This week's music downloads showcase a few diverse offerings from my collection. We start with a track from a recent album that came out earlier this year, followed by one from an older disc that is quickly become a classic for me. And finally, a little ditty by everyone's favorite original boybander, JT.
Andrew Bird :: Tables and Chairs
hxxp://s37.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2KVPURPB6RCP00ROKVQOEUE6FM
Mr. Bird is a quirky artist whose music I only just discovered on his most recent release, The Mysterious Production of Eggs (2005). On this album he uses an incredible range of instrumentation, from his trademark violin to his "professional" whistling, to create grandiose pieces that are unlike anything you've heard before. (Rather, I should say, unlike anything I've heard before.)
On "Tables and Chairs," the personal highlights are Andrew on his violin and the use of a vibraphone throughout the song, and an amazing lyrical verse and its reference to snacks. Lyrics posted below:
i know we're going to meet some day
in the crumbled financial institutions of this land
there will be tables and chairs
there'll be pony rides and dancing bears
there'll even be a band
cause listen, after the fall there will be no more countries
no currencies at all, we're gonna live on our wits
we're gonna throw away survival kits,
trade butterfly-knives for adderal
and that's not all
whoa-oh, there will be snacks there will
there will be snacks, there will be snacks.
Whiskeytown :: Jacksonville Skyline
hxxp://s46.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0CWGT5HZNYZFG3W2MHRV8S3H7M
Whiskeytown was Ryan Adams's band before he went solo. This track is off the album Pneumonia (2001), which incidentally was released after Ryan Adams's first solo album, Heartbreaker (2000), after being buried away for a few years after it was recorded. I'm sure glad it saw the light, though. This is definitely one of my favorite albums. Perfect for a certain kind of mood-- those slow living, easy going days. While I really don't like categorizing things (in part because I find it so difficult-- everything influences everything these days), this album fits solidly into the "alt-country" genre, if there is such a thing. "Jacksonville Skyline" is an excellent song and certainly one of the album highlights. While a fairly simple ballad, something about it gives me that kind of satisfying feeling inside, which I can't say for too many songs. When Ryan starts the line, Soldiers filled the hotels on the weekend..., that's when it kicks in gear for me. The best line of the song, though, is probably Well I was born in an abundance of inherited sadness, if only because you know he means it and it's probably true. It's great to hear him sing with such sincerity about his hometown; it gives you a sense of nostalgia and longing for your own past, despite the fact that he's singing about North Carolina.
Justin Timberlake :: Never Again
hxxp://s38.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0DSALGZ3LP1D33TTZIM2YJ8EGY
Just so I'm never accused as being a little indie snob who's forgotten the good ol' stuff I listened to in my early teens, I thought I'd give a little love to Justin Timberlake, who so successfully made the transition from teenybopper to respectable artist/performer. Now, we all know the singles off Justified (2002)-- Cry Me A River, Senorita, etc..-- but I realize few people (I guess those who either didn't own the album or make it to the last track) actually heard one of my favorite songs off the album, "Never Again." Aside from heartfelt lyrics to make you want to pick up your phone and call Justin to chat about his broken heart (Britney, "all you had to do was apologize!!" Geeeeez...), this track is great because it was co-produced by Brian McKnight himself. This fact is fairly apparent after listening to the song... the piano, the killer bridge, the overall flow of the ballad. In any case, listen to this one and you'll officially turn your back on Britney. Not that both of them aren't better off in their new lives...
Enjoy! Hopefully all the yousendits work this time...
Current Music: Casimir Pulaski Day, by Sufjan Stevens
Jun 26, 2005
5th Year Reunion...
So last night I attended my fifth year high school reunion. Crazy, isn't it? After getting the invitation to this event a couple months ago, conversations among old friends have been dominated by the subject: Are you going? Who do you think will be there? The common response was something like "Ohhh I don't know.. I mean, I'll be in town, so..." Unless anyone had a great excuse, it looked like we'd all go. But there were several conditions involved: must not show up alone, must not show up exactly on time, must have consumed at least a couple drinks before arriving, must stick together.
Don't get your hopes up, there will be no names named in this post. I just realized how dangerous that could be, particularly because I have no idea who actually reads this.
So there I was with the handful of high school folks I actually keep in touch with, pulling into the parking lot of Kilroy's (495 & Braddock Road-- with a convenient location right in a strip mall, I might just have to become a regular there) and quickly freaking out. (Squealing like a child, actually, to be specific). But we pressed on, walked into the place and immediately saw some old faces. We made a quick trip to the bar before heading to the outdoor patio out back, where all the action was set to take place.
The first two minutes or so weren't so bad-- it was more overwhelming than anything, tons of faces passing before you, trying to acquaint yourself with the surroundings. The five to ten minutes that followed this initial settling were possibly the most awkward. This was when you realized you didn't actually want to talk to anyone you didn't already know. Ok, that's not really true, but I was definitely forced into some bizarre small-talk run-ins. Most of the conversations went something like this:
"Hey!!! What's up??"
(me:) "Not much, how are you doing?"
"Good. What are you up to?"
"_____(some exaggerated version of my life)____"
"Oh wow, that's cool."
"Yeah. How about you?"
"You know, working/school. (___insert name of consulting/IT firm/govt agency/grad school here___)"
"So are you still around the area?"
"Yeah, living at home.."
"Yeah. Me too. No shame."
"Cool."
After this it got pretty weird. And then the other person would bolt off without really ending the conversation, only so I could run into them again 15 minutes later and have the same conversation. So it was a lot of that for about 3 hours, but truth be told, this blog is making it sound more excrutiating than it actually was.
This means that there were actually some highlights. Nothing too interesting, but a couple surprising run-ins with people I didn't really know who turned out to be more interesting than people I "kind of" knew. Maybe it was just refreshing to acquaint myself with complete strangers who I recognized from the hallways but never knew knew.
Sadly, there was no big drama at the reunion. I guess all the people who got pregnant or super fat or skinny or hot didn't show up. Everything was basically as expected, some improved haircuts, some fresh beer bellies, some hoochie clothing, but nothing out of this world.
All told, it was a good time (the vodka tonics were helpful) and at the very least I was able to hang out with some friends and laugh at the entire hilarity of the situation.
The ten year reunion should definitely be more interesting. Let's hope that by then I've stopped working for free and that oh, I dunno, I have a J.Crew model for a boyfriend (current favorite is guy on far left). That would rule.
To close, let's give one final Cheers to Five Years. (So embarassing, but I can't help myself.)
Current Music: Lithium, by Nirvana
Current Mood: not bad
Don't get your hopes up, there will be no names named in this post. I just realized how dangerous that could be, particularly because I have no idea who actually reads this.
So there I was with the handful of high school folks I actually keep in touch with, pulling into the parking lot of Kilroy's (495 & Braddock Road-- with a convenient location right in a strip mall, I might just have to become a regular there) and quickly freaking out. (Squealing like a child, actually, to be specific). But we pressed on, walked into the place and immediately saw some old faces. We made a quick trip to the bar before heading to the outdoor patio out back, where all the action was set to take place.
The first two minutes or so weren't so bad-- it was more overwhelming than anything, tons of faces passing before you, trying to acquaint yourself with the surroundings. The five to ten minutes that followed this initial settling were possibly the most awkward. This was when you realized you didn't actually want to talk to anyone you didn't already know. Ok, that's not really true, but I was definitely forced into some bizarre small-talk run-ins. Most of the conversations went something like this:
"Hey!!! What's up??"
(me:) "Not much, how are you doing?"
"Good. What are you up to?"
"_____(some exaggerated version of my life)____"
"Oh wow, that's cool."
"Yeah. How about you?"
"You know, working/school. (___insert name of consulting/IT firm/govt agency/grad school here___)"
"So are you still around the area?"
"Yeah, living at home.."
"Yeah. Me too. No shame."
"Cool."
After this it got pretty weird. And then the other person would bolt off without really ending the conversation, only so I could run into them again 15 minutes later and have the same conversation. So it was a lot of that for about 3 hours, but truth be told, this blog is making it sound more excrutiating than it actually was.
This means that there were actually some highlights. Nothing too interesting, but a couple surprising run-ins with people I didn't really know who turned out to be more interesting than people I "kind of" knew. Maybe it was just refreshing to acquaint myself with complete strangers who I recognized from the hallways but never knew knew.
Sadly, there was no big drama at the reunion. I guess all the people who got pregnant or super fat or skinny or hot didn't show up. Everything was basically as expected, some improved haircuts, some fresh beer bellies, some hoochie clothing, but nothing out of this world.
All told, it was a good time (the vodka tonics were helpful) and at the very least I was able to hang out with some friends and laugh at the entire hilarity of the situation.
The ten year reunion should definitely be more interesting. Let's hope that by then I've stopped working for free and that oh, I dunno, I have a J.Crew model for a boyfriend (current favorite is guy on far left). That would rule.
To close, let's give one final Cheers to Five Years. (So embarassing, but I can't help myself.)
Current Music: Lithium, by Nirvana
Current Mood: not bad
Jun 24, 2005
More birthday wishes!
Today I'd like to wish a Happy Birthday to my dearest cousin Kim (Moth). Thanks for all your sage wisdom and for being a great dining and lounging buddy. While we have plenty of sophisticated tastes, no one else shares my appreciation of American cheese singles, Carl Buddig turkey, and a good hot dog quite like you do. Not only did you keep me busy and productive in my post-graduate months as a busy little maid-of-honor bee, but you continue to put up with me as a houseguest on all my visits to your awesome apartment. (Then again, who would Swiffer if not for me?)
And since I started this blog just after your wedding, here's a lil tribute to that glorious day:
And since I started this blog just after your wedding, here's a lil tribute to that glorious day:
Jun 23, 2005
Who says Grandmas aren't hip?
Looks like the Queen has joined the iPod revolution. I would have pegged her as a pink gal though, what about you?
Current Music: Thirty-three, by Smashing Pumpkins
Current Mood: great
Current Music: Thirty-three, by Smashing Pumpkins
Current Mood: great
Jun 22, 2005
The Onion 2056
If you haven't seen it yet, check out the latest issue of America's finest news source, The Onion. And then imagine getting paid to do what those people do. Pretty freakin' sweet.
In other links for today, check out this amazing story of a guy who killed a leopard with his bare hands. Umm, yeah, that's about as badass as it gets.
Also, Coldplay is taking their new album promotion a step further and capitalizing on their fans who are also iPod users. I have to say, I'd feel pretty special if I had one of only 200 of these solar chargers. Not only is it totally space agey and a cool toy to show off, I'll bet it comes in handy, too.
Current Music: Mr. Ambulance Driver, by The Flaming Lips
Current Mood: just dandy
In other links for today, check out this amazing story of a guy who killed a leopard with his bare hands. Umm, yeah, that's about as badass as it gets.
Also, Coldplay is taking their new album promotion a step further and capitalizing on their fans who are also iPod users. I have to say, I'd feel pretty special if I had one of only 200 of these solar chargers. Not only is it totally space agey and a cool toy to show off, I'll bet it comes in handy, too.
Current Music: Mr. Ambulance Driver, by The Flaming Lips
Current Mood: just dandy
Real World: Austin
I'm not sure what world those MTV folks are living in these days, but their version of the Real World is spiralling out of control. If that's the Real World, I'm just staying right here forever! Fortunately, we all know the truth... for MTV, it's not so much about being real as it is about the booze, hot tubs and hotties...
So yes, I tuned in to the sixteenth installment of this series tonight (God, that makes me feel old!). I knew what to expect from some previews-- more cloned characters (Wes=Abram, Danny=Ace/CT) and outrageously over-the-top exhibitionist types. It's basically one big frat party, and poor little Lacey would rather be anywhere but there. Seriously, why bother casting her, MTV? She's totally going to be the outcast, despite the fact that she's probably one of the more interesting people on the show. That's right, she doesn't need the lube of a handle of liquor to interact with her roommates, and she can go longer than 10 minutes without throwing herself at somebody or talking about sex.
Ok, so nobody forced me to watch, but let's just say that after all these years, I still tune in with the hope that a new season will actually be something interesting and refreshing and at best, worthwhile to some young and impressionable MTV viewer out there.
Sadly, I don't think it's in the cards for Austin. Melinda was quick to flash her promise ring but before we even hear another word about her boyfriend she's roaming around the house like a stripper. And Johanna had some promise before the whole drunken episode. Poor Nehemiah. First Johanna breaks his necklace in a belligerent rage, then our resident hero Danny blames him for his broken face (still have chills thinking about that, by the way).
All in all, I was uncomfortable for most of the hour premiere, yet of course, I kept watching... I really miss the days of interesting people from truly diverse backgrounds (instead of all Abercrombie model types) who would actually talk about relevant issues. Think season 1: Kevin & Julie on the sidewalk. Ah, a classic real world fight, uninduced by alcohol, about a truly important issue. And then there was season 3 with Pedro (can you imagine Bill Clinton commending any of the characters you saw tonight?) and Judd & Pam, who suddenly seem like they were 10 years older and far wiser than so many of the people from the more recent shows.
Sigh. The sad part is, I'll probably keep watching to see how these folks make complete fools out of themselves and survive Austin life... we already know they aren't exactly fan favorites with the local population (again, major ouch on Danny).
Here's my last gripe-- where are the Asian people? Too prude and reserved for the Real World hot tubs? Well, you're probably right. But shame on you for not trying harder. In sixteen years of RW history, we've seen only three Asian women (Pam, Janet, Jamie), and not a single Asian man! That, I truly cannot believe. Unacceptable, really. Not that I'm sending my audition tape in anytime soon... I'd be far too boring for all the frat party antics. I mean, I'd usually like to wait until at least the second day before accepting "make out" dares in the hot tub...
