Stosh

Suffering for Your Art

2006-09-30T11:53:00.000-05:00

Tommy Keene's bloody guitar, Beat Kitchen, Chicago, Sept. 29. (Injury sustained at 400 Bar, Minneapolis, Sept. 28.)

The Nation Mourns

2006-07-06T17:01:00.000-05:00

Don't shoot the messenger:

JOURNEY FORCED TO MAKE LEAD SINGER CHANGE ON NATIONWIDE TOUR

Jeff Scott Soto to assume JOURNEY lead singer duties starting on July 7th in Bristow, VA due to Steve Augeri throat infection

July 6, 2006 -- Due to a chronic throat infection, Journey’s lead singer, Steve Augeri, has been forced to leave the band’s current nationwide tour with Def Leppard. Jeff Scott Soto, who has previously performed with Journey guitarist Neal Schon, will assume the band’s lead singer duties starting with the July 7th show in Bristow, VA. Steve Augeri’s condition will be closely monitored by his physician to determine when he may be able to rejoin the tour.

According to Journey, “Steve’s been suffering with an acute throat condition since before we kicked off the tour with Def Leppard. We were hoping he’d be in well condition to handle the rigors of the road but unfortunately it appears to be a chronic condition requiring total voice rest. We all wish Steve a speedy recovery.”

For the latest tour dates, please visit www.journeymusic.com.

Just Passing Through

2006-06-28T15:45:00.000-05:00

A non-triumphant semi-return to post a bunch of links:

My semi-coherent review of last week's stellar Tommy Keene and Townshend Research show at Schubas

Great photos of Keene and Pollard band from that show (the pic here is one of my lame ones)

Large-ass file of the Keene set (room-mic recording, sounds pretty good considering)

More amazing pics from the same photo of the top-notch Pollard Intonation set

YouTube clip of Pollard singing "Bobby O'Riley" with Pearl Jam

That is all. Enjoy.

Blah Blah Blahs

2006-06-02T12:03:00.000-05:00

This is my 150th post. It could be the last. I have nothing to say and no inclination to say it.

I reserve the right to change my mind.

For the time being, a couple of interesting things:

Funny article from Jim Caple regarding Roger Clemens' latest "comeback" (in quotes because the douchebag never goes away). He's possibly the greatest pitcher of the modern era, but I hope he gets lit up this time around.

Great story from Jeff about his brush with a record-industry honcho. I consider Jeff a friend even though we don't know each other that well; what I can say about him is that (a) his blog is what mine aspired to be, as it's consistently engaging and (b) he's a good dude, despite being completely unrealistic with his fantasy trade demands.

UPDATE: I've been to two Cubs' games since the last post, one loss (the Barrett punch game) and one victory. Post-return-to-Chicago record: 24-27 (3-0 at Wrigley this year).

Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here

2006-05-18T10:55:00.000-05:00

A quick recap of Chicago's weather yesterday (times approximate):

7:30 a.m till about 1 p.m.: partly sunny, about 68 degrees. Nice.

1 p.m.: slowly starts getting overcast

1:30 p.m.: raining like a mother

3 p.m.: clearing up, cooler but still nice

5 p.m.: clouding over

5:20 p.m.: light rain

5:25 p.m. heavier rain

5:30 pm. marble-sized HAIL pelting us at the bus stop

6 p.m. (en route to Wrigley): light rain

7 p.m.: very light rain, sun peeking through

7:55: beautiful, cool night, no more rain

Cubs win, 5-0.

Post-return-to-Chicago record: 23-26, edging toward .500

Barry Funny

2006-05-17T14:40:00.000-05:00

You, too, can create a wacky greeting for Barry Bonds here. All two of you can post your URLs in the comments section.

On a more serious note, loyal reader JT discusses United 93 on his blog, The Sauerbrun Report. (Note: He says it's not a blog. I say it is, though maybe it's not, because there's no comments option. Oh, and that's the worst name for a blog -- though it does have a back story -- than Stosh. Tough to do.)

Anyway, his thoughts got me thinking...in the context of 9-11, which, of course, is likely impossible to ignore in relation to the film, the story is overwhelmingly emotional. However, if this were just a random fictional story about a flight being hijacked, one that had nothing at all to do with 9-11, would it be as powerful? Would we have people saying the film shouldn't be made? Of course not. Yet, because the incident the film is based on is directly related to 9-11, it somehow becomes this piece of art that has people wondering if they should even see it.

I don't really know what I'm saying here. I haven't seen the film yet (my wife is in the "too soon" crowd, but her resolve seems to be weakening). I just find it interesting that the film's context makes what would be a gripping, unemotional action movie into this controversial thing that many people won't check out on principle.

Loopy vs. the Red Baron

2006-05-12T11:03:00.000-05:00

Erstwhile former Cub Rick Sutcliffe had a few with buddy Bill Murray the other night, then visited his old pals in the San Diego Padres' TV booth. Hilarity ensued.

Unsatisfying

2006-05-08T09:44:00.000-05:00

If a blog is shitty, does a bear fall in the woods?

Here's some actual content: The new Replacements song via The Jim Rome Show. Westerberg was supposed to call in and, in predictable fashion, blew it off. Tommy Stinson, however, did his part. I haven't listened to any of this stuff, including the song, but here it is for your enjoyment (I assume the links are good):

Intro and Tommy, Part 1

"Message to the Boys"

Tommy, Part 2

Pitchfork reviews the song here.

P.S. about Rome...I swear I saw him in the audience of America's Funniest Home Videos last night. Or maybe it was a dream/nightmare. And yes, I watch that show. I've already admitted to being a philistine.

UPDATE: One listen to "Message," and I find it pleasant but non-essential. Just because it's called a Mats song doesn't make it that much more impressive. Good tune, won't be spinning it all that often, I'm afraid.

Our Long National Nightmare is Over

2006-04-26T09:56:00.000-05:00

Brett Favre finally made up his mind. No more pointless hostage drama. Bears fans used to fear him, but with the Bears on an upswing (and having swept the Packers last year), this news means next to nothing in a football sense. He'll end his career on New Year's Eve in Chicago. Great scheduling there...cold night, traditional boozehound holiday (aka Amateur Night). It could get ugly.

The Pollard show in Philly was probably the best of the three I saw. The traditional Keene/Pollard photos were also probably the best, but I won't be posting any of them. Critics of my appearance will just have to imagine how bad I looked.

Ibid.

2006-04-21T15:10:00.000-05:00

Derrek Lee? Sub him in for Mark Prior, and I ask again: Why am I a Cubs fan?

Fish in a Barrel

2006-04-19T12:18:00.000-05:00

The Onion weighs in on the Cubs' decent start to the 2006 season (nice sidebar about Mark Prior, too).

Picking on the Cubs doesn't require much skill, but it's easier to take when it's amusing.

Death of the Party

2006-04-12T15:26:00.000-05:00

Sneak preview of a track from the upcoming Keene Brothers record:

Death of the Party

I'm way biased, but this album exceeded my expectations, which were pretty lofty. If anyone bothers to listen to this track, I'd like to hear your opinion.

POSTSCRIPT: Come on, people. I know there are at least two of you who check in here every once in a while. Listen to the song, even if you don't like/care about Pollard or Keene. I want some feedback on this.

Make it Stop

2006-04-12T11:16:00.000-05:00

From today's Chicago Sun-Times:

"This is not the greatest game to be short-handed at the one, two and three spots because that's our strength,'' coach Scott Skiles said before the game. "From a statistical standpoint, you can see the stats that are gone from the game. [Deng] is also a better-than-average wing defender.

"But it is what it is. There are a lot of teams short-handed right now.''

The scourge continues.

It Continues

2006-04-10T15:52:00.000-05:00

Cubs' outfielder Jacque Jones, after last night's HR (from the Chicago Tribune):

"I was getting booed [Saturday] when I was the worst player in the league," he said. "Now I'm the best. I just go out and play hard."

On Saturday, after his third strikeout in three at-bats, the boos came. On his next at-bat, a walk, the crowd cheered him derisively.

"It is what it is," he said. "If I'm going to [go hitless], I'd rather do it now. We've been winning and that's all I care about."

Always nice to sweep the Cardinals, too. Praise Michael Barrett!

Postscript to Friday's home opener: The rain stopped well before heading to the park, but it was brutally cold. We made it through "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" before splitting for some warmer environs.

I've Seen the Rain

2006-04-07T10:17:00.000-05:00

And it's here in Chicago today, which will put a crimp in the Cubs' home opener festivities.

This is why I generally avoid April games at Wrigley. But, as usual, I look forward to spending the day there. In my winter coat. Nice.

Band on the Fun

2006-04-03T16:36:00.000-05:00

As expected, the Robert Pollard show -- the conclusion of Marchapalooza -- was a lot of fun. Simply put, this band, led by Tommy Keene and dubbed the Ascended Masters, is amazing. As fun as GBV always was, this is the best combination of musicians Bob has ever played with. It looks like I'll be going to Philly for the finale of this part of the tour. They'll be playing more shows later in the year. A couple of photographs are here for my friends to abuse. Enjoy.

Oh, and tomorrow sees the release of Keene's new album, Crashing the Ether. Highly recommended. (And check the thank-yous.)

Axl Fool?

2006-03-31T11:55:00.000-06:00

Jeff has posted a link to Spin.com's review of the long-delayed (I'd say "anticipated," but that would be a lie, for me, anyway) Guns 'n' Roses opus, Chinese Democracy.

The more I read it, the more I contend it's a brilliant April Fool's joke. You be the judge.

Will the Fans be Hit by Shit?

2006-03-29T12:45:00.000-06:00

Well, my source was right: The Replacements have done some recording. It's not a full-fledged reunion or anything, but I won't be the least bit surprised if they play some shows. Two reports, one explaining the semi-controversy over the photo seen at left:

http://colormeimpressed.com/news.html

http://paulwesterberg.proboards23.com/index.cgi?board=generalpw&action=display&thread=1143597334

Have Mercy

2006-03-27T12:37:00.000-06:00

Marchapalooza rolled on last night with the John Davis show at the Beat Kitchen. I'm not generally a fan of the solo performer thing -- and I was disappointed that John was opening not headlining -- but I thought he did a really good job with it.

About the only mildly disconcerting thing was that John is sporting a shaved head these days. I didn't recognize him when we walked in. The dude can belt, but the dome takes a little getting used to.

Friday: Pollard at Metro.

Pop Tarts

2006-03-24T16:19:00.000-06:00

A little late with this, but the Minus 5 put on a fun show to about a 3/4-full Abbey Pub Wednesday night (probably bad for the band, but it was good to be able to move around). The set started out kind of slow but picked up steam and ended seemingly too soon. They played about 70 minutes, which seemed too short to me. However, "Ghost Tarts of Stockholm" is my favorite M5 tune, and they kicked ass on that one, so all is forgiven.

I talked to Scott McCaughey very briefly afterward; I was happy he remembered me, and he was as gracious as I expected.

