Friday, April 30, 2004
IT HAPPENED IN ATHENS:
(My version of a gossip column, here goes...)
This Week:
-The Glands played two sets at a frat party attended by Dave Schools, Hayride, and most of the 40 Watt staff. At said party, Kevin Sweeney (of Hayride - above, center) was mistaken for Mr. Schools repeatedly and was even accused of lying by saying that he wasn't, in fact, the famed Panic bassist (Was it the hair? Or perhaps the aura of rock?).
-J Mascis used all the wattage at his disposal to deafen the masses.
-The greatest living comedian performed at the 40 Watt Club, consumed 5 (or more?) single malt scotch-on-the-rocks (mostly by giving into repeated peer pressure from the crowd and chugging them), and continued to perform incredibly nuanced bits of comic genius.
-Conor-haired hipsters hit the town in search of love and in hopes of making the local gossip zines.
-Rumors leaked that Will Oldham will be playing at Orange Twin's summer festival in June and that Lona will actually tour this summer - opening for Seven Mary Three (I'm sure they're getting paid well).
-Thunderstorms threatened to suppress human rights and bathe hippies.
Who knows what'll happen next week...
For more happenings around Athens, here's a site I just stumbled on: Athens World.
(Note: Click the Conor link - it's funny!)
DEBUNKING OFFICE MYTHS:
As mentioned yesterday, this will be an ongoing series, fairly self-explanatory...
Myth: Hard work gets rewarded.
Truth: Ass-kissing gets rewarded; hard work only gets you more work.
Remember: they'll give you exactly as much work as you'll do. The trick is to do less, but act real stressed about it (more on this in future parts of this series). This is a corollary to the economic theory proposed in fine film Office Space: you only need to work hard enough to not get fired.
True Dat...
As mentioned yesterday, this will be an ongoing series, fairly self-explanatory...
Myth: Hard work gets rewarded.
Truth: Ass-kissing gets rewarded; hard work only gets you more work.
Remember: they'll give you exactly as much work as you'll do. The trick is to do less, but act real stressed about it (more on this in future parts of this series). This is a corollary to the economic theory proposed in fine film Office Space: you only need to work hard enough to not get fired.
True Dat...
FRIDAY MORNING NERD HUMOR:
Ok, this is probably going to start a war.... but who cares?
I HATE STAR WARS! I could never get into it. It's boring. It has bad dialog, silly storylines, and (most importantly) no hot chicks. Ok, so the special effects are cool... but I need something more than special effects to enjoy a flick.
Despite my dislike for America's favorite movie, I found this link to be the funniest thing I've seen in a while. Go take a look, it's dirty!
Ok, this is probably going to start a war.... but who cares?
I HATE STAR WARS! I could never get into it. It's boring. It has bad dialog, silly storylines, and (most importantly) no hot chicks. Ok, so the special effects are cool... but I need something more than special effects to enjoy a flick.
Despite my dislike for America's favorite movie, I found this link to be the funniest thing I've seen in a while. Go take a look, it's dirty!
ATHENS WEEKEND HAPPENINGS:
"Are You Ready To Rock?!?" --Dikki Lixx (Knight Seeker)
So, if you're like me and have been at the 40 Watt for the last two nights, then your ears are ringing (was J Mascis' dual-Marshall-stack setup really necessary?), your sides are hurting from laughter, and you're wondering, "What's up for the weekend?" Well, you've got plenty o' choices. There are (count 'em) three major festivals nearby this weekend. In Athens, you have both the Human Rights Festival and the Boybutante Ball, while those willing to drive to the wasteland down 316 can catch Music Midtown. Now, mind you, you oughta check out the weather first.
In addition to all that, Ishues will be playing Tasty World tonight, while at the same time, Clay Leverett, The High Caliber, and Hey, Revolution! will be playing the Caledonia. Then, on Saturday, those not inclined to cross-dress can go retro instead with live heavy-metal karaoke in the form of Knight Seeker, also at the Caledonia.
Good times...
"Are You Ready To Rock?!?" --Dikki Lixx (Knight Seeker)
So, if you're like me and have been at the 40 Watt for the last two nights, then your ears are ringing (was J Mascis' dual-Marshall-stack setup really necessary?), your sides are hurting from laughter, and you're wondering, "What's up for the weekend?" Well, you've got plenty o' choices. There are (count 'em) three major festivals nearby this weekend. In Athens, you have both the Human Rights Festival and the Boybutante Ball, while those willing to drive to the wasteland down 316 can catch Music Midtown. Now, mind you, you oughta check out the weather first.
In addition to all that, Ishues will be playing Tasty World tonight, while at the same time, Clay Leverett, The High Caliber, and Hey, Revolution! will be playing the Caledonia. Then, on Saturday, those not inclined to cross-dress can go retro instead with live heavy-metal karaoke in the form of Knight Seeker, also at the Caledonia.
Good times...
Thursday, April 29, 2004
OFFICE ETIQUETTE: EYE CONTACT
"And stop staring at me, will ya? You got those bug-eyes..." --Ghostbusters
It's long been rumored that staring someone down is a sign of trustworthiness and a healthy business attitude. Well, it maybe the latter, but it's certainly not the former. In fact, it's creepy. You can look away from people occasionally when you talk with them. Even if you're sitting across from them at a desk or table and even if "important business" is being discussed. After all, direct eye-to-eye contact for prolonged periods is pretty intense, and I don't like all the folks in my office that much to wanna do that - do you? No one likes being glared at by complete strangers - why tolerate it for people you're just slightly more acquainted with? So, don't be creepy and stare. Weirdo.
It's just polite...
"And stop staring at me, will ya? You got those bug-eyes..." --Ghostbusters
It's long been rumored that staring someone down is a sign of trustworthiness and a healthy business attitude. Well, it maybe the latter, but it's certainly not the former. In fact, it's creepy. You can look away from people occasionally when you talk with them. Even if you're sitting across from them at a desk or table and even if "important business" is being discussed. After all, direct eye-to-eye contact for prolonged periods is pretty intense, and I don't like all the folks in my office that much to wanna do that - do you? No one likes being glared at by complete strangers - why tolerate it for people you're just slightly more acquainted with? So, don't be creepy and stare. Weirdo.
It's just polite...
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY: DIVISION OF "LABOR"
Since well before the industrial revolution, mankind has been in a constant struggle to increase efficiency. One method has been to multi-task and combine similar activities. For instance, if you have two things to deliver someplace, you wait till both are ready so as not to make two trips. But we all know this can cause extra stress PLUS take up less time. Winds up being like trying to carry all your grocery bags in at once - a big mess that's ultimately not worth it (only that's on your time, so it's excusable).
Point being, if you have multiple tasks, divide them thoroughly. No need to gather or deliver all items to a certain side of the office at the same time just because you happen to be going there. Take each task separately and you'll be sure to maximize the time it takes and minimize your efforts: win-win. And don't forget to make sure you check up on your coworkers in the process.
Since well before the industrial revolution, mankind has been in a constant struggle to increase efficiency. One method has been to multi-task and combine similar activities. For instance, if you have two things to deliver someplace, you wait till both are ready so as not to make two trips. But we all know this can cause extra stress PLUS take up less time. Winds up being like trying to carry all your grocery bags in at once - a big mess that's ultimately not worth it (only that's on your time, so it's excusable).
