Looks like RJD2 is sold out tonight, hopefully no one was planning on getting a ticket at the door. Happy New Year's everybody!!!!

So last night I dreamt I had become friends with Dizzee Rascal. But in my dream, he was American and living in Chicago. Also, I think his real name in my dream was John or something. Then I wanted to introduce him to my friends as a "rapper," but I wasn't sure if that would annoy him or not. Weird.

My top 20 is up on www.radiofreechicago.org. Good times.

iPod is up through the Faint now . . .

I'm now up through Devendra Banhart in my iPod. Slowly but surely, people, slowly but surely.

I've been listening to a lot of RJD2 in preparation for this Friday night, which will now official see the reunion of former PFFR hosts Nicole and DJ Lazer!

Can I get a 'huzzah!'?

Another Xmas, come and gone. I received the first season of Arrested Development, a book, a desk calendar, towels, a stuffed frog that was supposed to be some veiled reference to my French-ness, and an iPod. My iPod now has 1300 songs on it, with like, 3,000 more to add. I should be done with that by next Christmas.

In extremely small world news, in the article I wrote for TMT about the 10 best shows I saw this year, I mentioned this guy dressed like a skeleton at the Mouse on Mars show. Apparently that skeleton is a writer for Tinymixtapes, as he informed me by email. He did the article where he drew his favorite songs. SMALL SMALL WORLD.

New Andrew Bird album coming out this February, followed by some touring!! Yay! More info on his website.

Non-music related, but this is brilliant.

Another small list: best albums of 2003 that I didn't hear until 2004

Menomena- I Am the Fun Blame Monster
Unicorns- Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone?
Songs: Ohia- Magnolia Electric Company
Frog Eyes- The Golden River
Califone- Quicksand/Cradlesnakes
Sufjan Stevens- Greetings from Michigan, the Great Lakes State

Tinymixtapes big year end issue is up now! I wrote the blurb about Joanna Newsom (#6 on the top 25!) and an article about my fav concerts of the year. I know none of you are getting much work done with Xmas coming up, so read away.

Motorcycle Diaries. That's my 5th movie to add to the list. 2 1/2 hours of a beautiful man riding around in beautiful scenery. Sigh.

Madison in the fake news

As long as we're all making lists, here's my fav movies of the year. It was a pretty slow year for movies overall.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Before Sunset (I was sure I was going to hate this movie, so you can imagine my shock when I loved it)
Garden State (though it needed to end about 5 minutes earlier)
Sideways

Hmmm, I was going to try to make 5 but I can't think of any others I saw this year. I'll think about it some more.

Huzzah!

If i were to have an honorary 11th best song of the year, it would be the Hold Steady's "Killer Parties." And I think the Hold Steady Almost Killed Me would be honorary 21st best album. Maybe I should have squeezed it in the top 20, but hey, it's too late for that.

Meanwhile, the filling of the music collection gaps continued this weekend with a trip to WLUW that netted me RJD2's "Deadringer," Pulp's "Different Class," Boards of Canada's "Music Has the Right to Children," and two older Superchunk albums. My thirst for new music is still not quenched as I have the new Stars album on the way, Annie's "Anniemal" on back order, and I'm trying to track down a new album by a band called Scientific American that isn't being sold in pounds. I might have to take a break from music sometime soon.

RJD2 tickets have been purchased. Lazer, keep us updated on whether or not we'll be seeing you that night.

Meanwhile, my Menomena concert review is up on tinymixtapes . . . let's just say this one's got a slightly different tone than others I've written.

Finals
There is no escape
I can't hide
I need a hit
Baby, give me it
They're dangerous
I'm not lovin it
But just one left

Great Spoon show, probably the best of the three I've seen. They did indeed play "Everything Hits at Once," and it was great. "Paper Tiger" was probably the best song of the night. The new stuff sounded pretty good, we'll see how that album sounds when it comes out in the next few months.

Also, I spontaneously stopped by Reckless last night and finally bought Sufjan Steven's "Michigan." I don't know why I resisted getting it for so long because it's amazing. And his next album is going to be about Illinois!

Spoon! Tonight! Be there! They should be playing lots of good stuff off their upcoming yet-to-be-named album. And hopefully "Everything Hits at Once." But I'll survive this time if they don't.

There's DEFINITELY nothing wrong with liking Toxic. I hated to admit that I think it's a fabluous song, but it is...
Finals are killing me...
killing...
me....
i'm dying....
maybe Toxic will save the day - I shall play it NOW (yes, it is on my computer)

Last night we checked out the free Wes Anderson Rocks! show at the Metro. I grossly underestimated how many crazed Wes fans there were out there, as the show was shockingly packed, more so than any other show I've ever seen at the Metro. The bands played covers of songs from Wes Anderson movies, such as Abstract Giants' hip-hop take on "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard," and movie clips played in between. Didn't see as many people dressed like Richie Tennenbaum or Max Fischer as I'd expected, but some people took that extra step. This was the best idea EVER. Also, Andrew Bird still rocks my world.

I've changed my mind. There is nothing guilty about loving "Toxic," and now it's on my top 10 as well. I think that should do it, unless I see another car commercial that reminds me of something else.

I just revised my top 10 songs of the year because I completely forgot about how awesome "C'mon, C'mon" by the Von Bondies is after hearing it on a car commercial.

Also, if I had a top 10 guilty pleasure songs of the year, "Toxic" by Britney would be on it.

Updated ODB news

Well, I guess it's a good thing I'm missing out on the final Guided by Voices show this New Years Eve at the Metro, if this review is any indication. That's ok, I was happy enough with my Guided by Voices viewing experience last year, I didn't need to pay $75+ to hear some really great songs and even more filler again.

It's official . . . I'm the new Tinymixtapes articles editor!!! This means I have more power, more recognition . . . and I'll get my own tinymixtapes email address!

*Cheers*

Best pick-up advice ever.

This is kind of random Blockbuster news

It's official- beginning in mid-January, I'll be back on the air!!!! 4-6 AM, Friday mornings. I will be resetting each of your alarms when you aren't looking to be woken up at 4 AM to my glorious voice.

Since there has been a significant lack of new music lately, I've been going back in time to fill in the holes in my music collection, mostly by burning CDs from WLUW but also by hitting up Reckless. Some recent additions:

Frog Eyes- The Golden River
Stereolab- Emperor Tomato Ketchup
Mum- Finally We Are No One
Slint- Spiderland
Superchunk- Foolish

Definitely time I got more into Superchunk I'd say.

Something to think about when doing your Christmas shopping this year . . .

And for New Year's Day . . .

Saturday, 1/1/2005 - 5:00 PM
The Fourth Annual Schubas' New Year's Rehab Night
featuring Bowl Games on the BIG screen all day
plus Live Band Rock 'n' Roll Karaoke with The Hootenanners at 10:00 p.m.
It's FREE

Live Band Karaoke is glorious- more info here

Can it be true? The Perfect Face for Radio, reunited, on New Years Eve? With the hot beats of RJD2 in the background? I think I'm about to faint from excitement! My DJ Lazer withdrawal can yet be soothed. It's a miracle!

From your perfect face for radio correspondent in New York:
First up, I would probably be down for going to RJD2 on New Year's Eve. We could stop by one of my friend's parties beforehand too.
All is well. I am in the middle of finals and hope to make it back to Chicago in the next two weeks.
I am plotting, scripting, planning, and contacting http://www.wbar.org/ for this summer's radio drama. Interest among my classmates is high. Already promised plot elements include, but are not limited to: A Giant Lobster attack.
Last summer's radio drama has now been distributed to both coasts of the US and northern Europe. Surprisingly, someone has yet to admit to hating it.
Finally, yes, the article in this week's Onion about killing mice directly applies to my current research where I, basically, dissect a whole lot of newly born mice, after which I slice their brains into thin sections to look at under a microscope. I assure you though, I am humane, and follow the oversized posted slogan in the mouse facility, which reads : "BE NICE TO THE MICE."

I was hanging out at WLUW today, and whoever was doing their show from 7-8 played some DPC! "Manifest Destiny" it was. Glad to see Madison bands are getting some representation on the air.

Some good shows that have just been announced in Chicago for January:

Friday, January 14: Neko Case w/ the Sadies at the Metro
Saturday, January 15: Constantines w/ Oakley Hall at the Empty Bottle
Sunday, January 16: Saturday Looks Good to Me w/ the Impossible Shapes, Canasta and the Dials at Schubas
Wednesday, January 19: Colin Meloy (of the Decemberists) at Schubas

Megan and I are currently closing in on that wholly coveted 4-6 AM Friday morning spot at WLUW for next semester!!!! Stay tuned, we should know in the next couple of weeks. Hopefully it won't take more than a semester for me to get enough seniority to move to a time when people are actually awake to listen (and I'm awake to DJ)- though I might be able to catch a few early risers. And hey- WLUW is webcast, for all you people in various parts of the country who are dying to hear me play the latest indie rock hits before the sun is even up. It'll be mid afternoon in Europe though- maybe if I just play a lot of Air and Stereolab I'll garner a strong French audience. You never know.

Hey, just because I cut up pictures of my favorites justices from the Washington Post to add to my bedroom mural, doesn't mean this article is about me...
And I think EVERYONE has fantasy scenarios about what kind of decision Justice Rehnquist will make in the matter of Jill L. Brown.

Look, the Onion finally wrote an article about Liz!

Looks like Hoobastank is up for Song of the Year at this year's Grammys, more proof that the Grammys stopped being relevant a looooong time ago.

Follow up on file-sharing article

This news blurb on Fox News and the Simpsons is hilarious. I'm just going to copy and paste it here since it came from a members only website I use for work.