Best line of the night: After one song ended (forget which one), Scott goes, "Finally, a song that allowed me to show off my lead-guitar chops."

(pause)

"An article in Portland said that I had chops."

(pause)

"Never has an article been so wrong."

He's way too modest.

p.s. Fuck Gonzaga.

Reason #1498 Why the Music Industry Sucks

2006-03-20T15:20:00.000-06:00

You may want to cleanse after reading this, from Greg Kot's South By Southwest wrap-up:

And then there were the panels, in which self-congratulation and the occasional revelation ruled. The juiciest bit of insight into the rusted machinery that is the music industry came during a panel of talent scouts who revealed their criteria for signing artists.

"She had a bad complexion and small breasts when she came into my office and warbled a song," said one former record company executive, Michael Caplan, of Britney Spears. "I couldn't wait to get her out of my office."

The exec who eventually signed Spears, Jive Records' Jeff Fenster, said he based the decision not on a song in particular, but on a picture of the then-teenage Spears. She was sitting on a picnic blanket, wearing cutoffs and cuddling a puppy, Fenster said. "She looked like the sweet, All-American girl that you just wanted to defile and do bad things to, and that appealed to me."

Color Them Unimpressed

2006-03-20T10:17:00.000-06:00

So last night, I had a dream where the Replacements got back together (rumor has it that this is not out of the realm, by the way), with Tommy Keene taking the Bob Stinson slot. (This is not part of the rumor, FYI.)

I was assigned to interview the reformed band for Magnet, and guess what? My tape recorder didn't work. In addition, Paul Westerberg didn't remember our earlier interview, furthering my humiliation. I ended up driving all over the place, trying to catch up with each member to talk to them separately. Dream analysis, anyone? (Seems pretty easy.)

Reminds me of that classic dream where it turns out you graduated from college without turning in a term paper and have to go back and write it. Or am I the only one who's had that one? That dream finally stopped for me about five years ago.

Coach

2006-03-19T10:59:00.000-06:00

Any basketball fan who grew up in the Chicago area during the late '70s/early '80s has great memories of Coach Ray Meyer and the amazing DePaul teams he had during that era. They had a stretch where they lost three games TOTAL in the regular season (one each year) but lost early each time in the tournament, including a devastating defeat to St. Joseph's in 1981.

So while he was 92, it still came as a bit of a shock to hear about Coach passing away. My fandom for DePaul faded the longer I was gone from Chicago, and upon my return I don't really follow them, but I never lost my admiration for the man who was arguably one of the top 2-3 most important figures in the city's sports history. RIP.

March Madness

2006-03-16T09:46:00.000-06:00

I'm in six pools this year. Stosh needs a new pair of shoes...

Mildly amusing NCAA Tournament drinking game.

Prioritized

2006-03-15T09:58:00.000-06:00

Someone explain the unexplainable: Why am I a Cubs fan?

I mean, what the hell? Mark Prior is hurt again, and Derrek Lee may be as well.

Want to find me this summer? I'll be at Heartbreak Central HQ, covering my eyes.

Oh, and I took Prior in the third round of my fantasy league draft. Nice. I wish I could quit him.

Comes with Coupon for a Free Angioplasty

2006-03-14T11:29:00.000-06:00

Stolen from Hold My Life:

A minor-league baseball team has created a burger that is so bizarre, I can't decide whether it's disgusting or potentially awesome. I'm leaning toward the former.

Smokin'

2006-03-06T10:24:00.000-06:00

Nada Surf was quite good last night here in Chicago, kicking off my personal Marchapalooza in fine fashion. (Related side note: Matthew Caws spilled the news that they're probably playing Lollapalooza here this summer. Will that make me want to go? Doubtful.)

UPDATE: Nada Surf is indeed in the Lolla lineup announced today (3/16). Just wanted that on the record.

Anyway, I do think a second guitarist would be helpful to fill out the sound, but that's a minor complaint. (The guy from ever-dull openers Rogue Wave played second guitar on "Do It Again" and that was the best-sounding tune of the evening.) They opened with an unplanned "Blizzard of '77" due to the snowy conditions, and they played "Popular," which was kind of a shock. Lots of surprised looks in the crowd.The place was absolutely packed, which, for some reason, I was not expecting. It thinned out a bit after Rogue Wave, so at least we were able to get into a halfway decent viewing spot.

Metro is now a non-smoking venue, as per city regulations -- bars/restaurants have until 2008 to comply, I think, so they're thankfully ahead of the game -- so some cranky anti-props to the beotch who decided to light up about five feet to my left with about 10 minutes remaining in the set. I guess she just couldn't bear it any longer.

On the Bus...

2006-03-04T10:25:00.000-06:00

So I'm standing way in the back of a crowded Chicago bus after work last night, and this woman I vaguely recognize makes her way to the same area. It isn't until the next stop, when someone gets out and she takes that person's seat, that I realize it's Sally Timms. (Or, I was about 75 percent sure; I haven't seen the Mekons in over 10 years, but I was reasonably positive it was her.

Anyway, I decided to just ask, and, yes, it was her. The ironic thing about it was that I interviewed her over the phone 12 years ago. I was supposed to be interviewing Jon Langford, but for some reason he left the studio before the call. Sally answered, and I ended up having a great conversation with her. Last night, she seemed a little embarrassed that someone recognized her, but she was as nice and gracious as during that phone call in '94.

And while this sounds made-up, I heard "Blow Your Tuneless Trumpet" on my iPod about 10 minutes before I spotted her. Freaky.

Even freakier? Timms singing "Wild and Blue" is playing in the kitchen as I type this...

The unrelated photo? Stosh watching a Robert Pollard live clip. The cat's got good taste. (By the way, drummer Jon Wurster gets nailed with a beer can about halfway through the "Love is Stronger Than Witchcraft" portion of this clip.)

Spiders (Kidsmoke)

2006-03-03T12:14:00.000-06:00

On May 11, 2000, Glenallen Hill hit a homer that landed on top of one of the buildings outside of Wrigley Field. Still one of my all-time favorite bombs. Enjoy this clip of it (the quality's not great), followed by an at-bat where Hill spends too much time out of the batter's box; the umpire tells the pitcher to go ahead and throw while Hill's not ready, but Hill calmly steps in and doubles to right.

Bonus points to anyone who remembers how the title of this post ties into Hill's career.

Nada Surf on Sunday night. Can't wait. The show kicks off a March that will be pretty active, show-wise, for this old-timer:

Nada Surf, Metro, March 5
Ted Leo, Abbey Pub, March 10 (not definite anymore, plus it's sold out)
Wedding Present, Double Door, March 12 (also not definite because it's a Sunday and there are three bands before the Weddoes)
Minus 5, Abbey Pub, March 22
John Davis, Beat Kitchen, March 26
Robert Pollard, Metro, March 31

Physical Graffiti

2006-03-02T15:58:00.000-06:00

I find that when there's nothing to say, a wacky photo will suffice. I love stuff like this. (The pic is of a dumpster, FYI.)

Addendum

2006-02-21T09:04:00.000-06:00

Add the Hold Steady's Craig Finn to the bad/good vocals list.

More idiocy from Bode Miller:

"If things went well," Miller told The Associated Press, "I could be sitting on four medals, maybe all of them gold."

Yeah, and if things went well, I'd have hair, the Cubs would be champions, etc. This guy is getting more annoying by the day, if that's even possible.

It's the Singer, Not the Song

2006-02-20T12:52:00.000-06:00

Or is it?

Was listening to some Afghan Whigs this morning, and it struck me just how bad/ordinary Greg Dulli's voice is on certain songs. It got me thinking (which is rare for the train ride into work): What are some other singers, either solo artists or from good/great bands, whose voices aren't stereotypically "great" but are cool in other ways? The short list off the top of my head -- checking the iPod is just too easy -- and in no particular order:

Bob Dylan
Lou Reed
Greg Dulli
Stephin Merritt
Mac McCaughan
Gerard Langley (Blue Aeroplanes)
Kevin Salem
Billy Bragg
Johnny Rotten

Thoughts, dear reader(s)?

Switching gears, props to Bode Miller for proving to be a huge fraud. Way to go!

American Superdream Wow, A Positive Review

2006-02-17T09:40:00.000-06:00

My friend Jerry over at Fort Recovery introduced me to GBV "back in the day" but ended up kind of souring on the band. Personally, I think the tension-filled ending to the GBVerde lineup (featuring his friend John Petkovic) -- scroll down to 1997 in that article -- had something to do with it, but only he can say for sure. (Note about that article: The final GBVerde show was in Columbus, not Newport, Ky. I know because I was there, as was Jerry.) Anyway, it warmed my heart a little to see that Jer had written a fairly glowing review of Bob Pollard's recent show in Columbus.

I especially enjoyed the note about seeing Tommy Keene at the old 9:30 Club in D.C. I don't think we ever went to a TK show together, but we must've been at the same show(s) before we knew each other. We went to a number of other gigs there, that's for sure, and that club was my favorite place in D.C. without question. Ah, youth.

Shuffling About

2006-02-10T09:27:00.000-06:00

I've mentioned before (and it's not worth linking to) that my iPod shuffle kind of annoys me in that it doesn't usually give me enough variety, artist-wise. Now, it doesn't help that my iPod only has about 2,600 songs on it -- mostly because I dislike the uploading-CDs process -- and the number of bands is somewhat slanted toward major faves like GBV, Tommy Keene, Superdrag, etc., but I still wish it wouldn't spit out the same band back to back (and every once in a while, three times in a row).

However, the shufflemaster occasionally does plenty to amuse me. To wit:

My friend JT made me a mix recently, and in the middle of it is a snippet of Dubya's infamous "Fool me once...you can't get fooled again" comment. So that plays yesterday and what follows it? "You Can't Kill Stupid" by the late, great Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments. Insert appropriate comment here.

Then this morning, I'm listening to a live version of "Boxing About" from Bob Pollard's upcoming Normal Happiness. This was from the D.C. show I attended in January, with D.C.-area legend Tommy Keene playing in Bob's band. What follows? A live version of "Teenage FBI" from GBV's Electrifying Conclusion tour (from the Fillmore in San Fran) featuring -- you got it -- guest vocals from one Tommy Keene. Freaky, eh?

Worst. Band. Ever.

2006-02-08T09:24:00.000-06:00

A while back, I posted a video of what had to be the worst band in the world. (Unfortunately, I can't link to it because it's dead. The link, not the band, though I suppose the band is, too.) Anyway, a new contender has emerged. Enjoy.

All That Pazz

2006-02-02T10:01:00.000-06:00

The Village Voice 2005 Pazz and Jop Poll is up. As usual, my ballot contained at least one album that only I deemed worthy (this year, it was two). I think that says more about how few records I hear in comparison to the other critics than my lack of taste (or theirs), but I still have a difficult time thinking that out of 795 writers, only I thought enough of the John Davis and Longwave records to vote for them. Surely I missed out on a lot of records, but the fact that no one else tabbed these tells me they missed out.