Point being, if you have multiple tasks, divide them thoroughly. No need to gather or deliver all items to a certain side of the office at the same time just because you happen to be going there. Take each task separately and you'll be sure to maximize the time it takes and minimize your efforts: win-win. And don't forget to make sure you check up on your coworkers in the process.
Wednesday, April 28, 2004
I'VE GOT MY WIFE, THE OTHER WOMEN, AND THE WHISKEY KILLING ME:
The first two make it so's that I see red,
The third one makes it so's that I can't see.
Seemed like the perfect lyric to introduce this Ebay auction.
The first two make it so's that I see red,
The third one makes it so's that I can't see.
Seemed like the perfect lyric to introduce this Ebay auction.
A NICE LITTLE POEM:
This is a short poem made up entirely of actual quotations from George W. Bush. These have been arranged, only for aesthetic purposes, by Washington Post writer, Richard Thompson. A wonderful poem like this is too good not to share.
MAKE THE PIE HIGHER
I think we all agree, the past is over.
This is still a dangerous world.
It's a world of madmen and uncertainty
And potential mental losses.
Rarely is the question asked
Is our children learning?
Will the highways of the Internet
Become more few?
How many hands have I shaked?
They misunderestimate me.
I am a pitbull on the pantleg of opportunity.
I know that the human being
And the fish can coexist.
Families is where our nation finds hope,
Where our wings take dream.
Put food on your family!
Knock down the tollbooth!
Vulcanize society!
Make the pie higher!
Make the pie higher!
This is a short poem made up entirely of actual quotations from George W. Bush. These have been arranged, only for aesthetic purposes, by Washington Post writer, Richard Thompson. A wonderful poem like this is too good not to share.
MAKE THE PIE HIGHER
I think we all agree, the past is over.
This is still a dangerous world.
It's a world of madmen and uncertainty
And potential mental losses.
Rarely is the question asked
Is our children learning?
Will the highways of the Internet
Become more few?
How many hands have I shaked?
They misunderestimate me.
I am a pitbull on the pantleg of opportunity.
I know that the human being
And the fish can coexist.
Families is where our nation finds hope,
Where our wings take dream.
Put food on your family!
Knock down the tollbooth!
Vulcanize society!
Make the pie higher!
Make the pie higher!
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
I'VE GOT GOLD TEETH, AND I LIKE 'EM:
I read a great article today about how everyone is whitening their teeth... Whitening your teeth until they're ultra-white is similar to lying in tanning beds until your skin is orange, it's overkill. Doesn't look natural.
It ain't natural! Read your bible! Here's the article.
I read a great article today about how everyone is whitening their teeth... Whitening your teeth until they're ultra-white is similar to lying in tanning beds until your skin is orange, it's overkill. Doesn't look natural.
It ain't natural! Read your bible! Here's the article.
CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL DAY:
Oops, looks like we forgot to mention yesterday's holiday (once again, not really a "holiday" unless you get it off work). Here's a bit about Confederate Memorial Day in Georgia. And for those about to break into song, here's a little history on "Dixie":
The irony about "Dixie" is that the five-verse song was written by a Northerner with little interest in politics, and whose parents were strict abolitionists.
...And for a minstrel show nonetheless. So instead of that crap, how 'bout celebrating by checking into real Southern music.
Oops, looks like we forgot to mention yesterday's holiday (once again, not really a "holiday" unless you get it off work). Here's a bit about Confederate Memorial Day in Georgia. And for those about to break into song, here's a little history on "Dixie":
The irony about "Dixie" is that the five-verse song was written by a Northerner with little interest in politics, and whose parents were strict abolitionists.
...And for a minstrel show nonetheless. So instead of that crap, how 'bout celebrating by checking into real Southern music.
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY: OFFICE PUBLICATIONS
Does your office publish materials for everyone to read? Some sort of newsletter or update? Perhaps announcements or educational brochures? If so, make sure to take the time to read each and every one of these you receive thoroughly. In fact, reread them several times each to make sure you've gotten all the information. After all, someone's deemed them important enough for everyone to have and taken the time to print and distribute them. Shouldn't you take some of your valued work time to make sure you've absorbed that info?
Does your office publish materials for everyone to read? Some sort of newsletter or update? Perhaps announcements or educational brochures? If so, make sure to take the time to read each and every one of these you receive thoroughly. In fact, reread them several times each to make sure you've gotten all the information. After all, someone's deemed them important enough for everyone to have and taken the time to print and distribute them. Shouldn't you take some of your valued work time to make sure you've absorbed that info?
ATHENS HAPPENINGS:
Wondering what to do around town until the weekend? Don't wanna fish through all the other crap in Flagpole to find the good stuff? Here's a short list (I'm sure I'm leaving some good stuff out):
Wed: Locals Kyle Spence (The Tom Collins, Harvey Milk) and Dave Schools (Widespread Panic, Acetate) join former Dinosaur Jr. mastermind J Mascis as "J Mascis and The Fog" at the 40 watt. Meanwhile, local country legends The Chasers play The Caledonia (decisions, decisions).
Thurs: Early in the night (8PM), Patterson Hood (Drive-By Truckers) promotes his upcoming solo cd "Killers and Stars" (which is finally getting a real release early in May) by guest on 90.5's "Live in the Lobby" and then DJing a bit afterwards. Should make for a good time. And almost as soon as that's over, you can head to the 40 Watt to see an incredible comedic lineup - Brian Posehn and Patton Oswalt. If you've never been in physical pain from laughing too much, I recommend you try it. In the meantime, here's an interview that Gardner Linn did with Patton in Flagpole for his album-taping show at the Watt last year. Enjoy.
Be back later in the week for a weekend schedule of events, I'm sure...
(Update 11AM: According to Patton's site, there's been a replacement for his show; Zach Galifianakis will now be opening for him... definitely an equally-apt replacement.)
Wondering what to do around town until the weekend? Don't wanna fish through all the other crap in Flagpole to find the good stuff? Here's a short list (I'm sure I'm leaving some good stuff out):
Wed: Locals Kyle Spence (The Tom Collins, Harvey Milk) and Dave Schools (Widespread Panic, Acetate) join former Dinosaur Jr. mastermind J Mascis as "J Mascis and The Fog" at the 40 watt. Meanwhile, local country legends The Chasers play The Caledonia (decisions, decisions).
Thurs: Early in the night (8PM), Patterson Hood (Drive-By Truckers) promotes his upcoming solo cd "Killers and Stars" (which is finally getting a real release early in May) by guest on 90.5's "Live in the Lobby" and then DJing a bit afterwards. Should make for a good time. And almost as soon as that's over, you can head to the 40 Watt to see an incredible comedic lineup - Brian Posehn and Patton Oswalt. If you've never been in physical pain from laughing too much, I recommend you try it. In the meantime, here's an interview that Gardner Linn did with Patton in Flagpole for his album-taping show at the Watt last year. Enjoy.
Be back later in the week for a weekend schedule of events, I'm sure...
(Update 11AM: According to Patton's site, there's been a replacement for his show; Zach Galifianakis will now be opening for him... definitely an equally-apt replacement.)
Monday, April 26, 2004
TOUGH POLITICAL DECISIONS:
"I like the puppet on the left, [wait, maybe] the puppet on the right is more to my liking..." --Bill Hicks
This November will undoubtedly bring a very close and heated presidential debate in this country that will be watched closely by people throughout the world. To help you make that critical decision, here's a couple of sites: one for George W. Bush and one for John Kerry (check out the URL - thanks to Memepool.com for this one!).
