Marvelous Observations from the Yellow Lines

2012-01-27T10:56:00.001-08:00

test

2012-01-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

2011-12-20T09:47:00.001-08:00

ZOMG Riesling!

2011-06-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

You wouldn't believe all the benefits of being an auteur on the internet. Just yesterday, I got an email offering me to enter for a chance to win not one, but TWO tickets to some lobster festival in NYC. Mind you, this isn't being put on by the likes of the red lobster or other SUPER AWESOME fast food restaurants - but by Blüfeld Riesling. I know what you're thinking - This guy drinks riesling? He looks way too manly and not at all like a pansy....Well, I'll drink it if I win a trip, that's for damn sure. So, do yourself a favor and enter this here sweepstakes and lessen my chances of winning, if you dare.

Oh, and by the way it's only for people in the NY, NJ, CT area - suck it, the rest of you.

'Like' Blüfeld
http://www.facebook.com/blufeldriesling
Enter the sweeps:
http://www.facebook.com/blufeldriesling?sk=app_28134323652
DOESN'T THIS LOOK M*THERF*CKIN' TASTY???? all bubbly and stuff.

yeah paul mccartney - again

2011-05-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

2011-01-26T20:04:00.001-08:00

SWISS METAL: Win Tickets to See Eluveitie in New York

2011-01-18T08:25:00.000-08:00

Ever wanted to see a Swiss Celtic Metal band? Well, now's your chance. You can win a pair Tickets to see Eluveitie at The Gramercy Theatre in NY on Wed, Feb 2nd. I'd say, this is pretty much the best thing you could to that week. It's a combination of so much awesome, my brain overloaded. Just comment below, a winner will be chosen randomly.

Check here for details:
http://www.livenation.com/event/0000456FA1065DF6

They call it New Wave Folk Metal - I don't really know if that covers all the bases, but I'll go with it. One thing I do know is that they have a Hurdy Gurdy, and if that doesn't rival Opeth's lute experiment, I don't know what would. So have at it, hoss.

L00ney Tunes!!

2010-12-21T13:10:00.000-08:00

Pop Quiz! How long have the Loney Tunes been around for?

Since 1933. You do the math.

Got it?

You win access to the Looney Tunes YouTube Channel.

Can you imagine that? Never a dull moment at work again. Remember just breaking out the CooCoo puffs and going bonkers when Elmer Fudd couldn't find that infernal rabbit? Not gonna lie, that made up a lot of my Saturday mornings, and we only had a black and white TV out in the sticks.

See all your old friends on YouTube or on the TWITTER. You thinking what I'm thinking? If you're thinking it's about time they got on the TWITTER, then you were thinking what I was thinking. OMG that reminds me of another TV show. But that's a different story for a different blog post. Contain yourselves.

Peace out.

Do you like Swiss Cheese? I like Swiss Cheese!

2010-12-15T12:30:00.001-08:00

I'm Swiss. That fact may be partically responsible for me really liking Swiss Cheese. I also really like a bunch of other stuff that is a mainstay of Swiss Cuisine like Roesti, Fondue (melted cheese, duh) and Bratwurst. Then, there is Swiss Chocolate - Can't forget Swiss Chocolate. I will challenge anyone to prove me wrong. Swiss Chocolate is the best chocolate in the entire world.

You want to know where I get all my Swiss Food? I buy it online at SwissFavorites.

http://www.swissfavorites.com

You know what else is Swiss? being able to cook like an Italian, French or German. You'll have to speak to my mother about that though, as my culinary artistry is currently limited to pasta. One quarter out of 4 ain't bad, right?

Also - Join them on the facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/SwissFavorites/102561846445896

CUS WE CAN'T LOSE ONE PERSON.

Editor's note: My sister totally dsigned the logo

Candy Leads to...Wintuk?!

2010-12-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

...hey, at least I didn't say CAVITIES, AMIRIGHTGUYS??!

So I got an email from the friendly folks at MSG with a video of some Kids' xmas confessionals. Were they naughty, were they nice? Are you watching, Santa? I coudln't, cus I wasn't able to take the full brunt of cuteness the vid delivers. In every bag, there's a bad apple though, and this bag did not disappoint: One child felt the need to throw her sister under the bus in an attmept to curry favor. I thought family are supposed to STICK TOGETHER. Not very XMAS-y. Other than that, it's all glitter and rainbows.

Without further ado, I present you with a video that'll thaw your scrooge-heart. And some thing having to do with Wintuk. Wintuk = Cirque Du Soleil = Xmaspresent. I just solved your problem. Enjoy!

VIEW IT VIEW IT VIEW IT

(thanks for not embedding, video)

Welcome: Head of the Department of Utility

2010-12-06T14:28:00.000-08:00

That would be me - I have appointed myself as such. My new tasks will include but are not limited to judging if what you do, wear, say, produce and/or like is useful.

As in psychology, self analysis is out of the question, therefore I exclude myself, my staff and anything related to us from scrutiny.

Useless:

Logo for the Dept. of Utility
Ties
Telling people who you don't work with that you're leaving your job with out being prompted to tell them
Watching 'Mad Men' at work, even if you're into feminism and especially if you're into Jesus
Complaining about shitty coworkers without getting a new job
Two (2) hour coffee breaks
Twitter
Discussing your new job with coworkers at your old job
Complaining about the cold temperature one day and then requesting a fan the next
AFTERSHAVE - hasn't everyone learned to calm it down a little in the work place?
Making people move desks every couple of months

Useful:

Money, especially if it's free
Vacations
The internet, sometimes
(this, too)

Got a Sweet Tooth? Never Fear, Radio City Sweets and Gifts Is Here

2010-11-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Going to see 30 Rock? Or even a play? Or happen to find yourself dangerously low on sugar in the vicinity of the Radio City Music Hall? How can you not pick up one of these bad boys?

...just in time for Xmas, Radio City Sweets and Gifts is open for your sweets and gift needs, so stop on by and get your fill. WHAT'S BETTER THAN NEW YORK IN THE XMAS TIME YOU ASK??

Only the Radio City Sweets and Gifts Store!!! So drop by today, or when you go see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular this year. Which I know you will, cus it's a tradition not to be missed.

Happy Thanksgiving, and don't forget to pick up

Michael Franti's new album is OUT...

2010-09-23T10:38:00.001-07:00

... and he has a video to prove it! The Sound of Sunshine hit stores this week and you can listen to it on the Facebook. Fancy!

I used to listen to him during his Spearhead(only) days - this isn't too shabby though. I want a cocktail with a umbrella in it right now, despite the fact that it's not 5PM yet.

Check out this exclusive performance along with some insightful comments.

Countdown to Awesome

2010-06-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

2010-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

METALLLLL!!!! ENTOMBED!!!!

2010-05-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Dudes!!! No WAYY!!! Famed Swedish metalers ENTOMBED are coming to town (New York) on June 2nd and guess who could win some tickets? If you guessed YOU and 3 of your best friends, you guessed correctly. Tell me in the comments why it is absolutely imperative that you go to this show, and if I agree with you, I will see you there! GO!

The infamous Entombed is playing with Merauder, Woe of Tyrants and Facing the sun at Gramercy Theater in NY june 2nd.

Can't wait can't wait can't wait OMG I'm excited like a little girl!!

Who is Luke Bryan?

2010-04-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

Haven't the foggiest, but tell you one thing - I'm not voting for him. Cus he sez so! Unless this is some reverse psychology thing. But like, I don't even know or whatever. I do what I read on the internet! Look: http://www.youtube.com/lukebryan

Loyal readers know, I love country music. So I'll definitely be watching this here:

The 45th Annual ACM Awards Show airs LIVE on April 18, at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. The deadline to vote is April 18, 2010.

Friggin' Mr Belding is it. No brainer! Also, Luke's a hottie. Eeeyyyyooo!!!

2010-04-14T08:52:00.001-07:00

New TV Post

2009-12-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

I try to keep things interesting around here - and frankly, nothing is more interesting than boobs. One of the channels I watch during the holiday season - Spike TV - has something else than James Bond on right now. Manswers and 1,000 Ways To Die. I'm not sure if I'm a huge fan of it, but just like M-Obs (new name), they keep it interesting. Plus, and awesome points for this guys, the stuff is not just on the tube it's on the TUBES as well. Which is cool. Cus when it's between spending money on PB&J and TV, I almost invariably choose PB&J - Let's face it, life with out a computer is damn near impossible. So, there.

Wait, I smell a MANstion in there somewhere, looking for a MANswer:
Can you eat your TV if worst comes to worst?

Watch to your hearts content:

What's The Best Drug To Find In A Girl's Medicine Cabinet? | SpikeTV | SPIKE.com

Bonus: 1,000 Ways To Die. Sounds Creepy to me. I'm a little squeamish and spend most of my times watching horror movies trying not to flinch (omg don't tell anyone) so I'll abstain. Thanks.

NOW MY HOLIDAY IS COMPLETE

2009-12-11T08:09:00.000-08:00

Name something you do at least 13 times a day!

If you were thinking "logging on to facebook and spend my time joining groups and having meaningful social interactions" you have answered correctly!!! and should probably seek some help for your problem.

But I have good news, too. Now you can do something useful with your time which would otherwise be completely wasted: You can join MoneyGram on Facebook and...send money. or receive money. The possibility are nearly endless, because, who doesn't like money? and sending it? Ok, actually, sending money is probably not that much fun. but receiving it. that's where it's at. and the good people at Money Gram are now giving YOU, you poor, sniveling, despicable slob a chance to double your sendings!

Go here and SEND LIKE AN AMERICAN: http://moneygram.com/doubleyoursend/

How charitable of them. And just in time for the holidays.

Folks, I can promise you one thing - if I send money this Holiday Season I will use Money Gram and you should, too. Take it from someone who knowz!!

join facebook and corrupt the system from the inside, yeah!!!

People! People! You're doing it WRONG!

2009-11-23T13:20:00.000-08:00

I shall start this off with a plead that encapsulates my main gripe: If your industry is in trouble (looking at you, Music) then don't try to sell the people the same old crap! And in subtext: ...especially under the pretense of raising money for a good cause. Fuck the bullshit, man.

