Digg.com is an interesting site. Not unlike Blogger, it is a site totally dependent on users. Web surfers submit links to stories. Then, other users vote whether they digg the story or not, see the name does make sense. It is a good way to see some of the best stuff going around the net in a short amount of time (helps me with this section for sure).
What brought me there this week was this headline, "Sham-Wow Guy Gets Arrested." If you don't know who the Sham-Wow guy is, you don't watch any TV and probably don't use the Internet either. So, how are you reading this now?
I would describe him as Billy May's arch nemesis. Who is Billy Mays?!?! You guys are killing me. Google these people if you really don't know. I don't see how any human being can exist in society without having either of these two people shoved down your throat. But if you do, please tell the rest of us how.
Anyway, the link on Digg.com actually goes to TMZ.com, which is the best place for celebrity smut. We all love it when the stars fall, don't we? Vince Shlomi, now you know why we just call him Sham-Wow guy, hired a prostitute. Well, once they returned to his hotel and started their business, she apparently bit his tongue and wouldn't let go. So, of course, he punched her in the face until she did, makes sense to me. In the end, the judge through out the charges. I guess it seemed like a fair fight.
See, these are the good stories you don't hear on NBC Nightly News or Wolf Blitzer Reports. Go troll through Digg once a day and see what the masses have found for you to enjoy. It is the Internet at its best, sharing stories and laughs.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 7
Note: We pick up the pitch in terms of pace and violence in this part. I thought about having the first two sections here one long part, but I decided to break them up. This is the start to the quick burn that has to be made to reach a resolution. I have five more parts to go and a lot of things to get done, I hope I've paced myself correctly.
Disc 2
Track 1
Hands Open
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
Well, it makes it easier to know exactly what I want.
The thuds started an hour into the drive back. Loud and persistent was the sound of rubber souls banging against the carpeted interior of the Sedan’s trunk. Hal could make out the muffled cries over the hum of the engine and during the breaks between songs of the Rolling Stone’s “Forty Licks” CD he had bought before leaving for Chicago earlier that day. It was the fourth shuffle through the first disc of the album, which contained the songs he really wanted to hear, when the sounds from the back started.
Hal had known this one would put up the biggest fight. The man didn’t seem to hold any sort of job. He was an antagonist like Abdul, but he was much more comfortable with violence and using extremes. Countless members of the local, national and global Muslim community funded him. Even so, he lived in a meager apartment with three rooms a few miles south of the Loop. Hal had waited for three hours inside the apartment for him to return. Hal had broke in easily enough. It was a poor area where neighbors kept their eyes away from peepholes and other people’s business.
When the man showed up, it was a blur of fists and kicks until the butt of Hal’s revolver found the man’s temple.
Still the guy came to when Hal dumped him into the trunk with the man’s hands bound and mouth gagged. Hal gave him another shot, this time between the eyes, which knocked him cold again. That lasted until a few minutes before they were going to pull off the interstate. The muffled screams were increasing in volume and the kicks more panicked.
“Man, this guy just won’t let it go.” Hal said under his breath.
Hal reached over and turned the dial up. His blood rushed through his veins as he sang along. The sounds in the back were drowned out.
Hal sang.
“You better stop, look around. Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes…”
Disc 2
Track 2
What If We Could
Blue October
On a park bench. On a skyscrape. On a mountain. Oh yeah, whatever it takes.
“I look inside myself and see my heart is black.” Mick Jagger’s voice blared as Hal killed the Sedan’s engine behind the barn at his father’s farm. The farmhouse, the buildings and the land were all Hal’s now. At least, it was his until he decided to sell it. To his surprise, everything was quiet from the trunk.
It was nearly pitch black, the yard light was nearly blocked out by the huge, old white barn. Out on the barren surface of the early spring field, a triangle formed of shadow where the light reached over the barn’s roof.
Hal retrieved a flashlight from the glove compartment and drew his revolver.
“This is sloppy.” He scolded himself.
He walked to the back of the car wondering what sort of scene he would find in the trunk. He more than hoped that the man had choked on his gag. Taking one last breath, he balanced the gun and flashlight in his right hand and slid the key into the lock with his left. He turned it until the mechanism clicked.
The trunk burst open, hitting the gun and flashlight out of his hand. Hal fell backward, as the man jumped out. Hal had forgot to bind his legs. The man connected with a kick to Hal’s groin forcing him to his knees. The man landed another kick to Hal’s ribs before making a run for it.
Hal’s hands started searching the weeds for his gun or the flashlight. He found something else first. It was round, hard with a smooth surface. Hal stood and made out the man clumsily trying to run through the empty field. A couple blows to the head had made the man unstable and uncoordinated.
Hal was thirsty for action. In high school, he had been an All-State sprinter. He was to his feet in an instant and after the man. The object in his hand felt like the shot that the big guys put during the field events. Hal, however, had no plans of tossing this object.
Right on the line where the light started to reach over the barn’s roof, Hal caught the man and knocked him down. Hal jumped on top, pinning the man face down to the ground. With the object grasped in his hand, Hal started to pummel the back of the man’s skull and neck.
Hal counted 38 strikes with wet thuds and cracking skull and bone accompanying each one. His hand was soaked in a sticky warm fluid. It squished between his fingers and the object. The whimpering from the blows had stopped after the second one, but Hal’s adrenaline continued to flow.
Off in the distance, a howl sounded.
The cracks and snaps continued.
Hal’s breathing was heavy, almost a growl as he gasped for air.
Hal left the body in the field that night. He walked up to his parent’s house, retrieved the key from a hiding place behind a windowsill with his weapon still grasped in his hand. Once inside, he switched on a light. Blood soaked his sleeve up to his elbow. A smooth gray stone, stained red, twice the size of his fist was in his hand. He had to peal his fingers off it. His grip had been so tight.
He slept in his old room that night. He slept well and took care of the body in the morning.
Disc 2
Track 3
What Goes On
The Velvet Underground
The Best of the Velvet Underground
What goes on in your mind? I think I am falling down.
Misba,
Our people should never have come to this forsaken land. That much is clear to me now. I am sure the Americans have sealed their deal with the devil with the blood of our people. I plead for you to leave before they get to you, my innocent one. I fear, though, that there is no escape even in the safest haven or the holiest of lands.
I, a man humbled before Allah, feel compelled to move in ways completely foreign to my being.
Misba, I am compelled.
All night, the snake hisses now. The bars of this cell shrink around me. When I close my eyes, when I dream, I see the teeth barred and the blood dripping till it flows like a river. Terrified and repulsed, I am yet thirsty. The howl calls me.
I am compelled.
Abdul
Disc 2
Track 1
Hands Open
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
Well, it makes it easier to know exactly what I want.
The thuds started an hour into the drive back. Loud and persistent was the sound of rubber souls banging against the carpeted interior of the Sedan’s trunk. Hal could make out the muffled cries over the hum of the engine and during the breaks between songs of the Rolling Stone’s “Forty Licks” CD he had bought before leaving for Chicago earlier that day. It was the fourth shuffle through the first disc of the album, which contained the songs he really wanted to hear, when the sounds from the back started.
Hal had known this one would put up the biggest fight. The man didn’t seem to hold any sort of job. He was an antagonist like Abdul, but he was much more comfortable with violence and using extremes. Countless members of the local, national and global Muslim community funded him. Even so, he lived in a meager apartment with three rooms a few miles south of the Loop. Hal had waited for three hours inside the apartment for him to return. Hal had broke in easily enough. It was a poor area where neighbors kept their eyes away from peepholes and other people’s business.
When the man showed up, it was a blur of fists and kicks until the butt of Hal’s revolver found the man’s temple.
Still the guy came to when Hal dumped him into the trunk with the man’s hands bound and mouth gagged. Hal gave him another shot, this time between the eyes, which knocked him cold again. That lasted until a few minutes before they were going to pull off the interstate. The muffled screams were increasing in volume and the kicks more panicked.
“Man, this guy just won’t let it go.” Hal said under his breath.
Hal reached over and turned the dial up. His blood rushed through his veins as he sang along. The sounds in the back were drowned out.
Hal sang.
“You better stop, look around. Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes…”
Disc 2
Track 2
What If We Could
Blue October
On a park bench. On a skyscrape. On a mountain. Oh yeah, whatever it takes.
“I look inside myself and see my heart is black.” Mick Jagger’s voice blared as Hal killed the Sedan’s engine behind the barn at his father’s farm. The farmhouse, the buildings and the land were all Hal’s now. At least, it was his until he decided to sell it. To his surprise, everything was quiet from the trunk.
It was nearly pitch black, the yard light was nearly blocked out by the huge, old white barn. Out on the barren surface of the early spring field, a triangle formed of shadow where the light reached over the barn’s roof.
Hal retrieved a flashlight from the glove compartment and drew his revolver.
“This is sloppy.” He scolded himself.
He walked to the back of the car wondering what sort of scene he would find in the trunk. He more than hoped that the man had choked on his gag. Taking one last breath, he balanced the gun and flashlight in his right hand and slid the key into the lock with his left. He turned it until the mechanism clicked.
The trunk burst open, hitting the gun and flashlight out of his hand. Hal fell backward, as the man jumped out. Hal had forgot to bind his legs. The man connected with a kick to Hal’s groin forcing him to his knees. The man landed another kick to Hal’s ribs before making a run for it.
Hal’s hands started searching the weeds for his gun or the flashlight. He found something else first. It was round, hard with a smooth surface. Hal stood and made out the man clumsily trying to run through the empty field. A couple blows to the head had made the man unstable and uncoordinated.
Hal was thirsty for action. In high school, he had been an All-State sprinter. He was to his feet in an instant and after the man. The object in his hand felt like the shot that the big guys put during the field events. Hal, however, had no plans of tossing this object.
Right on the line where the light started to reach over the barn’s roof, Hal caught the man and knocked him down. Hal jumped on top, pinning the man face down to the ground. With the object grasped in his hand, Hal started to pummel the back of the man’s skull and neck.
Hal counted 38 strikes with wet thuds and cracking skull and bone accompanying each one. His hand was soaked in a sticky warm fluid. It squished between his fingers and the object. The whimpering from the blows had stopped after the second one, but Hal’s adrenaline continued to flow.
Off in the distance, a howl sounded.
The cracks and snaps continued.
Hal’s breathing was heavy, almost a growl as he gasped for air.
Hal left the body in the field that night. He walked up to his parent’s house, retrieved the key from a hiding place behind a windowsill with his weapon still grasped in his hand. Once inside, he switched on a light. Blood soaked his sleeve up to his elbow. A smooth gray stone, stained red, twice the size of his fist was in his hand. He had to peal his fingers off it. His grip had been so tight.
He slept in his old room that night. He slept well and took care of the body in the morning.
Disc 2
Track 3
What Goes On
The Velvet Underground
The Best of the Velvet Underground
What goes on in your mind? I think I am falling down.
Misba,
Our people should never have come to this forsaken land. That much is clear to me now. I am sure the Americans have sealed their deal with the devil with the blood of our people. I plead for you to leave before they get to you, my innocent one. I fear, though, that there is no escape even in the safest haven or the holiest of lands.
I, a man humbled before Allah, feel compelled to move in ways completely foreign to my being.
Misba, I am compelled.
All night, the snake hisses now. The bars of this cell shrink around me. When I close my eyes, when I dream, I see the teeth barred and the blood dripping till it flows like a river. Terrified and repulsed, I am yet thirsty. The howl calls me.
I am compelled.
Abdul
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Trolling The Web With Snake - Whitehouse.gov
Note: I am feeling inspired today and looking for something to give me a topic to post weekly on, in the same light as Red's 1001 Albums posting. So, I am taking up the cause of talking about cool things I find on the web. I might move this to Tuesday and save Thursday for Snake's Encore, which will be my retort to Red's 1001 albums post on Wednesdays.
I was notified in a mailing list e-mail this week that President Obama was opening up the White House. The public was invited to submit questions @ whitehouse.gov and vote on the validity of questions entered by others, which the President would address in an Internet based town hall meeting Thursday @ 11:30 am EDT.
I was intrigued to say the least. I went home, registered and even submitted a question. The best thing I could think up was 'What is a good indicator to the average person that our economy is improving? What can we look to as a sign that these measures are doing good?' or something like that. I am not sure how I worded it.