"I like the puppet on the left, [wait, maybe] the puppet on the right is more to my liking..." --Bill Hicks
This November will undoubtedly bring a very close and heated presidential debate in this country that will be watched closely by people throughout the world. To help you make that critical decision, here's a couple of sites: one for George W. Bush and one for John Kerry (check out the URL - thanks to Memepool.com for this one!).
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY:
While it's true that perusing the Internet can get some folks in trouble at work (though truth be told, your computer guy's probably got better things to do than monitor your Internet usage - trust us), there's one site no one will begrudge you a visit to: CNN.com. Why? I suppose it's because people have an unyielding appetite for knowledge or at least the security of being "in the know". Folks like to be up on news, so everyone can understand you wanting to read up on it. Certainly an informed employee is a good thing.
So, go ahead, spend as much time as you want there. In fact, just leave it minimized all day and refresh whenever you need to waste more time. Read every little story. Then, every once in a while, drop a cool fact or mention an interesting story as part of your water-cooler conversation. Not only will people appreciate you helping them to keep "in the know", but that will encourage others to slack with you. And as we all learned in grade school, group guilt helps keep everyone out of trouble.
(Note: Other news sites are optional, depending on the political persuasions of your coworkers. Since the point is not to actually "learn", but rather to "not work", go with what the majority of the office likes. Otherwise, you could have to listen to the rantings of some moron while they try to explain to you that your news source is unreliable - and that's worse than doing actual work.)
While it's true that perusing the Internet can get some folks in trouble at work (though truth be told, your computer guy's probably got better things to do than monitor your Internet usage - trust us), there's one site no one will begrudge you a visit to: CNN.com. Why? I suppose it's because people have an unyielding appetite for knowledge or at least the security of being "in the know". Folks like to be up on news, so everyone can understand you wanting to read up on it. Certainly an informed employee is a good thing.
So, go ahead, spend as much time as you want there. In fact, just leave it minimized all day and refresh whenever you need to waste more time. Read every little story. Then, every once in a while, drop a cool fact or mention an interesting story as part of your water-cooler conversation. Not only will people appreciate you helping them to keep "in the know", but that will encourage others to slack with you. And as we all learned in grade school, group guilt helps keep everyone out of trouble.
(Note: Other news sites are optional, depending on the political persuasions of your coworkers. Since the point is not to actually "learn", but rather to "not work", go with what the majority of the office likes. Otherwise, you could have to listen to the rantings of some moron while they try to explain to you that your news source is unreliable - and that's worse than doing actual work.)
HOW TO STAY ON GOOD TERMS WITH YOUR COMPUTER GUY:
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
Don't ask, "So, do you work on computers alot at home?" Just because I'm pale and skinny doesn't mean I spend all my time on computers... Furthermore, just because do something at my job doesn't mean I also do it at home. My response should be, "Yeah... Do you ask stupid questions at home?"
Sorry to sound so snippy.
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
Don't ask, "So, do you work on computers alot at home?" Just because I'm pale and skinny doesn't mean I spend all my time on computers... Furthermore, just because do something at my job doesn't mean I also do it at home. My response should be, "Yeah... Do you ask stupid questions at home?"
Sorry to sound so snippy.
Friday, April 23, 2004
HEY, BABY...
For the single folks hitting the town tonight, check out The Most Complete and Most Useless Collection of Pick-Up Lines. Personal favorites include: "Is that dress felt? ... Would you like it to be?", "Do you sleep on your stomach ... Can I?", and "Be unique and different, say yes."
(Warning: Contains some "Strong Language".)
For the single folks hitting the town tonight, check out The Most Complete and Most Useless Collection of Pick-Up Lines. Personal favorites include: "Is that dress felt? ... Would you like it to be?", "Do you sleep on your stomach ... Can I?", and "Be unique and different, say yes."
(Warning: Contains some "Strong Language".)
WHAT YOU OUGHTA DO TONIGHT:
If I were you, I'd get my ass down to the 40 Watt tonight to see Apples in Stereo. But first, I'd go listen to a great Apples in Stereo song.
If I were you, I'd get my ass down to the 40 Watt tonight to see Apples in Stereo. But first, I'd go listen to a great Apples in Stereo song.
TRUE FACTS FROM THE BAR:
According to bartenders, the average person at this week's ultra-hip Death Cab For Cutie / Pedro The Lion / Ben Kweller show at the 40 Watt spent a whopping $2.00 on drinks. Guess it's hard to consume anything with your arms crossed...
According to bartenders, the average person at this week's ultra-hip Death Cab For Cutie / Pedro The Lion / Ben Kweller show at the 40 Watt spent a whopping $2.00 on drinks. Guess it's hard to consume anything with your arms crossed...
TWILIGHT IS HERE!:
Today is the day. Steel police barricades will line the streets of downtown as bikers from around the country/world arrive in Athens to race their little hearts out while we all mull around eating and drinking overpriced items - but hey it's outdoors and it's fun! So, here's the full schedule of events. And for listings of the other events this weekend, either scroll back through our updates this week or see Flapole.
Today is the day. Steel police barricades will line the streets of downtown as bikers from around the country/world arrive in Athens to race their little hearts out while we all mull around eating and drinking overpriced items - but hey it's outdoors and it's fun! So, here's the full schedule of events. And for listings of the other events this weekend, either scroll back through our updates this week or see Flapole.
Thursday, April 22, 2004
IT'S NOT A HOLIDAY UNLESS YOU'RE OFF WORK:
Another Secretary's Day slips by unnoticed by the masses and most bosses. So it goes. Well, we may have forgotten yesterday, but we'll remedy it with a link to the only song I know of actually written for the occasion.
And of course, today is Earth Day. For a few pertinent factoids Re: Earth Day, see the front page of this week's Onion.
Another Secretary's Day slips by unnoticed by the masses and most bosses. So it goes. Well, we may have forgotten yesterday, but we'll remedy it with a link to the only song I know of actually written for the occasion.
And of course, today is Earth Day. For a few pertinent factoids Re: Earth Day, see the front page of this week's Onion.
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY: E-MAIL
E-mail is the greatest invention since A/C. It allows us to send meaningless chatter back and forth constantly and keeps us out of the post office most of the time. It's also the perfect time-waster. For those that aren't already in the habit, the first 30-45 minutes of each work day can easily be filled by checking and responding to or creating new e-mail. New e-mail is preferable because it will eventually get you more to respond to. So go ahead, take your time, and make sure all your responses are well thought-out and fully detailed. Don't rush anything - after all, this is serious business. Oh, and make sure you have as many people as you know (and can trust not to send anything lurid) write you directly at your business e-mail account. That way, it always looks professional, no matter what you're responding to. And make sure you check your e-mail at least 20 times daily... don't want any important business matters lingering.
Bonus Tip From A Coworker: When there's no e-mail to respond to, go ahead and write an e-mail to yourself. Then, of course, respond to it.
