pachuca dolce

New Address

2010-11-21T18:42:00.000-06:00

ahem...

2010-06-20T16:44:00.002-05:00

I'm updating. Not done yet, but when I am, this site will be replaced by a bigger breath of fresh air you won't be able to stand on your feet.

I've got so many ideas these days that I'm losing sleep.

But I don't mind.

the hot shit.

2010-05-06T20:48:00.003-05:00

i'm in love with this album.

I don't know what it is, but collectively it takes me to a new place with music. There are definitely some old elements, straight from the 90's club area, but Dan Snaith simplifies it, and with a lot of bass (which always convinces me).

I even ordered it on vinyl, which I'm picking up tomorrow. But I've been listening to it for the last two weeks. Almost every track on the album is great. Each song I get excited about.

Aaaaaaand I'm gonna go see him (with a full band) in a couple of two weeks in Austin.

I'm also in love with Grouper. She's a one-woman show with a lot of pedals/buttons. From Portland and opened up for Animal Collective on a few of their shows.
She's amazing.

She's gonna be in Marfa on memorial weekend....I must.

Oh, and this shit goes hard.

24April2010

2010-04-24T11:59:00.004-05:00

~~i've given up on writing~~ i'm changing my direction.

i did it, father. i've given you and mom what you've always wanted, for your children to have a formal education.

so now, i evolve. i grow into a direction that not only leads myself farther away from that secure life, i do it with the intention and gumption of a race; getting there first.

There's no harm in trying to erase past time, just as long as you remember where you came from.

I purchased a new guitar. A starburst Fender Stratocaster. I call her Betty, my dream machine. Cause that's exactly where she comes from, a dream.

And I've got my 4-track recorder on its way.

All I need now is a Boss RV-5...reverb for days.

This is probably the first time in my life nothing too complicated stands in my way. I miss my home, so much...more than I thought I would, but I remind myself everyday why I'm here and that settles me...for now. So I'm working, pushing myself to the limit. My hands are tired, my fingertips are cracked. I almost burnt a tip off because I couldn't feel the heat, the callouses are so thick.

But it's just me, doing what needs to be done. My movements, my mind, my desire.

I've been talking to two old friends of mine a lot lately. They've been so inspiring to me. They have the drive and knowledge that matches mine, which is hard to find, especially with music and playing and creating. I want to just talk to them everyday, throw ideas back and forth, allowing the energy to grow.

I make discoveries that are so hard to find because of them two, freeing myself in a new way that most men only dream of, let alone any woman. It's scary because I'm really looking at myself, but necessary.

You have to be the most honest with yourself than out of every person in your life when making music-listeners pick up on that shit. And although this has been a struggle for me, I'm grateful because it clears up my path. I see where I need to go and what I can leave behind.

Jill tells me during my difficult times that I'm finding all of this because I'm here, that it's good for me to be here.

So....

2010-02-06T20:23:00.002-06:00

Life to me right now is like being in one of those really big inflatable castles.

Much Needed Update

2010-01-29T20:58:00.008-06:00

I can safely say that my views have doubled over the last couple of months. I mean, it's a number and numbers don't lie.
But considering that I've only had one follower (love you my brave friend) and I averaged about two new views a month, I didn't see any real incessant need to write. Not to mention that I've been so busy that I'm on this new Redbull diet that consists of, well...Redbull. Oh and espresso.
But ok...the views and my need to write and this whole new type of space I've never experienced before...and Jay-Z's The Blueprint 3 album...they all make me want to write more. To push myself. To know what I've always known, but experiencing it in a way that makes me do...I get it now. Or at least more than I ever have.
(Ok, just for a side note, I'm watching the rest of that Moog documentary, which if you love music by any means, please watch it...it will blow your mind. But I'm watching it and Stereolab is on and just for the record, their lead singer sounds blonde. Right? Well, she isn't. She's a brunette. But she sounds so much like Beth Gibbons, who is blonde....Shit, Moogs are so crazy.)

Anyway, I'm here and I have this new space. I mean, it's half gorgeous-tiled-carpet and half hardwood, with this small christmas tree that has more style than many people I see walking down the street, with Jesus candles in the faux-fireplace and it's good. Great. And this shit is crazy because the other day I was told I was "very organized." I fucking love it.

But it's like I'm out in Alaska like Emile Hersch/Christopher McCandless, with all the trees and the bears and that bus, finally doing what it is that I've always told myself I needed to do.

But Stevie Nicks says, "what's with all these girls and their myspace and facebooks...mystery is the key." And I love her...so, yeah.

Have you ever noticed how inspirational hip hop is? I mean, gospel is well...GOSPEL. I mean, spirituality just summons every emotion when provoked by arms waving and hands clapping.
But I can just sit in my car, listen to hip hop, rhyme along with Pharrell or Mos Def or Kanye and just believe. It's amazing. They all motivate you to do your best, to never let go, to not stop and pass tha....you know what I'm saying.

My point is, I heard this track today and well..it brought me to this spot, where I am right now. Tangibly communicating, movement to action.

....Gin and tonics never really hurt anyone, right?

I'm so in love with this video/track. I think I might start listening to it in the morning when I wake up. A nice side item to go with my daily Redbull.

Give it Up

2009-12-07T11:54:00.003-06:00

Major props to Knuckle Rumbler for doing it again.

Check out a preview to their latest installment to their amazing parties...

Icelanta @ Scoot Inn 12.12.09 from Orion Garcia on Vimeo.

Shout out to DJ Orion for making the video.

The event will be held on Saturday, December 12th. Click for all the details.

And if you're still in Austin...

2009-12-04T14:25:00.003-06:00

Go to this. Seriously. Actually, just go to any event where KnuckleRumbler.com is one of the sponsors because you will discover exactly what it means to be a true Austinite and also learn the great importance of unicorns.

I'm definitely going to miss them, plus the whole barrage of friends we've all accumulated, a lot.

Smirnoff will be throwing this party and it's only for those who RSVP, so sign up to be their fan on Facebook.

Smirnoff will be providing "everything essential to having a great time."

Go here and sign up to RSVP.

www.FaceBook.com/Smirnoff

Transfiguration

2009-12-04T13:54:00.007-06:00

Separating myself from Austin has been like one of those really good breakups. Not good in a sense where you're like, "girl, you don't need him," but good as in mature or a right way of doing it. It's clean and simple. No drag-out arguments that last for weeks or going back and forth, back and forth. And neither one of us are making 3 am phone calls, crying out "take me back."

It's a good break where you're sad to leave the comfort of it all, but you just know that there is something else you have experience before you say forever. You separate your things, giving each other a long hug, knowing it will be a while before you see them again. And you wish them well, meaning every word of it. You smile, then you leave.

I love you Austin, but you're bringing me down.

photo courtesy of Erik H. Pronske

This Needs a Facelift

2009-10-22T12:39:00.003-05:00

One day, I'll be more ambitious with all of this, achieving levels of obscure yet sophisticated fonts and unthinkable layouts....

but for now, this...

Apparently Doom has a new album coming out in November.

Yep.

07Oct09

2009-10-07T12:56:00.003-05:00

The fractions of time just punctuated my clarity.
...that graduate school is the only way to go.

So...I'll be leaving in December.

My brain is dying to just breathe. The air just became too stuffy with absence.

Fuck. Finally. I can't wait to get there.

is it january yet?

Your Words Mean Shit

2009-09-03T12:50:00.002-05:00

Another installment of amazing lyrics, not to mention that the song (as well as the whole album) has been playing non-stop everywhere I go (I manage by taking my ipod everywhere).

Florence and the Machine : "Blinding"

"Seems that I have been held, in some dreaming state
A tourist in the waking world, never quite awake
No kiss, no gentle word could wake me from this slumber
Until I realise that it was you who held me under

Felt it in my fist, in my feet, in the hollows of my eyelids
Shaking through my skull, through my spine and down through my ribs

No more dreaming of the dead as if death itself was undone
No more calling like a crow for a boy, for a body in the garden
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love with the wrong world

And I could hear the thunder and see the lightning crack
All around the world was waking, I never could go back
Cos all the walls of dreaming, they were torn right open
And finally it seemed that the spell was broken

And all my bones began to shake, my eyes flew open
And all my bones began to shake, my eyes flew open

No more dreaming of the dead as if death itself was undone
No more calling like a crow for a boy, for a body in the garden
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love with the wrong world

Snow White's stitching up the circuit boards
Someones slipping through the hidden door
Snow White's stitching up the circuit board

No more dreaming of the dead as if death itself was undone
No more calling like a crow for a boy, for a body in the garden
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love, so in love
No more dreaming like a girl so in love with the wrong world

Snow White's stitching up the circuit boards
Someones slipping through the hidden door
Snow White's stitching up the circuit board
Some one's slipping through the hidden door."

22Aug09

2009-08-22T16:44:00.001-05:00

I've completely lost faith in humanity today.

Might be different tomorrow.

But right now they're all the same.

11Aug09

2009-08-11T18:32:00.003-05:00

So I made it. And now I have what feels like an infant on the lower part of my right leg. The pain hasn't been bad at all, so I'm saving those pills for a rainy day.

And thanks to my amazing friend who works at a music store in Best Buy, I have a new loop pedal. It is the RC-2 and I'm officially going to start playing with it tonight. Too bad the thieves stole my camera or else I'd have footage.

What else...Oh, I've decided to stay in Austin. Many of you may not have known, but I was determined to go to grad school. And after looking at many schools on the east/west coast, I found an amazing program in San Antonio.