The next step was to vote on other questions whether they were good or not. I must say I was surprised by the number of questions about the legalization of marijuana to stimulate the economy, reduce prison over crowding and reduce police expense. Although, when dealing with Internet traffic, I guess I shouldn't have been so shocked. So, I did my part and voted. Most of the time I was perturbed that some were not questions at all, instead they were ranting statements. They all got 'NO' votes.
I tried to watch the broadcast at work today, but our connection really sucks. My wife informed me though that the President did at least acknowledge the marijuana questions by simply stating it was not a good way to fix the economy. I am not sure if there will be an archive of the broadcast so people can re-watch it. I hope so, because I really wanted to see it.
I personally had not visited this site probably since I was in high school. There are several Presidential address videos on there, blogs on issues around the nation, updates on signed legislation, info on the new budget proposals, and a wealth of other information.
I feel a little naive for submitting my question for the town hall meeting, but at the same time slightly empowered by this idea. If anything, this is certainly change and I believe for the good. The Internet is all about accessing information, and I am glad to see that the White House realizes they need to use this tool effectively. If anything, it instills hope. Although, it is much in the same fashion that I hope one day people start reading our blog. They are probably pipe dreams, but at the same time I feel like I have a chance to be heard now that I don't believe existed before.
I was notified in a mailing list e-mail this week that President Obama was opening up the White House. The public was invited to submit questions @ whitehouse.gov and vote on the validity of questions entered by others, which the President would address in an Internet based town hall meeting Thursday @ 11:30 am EDT.
I was intrigued to say the least. I went home, registered and even submitted a question. The best thing I could think up was 'What is a good indicator to the average person that our economy is improving? What can we look to as a sign that these measures are doing good?' or something like that. I am not sure how I worded it.
The next step was to vote on other questions whether they were good or not. I must say I was surprised by the number of questions about the legalization of marijuana to stimulate the economy, reduce prison over crowding and reduce police expense. Although, when dealing with Internet traffic, I guess I shouldn't have been so shocked. So, I did my part and voted. Most of the time I was perturbed that some were not questions at all, instead they were ranting statements. They all got 'NO' votes.
I tried to watch the broadcast at work today, but our connection really sucks. My wife informed me though that the President did at least acknowledge the marijuana questions by simply stating it was not a good way to fix the economy. I am not sure if there will be an archive of the broadcast so people can re-watch it. I hope so, because I really wanted to see it.
I personally had not visited this site probably since I was in high school. There are several Presidential address videos on there, blogs on issues around the nation, updates on signed legislation, info on the new budget proposals, and a wealth of other information.
I feel a little naive for submitting my question for the town hall meeting, but at the same time slightly empowered by this idea. If anything, this is certainly change and I believe for the good. The Internet is all about accessing information, and I am glad to see that the White House realizes they need to use this tool effectively. If anything, it instills hope. Although, it is much in the same fashion that I hope one day people start reading our blog. They are probably pipe dreams, but at the same time I feel like I have a chance to be heard now that I don't believe existed before.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
RE: B-52's - Beach Samba
In Snake's Collection
Back In Black, Bat Out of Hell: No Surprise here I have the same ones in my collection. As I eluded to in my comment, I thought some of these were the second tier albums by the artist. So I am sure we will see their better stuff later on.
Omission:
The Battle of Los Angeles - Rage Against the Machine:
This one kinda fits the same model that I have already said, second tier album with their self titled album being the best. I don't see why this one didn't make the list if we have organ music, the B-52's and people from Brazil.
It was named Best Album of 1999 by Time & Rolling Stone. SPIN magazine listed it in their 100 greatest albums of all time. These are the same credentials as other albums in this book.
I know I am a bit more of a Rage fan than Red, but this album was every in 2000. I remember (and I am sure he does too) watching the video for Testify over and over on MTV2 before the election. It featured one section in which Al Gore & George Bush's heads morphed into one person and stated some fact about how so many Americans won't vote because there is no real choice. Or something like that.
Maybe the editor just has different political views or doesn't like Micheal Moore (who director two of their videos). The music is a bit more controlled that their blast to the skull debut, but the message is still there hard and heavy. I enjoy listening to the entire thing. I think this has a pretty good cultural significance. Plus, Tom Morello is probably the biggest guitar virtuoso of our generation.
Back In Black, Bat Out of Hell: No Surprise here I have the same ones in my collection. As I eluded to in my comment, I thought some of these were the second tier albums by the artist. So I am sure we will see their better stuff later on.
Omission:
The Battle of Los Angeles - Rage Against the Machine:
This one kinda fits the same model that I have already said, second tier album with their self titled album being the best. I don't see why this one didn't make the list if we have organ music, the B-52's and people from Brazil.
It was named Best Album of 1999 by Time & Rolling Stone. SPIN magazine listed it in their 100 greatest albums of all time. These are the same credentials as other albums in this book.
I know I am a bit more of a Rage fan than Red, but this album was every in 2000. I remember (and I am sure he does too) watching the video for Testify over and over on MTV2 before the election. It featured one section in which Al Gore & George Bush's heads morphed into one person and stated some fact about how so many Americans won't vote because there is no real choice. Or something like that.
Maybe the editor just has different political views or doesn't like Micheal Moore (who director two of their videos). The music is a bit more controlled that their blast to the skull debut, but the message is still there hard and heavy. I enjoy listening to the entire thing. I think this has a pretty good cultural significance. Plus, Tom Morello is probably the biggest guitar virtuoso of our generation.
1001 Albums (56-70): The B-52's - Beach Samba
Note: We roar into a new letter with a new format. I am going to continue to tweak this as I go along. Maybe come up with some different categories and stuff. I went for 15 at a time, I thought about 20, but I thought that might be a little too much. This is kind of a top-heavy group with several good to great albums.
In Red’s collection
Back in Black (1980) – AC/DC
The lads from Australia strutted out a new lead singer and rang in the new decade with one of the top hard rock albums of all time. From the title track to “Hells Bells” to “Shoot to Thrill” and mega-hit “You Shook Me All Night Long,” this album made AC/DC a staple of the world music scene for the next nearly 30 years.
Bat Out of Hell (1977) – Meatloaf
Over-the-top and amazing, Meatloaf and producer Todd Rundgren create the iconic Rock Album despite being led by a guy weighing over 300 pounds at the time. Everyone knows “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” and many of the other tunes are catchy and at times pretty hard rocking.
Red’s Shameless Plug
The Band (1969) – The Band
One of the downfalls of the CD project is that I can’t shill some of the stuff I am listening too. While this isn’t the album I have of The Band, I recommend anyone to pick up a copy of their stuff. When I bought the Greatest Hits I knew about three songs, since then I have really started to enjoy most of their collection. They just have the sound of a group enjoying playing music. Sometimes that’s not the case.
No Doubt About It
Bad (1987) – Michael Jackson
Jackson had a big task following “Thriller” while this album doesn’t nearly match that level of greatness it does knock out big hits like “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and “Smooth Criminal.” This is the slow descent of the guy into the joke he is now.
Bad Company (1974) – Bad Company
Former Free members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke formed this group and produced a big-time album in a haze of alcohol and drugs. “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love” “Ready for Love,” and the title track are some of the tunes that endured the test of time.
Band on the Run (1973) – Paul McCartney
McCartney finally created a pretty good album after leaving the Beatles. I am still not 100 percent sold on this being great. The title track is solid, but sometimes a little annoying also. “Jet” is also a pretty good tune.
Bayou Country (1969) – Creedence Clearwater Revival
This album gave the world “Proud Mary” and CCR just kept rolling after that. This is their first album, it’s not quite as loaded with hits as some of the ones to follow, but it certainly is the start for one of the biggest hit producing bands ever.
B.B. King Live at the Regal (1965) – B.B. King
There’s no denying King’s importance to Blues music and I am sure that a live album of his from the 60’s had to be a groundbreaking set to listen to.
Remember that one time (albums that represent an era of time whether good or bad)
The B-52’s (1979) – The B-52’s
The B-52’s ushered in New Wave and the sound of the 80s. Now we know whom to blame.
…Baby One More Time (1999) – Britney Spears
Here’s the album that convinced young girls to stop giving ‘it’ up and to start giving ‘it’ away. The music is bad, but it sold a ton a records and is representative of that era.
Back to Mystery City (1983) – Hanoi Rocks
Hanoi Rock was the Hair Band that never quite got over the hump. Supposedly this is Axl Rose’s favorite band and he thought they’d have eclipsed Guns ‘N’ Roses in popularity if death hadn’t hit the band hard.
Best of the rest
Bandwagonesque (1991) – Teenage Fanclub
The book makes this out to be the second-coming of everything great. Basically it’s an Indie band making a pretty good album and a reviewer overselling it. That being said, it beats out the rest of this weeks second (or third) tier offerings. It’s not bad to listen to.
The Rest
Back at the Chicken Shack (1960) – Jimmy Smith
This is organ music trying to be rock or jazz or something not church music.
Basket of Light (1969) – The Pentangle
This is kind of moody psychedelic guitar jam music. Maybe Snake would like it, but I didn’t get it.
Beach Samba (1967) – Astrud Gilberto
Yet another Brazilian act, I didn’t know they had such an innovative rock music scene.
Back in Black (1980) – AC/DC
The lads from Australia strutted out a new lead singer and rang in the new decade with one of the top hard rock albums of all time. From the title track to “Hells Bells” to “Shoot to Thrill” and mega-hit “You Shook Me All Night Long,” this album made AC/DC a staple of the world music scene for the next nearly 30 years.
Bat Out of Hell (1977) – Meatloaf
Over-the-top and amazing, Meatloaf and producer Todd Rundgren create the iconic Rock Album despite being led by a guy weighing over 300 pounds at the time. Everyone knows “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” and many of the other tunes are catchy and at times pretty hard rocking.
Red’s Shameless Plug
The Band (1969) – The Band
One of the downfalls of the CD project is that I can’t shill some of the stuff I am listening too. While this isn’t the album I have of The Band, I recommend anyone to pick up a copy of their stuff. When I bought the Greatest Hits I knew about three songs, since then I have really started to enjoy most of their collection. They just have the sound of a group enjoying playing music. Sometimes that’s not the case.
No Doubt About It
Bad (1987) – Michael Jackson
Jackson had a big task following “Thriller” while this album doesn’t nearly match that level of greatness it does knock out big hits like “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and “Smooth Criminal.” This is the slow descent of the guy into the joke he is now.
Bad Company (1974) – Bad Company
Former Free members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke formed this group and produced a big-time album in a haze of alcohol and drugs. “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love” “Ready for Love,” and the title track are some of the tunes that endured the test of time.
Band on the Run (1973) – Paul McCartney
McCartney finally created a pretty good album after leaving the Beatles. I am still not 100 percent sold on this being great. The title track is solid, but sometimes a little annoying also. “Jet” is also a pretty good tune.
Bayou Country (1969) – Creedence Clearwater Revival
This album gave the world “Proud Mary” and CCR just kept rolling after that. This is their first album, it’s not quite as loaded with hits as some of the ones to follow, but it certainly is the start for one of the biggest hit producing bands ever.
B.B. King Live at the Regal (1965) – B.B. King
There’s no denying King’s importance to Blues music and I am sure that a live album of his from the 60’s had to be a groundbreaking set to listen to.
Remember that one time (albums that represent an era of time whether good or bad)
The B-52’s (1979) – The B-52’s
The B-52’s ushered in New Wave and the sound of the 80s. Now we know whom to blame.
…Baby One More Time (1999) – Britney Spears
Here’s the album that convinced young girls to stop giving ‘it’ up and to start giving ‘it’ away. The music is bad, but it sold a ton a records and is representative of that era.
Back to Mystery City (1983) – Hanoi Rocks
Hanoi Rock was the Hair Band that never quite got over the hump. Supposedly this is Axl Rose’s favorite band and he thought they’d have eclipsed Guns ‘N’ Roses in popularity if death hadn’t hit the band hard.
Best of the rest
Bandwagonesque (1991) – Teenage Fanclub
The book makes this out to be the second-coming of everything great. Basically it’s an Indie band making a pretty good album and a reviewer overselling it. That being said, it beats out the rest of this weeks second (or third) tier offerings. It’s not bad to listen to.
The Rest
Back at the Chicken Shack (1960) – Jimmy Smith
This is organ music trying to be rock or jazz or something not church music.
