Tuesday, August 31, 2004
I couldn't resist posting the This Modern World RNC cartoon from last Summer.
Also, check out the latest This Modern World.
This story isn't funny, but it made me so mad I had to post it. How exactly do you "accidentally" level a house? Is "Developer" really the right term for these folks?
AthensMusic.com has a brief report on an apparently disastrous Sun Ray Music Festival. It really is sad because it was a pretty great line-up (as far as festivals go), and I normally would have been there. But that's part of the problem, right? They scheduled it for the same weekend as the Drive-By Truckers' CD release party (which has been booked for a VERY long time), it was just a bit too far out of town to be convenient (and certainly not convenient to Atlanta), and while the acts were diverse (which is cool), they weren't streamlined enough to draw the hardcore "noodling" crowd who might've made the trek and camped all weekend. Good idea, good lineup, questionable execution. All in all, sad thing - woulda been nice to have our own Bonnaroo.
If y'all didn't see it on Large-Hearted Boy the other day, there's a video BitTorrent download of the Drive-By Truckers' recent show at Tipitina's in New Orleans. Set seems a bit fractured, but it does apparently contain at least one rare performance and a personal news announcement. Check it out here.
(As always, this is a limited time download, and since it's been up a coupla' days already, get it soon if you want it.)
(As always, this is a limited time download, and since it's been up a coupla' days already, get it soon if you want it.)
Three thoughts:
- Lots of those "handmade" signs at the RNC last night sure did have similar handwriting. Do all Republicans have the same penmanship?
- Being a black guy at the RNC is like being a hot chick at a football game... you're guaranteed of getting on TV.
- I'm convinced... Wolf Blitzer is a robot. He makes Aaron Brown look human.
- Lots of those "handmade" signs at the RNC last night sure did have similar handwriting. Do all Republicans have the same penmanship?
- Being a black guy at the RNC is like being a hot chick at a football game... you're guaranteed of getting on TV.
- I'm convinced... Wolf Blitzer is a robot. He makes Aaron Brown look human.
Bo Derek, Stephen Baldwin, Carolyn Hudson, Ivory... Whew, the repubs sure know how to throw a celebrity party!
Monday, August 30, 2004
Check out this website, where folks are trying to prevent the Repiglicans from using Johnny Cash's music during the RNC.
This comes from Financial Guru...
It's a hall of shame for bad band publicity photos.
This one is our favorite, I don't know why... I'll bet this band rocks!
Be sure to read the comments under each photo!
Since you're likely to hear a whole bunch of made-up words this week's political gathering, might as well learn the art of word creation yourself, right? Try out Word Gizmo. It'll automatically generate a fake word for you, which you can then create a definition for. It will then be entered into their dictionary (and hopefully, one day, into the popular lexicon).
(Link found via Memepool.com.)
(Link found via Memepool.com.)
Friday, August 27, 2004
A while back, talk show host Bill O'Reilly* (along with many other folks) decided it'd be a good idea to boycott French products. A bit later, he said the effects of the boycott could be seen and offered as proof reports in the "Paris Business Review". But the whiney liberal media contested that there was no such publication.
Well, obviously Bill had awesome insider information, because now you can see the online version of that very publication and view for yourself the devastating effects of America's grass-roots boycott of that communist nation. Take that, Paris!**
*Check out this link too, it's funny.
**Not to be confused with the video of the same name.
Thanks to the Vet Folks for these!
Well, obviously Bill had awesome insider information, because now you can see the online version of that very publication and view for yourself the devastating effects of America's grass-roots boycott of that communist nation. Take that, Paris!**
*Check out this link too, it's funny.
**Not to be confused with the video of the same name.
Thanks to the Vet Folks for these!
AthensMusic.com has put up some pictures from Barbara Cue's performance the other night at the Botanical Gardens. It was a really great show, so I'm glad someone remembered their camera.
Well, it's here. The long-anticipated release party for the Drive-By Truckers' newest, "The Dirty South". Two nights, back to back at the 40 Watt. David Barbe opens tonight, and Truckadelic plays a special reunion show to open on Saturday. Get tickets today ahead of time at Lo-Yo-Yo Stuff or Schoolkids Records because it will sell out both nights.
For those less-inclined to rock it in a packed-out 40 Watt filled with baseball caps, there's always the Sun Ray Music Festival. Not too far of a drive, and the line-up is pretty cool (and diverse) - lots of Athens folks there (and Cee-Lo!). See this Banner Article for more info.
Thursday, August 26, 2004
Since it's been a few days elapsed since Hillary posted about it (man, this site's getting incestuous), thought I'd make mention of the newest craze in military-scandal-inspired photography: Doing A Lynndie!
Thanks again to Karate Media for more cool video links (you really should check out the ones from yesterday - it's pretty cool to see the Minus 5 play a Possibilities song on Conan). Today, there's footage (shot by guitar virtuoso Ben Spraker) from a Flicker Halloween show several years ago featuring Don Chambers as Johnny Cash. In addition, there's the Insomniac episode when Dave Attell came to Athens. Check it out.
Well, tis the season for break-ups, it seems. First the end of DMCB, then Reading, and now, after having left behind their name-bearing party shack (The International House of Chaos) just a few weeks ago, the members of the long-running (for punk, at least) act Community Chaos have decided to call it quits. They'll play their last notes tonight at the Lunch Paper - and a punk funeral is always something to see.
1. Chicken
Fried, Fingers, Grilled, Sandwiches, Salad, Pasta, BBQ, Rotisserie, etc.