FAUX NEWS

Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes can look you straight in the eye and insist that his cable news network is fair and balanced and isn't a shill for President Bush and the Republicans.
So, you can only imagine the rancor with which he viewed Sunday's episode of "The Simpsons" on Fox.

In Episode #FABF22 / SI-1522 "She Used to Be My Girl," Marge recognizes a TV news reporter named Chloe as somebody she went to high school with. Chloe, it turns out, works for Fox News, and there are some hilarious scenes featuring a Fox News satellite truck with a huge Bush-Cheney bumper sticker while the rock group Queen's classic "We Are the Champions" blares over the soundtrack.

According to Pulitzer winning TV columnist Tom Shales, the wicked sendup was "pretty ballsy since 'The Simpsons' plays on the Fox network, but it also shows how firm is the image of Fox News as Bush whores."

Lloyd Grove reports in the New York Daily News that "Simpsons" Executive Producer Al Jean ran into trouble "with the (Fox) broadcast standards and practices department, which told us we couldn't air it prior to the election because then it would present an 'equal time' problem."

The network's ethics cops simmered down when Jean assured them that the Bush-Cheney joke was for after the election.

Last November, show creator Matt Groening claimed the Fox News Channel threatened to sue him over a spoof news ticker.

Groening said the news channel backed down because it would have caused Fox to bring a lawsuit against itself.

The episode showed a rolling news ticker at the bottom of the screen, which read: "Pointless news crawls up 37 per cent... Do Democrats cause cancer? Find out at foxnews.com... Rupert Murdoch: Terrific dancer... Dow down 5,000 points... Study: 92 per cent of Democrats are gay... JFK posthumously joins Republican Party... Oil slicks found to keep seals young, supple..."

Groening told National Public Radio....
"Now Fox has a new rule that we can't do those little fake news crawls [tickers] on the bottom of the screen in a cartoon because it might confuse the viewers into thinking it's real news."

Article on file-sharing from CNN

When did I start succumbing to 2-day hangovers???? I can't be that old yet.

Slow concert December continues, though Madison's The Treats are playing in Chicago this Friday at the Big Horse Lounge, everyone's favorite venue-in-the-back-of-a-burrito-joint.

Meanwhile, New Year's Eve plans are being finalized, and it's down to 90 Day Men/the Ponys/Pit er Pat at the Empty Bottle for $20, or RJD2 at the Abbey Pub for $30. Chicago Rock n' Roll at my favorite venue or electronic/hip-hop dance party? If anyone wants to hang out with us here in Chicago that night and has a vote, please let me know.

Cool Chicago website to help increase anyone's burgeoning knowledge of electronic music: www.modsquare.com

Here's a pretty good article about/interview with Death From Above 1979 from the Badger Herald.

An unconfirmed (read: possibly false?) list of 2005 Coachella bands has been circulating the internet. Even though nothing is for sure until it goes up on the Coachella website, I'm going to post it here to continue to fuel the speculation. Just for fun. If it is true, though, I have serious questions about day 2's headliners.

April 30th, 2005
DAVID BOWIE
NINE INCH NAILS
PJ HARVEY
INTERPOL
THE FAINT
FRANZ FERDINAND
THE POLYPHONIC SPREE
BOARDS OF CANADA
TV ON THE RADIO
YEAH YEAH YEAHS
SQUAREPUSHER
CLINIC
FRENCH KICKS
SECRET MACHINES
PHOENIX
BEEP BEEP
DOGS DIE IN HOT CARS
DEATH FROM ABOVE 1979
THE HELIO SEQUENCE

May 1st
R.E.M.
TEARS FOR FEARS
WILCO
MODEST MOUSE
BRIGHT EYES
JIMMY EAT WORLD
MOS DEF
BADLY DRAWN BOY
THE STREETS
SPOON
CAKE
THE POSTAL SERVICE
THE SHINS
SLEATER-KINNEY
RILO KILEY
RADIO 4
DOVES
IRON AND WINE
THE ARCADE FIRE
MOVING UNITS

I'd just like to take a moment to pledge my undying love to Craigslist.org. You can find anything or anyone there. It's glorious.

More Onion genius with plenty of Wisconsin references

OK...here's a way to spend an evening. Listening to James Mercer and learn about the "glory" of tugboats.

DEC 10 FRI 8:30 PMWHITSELL AUDITORIUM — NW TRACKINGTOWLINES: A NIGHT OF FILM and MUSIC with MATT McCORMICK &JAMES MERCERTonight Portland director Matt McCormick and musician James Mercer premiere their newest collaboration, TOWLINES (2004), an experimental documentary about tugboats. The two first worked together in 2002 when McCormick directed a video for Mercer’s band The Shins and they found a fertile partnership. TOWLINES explores the visual and emotional characteristics of tugboats, those hardworking and invaluable contributors to our world and waterways who never seem to get their due recognition and glory. Borrowing the tone of a children’s book, a bit of history, beautiful cinematography and a bright soundtrack McCormick give the heroic tug a loving salute. In addition to the screening, Mercer will perform a set of acoustic material while McCormick fills the screen with projected film loops and sequences and the evening will be rounded out with the screening of several of McCormick’s earlier works, including GROUNDED (2004). (90 mins.)

Just bought tickets to Spoon! It looks like Maritime is going to be opening for them, which violates my (albeit half-hearted) vow not to see the new bands of ex-Dismemberment Plan members. But maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised; besides, I guess they sound a lot more like the Promise Ring than D Plan. Travis Morrison is coming in a couple weeks too, which I think I will probably pass on, unless I get some sign to do otherwise.

So there's a new show on Adult Swim called "Tom Goes to the Mayor." This guy Tom keeps going to the Mayor of Jefferton with stupid new ideas to improve the town. Like set up bear traps everywhere to increase child safety. And buy those bear traps from Jack Black and Kyle from Tenacious D. The animation is extremely bizarre- the characters are just these blue and white drawings that don't actually move. I can't decide if it's actually funny or not.

Oh my God, the Arcade Fire.

I didn't think anything could top Menomena, but . . . holy crap.

I'm not even going to get into the show right now. I'm writing an article for Tinymixtapes's year-end edition about the 10 best concerts I've seen in 2004, and this one is obviously going to reign at #1. I'll just post a link to it when it goes up.

Also, 4 of my top 10 concerts this year came from Canadian bands. Those Canadians . . . they know how to make good music.

And the Spongenapping continues

I am never, ever again driving on the day before Thanksgiving. It took me two and a half hours to reach my monumentous goal of 30 miles per hour. For those of you who know the Chicago drive to Madison, that took me to Hoffman Estates.

Spoon tickets on sale now, by the way. If you live in Chicago, I suggest picking them up at the Double Door to avoid ticketmaster charges- $20 tickets don't need to become $35 tickets if they don't have to.

Also, I just saw a band on Pollstar called "Pieces of Flair." That's hilarious.

The Great Spongebob Kidnapping of 2004. Aka, slow news day.

Wow. That's crazy...If you go to their Web site, you can see some great responses to that email. Some are pretty great.

This is hilarious. Check out the email that was sent to the WLUW music department:

From: AmericanPatriot <americanpatriot2004@yahoo.com>

Subject : Please Stop Playing Skinny Puppy or We Will Boycott Your Station

In the past few months a band by the name of Skinny Puppy has slandered Bush. At several of their concerts over the summer they have simulated an assassination of the president. On their current Fall tour they simulated a beheading similar to the ones happening in Iraq. When the vocalist pulls off their hoods he reveals the terrorists to be Bush and Cheney. This is unacceptable and I encourage you not to play their latest record, The Greater Wrong of the Right, that has been indicated by their record label as being played on your station. Conservatives are currently a majority of the populace now and we have voted into power a majority in every level of government. The people of this country have the power as evident by our boycott of the Reagan miniseries, the Superbowl, and the Dixie Chicks. If you still choose to play their music we have the ability to put financial pressure on your station through boycotts. Please remove Skinny Puppy from rotation or we will have no choice but to boycott your station. Currently, your station is listed on the boycott list found here: http://www.pabaah.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=717 . If you decide to stop playing Skinny Puppy as well as consider changing the format in order to provide more fair and balance we will consider removing you from the list.

- Daryl Mason\Patriotic Americans Boycotting Anti-American Hollywood

http://www.pabaah.com\\\

At the Empty Bottle this weekend, they had these amazing posters for the two Arcade Fire shows stapled up on their walls. I think they're Seripop.

Side one: Logan Square Auditorium, 11/25
Side two: Empty Bottle, 11/26

Some of them were split in two to represent the two different shows, but some of the posters up were in full form. So on Friday I'm bringing my staple remover. I counted 9 staples in the one I have my eye on. Should I slowly remove them throughout the night or just take it down all at once after the performance?

I hope there isn't a battle for it, because I will take someone down.

I've begun compiling my top 20 albums of 2004. The top 10 were easy, the second 10 much more difficult.

I also plan on writing a year-end article for tinymixtapes on the 10 best concerts I saw this year. There's a slight chance Menomena will be on that list :)

Matt Pond PA was ok last night, but Menomena just spoiled me for concerts for awhile. Though I did like Chin Up Chin Up- they had a great sound, though it took me awhile to get into the vocals. Next big show - Arcade Fire this Friday at the Bottle!

Spoon at the Double Door, Fri. Dec. 17!!!

Tickets are $20, which is pretty steep, but then again, they last played at the Metro, which is phenomenally larger. I'd suggest buying tickets when they come out, because this show is definitely going to sell out.

And more info on that show

This sounds awesome:

Wednesday, December 15
RedEye and Metromix.com present:
Wes Anderson Rocks...

THE AUTUMN DEFENSE
ANDREW BIRD & KEVIN O'DONNEL
THE SAFES
ABSTRACT GIANTS

Tickets $Free for RedEye Rewards Members
If you don't have a RedEye Rewards card, go to http://www.redeyechicago.com/rewards to sign up and receive your free tickets.