Basket of Light (1969) – The Pentangle
This is kind of moody psychedelic guitar jam music. Maybe Snake would like it, but I didn’t get it.
Beach Samba (1967) – Astrud Gilberto
Yet another Brazilian act, I didn’t know they had such an innovative rock music scene.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Red's CD Project 6
Note: Kind of a quick couple of scenes here to wrap up the first disc. I didn't get a chance to do this yesterday, and I am sort of under the gun a little today, but I think it turned out OK.
Disc 1
Track 16
Open Your Eyes
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
Every minute from this minute now. We can do what we like anywhere.
The jail smelled like a grade school classroom after some snot-nosed brat emptied his stomach all over his desk. It was the odor of day-old sweat, aging-filed paper and the generous use of cleaning products trying to mask everything else out. It sank into the nostrils until eventually you didn’t notice it until you smelled it on your clothes when you made it home.
Hal found he had missed it during his short hiatus. A dispatcher by the name of Kathy Ferguson sat behind the desk inside the front door and greeted him with a surprised smile. Captain William O’Hurley, a devout Irish-Catholic that kept a cross and a bottle whiskey in his top desk drawer, pleaded with him to head back home. Hal shrugged him off. This was where he had to be.
After the usual questions following a death in the family and some more discussion centered on his coming back too soon, everyone left him alone.
Once he felt all the eyes leave him, he retrieved the file that was the sole reason he had returned to the jail. Opening it, he was greeted with the dark mug of the man sitting in a cell not more than 100 yards away. He flipped it over and started scanning the pages for family names, friends, and any significant acquaintance. It wasn’t as detailed or thorough as Hal would have liked. The boys in Chicago were providing the Jacobs County Department only the need to know kind of stuff. But there was a sizeable list of names, some with pictures, of people to keep an eye out for in the community just in case one of Abdul’s friends decided to pay an impromptu visit.
His jotted them down with any information including addresses, phone numbers and places of business in a note pad he used when an actual case came his way.
Studying the list, Hal finally settled on three names and circled them.
“That will do,” Hal whispered.
It was time for him to make a short road trip, but before he could leave, he had one more person he had to see.
Disc 1
Track 17
I Will Follow You Into The Dark
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
If there’s no one beside you when your soul embarks. Then I’ll follow you into the dark.
“They told me of your father’s passing,” Abdul said remaining balled up on the cot in the corner, he knees pressed up against his chest.
“Did they?”
“I would have expected you to take more days off.”
“I couldn’t stay home any longer. I guess you could say it was driving me a little nuts.”
“What happened to your face?”
Hal reached up and touched the pad of gauze on his right cheek.
“Oh, just a shaving accident.” Abdul stood up, the light from the window hitting his face. Dark bags sagged under his eyes and his brown skin seemed two shades lighter. “You look like crap.”
“I haven’t been able to sleep.”
“Feeling guilty?”
“No, no. That’s not it all.”
“Maybe you’re starting to see the big picture.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Abdul came closer.
“Maybe you’re finally seeing and hearing the things in your soul that you’ve always tried to silence.”
Abdul made no answer, his eyes only glared back from the other side of the steel bars.
“I can tell you how we’re going to do it.”
“Do what?” The words came out from behind his clenched teeth.
“Well get rid of all you towel-head bastards, of course.”
“Has it started?”
“Not yet.”
They talked for several minutes before Hal slipped away from Abduls private cell with beads of sweat on his forehead and a sneer curling on his lips.
End of Disc 1. Please insert Disc 2. Thank You.
Disc 1
Track 16
Open Your Eyes
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
Every minute from this minute now. We can do what we like anywhere.
The jail smelled like a grade school classroom after some snot-nosed brat emptied his stomach all over his desk. It was the odor of day-old sweat, aging-filed paper and the generous use of cleaning products trying to mask everything else out. It sank into the nostrils until eventually you didn’t notice it until you smelled it on your clothes when you made it home.
Hal found he had missed it during his short hiatus. A dispatcher by the name of Kathy Ferguson sat behind the desk inside the front door and greeted him with a surprised smile. Captain William O’Hurley, a devout Irish-Catholic that kept a cross and a bottle whiskey in his top desk drawer, pleaded with him to head back home. Hal shrugged him off. This was where he had to be.
After the usual questions following a death in the family and some more discussion centered on his coming back too soon, everyone left him alone.
Once he felt all the eyes leave him, he retrieved the file that was the sole reason he had returned to the jail. Opening it, he was greeted with the dark mug of the man sitting in a cell not more than 100 yards away. He flipped it over and started scanning the pages for family names, friends, and any significant acquaintance. It wasn’t as detailed or thorough as Hal would have liked. The boys in Chicago were providing the Jacobs County Department only the need to know kind of stuff. But there was a sizeable list of names, some with pictures, of people to keep an eye out for in the community just in case one of Abdul’s friends decided to pay an impromptu visit.
His jotted them down with any information including addresses, phone numbers and places of business in a note pad he used when an actual case came his way.
Studying the list, Hal finally settled on three names and circled them.
“That will do,” Hal whispered.
It was time for him to make a short road trip, but before he could leave, he had one more person he had to see.
Disc 1
Track 17
I Will Follow You Into The Dark
Death Cab for Cutie
Plans
If there’s no one beside you when your soul embarks. Then I’ll follow you into the dark.
“They told me of your father’s passing,” Abdul said remaining balled up on the cot in the corner, he knees pressed up against his chest.
“Did they?”
“I would have expected you to take more days off.”
“I couldn’t stay home any longer. I guess you could say it was driving me a little nuts.”
“What happened to your face?”
Hal reached up and touched the pad of gauze on his right cheek.
“Oh, just a shaving accident.” Abdul stood up, the light from the window hitting his face. Dark bags sagged under his eyes and his brown skin seemed two shades lighter. “You look like crap.”
“I haven’t been able to sleep.”
“Feeling guilty?”
“No, no. That’s not it all.”
“Maybe you’re starting to see the big picture.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Abdul came closer.
“Maybe you’re finally seeing and hearing the things in your soul that you’ve always tried to silence.”
Abdul made no answer, his eyes only glared back from the other side of the steel bars.
“I can tell you how we’re going to do it.”
“Do what?” The words came out from behind his clenched teeth.
“Well get rid of all you towel-head bastards, of course.”
“Has it started?”
“Not yet.”
They talked for several minutes before Hal slipped away from Abduls private cell with beads of sweat on his forehead and a sneer curling on his lips.
End of Disc 1. Please insert Disc 2. Thank You.
Snakester's CD Project Part 3
Note: I did my best to shorten my segments cause I couldn't keep generating that much info each time. Hopefully now that I have kinda set the stage I can move a little fast through the story. I still don't know where I am going. I figure if I ever finished I would have to rewrite the beginning part to make sure clues are consistent.
Disc 1
Track 5
No You Girls
Franz Ferdinand
Tonight: Franz Ferdinand
Lick your cigarette, then kiss me.
Justin took the pack of Marlboro Lights from his shirt pocket. The silver lighter was always in his left pants’ pocket, a stable piece of his life. He flipped the lighter open and the orange flame shot out into the air. The tobacco glowed red at the end of the cigarette as he took his first drag. The nicotine, the surging rush of life, hit his lungs and flooded into his blood stream. The first exhale of smoke brought a smile to his face.
Justin had finished taking pictures of the scene. The coroner had cleared the body and carted it off to the morgue. His initial report didn’t tell Justin anything he didn’t already know about the time of death, some time last night. The other detectives and crime scene crew arrived shortly after. He needed to get out of the crowd. He left Pete to handle the transfer of information.
If someone needed him, they would know where to find him. He found serenity outside the house with his smokes. It crossed his mind that he really only smokes at work. His apartment was non-smoking, but he could still go out onto the balcony if he wished. Yet, he never did. Kristy never approved of his smoking, either. She eventually got him to quit doing it at home. He must have kept that habit.
Justin took another drag as the cigarette hit his lips. He felt alive, relaxed. The burden of the crime scene lifted from his shoulders. The burning tobacco transported his thoughts away.
Kristy was standing in front of him. She wore the red dress that displayed her ample breasts. Her lipstick matched the dress. Her beautiful blonde hair was curled and resting on her shoulders. She walked up to Justin and kissed him on the lips.
“You ready?”
“Yeah,” Justin replied slowly with whatever breath he could manage back into his lungs.
They headed out the door to Justin’s waiting car. He opened the door for her as sat down in the passenger seat. He ran back over to the driver’s side and sped the car off into the night.
He exhaled the smoke from his lungs. He looked down at the white stick in his right hand between the middle and ring finger. The cigarette was down to the filter, time to get back to work. He flicked it off into the yard as he walked back into the house.
Disc 1
Track 6
Burn the Witch
Queens of the Stoneage
Lullabies to Paralyze
Fan the flames with a little lie, then turn your cheek until the fire dies.
The afternoon edition of the paper was on Justin’s desk when he got back to the station. The head line read, ‘Xerox Killer Strikes!’ Justin’s forehead creased as he continued to read the story.
“What the hell?”
“Hey,” Pete called as he walked over. “Do you like the name?”
“You told the press about the x? You named our killer?” The creases intensified on Justin’s forehead. He could feel his right ear start to burn.
“Yeah, pretty clever, huh? You get it? Xerox, copy of the X killer.” Pete took a sip from his coffee cup. “Those newspaper guys loved it.”
The paper in Justin’s hands hit the floor as he swung. His right fist landed hard into Pete’s gut. The coffee splashed out of the cup across the tile flooring. Pete fell to a knee as he doubled over clutching his arms across his stomach. He was coughing coffee out of his lungs.
“How fucking stupid can you be? We don’t even know that it was a copy cat!” Justin’s chest bulged from the rage he felt. Both of his ears felt like they were on fire now. His fist was still clenched tight, ready to strike again.
“You’re just jealous, you fucking glory hound!”
Pete lunged up to his feet trying to throw a punch. The gap was too large. Justin easily dodged the attempt and shoved Pete back onto the floor.
“Let me know when you decide to stop doing sloppy police work.” Justin bent down and picked up the coffee soaked newspaper. He threw it in the trash next to his desk as he walked off.
Disc 1
Track 7
Lie Lie Lie
Serj Tarkian
Elect the Dead
She took my hand and I let her go. She broke her little bones on the boulders below.
Store front lights and neon signs lit up the night. The streets were buzzing in the downtime district. Even at 11 p.m., the denizens were still active as if it were noon. The district never slept.
A lady stood looking out the window of her upstairs apartment down onto the bustle of the streets. She ran the book shop and cafe below, which closed at ten. Her arms stretched over her head as she yawned. She pulled the shade on the window, it was extra thick to block out the lights of the street.
She flipped the light switch with her left hand as she walked into the bathroom. She picked up the brush lying on the sink and began to stroke her hair. A few strands of her brunette hair stuck in the brush. She grabbed a band from a draw and tied her hair back behind her head.
Suddenly, her head whips around to face the door to the apartment. Footsteps can be heard coming up the stairway. Her eyebrows drop and her eyes narrow. She slowly walks to the door and places her ear against it. Her face strains as he presses her head harder against the door.
She shuts her left eye to look through the peep hole with her right. A single bulb illuminates the landing at the top of the stairway in front of her door. There is no movement outside.
She steps away from the door slowly running her hand back over her hair. She reaches over and undoes the chain from the door. She flips open the deadbolt as slowly as she can. The click seems as loud as a car horn. She turns the knob to open the door.
As the door opened a crack, she is thrown backwards by a shove on the other side of the door. She lands back onto the floor, knocking her head on the hard wood. She looks back in time to see a figure hit the light switch by the door turning off the lights in the apartment.
She struggles to her feet. Then, the attacker swings. Her eyes clench shut and her mouth gapes open. She contorts her body to the right as the knife is withdrawn from her rib cage. She bites her lip as she kicks out. Her shin sweeps the legs of the attacker. The knife rattles off into the corner of the room as the figure hits the floor.
She struggles onto her knees heading to the door. Her mouth opens as to scream, but nothing comes out. She holds her side as she makes it out onto the landing.
The attacker grabs her hand as she tries to head to a back window and the fire escape. The jerk throws her off balance. The attacker continues pulling and sends her tumbling down the stairs. The crunch of her bones breaking echoes in the stairwell.
Her body comes to rest in a corner at the bottom of the stairs. Her head is jammed into the wall. The legs of her lifeless body lay across the first two steps. The attacker stood at the top staring at the body for a moment. The heavy breathing seemed very audible in the silence.