2. Beef
Steaks, Burgers, Roast, Meat Loaf, Tacos, etc.
3. Pork
BBQ, Ribs, Loin, Bacon, Fatback, Chops, etc.
4. Seafood
Fish, Shrimp, Crab, Oysters, Crawfish, Scallops, Lobster, etc.
This might be the toughest round yet. Don't forget to head over to the Gardner Linn Fan Club (the genesis of all this stuff - and who will host the championship rounds of competition this fall) to see the results thus far and cast your vote in the latest round of competition over there. Polls close at 4:45 PM EST Monday. Happy voting.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
This story is perhaps the greatest real-life metaphor since the Titanic. I don't wanna ruin it with a preface.
(I'm sure several other sites offer the same thing, but I have to limit myself to two because my brain is filled with other useless information.)
We Vs. The Shark headlines the Caledonia with hip-hop-ish act Bling The Children Back Home. Contrary to previous reports, this is not their CD release show. That'll be next time. In the meantime, I'm sure they're ready to (math-)rock the hell out of the place.
(Note: Also contrary to some previous listings, David Barbe & The Quick Hooks will not be playing at Caliente's tonight.)
(Note: Also contrary to some previous listings, David Barbe & The Quick Hooks will not be playing at Caliente's tonight.)
All together now... THANK YOU to the 40 Watt Club for finally updating its Web site. Man, that 1995-looking site they've had up for the past couple of years (the one with the Vic Chestnutt audio file that automatically loaded) has been replaced with a much more navigable and attractive site.
Looking at the code, it's still using tables for layout... which isn't so great. However, no one would notice that but a nerd...
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
A rarities collection from Harvey Milk known as "The Kelly Sessions" makes its way into stores today through Escape Artist Records. It's a collection of recordings the band made with Kelly Keneipp before recording their first album. I think, at this point, more has been released from the band after its break-up than before.
Due to the incredible lack of information on the web about Harvey Milk (which is soon to be remedied, so I hear), this is about all I know of it - though I saw it at Wuxtry yesterday, so I'm sure you can pick it up in Athens. Point being, perhaps you wanna bring a little extra cash with you on your way to pick up The Dirty South.
Thanks to Karate Media for sending us a link to this sure-to-be-controversial Washington Post article concerning the (lack of) innovative guitar skills from women. He adds, "Please discuss. For novelty's sake, try *not* to invoke the name "Jucifer" during the debate..."
Is Amber alone? Can anyone add a name?
Is Amber alone? Can anyone add a name?
Barbara Cue closes out the Sunflower Music Series at the Botanical Gardens tonight. Sunny Ortiz (of Widespread Panic) will be guesting with them. Clay Leverett (of Lona, The Chasers, and Now It's Overhead) will be opening with a solo set. Expect both sets to be 'toned down' a bit for the casual atmosphere - most especially if it rains anytime in the next 11 hours and the event has to be moved inside. It all starts at 7PM, and you must get tickets ahead of time (it will sell out). Pay over the phone at: 706/542-6014.
In other Barbara Cue news, their new album, Rhythm Oil, will be released on October 12th. You can also get their entire performance at this year's Bonnaroo Music Festival on CD at this site.
All in all, not a bad way to start winding down summer.
The much-rumored break-up of Macha is at least partially untrue. Word has it that Josh McKay, the only original member of the group still performing in Macha, has assembled a new touring band which includes several members of other bands. (One of those bands is Maserati - who themselves have lost some members, lent out some members, and have a new split with We Vs. The Shark on the way through Hello Sir Records.)
When Macha finally does perform again, in a month or two, expect a good mix of new and old material to be performed by the now five-piece group.
Monday, August 23, 2004
Well, well, the day is upon us - basically. Though tomorrow is new release day, you can already hear the new Truckers record on 90.5 and pick it up at local shops (I'm listening to it right now). You can also still get tickets for their back-to-back nights at the 40 Watt this weekend at Lo-Yo-Yo Stuff, Schoolkids Records, and through JomoEntertainment.com. Trust me, all of this is worth it.
In related news, DVDGuy passed this bit of info on:
"...DBT are scheduled to be on Good Day Atlanta tomorrow morning on Fox 5. Check it out if you're up that early..."
(This is probably the most dirty and Southern Good Day Atlanta might ever be.)
Like the late Warren Zevon says, "Turn those speakers up full blast, play it all night long."
He also mentioned a slew of upcoming dates (the specifics of which I can't remember due to the Miller Brewing Company's products) for the Japancakes' return to live performances that will coincide with the release of their new album, Waking Hours (September 14th - on WARM). Can't wait.
Saw this ad in this month's PC Magazine. Kinda strange that a business would be so worried with its employees' computer activity that they'd pay money for a spy software like this... evs.
Anyways, I liked it so much, I added it to our sidebar (with a tad bit of photoshopping). Check it out ----->
R.E.M. has announced the opening acts for their upcoming fall U.S. tour. Among them: Five-Eight and Now It's Overhead (who have their own fall tour lined up). To see R.E.M.'s whole tour schedule, click here.
(Thanks to DVDGuy for the heads up.)
(Thanks to DVDGuy for the heads up.)
Have you seen this video of Dubya explaining the nature of sovereign tribes on CSPAN?
Thanks to Financial Guru for sending me this story of an extremely hairy Chinese man. Be sure to also watch his music video.
Friday, August 20, 2004
As of today, New Yorkers maybe asked, "What would you like to inhale?" (Date-rape fume technology surely on the way.)
(Thanks to Bored for the link!)
(Thanks to Bored for the link!)