To compare my previous ballots dating back to 2000:

I've gotten enough jokey-but-truthful comments from my friends (I think I need new ones) about how awful I look in the Pollard/Keene photo that I have to post this other one to prove that my admittedly deteriorating appearance isn't helped by flash photography at 1 a.m. after drinking about 12 beers. And that, yes, I still have some hair. Of course, holding a baby this damn cute doesn't really help my cause, does it?

Right-Size This

2006-01-31T15:57:00.000-06:00

If you hate corporate jargon as much as I do, please visit this site full of fine examples.

They Can Be Heroes

2006-01-30T11:27:00.000-06:00

I don't have enough energy to really go into detail, but a fun time was had by all at the Bob Pollard show in D.C. on Saturday night. Not to get too technical or rock-critic-y, but Bob's new band, led by Tommy Keene, kicks ass. Jon Wurster on drums is simply amazing. And the evening afforded me a very personal/meaningful photo op, seen here, even if some of the night's particulars are a little hazy. (I'm the pale, heavy fanboy on the left, just for clarity's sake.)

I Really Like New York

2006-01-18T10:59:00.000-06:00

So the trip to NYC was a success, despite some really nasty weather halfway through. Can't post any photos at the moment, as I don't have access to them at my wonderful job. But we went to a number of touristy places -- Times Square, Staten Island Ferry, Strawberry Fields, etc. -- and did a whole bunch of walking. Thanks to loyal reader JT for all of his tour-guide expertise.

One thing about NYC that I did find disappointing: the food. Of course, two dinners and two lunches is a very small sample size, but none of the meals were in any way outstanding (though the pizza came close). And the service? Fuggedaboudit. Indifferent at best. Regardless, we look forward to returning -- when it's warm.

My reader(s) will remember this post about rarely getting sick. I think I'm experiencing some sort of weird blog karma, because since that time I've had two colds and feel another about to hit.

For No Good Reason

2006-01-10T16:44:00.000-06:00

Idly sitting at work, bored, I thought of this list of bad movies I compiled with the help of Jerry and his roommate Mike about 15 years ago. The film pictured here was a particular favorite. So was this one.

I wish I still had the printout of that list. We had hundreds of fine flicks on there.

Start Spreadin' the News

2006-01-06T16:01:00.000-06:00

Back in March of last year, I talked about a possible trip to New York. That never materialized, but lo and behold, we're off to NYC next weekend for a whirlwind, uh, weekend. We'll do some touristy things -- Times Square, Central Park, museums, maybe Ground Zero -- but will mostly just explore and hang out with my old friend JT. Photos possible.

The New Pornographers were excellent on New Year's Eve. Had very little to drink, and it was nice to not wake up hungover, a la last time.

By the way, the photo here has nothing to do with anything, but I post it just so my wife will continue to think I'm obsessed with Anchorman.

Back Inaction

2005-12-29T09:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks to some heavy lifting on Monday, combined with a six-hour drive with the seat too far up thanks to the stuff that needed to be heavily lifted, I've been dealing with major pain in my back the last two days. Considering what a lot of people have to deal with in the pain arena, this is pretty minor stuff, but screw it, it sucks. Fortunately, there's a bit of improvement today.

While in Louisville over Christmas, we went to the new Muhammad Ali Center. The place, while containing plenty of amazing stuff about Ali, is otherwise a mess. It's not even finished -- seriously, it's maybe 60 percent built -- but they've opened it to the public anyway. I'm hoping it's not because Ali's in declining health. I was disappointed the history-making photo here isn't included in the memorabilia.

The Title Says it All

2005-12-13T11:14:00.000-06:00

More on my fascination with the scourge that is "it is what it is":

A discussion of "is what it is" vs. "it's all good".
There's a movie with this as its title, starring Jonathan "The Single Guy" Silverman.
Usher and some guy named Tony Yayo have songs about it.
This is my favorite interview where someone uses the phrase; hell, it may be my favorite interview ever. (NOTE: This link is now correct. Thanks to Paul for the heads up.
Here's a blog. And another.

I could go on, but...it is what it is.

See What I Mean?

2005-12-10T10:17:00.000-06:00

Bulls guard Ben Gordon, on the knee injury that kept him out of last night's game vs. the Lakers:

Gordon regretted that the injury kept him from playing in Friday's game, which included a halftime ceremony to retire Scottie Pippen's No. 33.

"It's tough, especially on a night like tonight,'' he said. "It's going to be jam-packed, and some of the old greats coming back. I wish I didn't have to miss this game, but it is what it is.''

The game sucked, but the ceremony was great. Too bad I didn't get any good photos. I think it was because of the dim lighting during it all, but none of the shots are worth sharing.

It's Also Annoying

2005-12-08T12:33:00.000-06:00

The phrase "it is what it is" has replaced "ratchet up" as the latest grammar-related annoyance du jour. Not a day goes by -- particularly when reading about sports online or listening to sports radio -- when I don't see/hear someone use it. Hell, 30 seconds after I complained (again) to my wife about it, the phrase was uttered by some loser on the Martha Stewart version of The Apprentice. (Yes, I could be considered a loser for watching; I understand and appreciate the irony.) If anyone has the power to do so, please make this stop. Thanks.

I'm going to a taping tonight of an NPR show called Wait Wait -- Don't Tell Me. I'm told (get it?) that what it is (get it again?) is funny. We'll see. Panelists tonight include Mo Rocca and P.J. O'Rourke, with special guest Harold Ramis. Sounds promising.

I'm also going to see the Bulls play the Lakers Friday night. Scottie Pippen's jersey retirement is part of the festivities, with MJ scheduled to be in the house. If I bring a camera, I'll share the results.

Speedball Four

2005-12-01T12:28:00.000-06:00

Other than magazines, the newspaper and the Internet, I'm not much of a reader. Let me rephrase: My readings skills are top-notch, I just rarely make the time to read books. On the flights to and from Florida for Thanksgiving, I devoured Wrecking Crew by John Albert, the non-fiction story of a bunch of drug/gambling addicts, wannabe rock stars, failed actors and, in one case, a crossdresser that finds various states of redemption and enjoyment by forming a rec-league baseball team in Los Angeles.

I may be writing about it for Magnet, so I won't go into much detail, but it's heartwarming, funny and insightful, particularly Albert's closing lines about just what playing on the team meant to him. The tale's not so much about the team's success, though they do improbably end up winning a title, but rather how most of them took the team so seriously because of how much they got out of the experience.

It probably doesn't mean much for a non-reader to recommened a book, but I can't praise this one enough. I had to be prodded (not physically, pervs) by a publicist to delve into Wrecking Crew, and I'm so glad I finally did.

Now That's a Slump

2005-11-29T09:38:00.000-06:00

Ohio U's football team may not be all that great, but our coach knows how to par-tay!

We'll cut Solich some slack for now, given that a 4-7 record for the Bobcats is like a 10-1 record for Ohio State.

Rainy Days and Anniversaries

2005-11-28T09:10:00.000-06:00

Nov. 24 was my blog's one-year anniversary, and I missed it. Will it be mad at me? Should I buy it flowers?

Looking back on that first post -- no need to link to it, but if you're curious, click on the archives -- this is pretty prophetic: Problem is, I wonder if I'll ever have anything to say that's worth reading.

Some days, yes; most days, not really.

Thanksgiving was enjoyed in sunny, semi-hot Florida. It's always weird to spend Thanksgiving and/or Christmas down there, but coming back to cooler, rainy weather (today is miserable, for example) makes me appreciate it just a little bit.

Brighten the Corners of the End Zone

2005-11-18T14:28:00.000-06:00

Jeff writes today about Pavement, certainly one of my favorite bands of all-time. I asked this question in his comments section, and I'll repeat it here: With which member of Pavement am I in a fantasy football league?*

*Jeff, since I told him, and JT, who's my connection to Mr. Pavement, are ineligible for this quiz.

Correct answer receives nothing.

Dig My Mood

2005-11-16T09:58:00.000-06:00

Went to the Bob Pollard/Jim Greer book signing yesterday for Greer's GBV opus, Guided by Voices: A Brief History : Twenty-One Years of Hunting Accidents in the Forests of Rock and Roll. I've written about how I sort of know Pollard, so I was curious if he'd recognize me outside of the rock-club environment. Turns out he did, and it was a treat talking to him, as always. He gave me a nice shout-out to Greer by telling him I was responible for hooking him up with Tommy Keene for their upcoming projects (and for the shows Tommy did with GBV last year). Being modest (rightfully so), I have a difficult time taking credit for it, but it's cool to think that I played a small part in it all. If it turns out the tour sucks or their records sucks, I will, of course, disavow any involvement.

Later in the evening, I watched Dig!, the documentary about the Brian Jonestown Massacre's mercurial (putting it mildly) leader, Anton Newcombe, and his relationship with Courtney Taylor of the Dandy Warhols. While it was a good movie, humorous in spots -- and fascinating almost always -- I found it sad more than anything. (Not depressing; good art is never depressing.) Newcombe is clearly mentally unstable, and it's sad to think about the cycle of illness in his family. (His father committed suicide.) Newcombe is so screwed up, he's legally barred from seeing his son; there's a scene where he gets arrested for assaulting an audience member -- he's not jailed for assaulting band members onstage, however -- and he keeps going on about how he would die and never spend time with the boy. Painful to watch.

I do have to admit, the onstage fights were pretty amusing. It's funny, too, that the movie focused on this Dandys/BJM relationship, when there's probably an entire movie there just on Newcombe. I found some of the Dandys stuff almost extraneous, though a lot of it was interesting, too.

My My Gaffe Gaffe

2005-11-08T09:53:00.000-06:00

As a practicing Rock Critic®, I get plenty of promo records sent my way. For better or worse, the vast majority of them get sold (shh, it'll be our little secret), given away or shoved in a closet without seeing the inside of a CD player. It's really a matter of time and, in some cases, lack of interest. But the downside is that you occasionally miss an enjoyable LP due to caring more about getting rid of it.

Which brings me to Sweden's Shout Out Louds. Prompted by the possibility of seeing them tomorrow night at the Double Door, I dragged up my promo copy of Howl Howl Gaff Gaff, the band's debut full-length, and loaded it into my iPod. Turns out it's a really good record. I'm not sure why, but I was expecting a Hives-like garage band, but the Shout Out Louds are more of a classic power pop combo: plenty of hooks, repetitive (in a good way) riffs and synth/keyboard flourishes. The lyrics lean toward the generic, lovlorn "don't leave me" variety, but this is a neat, catchy LP -- way more melodic and poppy than I figured -- that has a real shot at making my top 10, which, of course, is every band's dream.

I may not go see the show -- it's on a weeknight, and I'm old and lame -- but I'm glad to have finally heard these guys.

I Hate a Parade

2005-10-28T09:17:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm not going to the White Sox victory parade today, even though it's not all that far from my office. I'm already living a Cubs fan's worst nightmare, I don't need any additional visuals.

I've now blogged four days in a row. I think that's the second sign of the apocalypse.