Point in case:

I have been receiving a fairly steady stream of information about Playing For Change. I've mentioned before that that they're doing it for a good cause and all that, but now that they've started a freaking LABEL, the cake has been taken! The newest reiteration is an album by one of the members of PFC, Grandpa Elliott, called Sugar Sweet and out on the Playing For Change Record Label. Double U Tee Eff, don't y'all have some hungry people to feed or something? Stop polluting the air space and (may I add) diluting a once noble idea! Even the last leftist hippie is going to have had enough of this blatant attempt at making money. Even if you do it by promising that the loot will go to help people who need it, I've seen too many Southpark's to believe you! So there, now I've vented my discontent. Now, down to the nitty gritty. Are these releases worth anything?

No.

Well, unless you listen to top 40 radio a lot. And Oldies. Even if Grandpa Elliott's got mad skillz, or charm (I'm placing my bet on the latter) it's lost in an over-produced piece of music that panders to those with loose heartstrings but no musical taste. And I think it's low. Just Saying.

NOT TO SPEAK OF THE CARBON FOOTPRINT THAT WILL MATERIALIZE AFTER EVERYONE REALIZES THIS LATEST PIECE OF JUNK IS A COMPLETE WASTE OF SPACE!

See you all in hell.

signed, the masked, angry blogger.

AFI Fest Is Over

2009-11-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

Let's play a game. How many things can I come up with that mean one thing to one part of the public and something completely different to me?

Well, here's one. AFI. When I first got the news "AFI Fest in full swing" or something to that effect, I was like "what?"The dude with too much eye shadow now has a fest?

I was dead wrong. It's the American Film Institute has a film festival. Why the hell wouldn't they? They rock. And are famous. Else they wouldn't call themselves AMERICAN etcetc. All red blooded USofAmericans - this one's for you. BUT I did receive an interesting clip of Tom Ford (what, the designer, you say?) talking about his first movie. And I thought, oh my: this is shareable. Did you know making a movie is kind of like designing fashion? Well, here's your proof.

I really have to abstain from making a judgment call. The last time I touched a needle was to put it through my ear. Needless to say I pussied out, but I'm just saying, that's the last time I touched a needle. I've never made a movie. So I have to take Tom's word for it.
Hell Yeah, AFI Fest - I wish I knew ye!

Macca Is A Racial Slur

2009-10-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

At least I thought so a little while ago. Then I realized it was actually what people call Sir Paul McCartney (of The Beatles fame). Which has nothing to do with racism. (There is a bird called macaw and back in the day a politician called a poor Laotian boy a macaw - this went public, etcetc, you can imagine the rest AND my confusion end) but the point here is that Sir Paul McCartney will release a new album, and THEN he'll go on tour. Only in Europe though - he'll be playing 7 shows from Dec 2 to Dec 22nd.

Tour Dates:

2 December - Hamburg Color Line Arena

3 December - Berlin O2 World

9 December - Arnhem Gelredome

10 December - Paris Bercy

16 December - Cologne Koln Arena

20 December - Dublin O2

22 December - London O2 Arena

But before that, he's releasing a CD/DVD of the two shows he did at Citi Field in July 09 and boy won't that be fun. Here's what it'll look like and where you can buy it.

Buy IT and weep like the little fanboy/girl you are

FANTAWEFUL

2009-10-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

Damn straight, I just made up a new word. Cus that's what this guy requires: New Words. There's no other way to describe it. This joker, pun intended, or, maybe not at all, just released a new video. I'm supposed to recognize him from a Dodge commercial. Internet, what do you want from me?

View it here if you love America!

There are a couple of things that I truly have issues with. Apart from expensive drinks and hair gel overload, I really despise church friendly comedy. It's rarely funny because it seems forced. Although, I nearly pissed myself when I heard a joke involving a sea horse. But I don't see this guy doing nautical humor. And red neck observational humor is not my bag. Blame it on my coastal elitism. But in case it is, please, don't let my judgment stand in your way of purchasing this prime example of what I would call a money making scheme:
Let's Git'er Done!

I bet you'd think that was funny if Larry the fucking Cable Guy said it.

What, I just dropped the mic and walked off stage. There. Have a good weekend.

$2,300 for a Signature Guitar? Puhleeze

2009-09-28T09:31:00.000-07:00

George Benson came out with a new album. His name sounds familiar, doesn't it? Yeah, that's what I thought, so off to google I go. Guess what, we have George Benson to thank for hits like "On Broadway" and "Breezin' ". Hell yeah, motherf*ckers.

The reason for my sudden urge to dig up the creator of these musical diamonds? This genius released a new album. So, naturally we here at the Marvelous Observations are bound to cover it. Kind of like Roman Polanski - but not really at all. Except maybe if someone could dig up some dirt on this "10 x Grammy-winning" singer/songwriter. OMG 10 times? sheesh.

Point is, "Songs And Stories" is in stores now. The first single "Family Reunion" can be sampled here.

He looks like he would sell a $2,300 guitar - I bet he has some other shit that would totally blow your mind. Like in-pool cuff links made of titanium for his chinchilla bath robe which under no circumstances should be near water (unless you can afford buying a new one every time that happens - which of course this guy totally can - 10 grammys. duh!)

In my opinion, anyone who is interested in this has the money to buy it: THERE

Wow, more TV to obsess about

2009-09-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

OMG guys! As if TV could get any more interesting. Spike TV is searching for the Ultimate Girl...and the choices will make your head spin. These ladies are not only hot but they also like manly things like porn and video games. gasp. You don't believe me, I can tell. Well, check it out for yourselves and vote for your favorite. And me, my doctor said I should do something to get my heart racing - like, everyday.

Check out the sampling and feel free to visit

See what I mean? The rest is just too f*cking hot to post on the PG 13 internet

Minor Obsession: TV Shows.

2009-09-03T18:16:00.000-07:00

Ha, do you think it's racist that the Sgt. Doakes is wearing gators?

Funny People Not Actually Funny

2009-08-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hello - I got the soundtrack for the hailed uber alles Judd Apatow flick "Funny People". I don't really care about it. That doesn't mean it's not good, i just don't care. Plus, with this one they went all kinds of over board, with Lennon songs performed by Adam Sandler, and unreleased Wilco track, etc. Quelle Joie!

I don't care for Wilco, and I think it's weird that Judd Apatow's daughter is on the release. What a bunch of weirdness. That, in and of itself, justifies a post. Is this some form of nepotism? Who knows. And she sings "Memory" - that bit from CATS. I used to love that musical. I named my first pet cat after one of the CATS in the CATS musical. But that's neither here nor there. More about the album...oh yeah, Adam Sandler can't sing so well. The other songs are cool, if you're into that sort of stuff aaaaaaaaand we're lucky Seth Rogen didn't pull out his kazzoo. EYOOO!!! get it? I just made fun of Seth Rogen.

But this is kind of interesting - Check out John Lennon's "Watching The Wheels"
For many, that song alone makes this disc worth the purchase.

Peace!

"remix jam session mixtape" - yeah, I'm sure

2009-07-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

You like good music? I like good music some. So does Melanie Fiona, apparently. And....Indians? You like Indians, Fiona? Shoot your costume director. But one thing they can't take from you, is that you can sing. For sure. If people from Philly think so, then there's not much reason to dispute it.

So you got ?uestlove to do a "remix jam session mixtape" of your album, The Bridge? That's pretty awesome too. Apparently he can play the drums and it sounds like a drum machine. In fact, he took a picture over my shoulder once, and let me tell you, I almost melted. But back to the point. Music. For those of you who are into soul, download the "remix jam session mixtape":

http://www.zshare.net/download/62679118d27a6686

Cus it's FREE! And I don't mind free.

Props to ?uestlove for putting out free music, OKAY PLAYER! You're cool. And as a taste maker, well, he's (mostly) on the money. But Fiona, as a soul connoisseur it is absolutely imperative that you have a record player. Srsly! Ladies and Gentlemen, if you don't believe me, look for yourself. It's a video. You're cute, Melanie. Tata!

90's Throwbacks Are the New Black

2009-07-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

The Marvelous Observers trend spotters have come across a curious phenomenon: 90's throwbacks!

Bbbut, it was only 10 years ago, you say? We know. But Rob Thomas thinks it may be worth something.

HA, are you serious? the Goo Goo Dolls called, they want their bracelets back. Rob Thomas, go home! It wasn't good when it first came out and it's not good now. And just cus it's "captured in High-Definition with 5.1 Surround Sound" doesn't make it worth my money.

With back up singers and a real keyboard you give the impression of having put some serious thought into how to squeeze every last dime out of your past fame. Unfortunately WE ARE ON TO YOU! Nothing escapes these eagle eyes.

The Internet is omniscient though, so we shall give it the option to judge for itself - samples to follow:

http://kochent.edgeboss.net/wmedia/kochent/e1homevideo/rt_problemgirl.wvx

http://kochent.edgeboss.net/wmedia/kochent/e1homevideo/rt_ifyouregone.wvx

http://kochent.edgeboss.net/wmedia/kochent/e1homevideo/rt_3am.wvx

Gah! I cannot voice my disinterest loudly enough. But 'tis the beauty of the intertubes; if one frustrated hipster screams in a forest (aka the internet) of frustrated hipsters - can any one hear? YES! YOU'RE READING THIS, AREN'T YOU!

Teknologiez Of Our Timez

2009-07-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

How Awesome. Support Your Local Musician. Become fan of these up and coming, hungry rockers! Gold Fiction, WHAT!!

Gold Fiction on Facebook

Mommy XXX...WTF???

2009-07-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

The sick puppies at Crackle TOTES hit the Oedipus nerve with this one. Masked Blogger - I spite you with SINGLE MOMS! PORN STAR SINGLE MOMS!

Advertised as a cross between "The Osbournes" and "Girls Next Door" Mommy XXX airs every Thursday on Crackle.com. Naturally, it follows Demi Delia, an ex porn star and single mom, and exposes her personal life. Get this, episodes include winning subjects like "...her daughter’s first visit to the gynecologist; a typical day at “the office;” her breast augmentation surgery... " etc.

I smell comedy gold...and, potentially, TITTIES!

HA! They even sent me a clip for you lowlifes.

From Crackle: Party with Pornstars

Watchem and weep.

