Dylanis Culture

30 Day Drawing Challenge: Days 11 - 16

2012-01-29T20:24:00.002-05:00

I am happy to say that I've made it halfway through the challenge and haven't missed a day yet. From what I saw online of other people's attempts, I thought that I would end up missing a day within the first week, so I am actually super impressed with myself. Granted, I haven't been 100% happy to get started every night, but as a whole, this has been a lot of fun so far.

Day 11: Turning Point In Your Life

I've had a lot of turning points in my life since, but in high school, finding an interest in photography was a great time for me. It was fun and I was pretty good at it. I miss the hours locked away in the darkroom, tricking people to smell stop bath, and the mystery in taking photographs and having to wait to see how they turned out.

Day 12: Most Recent Accomplishment

I have always wanted to learn to play guitar. I tried when I was younger, but it chewed up my fingers and I gave up far too easily. Last April, I started taking lessons and I'm happy to say that I can now play a bit of guitar. I'm not amazing, but I can make something that resembles music.

Day 13: Comic

I'm not sure if I was supposed to design a comic or draw my favorite one. I chose the later. If I could only name one thing that resembles what it is like being in my brain, I would suggest reading some Calvin and Hobbes.

Day 14: Favorite Fairy Tale

I had a hard time deciding which fairy tale was my favorite, but I decided to go with Grimm's Cinderella. In the traditional story, Cinderella didn't have a fairy god mother. Sadly, her mother died and she planted a hazel tree on her grave. When she was upset, she went to the tree and a white bird landed on the branches above her and granted her wishes. I found the bird more magical and interesting than Prince Charming.

Day 15: Family Picture

I wish that I was having a better painting day for this one. One day, I'm going to try this day again and work on a better portrait.

Day 16: Inspiration

When I'm feeling especially arty, I am greatly inspired by color. I love opening a box of paint, picking out a random color, and then just seeing where it takes me.

30 Day Drawing Challenge: Days 3 - 10

2012-01-23T21:21:00.001-05:00

I'm 10 days into this challenge and what I'm finding is that having to pull from the creativity pool on a daily basis isn't always that easy. A couple of days, I really hate the prompts. One day, I just didn't feel like it. The good part is that I'm sticking with it and there is a great sense of pride in being able to flip through my journal and see the progress. It's mostly not very beautiful, but there is something about the sustained effort that is beautiful.

Day 3: Favorite Food

Avocados have been my favorite food for a really long time. Growing up, a special treat in my household was cut up avocado and tomatoes with salt and pepper. Truthfully, it's still a treat.

Day 4: Favorite Place

I have lots of favorite places, but one of the most interesting is Central Park. It is magical and fun. While walking in it, you can get lost and see celebrities, castles, and a whole slew of other things you would never imagine in New York City.

I drew this sketch from a photograph back in April of last year. I've always been very fond of it...

So, I painted it. It reminds me of Holden Caulfield. Whenever, I'm in NYC, I think of Holden and the ducks. I love playing out that idea of adventure. However, I do try to skip that whole committed part at the end.

Day 5: Best Friend

I have a great family that I love and friends that I care about, but I don't really have a best friend. So, I decided to cheat and say the thing that is always there for me. This is pretty much the ugliest, most ridiculous portrayal of music ever, but I'm posting it anyway. This would be my failure day. I tried to recreate the way that my vinyl looks on the shelves in the background. I sorta wish that I had just skipped everything else. *Shame*

Day 6: Favorite Book Character (Can't be a movie)

This day was fun. I dug into the box of my books and came up with a few of my favorites.

Max from Where the Wild Things Are - I always ready Maurice Sendak's books growing up, but saw an art exhibit of his work and have been a true fan ever since.

There's No Such Thing as a Dragon was always one of my favorite books. Thanks to books, I want a pet monkey, a dragon, to go to Hogwarts, and to be the Queen of all wild things.

Day 7: Favorite Word

I'm not sure that this is my favorite word, but it is my favorite word, but it is my favorite Pulp song. Same difference really.

Day 8: Favorite Animated Character

Naaaaaaaarf. Hands down, Pinky is my favorite animated character. His laugh still gets me doubled over with the giggles.

Day 9: Favorite TV Show

Once Upon a Time isn't really my favorite TV show (it's been Buffy The Vampire Slayer since... oh, I dunno about 1997), but I really enjoyed watching it over the weekend and was pretty (*spoiler alert*) heartbroken when they killed The Huntsman. So, I just played around with a photo of him.

Day 10: Favorite Candy

I have had some serious Smarties induced sugar highs in my life. It is goooood.

A Very Unhappy Blue Monday to You...

2012-01-22T20:31:00.002-05:00

A scientist somewhere (probably Finland or Norway) figured out an equation for the most depressing day of the year, which always seems to fall on a Monday in January. This is Blue Monday. Apparently, the scientist was also a New Order fan. For 2012, it's tomorrow, January 23. In all honesty, I think that mine was last week, so either his equation was off or I'm just ahead of the curve. Yeah, me.

Anyway, to celebrate... well, more to commiserate, I made this lovely, dark New Wave inspired mix to get you through the day. At the bottom of the page, I tried out an Amazon Mp3 clips widget, so you guys will have to let me know how it works. And if you know of any better way to post a playable mixtape, please let me know. Anyway, enjoy.

Blue Monday 2012 Mix

30 Day Drawing Challenge

2012-01-15T21:06:00.000-05:00

A few months back, I saw on a blog a 30 Day Drawing Challenge. It sounded like fun. I wanted to do it right away, but I've been putting it off. Last week, I challeneged myself to paint for seven days straight and it really helped me through a difficult week. So, this weekend, I decided to start this challenge. It looks like a lot of people start dropping out after a few days, but my goal is do all of these in 30 days (no skipping days or dragging it out for 45 days). Anyway, I'll post the drawing/painting (I've been more into painting lately) on Instagram (sughadust) everyday and then add them here once a week. I don't expect them to be great, but there is something amazing about showing up on the page everyday. I'm excited to see what it comes out of it a month from now.

Here are my first two days:

Day 1: Yourself

Day 2: Favorite Animal

Music for all the drama and chaos...

2012-01-13T22:02:00.003-05:00

I know that Blue Monday, aka the most depressing day of the year, isn’t until January 23rd this year, but I swear that this week is giving it a real run for its money. Everything has been especially dramatic and chaotic, which probably really means that I’m the one who has been dramatic and chaotic. At one point, I cried at the my desk. It was only a couple of those big fat tears that like to leak out when you’re super frustrated, but I haven’t done that in a very long time. There are probably lots of things to contributing to it: the end of vacation, starting up a new exercise regime, suddenly eating healthy and taking my vitamins again, big changes at work, and just my general, normal malaise.

As always, music saves. Music soothes. Music gives me perspective and balances things out. This week, music has been especially important to me... the following songs in particular.

The Head and The Heart - Down in the Valley

This song feels familiar and homey to me. His voice sounds familiar like an old friend and it makes me nostalgic. It is definitely amazing in that once I listen to the song, I put it on repeat for about 50 times because I just can’t bear to stop listening.

Goyte - Somebody That I Used To Know

Just about every station that I listen to on Sirius has been playing the heck out of this song lately. During lunch the other day, I actually listened to it on Alt Nation and then flipped over to Spectrum and listened again without any complaints. There is something mysterious yet emotionally close about this song that just sucks me in. However, the video is annoyingly pretentious... just close your eyes and listen.

Ryan Adams - Lucky Now

Ryan Adam's music is either absolutely amazing (La Cienega Just Smiled, Come Pick Me Up, Crazy About You, Nuclear, etc. ) or just sorta eh. The eh moments are great to put on the record player and let them go, but the amazing stuff just takes me over, consumes me, and rips at my heart. With that description, thank goodness it's not all amazing. Anyway, he pretty much always finds a way on all of my mix tapes (aka playlists, but I like the sound of mix tapes better). This song is phenomenal. It is beautiful, emotional, and a little gritty. It is exactly what I love about Ryan Adams.

“Share a smoke, Make a joke...”

2012-01-03T20:49:00.001-05:00

Nothing makes me feel like this (that would be me in all of my teen angst, ready to car dance, flirt with boys, and be generally silly. You know that you're super jealous of my awesome high water pants with those rockin' Airwalks.)...

Quite as well as this... (Violent Femmes - Add It Up)

Happy New Year and how the TV took me over...

2012-01-01T12:33:00.001-05:00

Welcome to 2012! I would love to be able to write that I used my vacation time doing something wonderful and life changing, but that really didn't happen. After the year that I've had, I was only to happy to kick back into some serious nada. I hung out with my family, contemplated buying a condo or a house and then decided against it, played games on my iPad, shopped, and spent far too many hours watching television.

I am now addicted to American Pickers. I love the idea of a show where you get to nosy around in other people's piles of junk. In high school, I would help my friends organize their rooms because I love to organize anything, but I think it was more because I was nosy. Anyway, I fell in love with the idea of repurposing everything you need and then immediately followed it up by going out and buying some new stuff. Yeah, me.

I have been waxing on for months about how I'm going to cancel my cable after the first of the year. I live in a neighborhood that is limited to one provider and my bill for basic is $100+. Not only is it expensive, but I realize that since I've gotten it, I spend far too much time in front of the television because I feel guilty if I don't watch everything that I dvr'd. Over break, I decided to try out Hulu Plus and got completed obsessed with watching vintage Degrassi (amazingly awesome Canadian mellow drama about the trials of adolescence). I loved this show growing up. I would scour PBS every Sunday afternoon to catch episodes and swoon over Joey Jeremiah and giggle at their super duper Canadian accents. It's been a fun watch, but I'm on the fence about Hulu Plus because they add an excessive amount of commercials (I would rather pay more and not see them). Even more so, the commercials are so inappropriately paired. During Degrassi, I saw ads for invisalign teen (girl needs to be kicked for being a nasty snot), beer (Stella Artois and Budlight pitbull guy that makes me want to vomit), Pepto (to help deal with that awful Budlight pitbull guy), and home pregnancy tests. Just add one about the best place for the under 16 set to get their boob jobs done and the commercials are just like watching a MTV reality show. Oh, and my dear Google, your Chrome commercial with the screaming southern girl and the idiot with the green nail polish makes me want to switch back to Internet Explorer.

Anyway, I'm not great at making resolutions. After 11 days off of work and sleeping until noon, I'm going to need all of my vices to make it through the first week back. Check back in a few weeks and I'll have some goals for the year.

2011 Holiday Movie Marathon (My Top Ten Christmas Movies)

2011-12-21T20:26:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite parts about the holidays are all of the movies and Christmas specials. These are my favorite holiday movies of the year.

10. Home Alone

From the genius writing of John Hughes, Kevin McAllister accidently gets left home alone when his family goes on Christmas vacation. Granted, it always got a bad rap for being unbelievable and a little too cutsie, but all these years later, I find the movie a fun escape. Plus, I love all the Christmas movies set in Chicago because they look just like the suburb of Columbus where I grew up… it gives me a lovely sense of nostalgia.

9. Bridget Jones's Diary

Not exactly a Christmas movie, but it does seem to be true that the holiday season does make all of us singletons question our previous year of choices. It's a perspective brought on from all the houses wrapped in Christmas lights… you know, the one where you’re yet again dateless and drunk at the turkey curry buffet. I love Bridget and it’s always a great laugh. Plus, I love Hugh Grant as the dirty-talking bad boy.

8. Home for the Holidays

Again, not exactly a Christmas movie, but it is set in the Holiday timeframe (Thanksgiving). I’m not exactly sure where it is set, but it reminds me of home and my family. Imperfect, quirky, but still loving. RDJ (that’s Robert Downey Jr.) rocks my world in this movie and I could watch the turkey on the lap scene about 45 times a day and never find it any less funny.

7. Love Actually

The first time I saw this movie was Christmas 2003 with my Mom and sister Anissa, so anytime I watch it, I think of that day. It was a fun girls day and this is a fun girls movie. It’s sweet, sappy, and sometimes completely bizarre. My favorite of the stories are the Prime Minister, Jamie writing in France, and the little drummer boy in love.

6. The Ref

Christmas and Denis Leary go together remarkably well. This one is about a couple of robbers taking a totally dysfunctional family hostage. It it turns into some of the funniest dialog that I’ve heard in ages. It’s Kevin Spacey at his best too… angry with perfect one line snarky comebacks.

5. The Holiday

Another chick flick, but it’s one of those holiday essentials. I want Kate Winslet’s cottage on the snowy English countryside and I totally support Jack Black as a sweet, leading man. Go figure. It’s one of those movies that make you love the characters so much that you feel like you grow with them in the process and that I can always dig.

4. Scrooged

When I was a kid, I rented VHS tapes from Pharmor and I would rent Scrooged over and over and over again. It didn’t matter that it was for Christmas because this movie is amazing and funny. Bill Murray is genius as Scrooge and I love the New York setting and awesome casting of the ghosts. Of all of the versions of A Christmas Carol, this one is definitely my favorite.

3. Elf

Flat out, this movie is totally my oddball, weirdo sense of humor. Will Ferrell plays Elf so straight that it just makes every scene a pure classic to me. It’s crazy silly and just pure fun to watch, so it always makes a place on my must watch list.

2. A Christmas Story

I had a hard time picking the number one spot because I love this movie so much. It was filmed in my home state of Ohio and just reminds me of everything amazing about being a kid at Christmastime. TBS has done all of us a wonderful favor with 24 Hours of A Christmas Story because it is lovely to able to turn on the tv at any point of the day and just knowthat you can see one of the fabulous scenes from this movie. It’s hard to watch this movie and not be filled with all of the wonder and awesomeness of Christmas.

1. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

I have loved this movie so consistently for so long that it had to be my number one pick. It is yet another of the John Hughes classics that remind me of Ohio and the silliness and love of my family. Chevy Chase is perfect – both hysterical and endearing. I love the family and want to spend time with them. It’s a disaster Christmas, but it’s also a loveable, fun disaster. Mostly, I would love to go sledding with them.

My 2011 Christmas Music Mix

2011-12-18T19:34:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite things to do at Christmas (well, any holiday or day really) is to make a fabulous mix tap... err cd... I mean playlist. I really miss the art of the mixtape. Anyway, I always try to include some classics while searching out some random, less popular songs. It's a gift from the heart of my music snobbery.

If you want to download any of the songs, I linked them up with Amazon MP3 to make it a bit easier. A few songs can only be purchased in MP3 as part of the Now That's What I Call Christmas compilation, so I marked those and linked to the album. Hope you enjoy!

Eartha Kitt - Santa Baby
Otis Redding - Merry Christmas, Baby
Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Jordan - Baby, It's Cold Outside
Chuck Berry - Run Rudolph Run
The Killers - The Cowboys' Christmas Ball (available from iTunes)
Chris Isaak - Blue Christmas
Wham! - Last Christmas
Band Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas? (Now That's What I Call Christmas)
Queen - Thank God It's Christmas
Ray Charles - The Spirit of Christmas
Eddie Vedder & Mike McCready - Let Me Sleep (It's Christmas Time)
Bing Crosby & David Bowie - Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth (Now That's What I Call Christmas)
Chris Isaak - Mele Kalikimaka
Bobby Helms - Jingle Bell Rock
The Pogues ft. Kristy McColl - Fairytale of New York
The Kinks - Father Christmas
U2 - Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
The Magnetic Fields - Everything Is One Big Christmas Tree
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy - Mr. Heatmiser
Eels - Christmas Is Going To The Dogs
Ottmar Liebert - Deck The Halls (Now That's What I Call Christmas)
The Waitresses - Christmas Wrapping
Mariah Carey - All I Want For Christmas Is You

Advent Calendar of Family Christmas Traditions

2011-12-15T19:50:00.003-05:00

Blame National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, but I have always wanted an advent calendar. While shopping for some decorations today, I found a cool one, but as soon as I got it and my heart filled because I knew that I'd have a treat to look forward to each day leading up to Christmas, I wasn't quite sure what to put in it. Candy? Definitely. But, I wanted more. Searching the web, I came across a great blog post where it was suggested to use it to inspire family activities.

To be honest, I've been in the dumps over Christmas. I think that as we've grown older and moved apart, I have really started to lose all of the Christmas traditions that make the holidays so much fun. So, in my advent calendar (even though I'm starting really late this year but will still do the things from the earlier days), I decided to make each day of December remind me of all of my family's traditions and find ways to make good ones. I'm also going to eat candy.