Fresh Smut Peddlers

2005-10-27T12:39:00.000-05:00

I resisted the hype as long as I could, but I'm heavy into the New Pornographers' Twin Cinema. (Check out the album site; it's been cleverly created to look like an Internet Movie Database entry.) I'd heard ad nauseum how great it was and, being disappointed in their last one, Electric Version (also because of the hype), I initially passed. Funny what a record being available on iTunes for $9.99 will do for your interest in it. Now I'm properly hooked. There's a little too much Neko for my taste, and -- to quote one of the songs -- there are probably "Three or Four" too many tunes, but this one's found its rightful place in the year-end top 10.

I'll also have to revisit Electric Version to see what, if anything, I missed.

Faves: "Twin Cinema," "Use It," "Sing Me Spanish Techno"

Geoff F%$&#@* Blum?!?!

2005-10-26T09:07:00.000-05:00

I mean, come on.

You know a team is destined to take the Series when a guy hits a game-winning homer in his first at-bat in three weeks, on the heels of a walk-off HR from a guy who had a grand total of squat in the regular season.

I had more to say about all of this, but I just don't have it in me after all. Congrats to the Sox -- they won't blow a 3-0 lead; the Cubs would, the Sox won't -- and to the long-suffering, non-Cubs/Cubs-fan hating faction of supporters (like my dad).

All I know is that it's going to be a little unbearable being a Cubs fan in this city for quite a while. Wait...make that more unbearable.

Slap and Tickle

2005-10-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

I'd like to be one of the people saying, "It could happen in any ballpark." And maybe it does (though I've not heard of a player's wife ever being physically abused anywhere else). But the incident between a Sox fan and Craig Biggio's better half is yet another black eye for those fans to the south. There are, naturally, idiots all over the country at games -- I'm friends with some of them -- but I'd say hitting a woman in the head kind of goes over the line. At a time when Sox fans should be reveling solely in how their team is doing, this goober single-handedly resurrects the ghost of William Ligue. Nice job.

The subject of fandom, including the need for some people to get drunk at sporting events as if their lives depend on it, is a fascinating one, indeed. Which means I won't be exploring it here.

I must say, however, that while Biggio (Mr., not Mrs.) is a player whom I'd like to see bitch-slapped -- he's right up there with Oswalt for me -- he earned some points today by saying the late, great Walter Payton was one of his idols.

Completely off the subject, my reader(s) will now have to use word verification to comment on ye olde blog. When the spam comments outnumber the real ones, measures must be taken. (I received two spam comments on this post before I could even switch to word verification after it was initially published. The bastards work quickly.)

Sox in the City

2005-10-20T11:41:00.000-05:00

Being a Cubs fan is usually pretty difficult, but with the White Sox making the World Series, it's been -- to use a phrase I loathe -- ratcheted up a notch. I've been asked at least a dozen times during the playoffs if I'm rooting for the White Sox. The short answer: No.

The long answer: As a kid, I grew up hating the Sox, mostly because that's what you did if you were a fan of one team over the other. Also, my dad is a lifelong Sox fan; that surely had something to do with it. As time went on and I moved away from the area, my hatred turned into apathy, and that's essentially where I now stand. I don't hate the Sox, and while I read about them in the paper and watch the occasional game, I don't care how they do.

However, while I do not actively wish for their demise, I will never root for them. I just can't, especially with the daily reminder of how they accomplished what the Cubs always fail to do (with '03 being the most recent agonizing example). I can sort of hope they do well so that fans like my dad can enjoy the ride, but I won't cheer for them. Ever.

It's interesting that they're playing Houston in the Series, because I do actively dislike the Astros. While Roy Oswalt is an amazing pitcher, he's also a punk. During a game vs. the Cubs in '04, he threw at Michael Barrett so deliberately, nailing him flush in the back, that it would've been funny if it weren't so infuriating. Then he walked off the mound with this smug look on his face that I'll never forget.

So, even if I hated the Sox, which I don't, I wouldn't be able to root for the Astros, whom I do. (Though I may root for the Sox to knock out Oswalt.) Basically, I'll just watch and hope for some good baseball, which is what I generally end up doing every year anyway.

Rat Kool-Aid

2005-10-12T16:34:00.000-05:00

The Internet continues to amaze me. I'm not sure what's more baffling: that there's a site devoted to Gary Gaetti or that it's so poorly done.

Belated props to the Rat, however, for pushing the Cubs to the '98 wildcard.

Number One with a Finger

2005-10-11T09:59:00.000-05:00

Bears quarterback Kyle Orton, left, tells fans how many victories we can logically expect this season with him at the helm. Either that, or he's merely emulating the classic bird from Da Coach.

Stupid, Spoiled Athlete Quote of the Week

Nuggets center Marcus Camby -- who makes $9.3 million a year -- when asked about the NBA's proposed new dress code asking players to be neat on the bench and dress well on trips with sport coats and collared shirts:

"I don't see it happening unless every NBA player is given a stipend to buy clothes. Guys who haven't been wearing suits and don't own suits, it will be really hard to get them in time for the season."

Hey, douchebag, you've got a $9.3 million stipend already! And this is on top of the per diem they all get. Just when you think pro athletes can't be more out of touch, up steps another jackass.

Carry That Weight

2005-10-06T15:20:00.000-05:00

I finally got a my hands on Nada Surf's fourth record, The Weight is a Gift, a few days ago. Outstanding. It's not quite what 2003's Let Go was/is -- one of my favorite albums of all-time -- but as a follow-up to a classic, it's about as good as could be expected.

If there's a complaint, it's that the songs just aren't quite as memorable as those on Let Go. The latter's amazing tunes were indelible from first listen; this one has taken a while, but now it's numero uno on the ol' iPod.

For my thoughts on Let Go (and the LP has grown in my estimation since), here's a review and an interview with guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Matthew Caws.

In other music news, Paul informed me that Philadelphia's Bigger Lovers are calling it quits. Simply put, this is a damn shame. These guys put out three excellent power-pop (for lack of a better term) efforts, and I've always wanted to see the full band in concert. I saw a drummer-less show in 2004 after the drummer's dad passed away a day earlier; while inspiring, it definitely left me wanting the full-band experience. I may try to go the farewell show Nov. 5 in Philly. Not likely, though.

No, Baby

2005-09-30T11:03:00.000-05:00

Hey, more Who talk...

Aimlessly reading some entertainment headlines today, I came across the news that Mike Myers is slated to star in a Keith Moon biopic. I like Myers as much as the next guy -- I shamelessly admit to loving all three Austin Powers movies -- but I'm having some difficulty finding this to be a good idea. Maybe he could pull off Moon's later years, though he's already about a decade older than Moon was when he died. But as a teen, when Moon joined the Who? Just not plausible.

Besides, actor/former Phantom Planet drummer Jason Schwartzman is clearly the best man for the job. I suggested this in the pages of Magnet in 2002, but the article is no longer available online, damn it. Just take my word for it.

Blog Me, Feel Me, Touch Me, Heal Me

2005-09-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

Though it looks like it only exists as a place to read his novella, Pete Townshend has a blog. I didn't much care for the excerpts, but in looking at some of the comments, I found this guy who's writing an online Townshend bio. I haven't waded through much of it yet, but I will shortly. If any rock star is worthy of an exhaustive biography, preferably in hardcover with lots of photos, Pete's it. This'll do for now.

Misc.

2005-09-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

Something I feared might happen -- not having anything worth blogging about -- has essentially come to fruition. Still, I forge ahead:

**This is possibly the creepiest thing ever, even more so than the real thing.

**I saw Idlewild at Metro Thursday night. I find Idlewild to be one of the best bands going these days (Warning/Promises will probably top my best-of list), and they did not disappoint. Great songs played with passion, with no real dead spots...just the "hits". A couple of bonuses (bonii?) capped the evening nicely: The place was maybe 3/4 full, so there was plenty of room to move around; not too many people were smoking, so I walked out of the club as April fresh as I walked in; and the show was over by 11:30. I was home by 11:45, walked the dog (not a euphemism for anything perverted) and was in bed by midnight.

**Saw my final Cubs game of the year, a desultory loss to the Cardinals, on Sept. 17. Final tally with me in attendance this season: 5-7. Overall record since 2001: 21-28.

**Happy 40th to the fine folk at Fort Recovery. As I mentioned in my first post, Jerry and I almost bought the farm together one long, drunken night about 10 years ago. Given that I generally have very little to write about, I'll tell the story now. (I suppose I could save it, but nah.)

I was living in Lexington, Ky. (definitely a story for another day), and I drove up to Columbus to see Guided By Voices play at the Alrosa Villa, now infamous for being where Dimebag Darrell got shot. We both (me and Jerry, not me and Dimebag) proceeded to get liquored up. Go figure, and at a GBV show? Crazy. Anyway, In my altered state, I thought I was in better shape to drive Jerry's car than he was. Turns out, not so much, as right near his house was an intersection that I thought was a four-way stop. We go through the intersection only to then hear screeching brakes and a screaming horn to our left; I punched the gas just enough (and the other guy swerved just enough) to avoid what would've been a nasty collision.

I'm not exaggerating when I say it's only been recently that I stopped having nightmares about dying in that crash. Again, I'm not kidding.

Long story short, Jerry was incredibly pissed off at me (rightly so) and proceeded to berate me until I went to sleep. After I left the next morning, we didn't speak for about two years. A few of my attempts at IMs were greeted with, "Blow me." Our friendship had always been a little tenuous anyway, due to that guy thing of always feeling compelled to rip on one another, and this episode was nearly end of it.

I'm happy to say that we did end up speaking about The Incident at one point, though what I remember most about the conversation is that Jerry said I was being a jerk that night previous to the near-fatal non-crash. Our friendship can probably be summed up by the fact that I thought the same thing about him. But at least we talked about it, and we remain friends.

His alt-country/Americana band, Moviola, comes to town later this year. Check them out.

Hard to Argue

2005-09-15T15:47:00.000-05:00

Quote of the day, taken somewhat out of context from The Chicago Tribune:

Detroit Lions backup cornerback R.W. McQuarters, an ex-Chicago Bear, is certain (former Bears coach) Dick Jauron won't approach his second Chicago trip any differently.

"Dick is Dick," McQuarters began. "When I say Dick is Dick, Dick is Dick."

Completely switching gears, I was reminded today of a conversation I had with two of my friends four years ago regarding what we thought was the greatest rock 'n' roll song of all-time. One of my friends said the Beatles' "A Day in the Life." My vote is for the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again." "A Day in the Life" is inarguably a classic -- a milestone, even, for pop music -- but it doesn't really rock all that much. Both songs are epics, yet the Who's power and that spine-tingling Roger Daltrey scream seal it for me. Of course, I'm also way more into the Who than the Beatles, so it's not that tough a call.

The version of "Fooled" in The Kids Are Alright is beyond amazing, by the way. The shot of Pete Townshend jumping high and landing on his knees while Daltrey screams up a lung is the finest moment in rockumentary annals.