Daily foo is another great site for finding the coolest/funniest/weirdest links around - like this site full of unusual aviation pictures.
Students are back so, you know, avoid the Theatre at all costs. However, the Caledonia's hosting two nights of Back-To-School Rock:
FRI: Ben Mize and Jackpot City. There will likely be drinking involved. And rocking.
SAT: The Tom Collins and (Capital) A (FKA "Meat Wave"). Both bands feature former Harvey Milk members. The Tom Collins rocks (everyone says it, but in a "Zeppelin-ish" kinda way) and A is really amazing to see play. I highly recommend not missing this. (Read this Flagpole article on The Tom Collins for more info.)
FRI: Ben Mize and Jackpot City. There will likely be drinking involved. And rocking.
SAT: The Tom Collins and (Capital) A (FKA "Meat Wave"). Both bands feature former Harvey Milk members. The Tom Collins rocks (everyone says it, but in a "Zeppelin-ish" kinda way) and A is really amazing to see play. I highly recommend not missing this. (Read this Flagpole article on The Tom Collins for more info.)
First off, I don't think we've mentioned it yet... but nice re-design of the Flagpole site! The new design has been in place for a few weeks now, and it's much more professional-looking than the old FileMaker Pro-driven site. Good stuff. Still not quite using standards-compliant code with CSS and XHTML, but... err... did I just say that? Sorry, such a computer nerd am I.
So... this week's issue was pretty good. Nice article about Athens Music 2004. There's a few bands that I might've liked to have seen included (and some even excluded), but can't really complain. It's nice to see an entire double page spread dedicated to locals.
Also, great wrap up of the Pylon show, despite being a week late. I particulary enjoyed Gordon's fan-boy review of the show. I saw him in the front row that night jumping up and down like a 19 year old girl at a Jet By Day show...
These two articles, combined with the great stories on Dexter Romweber, the Fountains, and the Tom Collins, made this Flagpole a great one.
We only have one little complaint about this issue. It seems that an up-and-coming band like We Vs. The Shark would've gotten more coverage for their cd release show (Wednesday night at the Caledonia). Expect more coverage about this show right here at thedayjobs.com next week.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
We always miss the important holidays here, but luckily, The Angry Magic Duck remembered Elvis' deathiversary. But that's probably because the photo of Elvis inscribed to June Carter Cash is his official Ombudsman. Seriously.
Students are back (more on that later), so it's a good time to hide in front of your computer instead of going out. Some stories up today...
Athensmusic.net put up some Pylon pics and a nice quick capsule review of a recent Banner-Herald article ranking the top Athens albums of all time on their main page. More Pylon and a whole bunch of other stuff is in their latest news update. Finally, they put up a really cool article on the walking tour of Athens - details all the historic places in Athens music.
Pitchfork announces Now It's Overhead's "world tour" - after they've already gotten back from Europe.
The Banner put up an review on the new Mendoza Line album (they used to live in Athens) that starts with a great question: Why does indie country sound so much more honest and lively than alt-country nowadays? The article also features a review of the new Macha album. In addition, Krush Girl Chris Bilheimer offers up his CD picks as of late and there's an article on jazz combo Kenosha Kid scoring Chaplin (you know, if you're into that sorta thing...).
Athensmusic.net put up some Pylon pics and a nice quick capsule review of a recent Banner-Herald article ranking the top Athens albums of all time on their main page. More Pylon and a whole bunch of other stuff is in their latest news update. Finally, they put up a really cool article on the walking tour of Athens - details all the historic places in Athens music.
Pitchfork announces Now It's Overhead's "world tour" - after they've already gotten back from Europe.
The Banner put up an review on the new Mendoza Line album (they used to live in Athens) that starts with a great question: Why does indie country sound so much more honest and lively than alt-country nowadays? The article also features a review of the new Macha album. In addition, Krush Girl Chris Bilheimer offers up his CD picks as of late and there's an article on jazz combo Kenosha Kid scoring Chaplin (you know, if you're into that sorta thing...).
I consider myself a pretty rational fella. When involved in debates, I can often see both sides of the issue. However, there's one debate where I see black/white instead of shades of grey.... the toilet seat.
Women have always complained about men who fail to lower the toilet seat after pissing. Why is that? Why is it any harder for a woman to lower the seat before taking a piss than it is for a man to raise the seat before taking a piss?
Many women say, "I'll fall into the toilet bowl if you forget to lower the seat." What?
My response is, "I'll piss all over the toilet if you forget to raise the seat."
Can someone please give me a rational version of the female perspective in this debate? Is there one?
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
DBT's site's relaunched in anticipation of next week's cd release (courtesy of Jenn Bryant, who is awesome). Patterson's written an intro piece for the album (man, that guy writes a lot), and there's new tracks you can hear. All a tease for Tuesday.
Jonathan Byrd makes the trek back down to Athens to perform with Dromedary at the Seney-Stovall Chapel at 8PM (click link for directions). I caught one of their earlier combo performances by happenstance, and it really impressed me. Really, if you have the opportunity, check it out, because it doesn't happen often.
I can't help it. I had to post this. Los Angeles County V. Silly String. Gotta love it.
1. Pylon's "Hits"
While technically a compilation, this has been the only thing commercially available for years that presents Pylon's early works. So, it counts.
"Now rock n' roll. Now! Now! Now! Now!..."
2. Vic Chesnutt's "West Of Rome" (Remastered Version)
Everyone has their favorite Vic CD; Vic's is "Left to His Own Devices", but mine is this little gem. The new version even has "Flying" on it (from the "Speed Racer" documentary). He is not a victim.