But, fate has changed my path and my accurate eye for signals has concluded that it would be a bad move for me. I have an amazing house in downtown Austin, amazing friends/family that I've started re-connecting with again (since I left for my undergrad), a great job that affords me more than I wish, an amazing roommate that makes sure we're never overcharged on our utilities and now, a musically-driven purpose to attend Media Tech Institute this September. If the money situation works out, a year from now I will be Pro Tools certified and know the ins/outs of the audio/music industry. I visited their campus before my surgery and was blown away. Between what I would be learning (everything from how to make studio tools to music business) and where I would be learning this (the old Arlen Studios that Willie Nelson owned), and a huge sign that was staring right at me at the end of my tour (it was for a job that I've actually said to myself, "working there would be my ideal job"), I just feel it so much more than moving to San Antonio.

I achieved what I wanted to achieve, so now it's time to move forward. Think of it as Brad Pitts character in "Fight Club" where he's sitting in the tub talking about achieving what his father wanted him to achieve, but with a more positive spin and not so much violence....and it's for myself, which I value more.

Although I know my dad would still be proud. Poor Tyler Durden and his dissenting father.

2009-07-17T15:19:00.006-05:00

I've decided to purchase a new pedal. It's going to be a substantial purchase for me, so I have actually gotten it yet, but fate will finally have its way with me and I will break down and buy one. At this point, I just have to.

I'll be undergoing surgery in a couple of weeks. There, there, there...don't you cry, I will be fine. After all, it's just ankle surgery. But my uphill battle/climb of literally walking what may seem like uphill can only be achieved on my own.

But I will most definitely receive the lovely sympathy you may want to give. And I'll receive it in the forms of rides to wherever I may want to go or booze to ease the misery of being on crutches for two months (I know you feel sorry for me now).

But just in case anything bad were to happen, vanessa..take my guitar. Everything else can be dispersed at one's convenience.

Kidding.

But really, one can only sprain their ankle for attention for so long. After a while, and with some years behind your age, it will eventually break you. Or your tendons/ligaments. I will be completely out of commission for two weeks, meaning I will spend countless hours of being passed out with pain meds to relieve the boredom, and then I will be in a cast for two months.

Fuck.

But the silver lining is that I'm going to fulfill my dream of buying a pedal for my guitar. And I need to hurry because I'm starting to see them everywhere.

I just heard The Dead Weather on kexp.org today and completely noticed the looping of Jack White's bluesy guitar strums. Everyone's doing it (Logic +You Tube = Saturation). But I've definitely got a few tricks up my that I'm certainly not telling you.

And at least it isn't autotune.

So if you're in my area, and you have some free time/beers on hand, come visit me. Please. Or else I'll throw myself out of my one-story window out of boredom.

On another note...I had a conversation this weekend with three highly intellectual individuals who, mind you are enormous Beatles fans, but who clearly stated their unwavering dislike for Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. Wait, two of them were actually respectful of the legends, one of which greatly appreciated Led Zeppelin and Hendrix, but the third clearly stated how he was just tired of hearing the same thing. As in, everyone loves them so everyone already knows. Also that their music just sounded the same. AND he stated this for Stevie Ray Vaughn as well!

I'm still appalled. He's a musician himself, so I think he understands the talent that is needed behind the massive shadow all three of them casted, but really?! He stated that someone was bound to eventually reach those levels of greatness, but should we really discount musicians for being great? If too many people like you then you're not enough? How does that make sense?

Oh and he's a big Lady Gaga fan.

Enough said right there.

He proabably doesn't like jazz either.

(I know I'll be hearing about this later....but it's cool...bring it, Michael.)

18july09

2009-07-01T17:33:00.002-05:00

humid air stuck to my skin like how my feet stuck to your floor.
the brooms in my brain swept my room for you,
yet you cleaned yourself thin.

now your fresh hair and a brand new pair of shorts i've never seen before
buried your skin while my skin just buried you within.

my glasses just gleamed
with salty smudges i couldn't wipe clean
as i ride this northerly beam
of winds away.

fear is just an illusion of what is real.

Sometimes You Fall Just To Fit In Between The Lines

2009-06-12T10:08:00.004-05:00

Being that I'm an enormous fan of Radiohead, I can pretty much back up anything that they create with enough confidence to sarcastically smile you into oblivion....then turn around and walk away while my defense waters your eyes. Needless to say, I absolutely love them and I believe they are my generations greatest band.

But then I heard this...

So I've knowingly stayed away from Pablo Honey because I heard it was probably their worst album. And honestly, that doesn't bother me when you have albums like Ok Computer and Amnesiac/Kid A, The Bends, (and probably the best album to come out of 2007) In Rainbows. (These are just my favorite.)

But this song...

I really feel like Thom York has one of the greatest and most distinct voices in music today, and it seems like lately that is what vocalists are striving to have (Feist, Cat Power, Ray Lamontagne, Brett Dennen, Caleb Followill from Kings of Leon...all voices that can easily be picked out today). But when I first heard this song, I was totally blown away. It sounds like his voice didn't know which way to go, so it just fell flat on its face.

But it's ok. A lot of Cat Power's early stuff doesn't sound like her today. And I can't even recognize Tyler Perry's voice from when Aerosmith first started. Change is inevitable, might as well embrace it. But thankfully for Thom, he's good at what he does, so his voice is impeccable now.

I Have Been

2009-06-11T12:48:00.004-05:00

way too busy to write. And by busy I mean completely hopeless and unwilling.

I saw Theresa Andersson on Craig Ferguson last night. She completely inspires me to do everything myself. I've been thinking about just performing with loop pedals for like, two years now. You don't have to know every-single-instrument out there, you just need to know and understand how music layers itself.

One day...

What if ....

I'll get on that.

erykah badu + lykke li + alison mosshart (from the kills) + theresa andersson = perfection

Retraction Before Action

2009-06-05T10:32:00.003-05:00

I know you're reading this first, but in reference to my post before the last one, I take it back.

I don't see the rain stopping and my edges have over-filled brims.

Your Words Meant Shit

2009-06-03T12:51:00.004-05:00

Here's another installment of lyrics that get me every-damn-time I hear them.

"What Sarah Said"

"And it came to me then that every plan is a tiny prayer to father time
As I stared at my shoes in the ICU that reeked of piss and 409
And I rationed my breaths as I said to myself that I'd already taken too much today
As each descending peak on the LCD took you a little farther away from me
Away from me

Amongst the vending machines and year-old magazines in a place where we only say goodbye
It stung like a violent wind that our memories depend on a faulty camera in our minds
But I knew that you were a truth I would rather lose than to have never lain beside at all
And I looked around at all the eyes on the ground as the TV entertained itself

'Cause there's no comfort in the waiting room
Just nervous pacers bracing for bad news
And then the nurse comes round and everyone will lift their heads
But I'm thinking of what Sarah said that 'Love is watching someone die'

So who's going to watch you die?.."

-Death Cab for Cutie

It's an amazing concept, knowing who will be around when you die. Even during death, there's at least some comfort on knowing the people that will be around you if that were to happen.

Spring Cleaning

2009-06-01T20:37:00.002-05:00

Heart For Sale:

I spacious heart for sale. It contains a few damages, but they have been mended with a lot of effort. Overall, the space is warm and inviting. Heart comes with a steady and strong beat that never slows with bright, red blood that never stops pumping. There is plenty of room and pets are welcomed. A little maintenance will be needed from time to time, which can include a few jokes and long hugs, but owner will be responsible for major repairs.

Heart comes with brutal honesty and a loving family.

Asking price will be negotiated at time of purchase (interests in samurai movies, jazz and pho vietnamese soup will greatly benefit negotiation).

Serious and fearless inquiries only.

Wrapped in a red blanket

2009-06-01T12:28:00.003-05:00

you were the only one who was dark enough to see my light.

but now i'm back to light-year constellations that get sucked up and out of this universe.

....at least pain doesn't exist in black holes.

Your Words Mean Shit

2009-05-27T11:16:00.002-05:00

Since I was an english major, I pay attention to words. And since I'll never stop listening to music, I pay attention to lyrics. Sometimes, a song will lyrically sweep me off my feet and make me believe in humanity again.
And since I have this blog, from this point on I'll post lyrics that do exactly that, because it needs to be done and they need to heard/seen.

The Professor & La Fille Danse

"Well I don't know if I'm wrong
Cause she's only just gone
Here's to another relationship
Bombed by excellent breed of gamete disease
I'm sure when I'm older I'll know what that means
Cried when she should and she laughed when she could
Here's to the man with his face in the mud
And an overcast play just taken away
From the lover's in love at the centre of stage yeah

Loving is fine if you have plenty of time
For walking on stilts at the edge of your mind
Loving is good if your dick's made of wood
And the dick left inside only half understood her

What makes her come and what makes her stay?
What make the animal run, run away yeah
What makes him stall, what makes him stand
And what shakes the elephant now
And what makes a man?
I don't know, I don't know, I don't know
No I don't know you any more

No, no, no, no...

I don't know if I'm wrong'
Cause shes only just gone
Why the fuck is this day taking so long
I was a lover of time and once she was mine
I was a lover indeed, I was covered in weed
Cried when she should and she laughed when she could
Well closer to God is the one who's in love
And I walk away cause I can
Too many options may kill a man

Loving is fine if it's not in your mind
But I've fucked it up now, too many times
Loving is good if it's not understood
Yeah, but I'm the professor
And feel that I should know

What makes her come and what makes her stay?
What make the animal run, run away and
What makes him tick apart from him prick
And the lonelier side of the jealousy stick

I don't know, I don't know, I don't know
No I don't know, I don't know, I don't know
No I don't know, I don't know, I don't know
Hell I don't know you any more

No, no, no no...

