Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to mind?

OK, so we've got about 10 hours left of 2005. Man, what a year it's been. The old lady(well, really young, but ball and chain didn't sound right either) and I moved in together. We worked a bunch on our apartment and it's looking pretty damn good now. Still could use some new furniture and a plasma tv, but I guess those will come in time. But, I tell you this, it feels good to be a gangsta, uh... actually, I mean, it feels good not having roommates anymore. One isn't so bad, plus she's cute and she can cook, so that makes a difference. I now own a drill and a kitchen cart. I now walk to work, every day. It's like 10 blocks and almost a mile. It helped me work off, um... that gut.

I worked my ass off in the JOB this year too. I did get to go to Philly, London and L.A. this year. Philly was brief, and the beginning of a week that saw me find a speak-easy,meet some amazing radio folks, and discover what a box of awesome is, a case of beer! Then attend an engagement party, have a birthday and see my lady finally graduate from college. It was a whirlwind of a week. London was amazing. Such a good trip. I got to see some amazing sights, great shows, and great company. I've never eaten so much fish and chips, and had such tasty lagers and ales. The whole driving on the other side of the road thing kills me too. It's a beautiful country with a rich history, and wonderful people, with great accents. I hope I get to go back soon. L.A., well it was L.A. Lots of traffic, some amazing times with the Super Furry Animals, great meals(some of the best Mexican food I've ever eaten), and great company as well, most specially, my wonderful lady. The Getty Museum was a really fantastic experience. A late night drive on Mulholland was awesome as well. And I also got to go to Disney! Saw lots of Scientology centers and Christmas trees among palm trees.

The Yankees still didn't win the Series. The team really showed their age this year. The pitching staff was held together by a rookie from Taiwan and some cast offs. Robinson Cano, made a great splash and finished the year on a tear. Jeter, A-Rod, Shef and Matsui had fantastic years. Giambi, Johnson and Mariano really came around at the end of the year. They came up short, but showed some great promise. I love the offseason moves they've made. They bolstered the bullpen, added a potent leadoff hitter in caveman, Johhny Damon, and re-signed Bernie, Matsui and didn't send off young talent for aging veterans. I think this, the third year of our season ticket plan might be the best yet. Now if we can just get A-Rod to come up big in the Postseason. I'm really looking forward to watching them come March. Yeah, I'm a baseball junkie and am counting down the days til Pitchers and Catchers report. I believe we're 40 days right now. My fantasy football teams really sucked. I mean really sucked. But the Giants seem to be doing well. They are gonna stink it up in the playoffs, but hey, if they win tonight, they might win the NFC East. And things look really good for next year.

Music was great this year. Fantastic albums from old and new bands alike. Next year, we'll have amazing new albums from Clearlake, TV On The Radio, Mogwai, Cat Power, Snow Patrol, Film School and a ton more. I think a lot of us are hoping for a new Radiohead album too. Movies are looking good for next year too, mockumentarian Christopher Guest is at it again with a spoof of an indie film crew with high hopes during the awards-show season.
Also on deck, Superman Returns and Xmen movies lined up. Tom Hanks is going to be in the Da Vinci Code. Think Tank from the Napoleon Dynamite producers, Glory Road about the first all black NCAA team in the tournament, Ice Age 2, and Miami Vice. Yup, that's right, you heard it, Miami Vice, starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx. Weird huh! Adam Sandler is back with Click, and he's also producing Grandma's Boy. The Wilson brothers have some movies lined up too. And of course, Vince Vaughn has the Break-Up coming. You can check out a bunch of these movies trailers, here.

So, I'm keeping this simple today and wishing everyone a Happy New Year and best wishes for 2006. It looks like we're gonna be busy.

If you aint no punk holla We Want Prenupt!

OK, it's that time of the year. And by that I don't mean Kwanza. Well, it's the end of year, so you know what that means. End of the year lists. Yay! I know, you're all excited. What does he think is the best album of the year? I know you can't wait any longer. So here goes.

1. The National - Alligator - Beggars Banquet
Gleaming with touches of strings, piano and clarinet layered over a hearty rhythm section and sleepy guitars, Alligator is an album that reminds me of late night drinks in a cozy bar, with good friends. With singer Matt BerningerÂ’s baritone vocals chiming, in like a weary friend, confessions about women who donÂ’t come home, lost friends, hating work, sex, regret and desperation. While most of the album tip toes on a line of reservation, occasionally, Alligator breaks out of it's restraint and really rocks out. Songs like "Abel", "Lit Up" and album closer "Mr. November" all add a bit of punch to a very quiet, and pretty album.

2. Shout Out Louds - Howl Howl Gaff Gaff - Capitol
I don't know what it is in the water in Sweden, but damn, if they don't produce some fantastic bands. This is the U.S. debut from this retro-rock, indie pop quintet. Howl Howl Gaff Gaff is comprised of most of their Swedish singles, and it stirs with keyboard-drenched pop melodies, sunny harmonies, and a new-wavey crunch. And let us not forget the Poll Position beginning of the "Comeback". This is such a wonderfully crafted album, with it's super catchy songs, and hook laden melodies, that I couldn't get those melodies out of my head for weeks on end.