"When the bug hits, that's the time to scratch it..."
3. Neutral Milk Hotel's "In The Aeroplane Over The Sea"
What's there left to say about this mystery of an album? Definitely the landmark achievement of the E6 crew. Walks the razor-sharp edge between pretense and depth. Somewhere Jeff Mangum is alive and hopefully making music.
"I am listening to hear where you are..."
4. The Glands' self-titled album
A new classic. One that took a lot of folks by surprise. Skilled and precise, but with a certain loose feel to it. Makes you feel both uncomfortable and upbeat at times. Listening with headphones makes you marvel even more.
"Why did I go? I had it so easy..."
Vote now in the "comments" section. Votes will be added up and made final on Friday. Meanwhile, be sure to stop off at the GLFC to vote in Qualifying Round, Heat 13 to make the call between Rushmore, Led Zepplin IV, bourbon, and Dante's Inferno.
With all the Dubya jokes we've been tossing out, figured a Kerry pic might balance things out a bit. It really is a striking resemblence...
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Today, BBC2 debuted the new R.E.M. single, "Leaving New York". Wanna hear it?
(Thanks to DVDGuy for the link. Please Note: We're not hosting this file, so we don't know how long it'll be up; get it while it's hot.)
(Thanks to DVDGuy for the link. Please Note: We're not hosting this file, so we don't know how long it'll be up; get it while it's hot.)
Annaray, who rock like you wouldn't believe, are busy redesigning their website and getting ready for a busy fall. But in the meantime, they've offered up an online EP featuring songs from both their albums plus some previously unreleased live material. Download The Quattro Sinko EP here. It's a really good introduction if you've yet to hear them, and a solid compilation if you have heard them. And it's free, which makes it all the sweeter.
Well, as reported in today's police blotter, traffic is gonna be a mess for the next couple of weeks. Those darned students....
Costco is taking strides to make your life more convenient. Now, when you pop in to buy bulk chicken and orange juice, you can also pick out the vessel in which you shall lay in eternal rest. What will they think of next?
Today, The Sunshine Fix release their sophomore LP, "Green Imagination" on spinART. If you get it early, you can get the limited edition version with a bonus DVD.
Tonight, The Weight and Psychic Hearts open for Whiskey & Co. at the Caledonia.
Tonight, The Weight and Psychic Hearts open for Whiskey & Co. at the Caledonia.
Monday, August 16, 2004
(Found via Large-Hearted Boy.)
Those familiar to UGA's campus maybe missing a familiar face (and eating option) this year, as the "Hot Dog Man" is in a battle for the future of his business on campus.
(Thanks to Hillary for the link! She's rooting for the Hot Dog Man, as I think we all are.)
(Thanks to Hillary for the link! She's rooting for the Hot Dog Man, as I think we all are.)
PATTERSON HOOD & WILL JOHNSON
GEORGIA THEATRE - 8/11/04
Often times at shows you will see a performer really give it their all and the audience reciprocate with tons of energy. Other times, you will see a performer not have their best night and the audience reacts in a similarly lackluster fashion. But rare is it that I've ever seen a couple of great performers play amazing shows only to be surrounded by audience chatter and weak applause. However, such was the case last Wednesday night at the Georgia Theatre.
Will Johnson, of Centro-Matic, took the stage first. On several songs he was accompanied by a pedal steel player, but often he would play alone. The songs themselves were very quiet and downbeat - not your usual Centro-Matic-style stuff. It was, however, still a great set. Except, that you could often not hear some of it because of folks who would rather pay $7 to drink and talk at a bar when people are trying to watch music than just go to another bar and drink and talk for free. Go figure. Will, however, is always gracious as a performer and thanked the audience members who were attentive repeatedly adding that every time he visits Athens his "crush on this town" increases. We like him visiting often too.
Soon after Will finished his set, Patterson Hood took the stage accompanied by Don Chambers and Brad Morgan (known collectively as "The Lucky Brown Boys"). After opening with a slightly altered and more downbeat version of "Careless", he played surprisingly few actual Truckers songs, preferring to stick to his own solo material. The songs were played fairly energetically and upbeat, for the most part, and much of the audience 'got into it' singing along from time to time. At one point, though, Patterson had to ask the audience to keep it down during "Sands of Iwo Jima" (from the upcoming DBT record, "The Dirty South"). It's a fairly soft song that he wrote for his grandfather - a veteran of the Korean War. (I like it because it sort of indicts Hollywood.) It's always one of the best songs in Patterson's solo sets.
Another high point of the set, for me at least, was "White Knuckle, West Virginia" - one of the oldest songs in the Truckers' catalog that has yet to make its way onto an album. Played in a slightly shortened version (it can sometimes run up to 15 minutes - depending on how much 'story-telling' Patterson adds in between verses), it brought the audience, not matter how chatty, to an excited cheer at both points during the song and afterwards. Don Chambers (who is working his way up my list of favorite performers with a quickness) performed several of his great songs that night as well - and with Brad and Patterson behind him, they were played perfectly.
During the set, Patterson revealed that he started work on his second solo record early last week with David Barbe. Don and Brad will also appear on the album. He estimated it'd be out in the first half of next year, but you know how those things go (he's also got to balance it with Jason Isbell's solo record - which is shelved at the moment, waiting on a good time to release it after "The Dirty South" hype dies down). In any case, it's something else to look forward to.
