Jaws Theme Sam

Nice

2010-09-14T21:34:00.002-05:00

For those of you I don't see on a regular basis, life has been pretty good lately. Hope you're in the same boat

It's Something

2010-06-12T12:23:00.002-05:00

Read it. Not mine, but welcome back.

Just So You All Know

2010-01-07T18:47:00.004-06:00

When I get home from work, I take my pants off and kick it in long underwear until I get in the shower. This can last anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours.

Just thought you should know. Carry on.

Last One

2009-12-31T18:26:00.001-06:00

This year, although I consider myself an independent person, I realized how much I would crumble without the love and support of my friends. Old and new. For real guys, I don't know how I would have made it through the year 2009 without you. All of you. Thank you. Again and again.

Posi

2009-12-24T13:39:00.001-06:00

This year I made a conscious effort to surround myself with only positive, caring people. It makes life a better place to be.

TYI

2009-12-23T13:52:00.002-06:00

This year I experienced loss on a level I could never have imagined.

2009-12-21T23:35:00.001-06:00

This year I smoked my first cigarette since 2005. I subsequently started, stopped, and started smoking a bunch of times. I can honestly say today that I no longer smoke.

This Year I... Joe Garvey Edition

2009-12-19T16:24:00.006-06:00

Here is a photo of my good friend Joe Garvey and I in New York this summer.

Since he doesn't keep a personal blog, and he sure as hell didn't "want to post this shit on Twitter" (although I think #thisyeari might go over huge there), he sent me his thoughts on the subject. So here you are, as told by the man himself.

This year I...

-met a lot of new friends in the Twin Cities
-quit a horrible job
-moved to NYC
-started a company(a work in process)
-saw a lot of live music including Morrissey and Bruce(2x)
-grew a lot of different styles of facial hair
-wore my boots a lot

Next year is all about helping...

Thanks Joe.

Keep em coming

2009-12-19T15:11:00.002-06:00

This year I embraced the blue-collar side of myself, something I have ignored for a long time.

I like the way this is looking friends.

Round 3

2009-12-18T18:58:00.001-06:00

This year I fell in love with the wrong person and got my heart broken.

Not trying to bum you out. Just stating the facts folks. Keep em coming.

Again

2009-12-15T18:15:00.002-06:00

This year I stopped playing music. Then I started again.

Ashley is playing along. Let's get with the program here kids. Make it sad, make it happy, make it funny- as long as you did it, state it.

This Year I...

2009-12-10T13:05:00.002-06:00

As the year of 2009 comes to an end, I want to share with you some things I did this year. Friends, I invite you to join me in this, not in the comments, but rather in your own forums.
So let's begin.

This year I fulfilled at least one of my new year's resolutions: I traveled. A lot.

Your turn.

Shoreline

2009-12-04T20:18:00.002-06:00

Please come and join us to celebrate all that was Shoreline.

Cousins

2009-11-20T18:40:00.002-06:00

Ezra looks just like Roger Federer. I am excited for this record.

A Few Things

2009-10-20T17:51:00.003-05:00

The wundertwins are back with another banger. I don't always like records I like a lot at first listen. Sainthood is not that way. This record sounds great. Right away. Stream it early on MySpace.

This article is so on point. Worth the read for any fan of The National. Shit, worth it for those who aren't fans (which bt dubs, if that includes you, you have no business on this blog). Dude's got it right.

Speaking of dudes, some guy is hosting a night just for you tomorrow. You should probably go solve the mystery. I'll be there.

In other news, Lookbook is awesome. So is sneaking into the sold out kitty cat klub. Chicks with banana suits and Jeff Goldblum fetishes make for entertaining nights. Working for the weekend isn't the end of the world.

Do you ever want to hang out with all of your friends at the same time?

UHH... God Damn

2009-10-16T19:08:00.002-05:00

This is dope. It's far from the best mash up i've ever heard. But I get real hyped on just the idea of this. trust. Listen

Runnin With The Xx (QUIX vs. ELLIOT Blend) - Biggie vs. Tupac vs. The Xx

also, Zombieland is a great flick. Go see it.

Running Down a Dream

2009-10-12T18:01:00.002-05:00

“Life isn’t about finding yourself.
Life is about creating yourself.”
-George Bernard Shaw

Yep. Dude's got it right.
I won this weekend. also, that last post should have been named what this post is named.

You Don't Know How It Feels

2009-09-25T19:56:00.004-05:00

I drove around a lot this summer. It reaffirmed my faith in a lot of things, including this great country we live in. I've said it before; for a while I thought the notion of being "american" was a negative thing. But fuck all that. I love this country. There are amazing people, places, and things that come from the US. Trust me. I am proud to say I have seen a large portion of it. We are far from from perfect, but I think we are on the right track these days. Embrace what you have and where you are from.

Recently, Ryan and I drove to Omaha to see Bon Iver. It was wonderful. On the way home, I stated something like "There sure is a lot of America happening right now."
We were two dudes chewing sunflower seeds in blue jeans, converse all stars, flannel, and white t-shirts, on the tail-end of a roadtrip to see some Rock and Roll. There was a guitar in the backseat. We had just camped our under the stars and eaten at a roadside diner. Tom Petty was on the stereo and we were following a baseball game on Ryan's phone. All while rolling through the hills of Southern Minnesota, snapping photos left and right. It felt great. It's a good time to be alive.

Friday

2009-09-12T00:42:00.005-05:00

Someone drew this picture.
I guess they haven't really figured out how to draw noses. And they have a shitty scanner.
I think it was supposed to look like this. Just a guess though.
Happy Fucking Friday
New job. New York. New ambitions. New bands. New Jay-Z is pretty good.

Saturday

2009-08-24T13:47:00.002-05:00

You know it's gonna be good. If you were there, you can not miss it. If you weren't, come and wish you were.
See you on the 29th. Duh

Volcano Choir

2009-08-11T13:19:00.004-05:00

It's good. Real Good. Homeboy can do no wrong. I'm convinced.

Premiere Shit

Go Listen

The Sky Could Be Blue

2009-08-03T13:30:00.001-05:00

Regardless of how you feel about Coldplay, you should really watch this video. An impressive feat. Damn Squirrels. Always gotta be taken princesses and shit...

Can't Wait.

2009-07-27T12:57:00.001-05:00

featurette
by ThePlaylist

This is gonna be pretty cool I guess

Don't Hate

2009-07-17T12:14:00.002-05:00

This dude rules so hard. Positive vibes only. Thank you.

Oh ya, I'm home now. Holler.

2009-06-29T12:54:00.002-05:00

Like that flick a lot. I've got a soft spot in my heart for nike's in that colorway.

In NYC. Ruling. Bring it. Holler if you are here too.

For The Homies

2009-06-27T20:56:00.002-05:00

Espescially for Ryan, but especially for Mike.

Thought you fools might like this. Peep the credits. Now, the real question is, who looks better in the drug rug? Munz or Chloe? Sorry Scrunz, I know you've been holding that look down for awhile now, but I've gotta give to the babe...

Sammy C

2009-06-26T20:45:00.001-05:00

Word Is Bond

2009-06-22T08:26:00.002-05:00

So good. That's some real talk right there. I slept on top of a picnic table last night, and you know what? I feel pretty good about. Gonna go kick it in some tree houses today/tonight. then somewhere on the Atlantic coast, then D.C. Lot's of ground to cover.

Life Is Good.

Dark Was The Night Live

2009-06-22T08:14:00.002-05:00

Go here and listen. I am right now! It's great.

Dark Was The Night: Live From Radio City Music Hall

Get the set list et all from pitchfork here

Vidz

2009-06-11T22:20:00.003-05:00

Stick with it. So good. Also, the video for their song "The Knife" rules too.

