MΞLANΞTHOS

AA 1830 N 28AUG8 0 5P

2008-09-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

I have not written since June 28, 08. Even though I have ideas scribbled on my note pads, time always is a challenge. I did find myself with some time this past Friday on my way to San Fransisco and had to type my thoughts in my phone to calm down, surprisingly it worked:

Why am I JUST finding out that when I transfer my iTunes downloads bought from my iPod touch to my library they no longer appear on my touch?!

After reading more than 70 pages of "Love is a Mixed Tape" on my first 2 hours of the 5 hour flight to SFO, I turned to my iPod. As I went to search for Blind Pilot, White Lies, Explosions in the Sky and Elsaine, to mention a few. I started to turn as red as the blanket provided by AA (no thanks). And when I finally realized what happened I stomped, pushed my self back and put on a face, coming to terms that I was traveling without my SFO soundtrack, which I've been working on for weeks!

See to me, music, as to Rob Sheffield, is not a way of life, it is life! As I travel, whether in my car, plane or with my Asics music moves me. Music reminds me of all places that I've explored, grown or just passed by. A couple of examples are: Luna's "Pup Tent" reminds me of Winter Park in FL. circa 1998, Belle & Sebastian draws me back to Las Vegas back in 2001 (don't ask). All of Enya's albums reminds when Valentina was born, as well as Air's "Talkie Walkie". Radiohead's "In Rainbows" reminds me of New York in December '07.

Apart from my five traveling companions making this a great trip and without doubt making it memorable, music was gonna play a big part in San Francisco. I even took my portable speakers for my room and iPod cable to hook up the tunes on the ride to Napa. I'm so indescribably upset, that I don't know if it's due to the fact I can't be still for a certain amount of time (10 minutes tops, I guess that's why I'm writing this on my BB notes), or AA is showing "Young at Heart" with static lines running through our screen ONLY. But NO, it's really because I have no clue to what happened to my songs in my iPod. I do not know what to listen to, I did not want to press shuffle, I'm tempted to play Death Cab for Cutie but not really. I just want to shout and explode, ironically, Explosions in the Sky would shed their imminent light on my dark world and Blind Pilot would guide my thoughts with their sweet lyrics and White Lies would sooth my bruises, that which have been soothed, but remind me they were not as bad as they were when I got them.

I would play Jose Gonzalez, but he reminds me of [something] I rather not think about. I'm given punk a rest, no room for my typical rock tunes at this hour. I'm more in a folksy, new post-punk, down-tempo kinda mood. Hence for mentioned bands. I guess me writing about the bands are still part of my long awaited trip, and therefore will be the first thing I listen to when I get back to Miami.

In the meantime this came on while writing: Bon Iver, Fleet Foxes, Band of Horses, Stars, Ladyhawk, Port O' Brien, The Stills, Diefenback, Jens Lekman, Mates of State, Pavement, The National, The Walkmen, Burial...

Battery went dead... (it could only get better). As oppose to not ever knowong the image of Burial, I WILL find out what happened to the SFO Soundtrack.

The title to the above playlist: AA 1830 N 28AUG8 0 5P

Here's to commuting with the music YOU love!

Pop Levi - Semi Babe 1 & 2

2008-06-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

I've been on a video kick lately, no time to get creative on my "writing skills". Speaking of creative, check out Mozambique Courier's (aka Pop Levi) video for "Semi Babe". They're meant to be played simultaneously… side by side; this is my version + everyone else’s.

1st: Have both of them on pause at the same time.
2nd: Press play on the top one & wait ‘til the countdown hits 1, then...
3rd: Press play on the lower video.

Enjoy!

Now something more upbeat… I give you the first song to download on MΞ.
Pop Levi - "Never Never Love" - zSHARE
Dance to it while getting ready for your fav fiesta!

MySpace/Pop Levi

Temptation - New Order

2008-06-20T11:52:00.000-07:00

Vinyl + flowers + dancing in your own space...
Notice how SHE steals music...

Temptation (the song) came on while driving late lastnight on my ipod...

AND for those who say Berney just stands there... here they are live on Radio 1... ELEC TRI FYING! Gillian on the keyboards (love her), someone has to sample or mix this + How low can Hooky go with his bass?! And you really cannot see much of Stephen, but you can feel his beat!

The New Order I LOVE!

Lyrics & Running for the Soul

2008-05-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

I was due for a great run. I’ve been tempted to write about my love with the pavement and off-road journey for some time now. For those of you, who know and don’t know about running, let me start with some info:

It was an 84 minute run (and walking), my max heartbeat was 196, and my average heartbeat was 169. Distance was 5.2 miles. Speed max 7.5, speed avg. 4.4, and 1,120 calories burned. I got to my mile target in 11 minutes (not too happy about that).

Now… I don’t run as much as I would like to. It’s been about a month that my Asics haven’t felt the heat of the road. My numbers don’t excite me as much as what my ipod selected. The music and lyrics fuels me. So I take this opportunity to discuss a few songs and lyrics. There something about the rays of sun, the greens, bells and whistles, drums and guitars, synthesizers and bass that enhances all your senses when you run. Everything becomes brighter, your mind and feet are somehow disconnected. While your feet stay grounded, your mind wanders off to where the voices and lyrics take you. Allow me to share; as I press play (shuffle) and stretch:

Heartbeat: Jose Gonzalez. Who would of thought this would be a great song to stretch to
…and you, you knew the hands of the devil
and you, kept us awake with wolf teethe
sharing different heartbeats
in one night…

Province: TV on the Radio. Have you heard this song in its entirety? Here it again, NOW!
Pushed under this expanse of bursting stars
Let this burning brightly illuminate the where we are
In this hollow that lovers' voices occupy
Let it follow that we let it free, let it fly

When They Came For Us: Shiny Toy Guns
I always thought this song was/is about war. But if you want to see other opinions, go here.

Kids: MGMT. (heartbeat 180, reaching my 1 mile target). Here is where my run gets going. It’s my 1st time running with this song. I’m loving my ipod and here is where I start to truly disconnect, Especially after 3:45 point of the song!
No time to think of consequences… ahhh, innocence…

To the Dogs and Whoever: Josh Ritter
I almost pressed forward, but I felt I was in a movie scene where frames just kept flashing before me with different love scenes... funny love scenes.
I love the way she looks in her underwear
I lose my page then the plot then the book then I swear
She makes the most of her time by loving me plenty
She knows they'll come a day when we won't be getting any

The Engine Driver: The Decemberists (heartbeat at 196) had to stop!
And I am a writer, writer of fictions
I am the heart that you call home
And I've written pages upon pages
Trying to rid you from my bones

…and if you don’t love me let go…

Love Will Tear Us Apart: Jose Gonzalez… no comment
Just that… my feet were moving as much as his fingers were on the guitar.

Smile: Onelinedrawing. Smiley feet!!!
…So put it up on your face
hallelujah!
and these days will all go by
anything I can do to help you through it
I just love to see you smile…

Packed Like Sardines in a Crushed Tin Box: Radiohead (slowing down)
Lots of sound effects on this one!

Cowbell: Tapes ‘n Tapes. I’m in the golf greens for this one. Going full speed!
Do you want to live a lie?
A lie to shake
A lie shake
I’ve been so sure.
Do you want to live a lie?
A lie to shake
A lie shake
I’ve been so sure.

Ghost Hardware: Burial
Burial’s music is heightened with nature!

The Warning: Hot Chip… will break your legs…
Excuse me miss I'm a dog on heat.
I'm a complicated being with love songs to beat.
I'm a problem solving baby who could march all night.
I'm a mechanical music man and I'm starting a fire.

There's always some way to make the silence be spoken.

Fake Plastic Trees: Radiohead. I’m worn out…
If I could be who you wanted all the time…

Is There a Ghost: Band of Horses. I will never get tired of this band (this is what I said about Frosted Flakes & Pop Tarts when I was 10, now I can’t see OR smell them)
Lyrics here are not all that… but it did make me go!

Slow Show: The National – At this point I stopped looking at my watch and was grateful that this song came on! My feet and I got lost with the lyrics; the piano & Matt’s voice just made me “wanna hurry home”.
Looking for somewhere to stand and stay
I leaned on the wall and the wall leaned away
Can I get a minute of not being nervous
and not thinking of my dick
My leg is sparkles, my leg is pins
I better get my shit together, better gather my shit in
You could drive a car through my head in five minutes
from one side of it to the other

I wanna hurry home to you put on a slow, dumb show for you
and crack you up
so you can put a blue ribbon on my brain
God I’m very, very frightening
I’ll overdo it

Life 2: Unhappy Ending: Stars – Here I felt I was running inside a play, an Off-Broadway hit and I was in the front row and they chose me to be part of the act.
Life was supposed to be a film, was supposed to be a thriller, was supposed to end in tears
But life, could be nothing but a joke, could be nothing but a con
Where's my unhappy ending gone?

(Antichrist Television Blues): The Arcade Fire – OK, who is choosing the songs in my ipod…
Into the light of a bridge that burns
As I drive through the city with the money that I earn
To the dark of a starless sky
I won't stare into nothing and I'm asking you why
Lord, let me make her a star
So the world can see who you really are

Go Sadness: Shout Out Louds – Once again all stood still, except my feet. I always said this song should have been used for a hybrid car commercial… preferably the Toyota Prius (keyless).
Bye bye car keys
Hello sparkles and flies
I keep them
They're mine
I saw the brightest light
It was the most wonderful sight
And I spotted the right time
The future is mine

Here comes the finish line… I can see it… not really… but I can feel it! Totally ignoring my watch and now running through a rural area, which will soon be a two-way street and a major shopping-condo development.

The Great Salt Lake: Band of Horses – Great American band, song and nice-feel video!
Back of the boat was painted wreckin' ball
There was country music playing, but he don’t like it at all
And red fire poppin' on the rained-down woody
His whiskey bottle spillin' in a lake that's made of salt…

…Now, if you find yourself falling apart then I'm sure... I could stand... On... the Great Salt Lake

Foam Hands: Destroyer – Great song to end my run! Thank you my running Goddess! I figured who's selecting my songs... but I'm not sure if it's Artemis or Hebe... yes I have two Goddess!
True love regrets to inform you
there are certain things
you must do to perceive his face
and the saints on the wall

Might is well make a playlist for the Goddess and we’ll name it… Tracks & Feel. I always wanted to start another blog with that same name, but I don’t even have enough time for this one.

For the time being, I'll try to post and run as much as time will allow me to. To all the pavements, greens and Goddess... see you all next time!

Twistori - LoveHateThinkBelieveFeelWish

2008-04-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

From the creators of Twitter comes an intelligent offspring: Twistori, an “online social experiment”. Check out their blog. Plus see the inspiration behind this exploration of feelings: We Feel Fine.

Faç Off Exhibition

2008-04-29T21:38:00.000-07:00

Central Station X Factory Records

After the lyrics, music, and even the band members, there is nothing more interesting than the cover of an album... yes album. I’ve always said ripping a song from a CD or just downloading one or two songs it's like... like... like... tearing a chapter off a book, but I digress. Breath the ‘Madchester’ era through the art work of Central Station and Factory Records (highly recommended site).