18 & over
Doors: 7:30pm / Show: 8:30pm

Bands will perform songs from Wes Anderson's films in addition to original material to celebrate the upcoming release of the new Wes Anderson film "The Life Aquatic".

Good shows this weekend:

Madison:
Friday, November 19: Pedro the Lion w/ Starflyer 69 and Elf Power at the High Noon Saloon
Friday, November 19: Sufjan Stevens w/ Nicolai Dunger and Awry at the Catacombs Coffeehouse
Saturday, November 20: Castanets w/ the Elanors, Dietrich Gosser, and Lichens at the Catacombs Coffeehouse

Milwaukee:
Friday, November 19: Castanets w/ Lichens at the Onopa Brewing Company
Sunday, November 21: Sally Timms w/ Johnny Dowd at the Bremen Cafe

Chicago:
Friday, November 19: Wolf Eyes w/ Psychic TV at the Empty Bottle
Saturday, November 20: Lucero w/ Matt Pond PA, Chin Up Chin Up and Old Canes at the Empty Bottle*
Saturday, November 20: Richard Buckner at the Hideout*
Saturday, November 20: Sally Timms w/ Johnny Dowd and Julie Doiron at Schubas

* Shows you will find me at

The Norweigan Kylie Minogue. Check it.

Cross dressing- it's like experimenting with drugs.

In work news that is the opposite of cool, I just got to call the NRA!

So I just called up this snowboarding magazine in California, and their hold music was INTERPOL. I didn't want to get off hold!!!!

Correction, ODB had 7 children. Only 4 illegitimate.

Ol' Dirty Bastard died this weekend, survived by his 13 children.

Now that it's not 4:30 in the morning, I'd just like to reiterate how freakin' HOT Menomena was. I mean the music, not the band, though they were all cute in their own right. Their voices, the saxophone playing, the drumming, their voices . . . mmmmmmm. I can't believe they didn't headline, the crowd visibly cut in half after their set was over. One of the best performances I've seen in a very long time.

HOT.

Saw Menomena tonight. Words cannot even describe how amazing they were. Actually, here are some words: hot. Sexy. Drool-worthy. I think I officially melted into the floor while they played. More tomorrow.

Tonight: Apostles of Hustle and Menomena! Word on the street is, Apostles of Hustle (a Broken Social Scene side project) are amazing live, and I have high hopes for Menomena. I'll be writing this one up for Tinymixtapes.

Another TMT writer reviewed the Interpol show I saw a few weeks ago. Now I liked the show and everything, but I definitely didn't have the religious experience he did.

My Plastic Constellations review is now up on TMT

You Minnesotans are too nice.

So I just got my haircut at a new salon. After telling my new hairdresser about my music aspirations, she told me about her friend from Touch and Go Records, and how she could talk to him about potential opportunities there. I gave her my email and she said she'd get back to me in a couple days. This is the coolest hairdresser on the face of the planet.

Check it out- I just bought this compilation for Chicago label Kranky on the Kranky website for SEVEN DOLLARS- it's a two CD compilation!!!! No shipping and handling! They're craaaazy! I've always wanted to check out some of their bands but never got around to it. Rockin'.

Heavenly States last night was good, though it would have been better with a raging crowd of some sort. They'll be in Madison on Thursday for all interested parties.

I finally got Jon Stewart's "America: The Book" in the mail! It's set up like a textbook and has a picture of the Supreme Court's heads on naked bodies. Should be good.

There is just so much that's funny about this abcnews article.

Heavenly States tonight at the Double Door, be there or . . . don't be there.

A red and blue map of the country by population I found on Salon. It draws out the country based on population rather than size. I don't think I described that well. It'll make sense when you look at it.

OH MY GOD.

I just heard Ratatat's "17 Years" in a HUMMER COMMERCIAL. I'm going to have to seriously reconsider my love of that song. I had no problem with Modest Mouse's "Gravity Rides Everything" being used to sell minvans, I understand artists need to make money, but I draw the line at selling Hummers. Anything but Hummers.

Last night I finished the last episode from my DVD of Freaks and Geeks, and now there is a void in my life that cannot be filled. The show rocks. Go rent it. Or, if you live in Chicago, borrow it from me. Sigh.

One option

Once again, the Onion comes through on its headlines:

America Comes Out Agin The Gay Marryin'
Bush Does Victory Lap Around World Trade Center Site
MoveOn CurlsUp InCorner
Poll: Youth Totally Meant To Vote In Record Numbers
Despite Republican Victory, Bush Supporter Has Tiny, Tiny Penis

Quite possibly the funniest music news ever. The Postal Service and the Postal Service, working towards a cooler Postal Service.

Courtesy of my mom:

>

At least I can be proud that all three states I've ever lived in (Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois) are blue. The upper midwest should start its own country.

After I move to Canada, I'm starting a band called The New Florida.


A couple articles/blog postings that have very accurately reflected the things I've been thinking this morning:

The Internet makes it easy to find people we agree with. After Election Day 2004, maybe it's time to kick that habit

I'm not depressed, being filled with far too much healthy loathing for millions of my fellow Americans to let myself droop

On a slightly lighter note, the Karaoke Dokie's last night at Schubas were awesome. It's karaoke with a live band! If I'd been in better spirits, I would have gotten up there too- next time they play somewhere I'll take the opportunity to feel like a cool rock star for a few minutes.

Oh, my Black Heart Procession review is up now on TMT

I know it's old news and I had meant to post it sooner, but this is just too funny.

I voted this morning . . . on a punch card ballot. Talk about archaic. Now I see what was so confusing in Florida. Oh well, now my anxiety can begin as I check Salon.com every three minutes at work . . . come to Schubas tonight!

Tomorrow night Megan and I will be tabling for WLUW at Schubas for their Election night party. We'll be there from 6 PM until Kerry wins, so if you live in Chicago and need a few cold beers to get through the night, come on over. Details below:

Tuesday, 11/2/2004 - 6:00 PM
18 And Over

A Night Of Apocalyptic Possibilities featuring DVD Screenings of "pARTicipation" and "Fahrenheit 9/11" plus Rock 'n' Roll Karaoke with The Karaoke Dokies

6:00 p.m. - "pARTicipation"
7:30 p.m. - "Fahrenheit 9/11"
10:00 p.m. - Live Band Rock 'n' Roll Karaoke

After you vote on November 2 come to Schubas for the premiere of pARTicipation, the just completed documentary about the Interchange Festival, which took place throughout Chicago in August. The doc. includes performances by Andrew Bird, Bobby Conn, Diverse, The M's, Tortoise and more. After pARTicipation stick around for Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11, followed by the Karaoke Dokies. Perform your favorite rock songs, with a live band, in front of the election returns on the big screen.- What better way to celebrate, or commiserate, than over some movies and amateur rock performances? - The whole night is FREE!

Still recovering from Saturday night's craziness Monday morning, sad to say, enough so that I left work early. At least Chicago hasn't established a yearly Halloween riot though.

Saw one of the best lineups all year last night, Mouse on Mars, Ratatat and the Junior Boys. Wow, the only thing that would have made this show any better would have been if it was at the Empty Bottle; the Logan Square Auditorium is all ages and looks like the Great Hall in Memorial Union, so I felt old and like I was back in college. But regardless, I got right up front for the fabulousness that was this show.

Junior Boys: An electronic/keyboard/guitar twosome that I've fallen in love with this year. The lead singer has one of the most beautiful voices, and they played "Teach Me How to Fight," one of the best songs I've heard in a long time. The funny thing was, the singer looked nothing like I expected him to look with that voice. He was kind of short and chubby and very unassuming. I later told him how much I loved his voice and the band, and then left with the awkward "you rock" and the thumbs up. I never know how to initiate and then end conversations with musicians.

Ratatat: Again, two guys playing guitar/bass/electronics, with a fog machine, lights and a video montage all timed to the music, and it was awesome. They were really incredible on stage. The guitarist was absolutely amazing on his guitar, and "Seventeen Years" had the whole crowd going insane. I love it when people actually dance. Though the guy next to us dressed as a skeleton needed to tone it down a bit.

Mouse on Mars: I was actually least familiar with MOM, having only one album out of their like, 10. But they somehow still played my two favorite songs off that album, "Actionist Respoke" and "Doit" and they had everyone dancing like crazy. This was the last show of the 5-week tour, so I felt like we got a better show than anyone; the guitarist from Ratatat came and played with them for a bit, then during the encore the stage got flooded with people dancing, from the audience and the other bands, and it was just so much fun. Then everyone hugged afterwards. There was a lot of love going on last night.

That was definitely one of the best shows I've seen in awhile, and everyone seriously needs to go get that Junior Boys album because it is amazing. Ahhhhhhh.

Yet more ridiculous costumes, this time courtesy of Dan Savage. It's hard to top the littlest prisoner in Abu Gharib.

Here's a good costume idea I read about if you and a friend haven't gotten one yet- one of you goes as Ralph Nader, the other one wears a shirt that says "Vote" and carries around a bottle of wine. Together, you're a wasted vote!

HA!!

Final decision on the costume: zombie girl scout.

So I actually have found people to go to Mouse on Mars tomorrow! I've been excited for this show for about three months now, it's not often you get three awesome bands on one bill.

Potential Chicago Halloween plans for all interested parties

Tonight Megan and I went and saw Beans (former Antipop hip-hop artist) do a free in-store performance at Reckless Records, which was great! I'm continuing to open myself up to the hip-hop. Beans was late, so in the meantime I walked across the street and bought new glasses. Talk about major impulse buy. They're green! Maybe I'll put up a picture of me in them when they're ready.

Sort of odd Interpol interview from Nerve.com.