I'm a sucker for stuff like this. Great song too

Off of one of my favorite records. This band makes me want to play live again.

Anything with that face in it is great. I would cry for days if Annie wanted me to.

Still ripping. Is it really them? I like to think so.

VisionQuest09

2009-06-11T18:28:00.002-05:00

Ya, I'm really far behind.

Day 1

Jeff Buckley

2009-06-10T03:06:00.006-05:00

I've been geeking out on Jeff Buckley tonight. Hard. It's such a tragic story. But let's not dwell on that. His music lives on. I was recently in Amoeba Records in San Francisco, and the "Buckley, Jeff" section took up at least three rows. I think Lou Reed got two. For a man who only released one studio album, this is quite a feet.

Do you have Grace? Live At Sin-e? No? What the hell is wrong with you? Get them. Both. Now. I could go on and on, but I'll try to keep it brief.

Grace. Released in 1994, it was his only studio album. The true power of every song rings through loud and clear. You can just feel Buckley putting every once of himself into every note on the record. Never have I heard a record convey the true passion of an artist better than this one. It even translates through his amazing band on the album. Every snare hit, every bass line: you feel it deep inside of you. It is truly amazing.

This is the first record I listened to when I finally set up my turn table in Minneapolis. It was late one weekend night and I had somewhere to be. The volume was up and it caught me off guard, but it sucked me in right away. I sat on my couch in awe. Engulfed truly in sonic Grace. I think I listened to the first side twice before I flipped the record over. I was late to wherever I was going, but needless to say, it was worth it. That night I wanted to go out and make some serious memories. Make some real connections.

Live at Sin-e. The one you need here is the legacy edition. It was originally released in 93 as an ep, but an extended version was released later with two discs. It was recorded at a tiny club in the East Village called Sin-e in 1993. It is interesting to hear some early versions of songs that would eventually end up on Grace, but what really shines here are his many covers. He plays everything from Bob Dylan to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Van Morrison to traditional African hymns, and ever so famously, Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah. Once again, the sense of raw emotion is clearly audible throughout.

He recreates some of his favorite artists material, a brave thing to do, especially as a young artist. He transforms Cohen's original spoken word verses and gospel-sung choruses into a beautifully sad ballad conjuring biblical allusions and personal strife. I have very very vivid memories of hearing this song for the first time.

He trades Dylan's "so it goes tone" in If You See Her, Say Hello for one that recalls a man battling his acceptance of a lost love. You know he means he is over it, but it still hurts him. It hurts that she is gone, and it hurts that he is kind of ok with that. But what hurts the most is the fact that he can not fully let go of the idea of her and what they had. He keeps some of it with him at all times, even though he knows it tears him up inside. He holds onto some foolish hope for the future. It's not to say that Dylan doesn't say this- if nothing else, through his lyrics- but through Buckley's delivery, he brings new sadness to the subject.

One of my favorite covers on the record however, Buckley does not stray far from the original. The song is called Calling You. Originally featured in a film called Baghdad Cafe, it does one of my favorite things a song can do. It puts you in place you've never seen, but a place you have been before. The subject matter is very specific, but the theme is universal. As a listener, you feel as though you are on that hot dry road. You can taste the sand in your teeth. You know what the people in the song are going through, because you have experienced it yourself. Once again, this is further heightened by Buckley's powerful delivery.

I provided a few examples of the covers. Listen to the originals too. A good cover can not exist without a solid base to build upon. But really, do yourself a favor and get these albums. Listen to Grace as loud as you can, and listen to Sin-e in bed, by yourself. So much for keeping it brief.

Update

2009-06-02T14:23:00.004-05:00

Tucker took a really great photo, but that looks much better, doesn't it?
As I'm sure all of you know, I've been on the road for about a month now. Don't get it twisted,, it fucking rules and I'm having the time of my life, but I miss all my friends back home and the perfect Minneapolis days that go on right about now. See you all in July.
I'm in San Diego right now. Gonna hit the beach. Booyah. Vegas tomorrow. Should I bet red or black?

Party Time

2009-04-30T19:58:00.003-05:00

Going Away/Birthday Party
Friday 05/01/09
Let's say 10ish
You know where
BYOB
Holler

I leave on Wednesday. Proper update soon. New blog just for that too.

I Woke Up Early On My Born Day

2009-04-28T10:24:00.001-05:00

I'm 23. It's a blessing.

Thanks everyone. I'm ready to start a new chapter. Let's do this.

Stay

2009-04-20T11:57:00.003-05:00

Sorry in advance if this gets heavy.
If you know me, and chances are if you are reading this, you do, you know I don't really talk about the music I write too much offstage. I don't think I do at least. But lately I've kind of been thinking a lot about Shoreline and all we did. What it meant to me. I'll tell you, it meant everything to me. It was all I thought about at times. It was all I ever really wanted to do. Like some "what do you want to do with your life" type shit. I wanted to be in Shoreline and that's it. As you probably know, that has been interrupted by the death of my best friend Kevin. I don't know if that means the end of Shoreline, but for right now, it is on hold.
I have avoided for a long time really talking about it, but truth be told, that really bums me out. All I want to do, especially right this instance, is plug in my Jazzmaster, turn it way up, and play the song Stay with Kevin, Craig, and Slanga. Really fucking loud. That song was always my favorite to play. We usually started practice with that song. It was one of the first songs I wrote for Shoreline. It was so simple. I play three chords the whole time, but it was always one I connected to the most. I felt it the most. The lyrics started out as one thing, but evolved into the way the song sings now. That lyrics holds more weight now than ever. I've said it before, but when I write songs, they aren't always autobiographical. It's always really interesting when they become autobiographical. I need to start writing songs about people coming up on a bunch of money, or inventing really dope shit or something instead of writing about things like heartbreak and loss.
These are the lyrics to Stay

I'm in love with a voice
You're in love with the noise we make
All around all around on the town
They don't know that it breaks me down

I'm in love with a vice
You're in love with the lies you say
Just to save face when you want
But you can't save me cause I'm gone

Stay above the water
Remain the same as you always were
Leave me standing here on my own
Stay above the water

You come down, we have to choose
One or the other, both of us (I) loose
And I know and I know what you want
But you know and you know that I can't

Stay above the water
Remain the same as you always were
Leave me standing here on my own
Stay above the water

I'll keep you up nights, keep you asking those questions
You can call it a promise
Call it a promise

Stay above the water.

If you want, you can listen to that song here
There is an inherent sadness to the song. A feeling of intensity. But also, a tone of acceptance. That's a hard place to get to. But there is this really calming feeling when you do get there. The song is a sort of good bye. A bookend to a dramatic situation. A denouement of sorts. All these things happened, and that's ok. But it's over now, and we are left with the remains of our actions. And these things, these feelings won't just go away, but that's the way it is. We are left to deal with these consequences on our own.
It's kind of crazy to me how close those words relate to a situation I have recently gone through.
I am really proud of that song. I'm proud of my band for the way it turned out and the way we performed it. I'm glad it exists. At the very least, it means a lot to me. Right now. And that is enough. Listening to this song makes me really happy and really sad at the same time. For a number of reasons. That's an ok thing I think.
Maybe my public blog isn't the best place to get this out, but that's where I'm putting it. Rock and Roll.

Far From A Mixtape

2009-04-09T11:56:00.005-05:00

I feel like I relate to songs a lot more these days. It's a good and bad thing. Not specifically these songs. These tracks however, have been ruling my life lately. One day I'll figure out how to embed mp3s on this damn thing. Until then, just trust me and follow the links.