To celebrate 25 years at the top, record sleeve design trio Central Station are to showcase a retrospective look at a quarter of a century’s impressive creative portfolio.

The exclusive exhibition, to be held throughout May 2008 at Manchester’s Richard Goodall Gallery, will include a selection of limited edition fine art prints of some of their iconic artwork from this period.

Central Station’s legendary career has seen them working alongside bands such as Happy Mondays, Northside and James. The team, brothers Matt and Pat Carroll and Karen Jackson, have been responsible for some of the most memorable record sleeves of modern times.

Curator Richard Goodall notes, “Central Station’s work is widely accepted as amongst the most influential; they inspired a generation of designers and music fans and helped define the infamous ‘Madchester’ era.” Famously their iconic logo design, as featured on the Monday’s 1989 record Madchester Rave on EP, became the focal image of the movement.

Since the 1990’s Central Station have continued to produce artwork for the Happy Monday’s Shaun Ryder (now as part of Black Grape), along with others such as Australian band The Panics. They had also maintained a close working relationship with the late great Tony Wilson, designing the visual campaigns for Manchester’s world-renowned premiere music convention ‘In The City’. The influential trio’s artwork has also been exhibited world wide, from New York to China to Australia.

Their 2002 collaboration with Michael Winterbottom on his film 24 Hour Party People opened the door to a wide range other TV and film design projects, from Channel 4’s Hamburg Cell to ITV’s Prime Suspect. This has led the team to working with such names as Helen Mirren, Robbie Coltrane, Tim Robbins, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

Central Station have, of course, continued to work on record sleeves, recently re-packaging special collectors edition releases of Happy Mondays Bummed and Pills 'N' Thrills and Bellyaches. Stylistically, their designs are bold and strong, often with Technicolor graphics, carefully selected non-band images and very little text. Jackson explains however, “I don’t think we have a formula, we just approach every sleeve totally differently”.

Gallery curator Richard anticipates great success for the show, “We are honoured to be housing this exclusive exhibition. Central Station’s influential designs are part of both music recording and Manchester’s history and this show will present a great viewing opportunity for music and art fans alike.”

Jackson adds, ‘It seems only natural that we have chosen to launch the retrospective exhibition in Manchester; in choosing the new Richard Goodall Gallery in the city’s Northern Quarter we have found a fantastic space, in an ideal location. We are excited to dust of some of the old designs and look back at some of the great memories we have of the last 25 years’.

Via Creative Review

Over Due Accessory Post - DIY

2008-04-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

As I’m a big fan of accessories… for men and women! And will tag along with the cliché, “less is more”... allow me... accessories add to the “more” when you apply to the “less”. So, when I saw this type-writer key necklace, I just thought it was refreshingly original…

No, NOT these...

But these...

DIY or find them @ no-one.co.uk

Mads Norgaard: Copenhagen experience #1 & 2

2008-04-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Great filming, music and cast on both of these videos. The 1st one came late last year, and with little time for posting, I decided not to. But now that part 2 came out, how could I not... Amazing feel!

Mads Norgaard: Copenhagen experience # 1

Directed by Noam Griegst, creative concept by Noam, Jess amd Rasmus of e-types and Mads Norgaard. The Musical side became very ambitious all went along. Direected by Dj Djuna Barnes they decided to go for the song 'Copenhagen', a punk classic from 1978 by Sods, who later became Sort Sol. It has been re-recorded by Tomas Barfod of Who-made-Who, new vocals by Steen Jørgensen and Marie Fisker and mixed by Anders Trentemøller.

Mads Norgaard: Copenhagen experience # 2

The music will probably sound a bit familiar. They have again chosen to re-record the song ‘Copenhagen'. Supervised by DJ Djuna Barnes they decided to put the song out to the world to have a completely new take on it. And ended in a beautiful partnership with the band Rework. Produced & mixed by Anders Trentemøller and co-produced by Djuna Barnes.

I've been on a Trentemøller kick as of late, wished I would of been in London for a live show this past Tuesday. I was a bit surprised to see he co-produced this. Check out Trentemøller's myspace.

For more of the Copenhagen experience go to: http://www.thecopenhagenexperience.dk/
Download the tracks on iTunes.

What's Next In Marketing & Advertising

2008-04-14T21:41:00.001-07:00

Here is a clever slideshow from Space150. It shows the future direction of marketing, branding and advertising today! Hopefully it will speed up change!

View Upload your own

Well worth a read from Paul Isakson. via the great L+E.

Miracle Fortress

2008-03-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Move Over Gondry... I give you Sinbad Richardson, which directed this video "Have You Seen In Your Dreams"... Still LOVE Gondry!

Dress Me :: Stereo @ Parkwest

2007-12-14T11:16:00.000-08:00

::: Tonight :::

pro·cras·ti·nate

2007-11-06T18:52:00.000-08:00

[proh-kras-tuh-neyt, pruh-] verb, -nat·ed, -nat·ing.

–verb (used without object)
1. to defer action; delay: to procrastinate until an opportunity is lost.
–verb (used with object)
2. to put off till another day or time; defer; delay.

The Procrastinator's Creed

1. I believe that if anything is worth doing, it would have been done already.

2. I shall never move quickly, except to avoid more work or find excuses.

3. I will never rush into a job without a lifetime of consideration.

4. I shall meet all of my deadlines directly in proportion to the amount of bodily injury I could expect to receive from missing them.

5. I firmly believe that tomorrow holds the possibility for new technologies, astounding discoveries, and a reprieve from my obligations.

6. I truly believe that all deadlines are unreasonable regardless of the amount of time given.

7. I shall never forget that the probability of a miracle, though infinitesmally small, is not exactly zero.

8. If at first I don't succeed, there is always next year.

9. I shall always decide not to decide, unless of course I decide to change my mind.

10. I shall always begin, start, initiate, take the first step, and/or write the first word, when I get around to it.

11. I obey the law of inverse excuses which demands that the greater the task to be done, the more insignificant the work that must be done prior to beginning the greater task.

12. I know that the work cycle is not plan/start/finish, but is wait/plan/plan.

13. I will never put off until tomorrow, what I can forget about forever.

14. I will become a member of the ancient Order of Two-Headed Turtles (the Procrastinator's Society) if they ever get it organized.

Shout Out Out Out Out - Self Loathing Rulz

Tales of Mere Existence by Lev Yimaz - Procrastination

The Answering Machine - 'Light Bulbs'

2007-10-29T08:29:00.000-07:00

While I work on other posts, plus my own work, jog, read, dance, dream and look out my window... enjoy The Anwering Machine... watch and then listen while reading other blogs.

MySpace + Hedi Slimane

Special Screening: The Darjeeling Limited

2007-10-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

Bonus for those who have not seen it. Special screening today at Regal South Beach @ 7:40pm. Q &A with Jason Shwartzman.

2007-10-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Give US Control

2007-10-25T21:26:00.001-07:00

Image taken from Ju$t Another Rich Kid. More on Ju$t Another Rich Kid soon. Or check out MODE ET UTOPIE. Thank you Riz!

Joy Division - She's Lost Control + Joy Division - Shadowplay + Do we need ANOTHER cover of this…? YES, only if it’s by Jose Gonzalez - Love Will Tear Us Apart

Park Hotell - The Guest Who Stayed Forever

2007-10-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

This goes out to Andreas Von Scheele. Which was kind enough to grant MΞ an insightful interview (posted below). As he is from Sweden, so are these fellows. Likem'? Scroll down after Andrea's interview for another poppy video (great lighting on both) and to listen to a couple of MP3's.

Swedish-pop energy

MySpace

Interview :: Andreas Von Scheele

2007-10-16T19:29:00.000-07:00

As contributor of all sorts to FLY DVD, Andreas Von Scheele is a young talented writer, director, photographer, editor and yes... translator. He’s written, edited and directed a remarkably anti-war short story, The Lottery. In addition to revitalizing Mario Bava’s cult classic film, Rapid Dogs, he’s also worked with Cloak, Valentino and Calvin Klein for the short stories in FLY DVD. Not to mention his directorial / editorial work and collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld on Farewell to Daylight. Here, Andreas discusses with MΞ his inspirations, past, present and future... and on not wanting to die twice:

MΞ: How did you get involved with FLY DVD?

AVS: I was first contacted by a photographer named Nicola Majocchi, a friend of mine from Bormio, Italy. He needed someone to oversee the technical aspects and DP for an editorial film he was doing for Valentino (On the FLY Zero issue.) We shot the piece and I edited it. FLY at the time was just starting out and needed an editor, so they hired me to edit Tiziano Magni’s piece for Calvin Klein and Nicholas Wagner’s piece. I also shot and edited a piece for Cloak.

MΞ: Karl Lagerfeld, Cloak, Valentino, Calvin Klein… how much do the designers have a say in these short films, i.e. Parallax View, Farewell to Daylight?

AVS: The designers contribute the costumes. Everything else is FLY and the director/photographer.

MΞ: When will we see the second part to Farewell to Daylight?

AVS: I’m game, as long as I don’t have to float naked in frigid dirty water and die twice. It’s up to FLY.

Above: Scenes from Farewell to Daylight. To view all of Andreas' short films visit his website. Yes, you will also see him "floating naked in frigid dirty water". Great music on Farewell... Plus, superb editing in Rivulet (CK) and Ascendant (Valentino), also found in his website.

MΞ: Are you much inspired by fashion as you are on horror films?

AVS: To be totally honest, I’m not very knowledgeable of either. I love a good story. I’m more a fan of old classic films like La Dolce Vita or Ingmar Bergman films. I love Through A Glass Darkly, Casablanca and Chinatown. I’m mainstream in the sense that if it’s a good film I’ll watch it over and over again, even if it’s a Zombie film. I also have a pretty high tolerance to Tarkovsky type stuff.

MΞ: Are there other aspects of film making that you would like to explore?

AVS: Comedy. And, of course, making money.

MΞ: What classic and new discovered films would you suggest?

AVS: The Apartment and Bringing Up Baby are two of my favorites. People are always surprised to hear this after seeing my work. Wong Kar Wai’s Happy Together and
Wes Anderson’s films are a great joy in my life.

MΞ: Will FLY DVD change how people view designers? Will it modify main media publishing?

AVS: Yes. Watching a short film is a lot more fun then turning the pages of a magazine. It’s also much more powerful. Designers and their marketing machines don’t see the potential yet and don’t understand that they can get great work done for the same amount of money as a photo shoot. When they notice, they will start putting more money and resources into short film. I see this happening at FLY.

MΞ: Out of all of Mario Bava’s films, why Rapid Dogs? Will it be a feature film? When will it be released?

AVS: The original Rabid Dogs, was released posthumously and it’s Bava’s best story. The script to the feature film is finished. We’re waiting for money.

MΞ: Talk to us about International Media Films? Love the website.