If anyone wants to hit up Mouse on Mars/Ratatat/Junior Boys this Friday with me at the Logan Square Auditorium, I'm currently hitting it up by myself. I'm sure everyone else will be celebrating Halloween early, but I can only do so many days of celebrating in a row, so Friday will not be one of them. A somewhat futile request I suppose, but a request nonetheless.

If you haven't already heard about Ashlee Simpson's lip-synching fiasco on SNL, read about it here and then watch the video. Hi-larious.

Tonight I rented a few episodes of "Freaks and Geeks" after many recommendations from friends. This show is glorious, I can't tell you how much I identify with the main girl in her attempts to get through high school alive.

I'm trying to figure out what the do for Halloween, last minute as usual and without the usual group of girls to make a group costume with. I'm considering going as a man, inspired by the episode of Sex and the City where Charlotte cross-dresses for a painting.

No way! Last night, I saw I Heart Huckabees, too. I also thought it was only so-so...I was expecting more, methinks. Mark Wahlberg DOES indeed rock (as does Jude Law).

Last night I saw I Heart Huckabees. It was ok, the whole existential thing was a little overreaching, but Mark Wahlberg ROCKS. He is the man. Up next, I must see the movie Dig, which is a documentary about the singers of the Dandy Warhols and the Brian Jonestown Massacre over 7 years of attempted stardom.

Ah, Eminem. The voice of reason!

I was browsing another person's personal music website and noticed he had his resume up on it. I think I'm going to steal that idea, you never know when Google will bring potential employers to my site! It's like a .0001% chance, but hey, it's a chance!

Hey! I am offended by the t-shirt site...there wasn't a shirt in honor of Minnesota. I guess Minnesota just can't be made fun of, being so cool and all...

More shirts for your state here . . .

The Q101 Twisted Christmas lineup has been announced:

Friday, December 3: Taking Back Sunday, the Used, some other crappy emo band
Saturday, December 4: Modest Mouse w/ the Secret Machines and Califone
Sunday, December 5: Franz Ferdinand w/ the Hives and Snow Patrol

All at the Aragon Ballroom.

Salon interview with Frank Black (a.k.a Charles Thompson?) of the Pixies

I just purchased a ticket to see the Arcade Fire in Chicago on Friday, November 26, aka the day after Thanksgiving. I'm coming back from Madison early to see what general consensus has deemed Band of the Year, and they're supposed to have an amazing live show. So if anyone in Madison wants to come with me or anyone in Chicago wants to meet up, that would rule!

Last night I got on the air for a half hour during training! I played Ratatat, Menomena, Wolf Eyes (still can't get into the noise rock, I'm afraid), Castanets, Panda Bear, new Ted Leo, Books on Tape, and Q and Not U. I also took advantage of the fact that I have free burning reign again to get myself copies of Songs: Ohia, Bonnie Prince Billy, Imperial Teen, Solvent, and Les Georges Leningrad. Oh how I love community radio. Now I'm an official sub!

Then my battery died in the parking ramp.

Hard-hitting journalism, right here.

We're not going to the town, we're going to the city . . .

Interpol last night turned out to be pretty damn cool. We got a good spot early so the sound was good. The Secret Machines were a little disappointing, and good lord was everything way too loud. But the new songs sounded awesome live, and the lighting was done really well. They continued on their pattern of always starting with the first track of an album. I suppose that makes sense, since "Untitled #1" and "Next Exit" don't really belong anywhere else other than the beginning of something. Their first few songs were incredibly predictable: "Next Exit," "Obstacle #1," "Evil"- not that I minded since I love all those songs. Anyhoo, good show.

Interpol and the Secret Machines tonight! The new album has continued to grow on me and I've decided I like it- who would have guessed?

If you have some time, you have to read this transcript of Jon Stewart appearing on CNN's Crossfire. He completely destroy's Tucker Carlson and calls him a Dick. It's glorious.

www.youhavebadtasteinmusic.com

Did anyone else notice Bush seemed to be foaming at the mouth at the debate last night?

Another interview with the glorious Joanna Newsom.

The Onion never fails to remember its Wisconsin roots.

Last night Megan and I had our first training session at WLUW, and it was so great to be back in a studio! I forgot how wonderful it is to have an entire studio of music at your disposal. After next Monday, we'll officially be able to sub, so hopefully I'll be able to pick up a few shows here and there over the next few months. The Perfect Face for Radio will return to the airwaves!

Just got back from seeing Califone at the East Village Arts Festival, making it a record-breaking four days in a row of shows. I am officially completely deaf. This time there was no classic-rock covers, but they sounded absolutely awesome. I really love this band.

I also spent the day at a local coffeeshop writing up a review of the Black Heart Procession show, which will be up in the reviews section sometime soon and on tinymixtapes sometime a little later.

Has anyone out there seen the movie Eraserhead??? If so, can you tell me what the hell is going on in it?

Show last night was good- Scout Niblett was her usual on-crack self. Enon started out a bit shaky but ended strong and played all my favorites from "High Society." The Japanese girl singer rocked the house. I think when she said "Black Heart Procession is up next" and "this song is called 'Disposable Parts'" in her adorable Japanese accent, the whole crowd breathed a collective "awwww . . .." Black Heart Procession proved how appropriate their name is with their dark, deliberate songs about pain. But the real highlight of the show-

After Scout, I looked around to survey the crowd and though, "wow, that guy looks a lot like he's in TV on the Radio." It's not every day you see a giant black man with a huge fro and beard hanging at an indie show. Then I remembered that TV on the Radio had been playing at the Metro with the Faint for the past two nights, and they are on the same label as BHP and Enon (Touch and Go, a Chicago label at that) . . . and then the rest of the band came over and it was official. TV on the Radio was just hanging out at the show, not even backstage, just out in the crowd. Very cool.

I think someday I'm going to write a book or make a documentary and it's going to be called "Can I Get More Bass in the Monitor?"

Natural History last night was good, the brothers Tepper remembered me and they told me their new album would be out hopefully by March on a new, to-be-determined record label. It's called "The People That I Meet." They previewed a lot of new material at the show, lots more sexy singing by Julian the bassist, who didn't sing at all on Beat Beat Heartbeat. Good times. Tonight: Black Heart Procession, Enon, and Scout Niblett.

Also: Megan and I begin DJ training at WLUW on Monday. In the next month or so, we'll be qualified to sub for shows and then next semester we can put in a bid for an official time . . . most likely to be starting off at like, 2-4 AM, but hey, you gotta start somewhere I guess. I'll be sure to update everyone when you can hear our lovely voices over the airwaves again . . . WLUW is webcast!

Chillin at work listening to the Natural History getting excited for the show tonight. I've decided to not care if anyone notices me rockin' out at my desk.

Menomena is coming to Chicago! Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Empty Bottle. Huzzah!

Good shows this weekend:

Madison:
Thursday, October 7: Pilot to Gunner w/ Channels and the Driftless Pony Club at the High Noon Saloon
Friday, October 8: The Like Young at Cafe Montmartre
Saturday, October 9: The Black Heart Procession w/ Enon at the High Noon Saloon

Milwaukee:
Friday, October 8: Pilot to Gunner w/ Channels at the Cactus Club
Tuesday, October 12: Q and Not U w/ El Guapo at Mad Planet

Chicago:
Friday, October 8: The Black Heart Procession w/ Enon and Scout Niblett at the Bottom Lounge
Saturday, October 9: Radio 4 w/ the Libertines at the Metro
Sunday, October 10: Q and Not U w/ El Guapo and Et at It at the Logan Square Auditorium

A glimpse of some of the cool things I get to check out at work right now. Texas sure produces a lot of religious syndicated programming.

Once again, the Onion is so right on with this article. I especially love the quote at the end by Fat Mike. It reminds me of when Liz and I saw Anti-Flag sophomore year and these 15-year old looking band members kept singing about dying for their government and stuff.

Looks like the Spongebob Squarepants movie is going to have a super-hip soundtrack.

New Interpol is starting to grow on me, but still the rest of the album doesn't live up to the total awesomeness of the first two tracks, "Next Exit" and "Evil." I can continue to form an opinion after seeing them with the Secret Machines on the 17th.

Alright, I've listened to the new Interpol twice today at work, not enough to make a definite opinion on the album, but I've got some early indications as to what I think of it.

The first two songs are awesome. When I first heard them, I thought they might have been able to pull off the proper sophomore album- changing your sound enough to evolve as a band, but not enough to alienate fans. Definitely a more upbeat, less dark Interpol. From then on though, it pretty much sounds like sort of, well, the same- none of the other songs have yet stuck out as anything special in my mind. They might, after a few more listens, again, it's too early to say. Of course, it's a good album, and if I'd never heard Turn on the Bright Lights before, I'd think it's a really good album. But they all seem to sort of have the same structure; there's no song that's super in-your-face like Obstacle #1 or slower and thoughtful like the New. Though I also know I shouldn't be comparing it to TOTBL, which of course, is virtually impossible. Anyhoo, I'll give it a few more spins before I decide for sure.

I gotta see this movie.

This is by far the most groan-worthy article the Onion has ever written.

I've just received the new Interpol album, "Antics," in the mail. The time has come to see if I feel like this about it, or like this. I shall remain skeptical, and report back after I've had some time with it.

Oh man. This is way harsh. And a gentle reminder why it's a good thing the Dismemberment Plan broke up when they did.

My review of the Les Savy Fav show is now up on Tinymixtapes. Go read it, yo.

from the Some fun news I saw on CNN tonight- Jay Leno is going to retire from the Tonight Show in 5 years and Conan is going to replace him!

Friday Night was former PFFR weather man Sam "Da Nice Guy" s Birthday party and, of course, it was great. We all went out afterwards and I ventured out with a few other friends in search of dancing, which we found. Next thing I know it’s 5AM and I am eating a whole roast chicken, munching on fried plantains, drinking a Corona, and listening to Latin dance music at a diner with a girl from Venezuela. I love this city.