To see Patterson's setlist or to download his entire performance, you can click here. Will Johnson's set from that night, as well as his performance two nights later at the Earl (in Atlanta) can be found here. Thanks to taper-extraordinaire Sloan Simpson for the recording and links. Sloan always makes great recordings and - even better - his microphones cut down on chatter. If you haven't already downloaded BitTorrent, you should do so. It's better than .mp3 and most of the stuff we link to will use it. And since this was a really great set and perfomance, it's worth any time it'd take to download. As always, this is a limited-time upload (based on how often it's downloaded). It's already been up for a couple of days, so get it asap, before it's gone.
Friday, August 13, 2004
Just got this from Film Producer:
"This is actually a picture of Castro visiting the national weather center in Cuba as they prepare for the hurricane. Possibly the funniest thing i've ever seen."
"This is actually a picture of Castro visiting the national weather center in Cuba as they prepare for the hurricane. Possibly the funniest thing i've ever seen."
My favorite thing on roadtrips is to find some cool out-of-the-way place that serves amazing food with good atmosphere - like this place. Roadfood.com makes it easy to find some of those kinda places. You can select by state or type of food. I can think of tons of places it doesn't know about (i.e. Dreamland in Tuscaloosa), but even just having one or two good finds on a trip can make it a much better ride. And isn't a disgustingly full belly what vacation is all about?
ROBODAVE, the Japanese are forcing your kind into the ring to FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT! Check out this article and see the new trend in Japan....KICK-BOXING ROBOTS!
Check out this hilarious advertisement for Procrit over at the Tit Offensive.
FRI: Southern Bitch plays the Caledonia. Honestly, I say a lot of things about a lot of bands, but with the Truckers' shows becoming increasingly crowded and uncomfortable and Jucifer never in town, Southern Bitch might be the best rock show around. Plus, you couldn't ask for a nicer group of folks. One word of warning: you'll likely need earplugs (I don't say that often - but they like it loud and don't care that The Caledonia's a small place). Read their article in this week's Flagpole for more info.
SAT: Tiny Sticks, an 80's cover band featuring members of Of Montreal, Elf Power, and Macha plays at the 40 Watt as part of Chunklet editor Henry Owings' wedding celebration.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Pics we've taken/used/borrowed are up all over the place now...
Patton Oswalt's done his Athens visit wrap-up in a Day 1 and Day 2 (Warning: Day 2 contains a photo of a man's 'naughty bits').
Also, The Angry Magic Duck has his new Bass-Playing Hottie Of The Week (Jicks' bassist Joanna Bolme, currently touring with The Minders).
And finally, and wonderfully, Pylon was nice enough to reference us on their newly-redesigned website (now 2 pages!). Fans should check out the Creative Loafing article that Computer Support mentioned earlier today as well. (One of these days, we'll shut up about Pylon - but let's face it, they rock.)
Patton Oswalt's done his Athens visit wrap-up in a Day 1 and Day 2 (Warning: Day 2 contains a photo of a man's 'naughty bits').
Also, The Angry Magic Duck has his new Bass-Playing Hottie Of The Week (Jicks' bassist Joanna Bolme, currently touring with The Minders).
And finally, and wonderfully, Pylon was nice enough to reference us on their newly-redesigned website (now 2 pages!). Fans should check out the Creative Loafing article that Computer Support mentioned earlier today as well. (One of these days, we'll shut up about Pylon - but let's face it, they rock.)
In light of today's conversation about sneaky bars excluding blacks via dress codes, here's a nice little site created for the owners of many of these bars.
Something Awful lists its 10 Worst Rock Stars. (Numbers 10, 7, 6, and 3 just happen to be some of my favorite rock stars ever. But they're probably right. Also, number 2 should be number 1, cause I don't know who number 1 is - I think you have to be British to know him.)
Any other nominations?
(Thanks to Large-Hearted Boy for the link. Check out the last coupla' days from that blog for lots of DBT coverage.)
Any other nominations?
(Thanks to Large-Hearted Boy for the link. Check out the last coupla' days from that blog for lots of DBT coverage.)
I'll tell you one thing, scientists better not try to block my dopamine! Procrastinating monkeys be damned.
While I'm dedicating posts today, how 'bout one for Hillary. After all, it was her post that recently directed attention to the phenomenon of discriminatory dress codes being adopted in some downtown bars. I recently snapped this shot, for instance:
Hmmmm... who would they be referring to? Can some other bar ban khakis, ratty baseball caps, and New Balance footwear?
(PS It's not just Bourbon Street - lots of other bars are doing this same thing - read Hillary's posts.)
Hmmmm... who would they be referring to? Can some other bar ban khakis, ratty baseball caps, and New Balance footwear?
(PS It's not just Bourbon Street - lots of other bars are doing this same thing - read Hillary's posts.)
Well, we took a couple of weeks off from fisking the 'pole (ohh, that sounds dirty). Truth is, there hasn't been much to fisk recently. Last week's Popfest coverage was great. Also, nice live reviews of a couple local shows, Now it's Overhead and Ben Mize Band, in last week's issue. Good job!
We weren't in hiding... we intend to fisk even the good issues... it's just been a crazy couple of weeks. Never fear, the column is back to regulate on that old socialist rag (as my fascist friends like to call it)...
"Xiu Xiu, like, what's your favorite color?"
Turned the paper right open to the interview with Xiu Xiu. Whew, what a bunch of silly questions. Here's a few highlights:
- "How do you feel about possibly fitting in with the Death Cab for Cuties and Bright Eyes of the indie rock world?" (ouch... if it were me, I'd say, "Interview over")
- "So not only do you bridge different audiences, you provide an almost constant reinvetion of the way music is heard." (wha? howdya figure?)