Advent Calendar Traditions:

Decorate the Christmas Tree.
Drink some Silk Egg Nog – yum!
Watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Create a new tradition for the advent calendar.
Pick out this year’s Christmas cookies.
Make an ornament. Add the date, so you remember the year.
7. Go Christmas shopping to remind yourself why you love to make presents. Figure out the craft idea for the year.
Write a Dear Santa letter.
Find a charity. Commit to helping in some way.
Look at the family Christmas photos. Send some of the fun ones to family.
Treat yourself to a box of Cherry Cordials. You know they are your favorite!
Make a Christmas music mix.
Make something sparkle.
Donate to Hospice for Grandma and Grandpa.
Write a blog post about something Christmasy.
Make popcorn and watch Elf.
Write a Christmas card with a note for faraway family to tell them you care.
Make hot chocolate and enjoy the Christmas lights.
Make a paper snowflake. Very important when living in Florida away from real snow.
Paint a Christmas picture.
Buy new pajamas to wear Christmas Eve. This makes up for growing up and not getting pajamas on Christmas Eve anymore.
Wrap presents. Make them extra special pretty.
Write a letter to yourself for next Christmas.
Read The Night Before Christmas (best ornament ever, keep the tradition alive!) and then leave a treat for Santa (cookies) and the reindeer (carrots & celery).
Merry Christmas! Enjoy time with family! Take a Christmas photo (if you have strairs, stagger down the steps) and watch A Christmas Story (24-hours on TBS).

And just so my sisters will kill me, I have included a lovely stair photo with our stockings as an example. I'm the goofy one with the monster bangs in the front.

If you other traditions, I would love to hear them!

Make It Pretty Inside and Out, The Music Experience

2011-12-09T18:28:00.001-05:00

I realize that I yammer on about vinyl a lot. In fact, just at the sound of a v word leaving my mouth, I can feel everyone around me roll their eyes. I do this just to annoy everyone and become one of those crotchety old people who lament the better days when everything was cooler.

If I was in a band (someday, when I can play a whole song without stopping at a mistake, apologizing, and then starting over), I would hate digital music. I mean, I constantly buy digital music (Amazon MP3 is my friend) and I would love that people are listening on their iPods or whatever, but I would feel robbed of the ability to present the music as an experience. Album artwork is completely lost as a thumbnail and I fear that without having books of lyrics and photos to look through, people are not paying enough attention to the music itself. Plus, iPods let you shuffle around too easily, missing the complete feel of an album. Music has become a background to tv shows and something to amuse you in the car. The fine art of the music listening experience is lost with digital, which is also why Amazon Vinyl is my other good friend.

With that said, I tip my metaphorical hat of gratitude to both The Avett Brothers and Pearl Jam for what arrived in my mailbox last week. Check it…

The Avett Brothers’ I And Love And You Boxed Set

Pearl Jam’s Backspacer on Vinyl

Receiving both of these was like an unexpected Christmas present. The unpacking, the surprises on each page, the jokes on the album labels, and the oh so beautiful artwork (album artwork has always been one of my favorite things). I realize from looking at these sets that both artists respect and think about their music and the packaging. To me, that’s just as important as the music itself. Also, to be fair, Pearl Jam’s packaging is always amazing – the CD version of Vs. has long been one of my favorites.

Documentaries, Just What The Doctor Ordered

2011-12-09T18:11:00.001-05:00

I wasn't feeling great earlier this week, so I called out of work, snuggled into bed, and between naps watched a slew of documentaries on Netflix. Here's a rundown in case you're looking for some doc-u-tv.

Stephen Fry in America

Out of everything I watched, this was definitely my favorite. Too often, I forget just how many cool things are available to us, how diverse we are, and the amazing range of landscapes that are available to us in the United States. For some reason, I am now obsessed with visiting Montana. The mountains, the lakes, and just vast expanses of quiet land are my idea of a heaven. However, if I had to bundle up every day because its freezing cold, couldn’t get great internet access, and didn’t have a Starbucks on every corner, I’m not sure how long I could take it. Oregon and Seattle also looked absolutely amazing. I love the idea of mountains and rocky, chilly shorelines. Anyway, Fry successfully renewed my interest in the US and it was just a fun series to watch.

When You're Strange

This was an interesting look at The Doors. The movie is all real footage of the band and overdubbed with commentary by Johnny Depp (even his voice is swoony). I thought that Jim Morrison came across as both grandiose and completely insecure. It seemed like he wanted to get away and have a different life, yet he was so drawn into the limelight that he couldn’t let go. It obviously had a sad ending and it left me with a lot of lingering questions. I would love to be able to sit down and have a chat with Ray Manzarek.

Kurt & Courtney

Speaking of sad endings, this movie was just depressing (and the fact that it started with that horrible photo of him dead on the floor in the greenhouse gave me nightmares). I don’t know what I believe about all of the conspiracy theories, but I didn’t feel like the film did anything to make me teeter one way or the other. It just felt horrible listening to all of the sordid details. I really want to find a doc that says something more about the person that Cobain was and less about the aftermath.

Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff + Robert Mapplethorpe

Earlier this year, I read Just Kids, which is the autobiography by Patti Smith about her time in NYC with Robert Mapplethorpe. This movie covers the time period after that and is mostly about Mapplethorpe’s benefactor and lover Sam Wagstaff. He was an immensely interesting person and has been credited for the acceptance of photography as an art form. His immense photography collection was used throughout the film, and it is true that what someone collects tells you a great deal about the person. It was also interesting to see how throughout his life he was able to constantly reinvented himself.

“In the clearing stands a Boxer…” (Paul Simon, Simon & Garfunkel)

2011-12-06T17:48:00.001-05:00

In my league of extraordinary heroes, Paul Simon stands tall among them for inspiring me to write something beautiful. Yes, he’s a fine musician with one of the most emotionally sweet voices that I’ve ever heard, but what always gets me about him is the way that he pieces together words in to heartbreaking, truthful, and beautiful stories. He captures a moment, a feeling better than anyone else that I can think of and for that I am forever smitten.

I was lucky enough to snag some tickets (although row DD wasn’t perfect, I was still in the hall) to see him at his performance at Ruth Eckerd Hall last night. It’s sort of terrifying to see someone that you’ve admired for most of your life because people are fallible and real. I’ve seen a lot of people who have woo’ed me with their live sets (Bob Dylan – how is it that Dylan stays so humble?) and then others that have made me never want to listen to their music again (*coughJohnMellencampcough*). I am happy to say that Simon was genuine, funny, and gracious. He seems to still love performing his music and sometimes that is a rarity. His voice still sounds incredible and it was just a fun night with great music. His music spans decades and it hasn’t lost any of its relevance or impact (some of my favorites of the night were from his newest CD So Beautiful or So What... check out the awesome setlist).

In honor of a great night, I’ve picked out some of my Simon faves.

Don’t Call Me Al

Before I knew who Paul Simon was, I knew that crazy video with the two guys dancing and lip synching. The video made me laugh, the music made me want to dance, and it just sounded so cool. I was hooked. I’d always watch for the video on MTV… you know back in the days when the M stood for music instead of morons. I never scoff at hilarity of Chevy Chase either (one of these days, I need to write my ode to Christmas Vacation).

Bleecker Street

A much documented fact is that I become obsessed with vinyl (I said records back in the day) in my teenage years. I can still clearly remember a Saturday afternoon at the Old 54 flea where I bought an old army jacket and a vinyl copy of Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thyme. I remember the musty smell of the record, the way it would pop on the 6 o'clock news song and make it even more hauntingly awesome, and how I insisted on wearing that stupid jacket all of the time even though Florida is about a million degrees. Soon after, I had every S&G album and I would listen to them for hours while I painted in my bedroom. Their music will always be so extremely special to me for that. This is one of my favorite songs.

The Afterlife

This is from So Beautiful Or So What. What I love the most about this is the totally snarky view on death (I hope, I'm not always good at guessing what other people's work is about). Maybe we should all work harder at adopting a sense of humor. Plus, it really makes me want to dance a bit.

The Sound of Silence

I included this song because hearing him sing it live was like a religious experience. I don’t even mind admitting that my eyes went a bit teary. The thing about Simon is that when he was in his 20s, he was already writing the songs with the grace and beauty of an old soul. He saw the world and wrote about it with honesty, integrity, and intelligence, so, seeing him with just a guitar and a dark stage performing that song, a smidge older, was just perfect. I almost wish that he would put out a live album of him singing some of the old S&G songs. I like that he sings them a big different now yet still includes all the heart and soul.

The Only Living Boy in New York

I lied. I have to include this song too because it seemed like few people cheered as loudly as they should have when he played this. This song is sincerely brilliant.

Wh...wha... what? Huh? Wow. (Book 36)

2011-12-03T09:04:00.001-05:00

A friend convinced me that I needed to read Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (Hunter S. Thompson). I always assumed the book was akin to William S Burrough's Naked Lunch, which I tried to read in high school and just didn't have it in me to get past the first 20 pages, but I was surprised to find it really engaging.

Though most of the book, I was completely shocked that anyone would want to purposefully pound their brain with so many drugs that they go completely panic-attack-paranoid and the carpet bleeds, everyone turns into lizards, you try to kill your friends, and then spend hours puking into your shoes and thinking that the maid is going to kill you. I have too many control issues and can't even begin to know how to let go of reality like that. However, it was fascinating to look into the mind of an adrenaline junkie... always pushing the limits and getting off on the ultimate high of being able to get away with it all. Thompson writing style is engaging and vivid. I felt immediately sucked into that crazy world of 1971 Vegas, which was proven by the multiple nightmares that I had about lizard people and rattlesnakes attacking me. Even with that, I really enjoyed the book.

To follow, I watched the movie adaptation. Hollywood usually likes to kill great books, but they did a really fantastic and true portrayal of the book. The acting was great, but the best part was the way they did the scenes... a few times, I thought that spans of the hotel rooms would make me puke in my shoes. And, poor Johnny Depp having to wear those shorts the whole time with his skinny little legs. Anyway, being a true bibliophile, I still definitely recommend reading the book first, but the movie is available for streaming on Netflix and to rent from Amazon if interested.

Also, this was my 36th book for the year, which is 10 past my goal. I'm going to stop counting now, but I will keep updates on the good ones that I read.

Songs about feelings (R.E.M., Audioslave, The Avett Brothers)

2011-11-28T08:03:00.000-05:00

So, I made it through turkey day. A few pounds heavier from all the carbs (and mounds of whipped cream on top of the pumpkin pie), but happy to have the time to spend with my family. My picks for this week are about moments of vulnerability. In each of these, I am amazed with the level of honesty and exposure and how it leads to something so beautiful.

Audioslave – Like a Stone

I really thought this song was about love. Wikipedia corrected me. It is about a man, all alone, waiting to die. It disturbs me how much I want to dance to this song. It's also unsettling that I listened to this on repeat for a day and a half. But then again, it is philosophical and makes you think. Sometimes, I need to think. And sometimes for a day and a half on repeat in my car, I just want to get lost in Chris Cornell’s sweet, sweet voice.

R.E.M. – World Leader Pretend

It would be safe to say that I’ve listened to this song hundreds of times. I have a habit of getting sucked into an R.E.M. vortex where I found it impossible to listen to anything else. However, the other day, I really heard this song for the first time. What a stubborn, lonely song. I always heard it as a song about self-empowerment, but now I hear a story about hiding, protecting, and asking for someone to make it cool to come out of the hiding. Maybe it’s a little of both. Maybe it is just a reflection of the day I was having when I listening to it.

The Avett Brothers – I Would Be Sad

I guess that it wasn’t really much of a stretch to put an Avett Brothers song in a post about emotional vulnerability and honesty, but I have been on a serious tear of listening to this song. It makes me want to give him a hug and tell him that it will all get better. And then I cringe, thinking of all of the times that I felt so desperate to get some guy’s attention. It always feels so dramatic and serious at the time, but it is both good and a little sad to realize how such strong feelings can fade or change. I also haven't lost the irony of how I’m totally embarrassed for myself but sympathetic to others.

Vampire Pron (Book 35)

2011-11-22T20:20:00.001-05:00

My reading has slowed down dramatically in the last month or so and it's because the list of books that I'm currently reading has grown exponentially (this one always kills me) and I hit a roadblock book. You know, the type that isn't so bad that you give up but you just can't quite get into it, so you do just about anything other than reading. I guess that I'm far too stubborn and typically refuse to give up. Luckily, I finally finished the book earlier this week.

Halfway to the Grave (Book 1) - Jeaniene Frost

So, like I said, I didn't hate this book, but I also can't really say that I loved it. The reviews on Amazon and Shelfari were fantastic, so I think that I was expecting more. The characters were interesting enough, but it always felt like everything (every description, plot twist, etc.) just took too long and went on forever. Maybe I just wasn't in the right frame of mind because normally I totally eat up these cheesy vampire novels. Also, growing up I taunted my sister often for her love of smutty, romance novels and all I could think while reading it was how the literary mighty has fallen. Needless to say that I probably won't be finishing out the series. Ironically, I still didn't totally hate it. If it came out as a movie, I think the story might even be pretty interesting.

Anyway, reading roadblock happily cleared and I am now lost in the crazy, cracked out, lost land of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Most of last night, I had nightmares about bad trips with lots of lizard people and bats. Thank you, Hunter S Thompson.

"Washed in Black..." (and then some color)

2011-11-16T20:09:00.001-05:00

When I paint, I pick out some cool vinyl and then get lost in the mess of emotions and colors for hours. My favorites have always been Rolling Stone’s Flowers or anything by Simon & Garfunkel.

The other night I listened to remastered version of Pearl Jam's Ten on vinyl. I’ve always loved the album because it is so angry and full of energy, but I hadn’t ever realized how much darkness is in there. I was particularly taken with the lyric “washed in black, tattooed everything” (well I’ve always loved that lyric really), so I started playing around with the idea of what things would look like washed in black. Plus, I like any excuse to make a mess with paint.

Here’s a black and white version:

And then, I tried one in color:

Normally, I prefer black and white (hence why I always loved my darkroom), but on this go, I’m voting for the color version. These were fun, so I might just play around a bit more with some different color combinations.

Songs to even out my scrobbles... (Airborne Toxic Event, Justin Townes Earl, Candlebox)

2011-11-15T17:58:00.000-05:00

To be honest, I had to force myself to listen to some other music for this week’s post because I spent 99.9% of the week listening to Pearl Jam. I’m pretty sure that no one wanted to have to read another one of those posts where I get all nostalgic about being 14 and then get all moony over the front man and his weird emotional quirks. Plus, this week, I’m into bassist, so here’s to you Jeff Ament and your 20 years of funny hats.

The Airborne Toxic Event – Welcome to Your Wedding Day

I have been meaning to post this song for a few weeks, but I was trying to pair it with other songs that made me want to dance. Also, I’m pretty sure that this song includes deep social commentary about our government, but as I’m not sure, I kinda hoped that a few extra listens would make it clearer. Mostly, it made me want to car dance and day dream about Mikel Jollett (he's got a sexy mouth like that guy on Burn Notice). That in itself is reason enough to post.

Justin Townes Earl – Learning To Cry

Ahh, Justin Townes Earl… from what I can tell, the dude has a pretty crazy story I haven't seen anyone drop the f-bomb more often than him on Twitter, but he has some seriously awesome music. I would try to classify it, but each album has a bit of a different sound. This song in particular strikes me as really old style country. Every time it shuffles in, I find it impossible to say no. It gets stuck in my head and heart and is just so super smooth.

This is a live version, but I seriously suggest that you listen to the album version.

Candlebox – Far Behind

Last night, I came across a 90s music folder on my external hard drive. It was filled with one-off gems from the 90’s that I totally forgot that I had. It was also filled with songs that I can't believe I ever purchased or wanted to keep (aka Hey Leonardo). It was a fun little time capsule and it contained this song.

A few weeks ago, I read that this is one of many songs written for Andrew Wood (also Alice in Chains’s Would? and the Temple of Dog album). I always thought this was a love song. I have no idea why, but I’m guessing that I never spent a lot of time actually listening and thinking about the lyrics. Anyway, it made me listen to it a little differently… plus, it is a really awesome song.

Such a strange video, but I really wish that someone would make wearing skirts with Doc Martens and flannels and thermals come back in style (especially for appropriate work wear). Please?

Dear Me (#tweetyour16yearoldself)

2011-11-13T14:24:00.001-05:00

My Dear Evil Annie Woo (February 1996),

Happy 16th Birthday. It was quite a day, eh? Stop pretending that you're embarrassed by all of the attention and just admit that you loved it. Now, I'm 31, about twice your age. It sounds old, but most days I feel younger than I did at your age. That crazy Algebra teacher was right when she told you that your 30s would be awesome.

I know that you're still sad about having to move to Florida, but don't dwell on it. I remember those times well and you're having a great time. Enjoy the concerts, your friends, your family, and all of the wonderful things you are learning. Keep dreaming up all those amazing things that you'll be able to do when you're say, oh I don't know... 31.

Here's some advice that might allow you to stop worrying a bit:

Your dad will disappear for good this year. I know that you don't really care now, but later in life, you will dwell on it. He is NOT worth it. Focus more on the amazing people, like your mom and sisters, that always there for you. Oh, and enjoy every minute with your Grandma and Grandpa and ask lots of questions. You will miss them so much when they are gone.

You're a smart girl. Sometimes people will give you a hard time because things seems to come so easy for you. It's not necessarily true. You work hard and put your heart into things, so don't let anyone make you feel like you can't enjoy and be proud of yourself for all of the wonderful things you're about the accomplish.

Also, and this one is extremely important, I know that people like to tell you that you're too emotional... fuck them. Being emotional is a gift and it makes you extremely special. Think of all of the people who you love and admire for being emotional... Paul Simon, Eddie Vedder, John Lennon, John Steinbeck, and John Hughes... and so many more to come as you get older. Plus, emotions fuel your writing and make it beautiful.