E-mail is the greatest invention since A/C. It allows us to send meaningless chatter back and forth constantly and keeps us out of the post office most of the time. It's also the perfect time-waster. For those that aren't already in the habit, the first 30-45 minutes of each work day can easily be filled by checking and responding to or creating new e-mail. New e-mail is preferable because it will eventually get you more to respond to. So go ahead, take your time, and make sure all your responses are well thought-out and fully detailed. Don't rush anything - after all, this is serious business. Oh, and make sure you have as many people as you know (and can trust not to send anything lurid) write you directly at your business e-mail account. That way, it always looks professional, no matter what you're responding to. And make sure you check your e-mail at least 20 times daily... don't want any important business matters lingering.
Bonus Tip From A Coworker: When there's no e-mail to respond to, go ahead and write an e-mail to yourself. Then, of course, respond to it.
COUNTDOWN TO TWILIGHT: 1 DAY!
With all that going on Saturday night, one might expect Friday night to fall flat - not so. Not only is it the start of the races and outdoor musical entertainment (more on that later), but two very good out-of-towner shows will be taking place. Chunklet (the original masters of "things that suck" lists - screw Blender) will be having its anniversary celebration at the Caledonia featuring the Oxes (check out the picture at that link), while just mere feet away the Apples (in Stereo) are rocking the 40 Watt. Again, good luck choosing...
And so far, the weather looks great.
With all that going on Saturday night, one might expect Friday night to fall flat - not so. Not only is it the start of the races and outdoor musical entertainment (more on that later), but two very good out-of-towner shows will be taking place. Chunklet (the original masters of "things that suck" lists - screw Blender) will be having its anniversary celebration at the Caledonia featuring the Oxes (check out the picture at that link), while just mere feet away the Apples (in Stereo) are rocking the 40 Watt. Again, good luck choosing...
And so far, the weather looks great.
Wednesday, April 21, 2004
TIME-WASTING TIP FROM BRITISH COHORTS:
Seems we're not the only ones trying to help lower productivity... why not skip work and go to an amusement park?
Seems we're not the only ones trying to help lower productivity... why not skip work and go to an amusement park?
OTHER BLOGS OF INTEREST:
Many of you might already know about Memepool.com, but if not - it's just a great blog full of a million more fun links to waste time with and is updated often. And because I'm so exclusive in my dating habits, I used it find: SUPERMODEL PERSONALS! Good stuff.
Many of you might already know about Memepool.com, but if not - it's just a great blog full of a million more fun links to waste time with and is updated often. And because I'm so exclusive in my dating habits, I used it find: SUPERMODEL PERSONALS! Good stuff.
COMBINING TWO POSTS INTO ONE:
Post #1 - Thanks to Robo-Dave and his minions, I have the ultimate time-waster. Go to the AT&T Research Lab and use their Text to Speech tool. It will create an audio file of a robot voice repeating any text you provide. This is lots of fun!
Post #2 - "Built this City" by Starship has been named by Blender Magazine as the worst song of all time. In honor of this achievement, you can hear the AT&T Research Lab team perform the chorus of this song by clicking here.
Post #1 - Thanks to Robo-Dave and his minions, I have the ultimate time-waster. Go to the AT&T Research Lab and use their Text to Speech tool. It will create an audio file of a robot voice repeating any text you provide. This is lots of fun!
Post #2 - "Built this City" by Starship has been named by Blender Magazine as the worst song of all time. In honor of this achievement, you can hear the AT&T Research Lab team perform the chorus of this song by clicking here.
DRUG-USE AND YOU:
Are drugs good or bad? This has been an eternal question... until now. The Onion susses it out based on the only credible source: movies.
Are drugs good or bad? This has been an eternal question... until now. The Onion susses it out based on the only credible source: movies.
COUNTDOWN TO TWILIGHT: 2 DAYS
What ELSE is happening Saturday night, you ask? Well, the 40 watt will be hosting Barbara Cue and David Barbe and the Quick Hooks (who I caught last night and were amazing - more on that later, meanwhile go download "Hot But You Won't Blow" from that link - it's the best song ever written that uses the word "machinations"). At the same time, the Caledonia will be hosting another incredible line-up: Southern Bitch, Nutria, and the Stand-Ins (releasing their debut CD). Two shows I wouldn't miss, but unfortunately will have to choose between...
What ELSE is happening Saturday night, you ask? Well, the 40 watt will be hosting Barbara Cue and David Barbe and the Quick Hooks (who I caught last night and were amazing - more on that later, meanwhile go download "Hot But You Won't Blow" from that link - it's the best song ever written that uses the word "machinations"). At the same time, the Caledonia will be hosting another incredible line-up: Southern Bitch, Nutria, and the Stand-Ins (releasing their debut CD). Two shows I wouldn't miss, but unfortunately will have to choose between...
Tuesday, April 20, 2004
SOME MUSIC FOR YA:
I know it seems like I talk about Salon alot, but they have a great column called "Wednesday Morning Downloads" where they highlight free music that can be downloaded on the Web.
Last week had two great songs from Devendra Banhart (nice name!) and Call and Response. Checking this column has become a new Wednesday morning ritual.
I know it seems like I talk about Salon alot, but they have a great column called "Wednesday Morning Downloads" where they highlight free music that can be downloaded on the Web.
Last week had two great songs from Devendra Banhart (nice name!) and Call and Response. Checking this column has become a new Wednesday morning ritual.
TIME-WASTING SITE OF THE DAY:
Like news of the weird? Check out FARK. Has links to lots of funny, great (legitimate) news stories - each labeled an adjective such as "Dumbass", "Stupid", and "Obvious", so you know what you're getting. Word of warning, though, the ads on the page can be a bit risque (no real porn, but ads for it). Open at your own risk.
Like news of the weird? Check out FARK. Has links to lots of funny, great (legitimate) news stories - each labeled an adjective such as "Dumbass", "Stupid", and "Obvious", so you know what you're getting. Word of warning, though, the ads on the page can be a bit risque (no real porn, but ads for it). Open at your own risk.
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY:
Coffee... the office drug. Most folks have figured this out already, but coffee is not only a great stimulant, but a wonderful way to waste time. Sometimes you can work in up to three separate coffee-runs per day before being called on it. Everyone understands coffee, it's assumed that it helps you work better, and everyone knows what it's like to be tired. So, here's how to do it:
8:15AM: Arrive at work, socialize, check e-mail, news, etc.
9:30AM: Do real, actual work.
9:45AM: Go get coffee, take a very long time. Use it to delay keystrokes to drag a half-hour's work into two or so hours.
NOON: Go to lunch, take your full hour and just a little more.
1:15: Arrive back at desk, repeat morning activities.
2:30: Get more coffee. Again, take your time.
3:00: Do actual work.
3:30: Socialize. Offer to get folks some coffee when you go "in a bit". Almost no one will take you up on it being that it's so late in the day. But drag out your offers for while.
4:00-4:15: Go get another round of coffee or make some. You've already had lots of coffee, so the cheaper the better and you don't actually have to drink it - that's not the point.
4:30-4:45: Repeat morning ritual, wrap things up, shut off computer.
4:55: Go home.
And voila! See how easy that is? Coffee rules.
(Hidden Bonus: If you're a non-Starbucks person, almost no one will take you up on the coffee offer AND it often takes longer to go to your local independent coffee joint.)
Coffee... the office drug. Most folks have figured this out already, but coffee is not only a great stimulant, but a wonderful way to waste time. Sometimes you can work in up to three separate coffee-runs per day before being called on it. Everyone understands coffee, it's assumed that it helps you work better, and everyone knows what it's like to be tired. So, here's how to do it:
8:15AM: Arrive at work, socialize, check e-mail, news, etc.