The Chronicles of the Masked Blogger, Part Two

2009-07-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

Days passed. Slowly. Sleepless nights. Weekend benders. I tried to tell myself that it didn't matter but I couldn't get the Masked Blogger out of my head. When I wasn't self-medicating I tried to keep myself busy with my own writing projects but the Blogger stayed lodged in my brain like a steel toothpick in a blueberry muffin.

A Couple of months back, I had run up on some hard luck. Horses. Guess you could say I'm a gambling man. Truth is, I've been from Vegas to Atlantic City, up, down and then up again...this time was different, though. Things went from bad to worse one rainy night in April when two tough guys showed up in my storefront window and offered me a "proposition." They walked in, all smiles. Shit, if I hadn't been around the block a few time, I woulda though they were just a couple of good, ol' boys who had gotten lost in the city and needed directions. That is until they bloodied up my face and pulled a knife on me. They wanted to know if I had heard of their employer, Mick. Sure, I told them - everyone knows Mick - they called him Mick "The Nose." That gave them a pause and I thought they ready for round 2 with my face as the punching bag. Instead, they glared and said I had 2 weeks to pay or I may find myself the recipient of an all-expenses paid trip - to the bottom of the East River.

After the goons left, I sat down to think - thought long and hard. The funny part is that it takes an experience like this for a man to take stock of his life. Here I was, a 30-something, washed up P.I., disgraced former detective and amateur writer. Now I was about to go and get myself killed. Shit, if you could separate yourself from it for a moment, it was damn funny.

But I wasn't laughing. I sat at my desk and looked at the empty pages in my typewriter for the next two nighst, listening to the rain showers outside. Two nights later, that's when this dame showed up at my door, saying she need me to help her find someone. Why me, I asked her? Told me she had done some research and that for the price range, heard I was the best. We didn't exchange pleasantries - got right into it. What can you tell me about him, I asked her. Said he was a writer. Interesting I told her, so am I. She couldn't look more disinterested. I asked - what else?

"He wears a mask."

The Ultimate Realist

2009-07-02T22:06:00.000-07:00

T4 Motherf*cker

2009-07-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

WOP! this one's for you.
bitches.

AN INTRODUCTION...TO THE SHITTIEST ALBUMS OF ALL-TIME

2009-07-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

PRELUDE TO AN INTRODUCTION, Part One

Hey everyone -

I mentioned in my last post that I'm turning over a new leaf as far as blogging. With that in mind, I wanted to introduce my first guest writer, as well as their new weekly column.

As far as what I can tell you about this person...it's not much. I've only met them once and (he? she?) insisted on meeting at 3am on the docks by the East River. (He? She?) was wearing a pantyhose mask, trenchcoat and continually asked if I was wearing a wire. Despite his/her paranoia, we shook hands and made the verbal agreement that led to this feature.

Before I knew it, this mysterious figure quickly began making their way back into the night. "But you didn't even tell me your name," I cried out. In the distance, the masked creature turned their head back ever so slightly. "The Masked Blogger," they whispered and then disappeared into the shadows.

AN INTRODUCTION
What does it take to create the Shittiest Album of All Time? I could sit hear and rattle off hundreds of merely shitty, awful - hell, downright soul-crushing albums all day long. But that would be a little cheap. Just like the Hollywood blockbuster, top 40-ready crap will continue to roll off of the assembly line with the same amount of care as your average, shittily-made American car. As long as cynical corporate execs live - there will always American Idol, Clear Channel Radio, T-Pain and Rihanna. As a wise man once said, "No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people."

And don't get me wrong, I would love to go after those people. Besides the potential entertainment value involved, there is the fact that I'm an extremely angry person. Every chance I get to unload a bitter, immature rant and spew my poisonous bile onto the world at large (or conversely, the two people reading this blog)- that's one less chance I will walk into the United States Post Office wearing only a jock strap and toting an AK-47.

But that would be intellectually dishonest. I'm believe that to create something truly awful, there must be a substantial amount of talent and ambition involved. What I'm interested in is the point where that talent and ambition go wrong. I mean horribly, horribly wrong. Potentially career-ending wrong. Like "oops, sorry we dropped those two atomic bombs on you" wrong.

And with that in mind: let's set some ground rules. Please behold the The Somewhat Arbitrary and Purposefully Vague Ground Rules that it takes to qualify as one of the Shittiest Albums of All-Time. An album or artist must meet no less than one of the following criteria to earn a spot in the annals of this esteemed Spot of Blog.

1) The artist must have, at one time, demonstrated greatness, very-goodness, or very strong promise. This includes anyone from an artist who bears the legendary status to a young band who recorded a good debut.
2) It must be an album that is universally considered great from a critical standpoint.
3) An album that is not necessarily considered great, or even good, but sold very, very well.
4) No artist is above creating one of The Shittiest Albums of All-Time

Stayed tuned for the first post.

-The Masked Blogger

I HAVE TURNED...

2009-06-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

...A NEW LEAF. Proverbially speaking, seeing as how I am speaking about BLOGGING. I'm setting some goddamn priorities, man. Like, updates on THE REG. And guest writers, and uh...who the hell am I kidding. Lets listen to Jeff Healey. Goosebumps, motherf*cker. Goosebumps.

RA RA RA Ray Charles is here to school you, again!

2009-06-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

People, you know how today's music sucks? etc etc. Well, thank god there are reissues so we can spend our hard earned dollars on stuff that looks new, but isn't really. Enter Concord Records and their ambitious ~~exploitation~~ reissue program of the Ray Charles catalog. An old favorite hit stores at the beginning of the month and is raising eyebrows (again). I wish the world would be a simpler place, instead of revolting Iranians (as in, the verb) and Craigslist Killers, they only had soda fountains and comic books to keep themselves occupied back then. And this album, of course. And boy did it start something. I heard it contributed to the civil rights struggle and made black people listen to garth brooks. Ha, just kidding about that last one. So, I offer for your discerning eyes the OLD cover art (cus it's awesome) and a place where you can spend what you would have otherwise supidly totally straight up sunk into the soda fountain with no benefit at all. So, there:

Old School!

buy the reissue here

Oh, and a shout out to my ol' buddies parents for taking me to a soda fountain this weekend for the first time and hence giving me something to write about. Bless!

Oh Sh*t, First Twitter Post

2009-06-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

META TWITTER is the word of the week, kids! Who would have thunk, Fuse TV, MTV...everyone is doing it. Next step, I will follow suit by twittering about my cat's and goldfish's latest tweets. I shall call it the tweet menagerie. Oh good, I deserve a pat on the back for that one. On a side note, look what I found:

I fucking love the Boss. Now, if I could only follow his tweets. Along with those of The Decemberists, Bon Iver, Passion Pit, Grizzly Bear, MGMT and Portugal (OMG I think I just went to the bathroom in my pants a little (man, I'm bored with my own snark there, feel free to re-phrase and email better line to wabten@gmail.com, thanks)). It must be my lucky day BECAUSE I CAN - YES, I (WE) CAN - actually do exactly that.

Go here: http://fusefest.fuse.tv and enjoy!

It's kind of like sitting in front of the Fuse building! I suppose I'm the only one in the twitterspehere to have ever done that, but it's awesome. Except for the angry bums who think you're stealing their front row seats. Sheesh, get a lyphe.

Sometimes I have so much going on in my head I don't even know where to look. All I need is more tweets

Playing for Change Staying True To Their Word -

2009-06-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

A COLLECTIVE GASP OF ANTICIPATION ESCAPES THE ENTIRE WORLD

So, I've mentioned this before but these cats WILL NOT stay down. True to their name, they're playing. Maybe not for pocket change anymore, but everywhere from the Glastonbury Festival (hook it up, yo) to some Pier somewhere. Awesome.

From the press release:

Playing For Change – Songs Around the World, the project has taken another leap forward. After a Top 10 debut on Billboard’s Pop Chart in the US and a strong start throughout Europe, including a top 20 chart position in Spain, the Playing For Change band has been confirmed to headline the Jazz/World stage at Glastonbury Festival in the UK on Saturday, June 27, one of the three major open air stages with a crowd capacity of approximately 25,000 people. Word of mouth spread among other Glastonbury acts that Playing For Change was confirmed on the bill and several musicians expressed interest in joining the band on stage. This resulted in Gabrialla Cilmi, Tinariwen, The Magic Numbers and Baba Maal confirmed to make guest appearances with the band at Glastonbury.

The band will then travel to Los Angeles for a performance at the opening night of this year’s Twilight Dance Series at the Santa Monica Pier. The concert is free and will run from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. The band is also set to perform on NBC's The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien on Thursday, July 9, 2009. Hailing from New Orleans to Johannesburg via Europe and the Congo, the band consists of some of the incredible musicians who are featured in the smash hit YouTube video “Stand By Me” which has become the #1 rated YouTube video of all time with over 20 million views.

Pay up, sukas!

International Man of Mystery - At Least He Sounds Like It

2009-05-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

Nicole Conte, who I don't think is related to Paolo Conte , is cool - like, in the truest meaning of the word. As you can clearly see from the album cover, he is a little confused as to why the album is called Rituals (just kidding, he probably picked the name). He also looks substantially older than I thought, but who's counting? In any case, I am a sucker for his beats. It's a just correct amount of cheese and awesome. If Nicola is being sarcastic, I can't tell, yet. And I've listened to other records of his too. Who still (seriously) makes music like this? THE ITALIANS, that's who! God bless 'em. I don't even like cocktails, but right now, as this CD is on, I want to be walking along the ocean in the south of France with an ice cold one in my hand and some dark haired Mediterranean beauty on my arm. Shit, one can dream, right? I mean, musically it's not absolutely mind blowing, but given the right circumstances (late at night and/or Sunday morning, preferably involving a cigarette somewhere) this album is a perfect fit. SOMEONE CHILL MY CHAMPAGNE! and I do mean CHAMPAGNE! Not the sparkling white wine you low life's drink! GARCON!!!!!...and put this CD on too. Listen in if you dare. zzzzzzzzzzZZZZzzzzzzZZZZZzzzzzz

Seriously, I have bought like 4 of the last 5 CDs by Italians I came across. Weird.

Urban Mystic a little less mysterious than I thought!