Well I don't know if I'm wrong'
Cause she's only just gone
Here's to another relationship
Bombed by my excellent breed of gamete disease
I finished it off with some French wine and cheese

La fille danse
Quand elle joue avec moi
Et je pense que je l'aime des fois
Le silence, n'ose pas dis-donc
Quand on est ensemble
Mettre les mots
Sur la petite dodo"

(English translation:
"The girl dances
When she plays with me
And sometimes I think I love her
The silence dares not,
When we are together,
Put the words
On our nights together.")

-Damien Rice

With Warm Gloves On

2009-05-25T01:26:00.005-05:00

I'm starting to enjoy these nights in. Having your own space (that's
also close to work and bars) can bring out an appreciation for
solitude. I've never really understood exactly why so many men loved
choosing solidarity rather than companionship, but I definitely do
now.

But having torn ligaments in your ankle can also help you understand
that as well. So being alone has been good. And it's forcing me to
really think with all my extra time.

Our society REALLY doesn't understand the full extent of being alone,
though. Between texts, twitter, etc., we're all still connected. But
even before technology, we all still depended on some sort of comfort
to get us through.

There are so many misconceptions about dependency today. Growing up,
I've always been taught to be independent. To make sure and acquire
the skills to "take care" of myself before I depended on someone else.

But whether you drown yourself in dates or drown yourself in DVDs to
watch every night, you're still dependent on something. "Sex and the
City" had it half right. Those nights where they didn't have their
men, they still had each other. Being dependent gets such a bad rap.
We all need some sort of comforting to get us through. We're humans
after all, not robots (most of us, anyway). The only difference
between depending on a boyfriend and a friend is the word "boy"
afterall.

Sometimes, depending on a man is a much better experience, I think.
Women can be horrible listeners, always interjecting with their own
experiences. I've never really had a conversation with a man who was
of a mature stature, that would interject with their own irrelevant
experiences before I had the chance to finish my story. I can't tell
you how many time that has happened with a girlfriend. We have to
admit it, we're worse listeners then men. Actually, most men that I
have had meaningful conversations with just listen. Most even respond.
And a select few actually had something important to add.

I just feel like having amazing experiences is what life is all about.
But would you rather experience them alone (this question isn't for
you, Carlos) or with someone special? I bet even the most jaded woman
could tell you that deep, deep down, they would rather experience an
amazing trip or an exciting event with someone they deeply cared
about. And to be honest, I'd rather be at the Caribbean with a 6'3'
man and no shirt on then with one of my girlfriends (we'll be looking
for men anyway, might as well be with someone I know). But that's for
obvious reasons.

Everyone is different, that's for sure. But fundamentally, we all want
to love and be loved. By what or whom is up to you. And I refuse to
judge anyone that spends their time either quietly obsessing over
their new guy or loudly obsessing over their new book.

I watched a PBS American Experience episode over the Kennedys last
night. Since their existences were a little before my time and they've
always been known to be so intriguing, my eyes were glued to the
television...and for three hours. I definitely recommend watching it.
I'm so much more appreciative of their personal and political
contributions (except for Teddy's accident, of course) and definitely
think if you are in any way curious about it that you should watch it.

I'm so ready for grad school.

And another one for the ladies...
I watched a Suze Orman special (cause she knows so much about money
and I don't) and here are the eight characteristics to being a
successful woman:

1. Harmony
which leads to
2. Balance
which leads to
3. Courage
which leads to
4. Generosity
which leads to
5. Happiness
which leads to
6. Cleanliness
which leads to
7. Beauty
which ultimately leads to
8. Wisdom

Ya, you should watch more PBS. And then tear your ligaments in your
ankle to make you stay and watch it. You can ALWAYS depend on PBS to
be there for you, and you most definitely should.

Time's Up

2009-05-07T12:22:00.002-05:00

"I'm drowning in assholes."

- Kieran Culkin/Igby
"Igby Goes Down"

buster

2009-04-24T10:09:00.002-05:00

your eyes are like canyons,
rides on a dinosaur's back,
heavy protection;
skin to carry my weight with large foot tracks

fit for a king -

how you hold my small hands
unseen.

Update

2009-04-16T15:33:00.002-05:00

So, my house was broken into over sxsw and my laptop was stolen. Hence, the break.

But my thoughts can't just swim around my brain for long. Either I'll go insane, writing pseudo-blogs on sidewalks with chalk (and no links) or I'll start blogging again.

If you live in the Austin area and see random "blogs" on sidewalks, please find me and help me.

Happiness is Real When Shared

2009-03-02T19:15:00.006-06:00

I need some sort of salvation right now...

I think this will do.

I watched "Into the Wild" last night. I'm an EXTREMELY picky movie-watcher, so since this came highly recommended on numerous occasions, I knew I had to see it.

On a tangent...when will popular movies quit banking on predictability? Scary movies are the worst. Even comedies are extremely predictable. I guess they'll stop being predictable when humans stop being predictable. And yeah, that will never stop.

But it makes me so uncomfortable when movies that are so predictable are popular. Is it REALLY necessary to make like 3,000 versions of Scary Movie? Couldn't we use that money to save a small country somewhere? Or towards our national debt?

I think we need to re-teach our children exactly what real entertainment is. No, not penis jokes and nipples...but maybe, JUST MAYBE going outside and playing in the park???
Too much, I know. After all, child obesity is a disease (????!!!).

It's been a long week/weekend.

"Into the Wild"...hands down one of the most moving and all around beautiful movies I've ever seen. Even the dialogue stopped me in my thoughts. I want/need to see it again (like "I <3 Huckabees"...goodness, I love that movie and I'll never get tired of it).
But this movie really moved me. Afterwards, I looked around in my room, at my things, thinking of what I didn't need. I went through my closet and piled up a stack of clothes that I'll never wear. I pulled more of my books on my higher shelve down to my floor-level bookshelf....movement...action. It created a force within me. Which I think, movies should do. Any type of public influence should postively make you grow as a human being. And I felt a little taller and more capable.

Definitely not heading out to Alaska to give it all up, but I internally progressed while my hands made some changes.

So yeah, watch this one. It's a very extreme version of how I feel about life and society and all the unnecessary crap we make ourselves believe in, but just let it sink in. Listen to what the characters have to say and then recycle, give your clothes to charity, hold a door open for someone, something that says that as humans, we can progress in a positive manner that can change anything and everything. And realize that true freedom can be found in not taking for granted all the good things we have in our lives and allowing your mind to see/feel/taste/hear/smell every inch of it.

*steps off of soapbox*
word.

The 80's/90's Are Back

2009-02-24T10:07:00.009-06:00

Have you noticed that hip hop is slowing down? Not in the ways of mass production, but in tempo. Between Drake's mixtape, Theophilus London's mixtape, Kanye's latest CD and others I can't think of right now, rappers are experimenting with the speed of the beat.

But just think about it. It's almost like music is going to extremes in hip hop. Either they really slowing it down, like The Cool Kids or speeding it up, like the hip hop/dance mixes that are coming from the Kid Sister/Amanda Blank/Diplo/Spank Rock/Pase Rock family.

I've been listening to a lot of 90's hip hop lately; Pete Rock, Tribe, old Common, Pharcyde, old Dilla, so I guess I've been listening to a slower type of hip hop as well. I have the tendency to listen to music that isn't being worn out on the radio. But with Kid Cudi, it's starting to wear thin. My goodness that song is everywhere. (The Crookers remix will forever remind me of driving around in Jill's jeep with its amazing system during this past summer...that moment right when that first big beat/synth drops...wow.)

But it seems like those same jazzy-loops, with their mid-tempo beats that infiltrated the brain's of the babies born in the 80's/grew up in the 90's, are starting to seep out.

Granted, Kanye takes it to a whole other level that's different and definitely out there, but for the most part, hip hop seems tired and is going into a different direction. Between Amanda Blank wearing leggings with off-the-shoulder shirts and all that gold and Theophilus having Whitney Houston's, "I'll Always Love You" on his mixtape, it's pretty apparent that hip hop is changing.

But in the end, isn't everything relative?

So I'll create my own world.
And keep listening to http://www.thehoodinternet.com/ where mashing up Phoenix and Jay-Z, while unconventional (but still amazing) still beat out today's radio hip hop any day.

Still Can't Get Over

2009-02-21T17:38:00.002-06:00

This...

Seriously, it's such an incredible video. And it makes me want a Roland soooooooooo bad.

And have you seen this? Or better yet, have you graced your ears with it? Looks like Pharrell did it again.

push me....

Favorite Covers

2009-02-18T10:33:00.006-06:00

Source of inspiration: "Hearbeats" by Jose Gonzalez (The Knife).

Classic/recent runner up: "Such Great Heights" by Iron and Wine (Postal Service). How Sam Beam went from Postal Service to his version still blows my mind.

Other favorites:
"Wonderwall" by Ryan Adams (Oasis)
(For the record, I've been grabbing links from youtube just for your ears and I came across a Cat Power version that I quickly learned on the guitar and will now revere for years to come. God, I love her. And just to help you guitar players out...capo on 3rd fret...Em, G, D, C)

"All Along the Watchtower" by Dave Matthews/Jimi Hendrix (Bob Dylan)...definitely.

"Mad World" by Gary Jules (Tears for Fears). Please watch the Gary Jules video, it's amazing.

"Sweet Jane" by Cowboy Junkes (Velvet Underground/Lou Reed)...Sweet Jane was my DJ moniker from college at the radio station I worked at, I loved both the tracks so much. And that goes without showing that...

"Wild Horses" by The Sundays (Rolling Stones) would also be one for me as well. Don't pay attention to The Sunday video..it's awful.

"Hurt" by Johnny Cash (Trent Reznor).

aaaaaand..."Song for the Siren" by Cocteau Twins (Tim Buckley). Although sometimes I prefer the Tim Buckley version. The lyrics are potent and penetrating either way.