3. Amusement Parks On Fire - Amusement Parks On Fire - Filter/BMG
First time I heard this band, they blew me away. Swirling, feedback drenched guitars, pulsing rhythms, and emotive lyrics. It made me feel young again. The Nottingham, England band is actually one man, a young one at that, Michael Feerick, a multi-talented musician, who recorded most of the record single-handedly. The more restrained and delicate parts of the album, including some interludes with quiet piano and string arrangements, adds some additional ambience to the sonic assault.

4. Youth Group - Skeleton Jar - Ivy League/Epitaph
From Australia, the band features former Vines bassist, Patrick Matthews, but in no way does this band sound anything like that band. Single, "Shadowland", begins the album with a really sensational drum beat, as a repetitive guitar note hits, then a second guitar melody. Vocals, jump in soon after, then the chorus repeats over and over, as a flurry of drum symbols kick in. Singer, Toby Martin's emotive vocal's plot a route through a varied backdrop of indie pop, folk, and rock & roll. An extremely well crafted album that seems to get better with every listen.

5. The Frames - Burn The Maps - Anti/Epitaph
This band has mastered the quiet/loud dynamic so well, at times you forget you're listening to the same song. They build most of their songs with a hushed, softly strummed guitar, piano and violins, only to erupt into a thunderous guitar and sweeping fiddle. Singer Glen Hansard, at times sees his vocals do the same thing. So much passion comes out of his vocals, whether he's in a hushed whisper or an all out roar. This record has the distinction of being one of the most intense, yet subtle albums I've heard in some time.

6. Super Furry Animals - Love Kraft - XL Recordings/Beggars
This band creates some of the most inventive and catchy music of our time. Once again this band has blown me away with their mix of Beach Boys melodies, electro, prog, country and punk influences. Love Kraft is the sound of a mature SFA with not a monsteriffic yeti, tank, or inflatable bear in sight. It's also maybe their brightest material, probably due to the sunny nature of recording in Catalonia and mixing in Brazil. And if you listen closely, you can hear Brazilian crickets, and the album starts with pool splash.

7. Bloc Party - Silent Alarm - Vice
Bloc Party is group of young men from merry olde England. What can I say about this album, that hasn't been said before. Riding high on a pattern of breakbeat percussion, jangly guitars, and Kele Okereke's enigmatic lyrics, Silent Alarm is a high energy assault on the senses.

8. Stephen Malkmus - Face The Truth - Matador
Sir Malkmus' third full length since the demise of the mighty Pavement sees him soaring. Once again he's found that magic spark from his Pavement days, with his mezmerizing word play and catchy melodies. He's also matured to the point where he comes up with wonderful songs like "Mama", which in my opinion is one of the best songs he's ever written. "Mama's in the kitchen with onions. Daddy's in the back with Old Hank. Talkin' 'bout the lasers and bunions, talkin' disability rank. No, we didn't have too much money. Just enough to make our dead ends meet" So beautiful. I don't know if he could have written that 10 years ago.

9. Queens Of The Stone Age - Lullabies To Paralyze - Interscope
Queens of the Stone Age are back with their 4th album, and they've not slowed down one bit. The new collection of songs, and guest stars, including the bearded Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, and more join in to create a loud, sexy, and dirty sonic ride that further reveals, how important this band is to contemporary rock music. A purging of fuzzed out guitars, melodic hooks, and ever changing moods.

10. Sigur Ros - Takk - Geffen
Another brilliant album from these Scandanvians. Beautiful and expansive soundscapes, with washy guitars, lush arrangements, lots of pretty orchestration, and ethereal vocals. This album provides a little more punch, with more instrumentation, and some additional percussion. "Glosoli" with it's deep bass groove and stomp like percussion is a perfect example of this. As is, "Saeglopor" with it's pretty piano and chime beginning and then it's an explosion of percussion and guitar feedback. I'd be hard pressed to find a more cinematic and imaginitive album this year.

11. Nada Surf - The Weight Is A Gift – Barsuk
The Weight is a Gift is an album of wonderfully crafted pop songs, with wistful melodies, catchy hooks, bittersweet lyrics, and occasional rock anthems. It took me a bit of time to realize what a great band this is. Let Go took a long time to grow on me, but The Weight Is A Gift was an instant hit with me.

12. Wolf Parade - Apologies To The Queen Mary - Sub Pop
A fantastic debut from the Canadian quartet. Produced by Modest Mouser, Isaac Brock, the album is heavily influenced by that band. The band enthusiastically jumps around familiar indie rock territory, but also spastic vocals and vaudvillian theatrics. It's a quirky album, bursting at the seams with odd tempos, handclaps, strange vocal harmonies, and lots of keyboard noodling. But it's quite a treat to listen to.