The attacker walked back into the apartment and picked up the knife. With a gloved hand, the apartment door was shut. Next, the attacker reached up and unscrewed the light bulb the illuminated the landing at the top of the stair.
The attacker stopped at the bottom of the stairs. Using the knife, an X was carved into her right thigh that was exposed below her shorts. The attacker wiped the drops of blood of on her shirt and walked out the door into the noise and chaos of the busy streets.
Disc 1
Track 5
No You Girls
Franz Ferdinand
Tonight: Franz Ferdinand
Lick your cigarette, then kiss me.
Justin took the pack of Marlboro Lights from his shirt pocket. The silver lighter was always in his left pants’ pocket, a stable piece of his life. He flipped the lighter open and the orange flame shot out into the air. The tobacco glowed red at the end of the cigarette as he took his first drag. The nicotine, the surging rush of life, hit his lungs and flooded into his blood stream. The first exhale of smoke brought a smile to his face.
Justin had finished taking pictures of the scene. The coroner had cleared the body and carted it off to the morgue. His initial report didn’t tell Justin anything he didn’t already know about the time of death, some time last night. The other detectives and crime scene crew arrived shortly after. He needed to get out of the crowd. He left Pete to handle the transfer of information.
If someone needed him, they would know where to find him. He found serenity outside the house with his smokes. It crossed his mind that he really only smokes at work. His apartment was non-smoking, but he could still go out onto the balcony if he wished. Yet, he never did. Kristy never approved of his smoking, either. She eventually got him to quit doing it at home. He must have kept that habit.
Justin took another drag as the cigarette hit his lips. He felt alive, relaxed. The burden of the crime scene lifted from his shoulders. The burning tobacco transported his thoughts away.
Kristy was standing in front of him. She wore the red dress that displayed her ample breasts. Her lipstick matched the dress. Her beautiful blonde hair was curled and resting on her shoulders. She walked up to Justin and kissed him on the lips.
“You ready?”
“Yeah,” Justin replied slowly with whatever breath he could manage back into his lungs.
They headed out the door to Justin’s waiting car. He opened the door for her as sat down in the passenger seat. He ran back over to the driver’s side and sped the car off into the night.
He exhaled the smoke from his lungs. He looked down at the white stick in his right hand between the middle and ring finger. The cigarette was down to the filter, time to get back to work. He flicked it off into the yard as he walked back into the house.
Disc 1
Track 6
Burn the Witch
Queens of the Stoneage
Lullabies to Paralyze
Fan the flames with a little lie, then turn your cheek until the fire dies.
The afternoon edition of the paper was on Justin’s desk when he got back to the station. The head line read, ‘Xerox Killer Strikes!’ Justin’s forehead creased as he continued to read the story.
“What the hell?”
“Hey,” Pete called as he walked over. “Do you like the name?”
“You told the press about the x? You named our killer?” The creases intensified on Justin’s forehead. He could feel his right ear start to burn.
“Yeah, pretty clever, huh? You get it? Xerox, copy of the X killer.” Pete took a sip from his coffee cup. “Those newspaper guys loved it.”
The paper in Justin’s hands hit the floor as he swung. His right fist landed hard into Pete’s gut. The coffee splashed out of the cup across the tile flooring. Pete fell to a knee as he doubled over clutching his arms across his stomach. He was coughing coffee out of his lungs.
“How fucking stupid can you be? We don’t even know that it was a copy cat!” Justin’s chest bulged from the rage he felt. Both of his ears felt like they were on fire now. His fist was still clenched tight, ready to strike again.
“You’re just jealous, you fucking glory hound!”
Pete lunged up to his feet trying to throw a punch. The gap was too large. Justin easily dodged the attempt and shoved Pete back onto the floor.
“Let me know when you decide to stop doing sloppy police work.” Justin bent down and picked up the coffee soaked newspaper. He threw it in the trash next to his desk as he walked off.
Disc 1
Track 7
Lie Lie Lie
Serj Tarkian
Elect the Dead
She took my hand and I let her go. She broke her little bones on the boulders below.
Store front lights and neon signs lit up the night. The streets were buzzing in the downtime district. Even at 11 p.m., the denizens were still active as if it were noon. The district never slept.
A lady stood looking out the window of her upstairs apartment down onto the bustle of the streets. She ran the book shop and cafe below, which closed at ten. Her arms stretched over her head as she yawned. She pulled the shade on the window, it was extra thick to block out the lights of the street.
She flipped the light switch with her left hand as she walked into the bathroom. She picked up the brush lying on the sink and began to stroke her hair. A few strands of her brunette hair stuck in the brush. She grabbed a band from a draw and tied her hair back behind her head.
Suddenly, her head whips around to face the door to the apartment. Footsteps can be heard coming up the stairway. Her eyebrows drop and her eyes narrow. She slowly walks to the door and places her ear against it. Her face strains as he presses her head harder against the door.
She shuts her left eye to look through the peep hole with her right. A single bulb illuminates the landing at the top of the stairway in front of her door. There is no movement outside.
She steps away from the door slowly running her hand back over her hair. She reaches over and undoes the chain from the door. She flips open the deadbolt as slowly as she can. The click seems as loud as a car horn. She turns the knob to open the door.
As the door opened a crack, she is thrown backwards by a shove on the other side of the door. She lands back onto the floor, knocking her head on the hard wood. She looks back in time to see a figure hit the light switch by the door turning off the lights in the apartment.
She struggles to her feet. Then, the attacker swings. Her eyes clench shut and her mouth gapes open. She contorts her body to the right as the knife is withdrawn from her rib cage. She bites her lip as she kicks out. Her shin sweeps the legs of the attacker. The knife rattles off into the corner of the room as the figure hits the floor.
She struggles onto her knees heading to the door. Her mouth opens as to scream, but nothing comes out. She holds her side as she makes it out onto the landing.
The attacker grabs her hand as she tries to head to a back window and the fire escape. The jerk throws her off balance. The attacker continues pulling and sends her tumbling down the stairs. The crunch of her bones breaking echoes in the stairwell.
Her body comes to rest in a corner at the bottom of the stairs. Her head is jammed into the wall. The legs of her lifeless body lay across the first two steps. The attacker stood at the top staring at the body for a moment. The heavy breathing seemed very audible in the silence.
The attacker walked back into the apartment and picked up the knife. With a gloved hand, the apartment door was shut. Next, the attacker reached up and unscrewed the light bulb the illuminated the landing at the top of the stair.
The attacker stopped at the bottom of the stairs. Using the knife, an X was carved into her right thigh that was exposed below her shorts. The attacker wiped the drops of blood of on her shirt and walked out the door into the noise and chaos of the busy streets.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Snake's Top 10 from 'A'
The 55 (or there abouts) albums that made up the letter 'A' were a bit of a roller coaster ride. I give you my top ten, plus at the end a little thank you to a few albums that were introduced to me through this. I just want to show that it isn't all crap even though I do say that alot.
10. Antichrist Superstar - Marilyn Manon: Alot going on behind the makeup and theatrics. I think this can teach people not to judge a book by its cover.
9. Ace of Spades - Motorhead: I only partially had this album so I went and got the rest. I thoroughly enjoy it. Full of sex and guitars. Motorhead was more than just Ace of Spades, sounding more punk at times. I would recommend this album to anyone.
8. All Things Must Past - George Harrison: I am not pissed that I cannot find my CD anymore. This was George's vindication to all the world and why so many people loved him.
7. Are You Experienced - The Jimi Hendrix Experience: Awesome album full of alot of hits. I guess that is why it feel a little for me, it doesn't feel like an actual album.
6. At Folsom Prison - Johnny Cash: I agreed with the statement a man at the top of his game. Good country grit and I think humanizes prison life a little bit. They are still people, too.
5. ..And Justice For All - Metallica: My second favorite Metallica album. Long songs and alot of rage against the travesties of our world.
4. Axis: Bold as Love - The Jimi Hendrix Experience: To me this is the better album. The experimentation is better. I think you hear alot more of Jimi's heart in songs like Little Wing & Castles Made of Sand. Plus it feels more like a cohesive album.
3. American IV: The Man Comes Around - Johnny Cash: The final swan song from an American hero. Sad, moving, enlightening, all these things and more.
2. Appetite for Destruction - Guns N Roses: I don't think I have heard as good of an album released in the 20 years since. Top to bottom, I love the 'other' tracks on this if you could call them that. Mr. Brownstone, Night Train, You're Crazy!
1. Abbey Road - The Beatles: I am actually listening to it right now. A complete album and at often times my favorite from the Beatles. You experience the range of emotions and song styles all through this thing. She's so heavy is probably one of the darkest songs they ever made. The 'B' side medley is still amazing. I am not sure I could describe this album properly to someone who had never heard of it. It defines most words.
I also wanted to say that I took a chance on Apocalypse Dudes by Tubronegro since I had some of the their other songs. It is a good album with some tongue in check humor that I love. Any band that puts out a song titled 'Don't Say Motherf**ker, Motherf**ker' is alright with me.
10. Antichrist Superstar - Marilyn Manon: Alot going on behind the makeup and theatrics. I think this can teach people not to judge a book by its cover.
9. Ace of Spades - Motorhead: I only partially had this album so I went and got the rest. I thoroughly enjoy it. Full of sex and guitars. Motorhead was more than just Ace of Spades, sounding more punk at times. I would recommend this album to anyone.
8. All Things Must Past - George Harrison: I am not pissed that I cannot find my CD anymore. This was George's vindication to all the world and why so many people loved him.
7. Are You Experienced - The Jimi Hendrix Experience: Awesome album full of alot of hits. I guess that is why it feel a little for me, it doesn't feel like an actual album.
6. At Folsom Prison - Johnny Cash: I agreed with the statement a man at the top of his game. Good country grit and I think humanizes prison life a little bit. They are still people, too.
5. ..And Justice For All - Metallica: My second favorite Metallica album. Long songs and alot of rage against the travesties of our world.
4. Axis: Bold as Love - The Jimi Hendrix Experience: To me this is the better album. The experimentation is better. I think you hear alot more of Jimi's heart in songs like Little Wing & Castles Made of Sand. Plus it feels more like a cohesive album.
3. American IV: The Man Comes Around - Johnny Cash: The final swan song from an American hero. Sad, moving, enlightening, all these things and more.
2. Appetite for Destruction - Guns N Roses: I don't think I have heard as good of an album released in the 20 years since. Top to bottom, I love the 'other' tracks on this if you could call them that. Mr. Brownstone, Night Train, You're Crazy!
1. Abbey Road - The Beatles: I am actually listening to it right now. A complete album and at often times my favorite from the Beatles. You experience the range of emotions and song styles all through this thing. She's so heavy is probably one of the darkest songs they ever made. The 'B' side medley is still amazing. I am not sure I could describe this album properly to someone who had never heard of it. It defines most words.
I also wanted to say that I took a chance on Apocalypse Dudes by Tubronegro since I had some of the their other songs. It is a good album with some tongue in check humor that I love. Any band that puts out a song titled 'Don't Say Motherf**ker, Motherf**ker' is alright with me.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
1001 Albums (51-55): Atomizer - Axis
Note: This Red's end of the "A's" blowout extravaganza. It's an eclectic group that I put at about 55 percent. I also give a quick list on the best of the "A's". Next week we welcome in the "B's".
Atomizer (1986) by Big Black
Label: Homestead
Producers: Big Black, Lain Burgess
Running time: 35:44
This doesn't sound too bad. Big Black is a determined little band from Chicago, so I'll give them the local plug. This sort of reminds of Rage Against the Machine without a great guitarist. But these seem to have something to say and an agenda to say it.
The Atomic Mr. Basie (1957) by Mr. Basie
Label: Roulette
Producer: Teddy Reig
Running time: 39:30
As Monty Python would say "And now for something completely different." Although, I believe these may be the two shortest albums so far. This is late 50s big band. It's full of jazz and orchestration. OK then.
Autobahn (1974) by Kraftwerk
Label: EMI
Producer: Ralf Hutter, Florian Schneider
Running time: 42:27
The title track to this German release is 22:42 minutes long. That's almost as long as the first two albums on this list. This is very early techno and synthesizer rock. It's sort of experimental and a little progressive in its experimentation. But it's also a little over the top. Also, it's in German so I understand one out of every 20 words or so.