Current Music: Five String Serenade, by Mazzy Star
Current Mood: tired, now that MTV has kept me up this late
So yes, I tuned in to the sixteenth installment of this series tonight (God, that makes me feel old!). I knew what to expect from some previews-- more cloned characters (Wes=Abram, Danny=Ace/CT) and outrageously over-the-top exhibitionist types. It's basically one big frat party, and poor little Lacey would rather be anywhere but there. Seriously, why bother casting her, MTV? She's totally going to be the outcast, despite the fact that she's probably one of the more interesting people on the show. That's right, she doesn't need the lube of a handle of liquor to interact with her roommates, and she can go longer than 10 minutes without throwing herself at somebody or talking about sex.
Ok, so nobody forced me to watch, but let's just say that after all these years, I still tune in with the hope that a new season will actually be something interesting and refreshing and at best, worthwhile to some young and impressionable MTV viewer out there.
Sadly, I don't think it's in the cards for Austin. Melinda was quick to flash her promise ring but before we even hear another word about her boyfriend she's roaming around the house like a stripper. And Johanna had some promise before the whole drunken episode. Poor Nehemiah. First Johanna breaks his necklace in a belligerent rage, then our resident hero Danny blames him for his broken face (still have chills thinking about that, by the way).
All in all, I was uncomfortable for most of the hour premiere, yet of course, I kept watching... I really miss the days of interesting people from truly diverse backgrounds (instead of all Abercrombie model types) who would actually talk about relevant issues. Think season 1: Kevin & Julie on the sidewalk. Ah, a classic real world fight, uninduced by alcohol, about a truly important issue. And then there was season 3 with Pedro (can you imagine Bill Clinton commending any of the characters you saw tonight?) and Judd & Pam, who suddenly seem like they were 10 years older and far wiser than so many of the people from the more recent shows.
Sigh. The sad part is, I'll probably keep watching to see how these folks make complete fools out of themselves and survive Austin life... we already know they aren't exactly fan favorites with the local population (again, major ouch on Danny).
Here's my last gripe-- where are the Asian people? Too prude and reserved for the Real World hot tubs? Well, you're probably right. But shame on you for not trying harder. In sixteen years of RW history, we've seen only three Asian women (Pam, Janet, Jamie), and not a single Asian man! That, I truly cannot believe. Unacceptable, really. Not that I'm sending my audition tape in anytime soon... I'd be far too boring for all the frat party antics. I mean, I'd usually like to wait until at least the second day before accepting "make out" dares in the hot tub...
Current Music: Five String Serenade, by Mazzy Star
Current Mood: tired, now that MTV has kept me up this late
Jun 21, 2005
Happy Birthday M&M!
Happy Birthday to the twinsies, Max & Mira, who are the big ol' 8 today! Max & Mira always keep me busy with their after school antics and energetic kid spirit! And now they're 8, I can't believe it. But what a great year... being 8 was definitely one of my all-time life favorites thus far.
In other June 21 news, it's the first day of summer and the longest day of the year! More reason to celebrate.
These kids sure have come a long way since their nude baby & diaper days...
Current Music: Half a World Away, by R.E.M.
Current Mood: excellent
In other June 21 news, it's the first day of summer and the longest day of the year! More reason to celebrate.
These kids sure have come a long way since their nude baby & diaper days...
Current Music: Half a World Away, by R.E.M.
Current Mood: excellent
Jun 20, 2005
Back to the basics (Now featuring downloads!!)
Starting today I'm going to attempt something new to try and spice up this ol' blog thing. At least every week, and possibly with more frequency, I'll be posting a new mp3 to my blog. This may be something I think everyone should hear, something I'm currently repeating myself, or just something to accompany my regular musical commentaries...
The files will be posted as a yousendit link. For those of you unfamiliar with this process, it's really quite simple. Just replace the hxxp with http and you'll be able to download the track to your computer. However, yousendit has a 25-downloads limit, so in the chance that you click on the link and it has already timed out, just post a comment or email me or something, and I'll make sure you get it if you want to hear it.
For starters, I'm going to do some backtracking and offer you all a chance to hear the music I've been talking about most recently.
Ryan Adams :: Let it Ride
hxxp://s51.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3EH41PW2QQF5A1MQCF8F0SYOF2
Ryan Adams? Who? Ok, only kidding. Here's "Let it Ride," which I've often said is still my favorite song off Cold Roses. Featuring Rachael Yamagata on background vocals. Insanely addicting. Favorite line: Tennessee's a brother to my sister Carolina, where they're gonna bury me...and I ain't ready to go, I'm never ready to go...
Coldplay :: Fix You
hxxp://s51.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=37IHXGNPKA6DI27U5USM5HFFT3
You might have heard it on The O.C., and if not, you've probably heard it since then, and you'll probably hear it many times again. But I still often find myself with this tune stuck in my head. It's your big summer anthem.
So now all my loyal readers will get to hear what I'm always blabbing about and can form their own opinions. My hope, of course, is that you like what you hear!! Enjoy...
The files will be posted as a yousendit link. For those of you unfamiliar with this process, it's really quite simple. Just replace the hxxp with http and you'll be able to download the track to your computer. However, yousendit has a 25-downloads limit, so in the chance that you click on the link and it has already timed out, just post a comment or email me or something, and I'll make sure you get it if you want to hear it.
For starters, I'm going to do some backtracking and offer you all a chance to hear the music I've been talking about most recently.
Ryan Adams :: Let it Ride
hxxp://s51.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3EH41PW2QQF5A1MQCF8F0SYOF2
Ryan Adams? Who? Ok, only kidding. Here's "Let it Ride," which I've often said is still my favorite song off Cold Roses. Featuring Rachael Yamagata on background vocals. Insanely addicting. Favorite line: Tennessee's a brother to my sister Carolina, where they're gonna bury me...and I ain't ready to go, I'm never ready to go...
Coldplay :: Fix You
hxxp://s51.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=37IHXGNPKA6DI27U5USM5HFFT3
You might have heard it on The O.C., and if not, you've probably heard it since then, and you'll probably hear it many times again. But I still often find myself with this tune stuck in my head. It's your big summer anthem.
So now all my loyal readers will get to hear what I'm always blabbing about and can form their own opinions. My hope, of course, is that you like what you hear!! Enjoy...
Jun 19, 2005
Happy Father's Day!
Happy Father's Day to the best father in the world!!
(I still remember the Chipmunks episode where Alvin, Simon, and Theodore sang that line to Dave.)
I just wanted to give a shout out to my dad, Mr. Binh, for being the greatest pop anyone could ask for. Whether it was blowdrying my hair back in the day, ironing my clothes, helping me put up shelves/assemble furniture in college, accompanying the gals on countless shopping excursions (and enjoying it), or being able to handle virtually any Mr. Handyman task or other seemingly ridiculous request or favor, my dad can really do it all--and he does! But we love you most for just being a fun guy to be around with a contagious laugh and an infectious spirit and attitude! Oh, that and being the only Dad I know who can pull off linen shirts and 7 jeans. Honestly, you've got some style...and judging by the photo below, you've really come a long way since those crazy '70s, Dad! Thanks for everything, Bô. You're the best!
P.S. For those of you still keeping score, I finally satisfied my lobster roll craving at our Father's Day brunch today. The fam went to Hank's Oyster Bar, a charming little establishment that just opened about a month ago at 17th & Q. I recommend it.
Current Music: Leif Erikson, by Interpol
Current Mood: relaxed
(I still remember the Chipmunks episode where Alvin, Simon, and Theodore sang that line to Dave.)
I just wanted to give a shout out to my dad, Mr. Binh, for being the greatest pop anyone could ask for. Whether it was blowdrying my hair back in the day, ironing my clothes, helping me put up shelves/assemble furniture in college, accompanying the gals on countless shopping excursions (and enjoying it), or being able to handle virtually any Mr. Handyman task or other seemingly ridiculous request or favor, my dad can really do it all--and he does! But we love you most for just being a fun guy to be around with a contagious laugh and an infectious spirit and attitude! Oh, that and being the only Dad I know who can pull off linen shirts and 7 jeans. Honestly, you've got some style...and judging by the photo below, you've really come a long way since those crazy '70s, Dad! Thanks for everything, Bô. You're the best!
P.S. For those of you still keeping score, I finally satisfied my lobster roll craving at our Father's Day brunch today. The fam went to Hank's Oyster Bar, a charming little establishment that just opened about a month ago at 17th & Q. I recommend it.
Current Music: Leif Erikson, by Interpol
Current Mood: relaxed
Jun 18, 2005
Brief Idol update..
Ok, so in the midst of some music web surfing (and always one to cover all my bases), I went to check out what I thought would be Carrie Underwood's official website (www.carrieunderwood.com), and instead landed upon some strange motivational speaker site. I thought I'd made a mistake, then I noticed the small disclaimer at the bottom of the page explaining the issue. (The same thing happens if you try www.ryanadams.com) Isn't it funny how a "normal" person's life can be changed overnight simply due to the fame and fortune of their namesake? In any case, what I really found bizarre and slightly eerie were the noted similarities between the two Carrie Underwoods in question. In other related news, Ms. Underwood's (the Idol) first single, "Inside Your Heaven," has been sitting atop the iTunes top songs list since it came out last week. Auddie's take: "Ohmygod, I love that song!..."
Jun 17, 2005
Scavenger Hunt, pt. 2
Tonight was another unexpected dinner adventure. I met up with Laura, Allison, and their new roommate Ruth at Go Sushi, a fast-food style sushi place with cheap prices and decent sushi. I ordered a roll to hold me over, but saved my stomach for my second attempt at Mary's Fish Camp and their lobster roll, which I had been denied last night. I headed back to Mary's, put my name down and was told "45 minutes, maybe an hour" which I was ready to accept. Kim, Natty, and I headed down the street to a bar to kill the time. The good thing about some of these places up here is that you can leave your cell phone number and they'll call you when your table is ready. Sure beats the lame Ruby Tuesday's buzzers with limited range, huh?
As an unexpected treat, we discovered a new favorite neighborhood bar: Absolutely 4th. The decor was a little cheesy, with leopard print walls and some other borderline-gaudy treatments, but this ultimately added to the appeal. They played fun and catchy music (Britney, Boyz II Men, Howie Day, Usher), and they served what I would consider my ideal appetizer menu: bagel dogs, fried wontons, mac & cheese bites, and pizza rolls, just to name a few. In retrospect, we should have just stayed there and sampled the menu instead of dealing with the craziness of Mary's.
After taking advantage of the happy hour buy-one-get-one martini special (highlights were Kim's Key Lime Pie martini w/ graham cracker crust rim, and my mango martini w/ marshmallow), we headed back to Mary's. Despite the fact that we'd already waited our assigned 45 minutes or so, we stuck around and waited for the chit-chatty dining parties to vacate their tables for us. I mean, after 45 minutes, what's another 10, 20... right?
Around 9:30 or so (nearly an hour and a half wait), after Natty and I had just ordered ourselves pints of Brooklyn Pilsners to pass the time, we were finally seated. As soon as our waitress got to us, she said "Hey guys, thanks for waiting. Oh, by the way, we're out the Lobster knuckles & the Lobster Rolls..."
That was all we needed to hear, really! I wasn't about to drop a pretty penny on some other mediocre seafood dish when all I really wanted was the lobster roll! Other diners who were seated shortly after us were equally dismayed upon hearing the woman's announcement. Kim, Natty, and I didn't waste any time. We backed up out of our chairs, paid for the beers, told the waitresses we were done, then we bailed. We were kinda pissed at that point, thinking that the folks there should have warned us or at least mentioned in advance that they'd run out of what I imagine to be their most popular item. Either that or at least offer an apology as we walked out of the restaurant, but we got nothing, not even a simple goodbye.
We considered heading to Gray's Papaya for what's always a satisfying hot dog, but decided instead to head back to the apartment to feast on a buffet of leftovers. This turned out to be a good idea, despite the lingering disappointment of the 0-for-2 lobster roll attempt. We sliced up some leftover steak with a delicious homemade mayonnaise sauce, which, when paired with my garlic bread from the other night made for an amazing combination, definitely worth repeating.
The exciting find of the night was a box of Pizza Rolls in the freezer, which made me forget that I was ever craving a fancy lobster roll in the first place. After all was said and done, we discovered a new, fun bar, saved some cash on dinner, and cleaned out the fridge.
For now, the Lobster Roll will have to wait, cause I sure as heck am not waiting for it again... at least not 'til my next trip up ;)
And somehow, for the second day in a row, I've managed to turn my dinner into an adventure and an essay. Thanks for reading.
As an unexpected treat, we discovered a new favorite neighborhood bar: Absolutely 4th. The decor was a little cheesy, with leopard print walls and some other borderline-gaudy treatments, but this ultimately added to the appeal. They played fun and catchy music (Britney, Boyz II Men, Howie Day, Usher), and they served what I would consider my ideal appetizer menu: bagel dogs, fried wontons, mac & cheese bites, and pizza rolls, just to name a few. In retrospect, we should have just stayed there and sampled the menu instead of dealing with the craziness of Mary's.
After taking advantage of the happy hour buy-one-get-one martini special (highlights were Kim's Key Lime Pie martini w/ graham cracker crust rim, and my mango martini w/ marshmallow), we headed back to Mary's. Despite the fact that we'd already waited our assigned 45 minutes or so, we stuck around and waited for the chit-chatty dining parties to vacate their tables for us. I mean, after 45 minutes, what's another 10, 20... right?
Around 9:30 or so (nearly an hour and a half wait), after Natty and I had just ordered ourselves pints of Brooklyn Pilsners to pass the time, we were finally seated. As soon as our waitress got to us, she said "Hey guys, thanks for waiting. Oh, by the way, we're out the Lobster knuckles & the Lobster Rolls..."
That was all we needed to hear, really! I wasn't about to drop a pretty penny on some other mediocre seafood dish when all I really wanted was the lobster roll! Other diners who were seated shortly after us were equally dismayed upon hearing the woman's announcement. Kim, Natty, and I didn't waste any time. We backed up out of our chairs, paid for the beers, told the waitresses we were done, then we bailed. We were kinda pissed at that point, thinking that the folks there should have warned us or at least mentioned in advance that they'd run out of what I imagine to be their most popular item. Either that or at least offer an apology as we walked out of the restaurant, but we got nothing, not even a simple goodbye.