Kurt Vile - Freeway
Short and sweet. That first line is infectious. It's all you need.
The Shins - Saint Simon
From one of my all time favorite records. I think it clocks in at just over thirty minutes. This song always reminds me of my sister. Up until about 5 minutes ago, I thought the line was "Lucy's eyes are blue". Turns out it's "Mercy's eyes are blue". Huh, who knew.
Nas - Halftime
I have listened to Illmatic probably one hundred times since my truck broke down. Classic.
Animal Collective - Summertime Clothes
This record too. I just can not get sick of it. It's almost hard to listen to right now. There are some serious moments/people/issues attached to this record. This song especially.
The National - Slow Show
This band does no wrong. Why this song? Why not? They all rule.
Sam Roberts - Them Kids
Honest pop music. Hard to come by such a good jam.
Beirut - Postcards From Italy
The horn line towards the end of this song sounds like how it would feel to have a rainbow shining down on you. Thats some of the gayest shit I've ever said, but its glorious. Triumphantly sad. Beautiful.
Van Morrison - Everyone
From another great record. This is one of those jams like I said before that I can relate to. (Sorry, I can't find a good stream of this one. Go dig through your parents record collection and listen to Moondance like seven times through. It'll be good for you.)
Phoenix - 1901
These dudes make writing pop songs look easy. Watch out for this record. I have a feeling it will sit right towards the top of a lot of year end lists.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Hysteric
An excellent track from as far as I can tell an excellent record. Moving out of the garage and onto the dance floor. Welcome Karen and friends. It's nice to have you here.
Harlem Shakes - Strictly Game
I've only heard one other song from this band and it is great too. There's a line in here that kind of sums up being young if you ask me. Let me know if you can find it. It's not "I'm sick of holding on to nothing when I just want to hold your hips", but I'll be damned if that's not a properasfuck line.
Bonus Jam
Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova - Into the Mystic
A Van Morrison cover. Beautifully executed.

In other news, blogger is slowly becoming more and more of a bitch to deal with. I am leaving in 27 days, and on the real, that shit ca't come soon enough. The Plat Lite is really great. Fuck 2009. Yes, still. I will be needing addresses to send you all postcards. Get em to me. I think there will be a party on May 2nd. Tired of whining to my friends. Sorry guys, and thanks. Trying not to whine to the internet. My bike is up and running. It's getting nice out. Fuck yes.

SXSW Highlights. Day 1. Empire of the Sun.

2009-03-25T10:31:00.004-05:00

So for the next few days or so, I will share with you, in one way or another, some of the dopeness I discovered at SXSW last week. I'll leave the photo coverage to someone else. Pressure's on girl!

First up, is Empire of the Sun. I didn't see this band unfortunately, but I heard them while the girl from Chairlift was DJing at the flea market. I want to dance to this shit. Walking On A Dream is the banger track. Trust one. Go here and dig through some pretty ill remixes. The Van She one is worth a listen. Otherwise, here is the official video for that track.

Pretty fresh, right? I didn't watch that video before I posted it. I have this weird thing about listening to a song too many times in a row.
Stay tuned this week for more. Including bands I actually saw. And hey, maybe even a rant about musicians over at another blog. Fucking musicians...
Just so I don't end on a negative note, I will be leaving in 6 weeks. I will be gone for 2 1/2 months. More on that later.

Favorites

2009-03-23T21:26:00.003-05:00

SXSW ruled. More on that later.
On a mostly unrelated note, this photo also rules.

Travis and Kevin
Milwaukee, WI
Summer 2005

Positive Jams From Here On Out

2009-03-13T14:09:00.002-05:00

Pro In 09

2009-02-26T23:11:00.003-06:00

I would like to thank Ashley, Michelle, Ryan, Mike, and Tucker.

At Any Speed

2009-02-25T11:36:00.002-06:00

Sam Cassidy used to be in a band called Shoreline. He might still be in a band called Shoreline, but the future is up in the air. At Any Speed is another outlet. Some new songs, some old songs, and an always unstable group of contributors.

charlizetheron

2009-02-23T23:39:00.002-06:00

I really, really miss this dude.

Flicks

2009-02-08T17:15:00.004-06:00

This movie is so good. If you haven't seen it, I urge you to watch it. Family is fucked.

Also, this movie is obviously great, but have you seen this poster? I hadn't. Kevin used to watch this movie on the daily. I need to watch both of these again.

There are some cool posters over here. Hey look at me. I blog. Ryan Adams is claiming retirement. So is Morrissey. Fuckthatnoise. At least in Ryan's case. Morrissey can really do whatever the fuck he wants. He has a good argument. A thought just popped into my mind: now that he is putting out records and Johnny Marr is playing with Modest Mouse, I wonder if they have played at the same show ever. Like one of the big festivals. In fact, they might both be playing Coachella... but I'm not sure. That will probably be the closet thing we get to a Smith's reunion. Ever.

(text deleted by author)

Surprise Crack Up

2009-02-08T14:47:00.001-06:00

This s*&t made me laugh a lot.

True Calling

2009-02-04T11:26:00.002-06:00

I've done it. I know what I want to do with my life and this is it. Thanks everyone for sticking with me through all of my indecision. Watch the vid and see what I'll be up to from now on.

All the banger shit is at the end... in SLOWMOTION!

Dream Girls

2009-01-09T18:30:00.003-06:00

Musician
Actress
Musician
Photographer
Icon

HOLY SHIT!

2009-01-09T12:36:00.002-06:00

If you read this, like, ever, you know how much I love the National. Well, the two guitar players, who also happen to be brothers, have curated a compilation for an AIDS charity called Red Hot. It is called Dark Was the Night and will be available on 2/17 here in the states. The tracklisting is out of this world! I could go on and on about it, but ... fuck it, I will. There are new tracks from The National, Bon Iver, Grizzly Bear, Kevin Drew, Cat Power, Arcade Fire, and more. But wait. It gets better. Collaborations. Feist with the Griz! Feist with Ben Gibbard! Dirty Projectors and David Byrne! Antony and Bryce! And the one I am most excited for... Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner! Holy shit! For those of you unfamiliar, that is the dude from Bon Iver and a dude from The National. That has the potential to be the best song ever! I may be over exagerating a bit, but it will rule nonetheless.
This is the full tracklisting

DISC ONE:

"Knotty Pine" - Dirty Projectors + David Byrne
"Cello Song" - The Books featuring Joses Gonzalez
"Train Song" - Feist and Ben Gibbard
"Brackett, WI" - Bon Iver
"Deep Blue Sea" - Grizzly Bear
"So Far Around The Bend" - The National
"Tightrope" - Yeasayer
"Feeling Good" - My Brightest Diamond
"Dark Was The Night" - Kronos Quartet
"I Was Young When I Left Home" - Antony with Bryce Dessner
"Big Red Machine" - Justin Vernon + Aaron Dessner
"Sleepless" - The Decemberists
"Die" - Iron & Wine
"Service Bell" - Grizzly Bear + Feist
"You Are The Blood" - Sufjan Stevens

DISC TWO:

"Well-Alright" - Spoon
"Lenin" - Arcade Fire
"Mimizan" - Beirut
"El Caporal" - My Morning Jacket
"Inspiration Information" - Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings
"With A Girl Like You" - Dave Sitek
"Blood Pt. 2" - Buck 65 Remix (featuring Sufjan Stevens and Serengeti)
"Hey, Snow White" - The New Pornographers
"Gentle Hour" - Yo La Tengo
"Amazing Grace" - Cat Power
"Happiness" - Riceboy Sleeps
"Another Saturday" - Stuart Murdoch
"The Giant Of Illinois" - Andrew Bird
"Lua" - Conor Oberst with Gillian Welch
"When The Road Runs Out" - Blonde Redhead & Devastations
"Love Vs. Porn" - Kevin Drew

Find out more info and how to order it here. Get hyped. Also, there is news at thenoisewemake.com . Also, The Wrestler comes out today. Would anyone like to see it this evening? Call me. Also, I am now going to eat lunch at my grandma's. Also, booyah.

