 7 could be one to remember. With the Chiefs' propensity for developing great O Linemen, Parquet's upside and early round projection makes him an absolute steal in the 7th.
Of course, therein lies the beauty of the draft.
Time will tell, but my initial grade for the Chiefs: B+.
23 April 2005
The Next Derrick
Nice pick, Dick.
Now, I'm not saying that he'll replace the immortal #58, but last year's Butkus winner is gonna look pretty tight in red and gold.
Don't be shy. How did your team do in today's draft?
19 April 2005
"No Mercy" for Johnny
The saga of Billy "Little Frog"
Ever wondered what happened to "Johnny Lawrence", the blonde-haired asshole from Karate Kid?
Patton Oswalt explains.
Ever wondered what happened to "Johnny Lawrence", the blonde-haired asshole from Karate Kid?
Patton Oswalt explains.
Lost In Tradition
My ten year reunion is upon me. This much we already know.
Along with this milestone comes another: The tenth anniversary of KHS' lone baseball state championship. A feat that this author helped come to fruition.
The caveat: To the reunion I am going, but the baseball soiree, a no-show.
The main reason for this being that the baseball weekend falls one week prior to my brother's nuptials, and I don't have the vacation time to commit to an entire week in the 'Ville.
I must confess, though; it sounds like a good time is in store for those that do come home.
You see, the current head coach leading the grand tradition that is Kirksville Tiger Baseball is a former teammate and mentor of mine, Mr. Andrew Jackson.
And, in my opinion, a finer representative to the Tiger Baseball Way cannot be found.
It is with this thought that I'm regretting the fact that I'm not attending.
I'll admit, it would be nice to see the old ball field, with all its new and improved amenities. It would be nice to doff my cap to the KHS faithful and be honored on said field as a member of the 1995 State Championship Baseball team before the game; nice to see my brother Casey, and the rest of the boys from that great team; nice to see those teams that came before us, laying the foundation, and the young men that followed in our footsteps, carrying the legacy, even up until this very day, thanks to the man that's making all this possible.
Thanks Andy, for all you do for the Tiger tradition. I'm only sorry I can't be there to share this with you in person.
Just know that the work you're carrying on doesn't go unnoticed.
Thanks for keeping those dreams alive. Thanks for shaping those future members of this prestigious fraternity and rekindling the old fire for the alumni.
As a player, I always looked up to you, for the way you played the game, how you took the young guys under your wing, and your leadership in every sense of the word.
Thanks for carrying the torch for all of us. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Take care.
Along with this milestone comes another: The tenth anniversary of KHS' lone baseball state championship. A feat that this author helped come to fruition.
The caveat: To the reunion I am going, but the baseball soiree, a no-show.
The main reason for this being that the baseball weekend falls one week prior to my brother's nuptials, and I don't have the vacation time to commit to an entire week in the 'Ville.
I must confess, though; it sounds like a good time is in store for those that do come home.
You see, the current head coach leading the grand tradition that is Kirksville Tiger Baseball is a former teammate and mentor of mine, Mr. Andrew Jackson.
And, in my opinion, a finer representative to the Tiger Baseball Way cannot be found.
It is with this thought that I'm regretting the fact that I'm not attending.
I'll admit, it would be nice to see the old ball field, with all its new and improved amenities. It would be nice to doff my cap to the KHS faithful and be honored on said field as a member of the 1995 State Championship Baseball team before the game; nice to see my brother Casey, and the rest of the boys from that great team; nice to see those teams that came before us, laying the foundation, and the young men that followed in our footsteps, carrying the legacy, even up until this very day, thanks to the man that's making all this possible.
Thanks Andy, for all you do for the Tiger tradition. I'm only sorry I can't be there to share this with you in person.
Just know that the work you're carrying on doesn't go unnoticed.
Thanks for keeping those dreams alive. Thanks for shaping those future members of this prestigious fraternity and rekindling the old fire for the alumni.
As a player, I always looked up to you, for the way you played the game, how you took the young guys under your wing, and your leadership in every sense of the word.
Thanks for carrying the torch for all of us. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Take care.
13 April 2005
Roger. Wilco. Guero.
Finally.
After about a month or so of forgetting to download it, I finally got around to ripping the Bonus EP from Wilco's A Ghost Is Born.
Here's the tracklist, if you're interested:
1. Panthers
2. At Least That's What You Said (Live)
3. The Late Greats (Live)
4. Handshake Drugs (Live)
5. Kicking Television
Needless to say, having "Panthers" and "Kicking Television" is definitely worth the time and money spent for the enhanced CD.
On another note, I picked up the new Beck yesterday, Guero.
Definitely worth a listen, especially if you liked Odelay.
BTW...is it just me, or is that new single by the Gorillaz (Feel Good Inc.) the song of the year to date?
After about a month or so of forgetting to download it, I finally got around to ripping the Bonus EP from Wilco's A Ghost Is Born.
Here's the tracklist, if you're interested:
1. Panthers
2. At Least That's What You Said (Live)
3. The Late Greats (Live)
4. Handshake Drugs (Live)
5. Kicking Television
Needless to say, having "Panthers" and "Kicking Television" is definitely worth the time and money spent for the enhanced CD.
On another note, I picked up the new Beck yesterday, Guero.
Definitely worth a listen, especially if you liked Odelay.
BTW...is it just me, or is that new single by the Gorillaz (Feel Good Inc.) the song of the year to date?
07 April 2005
The Horsehide is Back
No, that isn't some sick nickname for myself...Baseball, baby, BASEBALL!!!
The Cards are locked in at 1-1, with Chris Carpenter looking dominant in the first game, only to look not so much so in the second.
The Royals are also at .500, while giving us the polar opposite, allowing Dmitri Young to do his Tuffy Rhodes impression with 3 yaks in the first game (lost 11-2), and a stellar performance by the young Royals (Runelys, Teahen, Berroa) in the second game (won 7-2).
Optimism is abound in the O'Donnell/KO homestead, but the best part of baseball season:
The over-the-top voices of your team's resident play-by-play guys.
Classic stuff. Thank you, Bob Uecker.
P.S. Welcome to Springfield, Mr. Ankiel...nice to see that you made it through waivers without a scratch.
The Cards are locked in at 1-1, with Chris Carpenter looking dominant in the first game, only to look not so much so in the second.
The Royals are also at .500, while giving us the polar opposite, allowing Dmitri Young to do his Tuffy Rhodes impression with 3 yaks in the first game (lost 11-2), and a stellar performance by the young Royals (Runelys, Teahen, Berroa) in the second game (won 7-2).
Optimism is abound in the O'Donnell/KO homestead, but the best part of baseball season:
The over-the-top voices of your team's resident play-by-play guys.
Classic stuff. Thank you, Bob Uecker.
P.S. Welcome to Springfield, Mr. Ankiel...nice to see that you made it through waivers without a scratch.
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