AVS: Thanks. I actually did the website myself using LiveType, Flash and Contribute. IMF is the passion of Alfredo Leone, a truly wonderful man. Our hope is to transition out of the film library into production. We’re looking for major funding. It’s the last piece of the puzzle. Anyone out there have about 10 million to spare? ;)

MΞ: What were your major inspirations in making The Lottery?

AVS: I wanted to do an anti-war film and I felt that most war films glorified war even when they were anti-war. So I wanted to show how destructive war could be even before any fighting started.

MΞ: You seem to capture the "create-a-mood" scene very well. How challenging is it for you to work with less experienced actors?

AVS: Thank you. I’ve been really lucky that all the inexperienced actors that I’ve worked with have been very talented. And I learned very early on that if an actor was struggling in a scene or with dialogue, it wasn’t their ability to perform or act that was the problem. I realized that there was something very wrong with the scene or with the writing or dialogue. As soon as the problem was fixed, the actors had no problem with the scene.
I think, bad acting is often just bad writing.

MΞ: What school? How long have you been doing this?

AVS: I’ve been doing this since college at Villanova ten years ago. I adapted an August Strindberg play, The Stronger into a short film. I’ve been hooked ever since.

MΞ: What do you enjoy more, editing, directing, photography, writing?

AVS: I love the directing. I really hope to have more opportunities in this direction.

MΞ: Translator???

AVS: Some how I learned Italian and I translated a novel called Scosse by Ilaria Borrelli. I also translated a script called Princess of The Sparrowhawks. It’s really tough work. I’ve turned down a few jobs, because it’s a very time consuming and mind numbing process. That said, I would probably do more translating if it meant I could move to Rome.

MΞ: Besides Rabid Dogs, Is there any special project that you are working on or would like to do?

AVS: I’ve been working on a script for 3 years called Prodigal with my writing partner Justin Daly.
Thematically, it’s about creating more evil by fighting against it. It’s this vicious circle we’re in. One day we’ll finish it.

MΞ: What's your approach to integrating songs into your work?

AVS: All trial and error. I usually start with the least likely type of music to work and then work back from
there.

MΞ: Listening?

AVS: Gogol Bordello, FatLip, The Soundtrack of Our Lives, Moneybrother, The Ark and forever and always - The Kinks.

MΞ: Reading?

AVS: I’m a huge George Saunders fan. I also love Cormac McCarthy, and Mark Z. Danielewski. T.C. Boyle’s early short stories.

MΞ: Hobbies?

AVS: I try to stay in shape. I did a triathlon last year and loved it. In a perfect world I would get out and swim, bike and run more. I ran track in college and I really miss it. I try to meditate everyday, but it’s ends up being more like once a week. Meditation is something that could change the world if there wasn’t such good TV on all the time.

MΞ: Where are you currently finding your inspiration?

AVS: The subway. The E train. I just don’t know how we all get through the day. It just amazes me and I want to tell everyone’s story.

MΞ: Any colleagues or newcomers you'd like to mention that are doing distinctive work?

AVS: Photographer Darrell Taunt: http://www.darrelltaunt.com/. My wife, Willa Carroll, just published her first poem in The Tin House Magazine. She’s amazing.

MΞ: Dretheviking?

AVS: I’m Swedish. I would love to do a Viking Epic film. [See photos taken by Andreas at www.flickr.com/photos/dretheviking/ ]

MΞ: Any final words of advice?

AVS: Never give up. I wish everyone happiness!

A couple of weeks ago I posted Andreas' short film for FLY DVD and collaboration with Cloak. Below is an image and you can see it again here, just in case you missed it.

FLY DVD + Andreas Von Scheele + MySpace

Locally you can find FLY DVD magazine at one of the best boutiques in Miami... BASE. Listen to great music @ BASE and surf through their great selections of goodies from all over the world.

Park Hotell - Low on Resistance

2007-10-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

As I was searching for more info on one of my fav NEW bands nowadays, I found this clever music blog: Eardrums, here is what he had to say... couldn't have said it better myself:

Park Hotell is a trio from this fine city, Luleå, and they have recently released their first EP on Glorycrew records, the 6 track The Guest Who Stayed Forever EP (can be bought from parasol, or as downloads here). They don’t like to be compared to anybody, so I won’t, but they play mostly upbeat indie with a strong focus on the bass and roots somewhere in the 80's and 90's , - and before I start to compare, I’ll hurry to say that some of their roots probably lived in Manchester during the 80s… I didn’t compare now, did I??

MySpace + Park Hotell - Born a Thief + Park Hotell - C Asshole (demo from myspace)

Stick to the Status Quo

2007-10-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

Sta-tus quo: to maintain the status quo is to keep the things the way they presently are. [Works well for others]

As of late I’ve been thinking about several topics to post. I get the “general” idea that blogs are to follow a certain law: if you wanna be cool follow one simple rule, don't mess with the flow, no no stick to the status quo. One problem, now that I’ve gotten to know all my favorite blogs out there and then some, I find it hard to stick to the stuff I know. Even though I appreciate reading about the “same thing” in different arrays and all sorts of angles which makes me want to comment on every single post; how many times can I say “great” on every announcement I like, which also seems to be related to so many others? I don’t quite get how we can get accustomed to the same things, sooner or later it just all seems, I don't know... the same. Some blogs have the formula in their HTML DNA, you know what formula…! Stick to the stuff you know, it is better by far to keep things as they are, don't mess with the flow, no no stick to the status quo. BUT... would it not be great to see:

The Sartorialist write something about the non-smoking generation (do it again).
DISNEYROLLERGIRL share her favorite outfit for roller skating. Or give us her fav recipe.
Face Hunter show us some cool graffiti from all your travels. Even better, post a nice playlist of the music he plays in his myspace. Same goes to Allure (music of her blog), she always selects the right tunes.
Alice Olive post a color picture (she actually has), BUT to share with us what she listens to on her way to work, or one of her many anecdotes (assuming) of her snapping a picture while looking at the beautiful ark detailing at the building as she waits for the perfect lighting and all of a sudden someone pumps into her, would be a nice tale… or something in that variety.
Mode et Utopie sharing her views on Continental Philosophy or Lacanian Psychoanalysis.
Mrs. Fashion letting us know what latest hip-hop beat she’s nodding her head to.
The Clothes Horse sharing some trip with her family and listening to Hawaiian music. Oops, she does did. This is a great example. I really think it encourages posting comments, even though sometimes the comments seem silly… sometimes, at least mine.
Others that are cool and break the rules: libertylondongirl, DIE CULT URE!, Where do I start, Where do I begin? & F&ART
Note: Music blogs are being left alone. I believe the ones I visit are getting bank.

Don’t get me wrong, all that do stick to the status quo do it well, and maybe deep down I’m hoping I can do it as well as they all do… one day. But for now, even if it takes me awhile longer to post, I for one will not fall into re-pe-ti-tion, or at least try (exception: Joy Division)… AND my FLY DVD posts??? They have a purpose.

Taking some well advice from Mr. Federico Slivka Lederer, graphic and multimedia designer. He was interviewed by Josh Spear last week:

Be careful with repetition. It’s not good, from any point you see it. Go away from repetition, because it has a power that attracts us, that seduces us, even though we try to escape from it!

For this reason, you have to be careful; when you find yourself driving through the same streets every day to go to work, when you find yourself doing the same jokes, or stumbling at the same stones, doing the same mistakes...We are all a bit “condemned” to repetition; having that in mind, it may be easier to fight against it, to run to the other side.

Systematic, automatic, mechanic... the world we live in tends towards repetition. It’s the most normal, even if we don’t realize. Or is it that we don’t want to see it?

Repetition is a sickness in some way, but fortunately it has a cure. As you can see, I still don’t have it, since I’m repeating myself a lot... I still haven’t found it, but I suspect the answer is in the dictionary.

We all have our status quo in tune by now, hopefully. It's our foundation, our comfort zone; it's what lets us explore the unknown. It allows us to make mistakes and learn. It lets us create the new. So, before I forget. It’s only fair that I post something way utterly, somewhat uncommon of me:

As I grow up together with my little princess I’m noticing more and more that I want her to be surrounded by things that are "meaningful", I do this unconsciously. As we help her search for her status quo: she’s in a small art school; she’s exposed to music, dance and art. She’s always busy; swimming, tennis and ballet. For the last 3 months I’ve been oppose to her watching HSM… trying to delay the title… watching High School Musical pt. 1 AND 2. I guess I was in denial of somewhat. Ms. Ξ was always trying to convince me in watching it, she was so certain that I would like it. I finally caved in, and to my surprise, she was right… I enjoyed it, maybe even more than my little Ξ. It’s no wonder that Disney is going to the bank with this hit (go slowly on the last two words). What parent would not want their child to watch this well formulated musical, with dance tunes, up-to-date fashion and choreography that makes you want to get up and dance? Even though my daughter will not be having the same “colorful life” as Troy and Gabriella (thankfully), she will grow up with parents that once wanted to be Danny and Sandy, or maybe more like Sid and Nancy, without the drugs and the violence… yeah, that would be Danny and Sandy. Seriously, watching High School Musical just added more to her childish age and made me feel young at heart, which at times it’s hard to maintain, and therefore easily falling more and more into my “echoing” stage which I ALWAYS quickly get out of... thanks to my surroundings!

As a fan of music[als] and being much aware that the following video does not compare to classics as Cabaret, West Side Story, The Wizard of Oz, Moulin Rouge, A Hard Day’s Night, Spinal Tap, Rock ‘n’ Roll High School, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Tommy, John Waters’ Hairspray, Funny Face, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, The Nightmare Before Christmas and many many others…

Without any further ado, I leave you with my latest guilty pleasure:

Stick to the Status Quo as seen on High School Musical pt. 1

[DO NOT] Stick to the Status Quo

So, as there are now more blogs than ice cream flavors and music genres, lets all dip in and explore. Don't forget your spoon (add M&M's) and your iPod (press shuffle).

The limits of my language means the limits of my world.
Ludwig Wittgenstein

Control The Official Movie Trailer

2007-10-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know... again!? Do understand, this is all I have until two weeks. My "imaginary" friends in the UK will see the film in its entirety TODAY! Joy Division Central reports that the film will be released in the UK on October 5th and the US on October 19th. So for NOW I give you THE OFFICIAL trailer and some other goodies...
Also check out **CONTROL :: OFFICIAL MOVIE WEBSITE**

Above ::: Control The Official Movie Trailer

Above: This is exactly why this interweb thingy was invented: this is the earliest ever recording of the song ‘love will tear us apart’ by the mighty Joy Division on the John Peel BBC radio show in 1979. It leaked just 3 days ago, but I reckon it’s an official release to coincide with the Anton Corbijn ‘Control’ film. The footage from this clip is taken from two performances around that time: one in Manchester and one in Brussels (Plank).

Above ::: Interview ::: "I didn't make a Joy Division film, I made an Ian Curtis film", indeed, indeed you did Sir Anton Corbijn ::: Director/Photographer

The best cover on this song by Susanna & the Magical Orchestra

FLY DVD pt. II

2007-10-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

"Imagine the possibility that your conclusions are based on nothing..."