Woohoo, last night my string of failures at seeing Pretty Girls Make Graves was broken when the birthday party I went to decided to make a last minute trip to see the show. They totally rocked too, they played my favorite song "Speakers Push the Air" and it was wonderful. That song just has the best lyrics, all about how awesome music is- "I heard a record and it opened my eyes." I also realized that this band is extremely hot. Lead singer Andrea Zollo is a totally awesome rocker chick too. One more band to cross off of my list.

Last night we saw Califone at the Hideout Block Party, and they were completely un-Califone like. No random instruments, just the guitars, bass and drums, and no experimental Califone as we know them- they were all classic rock covers. I thought it was kind of fun for them to rock out like that at a block party, though I don't know if everyone else in the audience agreed. Also, apparently a member of Califone works at the Hideout- it's always funny to find out your favorite bands still have real jobs. Well, working at a music venue is *sort of* a real job I guess :) .

Good concerts coming to the midwest this weekend:

Madison-
Friday, September 24: Frog Eyes at the Catacombs Coffeehouse
Sunday, September 26: Scotland Yard Gospel Choir w/ Charlemagne at the High Noon Saloon

Milwaukee-
Friday, September 24: Mouse on Mars w/ Ratatat, Macha and the Junior Boys at the Onopa Brewing Company
Saturday, September 25: Xiu Xiu w/ the Race and Vega Star at the Onopa Brewing Company

Chicago-
Friday, September 24: Marah w/ Manishevitz, Califone, Danny Black and Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter at the Hideout Block Party
Friday, September 24: RJD2 w/ Diplo and Rob Sonic at the Logan Square Auditorium
Friday, September 24: The Black Keys w/ the Cuts at the Metro
Saturday, September 25: Telefon Tel Aviv w/ Sightings, Keith Fullerton Whitman, and Entrance at the Empty Bottle
Saturday, September 25: Estrojam ft. The Gossip, Pretty Girls Make Graves, and the All Girl Summer Fun Band at the Metro
Saturday, September 25: Ratatat at Sonotheque
Saturday, September 25: Mouse on Mars w/ Archer Prewitt, Macha, Andrew Bird and Mahjongg at the Hideout Block Party
Sunday, September 26: Ghost w/ Xiu Xiu, Noxagt, and Double Leopards at the Empty Bottle

It's Maggie O'Mara!

Not much, just has you as the producer of the 10:00 news and as the producer of the weekend news at 6. Are you the producer of the weekend news at 6? Maybe I have to edit your information . . . I can also write a bio and profile about you if I really felt like it!

Check this out: Rich people just figure out how to dodge taxes anyway . . .

So after three or so years of reading Salon.com, I've finally broken down and subscribed to the site because they offered this book for free with subscription.

So I'm temporarily stationed in the magazine department because they're redoing my floor, so I hear magazine talk all day. This guy next to me keeps calling up magazines like "Flame Retardancy News" and "Safe Worker Magazine" to get info from them. Is there really a market for people to get news on flame retardancy? And is there enough news to fill up an entire magazine with? Some questions to consider.

An article I wrote about going to concerts alone is now up on Tinymixtapes. Check it out.

In other news, apparently the Mates of State had a baby? That they named Magnolia? I didn't even know Kori was pregnant!

Anyone want to go see the Natural History with me in Chicago Oct. 7? Apparently the band remembers me from last April and is willing to put me and a friend on the list!

Started new job today- went through the company database and found Jon Stewart, Gideon Yago, and Annie Johnson contact info. So far so good. Then went to Millenium Park for the first time to see Tortoise and Dhizan and Kamien, a couple of European DJs, for free at the new band shell, which was very cool-looking. Now I'm home for the first time since 7:30 and I'm going to pass out now.

Caveman Robot seems pretty cool. Almost as cool as an unfrozen caveman robot lawyer would be.

I'm down for Death Cab.

I am still loving New York to death. This weekend alone I went Salsa dancing (live bands!), to a Greek party, and to a comic book convention across from Madison Square Garden. At said convention I met the famous Caveman Robot in person. Also, I met his creator and writer/artist of his adventures. Due to my positive attitude, I was invited to a Caveman Robot Gigantic Mega-Annual 2004 Comic Book Release Party at the Brick Theater in Brooklyn. Sadly, I did not make it to the party because I was partying with classmates and Greek people in Morningside Heights. However, if I read the stars correctly, the paths of DJ Lazer and Caveman Robot will cross again.

http://www.tetragrammatron.com/cavemanrobot.html

Courtesy of WSUM metal director, check out this death metal band whose vocalists are two pitbulls:

www.pitbullgrindcore.com

Funniest thing I've heard . . . well, this weekend how about.

Fiery Furnaces:

So if you haven't heard the new album, it's like a bunch of 10 minute songs that are really comprised of a bunch of 3 minute songs. But for the show tonight, they basically took the album, chopped it up into little bits, mixed them all up, and then played it straight through- so like, 30 seconds of Quay Cur here, 30 seconds there, it was crazy. In addition, it was also done at what appeared to be DOUBLE SPEED. Them Furnaces are weird. But cool. It reminded me of some sort of Andrew Lloyd Webber review, like where they start with part of Jesus Christ Superstar and end with it too. The Fiery Furnaces Musical Blueberry Review. Then they encored with their single "Single Again," which has the line "I wish I was single again," a line I highly approve of.

Meanwhile, it was very obvious all the indie boys were madly in love with lead singer Eleanor. At the end she threw out a set list and like, 8 guys just DIVED. That's ok, because I was madly in love with the drummer, in spite of the horrible pants he was wearing, because he was the biggest freak behind the drums I've ever seen.

M83 . . . wow. I thought it was fantastic, they had a full band, two guitars, a bassist, a drummer, and it was really cool seeing them recreate the sounds from the album using live instruments. It was crazy seeing some of the things they did to their guitars to make those sounds; like stick a screwdriver between the strings and flick it. Those crazy frenchmen. Now I have this sudden urge to listen to My Bloody Valentine.

Happy Birthday Liz!

M83 is tonight! Word is they'll be recreating their sound with a full band, which should be extremely interesting and hopefully cool.

Tomorrow- Fiery Furnaces!

HAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA

This guy went to my high school and also went to UW, my UW friends should remember him as Travis' roommate in Sellery freshman year!!! National ABC News!

Tim Harrington of Les Savy Fav in his cat outfit.

So I was thinking today, what would I do if I was one of those terminally ill kids who got to have some sort of dream come true through the Make-a-Wish foundation? (Ok, I have NO idea where that came from. A 3 hour drive can do that to you I guess.) Anyhoo, I think I'd have a Dismemberment Plan reunion show for me and like, 30 of my closest friends at a really small club in Chicago, like Schubas, and I'd get to make their set list. Or maybe I can marry someone really rich who will arrange for that reunion at our wedding.

Maybe I haven't been getting enough sleep lately.

If you're in New York and read this before tomorrow . . .

-- MODEST MOUSE IS PLAYING A SECRET SHOW... tomorrow night, Wednesday, September 15, at Webster Hall in New York City to support their friends in Wolf Parade. You can get tickets 2 ways: 1) Walk into Other Music record store (where the show is billed as "Wolf Parade (secret Modest Mouse show)" and buy tickets, or 2) go to the Bowery Ballroom website on the "Bowery Ballroom presents" section, and buy tickets here.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

I'm so sick of politics and this election. I don't see how it's ok for Cheney to say that voting for Kerry means we'll be attacked by terrorists, but Kerry is not allowed to attack Bush's policies on a legitimate issue like Social Security. Today while taking the bus home to Madison I saw two Bush/Cheney billboards that said "Keeping America Secure" and "Protecting our Nation" or something like that. Blech.

Anyhoo, back to the music! Here's the cutest interview with french duo M83- it has to be read in a french accent to get the full effect.

Pixies Chicago news, hot off the wires:

"A record breaking 5th show announced with Urge Overkill November 17th at the Aragon!

Jam Productions announces a 5th and final show from one of the hottest concert touring acts of the year - a reunion by Pixies - on November 17th. After tickets for the November 13th, 14th and 15th shows sold out immediately, a fourth show was added on November 16th. When the fourth> show sold out seven months in advance, many procrastinating fans were left without tickets. The band has responded to fan pleas for another show by announcing this unprecedented fifth date at the Aragon. This show will break the record for most consecutive shows ever played by a band at the Aragon Ballroom.

The band has hand picked a different support act for each of the Chicago shows:

Support as follows:
The Datsuns (Nov. 13)
Secret Machines (Nov. 14)
The Walkmen (Nov. 15)
Coctails (Nov. 16)
Urge Overkill (Nov. 17)

Ticket information for fifth show:
Who: Pixies with special guest Urge Overkill
Where: Aragon, 1107 West Lawrence, Chicago
When: November 17, 2004 @ 7:30pm
Tickets: On sale this Saturday, September 18th at NOON through Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com or charge by phone (312) 559-1212.
$35.00 general admission"

Well well well, it looks like Pitchfork agrees with me about the awesomeness of the Arcade Fire! Get your copy now!!!!

Les Savy Fav was freakin' awesome. They didn't play Adoptduction, but they did play In These Woods and Tim Harrington did grind some kid's head into his crotch for about 30 seconds, came out dressed as a lifeguard, and got everyone to not only wave their hands like they just don't care, but got the entire venue to SIT DOWN with him at the end. Priceless. I'll have a review of it done sometime this week, if I can figure out the best way to describe the experience.