13. Elbow - Leaders Of The Free World – V2
Leaders Of The Free World, is instantly a more upbeat album than the previous two. "Forgot Myself", "Picky Bugger" and the title track are multi-dimensional and intense. Guy Garvey's hushed vocals tell stories of heartache, torn relationships and frustration. The record is downhearted, passionate, and mysterious all at once. It is a gorgeous album, that reveals itself each time you listen to it.

14. Spoon - Gimme Fiction - Merge
Spoon's fifth full-length, as each of their previous albums, sees them taking some new twists and turns. A soulful album that sees them chart on familiar indie rock territory, but also inventively sees them add a little flair, with some disco touches, synths, and lots of handclaps. On this album you get a focused band that sees Spoon making some of their most thrilling and expansive music yet.

15. Evens - S/T - Dischord
Ian MacKaye's done it once again, this time partnering up with drummer/vocalist, Amy Farina, to create the music of the Evens. On this album , we get beautiful melodies from Farina and MacKaye, who both trade off vocals. Farina's drumming is sparse and precise, as occasionally you hear a miniture Fugazi riff from MacKaye's baritone guitar.

16. Mars Volta - Frances The Mute - Strummer/Universal
The 2nd album from former ATDI members, Omar Rodriguez-Lopez and Cedric Bixler-Zavala, Frances sees these afro'd men make mince meat out of a proggy, spacey, metal hybrid jams. I really love the latin and worldly vibes on the album as well. it's a little weirder and has more in common with free jazz, than the post punk mayhem of their former band.

17. New Pornographers - Twin Cinema - Matador
The third album from Vancouver power pop impresarios. On "Twin Cinema," The Pornos, bring the sugary melodies down a notch, and find themselves in a bit more of a singer/songwriter side of things, with beautifully writen songs that are a bit more retrospective and harmonies that would make Fleetwood Mac jealous.

18. Broken Social Scene - Broken Social Scene - Arts & Crafts
Broken Social Scene is literally a collective boasting 38 members, well.... not really. I think it's somewhere in the 12 or so area plus wonderful guests - including members of Stars, Metric, Feist, and The Dears. This album is a indie-rock power house, boasting expansive melodies, gigantic choruses, and symphonic arrangements that compliments their many instruments and vocalists.

19. M.I.A. - Arular - XL Recordings
M.I.A. should be a household name by now, well at least in hipster households. This Sri Lankan-born artist raps in her trademark, Tamil, cockney and American slang, about poverty, terrorism, politics and more, over some of the nuttiest beats of dancehall, pop, hip hop and ragga. Her thought-provoking lyrics, distinctively piercing and poignant delivery, and refreshing production have made her one of the hottest young stars.

20. The Most Serene Republic – Underwater Cinematographer – Arts & Crafts
The young Toronto group, and possibly the first A&C band that doesnÂ’t feature a Broken Social Scene member, create a wonderful soundscape of gleeful indie pop, scattered with electronic flourishes and a varying degree of instrumentation. Bookended by instrumentals, Prologue and Epilogue, the album sputters like children at play.

21. Gravenhurst - Fires In Distant Cities - Warp
Most of the record finds itself drowned in post rock slowcore, but explodes on 'The Velvet Cell' and 'The Velvet Cell Reprise', both of which add an excellent propulsive dimension to the album. Following the epic ‘Song from Under the Arches’ –a haunting exercise in restraint and ferocity-the album ends with a Kinks cover ‘See My Friends’, turning a three minute pop hit in a nine-minute hypno space jam.

22. British Sea Power - Open Season - Rough Trade
The follow up to their debut, The Decline Of British Sea Power, Open Season sees the band navigate new territory, as it's captivatingly melodic and quite the opposite of the noisy debut. A little less of a post punk and avant, this one finds itself full of gentle new-wave guitar sparks, with touches of synths, bright major-key leads, and singer, Yan's signuture Bowiesque vocals.

23. Brazilian GirlsBrazilian Girls - Verve
There are no Brazilian girls in this band, in fact it's 3 men from NYC, and one woman, singer, Sabina Sciubba. Their sexy blend of electronica, bossa nova, jazz, dub and raggae, makes for one of the more interesting sounding albums out there. The mix of all those genres, the playful nature of many of the tracks and the fantastic grooves makes this a great record for any mood.

24. GorillazDemon Days - Virgin
Demon Days is a mighty fine album. I love the Danger Mouse production and Albarn's vocals. The lush orchestral sounds on a few songs is great, including the choir in every planet we reach is dead and don't get lost in heaven. Feel Good INC, despite being on that iPod ad, is still one damn fine song. So catchy, and great to see De La Soul kick it again.

25. Idlewild Warnings/Promises - Capitol
The fourth full length from these brash Scots. A little less punch than their previous work, but they've made a good record, with passionate vocals, courtesy of the mulleted Roddy Woomble. This album is a lot less guitars, but has some really good arrangements and pianos accompany some songs . It's a heartfelt album, and much more mature than their earlier work.