Director Andreas Von Scheele colab with Cloak

insideFLY.com + MySpace + Andreas Von Scheele

Radiohead: How much is at the end of the rainbow?

2007-10-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

Let the hype begin!

Leave it to Radiohead to always leave us in awe with their marketing plots and schemes. In an industry ailing with trouble and a need for new creation outside the box, Radiohead has yet giving us another surprise. Letting fans pay what they might think their In Rainbow album is worth. But be wary, as there is a tempted option to purchase a “Discbox” worth £40.00 (appox. $80). To true Radiohead fans… I’m sure it’s worth it; nevertheless I have qualms due to that sooner or later it will be released in some other packaging and as we all have been burned by some deluxe or limited addition of whatever fancy us, this will sure leave a scar in all, whether it be a healing or permanent scar we are just going to have to jump in the fire loop and cheer/jeer to the tune of Radiohead.

You'll be able to pre-order your download and receive a link by October 10th (name your price). If you chose the discbox above, it will arrive after December 3rd 2007. A regular album release will be early 2008. More details here. More to come, after Oct 10th... from all over!

In all their glory!

[MP3] John Mayer + Kid A (Excellent!)

[MP3] The Darkness + Street Spirit

[MP3] Damien Rice + Creep (Acoustic)

[MP3] Mark Ronson + Just (feat. Alex Greenwald)

DEAD AIR SPACE

Vampire Weekend

2007-09-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

No this is not how I will spend my weekend: watching vampire theme movies (Bram Stoker's Dracula, one of my many favs) nor, waiting in some cave for bats to come and bite. This is about a band from NY, NY. I myself would call it "polite punk"... if there is such a thing.

Vampire Weekend - Campus
Poor quality video and sound... but you feel the good vibe

"Vampire Weekend’s not what you’d expect from New York rock. That’s part of the point. Hear it in groups like Dirty Projectors, Animal Collective, and High Places—the city’s best independent bands are less and less serious (Interpol), less fashion conscious (Yeah Yeah Yeahs), less hatefully avant-garde (Liars) and, crucially, less concerned with rock’s rhythmic predictability (the Strokes). No terrible beauties being born, no purple verse rising up from the cracks in concrete." Last Plane to Jakarta

ALL FOUR SONGS ARE A MUST LISTEN IN THEIR MySpace, especially A-Punk (my fav) and for you always grammatically correct scholars, listen to "Oxford Comma".

Website + MySpace + Vampire Weekend - "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa" (MP3) + Vampire Weekend - "Oxford Comma" (MP3)

The Easy Way

2007-09-27T23:49:00.000-07:00

Painting by Luke Chueh

I’m not sure why I’m writing about this just yet, sometimes I like to think of myself as Alejandro González Iñárritu[1]. As my write-as-I-discover seems more gratifying to me, I never know where some of my posts will take me. At times I have an idea before I sit in front of my monitor and listen to my favorite satellite radio station[2] (playing Belle & Sebastian’s Dirty Dream Number Two). Music is indeed my inspiration for all things that matter to me and all things that matter to me eventually will evolve in some soundtrack chosen by yours truly as I drive, jog, read… and yes work and sometimes waltzing off when the conversation just seems to go nowhere. But I digress; let me start on the subject on hand…

Though I myself I’m not a smoker, but at the same time I’m not oppose to other people blowing a cloud, today I find myself pondering this needy habit. I really don’t have a lot of friends and families jump starting one another’s boggys. I do have co-workers and acquainted personalities that would probably, if giving the time, become good amigos. To them and others I now will officially vouch for the book The Easy Way to Stop Smoking by Allen Carr. I know I know… if I don’t smoke… why have I chosen to commend so called self-help book? Like I said, I’m not sure yet. (Satellite radio playing Vampire Weekend’s A Punk)

As much as I find it sexy-cool to see someone with a ciggie in hand[3], especially if you're Mia Wallace, Kate Moss or Rita Hayworth[4], plus have the correct perfume that is well balanced for your skin type and can engage with your particular smoke and manage to light me up. Consequently hypnotizing me to reach out for a candle or matches, or go through the embarrassing trouble to ask the other mesmerized gent for his square to jump start yours… in spite of everything, I will wish that at the end of our conversation you’d rather not smoke, even if you have also figured out the correct chewing gum[5] to blend with your breath of death. Yes, your aura and stance beaming through the dark pub full of smog will guide me through your runway and at times will seem like a bumpy landing, but I have never been afraid of flying, therefore will encourage all to step away from your sabotaging comfort zone and read this book. This book allows you to keep smoking while reading and promises that you will stop once finished, not gain weight and you will not feel deprived.

I’m now realizing I have other intentions to promote this two-hundred-fifty-six page book (other then smoking is bad for you and that it could kill you). See; I have become addicted (going four years straight) to a local small cozy bar in South Beach. A bar in which some giant God surgically removed a heart from a London Pub and reincarnated a piece of New York’s East Village soul and have supplied it with the tunes as if it was selected from some music Goddess, add to its immune system fine beer selections from all worlds that are some way compatible with all who enter this heaven and you have yourself a true magnet for smokers[6]. Well, occasionally friends and Ms. Ξ will resist on going out to this bar due to the smoke and smell, as some are allergic, therefore making all of us end up at the same old trendy South Beach places[7]. So in my efforts to somehow convey all The Room[8] followers to stop smoking I have chosen to post this. I'm not really sure how it’s going to get to them, and if it does reach them, how will this effect these cloud puffing cool cats AND if by some miracle they do happen to quit, oh... will heaven ever be the same?

Editors - Smokers Outside the Hospital Doors

[1] Alejandro González Iñárritu does not have a fully set picture when starting to film. Director of Amores Perros (Love’s a Bitch), 21 Grams and Babel.

[2] Sirius’ Left of Center… can’t live with out it.

[3] Nothing sexier than to see someone in the correct cigarette stance. One of the main reasons that teenagers smoke… to look “cool”.

[4] Names have been changed to preserve identity.

[5] I personally prefer mints. The site of any fe[male] chewing gum is not atttractive.

[6] At times the magnet pulls some obscure objects, although heaven is a place for all. I at times want it all to myself!

[7] I refuse to name these trendy-purgatories (hopefully they will stay there) known as the “it” place to be and be seen… please.
[8] Going strong since 2003! Crowd has changed a bit, but still faithfull. Early weekdays or latenights are the best times to beat the crowd.

Inspired by Jake Fogelnest of Sirius Radio Left of Center. Good luck tomorrow on your first day on being cigarette free. I know you can do it!

FLY DVD pt. III

2007-09-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

You are so full of it… the romantic, flowers, man with a pig mask (my fav), silent man, charming man, alone

insideFLY.com + MySpace

What is that we are looking for!?

2007-09-27T21:30:00.000-07:00

Wish I knew what you were looking for
Might have known what you would find...

The Church - Under The Milky Way
And its something quite peculiar,
Something thats shimmering and white
Leads you here despite your destination...

Late of the Pier

2007-09-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

Something new… straight from the UK!

It’s Friday! Get ready to dance!

Late of the Pier – Bathroom Gurgle

MySpace

FLY DVD pt. IV

2007-09-21T15:26:00.000-07:00

FLY DVD, a cutting-edge media publication dedicated to the world of fashion. Each issue is absolutely packed with incredible high-definition visual footage in the form of more than a dozen short films that serve to capture the essence of fashion lines by designers such as Yohji Yamamoto, Zac Posen, Yves Saint Laurent, Cloak and Marc Jacobs. I've seen FLY DVD's Zero Issue and was totally blown away to say the least.

Let it play through mid way... color + music = eye candy

FLY is the product of love for film, photography, music, fashion, art and culture. It is a platform for collaboration between established and emerging talent from all creative fields.

insideFLY.com + MySpace

Interpol Live :: Tonight

2007-09-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

This is the only thing that matters today!

Great night to take out your skinny ties... (and holsters, if you prefer Carlos D's passe look)!

Above: Stencil art created by Shepard Fairey of OBEY.

No I in Threesome

Above: Very entertaining interview

Below:: Carlos D [Part 1 + 2]... composed and just being himself... with gestures and all

INTERPOL.com

PS: Sorry to Sam Fogarino (drummer) for the non video interview coverage. Did not want to over do it with videos. But I do think he is the best dresser of the band. He wears the best vintage custom made suits made by Sinner/Saint.

Inspiration: Hedi Slimane

2007-09-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

The funny thing about some of my research is that I discover things that are one way another related. I’m aware that this post has a lot going on, but I assure you that everything is tied into a minimal degree of separation…

My Space / Hedi Slimane

I’m motivated to post for a garçon brillant who has a vision unlike any other. From Collections Director at Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Homme in 1997 to being the Chief Designer at Dior from 2000 – 2007 and having a great ear for music taste[1] and a keen eye for photography[2], plus creating the costumes for Daft Punk. This lean design machine is on his own now and venturing into his exhibits[3]. Soon after he left Dior, he joined his friend Gus Van sant and started an amazing project called “Young American”. Recently (Sept. 13th) Hedi joined forces with Wallpaper*, he will be guest editing the well-put-together art magazine[4].

Wallpaper*.com

[1] These New Puritans + The Paddingtons + The Kills + Eight Legs + The Rakes
[2] Portrait of a Performer + London Birth of Cult + Stage + Berlin + Intermission +
[3] Upcoming exhibition in November at Gallery Almine Rech, in Paris, January 2008, in Tokyo, at Koyanagi Gallery, and May 2008 at Musac Contemporary Art Museum in Spain.
[4] Also guest editing: legendary artist Jeff Koons, and influential post war designer Dieter Rams.

T-shirt by Henry Holland.co.uk

If you love music + fashion + art, a must visit awaits you to Mr. Slimane’s site.
Hedi Slimane.com check out ROCK DAIRY PROJECTS and PLAYLIST. Listen in particular to These New Puritans (watch the video). Also his Diary, great b/w pics!

PS: Another unexpected discovery is that Hedi Slimane does not smoke, do drugs or drink. As I once commented on Sanddancer’s blog as well disneyrollergirl’s blog; it comes to show you that we do not have to be under the influence of anything besides your mind to be artistic, imaginative and inventive. Slimane channels his creativity through the diverse art forms and truly expresses it in the most successful way… Pathos + Ξthos = Logos!

To be continued…

I’ll leave you with a nice tune from These New Puritans

These New Puritans - Elvis

MORRISSEY Live in Miami!

2007-09-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago one of my favorite artists performed in Boca Raton, FL. You might have heard of him... unfortunately I did not get to see Morrissey. Due to work I could not make it to Boca. I was devastated, as I was when Interpol released their first tour dates and did not include Miami. I was planning to see him in New York in October and I just discovered that MORRISSEY WILL BE PERFORMING IN MIAMI @ http://www.livenation.com/venue/getVenue/venueId/263/ on NOVEMBER 8th. His final tour date in the US.