9:30AM: Do real, actual work.
9:45AM: Go get coffee, take a very long time. Use it to delay keystrokes to drag a half-hour's work into two or so hours.
NOON: Go to lunch, take your full hour and just a little more.
1:15: Arrive back at desk, repeat morning activities.
2:30: Get more coffee. Again, take your time.
3:00: Do actual work.
3:30: Socialize. Offer to get folks some coffee when you go "in a bit". Almost no one will take you up on it being that it's so late in the day. But drag out your offers for while.
4:00-4:15: Go get another round of coffee or make some. You've already had lots of coffee, so the cheaper the better and you don't actually have to drink it - that's not the point.
4:30-4:45: Repeat morning ritual, wrap things up, shut off computer.
4:55: Go home.
And voila! See how easy that is? Coffee rules.
(Hidden Bonus: If you're a non-Starbucks person, almost no one will take you up on the coffee offer AND it often takes longer to go to your local independent coffee joint.)
COUNTDOWN TO TWILIGHT: 3 DAYS
This Saturday at Tasty World, you can catch Summer Hymns, Fairmount Fair, a Guided By Voices cover band, and event hosts Je Suis France at the 5th Annual Twilight Delirium concert. Undoubtedly a good place to segue from an afternoon of drinking and bike races to an evening of drinking and rock.
This Saturday at Tasty World, you can catch Summer Hymns, Fairmount Fair, a Guided By Voices cover band, and event hosts Je Suis France at the 5th Annual Twilight Delirium concert. Undoubtedly a good place to segue from an afternoon of drinking and bike races to an evening of drinking and rock.
Monday, April 19, 2004
TIME WASTING TIP OF THE DAY:
I've got a great time killer for you today... this is an online art project by local artist Didi Dunphy. Go to the information page to get some explanations of the project (with lots of hoity-toity language).
I just think it's purty... and you can waste lots of time clicking on the shapes... click, click, click...
I've got a great time killer for you today... this is an online art project by local artist Didi Dunphy. Go to the information page to get some explanations of the project (with lots of hoity-toity language).
I just think it's purty... and you can waste lots of time clicking on the shapes... click, click, click...
OFFICE ETIQUETTE: SHOULDER MOLESTATION
For years now, one of my greatest pet peeves has been when someone you don't know will walk by you in a crowded place, put their hand(s) on your shoulder(s), squeeze, and say something like, "Pardon me," or "'Scuse Me," which is always followed by some nickname like "Buddy", "Chief", "Pal", or "Sport", all in order to get by you - which could have easily been accomplished with a simple, "excuse me," or just a tap on the shoulder. No need to get all dirty up on anyone's shoulders.
Well, it's been brought to my attention rather harshly today that this same phenomenon sometimes takes place as an office greeting (simply replace the "Pardon/'Scuse me," with a "Hey," or a "What's happening,"). Please, I beg anyone reading this, do NOT molest anyone's shoulders as an office greeting or any other time - unless, of course, you proceed directly to massage (and then only if you're of the sex desired by the person you're touching).
It's just good office etiquette...
For years now, one of my greatest pet peeves has been when someone you don't know will walk by you in a crowded place, put their hand(s) on your shoulder(s), squeeze, and say something like, "Pardon me," or "'Scuse Me," which is always followed by some nickname like "Buddy", "Chief", "Pal", or "Sport", all in order to get by you - which could have easily been accomplished with a simple, "excuse me," or just a tap on the shoulder. No need to get all dirty up on anyone's shoulders.
Well, it's been brought to my attention rather harshly today that this same phenomenon sometimes takes place as an office greeting (simply replace the "Pardon/'Scuse me," with a "Hey," or a "What's happening,"). Please, I beg anyone reading this, do NOT molest anyone's shoulders as an office greeting or any other time - unless, of course, you proceed directly to massage (and then only if you're of the sex desired by the person you're touching).
It's just good office etiquette...
HOW TO STAY ON GOOD TERMS WITH YOUR COMPUTER GUY:
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
When a person is your company's "computer guy", that does not mean he is your "copy machine guy", "fax machine guy", "electric data-stamp guy", "lamp guy", "calculator guy", "pencil sharpener guy", "cd player guy", etc. So don't ask him/her to fix these items.
Sorry to sound so snippy.
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
When a person is your company's "computer guy", that does not mean he is your "copy machine guy", "fax machine guy", "electric data-stamp guy", "lamp guy", "calculator guy", "pencil sharpener guy", "cd player guy", etc. So don't ask him/her to fix these items.
Sorry to sound so snippy.
COUNTDOWN TO TWILIGHT: 4 DAYS
One of the greatest weekends in Athens is on its way... The Twilight Criterium. So, here's a little something happening this weekend - expect one a day.
On Saturday at 10AM, you can see none other than Lance Armstrong (with a name like that, how can you fail?) as the Tour De Georgia starts off right here in the Classic City. That's prolly worth getting up for.
One of the greatest weekends in Athens is on its way... The Twilight Criterium. So, here's a little something happening this weekend - expect one a day.
On Saturday at 10AM, you can see none other than Lance Armstrong (with a name like that, how can you fail?) as the Tour De Georgia starts off right here in the Classic City. That's prolly worth getting up for.
Friday, April 16, 2004
WEEKEND HAPPENINGS:
"Living's mostly wasting time and I'll waste my share of mine ... we got the sky to talk about and the earth to lie upon." --Townes Van Zandt (from "To Live Is To Fly")
A few things happening in the Classic City this weekend, before next weekend's Twilight Criterium (one of my favorite Athens events)...
Tonight: Randall Bramblett is playing a CD release show at the 40 Watt, while Park Bench Trio will be playing at Nuci's Space.
Tomorrow: Local musical super-group Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreation Industry will be playing at Flicker. And for great national acts, you have your choice of The Fall at the 40 Watt or The Pernice Brothers at Tasty World.
For those less-inclined to rock this weekend, but still in need of entertainment, there's always the second volume of Kill Bill. My review: Good, but coulda used more ninja-fighting (but then again, I say that about every film - even ninja movies).
See y'all next week...
(and hopefully with some good pictures to share)
"Living's mostly wasting time and I'll waste my share of mine ... we got the sky to talk about and the earth to lie upon." --Townes Van Zandt (from "To Live Is To Fly")
A few things happening in the Classic City this weekend, before next weekend's Twilight Criterium (one of my favorite Athens events)...
Tonight: Randall Bramblett is playing a CD release show at the 40 Watt, while Park Bench Trio will be playing at Nuci's Space.
Tomorrow: Local musical super-group Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreation Industry will be playing at Flicker. And for great national acts, you have your choice of The Fall at the 40 Watt or The Pernice Brothers at Tasty World.
For those less-inclined to rock this weekend, but still in need of entertainment, there's always the second volume of Kill Bill. My review: Good, but coulda used more ninja-fighting (but then again, I say that about every film - even ninja movies).
See y'all next week...
(and hopefully with some good pictures to share)
EVEN MORE FOLKS WHO DON'T GET IT:
In addition to those stories, here's one Andrew Sullivan listed yesterday:
"DUPED BY THE ONION: An anti-gay group in Canada uses the Onion as a reliable source."