LES SAVY FAV TONIGHT!!!!! One of my must-see-before-I-die bands can now be crossed off the list. Built to Spill is next. I hope they play Adoptduction-

KIDNAPPED
I WAS KIDNAPPED
I DREAMED I WAS KIDNAPPED
BY A GUY WITH A MUSTACHE
AND A CHICK WITH A EYEPATCH
WHO THOUGHT THEY COULD TRADE ME BACK FOR SOME QUICK CASH
BUT WHEN THEY RELAYED THE BARGAIN
MY FAMILY SAID "WE'LL PAY HALF THAT"

Has anyone heard if Built to Spill is releasing a new album soon? I just saw them, and they played new songs!

Oh my god that is awesome. It makes me think of Bender and Futurama. Especially the episode where he and Beck's disembodied head put on a benefit concert for broken robot equality. One of the best. episodes. ever. That and the one where Fry goes back to college and Bender relives life at his old fraternity . . .

ROBOT HOUSE!!!!!

Robot Art is seriously the coolest thing in the world. We saw this at Bumpershoot and I am going to save my pennies and buy one!

So last night Megan and I went to a hip-hop dance class at our new Real World gym. Let me tell you, I have absolutely no dance skills whatsoever, hip hop or otherwise. I am so utterly uncool. In the rest of the gym, however, Modest Mouse and Broken Social Scene were heard over the speakers, so I've obviously made the right decision, gym-wise.

Some recommended shows this week:

Madison-
Friday, September 10: Ivan Okay w/ the Cleveland Browns, If Then Else, and the Takebacks at the Electric Earth Cafe

Milwaukee-
Friday, September 10: The Killers w/ Ambulance LTD at the Rave

Chicago-
Saturday, September 11: Scotland Yard Gospel Choir w/ Canasta, Stephanie Morris and Tenki at Subterranean
Sunday, September 12: Les Savy Fav w/ the Detachment Kit and Smoke and Smoke at the Bottom Lounge
Sunday, September 12: Calexico w/ Low Skies at the Double Door

So last night for a good laugh, Tori and I went to go see "Wicker Park." One of the funniest comedies I've seen in awhile, though it is billed as a "suspense thriller," which is a joke. Other than a shot of Josh Hartnett walking past the Double Door and trying to hail a cab on Michigan Ave, the movie was actually shot in Montreal, so it should really be called "Fake Wicker Park."

Moved in to my new pad! Though it's still a mess of boxes and crap all over the place. It's so darn cute though, maybe I'll take some digital pictures and post them for your viewing pleasure once it's put together. We went out to dinner for our first night in Wicker Park at this cool pizza place called Piece, and during our meal they had played Interpol, Franz Ferdinand, and lots and lots of Built to Spill. Nothing better to be eating pizza to.

I haven't heard the new Rilo Kiley- Tinymixtapes liked it a lot while P-Fork thought they weren't doing justice to Jenny Lewis' voice. I'm going to see them when they come to Chicago though because they are coming with Tilly and the Wall, who feature a tap dancer instead of a drummer. That's some crazy shit.

This weekend: heading up to Seattle to see the Pixies and Built to Spill at Bumpershoot! Perhaps during that time, I can attempt to forget that I am a sucker who is still in school. I hate being a sucker.
Anyone hear the new Rilo Kiley cd, by the way?

Last weekend I rediscovered my long-forgotten love for Weezer's Say It Ain't So when it played at a bar in Lakeview. I haven't listened to my Blue album in probably like, 2 years, so I popped it in again today for old time's sake, and I forgot how wonderful it is, and how that song can still give me chills.

Today marks my last day in Lincoln Park, as tomorrow I'll be moving to Wicker Park, namesake of the new Josh Hartnett movie that opens today and probably will suck. Maybe you'll see my new house in it though- I just learned it was built in the 1890s. Fun fact!~

So this is very cool. I'm on the Merge Records email list, and here's one of their updates:

Shark Quest Hit the Road with Many Stringed Instruments, And A Movie
The amazing new Shark Quest album Gods and Devils ("intensely interesting music" - Indieworkshop.com; "so intriguing, original, and even creepy at times." -- tinymixtapes) is in stores now and the band is hitting the road in September for some live shows (click HERE to see all of Shark Quest's tour dates) and at least one performance with the film Monster Road, a documentary about animator Bruce Bickford with a score by Shark Quest.

That tinymixtapes quote was from MY review! Very cool!

They also mentioned in the updates that the Arcade Funeral's upcoming CD is now available for pre-order on mergerecords.com and insound.com . . . it's real good . . .

Awesome Jeff Buckley article on Salon.com

Megan and I will get to begin our hot careers as DJs later this month at a friend's birthday party. Anyone else interested in booking us for parties? Will travel, available now!

Interpol's new album comes out in less than a month- Sept. 28. We will soon know the fate of Interpol- will they be the next Strokes and put out Turn on the Bright Lights part 2? Let's hope not. They are also on tour with the Secret Machines and stopping in Chicago on 10/17 at the Riviera. FYI.

Ha ha! Foolish mortals and your SCHOOL. Same goes for you other fools with your WORK.

New Modest Mouse video for "Ocean Breathes Salty"! A boy finds an injured bird, repairs its wing, and brings it home to mom in a shoe box. But the bird is Isaac Brock.

I'm glad I no longer live next to this apartment.

Awesome cover of the new Bjork album

Hilarious picture of the Deerhoof singer

Why why why why why why must I go back to school? And why why why why why why do I have homework before the first day of class?!

Finally made it to the Green Mill, the legendary Chicago jazz club. It was awesome, and I don't even really like jazz all that much.

Check this song out, by a "band" from Nebraska called The Show Is a Rainbow (really just one guy). It's hilarious. Very Ivan Klipstein-ish. He's playing in Madison on Monday w/ Chicago's Troubled Hubble at the Corral Room.

Since filing is so horrifically boring, all I do is listen to music all day while pushing paper. I've noticed some albums are better than others for the task:

Music to File to:
Notwist- Neon Golden
Junior Boys- Last Exit
Low- Things We Lost in the Fire
Arcade Fire- Funeral
Microphones- The Glow, Pt. 2
Menomena- I Am the Fun Blame Monster

Rockey: There is talk of going to NYC for a weekend once Megan and I have jobs. Stay tuned.

I moved into New York City yesterday. It's awesome. I have to go downtown now to run some errands. There are police everywhere for the GOP convention. Luckily, all I have on my person is comic books.

Check out the first track off of the upcoming Ted Leo album. Classic Ted Leo.

This morning (7AM mind you) a man came onto the el train car I was in and proceeded to tell us that he was sent from outer space to talk about Jesus. Which he did, for 15 minutes.

I wish I could be your +1.
Oh, and Nicole, if your house ever burns down, you KNOW I'd put on a benefit concert for you. The tambourine is a VERY popular instrument. Or will soon be. After my show.

I got myself on the list to see Les Savy Fav and the Detachment Kit, +1. So if anyone wants to be my +1 that night (Sunday, September 12), let me know! I don't want this +1 to go to waste.

I'm in London today where I just had a very nice fast food dinner with my friend Petra from Sweden while walking around Trafalgar Square and Piccadly Circus. I'll be flying back to Chicago tomorrow and staying there for two nights before making the big move to NYC.

It's been a crazy crazy vacation. I have slept in a bed and breakfast on the Atlantic, a park in London, a stranger's house, the streets and airport of Dublin, a tent in Coppenhagen, and a youth hostel in which the owner threaten to kill me.

I did receive some inspiration for the second season of the Perfect Face For Radio Adventure Story Hour (PFFRASH) and, during the fleeting few seconds of free time, write a few of them on scrap paper. It is shaping up to be more mature, more horrific, and far more interesting then the first.

Time for sleep here where it's almost 1 in the morning

So Megan and I got a membership (a partner membership at that! Yay, I have a partner!) at a gym in Bucktown. It used to be the Real World house for the Chicago season, which is really really crazy.

I gots me another review up today on Tinymixtapes, this time for a band called Shark Quest on Merge Records. I'm working on writing an essay about going to concerts alone, so hopefully I can get my shit together with that and it will be up soon as well.

So apparently the owner of the Fireside Bowl here in Chicago has decided to stop putting shows on and focus specifically on bowling. The Fireside Bowl, though in my opinion a horrible venue because the stage was too low and it was in a freakin' bowling alley, was the only all ages venue in Chicago. I think now is my chance to start my venue here! Anyone want to be my angel investor?

Huzzah, a new Wes Anderson movie is on it's way!

OK, I'm obviously just bored at work today since I keep posting random crap that I find out about on Craig's List. By the way, if you are often bored at work and using the internet, Craig's List is chock full of fun stuff to pass the time. It's got a section called "Best of Craig's List" that has some of the funnier things people have posted lately. I personally really identified with this one, as I think every guy needs the ethnic girlfriend.

Check it out, the Run Hit Wonder tour is coming to Chicago too on Sept. 23!!! I'm going to have to look into it, even though I abhor running . . . if you're in Chicago and interested let me know . . .

I just did a massive update of the concerts page, especially for Madison and Milwaukee. That Decemberists date in Madison is now Decemberists AND Norfolk and Western (the Decemberists' drummer's side project), so now I'm doubly jealous there isn't a Chicago date. Yet.

My Modest Mouse review is up on TMT. I think they edited it funny though, some things don't sound quite right or like I remember writing them.

Dio forces Dios to change name. C'mon now.

Tuesday, September 21: The Decemberists at Luther's Blues
So far no Chicago date on this tour! It looks like they might be hitting up college towns, since they're stopping in Champaign, IL . . .

Anyone know anyone who wants to hire me? Please?