We considered heading to Gray's Papaya for what's always a satisfying hot dog, but decided instead to head back to the apartment to feast on a buffet of leftovers. This turned out to be a good idea, despite the lingering disappointment of the 0-for-2 lobster roll attempt. We sliced up some leftover steak with a delicious homemade mayonnaise sauce, which, when paired with my garlic bread from the other night made for an amazing combination, definitely worth repeating.
The exciting find of the night was a box of Pizza Rolls in the freezer, which made me forget that I was ever craving a fancy lobster roll in the first place. After all was said and done, we discovered a new, fun bar, saved some cash on dinner, and cleaned out the fridge.
For now, the Lobster Roll will have to wait, cause I sure as heck am not waiting for it again... at least not 'til my next trip up ;)
And somehow, for the second day in a row, I've managed to turn my dinner into an adventure and an essay. Thanks for reading.
Jun 16, 2005
Update from NYC
So I was trying to be secretive about my whereabouts and blog as usual, but I've actually been up in the big apple since Sunday. I've been doing a bit of job searching/making contacts and also hanging out with Kim & Natty, Laura, and John. But the 9-5 has me mostly hanging out around the apartment during the day with the occasional venture out around the village.
Quick wrap-up:
-You make good lasagna once, you're lucky. Make it twice, and you're Giada De Laurentiis. Hah! But seriously, after the attempted Rachael Ray 30-minute meal that no one will let me forget (or maybe it's me who is still haunted by it), it seems I've redeemed myself, at least with this lasagna. I first made it for Auddie's birthday, complete with a side of Caesar's salad and some deliciously fresh, over-garlicked bread...mmm. And the other night I thought I'd try my hand at it again to make sure it wasn't a fluke. Not to toot my own horn, but Kim, Nathaniel, and John all confirmed that indeed twasn't, and it was again a tasty meal. Ok, I'm taking far too much credit for being able to read ingredients off a box. But I will add that I altered the recipe a bit to my personal taste, and perfecting the salty taste of the lasagna is the key. Mmm, definitely one of my favorite meals.
-Kim & I enjoyed a fun scavenger hunt for our dinner last night. After deciding I had a craving for Mary's Fish Camp (their Lobster roll is perfect), I headed over hoping to put my name down. But I couldn't even get into the doorway to do so, as there were already at least a dozen people waiting to squeeze into the already tiny restaurant. We decided to pass on the hour wait, so I hopped in a cab and met Kim in the East village at Momofuku, a noodle bar where they served soft shell crab on sticky buns (a la Banh Bao). Well, this place might have been even smaller than Mary's-- literally a long bar in a very narrow space, with people sitting elbow to elbow. We decided to order the crab buns to go rather than wait for a seat, and this ended up being a good idea, as they were decent, but nothing to die for, and definitely not worth an extended wait.
Next we headed a couple blocks down to Caracas, yet another tiny NYC joint (you know, 5 tables or so, gotta love it). Luckily we were seated quickly and enjoyed some delicious arepas & empanadas. The highlight for me was the appetizer selection: tequenos. These were basically a South American version of what we know as the mozzarella stick, but far tastier, and much less likely to make you choke (the cheese wasn't as stringy). The outside covering is not breaded, but rather made with a wheat flour dough for a nice breaded, but still crisp shell. As we were leaving, Kim & I spotted (with 99% certainty) Nikki Hilton sitting down at the bar for some arepas. After all, no trip up here is complete without a celeb sighting, right?
The last stop on our meal-hopping night was to Milk & Cookies, an adorable little shop right around the corner from the apartment. You might think, milk & cookies?..Who cares, I can make that myself at home. And in fact, that's the very appeal! Who would think to open a shop devoted to such comfortable, homey delights? The chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, peanut butter chocolate, and PB&J (peanut butter & cranberry) cookies-- accompanied by a cold glass of milk-- were a perfect end to the night.
-On a somewhat related note (to the Nikki Hilton comment), I have to admit, I feel very cool as I'm walking into the front door of Kim & Natty's building and there's a group of over 30 tourists across the street snapping photos and staring in awe. (For those of you who don't know, their building is directly next to the "Friends" building that they used for the outside shot of Monica & Rachel's apartment.) And this morning on my way back from the gym, I saw some model/actress doing a photo shoot on the corner. She was posing on an antique car. Also kinda cool. There's always something exciting going on up here.
Oh, and this is why I love this city. Always bustling and always packed with people, no matter what hour of the day. I love that you can walk down any ol' random street and see restaurant after restaurant packed with people sitting outside, meeting, greeting, socializing. It's great. It's too bad I'm back to the VA tomorrow! Hopefully will be back up again soon... tis been yet another great visit.
Quick wrap-up:
-You make good lasagna once, you're lucky. Make it twice, and you're Giada De Laurentiis. Hah! But seriously, after the attempted Rachael Ray 30-minute meal that no one will let me forget (or maybe it's me who is still haunted by it), it seems I've redeemed myself, at least with this lasagna. I first made it for Auddie's birthday, complete with a side of Caesar's salad and some deliciously fresh, over-garlicked bread...mmm. And the other night I thought I'd try my hand at it again to make sure it wasn't a fluke. Not to toot my own horn, but Kim, Nathaniel, and John all confirmed that indeed twasn't, and it was again a tasty meal. Ok, I'm taking far too much credit for being able to read ingredients off a box. But I will add that I altered the recipe a bit to my personal taste, and perfecting the salty taste of the lasagna is the key. Mmm, definitely one of my favorite meals.
-Kim & I enjoyed a fun scavenger hunt for our dinner last night. After deciding I had a craving for Mary's Fish Camp (their Lobster roll is perfect), I headed over hoping to put my name down. But I couldn't even get into the doorway to do so, as there were already at least a dozen people waiting to squeeze into the already tiny restaurant. We decided to pass on the hour wait, so I hopped in a cab and met Kim in the East village at Momofuku, a noodle bar where they served soft shell crab on sticky buns (a la Banh Bao). Well, this place might have been even smaller than Mary's-- literally a long bar in a very narrow space, with people sitting elbow to elbow. We decided to order the crab buns to go rather than wait for a seat, and this ended up being a good idea, as they were decent, but nothing to die for, and definitely not worth an extended wait.
Next we headed a couple blocks down to Caracas, yet another tiny NYC joint (you know, 5 tables or so, gotta love it). Luckily we were seated quickly and enjoyed some delicious arepas & empanadas. The highlight for me was the appetizer selection: tequenos. These were basically a South American version of what we know as the mozzarella stick, but far tastier, and much less likely to make you choke (the cheese wasn't as stringy). The outside covering is not breaded, but rather made with a wheat flour dough for a nice breaded, but still crisp shell. As we were leaving, Kim & I spotted (with 99% certainty) Nikki Hilton sitting down at the bar for some arepas. After all, no trip up here is complete without a celeb sighting, right?
The last stop on our meal-hopping night was to Milk & Cookies, an adorable little shop right around the corner from the apartment. You might think, milk & cookies?..Who cares, I can make that myself at home. And in fact, that's the very appeal! Who would think to open a shop devoted to such comfortable, homey delights? The chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, peanut butter chocolate, and PB&J (peanut butter & cranberry) cookies-- accompanied by a cold glass of milk-- were a perfect end to the night.
-On a somewhat related note (to the Nikki Hilton comment), I have to admit, I feel very cool as I'm walking into the front door of Kim & Natty's building and there's a group of over 30 tourists across the street snapping photos and staring in awe. (For those of you who don't know, their building is directly next to the "Friends" building that they used for the outside shot of Monica & Rachel's apartment.) And this morning on my way back from the gym, I saw some model/actress doing a photo shoot on the corner. She was posing on an antique car. Also kinda cool. There's always something exciting going on up here.
Oh, and this is why I love this city. Always bustling and always packed with people, no matter what hour of the day. I love that you can walk down any ol' random street and see restaurant after restaurant packed with people sitting outside, meeting, greeting, socializing. It's great. It's too bad I'm back to the VA tomorrow! Hopefully will be back up again soon... tis been yet another great visit.
Jun 15, 2005
Big C'ville News!
This post is for all my C'ville/UVA peeps. Word has quickly spread that Bodo's on the corner opened this morning at 7 am. I received the news in my e-mail box from a reliable Wahoo source, and promptly forwarded it to other known Bodo's fanatics and fans of C'ville lore. A Hook article confirms the possibility that this is actually true.
For those of you not in the loop, Bodo's is a fine Charlottesville bagel establishment, with locations both on Rt. 29 as you're entering town and another on Preston Ave. For over ten years now, Bodo's has also occupied a space on the hot real estate block of the Corner, right off the edge of campus, where countless students pass by on their way to and from class. A "Coming Soon" sign has adorned the building, yet there has never been any sign that it was actually opening. The rumor mill had it that there might be some other shady dealings going on inside Bodo's, as there were often lights on and people inside, but no sign of bagels. At least one April Fool's prank during my time had folks lining up outside Bodo's thinking that it was time for the great unveiling. But alas, there was nothing. Four years came and went, and we never enjoyed a single bagel on the Corner. How long will it stay there, we wondered? How can they afford that lease without doing any bagel business?
But it appears as though today is the day! Oh, how I'm jealous of all those kids who will return back to school in the fall and see Bodo's bustling with business.
Bodo's is the best place for an egg & cheese bagel (thank goodness they switched to all-day breakfast!), or a roast beef or tuna salad sandwich, or even just straight up cream cheese (preferably the veggie variety) on your favorite kind of bagel. Let's not forget the Cleo salad which is a healthy addition to any Bodo's meal.
Other perks include: ample dining space where friends can sit and enjoy a nice meal while recounting details of the previous collegiate night, possible celebrity sightings (Dave Matthews is a known Bodo's fan), and prices that make any college student on a budget leap with delight.
This is a big day for us Wahoos. My only regret is that I missed the unveiling by only a year. I'm already planning a trip back to C'ville in honor of this great event.
For those of you not in the loop, Bodo's is a fine Charlottesville bagel establishment, with locations both on Rt. 29 as you're entering town and another on Preston Ave. For over ten years now, Bodo's has also occupied a space on the hot real estate block of the Corner, right off the edge of campus, where countless students pass by on their way to and from class. A "Coming Soon" sign has adorned the building, yet there has never been any sign that it was actually opening. The rumor mill had it that there might be some other shady dealings going on inside Bodo's, as there were often lights on and people inside, but no sign of bagels. At least one April Fool's prank during my time had folks lining up outside Bodo's thinking that it was time for the great unveiling. But alas, there was nothing. Four years came and went, and we never enjoyed a single bagel on the Corner. How long will it stay there, we wondered? How can they afford that lease without doing any bagel business?
But it appears as though today is the day! Oh, how I'm jealous of all those kids who will return back to school in the fall and see Bodo's bustling with business.
Bodo's is the best place for an egg & cheese bagel (thank goodness they switched to all-day breakfast!), or a roast beef or tuna salad sandwich, or even just straight up cream cheese (preferably the veggie variety) on your favorite kind of bagel. Let's not forget the Cleo salad which is a healthy addition to any Bodo's meal.
Other perks include: ample dining space where friends can sit and enjoy a nice meal while recounting details of the previous collegiate night, possible celebrity sightings (Dave Matthews is a known Bodo's fan), and prices that make any college student on a budget leap with delight.
This is a big day for us Wahoos. My only regret is that I missed the unveiling by only a year. I'm already planning a trip back to C'ville in honor of this great event.
Jun 13, 2005
Jackson Acquitted
While I didn't follow the trial closely at all, catching bits and pieces of this huge media case was basically unavoidable. I think most folks (except all his obsessed fans) are pretty surprised after hearing the jury's verdict that Jacko is not guilty of all ten counts brought against him. Guilty or not, the guy was a bit off, and sleeping with little boys in your bed? Not normal, no matter what. Well, MJ, I hope this is the last we see of your pajama-clad, umbrella-toting self for a little while... And also, it's creepy how much you and Latoya look like twins.
Jun 10, 2005
Free Katie!
It was only a matter of time before someone capitalized on this crazy Hollywood story (I don't even need to tell you which one, do I?). This is pretty hilarious, though. Those screen shots say it all-- Tom Cruise has gone mad.
Jun 9, 2005
What will they think of next?
Google & Craigslist have joined forces to bring you Housing Maps, which I have to say is pretty incredible.
Thanks, Google... I heart you. (Don't worry Craigslist, you're second in my heart.)
Thanks, Google... I heart you. (Don't worry Craigslist, you're second in my heart.)
Jun 8, 2005
Read me.
Here's yet another interesting but lengthy article on those crazy people who can't live without their iPods. Falling asleep to music is one thing (this is a must for me), but listening to music during class or in the pool? That's taking it a bit far. I love my music but I don't think I'm obsessed to an unhealthy degree, like the guy in this article. But to each his own, I suppose...
And this one is particularly relevant to all my 20-something, recently graduated readers (Thanks to Laura for the reference). It seems as though David Brooks has gotten into our heads and written an article that expresses all the unspoken agony and confusion of being a youngin' on the verge of a quarter-life crisis. He doesn't offer many answers, but somehow it's comforting to hear him talk about it, because then you know it's not just you asking yourself the great big questions about life.
On a lighter note.. nothing beats $1 pints for happy hour. Cheers to that.
Current Music: Say Hello to the Angels, by Interpol
Current Mood: ready to pass out.
And this one is particularly relevant to all my 20-something, recently graduated readers (Thanks to Laura for the reference). It seems as though David Brooks has gotten into our heads and written an article that expresses all the unspoken agony and confusion of being a youngin' on the verge of a quarter-life crisis. He doesn't offer many answers, but somehow it's comforting to hear him talk about it, because then you know it's not just you asking yourself the great big questions about life.
On a lighter note.. nothing beats $1 pints for happy hour. Cheers to that.
Current Music: Say Hello to the Angels, by Interpol
Current Mood: ready to pass out.
Jun 7, 2005
A Day in the Life...