In addition to those stories, here's one Andrew Sullivan listed yesterday:
"DUPED BY THE ONION: An anti-gay group in Canada uses the Onion as a reliable source."
I SAW IT ON THE INTERNET, SO IT'S TRUE:
I received an e-mail from a friend today that said the following...
"... some asshole newspaper writer in China used the Onion as a source for a legit article about Congress wanting a fucking retractable roof. Idiot!
It's not the first time someone bared their ass on this sorta thing either. This article from Wired has a few other funny ones about total fucking retards believing the god damn onion.
'So many (fucking stupid) people in the neighborhood' - Ween"
This reminds me of a funny office story. Once my coworker told me she wouldn't let her kids watch any Harry Potter movies... I asked her why, and she replied with an e-mail that contained this link.
I received an e-mail from a friend today that said the following...
"... some asshole newspaper writer in China used the Onion as a source for a legit article about Congress wanting a fucking retractable roof. Idiot!
It's not the first time someone bared their ass on this sorta thing either. This article from Wired has a few other funny ones about total fucking retards believing the god damn onion.
'So many (fucking stupid) people in the neighborhood' - Ween"
This reminds me of a funny office story. Once my coworker told me she wouldn't let her kids watch any Harry Potter movies... I asked her why, and she replied with an e-mail that contained this link.
AN E-MAIL FROM ONE OF OUR READERS:
I was reading the Fix (my fave!) on Salon.com and found a christian movie guide...it's pretty funny with all the ratings. I can't decide if it's real or an onion-type thing.
Here's a blurb about the site...
"Movieguide.org offers a listing of current movies and assigns them moral acceptability
ratings that are "based on a traditional view of the Bible and Christianity." "Ladykillers"
and "Jersey Girl" received an "Extreme Caution" rating; "Hellboy" is listed as a
"confused Christian allegory"; "Girl Next Door" is listed as "abhorrent," and its review
carries this lament: "Regrettably, because it is such an entertaining movie, 'The Girl Next
Door' may attract many young people at the local multiplex, resulting in a further loss of
innocence and purity among our youth."
I was reading the Fix (my fave!) on Salon.com and found a christian movie guide...it's pretty funny with all the ratings. I can't decide if it's real or an onion-type thing.
Here's a blurb about the site...
"Movieguide.org offers a listing of current movies and assigns them moral acceptability
ratings that are "based on a traditional view of the Bible and Christianity." "Ladykillers"
and "Jersey Girl" received an "Extreme Caution" rating; "Hellboy" is listed as a
"confused Christian allegory"; "Girl Next Door" is listed as "abhorrent," and its review
carries this lament: "Regrettably, because it is such an entertaining movie, 'The Girl Next
Door' may attract many young people at the local multiplex, resulting in a further loss of
innocence and purity among our youth."
LOCAL HISTORY INFRINGING ON THE PRESENT:
For some reason, I've been on about ghosts lately too. Found out there's a local ghost-hunting team. They take pictures all around Georgia. Including one of a warehouse-turned-practice-space here in Athens.
Separately, here's one from Old Athens Cemetary... might just be an exposure issue, though.
And for those not familiar with 'orbs' or who want more ghost stories and pictures, you can check out TrueGhost.com or go see one for yourself.
UPDATE (2:20PM): An office coworker just told me she has actually seen the famed "Maco Light" in North Carolina. (And she's no crazy-obsessed ghost hunter.)
For some reason, I've been on about ghosts lately too. Found out there's a local ghost-hunting team. They take pictures all around Georgia. Including one of a warehouse-turned-practice-space here in Athens.
Separately, here's one from Old Athens Cemetary... might just be an exposure issue, though.
And for those not familiar with 'orbs' or who want more ghost stories and pictures, you can check out TrueGhost.com or go see one for yourself.
UPDATE (2:20PM): An office coworker just told me she has actually seen the famed "Maco Light" in North Carolina. (And she's no crazy-obsessed ghost hunter.)
LOCAL HISTORY:
Spring is here, flowers and trees in bloom. And for some reason, one tree in particular is on my mind. For those not familiar, here's a bit about Athens' famous Tree That Owns Itself.
Spring is here, flowers and trees in bloom. And for some reason, one tree in particular is on my mind. For those not familiar, here's a bit about Athens' famous Tree That Owns Itself.
Thursday, April 15, 2004
HOW HIP ARE YOU?
Not sure how hip you are? Take the hipster quiz. (As it turns out, I'm not very hip.)
Not sure how hip you are? Take the hipster quiz. (As it turns out, I'm not very hip.)
POLITICAL NEWS OF THE DAY:
"In the latest round of political mudslinging, both John Kerry's and George W. Bush's election committees have replaced ads that focus on their opponents' shortcomings with ads that personally insult the voting public." Read more
"In the latest round of political mudslinging, both John Kerry's and George W. Bush's election committees have replaced ads that focus on their opponents' shortcomings with ads that personally insult the voting public." Read more
HOW TO STAY ON GOOD TERMS WITH YOUR COMPUTER GUY:
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
When you are walking through the office and you see the computer guy at someone else's desk, do not say, "Well, hello [owner of the desk], you sure look different today!" That silly little joke was never funny... and hearing it 20 times a month doesn't make it any funnier.
Sorry to sound so snippy.
This will be an ongoing series about how to stay in your computer guy's "cool book". Today's tip...
When you are walking through the office and you see the computer guy at someone else's desk, do not say, "Well, hello [owner of the desk], you sure look different today!" That silly little joke was never funny... and hearing it 20 times a month doesn't make it any funnier.
Sorry to sound so snippy.
TIME-WASTER OF THE DAY:
Don't like penguins? Want to express your displeasure AND waste valuable work time? Try this amazing little game. If nothing else, it's a great way to vent your frustrations with the IRS (happy tax day!).
Don't like penguins? Want to express your displeasure AND waste valuable work time? Try this amazing little game. If nothing else, it's a great way to vent your frustrations with the IRS (happy tax day!).
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
GOOD MUSIC DOWNLOADS:
For any of you saddened by the recent break-up of the legendary Athens group The Possibilities, you can check out their website for mp3's of unreleased material and video footage as well. For those of you not familiar, go download a selection from the last album, "Way Out". It's definitely one of our favorite CD's.
And you can still catch members of the band playing in other bands at the moment. Kevin is currently on tour with Elf Power, playing bass. And some of the other guys have gone on to form Nutria; they're playing in an amazing bill on Saturday, April 24th at The Caledonia with The Stand-Ins and Southern Bitch. It'll also be the Stand-Ins' CD release. Definitely a show worth catching.
For any of you saddened by the recent break-up of the legendary Athens group The Possibilities, you can check out their website for mp3's of unreleased material and video footage as well. For those of you not familiar, go download a selection from the last album, "Way Out". It's definitely one of our favorite CD's.
And you can still catch members of the band playing in other bands at the moment. Kevin is currently on tour with Elf Power, playing bass. And some of the other guys have gone on to form Nutria; they're playing in an amazing bill on Saturday, April 24th at The Caledonia with The Stand-Ins and Southern Bitch. It'll also be the Stand-Ins' CD release. Definitely a show worth catching.