Reader(s), let's hear what you think.

The Sign at the Fork in the Road Said "Straight On"

2005-09-13T14:13:00.000-05:00

A little late on this (as if there were any expectations), but I saw a great Portastatic show Friday night at the Empty Bottle. I hadn't seen Portastatic since a short show at a Nashville record store in 1997 and missed Mac McCaughan and crew's last Chicago trip a couple of years ago due to being old and lame. So, I'd built up hearty expecations for this gig, and it didn't disappoint.

Though I might quibble with a song choice or two (I usually do, it's a curse), the four-piece band, featuring Superchunk's Jim Wilbur on bass, heartily rocked the packed, sweaty crowd. Highlights included a bunch of great material from the recently released Bright Ideas, a stunning version of "Naked Pilseners" and a second encore consisting of the awe-inspiring "Spying On The Spys," probably my favorite Portastatic tune.

And now, a related digression: The only other time I caught Portastatic was in 1995, opening for Guided By Voices at D.C.'s Black Cat. At that point, I'd interviewed McCaughan twice -- the tally is up to three times (here's one of the results; I hope I've improved) -- but never in person. It being a GBV show, I naturally proceeded to get oiled; when I finally mustered up enough liquid courage to approach McCaughan, I babbled nervously and incoherently for a few minutes until a patient McCaughan was rescued by the lead singer of Nation Of Ulysses. I slinked off, entirely mortified.

I was able to speak with McCaughan for a few minutes pre-set at the Empty Bottle, knowing at least in my own tiny mind that such a confab would result in a small measure of closure/redemption for my previous embarrassment. McCaughan surely remains oblivious to the whole notion, and rightly so. But the combination of his fantastic performance and that brief, non-drunken chat made for a memorable night indeed.

At Least I'll Have the New Journey Record

2005-09-06T15:34:00.000-05:00

I'm continually amazed at what you can find on the Internet. Here's a site that predicts when you'll die. FYI, don't invite me to anything on May 9, 2039. I'll be sweating it May 8, that's for sure.

Stop the presses! Journey's new record, Generations (due Oct. 4), has an updated track list (did anyone know, or care about, the old one?):

Faith In The Heartland
The Place In Your Heart
A Better Life
Every Generation
Butterfly (She Flies Alone)
Believe
Knowing That You Love Me
Out of Harms (sic) Way
In Self-Defense
Better Together
Gone Crazy
Beyond The Clouds
Never Too Late (remixed version)

Virgin Territory

2005-08-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

I'm posting this movie poster for a number of reasons. (Posting this poster? Yikes. That's fine bloggin'.) One, Steve Carell is just about the funniest person alive, and this photo cracks me up. Two, The 40-Year-Old Virgin is freaking hysterical. It helps to like lowbrow comedies (like this one that's on HBO and its various offshoots eight times a day), but Virgin is smart and sweet in addition to extremely vulgar (verbally). Lastly, for whatever insane reason, the version on the left at some point morphed into the incorrectly punctuated version on the right. And that's worth a bit of mocking. Oh, and check out this interview with Carell at the Onion.

Off to Wrigley tonight, and I also went Sunday, in part to see Ryne Sandberg's jersey-retirement ceremony. There are three other retired Cubs uniforms: Ron Santo, Billy Williams and Ernie Banks. As much as I have emotional ties to those guys, it's largely because of old film clips and books; I was 4 in 1969, and these three were all retired by the time I was 12. I have vague memories of seeing them play, but Sandberg is a guy who I watched and admired from Day 1 of his Cubs career. Whenever I play on a softball team where we get jerseys, I wear his number, 23. (It's for Jordan, too, of course, but still...) The point? I got a little misty at the ceremony, OK?

It's interesting going to games these days. The Cubs are all but mathematically eliminated from playoff contention (a rarity since 2002, if you can believe it for a team with such a sorry history), so there's really no tension, no pressure -- just meaningless games in the best park in the world. You want them to win, of course, you always do -- Sunday's game was a welcome rout -- but in the end, it's just about the pure experience of watching the game and taking in the atmosphere. As much as I hate that this team went in the tank, it's almost refreshing to go to the park right now. Ask me again next year, and I likely won't be as forgiving.

Moonlight Mile

2005-08-22T14:11:00.000-05:00

Here's a nice article about the Cubs' Adam Greenberg, who, in his first and only big-league plate appearance July 9 of this year, was beaned in the melon. He's apparently not fully recovered, and here's hoping he doesn't become this generation's Archibald "Moonlight" Graham. Moonlight, of course, was fictionalized in Field of Dreams, but the guy's story was based in fact. He played in one game in 1905 with the New York Giants; in the movie, he hits a sacrifice fly, but in real life, he didn't even get up to bat. Anyway, good luck to the kid.

That's Mr. Scrotum Bag to You

2005-08-18T09:49:00.000-05:00

Now, I've had some bad customer-service experiences, particularly with cable/phone/Internet companies, but I've never been called "Scrotum Bag"* (from the Chicago Sun-Times' Red Streak):

Bills mailed to 'Bitch Dog,' 'Scrotum Bag'
August 18, 2005

Like most everybody, LaChania Govan got bounced around when she called her cable company to complain. She made dozens of calls and was even transferred to a person who spoke Spanish -- a language she doesn't understand.

But when she got her August bill from Comcast she had no trouble understanding she'd made somebody mad. It was addressed to ''Bitch Dog.'' ''I was like you got to be freaking kidding me,'' said Govan, 25, of her reaction when she saw the bill. ''I was so mad I couldn't even cuss.''

Govan said she talked to a supervisor about the bill and he told her he'd find out what happened and get back to her. He also offered her two months free service, which she turned down. Finally Wednesday, about two weeks after she got her bill, somebody from the company left a message on her answering machine in which the caller apologized.

Comcast officials said it shouldn't have happened and that two people involved with the name change were fired.

Peoples Energy reacted to a similar situation by firing the person immediately after customer Jeffery Barnes started getting letters addressed to ''Jeffery Scrotum Bag Barnes,'' and said he never talked with anyone from the utility company.

Barnes said he received an apologetic call from a company official. He also has contacted an attorney to determine if he can take legal action. ''This comes under the category of slander.''

*I have, however, been called variations of this by friends. Just wanted to clear that up.

Bearded, Clam Up

2005-08-01T15:17:00.000-05:00

From the mind of Rick Rubin (courtesy of the Chicago Tribune):

"Neil Diamond is one of my all-time favorite artists," the producer says. "The live show is simply amazing. [Diamond's 1972 double-album] `Hot August Night' is probably my favorite live album. He's got better songs on it than [The Who's] `Live at Leeds.'" (emphasis added by moi)

I've got nothing against Neil Diamond, but now I've got something against Rick Rubin. I think bong resin from his days producing the Beastie Boys has clouded his thought process.

UPDATE: Jeff read this post and declares his allegiance with Rubin on the subject. To each his own, I still disagree with both of them.

Regrets, I've Not Had That Many

2005-07-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

Today is the 40th anniversary of the date of my birth. Otherwise known as my 40th birthday. Naturally, I've been reflecting (though only a little, as I try to look forward as much as possible) on regrets and whatnot. Basically, I don't have any major regrets. Minor ones, that's another story. Topping the list is the amount of money I wasted in my twenties and early thirties, mostly on alcohol and parking tickets. Oh, and I also drove drunk way too often in those days. I'm fortunate to be alive, really.

The other real regret I have is that my "career" (quotes denoting that it's a joke to call it that) is so undefined and unsatisfying. Tempering my woe is that I've always taken jobs for personal reasons rather than professional reasons, and this has resulted in happenstances like meeting my wife and finally moving back home to Chicago. So, it's impossible to truly regret this lack-of-career path. However, when you dislike your job so intensely, it's tough sometimes not to think, "What if I'd done that instead?" But those feelings pass pretty quickly.

And hell, I'm off to Wrigley today, and how can I be upset about being in that position? Exactly.

Mack Daddy

2005-07-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

Wacky album covers are always a good time-waster.

This one is my current favorite. Not only is this young lady naked, she's trying to look enthralled with this middle-aged hack while on her knees on a piano. Comfortable, I'm sure.

And I love where this album was recorded. Sounds like a first-class joint.

Said It Too Late

2005-07-22T11:23:00.000-05:00

You may have heard about this, a tragic car accident in the Chicago 'burbs last week. Three guys go out to lunch and die when someone trying to off herself slams her car into theirs. Think about it...you say to someone, "Have a good lunch, Michael," and you don't see them alive again. Not to get all touchy-feely -- especially since I fail to do this almost every day -- but this story is a reminder to cherish each and every day you're able to live and interact with your friends and loved ones.

Dig deeper into the story, and you'll find one of the guys killed was the drummer in Silkworm, a fine, underrated band. Not that it's important in this or any other context, but I never got around to seeing Silkworm, and now I never will. (Some nice memories are posted on the band's message board at the site above.)

Making the story even more bizarre, the girl responsible for the deaths is a model. I post this here not for prurient reasons, but just because it adds an odd layer to the whole thing. Here's an attractive woman who would seem to have a lot going for her, yet she felt compelled to try to kill herself. Instead, she kills three innocent bystanders, irrevocably altering so many lives other than her own. I can't even put how I feel about all of this into words, other than to marvel at how fucked up the world almost always is.

Bamboozled

2005-07-19T12:12:00.000-05:00

Turns out the visit from my old friend Hannan was all part of an elaborate ruse, as my wife threw me a surprise 40th birthday party Saturday night. Considering it was held 12 days before my actual birthday, the element of surprise was in full effect. Fun was had by all, especially yours truly, though I'm still nursing this upper respiratory nonsense.

Catching a Coldplay

2005-07-15T11:06:00.000-05:00

Good news: My old (and I do mean old, like 47) friend Hannan is coming in today to help me get an early start on my 40th birthday celebration, such as it is. Bad news: I've come down with my first illness since August 2003, a nicely timed upper respiratory infection. I'll have to fight through it.

Good news: Nada Surf, one of my favorite bands, will be in Chicago October 14. Bad news: I will be in Louisville at a rehearsal dinner.

Additional music content: I don't have any Coldplay albums, but I am loving "Speed of Sound." Possibly the best single of the year, along with Beck's "E-Pro."

That's all I've got. "Enjoy."

Life Affirmed

2005-07-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

There's really only this two-word phrase to describe Sloan's gig last night at the Double Door: fuckin' fun. These Canucks really know how to put on a rock 'n' roll show. I'll go as far to say that bassist/guitarist/drummer (the dude's multi-talented, eh?) Chris Murphy is the most entertaining live performer I've seen since prime-era Bob Pollard. Heady praise, to be sure. But, damn, that was a blast, even better than the top-notch show we saw last year at Metro. What was really encouraging/heartwarming was that the crowd was at least 75 percent Sloan diehards who were singing along to every word and clapping along with gusto. Special night.

The one bum note was that Murphy did the old "lick the mic stand" thing (which Sloan freak Jeff has a photo of on his blog), and that's schtick that's as unnecessary as it is gross.