2009-05-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

So, what does one do with a kid who has talent, but seems set on running his career into a dead end accompanied by clichés? With posturing and bravado galore, Urban Mystic has released his new album GRIII: Old School 2 Nu Skool and it's doing, well, probably what everyone expected. But really, it's quite good and there is some more material on there than a lousy white boy like me would think. Oh gaaawd, I can here my mom sayin' "Don't judge books by their cover, son!" Well, thanks mom, how was I supposed to know? Momma said. One learns everyday. I've actually started browsing the Urban Music Blog. Ha, psyche! Where have all the cowboys gone? Probably Miami - to hang out with Urban. Don't think this is country record, though. One thing’s for sure though, ladies want to be with Urban, Gents want to be like Urban and everyone else wants autographs. Viva R&B!

Listen to the ladies swoon when you play 'em THIS!

OMGLOLROFL - the day has been saved by Jessica Harp

2009-05-13T09:14:00.001-07:00

Where would the music industry be with out good looking people? Man, it's like, I can't even tell you. Mars, maybe - or gone the way of the gremlin. Oops, I didn't just jinx it, did I? One thing's for sure, although this is news to absolutely no one, if you look the part, your talents play a secondary role in your success. Point in case; today's culprit: A miss Jessica Harp, apparently most famous for being half of The Wreckers. Ooooh, that sounds malicious. Now, shall we go on with this dog chasing its own tail debate? Please, if you would indulge me, I present to you Exibit A. Apparently a different hair color every two days is clutch. Phew, good thing that's over with and I have no further exhibits, your honor, except the final product. Good Grief!!! Tattoos? Does mom know about this? How about the local parish? psssh. Puhleeze. I'm saturated. I'm not really a fan of Hank Williams III but he has at least one memorable quote: "Pop Country Reaaaaaaaallllllllyyyyyyyy Sucks!" Long live the Williamses. It's always easier to judge than to create, love you Jessica xoxo.

Peace.

Stevie Ray Vaughn's Band? Hell Yes

2009-04-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

Now - the weirdest thing just happened. I like the blues, and occasionally, I listen the Blues. And right now, while I was listening to the BLUES (SRV, in fact) I get an email about the Arc Angels. The reason I am making such a stink about this is because these guys used to play with SRV!!! I'm superficial I know, but HOT DAYUMN this is bound to be good. My brain cells just left for the day so I leave to my drooooool....

From the press release:
After much speculation in the fan and music communities, the Arc Angels have announced today an official reunion that will include new music and new touring ventures, along with their first major concert as part of Austin’s South By Southwest Festival on Friday, March 20^th at 8pm at Auditorium Shores. The eagerly anticipated reunion features original band members Charlie Sexton, Doyle Bramhall II and Chris Layton performing together again. After more than a decade apart, the band has entered the studio to record new music, is slated to open for Eric Clapton on his Spring UK tour, and will release a Live CD/DVD with a

U.S.

summer tour to follow. Further album and DVD details will be announced shortly.

I'm going to the show and YOU CAN TOOO!!

Finally, A Sign of Time Well Spent

2009-04-25T10:28:00.001-07:00

I don't even particularly like Queen, but this is awesome.

(via Geekologie) my favorite.

Gospel Ain't Dead

2009-04-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

What's with the recent influx of gospel tinged releases? Did I sound like Jerry Seinfeld right there? I'm lacking a closer. Jon Bon Jovi (like, on a level with Bono), Jonny Lang (My Father and I didn't speak for a year cus he played one Johnny Lang album too many times), Queen Latifah (OMG, Diversity!) Joss Stone ---- all these gr8 artists have one thing in common. In an attempt to sell some records, they started mining the one thing that generally sells. Christian Stuff. However, from the bottom of my bitter, bitter heart, I know that Gospel will put a tingle in the spine of the least musically inclined person you know, or even a chair, sometimes. So in light of that, I give my much coveted thumbs up to this project. Cus with out my thumbs...psyche, with out GOSPEL there would be no music like we know it. Enough ranting. Music is where it's at.
Now, despite some of the cheesecakes that are on here, I am looking at you Michael McDonald, it's probably worth a buy, especially at $9. However I am irked that it's only available at WalMart. It's like these people are trying to ruin my good time.

But for once CHECK OUT WHAT I FOUND:

Oh Happy Day

Trying To Change The World One Note At A Time

2009-04-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

Well, so, i've noticed everyone who's anyone posting on this band 'Playing For Change' and because I love bandwagons I jumped on it. The band name's witty for one thing, because they employ a bunch of street musicians who are actually playing to stay afloat. Or maybe just cus they LOVE music SO MUCH. Whatever. In the vain of Live Eight, useless but moving attempts to make this here blue planet a better place for those less fortunate, I present:

Playing For Change

There.

Now go give blood or something. Also, it would probably help if you stop making those sex tourism trips to Thailand. Your carbon footprint is huge.

Branford Firing On All Pistons

2009-04-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Branford Marsalis, who is, i hear, a wanker, has a new release. Don't hold me to the first part of my last statement cus i heard it through the grapevine. He is also the brother of Wynton Marsalis, who I knew of first. And a little bit of googling brought up that he used to lead Buckshot LeFonque. What? Buckshot is kind of cool. Or was. Like arrested development but cooler. And less gap toothed women. I'm getting to my point: His new album is called Metamorphosen. Sometimes my mind turns off though. lalalalala. listen. LISTEN. shsssshshshshshs. Can you hear it metamorphose???

He's also released Claudio Acuña's "En Este Momento". Metal. Actually, not at all. judging by the stream it sounds ok. uh. I'll wait for the CD to make the complete judgment. She's hot tough. rrrrrrrrrr latin looooovee

Nowhere To Run, Slow Burn Is Coming To Town

2009-03-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Slow Burn, a brand new super group conjured from the ashes of of philly favorites Camel Toe Riders and Virgina Death Metal troupe Darkhorse will play their premier gig at the famed Troc on Friday March 27. So much for epic first sentences. Rocker Dave and cohort Drew have been tooling the scene for a bassist than can match their fury on stage and have found the perfect fit in one who simply refers to himself as Duane. Triple D Assault! Togehter, the trio grinds the axes and burns all bridges, musical and otherwise - get ready to be blown away. They are so underground, I was hard pressed to come by some images, but what else does one need than the aural assault delivered via MySpace.

http://www.myspace.com/burnjunkie

Yes, yours truly will be there to document this historic event. Hold on to your car stereos and fanny packs.

Henceforth...

2009-03-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

K3PO aka Slumberling, aka Kummshot, aka Dawdlering, aka Zteve shall be referred to as simply:

Urkel.

Help! I've fallen and I can't get up.

{Images coming soon}

The Absolute, Definitive, Way Better Than The One You Bought When The Movie Came Out Ray Charles Compilation To End All Other Attempts. Forever.

2009-03-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

RAY CHARLES IS THE SOUL VERSION OF TUPAC SHAKUR (go figure that one out, it's like a sequel to the prequel. WTF.) He just keeps on cranking out records. Well, not in the sense that they are new, or something you never heard of before, but this time, maybe, you'll be able to catch that one note where his voice cracks or a cockroach is doing a tap dance on his piano strings, cus THEY REMASTERED IT AGAIN. Someone take away these people's Consoles. I mean, it's even in the name:

Ray Charles Genius: The Ultimate Collection

See? They ran out of witty things to say. So did I, apparently, because hey, it's Ray Charles. He's good. I mean, he was real good. As the title of (yet another) album states: Genius. Do you think he'd be pissed if he was still around? Probably not, maybe he doesn't care - his families better be getting all of this money that I am undoubtedly generating by posting about this. You can send me the Thank You note later, Charles Family.

BUY BUY BUY AND SUPPORT!!

Scofield "Singing" A Bluesy Gospel?! My Word, Sign Me Up

2009-03-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

John Scofield, the jazz guitarist and otherwise musical chameleon is back with his his 36th album and it's bluesy. "Motherless Child" get's the (newer, bluesier) signature Scofield makeover, along with more classics like "Walk With Me" and "Angel Of Death". Essentially I really like the album - say if I were sitting at a bar sipping a bourbon right about now, which I'm not - and that's a shame, but like always, it's Scofield, and one kind of needs to dig his style. At least It'll take Missy Elliot and company another couple of years before they start sampling this because I don't think they have seen the "light", as it were.

For your listening pleasure, I have wrangled one of the songs in the ELECTRONIC FORM.

For you Scofieldheads, which I know there are out there, make sure to buy the record. The gods will shine a light down on you.

Thank you and Good Night.

Speaking of Quality Sound...

2009-03-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

This year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will premiere on April 4 at 8PM ET/PT only on FUSE (exclusively, naturally) and if you fancy yourself even marginally interested in music you should TOTALLY watch this. I mean, better than brain rotting MTV, am I right? RIGHT? Who can stand watching that junk anymore. It’s so old I was hesitant to bring it up, but here I am. Instead, watch FUSE! Remember that time it was Canadian? I like Canada. Everyone’s always saying they’re gonna move there, but me? I’m gonna actually do it. But this isn't about Canada, I got so sidetracked for a moment there. THIS IS ABOUT ROCK AND ROLL!! I mean, can you argue with this? Brings some tears to my eyes. Almost. Check it for yourself. It's a free country, after all. All I can say is that you are a little bit more bad ass if you watch the video.

LONG LIVE ROCK AND ROLL ...or whatever's left of it. word.

Enjoy Gr8 Flicks in Gr8 Quality

2009-03-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

They call it 4D and they plan to take audio and video by storm. What good are all these *terrific* new records and movies if you can't hear them? AstoundStereo to the rescue.

From the press release:
"The AstoundStereo Expander enables you to hear all your digital audio in a new way. You become completely immersed in the sound with elevation, intensive depth perception and widening of the stereo image, creating a four dimensional audio experience."

My oh my, that sounds fan-cy. I count 4 Ds.
They say, put it to the test. You can download a free version by clicking the logo.

For the music heads, check out www.AstoundStereo.com/freetrack and get some FREE TRACKS. We love free, here at the Marvelous Observations. Basically we don't do anything that is not free. You could call us FREEdomfinders.
Let's see if this manages to come through or just turn into some beta max thing. I'm waiting in ASTONISHMENT. zing.