Here's an update on the various things currently occupying my time:
-Television :: Alias
That's right, after four gripping seasons I've finally jumped on the bandwagon. Thanks to the magic of TV-on-DVD (seriously, my new favorite thing), I started season 1 of this series last week. It's quite good and totally easy to get hooked. I have to say, I definitely like Jennifer Garner 5x better than I ever did before after seeing her in only a handful of episodes so far. She's a royal badass, but you also want to be her friend. Hoping to catch up by the premiere of season 5 this fall, but am slightly disappointed to learn that ABC is switching the "Alias" timeslot to compete with "The O.C." on Thursday at 8 pm...
The music on this show is excellent, as well. After hearing "La Cienega Just Smiled" (Ryan Adams) in the third episode, I was sold. I'm really enjoying how great TV shows are finding a way to weave in really fantastic new music. I have to give some credit to one of my ol' favorites, "Party of Five," for being one of the pioneers of that. And then of course, "Dawson's Creek" really did a great job, and now I'd have to say "The O.C." reigns supreme.
(Edit: Meevs has just reminded me that the true pioneer for music on TV was "90210." C'mon, Brenda & Dylan in his convertible with "Losing My Religion" playing in the background? Classic.)
-Books :: One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel García Márquez
Whew. I finally got through this one last night. After hearing so much about this book and seeing it on countless "favorite books" lists of friends and famous people (Oprah, of course), I decided I had to read it.
Well, I can't say it was one of my favorites. I definitely enjoyed portions of it, as indicated by over a dozen post-it notes I have sticking out of the book, but on the whole, it was a difficult book for me. And this is the other thing I'd heard about it-- it takes some work! I'd actually gotten through about half of it over the summer, but put it down for too long that by the time I resumed I didn't have a clue what was going on and completely lost of track of all the Aurelianos and José Arcadios! I should have expected this type of thing from a book that posts a family tree at the very beginning, though!
Once I picked it up again, I tried to read it as a series of short stories, rather than trying to focus so much on how each character was connected to the next. And ultimately, this is what is rewarding about the book. García Márquez has a way with words, and he made even the most seemingly mundane daily activities of a family seem like pure magic.
In describing one of the family members of the Buendía family who begins eating the earth after her lover leaves, he says:
The handfuls of earth made the only man who deserved that show of degradation less remote and more certain, as if the ground that he walked on with his fine patent leather boots in another part of the world were transmitting to her the weight and the temperature of his blood in a mineral savor that left a harsh aftertaste in her mouth and a sediment of peace in her heart.
For me, this and many other beautiful expressions of language (this was translated, mind you) is what kept me pushing 'til the end. Getting to the end is worthwhile, too, as the long and complex story of the Buendía family concludes very nicely and kind of makes you breathe this big sigh of relief. It also makes you think about your own life and family and the kind of legacy you'll leave behind, and the strange sense that there could be a time, maybe a century from now, when the town you lived in could be so vastly different from how it is currently, and how your family and your stories could become merely a myth. Incredible, really.
-Music
So I've been helping Auddie load a bunch of music onto her new mini iPod (yes, we are officially an iPod family). At first I loaded on about 500 of the obvious picks-- her "Grease" Soundtrack, various teenybopper classics, Maroon 5, and so on and so forth. But then last night she wants to edit her collection, so we're sitting over iTunes and she's picking and choosing additional songs. Let me just say, I was so delighted when we started adding Ben Folds (a few songs at a time, initially, and then.. "oh just put that whole album in..!"), and then of course some Dave Matthews classics, and then some other unexpected "Pouy" music. I can definitely get into some of Auddie's fun music (Play's first album is a singalong essential), but it makes me really excited when I know I've influenced her taste at all, and that she can appreciate some of the stuff I force her to listen to if we're cruising around in the car.
-Random thought:
I just thought of this after seeing it in an episode of "Alias." I've never eaten Chinese food out of the carton, which is the only way it's ever eaten on TV. Why is this? Do people really do this? Or is it just for TV to indicate a "take out" dinner? Am I crazy and just overly anal about my mealtime that I have to use a bowl/plate to enjoy my take out? They overstuff the Chinese food boxes with food anyway, so how can you possibly be expected to just stick your chopsticks in there and start eating? And if it's rice? Nobody, especially not non-Asian folks (sorry), eat rice with chopsticks out of a carton. Besides, the box is always dripping with some sauce or grease at the bottom.
Current Music: Landed, by Ben Folds
-Television :: Alias
That's right, after four gripping seasons I've finally jumped on the bandwagon. Thanks to the magic of TV-on-DVD (seriously, my new favorite thing), I started season 1 of this series last week. It's quite good and totally easy to get hooked. I have to say, I definitely like Jennifer Garner 5x better than I ever did before after seeing her in only a handful of episodes so far. She's a royal badass, but you also want to be her friend. Hoping to catch up by the premiere of season 5 this fall, but am slightly disappointed to learn that ABC is switching the "Alias" timeslot to compete with "The O.C." on Thursday at 8 pm...
The music on this show is excellent, as well. After hearing "La Cienega Just Smiled" (Ryan Adams) in the third episode, I was sold. I'm really enjoying how great TV shows are finding a way to weave in really fantastic new music. I have to give some credit to one of my ol' favorites, "Party of Five," for being one of the pioneers of that. And then of course, "Dawson's Creek" really did a great job, and now I'd have to say "The O.C." reigns supreme.
(Edit: Meevs has just reminded me that the true pioneer for music on TV was "90210." C'mon, Brenda & Dylan in his convertible with "Losing My Religion" playing in the background? Classic.)
-Books :: One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel García Márquez
Whew. I finally got through this one last night. After hearing so much about this book and seeing it on countless "favorite books" lists of friends and famous people (Oprah, of course), I decided I had to read it.
Well, I can't say it was one of my favorites. I definitely enjoyed portions of it, as indicated by over a dozen post-it notes I have sticking out of the book, but on the whole, it was a difficult book for me. And this is the other thing I'd heard about it-- it takes some work! I'd actually gotten through about half of it over the summer, but put it down for too long that by the time I resumed I didn't have a clue what was going on and completely lost of track of all the Aurelianos and José Arcadios! I should have expected this type of thing from a book that posts a family tree at the very beginning, though!
Once I picked it up again, I tried to read it as a series of short stories, rather than trying to focus so much on how each character was connected to the next. And ultimately, this is what is rewarding about the book. García Márquez has a way with words, and he made even the most seemingly mundane daily activities of a family seem like pure magic.
In describing one of the family members of the Buendía family who begins eating the earth after her lover leaves, he says:
The handfuls of earth made the only man who deserved that show of degradation less remote and more certain, as if the ground that he walked on with his fine patent leather boots in another part of the world were transmitting to her the weight and the temperature of his blood in a mineral savor that left a harsh aftertaste in her mouth and a sediment of peace in her heart.
For me, this and many other beautiful expressions of language (this was translated, mind you) is what kept me pushing 'til the end. Getting to the end is worthwhile, too, as the long and complex story of the Buendía family concludes very nicely and kind of makes you breathe this big sigh of relief. It also makes you think about your own life and family and the kind of legacy you'll leave behind, and the strange sense that there could be a time, maybe a century from now, when the town you lived in could be so vastly different from how it is currently, and how your family and your stories could become merely a myth. Incredible, really.
-Music
So I've been helping Auddie load a bunch of music onto her new mini iPod (yes, we are officially an iPod family). At first I loaded on about 500 of the obvious picks-- her "Grease" Soundtrack, various teenybopper classics, Maroon 5, and so on and so forth. But then last night she wants to edit her collection, so we're sitting over iTunes and she's picking and choosing additional songs. Let me just say, I was so delighted when we started adding Ben Folds (a few songs at a time, initially, and then.. "oh just put that whole album in..!"), and then of course some Dave Matthews classics, and then some other unexpected "Pouy" music. I can definitely get into some of Auddie's fun music (Play's first album is a singalong essential), but it makes me really excited when I know I've influenced her taste at all, and that she can appreciate some of the stuff I force her to listen to if we're cruising around in the car.
-Random thought:
I just thought of this after seeing it in an episode of "Alias." I've never eaten Chinese food out of the carton, which is the only way it's ever eaten on TV. Why is this? Do people really do this? Or is it just for TV to indicate a "take out" dinner? Am I crazy and just overly anal about my mealtime that I have to use a bowl/plate to enjoy my take out? They overstuff the Chinese food boxes with food anyway, so how can you possibly be expected to just stick your chopsticks in there and start eating? And if it's rice? Nobody, especially not non-Asian folks (sorry), eat rice with chopsticks out of a carton. Besides, the box is always dripping with some sauce or grease at the bottom.
Current Music: Landed, by Ben Folds
Jun 4, 2005
Late night thoughts on Coldplay.
As I was preparing what I'd hoped would be a well thought-out blog post on Coldplay, I came across this NYTimes article and thought it was a good time to post. While I don't necessarily agree with everything the guy said, I think much of his critique deserves to be considered, and he expresses, possibly better than I will attempt to do below, a lot of very valid arguments in his Case Against Coldplay. Before I begin, let me say that Coldplay is definitely one of my favorite bands.
I'm fairly certain this rant, or review, or whatever you'd like to call it, was brought on by my cringe-inducing Ticketbastard experience this morning as I purchased tickets for the Coldplay show coming here in September. I knew I should expect some ridiculous big stadium prices à la U2, but actually seeing the price pop up-- with over $10 tacked on for convenience & processing fees-- definitely left me feeling a little sick to my stomach.
And it left me with the whole day contemplating Coldplay and whether they were worth the exorbitant ticket price. I'm not going to complain because 1) obviously nobody forced me to log onto Ticketmaster at 10 am, and 2) I actually did manage to get general admission orchestra pit tickets, which give me the potential for a great view (in fact, I had decided that unless I got that close, I wasn't going to shell out anything, because for the same price or even $20 less, you're a hundred yards back or even on the lawn.).
That said, I spent some time today with X&Y, the highly anticipated album set to release this Tuesday (which of course has already been heard in full by any Coldplay fan who spends a decent amount of time on the Internet, including myself.)
So, Coldplay. They are the everyman's band. They appear on a wide range of favorite music lists, from casual radio music listener to hardcore indie music snob, to my 6th grade sister and her friends. Coldplay seems to be enjoying levels of fame/fanhood right now that remind me of DMB around the time Crash was released. With this explosion, however, also comes massive backlash (we "hardcore" fans denounced all those "Crashheads"), and for every huge fan is an even bigger critic.
Coldplay will have to fight off a lot of these critics when X&Y comes out. So far it's probably been the most anticipated release of 2005, with enough hype that it will likely end up as one of the biggest albums of the year, but probably with just enough musical sustenance to back it up.
I enjoy the album. I can't say there are any standout tracks for me the same way there was with A Rush of Blood to the Head. And I don't really think they'll ever top their Parachutes opening with "Don't Panic." In fact, on X&Y, I can't quite distinguish between the songs-- yet, that is. It may be a case of me not being familiar yet (though I've just completed the third listen, which everyone knows is a prerequisite to judgment), but it also might be that they are all starting to sound the same.
Most of the tracks seem to adopt this kind of ambient, fill-the-room with echoes, super programmed sound. It's like I'm in a bubble, or something, and the sound is being projected at me from the outside. It's almost as if it was written with a 30,000-fan concert in mind, so the band could fill a stadium with all this energy and great big sound. There's that bit of rawness missing, the stripped-down element that made Parachutes so great, so genuine. That's what gives an album its soul...in my opinion, anyway... the sense of vulnerability, of true sentiment behind each song. Songs like "White Shadow," "Talk," "Speed of Sound," and "Low" all share a similar drumbeat and while they are obviously different songs, they seem more or less indistinguishable. Each song could be a continuation of the previous one.
That being said, the original song is a good one. And this is why Coldplay should be applauded, for being able to craft a good melody and truly perfect songs. The regret, though, is that it seems to be down to a formula. Their catchy hooks present themselves immediately, then build up to a booming chorus, then an interlude/breakdown, followed by some kind of huge climax/singalong style follow-up chorus when Chris Martin hits those reeeeally high notes (he kind of goes overboard with his falsetto on this album), closed out with his calmed down normal-range voice, singing over a simple piano or guitar as the quiet resolution and fadeout.
Maybe I'm being unfair, and maybe this critique can be applied to countless acts out there now, and I'm just pinpointing Coldplay. To give proper credit, the album has its highlights.
After I heard "Fix You" on one of the last episodes of "The O.C." this season, I was truly moved; the song was used perfectly. It was the scene when Caleb falls into the pool, and Kirsten later gets the phone call about it. "Fix You" is going to be one of those songs, the song of the summer, perhaps... a song that ends up on countless mix CDs people make, a song whose lyrics will end up in many an AIM profile or will be quoted in high school yearbooks all over. It just goes to show, Coldplay's got this knack for writing that killer ballad that's totally universal and really speaks to a lot of people. And in the end, that ain't so bad, right? It's not a bad way to sell records, anyway. Call it cliché, call it cheesy, call it what you will, you'll still find yourself listening to it on repeat. Let's just hope it doesn't end up on every TV promo or movie trailer ("Clocks," anyone??). Though I'm thinking the first single, "Speed of Sound" might be the one that fits that bill, since it's basically the 2005 version of "Clocks."
Other album highlights for me are "A Message," "Swallowed in the Sea," and "Til Kingdom Come."
In any case, Coldplay is lucky enough that it doesn't really matter what this album sounds like. They're at their peak-- the album has already set records for Internet pre-sales in the UK-- and fans will pretty much enjoy whatever they have to put out. Despite ticket prices that really are unjustified, they'll sell out their concerts . And it's not like I'm sitting up here laughing at all those folks, cause I'll be there bobbing my head. X&Y will become a fan favorite even before people have heard the whole thing, based on "Speed of Sound" and "Fix You" alone. I dig it-- I can't say that it'll be on constant rotation (or one of my current fixations, if you will), but at it's best, it's Coldplay doing what they do. I just hope that they eventually show a bit of growth and/or experimentation because they can't keep mirroring themselves forever.
Yikes, sorry for the lengthy post. That was completely unexpected. Blame it on insomnia...