The Ultimate Winner:
"Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley (Leonard Cohen) for obvious reason. (You also get the actual video from his recording too. 9 millions hits, what?! I actually watched this whole video all the way through and on the full screen setting.) Jeff Buckley also made the Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list with this one, coming in at 259; which I think is also his only appearance on the list. Damn shame, but at least he's on there.

Live Covers:
Although there are too many out there, I will always remember watching Christina Aguilera cover Nina Simone's "I Love You, Porgy" on the Grammy Nomination show. I wasn't personally there, but if I was, I would have cried. And I know she didn't remake it, but it just needs to be heard more often.

What are yours???

before bed...

2009-02-09T23:44:00.002-06:00

i walked into a dim place
where faces go to hide,
truths of numbers; great shapes
scarring realities you can't deny.
to search the seas of candles and rain,
impossible worlds that haunt your stride
cause although you wander but may not be lost,
you still have to keep up with the clocks of time.

last one

2009-02-08T14:35:00.002-06:00

more from the night below

2009-02-07T14:09:00.003-06:00

this is what you call a "jam session"

2009-02-06T20:34:00.007-06:00

Sometimes I just like to think of myself as an observer. Taking everything in and trying to help people understand communication and why. I think it's an amazing gift to be able to just listen to what other people have to contribute.

There are so many of us who just scream something just to scream something. People vying for your attention, standing up like a three year old with a diaper around their ankles saying, "Mommy, Daddy, I did it!" Like something was accomplished by all their intrusiveness.

It's get even worse when we become adults, with our hidden agendas and lies and manipulations, softening the human spirit to a pile of mashed potatoes.

So I choose to leave those who like to scream, unnamed and just have a blog. It's much healthier in the long run if you just focus on your potential and let positive energy help you listen...

...and document moments when the human spirit comes alive, like in the video above. I was fortunate enough to share some time with these guys who completely help each other out of their usual boundaries. I even jammed with some hand cymbals. It was awesome.

freestyling at its best...

Bleeeeeggggin

2009-01-09T22:01:00.008-06:00

I've faced the fact that maybe I'm not a big fan of blogging. It's a relatively tedious job to keep up with, and we all know I'm not gorilla vs. bear, getting paid to just type. And honestly, I type enough at work to burn me out. By the time I get home, I just want to do one of four things; watch the news, nap, play or maybe run. So as you can see, blogging isn't really one of them.

But here is another fact: I live in Austin, Texas and I go out. A lot. And when I say a lot, I mean a lot. Too much, even.

But I have to be honest with myself and admit that right now is right now, not yesterday or tomorrow. And although I've grown accustomed to planning things out, being somewhat of an adult now, I've learned to appreciate the "right now" moments. And those are chock-filled with great music, amazing friends, badass parties, significant conversations, laughs, looking people right into their eyes and them looking right back, dancing, and so much more. I feel greatly blessed to be able to have the experiences I've had and shouldn't be so...well...fucking lame. Nas had it right, sleep is the enemy of death, yo.

So here's my breakdown for 2008:

Top albums/releases for me would have to be anything from (The Great) White (Hope) Denim, or just White Denim. Maybe technically it wasn't Fleet Foxes, but they're from Austin and I haven't or won't hear anyone else who sounds like them. All their garage-noise-funky sounds kept me wanting more. And I appreciate that kind of unconventionality. They're all amazing musicians and put on even better shows, plus they were one of the first bands I saw when I moved back home in February, so I've got a little (big) soft spot for them.

I also adored Bon Iver's Emma Forever album. Every song pricked me at first, like a needle. But between the vocals and melodies and lyrics, I was bleeding myself dry with them. And it hurt, in that very open and fulfilling way. I felt painfully satisfied after listening to it for a while.

And now I'm indestructible.

And my obsession with Lykke Li grew after seeing a few of her videos and hearing her album, Youth Novels. I can't really explain it too much except that her voice and Ivanka Trump-lookin' face are captivating. Plus I can't think of too many other songstresses who can dance like her. She'll be here on February 19th at Antone's and so will I.

And so I've come to the conclusion that 2009 will not only be a much better year, but I'll pretty much own it.

Video Update III

2008-10-29T22:14:00.004-05:00

Ray LaMontagne @ Paramount, "Jolene."

Ray LaMontagne, "Burn."

Video Update II

2008-10-27T23:41:00.003-05:00

Neiliyo @ Creekside Lounge...some weeks ago. He's local and a badass, so definitely check him out if you're in the area.

Jason Mraz @ Stubb's...probably the best song he sang that night. HAD to post this one.

And I finally figured out that I can't post more than two videos on one blog....

until the next episode.

Video Update

2008-10-27T21:59:00.006-05:00

I love the fall. It's probably my favorite time of the year. So you can imagine how amazing it's been for me since fall decided to arrive earlier than usual this year.

(I just had to put socks on and get under my comforter.)

With that said, it's also hard for me to believe that summer is over. Summer in Austin is like a Disneyland for adults. Between the festivals/shows, art openings, pre-post-rsvp only parties and so much more, there's always something to do and warm nights to keep you going until 5 am.

But now that will change to festivals/shows, art openings, pre-post-rsvp only parties and more with tons of people crammed into rooms, leaving the cold night's balconies and porches to dedicated smokers (with heaters, if you're lucky).

But thanks to my wonderful and generous friends, I was able to take part in many different and glorious (from what I can remember) nights.

Here are some of those memorable nights....

The Black Keys @ ACL Fest

White Denim @ ACL Fest

Well, apparently my computer is freaking out or my videos are just too much for blogger.

Check my next posts for videos on more ACL, my new LCD Soundsystem-ish hero, Neiliyo and the lovely Jason Mraz/Ray LaMontagne weekend.

another ode to a friday night

2008-10-17T22:55:00.003-05:00

what's with late night catering to all the indie rock kids?

has david letterman gone hipster?

(the black kids are on tonight. don't ask why i'm home on a friday night....

because destiny child's "bootylicious" was just the theme song for a Rooms 2 Go commercial.

that's entertainment, that's why.)

Chapter New

2008-10-05T18:44:00.005-05:00

I've been moving all week and I've finally found a place to call my own. It's been tiring, but well worth it. But I'm too exhausted to write.

But...

ACL was awesome last weekend. Probably one of the best, considering the company I was in. Hanging out with four other sarcastic and goofy women can make anything possible. Our limits were boundless and our drinks came in 24 ounces. You throw in The Black Keys and Iron and Wine, and you have a perfect weekend (in my opinion).

Pictures/videos to come.

And I scored a ticket to the upcoming Spoon/Gary Clark Jr. show coming up. Lucky me. I heard it sold out in less than an hour, or something ridiculous like that.

Now that I have my own space, you bet I'll be posting more blogs.

And for some aesthetic pleasure....

and a little of this...

God, I love him.

2008-09-02T09:38:00.003-05:00

I can't get enough of "In Rainbows," Radiohead's latest release. It's just perfect and so completely relative to my life right now; the rhythms match my walk, the chord changes pull my brain waves, the vocals stand out like words in my head... all of it.

Sometimes I hear a song I used to listen to a lot and it evokes a memory, which I love. But I think this whole album will make me remember this whole summer. It's definitely easy to find a single song to match your head when it's searching, but a whole album?

I like to think that the band is tapping into me, or vice versa. And it gives me more faith in humanity, those unseen connections that we think we've made. Being human has that gift of insightfulness and I want to use it as much as I can.

So I believe that Radiohead loves me. And I assure you, they do.

I've also been listening to one of my favorite Iron and Wine songs, "Sodom, South Georgia."

You want to know the essence of purity? Read and listen to this song.

"Papa died smiling
Wide as the ring of a bell
Gone all star white
Small as a wish in a well
And Sodom, South Georgia
Woke like a tree full of bees
Buried in Christmas
Bows and a blanket of weeds

Papa died Sunday and I understood
All dead white boys say, "God is good"
White tongues hang out, "God is good"

Papa died while my
Girl Lady Edith was born
Both heads fell like
Eyes on a crack in the door
And Sodom, South Georgia
Slept on an acre of bones
Slept through Christmas
Slept like a bucket of snow

Papa died Sunday and I understood
All dead white boys say, "God is good"
White tongues hang out, "God is good"'

Sam Beam is a magician.

On another note, I finally received a track from a friend of mine who is a musician and about to release his major label debut. I just have to put it out there that he's so fucking talented and I'm really excited about the whole thing for him. I hope people respond to him the way I have, completely impressed. I really believe he'll do well, but if he doesn't, he's helped change my perspective and it has made me a better person because of it.

I'm not putting any links or mp3s until it's released, but I just had to type this down...

....for future self-reference.

Update of Weeks Combined

2008-09-01T19:29:00.006-05:00

Things sometimes have a tendency to barely balance in the beams of control over here in the drunkest town in America, and to prove it to you, here is the synopsis of my last few weeks.

I've decided to reconnect with a few of my old friends from high school. It might seem like a bad idea to some, but these kind of reconnections reassure you, making you believe that you made some sort of bright decisions along the way. They're definitely not the ones that you DON'T want to remember; those-too-good-for-outside-thinking-kind-of-peers who pushed you away because you challenged yourself. But my wonderful friends, the filling kind, were the ones who introduced me to myself more and allowed the good memories to fill my head, which got me through college and the fearing adult world. So most of my nights have consisted of finding the obscure bars that the tourists don't occupy and drinking gorgeous amounts of beer at ridiculous prices ($5 for a pitcher of Lonestar makes classiness look so unappealing).

But I did also manage to catch the Nas/Talib Kweli show at Emo's a few weeks back. It was amazing to hear a few Blackstar tracks live and having a supportive crowd like the one that night, was definitely an addition to the overall live show experience.