I have to thank Live Nation for going all out and bringing music artists to the people. The Fillmore Miami Beach is a great venue brought to us by the world’s largest music company. Hopefully now Miami will see more class live acts!

Thank you Live Nation!

Morrissey - My Love Life

Live Nation Press Release + Live Nation.com+ The Fillmore Miami Beach

VIVA MORRISSEY!

The National

2007-09-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

"Gothic in its detailing but jaunty in its execution, Boxer is something far richer than orch-pop".
(translation: rock 'n' roll topped with violins)

I know... not the best dressers...

Yes... their album Boxer is better then the rest, but you will not regret listening to their prior albums, in particular their 2005 release Alligator... one word: BEAUTIFUL!

The National - Apartment Story get ready to dance @ 2:25 thru the video

Goes to show you that all you need is a good beat and guitars and you are ready for a good dance... oh, and someone who has the guts to brake the ice and start it all... such as the lady with the nice patent red mary janes... she also knows when to stop.

MySpace + The National

Banned Books

2007-09-06T16:29:00.000-07:00

and come what may... ended with Morrissey...

I’ve been researching my latest book[1] to read and I came across some posters on books we’ve always heard were banned. Seeing them on these two posters reminded of matters that I was more conscious about when I was more of a free-spirit[2]. All of these books are classics! It amazes me of how censorship does no good, and if anything, it makes us desire the undesirable more! It makes me believe that the ban theory is a hoax just to sell the banned product itself (i.e. Harry Potter). Some way or another, the people behind these so called committees and organizations to band books have to feel some guilt as their constricted mind works on telling authors what they can write; and readers and students what they can read. To ban books such as Ulysses, Leaves of Grass, The Catcher in the Rye, AND come to find out… James and the Giant Peach[3]!!!??? And so many others have been unlawfully vetoed that this, in its own way should be a crime. Looking back to all banned books, it probably held us back literally for years. Who knows what and how many books would have been written. Imagine how many other inspirational songs Morrissey[4] could have written and not to mention the movies that Hollywood would have made. Nonetheless, banned or not, good literature will always prevail, as well as any art form that is scrutinized by censorship and suppression[5].

I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. Evelyn Beatrice Hall (not Voltaire)

The posters above were designed by the artist Chuck Close, used and posted around New York for the famous Freedom Concert in New York. You can download high resolution PDFs here and here.

[1] Junot Diaz, Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. More on him soon!

[2] Still free-spirited. But belonging to another free-spirit and hoping one day that my little one will encompass mine into her own free-spirit ways.

[3] One of my favorite authors and books, Roald Dahl and his book James and the Giant Peach. I just cannot believe this was banned!

[4] Some books THAT inspired Morrissey (some books inspired BY Morrissey): How Soon is Never? By Marc Spitz, The Wrong Boy by Willy Russell, A Taste of Honey: A Play by Shelagh Delaney, The Lion In Love by Shelagh Delaney, By Grand Central Station I Sat Down And Wept by Elizabeth Smart, The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery (appears in the Suedehead video), The Importance Of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, Girlfriend in a Coma by Douglas Coupland, Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh, The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall, James Dean Is Not Dead by Morrissey and many more.

Even though the books above were not banned, I assure you that enough material in some was sufficient to submit for censorship, i.e. The Well of Loneliness and Trainspotting. Morrissey REALLY didn't need any banned books to inspire him... it just so happened that I remembered Le petit prince and decided to mention Suedehead.

[5] Don’t let me get started in the art and music industry!

Morrissey - Suedhead

The 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 1990–2000

Original Sources for Morrissey’s Lyrics

Rubin... THE Savior?

2007-09-05T06:53:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I started to read an interesting article on Rick Rubin, mega producer and founder of the now defunked Def Jam. Supposedly he is the savior of the troubled record industry. I'm not sure what to think about Rick Rubin anymore. Well, the article started great, but really, the only thing I can conclude is that he got a great deal, his contract conditions with Columbia is a dream and how he loves the Gossip. Sony and Columbia has replaced well-knowledge music staff with high-paid executives and have tried to compensate it by Rubin’s hippie-spiritual-rub-my-ears and belly persona.

What I found the most interesting: “This summer, Columbia Records began a program called Big Red. The company invited 20 college students from Harvard, Penn State and the University of Miami to work on various music projects”, one being a focus group.

"The kids all said that: [which we all know]

a) no one listens to the radio anymore
b) they mostly steal music, but they don't consider it stealing
c) they get most of their music from iTunes on their iPod.

They also said that MySpace is over, it's just not cool anymore; Facebook is still cool, but that might not last much longer; and the biggest thing in their life is word of mouth. That's how they hear about music, bands, everything."

Honestly, I just don’t see how this guy is our savior…
Talking about some common opera singer from London that was discovered in the British version of American Idol, and him wanting to create a buzz on him before the album drops in the states. I don’t know, I understand there is a market for this, maybe I'm not in any way into popular shit as much. But I'm thinking longevity, Rubin is thinking about...? You tell me. Reviving the Chili Peppers, Cash and Diamond. Next up, Phish? Creed? Hootie? The Offspring? Look, I respect what he's done, especially with Def Jam... Let's see what he'll do at Columbia. As for the Gossip, hopefully he will not let them down.

Must reads on this:
Stereogum on Rick Rubin You can also see the video of the opera singing dude!

The Lefsetz Letter First in Music Analysis
Bob Lefsetz is to damn good!

New York Times Magazine: The Music Man

Interpol: "Mammoth" Video

2007-09-03T22:15:00.000-07:00

Just a glimpse of what we'll see Sept. 19th @ The Bank United Center @ UM!

The background seems rather familiar. Rather not say what concert it reminds me of... hmmm?

Update soon on opening act Liars!

Endorsement: Miami Metrorail

2007-09-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

Local post... Staying local, for once! ALL ABOOOOARD!

Even though the now existing Miami Metrorail system is limited to certain areas, I’m sure everyone can find a way to reap the benefits, other than commuting to work. Last week on my day off I decided to take the Miami Metrorail. I hopped in my car with three things that we cannot live without these days: cellular, camera and iPod. I felt excited and liberated as I drove towards the Metro Station. Even though it was a one day adventure, I felt I was going on vacation… by myself. I mean… I packed a bag, paid for a parking space, bought a ticket and went through a gate. How could I not feel I was on holiday? Honestly, the journey was sort of an out-of-Miami experience. Maybe it had to do with the nonchalant day I decided to have, maybe it was the people coming in and out of the train. Possibly not being stuck in traffic and deciding to head to Sunset Place to catch a movie was a good one-day vacation to take! Just not being in my car and not listening to wind whooshing between my songs AND having a chauffeur for a day was definitely a feeling of carpe diem. I felt tranquility listening to yet another self-made soundtrack chosen by my iPod (shuffle mode). The music synchronizing itself with the movement of the metro and the visual affects beaming through each window, was a positive indication that it was going to be no ordinary day. Ah, and is it not nice just to listen to the sound of the railroad tracks as the music fades away or as it abruptly stops, just to start shortly after, keeping me in my own recording studio.

Art in Public Places Above: Inspired by the orientation of the Palmetto Metrorail Station, Miami artist Robert Huff conceived East/West to harmonize with the busy lifestyle of passengers on their daily commute. The hand glazed ceramic tiles provide a visual system linked to the change of light and color throughout the day. Upon entering the platform, the variations of color on the support system reflect the warm colors of the rising sun. As passengers return to the station, they are greeted by colors reminiscent of the setting sun that progress from the hot colors of the late afternoon to the cool blues of the evening.

Perhaps I sound too enthuse about my metro experience. Compared to New York, London, France and other model cities, this encounter with my local transportation system doesn’t seem significant. But it did have me thinking. For one, Miami public transit is not as bad as I thought. Especially with gas prices as high as they are we should be using the metro more. I’m sure none of this is innovative, but my next date: not telling Ms. Ξthos where we are headed, park the car and hop on the metro. Also, next concert? Gather everyone and metro-bound it is! Next theatre play? Yes, the metro! Next amusement ride with my daughter? You guessed it, the metro! Actually, as I’m writing this, the next metro ride will be to see Interpol at The Bank United Center at the University of Miami, which is Wednesday, Sept. 19th. Can’t wait!

I also can’t wait for The MIC (Miami Intermodal Center) to be completed in 2011. Although the MIC will not put Miami next to those other advanced transportation cities, it will take a leap into making Miami a more developed multi-cultural destination. The MIC Program consists of a Rental Car Center, the Miami Central Station, major roadway improvements, the MIA Mover, and a joint development component. It will provide connectivity for residents and visitors of Miami-Dade County and the South Florida region, where none existed, between the transportation systems in the Palm Beaches, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and the Florida Keys, as well as decongest the streets in and around the busy airport.

Connectivity and decongestion... just what Miami needs!

Taking a well deserved break...? Priceless!

2007-09-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

Viva Mondays Amigos!

2007-08-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

So I hear it was a rough Monday, and if it wasn’t, I'm sure you've had yours. But does it not feel good just to get home and feel alive? Smell the B.O. of your significant other's hard day sweat, especially if AC is not part of your picture-perfect-work-environment? And listen to their passionate stories of work and how we already wish it was Friday? This is what is so good about having friends like you all. We can't wait to get together and talk about our not-so-good-times AND great times at work, on the street, what we ate, what's happening in the world, universe, space, etc. Having a beer or two and just hoping we all had longer days off just don’t happen as much as we would like them to. Let's face it; we can't live without Mondays just as much as we can't live without good friends!

So here is to Blue Mondays and good friends... like you!

PS: Promotions for all soon. If not... here are the next loto #'s 19 22 28 30 42 50

Above New Order - Blue Monday (original 1983)
Uploaded by casual_culture

Joy Division Part II: Out of Control

2007-08-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

A Joy Division fan MySpace has announced the soundtrack for upcoming Ian Curtis biopic Control.

Control soundtrack:

1. New Order - "Exit"

2. The Velvet Underground - "What Goes On"

3. The Killers - "Shadowplay" (Joy Division Cover)

4. The Buzzcocks - "Boredom" (live)

5. Joy Division - "Dead Souls"

6. Supersister - "She Was Naked"

7. Iggy Pop - "Sister Midnight"

8. Joy Division - "Love Will Tear Us Apart"

9. Sex Pistols - "Problems" (live)

10. New Order - "Hypnosis"

11. David Bowie - "Drive In Saturday"

12. John Cooper Clarke - "Evidently Chickentown"

13. Roxy Music - "2H.B."

14. Joy Division - "Transmission" (Cast Version)

15. Kraftwerk - "Autobahn"

16. Joy Division - "Atmosphere"

17. David Bowie - "Warszawa"

18. New Order - "Get Out"

Also soon to be released, a very limited edition book of Joy Division shots by Kevin Cummins.

And finally, NME.com also reports that Joy Division will hit us with a brand spankin' new single called "Love Will Tear Us Apart" on September 24. I hear it's pretty good.