- "So when you look to the future of Xiu Xiu, what do you see?" (umm... I'd like to be in a management role at a successful, but still growing, organization that can utilize my abilities, creativity, and determination)
- "How's it feel to be an important artist?" (everything is going exactly as planned)
To be fair, they seemed like a difficult interviewee.... so it could be that only the usable stuff was included in the paper. But these just seem like high school journalism class questions.
"Dude, welcome to the Atlantis Music Conference. Do you have a business card?"
What's up with the "review" of this year's Atlantis music conference? Only one actual performance was mentioned, and that was just one sentence about 5-8's hit single "I'm Still Around". Most of the article was spent justifying the business-obsessed shiny shirt types that crawl all over Atlantis.
The highlight was a description of a panel called "How I Wrote That Song". "It was warm, heartfelt, exciting and a well-timed break in a reality-check weekend. Songs, stories and advice from Cee Lo Green (formerly of Atlanta's Goodie Mob), Floetry, former John Mayer collaborator Clay Cook and 3 Doors Down revived the disheartened, and brought music and creativity back to the forefront of everyone's minds." John Mayer collaborator, Clay Cook, brought the music to the forefront? Yikes. (p.s. Cee Lo Green kicks ass!)
"Yeah, I know Pylon reunited... we'll get to it later"
WTF? That pylon show was one of the biggest events to hit Athens in years! That's the kind of thing that could kick a struggling arts scene's ass into coming back to life. Why couldn't Flagpole have anything ready for this issue about last week's surprise show? There's been plenty of time. No pics! No reviews! No mentions, aside from the sentence at the top of "Club Notes" about how it'll be covered next week. No! Not next week! Now! Now rock 'n roll! Now! Now! Now!
p.s. nice article about Southern Bitch. In the words of Adam Musick, "It was Awwwwesome!"
p.s.s. Hillary's got a nice little rant about the love affair between Pete McCommons, Carl Jordan, and Plato.
Erik Hinds and Kyle Dawkins will be playing sets tonight at Flicker starting at 8:30. The small, intimate setting sounds just about perfect for these talented instrumentalists. If you've never heard anything from Solponticello Records' catalog, this would be a great introductory show to a side of Athens music a lot of folks miss out on (though both made the list in the Banner's best of Athens music poll back in June).
For those of you worried about getting caught checking out the web on office time (Robo, I'm looking your way), try Don's Boss Page. It automatically pops up a fake flash version of an Excel file you can actually interact with (it looks fake if you're close up, but I'd imagine it'd do the trick from a distance), and there's also tips on stealth surfing. Some of the stuff is lame and outdated, but the Netscape/IP tips are priceless.
"Never apologize; It's a sign of weakness." --Swimming With Sharks
Need to apologize to that special someone for an offense you may or may not have remembered committing? Try the Apology Note Generator. It'll get you out of the doghouse in no time and sound sincere in doing so. Also, for women, there's the Bitch Letter Generator. It'll tell him how you feel and where to go, no mistake. So, forget sincerity and go with speed.
(That "for women" link was for you, LB!)
Need to apologize to that special someone for an offense you may or may not have remembered committing? Try the Apology Note Generator. It'll get you out of the doghouse in no time and sound sincere in doing so. Also, for women, there's the Bitch Letter Generator. It'll tell him how you feel and where to go, no mistake. So, forget sincerity and go with speed.
(That "for women" link was for you, LB!)
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
If you've never heard them, you can either make 90.5 play some (lord knows they're going to anyway) or head on over to their newly-redesigned website and download something. Just beware it might get stuck in your head for a while.
* = Factoids blatantly stolen from Flagpole's Threats and Promises section.
Hillary sent us a great link to an online auction of property from the Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash estate.
Anyone interested in the CMA award for "A Boy Named Sue"?
(Thanks to bored for the link.)
Patterson Hood (of the Drive-By Truckers) and Will Johnson (of the wonderful Texas-based band Centro-Matic) will each play acoustic sets at the Georgia Theatre. Will they be playing any songs together? There's a strong likelihood (even better if you catch their show in Atlanta on Friday). Definitely worth your time.
(NOTE: Post edited 8:20 AM)
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
With all this music and tv talk, let us not forget that the primary purpose of this site is help you waste time at work. With that in mind, check out Addicting Games. You control a bunch of animated animals with pretty much no purpose and no end goals. So, it's like being a boss.
Or how about this Italian town, who is striving to make the world's largest sandwich (700 yards/3,707 pounds of meat and salami).
What about this dude, who juggled his way to victory to become the first royal court jester since 1649. What in the hell makes you want to grow up to be a jester? This guy is a prize too. One of his gems from the article: “It feels good. I am a national fool now. It is the best thing a man can be,” he said after his victory. Glad he has aspirations. I hope someone told him that they used to behead the jesters that sucked.
If you're looking for our stories about the Pylon reunion, choose below:
Pictures of the show
Quick notes after the show
Lead up to the show
Also, be sure to check out http://www.wearepylon.com
Monday, August 09, 2004
Well, regardless... everyone will love this funny site about Nickelback.
As mentioned by several of our regular commenters, your office's copier can be a brilliant way to waste time. Not only can you copy everything you ever need copied, but you can also copy plenty of things you don't need copied. See that little memo you got earlier today? Or that e-mail you printed out? Copy it. Why not? It takes up time and lets you walk around. Plus, it looks important. If someone comes in, tell them you're just about done. Don't take too long, though, cause then they'll start looking. Just come back later and keep copying.