Don't be afraid of things that are difficult... especially playing guitar! Ask for help sometimes! And very important, don't let anyone make you feel scared of doing things that feel right in your heart (your instincts rock!). When you really want and believe in something, you have more strength and courage than you can imagine. BTW, when you finally cut your hair, it's going to look great!

Sometimes you question not fitting in. Stick to your ideals. Somewhere in your mid-twenties you start giving up your ideals to fit in. It makes you very, VERY unhappy. You see the world differently and while that can set you apart, it also ensures that you are surrounded by people who love you for exactly who you are. There won't be a shortage.

I would tell you to stop being so boy crazy, but you won't change. I know. Try to be more sincere and open with the ones you really care about. I know that it intimidates and makes you feel insecure, but there are a few that you let get away by being too scared and you'll really regret that. There isn't a shortage of wonderful boys that can see you, but you're going to have to open your eyes and stop focusing on the troubled ones all the time.

I know that you love McDonald's fries and Smarties, but give us a break in the future and throw some healthier foods in there sometimes?

Keep writing and designing those journals. The all caps is annoying and sometimes I laugh at the mellow drama in the poetry, but they still bring me tremendous joy. Remember that writing and art can always heal you and will keep you strong and emotionally healthy.

Oh, and you have an awesome record collection. When you try to get rid of it and Mom asks you repeatedly if you are sure, listen to her. You will be sick over what you gave away and spend a lot of money trying to get it back.

Mostly, you are amazing. Look forward to the future, but make sure that you are having fun and enjoying it, ok?

With all of my love,
Your slightly older yet still awesome self in November 2011.

Update: Just to explain, this blog post is in response to a lovely book called Dear Me, which is a collection of letters that celebrities wrote to their 16 year old selves with advice. A few months back, I posted about the British version and since then a great American edition has been released. I submitted my letter and it is now included on the blog. You should check it out here, look around, read other posts, and write one of your own. It is such a great concept and does wonders for cleaning out some of the adolescent rubbish that lingers in your brain.

http://www.dearme.org/readersletter/?p=167

Steven Tyler vs. Peter Frampton

2011-11-11T15:58:00.001-05:00

Despite the evidence in the following video, I'm still pretty sure that Steven Tyler would take out Peter Frampton in a battle for Penny Lane/Lucy/Strawberry Field's heart. Give me a break, aside from this fight scene, this movie turns the awesomness of the Beatles into a total snoozer.

Cameron Crowe, PJ20, and a look back at my adolescence...

2011-11-10T20:20:00.001-05:00

I was finally able to watch Pearl Jam 20 and I lurvey, lovey, loved it. Granted, I was raised on healthy doses of Fast Times, Say Anything and Singles, so Mr. Crowe had me from hello. I know, bad joke. Sincerely though, I am forever influenced by his work. I dig how he sees the world and am forever changed by the lovely perfection of Llloyd Dobler and my never ending adolescent fantasies that if I could just get to Seattle I could live in the same apartment building as Eddie Vedder (hint, hint, wink, wink... if you know what I mean).

So, on the completely awesome note, a big thank you to PBS for airing Pearl Jam 20 (Any chance that you’ll be showing Living in The Material World anytime soon? Please, please please? I need to know the intimate details about George Harrison!). It was two hours of history, great music, and a bit of a step back into my younger “grunge” years. I was definitely singing along and I won't deny that I tried to recreate a bit of my slam dancing days. Did head banging always make me that dizzy or am I just getting that old?

In 1993, I was 13, and every inch of my bedroom walls was covered with photos and posters of Pearl Jam. I would buy Rolling Stone, Spin, and those old rocker magazines with the pullout posters and carefully save any photos that I could find. Ironically, I'm pretty sure that Vedder wore the exact same brown shirt for all of 1992 and 1993. Good music was a serious way of life those days… Ok, so it still is. The fun part about the documentary is that it was an amazing way to see what life was like for them and get to see the progression of how they have continued to evolve into amazing artists.

On a side note, why was Stone Gossard such a curmudgeon and has anyone else noticed that he sorta looks like Paul Feig (superhero of Freaks and Geeks awesomeness)? Excuse my brain, I apparently have severe ADHD.

I especially loved the interviews with Chris Cornell. He was engaging and real. He provided a really interesting perspective on the band and the time period. I would love to hang out with him and just hear his stories. Chris Cornell if you're listening, we should totally hang at Starbucks sometime and just shoot the shit.

And finally, the soundtrack is a great compilation of performances used in the film. I have really enjoyed the listen and in my own special tribute, I've selected my ten favorite Pearl Jam songs... for today. The list might change by tomorrow, so I need to hurry up and post this.

10. Just Breathe (A triple swooner)

9. Harvest Moon/Last Kiss (Both amazing covers, and I couldn't pick just one.)

8. Porch (At 13 and and now at 31, I really love singing the f-bomb)

7. Nothingman (And he who forgets, will be destined to remember...)

6. Oceans (Just generally amazing)

5. Go (Just try to listen and not totally rock out to this song... I wanted to put Animal too since I always listen to them together)

4. I Am Mine (I only own my mind... I try to remind myself of this daily.)

3. Man of the Hour (Eddie Vedder song for a Tim Burton movie, need I say more?)

2. Rearviewmirror (Best song to growl along to ever.)

1. Black (Pretty certain that this is all my all time favorite song ever. I've listened to it more times than is sane. I can never skip it when it shuffles in on my iPod. I love singing it on Rock Band. It's perfect for car singing. It might just be my musical kismet.)

Songs for a week without tv... (Dead Man's Bones, Simon & Garfunkel, Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, & Pearl Jam)

2011-11-10T19:53:00.000-05:00

This week (life lately actually) could sort of give me a break and take a giant step back into chill-land, but we all know that that rarely happens. To spare everyone the details, you could draw a big photo of Eeyore and just slap my name on it lately. Damn that tail, where did it get to again? As always, music saves me.

Dead Man’s Bones – Lose Your Soul

I love Dead Man’s Bones because all of the songs have such a haunting and supernatural quality to them. Granted, the multiple mentions of zombies, werewolves, and graves probably helps with the general feeling. On the plus side, I don’t think that I’ll ever complain about a little Ryan Gosling serenading. I won’t deny that his being in the band made me buy the album, but the fact that it’s pretty awesome is what keeps me listening.

Simon and Garfunkel – The Boxer

I am trying to abstain from television for a week, so I’ve spent a lot of time listening to records and drawing (the exact reason why I should avoid tv). I just recently completed my Simon and Garfunkel record collection, so I’ve enjoyed getting lost in the albums again. I have everything digitally, but it just feels better on vinyl. Paul Simon is my writing hero. His word choice astounds me… a few simple lines and he can break my heart.

I have squandered my resistance for a pocketful of mumbles, such are promises...

The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy – Television, The Drug of a Nation

And just because I’m feeling all up in arms about how television is sucking my life away from me, I thought that I would share this…

Pearl Jam – Yellow Ledbetter

I know, I know… and yes, Pearl Jam again. I finally had a chance to watch Pearl Jam 20. I really found their emotional vulnerability (especially Vedder, the scene where he tears up talking about his friendship with Jeff Ament was perfection) extremely inspiring. I think I’d be a lot better off if I was better at dealing with my emotions in a productive way. Oh, and Mike McCready is seriously badass on the guitar...

Things I wish I had known when buying an iPad...

2011-11-02T19:46:00.000-04:00

A few months back, I decided that I "needed" an iPad. Honestly, I really didn't have a legitimate purpose other than it looked like a lot of fun. I am thoughtful with how I spend money (even on expensive toys), so I spent a lot of time researching how I could get the most benefit out of it. Last week, I made the plunge, and this is a list of information that I wish that I knew and understood about the iPad before buying it.

Size Matters

The hardest thing to decide was which storage size I needed/wanted. To be fair, I always agonize over storage when buying an electronic device, but while I didn’t want to spend a fortune, I also didn’t want to be a few months down the road and really regret my purchase.

When I bought my first iPod touch, I got a 16 GB, which ran out of space very quickly. I spent way too much time shuffling around albums to fit everything that I wanted and always ended up feeling like something was missing. It was annoying and limited what I was able to download. So when I upgraded for the newest model with a camera, I made sure that I bought the biggest one available. Now, I am extremely happy with it.

Mostly, I made my decision on this experience and went with the 64GB model. People tried to talk to me about iCloud and not needing all of the space, but I just don't feel like I'm there yet and sometimes my internet connection at home gets a little shady. It was a splurge, but I saved some money by also choosing the Wifi model because I generally always have WiFi access.

After one week, I’m using about 11.5 GBs. That’s 400 songs (just the essentials, I have about 6,000 on my iPod), 5 videos (2 movies and 3 tv shows), 1300 photos, and 72 applications. I could probably have installed less, but I like choices. Plus, it’s nice to know that I have lots of room to grow.

Everyone Needs Protection (Aka Covers or Cases)

You could definitely use an iPad without a cover, but it just doesn’t seem sensible to me. I plan to carry mine around with me a lot, and I’ve heard far too many nightmare stories of cracked screens to take a chance. There seems to be a million options in a variety of price ranges, so I’ll just give you a run down of what I chose:

Apple Smart Cover ($40)

Pros: This cover is nice because it protects the screen, acts as a stand, and will automatically wake your iPad when opened. In addition, there are magnets built in to the device and cover that allows it to go on perfectly every time.

Cons: My biggest complaint is that it doesn’t protect the back of the device, which makes it difficult to carry it around without scratching it. The cover cleans the screen when it is closed, but it leaves behind some strange smudges on the screen where the indentations sit. I shopped around a lot, but the color selections were limited (and grotesquely ugly), so I ended up with a baby blue color that is not my favorite in the world. I would have preferred black or purple, but that’s just the Robert-Smith-lover in me talking. The problem is that at $40 it’s not that cheap to switch it out.

GreatShield Smart Cover ($12 - Black, issues reported with other color)

Pros: So far, I really love this cover because it barely adds any weight, yet it seems to add a good amount of protection to the back. I feel pretty secure throwing it in my purse now. Also, this cover was designed to be used with the Smart Cover, so it fits perfectly. And at $12, it was a good deal.

Cons: If you want everyone to see your Apple logo, it covers it up.

A Little More Power

At the Apple store, I specifically asked if my iPhone/iPod chargers would work with the iPad and was told yes. That answer is only sort of true. When plugged into the wall, you need to use the iPad charger because it requires a different voltage amount than an iPhone. When you hook the iPad up to your computer to sync with the USB cord, charging is dependent on the available voltage from your USB port. It was something that I would have expected (and appreciated) being explained to me up front. Depending on your usage, you may want to budget for an extra iPad charger ($20 -$30 at Apple Store). I was told that both the iPhone and iPod would charge on the iPad charger, but I haven’t tried it yet.

Apps - The Fun Stuff

I was aware that some of my iPhone/iPod apps would not work on the iPad, but I assumed that a greater number would. Even more annoying was that A LOT of the apps that I had already purchased had to be repurchased in an HD version and were about five times more expensive. Granted $.99 is cheap and five dollars still isn't too bad, but it definitely can eat away quickly at a budget.

Just to clarify a bit, the iPhone/iPod apps can be loaded on you iPad, but they load in the size of the iPhone screen. It's usable, but feels like a ripoff with all of the beautiful screen wasted. You can increase the size, but it looks pretty awful (screen captures below). Even more annoying is that sometimes the Genius results on iPad will suggest an App, and then after downloading you’ll realize it was really meant to the iPhone. So, my advice is to be more careful than me when making your purchases.

Did I make a good choice?

One hundred times over, yes. While it was annoying that I hadn't even thought to budget for some of these things, I am still extremely happy with my purchase and find myself liking it more than I figured that I would. I really had no specific need for it, but I’ve been having fun drawing, recording music, and finding interesting ways to browse content on the internet. As I learn more about it, I'll post some of the more interesting things like my search for styluses and some of my favorite apps.

A song for today (and what a day)... (The Avett Brothers)

2011-11-01T20:44:00.000-04:00

It's been a long, long day. A day that began with a deep wonder over what has given so many people such aggressive road rage and ended with having to pay bills. Bleh. The goods news is that while paying bills, I wanted to hear something beautiful and human, so I turned to I And Love And You by The Avett Brothers. If you can listen to this album with no emotional response, I'm totally reporting you as a robot to the authorities.

This one is just killing me today... Something has me, acting like someone I don't wanna be...

2011 Books: 26 - 33

2011-11-01T20:34:00.001-04:00

Yikes, it's been awhile since I updated and while it doesn't look like it here, my reading speed has been really stinted lately. I'm stuck on a book that I don't find very interesting, yet feel too guilty to give up on it. Anyway, here are my latest reads.

26: Frostbite by Richelle Mead

This is another one of the book in the Vampire Academy books, but I have to be honest that it’s been awhile since I read it and I don’t remember much of what happened. All that I can remember is that there were a bunch of vampires and vampire protectors at a ski lodge and then there was a bunch of teen angst lust drama that somehow ended in murder, sloppiness, and then sadness. Everyone kept telling me how great these books are, but I find them more like episodes of Teen Mom. Even as I start reading it, I know that it’s probably not good for me, but I just sorta get pulled me in and then three hours later I’m left wondering where that part of my life disappeared to.

27: The Doll's House by Neil Gaiman

Again, I was a bit surprise to find just how much I enjoyed reading the graphic novel/comic format. In this one, I was able to find a Robert Smith poster hanging in the background of one of the scenes and it made me love it all that much more. These stories are very dark and there is a lot of violence, but yet the story is engaging and the characters are interesting enough that you want to keep reading to find out what is happening. I also really love the artwork, but that's really got me started on them in the first place. Overall, I am a fan of this series so far.

28: The Polaroid Book

I really love the idea of natural, one-snap photography. These days things are so overprocessed and auto-corrected that it has now become much more intriguing to see natural photos of something beautiful. I think that is why I love Instagram (I'm sughadust on there, if you're interested in seeing my random photos of vinyl, cookies, and cats). It is mostly just normal people capturing everyday life. This book reminded me a bit like that. I loved being able to go through and pick out some of the photographers, but generally I didn’t find the book quite as interesting as I had hoped.

29: The Crow

I am a fan of the dark and macabre. When I saw The Crow movie, I was instantly in love with the story and really appreciated how poetic the story was. However, I really didn’t like the graphic novel that well. I felt demented for reading it because it was so gruesome and unforgivingly violent. Granted, I'll read the Sandman series without a second thought, but I felt like this one lacked the emotional substance that could have balanced it out. However, I did enjoy the art work loved the use of the Cure and Joy Division quotes.

30 & 32: The Secret Circle, Volume 1 and Volume 2 By L.J. Smith

I think that I must just have a thing with L.J. Smith’s writing because I get hooked on her books and just can’t put them down. I loved The Vampire Diaries, but I actually enjoyed the Secret Circle Series better. I like that the story revolved around witches living in New England. It’s another series that is current getting butchered by the CW. Anyway, I was immediately sucked into these and read through both collections in about two days’ time. It’s actually driving me a little crazy that there wasn’t more to read. I love the characters and I felt like the story was just beginning.

31: Recollection: Volume 1 and 33: The Tiny Book of Tiny Stories: Volume 1

Both of these books came from http://hitrecord.org/, which is the brainchild of Joseph Gordon-Levitt and others. I can’t even do it justice, so I suggest checking out the site and what they’re doing with their lovely community of online artists. I was particularly taken with The Tiny Book of Tiny Stories. I loved that all of the content in the books was entirely original and interesting. There wasn’t a spin on anything for sales and it was exciting to see the process of multiple artists coming together on projects.

A song with a little bite… (Echo and the Bunnymen)

2011-10-30T19:40:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite parts about Halloween is the music. Ok, really every part of Halloween is my favorite and everyone knows that I totally live for the costumes, candy, scary movies, and pumpkin carving. Each year, I try to make a good Halloween music mix (2010 Playlist) or at least pick my favorite song for the year.

Echo and the Bunnymen – People Are Strange

This year, I have gotten so addicted to satellite radio and 1stwave that it only seems fitting to pick this super awesome cover from an even more amazing 80’s horror flick. This song makes me daydream about Jason Patric all vamped out. And I think that I might just stay there for a little while… And I know I said my favorite vamp was Mitchell, but Jason Patric in The Lost Boys is my real favorite.

The Killing Moon

And for good measure, this is another hauntingly good Echo Halloween-ish song... for the werewolf lovers out there.

Halloween - Desperately Seeking Susan Style

2011-10-28T10:55:00.001-04:00

This Halloween for my work party, I channeled my inner material girl (aka Madonna).

Really, I just always wanted this jacket. I keep hoping that Aidan Quinn will magically appear to save me from Will Patton and then take me back to his sweet, sweet Village apartment.