There's Some Lives You Live And Some You Leave Behind

2008-12-22T21:31:00.024-06:00

Here are some photos. I took the majority of them.
I like some of them for the subject matter, others for the way they turned out, and some for both.

Joe Hartzell. Mid air-guitar. Used to work side by side with this dude. Don't see him enough anymore.

PARTYnoPEOPLE

Remy. Halloween 07. Last time I kicked it with this dude he tried to beat me up. It was frightening. I hold absolutely no grudge however. Don't see him enough.

Chad Preese and I. Halloween 07. One of the funnier dudes I know. He brought me gas once recently when I ran out by his crib. That was the last time I saw him.

Choppin Onions. Steamboat Springs, CO. 01/08.

Laurie Gow. Easily on the short list of my favorite people in the world. Perpetually missing this one.

Slanga and Mallory. 12/31/07. They have plans to be married. Cu-eeeete.

Part of Craig. 12/31/07

Kevin and Lukey. These two are not brothers. For Real.

My father. Steamboat Springs, CO. 1/08.Concocting what he refers to as the "hobo's dinner". I refer to it as delicious. Notice his poor excuse for a beard. This is what I have to look forward to.

Dani and Phil. I got stuck in broke down van with Phil in Iowa once. It was probably the best worstnightofmylife. They are getting married. Soon I believe. Again, not enough contact.

Steamboat Springs, CO. 01/08. 60 inches of snow in 4 days.

Kevin. 01/01/08. 9AM.

Edie and Andy. The babe is Jamie. She now resides in New Orleans.

Jess. Pipestone, MN. 02/08.

The illest Summer sleep spot ever. This is part of a collection of about 10 photos.

Self Portrait. I'm gonna guess early 08. Not sure though.

Woah!

2008-12-22T16:11:00.001-06:00

I don't know how to embed things on blogger, so follow this link for some real craze.

ALL THE SINGLE FOXES?

You Can't Get A Job Without A Job

2008-12-11T13:39:00.002-06:00

I WILL see the Pacific Northwest this year. God I need to. One way or another. This flick comes to town starting February 3rd. Who wants to come with me? Recording tonight. Dope.

Wow. My Sentiments Exactly

2008-12-04T01:07:00.001-06:00

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

Damn. They've got it right.

Get, Got, Done.

2008-11-21T11:41:00.006-06:00

School of Seven Bells

Dreamy dopeness from two hot twins and the dude who quit the Secret Machines. I won tickets to see them on Saturday with M83 (whom you should check out as well). Two for two! BOOYAH!

Lykke Li

Pop gems from a dreamy Swedish chick. She is the same age as me. She covers Tribe. One time, Q-Tip covered Tribe with her. Is that still a cover song? Search it out at mtv.com. She'll be here in February. Don't sleep.

Manchester Orchestra

This band rules. Hard. Listen. Those aren't the best jams really. They just put out a new EP called Let My Pride Be Whats Left Behind. If I had any money at all, I'd buy it. I like the way that dude writes songs. Simple guitar lines, great lyrics, heavy in all the right places. Sound familiar...? Did I just give myself away?

The show on Saturday ruled oh so much. Thanks to all who came. Wouldn't have been the same without you. Peep the official site for more on that. I'm pretty sure that almost everyone on my short list of favoritepeopleintheworld was there. There were a few glaring ommissions. But when duty calls...

Oh and hey... look at this guy. We did it! Get hyped. He's got a lot of work ahead of him, but I feel good about it.

One more thing too. Get hyped for this. January 9th at the Uptown Theater. Damn it looks good.

Dear Agent Damiano,

2008-11-18T12:37:00.004-06:00

Your secret is out. I'm on to you. I know you are a secret agent. Yes, a spy. Don't worry though, your secret is safe with me and the whole internet. You are probably on a secret mission right now trying to defeat the crazy russian overlord Viktor Vanderslause, who as we all suspect, has stolen the all important Ferman microchip. For those of you who don't know, this microchip holds a portion of the United States most valuable secrets. It is imparitive that we retrieve this object, for if it falls into the wrong hands, the world as we know would cease to function. And you thought things were bad now. So really, I just want to say thanks. Thank you for defending our country so valiantly. I didn't fall for that wedding rouse you put on either. I know you were in Australia fighting rabid kangaroos.

But while I appreciate all of this, it'd be great to hear from you. Let's drink some beers. Because it has become increasingly difficult to get ahold of you, I would like to invite you on a mission of my own.

On December 19th, Bon Iver is performing in Madison, Wisconsin. Your mission is as follows: Pile into a 4 door sedan sometime during the afternoon of the 19th.
Drive through Minnesota to Madison.
Attend said concert.
Have a blast, and buy that dudes new ep.
Drive back the same evening.
There is a big party the next day. Something about underwear. Go to that too.

Should you choose to accept this mission, I can assure you, the level of entertainment will be extremely high

I hope to recieve a response transmission soon. God speed my friend. God speed.

And for those of you who need further proof that what I say is true, here is a classified photo of Double 0 Damiano after recently taking down the Cuban druglord Castor's headquarters:

p.s. No Homo.

This Saturday

2008-11-12T17:08:00.002-06:00

As most of you probably know, I play in a band called Shoreline. I invite all of you to come join us in the celebration of our debut E.P. "The Noise We Make" this Saturday at the Nomad World Pub. This show is the culmination of a ton of effort put forth not only by myself and my band mates, but also by some very amazing friends of ours who have made all of this possible. Thank you. You know who you are.

Once Again... The Man

2008-11-03T13:01:00.005-06:00

So the update goes like this: The record FUCKING RULES! There is a limited edition vinyl package that comes out tomorrow. I'm on that shit, hard. Seriously can not wait. It makes me really happy when bands that have put out really good records keep putting out really good records. Nahmean? For example, this dude, TV on the Radio, Kings of Leon, etc... Too many bands burn out too fast these days and its good to see some who are not only being consistent, but expanding their sound as well. Listen to Cardinology. Trust me, it rules. Geek out complete.

Cardinology

2008-10-24T12:33:00.003-05:00

If you didn't know, Ryan Adams and the Cardinals are putting out a new record next Tuesday. If you know me, you know how exciting this is for me. Well I got anxious and copped an advance copy from the world wide web. Now, this dude is infamously inconsistent on record, but I'm more than half way through, and it RULES! One clunker- Magick (Although he does sing about zombies! I have hope for this one live. Kind of a scorcher), one just-ok song- Natural Ghost. And the rest fucking kills it! Go Easy! Cobwebs! Rulers. And this is only the first listen! You can stream the record somewhere online. Look it up. Ok Ok, get back to your normal lives. Geek session over.

Picked up a new title. Looking forward to fulfilling my duties. WEEKENDLIFE

35 Hours In Chicago

2008-10-20T18:54:00.011-05:00

Like I said before, I went to Chicago this weekend. I went 2 for 3 on the goals. Here are the results of one of said goals.

Dave. Pretty much just a ruler of all things. Ask him about Neutral Milk Hotel. No cats were harmed in the making of this photo.

Jenny. Kemi's sweetie. Don't ask her about Cat Power. Also a ruler.

We danced. I was hyped apparently

The New American Couple. I think they are a shoe in for Cutest Couple of the Year award.

At Ear Wax. Before the espresso milkshake. Highly recommended.

Kemi. Pretty much one of the most amazing human beings alive. Thanks for everything.

Pilsen art walk.

The drive home got a little rugged, but me and Ash hammered through it.
I spent my time with some really great people in a great city. Kemi rolls with a proper crew, but really, would you expect anything less from her?