(Note: Please recycle. Or don't. Depending on how you feel about trees. Personally, I like them.)
More than most current Athens labels, Brian Causey's Warm Recordings has done a fantastic job of creating an always-appealing roster of artists while maintaining a definable sound all its own - not an easy task (in fact, I can only think of a few other labels - around here and otherwise - who have done it well lately). According to recent ads from them, you can add a few artists to that list: Kindercore-transplants Japancakes, the recently-relocated duo Parker & Lily, and someone everyone's been waiting to record her debut album for a very long time: Liz Durrett. Keep an eye out soon for the return of the Japancakes as well as Liz Durrett - who has a show on September 11th at the 40 Watt.
Well, it's official, my camera did something funky with my Pylon pictures that doesn't agree with my computer. Thankfully, another source came through (thanks to Senior Man-Secretary!).
So, now you can see the 250+ person crowd (there were about 100 more standing outside, watching through windows)...
...that waited for Pylon to take the stage...
...and completely blow tha' lid off tha' joint...
...it was awesome.
We also got definite confirmation that there's a couple of Pylon reissues on their way next year. The project is still in its formative stages (no details yet), but if you want to know more, I highly suggest going to the band's website and e-mailing them to get on their mailing list.
Also, if you missed the show, never fear... something tells me this won't be the last time they play out.
So, now you can see the 250+ person crowd (there were about 100 more standing outside, watching through windows)...
...that waited for Pylon to take the stage...
...and completely blow tha' lid off tha' joint...
...it was awesome.
We also got definite confirmation that there's a couple of Pylon reissues on their way next year. The project is still in its formative stages (no details yet), but if you want to know more, I highly suggest going to the band's website and e-mailing them to get on their mailing list.
Also, if you missed the show, never fear... something tells me this won't be the last time they play out.
So, it's a new week and the first (hopefully annual) Popfest is behind us. Big-ups to Mike Turner and Eric Hernandez, as well as all the bands involved, for putting on such a cool event. Luckily, a camera came along for the ride (at least, at a few shows), so here's a quick recap from this weekend...
THURS:
The Fairburn Royals entertained the afternoon crowd for happy hour, just before the festival jumped to the 40 Watt for the first time.
Later that night, The Late BP Helium would close things down for the day with a rockin' set.
FRI:
Sadly, we don't have photos from this night, and even worse, I missed all but four songs of Murder Beach's set (and they play short songs!) - as the festival was running well ahead of schedule. This might be the first time anyone's typed or uttered that phrase. When are festivals ever on schedule? It's simply un-American. Read your Bible.
In any case, those songs were great and I was very saddened to hear the rumor later that night that those might've been the last songs the band might play (say it isn't so, Murder Beachers!). But on a happier note, the boys from Fairmount Fair brought hip-hop to the pop-loving nerds in the crowd (I'm a nerd so I can say that), who reciprocated with awkward dancing. Man, I wish I'd had my camera. And truthfully, other than the folks who ran the festival, I don't think anyone was at more shows for Popfest than Fairmount Fair guys. When they say they love PopFest, they mean it.
Later, this band Poison Control Center really toe' it up. I mean, there was every bit of stage theatrics you could hope for: people on each others' shoulders, guitarists jumping off stage backwards into the crowd, and guitar-swinging (even that move where you throw the guitar around yourself with the strap on, it does a 360 and you catch it and continue playing - smoove!). Not to be outdone, Boyracer (who rocked even harder musically), brought a guest guitarist up on stage whose apparent job it was to fall down, knock over his amp a few times, and create feedback in a certain key. Sounds bad, I know, but it rocked. What a night to be missing your camera.
Afterwards, everyone went and got drunk at the UltraMod.
SAT:
Sadly, I missed seeing The Orchid Pool, who I really like and who don't play out enough...
...but I did get a pleasant surprise in the form of Hulaboy - an act featuring the singer from Boyracer and some other guy and a laptop and apparently some cowboy hats. It was really fun music (even hungover) and apparently has only happened four times in the thirteen years these guys have known each other. They also found out why no one in their right minds wears satin clothing in Georgia in the summertime (don't know what's wrong with Texas).
Next, the guy from Love Letter Band set up his chair in the middle of the room as opposed to the stage - saying that he felt like the stage created a barrier between him and the audience and having done entire tours in nothing but bedrooms, he didn't like it. Dunno about all that, but it certainly was successful in creating a few sing-alongs with the entire audience. It was really one of the most impressive performances I've seen in a while.
Bill Santeen (from Birddog) didn't seem to mind the stage, and played a great set of his own to end the afternoon and Popfest's time at Tasty World. Certainly was hot in thar', but you can't ask for much more than sitting around with a drink and some friends on a Saturday afternoon and listening to great songwriters.
Now, I'm not gonna bad-mouth one of my favorite restaurants in town, but since it took me 2 hours to get dinner, I missed Circulatory System's performance - another one I'd been looking forward to. So it goes...
Glossary, however, represented Tennessee so well that it almost made it okay. They've somehow managed to blend roots rock and indie pop in a surprisingly pleasing way.
Up next was The Sunshine Fix. Bill Doss and company brought the crowd up front and caused more than a few hips to sway playing psychedelic pop with harmonies that you'd have to hear to believe (wouldn't have thought they could pull that off live).
Without roots rock or psychedelia influences, Bunnygrunt makes pop - pure and simple. Every song is catchy and danceable and they even make you forget they're breaking a cardinal rule in that their drummer sings (the songs are actually good).