(Talib Kweli)

(a blurry Nas)

I also attended the Art Attack event at the do512.com compound. So many major points for the people over at do512 for putting on another spectacular event. Between the live art, the great music (saw Brazos for the first time, which was cool considering how much I've been hearing about them) and all the free beer/wine one could handle, I had an amazing time.

(as well as others)

(music)

Then followed many other nights at Elephant Room, a missed movie at The Ritz (so many tourists, filling up the seats that are rightfully already taken) and so much more. I even headed north for a beer last night.

Pictures to come.

Pleasures for all.

new adventures

2008-08-13T21:55:00.003-05:00

So I haven't been paying any attention to this blog. And to be honest, I haven't wanted to. I can feel myself aging each day and wanting less and less to know anyone. I'm starting to understand exactly why my father spends countless hours in the garage/backyard, attempting to fix/organize ANYTHING that may need it; to stay away.

But to be honest, I'm not directly interacting with anyone through this....

So maybe I'll keep it up.

But instead of just writing reviews, I'll just write whatever I feel like writing.

Living Better Electrically/Colour Revolt/Snowden: Stubb's 05/29/08

2008-06-03T16:11:00.005-05:00

I'm really starting to dig Colour Revolt.
The energy is so tense/dense in their sound that the walls started to exhale/inhale that night. Their harmonies are perfect and having three guitarists breaks those normal, noisy barriers of "too much." Everyone in that band makes an honest and revealing contribution that provides listeners with something timidly fresh.
Check out my review of the show over at switchburn later this week with full 3-angle videos of the set. And definitely pick up their latest release Plunder, Beg, and Curse, out on Fat Possum Records.

Here is a sample from me:

However, I don't have any footage of Living Better Electrically or Snowden. Sorry. But honestly, I only take out my camera when absolutely necessary, and it was necessary for Colour Revolt. They both are great bands with great, melodic sounds, but I was busy figuring out which bourbon to buy.

Although Snowden's bassist was AMAZING. I should have gotten footage of her so I could copy her moves.

Check out switchburn for more footage of the whole show.

Also check out sonic itch music for amazing photos by the talented valerie.

Can't Believed I Missed This

2008-05-09T01:06:00.008-05:00

Being the huge Jeff Buckley fan that I consider myself to be (rightfully said, if you ask me), I thought I knew all about him. And to be accurate, I still feel confident that I do, as far as his music goes.

But as I was watching "Candy," a tragic love story starring the late Heath Ledger and Abby Cornish (that came out in 2006), I recognized a song that played throughout the film. I didn't recognize the music, but the lyrics were very familiar.

"Long afloat on shipless oceans
I did all my best to smile
'Til your singing eyes and fingers
Drew me loving to your isle
And you sang
Sail to me
Sail to me
Let me enfold you
Here I am
Here I am
Waiting to hold you

Did I dream you dreamed about me?
Were you hare when I was fox?
Now my foolish boat is leaning
Broken lovelorn on your rocks,
For you sing, "Touch me not, touch me not, come back tomorrow:
O my heart, O my heart shies from the sorrow"

I am puzzled as the newborn child
I am troubled at the tide:
Should I stand amid the breakers?
Should I lie with Death my bride?
Hear me sing, "Swim to me, Swim to me, Let me enfold you:
Here I am, Here I am, Waiting to hold you."

And now I'm obsessed with this song. Seriously, the lyrics.

It's an amazing song and I'm so glad that I found it again.

I first heard it in some trance mix I used to own (it was a long time ago, I promise). But I remember the song then, captivating me. And now I find out that The Cocteau Twins did a remake of it in the 80s, which was then used to make a remix using Elizabeth Fraser's vocals for the trance version.

I knew listening to all that ridiculous trance and those remixes would come in handy one day. I used to be obsessed with this song. I was 18, in my car, wind pushing my hair around, singing "waiting to hooOOOoooOOOoooOOOoold you."

And who did the original, you ask?

I never knew it would come back like this, allowing me to see what it was really about and forcing me to love the Buckleys even more. So I've decided to learn it and if, one magical day, I decide to play out, you bet your ass that I'll be covering this.

Full circle, I tell you. But I just like to think of it as Jeff Buckley trying to contact me.

much needed update

2008-05-05T23:16:00.003-05:00

So I've decided that this blog could finally get some attention. The life has become a tad more stable and time isn't as much of the essence now.

This reestablishment has conjured up old feelings from when I was here when I left. You never can run from your problems. You have to fix them.

So I choose my therapy through live shows.

And so far...

After sxsw quieted down and my trip from L.A. was over, I finally started seeking out the things I love again.

Live shows. Although many of them can seem the same; hipsters mashed together with their Lonestar and progressive pieces, smoking cigarettes and looking around; bands with their unusual sounds, trying to keep the audience's attention with their unusual antics of tongues and jumps into the air. But to me that's life and it's living. There is energy and movement and I think living in Austin feeds me.

With that said, this last week was pretty amazing.

Wednesday night was Man Man/Bonde do Role/The Death Set and Yeasayer at Emo's. It was really packed and all the bands were great. They all were definitely meant for the stage and their costumes and ability to kiss each other made me glad I went.

Thursday night was Holy Fuck and the lovely M.I.A. at LaZona Rosa. You should just check out my review on sonic itch music for that one. Needless to say, it was awesome.

Friday night was White Denim and Tapes n' Tapes at Antone's. White Denim was loud and as always amazing, but Tapes n' Tapes should have opened for them. I definitely liked their music, but White Denim just puts on a better show.

Saturday was the Pecan Festival, down on 6th street and during the day with all those turkey legs and warm beers. I was able to catch Ume and all their glory, with lead singer Lauren impressing the masses. Then I caught The Boxing Lesson a few hours after that a was completely blown away by their Beatles cover (which I can't remember, my bad). But as always they heightened my psychedelic senses. I was overall glad for the the show so that the not-so-typical audience members could be exposed to the great, vast amount of music Austin has to offer. We do love our blues and tejano (my father does at least), but it's good to know that all aspects of musical creativity thrives here.

Sunday naturally, was my day of rest.

Oh, and I caught Karate Kid II on AMC and COMPLETELY remembered the wisdom of Mr. Miyagi.

"Man who catch fly with chopstick accomplish anything."

"...for man with no forgiveness in heart, life worse punishment than death."

"Daniel-san, never put passion before principle. Even if win, you lose. "

I should buy the movie.

hollywood

2008-03-31T17:46:00.012-05:00

Here is a pictorial perspective on my days in L.A.

Day One:

I arrived in Burbank, cause apparently LAX can be too much and it was closer to where the studio was.

The studio was by Muholland Drive, which was up in the hills off of the 101. The view was amazing and the liquor was plentiful.

Then it was off to eat at one of the many sushi restaurants that were around. We decided on one that was known for having their sushi bought fresh everyday. There were tons of signs behind the sushi bar that said "trust me," which entailed the sushi chef knowing exactly what you wanted by you just stepping through the door.

Then we headed to see Daniel Lanois live at the Vista Theater. His new movie, Here Is What Is, premiered to a packed audience that included Mr. Jack Bauer himself.

The movie was influential in a way that made me believe that I could make movies (thanks to those darling Macs), but I definitely wouldn't be able to come up with a score like the one that was in it.

There were interviews with Brian Eno, Billy Bob Thorton, and hundreds of clips from various studio sessions that Lanois has been involved with, which was amazing to watch. But Levi and I had a few drinks before the show and trying to sit and watch a very long and artistic movie a little tipsy isn't appealing.

It wasn't until my buzz had worn off that I started to enjoy the movie.

So definitely catch this one if you'd like to know more about great producers, but just refrain from a few jagerbombs right before you watch it.

We then decided to hit

and bring our buzzes back. It was just up the street on Sunset and the guys had been there before.

There was a guy nearby wearing a "Keep Austin Weird" t-shirt.

Needless to say it was weird.

But we drank and times were merry.

The bars here like to kick you out before 2 am. But it was ok for me considering that it was almost 4 am, my time.

I had some awesome footage from the show, but there's an error that keeps popping up.

It's time to eat...

Another Monday Night

2008-03-25T02:56:00.006-05:00

Here is what happens on a random, Monday night in my lovely city.

Nuno's apparently had a jam-session blues night.

And the legendary Pinetop Perkins greeted my entrance with his aged skin and piano hands. His wise voice made me happy with the late decision.

And then the other jam musicians came on.

The band grabbed my attention so much that I finally knew the strength of the blues.

It was amazing.

Cellus and the Loose Grip

Catching Up

2008-03-22T00:18:00.006-05:00

So SXSW came and went. And to be honest, I'm glad I can stay home for a bit. But this year was definitely the best; the parties were longer and the music was EVERYWHERE. It was glorious and I rightfully got physically sick by the weekend.
It was totally worth it.

Highlights:

Meeting Adam Stephens from Two Gallants.

I was already a little buzzed and saw them earlier that day, so I was inspired to just walk up to them and tell them how great they are. I ended the conversation, "Ok, thanks. Bye."

What a dork.

But it was definitely awesome meeting/seeing them.

Here they are at Beauty Bar.

And of course seeing the Black Keys live was all that I knew it would be. Short, but wonderful. I can't wait to get their new album (Attack & Release is out April 1st and it produced by Danger Mouse....so go get it, seriously).

Of course my camera was dead by then, so I had to borrow Jill's. I'll get video/pics soon.

But the best thing about it all was that I didn't spend any kind of money on shows.

But I did miss M. Ward and City and Colour.

Next year.

More videos to come because
I think my mac hates me right now.