Speaking of music, which I really haven't lately, I'm enjoying new records by Longwave, Portastatic and Idlewild. Check them out (not sure if they're all released yet; yes, I get promos, I'm so cool). All three records are on a par with, or better than, previous stuff in their catalogs.

Given that the Sloan show was on a school night, I don't have the energy to discuss this in depth, but after yesterday's Cubs debacle, the team is done. Corey Patterson (he doesn't even deserve a link) has been farmed out, a couple of young bucks have been called up, and the Fire Dusty talk is at its peak. There's no joy in Wrigleyville, but would we expect there to be?

It's Enough to Make You Puke

2005-06-30T10:08:00.000-05:00

Today's offering will seem like I'm stealing Paul's material, but that's only half-right, as I was planning on posting about this baseball stuff (go figure). The second item, though, was purely Paul's idea, so hat's off to him.

If anyone wonders why most people view professional athletes as spoiled malcontents deserving of scorn, meet Exhibits A and B. Something tells me that Kenny Rogers wouldn't appreciate someone walking to the mound during a game and knocking the ball out of this hand every time he tried to pitch. Yet, he felt it within his rights as a pampered douchebag to do the very same thing to a cameraman just doing his job. (It wasn't during a game, but the example still works.) He definitely should've known when to walk away. (Pointless aside: Rogers threw a perfect game on my 29th birthday.)

Gary Sheffield has always been a prick, so his comments yesterday about a possible trade to the Mets come as no surprise. However, those comments aren't any less sickening; he basically said he wouldn't accept a trade and, in remarks I heard on the radio this morning that aren't in the above article, implied he wouldn't give 100 percent if he were dealt. Warms the heart, doesn't it? Here's a guy making over $10 million a year, and he doesn't have it in him to try his hardest because he made concessions (yeah, deferred money is a real drag) when signing with the Yankees. There's really nothing about professional sports, baseball in particular, that surprises me anymore -- and nothing that would ever deter me from enjoying baseball purely as a game -- but these two jag-offs make me sick.

Speaking of getting sick, as Paul writes, Ted Leo's song "Me and Mia" is about something so completely apart from what I thought it was about, it's pretty amazing to contemplate. Do a Google search for "mia ana" and then read the song's final verse below. A great song just got that much greater.

Sick to death of my dependence, fighting food to find transcendence
Fighting to survive, more dead but more alive
Cigarettes and speed to live and sleeping pills to feel forgiven
All that you contrive, and all that you're deprived
All the bourgeois social angels telling you you've got to change
Don't have any idea, they'll never see so clear
But don't forget what it really means
To hunger strike when you don't really need to
Some are dying for a cause, but that don't make it yours

Baseball, Family, More Baseball

2005-06-29T11:36:00.000-05:00

I don't blog much, but when I do, it seems to be about baseball. So here's more (with some family stuff tossed in)...

My wife and I had my parents up from Florida for five days. Fun was had by all -- we went to Second City, which was very funny, hung around downtown, etc. (Speaking of baseball, Ryne Sandberg walked right past me as we were leaving where we had lunch on Saturday; unfortunately, my dad and his camera were nowhere to be found.) The highlight, at least for my dad, was going to see the Cubs play the White Sox at "U.S. Cellular Field" on Friday. The Sox, my dad's team, pounded the Cubs, my team, so he was thrilled. Me, not so much, especially since it was about 98 degrees.

We also took a tour of Wrigley Field that day. It was the second time I've done that, first time for him. Unfortunately, they were watering the grass when we were there, so we didn't get roam the outfield or stand on the mound. But being on the on-deck circle was cool. It's amazingly close to home plate.

Actually, the real highlight was that we had about 10 other relatives come over on Saturday. It was the first time any of them had seen our new-ish place, and the first time many of us had been in the same room for quite a while. It was the day of the second game of the Cubs/Sox series, so some of the younger kids were appropriately dressed. The little dude on the right below, my namesake (though not really named after me), obviously has great taste. (These guys are my second cousins.)

Our family, like others, I imagine, has had its share of acrimony over the last few years, so it was good to see everyone putting the petty nonsense aside, at least for a day.

More baseball...I had seats four rows behind the dugout for last night's Cubs victory over the Brewers. It was the second year in a row watching a game from those seats and the second year in a row I regretted not bringing my camera. The view from there is simply outstanding. So was the game...Derrek Lee homered, and Corey Patterson made an incredible game-saving catch. (This just in: He still can't hit as well as we'd like.) The view was great, the beer was cold, the game was well-played...as I've said before, you can't beat fun at the old ballpark. Felt like nirvana after a particularly shitty day at at the office.

I don't think I'm going to another game until mid-July. Maybe I'll post before then, maybe I won't. I turn 40 next month, surely I'll have something to say about that (especially since I'll be at the ballpark that day).

Don't Be - Memory

2005-06-21T09:36:00.000-05:00

Paul has a great post today about memorable/wacky/interesting things he's seen at baseball games. His recall is much better than mine, but here are the top three things that I can remember (interestingly, they all involve Sammy Sosa):

1. Sosa hitting the tying two-run HR with two outs and two strikes in the bottom of the ninth in Game 1 of the 2003 NLCS. I say this with no exaggeration: The crack of the bat when he hit that ball was the single loudest such instance I've ever heard. And I've never seen a crowd more exited. I still get chills when I think about it. (FYI, it's a Chills song that provides today's headline. Wow, what synergy.)

2. Sosa hitting the longest HR I've ever seen, that same year vs. Milwaukee. It was incredibly high, and it went way down Kenmore Street. I think the estimated distance was something like 560 feet, and that seemed to shortchange it. Was it because of steriods and/or cork? Don't care.

3. In 2001, in the first Cubs home game post-9/11, Sosa dropped a cheapie HR into the right-field basket and then carried a mini American flag around the bases. It was pure, orchestrated Sosa, but given the circumstances, it was pretty damn inspiring.

I've been racking what's left of my brain trying to come up with other stuff, but nothing of note stands out. However, one that just did was an amazing Bo Jackson bomb in Kansas City in 1988, which cleared the fountains in right center by about 100 feet.

Oh, here's another: I was at the game in 1976 when Mike Schmidt hit four HRs in an 18-16 win over the Cubs. The Phillies got down 13-2 early, and the Phillies fan I was with forced me to leave. (Hey, I was 10, I needed a ride.) I got home in time to see the historic fourth HR on TV.

Bang a Gong

2005-06-20T10:51:00.000-05:00

I have absolutely no idea why I thought of this, but they say the mind works in mysterious ways. I'm at the computer, contemplating the work in front of me, and all of a sudden Gene Gene the Dancing Machine pops into my head. It's a pleasant childhood memory, as I was a huge Gong Show fan. I even had a "Gong Show Reject" t-shirt. High fashion, indeed. Anyway, enjoy the clip.

On a related note, here's a rental recommendation: Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. Even though it was directed by George Clooney, I found this pseudo-bio of Gong Show creator-host Chuck Barris to be one of the most entertaining movies I saw in 2002.

Hence the Name

2005-06-14T09:50:00.000-05:00

Taking the L into work this morning, like I do every day, I saw something I've never seen and hope to never again. Just after leaving my stop, I took a gander out the window and noticed a guy taking a poop behind a Dumpster. I suppose he could've been looking for something while squatting with his pants at his ankles, but I think he was making a doody. And it's my duty to report it.

On an entirely different note, here's an inspirational story. It's not an uncommon one, but it still made me a little misty. It's one of those stories where you curse yourself afterward for how you complain about some little thing or another when you don't face nearly the challenges this kid does.

Quote of the Day

2005-06-08T13:41:00.000-05:00

"He was just my grandpa, but he was also Bozo, and we don't ever forget that." -- Los Angeles Angels draft pick Trevor Bell, speaking about grandfather Bob "Bozo the Clown" Bell

Can't Beat Fun at the Old Ballpark

2005-06-08T10:09:00.000-05:00

Random thoughts after a night spent at Wrigley:

*As the above article mentions, a black cat briefly ran on the field and into the stands. A similar incident in 1969 in New York unfortunately holds a spot in Cubs loser lore, but this cat wasn't entirely black, so I'm not freaked out about it. However, as an extremely wussy cat owner, I was more concerned with the cat not being harmed. After the cat jumped into the stands, a guy behind me goes, "Throw it back!" Worries about the cat's welfare aside, that was pretty funny.

*I'm not one to drink to excess at games, having done so only twice that I can recall. (Maybe it's been more and I just black out?) While I have no real problems with people who go to the games solely to get ripped, they often make the game experience a hassle for those who have to deal with their loutish behavior. Not a problem last night, thankfully, as the crowd was well-behaved. The muggy weather might've had something to do with it. Then there's the guy in the seat next to me, who fell asleep in the eighth inning; when he woke up, he had to go take a leak, then spent about 10 minutes trying to get back to the right aisle upon his return.

*I came about as close as I ever have to getting a foul ball.** A hard liner hit off a guy's shoulder two rows directly in front of me. Unfortunately, the ball bounced way left, so I had no shot after that. I was tossed a ball last year by, ironically, last night's starting pitcher, Glendon Rusch; immediately after the ball landed in my hand, I hear, "GIVE IT TO THE KID!" I was unaware that a kid two rows behind me had his sights on the ball. Rather than risk abuse for the rest of the game, I gave it to him, to much applause. Then the guy who bellowed earlier brought me a beer as thanks for handing the ball to the kid. It's the little things like that that make going to games such a joy.

*Perhaps fittingly, given the team I root for, the Cubs lose more often than not with me in attendance. Here's the year-by-year tally since moving to Chicago in August 2001; most of these took place at Wrigley, but the totals include a win in Milwaukee (Miller Park) in 2002, a loss at "U.S. Cellular" (formerly "new" Comiskey Park) in 2002 and a win at "U.S. Cellular" in 2003:

2001: 0-1
2002: 5-8
2003: 5-8 (including three NLCS losses)
2004: 6-4
2005: 0-3

Total: 16-24.

Ouch. Doesn't stop me from going back, though, and likely never will.

**I did snag a batting practice homerun ball at Camden Yards in Baltimore in '93. If anyone can guess the Mariners player who hit it, I'll buy you a beer.

Hell, Next Exit

2005-06-01T12:06:00.000-05:00

I find that when I don't have anything to say, a press release touting a mythical town called Journeyville will do:

This summer at Journey’s 30th anniversary U.S. tour, dubbed “The concert that takes you back…and into the future,” fans will experience a mixture of nostalgia, excitement, and delight from the moment they arrive until the time they leave. In addition to being treated to an entire evening of music spanning Journey’s entire history, this trek will include an added ingredient, “Journeyville,” a festive area located near the front entrance at most of the venues. Fans will be treated to continuous video playback on large outdoor screens showing various moments throughout Journey’s history such as classic music videos, behind-the-scenes clips and much more. They can also learn more about Journey’s history and sign up for the Journey Fan Club to get all the latest news, special merchandise offers and tour updates.