Current Music: Swallowed in the Sea, by Coldplay
Current Mood: restless
I'm fairly certain this rant, or review, or whatever you'd like to call it, was brought on by my cringe-inducing Ticketbastard experience this morning as I purchased tickets for the Coldplay show coming here in September. I knew I should expect some ridiculous big stadium prices à la U2, but actually seeing the price pop up-- with over $10 tacked on for convenience & processing fees-- definitely left me feeling a little sick to my stomach.
And it left me with the whole day contemplating Coldplay and whether they were worth the exorbitant ticket price. I'm not going to complain because 1) obviously nobody forced me to log onto Ticketmaster at 10 am, and 2) I actually did manage to get general admission orchestra pit tickets, which give me the potential for a great view (in fact, I had decided that unless I got that close, I wasn't going to shell out anything, because for the same price or even $20 less, you're a hundred yards back or even on the lawn.).
That said, I spent some time today with X&Y, the highly anticipated album set to release this Tuesday (which of course has already been heard in full by any Coldplay fan who spends a decent amount of time on the Internet, including myself.)
So, Coldplay. They are the everyman's band. They appear on a wide range of favorite music lists, from casual radio music listener to hardcore indie music snob, to my 6th grade sister and her friends. Coldplay seems to be enjoying levels of fame/fanhood right now that remind me of DMB around the time Crash was released. With this explosion, however, also comes massive backlash (we "hardcore" fans denounced all those "Crashheads"), and for every huge fan is an even bigger critic.
Coldplay will have to fight off a lot of these critics when X&Y comes out. So far it's probably been the most anticipated release of 2005, with enough hype that it will likely end up as one of the biggest albums of the year, but probably with just enough musical sustenance to back it up.
I enjoy the album. I can't say there are any standout tracks for me the same way there was with A Rush of Blood to the Head. And I don't really think they'll ever top their Parachutes opening with "Don't Panic." In fact, on X&Y, I can't quite distinguish between the songs-- yet, that is. It may be a case of me not being familiar yet (though I've just completed the third listen, which everyone knows is a prerequisite to judgment), but it also might be that they are all starting to sound the same.
Most of the tracks seem to adopt this kind of ambient, fill-the-room with echoes, super programmed sound. It's like I'm in a bubble, or something, and the sound is being projected at me from the outside. It's almost as if it was written with a 30,000-fan concert in mind, so the band could fill a stadium with all this energy and great big sound. There's that bit of rawness missing, the stripped-down element that made Parachutes so great, so genuine. That's what gives an album its soul...in my opinion, anyway... the sense of vulnerability, of true sentiment behind each song. Songs like "White Shadow," "Talk," "Speed of Sound," and "Low" all share a similar drumbeat and while they are obviously different songs, they seem more or less indistinguishable. Each song could be a continuation of the previous one.
That being said, the original song is a good one. And this is why Coldplay should be applauded, for being able to craft a good melody and truly perfect songs. The regret, though, is that it seems to be down to a formula. Their catchy hooks present themselves immediately, then build up to a booming chorus, then an interlude/breakdown, followed by some kind of huge climax/singalong style follow-up chorus when Chris Martin hits those reeeeally high notes (he kind of goes overboard with his falsetto on this album), closed out with his calmed down normal-range voice, singing over a simple piano or guitar as the quiet resolution and fadeout.
Maybe I'm being unfair, and maybe this critique can be applied to countless acts out there now, and I'm just pinpointing Coldplay. To give proper credit, the album has its highlights.
After I heard "Fix You" on one of the last episodes of "The O.C." this season, I was truly moved; the song was used perfectly. It was the scene when Caleb falls into the pool, and Kirsten later gets the phone call about it. "Fix You" is going to be one of those songs, the song of the summer, perhaps... a song that ends up on countless mix CDs people make, a song whose lyrics will end up in many an AIM profile or will be quoted in high school yearbooks all over. It just goes to show, Coldplay's got this knack for writing that killer ballad that's totally universal and really speaks to a lot of people. And in the end, that ain't so bad, right? It's not a bad way to sell records, anyway. Call it cliché, call it cheesy, call it what you will, you'll still find yourself listening to it on repeat. Let's just hope it doesn't end up on every TV promo or movie trailer ("Clocks," anyone??). Though I'm thinking the first single, "Speed of Sound" might be the one that fits that bill, since it's basically the 2005 version of "Clocks."
Other album highlights for me are "A Message," "Swallowed in the Sea," and "Til Kingdom Come."
In any case, Coldplay is lucky enough that it doesn't really matter what this album sounds like. They're at their peak-- the album has already set records for Internet pre-sales in the UK-- and fans will pretty much enjoy whatever they have to put out. Despite ticket prices that really are unjustified, they'll sell out their concerts . And it's not like I'm sitting up here laughing at all those folks, cause I'll be there bobbing my head. X&Y will become a fan favorite even before people have heard the whole thing, based on "Speed of Sound" and "Fix You" alone. I dig it-- I can't say that it'll be on constant rotation (or one of my current fixations, if you will), but at it's best, it's Coldplay doing what they do. I just hope that they eventually show a bit of growth and/or experimentation because they can't keep mirroring themselves forever.
Yikes, sorry for the lengthy post. That was completely unexpected. Blame it on insomnia...
Current Music: Swallowed in the Sea, by Coldplay
Current Mood: restless
Jun 3, 2005
Apple redeems itself!
After all the bickering over battery life, Apple is finally trying to please the customer and offering $50 credits for anyone who purchased an iPod before May 2004. Now, if only I could find that old receipt... I appreciate the gesture, though!
(See www.appleipodsettlement.com for more info.)
(See www.appleipodsettlement.com for more info.)
Jun 1, 2005
Happy Birthday Auddie!
Happy 12th birthday to my little sister! Though only half my age (up until today, I suppose), I probably hang out with this gal more than I do anyone else. That either means she's very mature or that I definitely need to get out more (for everyone's sake, we're going to say it's the former). My personal shopper and stylist (I would never wear earrings if not for Auddie) who has surpassed me in shoe size and height, and the only 12-year-old i know who can quote Dumb & Dumber from start to finish, Auddie is an always entertaining if occasionally moody (she's a gemini, after all) barrel of laughs. Thanks for always hanging out and trusting me with your 6th grade secrets. You've given me more joy than I ever could have imagined when you showed up back in '93 and robbed me of my youngest-child status! Happy birthday, Aud! Congrats, you're a preteen!
And if you thought this post was going to happen without some old photos, you were so so wrong...
Current Music: Fix You, by Coldplay
Current Mood: nostalgic
And if you thought this post was going to happen without some old photos, you were so so wrong...
Current Music: Fix You, by Coldplay
Current Mood: nostalgic
May 27, 2005
New iPod toys...
Just what we need, more iPod gadgets to spend money on... See the Klipsch iFi iPod Speaker System, coming soon to a dealer near you.
In other thoughts, my natural high for the moment is when you've got your whole music collection on shuffle and a song you didn't know you desperately wanted to hear randomly comes on.
Current Music: Run, by Collective Soul
Current Mood: the lyrics to aforementioned song aptly describe my current mood. see below.
Are these times contagious
I’ve never been this bored before
Is this the prize I’ve waited for
Now with the hours passing
There’s nothing left here to insure
I long to find a messenger
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run
Is there a cure among us
From this processed sanity
I weaken with each voice that sings
Now, in this world of purchase
I’m going to buy back memories
To awaken some old qualities
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run
Yeah, I run
Have I got a long way
Have I got a long way
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run...
In other thoughts, my natural high for the moment is when you've got your whole music collection on shuffle and a song you didn't know you desperately wanted to hear randomly comes on.
Current Music: Run, by Collective Soul
Current Mood: the lyrics to aforementioned song aptly describe my current mood. see below.
Are these times contagious
I’ve never been this bored before
Is this the prize I’ve waited for
Now with the hours passing
There’s nothing left here to insure
I long to find a messenger
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run
Is there a cure among us
From this processed sanity
I weaken with each voice that sings
Now, in this world of purchase
I’m going to buy back memories
To awaken some old qualities
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run
Yeah, I run
Have I got a long way
Have I got a long way
Have I got a long way to run
Have I got a long way to run
Yeah, I run...
May 24, 2005
A site that lives up to its name.
I just discovered the truly fabulous fabchannel.com today, and suddenly I find myself very distracted from what I should be doing (cover letters, resumes, etc.).
In any case, it's a site worth checking out! They host over 350 live concerts. I started watching this nice, intimate Ray Lamontagne gig, then as I was browsing I noticed they had an Andrew Bird show, along with the Arcade Fire, Damien Rice, Bright Eyes... and so on and so forth! Seems to be a pretty diverse bunch, anyway. Even better, the quality of the shows--both audio and video-- is superb, and there's none of that horrible video delay you usually deal with.
Thought some of you might enjoy it, as if we needed any new ways to spend time on our computers...
Current Music: Trouble, by Ray Lamontagne
Current Mood: excited
In any case, it's a site worth checking out! They host over 350 live concerts. I started watching this nice, intimate Ray Lamontagne gig, then as I was browsing I noticed they had an Andrew Bird show, along with the Arcade Fire, Damien Rice, Bright Eyes... and so on and so forth! Seems to be a pretty diverse bunch, anyway. Even better, the quality of the shows--both audio and video-- is superb, and there's none of that horrible video delay you usually deal with.
Thought some of you might enjoy it, as if we needed any new ways to spend time on our computers...
Current Music: Trouble, by Ray Lamontagne
Current Mood: excited
May 22, 2005
Ryan Adams is king. (New favorite musician.)
Last night was the Ryan Adams show at the 9:30 club. In a word, incredible. And I would even venture to say Best Concert Ever. Aside from having to deal with the Worst Crowd Ever, particularly in our immediate vicinity, Ryan stole the show and to say he more than made up for any obnoxious fans would be an understatement.
After waiting in a line that wrapped around the block and all the way down the shady alley past the abandoned warehouse-- something I've never seen in all my experiences at 9:30-- we headed up to the balcony again, figuring it was our best shot to get a good view of Ryan and the band in this very packed house. We secured a fairly good spot, only to discover we'd landed ourselves behind this 40-something crowd out for what was sure to be their "re-living our youth" Saturday night. We didn't realize the extent of this problem until the show started. These folks had a nice front-row spot on the balcony rail, which would have been fine if they'd just enjoyed it and let the rest of us peer over and in between their heads. But in an aggravating turn of events, these old folk had to lean over, talk loudly at the beginning of, during, and in between songs, to one another. And if they weren't talking, they were dancing awkwardly and/or fidgeting so that maintaining any sort of consistent view of the stage for anyone standing behind them was next to impossible. After the first set, however, I decided I wouldn't let them ruin the experience for me and was able to mostly block them out. At this point I also decided that no matter how cool I ever think I am in my 40s, I will never be able to attend a show without being ridiculed by young 20-somethings. What a shame.
Now, onto the show review. Ryan & the Cardinals came onto the stage shortly after 11:30 and immediately started rocking out. Ryan looked like a young Adam Duritz, his hair desperately needing a comb, partially held back with a barette, looking on the verge of dreads. Any big Ryan fan knows that he's an unpredictable force on stage, and this was only confirmed when we'd heard that the night before at the Philly show, he'd walked out toward the end of the show because the fans were talking too loudly during his acoustic set. So we were unsure of what tonight would be like and what kind of mood Ryan would be in. That said, he was in terrific spirits all night, often making jokes and engaging in fun banter with the audience. I got nervous when some dumb drunk fools behind us started yelling "F*** Parker Posey!!!" after the third song, but I'm guessing Ryan either didn't hear or didn't choose to acknowledge it (probably the former). Even when another boisterous fan yelled "You're going to save Rock and Roll!!!" Ryan joked back and said "No I'm not. The Bravery or The Killers will do that-- oh wait, no they're going to save fashion, that's right." And he humbly added, "You don't need me to save Rock and Roll, it'll be fine on its own..."
The crowd reacted well to Ryan's performance of about 5 or 6 songs off his upcoming releases later this year, and he was even apologetic about it, saying "Sorry if you haven't heard some of these before, but in a little while we'll get to some of the stuff you know better..." Then he proceeded to tell us that after this new chunk of songs, he'd go into sets of 3, starting with Cold Roses, then Heartbreaker, Gold, and Love is Hell... Brillance, I tell you. And here I thought the guy didn't care about what the fans wanted. He ended up giving us more than we could have asked for!
The new songs were great, but the show really started when he launched into the Cold Roses set, playing "Magnolia Mountain," then a beautifully slowed-down version of "Let it Ride," still easily my favorite song off the double disc set. It hasn't gotten old for me yet, and I still love it more and more every time I hear it.
The Heartbreaker set was equally jaw-dropping, as Ryan played more crowd favorites-- "To Be Young," one of the most original and vintage Ryan songs that totally got the crowd going, as well as other album gems "My Winding Wheel," and "Oh My Sweet Carolina." Under the influence of drugs, booze, life, or otherwise, Ryan played with so much heart and soul, and the crowd hung on his every word. During "Oh My Sweet Carolina," I can't remember ever hearing the 9:30 club more hushed and fixated on every note as I did when Ryan commanded the stage with his heart-wrenching rendition.
For his Gold set, I was pleasantly surprised to hear Ryan play "When the Stars Go Blue," and by the time he started "La Cienega Just Smiled," I could have left and gone home happy. At a certain point, I found myself completely amazed that Ryan could chain smoke his way through the entire show, even occasionally singing with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth, and still make it sound like absolute perfection. The man is good at what he does.
Here's a nice photo, courtesy of a fellow RA fan, not me... (the 5'1 perspective isn't exactly favorable for snapshots):
But seriously, I can't remember the last time I went to a show and had songs that I considered perfect off a CD sound far superior in concert. I didn't know it was possible, but Ryan truly proved what a live show is all about-- he's a true musician, knows how to put on a show and give the crowd their money's worth. No other artist I know can so effectively rock out and get a crowd on their feet, and at the next moment completely silence a packed house while whispering a ballad that causes goosebumps. I hadn't felt so inspired and all-around pumped up by a performance since the good ol' days when I used to watch DMB jam out for hours in the late '90s. Let's not forget to give a nod to Ryan's fabulous band, who deserve tons of credit for a lot of the energy and performance, particularly JP Bowersock and some of his amazing solos on guitar.