Truth

2008-10-17T10:58:00.002-05:00

“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is to live everything. Live the questions.”

-Rilke

I'm not too familiar with her work, but damn, she's got it right.
Everyone should listen to Neutral Milk Hotel, all the time.
If you came last night, you rule. Thank you for kicking it with me. Going to Chicago for the weekend. There are 3 goals. I'll keep you posted as to how those pan out. Stay Positive.

"Borrow trouble for yourself, if that's your nature, but don't lend it to your neighbours. "

2008-10-07T11:11:00.004-05:00

Is she saying "tits" or "hips"? Either way, she is hot as shit. Do you know you can work in Sweden as an English speaker without much trouble?

This is from last holiday season. Jesse Lacey and Kevin Devine. Trailer Trash. Word. I remember this being good, I might be wrong.

Admittedly, hip hop is not always my thing, and this DVD doesn't even look that awesome, but, nonetheless, Wu Tang Clan AIN'T nothin fuck with.

Love me some of this dude. I'd be so hyped if I met that dude with the leaf on his head!

In other shark news, NYC ruled, I saw the U.S. Open, I'm broke as fuck- no really, brokeasfuck, I got a new job, and a new bike, I still drink too much, I don't see some people I care about enough, Alligator may be my favorite record, Land of Talk is pretty great, Kevin Drew's lyrics don't make a lick of sense, it is fall- my favorite season, this is the first time I've been on the internet in like two weeks, and I might, just may be, losing my mind, slowly. Keep it real innanet.

NYC

2008-08-27T18:35:00.002-05:00

I will be out of the office from Thursday August 28th through September 2. I will be visiting some dear friends in New York City. Please direct all messages to my voicemail. While I am gone you should really listen to The Coast. They have been ruling my ears as of late. Come see them, as well as my band, Shoreline, on September 3rd at the Uptown Bar. And if you happen to be in NYC while I am, GET AT ME! I'm out.

Oh ya... Peep game on Hump Day tonight too.

Don't You Get It, We're Alive

2008-08-25T01:29:00.006-05:00

Proof
of
Youth

Enjoy it. Every last minute of it. Soak it up as much as you can.
You only get one chance. Don't waste it. Please.
Make decisions. Make mistakes. Make memories.
Love the people you spend time with.
LIVE.

It's That Secret That You Know, But You Don't Know How To Tell

2008-08-14T18:40:00.004-05:00

Since this has all but become a Bon Iver fansite, I'll put this up. For those of you who haven't seen it yet, it's great...Obvs... They are calling this new jam "Blood Bank", and it rules.

We also put the order in for the cds. check out the website over there and get some info. That's all. Summerules.

Go On and Love Her...

2008-08-01T12:22:00.002-05:00

Bon Iver and Bowerbirds cover Sarah Siskind

Dudes continue to astound. Lifted right from the pages of Stereogum.

Wilco

One of the best songs ever? Quite Possibly. I think it's safe to say this band will be remembered.

The Delta Spirit rules. Broken Social Scene is coming to First Ave. So are Neko Case and T.V. on the Radio. The Walkmen are at the 400 bar. Damn. BSE is far from over, but there is definitely some shit to look forward to when it is.

Who You Calling Turkey?

2008-07-28T14:20:00.002-05:00

It's for your health.

I'm not even the biggest fan of this show, but you just can't deny the Dr.

Oh ya, did anyone else see David Byrne at Too Much Love this weekend? Weird.

Constructive Summer

2008-07-23T12:47:00.001-05:00

Rock and Roll will never let you down

New Dopeness

2008-07-19T12:08:00.003-05:00

Nas
Produced by my man Mark Ronson

I'm not terribly hyped on Busta's verse.
I am hyped on Nasir's crew neck in that promo. Dude knows whats up.
He'll be at First Ave on September 5 with Talib Kweli. I think I kinda have to go to that show.

Coldplay
produced by Brian Eno

The whole album is pretty much awesome.

You know what else is awesome?
Shotgunning Coors Light on a rooftop.
And that's the fucking truth

BDOS

2008-07-04T12:00:00.002-05:00

Rooftops
Fireworks
Beer
Tunes
BBQ
Good Peeps

Good day ahead. Bonus: championship weekend at Wimbledon. Fuck the Williams sisters. Fed is gonna shut the haters down on Sunday.

Mark Ronson is the man. Listen to it. Also, they just played a Vampire Weekend track during one of the segues during the tennis match. Somehow, that makes a lot of sense. Freals.

Jaws Theme Sam

2008-06-27T18:50:00.003-05:00

Alright kids, lets get something straight here. It's:

Jaws Theme Sam

Not Jaws The Me Sam. Or Jaws The Me's AM. Or Ja Wstheme's A.M. That just doesn't make a lick of sense.

So fix you links. jaws theme sam. Out.

Oh ya, While we are on the subject, I'll be playing a selection of covers and originals tomorrow night at The Beat Coffee House in Uptown. It is located on 28th and Hennepin. See ya there.

"You Seem a Little On the High Side"

2008-06-26T18:49:00.003-05:00

Imagine if My Bloody Valentine and Bob Dylan made sweet, noisy, thoughtful love. And they didn't wear protection. Cause why would you? You've gotta mix and spread both of those genes around, and they know that. Well anyway, they bone, and 9 months later a baby is born. A beautiful baby named The War on Drugs.

I can't figure out how to get a song to stream right from here, so head over to the hype machine and listen to the War on Drugs. Pretty much ruling right now. I know I really like a band when I wish I was in said band. That's going on right now.

Oh, and that show Californication... too fucking good. Hank Moody is the man.

Voices

2008-06-17T14:01:00.003-05:00

Love these dudes. I know I'm far from alone in that, but they still continue to impress me.

#93.3 - BON IVER - For Emma, Forever Ago
by lablogotheque

Completely unpretentious. Just some dudes hyped to explore some really good songs. I read an interview where the artist talked about living in your songs and finding new life in your own songs. I think it was Justin being interviewed, but I can't be sure. This band does just that so well. All of the songs take such different forms in different settings. It is something I have really been applying to my own music lately. Once a song is recorded, it is not the end of the evolution of said song. You can find so much more within it. Things you never even thought about or knew were there in the first place.

A song is never done, per say, and that is far from a bad thing. Just watch above for proof.
And you might never really know everything there is to know about the song either, but it is all about how you apply it to yourself at a certain moment in time.

NYC

2008-06-12T14:38:00.000-05:00

8/28/08 - 9/2/08.

Strange

2008-06-10T12:06:00.002-05:00

I had a dream last night that I got the word FUCK tattooed on my wrist. WTF?
In other news, I hate my job, but i really enjoy most of the rest of my life.
Shoreline at Eclipse Records on Friday. 7 PM.
Stream the new Hold Steady here.
Tegan and Sara at the Target Center was weird. The National at the XCel was not weird.
Stacy is in town for a week. Uh Oh.

rulingoverlife
Figure it out. Get with it.

Ya!

2008-06-03T15:26:00.003-05:00

"...while there may be merit in critical appraisal of music by some kind of yardstick of artistic achievement that balances personal bias with a deep knowledge of a broad range of music and a keen aesthetic sense, such judgments in the absence of emotional crisis are a bit like judging the usefulness of a fire extinguisher without the urgent need for one."

Taken from a Warp+Weft article from Reveille Magazine.

Truth.

BSE Underway

2008-06-03T13:40:00.002-05:00

I had the pleasure of seeing Death Cab For Cutie last night. They were good good good. Got on a new life plan. Won tickets to see REM on Thursday, along with the National and Modest Mouse. Saw M83 last week. Got free tickets to see Tegan and Sara. The French Open is on. I'm not sure how I feel about Novak. He has a tendency to whine. How strange would it be if Fed won it this year, after losing down under. Not many people will understand that. I'm a full on tennis dork. Laurie will be here this weekend. The record is close to complete. Day of Familia on Friday. I feel weird talking about good things, I feel like it's all too good to be true and talking about it will change it. But the living is heavy these days. Life is good. Let's keep it that way.