Switchburn

2008-03-05T17:59:00.003-06:00

This is from a friend's site, switchburn.com and the band, UME is now one of my favorite bands. She melted my face off that night (and mine wasn't the only one).

If you haven't been to switchburn, you should. There are a ton of videos up and they all have this amazing, 3-point perspective. It's never been done before and I think they're on to a good thing. Plus it reminds me of dreams I have where I feel like I can see everything all the time.

When Charisma Meets Music

2008-02-29T10:36:00.005-06:00

Sometimes I wonder how my lovely friend, Jill can go shows two or three times a week. I know that I'm an enormous music supporter, but I definitely feel like I'm not 19 anymore, going to parties until 6 am.

But then nights like last night happen, and I completely understand it again.

Last night I had the amazing pleasure to attend The Parish for the CD release party for The Boxing Lesson. The show started at around 9:30 (nice and early for those of us who aren't 19 anymore) and had the following lineup:

The Story Of

I was completely impressed with this local act. Made up of five guys originally from Ohio, their songs were solid and had so much energy. Lead singer, Christman Hersha had the possessed energy of Chris Martin, creating reactions within the audience. His random use of a megaphone also got everyone's attention. Their polished pop and distorted guitars blended together perfectly. It was a solid show and an amazing start to a good show.

My Education

This experimental band definitely snuck up on me that night. I love watching bands without vocalists and wondering if they're going to go the Explosions in the Sky route. And they did. BUT, they did it well, adding a violinists to the already gorgeous melodies. The energy was consistent and the sound was amazing. Why do you need vocals if you've got perfect pitch from an instrument?

The Boxing Lesson

This local trio took the experimental sound to another level, using a Moog bass and old clips of people talking. Lead singer Paul Waclawsky had the charisma (and physical similarities) of Silverchair's Daniel Johns. He also sported a classy white blazer with the traditional rib-cage-on-a-t-shirt shirt. At one point I was wearing ear plugs, but then I realized it just didn't sound right, so I took them out. But overall, the show was amazing and if you get a chance to check them out, you should.

There were other bands that played, but the vibe from the show had settled and Jill and I were being entertained by a couple of the guys from Built By Snow.

Once again, it was a very proper night.

Here is Built By Snow's latest video. It's suuuuuuuuuper rad.

The Revolution Will Be Democratized

2008-02-25T21:49:00.005-06:00

I love it when I can learn something valuable and still enjoy a nice beer and delicious food to go along with it.

Alamo Drafthouse South was the host tonight for a Q & A with Tim Westergren, who is one of the co-founders of the internet radio site, Pandora. And being the excited intern that I am for Club Gossip Magazine, my editor Laurie only had to ask once for me to come along and prepare questions for an interview we are having with him tomorrow.

And I'm so glad I did.

The theater was packed (Westergren said that around 600 RSVP'd, but they usually only expect half of that, but this theater only held 200) and Westergren had about a 30 minute intro before the questions came.

A little background info on Pandora (in case you're desperately holding on to the music ideologies that keep you searching for vinyl) started when Westergren (who was a starving musician) had to create film scores. When doing this, a composer has to get to know the tastes of the movie makers, which include exchanging CD's/albums, which he did. From this, he realized how beneficial it would be if all music lovers could achieve this. Now he travels around the country, meeting with users at meetings called Town Halls and asks them individually what their tastes are.

Pandora is basically a radio station that, from your individual picks, creates a playlist of artists that are similar to the one you typed in. Now, there are around 50 musicians that are employed by the site who literally sit and talk about music. It's almost a mathematical system where they figure out different attributes of the songs they are listening to and plot them on a spreadsheet. Dance music has a certain score, singer/songwriters have a certain score, and so forth. They literally receive CD's from artists who don't even have to be signed, clear the music through their editorial department, then link them with other bands similar to their sound. Westergren said that about 40% of the artists aren't even on a label.

Basically, Pandora is creating a better market for musicians. He stated how Pandora doesn't even advertise, it's all word-of-mouth, which he said is what he trusts the most anyway. But someone is finally using the internet to benefit musicians, which has been hard to come by recently.

So basically, listen to Pandora.

SXSW cont.

2008-02-23T18:32:00.003-06:00

So, to add to the already overflowing list of bands I'm wanting to catch at the festival this year, I've discovered a new one.

J. Tillman

With all the dance music that is happening everywhere, not to mention the noise-garage rock bands as well, it's nice to hear something that slows things down a bit.

Intimacy can be scary for some, but that's the time when it means the most.

Oh, and I caught The Black and White Years CD release party last night, which was awesome. And was COMPLETELY blown away by the opening band, UME.

Lead singer/guitarist Lauren completely stole the show with her playing abilities and that long, blonde hair. I've found a new hero (move over Fiona). If any of you locals can, you should check them out. My friends and I just looked at each other after their show saying, "Holy fuck."

The Black and White Years were just as awesome. I love those guys and wish them the best.

SXSW= List of Need To/Want To/"Sure, Why Not" Bands

2008-02-20T16:13:00.006-06:00

Yes, I've finally done it. I've gone through the 1600+ band list and have broken down the bands that, in my humble opinion, will spark my intrigue. And to make it easier (for myself, mainly), I have broken it down into three parts: Need to/Advised & Want to/"Oh they're playing here? Cool, I'll stay."

This first group of bands I haven't seen (plus My Morning Jacket and The Explorers Club). But all of them are desperately needed to be viewed.

Need to See:

The Black Keys: The twosome from Akron, Ohio will always have a special place in my blues-loving heart with their incredibly huge sound. Check out "Grown So Ugly" and I promise you'll hear what I mean.

The Blow: This Portland group has a good track record, opening up for bands like Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins, Deerhoof and Electrelane and sweet vocals and catchy synths definitely make for a good show. These two add a good twist to the do-wop sound that is bubbling everywhere.

Sera Cahoone: Sub Pop has added another talented musician to their repertoire. Her beautiful voice and skillful playing make the country sound so much more interesting.

City & Colour: I just recently discovered this Ontario native and couldn't shake his voice. His songs resemble the innocence of Iron & Wine, but his voice makes his sounds all his own. This will definitely be a very intimate show, which is something incredible to catch at this festival.

Darondo: This soul/R & B singer has been around for ages but has only released three albums in the 70's. But references from John Mayer to BBC Radio 1 DJ Giles Peterson has kept his music alive. Oh, and the constant comparisons to Ronald Isley and Al Green. "Didn't I" is definitely my favorite track.

The Explorers Club: I was lucky enough to befriend these Charleston fellows last year and their sunny sounds and harmonies will definitely make me want to see them again.

Flosstradamus: This Chicago duo's Sigur Ros/Twista smashup, "Overnight Star" gave me goose bumps the first time I heard it. Seeing them live would do so much more that I can't even say.

The Heavy: I've only heard small amounts from this U.K. band, but I definitely liked what I heard. If Remy Shand was a little more rock with a larger band, then this band would still kick their asses.

M. Ward: Two words; Transistor Radio. It has been one of my favorite albums to come out the last few years, and I have yet to see him live. I'd preferably like to see his solo show, but seeing his new project with Zooey Deschanel (She and Him) would be just as nice.

My Morning Jacket: I first fell for these guys when I heard "Wordless Chorus" (which also contributed to the busting of my car speakers). I fell for them harder when I finally pieced together their eclectic albums. Then I knew that I had fallen for them a little more when I caught their amazing show at ACL. When their latest live album, Okonokos came out, it made me a fan for life.

Tapes n' Tapes: When I was your age, yes Pluto was still a planet, but Tapes n' Tapes were loved by bloggers before OK Go had that crazy YouTube video. Plus they will be on a North American tour later this year with the amazing, local band, White Denim. Oh, and their music is awesome as well.

Two Gallants: This Saddle Creek duo made me remember why I love music; good lyrics and great dynamics. Plus they will be playing five shows during the festival and I really hope I can make all five. I haven't caught them live yet, so now I have make up for it.

White Williams: I've heard a lot about the 23-year-old Ohio native from one of my favorite magazines, "Under the Radar". And I also heard how most of his work was done by himself. Needless to say, his timid force of synths and vocals beg me just enough to attend.

Yo La Tengo: It's been long enough that I've let these guys slip by without a peak from me.

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue: I was seriously advised to see this group, led by 22-year-old funk/jazz trombone phenomenon, Troy Andrews. He's played with bands like U2, Lenny Kravitz and was hailed by Wynton Marsalis who called himself Troy's "biggest fan." Who would want to miss that?

Neva Dinova: This other Saddle Creek group, which is made up of guitarist and vocalist, Jake Bellows, bassist Heath Koontz and The Good Life drummer, Roger Lewis, has once again forced me to believe that Saddle Creek is saving music, one band at a time.

Ocelot: This electronic duo just makes me dance. And those of you who know me know I just gotta dance.

These next few bands have definitely grabbed my attention, or they're local bands that I've checked out before and still would love to see.

Want to See:

The Acorn
Be Your Own Pet
The Black and White Years
The Black Angels
Black Moth Super Rainbow
Brazos
British Sea Power
Cary Brothers
Jason Collett
The Cool Kids
CunninLynguists
Rocco Deluca and the Burden
El-P
Handsome Furs
Heart of Darknesses (although I'm getting the feeling I really should make myself check these guys out)
Kaki King
Kid Dakota
Jens Lekman
The Lions
Mac Lethal
Man Man
Matt & Kim
Murs (thinking I need to see this one, too)
N.E.R.D.
The 1900's
Oh No! Oh My!
Peter and the Wolf
Johnathan Rice
Simian Mobile Disco
Tokyo Police Club
The Toxic Avenger

This last group is amazing, nonetheless, but I've already seen most of them. But they're definitely worth mentioning. If you haven't, you should.