The centerpiece of “Journeyville” will be a “30th Anniversary Journey Motorcycle,” created and built by Arlen Ness Motorcycles and featuring amazing artwork from all of Journey’s albums. Fans will have a chance of winning this beautiful motorcycle by making a contribution to Journey’s favorite children’s charities at the exhibit. One lucky fan will ride away into the sunset on this one-of-a-kind motorcycle at the end of the tour! For the latest tour dates, which commence June 26 in Irvine, CA, log onto www.journeymusic.com.

Why Willie Nelson Can Blow Me

2005-05-24T15:04:00.000-05:00

Why Willie Nelson Can Blow Me
by Robert Pollard*

Here’s what he said. I don’t even know the guy’s name. I’ll never say his name ’cause he sucks so bad.

He said the guy in matchbox twenty, that pussy, restored Willie Nelson’s faith in songwriting.

Fuck Willie Nelson!

See what I’m sayin’? He smokes too much dope, doesn’t he?

I’ll tell you what, all these alt.cunt....Alt.cunt. You know that genre, alt.cunt? Alt.country? That shit can blow me. Alt.country. Lyle Lovett and Sheryl Crow. What the fuck? Get a job!

I listen to fuckin’ rock and roll! T.Rex and the Who and shit! Get a grip!

I don’t get it, man. When you’ve got the fuckin’ whole god-damn royal jelly right on your fuckin’ plate and you’re going to listen to some alt.cunt. Come on. That’s why the world sucks.

You got Dubya and you got, uh, Lyle Lovett. Texas can fuckin’—no, I didn’t say that.

We just played there recently, and I told them, “I know you guys want to be your own country. If Guided By Voices made the decision to not to play anywhere but the great old U S of A, if you guys became a country, we’d make an exception for you.”

Sorry about that. But you know where I’m comin’ from.

You know where I’m comin’ from.

*spoken during GBV's final San Francisco show, the Fillmore, 11-13-04

Musical Baton

2005-05-23T10:20:00.000-05:00

OK, so Jeff passed me a musical baton. Now Paul has upbraided me (good-naturedly, of course) for ignoring it. I wasn't ignoring it as much as I didn't really get the concept. But I'll play along:

Total volume of music files on my computer: Appx. 10 GB (mostly in iTunes, but some still lingering in the Windows Media Player).

The last CD I bought was: A couple of months ago, I bought Worlds Apart by ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead and Now Here is Nowhere by the Simple Machines. Been mostly listening to promos and other freebies.

Song playing right now: None. (See, this boring baton is why I avoided it.)

Five songs I listen to a lot, or that mean a lot to me:
1. "Places That Are Gone," Tommy Keene
2. "Destination Ursa Major," Superdrag
3. "I Am a Scientist," Guided By Voices
4. "80 Windows," Nada Surf
5. "Bastards of Young," the Replacements

I'm passing this baton along to: Jerry. He's the only friend left who blogs and who hasn't already had a baton passed his way.

Cross Hairs

2005-05-18T13:57:00.000-05:00

Many people already know this, but comedian/Arrested Development cast member David Cross is a funny guy. (He's also bald, hence the wacky headline. Comedy gold.) So, for your enjoyment, please read his Albums to Listen to While Reading Overwrought Pitchfork Reviews. Believe me, Pitchfork is full of those.

Also for your enjoyment, hopefully, here's a review I did of Cross' DVD, Let America Laugh. We're Americans, and we did.

Oh, first a side note. In looking for a David Cross Web site, I typed in davidcross.com. The result is perhaps the most minimalist (wait, can there be a most minimalist?) site ever.

Now, the article:

David Cross, Let America Laugh, Sub Pop
Documenting a 2002 tour by Mr. Show vet and current Arrested Development cast member David Cross, Let America Laugh—while not as subversively hilarious as the best of Mr. Show—simultaneously displays Cross’ irreverence and the sheer stupidity of some of this country’s citizens. (Consider it an aural companion to Cross’ comedy CD, Shut Up, You Fucking Baby!, recorded during the same tour.) While there are stand-up scenes included—particularly amusing is his closing “squagles” bit—the focus (and genius moments) of Let America Laugh, directed by Lance Bangs, are the non-gig interludes. Particularly priceless is when Cross loiters backstage at Nashville’s Exit/In after the manager kicks him out. Cross mercilessly mocks the guy from the stage for his pre-show, attitude-laced comparison of Nashville to New York and L.A. and an initial refusal to remove tables and chairs from the front of the stage (in order not to lose food sales); he then surreptitiously films the guy’s exasperated reaction when Cross, feigning obliviousness, won’t leave the building. Hilarity ensues. Sharp viewers—well, them and freaky Superchunk fans—will note that Mac McCaughan operates the camera and asks the questions during an interview with a banal girl pontificating on the indie cred of noted counter-culture comedian Robin Williams. Best moment of the deleted scenes is a quick shot of L.A. pop band Arlo wigging out on an unappreciative crowd: “You’re the most enthusiastic oil painting we’ve ever played to.”

Good Taste

2005-05-12T15:21:00.000-05:00

So I go to Potbelly for lunch today--as I probably too often do--and what song do I hear but Sloan's "False Alarm". (Not from the acoustic troubadours they have in there every other day or so, but the canned music.) Usually it's classic-rock-a-go-go, so I was amazed and more than a little pleased.

On the subject of food, there's a semi-interesting discussion over at RustedRobot about snack food, healthy eating, etc. Since I got married in 2001, my wife has steered me in the right direction as far as eating well. She goes out of her way to make good stuff for dinner, and while I do slip up on occasion--I have a weakness for Potbelly and their amazing oatmeal-chocolate chip cookies--I've avoided the typical fast-food establishments for the better part of two years. However, I'll never give up Salsa Verde Doritos, unless a loved one was in harm's way. Tough call, even then. (Related side note: Apparently, this flavor of Doritos is somewhat difficult to find. I recommend making the effort.)

While I'm not losing any weight, like I'd like to, something's going right in that since March 2003, I've been sick a grand total of once (a horrendous cold in August of that year). Given that I work in what is often nothing more than a giant petri dish, with people constantly sniffling and coughing, I have to think there's some correlation. For me--someone who used to get the flu, at least two colds and occasionally bronchitis every year--to go this long without illin' is an accomplishment of some sort.

Running of the Bulls

2005-05-05T09:58:00.000-05:00

It appears the Bulls are now in deep doo-doo, down 3-2 to the Wizards. However, after last night's amazing comeback from a 22-point deficit, I'm as proud of the Bulls as I would've been if they won. No team in the NBA would've done what they did; they'd all be going through the motions on their way to their posses, pot and PlayStations. This team, as it has shown all year, is different. They play hard 100 percent of the time. As much as I'd like to see them advance, after six years of horrific basketball--and this year's 0-9 start--just being in the playoffs is gravy. I'll remember the comeback far longer than whatever the next result may be. And if they can steal game 6 in D.C., they'll win game 7 back in Chicago.

The Cubs, meanwhile, continue to annoy, losing to the Brewers last night on, of all things, a walk-off walk. I'm in the minority here in that I don't blame Dusty Baker for the team's ills--is it his fault Nomar and Kerry Wood aren't healthy? That normally reliable GM Jim Hendry didn't do anything to shore up an already-crappy bullpen?--but I found the image below pretty amusing.

Funny times in Cubdom these days...with Dusty at the helm, they won 88 games and almost went to the World Series in 2003 and won 89 games last season (admittedly, they gagged away a playoff spot in the final week). When was the last time the Cubs were legit contenders two seasons in a row, with high expectations for the third year? 1908? 1932? Yet Dusty Baker, in the eyes of most Cubs fan these days, is the problem. Right. Frankly, the backlash disgusts me.

p.s. Happy birthday to Jeff.

Random Cute Politicized Baby Photo

2005-05-03T12:36:00.000-05:00

So young, yet so liberal. (Disclaimer:
It's a friend's baby, not a random one.
If it matters.)

Slim Pickings

2005-04-27T10:12:00.000-05:00

I interviewed Slim Dunlap last night for an upcoming Magnet article. (It's not like it's a big secret, but I'll hold off on what it's about until it's published; suffice to say, the Replacements figure prominently.) Dunlap is the journeyman's journeyman musically, but he's put out a couple of decent records, and the title track on Times Like This is one of my very-favorite songs.

In addition to enjoying our chat because he's a sweetheart of a guy, it completed my bizarre, purely coincidental personal milestone: I've now interviewed all of the living Replacements (save for drummer-for-five-seconds Steve Foley). Getting into the rock-crit game in early '93, I never would've imagined having the opportunity to do something like that. I'll never win any awards for my music writing, but I've gotten to speak with/meet/hang out with/become friends with some of my heroes, and it's something that I don't take for granted. Free CDs, guest-list slots, bylines, etc., are nice, but connecting with a musician you admire, even for just a single phone call or a handshake, is a treat.

In that vein, here's a story I wrote about Tommy Keene back in '98. Though I'd been doing reviews and smaller profiles for a while, this article is really the first longer piece I tackled. Parts of it make me cringe--I'd definitely downplay the fanboy stuff if I could have another crack at it--but I'm fairly happy with it overall. But the larger point is that since our first conversation, we've kept in touch, and I've tried to help Tommy out whenever I've been in a position to do so. The way I see it, his music has been such an integral part of my life since about 1986, whatever I can do is the very least of payback. And as I stated above, you can't really put a price on being able to have a beer and a real discussion with someone whose art means so much to you.

I'm rambling. (Tommy's new record is excellent, by the way.)

The Bulls' playoff victory on Sunday was sweet, indeed. The crowd was jacked up, which can be expected when your team has been pathetic for seven years. Let's hope they can eliminate the Wizards in short order.

The highlight of last night's episode of The Amazing Race? Boston Douchebag asking, "What's a gnome?" Moron.

No More Nomar?

2005-04-22T12:15:00.000-05:00

One of these days, I'm going to post something rather profound. Today, however, isn't the day.

My fantasy basketball team, the Festivus Miracles, finished dead freaking last. Humiliating. Injuries and flat-out mediocre play doomed the Miracles after being competive for 2/3 of the season. My friend JT has won the league all four years of its existence. Bastard. I've got nothing to add about this, other than to say the one brilliant move I made was drafting Dwyane Wade. I had him as a rookie, and this year he was even better. One of the best players in the NBA without question.

My baseball team, the Windy City Wrigleys, is off to a respectable start, though seventh-place isn't anything to brag about. (The league has 11 teams this year.) My offense has been keeping me afloat, with Brian Roberts (a 21st-round selection, thank you very much) turning into Babe Ruth. Mike Sweeney and Derek Lee have also been outstanding. Pitching-wise, my starters have been hit-and-miss (props to Mark Prior and Bartolo Colon; shame on you, Kerry Wood; passing grades, barely, for Jeremy Bonderman and Mike Mussina). My bullpen, on the other hand, has been about 98 percent unproductive.