After the Gold set, Ryan went into the "Song Lotto," a new element he's trying to introduce into his shows in which fans are allowed to submit a song request into a silver box, and before his last 3-song set, the "Green Ghost" (actually steel guitarist Jon Graboff covered in a green sheet) picks a song out of the box. In this case, the song was "Dear Chicago," an excellent selection by a very lucky girl named Adrienne. Ryan proceeded to invite her up onto the stage, then serenaded her with a gorgeous rendition of the song, another one of my favorites and a pleasant highlight. The girl, not surprisingly, began to get emotional, and Ryan adorably chimed in, mid-song, "Oh please don't cry, please don't, or I will..." It was magic, and every fan in the audience was envious for that moment. It was also nice to see Ryan go the extra distance and connect with one of his fans like that, particularly because he has this kind of hardass reputation as being such an uptight guy with respect to his showgoers.
Ryan wrapped up the show with his Love is Hell set, performing "Love is Hell," "Please Do Not Let Me Go," and finally rounding out the show with an awe-inspiring version of "I See Monsters," complete with some crazy distortion on his electric guitar.
He played for almost 3 hours, came out and gave a big bow with his bandmates, got down on his knees to give thanks to the audience, then walked off the stage. It was absolute perfection... I'm still on a high from the show and likely not coming down from it for a while!
Here's another excellent pic:
After shouting my praise from the rooftops for this guy, I hope some of you have gotten into it! I was happy to have Huan join me at the concert last night-- it was one of our first music-sharing experiences since our DMB days, and he really enjoyed it... I think he's the next official Mr. Adams convert. For those of you who I haven't convinced yet, I hope this post helped! But seriously, as prolific as this guy is, he doesn't release a bum album. Between all his amazing Whiskeytown stuff, and the wide-range of sound he covers over his six solo discs, I'm constantly enamored with his work and am continually impressed and amazed at just how good he is. Last night's show only further solidified it for me.
With that, I close...
Lie to me
Sing me a song
Sing me a song
Until the morning comes...
After waiting in a line that wrapped around the block and all the way down the shady alley past the abandoned warehouse-- something I've never seen in all my experiences at 9:30-- we headed up to the balcony again, figuring it was our best shot to get a good view of Ryan and the band in this very packed house. We secured a fairly good spot, only to discover we'd landed ourselves behind this 40-something crowd out for what was sure to be their "re-living our youth" Saturday night. We didn't realize the extent of this problem until the show started. These folks had a nice front-row spot on the balcony rail, which would have been fine if they'd just enjoyed it and let the rest of us peer over and in between their heads. But in an aggravating turn of events, these old folk had to lean over, talk loudly at the beginning of, during, and in between songs, to one another. And if they weren't talking, they were dancing awkwardly and/or fidgeting so that maintaining any sort of consistent view of the stage for anyone standing behind them was next to impossible. After the first set, however, I decided I wouldn't let them ruin the experience for me and was able to mostly block them out. At this point I also decided that no matter how cool I ever think I am in my 40s, I will never be able to attend a show without being ridiculed by young 20-somethings. What a shame.
Now, onto the show review. Ryan & the Cardinals came onto the stage shortly after 11:30 and immediately started rocking out. Ryan looked like a young Adam Duritz, his hair desperately needing a comb, partially held back with a barette, looking on the verge of dreads. Any big Ryan fan knows that he's an unpredictable force on stage, and this was only confirmed when we'd heard that the night before at the Philly show, he'd walked out toward the end of the show because the fans were talking too loudly during his acoustic set. So we were unsure of what tonight would be like and what kind of mood Ryan would be in. That said, he was in terrific spirits all night, often making jokes and engaging in fun banter with the audience. I got nervous when some dumb drunk fools behind us started yelling "F*** Parker Posey!!!" after the third song, but I'm guessing Ryan either didn't hear or didn't choose to acknowledge it (probably the former). Even when another boisterous fan yelled "You're going to save Rock and Roll!!!" Ryan joked back and said "No I'm not. The Bravery or The Killers will do that-- oh wait, no they're going to save fashion, that's right." And he humbly added, "You don't need me to save Rock and Roll, it'll be fine on its own..."
The crowd reacted well to Ryan's performance of about 5 or 6 songs off his upcoming releases later this year, and he was even apologetic about it, saying "Sorry if you haven't heard some of these before, but in a little while we'll get to some of the stuff you know better..." Then he proceeded to tell us that after this new chunk of songs, he'd go into sets of 3, starting with Cold Roses, then Heartbreaker, Gold, and Love is Hell... Brillance, I tell you. And here I thought the guy didn't care about what the fans wanted. He ended up giving us more than we could have asked for!
The new songs were great, but the show really started when he launched into the Cold Roses set, playing "Magnolia Mountain," then a beautifully slowed-down version of "Let it Ride," still easily my favorite song off the double disc set. It hasn't gotten old for me yet, and I still love it more and more every time I hear it.
The Heartbreaker set was equally jaw-dropping, as Ryan played more crowd favorites-- "To Be Young," one of the most original and vintage Ryan songs that totally got the crowd going, as well as other album gems "My Winding Wheel," and "Oh My Sweet Carolina." Under the influence of drugs, booze, life, or otherwise, Ryan played with so much heart and soul, and the crowd hung on his every word. During "Oh My Sweet Carolina," I can't remember ever hearing the 9:30 club more hushed and fixated on every note as I did when Ryan commanded the stage with his heart-wrenching rendition.
For his Gold set, I was pleasantly surprised to hear Ryan play "When the Stars Go Blue," and by the time he started "La Cienega Just Smiled," I could have left and gone home happy. At a certain point, I found myself completely amazed that Ryan could chain smoke his way through the entire show, even occasionally singing with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth, and still make it sound like absolute perfection. The man is good at what he does.
Here's a nice photo, courtesy of a fellow RA fan, not me... (the 5'1 perspective isn't exactly favorable for snapshots):
But seriously, I can't remember the last time I went to a show and had songs that I considered perfect off a CD sound far superior in concert. I didn't know it was possible, but Ryan truly proved what a live show is all about-- he's a true musician, knows how to put on a show and give the crowd their money's worth. No other artist I know can so effectively rock out and get a crowd on their feet, and at the next moment completely silence a packed house while whispering a ballad that causes goosebumps. I hadn't felt so inspired and all-around pumped up by a performance since the good ol' days when I used to watch DMB jam out for hours in the late '90s. Let's not forget to give a nod to Ryan's fabulous band, who deserve tons of credit for a lot of the energy and performance, particularly JP Bowersock and some of his amazing solos on guitar.
After the Gold set, Ryan went into the "Song Lotto," a new element he's trying to introduce into his shows in which fans are allowed to submit a song request into a silver box, and before his last 3-song set, the "Green Ghost" (actually steel guitarist Jon Graboff covered in a green sheet) picks a song out of the box. In this case, the song was "Dear Chicago," an excellent selection by a very lucky girl named Adrienne. Ryan proceeded to invite her up onto the stage, then serenaded her with a gorgeous rendition of the song, another one of my favorites and a pleasant highlight. The girl, not surprisingly, began to get emotional, and Ryan adorably chimed in, mid-song, "Oh please don't cry, please don't, or I will..." It was magic, and every fan in the audience was envious for that moment. It was also nice to see Ryan go the extra distance and connect with one of his fans like that, particularly because he has this kind of hardass reputation as being such an uptight guy with respect to his showgoers.
Ryan wrapped up the show with his Love is Hell set, performing "Love is Hell," "Please Do Not Let Me Go," and finally rounding out the show with an awe-inspiring version of "I See Monsters," complete with some crazy distortion on his electric guitar.
He played for almost 3 hours, came out and gave a big bow with his bandmates, got down on his knees to give thanks to the audience, then walked off the stage. It was absolute perfection... I'm still on a high from the show and likely not coming down from it for a while!
Here's another excellent pic:
After shouting my praise from the rooftops for this guy, I hope some of you have gotten into it! I was happy to have Huan join me at the concert last night-- it was one of our first music-sharing experiences since our DMB days, and he really enjoyed it... I think he's the next official Mr. Adams convert. For those of you who I haven't convinced yet, I hope this post helped! But seriously, as prolific as this guy is, he doesn't release a bum album. Between all his amazing Whiskeytown stuff, and the wide-range of sound he covers over his six solo discs, I'm constantly enamored with his work and am continually impressed and amazed at just how good he is. Last night's show only further solidified it for me.
With that, I close...
Lie to me
Sing me a song
Sing me a song
Until the morning comes...
May 18, 2005
A VN Indie Artist?
Indeed, it's true. I couldn't believe my ears after discovering Thao Nguyen today. After coming across her name through some musical web-surfing, I did a double take when I first read her name lumped among other, more familiar indie bands and was definitely curious. I found out she's from the area (possibly Springfield, as that's where her record company is based) and used to work at her mom's laundromat from the time she was a kid. Now she's making music and traveling all over. Consider this my first pitch! It's refreshing and very exciting to hear a young Vietnamese artist making music that appeals to me, rather than, say, my parents! This girl sounds like she's got some serious potential. Actually reminded me of Francoise Hardy when I streamed her first MP3. She also has that whole Rachael Yamagata vibe going for her. Very cool. Anyway, I really hate comparisons, so just give her a listen!
In my total dorkiness, I e-mailed Thao and asked if she was coming to the DC area! She replied and said that she would be at DC9 on August 19 for her official CD release party, though it's not yet listed on her site. And she said she'd also keep me posted as to a possible Arlington show if and when it's confirmed. How exciting and fun! Gotta love that she's 1) local and 2) a fellow Vietnamese gal. Way to represent!
Current Music: Hills, by Thao Nguyen
In my total dorkiness, I e-mailed Thao and asked if she was coming to the DC area! She replied and said that she would be at DC9 on August 19 for her official CD release party, though it's not yet listed on her site. And she said she'd also keep me posted as to a possible Arlington show if and when it's confirmed. How exciting and fun! Gotta love that she's 1) local and 2) a fellow Vietnamese gal. Way to represent!
Current Music: Hills, by Thao Nguyen
May 17, 2005
The Great ol' State of Washington
I'm back from my 5-day tour of Seattle and its surrounding mountainous areas. Whew, what a trip it was! We logged around 925 miles in our Chevy TrailBlazer (quite the decent and impressive American SUV, I might add) over the course of the trip. Actually, Huan drove every mile of it. We like to consider it payback for the guy who made me drive almost every trip to Charlottesville we ever shared, and who also slept most of the way through his cross-country excursion to Colorado. That said, Huan was a phenomenal "captain," and aside from the occasional near-edge-of-cliff experience, we applaud him for his effort behind the wheel.
Now let's take a little journey to the Pacific Northwest...
After traveling in the comfort of a non-reclining, brightly-colored electric blue Independence Air chair for 6 hours, we arrived in Seattle. I called back East to let all know we'd landed, and Auddie alerted me to the delightful news that Uchenna & Joyce had won the Amazing Race, despite many an odd against them. (Upon watching the taped episode when I returned home, my sleeve was wet with tears. I'm such a freaking sap, but come on, what an incredible finale! And a true lesson in karma, for those of you paying attention. Gotta love when that works out.)
We settled into our home base for the next few days, our lovely Hertz rental car. I established my position as official 5th wheel as I snuggled my way into the 3rd row back seat among the baggage. Sigh... only kidding. Not only am I a professional 5th wheel, but I'm one that doesn't complain about it. At least not out loud or in my blog.
We logged our first hundred miles or so driving from Seattle to Port Angeles, where we were staying waterfront at the lovely Red Lion Hotel.
Day 1: We hopped in the car and made our way toward Olympic National Park, where we explored the Hoh Rainforest, a couple of the coastal beaches, and Marymere Falls, tucked away along the shore of Crescent Lake.
For our quick food stop before exploring the rainforest, we found ourselves in this old log cabin run by a friendly couple. Since Huan had established early on his mission to see and/or provoke Sasquatch/Bigfoot, we decided to ask the locals about it. The woman at this shop began with what seemed to be a legitimate story about a possible roadside Sasquatch sighting, but she quickly escalated into an National Enquirer case as she talked about being "validated" by scientific recordings of Sasquatch sounds, as well as dreams she had in which she reaches her hands out to make an offering to the beast. We said our thanks and tiptoed out, taking careful note of what being cooped up in a log cabin in the woods will do to you.
We went on a couple hikes within the Hoh Rainforest, which was sprawling with moss and green everywhere we looked. Occasionally, as Huan pointed out, it felt like we were on the "Full House" set because it all seemed so fake!
Fun factoid about the Hoh Rainforest: Because this is a temperate rainforest, as opposed to a tropical one like the Amazon in South America, it isn't dominated by tropical ferns, but rather contains dense timber, including spruce and fir, and mosses that coat the bark of these trees and even drip down from their branches in green, moist tendrils.
See green, moist tendrils:
Somewhere along the way on this long and adventurous day, I must have gotten some nasty bacteria on my hand and ingested it, because that I woke up in the middle of the night twice that night to hang out with the porcelain god of the Red Lion Hotel. Not a pleasant way to kick off the trip, I'd have to say. I woke up feeling icky and gross, but knowing we had to chug on with our exploration!
Day 2: This day, for me, might have been the highlight. We lucked out with some fabulous weather for most of the day, which provided for mostly sunny and clear views of the Olympic range. We drove out to Hurricane Ridge along a long and winding road up the mountain, and were welcomed by a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains.
It looked something like this, except not restricted to the confines of a small rectangle:
We then ascended a partially snow-covered trail to an even higher point. This is where we had our first bear sighting! Cory spotted a dark figure moving among the trees below, and with our binoculars we confirmed that it was a black bear. Quite exciting. The next bright idea was to drive down to the wooded area and try to see him up close. For a good five minutes, Huan had us ooohing, ahhing, and snapping photos at what turned out to be a bear-shaped rock. We never did see little black bear again...