Control (2007) TEASER
Uploaded by scootaway

Joy Division fan MySpace + Paste: New Order spars as Corbijn exudes Control

Thank you PASTE & Pitchfork

Joy Division Part I: New Band

2007-08-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

With all the press and PR that Joy Division is receiving lately someone might think that they are a new band. Yet with a another screen appearance next month in the Toronto International Film Festival as a documentary simply called Joy Division. Co-written and directed by Grant Gee (whom you may remember for his work with another scrappy group of up-and-comers, Radiohead). The film was co-written by the always entertaining Jon Savage (fav music journalist).

Control, meanwhile, now appears set for an October 5 general theatrical release.

And as if that weren't enough, there's also significant chatter of late surrounding a set of expanded, remastered Joy Division reissues. While the info has not yet been confirmed, NME.com and several other outlets are reporting that Unknown Pleasures, Closer, and odds'n'ends collection Still will all receive the deluxe reissue treatment in the UK come September 10. Each will be bundled with a bonus disc. (via Pitchork)

Bob Dylan - "I'm Not There" Trailer

2007-08-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

The lives and time of Bob Dylan. The movie follows seven (or six) characters, each embodying a different aspect of Dylan's life story and music. Can't wait for this to come out. Sept. 21st... hopefully.

I'm Not There trailer includes all six Dylans (Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger and Ben Whishaw) featured in the film.

It is confirmed that Stephen Malkmus (of 90's indie band 'Pavement', and his current 'Jicks' solo-project) has loaned his voice to the project, providing Dylan covers for the soundtrack and to have his voice dubbed over one of the character's.

Arcade Fire - Well Dressed with Instruments and Voice Accessories

2007-08-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Since their EP (referred to Us Kids Know EP in 2003) and their remarkably album Funeral album in 2oo4, I've been hooked to this supersize band. Arcade Fire speaks to several generations at once. The fervid tenor of the band’s music, always pitching toward some kind of revelation. Arcade Fire songs aim, without apology or irony, for grandeur, and, more often than not, they achieve it.

Antichrist Television Blues - Live @ Glastonbury 2007

Rebellion (Lies)

They also sew their own matching outfits, are fans of the misanthropic Brits: The Cure, Echo & the Bunnymen + Radiohead! But really the style maker here is Haiti-born Régine Chassagne, also married to lead singer Will Butler. Love her style, she also has a great voice, listen to the song Haiti.

For the Eyes + Ears + Heart
Arcade Fire – Flash Player + Website + My Space + “The Salvation Army” + Neon Bible

“If you are a human being, you owe it to your eternal soul to love the Arcade Fire and see them play live.” David Bowie has performed live with the band. Fans of Arcade Fire also include U2 + Michael Stipe. Which makes Will uncomfortbale. But forget about the fans, what they wear and where they from and read “The Salvation Army”, truly they are an emotional and inspiring band. They are also somewhat spiritual, but not properly religiuos and seem a lot like a commune. Afterall, they truly belief in the power of bringing people together through music.

No Cars Go - Live @ Glastonbury 2007 -- Note: Will enhance your jogging routine!

"Between the click of the light and the start of the dream"

The Art of Music + Fashion

2007-08-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was talking to a close friend yesterday and mentioned that there is a lack of fashion postings in my blog. This is curious, because that is my field and went on to say there lays my passion. One of the reasons that I have not covered fashion as much is due to the exceptional fashion blogs that are RΞAL, you know who they are[1]. As this was brought to my attention, I could not stop thinking about my next post. I guess another reason is that it might seem too shallow, you know... posting things of trivial "material" (punt intended), one more reason is the time, I just don’t have it! I see fashion more as where I “rest” my passion. Yes, it's what I do, but at the same time is where my mind is always in a creative motion. So, for me to sit, write and post, it becomes additional work. This is why I rather sΞΞ and enjoy what is out there in the blogsephere. Therefore, as music is my true infatuation I’ve decided to cover “well decorated” bands, rock stars and along the way maybe throw in a rap duo and other unknown genres of music notables (according to yours truly). I’m sure the question will arise, “so… do I like them because of their “image” or their talent?” Let me be lucid, music AND foremost music is the prime reason I will post any of my so called decked out artistes. Now, some musicians[2] will go unnoticed due to their “creative process” in covering up, but artistically they do not lack anything when it comes to their music and lyrics, after all, their instruments, voice, nature, pen and paper is their true sense of style! Anyway, what artist wants to be remembered by their rags?

So get inspired, scroll above and explore the music and style of the most adorned bands and individuals in music!

Sinner-Saint.com

[1] The Poste Office + The Coveted + The Satorialist + Face Hunter + Mrs. Fashion + Retail Recovery + La Femme + The Style Scout + The Clothes Horse + Hel Looks

[2] Clap Your Hands Say Yeah + The New Pornographers + Of Montreal + Death Cab for Cutie + The Decemberist

RIP: Tony Wilson - Mega Post

2007-08-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

From day one I’ve wanted to honor the ancestor of all bands that I listen to, but I did not want to do them wrong. I have posted a couple of references and quoted some of their lyrics on some posts. Unfortunately, the motivation kicks in now that Hacienda impresario and founder of Factory Records, Tony Wilson, died in England Friday at the age of 57, after more than a year's worth of treatment for kidney cancer.

Immortalized in the 2002 film 24 Hour Party People, a semi-fictional account of his life and career, Wilson's colorful personality, smug wit, and keen appreciation for club music made him a kingpin of the Manchester scene that launched Joy Division, New Order and the Happy Mondays.

An early champion of Joy Division, Wilson gave the band its first big break on his weekly slot, So It Goes, the first music show in England to televise punk and post-punk bands.

Joy Division and New Order drummer Stephen Morris told England's Newsnight Friday, "There would be no Joy Division or New Order without Tony. He really believed in us and he was smart enough to start a label and put our records out.

Looking through videos and reading so much about Joy Division just complicates on what to choose and post. I’ve decided to let videos and music speak for them. Also in tribute to the pioneers, a gathering of sorts should be held to watch 24 Hour Party People, well at least in my place it will… Enjoy!

A tribute video for Joy Division - Ceremony

New Order / Depeche Mode Mix Video

Happy Mondays - Step On

Movie poster for Control. The life of Ian Curtis through the lens of legendary photographer, Anton Corbijn

FactoryRecords.net + NewOrderOnline.com + Happy Mondays + 24 Hour Party People on IMDB + Anton Corbijn (must visit)

Inspiration: Chuck Klosterman

2007-08-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

After reading numerous articles by Chuck Klosterman and taking in account how much of an influence he has been in my point of views, I've decided to embrace Mr. Klosterman. As I sat down reading Radio is History, I became familiar with his style of writing. I was struck by how he took to mean Rush's 1980 "Spirit of the Radio" and diffused it into his piece of Satellite Radio vs. FM. And not to mention his clever footnotes making it feel as if you are interacting with the material at hand. As some of you know my feelings towards FM, I could not help come to an accord with Chuck. I remember putting the article down and thinking, "Have I met Chuck before?" I did not think anything else of it as I finally put Esquire magazine down and fell asleep. But, then came The Ethics Paradox, how Chuck put a vomiting man in a wheelchair and a documentary by Ralph Nader plus Klosterman himself wanting to become a hippie (just because he wanted to) and the new NIN's album[1] spellbinded me as he made it all come together.

So... come to find out, Mr. Klosterman also wrote for Spin Magazine (My Back Pages [2]). Where he wrote some amazing pieces[3]! I recall an excerpt where he states Billy Corgan [4] fits in the following categories:

...the kind of artists who give interviews are (a) people who aspire to be recognized, and (b) people who have lost that recognition and want some of it back.

He goes on to compare his band mates to Michael Jordan's team buddies (due to Billy equating himself to MJ). I never did understood the press and how it dealt with Billy and their last album, thanks to Chuck, I grasp the press' point of view more heartily (only on Corgan). Now that Billy and the Pumpkins are back I'm curious to find out what Chuck has to say. (Do not deserve to be called Smashing, since their disbandment in 2000, and honestly... I thought they would not ever reform) [4 1/2].

Mr. Klosterman has also writing a number of fine books, being my favorite Chuck Klosterman IV: A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas. A collection of articles, previously published columns, and a semi-autobiographical novella.

I've also decided to post various articles of Klosterman when published by Esquire [5], and maybe put a few of his classic bits and pieces from past magazines and talk to you about that other fascinating book with the electric guitar on the cover [6].

<------- Click away on the blue writing (good stuff) -------->

[1] Year Zero
[2] Chuck worked with illustrator James Jean
[3] My Akron year, Marilyn Manson, and the four millionth death of commercial radio
A year of magical thinking glimpsed through the lens of the craziest Spin ever
Ethically pure grunge and cokehead Britpop prove that history is bunk half the time
[4] Billy Corgan, rock godhead, and what to make of celebrity interviews
[4 1/2)] This ought to be a footnote
[5] Now working with David Hughes (does not like the illustrator label)
[6] Killing Yourself to Live: 85% of a True Story

PS: I am a fan of The Smashing. How can I not be after Billy found refuge teaming up with New Order right after their collapse on NO's Get Ready album.

Diego Guzman aka DDOCK

2007-08-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

Diego Guzman
MySpace + Hobby Horse + Diego Guzman

13 Tzameti

2007-08-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

OK, back to some darkness...

13 Tzameti is an outstanding, emotionally visceral film from first-time director Gela Babluani, a gripping, mesmerizing tour de force of cinematic expression that collars you in an ever-tightening noose of nervous tension and quickly engulfs you completely in its dark atmosphere. It's so rare for a film to come along and actually succeed at putting you on edge - 13 Tzameti, though, truly delivers the goods. It's not hard to see why the film garnered the award for Best First Feature at the Venice Film Festival and walked away with the World Cinema Jury Prize at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival.

A very impressive debut film by a young french filmmaker. What starts out initially as a seemingly simple tale soon turns into a twisted thriller. The amount of tension this film builds is incredible. You'll be hooked. The black and white filming fits perfectly. It gives the film a different edge that I don't think would have been the same had it been filmed in color.

The film is being remade by the same director and it's looking at a 2008 realease date (in color).

Official Site + US Official Site + My Space

"My Weekend" Playlist 7.19.07 / 7.20.07

2007-08-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's a long playlist but it was playing constantly, a lot was left out.