During their set, I spied a man in the center of the room trying to balance himself on a chair to get a picture of the band. That man it turns out was my favorite comedian, Patton Oswalt (Hicks and Bruce don't count cause you're not as funny when you're dead). He and the-most-awesome-club-owner-in-the-world, Barrie Buck, were hanging out and were kind enough to oblige my ravenous photo-journalistic appetite:
Soon after, The Minders took the stage:
I'd never seen them live before. They were amazing. Fast, catchy pop a la The Apples. Guess that's why all the E-6er's were up front dancing. At one point, John Fernandes (Circulatory System), Scott Spillane (Gerbils, Neutral Milk Hotel), and Andrew Reiger (Elf Power) were demanding an encore. Felt like '98 ('cept, as Computer Support commented, sadly the room was only half-full).
John and Andrew were also, apparently well-entertained by Patton (note: this pic sets the record for me for "most nationally-known people in the frame") as he took the stage in between songs mid-way through the Minders set...
...and left everyone laughing with jokes thanking the audience for being so well-behaved during this assembly - and then announced the Minders would next play their set of acoustic Dokk
THURS:
The Fairburn Royals entertained the afternoon crowd for happy hour, just before the festival jumped to the 40 Watt for the first time.
Later that night, The Late BP Helium would close things down for the day with a rockin' set.
FRI:
Sadly, we don't have photos from this night, and even worse, I missed all but four songs of Murder Beach's set (and they play short songs!) - as the festival was running well ahead of schedule. This might be the first time anyone's typed or uttered that phrase. When are festivals ever on schedule? It's simply un-American. Read your Bible.
In any case, those songs were great and I was very saddened to hear the rumor later that night that those might've been the last songs the band might play (say it isn't so, Murder Beachers!). But on a happier note, the boys from Fairmount Fair brought hip-hop to the pop-loving nerds in the crowd (I'm a nerd so I can say that), who reciprocated with awkward dancing. Man, I wish I'd had my camera. And truthfully, other than the folks who ran the festival, I don't think anyone was at more shows for Popfest than Fairmount Fair guys. When they say they love PopFest, they mean it.
Later, this band Poison Control Center really toe' it up. I mean, there was every bit of stage theatrics you could hope for: people on each others' shoulders, guitarists jumping off stage backwards into the crowd, and guitar-swinging (even that move where you throw the guitar around yourself with the strap on, it does a 360 and you catch it and continue playing - smoove!). Not to be outdone, Boyracer (who rocked even harder musically), brought a guest guitarist up on stage whose apparent job it was to fall down, knock over his amp a few times, and create feedback in a certain key. Sounds bad, I know, but it rocked. What a night to be missing your camera.
Afterwards, everyone went and got drunk at the UltraMod.
SAT:
Sadly, I missed seeing The Orchid Pool, who I really like and who don't play out enough...
...but I did get a pleasant surprise in the form of Hulaboy - an act featuring the singer from Boyracer and some other guy and a laptop and apparently some cowboy hats. It was really fun music (even hungover) and apparently has only happened four times in the thirteen years these guys have known each other. They also found out why no one in their right minds wears satin clothing in Georgia in the summertime (don't know what's wrong with Texas).
Next, the guy from Love Letter Band set up his chair in the middle of the room as opposed to the stage - saying that he felt like the stage created a barrier between him and the audience and having done entire tours in nothing but bedrooms, he didn't like it. Dunno about all that, but it certainly was successful in creating a few sing-alongs with the entire audience. It was really one of the most impressive performances I've seen in a while.
Bill Santeen (from Birddog) didn't seem to mind the stage, and played a great set of his own to end the afternoon and Popfest's time at Tasty World. Certainly was hot in thar', but you can't ask for much more than sitting around with a drink and some friends on a Saturday afternoon and listening to great songwriters.
Now, I'm not gonna bad-mouth one of my favorite restaurants in town, but since it took me 2 hours to get dinner, I missed Circulatory System's performance - another one I'd been looking forward to. So it goes...
Glossary, however, represented Tennessee so well that it almost made it okay. They've somehow managed to blend roots rock and indie pop in a surprisingly pleasing way.
Up next was The Sunshine Fix. Bill Doss and company brought the crowd up front and caused more than a few hips to sway playing psychedelic pop with harmonies that you'd have to hear to believe (wouldn't have thought they could pull that off live).
Without roots rock or psychedelia influences, Bunnygrunt makes pop - pure and simple. Every song is catchy and danceable and they even make you forget they're breaking a cardinal rule in that their drummer sings (the songs are actually good).
During their set, I spied a man in the center of the room trying to balance himself on a chair to get a picture of the band. That man it turns out was my favorite comedian, Patton Oswalt (Hicks and Bruce don't count cause you're not as funny when you're dead). He and the-most-awesome-club-owner-in-the-world, Barrie Buck, were hanging out and were kind enough to oblige my ravenous photo-journalistic appetite:
Soon after, The Minders took the stage:
I'd never seen them live before. They were amazing. Fast, catchy pop a la The Apples. Guess that's why all the E-6er's were up front dancing. At one point, John Fernandes (Circulatory System), Scott Spillane (Gerbils, Neutral Milk Hotel), and Andrew Reiger (Elf Power) were demanding an encore. Felt like '98 ('cept, as Computer Support commented, sadly the room was only half-full).
John and Andrew were also, apparently well-entertained by Patton (note: this pic sets the record for me for "most nationally-known people in the frame") as he took the stage in between songs mid-way through the Minders set...
...and left everyone laughing with jokes thanking the audience for being so well-behaved during this assembly - and then announced the Minders would next play their set of acoustic Dokk