B S E OH ATE

Cash Rules Everything Around Me

2008-05-23T09:10:00.003-05:00

How do you earn a living?

"Making it rain is not whats up!"
Peep switchblade comb for way more good stuff. Find the windex commercials. Too good.

This Saturday!

2008-05-15T15:19:00.003-05:00

Get Hyped!!

The Noise We Make

2008-05-09T18:58:00.003-05:00

Been doin my thang over here recently. Keep your eyes on that. I promise it'll have new shit on it waaaaaay more than this blog.
Oh, and duh, listen to Tegan and Sara.

LOOK OUT!

2008-05-06T11:25:00.002-05:00

Getting hit by a car on your bike when you have the right of way is fucking stupid too.
The cello player for Ra Ra Riot, I think her name is Alexandra, gives Sherri a run for her money.

Stupid Dudes, Pretty Girls

2008-05-05T13:58:00.002-05:00

Getting wasted on a Sunday is stupid.
Sherri Dupree of Eisley fame may be the prettiest girl alive.

I Had No Idea

2008-04-22T11:49:00.002-05:00

Damian's girl is out of her head...

After viewing this, is she more, or less of a babe? Discuss.

Review

2008-04-21T15:41:00.007-05:00

This weekend was fanfuckingtastic. I'll give you the rundown.
Started out with plans to go to the country bar for Candace's birthday.
Fell asleep at 10:30.
Wake up way later to texts harassing me about my whereabouts.
I blew it.
Sounds like shit got handled too.
Had to work Saturday. Work on Saturday. Ugh
Saturday night started off innocently enough. A few drinks in the warehouse, a really strange partyorsomething at suburban world theater. Had a late night sandwich at jimmy johns.
I smelt like a sandwich for the rest of the night.
Watched some giant worms grow out of the S.W.T. stage. Made of garbage bags no less.
In weird performances such as this, i really like to think about how rehearsal goes.
"Rodney, Stay alive! Kelly, your mask is crooked! KEEP THAT WORM STRAIGHT PEOPLE!!" Maybe you had to be there. Maybe I don't make sense.
Schooled some broad in Saved by the Bell Trivia.
Met some dude from the future on the street.
Went to Rogue Buddha Gallery.
Drank for free.
Drank waaaaay too much.
Peed on some one's garage.
Met a babe named Lucy.
Kicked it with her for a minute.
The abridged version of the encounter goes something like this.
Lucy, like Lucinda Williams. Ryan Adams is the man. Make Neko Case a part of your life. What continents are these? That's Africa. No that's Antarctica, THAT'S Africa. Dancing. More art. Dancing. Her Friend asks me how old I am. "Oh your just a baby!"(i really get a kick out of this when the person saying it is a year or two older than me.) More dancing.
Me-"Give me your phone number."
Her-" No."
M-" What? Really?"
H-"Ya. I have a boyfriend."
M-"Oh. Well that's too bad."
H-"Oh now you're sad."
M-"Oh no, not sad."
H-"Well that doesn't mean we have to stop hanging out"
M-"Its cool. I have a girlfriend"
H- "Really? Where is she?"
M-"Ummmm, (insert bullshit line here)."
More dancing. She leaves. fin.
Walk home at 6 AM.
Determine Ashley likes djs and icky dix.
Wake up on a couch without cushions at 10:30 AM.
Eat brunch at the stag.
Dump over a full container of mushrooms.
Execute way rushed complete bike overhaul. Thanks Tucker.
Don't take a shower. Don't change my clothes.
Buy some cages that are waaay too little.
Go on a bike ride. Posse deep. Amazing. Beautiful weather.
Brain doesn't work. Feel like a piece of garbage all day.
Ordered theworstbloodymaryever from theworstwaiterever. Azia loses.
Crash hard while learning skid stops with Mike in the Wells Fargo parking lot.
Take a life changing shower.
Ran into Jack and his girl by the river. Random.
Sunday dinner. Almost knock a girl I just met's tooth out while talking about Gatorade. Spill wine everywhere.
Ate amazing Mexican food prepared (not exclusively) by the always amazing PBG.
At one point at the dinner table, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of joy and happiness. A whole crew of outstanding people gathered in one spot. Every Sunday.
Bike home. Wake up with the lights and my clothes on at 330.
Back to bed.
Wake up feeling stiff and sore.
Eye exam. Nap at Mom's house. Almost late for work.
Feel Alive.
And that brings us to now. The point of this post totally got away from me. I may not be fully recovered from Saturday night.
Basically what I'm trying to get across is that even though my luck wasn't great this weekend, and my body kinda feels like i got hit by a bus, on the eve of potentially the best summer ever, I feel more alive than ever. I am so grateful just to be surrounded by the people I am surrounded by, living, interacting, sharing all of this. It truly is a great feeling. So really, truly, Thank you. Thank you for sharing all of this with me. And chances are if you are reading this, you are who I'm speaking of, but you know who you are.
That dude from the future is right, It's not what you do, it's who you do it with.

What?

2008-04-16T15:59:00.002-05:00

I guess i just don't get it...

Why does it say fixed gear? Really?

Found on the Urban Outfitters webstore.

Really? I understand the correlation between the store and the idea of being "hip", but is this just too much? Its not like they are selling those fixed gears. Do the shoes fit nicely in the cage? I'm really not sure. Maybe if this were a different blog, the tone of this post would be much different. Actually, that is one thing i am sure of.

Come on Urban...

Also, I recently saw Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes. Both great. Fleet Foxes wins however, based on the smile placed firmly on my face the entire set. Dope setting too.

And, in typical jts fashion, a music rec. Jeremy Enigk. No link. Sorry. Look him up over at the Hype Machine. That site is where it's at. I guess I kinda did the work for you already there. No excuses now.

!!

2008-03-25T16:44:00.002-05:00

"15-year-old Tracey Berkowitz (Ellen Page) is naked under a shower curtain at the back of a bus, looking for her little brother Sonny, who thinks he’s a dog. Soundtrack by Broken Social Scene."

What? Are you serious? This looks/sounds/feels like it pretty much has to be absolutely amazing, right? Ellen Page?! Broken Social Scene?! Beautiful weirdness is bound to ensue. It's going to be at the MSP Int. film festival. I really can't wait.

Also, although I am late to the party, The National are fantastic. As is the song Mykonos by Fleet Foxes. I don't have the album yet, but i have high hopes based on that song alone.

And one more thing. Rock the Garden at the Walker. June 21st. Gonna be good. Real good. andrewbirdbonivernewpornographerscloudcult. Thats what i heard at least.

Not Blowing It In 08

2008-02-26T17:01:00.010-06:00

Nicole Atkins.
St. Vincent.
Cat Power.

Three beautiful women with beautiful voices who make beautiful music.
Had the pleasure of seeing all three within a few weeks of each other.
Each one was great in their own right.

Ms. Atkins, I look forward to saying I saw you at the entry. And saying I took you out on a date after. Of course, the later part of that statement will be a lie.

Ms. Clark, I thoroughly enjoyed all of the different arrangements of your songs. It was a pleasant surprise. You also covered a song from Let It Be. I think it's a sign.

Ms. Marshall, I love that you have conquered your fear of the stage. You really own it up there. Still quite eccentric, but now, in the good way.

Bon Iver.
I also had the pleasure of seeing this guy at an in store at The Electric Fetus.
SO good live. If you like the record, you must see him live. His songs really take new life. Don't blow it and miss him at the Turf Club in April.