Interpol – Mammoth

The Rapture – Pieces of People We Love
Death Cab for Cutie – Title & Registration

The Cinematics – Human
Stellastar – Entertained
The Bravery - Bad Sun
Gene – Save Me, I’m yours
The Magic Numbers – Forever Lost
Bloc Party - Little Thoughts
Arcade Fire - (Antichrist Television Blues)
Hot Chip – Over & Over
TV On the Radio – Dirtywhirl
Modest Mouse - People As Places As People
The Postal Service – Clark Gable
Radiohead – India Rubber
Cheated Hearts – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Interpol - Specialist (Black Session)
Bloc Party - Two More Years
Weekend – Ladytron (James Iha Mix)
The Kooks - She Moves In Her Own Way
Modest Mouse – Spitting Mouse
Interpol – No I in Threesome
The Strokes – You Only Live Once
Sting – Why Would I cry For You
Ceremony – Joy Division
The Enemy – Had Enough
Karen Ann – In Your Back
Arctic Monkeys - Fluorescent Adolescent
Kings of Leon – Ragoo
Tapes ‘n Tapes - Jakov's Suite
Erol Alkan – Soulwax - E Talking (Soulwax Nite Dub)
Klaxons – Magick
Maps – Liquid Sugar
Battles – Tonto
LCD Soundsystem – All My Friends
The National – Fake Empire
Stars – Take Me to the Riot
The Field – Paw in My Face
The Sea and Cake – Crossing Line
Morrissey – Hairdresser on Fire
New Young Pony Club – Ice Cream
Oasis – Live Forever
Pete Yorn – Life On a Chain
Blonde Redhead – Elephant Woman
The Racing Rats - Editors

Ξchoes (edited)

2007-07-31T19:20:00.000-07:00

Last week I spent “my weekend” (Thur. July 19th & Fri. 20th) at my compadre’s small and cozy studio apartment. I woke up one morning to the peculiar sounds that reminded me of places that I’ve resided and have been an influence to who I am today.

One of those sounds was a rake. At first I did not make anything of it, but it was so quite I was finally benefiting by staying in bed and found myself traveling back in time to Dallas, TX. The rake took me back to the times where I assisted with the weekend chores; mowing the lawn, raking the leaves and in the background I can see my t-shirtless father also doing his part, plus my Ma and sis cleaning inside of the house and the music blasting. Sometimes it was to Cheap Trick, Blondie, Culture Club and other times it was El Gran Combo, Johnny Ventura, Willie Colon & Wilfrido Vargas. For a still moment in time, the rake was keeping me in Dallas, but then I noticed the passing cars and I went into another time capsule.

This took me to my first visit to Puerto Rico (ten years old) ever since I left when I was one or two years of age. I recalled the first time I learned how to play solitaire on the plane ride. I remember when I was introduced to someone and feeling the warmth of a “stranger’s” hug, the welcoming of a handshake and the acceptance of a beso to the cheek. The passing cars reminded me of the closeness of my family in Puerto Rico. I can smell my grandmother’s cooking and the bread from the bakery behind the barrio. The swooshes and horns were taking me back to where I used to hang out with my cousins and uncles at the liquor store. While they drank and laughed, I enjoyed Coco Ricos and Piña Buenas (my second addiction, after music). I brought to mind the time my cousins wanted all my cassettes I took with me to Ponce. Going back to those tapes now, they had Pink Floyd, Motley Crue, Duran Duran, Pat Benatar, Wham!, Simple Minds, Sade, Tears for Fears, Madonna, Beastie Boys, A-Ha, INXS, U2, Pet Shop Boys, the list goes on-and-on. Some songs were taking straight from the radio (I was ten). The squealing brakes were evoking the images and sounds of a mini breed of gooses my grandmother had in her front yard... ‘till this day I do not get why she had ganzos as pets.

After reminiscing through my early years I found myself fine tuning the sounds that were coming by means of waves through the cement walls and was all of a sudden surfing my way into the sounds of a broom sweeping the concrete. This was a relaxing sound for my next journey, a passage through La Vega, Dominican Republic. Surprisingly here is where I would become somewhat of “a man”. The broom really swept me away, took me to my first ever DJ party, my first scooter accident… actually, my first everything. For some reason or other the quiet time in bed was enhancing my hearing and at the same time making me recollect positive memories from some time ago. “Ah, if only I can hop on that broom”, I thought to myself while staring at the ceiling. Unexpectedly I hear footsteps above me of some high heels walking on the wooden shallow floor. Around the third step I was transported to Winter Park, FL.

Some great memories in Winter Park, FL. My first time all to myself (with a noisy neighbor) and discovering a new city: from indie movies, art and music festivals to fashion. The clattering sound was a flashback like no other. Here I ran my own store, volunteered at movie festivals and organized groups for charity events and a memorable mishap with Orlando authorities. Went to all possible concerts and music festivals I wanted. Out of all the flashbacks, I think I could have done more in this time, but due to career opportunities, I came back to Miami, and now I find myself creating new memories with my loving family.

That Friday morning I took my mini autobiography to the beach and listened to an all new soundtrack. It was a grand weekend indeed, most importantly, I found myself wishing I can have more times like that Friday morning, waking up to the quiet sounds of my own recordings that would take me back to my most treasured memories.

PS: "My Weekend" Soundtrack playlist to follow

The Vapors

2007-07-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

The Vapors - Turning Japanese
Uploaded by mg217

In honor of Uniqlo (see post below) This is a classic from the 80's. "Turning Japanese" from The Vapors.

What did the song mean?

Fashion for All from Japan!

2007-07-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

Uniqlo is based out of Japan and opened last Fall in Soho. Giving GAP, H&M and Zara some competition! You can make your customized UNIQLOCK widget here (I chose London time). Music is turned off, but if you are not in the office, go ahead, switch it to on! Uniqlo also has stores in the UK, Hong Kong, China and Korea.

Uniqlo SOHO + Pics + USA

PS: This is also a clever & original website. Great way to sell basic clothes! This is why they are the #1 clothing retailer in Japan!

Argentum Jewellry

2007-07-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

Hidden somewhere between the worlds of decadent one-name jewellers and their trend-driven high street counterparts is Argentum, a unisex Singaporean jewellery label fuelled by emotion, and a well-kept secret. For eleven years, Argentum has managed to stay under the radar while still being instantly recognizable if spotted on the street.
The pieces are raw yet uniquely crafted and can be worn in numerous ways. It's just the way we think jewellery should be: distinct, significant and beautiful to look at, of course.

If you love jewellry... a must visit
http://www.argentum.com.sg/ See archives S/S 2006 & current A/W 2006

But if you could just see the beauty,
These things I could never describe,
These pleasures a wayward distraction,
This is my one lucky prize.

Joy Division
ISOLATION

Chris Jordon

2007-07-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

Cell Phone Chargers

"Chris Jordon's work, on display through July 31st at the Von Lintel Gallery in New York City, takes reports of large-scale waste and consumption out of the realm of statistics and places them squarely in front of our faces.Chris Jordan is a Seattle-based photographic artist who portrays the detritus of our mass culture—piles of cell phones, aluminum cans, garbage, and the like. His work is exhibited widely in the US and Europe, and has been featured in print media, blogs, documentary films, and radio and television programs worldwide. Chris is also a father, husband, gardener, vegetarian, sometime jazz musician, and has an obsessive fascination with the sound of large Chinese gongs."

More of Chris Jordan @ Von Lintel Gallery

Modeselektor

2007-07-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

Official Site MySpace Site

Carlos D: Film + TV Composer

2007-07-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

Carlos D + his Italian Greyhound Gaius, getting the much deserved attention

Interpol bassist and self-styled “film and TV composer” Carlos D (a.k.a Carlos Dengler) is a busy man. He’s been touring internationally with Interpol in support of its new disc Our Love to Admire, and resently Dengler finished the first leg of work on an independent film being shot in the Chicago suburbs.

The six-day shoot was for the insipidly-titled thriller My Friends Told Me About You (a working title I hope), which Dengler is producing, starring in and, most likely, scoring. Dengler and the film’s director, 23-year-old Chicagoan Daniel Ryan—who previously directed Golgotha, a short film written and scored by Dengler . A source on the film’s crew says Dengler is playing a “bad drug dealer.” Not “bad” as in badass, though. “Bad” as in bumbling. (At one point, Dengler’s character gets duped by the oldest trick in the pot-pusher handbook: subbing oregano for the ganj.)

The plot details I currently have are scant, but the story involves men in butcher costumes, lots of blood, a spooky hotel (the Mayflower Motel in Clarendon Hills), a greasy-spoon diner (Uncle Bill’s in Roselle) and a creepy little boy in a little suit in the mold of The Omen’s Damien (oh god, another terrible take?). Dengler and crew will be shooting more of the film in August.

I'll keep you posted as soon as I know more. Thank you Timeout Chicago
http://www.carlosdengler.com/

Cats in the Hats

2007-07-24T13:44:00.001-07:00

They are everywhere!

Tegan + Sara + Walla

2007-07-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie fame!!!!) collaborated on the new album for Tegan & Sara, The Con. It's already getting hype as of one of the best albums of '07. Head to MySpace to stream the record if you haven't spent time with it yet, and click the little YouTube play button below to see the girls debate prospective album titles (Sara wanted it to be Sugar, Spell It Out) and watch producer Chris "Polyethylene" Walla help shape the killer title track. The three really bonded! Long lost triplet? Just a hair-dye job away, dear Walla.

Back in Your Head video

Note: MP3: Polyethylene (Part 1 & 2) is one of Radiohead's b-sides from OK COMPUTER. Mr. Walla did a good job in covering it. More on OKX: a tribute to OK COMPUTER soon.

The Enemy

2007-07-23T19:13:00.000-07:00

Had Enough

In my ever longing search for new bands overseas. This band will give The Arctic Monkeys a more creative challenge on their next album. Even though The Arcs are a lot heavier. The Enemy are bringing a bit more MELODY to their debut! Say hello to the new Oasis!

Get more from The Enemy
The Enemy.com + Had Enough (The Teenagers Remix) + My Space + Listen/Buy

PS: Always, in search for bands across the pond + over the border (Canada). But I never forget the bands in the US! Coming soon: new + classic + original & indie bands in our Home Land!

Interpol - #2 in the UK!

2007-07-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

After an impressive first week sales in the US for their latest album (and major label debut), Our Love To Admire, landing them at #4 on Billboard, Interpol has achieved the same feat across the pond, claiming the runner-up spot on the latest edition of the UK album charts.

MP3: Interpol - Wrecking Ball

Interpol is the featured cover story in this month's Spin. Check out some amazing pics from the magazine's photo shoot here via ONTD.

Read article on Spin: http://www.mickelcurepol.com/photos/displayimage.php?album=63&pos=62

Spotting Danny

2007-07-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

I'm sure this will be one of Danny Boyle's best movies. Word is that Sunshine is unequivocally the best sci-fi movie in a very, very long time. It mixes elements of 2001: A Space Oddessy with Event Horizon, then adds the tension of Alien. This is NOT the gung-ho action of Armageddon, The Core et al. I'm not sure it will top 2001: Space Odessey, but the latter two, for sure!

Showing in LA & NY. Released nationally on July 27th!

Get your You Tube on...

2007-07-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

The You Tube & Video Blogging Camcorder

Thanks to the popularity of social networking sties, You Tube and video blogs we have seen a number of manufacturers turn their attention to what is undoubtedly a ever growing and extremely lucrative market – and now Sony is entering the fray with its sleek Net Sharing Cam.

Cloud Cult - Truly Green in LA

2007-07-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

LISTEN! LISTEN! LISTEN! Would be great to watch them live!