After The Eye Candy, Some Reality

2009-03-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

After a brief hiatus I am at it again. And boy have I missed this. Next on the list is this str8 to DVD release that probably should have gotten a theatrical release seeing as how it's packed with an all star cast featuring Tommy Lee Jones, best two face ever and John Goodman, best Walter ever, doing a book by James Lee Burke. There's others too, like Ned Beatty, but he's not on the cover, so who cares.

The movie is a thriller and has received mixed reviews. Quite frankly, I'll watch anything with Tommy Lee Jones though, so it's on my list. Catch a sneak peak:

Buy It here:
http://www.amazon.com/Electric-Mist-Ned-Beatty/dp/B001NFNFIK

Songstress Looks Younger Than She Sounds

2009-02-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

By the sound of things I would have guessed this singer's age to be about 45, at least. Alas, I was wrong. She merely sings for 45 year olds. Naturally, this does not detract from her considerable talent. And I mean that purely on a scale from one to ten. Like, looks, get it? I dare you to a comment and tell me I make too many "jokes" that are only funny to me. See for yourself.
She goes by the moniker "Jane Monheit" and makes jazzy music. And if you look at who claims credit for this oeuvre it is a veritable who's who of jazz heavy weights:

(from the press release)
Accompanying Monheit on “The Lovers, The Dreamers And Me” are long-time Monheit band-members Michael Kanan (piano and Fender Rhodes), Rick Montalbano on drums, and Neal Miner on bass, who were joined on the CD by musicians Peter Bernstein (guitar), Stefon Harris (vibes), Seamus Blake (saxophone), Frank Vignola (guitar), Gil Goldstein (piano, accordion), Romero Lubambo (guitar), Antonio Sanchez (drums), Scott Colley (bass) and Bashiri Johnson on percussion.

I might develop an eyebrow fetish - I have some pretty strong ones myself (In fact, it is said that they saved my one eye once - long, other story). In conclusion, I present you with Jane Monheit's CD available here. For your listening pleasure please visit her official site at JaneMonheit.com and check out the "goods"; those 35 sec clips. I mean. Duh. Get going already and stop staring.

Kick back, relax and shoot yourself in the foot.

2009-02-02T08:44:00.000-08:00

This may seem a little cliche, but there are two things that drive me up the wall. One of them is definitely smooth jazz in all it's incarnations. Call it urban, contemporary jazz, some form of R&B...whatever. Gives me the heebie jeebies - all is see is fake jewlery and vinyl dresses. eeeuuuccchhh. Over-produced, cheesy, SAXOPHONES, dentist chairs, drilling, you see where this is going. Unfortunately this genre refuses to go the way of cherry curls and so here I present you with a, not quite so hairraising, sample of one of the genres proponents:Give it a listen on MySpace and tell me you don't at least hear a hint of things that makes you wish Stalin got his hands on Kenny G or something. But you know, we keep an open mind around these parts, and whatever floats your boat, but stay away from my children and I. Or my future children, anyway. I will make sure that if they go to the dentist there will be no muzak and they will keep it real. But should you be absolutely hell bent on adding another useless record to your collection, be it for sake of the industry as whole, which would be quite commendable, frankly, please go ahead and purchase it here.

Hello.

Debauched!

2009-01-28T13:28:00.000-08:00

Because I like that word. Now, down to business. Caligula has been released for the umpteenth time and guess what? It's still a pretty far out clusterfuck. I read things that condemn the movie to all hell, but I, myself, am not quite so dramatic. In fact I think Caligula, who is also Alex from a "Clockwork Orange", is totally metal and therefore awesome. Yeah, there are prehistoric dildos and a lawn mower that doubles as a people mower, but it's still kind of badass. How's that saying go? Something about too many cooks in the kitchen....
So, now you can watch some the grainy movie in super high def with some extras about Peter O'Toole smoking mad joints, and to me that's almost as much fun. I was kinda, uh, bleary eyed myself when i saw the movie and sat in dark for at least 5 minutes after it was done trying to get my ears to turn normal flesh color again. ____: (get it? bottom line) the movie is confusing, effing long, decadent to no end, perhaps a wee bit unrealistic and, i'm willing to bet, entirely offensive to anyone that's had the privelege of being homeschooled. I can let you preview it here, but in my opinion it's best if you check it out for yourself - even as a tutorial on how-not-to-make an epic historical fiction piece with tons of penthouse pets. Quite frankly, how you mess something like this up is beyond me. Buy the Blu-Ray, even if it's only to save space and have one less disk than the 3-set DVD set.

UPDATE: The eyes, man, the eyes - talk about piercing. Although that is neither here nor there.

WOah - Christmas Came Late SMASHING PUMPKINS RELEASED A DVD......and it's arsty. Surprise.

2009-01-14T14:41:00.000-08:00

You, the reader, may have a wide array of feelings concerning The Smashing Pumpkins. Some of you may have lost your virginity to (not in) "1979", others tried to cut themselves to "bullet with butterfly wings" but apprently didn't succeed at the jackpot, as we like to call it, and almost everyone heard of Billy Corgan's recent antics during their tour. I like that he called some dude on stage and asked him what he knew of James Iha. Brilliantly artistic dick move. Ha. I thought it was funny. Look - art:Then again my teenage years weren't spent painting my nails black and fantasizing about skeletor incarnate. Whatever. So, the reason Christmas came late? i didn't get any presents. Except for this one DVD that dropped into my lap. It's called "if all goes wrong" (lower case was my idea, thought it gave it a nice, gothic touch - because did you know that in 1203 the only way people wrote was in lower case? Or maybe it was the other way around) and it chronicles some live performances of an alleged "reunion" of the band and documentary. Let's call it what it is; Billy Corgan playing with some band that isn't zwan. Nothing wrong with that, just saying. In fact, I think as a whole, the DVD is really good. It shows the creative process and some not so bright sides but leaves you a little more enlightened than you were before you smaked this pancake in the DVD oven. The concert footage is also nothing to shake a stick out, which I seem to do so often, but if you expect the hits you are didn't do your Billy Corgan research. Needless to say, I enjyed the DVD. Makes the whole thing worth the effort. Awesome. Now that's over with and I am crawling back into my cave. Look, more pictures:

And because I like this screwy front man - a clip, pour vous, the awesome audience:

Happy New Year

2009-01-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

Back to work, as they say. I hope everyone had a f*cking great new years and everything lined up for the upcoming disaster.
Having said that, over the past couple of days I had some time on my hands. What did I do with it you ask? I caught up on some classic flicks, is what I did. I was tipped off to one in particular after I was sent the soundtrack. Bottle Rocket is what it's called and it's...well, i will not pass judgment (I also saw, for the first time, bong water, which is a complete mess. But that's another story). The soundtrack is decidedly awesome. Some good ole jazz, if you ask me. Not that you did, but anyway.It even includes material from the guy who did music for the Charlie Brown cartoons. Hmmm, I bet Wes Anderson never identified with Charlie Brown at all. If you ask me (again) though I feel like that's the most depressed toon ever. I am here to spread word about the soundtrack though, so feel free to check it out:

“Skating” by Vince Guaraldi Trio (this is the charlie brown guy, give it a listen)

“Jane-O” by Zoot Sims

Good lord, I may have lost some of my bite. Ouch. Let's all pray for some more things that warrant snide remarks. Who am i kidding, i hear the mail man coming.

ROBOT CHILD ABUSE ALERT!!

2008-12-18T13:53:00.000-08:00

ALERT!ALERT!ALERT!ALERT

So, we here at Marvelous Observations love life. And we think every "being" should have an equal shot at it. Today, however, we were proved wrong. After we were contacted by ROBOT FIENDS about the current robot child prototype flavor of the week, we have come to realize that some "beings" never even got a fair chance. This newest incarnation of the ugly face of capitalism has us all baffled (I think I spawned some more personalities overnight). At the supposed age of 13 (ahem) and outfitted with the (cutely misspelled computer nickname) Scooter Smiff, he (it) has taken the intertubewebz by storm and somehow (probably through malicious computer viruses) managed to get over 2 million views for his video. We have posted the video below, but for god's sake don't watch it. We heard there have been some security issues with Internet Explorer recently. Coincidence? Me thinks not. But back to the original point, this poor "being" is being abused, even by computer standards. Along with co-Robot Chris Brown, it is off and, seemingly, unstoppable. Lord Save Us All. Capitalism: 1, Us: 0

Holy Crap! Have Y'all Heard Of Interviews? Over The Internet?

2008-12-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

Get out of town...ok, so some people have given interviews before. But not on their OWN site. On the forefront of this new development is this band Keane. They are British (har har). Pirate Style. And this site, to which, incidentally, I have a link to, is awesome. Look http://www.keanemusic.com

Ok, I was being ironic. But that's what hipsters do, right? Especially British ones.

In addition to their cutting edgeness, they also have widgets. Check it, son. Have you heard of these widgets?

Let Your Inner Child Roar (in anger)

2008-12-16T09:13:00.000-08:00

Usually rodents are totally unwanted. Case in point:

But somehow, these get the full support and they are larger than life at this very moment. I mean, that's not the most difficult thing, seeing as how they are chipmunks (= tiny). They're so cuddlywuddly. And they have a brand new album of cover songs out that make me cringe in their original format. Granted, I am not their target audience but, holy sh*t!! Did someone say something about beating a dead horse? Rather, dead rodents? (They are turning 50 this year) Someone found the fountain of youth and didn't tell me about it? What the hell.

Hey, but we're in a recession. I guess you need to be able to distract your kids from death and destruction with something. What better way than to fill their heads to the brim with stuff that's already dumbed down three generations before them. Proven results. Like on the TV. speaking of TV, check out their new Christmas Video. I have to say, it stuck in my head and but I like the original better. I've even seen some reviews (!!) around the interwebtubes. May I just say, anyone who (seriously) reviewed this deserves swift kick in the nuts and 13 nonstop viewings of the film.

But if you must, buy it here.

Thank for your time,

VAB10

Dreary Days call for Dreary Music

2008-12-10T11:46:00.001-08:00

...and who's drearier than Dido? Remember that video? She's standing in the rain or something and some white dude's rapping. Bet you never heard about it. I did though, cus I got my finger on the pulse of the underground. Now I bet you're jealous. So now comes the time when i shae my underground knowlidj and you look up to me and say "god he's awesome" and I whisper back "no". Here goes, get ready for it. Hope you're sitting down.