26. Celebration Celebration - 4AD
A great debut from the Baltimore, three piece. Produced by friend Dave Sitek, from TV On The Radio. This album combines, the dark chamber pop, courtesy of Sean Antanaitis' guitorgan, with scattershot drumming, and singer Katrina Ford's powerful yelps. It's a moody album, with dark sonic textures, dense, swirling sounds, and occasional dancey beats . It's a genre-bending, album, that is raw yet well constructed. It's visceral and powerful, yet gentle at times. Simply put, it is like a Celebration.

27. Kanye West Late Registration - Def Jam
What more can I say about Kanye, that hasn't been said already. The man is crazy talented. On this album, he's accompanied by producer, Jon Brion, and they make what is one of the finest and slickest hip hop albums. With Kanye's patented sampling, beats and interesting instrumentation, and his outstanding flow, which runs the gambit of the political and personal, he really shines.

28. Doves Some Cities - Capitol
The British rock trio is much more direct and precise on their third album, and it's a great change in style. A more upbeat album, with bright choruses, vibrant beats, and swirling guitars. Some Cities combines more of their traditional
atmospherics, with catchy melodies, bouncy piano, and electronic flourishes. This is a band hitting their creative peak.

29. Death Cab For Cutie - Plans - Atlantic
From lead track, “Marching Bands Of Manhattan”, all the way through album closer, “Stable Song”, Ben Gibbard and company woo you. Lead single, "Soul Meets Body" is one of the more overtly rocking songs on the album and separated from the album, is a wonderful song in itself.But as I think many fans of this band know, especially those fans of their earlier work, it’s the quiet, introspective songs, that sing you to sleep and leave a lasting impression. Many of the songs are sparse, with minimal arrangements and Gibbard’s hushed vocals. Gibbard has a way to suck you in with wonderful narratives about relationships, longing, and desire, on top of catchy sing-alongs.

30. Sons & Daughters- The Repulsion Box - Domino
Glasgow's Sons and Daughters compose a great folk-rock sound that explores murder ballad lyrics, gritty guitar work, with traditional Scottish folk and blues-rock bits.
And you have some of the greatest Scottish accents ever in Adele Bethel and Scott Paterson alternating vocals.

31. Faunts High Expectations/Low Results - Friendly Fire Recordings
Faunts createsshimmering walls of pink noise with dreamy, languorous guitar, gently-treated vocals, and swimmingly beautiful melodies. It is a fantastic debut from the Canadian band.

32. Ash - Meltdown - Record Collection
A really impressive album from these Irish rockers. Driving songs, played with almost breakneck speed, and catchy hooks. I swear, I heard a Scorpions riff or two in there. They occasionally bring the pace down a bit and get sappy on a ballad and mid-tempo rocker. But, hey, isn't that what they do.

33. LCD Soundsystem - LCD Soundsystem - Capitol
An ass-shaking good time from DFA cohort James Murphy. He's created a dance-rock party, all on one disc(two if you get the bonus disc), for the modern hipster. He delves a bit into house, jungle and even some worldly beats on this disc too. He also pays homage to Eno and the Fall. Making for a diverse and intelligent album.

34. Giant Drag - Hearts And Unicorns - Kickball/Interscope
Of course they are going to get compared to a bunch of bands from the mid 90’s with swirling, distorted guitars, syrupy vocals and mischievous lyrics. But is that so bad?

35. Stars - Set Yourself On Fire - Arts & Crafts
What makes this band so good is vocalists Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan. They harmonize so well and the music is sexy and passionate. Wonderful stories about life, love and regret, blending in trumpet, keyboards, and some beautiful orchestration.

Oh, why can't I be making Love come true?

Seven Things I Think I Think

1. So if the MTA goes on strike, it apparently costs the City, somewhere in the area of $400 million a day. Hmmmmmm and how much are they asking for? I'm glad I can walk to work now.


2. Wilmer Valderrama is no Erik Estrada. Apparently, Valderrama will be playing Officer Frank Poncherello in the upcoming film adaptation of ChIPs. I kid you not. Fes! That's the best they can do! The only good thing that guy's ever done is lay pipe down on Lindsay. Other than that, I can't think of anything.

3. I'm sitting here watching the Packers get killed by the Ravens. The Ravens!!! I remember when Brett Favre was easily the best QB in the league. It's really sad to see such a champion struggle as badly as he has this year. Favre, 36, getting picked off by Deion, 38, makes them the oldest duo involved in an interception in NFL history.

4. Weezer singer, Rivers Cuomo, is continuing his celibacy past his self-declared deadline, saying "Abstinence doesn't require as much self-discipline anymore," he says. "We never had any serious groupies, anyway. Our generation got screwed." Now I'm thinking, that's a lie. There has to be some chubby 19 year old girl somewhere that wants to have sex with Rivers. Maybe not the weird looking pornstar bassist guy, but I bet Rivers can get some.