Interesting article on the effect of media conglomeration on diversity, from wisc.edu

Curiosa Festival: good times. The Cure was much better than when I saw them in Coachella, Robert Smith seemed more into it and kept walking around the stage with his hands on his cheeks staring at the crowd like he couldn't believe it (me??? You're all here to see me???). Boys Don't Cry was fab. The Rapture was of course, totally dance-a-rific, though not enough people were dancing like when I saw them at the Rave. Interpol played 3 new songs off the upcoming record, and I still am not sure what to think of them. I'm still skeptical that they can put out an album that won't sound exactly like their first one. We watched about 2 minutes of the Cooper Temple Clause, who were all very attractive British boys, but their t-shirts were so cute we both bought one.

Now I'm back in Madison after 3 months away and I'm realizing exactly how wonderful it is to be out of this town. Chicago does not have dried vomit on every street, and I feel so old. It was definitely time to go, though I wish I could have brought Paul's Club with me. They've updated their jukebox, and it's now filled with Modest Mouse, the Shins, Postal Service, Cake, the Rapture, and more goodies.

Two more weeks and I'm in my adorable new apartment! Come visit it, we'll have a futon!

Have fun watching the Cure - I just bought tickets yesterday to see them in the Pacific Northwest next week!
Tomorrow night: FREE show - Pedro the Lion, Death Cab For Cutie and They Might Be Giants. Random lineup, I know. But it's FREE. I heart FREE!

Becky and I went to see Charlemagne last night at Schubas to support the Madison music scene. Apparently he got a good writeup in the Chicago Reader, which is a pretty big deal. I liked openers Oh Yeah a lot, they sounded like a more synth-y Menomena, and they ended with a hi-larious cover of Britney's "Toxic," which everyone must admit is an awesome song. Then was the Rutabega, from South Bend, and finally Charlemagne. I HATE that the girls in the band knit on stage when they aren't playing instruments. HATE IT. Why? Why I ask you?

Tonight: The Curiosa Festival w/ the Cure, Interpol, Rapture, and Mogwai!!!

Merge Compilation review up today on tinymixtapes . . .

Sad news! Derek, the drummer of the Natural History, is leaving the band. I recall he was the only one of the band with an actual job.

that rocks! that girl is my new best friend. i think i am also going to make a pinata of hillary duff's older sister...she's lame.

Liz: I saw a girl at Modest Mouse with a "Vote for Pedro" shirt she made herself. I told her she was cool and I think I want one now too

Everyone MUST see Napoleon Dynamite! It is HILARIOUS!!! Kind of a goofier Rushmore. Speaking of Rushmore, Wes Anderson is coming out with a new movie this year. Huzzah!

Ugh.... Suburbia

Does anything exciting happen here? I mean besides going to the Dairy Queen or seeing the Peter, Paul, and Mary concert.

Where are all my peers? Trapped in lackluster jobs? Married with children? Yikes!

No, I kid. Things are very calm and safe here. Like a womb.

It's time to book a hostel in Dublin. The cheapest one I can find. Things will heat up there.

So I just went and saw Garden State, and I absolutely LOVED it. I really identified with so much going on in that movie. The soundtrack is also amazing, apparently Zach Braff just made a mixtape that he wanted to be the soundtrack, and he must love the Shins, because both "Caring is Creepy" and "New Slang" were in the movie, along with Coldplay's "Don't Panic" and Iron and Wine's cover of the Postal Service's "Such Great Heights." The movie also ended with this amazing song that sounded sort of like Beth Orton that I must find on the internet. My favorite scene in the movie is where he's at the hospital getting an MRI, and with "New Slang" playing, he goes into the machine with his shirt off and suddenly all of his insecurities are written on his chest in black marker. Perfection.

Aaaahhhh Surbubia.....

(The Middle Ground Between Light and Shadow)

I'm back in hometown Highwood, IL and relaxing here in family-friendly Chicagoland.

To do a second season of the radio drama I need only write up some scripts, find some new voice actors, and find a new broadcast venue... Hmmm.... what's this? Columbia University Radio in New York, WKCR 89.9 FM... and it's webcast too. Don't see any radio dramas on their schedule. Hmmmm....

Oh, and Rick James died. Crazy.

Oooh, I forgot, before AC Newman last night I went to happy hour at a typical Lincoln Park bar. It had a "DJ" that was playing some pretty bad music, and some guy, after asking me "if I was Jewish," told me the DJ was his friend. I asked how he got the job, because I could do much better, and he asked what kind of music I'd play. Here's how the rest of the conversation went:

Me: Indie Rock.
Lame guy: What?
Me: Indie rock.
Lame guy: What's that, a band?
Me: No, it's mostly music not in the mainstream. Like, on independent labels.
Lame guy: (turns back on me to talk to some other girl)

I gotta get out of Lincoln Park NOW. Later that night, after some OAR song, Modest Mouse and Franz Ferdinand were played, which both pleased and saddened me. Especially after some frat guy yelled "Woohoo! The Franz!"

Oh, and I found out this morning one of my friends went home that night with the lame guy. But he fell asleep so she just left. Notre Dame guys for you.

Just got back from seeing AC Newman. So f-ing fabulous. And not just because I've had like, 7 beers. They totally rocked out on everything, even the slow songs on the album, and the bass player chick was so cool, I wish I was her. They played two new songs and one cover to make up for the fact that the album is just 35 minutes long, and I think they played the whole thing. So great.

Woohoo, lead story today on Tinymixtapes. Except that wasn't my headline, and I don't really get it.

Black Heart Procession and Enon tour!!!

Chicago- 10/8, Bottom Lounge
Madison- 10/9, High Noon Saloon

Voldemort is cast for the next HP movie!

While you're in Chicago on Friday, you should come to the Bottom Lounge to see AC Newman. It's gonna be great!

How exactly is there going to be a second season of the hour?

The Perfect Face For Radio Adventure Story Hour Season 1 is over, but I posted a site with that infamous indecent clip here.

I finally have time to write in the blog again!

Episodes 1-8 are now available in mp3 form on one single glorious CD. Nicole, I'm burning your copy right now.

The entire show is being archived at WSUM and episodes are scheduled to appear the next three Mondays at 7pm.

Today is my last week living in Madison and the rest of August is an amazing whirlwind. On Friday I'm moving all my stuff (clothes and comic books) to Chicago. Next Tuesday I'm going to Ireland. The following Sunday I'm going to Denmark. The Thursday after that I'm moving to New York.

Due to a smattering of enthusiam there will indeed be a second season of the adventure story hour!

I told my Mom I went to see Modest Mouse. She asked if that "Mickey Mouse band" is the one that sings Float On. I don't even want to know what radio stations that must mean the song must be playing on.

I LOVE that Flock of Seagulls song. There was never a more emotional moment than seeing them reunite to play it on VH1's Bands Reunited, or whatever that show was. That is the coolest thing that's ever happened to you, Liz.

WAIT! I almost forgot the best part of my weekend. I ran a race called "Run Hit Wonders" and I got to see FLOCK OF SEAGULLS sing "I ran." I also got to see Devo sing "Whip it." BEST THING TO EVER HAPPEN TO ME!!

So, today at my internship we got a letter in the mail for Neko Case. It was from a prison inmate on death row- he actually wrote in the return address "death row" and it was stamped "sent from a correctional institution." Apparently Neko has a murderer following.

Also, this morning I saw a Hummer commercial that had the LFO song "Freak," which is a really cool electronic song. I normally have no problem with cool songs being used in car commercials, but using it to sell the ugliest, most pointless vehicle ever made- that annoys me.

Awesome! We at Billions just booked up a tour with Mouse on Mars, Ratatat, and Junior Boys, which I cannot WAIT for to come to Chicago. I'm totally loving the Junior Boys right now.

Last night I watched High Fidelity for the first time since I've moved to Chicago, and now I can actually recognize all the places in Chicago. Like, the record store is on the corner of Milwaukee and Honore, which is just down the street from my soon-to-be new apartment! And there's a poster in his apartment for Ladybug Transistor and Of Montreal at Schubas. Chicago rocks.

Last night I saw Ratatat and they were SO good. SO SO good! Well, either they were really really good, or I had a lot to drink. I'm thinking: 1) they were really good and 2) I did have a lot to drink. Regardless, I was in hipster heaven.

I think Modest Mouse has officially moved out of the indie world and into the mainstream; last night the whole crowd was actually dancing, almost moshing, and there was actually a CROWDSURFER. Considering the awfulness of the venue, which has the worst sound possible, they sounded pretty good. Probably 90% of the set was from the new album, which was fine but I'd rather they'd spread it out just a bit. I realized during the show what the biggest difference between Good News . .. and their older stuff is- the songs on the new album are shorter, tighter pop songs and the older songs are much more sprawling. Doin' the Cockroach was by far the best song of the night, mostly because they went off rockin' out with it for like, 10 minutes, which was totally awesome. The Walkmen were also as enjoyable as they could be, considering the poor sound quality. The singer looked nothing like I'd expected; he had short blond hair and a polo shirt on, I was expecting shaggy brown hair and a black jean jacket or something. The man sure does like to scream though.

Tomorrow: Modest Mouse and the Walkmen! Let's hope it's everything I want it to be.

I've got the domain for the improved website all set up and am in the process of moving over everything from the wsum.org site on over before I start tweaking it. Hopefully I can get it up and running by late next week! Good luck on the final show, DJ Lazer!

I'm hoping this doesn't happen to me.

A really random article about "emo boys" in the New York Observer.

Today I went to see the Corporation by myself.  It was really cool because probably 75% of the audience was also there alone!  Anyhoo, I'm not sure if it's out in Madison yet, but it's an interesting movie.  It had some really fascinating stories, like how IBM contracted with the German government to sell them punch card machines that were used at concentration camps (proven with contracts and video footage of the IBM founder with Hitler), and then some issues that I didn't really see a problem with, like certain marketing tactics, the idea of a corporation as a "legal person," and the concept that being motivated by profits can only be evil.  Must be the business school side of me that will never die.  Still, it makes you want to be very aware of the kind of company you are working for.