The end of day 2 had us driving to Port Townsend, where we caught a Ferry to Keystone. Upon arrival in Keystone, we drove another long ways to Anacortes to set ourselves up for Day 3's adventures. It's a good thing these rental cars have unlimited mileage! It's not a good thing that gas out West is a good $.30 higher than here!
Day 3: We took an hour ferry ride to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands. (The story--the one that I like-- goes that as settlers descended upon the shore, they asked "What Bay is this??" but the respondent thought they asked what day it was.)
Eli, our Outdoor Odysseys tour guide, met us there with his van. We had elevated Eli into something of a fantasy figure, since we had previously read his bio and viewed his photo on the company website and decided he would be our first-pick for guide. So we were happy to learn he was randomly selected to be our guide, and I, as fifth wheel, would have the pleasure of paddling with him! Eli was great, as expected. If only he could stop talking about his girlfriend so I could propose that we run away together. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.
It turns out we were slightly early on the Orca season, so there was not an abudance of killer whales swimming alongside us as I'd imagined. But we were lucky enough to score a quick sighting from the shore of the beach before we hopped into our boats, so all was not lost. It was probably for the better, since it was Friday the 13th after all, and since Kam and I both had nightmares about being attacked by killer whales.
Fun factoid about killer whales: The term "killer whales" is actually a misnomer. The name originated because the orcas, which are actually the largest members of the dolphin family, prey on other marine mammals, including other whales. When Spanish explorers witnessed this, they called them "whale killers," and in the translation back to English it became "killer whales." These creatures, because of their high position on the food chain, are among the most threatened marine mammals in the world, very susceptible to PCB and other contamination which affects their reproductive health, among other things.
Along our kayaking tour, we also saw seals, Dall's porpoises, ridiculously huge starfish, bald eagles, and a bunch of other birds. The kayaking itself was exhausting! We kept having to ask how old grannies do it, since my arms felt like noodles after 4 hours and...oh, 5 miles (vastly exaggerated) on the water.
Here's a shot of me and Kam next to some lovely orange California poppies, overlooking the beach where we stopped for lunch (yes, I am wearing Tevas, don't be jealous):
We wrapped up the day by hopping the ferry back to Port Townsend and continuing on another 70 miles or so to Bellevue, just outside Seattle.
Day 4: Everyone was pooped, and after discovering the drive to Mt. Rainier would take close to 3 hours, we weren't exactly overjoyed. But we pressed on, knowing the sights we'd see would be worth it.
We took a long ".7 mile" hike past Narada Falls to the Ohanapecosh River. Then we stopped by Box Canyon, an amazing 100-foot deep gorge, but only about 20 feet across, with rapid waters flowing through it. Finally, we took a short hike to the Grove of the Patriarchs, where we stood in awe of all these very large and very old trees. One pair of Douglas firs were said to be over a thousand years old!!
Here's a shot of Huan in front of Narada Falls:
After considering ourselves officially spent, we headed back to Bellevue for some much needed R&R.
Day 5: We checked out of our hotel in Bellevue and drove into nearby Seattle for our last day. Annie & Ben, our Northwesterly friends from Portland, were kind enough to make the 2.5 hour drive to meet us and hang out for the day!
We met up at the PriceClub-sized REI, which was overwhelming and ridiculous, complete with outdoor "hiking area." Then we headed to famous Pike Place Market. (The place where they throw fish around while yelling.) It was very lively and fun. I really love and appreciate a place with an open market where you can just stroll the vendors and "window shop" for any kind of food-- seafood, fruit, cheese, etc... We were lucky enough to be there for the weekend of the Seattle Cheese Festival-- what could be better? We sampled a bunch of cheeses before sitting down to lunch at a local seafood joint, where we enjoyed Dungeness Crab Rolls & Clam Chowder in Bread Bowls. Delicious!
Speaking of delicious... Octopus anyone? Looks like Ursula got the ax!:
Here's the whole gang outside the Market:
After strolling around the downtown area, we stopped into the Central Seattle Library, which attracted us because it looked like something from the space-age dropped in among the other regular city buildings. It sounds geeky, but this place was totally cool. It was built like a parking garage, so there were no distinct floors; the whole thing was a huge open space with alternating levels going back and forth, all encased in this glass-windowed building. The neatest thing was the automatic book return machine, which would take the book on a conveyer belt ride through the library, scan a book's label and sort it into a specific bin to be returned to its proper place. Ok, enough dork talk. It was definitely a place that could convince me to study and/or read a lot, that's for sure.
Here's the library, though this picture doesn't quite capture how large and showy it is:
Finally, we made the obligatory tourist stop to the Space Needle and surrounding areas, which were largely unimpressive, aside from the Experience Music Project. We didn't have time to go in and explore the EMP museum like I would have wanted (seems like a place where you need to spend a whole afternoon to make it worth your while), but it definitely seemed like a cool place, judging by the crazy modern architecture alone. We strolled around the pier area a bit longer and checked out the University area a bit before it was time to head to the airport and conclude our trip.
It was a fabulous time and another wild trip out West. It really is a different world out there, starting with the people who drive below the speed limit in the left lane! In the end, though, it's always nice to come home. I will say, it's nice to get away into nature for a bit and remind yourself of how tiny we all actually are.
For those of you who made it to the end... thanks for reading!
Current Music: Meet Me by the Water, by Rachael Yamagata
Current Mood: restless
Now let's take a little journey to the Pacific Northwest...
After traveling in the comfort of a non-reclining, brightly-colored electric blue Independence Air chair for 6 hours, we arrived in Seattle. I called back East to let all know we'd landed, and Auddie alerted me to the delightful news that Uchenna & Joyce had won the Amazing Race, despite many an odd against them. (Upon watching the taped episode when I returned home, my sleeve was wet with tears. I'm such a freaking sap, but come on, what an incredible finale! And a true lesson in karma, for those of you paying attention. Gotta love when that works out.)
We settled into our home base for the next few days, our lovely Hertz rental car. I established my position as official 5th wheel as I snuggled my way into the 3rd row back seat among the baggage. Sigh... only kidding. Not only am I a professional 5th wheel, but I'm one that doesn't complain about it. At least not out loud or in my blog.
We logged our first hundred miles or so driving from Seattle to Port Angeles, where we were staying waterfront at the lovely Red Lion Hotel.
Day 1: We hopped in the car and made our way toward Olympic National Park, where we explored the Hoh Rainforest, a couple of the coastal beaches, and Marymere Falls, tucked away along the shore of Crescent Lake.
For our quick food stop before exploring the rainforest, we found ourselves in this old log cabin run by a friendly couple. Since Huan had established early on his mission to see and/or provoke Sasquatch/Bigfoot, we decided to ask the locals about it. The woman at this shop began with what seemed to be a legitimate story about a possible roadside Sasquatch sighting, but she quickly escalated into an National Enquirer case as she talked about being "validated" by scientific recordings of Sasquatch sounds, as well as dreams she had in which she reaches her hands out to make an offering to the beast. We said our thanks and tiptoed out, taking careful note of what being cooped up in a log cabin in the woods will do to you.
We went on a couple hikes within the Hoh Rainforest, which was sprawling with moss and green everywhere we looked. Occasionally, as Huan pointed out, it felt like we were on the "Full House" set because it all seemed so fake!
Fun factoid about the Hoh Rainforest: Because this is a temperate rainforest, as opposed to a tropical one like the Amazon in South America, it isn't dominated by tropical ferns, but rather contains dense timber, including spruce and fir, and mosses that coat the bark of these trees and even drip down from their branches in green, moist tendrils.
See green, moist tendrils:
Somewhere along the way on this long and adventurous day, I must have gotten some nasty bacteria on my hand and ingested it, because that I woke up in the middle of the night twice that night to hang out with the porcelain god of the Red Lion Hotel. Not a pleasant way to kick off the trip, I'd have to say. I woke up feeling icky and gross, but knowing we had to chug on with our exploration!
Day 2: This day, for me, might have been the highlight. We lucked out with some fabulous weather for most of the day, which provided for mostly sunny and clear views of the Olympic range. We drove out to Hurricane Ridge along a long and winding road up the mountain, and were welcomed by a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains.
It looked something like this, except not restricted to the confines of a small rectangle:
We then ascended a partially snow-covered trail to an even higher point. This is where we had our first bear sighting! Cory spotted a dark figure moving among the trees below, and with our binoculars we confirmed that it was a black bear. Quite exciting. The next bright idea was to drive down to the wooded area and try to see him up close. For a good five minutes, Huan had us ooohing, ahhing, and snapping photos at what turned out to be a bear-shaped rock. We never did see little black bear again...
The end of day 2 had us driving to Port Townsend, where we caught a Ferry to Keystone. Upon arrival in Keystone, we drove another long ways to Anacortes to set ourselves up for Day 3's adventures. It's a good thing these rental cars have unlimited mileage! It's not a good thing that gas out West is a good $.30 higher than here!
Day 3: We took an hour ferry ride to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands. (The story--the one that I like-- goes that as settlers descended upon the shore, they asked "What Bay is this??" but the respondent thought they asked what day it was.)
Eli, our Outdoor Odysseys tour guide, met us there with his van. We had elevated Eli into something of a fantasy figure, since we had previously read his bio and viewed his photo on the company website and decided he would be our first-pick for guide. So we were happy to learn he was randomly selected to be our guide, and I, as fifth wheel, would have the pleasure of paddling with him! Eli was great, as expected. If only he could stop talking about his girlfriend so I could propose that we run away together. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.
It turns out we were slightly early on the Orca season, so there was not an abudance of killer whales swimming alongside us as I'd imagined. But we were lucky enough to score a quick sighting from the shore of the beach before we hopped into our boats, so all was not lost. It was probably for the better, since it was Friday the 13th after all, and since Kam and I both had nightmares about being attacked by killer whales.
Fun factoid about killer whales: The term "killer whales" is actually a misnomer. The name originated because the orcas, which are actually the largest members of the dolphin family, prey on other marine mammals, including other whales. When Spanish explorers witnessed this, they called them "whale killers," and in the translation back to English it became "killer whales." These creatures, because of their high position on the food chain, are among the most threatened marine mammals in the world, very susceptible to PCB and other contamination which affects their reproductive health, among other things.
Along our kayaking tour, we also saw seals, Dall's porpoises, ridiculously huge starfish, bald eagles, and a bunch of other birds. The kayaking itself was exhausting! We kept having to ask how old grannies do it, since my arms felt like noodles after 4 hours and...oh, 5 miles (vastly exaggerated) on the water.
Here's a shot of me and Kam next to some lovely orange California poppies, overlooking the beach where we stopped for lunch (yes, I am wearing Tevas, don't be jealous):
We wrapped up the day by hopping the ferry back to Port Townsend and continuing on another 70 miles or so to Bellevue, just outside Seattle.
Day 4: Everyone was pooped, and after discovering the drive to Mt. Rainier would take close to 3 hours, we weren't exactly overjoyed. But we pressed on, knowing the sights we'd see would be worth it.
We took a long ".7 mile" hike past Narada Falls to the Ohanapecosh River. Then we stopped by Box Canyon, an amazing 100-foot deep gorge, but only about 20 feet across, with rapid waters flowing through it. Finally, we took a short hike to the Grove of the Patriarchs, where we stood in awe of all these very large and very old trees. One pair of Douglas firs were said to be over a thousand years old!!
Here's a shot of Huan in front of Narada Falls:
After considering ourselves officially spent, we headed back to Bellevue for some much needed R&R.
Day 5: We checked out of our hotel in Bellevue and drove into nearby Seattle for our last day. Annie & Ben, our Northwesterly friends from Portland, were kind enough to make the 2.5 hour drive to meet us and hang out for the day!
We met up at the PriceClub-sized REI, which was overwhelming and ridiculous, complete with outdoor "hiking area." Then we headed to famous Pike Place Market. (The place where they throw fish around while yelling.) It was very lively and fun. I really love and appreciate a place with an open market where you can just stroll the vendors and "window shop" for any kind of food-- seafood, fruit, cheese, etc... We were lucky enough to be there for the weekend of the Seattle Cheese Festival-- what could be better? We sampled a bunch of cheeses before sitting down to lunch at a local seafood joint, where we enjoyed Dungeness Crab Rolls & Clam Chowder in Bread Bowls. Delicious!
Speaking of delicious... Octopus anyone? Looks like Ursula got the ax!:
Here's the whole gang outside the Market:
After strolling around the downtown area, we stopped into the Central Seattle Library, which attracted us because it looked like something from the space-age dropped in among the other regular city buildings. It sounds geeky, but this place was totally cool. It was built like a parking garage, so there were no distinct floors; the whole thing was a huge open space with alternating levels going back and forth, all encased in this glass-windowed building. The neatest thing was the automatic book return machine, which would take the book on a conveyer belt ride through the library, scan a book's label and sort it into a specific bin to be returned to its proper place. Ok, enough dork talk. It was definitely a place that could convince me to study and/or read a lot, that's for sure.
Here's the library, though this picture doesn't quite capture how large and showy it is:
Finally, we made the obligatory tourist stop to the Space Needle and surrounding areas, which were largely unimpressive, aside from the Experience Music Project. We didn't have time to go in and explore the EMP museum like I would have wanted (seems like a place where you need to spend a whole afternoon to make it worth your while), but it definitely seemed like a cool place, judging by the crazy modern architecture alone. We strolled around the pier area a bit longer and checked out the University area a bit before it was time to head to the airport and conclude our trip.
It was a fabulous time and another wild trip out West. It really is a different world out there, starting with the people who drive below the speed limit in the left lane! In the end, though, it's always nice to come home. I will say, it's nice to get away into nature for a bit and remind yourself of how tiny we all actually are.
For those of you who made it to the end... thanks for reading!