Something beautiful and something trashy that you can dance to (Pearl Jam & Madonna)

2011-10-27T21:37:00.000-04:00

I have been a slacker lately. I had the flu/cold/mystery illness that was pretty much making me hate life, so I spent a lot of time taking naps on the couch and watching ridiculous amounts of stuff on Netflix. First, I was catching up on the first two seasons of Warehouse 13 (gee, I really love that Pete Lattimer) and then I moved on to the BBC version of Being Human (I refrain from making too many comments, but Mitchell is my favorite vampire character ever).

Pearl Jam – Just Breathe

I’m pretty sure that I’ve listened to this song at least 20 times today. There is always such a range of emotions and elements in Pearl Jam songs, but this one just strikes me as especially emotionally vulnerable and powerful. It’s almost like a lullaby… something so beautiful that you can just sort of lose yourself in it.

Madonna – Into the Groove

This year for the Halloween work party, I decided to be Madonna (Susan) from Desperately Seeking Susan. I have absolutely adored this movie (and Who’s That Girl) since I was very, very young and I have always wanted an excuse to recreate that awesome jacket. Anyway, to get into the Madonna frame of mind, I’ve been listening to a lot of tunes and this one in particular is from the movie and it just so captures that time and the feeling of it all. What I’ve found is that being in costume is fun and I fear that I’ve gotten far too attached to the big hair and excessive amount of accessories.

A song after a dream... (Pearl Jam)

2011-10-06T20:32:00.000-04:00

I know that no one but psychologist find other people's dreams interesting or exciting, but you're going to have to read about mine if you want to know why I picked this song. This morning, I had the best dream ever that Pearl Jam did an impromptu concert on my patio (a la The Beatles rooftop concert in Let It Be) and it somehow ended with me on talking to Eddie Vedder on the phone for hours. Well, after a dream like that, it was essential that I listen to Pearl Jam and with the magic of Sirius, I tuned into Pearl Jam radio for most of the day. The joy of the radio is that I end up hearing things that I most likely wouldn't have even thought to look for on my own (awesome bootlegs and covers from live performances). Within about 30 second of listening to this song, I was completely in love. It's a great song and with Eddie's voice, it's a kind of sexy magic.

Pearl Jam - Harvest Moon

When we were strangers, I watched you from afar. And when we were lovers, I love you with all of my heart...

Also, as a side note, in the heated teenage-angsty battle of 1993 between whether you were a Eddie or Kurt girl, I was always, most definitely an Eddie girl. To this day, I still have a deep respect for his ability to be so unapologetically emotional and outspoken in his art. That takes a ton of courage and I still struggle with being able to be that emotionally honest with myself in my work.

The Lost Art of Vinyl

2011-09-22T20:26:00.001-04:00

When I was younger, I found a console turntable and a crate of records in the back room of our house. I became an instant vinyl junkie. My first albums were pretty limited, but my first favorites were Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of The Moon and The Vapors’ New Clear Days (ironically, two albums that I still really love). It was both a hobby and an obsession. I could spend hours digging through musty old bins, crates, and boxes of records at resale shops and flea markets. I amassed quite a collection and I thought that it was just because it allowed me to buy lots of music on the cheap in a time of my life when I was solely dependent on my allowance. Somewhere around college, which coincided with the rise of Napster and digital music, I decided to get rid of my turntable and most of my records (heartbreaking, I know). I didn’t think that I was going to need them again and if you had any idea of the amount of music I have now, you probably wouldn’t think that I need it either.

A few months back, I got what was left of my vinyl from my parents’ house and started framing them as artwork. I have always loved the album art and the way it connections with the music. They look amazing, but as I sifted through them, I realized just how much I longed to listen to them. I hadn’t realized how much of a ritual it was. I missed shopping and collecting and without fail, I visited a local store and then got sucked right back in. I have also been buying stuff on eBay (If anyone is out there with random Smiths, Cure, R.E.M., or Depeche Mode albums hidden in a box somewhere, call me!). Then, I bought myself a new turntable, which arrived a few nights ago. When I got the first record on (a safety even, the Grease soundtrack), it was like a revelation… a time of solitude to worship at the audiophile alter to the gods of music genesis.

Don’t get me wrong, I do love seriously love my iPod. It’s always with me, ready to shuffle my entire library as needed. Sometimes I laugh that it houses a bit of my soul, but even with that, I felt like something was missing from my musical life. With vinyl, there is a ritual to listen to music. It invests your heart and mind in a way that just pushing play on an iPod doesn’t seem to capture. Listening to vinyl is an active art. It is time spent digging through musty old album covers, taking in the album art, studying the track list, and most times listening to a sequence of songs in the way that they were intended. There is a sense of pure satisfaction when I place the needle to the record, that slight bump, and then an imperfect start of a song. Each album, sounding a little different, tattooed with a pop or scratch here or there, letting you know that you are really listening to your copy of that album. It is something involved that somehow makes the music more special again.

Songs from an R.E.M. day...

2011-09-22T20:11:00.000-04:00

With the sad news that R.E.M. officially broke up this week, I thought that I would pick out a few of my favorites for fun as a sort of thank you for 31 years (my lifetime so far) of completely awesome music. Picking favorites is a difficult task because there is such an amazing list of things to pick from and I have just always really enjoyed their music. This list is a random picking of what has resonated with me a lot today, but tomorrow’s list could be dramatically different.

Oh My Heart

I’m not sure exactly what it is, but I’m always so emotional after hearing this song. It strikes me with a kind of beauty that makes me want to put it on repeat and listen for hours. This is a pretty cool video with the lyrics too... I like.

Leave

This is one of those songs where you can turn up the volume and just get loud and mad to let all of your aggression out. I remember it from the Life Less Ordinary soundtrack because it was a time in my life where I thought that Ewan McGregor was kind of awesomeness in being from the motherland and everything. Plus New Adventures in Hi-Fi is one of my favorite R.E.M. albums... the album art alone kills me.

Strange Currencies

I was never a huge fan of Monster as a whole (there are some great songs though), but this track in particular has always been super special to me. Mostly just cause it’s really fun, but also because I had the lyrics hanging in my room throughout college. Always the drama queen and especially loved good lyrics.

Pale Blue Eyes

I have always loved this song because I like to think of it as R.E.M.’s way to introduce me to the wonderfulness of The Velvet Underground. Peter Buck’s liner notes claim they butchered it, but it always sounds just right to me.

Songs that have been giving me vinyl fever… (The Smiths, The Cure, & The Vapors)

2011-09-16T21:37:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago (the day the car frenzy began actually), I went to a small, local record shop. Growing up, I lived for digging through crates of vinyl and had a decent collection. Somewhere around college, I stupidly gave away most of my collection, thinking that I wouldn’t ever be interested in it again. Grrrr, me. Seeing the price of some of that stuff now about kills me. Anyway, my little trip has completely rekindled my passion and it has been fueled by my eBay account. It turned into a feverish crazy in no time flat. I am particularly obsessed with finding Smiths albums, but I’m pretty sure that I’ll have better luck convincing the Marr and Moz to get back together and record some new songs.

The Smiths – A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours

My first Smiths album was Strangeaways, Here We Come. I bought a cassette copy of it from the previously mentioned record store. It was only fitting that my first Smiths vinyl would be the same. I could come up with some pretentious, long-winded reason why I love this song so much, but really it’s all about the growl. My love is simple like that. On my first website, I wrote an ode to Morrisey and The Smiths with particular emphasis on this song, so I just might have to dig that bad boy up. It actually got me my first weirdo, internet stalker email proposal.

The Cure – Let’s Go To Bed

It would be redundant to express my emotions for The Cure considering the number of times that I’ve done it previously, but it is still quite necessary to continue posting songs because they have so many awesome ones. This song has some significantly bad memories attached to it for me (think 14, Freshman year of high school, an immature boy, and a super emotional girl that worships The Cure), but I still think it’s completely hardcore awesome. Robert Smith… also still completely swoon worthy.

The Vapors – Spring Collection

So, we all have things in our life, small indiscretions that we’re not so proud of… mine was, *ahem* borrowing a few records from my brother’s DJ collection. Honestly, we have polar opposite music tastes, so I’m not sure how he ended up with The Vapors because they are great, underappreciated new Wave band, but I’m glad that it ended up with me. I would play this album constantly because I was obsessed with their accents and the idea of that cool British world where they lived. I particularly loved this song because he talks about blue hair and in my pinnacle of coolness had just dyed my hair blue. Probably not the most positive song to associate with myself, but whatever.

Songs that are on my permanent record... (Violent Femmes, The Smiths, R.E.M)

2011-09-08T20:17:00.000-04:00

I feel like I’m always writing this, but it really has been a long time since I last posted. The last few weeks have been more than a little insane with holidays, a miserable stomach bug, and some car trouble. After the car issues, I decided to buy a new car (an earth friendly Prius to fill out my hippie persona) and I ended up with a free trial of Sirius satellite radio. I never thought that I would want to pay for radio service, but the 90-day free trial has definitely woo’d me harder that I would like to admit. My favorite channels are Lithium and 1st Wave… I’m not sure that I could make better playlists myself. Today’s selections are based on the time spent listening to 1st Wave.

Violent Femmes – Kiss Off

It is impossible for me to listen to this song and not act and sing out to all of the awesome parts, which basically constitute the entire song. I don’t know if it’s because it’s something that I grew up loving or if it’s just really that awesome of a song, but I love the humor and drama to the whole thing. Good times, good times.

The Smiths – Panic

Speaking of drama, Panic makes me want to dance and sing with complete conviction about the demise of radio today. I realize that the song was written some 20 odd years ago, but in that time I think that the quality of popular music has continued to decline except in certain little pockets of alternative awesomeness. Mozzer falls in the category of awesomeness.

R.E.M. – Driver 8

Early R.E.M. (especially the Velvet Underground covers) always sort of blows my mind. Don’t get me wrong, I love their modern stuff too, but that early stuff is always especially gritty and fun to rock out to. It always feels young and experimental to me. I also just really love that no one else sounds like R.E.M. They are so distinct and interesting. This song is one of my favorites. Plus, there are some awesome covers out there (check out the Old 97’s cover – it’s especially great!).

2011 Books: Books 19 -24, Some YA Reading to Pass The Time

2011-08-15T20:27:00.005-04:00

19: If I Stay and 20: Where She Went
Including these two books, I really went down a depressing path with my reading selections for a little while there. If you’re planning on reading If I Stay and don’t want a spoiler, stop reading now. If I Stay is the story of Mia Hall, a young cellist that ends up the only survivor of a car accident where he entire her family died. From her coma, she narrates the while she tries to decide if she really wants to live. Here’s the spoiler – she lives, but ends up leaving her boyfriend Adam. Where She Went is from his perspective and describes when happenstance forces them to meet up again. I enjoyed reading both of these, but multiple times while reading the book, I did get the wiggins thinking about being trapped near my own comatose body. Sometimes, I found Mia a little annoying, but I still liked the story. I really preferred hearing the story from Adam’s perspective, but the end of their story got a little too saccharine for my tastes.

21: Dear Me: A Letter to My Sixteen-Year-Old Self
I absolutely adored this collection of letters that various celebrities (Mostly British people that I needed to look up) wrote to their 16 year old selves. The letters range from hysterical to heart breaking and were a great collection of advice and thoughtfulness. It made me think a lot about what I might write to 16yo Annie and in a lot of ways, I wondered what I would have wanted to write to a 31yo version of me back then. Maybe I’ll get around to writing that letter one of these days.

22: Vampire Academy and 24: Frostbite

Teenage vampire novels are definitely one of my guiltiest of pleasures. Both of these are from the Vampire Academy series and while neither of them were particularly awesome, I still ripped through them. I’m sure that I will also attack the final four books at some point. I’m not sure which one of these was written first, but this series reminds me a lot of the House of Night series, which seems odd to me because vampire boarding school seemed like a unique idea to me.

23: Photographs--Annie Leibovitz, 1970-1990

Not exactly reading, but I kind of worship this book. Annie Leibovitz inspires me and has since I was a budding photographer back in high school. Truthfully, I’m not much into photography anymore, but now, I focus on the way that she has found a way to use her art to really capture the essence of a person. She has a knack for capturing beautiful, truthful moments and I can’t help but look at the pages and feel inspired to do the same thing.

Songs about Mondays... (Pulp, Belle & Sebastian)

2011-08-15T20:17:00.000-04:00

And now you’re back here at Monday so we can do it all over again… I know that it’s cliché to complain about Mondays, so I decided to pick a couple of songs that would do it for me.

Pulp – Monday Morning

This is one of those dangerous songs that get me all amped up, so I can’t listen to it anymore when I’m driving. It has such a revved up sound and I love to just scream out the lyrics… most especially on Monday mornings. I guess I feel that way about most Pulp songs judging by the number of times I have been caught car dancing and working those magical lyrics with Jarvis.

Belle & Sebastian – Expectations

Sometimes I wish that I didn’t enjoy Belle & Sebastian quite so much because of the high number of annoyingly pretentious snobs that like to quote and talk about them like listening to them puts you in a special, secret society. The truth is that they are pretty awesome and I do kinda love this song.

Songs that are beautiful... (Remy Zero, The Cure, & Mr Mister)

2011-08-01T20:33:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been into music that sounds, but more importantly, feels really beautiful. It is amazing how a piece of music can communicate something between people that can’t be communicated with words alone. There is feeling and a life to music that is near impossible to describe. Maybe it’s our miracle. It is a secret way to really communicate our feelings to each other. Anyways, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Remy Zero – Fair

This song came on in the car on the way to work the other morning and I was just struck by how beautiful and disarming the song is. I’ve listened to it plenty of times during my obsession with the Garden State soundtrack, but the other morning, I think that I heard it and felt how special it was for the first time.

The Cure – Treasure

As I have mentioned many times before, there is something magically awesome about The Cure. They are sort of known as being all dark and gothic, but when I listen to them, I think the songs are these beautiful, emotional odes to love and feelings. Granted sometimes they are sad, like this song, but they are filled with such lyrical imagery and interesting music that each song feels like getting lost in a land of make believe. In my world, The Cure songs are my bedtime stories.

Mr Mister – Broken Wings

I’m sure that confusion abounds with this selection. I like to think of this as my first favorite song (it really wasn’t – at least the Annie soundtrack, Michael Jackson, and the Violent Femmes predated this musical obsession) because it’s so cheesy and time stamped, yet it is still kind of awesome. I can remember sitting around watching MTV (yes, the really used to be Music TV and played music and other cool music related, counter culture kind of stuff) and waiting for this to air. In a time where everything we’ve ever dreamed of wanting is always waiting for us on our computer screens, it’s nice to remember a time when your patience rewarded you with getting to hear your favorite song. Sounds annoying, but looking back, it actually made it a lot more special.

Songs for diggin' listening again...

2011-07-19T20:33:00.000-04:00

I would apologize that I haven’t written in awhile, but past that one year mark of starting the blog, I promised to give myself more leeway. With that said, I still feel guilty when I let things slip a little bit. I’ve been a bit musically selfish since I’ve been learning to play guitar and sing. It doesn’t exactly make sense to me because music usually just invites more music to me, but lately, I’ve felt the need to really concentrate on playing. Sometimes, it means that I turn off my iPod and just try to hear the music in my head. Luckily, I’m moving past that and I’ve been listening to a lot more music again. Maybe it had nothing to do with learning, but maybe it was just something to do with me and the things that I go through. Whatever. Anyway, here’s my latest picks:

Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here

This song will always be special to me for so many reasons. It has connections to people I love and it’s the first song that I’ve learned to play on guitar that I really connect with. It’s a beautiful song and the lyric (We’re just two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl year after year...) is probably one of my favorite of all time. I also learned this song on the day that I bought my first electric guitar. Something clicked for me with playing that day and I guess that I’ll always attribute it to this song.

Langhorne Slim – Blown Your Mind

Driving into work this morning, this song just sounded so perfect how I was feeling. It’s been a pretty odd, thinking sort of day. It’s a day for feeling introverted and reflective. Plus, it’s one of those songs that is super cathartic when you sing along with it. It’s been on repeat for the better part of the day. I dig that Langhorne Slim and look forward to getting to see him live again.

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit

I was watching some random video on YouTube the other day and this video displayed down the side. I can’t remember the last time I watched the video, but it’s funny how when I watch it, I remember exactly what it was like to be a 14 year old Annie. It reminds me of the summer that I refused to wear anything but cut off jean shorts, flannel, and combat boots. It makes me feel young, cool, and so very full of life and teenage angst. I love how a song has that much power.

Songs that were shuffled in...

2011-06-28T21:32:00.000-04:00

Ahhh, so close to vacation. Granted it’s just a long weekend, but four glorious days of hanging around my house watching woman’s pron (e.g. HGTV - Wanna know what really turns women on? Watching sweaty men in tight tee-shirts expertly fix home improvement disasters like Superman), painting, and practicing my guitar. What can I say, but I’m a simple girl and I enjoy the little luxuries of a lovely staycation.

I have been so focused on my music lessons that I haven’t spent a ton of time getting to just listen to music. So, my picks this week are more about what I’m learning and what my lovely little ipod keeps insisting on playing.