Automatic for the People (1992) by R.E.M.
Label: Warner Bros.
Producers: Scott Litt, R.E.M.
Running time: 49:31
For some reason, I always think of this as a greatest hits album even though its not. R.E.M. and this album is always one I think I should get, but never have. Part of it is that I am never really like "Gee, I'd like to listen to R.E.M. right now." I guess I get enough when I hear "Losing My Religion" on radio every one and awhile. I will say I've checked out some of the tunes on this album while working on this, and maybe I should give it a shot.
Axis: Bold as Love (1967) by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Label: Reprise
Producer: Chas Chandler
Running time: 38:49
Well that's five albums and five different decades, how is that for a good end to the letter 'A' . I am a little less familiar with the tunes on "Axis" compared to "Are You Experienced," but tunes like "Castles Made of Sand" and "Little Wing" will probably 10 times better than anything released this year.
Red's top 10 albums from the "A's"
1. Abbey Road - The Beatles
2. Appetite for Destruction - Guns N' Roses
3. American IV: The Man Comes Around - Johnny Cash
4. Actung Baby - U2
5. Are You Experienced - The Jimi Hendrix Experience
6. ... And Justice for All - Metallica
7. At Folsom Prison - Johnny Cash
8. All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
9. Aqualung - Jethro Tull
10. Antichrist Superstar - Marilyn Manson
Atomizer (1986) by Big Black
Label: Homestead
Producers: Big Black, Lain Burgess
Running time: 35:44
This doesn't sound too bad. Big Black is a determined little band from Chicago, so I'll give them the local plug. This sort of reminds of Rage Against the Machine without a great guitarist. But these seem to have something to say and an agenda to say it.
The Atomic Mr. Basie (1957) by Mr. Basie
Label: Roulette
Producer: Teddy Reig
Running time: 39:30
As Monty Python would say "And now for something completely different." Although, I believe these may be the two shortest albums so far. This is late 50s big band. It's full of jazz and orchestration. OK then.
Autobahn (1974) by Kraftwerk
Label: EMI
Producer: Ralf Hutter, Florian Schneider
Running time: 42:27
The title track to this German release is 22:42 minutes long. That's almost as long as the first two albums on this list. This is very early techno and synthesizer rock. It's sort of experimental and a little progressive in its experimentation. But it's also a little over the top. Also, it's in German so I understand one out of every 20 words or so.
Automatic for the People (1992) by R.E.M.
Label: Warner Bros.
Producers: Scott Litt, R.E.M.
Running time: 49:31
For some reason, I always think of this as a greatest hits album even though its not. R.E.M. and this album is always one I think I should get, but never have. Part of it is that I am never really like "Gee, I'd like to listen to R.E.M. right now." I guess I get enough when I hear "Losing My Religion" on radio every one and awhile. I will say I've checked out some of the tunes on this album while working on this, and maybe I should give it a shot.
Axis: Bold as Love (1967) by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Label: Reprise
Producer: Chas Chandler
Running time: 38:49
Well that's five albums and five different decades, how is that for a good end to the letter 'A' . I am a little less familiar with the tunes on "Axis" compared to "Are You Experienced," but tunes like "Castles Made of Sand" and "Little Wing" will probably 10 times better than anything released this year.
Red's top 10 albums from the "A's"
1. Abbey Road - The Beatles
2. Appetite for Destruction - Guns N' Roses
3. American IV: The Man Comes Around - Johnny Cash
4. Actung Baby - U2
5. Are You Experienced - The Jimi Hendrix Experience
6. ... And Justice for All - Metallica
7. At Folsom Prison - Johnny Cash
8. All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
9. Aqualung - Jethro Tull
10. Antichrist Superstar - Marilyn Manson
Monday, March 16, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 5
Disc 1
Track 13
9 Crimes
Damien Rice
9
And is that alright? Yeah. Give my gun away when it’s loaded. That alright. Yeah.
Hal read.
“I, first son of Adam, toiled in the fields with nothing that grew filling the uneasy urge in my stomach. I felt compelled. I heard the snake slither in the weeds. When the fruit on the tree was ripe, I heard the wolf in the thicket. My brother’s flock was restless. The Lord came. Our offerings were ready.”
There was dizziness in Hal’s head as time bent on itself and the words appeared in live action across his vision.
“I was wroth as we stood under the bright sun. Abel beamed, full of the Lord’s love. He was favored. I heard the snake’s hiss. I felt the thorns of the thicket tear at my skin. I was compelled. Abel smiled. Could he not hear the wolf’s growl?”
Hal grinned.
“I planted my brother in the dust and the dirt. He will not grow. His blood stained the grains of dust red and my heart eased. My stomach ceased to hurt. I do not hear the snake. The wolf has moved on. It grows late and the Lord shall come soon.”
The phone rang, but Hal ignored it. He was hungry, but he did not stop to eat.
“The Lord cast me away to the land of Nod. The Lord allowed me a wife of my choosing. I took Abel’s wife. She was suitable. I am content.”
A putrid smell came from the open chest, but Hal did not close it.
“My wife has bore a son. I have named him Enoch. He is restless and rarely sleeps. I believe he hears the hiss and the howl. I see the mark, although my wife denies it. We have built a city in Nod, I believe Enoch shall destroy it.”
Hal read the rest of the day and very late into the night. The book passed through the generations. Name a historical atrocity and line of Cain was behind it in some form or fashion. It ended with his father’s stirring of chaos and confusion during the Civil Rights movement by the assassination of key figures. While he was quite successful, he attempted to sway nearly 150 other attempts that failed for various reasons.
Hal placed the book back in the chest at 2 a.m. It disappeared when it touched the bottom and the pile of artifacts reemerged. He was tempted to look through those, but instead he closed the chest.
Hal needed his rest. He had a lot of work to do.
Disc 1
Track 14
Promise
Butch Walker
Letters
Well I fumbled for a pencil. And my I’m so sorry pad
Misba,
I do not know why I write this. I have intended to keep my promise to spare you the pains that have become of me. I have dearly wanted to save you and your family from any suspicion, but I am afraid that my sending of this will only incriminate you. The police will read it that I am sure. They will ask you what you know of me. I beg tell them only the truth.
You must believe that I did not do what they claim. I have been a loud voice in a restless time. By banishing me to this rural jailhouse, I am silenced for the time being. My captors know I am innocent. They will soon let me go, but will continue to watch.
But all of this is not why I write. For so long, I have depended upon you as my spiritual beacon. I have been troubled. I have prayed long hours and all for nought. I do not believe Allah is listening to me. My whole life, I felt his comforting presence in my prayer.
I am troubled.
Coldness settles over this cell. Something terrible lurks around. I feel it inside. Last night, I heard a snake from outside my window hissing. I did not know such snakes lived in this area of the country.
Yours,
Abdul
Disc 1
Track 15
From the Bottom of My Heart
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
From the bottom of my heart comes a cold dark feeling. There is eminent death to the promise I’m keeping
Hal nicked his cheek while shaving the next morning. Blood squirted out like it was trying to run away from his body. For ten minutes, he held a towel to his face and it turned a deep red.
Finally, the blood stopped and he finished his duty of ridding his face of the dark stubble peaking through his skin. Afterward, he jumped into the shower. He sang an old Stones tune that he hadn’t heard in years as he soaped up. He couldn’t think of the name of it though.
After 15 minutes, he shut off the hot water and wiped off the clouded mirror. Blood had bubbled on his cheek again. He wiped it away revealing the long curved scar that looped just below his eye to his jaw. He didn’t think he had cut that much of his skin, but this looked deep enough that it might leave a mark. Blood came to the surface again and he fumbled for some gauze and tape. He would have to keep it covered for a while.
He nearly laughed. He remembered his dad having a similar scar on his cheek. Hal never asked where it had come from.
The name of the song popped into his head.
“Sympathy for the Devil,” he said aloud to himself and the rest of the voices hanging around his head. He sang it word for word while he put on his suit. He finished it up when he found his service revolver draped over a coat hook near the front door. He had always been careless with his gun.
He started to sing again.
“Please allow me to introduce myself. I’m a man of wealth and taste. I’ve been around for a long, long time. …”
Track 13
9 Crimes
Damien Rice
9
And is that alright? Yeah. Give my gun away when it’s loaded. That alright. Yeah.
Hal read.
“I, first son of Adam, toiled in the fields with nothing that grew filling the uneasy urge in my stomach. I felt compelled. I heard the snake slither in the weeds. When the fruit on the tree was ripe, I heard the wolf in the thicket. My brother’s flock was restless. The Lord came. Our offerings were ready.”
There was dizziness in Hal’s head as time bent on itself and the words appeared in live action across his vision.
“I was wroth as we stood under the bright sun. Abel beamed, full of the Lord’s love. He was favored. I heard the snake’s hiss. I felt the thorns of the thicket tear at my skin. I was compelled. Abel smiled. Could he not hear the wolf’s growl?”
Hal grinned.
“I planted my brother in the dust and the dirt. He will not grow. His blood stained the grains of dust red and my heart eased. My stomach ceased to hurt. I do not hear the snake. The wolf has moved on. It grows late and the Lord shall come soon.”
The phone rang, but Hal ignored it. He was hungry, but he did not stop to eat.
“The Lord cast me away to the land of Nod. The Lord allowed me a wife of my choosing. I took Abel’s wife. She was suitable. I am content.”
A putrid smell came from the open chest, but Hal did not close it.
“My wife has bore a son. I have named him Enoch. He is restless and rarely sleeps. I believe he hears the hiss and the howl. I see the mark, although my wife denies it. We have built a city in Nod, I believe Enoch shall destroy it.”
Hal read the rest of the day and very late into the night. The book passed through the generations. Name a historical atrocity and line of Cain was behind it in some form or fashion. It ended with his father’s stirring of chaos and confusion during the Civil Rights movement by the assassination of key figures. While he was quite successful, he attempted to sway nearly 150 other attempts that failed for various reasons.
Hal placed the book back in the chest at 2 a.m. It disappeared when it touched the bottom and the pile of artifacts reemerged. He was tempted to look through those, but instead he closed the chest.
Hal needed his rest. He had a lot of work to do.
Disc 1
Track 14
Promise
Butch Walker
Letters
Well I fumbled for a pencil. And my I’m so sorry pad
Misba,
I do not know why I write this. I have intended to keep my promise to spare you the pains that have become of me. I have dearly wanted to save you and your family from any suspicion, but I am afraid that my sending of this will only incriminate you. The police will read it that I am sure. They will ask you what you know of me. I beg tell them only the truth.
You must believe that I did not do what they claim. I have been a loud voice in a restless time. By banishing me to this rural jailhouse, I am silenced for the time being. My captors know I am innocent. They will soon let me go, but will continue to watch.
But all of this is not why I write. For so long, I have depended upon you as my spiritual beacon. I have been troubled. I have prayed long hours and all for nought. I do not believe Allah is listening to me. My whole life, I felt his comforting presence in my prayer.
I am troubled.
Coldness settles over this cell. Something terrible lurks around. I feel it inside. Last night, I heard a snake from outside my window hissing. I did not know such snakes lived in this area of the country.
Yours,
Abdul
Disc 1
Track 15
From the Bottom of My Heart
The Wallflowers
Rebel, Sweetheart
From the bottom of my heart comes a cold dark feeling. There is eminent death to the promise I’m keeping
Hal nicked his cheek while shaving the next morning. Blood squirted out like it was trying to run away from his body. For ten minutes, he held a towel to his face and it turned a deep red.
Finally, the blood stopped and he finished his duty of ridding his face of the dark stubble peaking through his skin. Afterward, he jumped into the shower. He sang an old Stones tune that he hadn’t heard in years as he soaped up. He couldn’t think of the name of it though.
After 15 minutes, he shut off the hot water and wiped off the clouded mirror. Blood had bubbled on his cheek again. He wiped it away revealing the long curved scar that looped just below his eye to his jaw. He didn’t think he had cut that much of his skin, but this looked deep enough that it might leave a mark. Blood came to the surface again and he fumbled for some gauze and tape. He would have to keep it covered for a while.
He nearly laughed. He remembered his dad having a similar scar on his cheek. Hal never asked where it had come from.
The name of the song popped into his head.