5. Jerry Rice, what are you doing? I guess after not getting a roster spot with the Denver Broncos, Rice felt that Dancing With The Stars was his best shot at getting back on TV. He's joined other "STARS", on the upcoming lineup for the reality TV show, where they will be paired with professional ballroom dancers who will teach them various dances. Other "Stars", includes; Drew Lachey of 98 Degrees (what they couldn't get Nick, I'm sure he's got time on his hands), Oscar winner Tatum O'Neal, the well tanned George Hamilton, ESPN anchor Kenny Mayne, Stacy Keibler of the WWE, soap star Lisa Rinna, actress Tia Carrere, newscaster Giselle Fernandez and teen rapper Romeo round out the field (or is it lil bow wow, i get those two confused).

6. I hope you're as happy, as I am, that Ashlee Simpson is home recuperating from her exhaustion. I guess she went all out trying to really sing after what happened on SNL last year. I guess that "real" singing is detrimental to her health(not only our ears). Maybe she needs to stop.

7. Earlier today, I was rockin the new Film School album. I've been gushing about this album since I first got it early this fall. This band is awesome, it reminds me a lot of Sunny Day, Juno and at times even Fugazi. And there singer is totally tuned into the Robert Smith school of singing. I love the moods on this record, it starts off with the single, On & On, that's just a flood of guitar feedback, then rolls up and down into some shoegaze, post punk, and eve acoustic ballads. The album is out early next year. Check it sucka!

And I'm sorry I called you hillbilly. I don't know what that means.

Oh the holidays, you gotta love them. So, I'm definitely sick of hearing Christmas music and getting glitter all over my hands every time I pick up something. I am however psyched that we finally got a Christmas tree. We're a little short on ornaments, but damn, it's a fine looking spruce. The theme, get this, is cupcakes. So we have a bunch of handmade cupcake ornaments. In a drunken moment, I almost ate one of the Styrofoam cupcakes. Just kidding!

Did you know, that Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith was the top grossing movie of 2005. You can check out the rest of the top 10 here. Most of these movies are sorta expected, big budget blockbuster. The one surprise, in my opinion was Wedding Crashers. Didn't think it grossed that much. That movie had me in stitches. I also loved how the closing credits ran with The Weakerthans, "Aside", from their fantastic 2nd album, Left And Leaving. Made me go back and listen to that album, for the first time in years. Anyhows, I think I've seen all those movies, except Harry Potter. Sorry, I just can't do it. In my opinion other top movies this year were, 40 Year Old Virgin, The Squid and the Whale, Jarhead(though I wasn't crazy about it then), Crash, Me and You and Everyone We Know, and I'm sure there are a bunch of others, I can't think of right now, or I may not yet have seen.

I think the whole Fire Matt Millen situation in Detroit is pretty damn funny. A large portion of the Detroit Lions football fans have called for the GM to be fired after the teams, 4th consecutive losing season. After firing coach Steve Mariuchi, many fans have also called for the same for GM, Millen. It's so bad, a radio station in Detroit has taken out a billboard calling for Millen's firing. Man, this is too good. I wonder if we can get a national firegeorgewbush.com campaign going. Anyhow, has anyone seen the Cininnati, Fear Da Tiger Video. The Bengals along with funk legend and Cincinnati icon Bootsy Collins have collaborated to produce "Fear Da Tiger," a Bengals theme song that made its debut on November 20, 2005 during the Bengals vs. Colts game. Ouch, none of these guys should quit their day jobs. These guys are no Ickey Woods. Who by the way, you can book for a Motivational Speaking Engagement. I kid you not.

I came across this Beatles story the other day. Apple Corps, the company representing Paul, Ringo, and the families of the late George and John, is suing EMI Records, alleging the label failed to pay more than $50 million in royalties. Yikes, that is some serious change.

So isn't it kinda funny when you get random messages or friend invitations on Myspace from crappy bands. I would say that 90% of the time, I don't even listen to the third rate band, unless I know someone in the band, or it looks like they're at least something that I might be interested in. On that note, I think one of my most pleasant discoveries from the Myspace has been Leeds, England band,Vib Gyor With melancholic dark hues, gleaming guitars, subtle keys, and achingingly beautifully vocals, they garnered much attention in their native UK. Stateside, interest has started after small write up in Entertainment Weekly and acoustic session on San Diego station 91X'’s "The Big Break"’, a slot normally reserved for US bands.

Stay tuned, sometime this week, I'll post my top 35 records of this fine year, 2005. Yeah, you heard me right, top 35!

Tell me... do you believe in ghosts?

Seven Things I Think I Think

1. Pommes Frites may have some of the yummiest fries I have ever tasted. If you find yourself in the East Village of NYC, make the trip to get these. They have all these great sauces for the fries, like Mango Chutney Mayo, Roasted Garlic Mayo and good ole regular Ketchup. hmmmmmm


2. I've determined that my least favorite thing about the holidays, is not the annoying X-mas music, nor the long lines at stores, it's the goddamn glitter they put on everything. It's on ornaments, cards, wrapping paper, wreaths, and just about everything else that is holiday themed.