Billy Idol – White Wedding

My absolute, most favorite guilty pleasure is and has always been Billy Idol. I grew up in a time when he ruled MTV. Rebel Yell always sounded like perfection to me and I loved singing more more more along with him. What I didn’t realize in my youth was the actual subject matter of all of the songs. It just goes to show you that you can really enjoy something without understanding it. Anyway, I’m currently teaching myself how to play this song. I can’t listen to it without wanting to totally rock out and own it. It has led to more car dancing that I care to admit.

(http://youtu.be/AAZQaYKZMTI)

Julius Airwave – Nannerl

I can’t remember how I came across this band, but for a good two years I would listen to this album on a daily basis at work. There’s perfection to the songs. They fit a moment in my life and any time my iPod wants to throw me for a loop, it will shuffle this particular song in. Mess me up. You mess me up all day and I love it...

(http://youtu.be/TDp4rNPx_AM)

The Shins – Girl Sailor

The Shins fall into the same category as Julius Airwave. For a segment of my life, I listened to them non-stop and just worshipped the sound of their music. Every time Turn On Me comes one, I still have to exclaim to myself just how much I love it. Today alone, I think that Girl Sailor has shuffled like 3 times (out of the 6500 songs on my iPod!). Who am I to judge the fates if they’re trying to tell me something… or at least make me listen to same song over and over again. The good news is that it’s a great song.

(http://youtu.be/Rx90unirOEA)

2011 Books 14 - 18: Some Added Emotion, Please and Thank You

2011-06-14T20:37:00.000-04:00

14: A Shadow Falls – Nick Brandt

Again, this one probably is more like cheating because there wasn’t much to read, but I loved the book so much that I had to write about it. Awhile back, a friend at work had sent me a forwarded email with a bunch of Nick Brandt’s photos. I was completely blown away and intrigued. I read about him on his website and then was so sad to find that a bunch of the elephants that were photographed had been slaughtered. In all honesty, I was heartbroken and might have cried a bit (err… a lot). After such an emotional reaction, I bought the book. I’ve always been really interested in photography (as I’m sure that anyone who knew me growing up probably remembers), I love elephants, and it felt like a really good thing to support. When I received the book, I spent the afternoon studying each photo and just getting lost in the beauty of the images. So for that reason alone, I share this.

15: In Zanesville : a novel - Jo Ann Beard

I wanted to love this book. The concept was great. The setting was similar to my own adolescent hometown (To be honest, I was first interested in the book because I thought it was set in Zanesville, OH and I’m originally from Ohio). The characters were interesting, well-developed, and likeable. It also made me laugh a lot. The problem is that there was less of a plot and more of a random gathering of stories, a slice of these teenage girls’ lives. So much time and effort was put into developing these interesting pieces of the plot (the babysitting fiasco, all of the clothes on layaway, the fear of her father’s suicide, the family’s money issues, etc.), but not one of these things are ever dealt with. I felt like I invested a lot of time and energy and then the book just fizzled out at the end.

16: How to Talk to Famous People and Make Your Grandma Laugh - Tommy Leonard

This book was pretty odd, but it did make me laugh and entertained me when I couldn’t sleep one morning. I enjoyed the randomness of it and equate it to hanging out with that really weird friend that talks mostly nonsense and then comes out with random gems of insight. It didn’t change my life, but it was definitely entertaining enough. I’m still a little foggy at the general purpose of the book, but sometimes that’s ok.

17: Preludes & Nocturnes - Neil Gaiman

Growing up, I had some serious love for Robert Smith, so, one day at the record store, when I came across a poster/drawing of a guy that reminded me exactly of the awesomeness of Robert Smith, I had to have it. That poster hung in my bedroom all through high school, but ironically, I had never read any of Gaiman’s novels and I wasn’t really into comic books/graphic novels. On a random Kindle shopping spree, I bought The Graveyard Book and ended up absolutely loving it, which made me really interested in the Sandman series. I bought this without knowing much about the story, what to expect, or if I was going to enjoy that type of reading. I was pleasantly surprised that I found the story really engrossing, was really intrigued by the mythological aspect, and was really inspired by all of the art work.

18: Thirteen Reasons Why – Jay Asher

Friday night, I was flipping through my latest issue with Entertainment Weekly and was sucked in by an article discussing this book and Asher’s personal story. There is no way to spin it other than the fact that it’s a really sad story about a suicide victim leaving behind a collection of tapes that describe what happened to her and how each person fit into her story. What is overwhelming while reading this is that you really feel all of the emotions that the narrator is going through as he listens to the tapes – you want to help her, yell at her, cry, get mad, and somehow make it better. I’m really not sure how anyone could read it and not find themselves looking at the people around them a little closer and paying a bit more attention to their loved ones.

Songs for learning and performing...

2011-06-13T21:02:00.000-04:00

In my typical, overexcited, joyful exuberance, I have overextended myself. As I have mentioned a million times, I am learning to play guitar. I love it and am excited to find that as I learn (at a very, very slow snail’s pace), I find it all that much more exciting and fun. Instead of focusing my full attention there, I decided that I also need to learn how to sing while I'm playing. I thought that the two would neatly fit together and fill my life with music. I love both things, but honestly, it’s a lot more work than I had considered. My fingers are torn up and my abs are killing me... but it a sort of awesome, badass way. With that said, I apologize that I haven’t been posting quite as much and I attribute it to the amount of time that I have been practicing and how much I have had to focus on a few songs. So, my picks this week are the songs that I’m currently working on.

Sarah McLachlan – Blackbird

This has got to be one of Paul McCartney’s most beautiful songs. It sounds simple, yet it is still musically complex and beautiful. I’m working on this for my vocal lessons and would have picked The Beatles version, but the silence and singing birds really throw me off when trying to sing. Plus, I read somewhere that McCartney said that this song was perfect for McLachlan.

(http://youtu.be/aZJw9E_zGYM)

Simon and Garfunkel – I Am A Rock

Growing up, my friend Michael was so obsessed with this song. We’d have long discussions about music and he’d always tell me how he thought that this was the most miserable, dark, and lonely song and then he’d constantly play it. It shouldn’t make me laugh, but it reminds me of all those days of teenage angst, helping him write songs (by picking random chords) via ICQ when he was away at college, and that one night he caught me singing along to Counting Crows and told me that I can really sing. So for me, it has a bit of a sweeter meaning and I like to think that maybe it’s more of a call for help and less about shutting everyone else out.

(http://youtu.be/IVLFlkehGuU)

Songs for when my travels go wrong...

2011-06-04T10:02:00.000-04:00

I spent the last week or in dential that I had the flu and then being brought down hard by it. That's what happens when you fight the inevitable. Sadly, it finally took me down in the middle of my vacation to New York City. I crawled my way home early and spent the remainder of the holiday weekend hiding out in my bed. It wasn't so bad though. I got lost in a marathon of episodes of Medium and lots of sleep. However, this means that my music listening was pretty sparse, so this time, I picked songs that I have just always loved.

Simon & Garfunkel – Homeward Bound

Not until I was stranded, sick and alone is a big strange city did I fully understand the meaning of this song and just how much being home sick can completely take you over. Plus, when I feel down, bad, or whatever, nothing calms me and makes me feel safe quite like Paul Simon’s voice. Growing up, I would listen to my Simon & Garfunkel albums for hours while painting and writing and hanging out. They are a little bit of home to me. Plus, at the end of my whirlwind of a sicky trip, I can promise that I have never been quite so happy to see home.

(http://youtu.be/gtCDjV_WrDc)

The Smiths – This Charming Man

In general, I think The Smiths are considered a pretty depressing-sounding band, but it is impossible for me to listen to this song and not completely jam out and sing along… with my fake English accent and all. I think that I was born with an inheritant love witb both the Mozzer and Johnny Marr.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGnjrTkv1gs)

Scavenging in NYC

2011-05-24T21:50:00.001-04:00

I’m going to visit New York City again soon. I have been twice and both times, I had a lot of fun taking photos of all of the sights, but I really didn’t want to do that again. Between looking at things to do in the city an episode of Project Runway where they were given cameras and set loose in the city, I got the idea to set out on a bit of photography scavenger hunt this time around.

I started to create the list myself, but I obvious knew all of the places that I would go and realized that I was being far too easy on myself. To shake things up a bit, I sent a sample list to some of my family and friends and asked them to add items. You have got to love my friends. What has resulted is the following list:

Where I am staying
Something that tells me where I'm going
A street sign with a meaning
Something that inspires me
Something mentioned in literature
Someone doing their job
Something inviting
Something better in black & white
Something that makes me smile
Something abstract & unidentifiable
Something ugly made beautiful
Something purple
Something very old
Something very new & shiny
Something tasty/yummy
A recognizable place from a movie
Biggest fountain
Most unusual statue/sculpture
Best store window display
Most obvious tourist
Most peaceful place
Best advertisement
Something that represents dignity
Something that inspires hope
Something that inspires fear
Something that represents greed
Something with a contradiction
A ritual
Something that highlights different cultures
The most obvious fake cripple begging for money
Best dressed on the subway
Worst dressed on the subway
The most disgusting thing you find laying on the ground
Something that reminds you of Louis. :)
Something that reminds you of Lois. :)
The person with the most butt-crack showing in public. (Can't be you. That's cheating.)
Police horse poop from central park and a matching picture of what (or who) it looks like for comparison.
A phallic symbol
Typical NYC
Atypical NYC
An interesting view of the Brooklyn Bridge
2-story fast food restaurant
Something shady...as in a shady character
An NYC manhole cover
Something gothic - architecture counts
Something heavenly
Interesting graffiti
A record shop...actually selling vinyl records
A famous person
Something unexpected
Punk rock!
"The World's Best Coffee!" (think Elf)

My goal is to find something for every item on this list and in return maybe see some things in New York that I may have overlooked otherwise. I'll even try to post some of them on my Twitter/Instagram accounts as I go. Wish me luck and creativity.

My 2011 Reading List - Round 2

2011-05-23T21:03:00.000-04:00

This last week, I have been a little slower in reading and completing books… and some may say that a few of these are cheating, but whatever, and I honestly plan and really hope that I end up reading more than 26 books this year.

11. The Graveyard Book – Neil Gaiman

I grew up with a Sandman poster on my wall. Morpheus reminded me of a hotter (less makeup) version of Robert Smith, but to be honest, while I loved the art work, I had never read any of the Sandman series. I’ve actually never read any comics. So, while looking for my next read, I came across The Graveyard Book and was immediately drawn into the story. Without giving too much away, it’s about a boy who’s family is murdered and he wanders into a graveyard where all ghosts (and other creatures) adopt and raise him. It’s the story of him growing up and it’s quite compelling. I’m always amazed when a writer can make up an entirely new world and make it feel real.

12. Where The Sidewalk Ends – Shel Silverstein

In elementary school, we would all fight and wait to check out the Shel Silverstein books. He made going to the library fun and exciting. This has been one of my favorite books for such a long time, yet I hadn’t sat down and read the whole thing through in a very long time. I found that some of the poems just seemed silly to me now, but then again when I’d get to my favorites, I felt sucked right back into that excited seven year old that could never get enough of the Homework Machine (from Light in the Attic) and band aids.

13. How To Avoid Making Art – Julia Cameron

This is the one that I felt like maybe I was cheating a little by adding it to the list. This is a book of goofy cartoons that depict all of the ways that we avoid making our art in life. It really made me laugh and a few too many sections hit home a little too hard, but that’s exactly what I love about Julia Cameron’s writing/books/philosophies/etc. I’m a big fan of The Artist Way (avid morning pager and currently working my way through Walking In This World). This book was a helpful, fun reminder that it’s not good to make excuses to avoid being artistic.

Thoughts on Amos Lee (Part Deux)

2011-05-23T20:54:00.000-04:00

The first time I saw Amos Lee live was also the first time that I heard him sing. I was instantly floored, amazed, and completely enamored (here's my proof). To say that I had high expectations going into Friday night’s show would be an understatement. Again, I found myself floored, amazed, and completely enamored. What I think that gets me the most is that he comes across as very shy, reserved, and maybe even a little bit stoic, but then he sings and the entire room is just completely flooded with this crazy, emotional surge. The honest, sincerity of it all just gives me chills. Suffice it to say that I was a happy ticket holder.

I have mentioned on multiple occasions that I would pick some of my famous Amos songs, so I am finally going to follow through on that promise.

El Camino

I always love that his songs are about real life and real people. They never feel falsely dramatic or steeped in some kind of movie-haze that corrupts and run counter to a real human experience. This song is a perfect example and I’m pretty sure that I could listen to it on repeat for about 10 hours and still love it. All my ships have sailed away…

(http://youtu.be/8SPnX_mHYOw)

Seen It All Before

I’m not sure that any song brings out my car singing diva-ness more than this one. I get all soulful with attitude. It’s a funny sight, but this is a flippin’ amazing song. And lordy, what girl wouldn’t want to be all baby baby baby’d by him. I’ve seen everything your twisted smile conveys. I ain’t gonna be your fool baby…

\
(http://youtu.be/aXvSwN9DFzQ)

Supply and Demand

I also really love that all of his songs are full of meaning, soul, emotions, and spirit and in addition, they sound awesome and you just want to cut loose and groove to them. The more I strive, the less I’m alive…

(http://youtu.be/rC7MM2n6Z6w)

2011, My Year of The Big Read

2011-05-17T20:41:00.001-04:00

Happily, this is one of this year’s goals that I am completely engrossed in. I figured that I would do a quick, sweeping update of the books that I have read so far in 2011. While my goal is 26, I am really hoping that I can have a stellar year of reading and bypass that number early on. Also, I'm going to link to Amazon so it's easy to read about the book (and buy, if you like), but if all of their stuff is too distracting, then someone, please let me know. Also, if you're on Shelfari, find me (http://www.shelfari.com/awdylanis) and save me from the site always telling me that my profile isn't done because I don't have enough friends (stupid judgmental site!).

1: The Year of Yes - Maria Dahvana

My mom actually suggested this book to me and found it for me at the library to read. This is a supposed memoir, which I only sort of believe because parts of it feel so embellished for impact. The main character, annoyed with her current dating pool, decides to say yes to anyone who asks her. It was a fun read and definitely made me laugh a lot, but I spent a large portion of the time wondering how she did not get herself murdered.

2: Stuff White People Like

A co-worker loaned me this one, which is based on the website of the same name. It was funny, but in my true casperesque-whiteness, I did find myself feeling a little defensive now and then. Starbucks IS cool and my music tastes suit me just fine! Ha, but honestly, considering that it sat on my bedside table for about 6 months half read, I feel like it probably made a much better website for visiting when work is slow.

3: The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Midnight - LJ Smith

To quote The Avett Brothers... shame, boat loads of shame. Yes, I am one of those grown up women who fall prey to all the crazy teenage vampire novels. I would try to explain the plot, but it’s like 9 books in and unless you’re reading them, they won’t make any kind of sense. All I can say is that the night I finished this book, I was inconsolably bawling my eyes out (hope that doesn’t spoil anything for anyone) and just so completely engrossed in the book. The last few books in this series have been so much fun and I am heartbroken to learn that they fired LJ Smith and will have a ghost writer complete the series. I’d say that I’d stop reading them, but I’m little more hooked on bad boy Damon than I would like to admit.

4: Bossypants - Tina Fey

This book is just Tina Fey being Tina Fey. As with any girl in my demographic, Tina Fey is my hero. I obsessively read this book in under 24 hours. I remember sitting at Starbucks at lunch (hey! I should get a free drink or something for my numerous mentions of Starbucks) and about falling out of my chair because I was laughing so hard. I think the cool thing about Tina Fey is that she just seems like a cool person to hang out with. I would also like to be invited to her Manhattan Christmas.

5: The Hunger Games, 6: Catching Fire, 7: Mockingjay - Suzanne Collins

I followed up the Tina Fey reading sprint with a three day marathon of reading the Hunger Games trilogy. I don’t even know how to describe these books without making them sound silly, weird, or gruesome, but there was something about the writing and the characters that just completed pulled me in and wouldn’t let me go until I knew everything that happened. The books actually haunted me for days after reading them. I absolutely adore reading a story that can do that to me.

8: Water for Elephants - Sara Gruen

I was never particularly interested in knowing what it is like living in a nursing home or in a circus, but I still found this book fascinating. It felt really genuine, but I did spend a lot of time contemplating how much I didn’t think that Robert Pattinson or Reese Witherspoon fit their roles at all. In the end, I fell in love with the elephant and I spent far too long afterwards contemplating why I had not ever considered becoming a vet.

9: Just Kids - Patti Smith

I picked up the memoir of Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe on a whim. I didn’t know too much about either of their lives or their work, but I saw that most of it happened in New York City and thought that I would give it a try. I have never wanted a time machine so badly in all of my life. While reading, I dreamed of running away to be with my people (I have dubbed them in my mind to be of similar dispositions). Even more interesting is that I’m heading to NYC in a few weeks and it has now become my purpose to finally see the Chelsea Hotel. In addition, Patti Smith has quite a way with words and she knows how to make the story true and real for her readers. Again, I knew what was coming at the end - I knew of Mapplethorpe’s fate and the beginning of the book even tells you, but I was still completely heartbroken... and again sobbing.