CONCERT/AFTER-PARTY REVIEW:
NOW IT'S OVERHEAD / SPECIAL TEAMS @ CALEDONIA - 4/13/04
(AKA NIO AND "THAT BAND THAT KEEPS CHANGING NAMES")
In a rare two-times-in-as-many-months appearance, Now It's Overhead returned from tour to Athens last night. The Caledonia was packed. Unfortunately, something musta' been in the air (lazy Tuesday?) cause the crowd was fairly sedate. The bands both played great - and I mean GREAT, but someone shoulda told the soundguy that they were playing, cause he didn't seem to notice. Luckily, NIO can outshine any bad situation. Highlights included their great rendition of The Magnetic Fields' "The Book Of Love" and the sets' closer, "Who's Jon?" with just Andy and Clay. Anyway, onto the important stuff...
What the hell do people talk about at after-parties? Try as I might, I can't ever come up with something better than "Hey, good show." or "How was tour?". Other folks can happily chat-up musicians and fellow fans alike with talks of pop culture or their favorite food or the latest trends in hipster-wear... I just watch and nod most of the time. If anyone has any good suggestions, lemme know...
NOW IT'S OVERHEAD / SPECIAL TEAMS @ CALEDONIA - 4/13/04
(AKA NIO AND "THAT BAND THAT KEEPS CHANGING NAMES")
In a rare two-times-in-as-many-months appearance, Now It's Overhead returned from tour to Athens last night. The Caledonia was packed. Unfortunately, something musta' been in the air (lazy Tuesday?) cause the crowd was fairly sedate. The bands both played great - and I mean GREAT, but someone shoulda told the soundguy that they were playing, cause he didn't seem to notice. Luckily, NIO can outshine any bad situation. Highlights included their great rendition of The Magnetic Fields' "The Book Of Love" and the sets' closer, "Who's Jon?" with just Andy and Clay. Anyway, onto the important stuff...
What the hell do people talk about at after-parties? Try as I might, I can't ever come up with something better than "Hey, good show." or "How was tour?". Other folks can happily chat-up musicians and fellow fans alike with talks of pop culture or their favorite food or the latest trends in hipster-wear... I just watch and nod most of the time. If anyone has any good suggestions, lemme know...
WEIRD ATHENS MUSIC NEWS:
As reported in the April 7, 2004 issue of Flagpole, Dave Weiglein of the Eskimos is starting a "techno karaoke night" every Sunday at Tasty World. From the paper, "Weiglein puts on a robot suit and encourages the crowd to get up and try their Eurotrash best. So, if your parents or loved ones are in town some Sunday why not take 'em over. Remember how mom used to love Front 242's "Headhunter"? Relive the memories."
Of course, April 7 seemed awfully close to April Fools Day to me, and I had my doubts that this was real...
So, I contacted "Robo-Dave" and his minions to ask about this... didn't get any info on the karaoke night, however I did get an MP3 from Robo-Dave called Ponies are Boss.
Make sure you listen to this song, it's gonna change your life.
As reported in the April 7, 2004 issue of Flagpole, Dave Weiglein of the Eskimos is starting a "techno karaoke night" every Sunday at Tasty World. From the paper, "Weiglein puts on a robot suit and encourages the crowd to get up and try their Eurotrash best. So, if your parents or loved ones are in town some Sunday why not take 'em over. Remember how mom used to love Front 242's "Headhunter"? Relive the memories."
Of course, April 7 seemed awfully close to April Fools Day to me, and I had my doubts that this was real...
So, I contacted "Robo-Dave" and his minions to ask about this... didn't get any info on the karaoke night, however I did get an MP3 from Robo-Dave called Ponies are Boss.
Make sure you listen to this song, it's gonna change your life.
Tuesday, April 13, 2004
TIME-WASTING TIP OF THE DAY:
From an anonymous coworker...
Walk around the office with papers and/or files in your hand. Look like you're going somewhere. When near people of authority, quicken your pace and harden your eyes a bit. Stop by the offices/cubicles of folks you know while on your way to your final destination: lunch/quitting time.
(Note: Variations on this technique also work when you're somewhere you're not supposed to be - film studio lots, large backstage areas, hospital wards, etc.)
From an anonymous coworker...
Walk around the office with papers and/or files in your hand. Look like you're going somewhere. When near people of authority, quicken your pace and harden your eyes a bit. Stop by the offices/cubicles of folks you know while on your way to your final destination: lunch/quitting time.
(Note: Variations on this technique also work when you're somewhere you're not supposed to be - film studio lots, large backstage areas, hospital wards, etc.)
COMIC STRIPS:
Like movie reviews but hate their high-brow, pure-text snobbery? Try Flick Skinny. Comic characters give quick capsule reviews of all the biggest releases... with an attitude. There's a great interview with the creators in this week's Flagpole.
And speaking of comics, hop over to the Gardner Linn Fan Club to check out one of the greatest post-modern experiments in comic strips ever: The Adventures of Lil' Gardner and Robot Jesus. It's only backlogged to a certain date but continues into the blog and its archives.
Like movie reviews but hate their high-brow, pure-text snobbery? Try Flick Skinny. Comic characters give quick capsule reviews of all the biggest releases... with an attitude. There's a great interview with the creators in this week's Flagpole.
And speaking of comics, hop over to the Gardner Linn Fan Club to check out one of the greatest post-modern experiments in comic strips ever: The Adventures of Lil' Gardner and Robot Jesus. It's only backlogged to a certain date but continues into the blog and its archives.
OFFICE STORY OF THE DAY:
So, I got a new haircut. I really dislike getting haircuts. I dislike waiting in the waiting room. I dislike explaining how to cut my hair. I dislike all the small talk during the haircut. But most of all, I hate going to work the next day with a new haircut...
Throughout the entire day, everyone feels it is their duty to inform you that you got a haircut. It'd be different if people simply complimented your new haircut... but no, they must say one of the following:
"You got a new haircut!"
"You got your haircut!"
"Did you get a haircut?"
Is it too much to simply say, "I like your haircut"? Or better yet, say nothing at all...
So, I got a new haircut. I really dislike getting haircuts. I dislike waiting in the waiting room. I dislike explaining how to cut my hair. I dislike all the small talk during the haircut. But most of all, I hate going to work the next day with a new haircut...
Throughout the entire day, everyone feels it is their duty to inform you that you got a haircut. It'd be different if people simply complimented your new haircut... but no, they must say one of the following:
"You got a new haircut!"
"You got your haircut!"
"Did you get a haircut?"
Is it too much to simply say, "I like your haircut"? Or better yet, say nothing at all...
CONCERT REVIEWS:
GRUNGE COVER SHOW @ THE ULTRAODD COMPOUND - 4/10/04
(AKA "TOO DRUNK TO PLAY OR CARE... JUST LIKE GRUNGE")
"I've never been to a vigil; I've been to some [events] that people said reminded them of vigils..." --Bruce McCulloch
One keg was way gone by the time the 2nd opening act, the so-hardcore-we-have-to-lean-over-to-use-our-mics band Music Hates You took the "stage". So, you can imagine the tone of the evening as punks, gutterpunks, and other various forms of punks who would never spend money on something like a 'cover charge' streamed into the newly-renamed "UltraOdd Complex".
I miss house parties - there aren't enough of them, and thus I try never to miss any show I'm hip enough to know about at this place. Anyway, Music Hates You (who I hear can't really get booked anymore for being 'too hardcore') played a heavy set of originals, folks continued to drink, and then the crowd packed it in to hear them cover Nirvana for half an hour. Tunes like "You Know You're Right" and "Negative Creep" were played nice n'heavy. And lines like, "Look on the bright side, suicide..." rang through the room with a powerful impact ... okay, not really, but some drunk punk/alt-rockers banged their heads and cheered loudly during it.