Dreary McDrear is back with a new album, and just in time, now that fall is here (drear season, get it? i'm drawing literary lines). The album came out November 18th and is called "Safe Trip Home" - like, in time for the holidays, maybe? I don't know. Judge for yourself. Sounds like a long f*cking grey hound bus ride, if you ask me. But what am I telling you if you can figure it out for yourself here.

kinda looks like it has something to with 2001: A Space Odyssey if you ask me...

BUY IT

But all's in good fun. I leave you with this - it should brighten up your day a little. rrrrrrrroooaaarrrrrrrr not so dreary now, huh?!?!

Win Luxury Incarnate and Feel Better About Your Lousy Self

2008-12-03T15:19:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of Christmas someone dropped a case at my doorstep this morning. And what I found completely amazed me. Most of it was so aweful I wanted to go back to bed -- but other stuff... some of you may have heard of this guy Boz Scaggs...right right, disco something, Steve Miller, boomers, boring...BUT this guy's new album is actually quite soulful and (I'm a little ashamed to say; I think quite) good. So, I've decided to follow in the generous footsteps and give away Boz Scaggs' "Speak Low" right here on your truly Marvelous Observations.

So how do you win this, you ask? Write me an email about how mustaches have changed the world at wabten (at) gmail (dot) com... think that'll keep them creepy spiders off my back? I damn well hope so...

I've you don't belive me, have a listen here.

And buy it here. And watch here.

Ho Ho Ho - Jah Cures

2008-11-20T13:08:00.000-08:00

Now back to our original programming.

So, I hear there is a little bit of confusion as to when Jah Cure's new album will finally hit, but I can assure you that it's long awaited (omg, I even heard somewhere that he was in jail cus look at the MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/freejahcure ...badass). In any case, the new album is called THE UNIVERSAL CURE. Hm, way to work that in there, buddy. But I'm pretty excited. At least now there will be new stuff for people to remix. And lordy, what a hansom stud.

See how much more laid-back the Carribeans are? I guess that Malibu Rum commercial (plug - send me a free bottle, y'all...swear I won't use it to clean my bike gears) wasn't all that wrong. Download a free MP3 here.

"I feel an impending psychotic ecliipse"

- Someone Who Knows What's Going on

HEY HEY CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE

2008-11-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

FIRST TIME Ever Christmas Post. Imagine that - Father Christmas screaming "FIRST" on the Marvelous Observations Blog. Historic. And slightly self indulgent. Not really, I love christmas. Actually, I kinda lied there too. Oh, but Al Jarreau is cool.

psyche.

Too Bad it's so small - I just popped the CD in and boy do I wish you could see Jarreau's lips on the cover.

From The Press Release:
Al Jarreau has Christmas on his mind. This fall the seven-time Grammy-winning vocalist released his first-ever Christmas album - his first album of newly recorded music since 2006's sensational Givin'It Up with George Benson. AL JARREAU CHRISTMAS includes the singer's distinctive vocal spin on a dozen yuletide classics. This holiday collection is available now from Rhino Records at all physical outlets for a suggested list price of $18.98. The digital release is also available now for $9.99. Al Jarreau will tour the U.S. in December in support of Christmas. The tour will begin in New Haven, CT, on December 6.

EEEEEWWWWW - I mean, seriously. Al Jarreau is cool and all, but come on, man. He's like the Samuel L. Jackson of Music. Ha, I crack myself up.

Feel Free to listen in and make up your own mind.

Quicktime I Windows Media

It kind of sounds like someone took the mall piano guy hostage and made him blow Kenny G's Sax. If you know what I mean. Chills. Good Grief, I FEEL MORE TONE DEAF.

Tom Russell Singer Songwriter Extraordinaire and Singlehanded Saviour of the World

2008-11-14T12:04:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of this guy? I mean, you might have. His songs were covered by Johnny Cash and Nancy Griffith nonetheless. That ain't nuthin' to shake a stick at, as they say down south, and maybe up north. Since I heard it up north - and have never been below the Mason-Dixon Line for fear of the raccoons for that matter. I hear they're pretty spooky. LOOK:

Ha - totally kidding. That's a total cat. I blame the internet. Huge Pussy. Even the dude is scared. But this isn't about pussies, is it? It's about Mr. Tom Russell. A true soul of the American Way. (I just copyrighted that term, so, stick it Uncle Sam) Next to writing songs for all kinds of famous country musicians, this guy actually taught school during the Biafran War. I know, I know, when I read that I was like, WHAT? Jello started WARS!?!?! But after a consulting my friend the librarian I found out that it was actually the Nigerian Civil war, which, as we all know probably wasn’t fun. So, I’ll just leave it at that. Props, Tom.

And now, for Veteran’s Day – which I totally failed to mention here on this blog, but swear I knew about – Tom released his Anthology. It includes a booklet with his art. I don’t know what it looks like. Maybe Outsider Art? I’ve never come to terms with it. There are other people that do that sort of thing and generally they kind of freak me out. Why do I keep on writing and not just offer up some of his musical gems. Cus I got MP3z, son. Ever heard of it? DOWNLOADABLE, YO. RIGHT HERE AND HERE.

He’s got some important shit to talk about. Spread the good word folks! And just so you know, this is what the CD looks like. So buy it on Amazon.

In fact, this guy kind of looks like the guy with the cat. weird.

Useless product of the day.

2008-11-10T13:18:00.000-08:00

And we're back. This time with another box set of stuff. I understand people get a little nerdy about things but, come on now. The new Indiana Jones: The Soundtracks Collection (note: that's, like, all of them and the fancy color) is out today and it even includes an extra CD with "previously unreleased music from the films." OH SHIT! There's a short round squeek we haven't heard A MILLION TIMES. Hey, I mean, I love Indie as much as the next dude who used to watch Raiders of the Lost Ark over and over until his parents threatened to give him up for adoption (ha, i actually wrote abortion there first) because they couldn't hear it anymore, but in any case, this special edition case is a little bit too much. Plus, also, I dont like soundtracks. Personal, I know. There is one thing though, Soundtracks that are just random assortments of other people's songs piss me off A LOT more. Just for kicks, check out the INDIE Giving:

Editor's special note: This post requires necessary viewing of South Park Episode 1208 (I think).

...and not so leggy feature but legs come to mind none the less.

2008-11-07T08:02:00.000-08:00

Because the man who all mothers love just released a definitive set. Good for me, because that certainly takes care of what I’m getting moms for Christmas. Merry Christmas, Mom. Love you.
And in case you’re not a mom, which is perfectly ok, you can get your Rod Stewart fix right here:
http://rhino.edgeboss.net/qtime/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops.mov
http://rhino.edgeboss.net/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops_56.wax http://rhino.edgeboss.net/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/514093/514093_sops_100.wax
The Definitive Rod Stewart CD set will be available on Nov 18th.

And this is so impressive that I had to copy and paste. From the press release:

With an estimated 250 million in album and single sales, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Rod Stewart arguably possesses one of rock’s greatest and most distinctive voices. For many years, he called Warner Bros. home, first as lead singer of the influential band the Faces and later as an internationally successful solo artist. This fall, Warner Bros. will launch a comprehensive catalog release campaign that focuses on Stewart’s solo years with Warner Bros., featuring Collector’s Editions of some of the artist’s biggest-selling albums, a trio of boxed sets spotlighting studio, live and rare recordings, as well as compilations of Stewart’s duets, soundtrack contributions and more.

...just, wow.

Retro Hot Feature

2008-11-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

As a kid I loved Phil Collins. Then my friend played "I Can't Dance" on his saxophone. It was terrible. But I like the song. And also, I found out about Genesis, and guess what - they're pretty awesome. So it is my honor and privilege to present to you – The Genesis 1970-1975 Box Set AND it’ll be in stores Nov 11th. Now, it is undeniable that these prog rockers have done a tremendous amount for pop culture, plus they've given us one of the biggest bitch fests ever between to former band mates and that makes for endless entertainment. So, sit down, shut up and watch this video and you’ll be transported right back to before you were born – HA. Let’s put the theatrics back into Rock And Roll.

http://rhino.edgeboss.net/qtime/rhino/musicvideos/genesis/V_FL_Genesis_I_Know_What_I_Like_In_Your_Wardrobe__From_Box_Set_19701975_243398_450.mov

And look, they joined the internet revolution:

http://www.myspace.com/genesismusic

Fancy doesn't stop there, check it:

HEY HEY WE'RE GONNA BEAT DIABETES

2008-11-04T13:33:00.000-08:00

The Man, The Legend BB KING and his best love Lucille are at it again. The duo is back with with a new album "One Kind Favor" and it's a gem. So, instead of blabbing about it, check out the EPK below. I love EPKs.

https://admin.secure.streamos.com/streamos/player/flv/?url=http://geffen.edgeboss.net/flash/geffen/bb_king/video/onekindfavorepk/30/hi.flv

Just look at that! It's so melancholy. Gazing into the future. Oh B.B. King!

OMG Bi-Monthly Leg Feature

2008-10-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

Off the top of your head, who comes to mind when you think of leggy music perform singers?

TINA TURNER!! Duh!!

I mean, the lady is pushing 90 and looks better than me. I know my pops is all about her. I am too, weirdly enough... talk about inter-generational.

So, now, the queen of soul (can I call her that?) put out a career spanning set of hits called, unironically, "Tina!"

God, she's awesome. Click through to get to her official site: http://www.tinaturner.live.com

And feel free to sample here and here.

SPECIAL EDITION WEEKEND POST

2008-10-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

God - I'm Awesome. You'll never guess what I got going today. In fact, I dare you. You're not gonna guess, I know it, so, I'll just make it easy for you and tell you:

BIKE KILL!!

To get my soft office hands a little dirtied up.

If you look really hard, you can totes make me out riding the shoe bike. No joke. Man, that was awesome. So, now I'm gonna go do the same, except, it will rain, and my mascara will run. i'll look like a prom date left at the stoop. But first I need to wait for a delivery, OMGOMGOMGOMG hurry it up already. DRUNK!