“Sympathy for the Devil,” he said aloud to himself and the rest of the voices hanging around his head. He sang it word for word while he put on his suit. He finished it up when he found his service revolver draped over a coat hook near the front door. He had always been careless with his gun.
He started to sing again.
“Please allow me to introduce myself. I’m a man of wealth and taste. I’ve been around for a long, long time. …”
Thursday, March 12, 2009
1001 Albums (46-50): Arular - At Folsom Prison
Note: I got busy with things yesterday and didn't get this posted like usual on Wednesday. Another pretty solid bunch, I put it at about 75 percent or so. Snake will get grumpy as some live albums sneak there way into the discussion. I give my two cents on the whole Kiss Alive debate. Also to cheer the Snakester up, we only have five more albums in the "A's" after this week.
Arular (2005) - by M.I.A.
Label: XL
Producer: Various
Running time: 41:42
I don't think I am going to run out and buy this album. I've been listening to the first track for a couple minutes and I am pretty sure it's going to drive me crazy. That's all I can come up with it.
Astral Weeks (1968) by Van Morrison
Label: Warner Bros.
Producer: Lewis Merenstein
Running time: 46:50
This is Morrison's artsy-jazz and blues infused album that he was able to make after hitting it big with big singles like "Gloria" and "Brown-Eyed Girl." I am listening to the track "Sweet Girl" from this album and it's not bad. It's a live version, from a recent concert where he only played tracks from this album.
At Budokan (1979) by Cheap Trick
Label: Epic
Producer: Cheap Trick, Bruce Dickinson, Jack Douglas
Running time: 42:27
I got a feeling this is going to make the Snake mad that a live album from Cheap Trick made it but not Kiss "Alive." I will say that "Surrender" is one kick ass rock song. Cheap Trick was a solid band and this album actually gave them the break in the U.S. that they had been looking for despite it being recorded in Japan.
At Fillmore East (1971) by The Allman Brothers Band
Label: Capricorn
Producer: Tom Dowd
Running time: 76:26
This album recorded on two dates in 1971 includes a 22:40 long jam of "Whipping Post" and a 12:46 version of "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed." Got to love 70s jam bands. They also kick the album off with the hit "Statesboro Blues." I am not huge into the Allman Brothers, but they are probably a band people should at least check out once.
At Folsom Prison (1968) by Johnny Cash
Label: Columbia
Producer: Bob Johnston
Running time: 44:49
This a must have in everyone's collection. I now have it on vinyl and CD. Like no one else, Cash connects with deviant America better than anyone in this era or maybe ever. As the book puts it this is "The sound of a man back on top of his game."
It's vibrant and alive and way ahead of its time.
Red's take on Kiss Alive: The only thing that I've been able to think of as to why Kiss Alive was not included and album like the ones above were added is that the albums above were recorded in one or two sessions for the sole purpose of making an album. From what i remember of Snake's earlier post, Kiss Alive was a selection of tracks from an entire tour making it more of a compilation and allowing the band to discard versions of songs that weren't as good. The albums above had one (maybe two) chance to record a song and that was it. That's my two cents, I might be wrong on this and I am OK with that. It also could of been because of that overdubbing thing too, that's also likely.
Arular (2005) - by M.I.A.
Label: XL
Producer: Various
Running time: 41:42
I don't think I am going to run out and buy this album. I've been listening to the first track for a couple minutes and I am pretty sure it's going to drive me crazy. That's all I can come up with it.
Astral Weeks (1968) by Van Morrison
Label: Warner Bros.
Producer: Lewis Merenstein
Running time: 46:50
This is Morrison's artsy-jazz and blues infused album that he was able to make after hitting it big with big singles like "Gloria" and "Brown-Eyed Girl." I am listening to the track "Sweet Girl" from this album and it's not bad. It's a live version, from a recent concert where he only played tracks from this album.
At Budokan (1979) by Cheap Trick
Label: Epic
Producer: Cheap Trick, Bruce Dickinson, Jack Douglas
Running time: 42:27
I got a feeling this is going to make the Snake mad that a live album from Cheap Trick made it but not Kiss "Alive." I will say that "Surrender" is one kick ass rock song. Cheap Trick was a solid band and this album actually gave them the break in the U.S. that they had been looking for despite it being recorded in Japan.
At Fillmore East (1971) by The Allman Brothers Band
Label: Capricorn
Producer: Tom Dowd
Running time: 76:26
This album recorded on two dates in 1971 includes a 22:40 long jam of "Whipping Post" and a 12:46 version of "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed." Got to love 70s jam bands. They also kick the album off with the hit "Statesboro Blues." I am not huge into the Allman Brothers, but they are probably a band people should at least check out once.
At Folsom Prison (1968) by Johnny Cash
Label: Columbia
Producer: Bob Johnston
Running time: 44:49
This a must have in everyone's collection. I now have it on vinyl and CD. Like no one else, Cash connects with deviant America better than anyone in this era or maybe ever. As the book puts it this is "The sound of a man back on top of his game."
It's vibrant and alive and way ahead of its time.
Red's take on Kiss Alive: The only thing that I've been able to think of as to why Kiss Alive was not included and album like the ones above were added is that the albums above were recorded in one or two sessions for the sole purpose of making an album. From what i remember of Snake's earlier post, Kiss Alive was a selection of tracks from an entire tour making it more of a compilation and allowing the band to discard versions of songs that weren't as good. The albums above had one (maybe two) chance to record a song and that was it. That's my two cents, I might be wrong on this and I am OK with that. It also could of been because of that overdubbing thing too, that's also likely.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 4
Note: I sort of rushed through the last part. I still like how this tends to turn from where I think it is going. Enjoy.
Disc 1
Track 10
Overweight
Blue October
Foiled
But are we scared to take the ride? Or dare to look inside?
Hal picked up the note, almost knowing what it said before he read even a word. The paper shook in his trembling hands. It was the hall pass to hell. It was the permission he was looking for. It was the incentive, the purpose for his plan.
He studied the letter one last time.
Hal,
When this is all over, call me. Then we can start again.
Love,
Mary.
He released the paper and it floated in the air. Then it caught a current of air and glided across the room till it hit a stronger current and changed direction. Finally, it found the floor, and so did his knees as he collapsed in grief and relief to the floor.
The paper looked like ashes skipping the air. It looked like dust coming off the rubble of a tall building. Hal bent over and embraced the chest, it had a cold, haunting touch. Yet, clarity hit him in a rush.
Lifting his head, the name came from deep inside.
Abdul Mushi
Hal grinned as the plan tickled in the synapses of his brain.
Disc 1
Track 11
Sweet Jane
The Velvet Underground
The Best of the Velvet Undeground
And anyone who ever played a part. Oh wouldn't turn around and hate it!
"It means Servant of the Reckoner," Abdul Mushi explained his name and spat on the floor of his cell.
It was three weeks earlier that Mushi had been transfered to a cell in Jacobs County jail from the boys up in Chicago. Mushi was suspected of helping a terrorist group carry out a few small acts of violence.
It took Hal about five minutes to know that Mushi was full of shit and had the backbone of a jellyfish.
"Well, I bet nobody up there or down here reckoned you'd end up here," Hal quipped on a slow day when he decided to visit the jail's most famous resident.
Abdul was an instigator, that was for sure. But he was more like the kid that yells fight on the playground rather than the one going out and brawling with the biggest boy in the class.
"You can't hold me forever. I may be Muslim, but I know my rights," Abdul growled, but had muffled a little bit of laugh at Hal's joke.
"Maybe not. It's not really our call," Hal said. He had read up on Abdul since his arrival and knew that he was the leader of a very vocal, but peaceful Muslim group in Chicago.
"Hmmph." Abdul turned his back to Hal. "I have done none of this. None of it."
"Then they'll set you free."
"You think," Abdul turned around, his accent growing thicker. "This is why people hate America. You go on and on about rights, but as soon as something happens, you snatch up rights like children's hands in a candy jar. I am not a vengeful man, but this makes me wish hate upon you."
"I've done nothing to you," Hal backed away even though the metal bars were between them.
"Yet. You have done nothing yet."
Disc 1
Track 12
Green Eyes
Coldplay
A Rush of Blood to the Head
I came here with a load. And it feels so much lighter. Now I met you.
Hal put the memory of the Abdul Mushi out of his head for the time being. He had a family history lesson in front of him – a lesson of a family like no other.
He opened the chest and the chest was almost completely empty. All the artifacts that had rested in there before were gone. He looked to the door and wondered if Mary had taken them, and thought it unlikely. She would have had to carry things out all day long. There was a magic, a mystery to this chest.
He reached his hand to the bottom and found a large volume with a wooden cover. There was one word, written in what he thought was hebrew, across the front.
The word was "Qayin"
The image of the wolf was there also gorging on a sheep. He flipped open the cover to a title page also written in hebrew. He nearly put the book back thinking that it was little use to him if it wasn't in English, but then the words changed.
"The curse of the Wanderer." was on the top line. Underneath was the line, "The mark of evil, as placed upon the line by the Lord."
Hal gulped and turned the page.
Disc 1
Track 10
Overweight
Blue October
Foiled
But are we scared to take the ride? Or dare to look inside?
Hal picked up the note, almost knowing what it said before he read even a word. The paper shook in his trembling hands. It was the hall pass to hell. It was the permission he was looking for. It was the incentive, the purpose for his plan.
He studied the letter one last time.
Hal,
When this is all over, call me. Then we can start again.
Love,
Mary.
He released the paper and it floated in the air. Then it caught a current of air and glided across the room till it hit a stronger current and changed direction. Finally, it found the floor, and so did his knees as he collapsed in grief and relief to the floor.
The paper looked like ashes skipping the air. It looked like dust coming off the rubble of a tall building. Hal bent over and embraced the chest, it had a cold, haunting touch. Yet, clarity hit him in a rush.
Lifting his head, the name came from deep inside.
Abdul Mushi
Hal grinned as the plan tickled in the synapses of his brain.
Disc 1
Track 11
Sweet Jane
The Velvet Underground
The Best of the Velvet Undeground
And anyone who ever played a part. Oh wouldn't turn around and hate it!
"It means Servant of the Reckoner," Abdul Mushi explained his name and spat on the floor of his cell.
It was three weeks earlier that Mushi had been transfered to a cell in Jacobs County jail from the boys up in Chicago. Mushi was suspected of helping a terrorist group carry out a few small acts of violence.
It took Hal about five minutes to know that Mushi was full of shit and had the backbone of a jellyfish.
"Well, I bet nobody up there or down here reckoned you'd end up here," Hal quipped on a slow day when he decided to visit the jail's most famous resident.
Abdul was an instigator, that was for sure. But he was more like the kid that yells fight on the playground rather than the one going out and brawling with the biggest boy in the class.
"You can't hold me forever. I may be Muslim, but I know my rights," Abdul growled, but had muffled a little bit of laugh at Hal's joke.
"Maybe not. It's not really our call," Hal said. He had read up on Abdul since his arrival and knew that he was the leader of a very vocal, but peaceful Muslim group in Chicago.
"Hmmph." Abdul turned his back to Hal. "I have done none of this. None of it."
"Then they'll set you free."
"You think," Abdul turned around, his accent growing thicker. "This is why people hate America. You go on and on about rights, but as soon as something happens, you snatch up rights like children's hands in a candy jar. I am not a vengeful man, but this makes me wish hate upon you."
"I've done nothing to you," Hal backed away even though the metal bars were between them.
"Yet. You have done nothing yet."
Disc 1
Track 12
Green Eyes
Coldplay
A Rush of Blood to the Head
I came here with a load. And it feels so much lighter. Now I met you.
Hal put the memory of the Abdul Mushi out of his head for the time being. He had a family history lesson in front of him – a lesson of a family like no other.
He opened the chest and the chest was almost completely empty. All the artifacts that had rested in there before were gone. He looked to the door and wondered if Mary had taken them, and thought it unlikely. She would have had to carry things out all day long. There was a magic, a mystery to this chest.
He reached his hand to the bottom and found a large volume with a wooden cover. There was one word, written in what he thought was hebrew, across the front.
The word was "Qayin"
The image of the wolf was there also gorging on a sheep. He flipped open the cover to a title page also written in hebrew. He nearly put the book back thinking that it was little use to him if it wasn't in English, but then the words changed.
"The curse of the Wanderer." was on the top line. Underneath was the line, "The mark of evil, as placed upon the line by the Lord."