3. Finally got around to seeing the Polar Express last night. Good movie, but there are some seriously creepy looking faces and moves by the CGI animated characters. I mean, like Gary Busey looking faces on a serious bender. And what was up with that ghost too. Somehow kids aren't supposed to be frightened.

4. I really don't get how Biggie and 2-Pac can keep putting out albums when they are no longer with the living. But apparently the money starved people behind their careers and sadly, also the people with control of their music, feel the need to keep issuing music, long after both their deaths. I have been seeing lots of adds lately for Biggie's new album, The Final Chapter. Which by the way, is one of the most anticipated hip hop albums ever, well at least to the poor schleps peddling it. Somehow, the album utilizes snippets of Biggie's rhymes and pairs it with contemporary hip hop stars, with beats coming from a who's who of the hot knob turners and mixers of the day. I dunno, this whole thing just seems weird. Like those weird Coke commercials, with Paula Abdul and Fred Astaire, or the one with the Duke. I guess the next thing to do is have Keith Richards return from the grave and pair up with long time Rolling Stone bandmate Mick Jagger. Oh wait, Keith is still alive, somehow.

5. Stephen A. Smith needs to be stopped. I don't know if any of you have ever seen this guy on ESPN. He's like the retarded kid that thinks he knows everything or the annoying Jar-Jar character from Star Wars Episode 1 . The only thing that could make me change the channel faster, is Rosie O'Donnell.

6. That Snickers commercial where the guy is wearing the Snickers bars as a toupee is seriously funny. When he's crying at the end and rips it off, I cannot contain myself. I wish I could find a link for this, but I can't. Only some weird internet babble from the guy who I guess lost out on the part for the commercial. Just watch TV, you'll see it on at some point.

7.While walking around today doing some Christmas shopping, I was rockin some Failure, specifically their final album, Fantastic Planet. Failure was Ken Andrews and Greg Edwards for the most part, with various other member involved as the touring band. Sadly, this band has gone crimminally underrated for years, aside from a pretty good sized cult following and new fans of various off-shoots, like On, Autolux, Year Of The Rabbit and to some extent A Perfect Circle, as well as fans of Andrew's production jobs. They had a minor alt rock hit with the single Stuck On You off of Fantastic Planet, which is truly an amazing album. Very innovative, with unconventional song structures, deep monstrous riffs, and lots of unique noises and instrumentation, yet at the same time it retains a good amount of melody and some good hooks. Lots of abstract lyrics about drugs, relationships, disillusion, and well more drugs.

Hey got a new toy to sell. It's called a Jack Brown. Me. The wind up asshole. And I'm gonna take over all the stores of America next Christmas.

I was reading the other day, that kids in South Dakota and Oregon are using Palm handhelds and have found they improved students' grades. Some schools have been giving iPods to incoming students. I've also read about some colleges giving each student a laptop. Electronic learning has become so popular that one school in Arizona went textbook-free this year, instead equipping its students with laptops. That's just nuts. It made me realize that there is a whole new generation of kids that are way more tech savvy at such a young age. I wonder if this is going to make for a weird generation of kids that all end up with carpal tunnel and odd social skills. I was reading Mike's Blog , the other day, when he talked about his Computer History. I remember getting my first Apple, back in about 1988. My dad brought home an Apple II E. I remember playing around with the Print Shop graphics program. I used to make ridiculous banners using graphics pictures and different fonts. I also remember playing Dave Winfield's Batter Up, Defender, and later on Where In The World Is Carmen San Diego. I have no idea why, but I moved over to a Compaq back in the mid 90's, which was also about the time we had an AOL account. Pentium II processor in da house. It wasn't until college that I got back into using Macs. And I didn't have a computer at home until last year. Weird huh. I can't possibly imagine myself without a computer at home now. It's so bad, we have two in the house. Both Macs. And don't let me get started on the cable modem. Without that thing, I would be a miserable, miserable man.

In the Manny being Manny sweepstakes, there's never a dull moment. So it looks like Manny Ramirez, is not on the move to Texas for Soriano and Blalock. In fact in the weirdest move of the Hot Stove winter, Soriano ended up in Washington. Oh, and poor Miguel Tejada, and his $49 million contract is unhappy in Baltimore. I guess losing does that to you. But then again, who isn't unhappy in Baltimore. So it could be a Tejada and his B-12 shots for Manny straight up kinda deal. I'm typing this as I watch what is about as un-exciting Jets/Raiders game as you can get. I swear, I think the power went out in Giant's stadium and they kept playing, and TV didn't even care. And what are the odds of the Giants totally blowing the game against the Eagles today. How many times have we seen them come off a huge win, only to stink it up the following week.

On a final sad note, Richard Pryor, the legendary and groundbreaking comedian died of a heart attack Saturday. He was 65. He had been ill for years with multiple sclerosis. Best known for his incendiary comedy routine, and the star of movies like, Harlem Nights, Brewster's Millions, The Toy, Superman III, The Wiz, Hear No Evil See No Evil. He was regarded early in his career as one of the most foul-mouthed comics in the business, but he gained a wide following for his universal and frequently personal routines. He battled drug and alcohol addictions for years, and nearly lost his life in 1980 when he caught on fire while freebasing cocaine, he incorporated the ordeal into his later routines. His style influenced generations of stand-up artists, from Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock to Robin Williams and David Letterman, among others.