"Sure, Why Not?"

Saul Williams
The White Rabbits
The Stills Someone Still Loves You, Boris Yeltsin
David Garza
Gary Clark Jr.
Crystal Castles
Car Stereo (Wars)
Back Door Slam
Aloe Blacc
Z-trip
Zion I
White Denim (definitely catch these guys if you haven't)
Ra Ra Riot
Pit er Pat
Honeycut
Iglu & Hartly
Islands

And I just found out that one of my favorite Chicago bands, Catfish Haven will be in town, doing a non-sxsw-related show, which I'm definitely going to make.

The Parties That House Built

2008-02-14T17:20:00.009-06:00

You know you live in Austin when you realize you want to go to a show and it’s in a neighborhood you rarely know, and you get lost on your way there. But you know it will be a good night when you finally find that house and it’s filled with people and Lonestar, just wanting to listen to music.

I had the pleasure of finding my way to Rancho Relaxo (as seen in the picture) to catch Nat Baldwin and the Dirty Projectors last night. Being that I was already a fan of Nat through my years at KTXT FM, I knew I would be in attendance.

The New Hampshire native first caught my attention when I realized what a sucker I was for strings, playing his track "Wake Up It's Time to Rise" during every shift at the station that I could. Then when his delicate voice eased into the pockets of those sounds, I knew that was all I needed to be a fan. Simplicity hasn't sounded this good in a while.

So realizing I knew I was lost on my way to the show wasn’t going to stop me.

The crowd, which reached at around 60 people, crammed into a small garage basement that was covered in graffiti. (Not intense graffiti with the shading and such, but amiable graffiti with birds and “I Love U's.")

And the music fit perfectly into the honest and intimate space. I wasn’t able to catch the other acts, but was in time to see Nat (who did vocals and played double bass) and his four-piece band (which included a guitar, a trumpet, a sax and drums). I appreciated their unobtrusive and graceful sound, aware of Nat’s vocals sliding in and out of the songs, adding his voice like another instrument. There was even a section in their set that was free-form jazz, occupying our ears with interest and severity. And they ended that song to filling claps from the audience. Unfortunately, he didn’t play my favorite (“Wake Up It’s Time to Rise”) but seeing them live definitely made up for it.

Check out the latest release, Most Valuable Player, out now on Broken Sparrow Records.

My second feat, seeing Pase Rock and locals DJ Orion and Prince Klassen at Mohawk outside started out exactly like that, a feat, considering the cold air and my inability to retain heat.

But I was so glad I did.

Fortunately the show didn’t start until around 11 pm, which was good considering that Nat Baldwin ended around then. And I got to experience the whole effect that is House music.

Prince Klassen and DJ Orion started off with their sets, bouncing tracks off each other like a tennis game (think Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras). They rightfully introduced Pase Rock with tracks from Daft Punk and M.I.A.

Then Pase Rock, in his leather jacket and cap, made me remember why I’ll always have an eternal love for house music.

Between tracks like Stardust’s “The Music Sounds Better With You” and Modjo’s “Lady (Hear Me Tonight),” there wasn’t any way I was going inside. His mixing was flawless and he played house music exactly how it should be played, making everyone dance.

I stayed until 2 am (with his set, there was really no way around it). And today, although I can feel it in my legs that I might have taken the dancing too far, I don’t regret it. Ending the night, dancing to house music is one of the many, proper ways to end a night in Austin.

Grab his latest mp3 download from Fully Fitted Records.

nice for a slow thursday

2008-02-09T01:01:00.000-06:00

the lovely jill invited me to head over to antone's last night for...

And I can safely say that you guys missed out. I have only caught a glimpse of The Laughing, so it was refreshing to see all the bands. Here's the lowdown on the sounds.

The Carrots:

I'll be honest, I missed the show. But I was told that their sound was reminiscent of the doo-wop groups of the 50's. And Til We're Blue or Destroy half-time frontman, Will Rhodes (vox/guitar/some keys) specifically said they were all cute. It must have been pleasant.

Till We're Blue or Destroy:

This night, the seemingly large cast (their myspace states 11 members, but pics show differently) was at seven (they were apparently missing the brass section and maybe another guitarist). All-in-all, their sound seemed to have two angles: that oh-so-popular vintage/dance/pop sound that has infected the ears of oh-so-many Austinites and a country-rooted sound that wasn't even evident on their page. The awkward silences between the songs were filled with proper humor and the songs made me think that The Shins needed females in their group too. I preferred the harmonies during the country songs and their "Johnny Be Good" cover was definitely the highlight. I think Chuck Berry would have smiled.

Many Birthdays: (their website)

This local four-piece (some members are from Japan) was probably the most impressive to me. The set-up was complicated and so was their electronic sound. Led by... well, it seemed like three of the members (Sarah w/ vox/synth/samples/percussion; John w/bass/vox/drum machine/sampler; Henna w/guitar&effects/vox/percussion) all led at some point. Whether with sounds or vocals, all three had my attention. Their experimental sounds gave no room to judge and by the time they were done, you realized their dance beats had some Japanese lyrics. And tambourine shakes always make me dance/clap/tap.

The Laughing:

Being that this was the second time I had seen the talented three, I was excited to know I would see them the whole way through (I missed most of the show last time). My first thought: six instruments (glockenspiel/bongos/guitar/bass sax/keys/drums) and three guys? But yes, six instruments and three guys. And despite the vulnerable vocals (Logan) that reminded me why my sister doesn't like Bright Eyes, I still appreciated the fact that their sound was indefinable. There's something about a bass sax mixed with a glockenspiel that makes things hard to define.

Overall, I was extremely glad I went. Thanks to surfire.com, switchburn.com and sonicitch.com for the show. And definitely check out switchburn sometime in the next week or so for the amazingly 3-angle, panoramic view of all the acts.

On another note: sxsw lineup anyone??? i've read that it's a little "underwhelming," (according to the gorillavsbear blog), but if you ask me, a showcase with over 1200 bands could never be underwhelming.

My starting list of shows I'd love to catch:

City and Colour

From Ontario that totally reminds me of Iron & Wine with sweeter vocals. (Sooooo in love with "Confessions.")

Back Door Slam

From the UK and they bring heart-wrenching blues.

The Black and White Years

Local and so friendly, with those mustaches and casio-disco sounds.

The Black Keys

Have I mentioned how much I love this blues duo? God the blues needed them.

I'm only on B's? It's 2:30 am...another time.

Another note:

Saw MGMT on "The Drop" on MTV2.

That is all.

tv isn't so bad

2008-02-06T01:07:00.000-06:00

Since I've been back to Austin, I've been immersed in television. And I really loathe too much television. To be honest, I hate the way it (mostly) takes away from the sensation of books, blinding our sense of imagination. Imagination was what got me through the awkward years in middle school where I was teased or ignored. Books saved me, paving this long path of intellectual security. So what if I couldn't kick someone's ass? I could read Sylvia Plath and resurrect understanding like throwing a match into gasoline. I love reading, I always have.

But I have been watching a helluva lot of t.v.

And here is the best part: I'm loving the hell out of it.

As much trash that there is on television, there are some amazingly, bright gems that happen to steal my stare when channel surfing.

I do love Bravo. I'm not a homosexual man, but I'm close. I like to sometimes think of myself as a sweeter version of Madonna on my sassy days (the pop star), who was once called a "man in a woman's body." Bravo is like the bitchy, gorgeous woman I could never be. So it has my vote, hands down. Project Runway is one of the greatest reality shows ever made and I'm completely into fashion more than ever because of it.

And then there is ME! Television, which is a local music channel that just plays videos all day and night. You remember when MTV and VH1 just played videos? Ya, I barely do too. But this channel does it. And it's all local, so it appeals to anyone living in Austin.

And of course there are the digital music channels. I know it's not a television show, but technically it could be, having all those facts while the songs are playing. You listen and relate, which is one of my favorite ways of taking in information about music (and pretty much the only way I remember it, too). And there is always a channel to match my mood.

But lastly, and so much more importantly is Ovation TV. Has anyone seen this channel?! It's like the East Coast version of Bravo; it has a lot more class and sophistication (sorry, west coasters). But it's a channel about the arts, covering film to music to dance and more.

And I can't stop watching it.

It has Criterion Collection films, documentaries on anyone involved in the creative process, that movie "Basquiat," which I absolutely love, and tonight:

"Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser" (1988 documentary about legendary Bebop piano player) and "Deep Blues" (1991 documentary over Delta blues).

Seriously?!

I just saw a woman, who must have been around 50-60 years old while they were filming this, singing and playing the guitar, showing exactly how the blues are supposed to be done. And her name is Jessie Mae Hemphill. And now I'm going to buy music that she is featured on.

God, I love the blues.

One of the people in the documentary just said, "Hush yo' fuss."

That's going on my facebook page.

And then there is a Fellini film playing this Saturday.

Oh, and as for VH1, well there is VH1 Classic. Last night I saw two back-to-back episodes of "Classic Albums," where they signify important albums that have been made. It was Lou Reed's "Transformer," who he collaborated on with David Bowie and Mick Ronson, which is still blowing my mind, and then it was Frank Zappa's "Over-Nite Sensation," which finally showed me exactly who Zappa was. I can now see what he was trying to do, with his incredibly complex music. He loved Edgard Varèse, who was a composer in the early 1900's and called "The Father of Electronic Music" because of his strange sounds used in compositions.

So VH1 is still safe with me.

So I do love television. Just not anything that resembles "Everybody Loves Raymond" or "Wife Swap," which most of the shows do.