Minnesota indie sextet Cloud Cult are known for two things. One: The art rockers feature a pair visual artists -- Connie Minowa and Scott West -- who each complete a painting on stage during the band's concerts. "We have bidding sheets on our merch table and people go back there and put their highest bid on them," frontman Craig Minowa tells Spinner. "The highest bidder gets to take a little piece of the show with them.

"Two: Their radical and passionate measures to be green. In addition to donating the aforementioned bids to various environmental protection organizations, Craig serves as an Official Advisor to the United Nations on environmental issues.

A New Art Form? zZz

2007-07-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

TRULLY AMAZING! No Computers used!

Watch it 'till the end...

Shooting real-life visualizations of videogames and computer programs for viral fame has moved from college campuses and introductory skill levels to museums and crazy acrobatic precision, just like sex and gluing things to skulls. The following video was commissioned by TAX-videoclipfonds for an exhibit at SM's - Stedelijk Museum 's-Hertogenbosch that is (like Wholphin) firming the reputation of the viral clip as a new art form, one that deserves to be viewed at the highest possible quality, instead of compressed to hell and smaller than a postcard.

One of the stipulations behind the grant this video's makers got was that the whole thing had to be shot in front of an audience, and immediately added to the exhibition, meaning they had no chance to edit or reshoot anything. Sure, it's basically a really, really good take on an increasingly creaky artistic crutch ("I'll make this art about making this art!") but, as with so many things, execution makes more of a difference than originality. In this case, the execution is nearly flawless.

SoundOfzZz + ecstacy video -->-- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_ifmlaNhA4 http://www.myspace.com/zzzsoundofzzz + http://www.soundofzzz.com/
Thank you stereogum!

Say No to the Briefcase

2007-07-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

Unless you are big shot lawyer defending someone not worthy of his or her freedom or a slicked-back-hair stockbroker, there is really no need to carry a stiff leather briefcase. Click below to check out the modern versions to carry your laptop, vinyl, books, magz, ipod stuff or just simply heading to the beach.

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2007/07/12/fashion/20070712_POINTS_SLIDESHOW_1.html

Medellin

2007-07-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

Stars: "Take Me to the Riot"

2007-07-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

From day one! One of my fav bands to jog to, drive to, shower with and then make "tea" and sit and enjoy the rush of whaterver just took place.... The whole album is fantastic and my fear of them underachieving has officially been extinguished, thanks in part to some great tracks - especially "Take Me to the Riot". It's a fast paced ball of energy that'll have you singing the title of the track mid-song at the latest; hence it's bubonic plague-like catchiness.

[MP3] Stars - Take Me to the Riot

This song starts off with a dark and brooding bass line that sets a tone to the song procuring images of The Cure, if Robert Smith would've had a smooth female voice backing him. The whole album seems to be dripping with influences of underlying political issues, so when the tempo flares up, cymbals crash, and they shout "Take me / Take Me / To the riot!" - you can't help but feel some sort of invigorating, warm rush. The haunting keyboard that follows a Smiths-like energetic chorus (to reset the tempo) showcases, what could be, Stars' greatest showcase of musical dynamics and production to date. If this isn't their next single, I'll be shocked.

<-- Stars-->

Official Site MySpace Site More MP3s Buy In Our Bedroom After The War

The Tipping Point

2007-07-15T18:14:00.001-07:00

As some of you have heard me mention The Tipping Point, I truly believe that anyone who has a business, is into marketing our just simply wants to undestand how social epidemics get started... This is a must read!

Malcolm Gladwell identifies three types of people who have the power to produce social epidemics:

Connectors: Those with wide social circles. They are the "hubs" of the human social network and responsible for the small world phenomenon.

Mavens: are knowledgeable people. While most consumers wouldn't know if a product were priced above the market rate by, say, ten per cent, mavens would. Bloggers who detect false claims in the media could also be considered mavens.

Salesmen: are charismatic people with powerful negotiation skills. They exert "soft" influence rather than forceful power. Their source of influence may be the tendency of others, subconsciously, to imitate them rather than techniques of conscious persuasion.

http://www.gladwell.com/tippingpoint/index.html

LA: "Secret" Spoon Show

2007-07-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

Love the poster!

The show coming up on Monday was just announced and only 100 tickets will be sold. $14 and comes with free Dewar's booze! Buy tickets here. Get 'em while they're hot, LA.
Update: Tickets are sold out already! Sorry guys.
Thanks to Jax.
Posted by Paul Tao on 13 Jul, 2007

More on Spoon soon!

Ali in the Jungle

2007-07-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Hours - "Ali in the Jungle"

The Hours re-release Ali In The Jungle'; a glitzy tune, which starts off like the piano from 'Crocodile Rock' in drag, and develops into an original and fantastic song. It's lively, bubbly, and euphoric - Pulp's Antony Genn sure knows how to write music, and into the bargain, he makes it look so easy. As they say in the song "the greatest comeback since Lazarus" - surely this re-release will be just that for the band. It's great to see that The Hours are getting great press!
http://www.myspace.com/thehours
http://www.thehours.co.uk/

Locust Projects

2007-07-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

Opening Reception
Saturday July 14from 7 to 11 p.m. Locust Projects announces the opening of "Polymorph," the first and much awaited North American exhibition by Icelandic artist Magnús Árnason. "Polymorph" is an organic, sprawling and haunting installation. In the LP Project Room, Tampa-based collective Flight 19, brings us "Rediviva," a series of sculptures and drawings based on the debris scattered over Nacagdoches, Texas, in 2003. The opening reception for the exhibitions coincides with the Wynwood Art District Walk. Both exhibitions will be on view through the end of August.

Locust Projects is open to the public, and entrance is free.
Locust Projects150 N.W. 23rd Street, Miami305-576-8570

Balenciaga vs. Lego

2007-07-11T21:27:00.001-07:00

Do not know anyone who would wear these, but they were the talk of Balenciaga's Fall 07 showings recently - the new "IT" shoe that is a clear derivative of the classic Balenciaga style, but appears to have been "built" by a small child in Denmark. How does one wear such a must-have accessory? With grey woollen tights or jodhpurs, apparently. I'm sure in a year or two, designers will have similar details to theirs.

JUSTICE/Timberlake

2007-07-11T20:38:00.001-07:00

For you have heard me talk about JUSTICE for the longest time... here you have them again... with Mr. Sexy back! I'm surprised... but JT is going in a good direction!

This Justice remix of Timberlake's "Love Stoned" has been floating around the internet, and it's kind of the jam. JT should probably get these dudes to produce his next album.

Justin Timberlake Love Stoned (Justice remix)zShare link via Outside Broadcast.

Justice's † LP is out now. Get it.

UPDATE:Vice is offering a few Justice related joints, inlcuding this medley of tracks from the new album in mp3 form, and this Spank Rock remix: mp3:Justice † medley (12 mb)Spank Rock vs. Justice Thunderous Bumps

The Police Live

2007-07-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Classic Gig! Surprisingly Rocked!

Who You Are...? Who We Are...?

2007-07-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

We go through different paths in our lives, and in our journey we see beautiful and not so beautiful things. I assure you that the less charming parts would be taking in a better light with good company. Therefore, sometimes I ask myself... "if I have really been there for friends and love ones when they have gone through a dark tunnel?", worse yet, "have I been the tunnel". As our society falls into the realms of narcissism and becomes more in tune with their outer self, we strive away from how big of an impact we can make on others. Even though I believe that a reasonable amount of healthy narcissism allows the individual's perception of his/her needs to be balanced in relation to others, we must force ourselves to look beyond our own hidden mirror and become leaders, mentors or simply friends. Let our actions and moral character lead the way into our closest friend's and embrace their character. It is only then when you can step outside your shell and become who you are, not only to yourself, but to others. And here is when you will know who will accompany you through any tunnel. Friends and love ones come and go... How many stay...? How many keep in contact...? How many are still finding their way through tunnels...? Are we there...? Do we care...? Do they care? Reach out... find out! Look outside of yourself, put the mirror away. Become you, not only to you, but to others!

For Lil' Sis Tanya... an for myself... shed a light!

Interpol - Wrecking Ball

2007-07-10T07:44:00.000-07:00

Nobody warned you
Nobody told you
To make up your mind

Nobody told you
That I could just waltz through
And shake up your style

I'm inside
Like the wrecking ball
Through your eyes

And I change it all from inside

Strange and far
All this hardware
Sum of time
And night one's for me

Go inside
Going somewhere
Hopeless tag time
No one's for me
Open wide
Yard like new year

Nobody warned you
Nobody told you
To make up your mind

Nobody told you
That I could just walk through
And shake up your style

Strange and far
All this hardware
Stroke of time
And no one's for me

Go inside
Going somewhere
Hopeless tag time
And no one's for me
Open wide
Yard like new year

Stay and fight
Stay and fight
Stay and fight

Chromatics

2007-07-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

Chromatics "In The City"
Before I introduce their new song, you have to give "In the City" a try, very few stuff like this out there. It's dark and extremely sexy, and not unlike the Knife's "Heartbeats," definitely has an early '80s vibe working in its favor. It just makes you want to roll your windows down and feel the city and keep going into the night, which brings me to their new new song "Night Drive" demo http://www.myspace.com/chromaticsmusics .

Live Earth Awareness

2007-07-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Awareness? The developed world is already highly aware of the fact of global warming. The debate is over whether or not humankind is the primary contributor to the trend.The concerts were held on the premise of "raising awareness". At the same time, this PR effort produced 1000+ tons of garbage, resulted in countless gallons of fuel used by airplanes and cars for the performers and the concert-going attendees, and used countless kilowatts of electricity to power the events. The producers, Al Gore, the musicians, and/or somebody has made a lot of money. And unless 100% of that money goes to actually making tangible improvements for our Earth, then it is just another PR gimmick. What a joke!!!

More on this soon!

Interpol Live! - Sept 19th!

2007-07-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Interpol - "The Heinrich Maneuver"

All of you know how devasted I was when Interpol first released their tour dates a couple months ago and Miami was left out. I was about to leave this town! Now they announced that they will be in Miami on Sept 19th at The Bank United Center! Also, they will be in Orlando the day before. Anyone up for Oralndo first? Our Love to Admire, their 3rd album comes out July 10th!

First Post - London Views

2007-07-09T02:14:00.000-07:00

http://www.slowlydownward.com/londonviews.html
http://www.slowlydownward.com/views01.html

Thom Yorke "Harrowdown Hill"

Finally, After two months I had the energy to finish my blog! Thanks in part to Joshua's DIE CULT URE! I Could not decide what to post first... and after seeing DIE CULT URE! I almost said it was not necessary.

So here it is... Even though this came out July 2006, I choose to start with something that I would wrap myself into and become one... A few words: London, Thom Yorke and Stanley Donwood (creator of mostly all the artwork for Radiohead). He also was the artist behind Thom's solo album, The Eraser. He used his London Views exhibit for the artwork, truly inspirational. Also, great vid & lyrics on Harrowdown Hill.

More importantly, this blog will be diverse and open to all sorts of media-culture, music, art and anything worth inspiring others to see points of views other than what we hear and see in our daily routines... including mine!

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment". Ralph Waldo Emerson