Don't You Judge Me

Last night after a fantastic chicken parmesan dinner, and way too much wine, I made my way over to the Mercury Lounge to catch She Wants Revenge . Now this band has been hugely hyped since singing to Geffen, and getting a good amount of radio airplay on Sirius, Indie 103, K-Roq, etc.... and it was everywhere I turned when I was in L.A. Their sound is obviously seeded with influences like Bauhaus and Joy DIvision, and for that reason alone, I wanted to give this band a chance. I had seen them once before during CMJ, albeit briefly, so this was my first real chance to see the band live. Like on their album, they play up the dark, seedy L.A. vibe. They played with a bunch of energy and added a bit of charisma to a style of music that can very dry and monotonous. However, the constant Bauhaus nuances, especially in the beginning of two songs that sounded dead on, like Bela Legosi's Dead, and song titles reminiscent of Joy Division, "Out Of Control" and "Tear You Apart", along with a very similar vocal style to the aforementioned bands, I can't say this band really offered a different take on something that had been done before. I think what makes bands that have been heavily influenced by those bands unique and endearing is some aspect of their own identity mixed into the songs. She Wants Revenge, sadly didn't live up to the hype. Still, sounds like they have a catchy song on their hands, with a dark image, and lots of supporters in tow.

In other news, this not at all relating to Bauhuas, it seems the garage sale Florida Marlins have moved Centerfielder Juan Pierre to the Cubs. The Yankees still find themselves with a guy named Bubba as their opening day Centerfielder. It appears the Red Sox have been offered Hank Blalock and Alfonso Soriano for Manny Being Manny from the Texas Rangers. Now my question is, where will Manny run out to use the bathroom mid-inning at the Ballpark at Arlington. And the award for overspender of the off-season, for once, does not go to King George, here in New York, but rather to J.P. Ricciardi in Toronto for spending a whopping $1.1 million per career save and win EACH, for A.J. Burnett and B.J. Ryan. Maybe he'll offer A.C. Slater a couple million to be a pinch runner, or at least to feel each of the Doritos Girl's breast.

Been listening to this Sun Kil Moon album, Tiny Cities, lately. Mark Kozelek, has somehow outdone himself again. I loved the Ghost Of The Great Highway a bunch, and his work with the Red House Painters was amazingly brilliant, as well. On Tiny Cities, Kozelek, performs 11 Modest Mouse songs. He first played these during a live solo performance in San Francisco, and apparently, he felt so good about it, he recorded them all. It's been well documented that Kozelek loves himself a good cover or two. But these are not mere covers, as much as they are his interpretations of some of Modest Mouse's finest songs. The sort of off beat, quirkiness of Modest Mouse is consumed by Kozelek's hushed vocals, and his sparse instrumentation adds a dreamy like quality to the songs. If you're a fan of either, it's worth a good listen. There are some miscues, but for the most part, this is a great listen, and wonderfully crafted album.

Also managed to finally check out both The Office and My Name Is Earl last night! I'd seen each one before, but never actually managed to watch both on the same night. Guest star Brett Butler on My Name Is Earl, was hilarious and may have the sit-com line of the year in "Don't you judge me." And Steve Carell in The Office. This guy is genius. Hilariously funny in the 40 Year Old Virgin, as well as Ron Burgundy and the Daily Show. Last night's Christmas Party episode might be funniest one I've seen yet. With his character, Michael, giving someone an iPod, easily exceeding the $20 max for the Secret Santa, his destroying the party, then him raising everyone's spirits by introducing Vodka shots. Good stuff. Apparently these shows are moving to Thursday night on NBC, and putting good ole Joey, on hiatus, and at risk of getting cancelled.

I Want To Float Upon My Memories, Not Sink Into the Gloaming Sea

Seven Things I Think I Think

1. There are some freaky, freaky people in L.A. Some of them aren't even Scientologists.



2. It's way easier to be a drunk in NYC than in L.A. For one, you don't have to drive, so you don't have to worry about parking and possibly drinking and driving. 2nd, public transportation, can take you just about anywhere.

3. Does anyone care if they shut down CBGB anymore? That place puts on the worst shows and carries on based on it's reputation and legendary history. Aside from a few hardcore bands reforming to try and save the place, I can't recall a show I've wanted to attend, or even a show that I thought might be half interesting. Now with owner Hilly Kristal claiming he's moving the place, possibly to Vegas, I think I'm done caring.

4. Marilyn Manson is off the market. If he can find love, I think anyone can. He reportedly married his burlesque dancer girlfriend this weekend. I'm wondering who wore the dress.

5. If you're going to make a thing called the Expedia.Com lounge in LAX, wouldn't you think you'd look into bringing up to speed the internet connection. No joke, I asked if they had a wireless connection, only to be told, "No sorry, only a phone line to plug into." What year is this?