Gonzo Journalism In All It's Glory

2008-10-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

What can I say about Mr. Hunter S. Thompson? Except, I'm pretty sure everyone who named their kids Hunter definitely read fear and loathing while stoned and possibly copulating. This man, nay, legend LIVED the American Dream! As is exploited thorougly in various movies, etc - we all know that. BUT. Now The Gonzo Tapes are out. That's Mr. Gonzo's own tapes, available for everyone to gain (some) insight to the inner workings of the man's brain. You can get a taste of the audio madness here. Oh, and look at what it all comes with:

In all seriality, i'm done for the day. I bet the gonz never got sick. dying ova heee.

Hip Hop Hurray - $10 Million Worth

2008-10-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hey - so, I promised some color, here we go:

$tack$ (note: $ = s) just released "CraZee And ConfuZed" and guess what? It features a vertiable who's who of todays hip hop top 40. CHECK THIS SHIZ OUT, SON!!

Li’l Wayne BLAM!!

Fat Joe BLAM BLAM!!!

Twista - psh

AND f*cking Swizz Beatz

I like Swizz Beatz -

Buy this shit and help stacks get some of his $10 million back...

Seriously? I try, I try to understand - but maybe some one should pay an accountant to sit down with my man stacks and discuss his spending habbits. NO BLING FOR YOU!!

Sample his melodyz (HA - INSIDE JOKE) HERE and lord knows support our youth!

LUCKY THURSDAY!!

2008-10-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Guess what I just got? I chance to win an iPod Touch! "Get out of town", you say? I beg to differ. The best news of all? YOU CAN TOO.

So, there's this band, right? And they just put out a new record - with me? And to promote that new record, they are giving it away. Plus an iPod touch. Yeah. That's what I said. So here goes.

KEANE, from britland, i believe, just released "Perfect Symmetry" and you can enter to win their stuff by clicking this particularly blue looking HERE.

(lolz, they are being so symmetrically ironic)

But also, while you are trying to win their gear - give them a chance and have a listen - also HERE. They are blowing up the spot.

What did I say? White through the board!

2008-10-21T15:46:00.001-07:00

This time it's up to british crooner and total hearthrob James Morrison. Ha, with a names like THAT...I bet he never heard that one before. He's pretty touchy feely. With an album name like "Songs for You, Truths for Me" and song titles like "Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" (you can sample it here) - I wouldn't want to hurt his feelings or anything.

Lets just line them up though:

Are Beards the new heroin*?

I leave you with that. In the meantime BUY IT.

*I am convinced that heroin is responsible for some of the great musical acts this past century or two - lets see, oh, uh, robert johnson uhhh the lead singer from alice in chains...and then some. So anyway, go figure.

MORE COLORS!!

2008-10-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Psyche!! - No Colors hereSwinging, Sexy (Mustochiod) Surfer Dude is up to some new shenanigans. Donavon Frankenreiter just released his third album - second for Lost Highway, which is a plus, in my opinion - "Pass It Along" and it's, to no one's surprise, really, exactly what you would expect; swinging, sexy, relaxed and chill, reminiscent of some beach you were at once for a hot minute thinking to yourself, shit - I wish I would live here. Phew. I was gonna go on, but my grammar skills need to be honed a little still. In any case, if you’re about to crack open that tequila sunrise in a bottle wishing you were in California instead of steadily cooling NY then you can’t make a better choice than Mr. Frankenreiter’s new offering. On the other hand – if you’re looking for some real, insightful sh*t, then…yo, you know you get the best insights when you’re chilling and don’t have a paper and a pad on you – chose Frankenreiter.

Have a listen, why don't you? It just may make you want to visit a hilton. By the way - as a surfer/bum (like someone i know) I would be outraged at the fact that they used Donavon's music for a hilton commercial. Damn it. That wouldn't be very chill though, bro, so, I'll leave it at that. Steaming on the inside. slowly.

To vent some steam - here is an added bonus:

HA - He's a dirt hippy too, and look what happened to him. And also, thanks to someone else for finding a (more awesome and shorter) video. PEACE.

oh SN*P - More Old School TV

2008-10-13T10:22:00.000-07:00

- Thanks to the Minisode Network I can now check out old TV shows in no time at all. This is the episode of "What's Happening!!" about an election. Guess what? We're about to have an election too!! - Coincidence? I think so, maybe. But anyway, kick back, relax and let some wholesome TV seep into your brain.

...and another BLAST FROM THE PAST - This Time in the Form of Arena Rock and Many Other Styles Covering a Everything From AC/DC to Drum Machines

2008-10-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's a Mixed Bag of Tricks but Todd Rundgren is BACK! with style and vengance. The former lead singer of the New Cars is up to his old tricks with shredding guitars and howling Rock and Roll. He's on Tour so you should probably go check him out - it's good for the soul

10/10 – Pittsburgh, PA Rex Theatre
10/11 – Tarrytown, NY Tarrytown Music Hall
10/13 – Knoxville, TN Bijou Theatre
10/15 – Asheville, NC The Orange Peel
12/17 – Alexandria, VA Birchmere
12/19 – Bay Shore, NY YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts
12/20 – Norfolk, CT Infinity Hall
12/26 – New York, NY Blender Theatre at Gramercy
12/30 – Annapolis, MD Rams Head On Stage

I mean, look at this man - Style's oozing from the Mic Stand:

On second though it might not be a mic stand at all, but a guitar and a cymbal? Alright, that does it. I'm going to give two copies to the person that can explain to me with out a doubt what those things are.

Ha - jk, you think i'm just gonna give you free CDs? Please. We're in a recession.

----- I actually was joking about that last part - I just wanted for you to appreciate it more.

Have a HEADPHONE LISTEN

Thanks - Much Love Todd

First Hip Hop Post EVER!!

2008-10-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

I'll try and not let it be the last one cus HEY - I kind of like this. These dudes may rap about cappucinos - yet in a styling and intelligent way. Plus, their sense of fashion is on key. Also, I feel strangley attracted to light, dark skinned women now. Uhoh - jungle fever. But enough about women cus this duo "holds it down" as they say. Enjoy some fly beats and rhymes and check them out

Honestly? I wish more people would make music like this.

UPDATE: I googled terrorist scarfs - they are called "keffiyeh." That was wrong of me.

MORE Country. In Fact - 20 Hits of It!

2008-10-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

Ha - get it? Like, Meth.

Oh lord, now they done it. The NOW franchise FINALLY came out with a country collection. How many of you have been waiting for this since the first NOW compilation came out some time in the stone ages? (I bet it had that "Macarena" song on it. Good lord i hated that song.) So, luckily, NOW they're back, pun totally intended. The CD includes "hits" from Carrie Underwood, holler, and Keith Sweat, I mean, Urban and middle America loves it. All I know is that I heard something about cold beer and god being a great fit. In reality, that is all I ever need to hear...I'll pull a Palin and get back to you about the details. In the meantime, go out and buy the record and then you can go download 5 more songs some where. SPECIAL SECRET CODE. psssssst! And look, this Carrie is hot too.

Carrie Rodriguez Is An Awesome Musician (And Pretty Cute Too)!

2008-10-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

OH LOOK!! More hot legs - although this time it seems they are clothed. But BELIEVE me. I saw them in real life. Plus this one plays a not everyday instruments as well: fiddle. And she's good at it - first person experience. Although that's being kept on the back burner on this record and her songwriting skills are the focus. And DAMN IT she's cute. But for real, her musician ship is undisputed. She did put out four records with Chip Taylor.

Have a LISTEN
or a LOOK

and definitely BUY

UPDATE!!:

I TOLD YOU SO!!

Team Four Christians, an Atheist and a Jew Walk Into A Bar...Two Sentence Analysis of Historic Flip Cup Tournament

2008-10-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

**Sp*c**l*ps: if flip cup was a humongous cock
**Sp*c**l*ps: we really went to town on it

Thank you.

So I don't usually do this...

2008-09-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

...but this one just holds a special spot in my heart. I found an old VCR tape (!) back in the day once, and as I plopped it in, this cop show came on. I figured it was older than me, cus, you know, people looked orange and stuff. Maybe that was also the VCR - good thing we have Blu-Ray these days. In any case, i was totally watching Adam 12. And I only realized this just now. so here goes, for the sake of my childhood memories - go out and support those that inspired me to be a detective when I grow up.

I mean, just LOOK at those bad motherf*ckers. I even found the trailer. GAH - why can't TV be this awesome all the time.

Adam-12 Season Two Trailer -

Adam-12 Season Two Trailer from Anna Withers on Vimeo.

YES! Bad guys beware - Ninja Cat - SUCK IT!!

WAR IS DECLARING WAR ON TODAY

2008-09-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

Today's Blast From the Past!!!

War, remember that band? they wrote that song that everyone thought was written by Cheech and Chong - that's right "Low Rider" - and some other stuff too. I bet you know all their other songs too - Cisco Kid, damn straight, been doing laps in my brain all week. I'll get to the point. They are coming out with a super long awaited Live album (first ever) and it's also the first thing they've put outin FOURTEEN years. like, wow! This will be out in all sorts of formats, including Blu-Ray.

You can order it here.

KEEP THE PEACE ALIFE!!! HA. zing. hippies.

Apparently I Also Like Internet Videos

2008-09-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

NINJA CAT ---- It's like it's moving. But it's not. This is why cats can kill you.

oh yeah, and if you have a short attention span, jump to the 30 sec mark.

It's a BOY!...no, it's a, uh, GIRL!!! WHO CARES? What matters is that it ROCKS!!

2008-09-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

She's not brand new on the scene and she is definitely starting to leave her mark.

Check it:
"Armed with a voice that weaves seamlessly between being fierce and vulnerable, L.P. can captivate an audience with a single note, and turn a crowd of strangers into rabid fans with just one song. Nothing iterates this point better than the story of SXSW 2006 where her live performance inspired a label bidding war. This ultimately led to her being signed by LA Reid himself to Island Records. While L.P. says it’s “nice” that she inspired the competition, the singer ultimately walked away from the deal with her songs in hand, the material that will be included on her forthcoming album on SoBe Entertainment."

She lives in Brooklyn. So do I. I'm going to to track her down. I mean, just listen. Stirring.

That's what that felt like.