10: When You Reach Me - Rebecca Stead

I love children’s literature and after the intensity of Just Kids, I needed something a little bit lighter. This book, with a subtle hint at syfy and mystery, a NYC setting, and the awesome third element of the $10,000, was a fun and an engaging read. I loved the main character Miranda and enjoyed figuring out what was going to happen. Good times.

43 Things... errr, for 2011

2011-05-17T20:38:00.000-04:00

About a year ago, I found the website 43 things and got the idea in my head to try new things and then write about it. Ok, so not entirely the most original, but it still sounded like a lot of fun and a good challenge for me. Unfortunately, about a month later, my working life got turned upside down and it took just about everything in me to keep afloat. I am happy to say that 9 months later, things are feel a little more settled and I am ready to embark on a set of goals for 2011.

At first, I wanted to come up with 50 things that I would like to do before the end of the year, but aside from it being a little too advantageous, there is a short list of things that mean a lot to me that I have already been working on and I didn't want to overwhelm myself and then end up losing focus on them. Anyway, here is my current list:

Read 26 books
Learn to play guitar
Be more green
Embrace a vegetarian lifestyle

While these are my immediate goals, I have a list of about 30-odd other things that interest me and I'll continue to add to that list as time goes and my interests wax and wane. You can follow my progress here (obviously) and on 43 things.

Songs from a long week... (Elefant, The Airborne Toxic Event)

2011-05-14T17:01:00.000-04:00

Sadly, it's been a really long week for me and I haven't had as much time as usual for music. I only have have two selections, but they are pretty fantastic, so I will have to hope that I'm forgiven. I am keeping up with my guitar lessons and am currently working on Sunshine of Your Love and Green River... everyone needs a little CCR in their repertoire. I do keep hoping for a Stones song... not that I want to be like Keith Richards, but those boys know how to boogie.

Elefant - My Apology

In one of my more vain moments, I found Elefant while searching iTunes for songs that featured my name in the title (Annie is a pretty fantastic actually). I loved them instantly because they had such a haunting sound that reminded me of some of my favorite artists - The Cure, The Smiths, and Joy Division. After I found their cover of Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want, I was hooked. I guess that all of their songs tend to hit me in the same haunting, emotional exhaustive way that just makes me want to rock. The lyrics here are especially beautiful and insightful. Just look into my eyes, you're killing me with you love...just set me free from your touch.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIJ_pQls3IU)

The Airborne Toxic Event - The Book of Love

This was a match made in heaven for me because I adore covers, The Magnetic Fields, The Airborne Toxic Event, and songs with snarky, yet insightfully beautiful lyrics. Stephin Merritt writes some of the most amazing and beautiful songs that I've heard, but when he sings there is also an edge and a bit of distance like the feelings are a bit distasteful, and I love that about it. In contrast, when Mikel Jollett sings it, he feels vulnerable and emotionally exposed. Plus, the entire sound of ATE is so rich and full, it makes the song even more emotional. It makes me feel exactly like I feel when I'm falling in love. The two versions of the song feel complete different to me and that just blows my mind. But I love it when you read to me and you can read me anything...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CKat0z07kw)

Songs with a little romance...

2011-05-08T19:58:00.000-04:00

Considering that my life is pretty much romanceless these days, I guess that I'm having to live vicariously. Maybe it's more something about favorite songs from my past, the endless hours they spent on repeat, that catch my heart and make me a little extra emotional. Whatever it is, here's a new one and two oldies but goodies.

Florence + The Machine - Kiss With A Fist

I'm guessing that I shouldn't want to dance this much to a song outlining domestic violence, but I do. I really wanted to dislike Florence + The Machine because her "quirky" Stevie Nicks look sort of annoys me a little bit, but I find the lyrics to be quirky and the tunes to be pretty rockin'. I guess I should know better than to judge based solely on looks.

(http://youtu.be/ar4Xdt_7too)

The Killers - Romeo and Juliet

All I do is kiss you through the bars of a rhyme... Pure perfection. I'm sure that I've probably posted this song multiple times, but that's just a testament to just how much I love it. The first time I heard this song was in Empire Records. Remember Mark tried to hit on the ballerina listening to the headphones? Ahh, good times. I loved it instantly. I can't do the talk, like the talk on the TV. And I can't do a love song like the way it's meant to be. I can't do everything but I'll do anything for you. I can't do anything except be in love with you...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87cLyBR1JTo)

The Cure - The Walk

The Cure are one of those bands that I was raised on. Somewhere around 6th grade, I remember visiting my sister Anissa in Pennsylvania. They had gotten their first CD player for their stereo (later that same CD player was gifted to me). Anyway, they were excited to listen to their CDs, so she let me borrow a bunch of her cassette tapes. I remember Echo & The Bunnymen, The Psychedelic Furs, and The Cure's Staring At The Sea (cue ohs and ahs). My entire idea of romance is based on the ridiculous number of hours that I have spent listening to Robert Smith croon. Anyway, this song shuffled on my phone the other day and it just struck me how awesome and funky it sounds Plus, I love anything with a patented Robert Smith maow. I kissed you in the water and made your dry lips sing...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCyQ8ncP978)

Songs for planning my escape... (Simon & Garfunkel, The Airborne Toxic Event, & Rik Mayall)

2011-04-28T20:18:00.000-04:00

I'm New York bound again in a few weeks and my head has been full of possibilities and ideas. I love when the strategic details of a trip are in place and then I can just focus on the things to do once I'm there. It involves a lot of crazy daydreams, Google Maps, and endless lists of things I've seen in movies or heard mentioned in songs or books. Perfectly coinciding with my trip, I stubbled across Patti Smith's memoir called Just Kids, which has made it completely essential that I see the Chelsea Hotel on my trip. Well, the rest, as always, is still up in the air... wherever my feet end up taking me.

Simon & Garfunkel - At The Zoo

It is common knowledge that I adore Paul Simon. He opens up my heart with every song and I always aspire to have my own writing have the same effect on people. I'm pretty sure that it is because of this song that I am obsessed with visiting the Central Park Zoo. I will go and I will listen to this on my iPod at least 5 times while there. However, my favorite part of this song is that perfect moment where Simon is singing and you can literally hear him smile. That is pure magic.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xKLBne1CoI)

The Airborne Toxic Event - Changing

This week brought some excitement because the latest album from Airborne Toxic Event was released and in pure joy, it is fantastic. I've had this single for awhile, but it felt like a good choice until I've had more time to listen to all of the new stuff. Plus, I've spent an enormous amount of time car dancing to this song this week. There is something about Mikel Jollett that I just love. With the suits, thin ties, and his snarky sense of defiance, he hints at bit of Rik Mayall in the Young Ones (I mean that as an awesome compliment cause I think Rik Mayall is about the awesomest person around). Who knows... the point is that this song is pretty kick ass and awesome.

(http://youtu.be/59bLUwYONEI)

And now, I'm off to watch The Young Ones. The favorite part of this clip is his dancing to The Human League. I about fall down every time I see it. So maybe there isn't much of a comparison, but this is some funny, funny stuff.

Songs to keep you busy... (Jakob Dylan, The Beach Boys, and Belle & Sebastian)

2011-04-19T20:09:00.000-04:00

So whoops, I sorta lost a week in there somewhere. I have been busy. Doing what you ask? Hmm, well, I dunno... stuff. Mostly it has been a lot of me running around complaining about how busy and mostly because I'm wasting a lot of time complaining about how busy I am. Go figure. I want to pretentiously say that I have been avoiding the television (up until the latest 30 Rock is dvr'd) and getting a lot of reading in, which is true, but if asked, the list of what I've been reading will probably negate the whole thing (2 YA novels and Tina Fey's book). With all of that said, I finally managed to squeak in some time to pick out some songs.

Jakob Dylan - Smile When You Call Me That

If I could pick anyone (today anyway), I would want Jakob Dylan to lullaby me to sleep each and every night. This is such a funny, snarky song, but it's amazing just how much feeling he puts into it. Just wonderful.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkn-iKTIVnc)

The Beach Boys - Wouldn't It Be Nice

I got to see The Beach Boys the other night. I bought tickets because I thought it would be fun and I love being able to see any of those iconic bands from the 1960's. When they first started singing, I thought it was a recording, but they just sounded that good. I guess that I never realized just how many popular songs they had and how some of the songs just blow my mind. I can't listen to this song without dancing and singing along and trying to harmonize.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-E4FRtrD9aQ)

Belle & Sebastian - If You Find Yourself Caught In Love

I don't even want to admit how much grief it caused me today to realize that half of my iPod had Belle & Sebastian and the other half was Belle and Sebastian. Damn tags. Anyway, I'm not even sure how to explain them, but there is just something about them that make you feel like you have to be listening to them. That they will somehow calm your nerves, understand your problems, and even let you enjoy a sweet little kickback retro sound. I guess that's why I love them. Thanks Belle & Sebastian.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de8OlR7G1xU)

Songs for working, working, working... (Langhorne Slim, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones)

2011-04-07T20:08:00.000-04:00

I have been so super busy this week, that I just now have realized that it's almost the end of the week and I haven't updated. In my defense, I've been super busy at work, sidelined with the flu, and still trying to learn to play a song on the guitar (errr, I seriously suck). Anyway, the truth of it all is that I have actually been listening to way more music than normal, but I've spent a lot of time back in the roots of my music tastes and my picks reflect that.

Langhorne Slim - Land of Dreams

Ever since I saw him live, I have been listening non-stop to Langhorne Slim. He's makes me oh-so super swoony. This is a seriously beautiful song and I can't help but be so drawn in by his lyrics. He tells these amazingly detail-rich stories that tempt my imagination and suck me into this dreamy state. It's fun to get a little lost and dreamy sometimes. Everyone becomes invisible in the land of dreams...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_qgh2jLr0Y)

The Beatles - Yesterday

Every time I hear this song, I am more and more floored by just how beautiful, emotional, and honest it is. Paul McCartney captures emotions in a way that can both unbalance and steady my heart. I lovingly joke that music is my religion and I can say that with 100% certainty that all I ever needed to understand about love came from Paul McCartney (ok, maybe a few others too, but Paul definitely tops that list). Suddenly, I'm not half the man I used to be, there's a shadow hanging over me...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRNn5nR2Yco)

The Rolling Stones - Mother's Little Helper

What a drag it is getting old... When I want to rock out, dance, and just have a good time, I always turn to early Rolling Stones tracks. There is something so amazing and infectious about Jagger's spirit that makes me dream and wish that I was back in England in the 60's. Growing up, I would put the A-side of Flowers on the record player in my room and just listen over and over again while I painted. Even now, when I listen to the album, it gives me that feeling back and I'm always amazed at how good it sounds.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfGYSHy1jQs)

Songs for philosophizing... (The Avett Brothers & Langhorne Slim)

2011-03-27T19:53:00.000-04:00

Friday night, I was lucky enough to have a ticket to The Avett Brothers show at Ruth Eckerd Hall. It was one of those perfect nights filled with great music. I went to the show alone. Sometimes it's a little scary to do things alone, but what I've noticed is that when I'm alone, I'm so much more aware of everything that is going on around me. I guess that I dig it because I feel like I experience things more fully.

Langhorne Slim - Restless

One of the best things that can happen at a concert is when the opening act is someone new that you haven't heard of before and they just knock you out. Langhorne Slim was the epitome of that. His stage presence was energetic (he jumped out into the seats and played while walking across the back of the seats), soulful (he's a storyteller in the truest Bob Dylan/Paul Simon sense of the word... aware of people and feelings and beautiful moments), and intelligent. His voice gave me chills. One song in and I was completely sold. So, after his set, I went to the merch booth to buy albums and he was there, signing autographs and taking photos with everyone. The most surprising part was that he had such a crazy stage presence, yet back with his fans he was so soft-spoken, humble, and unbelievably sweet to everyone. A very cool dude... and I (along with everyone else) totally have a giddy little crush on him now. Anyway, I had a hard time choosing a single song to post, so I'm sure that I'll post more later after I've had more time to listen to them all.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElwMp0qK1xc)

And just cause I'm stuck in ninth grade mentality where a photo makes me so silly happy, I have to share this...

The Avett Brothers - Head Full Of Doubt/Road Full Of Promise

I know that I've written about The Avett Brothers many times already this year, but when people say that you need to see them live to fully understand their impact, they are not joking. First of all, their music is amazing to me because there is a deep, soulful intelligence and maturity in what they sing. The songs are about love, family, and soul searching. They are honest, emotional, and real and seem to have a knack for capturing these beautiful moments of questioning vulnerability. Sitting in that hall, there was such an overwhelming sense of love and connection. It made me feel hopeful for humanity... a really amazing moment. And this is a really beautiful song...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWakav29dBs)

Songs for endings...

2011-03-22T21:33:00.000-04:00

While normally, I would fill this introduction by whining or waxing on about my personal life, I think that I may just skip the drama this week. For once, I'm just sorta over feeling bad and being down on things and about things. I'm sure that we're all good to just get to my hodgepodge music picks for the week.

The Avett Brothers - The Perfect Space

In case you missed the 101 and times that I've mentioned it, but I'm so excited to see The Avett Brothers this weekend. Serious hardcore awesomeness. I'll admit that it took me a few listens to really get into these guys, but once that first song hit me, every song after it just started sounding more and more amazing. The lyrics on this song in particular just blow my flippin' mind. I want to have friends that I can trust. That love me for the man I have become not the man that I was...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLUWYVJzEOg)

Brandi Carlile - Hiding My Heart

Can I just leave this one with an ohh and ahhh of awesomeness and let it be enough of a description? I wish that I could lay down beside you when the day is done, wake up to your face against the morning sun. But like everything I've ever known, you'll disappear one day, so I'll spend my whole life hiding my heart away.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuhWzgI300c&feature=related)

The Like - Wishing He Was Dead

The Like have such a great kickback sound to those awesome girl groups from the early 60's, yet they add some rockin' and a some snarky humor. And really, what girl doesn't need a little angry girlie music now and then.

Glen Phillips - Didn't Think You Cared

What really makes me sad here is that I can't find a copy of this song to share (I think that I've tried this a few times before) and the song is just absolutely amazing. Why oh why isn't someone just dying to post this song? Oh, sigh. Anyway, it is on Mr. Lemons, which is also jammed packed with amazing songs (including Everything But You and Blindsight). I highly suggest a listen... if you really want, call me and I'll put the phone up to the speakers so you can hear it.

Songs for avoiding society...

2011-03-16T21:20:00.000-04:00

Ok, so these aren't really songs about avoiding anything, but my mood lately has been one where it feels easier to just hide out and watch the world from behind my lovely Ikea curtains. I'm questioning a lot of things and it's either extremely long overdue or completely indulgent. Haven't really decided which one yet. Anyway, the coolest thing going on is that I'm trying to teach myself to play guitar. Truth of the matter is that I'm getting tired of lazily strumming the thing and acting all pretentious and cool, so it might be time to hire a teacher and reallly learn something.

Old 97's - Every Night Is Friday Night (Without You)

For my birthday, I got to see Old 97's live (yeah! It's been 10 years) and it was a seriously fun and rocking show. They are such an energetic, amazing live band and it was a really great time. The first time that I saw them was the first time that I heard them and they were opening for Chris Isaak. I remember leaving that show and just being completely in love with them and I've been a fan ever since. The really important message that I hope that you get from this is that Rhett is just so ohhhh super dreamy... and that this song is really fun.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxraWZvvHfI&feature=related)

Have Gun, Will Travel - Come, All Ye Sinners

Have Gun, Will Travel opened for the Old 97's and I was kind of blown away and also really excited to find that they are a local band (really looking forward to seeing them again). Bought a couple of albums and was equally impressed. This is just music that makes you groove and feel good.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afw2ZTEwukQ)

Sea Wolf - The Violent Hour

I will admit that I know of this song and the band because of the New Moon soundtrack and then I will hang my head in shame for a few seconds. With that said, this song is kind of amazing and lyrics are like sweet honey.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4S7ditaglUY)

The Black Keys - Never Gonna Give You Up

Seriously, who doesn't love The Black Keys these days? I would be snarky about it, but they are seriously badass and deserve the hype. This is one of those covers that reminds me exactly why I love covers so much... so unexpected that it just sorta makes you say wow.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBT0p5_DzNk)

Happy (very belated) Birthday George Harrison

2011-03-07T19:35:00.000-05:00

This is my very late attempt to celebrate George Harrison's birthday. And what better way to celebrate than to listen to some awesome Harrison tunes and post a dorky photo of me with a poster of him.

George Harrison - My Sweet Lord

This is absolute essential Harrison. Such a beautiful and amazing song.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wynYMJwEPH8)

The Beatles - Something

The second I saw this was followed by a long awwwwwww it's Pattie. If you don't know who Pattie Boyd Harrison Clapton is, go do your research. Very interesting figure in Beatles lore... especially if you're a George Harrison fan. Plus, I want her entire wardrobe from the 60's.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzkhOmKVW08)

George Harrison Tribute - While My Guitar Gently Weeps

What an awesome collection of musicians playing tribute. Seeing Dhani there kinda makes you feel like you're sucked back to 1964.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYl942_I3Wo)

George Harrison - Breath Away From Heaven

Still has to be one of the most beautiful songs that I've ever heard.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6C_7h0NYTg)

Songs for getting older...