My Primary Colors

2008-02-04T22:39:00.000-06:00

So here are some lists, cause whenever a person makes a list, it's almost like reading their biography.

top 5 albums of all time:

1. Grace - Jeff Buckley

2. The Bends - Radiohead

3. Tidal - Fiona Apple

4. Coldplay - Parachutes

5. Miles Davis - Some Kind of Blue

It is definitely safe to say that these five albums contain some of the most significant music I've ever heard. Yes, I know...Zeppelin...Dylan.....Joni, but you have to understand time as well. And time has always been important to the type of music I like. I wasn't raised in the 60's, though I wish I could have been, but I wasn't. I'm a product of the 80's/90's, so give me a break. I think that is why so many people like The Smiths. It was nostalgic. I like them too, but not more than Radiohead, who came out in the 90's. Aaah, my lovely era, horrible, isn't it? But it did produce Radiohead and Fiona and Jeff.

I know these albums inside and out, and I believe that every song was written specifically for me. I was frustrated cause I was a Shadowboxer and Chris Martin's idealism was perfect for my optimism. I've worn a Mojo Pin and could easily draw a picture of a Blackstar. I even had a friend who was the epitome of a Freddie Freeloader. The personal connection hooked me with these albums, and besides, isn't that ideally what music is about? Some sort of metaphysical connection? Horns and guitars and words reaching out and grabbing you and shaking you?

Here are some SERIOUS runner-ups (in no particular order):

The Yeah Yeah Yeah's - Fever to Tell

Spoon - Kill the Moonlight

Ray LaMontagne - Till the Sun Turns Black

The Rapture - Echoes

Radiohead - Amnesiac

Radiohead - Ok Computer

My Morning Jacket - Z/It Still Moves (tie)

Modest Mouse - The Moon and Antarctica

M. Ward - Transistor Radio

Badly Drawn Boy - The Hour of the Bewilderbeast

Bjork - Greatest Hits

The Black Keys - Magic Potion

Bright Eyes - I'm Wide Awake It's Morning

Blind Melon - Soup

The Crystal Method - Vegas

Dave Matthews Band - Under the Table and Dreaming

Miles Davis - Some Kind of Blue

Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Joy Division - Substance: 1977-1980

Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins - Rabbit Fur Coat

Iron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered Days

And some of my new favorites that are easily sliding into an all-time list somewhere down the line:

The Sea and Cake - Everybody

Sufjan Stevens - Illinois

Ryan Adams - Heartbreaker

Cory Branan - 12 Songs

Iron & Wine - The Shepherd's Dog

Otis Redding - Dictionary of Soul

PJ Harvey - Uh Huh Her

Placebo - Placebo

Two Gallants - Two Gallants

Bob Dylan - Blonde on Blonde

Ok, that's enough for now.

Sorry for not linking any of the artists, that would take forever and Ferris Bueller's Day Off is on AMC.

fire trucks and trains

2008-01-30T00:25:00.000-06:00

(I've decided to start using correct capitalization.)

This is almost a non-music post. But it is an Austin post, which is almost as good. Actually, it's the left hand on a right handed person. Music may be strong, but Austin wears the wedding ring.

I decided to take the siblings to Zilker Park today. I always love going there, even with the dust hanging around, reminded me of Lubbock, which it did today. It was still warm and seeing that red fire truck I used to play on when I was a kid is always refreshing. Of course the playground is amazing, but I just remember it being a lot more majestic and well, big. Naturally.

But after a few rounds of slide-slipping with the little bro, and after my brown Etnies had those familiar remnants of playground-pebble spots, I saw another reason to add to the ever-growing list of why I love austin.

This is a Tongue Drum which are wood box drums with ratio tuning; two pitches per drum containing Ipe’ (Brazilian hardwood) tone producing surface and 2 mallets per drum.

This is an Amandinda, which is a xylophone with African roots containing Ipe’ (Brazilian hardwood) tone bars without resonators

And this is a Tenor Marimba, Pentatonic with Ipe’ (Brazilian hardwood) tone bars with PVC resonators.

All three of these, courtesy of soundplay.com, were gently lined along with the enormous trees, in between the unusually small whale, the miniature sea and the train tracks. And I couldn't resist, so I played them, all. And I loved it. I didn't have the greatest urge to keep playing, drawing attention to the fact that I was the tallest person presently enjoying them, but I loved the fact that they were there.

There were even note letters above the marimbas.

It was amazing. Now small children can start with the very important basics of music, learning note names and pitches instead of succumbing to the saturated market that is "today's music."

Speaking of, I heard Sean Kingston's new single...maybe. I think it's a new single and it is....well.... a cover (duh). But it's of Led Zeppelin's D'yer Mak'er. That's right, doo-wop is mainstream and its baby darling is Sean Kingston, covering one of the greatest bands ever created, who also happened to be called "heavy metal" by my lovely father. (He was more a fan of The Eagles.)

Reminds me of an argument I got into with the lil' bro, because I wouldn't download Sean Kingston for his Ipod.

I plan on taking him to Zilker at least once a week.

the answer

2008-01-28T15:46:00.000-06:00

all of those bands have at least one female in the group. have you noticed the increase of females in groups? of course, females have been in music forever. but i'm noticing how we're getting the credit we deserve. not in a feminists-man-hating sort of way, but let's face it, we're living in a world dominated by men. music is easily dominated by men. all the people behind the scene, producers, engineers, studio musicians are all men. but over the last decade or so, women have started taking those positions.

my favorites/most notable (it also shows a little glimpse of my age):

tina weymouth (bassist, talking heads)

kim deal (bassist, the pixies/the breeders)

d'arcy wretzky (bassist, the smashing pumpkins)

melissa auf der maur (bassist, hole/smashing pumpkins)

cindy blackman (drummer, lenny kravitz)

i do love the women who are typically the face of the bands like jenny lewis and karen o, but you gotta love it when a woman's beauty is stifled for the sake of a sound.

2008-01-25T22:19:00.000-06:00

what do the following bands have in common?

(this random list sits heavy in my head, confirming my varnished dreams to drum)

silversun pickups

the black angels

rilo kiley

be your own pet

yeah yeah yeah's

blood on the walls

the fiery furnaces

css

deerhoof

tegan & sara

eisley

the hex dispensers

architecture in helsinki

devotchka

she & him

metric

camera obscura

the concretes

the dears

ladytron

broadcast

the pipettes

the dresden dolls

ok, i think that's enough...

i'll give you a hint;

the slightest tips of fingers mark an X

the verdict

2008-01-23T11:56:00.000-06:00

last night was proper. i was lucky enough to not only see lupe fiasco

(a glimpse, really... it was incredibly packed),

but i caught MGMT and yeasayer playing on the inside stage

(where it was much warmer with more space).

i was more impressed with yeasayer...(Anand Wilder/guitar/keys, Chris Keating/keys/vox, Ira Wolf Tuton/bass, Luke Fasano/beats)

bending their melodies like the japanese

but with migrating dance steps over the thar desert (india/pakistan).

they describe themselves as "Middle Eastern-psych-pop-snap-gospel," and if you can imagine that, then you've got a good imagination.

"Sunrise" was one of the audience's (and my) personal favorites. most of the songs had a downtempo feel, but this one got the hand claps and fists in the air.

and i couldn't get over the vocals. frontman chris keating sounded a lot like a mix between aaron behrens' passion (ghostland observatory) and david byrne's determination...good beats and high-pitch voices break convention and keep up my faith in new music.

here is a clip from 12/15/07 @ the mercury lounge

"wait for the summer" (which is off of their LP "all hour cymbals"/we are free records)

needless to say, i was pleased.

MGMT seemed like the crowd choice, though. more people were familiar with the brooklyn-based quintet (which was was a sparkle in andrew vanwyngarden/guitar/vox and ben goldwasser's/keys/vox eyes, while in college at wesleyan university in middletown, connecticut). the psychedelic-pop spun out like ween on acid.

here is their video, "electric feel," which is on their debut out now, oracular spectacular (columbia records). this was definitely my favorite song, but the only one that stood out.

the laughing was the opener (local three-piece with a sax and high hats that you can dance to) and i caught the last song. hopefully i can come across them again. if morphine (the band) had an addiction to meth, they would sound like them.

i did miss some other shows, but hopefully you didn't and we can swap stories as if we were in two places at once, conquering time/space.

Something to look forward to during SXSW 08

2008-01-22T18:43:00.000-06:00

found this video of zooey deschanel and m. ward (She & Him), live in LA.

i saw that they will be performing at sxsw during the merge showcase.

i think i'll need a wristband this year.

it starts...

2008-01-21T23:49:00.000-06:00

so i've decided to start a blog. it makes sense to me. i like to write and i like music and i want to write about music. i also live in austin, texas which is the proverbial cherry-on-top to this venture... so here it goes.

i've been back for almost two weeks. and i've seen white denim (great local noise-rock band), black before red (local band that resembles the shins), crash gallery (another good local band that's locking in with the electro/punk/rock sound), dan deacon (shock rock???) and the black and white years (local act with mustaches/keyboards and a drum machine). at the end of the show i ended up meeting a former VP of A&R for an extremely large record company who decided manhattan wasn't enough, so he moved to austin about a year ago, declaring he'd been in the business for too long. i asked what was appealing about austin. he mentioned something about space and trees. i told him i was thinking of getting into the record industry, A&R or some sort of developmental job, he said the industry was drastically changing.

so i think i'll stick to writing. books never seem to go out of style.

god, i've missed my home.

and tomorrow, pho at my favorite vietnamese restaurant on east oltorf for lunch and lupe fiasco at emo's.

then it's off to see my wonderful friends, the noise revival orchestra experience on friday at Lambert's (401 W. 2nd) which will be their EP release party.

and saturday i'm heading out to san antonio to see levi smith.

seriously.