For awhile I wasn't really going to a lot of shows. I'm really glad that this is changing. I've just gotta find a partner in crime.

I've been trying really hard to keep good on my resolution to not blow it in 08. I think I've been doing alright so far as evidenced above. Also been reading, buying vinyl, not blowing money left and right.
The CD is coming along nicely. Working hard on that.
Moving in like a week. 2535 Johnson st.
Haven't taken enough photos, but I'm working on a digi to fix that.
Anyone else ready for some nice weather?

who does that?

2008-02-08T10:53:00.000-06:00

fuck.
i got drunk and brought up politics.
at a bar.
i was that guy.
i am ashamed of myself.

on another note, i am officially moving to 2535 johnson by march. hype. an epic summer is in tow.
bikesbeersbroadsbbqs

also, the triple double at 3rock is fucking dangerous. consider this a warning.
you WILL have a damn good time.
you WILL probably get some free shit.
you WILL get a free drink when you buy one of equal value.
you WILL dance.
and all of this WILL happen on a fucking tuesday night.
shit. like i said, dangerous.

peace

The Man

2008-02-01T14:55:00.000-06:00

watch it all

that dude thinks on a different level. i love it.

now a performance.

check out the sun also sets from that set too.

if you dont know about ryan adams, well, you really should. the guys got like 50 some records out, but my favorite is love is hell. it came out in two volumes, but it was meant to be released as one. there are a few songs, just on that record, that are my favorite songs of all time. and it takes a lot to get on that list. now, if anyone can hunt me down a copy of the vinyl editions...
he gets so much flack from the press. most of the time his reputation preceeds him. the dudes got golden vocal chords and he can fucking jam. i'll be honest and say that there isnt one record in which every single song is amazing, but the good tunes make up for the mediocre ones, and the great songs make you forget about everything else and put you in a state of awe. put aside any notion you have of him and listen to one of his records, any one, well... except 29... and get lost in his songs.

going to a t-wolves game tonight. and a winnable one at that, according to mike. i havent been to one in years, so it should be fun. we won the tickets. we may or may not have cheated.

dont have much else today. recording soon. hyped.

Heaven?

2008-01-25T12:48:00.000-06:00

Beautiful girl, beautiful music, and a large amount of fireworks... Is this what heaven is like?

what?

2008-01-24T18:00:00.000-06:00

it is 82 degrees in my box. with no circulation. is that necessary? i forgot my phone at home. here are some entertaining things.

Nada Surf is putting out a new album called Lucky. i am excited for it. their last one- the weight is a gift- was stellar, and the new one shows promise. listen up for the track "weightless". forget about their popular days, cause this shit rocks without novelty.

This is definitely my favorite track from in rainbows. check out the whole "scotch mist" movie if you get a chance. its about an hour, but well worth the time.

fuck outer space, this shit is HERE, on our planet. there is so much life underwater that we have no idea about. crazy. get on it scientists. the giant squid is fascinating. (never mind the weird dead shit in the middle, and i haven't seen this with audio, so forgive me if it sucks)

everyone better be sure to make it out to decoupler this weekend. i can honestly say that I'm hyped.

got to see edie sedgwick in action this weekend. drooled a little, but not as much as ashley, who fell asleep. what a shame.

ummm... i think that may be all I've got. peace.

just a taste

2008-01-21T18:27:00.000-06:00

i took a bunch of photos with three different cameras out in steamboat springs where i recently spent about a week snowboarding with my dad. I'm gonna wait until i get all of em back to wax on the whole trip, but i shot this one with my phone going up one of the chairlifts near the village. we got 60 inches of snow in 4 days. it was great.

rewind

2008-01-16T15:25:00.000-06:00

so two weekends ago deserves a rundown

Thursday we played at the triple rock. it was pretty cool. got to play with some friends and see some friends as well. we played alright. it was a fun night overall. thanks to everyone who came out.

we also got the word that our friend Tommy is starting a record label. safe town records. we are going to put out an ep on it in the spring. working on it right now. look out for the shoreline cd release weekend.

Friday, after grumpy's, ended like this

sort of.

Saturday started like this.

apparently, its against the law to shoot roman candles out of a moving car. who knew? cops don't like it when one of the explosions takes place on their car either.

ended the night in northeast with a dance party at the front. good times.

Sunday night i went back to the triple rock to see a really great show. every band was local, and pretty great. listened to the wonderful noise of lady slipper, the power pop of one for the team, the great weirdness that was a mouthful of bees (their drummer was a chick and she fucking ripped! it was kinda hot?) the musicianship of the p lacquers, and my favorite, the always beautiful now now every children. check all those bands out. it was the first time i had been to a local show and actually stayed for the whole thing in quite awhile. i was glad i did. it's good to see the local scene thriving.

then on Monday i left for Colorado. more on that later.

the Australian open is on. could this be roddick's year?

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T11:50:00.000-06:00

i hope everyone had a fantastic end to their year. who needs a fresh start? i'm cerntainly not opposed to one. what'd you do? i was at a friends house, where i didnt really drink much and passed out at about two. thats pretty early for me on new years. got some pretty good polaroids though. ill put those up soon.
i am currently trapped in an aproximatly 7'X12' box inside a bowling alley. in said box, i am instructed to cash customers checks. well the problem is, there are no customers... so i am left to the internet. its cool, i hear its pretty big. lets talk about this new year. a list of resolutions/goals:

1) Quit Blowing It- i did a lot of this last year. life is about opportunities and i've gotta start taking advantage of them. no more letting the little stuff like time and money get in the way of something potentially epic. this includes, but is not limited to going to shows/events, keeping in touch with people, traveling, snapping up hot deals, etc.

2) Eat Better- less fast food. more fruits and vegetables. more self preperation of meals.

3) Release a CD and Throw a Release Party- i really want to put the "party" back into the cd release party. look out for this in the spring.

4) Take More Photos- do it. look for em on here.
i think that covers the goals. dont get me wrong, i have plans for the new year, but many of those are set in motion.

i'm moving to the city in february or march, so citizens of minneapolis, prepare yourself.
i'm traveling to colorado with my dad in a few days. driving out there, which will be interesting. 20 hours one way. just me and my pops. we'll see what happens.
my band shoreline is playing tomorrow at the triple rock. so you should come to that. show starts at 9. we play around 10.
i would also like to extend many good luck wishes to my friend stacy. miami wont know what hit em.
i think thats all ive got today. happy new year. i hope it brings you all you wish for.

Honorable mentions/Shit i forgot about.

2007-12-19T09:02:00.000-06:00

so here is the addendum.

The Shins

Lilly Allen

Band of Horses

Justice @ Foundation

"Young Folks" by Peter, Bjorn, and John

Tom Petty

Effects Pedals- i kind of geeked out on these this year

Good Bands Reuniting- still waiting on you NMH

The Killers- shit i can't believe i forgot this. this belongs on the top 50. i dont know if their record came out this year... i can't remember. but "when you were young" is one of the best songs written in the last ten years.

Coffee

Paramore- i dont even care if i catch hell for this one. that chick can fucking sing. cute too.

That Bat For Lashes video

"Time To Pretend" by MGMT

this may or may not be added to.
next post: the things i was not excited about in 2007

top 50 of 2007

2007-12-14T14:03:00.000-06:00

this is my top 50 for 07. top 50 what you might ask? records? people? events? i say all of the above. they didn't have to come out/ happen this year. this is just a list of things that i got hyped on in the great year that is/was 2007.

In no particular order

Tegan and Sara- these ladies put out the best record of the year. ya i said it. i saw them at the end of November too. fantastic. i did my best not to geek out, but i think i failed.