2008-09-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

So Young And Already with the Rykodisc Collection

2008-09-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Josh Rouse will relase a two-disc, 32-song anthology spanning the seven years on Rykodisc that includes his best songs, rare tracks plus a couple of unreleased demos and outtakes available on September 9th! He has tremendous talent' Seriously. Dont't believe me? check it out
Here
and
Here

and if you're a trooper, buy it here.

You know Rhino can do no wrong!

Elisa is "Dancing" with joy

2008-09-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

How could she not? Her album is doing great on iTunes and went on sale all over the country. She's enjoyed a huge rise in popularity after her single "Dancing" was featured on So You Think You Can Dance. Check out the video to "Rainbow" featuring Lacey Schwimmer.

and check out "Dancing" and don't forget to buy the CD here.

Zebrahead's new album is everything everyone expected

2008-08-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

So, this new album is good. Packed with what's made them famous, the new CD is better than the parts it's made up of. In addition, there's this nifty DVD that packed with all the WILD fun these kids have on the road. Don't believe me? watch the video and get a feel for yourself. Kind of takes me back the good ole days...

For fruther listening pleasure, i present to you this crazy EP that came out before the album but is not to be discounted. at iTunes
and if you need your fix, by it here.

Red State Update - What Did You Expect?

2008-08-11T13:45:00.000-07:00

Seriously?

These dudes are hilarious. I'm not usually one for Comedy CDs but frankly, seventeen thirteenths SONG and a little too much nudity. You don't have to be from the South to enjoy hits like "If I was you (I'd start drinking)" and Jackie's own AWESOME rendition of "Simple Man."

I'm looking forward to the news now because these two are going to have a something to say about it.

I'll leave you all with this little nugget of wisdom - oh, and buy the CD here:

Man Raze - Unfortunate, I Know, But...

2008-08-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

...you wouldn't believe it: They don't actually suck. In fact, these aging rockers have been around the block so often they can probably write music that'll appeal to more than two people in their sleep. Although not the best record I ever heard, I do recommend you give this Surreal bizniss a listen. For serious. For pete's sake, it's the guy from Def Leppard and the other guy from the SEX PISTOLS. Some dude from Girl is involved too, but i was never into glam. So...no, no so. buy the CD here. Support the industry - if only for nostalgia. HA! so for samples check visuals here and if that's TM, listen here.

Sultry Sophistication from South America

2008-08-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Folks. This band sounds like the members its made up of. In fact, that saying "more than the sum of it's parts" is entirely apt in this case. Bajofondo will perform in NY Aug 15 FOR FREE and you bet I'll be there in time to not get the stupid long lines. Check out some sampleZ.

Super awesome, off "Mar Dulce":

Pa' Bailar & Fairly Right

This isn't your momma's tango. Also, should be completely obvious once deccipher the cover.

Oh, and I have 2 copies of the single available on vinyl. Leave the name of the two movies the band leader received a Grammy for and you can win "Pa' Bailar" 12".

LOLzzzzZOMG

oh gawd - more HOTTness! ! !

2008-07-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

This time from the High Heavens of SOL
who decides? She decides!
check out that video. Hot.

SoL-AngeL is at it again, the talented singer, songwriter, artist, and entrepreneur, Solange Knowles is ready to set the world on fire with a sound that is sure to breathe life into a sometimes stagnant music scene. With her sophomore set, SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams, on her new label home of Geffen Records through Music World Entertainment, Solange takes us through a walk in yesteryear with an uber modern twist. SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams is due for release on August 26th.
On SoL-AngeL and The Hadley Street Dreams, SoL-AngeL enlisted help from producers and songwriters that she knew would capture the sound she wanted to project instantly; but getting them to believe in her wasn’t easy.
“I literally had to beg Cee-Lo to listen to my music but once he did he signed on immediately,” states the giddy SoL-AngeL. “We wrote and recorded ‘T.O.N.Y’ and ‘Sandcastle Disco’ (produced by Soul Shock) that same week. Producer Jack ‘Splash’ joined in to produce ‘T.O.N.Y’ and went on to produce two more songs for me: ‘Would’ve Been the One’ and ‘Ode To Marvin,’ my special take on Mr. Gaye’s ‘What’s going On,’ both of which I wrote with Splash and Makeba.”
For the remainder of the album SoL-AngeL went on to work with Pharrell for the finger-snapping, feel-good first single “I Decided,” Lil Wayne makes an intoxicated guest appearance on “Champagnechronicnightcap,” Bilal helps write and appears on “Cosmic Journey” and “Wanna Go Back,” which Marsha Ambrosius of Floetry lends vocals to, and Raphael Saddiq produces the soulfully insightful, “Same Song, Different Man,” which features Estelle

Look at those LEGS!!!

2008-06-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

HERE TOO!!!!!

Oh, and she plays saxophone too.

Listen to “Smile” and “Stars” - Just in time for the weekend.

MINDI ABAIR, saxophonist/vocalist/composer is set to release her first Peak Records (a division of Concord Music Group CD titled STARS on May 6, bursting on to the pop scene as one of an exciting new generation of crossover artists. For the CD, Abair wrote 11 new songs, with five songs showcasing her vocals. Her instrumental single, Smile, is currently on R&R at #13 and is rising; and her vocal song Stars, will be serviced to AC radio on April 28. Collaborator/producer Matthew Hager enlisted a group of stalwarts from the pop world to contribute to the new CD including keyboardist Ricky Peterson (John Mayer, Prince), drummer Abe Laboriel, Jr. (Paul McCartney, Sting) and cellist Richard Dodd, (Faith Hill, Foo Fighters). Mindi will also preview tracks from the new CD to fans worldwide at DeepRockDrive.com on May 1 @ 6:00 p.m. PST (from Las Vegas), a high-definition, multi-stream live show in which fans from all over the world can enjoy her concert simultaneously. Each participate can “shout out” song requests and send messages to Mindi live throughout the performance.
STARS is the follow up to Abair’s 2006 CD Life Less Ordinary, which debuted on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart at #1; and spawned three #1 hit singles on Radio & Records. Her debut CD, It Just Happens That Way, stayed in the Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks, and she was named the #1 most played Contemporary Jazz CD of 2003 by Jazz Week. Abair has established herself in the pop world touring with Adam Sandler, Mandy Moore, Josh Groban, Duran Duran and Backstreet Boys’ Millennium Tour; and her vocal song I Can Remember was featured in Aaron Spelling’s hit “Summerland”; while Every Time was featured in Robin Williams/Mandy Moore’s “License To Wed”.

Buy it for the LEGS or check out more LEGS

Joe Cocker took his hat off

2008-06-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

Feast your ears on the new, sultry sounds of Mr. Joe Cocker:

“Love Is For Me”

“You Haven’t Done Nothin”

On May 13th, Fantasy Records will release Hymn For My Soul, the newest album from legendary singer Joe Cocker. The album unites Cocker, possessor of one of the world’s most instantly recognisable and iconic voices (Lennon & McCartney’s With A Little Help From My Friends, anyone?), with Ethan Johns, who has proved both his worth and his Midas touch via albums he’s produced for, among others, Rufus Wainwright, Emmylou Harris, Ryan Adams, Razorlight, Kings of Leon, and Ray LaMontagne. The union has resulted in one of the most accomplished pieces of work in the Sheffield-born singer’s long and illustrious career, and one played by arguably the most stellar band to be assembled in a recording studio anywhere in the world in recent times.

Among them are drummers Jim Keltner (uniformly viewed as the best session drummer in the world, a man who played with John Lennon and Bob Dylan), and James Gadson (as well as producing classic albums for the soul star Bill Withers, he drummed on hit recordings by artists ranging from Gladys Knight to Justin Timberlake). Also present are Tom Petty’s pianist Benmont Tench, former Jethro Tull keyboard player Dave Palmer, bassist Bob Babbitt (member of Motown Records’ studio band The Funk Brothers in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and hence a player on more seminal recordings than can be listed here), and Hammond organist Mike Finnigan (who played with Jimi Hendrix on Electric Ladyland). Completing the all-star line-up on backing vocals are Merry Clayton (once one of Ray Charles’s Raelettes, she sang on the Stones’ Gimme Shelter), Tata Vega, Julia Walters, her brother Oren Walters, and Jim Gilstrap.

Check it out officially

Buy It

Are you A Merry Can or A Sad Can????

2008-06-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

Why don't we ask Daniel Lowery- American Extraordinaire

“I’m An American” Listen
“I’m An American” Look

Buy IT

Patriotism in song usually emanates from country & western singers. Patriotism, pride and passion are felt, but seldom verbalized, by African-Americans. “I’m An American,” an emotive and timely new ode to American troops, touchingly delivered by established Las Vegas crooner Daniel Lowery, who is African-American, was released nationwide on May 5th.

The song, written by Lowery, Miami producer/songwriter Hal S. Batt and Nashville songwriter Jennifer Constantine, is an uplifting tribute to American troops and a reminder to the American people of the precious freedoms that we sometimes take for granted. “I want this song to be an anthem,” says Lowery. “I want to send the message that we need to come together as a country and be as one and change the way things are going on here.”

Producer Batt, who has worked with an array of superstars, including Julio Iglesias, Shakira, Sandi Patty, Jean Carne, and Regina Belle, agrees. “The reason for this song is to give people hope. It’s because they’re doing their job that I’m able to do my job here. I feel indebted to do a song that’s going to make them smile.”

A poignant, touching video accompanies the release of the single. “I'm An American,” the first single from Lowery's upcoming self-titled Timbo/Jam Records CD, is available at CDBaby.com, itunes and http://www.timbojamrecords.com/.

Lowery is an established Las Vegas singer, having shared the stage with everyone from Bill Cosby to Gladys Knight. Originally performing under the moniker of Jamariah (Swahili for “dream chaser”), he built up a substantial following. One of the few African-American singers with his own Vegas act, he has performed at the Monte Carlo Hotel for nearly four years.
“I'm An American” is the right song for these days and times, lending a human aspect to the current status for thousands of our courageous military men and women. Those honorable troops are our family members and this song gives a voice to them. Now more than ever, Americans are strong and looking toward a brighter tomorrow for everyone.
Daniel Lowery's heartfelt “I'm An American” beautifully demonstrates that a Black man in America can have an anthem too!