Hal gulped and turned the page.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Snake's CD Project - #2
Note: I've had a hard time finding time to write. I had this piece down for awhile. So I did another edit and decided this was better than nothing. I think I need to try to cut down the lenght of my sections. I dont know how I could write 38 chapters of this lenght.
Disc 1
Track 4
House of Doom
Black Label Society
Hangover Music Vol. IV
Once you step inside, no one gets out alive.
Pete had to slow down to a crawl as they neared the home. On-lookers crowded the street corner. The police line was in full force needing to cover twice the area with a corner lot. They managed to break the crowd enough for Pete to pull the blue Ford up to the curb in front of the manor.
Justin scanned the crowd. Expression of concern and shock ruled the sea of faces. Things like this don’t happen in this neighborhood. He looked around the corner to see the news van already in place. Regret for his late arrival crept into him, even though being first on the scene wouldn’t have helped anyway.
The patrol sergeant, Grimly was etched into his shield, met Justin and Pete as they exited the car. Pete grabbed a box labeled ‘crime scene kit’ out of the back seat.
“The scene’s been secure since patrol arrived, detectives. The responding officer found the front door to be unlocked.” The three of them began to walk up the sidewalk. “He reported going straight upstairs, then immediately back out the way he came when he saw the body. No one else has been in.” Grimly looked up from the notepad he was reading the report from.
“Good,” Justin replied nodding his head in approval. “Tell your man he did a good job. Now, just hold that line and we’ll take care of it from here.”
The coroner was standing over on the other street leaning against his vehicle. He saw them and just pointed to his watch. Justin smiled the biggest fake grin he could muster and waved. He turned to Pete now, “You can check the doors, windows and the perimeter.”
“And you get the body, of course.” Pete opened the crime scene kit. Justin reached in and grabbed a pair of white latex gloves, a flashlight and some collection bags.
As they opened the front door, Pete checked it over while Justin placed covers over his shoes. “Front door looks normal,” Pete reported.
“I know this is a nice neighborhood, but I don’t believe someone leaves their front door unlocked.” Justin looked back towards the ever growing crowd. “Go around the house and look for other points of entry.”
Pete turned and went off around the side of the house. Justin stepped inside the house. Even in the early morning, the house was still dark. Most of the curtains were drawn, but there was sunlight through the hallway from the kitchen. He turned on his flashlight doing a quick sweep of the area. The carpet was clean, railings dusted, the curtains looked freshly steamed. In the living room, there were decorative pillows placed perfectly on the couch. Candles sat on the coffee table, coasters in their holders. The desk in the study wasn’t as orderly. A calculator was still on and some glasses were tossed on top of it.
Justin proceeded up the stairs to find the body. His nostril caught the sweet smell of blood, a lot of it. The flashlight spotted the legs sticking out from the bedroom doorway. As he walked closer, he could see the carpet was a deep red now and the man’s shirt was pulled out in the back.
As he lifted the shirt tail, a lightening bolt hit him in the chest. His hand caught the door jamb stopping his fall to the floor. His breath was gone. It wasn’t the smell, it wasn’t the sight of the blood and entrails, it was the X carved into the back. “Impossible,” he whispered to himself.
“Looks like the back door lock was picked. Real amateur job, too!” Pete’s voice startled Justin out of his shock. The air finally returned to his lungs. “You alright?” Pete asked as he hurried over.
“Look,” Justin lifted the shirt tail pointing to the knife marks.
“What the? Didn’t you catch the X man years ago?”
“Yeah, took me two years.” He would lay awake at night trying to figure out the psycho’s next move. He dedicated his life to catching him. It was his first big case as a detective and it had made him a legend in the city. The sight flashed back into his brain, the X man being walked into a room. The room where no one gets out alive.
“Copycat?”
“I dunno. It has been awhile. Usually they surface shortly after you nab the real killer. But it definitely seems familiar.” Justin pulled the wallet from the back pocket to confirm what he already knew. Ed Henley’s name and picture stared back at him. Sadness filled Justin’s heart as the questions filled his head: why kill him, why come here, and why do it like this?
“The X man preferred women,” Justin continued on. “Although, they were usually wealthy spending nights alone while their husband worked. Did you see if anyone contacted the wife?”
“I’ll go check that.” Pete started for the stairs.
“We need to find the maid, too!”
“How do you know that?” Pete retorted.
Justin took the index and middle finger of his right hand and pointed them back at his eyes. Then, he pointed towards the downstairs and made a circular motion with his finger.
“Of course,” Pete sounded disappointed in himself. “I’ll go let the coroner in.” With that, he was back down the stairs and out the door.
Justin’s mind raced through the crime scenes of the past. The X on the back meant even if Justin hadn’t been on the scene, he would have been called later. It was a perfect replica. It was the only thing that was a good copy. The X man worked the neck. Justin couldn’t remember the last time he had ever seen a gutting.
He had gone to Ed years earlier in need of a loan for their house and had continued a friendly relationship since. No threats to his life came to Justin’s mind. He was sure that being president of the largest bank in town probably brought some kind of danger, but that still didn’t feel right. He knew Ed fairly well, he knew the X man even better.
Disc 1
Track 4
House of Doom
Black Label Society
Hangover Music Vol. IV
Once you step inside, no one gets out alive.
Pete had to slow down to a crawl as they neared the home. On-lookers crowded the street corner. The police line was in full force needing to cover twice the area with a corner lot. They managed to break the crowd enough for Pete to pull the blue Ford up to the curb in front of the manor.
Justin scanned the crowd. Expression of concern and shock ruled the sea of faces. Things like this don’t happen in this neighborhood. He looked around the corner to see the news van already in place. Regret for his late arrival crept into him, even though being first on the scene wouldn’t have helped anyway.
The patrol sergeant, Grimly was etched into his shield, met Justin and Pete as they exited the car. Pete grabbed a box labeled ‘crime scene kit’ out of the back seat.
“The scene’s been secure since patrol arrived, detectives. The responding officer found the front door to be unlocked.” The three of them began to walk up the sidewalk. “He reported going straight upstairs, then immediately back out the way he came when he saw the body. No one else has been in.” Grimly looked up from the notepad he was reading the report from.
“Good,” Justin replied nodding his head in approval. “Tell your man he did a good job. Now, just hold that line and we’ll take care of it from here.”
The coroner was standing over on the other street leaning against his vehicle. He saw them and just pointed to his watch. Justin smiled the biggest fake grin he could muster and waved. He turned to Pete now, “You can check the doors, windows and the perimeter.”
“And you get the body, of course.” Pete opened the crime scene kit. Justin reached in and grabbed a pair of white latex gloves, a flashlight and some collection bags.
As they opened the front door, Pete checked it over while Justin placed covers over his shoes. “Front door looks normal,” Pete reported.
“I know this is a nice neighborhood, but I don’t believe someone leaves their front door unlocked.” Justin looked back towards the ever growing crowd. “Go around the house and look for other points of entry.”
Pete turned and went off around the side of the house. Justin stepped inside the house. Even in the early morning, the house was still dark. Most of the curtains were drawn, but there was sunlight through the hallway from the kitchen. He turned on his flashlight doing a quick sweep of the area. The carpet was clean, railings dusted, the curtains looked freshly steamed. In the living room, there were decorative pillows placed perfectly on the couch. Candles sat on the coffee table, coasters in their holders. The desk in the study wasn’t as orderly. A calculator was still on and some glasses were tossed on top of it.
Justin proceeded up the stairs to find the body. His nostril caught the sweet smell of blood, a lot of it. The flashlight spotted the legs sticking out from the bedroom doorway. As he walked closer, he could see the carpet was a deep red now and the man’s shirt was pulled out in the back.
As he lifted the shirt tail, a lightening bolt hit him in the chest. His hand caught the door jamb stopping his fall to the floor. His breath was gone. It wasn’t the smell, it wasn’t the sight of the blood and entrails, it was the X carved into the back. “Impossible,” he whispered to himself.
“Looks like the back door lock was picked. Real amateur job, too!” Pete’s voice startled Justin out of his shock. The air finally returned to his lungs. “You alright?” Pete asked as he hurried over.
“Look,” Justin lifted the shirt tail pointing to the knife marks.
“What the? Didn’t you catch the X man years ago?”
“Yeah, took me two years.” He would lay awake at night trying to figure out the psycho’s next move. He dedicated his life to catching him. It was his first big case as a detective and it had made him a legend in the city. The sight flashed back into his brain, the X man being walked into a room. The room where no one gets out alive.
“Copycat?”
“I dunno. It has been awhile. Usually they surface shortly after you nab the real killer. But it definitely seems familiar.” Justin pulled the wallet from the back pocket to confirm what he already knew. Ed Henley’s name and picture stared back at him. Sadness filled Justin’s heart as the questions filled his head: why kill him, why come here, and why do it like this?
“The X man preferred women,” Justin continued on. “Although, they were usually wealthy spending nights alone while their husband worked. Did you see if anyone contacted the wife?”
“I’ll go check that.” Pete started for the stairs.
“We need to find the maid, too!”
“How do you know that?” Pete retorted.
Justin took the index and middle finger of his right hand and pointed them back at his eyes. Then, he pointed towards the downstairs and made a circular motion with his finger.
“Of course,” Pete sounded disappointed in himself. “I’ll go let the coroner in.” With that, he was back down the stairs and out the door.
Justin’s mind raced through the crime scenes of the past. The X on the back meant even if Justin hadn’t been on the scene, he would have been called later. It was a perfect replica. It was the only thing that was a good copy. The X man worked the neck. Justin couldn’t remember the last time he had ever seen a gutting.
He had gone to Ed years earlier in need of a loan for their house and had continued a friendly relationship since. No threats to his life came to Justin’s mind. He was sure that being president of the largest bank in town probably brought some kind of danger, but that still didn’t feel right. He knew Ed fairly well, he knew the X man even better.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
1001 albums (41-45): Are You Experienced - Arthur
Note: I have heard of all five of these acts which is definitely a step in the right direction. I'd put this five at around 85 percent. Not bad. Although I could have lived without Abba.
Are You Experienced (1967) by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Label: Reprise
Producer: Chas Chandler
Running time: 40:07
It’s hard to believe an album with so many legendary songs, so much guitar experimentation and innovation that this was the debut album for any artist. But Hendrix was playing with borrowed time so he had none to waste for anything but excellence. There hasn’t been anyone to sound like this since.
Arise (1991) by Sepultura
Label: Roadrunner
Producer: Scott Burns, Sepultura
Running time: 46:49
I’ve heard of Sepultura, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard any of there music. They seem to be band obsessed with anger and the expression of such emotions through music. Maybe the Snake knows a little more about them or this album.
Armed Forces (1979) by Elvis Costello and the Attractions
Label: Demon
Producer: Nick Lowe
Running time: 36:13
I’ve always wondered what an Elvis Costello album would sound like. Maybe I’ll have to check this one out. This one is supposed to be a little more mainstream and a bit less abrasive in material some of Costello’s other work. I really have no basis of comparison to confirm if that is true. I will say this sounds like something that was released in the mid ’80s more than the late ’70s.
Arrival (1976) by Abba
Label: Polydor
Producer: Benny Anderson, Bjorn Ulvaeus
Running time: 33:32
I very much dislike Abba. This album has their biggest hit “Dancing Queen” so I guess this album is somewhat to blame for releasing this plague upon the ears of the world.
Arthur – Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire (1969) by The Kinks
Label: Pye
Producer: Ray Davies
Running time: 47:43
I’ve been listening to this album on You Tube and I have to say this is really solid rock ‘n roll with a point and the musical eclecticism common in the late 1960s. It’s easy to forget the Kinks and Ray Davies with other great British bands like The Beatles and The Rolliing Stones dominating that era. But these guys could release this album now and it’d probably be the best rock album of the year.
Are You Experienced (1967) by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Label: Reprise
Producer: Chas Chandler
Running time: 40:07
It’s hard to believe an album with so many legendary songs, so much guitar experimentation and innovation that this was the debut album for any artist. But Hendrix was playing with borrowed time so he had none to waste for anything but excellence. There hasn’t been anyone to sound like this since.
Arise (1991) by Sepultura
Label: Roadrunner
Producer: Scott Burns, Sepultura
Running time: 46:49
I’ve heard of Sepultura, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard any of there music. They seem to be band obsessed with anger and the expression of such emotions through music. Maybe the Snake knows a little more about them or this album.