Feist- that voice, damn. and anyone who can get away with a line like "1 2 3 4 5 6 9 or 10" is on top in my book

broken social scene- so they didn't technically put out an album this year, but a founding member did (Kevin Drew) and I'll be damned if it doesn't sound like a bss record. i also really got into the whole bss catalog this year. holy shit. pop music at its finest.

"life on mars" by David Bowie- now i know this song came out a few decades ago, but it wasn't until this year that i was singing it at the top of my lungs with Kevin in the white castle drive through.

st. vincent (more specifically, the song "now now")- she kills it with her guitar skills throughout the whole disc, but this song really hit me the first time i heard it. and she's adorable. now, if she would only come back to town, since i blew it the first time(s). that was a running theme. that should be on the "things I'm not hyped on in 2007" list. right at the top: me blowing it

no country for old men- best movie in the last few years? you be the judge

M.I.A at first ave- damn! mia comin back with powerpower. no lie. the show was O.C.

the return of shoreline- feels good to be back where we belong. big plans for next year.

neko case - i won tickets to see her at first ave, got way too drunk before the show, swayed through her set, and still realized she has one of the best voices around.

neutral milk hotel- here's another one that didn't happen this year, but i discovered it this year, deal with it.

the return of craig vore to shoreline- feels right

the darjeeling limited - Wes Anderson, holding it down since bottle rocket

the squid and the whale - again, not this year, deal with it. i connected with this flick in a
really strange way. not the jerking-off-and-wiping-jizz-in-public-places part, but the strange-family-system part.

pineapple fried rice - make it a 2 or 3 on the spicy scale.

premium grainbelt- keeping it local. too bad this isn't everywhere. the rest of the world is missing out. plus, we have the sign.

girl talk show+after party- this night gets the award for party of the year. sans tay zonday. "This dude is a bigger buzzkill than the cops showing up!"

whiskey sours- drink of choice in 07

Hawaiian pizza - can't go wrong here

harry potter- miss rowling ends the series with style. well done. i gotta give the award to volume 6 though.

cloud cult- just a really great band from our home state. check it out if you haven't. we are hoping to record with the bass player/ producer of this band in '08. he obviously is responsible for some good shit.

photography- doing it and viewing it. look out for more photos here in the future.

bar food - always sounds like a good idea at night, never is in the morning. still, making an appearance here

grumpys trivia - team eatin babies. we rule. we have so many gift certificates to this damn spot. still haven't used any. we got robbed. those wild tickets were ours. we always get robbed when it comes to trivia. once we were in pizza luce and we got into a trivia duel with a couple dudes. one of said dudes had a sick hat on that would have looked great on Kevin. so we made a wager: one round of Minnesota music trivia, best of five questions, winner takes the hat. keep in mind it was about three in the morning and everyone was messed up, so there were little to no rules. we had it it the bag, but then these kids just made up an answer to a question. bullshit. morris day and the knights? bullshit. if you guys are out there, that hat is ours.

learning to dance again - there is nothing to it

shoes - reebok pumps, air stabs, carrol selects, wallabees, air max 1's.

Mazatlan - surprise new friends, crazy Mexican girls, bribing police officers, dominoes-wait not really- guacamole. deserves a post of its own.

road trips to Winnipeg- saw two extremely different shows (meatloaf-ya that's right, and brand new) on two separate road trips.
number one's highlights include: front row seats, "MEEEEEEEEEEAAAT!", and "sit on it". number two's highlights include: best seats in the house, "roop roop!", and "my boyfriend just cheated on me, do you want to make out?"

whistler, b.c.- holy shit. this was probably one of the best times of my life. deserves a whole post for itself. i should do that. but really, snow, new friends from the coast, the village, the nightlife. shit.

kids from Berkley - ties into whistler. i made some really great friends on that trip from a little college called cal state Berkley. i hope to see some of them in the new year.

silversun pickups- i heard the lead singer during an in studio session on the current this spring. he was promoting his band's show at the entry that night and playing some acoustic jams. needless to say it was awesome. i was set to go to the show, but it was 21+. and i was not. that is why

turning 21- is on the list. well not really turning 21, cause i don't remember that, but being 21. it feels good not having to worry about whether or not I'll be able to get into a place.

89.3 the current-the only thing worth listening to when it comes to the radio

your exchange- got a new job this year. its chill. need to cash your payroll check? pay your phone bill? wire some money to Bulgaria? come talk to me.

jazzmasters- easily the coolest guitar around. and i picked one up for myself this year. most expensive thing i own.

radiohead- they said "take that, record companies!" and released an excellent and highly successful album this year on their own. do you think the labels will get with the program?

factory girl- i can't figure out if i like this flick because its a good movie, or because its about edie sedgwick. either way, it shows up on my list, along with

edie sedgwick- just a fascinating mess of a girl.

once- i guess you could call this a musical. but don't think of it like that. more like a really awesome feature length music video with some dialogue and really great tunes.

modest mouse- they picked up johnny marr and put out one of the years best albums and toured their asses off. and i saw them in the front row. craze

knocked up- this may be the perfect movie for me. well maybe not, but it had an almost perfect mix of humor and grace. that may not make sense. rock and roll

juno- a late comer, but a great flick. anything micheal cera is in is pretty much gold, although there's a lot of goodness to this movie without the mention of mr. cera

bret easton ellis- more specifically the book The Rules Of Attraction. his books are sometimes depressing, sometimes funny, always good. they all have some strange effect on me. I've been reading them in the order in which they were published, and his first one, Less Than Zero, makes you want to do coke, this one makes you want to sleep around. So does that mean American Psycho will make me want murder people? I'll tell you next year.

my friends-are better than yours. actually, if you are reading this, they are probably similar.

arcade fire- damn i blew it by missing these guys in September. this could be our generation's U2. but weirder. and less arrogant. so maybe our generation's talking heads. but still, less arrogant. shit, our generation's fucking rock band.

kanye west- haters will hate, but this guy has been consistently making retarded good music this whole century. keep it up kanye. i know you will. maybe he's our generation's U2. only more arrogant...

amy winehouse - forget about the tabloid bullshit and take a listen to "back to black". its fucking good right? i knooooooow.

1st ave.- probably the best club in town. and they host

too much love- i may not be in the majority here anymore, but this can be a crazy dance party with a sometimes eclectic group of people who are all down for the cause. not always, but sometimes, the only place to be on a Saturday night.

brand new- i just really admire this band and pretty much everything they do.

12/31/07- ya i know, it hasn't happened yet, but its one of the best days of the year. i think its safe to say it would end up here anyway.

so that's it kids. lazy typing and all. I'm sure there are some things i left off. maybe there will be an addendum. we'll see. i tried to keep it all over the place and time. let me know if you agree or disagree. have a great holiday and here's to making next year at least as good as this one!

s

Formal Party 8.18.2007

2007-08-30T00:01:00.000-05:00

It Begins

"You know, you really should stop talking sometimes"

This looks like a serious conversation. It's actually really funny what is really being said.

Warming up for the infamous Choad Buster Deluxe

Step 1: Captain Morgan; Preferably straight from the bottle

Step 2: Maple Syrup, EGGO or otherwise. Agian, stright from the bottle

Step 3: Water. I hate the water.

Me and Tommy Breaking the poloroid rule. Russ getting wild in the back

Laura Travis and Kalen. Fasionably late. Un-fasionably Un-formal

A good portion of that red wine ended up on the carpet going downstairs

This is the first and only time these three will be in a photo together

Last weekend Kevin and Tommy had a formal party. It was the shit. Everyone was looking pretty damn good. C C Preese and i left to get syrup for those choad busters. We were on a mission and we highjacked Mama Dawn. We ended up at Cub Foods at like 12:30. Its funny to see who lurks those aisles at that time. Success