2011-02-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

As I like to remind everyone starting around November, tomorrow is my birthday. I am always so excited when the day is coming, but as it gets closer, I start thinking a little too hard about my life and thinking too much about one's life is never a good move. On the other side of that, I'm ready to celebrate. In thinking about the last year and everything that has happened, I realize that some of it was pretty difficult and trying, but for the most part, this last year has been so full of surprises and cool things that I have to dub it one of the best years of my life. I guess you can't get any better than that, and I go into the next year with an open mind and an open heart.

The Beatles - Birthday

I can't think of anyone other than John, Paul, George, and Ringo that would be more awesome to have sing happy birthday to you. Plus, this song totally rocks.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztoSUhbNntQ)

The Avett Brothers - All My Mistakes

As with all Avett Brothers' songs, this is just beautiful and the lyrics are pure poetry. Plus, I think it's a perfect sentiment for this time of the year. But I can't go back and I don't want to 'cause all my mistakes, they brought me to you...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDQc6SMNwgY)

G. Love - 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover

This isn't exactly the best video (it just sort of dies halfway through), but this is a seriously cool cover. Take the awesomeness of Paul Simon (my writing hero) and then funk it up with some G. Love. Good times.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQX-XaoKjRc&feature=related)

Songs for cruising...

2011-02-21T20:29:00.000-05:00

I'm sure that you probably think that title means songs for taking a leisurely car ride, but you would be wrong. Life has been pretty crazy lately. I've spent more time in emotional tizzies than I care to admit. The thing is that it has all sort of mellowed out and I've found this serene state of calm and happiness. The cynic in me is screaming to delete that last statement as fast as possible before the fates hear and right my life back to the drama show fit for my silly little Pisces butt... I'm not going to do that. I'm just going to enjoy this, close my eyes to my pessimism and hope like hell that reality just knocks me out when it pops back around the corner. So anyway, here the songs that have been getting me through the last week.

Jack's Mannequin - Swim

Ok, so this isn't one of my normal picks. I love dark, depressing, jilted lovers songs and I'm pretty sure that this is about this guy being optimistic through his battle with cancer. I want to make some snarky comment, but honestly, how can you? This song is pretty badass. The video is a little annoying, so just focus on the music.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sA8PaIw5gcE)

Jakob Dylan - Everybody's Hurting

Ok, I'm not going to lie, the man is beautiful, but when he sings, I want to close my eyes and get lost in that sound. This sad, yet sweet combination that sings of something beautiful and heartbreaking all at once. This song always makes me take a deep breath, which always means that it's just a little beyond kind of amazing.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgigjciOUu8)

Wham! - A Different Corner

Ok, I can hear the collective groan, but before you judge, you have to really listen to this song. Worst thing that happens is that you get to laugh at a video of George Michael where he has a crazy mullet and a cool 80's sweater. Honestly, I have loved this song for so long that it's hard for me to tell anymore if it's really that good or if the years of loving it have made me grow a little too fond of it. I'd say that love was a magical thing. I'd say that love would keep us from pain. Had I been there...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPWHkK-_a_A)

Two Door Cinema Club - Something Good Can Work

And on a different note, something completely different that will make you feel good and need to dance. I guess that I'm just all over the board in my emotions these days.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PorW3y5n1w)

(Cover) Songs for Over Thinking Everything...

2011-02-15T20:11:00.000-05:00

Take a brain + some crazy lusty hormones + super emotional heart + a lot of inappropriate snarky comments and then times it by my hyperactivity and you have the crazy town that is me lately. Mostly, I just want to tell my brain to shut up, give my heart a valium, and let things get back to the basics, but life is never quite that easy, is it? Anyway, here are some kick ass covers.

Brandi Carlile - Creep (Live In Boston)

On the way home tonight, this song came on in the car and while it is amazing, it is also one of my favorite covers. The original is pretty awesome too and fun to rock out to in Rock Band. I guess that there is just something about it that is so sad, and you really don't want to relate, but I'm sure that everyone has been there. Digging on someone so hard, craving their attention, trying to make them happy, doing goofy shit to screw up your situation, and then kind of realizing that it shouldn't be so difficult. I couldn't actually find the released version of it, but this video gives you an idea. I don't care if it hurts. I wanna have control. I want a perfect body. I want a perfect soul. I want you to notice when I'm not around...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALYbUpNN5rE)

R.E.M. - Dream (All I Have To Do)

This is most definitely my favorite and the cover that I spent the most time trying to find... the internet makes it all so much easier these days. I was just talking to my friend about this song the other day, so I had to include it and spread the awesomeness. Oh, and thank goodness for dreams and the loveliness they allow. Dream, dream, dream...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQ_NzJs5xgQ)

Songs for #$@%& Valentine's Day...

2011-02-13T21:06:00.000-05:00

Bleh. Valentines Day. Hmpf. Excuse my Eeyore moment, but the only thing that sucks more than being single on Valentine's Day is being single and hopelessly adoring someone that you just can't tell. Silly heart, always trying to make my love life like some dumb RomCom... kind of wishing that I was a little bit cooler of a heroine too.

Adele - Chasing Pavements

This is a seriously demented video and it kinda freaks me out, but the song is really beautiful. I've actually been meaning to use it for a couple of weeks now because it so perfectly explains my current state of confusion and indecision. If I tell the world, I'll never say enough because it was not said to you, and that's exactly what I need to do...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08DjMT-qR9g)

Sheryl Crow - I Shall Believe

I love when Sheryl Crow sings really beautiful, honest, emotional songs, and this is really one of them. This song always gets me in the gut and it is near impossible for me to listen without giving it my complete Aretha Franklin (aka singing all dramatic and diva-like). It seems like every time I try to make it right, it all comes down on me. Please say honestly you won't give up on me, and I shall believe...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3Nnrj6i9Vk)

Nicole Atkins - Cry, Cry, Cry

I usually pick songs because they match my emotional state, but this one was picked just because I was super excited because the new Nicole Atkins album came out this week. You ought to ask her if two wrongs make a right cause our love's a dark disaster since I turned on the light...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx2YlQR1mts)

The Avett Brothers - Murder in the City

Ok, I'm just going to admit that I choke up a little bit every time I listen to this song. It's so sweet, honest, and vulnerable... it really reminds me of the things that are really important in life and just how much love guides us (... even when we're hiding off on our islands). So, I take this as my Valentines Day song for 2011 and will focus on all of the love I do have in my life... and you'll never hear me complain about getting to see close ups of those sweet, sweet Avett Brothers blues in the video.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aE7rkSELM3I)

Songs to...

2011-02-07T21:07:00.000-05:00

The past week? No comment.

I feel like Doogie Houser, staring at the cursor and trying to tone down the cheese factor on my inner monologue. When times are tough, I can deal. I'm good with emotional, angry, and self-righteous. What throws me is when things are good... and even more so when things are consistently good. What if the world isn't 100% suck and pushing that Sisyphus bolder of emotions up the hill?
What if...

Lisa Loeb - Truthfully

I always kinda wanted to be more like Lisa Loeb... cool indie chick with a guitar, funky glasses, and a heart that comes out sounding like butter when I sing. Anyway, I think that this song is really sweet and kind of perfect. Truthfully, I really can’t explain, I’m floating, I’m smiling again... But the last thing that I want to do is to tell you that I’m right for you.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXl9OUjYuMc)

Alexi Murdoch - Orange Sky

The first time I heard Alexi Murdoch, he was opening for someone (errr... I can't seem to remember now but it was Sheryl Crow or Alanis...). Anyway, the point is that I can't even remember who else I saw that night because his voice and sound just completely blew me away. He was so handsome and that sound in his voice just completely melted me. Still does every time I listen. In your love, my salvation lies. In your love, in your love, in your love.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzD9oeeN5bw)

The Avett Brothers - Kick Drum Heart

Ahhh drums. I want to take the feeling this song gives me, wrap it up in a little box, and carry it around with me everywhere I go. Good times. It's not the chase that I love, it's me following you...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uy4tK5q0KE)

Songs that allow me to feel...

2011-01-30T20:15:00.000-05:00

There is something that I don't understand about myself. Maybe it's way that everyone is, but it frustrates me to no end. When I care about someone and feel all emotional, I can't accept and enjoy those those feelings until I know how the other person feels. It's a silly way to live life, being so terrified of being the vulnerable one with the feelings. When did it become so embarrassing to care about another person? The interesting thing is that when I listen to music, it's the only time I let go and allow myself to feel what I'm feeling. And embarrassing or not, this is how I've been feeling.

Jack Johnson - Angel

Ahhh, Jack Johnson... even mainstream success and millions of adoring fans cannot crush my pure love for your music. This man knows how to love and how to write a super awesome song that makes you grove and just feel so damn good. This song makes everything about me want to smile. You're so busy changing the world. Just one smile and you could change all of mine. We share the same soul...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9wu-lAQBHw)

Aretha Franklin - (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman

I know that this is Carole King masterpiece, but Aretha just takes it to a total diva level of awesomeness. Watching this makes me want to be sucked back into the awesome 60's. Also, my real singing most definitely does not sound like this at all, but in my head, this is what I sound like... all that heart and emotion just ripping right through the song. When my soul was in the lost and found, you came along and claimed it...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yi6dqhi8Ptw)

Elton John - I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues

Yeah, yeah... so this song is so sweet, but when you really listen to the lyrics, it is so super sexy. I could listen to this song on repeat for the next 3 hours and never get tired of it because it just sounds that flippin' good. And I guess that's why they call it the blues. Time on my hands, could be time spent with you. Laughing like children, Living like lovers, Rolling like thunder under the covers...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6KYAVn8ons)

Songs for thinking...

2011-01-26T20:03:00.000-05:00

I'm a little post happy this week. I think it's more my need to write and just how fantastic music has been sounding to me lately. I've been thinking a lot about things and thinking, writing, and good music always seem to help me make the best decisions. I guess that's why I'm always joking that music is my religion, but honestly, when I need some help and direction, nothing works better than listening to some good songs. There is always bound to be someone else who has been in the same situation and the sense of perspective always makes the answer clear to me.

Amos Lee - Seen It All Before

This song is definitely a no-brainer for my ultimate mix tape. Amos totally rocks my heart and I can't even begin to explain how well I understand this sentiment... totally digging on someone and just not wanting to be their fool, yet not really ready to let it go. I can hear my heart pounding, oh but I can't decide. Stuck between the depths of my fear and the peaks of my pride...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXvSwN9DFzQ)

Sam Phillips - Reflecting Light

Ok, I admit it. I only know this song because of the million and one times that I've watched the episode of Gilmore Girls where Luke and Lorelai dance at Liz's wedding. It is most definitely one of my definition of love moments that makes me swoon and soften my barrier defenses against love. Anyway, I've always found this to be such a beautiful song that just lulls you into this happy, content trance. I rode the pain down. Got off and looked up. Looked into your eyes. The last open window, All around, My dark heart lit up the skies...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1p2CIdas-Y)

Chris Isaak - Let Me Down Easy

Ahhh, Chris Isaak. Is there any way to not love him? He's one of my favorite people to see live and he's one of the best puppies around. Such a sweet, emotional, rottenly-silly dude. I just think this song is so sweet. I just want to tell him not to worry... there's no way that she could say no to you.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9xdkG-ht0U)

Songs to listen to on my island...

2011-01-25T20:16:00.000-05:00

I hate to admit it, but sometimes I'm a total emotional wimp and I like to sulk off to the island of Annie and just bask in all my feelings and shut everyone out. I think that I was actually living there for a few years of my life. Lately for me, things have been different and I have been different. I'm remembering how good it feels to actually open up and be vulnerable to someone else. You know that feeling where you actually just relax and get to be yourself and then are surprised to find that person does the same and you actually like each other. Wacky concept, I know. The hard part is that when you care, that person has a power over you and even when unintentionally (especially unintentionally), they can hurt you like no one else in the world. That solitary little island is looking pretty cozy right about now...

Van Morrison - You Don't Know Me

Hands down, Van Morrison songs have got to be the sexiest songs ever written. The man's voice is like emotional ecstasy. And ohohohhh, how I love this song. It is so sad and pleading. That state of desperation where you just adore someone and can't say the words to them and then it's too late. And anyone can tell, you think you know me well, but you don't know me...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1j0JX1ECDjg)

Regina Spektor - Fidelity

Apparently, I am living in a time when women (or at least the kick ass girl songwriters) are all about protecting their emotions and scoffing at romance... until it knocks them over and makes them pay attention. I never loved nobody fully. Always one foot on the ground. And by protecting my heart truly, I got lost in the sounds... I hear in my mind all this music and it breaks my heart...

(The video is so awesome, but you can't embed, so watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wigqKfLWjvM&ob=av2el)

Amos Lee - El Camino

The best part of my day today was the release of Mission Bell. I was absolutely floored to see that I haven't ever posted any Amos Lee songs on the blog yet because he definitely one of my favorite artists. I would say that he's awesome, but it would be an understatement. When I hear him singing, the soul and emotion in his voice catch in my heart and I always have to close my eyes and just catch my breath. I believe in all I've loved and all I have seen...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPGMhU1CL8U)

Songs for my overly emotional heart...

2011-01-18T20:31:00.000-05:00

I fear that my heart has gone a bit bipolar on me lately. It's what happens when someone new and special comes along. Today is uncontrollable smiling after remembering something about him... tomorrow, well I'll feel all off kilter from feeling good (yet vulnerable) and then the barrier defenses are raised. As much as I complain and say that I hope that I can figure out how to deal with all of this one of these days, I don't really mean it. Sometimes, it just feels good to be facing an unknown, hopeful happiness and have no idea what it means or where it is going. *Sigh* Anyway, here’s this week’s picks. The good news is that when I’m so overemotional, every flippin’ song sounds so damn amazing.

Maroon 5 - Give a Little More

What I truly love about this song is that it's all crazy emotional, yet you can still dance to it. I'm waiting for something, always waiting. Feeling nothing, wondering if it will ever change. Then I give a little more, oh babe...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BP1PsqBmbvM)

Sara Bareilles - Gonna Get Over You

Considering the contents of this song, it is much more catchy and upbeat than I would have guessed, but then again, I think that's why I kinda dig it. It gets stuck in my head and I sing that chorus for hours afterwards. I've got a thick tongue, brimming with the words that go unsung. Simmer then burn for a someone, a wrong one.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcECPag13Fo)

Cary Brothers - Blue Eyes

This song always hits me in my gut. It's one of those songs that I crank up in the car and sing along to it like I'm Aretha flippin' Franklin diva awesome. But you don't know, you don't know the greatness you are...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2XNmF8tnN0)

Ray Lamontagne & The Pariah Dogs - Are We Really Through

I know that I'm supposed to be writing and everything, but nothing I can come up with can really explain just how much this song always hits me like a train. So sad and so beautiful. Is that sun ever gonna break? Break on through the clouds, shine down in all it's glory onto me?

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzlFsX8WlQE)

Songs that got me through the first week back...

2011-01-09T12:33:00.000-05:00

It's January. It's the end of vacation and time to head back to work, which means that I've been listening to a lot of music and trying really hard to not think about how long it will be until I have some more vacation time.

Depeche Mode - Somebody

It has most definitely been a Depeche Mode week... From about the age of 8 on, this song has been my perfect description of what I believe love really is. Thank you Martin Gore... and even cooler is that I was at this concert! Half of that screaming is most definitely from me. But when I'm asleep, I want somebody who will put their arms around me and kiss me tenderly...

Oh and just so you don't think I'm getting too sappy, the other half of my belief in love is based on the song Master and Servant. Just kidding, ya freakazoids.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcOsx12vVBQ)

U2 - So Cruel

I know that in my 30 years of being a music snob, I have made a lot of comments about U2. I actually really like U2, but I find their most die hard fans to be a bit obnoxious and pretentious and get sometimes find Bono's personas to be a bit tiresome. However, when it comes down to the music, I'm not sure that I can top the honesty and desperation in this song. It is funny to me how like/love/lust/etc always seems to illicit in me (people in general really), the complete opposite feeling that it should. There's this sense of panic and vulnerability that is semi-terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. This song really captures that for me. You don't know if it's fear or desire, danger the drug that takes you higher. Head in heaven, fingers in the mire...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Znlio_4FMU&feature=fvst)

Fiona Apple - I Know

I was never much of a fan of Fiona Apple's airplay songs, but someone gave me some albums to listen to awhile back and I think she's pretty fantastic now. Anyway, this song just hit me the other day and I thought it was kind of beautiful. And you can use my skin to bury secrets in...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d6K1IhVTUk)

The 6ths - You You You You You

This video has the weirdest photo ever on it, but this is the only version that I could find of this amazing song. It's pretty and sweet and I like it, so that's my basic reason for choosing it. You make me feel like I'm seventeen again. You make everything beautiful seem true. I can't wait to go to sleep and dream again 'Cause every dream I dream's A dream of dreamy little you...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_ZsTO1OXho)

And a new year begins...