A brief break brought up "An Array of Brown Flannel" (AKA "Brownarray") - a mixture of folks from Brown Frown (who played a set earlier that night) and Annaray, offering their own versions of selections from Mudhoney, The Jesus Lizard, and Sonic Youth among others. The first part of the set started somewhere between sloppy and solid (where grunge should be!) and went downhill from there (where grunge should go!). There was some tackling and wrestling between band members and audience and a great time was had by all. Then, 2nd keg ran out.
(Future Forgotten Promise: Someday I'll take pics at these shows and so these reviews are actually interesting - in the meantime, have fun with the links.)
GRUNGE COVER SHOW @ THE ULTRAODD COMPOUND - 4/10/04
(AKA "TOO DRUNK TO PLAY OR CARE... JUST LIKE GRUNGE")
"I've never been to a vigil; I've been to some [events] that people said reminded them of vigils..." --Bruce McCulloch
One keg was way gone by the time the 2nd opening act, the so-hardcore-we-have-to-lean-over-to-use-our-mics band Music Hates You took the "stage". So, you can imagine the tone of the evening as punks, gutterpunks, and other various forms of punks who would never spend money on something like a 'cover charge' streamed into the newly-renamed "UltraOdd Complex".
I miss house parties - there aren't enough of them, and thus I try never to miss any show I'm hip enough to know about at this place. Anyway, Music Hates You (who I hear can't really get booked anymore for being 'too hardcore') played a heavy set of originals, folks continued to drink, and then the crowd packed it in to hear them cover Nirvana for half an hour. Tunes like "You Know You're Right" and "Negative Creep" were played nice n'heavy. And lines like, "Look on the bright side, suicide..." rang through the room with a powerful impact ... okay, not really, but some drunk punk/alt-rockers banged their heads and cheered loudly during it.
A brief break brought up "An Array of Brown Flannel" (AKA "Brownarray") - a mixture of folks from Brown Frown (who played a set earlier that night) and Annaray, offering their own versions of selections from Mudhoney, The Jesus Lizard, and Sonic Youth among others. The first part of the set started somewhere between sloppy and solid (where grunge should be!) and went downhill from there (where grunge should go!). There was some tackling and wrestling between band members and audience and a great time was had by all. Then, 2nd keg ran out.
(Future Forgotten Promise: Someday I'll take pics at these shows and so these reviews are actually interesting - in the meantime, have fun with the links.)
Monday, April 12, 2004
RECOMMENDED TIME KILLER OF THE DAY:
Play some Mario Bros. It's a Macromedia Flash emulator of the old Nintendo game.
Play some Mario Bros. It's a Macromedia Flash emulator of the old Nintendo game.
CONCERT REVIEWS:
HAYRIDE & THE TOM COLLINS @ 40 WATT - 4/9/04
(AKA: "BATTLE OF THE LEGENDARY (Read: OLD) DRUMMERS")
Holy Hell Hayride played a damn good set! The more-proficient-than-prolific trio played their (uncharacteristically sober) arses off to a fairly sizable and appreciative crowd. Highlights included... well, pretty much everything - except for their ballads; those've gotta go. Like always, their show's lagniappe is the 'tween-song banter from this the greatest smart-assed trio this side of Ceiling Fan.
Soon after, the nearly-equally-smart-assed-while-less-verbose Tom Collins took the stage and without a doubt offered their own large serving of rock. The now-good-sized crowd cheered loudly song after song with most of the folks sticking around all the way and getting treated to a great Television cover near the end of the set (ended fairly early too... by 1:30 - as seems to be a new trend at the Watt these days).
A side note: in attendance was bassist-extraordinaire and black-fashion-enthusiast Dave Schools - who will soon be hitting the road with Tom Collins' drummer (and former Harvey Milk member) Kyle Spence as J Mascis' backing band "The Fog" (appearing at the 40 Watt April 28th!).
HAYRIDE & THE TOM COLLINS @ 40 WATT - 4/9/04
(AKA: "BATTLE OF THE LEGENDARY (Read: OLD) DRUMMERS")
Holy Hell Hayride played a damn good set! The more-proficient-than-prolific trio played their (uncharacteristically sober) arses off to a fairly sizable and appreciative crowd. Highlights included... well, pretty much everything - except for their ballads; those've gotta go. Like always, their show's lagniappe is the 'tween-song banter from this the greatest smart-assed trio this side of Ceiling Fan.
Soon after, the nearly-equally-smart-assed-while-less-verbose Tom Collins took the stage and without a doubt offered their own large serving of rock. The now-good-sized crowd cheered loudly song after song with most of the folks sticking around all the way and getting treated to a great Television cover near the end of the set (ended fairly early too... by 1:30 - as seems to be a new trend at the Watt these days).
A side note: in attendance was bassist-extraordinaire and black-fashion-enthusiast Dave Schools - who will soon be hitting the road with Tom Collins' drummer (and former Harvey Milk member) Kyle Spence as J Mascis' backing band "The Fog" (appearing at the 40 Watt April 28th!).
WORK STORY OF THE DAY:
Today I got a hilarious e-mail today from my boss that included the link found below. I don't think he meant for it to be funny...
http://members.cox.net/macallan_the/GW/GWBush1_Start.htm
The part that cracks me up is the photos of Dubya in work gloves, with a cowboy hat, hammer in hand, etc... He's such a hard worker! Working class!
Reminds me of a funny transcript from Bill Maher (sign up for the Free Day Pass to read it).
Today I got a hilarious e-mail today from my boss that included the link found below. I don't think he meant for it to be funny...
http://members.cox.net/macallan_the/GW/GWBush1_Start.htm
The part that cracks me up is the photos of Dubya in work gloves, with a cowboy hat, hammer in hand, etc... He's such a hard worker! Working class!
Reminds me of a funny transcript from Bill Maher (sign up for the Free Day Pass to read it).
Saturday, April 10, 2004
REQUIEM FOR KINDERCORE:
The upstanding citizens in Brown Frown have a pretty funny take on the whole Kindercore debacle (yes, it was at debacle-level). You'll have to scroll some, but it should be easy to find at their as-of-yet-incomplete site here.
The upstanding citizens in Brown Frown have a pretty funny take on the whole Kindercore debacle (yes, it was at debacle-level). You'll have to scroll some, but it should be easy to find at their as-of-yet-incomplete site here.
WHO ARE WE?:
The folks who post here are mostly musicians and/or artists from Athens, GA who have day jobs and are often bored at them. Whatever subculture that creates, we write about it. From time to time, we'll have guest contributers who aren't afraid to be known by their real names (unlike the blatant cowards to run this thing), but mostly this'll hopefully just be a great place to kill some time, find links to other cool places to kill more time when you should be working, and read about things Athens.
So, welcome.
The folks who post here are mostly musicians and/or artists from Athens, GA who have day jobs and are often bored at them. Whatever subculture that creates, we write about it. From time to time, we'll have guest contributers who aren't afraid to be known by their real names (unlike the blatant cowards to run this thing), but mostly this'll hopefully just be a great place to kill some time, find links to other cool places to kill more time when you should be working, and read about things Athens.
So, welcome.
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