Armed Forces (1979) by Elvis Costello and the Attractions
Label: Demon
Producer: Nick Lowe
Running time: 36:13
I’ve always wondered what an Elvis Costello album would sound like. Maybe I’ll have to check this one out. This one is supposed to be a little more mainstream and a bit less abrasive in material some of Costello’s other work. I really have no basis of comparison to confirm if that is true. I will say this sounds like something that was released in the mid ’80s more than the late ’70s.
Arrival (1976) by Abba
Label: Polydor
Producer: Benny Anderson, Bjorn Ulvaeus
Running time: 33:32
I very much dislike Abba. This album has their biggest hit “Dancing Queen” so I guess this album is somewhat to blame for releasing this plague upon the ears of the world.
Arthur – Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire (1969) by The Kinks
Label: Pye
Producer: Ray Davies
Running time: 47:43
I’ve been listening to this album on You Tube and I have to say this is really solid rock ‘n roll with a point and the musical eclecticism common in the late 1960s. It’s easy to forget the Kinks and Ray Davies with other great British bands like The Beatles and The Rolliing Stones dominating that era. But these guys could release this album now and it’d probably be the best rock album of the year.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Red's CD Project Part 3
Note: The lyrics really helped move this story along this week and moved in the direction that was starting shape in my head. A fortunate history search also helped create a nice little connection in the first section here. Enjoy!
Disc 1
Track 7
Everything
Buckcherry
15
Your eyes. Never close your eyes. Open up your mind and you can have everything.
His grandfather had died the year that Hal’s father started his Pre-Med courses at the university. But Hal’s father had kept countless pictures on the walls of their farm home. Even though, Hal had never met Herman Glock, Sr., he knew the face staring back in the old black and white photo.
After hanging up the phone, he had been drawn back to the chest and the picture. Right underneath the picture was a small hardcover book that Hal didn’t initially notice.
He knew he shouldn’t let Mary see him so shaken and still wearing the suit from his father’s funeral the day before. But he needed to solve the mystery of the familiar looking man standing next to his grandfather in the photo.
He turned the photo over. He first noticed a very faint date wrote in black ink – 1 Nov. 1918. Underneath in much clearer blue ink was written ‘pg. 206.’
Hal sat confused for a minute before remembering the book under his grandfather’s photograph. He picked up the book with the white jacket and big, bold black letters written across the front. Hal’s stomach churned.
It was titled – “Mein Kampf” by Adolf Hitler.
Hal nearly dropped the book as he looked back at the photo. He wanted to heave. Instead, he flipped the book to page 206. It was an English translation of the book. He started reading and flipped back a few pages to figure out the context.
After a few minutes, he discerned that Hitler was discussing his recovery from temporary blindness in the fall of 1918. It was in the hospital that Hitler found out about the end of the First World War. It was in these pages that the seeds of Hitler’s hate begin to grow. At the bottom of page 206, two paragraphs were highlighted.
“The more I tried to achieve clarity on the monstrous event in this hour, the more shame of indignation and disgrace burned my brow. What was all the pain in my eyes compared to this misery?”
“There followed terrible days and even worse nights – I knew all was lost. Only fools, lairs, and criminals could hope in the mercy of the enemy. In these nights hatred grew in me, hatred for those responsible for this deed.”
Hal shivered. Herman Glock, Sr. had been in medical school when WWI started. The war thrust him into active service as Germany’s brave men came back from the frontlines in pieces. Hal’s father had told him all about this.
Herman Glock, Sr. had been alone to deal with this turmoil and his other new responsibilities. His parents had been casualties of the war.
Hal knew what had happened. Herman Glock had been working in that hospital when a passionate young, blinded soldier was wheeled in. He knew enough about medicine to know the blindness would pass, but something inside clicked. This man was exactly what or who Herman Glock had been looking for.
When Germany surrendered, it was Herman Glock who whispered it to the blind man in his bed. The days and nights that followed as the soldier’s vision cleared, Glock filled the soldier’s ears with the shame and hate that all Germans and probably all Aryans should feel. He never pulled a trigger. He simply loaded the gun.
In the mid 1930s, Herman Glock Sr. moved to America, married a young, beautiful woman and bought a farm in the Midwest. He never practiced medicine again. He didn’t have to.
Hal dropped the book and the photo in the chest and dashed to the bathroom. He only barely made it before wrenching out yellow-brown bile into the toilet bowl.
Disc 1
Track 8
Move Along
The All-American Rejects
Move Along
When everything is wrong, we move along (Go on, go on, go on, go on)
“Oh, you just look miserable.”
Hal wanted to say that she didn’t look too great either, but didn’t have time as Mary crossed the threshold and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her breasts pressed tightly against his chest.
Her face was as pale as his had been after he mustered the strength to rise from the bathroom floor and stared into the mirror above the sink. He had quickly disrobed, showered and changed into a pair of sweat pants and a black T-Shirt.
Mary was wearing a pair of jeans, a sweater and apparently no bra. She just kept talking without releasing the embrace.
“I just had the worse feeling about you since waking up. I didn’t know what to do. I told you I wouldn’t come back. But I had to see you. I don’t know why.”
“Mary, I don’t understand what you’re blabbering about. I am fine.” That would have been a lie a few minutes ago, but with her there in his arms he did, in fact, feel fine. He felt....
“I just can’t explain it right. Something was just wrong. I could sense it all balled up in my stomach. All I could think about was my dream and you. Look at you.”
She moved her shoulders back and ran her hands through his still wet black hair.
“But now…” Her words stopped again.
“But now. I feel …”
“Right” they both said in unison.
In a blur of moments, the front door slammed, clothes went flying and they somehow progressed through the entryway, through the kitchen, past the living room where the chest still ominously sat and into the bedroom.
Disc 1
Track 9
You’re All I Have
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
There is a darkness deep in you. A frightening magic I cling to.
Goosebumps teased their way to the surface of Mary’s skin. She was standing in only her pink panties in the living room. Three feet away on the floor was the monster from her dreams.
The wolf.
It had been real in her dream. It was chasing her and everyone she loved. The blood was dripping from its fangs and no matter how fast she ran it gained on her. It was on her heels when she awoke that morning in a scream.
Right after that scream, Hal popped into her head and that had brought her back to the man she had damned to hell only a couple months earlier.
He was soundly asleep after their session of love.
But this wolf wasn’t real. It was carved into the top of an old chest. She dropped into the recliner beside the chest. Her gut told her not to open it. Her heart screamed the same. So she just sat there and traced her finger along the carving of the wolf.
It didn’t seem so scary in the light of the day, didn’t feel so wrong. In fact, there was a peace in it. There was a truth that was refreshing. She needed the wolf. They (whoever they were) needed the wolf.
She thought of Hal and sighed.
Minutes later and fully clothed, she scribbled a message on a piece of paper she found on the end table next to recliner. She left the note on top of the chest covering the wolf and walked out the front door.
Disc 1
Track 7
Everything
Buckcherry
15
Your eyes. Never close your eyes. Open up your mind and you can have everything.
His grandfather had died the year that Hal’s father started his Pre-Med courses at the university. But Hal’s father had kept countless pictures on the walls of their farm home. Even though, Hal had never met Herman Glock, Sr., he knew the face staring back in the old black and white photo.
After hanging up the phone, he had been drawn back to the chest and the picture. Right underneath the picture was a small hardcover book that Hal didn’t initially notice.
He knew he shouldn’t let Mary see him so shaken and still wearing the suit from his father’s funeral the day before. But he needed to solve the mystery of the familiar looking man standing next to his grandfather in the photo.
He turned the photo over. He first noticed a very faint date wrote in black ink – 1 Nov. 1918. Underneath in much clearer blue ink was written ‘pg. 206.’
Hal sat confused for a minute before remembering the book under his grandfather’s photograph. He picked up the book with the white jacket and big, bold black letters written across the front. Hal’s stomach churned.
It was titled – “Mein Kampf” by Adolf Hitler.
Hal nearly dropped the book as he looked back at the photo. He wanted to heave. Instead, he flipped the book to page 206. It was an English translation of the book. He started reading and flipped back a few pages to figure out the context.
After a few minutes, he discerned that Hitler was discussing his recovery from temporary blindness in the fall of 1918. It was in the hospital that Hitler found out about the end of the First World War. It was in these pages that the seeds of Hitler’s hate begin to grow. At the bottom of page 206, two paragraphs were highlighted.
“The more I tried to achieve clarity on the monstrous event in this hour, the more shame of indignation and disgrace burned my brow. What was all the pain in my eyes compared to this misery?”
“There followed terrible days and even worse nights – I knew all was lost. Only fools, lairs, and criminals could hope in the mercy of the enemy. In these nights hatred grew in me, hatred for those responsible for this deed.”
Hal shivered. Herman Glock, Sr. had been in medical school when WWI started. The war thrust him into active service as Germany’s brave men came back from the frontlines in pieces. Hal’s father had told him all about this.
Herman Glock, Sr. had been alone to deal with this turmoil and his other new responsibilities. His parents had been casualties of the war.
Hal knew what had happened. Herman Glock had been working in that hospital when a passionate young, blinded soldier was wheeled in. He knew enough about medicine to know the blindness would pass, but something inside clicked. This man was exactly what or who Herman Glock had been looking for.
When Germany surrendered, it was Herman Glock who whispered it to the blind man in his bed. The days and nights that followed as the soldier’s vision cleared, Glock filled the soldier’s ears with the shame and hate that all Germans and probably all Aryans should feel. He never pulled a trigger. He simply loaded the gun.
In the mid 1930s, Herman Glock Sr. moved to America, married a young, beautiful woman and bought a farm in the Midwest. He never practiced medicine again. He didn’t have to.
Hal dropped the book and the photo in the chest and dashed to the bathroom. He only barely made it before wrenching out yellow-brown bile into the toilet bowl.
Disc 1
Track 8
Move Along
The All-American Rejects
Move Along
When everything is wrong, we move along (Go on, go on, go on, go on)
“Oh, you just look miserable.”
Hal wanted to say that she didn’t look too great either, but didn’t have time as Mary crossed the threshold and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her breasts pressed tightly against his chest.
Her face was as pale as his had been after he mustered the strength to rise from the bathroom floor and stared into the mirror above the sink. He had quickly disrobed, showered and changed into a pair of sweat pants and a black T-Shirt.
Mary was wearing a pair of jeans, a sweater and apparently no bra. She just kept talking without releasing the embrace.
“I just had the worse feeling about you since waking up. I didn’t know what to do. I told you I wouldn’t come back. But I had to see you. I don’t know why.”
“Mary, I don’t understand what you’re blabbering about. I am fine.” That would have been a lie a few minutes ago, but with her there in his arms he did, in fact, feel fine. He felt....
“I just can’t explain it right. Something was just wrong. I could sense it all balled up in my stomach. All I could think about was my dream and you. Look at you.”
She moved her shoulders back and ran her hands through his still wet black hair.
“But now…” Her words stopped again.
“But now. I feel …”
“Right” they both said in unison.
In a blur of moments, the front door slammed, clothes went flying and they somehow progressed through the entryway, through the kitchen, past the living room where the chest still ominously sat and into the bedroom.
Disc 1
Track 9
You’re All I Have
Snow Patrol
Eyes Open
There is a darkness deep in you. A frightening magic I cling to.
Goosebumps teased their way to the surface of Mary’s skin. She was standing in only her pink panties in the living room. Three feet away on the floor was the monster from her dreams.
The wolf.
It had been real in her dream. It was chasing her and everyone she loved. The blood was dripping from its fangs and no matter how fast she ran it gained on her. It was on her heels when she awoke that morning in a scream.
Right after that scream, Hal popped into her head and that had brought her back to the man she had damned to hell only a couple months earlier.
He was soundly asleep after their session of love.
But this wolf wasn’t real. It was carved into the top of an old chest. She dropped into the recliner beside the chest. Her gut told her not to open it. Her heart screamed the same. So she just sat there and traced her finger along the carving of the wolf.
It didn’t seem so scary in the light of the day, didn’t feel so wrong. In fact, there was a peace in it. There was a truth that was refreshing. She needed the wolf. They (whoever they were) needed the wolf.
She thought of Hal and sighed.
Minutes later and fully clothed, she scribbled a message on a piece of paper she found on the end table next to recliner. She left the note on top of the chest covering the wolf and walked out the front door.
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