6. Wouldn't it be great if we got snow days for work! Like you listen to the radio or tv for office closings. I dunno where that came from, maybe some weird grade school school closing flashback, and the impending snow.

7. I am starting to think that Youth Group's song "Shadowland" may in fact be my favorite song of the year. You can check out some clips of this song and a few others, at their site. I first heard it back in May, and was quickly trying to find out more about this band. From Australia, the band features former Vines bassist, Patrick Matthews, but in no way does this band sound anything like that band. A really sensational drum beat starts the song, as a repetitive guitar note hits, then a second guitar melody. Singer Toby Martin's emotive vocal's jump in soon after, then the chorus repeats over and over, as a flurry of drum symbols kick in. What a great song. If you get a chance, you should rock the video, really great stop animation and picturebox stuff.

Walking in L.A. Nobody walks in L.A.

It's my first day back in New York since returning from my LA trip. Not only do I come home to weather that's 35° colder, but this morning, I wake up to some snow. Fun! LA was a blast. I loved the weather out there. It was in the mid 60's most of the week, with rain only on our last full day. The first day out there, I got to check out the Santa Monica pier. Really beautful view, the beach looked nice. The most surprising thing, was the large amount of homeless folks just milling around and sleeping on the beach. They were everywhere. Brings a whole new meaning to the term, Beach Bum.

I got to check out the greatest Welsh band ever, the Super Furry Animals. They were simply amazing, playing two great shows, one in Holllywood at the Avalon, the other at the House Of Blues in Anaheim. They also made a visit to KCRW, Los Angeles' biggest public station, for a Morning Becomes Eclectic session. Before the first show, I ate some great Cal-Mex food at this place called the Border Grill. Really good stuff. I found it on Citysearch and it had rave reviews. The design reminded me of lots of NYC spots, with lots of bright colors and huge murals, but the food, was undeniably very California. The show that night was at the Avalon, formerly known as the Palace. A really beautiful building, with lots of history behind it. The parking lot also had a really great view of the Capitol Building too. The sound was great, it had this cool two level dressing room and Super Furries slayed. Playing a great set.

The next morning was dreadful, having to wake up at 6am to head over to KCRW for the Furries MBE session. Then came the drive. Yes, the drive from Santa Monica to Anaheim, was hellacious. It took close to two hours for a drive that should have taken about 45 mins. LA traffic sucks. The 405 is awful, the 10 is too. Driving sucks out there. And of course, no one walks anywhere, it's a total car culture. So different from NYC. Anyhow, the hotel in Anaheim was awesome. Huge room, the bed was gigantic, and super clean. that night the Super Furry Animals played the House Of Blues, which was actually in Downtown Disney. Which means you had to go through the park to get in. We got to see some Disney fireworks, which were actually pretty good. I guess they do this every night. The show was amazing, the venue sounded great, and the fans were totally into it, with kids actually dancing.

The next day I had to drive back from Anaheim to LA. Fun times. More traffic. Yay! As I got off the freeway, I made it over to near Dodger Statdium, off Route 66 area, and headed over to Olivera Street. Named after the first County Judge, Agustin Olvera, in 1877. It's a colorful Mexican market place and has the oldest brick house in the city, the Avila Adobe. Feasted on some amazing Mexican Food there too. Yummy shrimp tacos with rice, salsa, and good ole Pacifico beer. Later on that night, went out for some really good sushi and saw lots and lots of crazy Scientology buildings. They are everywhere. Eventually made my way over to some Urb dj night at this place called Joseph's. Hipster night, very much in the same way lots of NYC nights are.

Friday was the day to head over to the Getty Museum. It was a great experience. Designed by architect Richard Meier, the complex is constructed to highlight both nature and culture. The building itself is brilliantly constructed out of cleft-cut Italian travertine, with beautiful gardens and layed out on a hill, so many of the terraces overlook much of LA. In the buildings youl'll find European paintings, drawings, manuscripts,
sculptures and decorative arts, even photographs. One of the coolest displays was news photography of Arthur Fellig, who became known in the 1930s as Weegee. Really cool stuff, most of which was based around New York City. The European paintings were great too, showing works by Monet, Cezanne, Titian, and Munch among many others. The Getty was a real treat, and I highly recommend checking out if you're in the LA area. Ended the night with a great drive on scenic Mullholland Drive, then some late night snacks at Pink's Famous Hotdogs. Saturday morning, before the flight, I got to check out the La Brea Tar Pits and some of the Wilshire shopping district, as well.

On my flight back, I listend to the Jazz June album, The Medicine. Originally released back in May of 2000, on Louisville's Initial Records, it's sees this band at their creative peak. Produced by J. Robbins at Inner Ear Studios it's a hooky and emotive indie rock album, with driving melodies and some really snazzy drum work. I loved this album then, and I still do. Wish they would have gotten a little more credit and fan appreciation, like bands as Cursive, Engine Down and Jets To Brazil.