While sleeping in an uncomfortable position on a couch in a cabin in Eagle River, WI, two nights ago I had a dream that Nicole was desperately yelling at me to figure out the mystery of who called her last Tuesday. Why? I'm not sure. But I do know that the dream stemmed from my thoughts about the revalations in the final Adventure Story Hour Episode airing next Monday. Also, the dream served as inspiration for the opening dream sequence of tonight's episode.

THE FUTURE OF THE PERFECT FACE FOR RADIO

So as Rockey wraps up the last shows before moving to New York, I've decided to keep this website going in modified form.  I've got myself a new domain, www.theperfectfaceforradio.com, and will be transferring the site over to it in the next couple of weeks.  For now, it's basically just going to be my own personal website with a major music theme; hopefully down the road, after doing DJ training at WLUW, I can get a new show and bring the PFFR back to the airwaves.  Mostly, I can't bear to part with the upcoming concerts page, since I'm probably the biggest user of it, and I can continue to use the site for my own narcisstic purposes, since I'm sure everyone wants to know what I'm doing at any given point in time :) .  Hopefully everyone on the blog will continue to check in once in awhile for fun, and so I know you're all still alive.

I also just posted a note on the upcoming concerts page that I'm thinking of reducing it to only Chicago shows.  If you use the page for shows in Milwaukee or Madison, let me know and I'll be happy to continue; I just don't want to expend the extra energy if it's not actually serving anyone. 

So stay tuned for the address change, and if anyone has any suggestions for what could be included on said modified site, let me know!

I'm exhausted after a long weekend of shows- Matthew Dear on Friday and Xiu Xiu on Saturday.  I wish I could have seen Xiu Xiu at the terrace- they sounded great but the Fireside Bowl is a crappy venue; it's just the corner of a bowling alley and the stage is way too low, so unless you are right up front you can't see anything.  I really wanted to see what kind of instruments Xiu Xiu used to make their weird sound, but unfortunately, I could barely see their heads.  Kind of like going to a packed show at the Catacombs.  Luckily, they'll be playing at the Empty Bottle in October, a much better venue, so I'll get to reassess.  Next week- Modest Mouse and the Walkmen!  At an equally crappy venue, the Eagles Ballroom in Milwaukee, so plans are to get there when doors open and park ourselves right up front.

HOT new song of the moment:  Junior Boys- Teach Me how to Fight, off of Last Exit.  Good lord this song is good.  Electronic pop music in the vein of the Notwist.  I highly suggest everyone go download it now, not that I'm condoning downloading or anything.  I don't download anymore, but if someone could come over and get my computer to make Soulseek work I could reconsider . . ..  Or you could just buy the whole album, it's super good.  But that song . . . ooh baby.

YES!  YES!  YES!

Sunday, September 12: Les Savy Fav w/ the Detachment Kit, the Bottom Lounge- Chicago

So I've just discovered the one drawback for me in working in the music industry; it involves extensive time spent on the phone.  I HATE talking to people I don't know on the phone.  At least I'm not trying to sell them something.

Meanwhile, I finally found out why the agency is called Billions, since about 20 people have asked me; apparently, before he started the agency, the owner "Boche" (childhood nickname that never went away apparently, real name David) used to play a lot of poker with his buddies, and they started calling him "Billions Boche."  And that's . . . the rest of the story.

In more Billions history, I also found out how Boche started the company; he moved here from outside Detroit in Canada with a buddy.   The buddy started Touch and Go Records, and Boche booked the bands on the label.  It just ballooned from there.  So I've realized for me to go somewhere, I need to meet someone so we can work together, eh?  Anyone want to start a record label so I can book the bands for them?

So there's your music business history lesson for the day.  Enjoy!

Last night I had this weird dream about the Plastic Constellations, where they were still in high school and friends with my brother, and I dropped the bro off at the band's house for a birthday party and hung around for a bit.  Not as weird as my dream about the Animal Collective, where I got on stage with them thinking I could play bass (I thought wrong).

This reminds me of that Built to Spill lyric, "no one cares what you dreamt about/ unless you dreamt about them."  So, uh, you were all in it too.

Courtesy of Ben: some fun political humor.

Oh no, they're playing the weekend I'm coming home!!!!  And it's at the Bottom Lounge too, that's right by my apartment.  Oh well, they're from Minneapolis, they'll have to play Chicago again soon.
 
TPC is on the way, Liz, never fear . . .

coooool.  i am considering seeing them when they hit portland.  but i'm not completely sure, since i didn't like seeing them last time (band was too drunk).
 
hey, you should see the plastic constellations when they come to chicago.  i really want that cd...(hint hint)

Here's what I'm doing New Year's Eve, and I think you should too: last Guided by Voices show ever, at the Metro in Chicago.

Information about the upcoming solo Travis Morrison (ex-Dismemberment Plan singer) solo album and future tour.  I'm afraid it's going to suck.  Only time will tell.

FYI Madison friends:  I will be coming home for the weekend of August 13 to get the rest of my stuff from my apartment.  Start planning the fun now.

This will be my second weekend in a row without a show to go to!  Up until last weekend, I'd made it to at least one show a weekend since I moved out here.  Don't worry though (cause I know you all were), the intensity picks up again starting next weekend, with the Ghostly International showcase, Xiu Xiu, Modest Mouse and the Walkmen, AC Newman, and the Hold Steady all coming up on the radar.
 
Another hot way to get to go to free shows; join record labels' street teams.  I'm now officially on the Frenchkiss Records street team, so I get sent posters to put up around town and can see their shows for free in exchange, starting with the Hold Steady.  Now if only Les Savy Fav would FUCKING TOUR ALREADY before I die.

Why no one want make Hulk 2?  I find this incredibly hilarious.  I'm not quite sure why, since I didn't even see the Hulk.

Attention friends who live in New York: A couple of Billions bands are doing a benefit show for "Kerry Victory 2004"- the Pernice Brothers and the Honorary Title- on July 29 at the Mercury Lounge. How hip is that?

And my Spoon review is up today on TMT!

HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHHA. You go girl! I might have to bid. You need to think up some picture to go with your cds; do any of your friends have digital cameras? If not, I could take one and send it to you, if you have a vision.

Meanwhile, Seripop and Little Friends of Printmaking, two awesome poster collectives, are touring North America with their work. Check out the itinerary here, and if you're in Madison, go to the Madison show on 8/27. They'll be in Portland too Liz! Maybe the Little Friends will have some of the Natural History posters left, they were cool.

Coming Soon:
Your chance to bid on a couple of quality CDs on ebay while I get the chance to get SOME revenge on my lying, cheating scumbag of an ex-boyfriend (all proceeds from the sale will go towards the purchase of booze - booze for me).

I'm listening to WLUW here at work, and the German Art Students are on! Sweet!

I put a couple more of my new favorite CDs up on the recommended listening page, the Plastic Constellations and the One AM Radio. The Plastic Constellations are from the Minneapolis suburbs and they totally rock, and the One AM Radio is this one guy who does sort of electronic, sometimes glitchy, folk-y type stuff. God I'm awful with labels. It's super pretty.

Man, I hate this guy.

Last night I was reading People Magazine, and they had an album review of Modest Mouse's "Good News for People Who Like Bad News." I wanted to cry. It said "if you like "Float On," don't expect more of the same on this album." BLECH.

Well, the Cure were pretty boring when I saw them at Coachella- totally uninspired from my point of view, even though they played all the right songs. But our friend Dave thought it was like, the greatest show ever, and he was standing closer. Maybe they'd be better headlining their own tour. But all the rest of the bands on the bill are definitely worth it in my opinion! Now that Interpol is putting out a CD in September, I think they'll finally start playing some different songs . . .

No shows this weekend, my first show-free weekend since I moved here!

it's good to be back. i did read your joanna newsom review - i really want to listen to that cd and see her when she comes to portland!
i really want to see the cure when they come around - you saw them already, nicole. is it worth the $50?

Welcome back Liz! Becky just told me she got the new Cure CD too! But she hadn't listened to it yet. It looks like we'll be hitting up the Curiosa festival in August, woohoo!

I have some new stuff up on tinymixtapes, including a news story and a review of Joanna Newsom (which I've mentioned about a million times here that I love). A Spoon review is in the queue as well.

hey, what's up, everybody?? time i got to a-bloggin, eh?
so, i actually purchased the cure's new cd. it's not bad, but it's no "staring at the sea." i also purchased the new sondre lerche. not to shabby.
good news for people who live in portland, or people who will VISIT (hint hint) people in portland: ratatat is coming aug. 1. fun fact. actually i think my parents are visiting then - think they will dig ratatat's sound?
and NICOLE: i promise to mail your b-day present tomorrow. PROMISE. it's #1 on my "list of things to do instead of going to work."

This is cool: musicians' favorite summer albums. It includes an amusing picture of Travis Morrison holding a bag of Pirate's Booty and wearing that same shirt he wears everywhere.

Haven't slept much. Been real busy lately. Working full time and going out every night. Here what is new:

Saw Jazzanova last night at the Cardinal. Best DJ/techno I've ever seen in Madison. Went out afterwards for bacon at Wando's; to my friends' surprise, I actually ate it.

The Adventure Story Hour got trainwrecked on Monday after the computer crashed so I am replaying episode 4 next week. Oh, and there'll be a new episode too. Because you demanded it. Next recording session is this Sunday.

In the radioverse, Graham's character has betrayed me. The Radio Doctor and his nurse are on the brink of death. DJ Lazer has got his roller-blades back and is ready to set things right again.

Saw Farenheit 911 on the 4th. It was good but I was not terribly impressed like I was after seeing...

SPIDER-MAN 2! Best movie I've ever seen in the theater.