Current Music: Meet Me by the Water, by Rachael Yamagata
Current Mood: restless
May 7, 2005
We Both Go Down Together
Last night I saw The Decemberists put on a great show at the 9:30 club. It was a perfect night that began with a stop at Ben's Chili Bowl with Becca and Pepper. After all, who can resist a half-smoke with mustard and onions, doused with chili? I know I can't.
From there we made our way to the venue, arriving a bit early around 9 pm. This left us with that awkward concert time-killing session that one always seems to forget about. Since the opening act wasn't even set to start til about 10, and The Decemberists at 11:15, we decided to settle in on the balcony so at least we could sit down while we waited.
After some rock-paper-scissors, thumb-warring, musical chatter, and other friendly conversation, the opening act, Rebecca Gates, came on slightly after 10. I was already disappointed because the show was first announced with opener Willy Mason, whom I've been really curious about (he was signed by Conor Oberst to his label), but it seems there must have been a change of plan. Ms. Gates was an interesting performer-- she was totally cut (Madonna arms) and had kind of a husky voice to go with it. In the end though, the one-woman gig with the electric guitar just wasn't doing it for me, nor anyone else in the venue, from what I could tell. She wasn't terribly engaging, musically or otherwise, which left us all in even greater anticipation of The Decemberists.
And those Decemberists did not disappoint! It was very cool to see them all together. It definitely presented a different vibe from when I'd seen Colin Meloy solo. Together, they were a much weirder, more eccentric, very fun bunch who were all about performance and entertainment. There's really nothing cooler than seeing 6 folks on stage with an upright bass, a violin, a bunch of tambourines, and an accordian just jamming out and going crazy. I love that this band is always proving to me that their music is all about pushing the limits and creating something unlike anything else I've ever heard. Colin Meloy's voice alone is enough to set it apart, but the instrumentation, not to mention his penchant for pirate-tales and other crazy lyrical fictions, is truly one of a kind.
Up til yesterday I hadn't been crazy about the new album, Picaresque, despite many a rave review. There were definitely a few standout tunes for me, but on the whole, I liked their previous work far better. But hearing them perform the songs last night really made me rethink the album as a whole. The energy and spirit they put into songs like "Sporting Life" and "Mariner's Revenge Song" were incredible and you couldn't help but move your feet and get into it.
All told, it was a fantastic show and definitely reaffirmed the fact that The Decemberists are one of my current favorite bands.
From there we made our way to the venue, arriving a bit early around 9 pm. This left us with that awkward concert time-killing session that one always seems to forget about. Since the opening act wasn't even set to start til about 10, and The Decemberists at 11:15, we decided to settle in on the balcony so at least we could sit down while we waited.
After some rock-paper-scissors, thumb-warring, musical chatter, and other friendly conversation, the opening act, Rebecca Gates, came on slightly after 10. I was already disappointed because the show was first announced with opener Willy Mason, whom I've been really curious about (he was signed by Conor Oberst to his label), but it seems there must have been a change of plan. Ms. Gates was an interesting performer-- she was totally cut (Madonna arms) and had kind of a husky voice to go with it. In the end though, the one-woman gig with the electric guitar just wasn't doing it for me, nor anyone else in the venue, from what I could tell. She wasn't terribly engaging, musically or otherwise, which left us all in even greater anticipation of The Decemberists.
And those Decemberists did not disappoint! It was very cool to see them all together. It definitely presented a different vibe from when I'd seen Colin Meloy solo. Together, they were a much weirder, more eccentric, very fun bunch who were all about performance and entertainment. There's really nothing cooler than seeing 6 folks on stage with an upright bass, a violin, a bunch of tambourines, and an accordian just jamming out and going crazy. I love that this band is always proving to me that their music is all about pushing the limits and creating something unlike anything else I've ever heard. Colin Meloy's voice alone is enough to set it apart, but the instrumentation, not to mention his penchant for pirate-tales and other crazy lyrical fictions, is truly one of a kind.
Up til yesterday I hadn't been crazy about the new album, Picaresque, despite many a rave review. There were definitely a few standout tunes for me, but on the whole, I liked their previous work far better. But hearing them perform the songs last night really made me rethink the album as a whole. The energy and spirit they put into songs like "Sporting Life" and "Mariner's Revenge Song" were incredible and you couldn't help but move your feet and get into it.
All told, it was a fantastic show and definitely reaffirmed the fact that The Decemberists are one of my current favorite bands.
Life of leisure...
Well, since my internship ended this past week, as of now I am back to being that wandering soul in search of my next big adventure. For the time being, that adventure looks to be five days in the other Washington (the State). On Tuesday I'm heading out to Seattle for what should be an exciting week of outdoorsy exploring with Huan & Molly, Kam & Cory. We're hitting up Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, the San Juan Islands, and of course one day of exploring downtown Seattle. It should be an unbelievable trip and I can't wait!
I was quite sad to see my internship end. It seemed to go by so fast, and it was as if suddenly in the past couple weeks, I started to get really comfortable in my place there and develop relationships with some of the folks at the office. In any case, it was a great experience-- I learned a lot, met some interesting people, and was able to fine-tune some of my communication skills, which I hope will be helpful to me in my next endeavor.
All in all, I'm thankful for having had the experience and the chance to work with the people that I did. Now, back to some serious soul-searching, aka job-hunting. Updates to follow.
I was quite sad to see my internship end. It seemed to go by so fast, and it was as if suddenly in the past couple weeks, I started to get really comfortable in my place there and develop relationships with some of the folks at the office. In any case, it was a great experience-- I learned a lot, met some interesting people, and was able to fine-tune some of my communication skills, which I hope will be helpful to me in my next endeavor.
All in all, I'm thankful for having had the experience and the chance to work with the people that I did. Now, back to some serious soul-searching, aka job-hunting. Updates to follow.
May 6, 2005
Virginia is for Lovers, indeed.
Since nearly a week has passed, my Charlottesville high is finally tapering off, so you'll be spared the overwhelming parts of what was going to be an intense Wahoowa-loving post. I'll just sum up my Foxfield weekend by saying it was an incredible time-- far better than I expected. Considering the nasty weather forecast all weekend, everything went well. We had further proof that God does love Foxfield, as it didn't rain a single drop the whole time at the races, but poured down early that morning and later that night. So while it was a muddy mess, as evidenced by everyone's grubby flip-flopped feet, I ran into a lot of people I wanted to see, and of course some others I'd completely forgotten about...
Perhaps most exciting (and slightly disturbing) was that over the course of less than 48 hours in C'ville, with the help and determination of one Laura Plattner, I managed to indulge in the goodness of 8 separate eating establishments. I mean, how can one expect to choose? Lo and I knew we had to make the most of our hours, so through the magic of sharing and lots of planning, we were able to hit up almost all our old favorites. (Though surely you can never do it all, which is why we're planning another trip back this summer...)
For those of you wondering, we made the following stops between around 6 pm on Friday evening and 3 pm Sunday afternoon:
Friday: Take it Away (bread ends), Baja Bean (can't beat a refreshing 27 oz. margarita for $6.50!)
Saturday: Bodo's (Veggie cream cheese on everything bagel), Bellair (Ednam), Sylvia's pizza (spinach/feta/tomatoes), and of course a 12:45 am stop at Little John's (Bum Steer/Wild Turkey).
Sunday: Bodo's (Egg & Cheddar bagel/Cleo Salad), Marco & Luca's (The best $2.50 dumplings around), Arch's (Black Caesar w/ Vanilla & Peanut Butter swirl)
Needless to say, I put on about 5 pounds from all that gluttony. Hmm, it was as if suddenly I realized why those 25 minutes of elliptical time I used to put in at the gym didn't make a damn bit of difference! But man oh man, it felt really great to let myself go and settle back into my old college habits for a weekend. It was utterly satisfying.
The perfect Sunday weather made it one of those ideal Charlottesville Sundays for strolling the Downtown Mall & Corner, cruising by the Rotunda, and once again reminding ourselves how good we had it for 4 years. Our only consolation as we drove out of town was taking comfort in the fact that we didn't have to start cramming for a long week of finals or churning out that final paper. In the end, a long weekend visit was enough, just as 4 years of memories were enough for a lifetime. After all, if we never left we would never fully appreciate it. And strangely, despite my promise, this has become a Wahoowa-loving post anyway. What can I say, must be in my blood...
Current Music: Sweet Illusions, by Ryan Adams
Current Mood: content
Perhaps most exciting (and slightly disturbing) was that over the course of less than 48 hours in C'ville, with the help and determination of one Laura Plattner, I managed to indulge in the goodness of 8 separate eating establishments. I mean, how can one expect to choose? Lo and I knew we had to make the most of our hours, so through the magic of sharing and lots of planning, we were able to hit up almost all our old favorites. (Though surely you can never do it all, which is why we're planning another trip back this summer...)
For those of you wondering, we made the following stops between around 6 pm on Friday evening and 3 pm Sunday afternoon:
Friday: Take it Away (bread ends), Baja Bean (can't beat a refreshing 27 oz. margarita for $6.50!)
Saturday: Bodo's (Veggie cream cheese on everything bagel), Bellair (Ednam), Sylvia's pizza (spinach/feta/tomatoes), and of course a 12:45 am stop at Little John's (Bum Steer/Wild Turkey).
Sunday: Bodo's (Egg & Cheddar bagel/Cleo Salad), Marco & Luca's (The best $2.50 dumplings around), Arch's (Black Caesar w/ Vanilla & Peanut Butter swirl)
Needless to say, I put on about 5 pounds from all that gluttony. Hmm, it was as if suddenly I realized why those 25 minutes of elliptical time I used to put in at the gym didn't make a damn bit of difference! But man oh man, it felt really great to let myself go and settle back into my old college habits for a weekend. It was utterly satisfying.
The perfect Sunday weather made it one of those ideal Charlottesville Sundays for strolling the Downtown Mall & Corner, cruising by the Rotunda, and once again reminding ourselves how good we had it for 4 years. Our only consolation as we drove out of town was taking comfort in the fact that we didn't have to start cramming for a long week of finals or churning out that final paper. In the end, a long weekend visit was enough, just as 4 years of memories were enough for a lifetime. After all, if we never left we would never fully appreciate it. And strangely, despite my promise, this has become a Wahoowa-loving post anyway. What can I say, must be in my blood...
Current Music: Sweet Illusions, by Ryan Adams
Current Mood: content
May 2, 2005
Stay tuned...
A complete wrap-up of my Foxfield weekend in Charlottesville is coming soon. Be forewarned: If you're not a wahoo, you may want to divert your eyes.
"The years have been short but the days were long..." -The Shins
I saw The Shins Thursday night at the Norva in Norfolk, Va. Very cool venue. And I mean that literally, too... the ventilation was great, and the high ceilings didn't make it feel stuffy or smoky at all. It was very roomy and spacious, but still small enough to be considered an "intimate" venue. I liked it. The crowd wasn't obnoxious or annoying, either, which is always a nice bonus. There was just a positive vibe the whole night and everyone feeding off the energy of the guys on stage.
The Shins were not as I expected; they were far more impressive and more than exceeded my simple assumptions of them. First off, these guys were older... Not like, old old, but definitely not a bunch of 20-something wannabe rocker types. They seemed established and very professional, but at the same time like a bunch of school kids excited for the show. The lead singer (James Mercer) was the spitting image of Kevin Spacey. This was hard to shake after I had it in my mind. Just imagine a slightly skinnier, scrawnier version of Kevin Spacey singing your favorite Shins tune. It's weird, right? And the other fellas were just like average joes, but I mean that in a good way. There was no faux rockstar element, no mockery, no arrogance. Just a bunch of guys up there doing their thing, clearly enjoying every moment of it, and all the while being really sincere with the crowd. I always love that.. when they appreciate you, not in the obligatory way, but in the way you can tell they are really happy you're there. Marty (keyboardist/bassist) kept saying things like "You guys are incredible! You've been super nice!" and waving to the crowd in between songs. It was adorable and endearing.
I was slightly worried before the show that this might be a concert experience that would ruin the CD for me. You see, "Chutes Too Narrow" is quite possibly as close to perfection and poignancy as you'll find in less than 34 minutes of a studio recording. As a music fan, you always worry about how that will translate to the stage. But it was fine. Sure, it wasn't as delectable and crisp as the CD, but I realized that hearing it live was more about seeing the guys perform it and truly have a good time. They definitely rocked out and got the crowd singing along. All in all, a feel good show with lots of energy. It was quite the positive show experience and well worth the long trek down south.
To sum this up, let me go ahead and recommend "Chutes Too Narrow" as an excellent selection for a Spring day drive with the windows down.
The Shins were not as I expected; they were far more impressive and more than exceeded my simple assumptions of them. First off, these guys were older... Not like, old old, but definitely not a bunch of 20-something wannabe rocker types. They seemed established and very professional, but at the same time like a bunch of school kids excited for the show. The lead singer (James Mercer) was the spitting image of Kevin Spacey. This was hard to shake after I had it in my mind. Just imagine a slightly skinnier, scrawnier version of Kevin Spacey singing your favorite Shins tune. It's weird, right? And the other fellas were just like average joes, but I mean that in a good way. There was no faux rockstar element, no mockery, no arrogance. Just a bunch of guys up there doing their thing, clearly enjoying every moment of it, and all the while being really sincere with the crowd. I always love that.. when they appreciate you, not in the obligatory way, but in the way you can tell they are really happy you're there. Marty (keyboardist/bassist) kept saying things like "You guys are incredible! You've been super nice!" and waving to the crowd in between songs. It was adorable and endearing.
I was slightly worried before the show that this might be a concert experience that would ruin the CD for me. You see, "Chutes Too Narrow" is quite possibly as close to perfection and poignancy as you'll find in less than 34 minutes of a studio recording. As a music fan, you always worry about how that will translate to the stage. But it was fine. Sure, it wasn't as delectable and crisp as the CD, but I realized that hearing it live was more about seeing the guys perform it and truly have a good time. They definitely rocked out and got the crowd singing along. All in all, a feel good show with lots of energy. It was quite the positive show experience and well worth the long trek down south.
To sum this up, let me go ahead and recommend "Chutes Too Narrow" as an excellent selection for a Spring day drive with the windows down.
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