Oh, and injuries to Magglio Ordonez (a 10th-round pick) and, much more depressingly, Nomar Garciaparra (what's more painful, his torn groin or that I got him in the second round?) have, well, hurt. Actually, I'm way more upset for Nomar and the Cubs than I am for the Wrigs. I have a sickening feeling that he may miss the entire season, and if that's the case, he very well may have made his last appearance in a Cubs uniform. That would be sad on many levels.

Let us pray for Cesar Izturis.

One final bit of sports talk: Scored tix to the Bulls' first playoff game since the Jordan era. The former Beat-a-Bulls are banged up going into this series, but it will still be exciting to witness this moment. The United Center does not rock like the old Chicago Stadium, but it gets plenty loud enough.

Music-wise, Tommy Keene sent me his latest record, which he's shopping around to labels. The fact that he's in such a position is about as sad as Nomar tearing his groin, but that's the music industry these days. Anyway, I haven't spent much time with the LP yet, but it sounds good so far. One of the songs, "Eyes of Youth," surfaced as a demo for what became The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down. I was disappointed it didn't make that record, but its last-minute addition to this new one makes me happy. I sort of nudged him to include it, so I'll take the credit if people like it. And none of the blame if they don't.

The Shit Hits the Fans

2005-04-16T10:21:00.000-05:00

Saw Paul Westerberg last night at the Riviera. In a word: terrible. Let me state here that I was a Replacements fan from the beginning, and while I find Westerberg's solo stuff inconsistent at best, I still consider him one of the best songwriters of his generation and certainly one of my all-time favorites. I saw four Mats gigs, all great (none of them were of the legendary, drunken, shambling mess variety), and all of the 6-7 solo shows I've seen have been excellent as well.

All of which made the Riv show so disappointing. His voice sounded awful from the start, and he seemed disinterested most of the show in playing the right notes on the guitar. One of my favorite Mats songs, "Little Mascara," was a disaster. (Predictably, the adoring crowd still ate it up.) As the show progressed, it turned into a middle-aged version of one of those legendary, drunken, shambling mess shows. He brought a backstage TV onstage and smashed it with a guitar. He stomped on a telephone he also brought from backstage. He jumped into the crowd, guitar and all. He swigged from a bottle of whiskey (he was clearly off the wagon, at least for one night.) And he played a bunch of stop-start covers, including "Cat Scratch Fever" and "Substitute." (The latter actually wasn't half-bad.) Granted, there was a certain entertainment value to some of this, but in terms of being a solid-sounding show, it failed miserably.

Equally predictably, deluded acolytes are actually praising this show on his message board, with one person saying, "It's the best I've ever seen him." I feel sorry for that guy. I also feel sorry for my wife, who'd never seen Westerberg and was looking forward to this first time. Needless to say -- but I'll say it anyway -- color her unimpressed.

I'll take this opportunity to tell my one pseudo-amusing Mats concert story. In 1986, I saw them for the very first time at the Newport in Columbus. This was back in the day when bathroom access wasn't all that important and I didn't mind crowds, so my buddy G.W. and I went right up to the front of the stage, directly in line with Tommy Stinson. For about half the show, a girl to my right kept pleading, "Tommy! Tommy!" even after he came over a couple of times to shake her hand. Finally, even he had enough, as mid-song (I forget which one), he comes over, takes the grape bubble gum out of his mouth and hands it to her, with a clear look of "Will you leave me alone now?" on his face. She, of course, is overjoyed, but her hand was shaking a little, and she dropped the gum on the stage.

Now, I consider myself to be a nice guy, but the urge to flick the gum away from her was just too strong. It flew about six feet right into Tommy's left leg. Though I felt kind of bad about it, I was much happier that Tommy found it hysterical and couldn't stop laughing the rest of the song. Ah, youth.

Hell, maybe that's part of the reason I found last night's show so desultory. Maybe I'm too old and needed to be drunk. I'm not sure it would've helped.

The Cure for What Ails Me

2005-04-12T10:09:00.000-05:00

Meant to talk about this earlier, but I went to the Cubs' home opener on Friday. I don't want to get all Bob Costasy here -- though I wouldn't mind being as eloquent just once -- but there's something about going to a baseball game (I'm speaking mostly about Cubs games at Wrigley Field, but it does hold true elsewhere) that just brings me a great deal of peace. It doesn't matter if the Cubs are lousy (as is their history) or if they're doing well and the games are tense (as has been the case the last two seasons). I immediately get a sense of calm, right about the time the game starts. I've settled into my seat, I can relax, concentrate on the game and take in everything around me. Granted, the drunks and the foul-mouthed fans do get annoying, but I have an easier time blocking them out than I do, say, the inconsiderate patrons who talk during a film.

I went by myself, thanks to a last-minute, face-value ticket. While I certainly enjoy going to games with other people, attending solo can be kind of soothing. When I go with my very-understanding wife, I feel compelled to make sure she's having fun, often to the point of annoying her; if I go with a group, it's often more about the conversations you have rather than the game. I wouldn't change anything about either situation -- other than maybe my wife knowing what guys play what positions when I quiz her -- but the random solo outing allows for a bit more focus on what's happening between the lines. Not sure this is making sense, but...

Anyway, all of this brought to mind a quote I read years ago from Steve Earle. I'm not a fan -- I don't dislike him, I've just never really connected with his music -- but I couldn't have said this any better (though I did try, I guess):

"It sounds weird, but ballparks are the most tranquil structures human beings have ever built. For me, more than any church, more than anything else...As soon as I get to the top of the steps and see the green, I start feeling better. The shape of the fields, the colors, everything about 'em, I love 'em."

On a semi-related note, my friend Jeff talks about a "dream job": serving as a music producer/coordinator for movies. Contemplating his post on that subject brought back a recent unpleasant memory: I applied for what I felt was the perfect job for me -- not necessarily a dream job, but damn close -- and I was unable to even get an interview, despite having the qualifications and, or so I thought, the ability to do the job well. I don't want to get into specifics, but I also had a couple of decent connections to the place, connections that I thought would at least get me in the door. Uh, no. There are worse feelings in the world, but there was a period soon after this played out where I was really low about the entire situation. I've mostly gotten over it, but whenever I think about the opportunity missed, my heart still sinks.

So it's a good thing baseball season is here. I can worry about Mark Prior's health instead of my own occasionally fragile mental state.

This is Only a Test

2005-04-06T09:46:00.000-05:00

I'm increasingly convinced that I have a very small core readership, if you can even call it that. And of that readership, not too many leave comments. So, I'm conducting an experiment. I'll send a promo CD -- I get maybe a dozen or so in the mail every month -- to the first person* who leaves a comment to this post.

*The following people are ineligible: Holly, Paul, Marlee, Mark S., Hannan, Jeff C., Jerry, JT. (Like I said, small core readership.)

Anyone else, have at it. The CD will be of your choosing, but I'll provide a list of three or four from which to pick.

Stosh is Too Sexy for His Thong

2005-04-05T12:18:00.000-05:00

Out of complete boredom, I googled Stosh just to see what kind of results I'd get. Fortunately, this site was the first hit.

Here's a sampling of Stoshes across the 'net. When complete boredom hits again (hmm, maybe later today?), I'll post a few others.

Sexy Stosh
This is just mortifying. I may have to change both this site's name and my cat's name just to cleanse.

Hipster Poet Stosh
I know/care squat about poetry. Just saying.

Stosh the Cat II
Gotta love the mustache.

Tattooed Stosh
Welcome to the cool tattoo dungeon (as if the "cool" was necessary).

Broke-the-Mold Stosh
The One. The Only. Stosh Kozimor!

Lyndon Beavis Johnson

2005-04-01T12:14:00.000-06:00

I guess when you're president, you can call anyone at any time and have them do/make anything for you. Poor LBJ, all he wanted was some pants that fit. That and someone to listen to him say "nuts" and "bunghole". Oh, and belch, too.

Sydney Greenstreet Doesn't Scare Me, Either

2005-03-31T10:04:00.000-06:00

A mixed bag today:

*Please enjoy the best.video.ever. Warning: It might take a while to get the annoying tune out of your head, along with all of the images.

*My Final Four quandary: Being a Louisville fan, I want them to beat Illinois on Saturday and then win the title on Monday. However, if Illinois ends up defeating North Carolina for all of the marbles, I win a cool $325. I'll be rooting for the Cards, but an Illini win won't kill me. Should I feel guilty that a Louisville loss won't seem as bad if I score on Monday?

*iPod Update: 1,622 songs. Shuffle still sucking (I fast-forward quite a bit.)

*Heard this morning: Green Day - American Idiot. Finally got around to checking this out, and while I don't consider it the classic many do, I enjoyed the first spin. I've never really cared much for Green Day, even though I do have a soft spot for that type of pop-punk (like 30 Amp Fuse, Gaunt or, the godfathers, Superchunk).

*Heard last night: The Jazz Butcher - "Peter Lorre". The phrase "criminally overlooked" is often overused and usually incorrect, but it's fitting in the case of the Jazz Butcher (aka Pat Fish). What a great pop songwriter this guy was/is. Anyway, this obscure track is one of my favorite Butcher tunes, only because it makes me laugh:

Peter Lorre isn't really dead

Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's all right, he's all right
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
It's all right, he's on your side
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
It's all right, you can trust him
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's all right

Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's a brick, he's a brick
You can count on him in trouble
Even if it's really thick
Any crisis, he'll be there
Like a little squidgy bear
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's a brick

Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
Runs a nightclub way downtown
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
Always wears an evil frown
Don't spit on his shoes
Or mess up his hair
Or he will shoot you dead
And go back upstairs

But it's okay
It's all right, you can trust him
Peter Lorre's on your side
You can trust him with your secrets
He'll give you some place to hide
Don't you worry, don't you fret
Peter Lorre is a pet
You can trust that Peter Lorre
He's a vet

A real gentleman
Never bad and never rude
Never mad and never crude
Just like Sydney Greenstreet
Just like Sydney... Green...street
In any crisis he'll be there
Like a little squidgy bear
That's Peter Lorre, not Sydney Greenstreet

And you can trust him, you can trust him
He's all right, he's all right
You can trust this tiny person
Peter Lorre's on your side
Sydney Greenstreet does not scare him
Peter Lorre knows no fear
Fearless little Peter Lorre
He's a brick
Woo!

Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's all right, he's all right
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's a brick, he's a brick
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
It's all right, he's on your side
Peter Lorre, Peter Lorre
He's a brick

Weapon of Mass Destruction

2005-03-29T10:13:00.000-06:00

You can always count on the Weekly World News to cover a story the mainstream media won't. Who knew about Laura Bush?

Flipping the Bird

2005-03-29T09:56:00.000-06:00

Props to my old friend Jerry for scoring an NPR review gig. Take a listen, it's good. Can't say the artist he's praising is my cup of birdseed, but we've known each other about 17 years, and I think the only thing we've ever seen eye to eye on is that we can't stand each other half the time. He's a good egg, though.