2010-12-31T13:03:00.000-05:00

I have been on vacation and a little lax with the writing. I had every intention of posting on Christmas, but I was sick and completely unmotivated. To save you the anticipation of having to wait an entire year to finally hear what my favorite holiday song is, I'll just tell you because it's always the same: Wham! - Last Christmas.

Well, it has been one hell of a year for me and I'm both surprised and proud of myself for actually keeping up with this blog the entire time. I have no idea if or who actually reads it, but it is cathartic, so I'm good. Anyway, to make up for not writing enough, I've picked three pretty spectacular songs.

Glen Phillips - Blindsight

I can't remember the last time that a song hit me as hard as this one. It both unsettles and calms me. In the soundtrack of my life, it perfectly feels like the last month I've had. Granted, it is a little sad, but it is still so beautiful and aware.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGEM0Tt8V4k)

Band of Horses - Part One

This song has a perfect mood. It is difficult to explain, but it is almost like that feeling of absolute vulnerability and intimacy. I find it both sexy and emotional, which is pretty awesome. You really caught me, dear, at the bottom when I'd fallen...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4IOx4zgHvA)

Heather Nova - Like Lovers Do

Ok, I admit it. The beginning of my Christmas vacation was spent in a Felicity marathon. I love Ben Covington with those sexy sexy eyes and that soft whispery voice. Plus, it takes me back to my college days. I've always loved listening to Heather Nova, but back in those days, I was a religious listener. Her voice is beyond amazing and it has a quality that completely ups the ante of my sexual divaness. And you are welcome for all the words I just had to make up to explain it.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-GbcBAOzBU)

Songs that make me happy...

2010-12-19T21:14:00.000-05:00

I took a trip back home to Ohio last weekend. It was the first time that I had been back and seen snow in about 14 years and it ended up being a pretty awesome experience. It was coupled with my yearly reading of The Tao of Pooh, which was perfect for the plane ride up there. I feel good. I'm enjoying my moments and things are feeling pretty good these days. Maybe that is my Christmas miracle.

Violent Femmes - Prove My Love

Went to Vinyl Fever with my friend the other day and he showed me a new(ish) deluxe edition of the Violent Femmes self-titled, which is most definitely on my top ten list of albums I would need to have on the island while hanging out with Desmond. Anyway, this is one of my all time faves. Special favors come in 31 flavors. We're out of mints, so pass the Lifesavers. I'm dropping hints, candy for candy coated tongues.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHswOhYeThA&feature=player_embedded)

Foo Fighters - Miracle

My iPod was on shuffle last week and this song came on and all I could think was Dammmmmmn Dave Grohl, how many awesome songs do you have in there? This song just sounds amazing and makes me feel good.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uydpjYShNfQ)

G Love and Jack Johnson - Give It To You

This is a puppy song. I love puppy songs... especially ones that make me want to dance.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64CZlDUIn6I)

Songs that make me feel...

2010-12-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

I love that feeling when a song perfectly captures the way that you are feeling at a specific moment. These are a few of my moments from the week.

John Lennon - Jealous Guy

I lovingly joke that music is my religion, which is pretty much true. With that said, John Lennon is the one that I go to when I want to understand life and my emotions. There is an honesty to his songs that is almost painful, but they are so beautiful and real that you want to listen. It's was 30 years ago yesterday that he died and it amazes me the impact that he still has on the world... on me.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lLs2dC9NaE)

Dave Matthews Band - Crush

This song is so crazy sexy and personal that sometimes I actually feel embarrassed hearing and knowing all the personal details. Whatta puppy.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elUwSHjfA94)

Violent Femmes - Good Feeling

I have listened to the Violent Femmes for pretty much all of my life, so pretty much anytime something really fantastic happens, this song is playing on the soundtrack in my mind.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhedKAhHqK8)

Nobody Puts Baby in the Corner...

2010-11-30T20:19:00.000-05:00

Ugh. It has been such a shit week. I'm ok with those occasionally because they serve to remind me just how good good really is. Plus, the give me an excuse to indulge in all of the dorky things that make me feel good again: Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Xander Harris, I heart you since I was 16), Gilmore Girls (I can watch the Luke Can See Her Face episode over and over and over again and still swoon every time), and Dirty Dancing. Dirty Dancing has been my bad week killer since I was about 8, so it is safe to say that I can recite it line-by-line and still dance along to all of the awesome dance montages. However, what I love most about that movie is the music.

Solomon Burke - Cry To Me

This has got to be the sexiest song that I have ever heard and I absolutely love this whole sequence in the movie. After hearing Burke on this soundtrack, I started listening to a lot of his other stuff and it is all pretty amazing. He has such an amazing voice, so it is surprising that he didn't have more commercial success. Oh well, maybe all that commercial success is overrated. Come on take my hand, and baby won't you walk with me...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEu8DrO9PbY)

The Blow Monkeys - You Don't Own Me

This is such a great cover and just so unexpected on the soundtrack. It combines three of my favorite things in the music world: an interesting cover, Brit Pop New Wave 80's synth, and 1960's mellow dramatic ballads.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7QLghxmzhU)

As a side note, my barometer for the perfect man is the one that will reenact the Mickey and Sylvia scene with me. Thanks for setting the standard so high Mr. Swayze!

Bucket List #22: Sing with Diana Ross... Check.

2010-11-22T20:57:00.000-05:00

Growing up, I loved The Supremes. I would stand in the doorway between our living room and dining room, pretending it was a stage and sing along to all the songs. My first dream job was joining The Supremes and singing back up for Diana Ross. I never did have a very good concept of the date, which lead to other delusions that involved The Monkees, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Pete Townshend. Anyway, Saturday night I had the privilege of seeing Diana Ross live. Believe me that I've had a lot of years to grow my expectations and she still blew them all away. Her voice was beautiful, her costumes to die for, and in perfect diva style, she was utterly fabulous.

A few songs in, it hit me that my dream was coming true... I really got to sing along with Diana Ross. Granted there were a few thousand of us living that dream, but it made no less spectacular. My next to do list item is to get a trunk of sequined evening gowns for singing along to the stereo. A girl has got to do these sorts of things right.

The Supremes - I Hear a Symphony

I love to talk tough, but my undying love of this song proves just what a soft-hearted love optimist I really am.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_T9SEY8eLyk)

The Supremes - Where Did Our Love Go

I can't think of any other song that leaves me so unable to let it go. I will randomly Baby Baby for hours after hearing it.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izzKUoxL11E)

Michael Jackson & Diana Ross - Ease on Down the Road

I have seen The Wiz more times that I care to admit (I had the biggest thing for Michael Jackson as a kid) and when she played this song in concert, I about exploded from excitement.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BfvzaSxkSY)

Songs that I like to pretend were written for me...

2010-11-11T18:27:00.000-05:00

As always with a stressful week, I love to escape by listening to some great tunes. In the last seven days, I think that I've been through just about every emotion known to man. Most days I feel like I'm nothing but a container for all of these emotions and that I am what I feel. What is most comforting is that I can always find a song to fit my emotional state and that is pretty awesome. These songs are all ones that I've wished at some point or another were written about me. Selfish, I know, but it's more that, as anyone would, I love when I'm in a situation where these kinds of feelings are involved.

Blind Pilot - Oviedo

I know that I've already written about this song, but this is my game and I reserve the right to break the rules that don't suit my current needs. Anyway, I think that this might be the most beautiful, poetic song and it always leaves me with this feeling in my stomach that borders between the excitement of falling in love and and the sickening sadness of falling out of love. If my writing was ever judged, I would want it based on if I could create that kind of feeling in someone else. I didn't know the weight of my tongue. I didn't know, I didn't know what I had done...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDP8vsDsPM0)

Michael Trent - Anybody's Boy

I'm a fan of both The Films and Michael Trent's solo work. The songs are always kind of gritty and defensive with a twist where emotions and vulnerability shine through. They feel real and I think that always makes it way more powerful. Anybody's Boy is just sweet and emotional. Everything about it just feels like that moment when you get so close to someone and you realize that your guard is down and you're waving the white flag of vulnerability. Beautiful. I stare at your lips while we lie on the floor and I'd stay there all afternoon...

Sadly, I can't find a version anyway, but you can hear a snippet on Amazon. That whole album is great and worth the purchase.

Magnetic Fields - Asleep and Dreaming

There are so many amazing Magnetic Fields songs that I could post one every week for a year and still feel like I'm missing too many. There is an attention to detail and emotion that make these songs beyond amazing. Plus, he always adds some sort of snarky joke or pun that makes it even more fun. I don't know if you're beautiful because I love you too much...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJsK2mSUwnM)

My Anthem and Something Fun to Sing

2010-11-05T19:04:00.000-04:00

Ahhh, so Halloween is now past and we're only a few weeks away from the start of the holiday. Today even started a cold spell, which always does wonders for my mood. This is most definitely my time of the year and I've been enjoying it. And with that, I give you the two songs that have been occupying my week.

The Killers - Sam's Town (Abbey Road Version)

Anyone who knows me (or has kept up with this blog) could probably tell you how much I love The Killers. This song specifically though is indescribable in how much it gets to me emotionally and makes me think about my life. This version is so beautiful and the fact that it was recorded at Abbey Road studios just makes it that much cooler. I've got this sentimental heart that beats and I don't really mind that it's starting to get to me now...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVbFMoimgM4)

Blondie - Heart of Glass

First of all, I start out every Halloween convinced that this is the year that I'll finally dress up like Debbie Harry. She is so badass cool. Second, I like this song, but I never really loved it; I was more into Tide is High. Last week, I got the new Rock Band 3 game, and even though it has awesome tracks from The Cure and The Smiths, I have been completely obsessed with perfecting my singing on Heart of Glass. What can I say? It's fun to sing. Lost inside adorable illusion...

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXlaOsNBDkk&ob=av2e)

Because Music Makes Halloween...

2010-10-31T10:55:00.000-04:00

This post basically mixes two of my favorite things: Halloween and any random reason to create a playlist. These are my top 10 Halloween songs for 2010.

10. DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince – A Nightmare on My Street

The only thing that freaks me out more than Freddy Kreuger is Michael Myers, and I can guarantee that theme song will never make one of my playlists because it takes me a month to sleep right again after hearing it. Oh yeah, I love this song too because it gives me an excuse to do the Fresh Prince jump.

9. Marilyn Manson – Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)

Considering that Marilyn Manson is pretty much walking Halloween, this was an easy choice. Plus, you know that I love a good cover.

8. Warren Zevon – Werewolves of London

A classic pick for any playlist, this song is just great to jam out to while nice and toasted in your costume.

7. Talking Heads – Psycho Killer

I always think that this song is The Doors when it first plays, which in itself stands for it being awesome. This is one of the most fun songs to sing on Rock Band 2 and what's Halloween without French-singing mass murdering art-school psychopaths?

6. Oingo Boingo – Dead Man’s Party

The 80's knew how to do everything to make me love it and this song is no exception. Plus, this song was used to Back to School, which featured Robert Downey Jr as a sexy little freak. Ahhhh RDJ, I do love you. Oh wait, this post is about Halloween, and this song will definitely start your ghoulies on some Molly Ringwald 1980's Breakfast Club style dancing.

5. Rockwell – Somebody’s Watching Me

Wow, Berry Gordy's kid sure did know how to pick a backup singer (ahem, Michael Jackson). Dare you to try to get this song out of your head. I'm just an average man with an average life...

4. The Doors – People are Strange

This song is always awesome. It always reminds me of The Lost Boys and of simpler times when the Coreys were fighting vampires and Keifer was still cool.

3. Bobby “Boris” Pickett – Monster Mash

This is the most classic and essential Halloween Song and will always be on my playlist. Bet you can't listen without wanting to Mashed Potato.

2. Matthew Sweet – Scooby Doo, Where Are You?

I have always loved Halloween (costumes and free candy!) and everyday after school, I rushed home to watch Scooby, which gave me a little bit of Halloween everyday. I guess that I was just born a dark, freaky child.

1. Michael Jackson – Thriller
Even before Scooby, I loved Michael Jackson and most especially Thriller. I would play this song over and over and over again even though the Vincent Price voice over at the end scared me. I loved being scared. I guess that some things really never change.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOnqjkJTMaA)

Want to listen to this playlist and even more Halloween classics? Halloween Mix on last.fm

Songs I Loved in the 90's

2010-10-23T08:54:00.000-04:00

I still haven't been listening to anything new lately. Tumultuous times in my life mean that I need some old music with fantastic memories. That's where I found these gems... in the past. These are songs from my early high school years when grunge was over and everyone was all about Clueless, baby doll tees, and emotional alternative rock.

Gin Blossoms - Till I Hear It From You

I've always loved listening to the Gin Blossoms, but this song has even more meaning to me because it was the main track from the Empire Records soundtrack. When the movie came out on video (yes, VHS and that's how I know that I'm getting old), I had a group of friends and we would watch it over and over again and each one of us was like one of the characters in the movie. I was Corey. Apparently, I was destined to try to seduce aged rock stars. It's Rex Manning day! Even without the memories, this song rocks.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7sx32alzeE)

The Wallflowers - One Headlight

Umm, Jakob Dylan, will you marry me? Yes, even at 30 when I watch this video I am still extending that offer. I was able to see the Wallflowers in concert a few different times and Jakob was most definitely my biggest adolescent crush on a rock star. I mean come on he's a Dylan (aka son of Bob Dylan) and that alone makes him super awesome in my book and then he also wrote some pretty sweet tunes (and still is, his newest solo album is really good). Plus, nothing take me back to being 17 more than this song.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzyfcys1aLM&ob=av2e)

Velvet Elvis

2010-10-14T21:11:00.000-04:00

Ok, ok. I admit it. I seriously dig Elvis. If you read my post earlier this week, you'll know that Elvis movies were my secret joy as a child. While I was listening to Geto Boys with my friends, I would escape into the world Elvis and spontaneous singing. I'm not sure how, but while trying to download the ultimate Halloween playlist, I got stuck on the Elvis collections and it took me back and sucked me right back in. Here are some Elvis goodies that always make me super day dreamy,

The Lady Loves Me

I've seen Viva Las Vegas more times than I would like to admit. I also would like to avoid admitting the number of times I have sung along with this, pretending that I was Ann Margaret... both for her awesome wardrobe and the fact that she got to make out with Lucky Jackson.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6fH02JqpDE)

She's Not You

I always love a good love song and this one just kills me.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjiBHT3Z0d8)

Dylan is Dylan

2010-10-12T21:11:00.000-04:00

Around 11, I became completely fascinated with the 1960's. Bell bottoms, beatniks, the civil rights movement, Vietnam war protest, hippies, JFK, free love, Paul Newman, The Monkees, the march on Washington, Barefoot in the Park, Batman, peace signs, Woodstock, and the music... where do I even begin with the music?

Weekly, my mom would take me to the public library in Columbus. I would borrow books, music, and movies, which is how I found and fell in love with The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Simon and Garfunkel, The Who, and Bob Dylan. I'd pour over photography books of The Beatles, spend hours watching Viva Las Vegas and Help!, listen to album after album of any music that I could get my hands on, recreate art, and get completely lost in lyric books. The Dylan lyric book coupled with the Bootleg series became my bible of poetic aspiration. It was heaven for me, and it still is.

So a few weeks ago when I found out that Bob Dylan was coming to Tampa, I bought tickets and waited (very impatiently) for my first time seeing him live. Going in, my expectations were based on all of the reunion tours that I've seen where the artist performs a mixture of their hits with some not-so-great new songs, they throw out the name of their current city, and the crowd cheers and sings along at all the prescribed moments and the experience feels nostalgic, yet somehow over. I don't know why I would have ever expected something like that. What I love about Bob Dylan is what he never went along with what was conventional. He broke the rules and he pushed the limits. He still breaks the rules.

The setlist was enough to make any Dylan fan Ohh Ahh: Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat, Lay, Lady, Lay , Stuck Inside Of Mobile With The Memphis Blues Again, Just Like A Woman, Tangled Up in Blue, Simple Twist Of Fate, Love Sick, Highway 61 Revisited, A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall, Like A Rolling Stone, and All Along The Watchtower, etc. It amazes me to think that amazing list barely even begins to crack the surface of all the amazing songs he's written and that he totally mixes up the set lists every night.

At first when Dylan was singing, it was a little jarring because he took each of the songs and mixed them up and made them something different. When I got past the fact that it wasn't going to be a sing-a-long, I really started listening and was floored at just how tight him and the band sounded. Thinking back over the experience, I realize that it was a unique, artistic experience and not some cookie cutter tour with everything carefully planned out and perfect.

Even more surprising, after years of playing into all of the myths of the different personas of Bob Dylan, I found him to be the antithesis of the common rock star that takes the stage, eats up the applause, and can't stop talking about what he ate for breakfast. When Dylan took the stage, he was part of his band and he was just there to play some seriously badass music. No one messes with Dylan; it is not because he is a famous musician, but it is because he is just cool with who he is... Bob Freakin' Dylan.

Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash - One Too Many Mornings

You can thank me later for sharing this piece of awesomeness.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvnSyOYzTHY)

Bob Dylan - Subterranean Homesick Blues

Awesome song. Very cool video with it used.

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcm0rG8EKXI)