In honor of the Time article I read today, I'm going to list a few of my favorite westerns. I hope you enjoy.
* The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - No surprise here, huh? The final - and in my opinion, the best - of the "Man with No Name" trilogy, GBU is a classic and not just because of Clint Eastwood. Sergio Leone did a great job casting Eli Wallach as Tuco and Lee Van Cleef as Angel Eyes. Without them, this movie doesn't work as well.
* The Magnificent Seven - a remake of Seven Samurai, The Magnificent Seven cannot be touched by most of the crap imitators that came out of the time period.
* The Searchers - Sort of a revisionist western before they were cool, The Searchers takes a different look at the whole "Cowboys and Indians" angle, molding irony, regret, and a little bit of emotion into a genre that could be a little bland and heartless at times. John Wayne plays (sort of) a different character in this one. Well, he plays John Wayne, but he also realizes what the movie attempts to accomplish and plays up his part as an ironic play on a few of his former roles. Also, John Ford is a BA director.
* Unforgiven - Clint Eastwood at his best. This movie manages to be sad and funny simultaneously, with Eastwood taking on the conventions of the old west in his own brooding, moody style. And the final scene is one of the best in cinema history, even if it is meant to be horrifying.
* Tombstone - Do I really need to say why? Okay, admittedly, parts of it are a little corny, but all of the flaws are washed away by the gun fights and such. I wouldn't call it a good movie, but it's probably the most entertaining and gratifying western I've ever seen. Besides, did you ever see Wyatt Earp?
These are just a few of them - five actually - and if you like, you can send me a list of your favorite westerns at t_blake_braddy@yahoo.com . I'd like to hear from you.
Jul 10, 2006
Late to the Party
I try to keep political stuff out of the blog, but I found this article infinitely interesting...
It's the article Bobby Kennedy, Jr. wrote for Rolling Stone Magazine and, though a lot of people may think it's tin-foil hat stuff, I think it has some merit, at least in the sense that we can't really trust electronic voting companies with our elections.
Not that I necessarily believe all of it, but I think you should give it a read at Rolling Stone. There's some merit in it. Unless you're a really right-wing leaning guy yourself, you don't think of BKJr. as a nutcase.
P.S. Bobby Kennedy has already filed a suit against the companies producing these machines. He's not trying to reverse the election or anything; he only wants to preserve the integrity of our electoral process.
It's the article Bobby Kennedy, Jr. wrote for Rolling Stone Magazine and, though a lot of people may think it's tin-foil hat stuff, I think it has some merit, at least in the sense that we can't really trust electronic voting companies with our elections.
Not that I necessarily believe all of it, but I think you should give it a read at Rolling Stone. There's some merit in it. Unless you're a really right-wing leaning guy yourself, you don't think of BKJr. as a nutcase.
P.S. Bobby Kennedy has already filed a suit against the companies producing these machines. He's not trying to reverse the election or anything; he only wants to preserve the integrity of our electoral process.
Jul 9, 2006
Microsoft's New iPod?
I'm not a GIANT tech-nerd, but apparently Microsoft is planning on releasing its own mp3 device, to be ready for the shelves by Christmas. It's going to have a whole bunch of gadgets and things to try to lure you, the consumer, away from the market-stingy iPod. You can read all about the device here.
Jul 8, 2006
Pirates of the Caribbean 2 Review
I went to see Pirates of the Caribbean: The Dead Man's Chest today. I'm not going to complain about the movie, if that's what you were thinking.
No, I'm going to complain about a word.
Yes, a word. And the word is, "MOMENTARILY." I absolutely hate when people use that word incorrectly. It drives me up the wall. Is that the case with anyone else? Yep? Good.
Before the movie, a screen pops up telling the audience to "SILENCE YOUR CELL-PHONES," a concept I find creepy anyway.
At the bottom of the screen it says, "Your Feature Presentation Will Begin Momentarily." I thought, "what the hell?" I paid 5.50 for this. It better not just be a moment.
Then, I wisened up. Ah, I thought, they must mean that the movie will begin shortly. Momentarily means for a moment, not in a moment.
It sounds like a small goof, but it's not. Someone higher up than myself in the movie world had to make that mistake. It actually hurt my respect for the theater, which, in turn, changed the way I felt about the moviegoing experience, if only slightly.
These people shouldn't be putting things on big screens! They should be working on small, small, itty-bitty, teeny-tiny television screens, the ones that you keep in your kitchen or maybe the kind that double as a radio.
It only reinforces a completely idiotic blunder that people will just continue to make. It's wrong and it makes no logical sense if you know the proper usage.
Oh, and Pirates of the Caribbean was extremely good.
No, I'm going to complain about a word.
Yes, a word. And the word is, "MOMENTARILY." I absolutely hate when people use that word incorrectly. It drives me up the wall. Is that the case with anyone else? Yep? Good.
Before the movie, a screen pops up telling the audience to "SILENCE YOUR CELL-PHONES," a concept I find creepy anyway.
At the bottom of the screen it says, "Your Feature Presentation Will Begin Momentarily." I thought, "what the hell?" I paid 5.50 for this. It better not just be a moment.
Then, I wisened up. Ah, I thought, they must mean that the movie will begin shortly. Momentarily means for a moment, not in a moment.
It sounds like a small goof, but it's not. Someone higher up than myself in the movie world had to make that mistake. It actually hurt my respect for the theater, which, in turn, changed the way I felt about the moviegoing experience, if only slightly.
These people shouldn't be putting things on big screens! They should be working on small, small, itty-bitty, teeny-tiny television screens, the ones that you keep in your kitchen or maybe the kind that double as a radio.
It only reinforces a completely idiotic blunder that people will just continue to make. It's wrong and it makes no logical sense if you know the proper usage.
Oh, and Pirates of the Caribbean was extremely good.
Jul 4, 2006
My Cool/Weird/Nerdy/Strange/Hipster/Etc. Site of the Week!
I'm a Reagan Baby, so there were certain things that I enjoyed as a child of the Eighties.
One of those things, I'll admit, was G.I. Joe. For those of you who don't know, G.I. Joe was combination toy line/30 minute children's commercial that, along with Transformers, was unstoppable in the 80s. It was the ultimate in American pride, so it's only fitting that a web site devoted to such a subject be my July 4th site.
Storm Shadow, Roadblock (who always spoke in rhyme on the show), Sergeant Slaughter, Flint, and Duke. Oh, man, Duke was the hero of ALL heroes way back.
If you didn't grow up in my generation, none of this will apply to you. But, if you did play with G.I. Joes as a kid, Yo Joe will definitely drag you screaming down memory lane. Now, this site is dedicated mostly to the toys themselves, which is what I dug, so don't be afraid to look around for the cartoon stuff too.
There's a hilarious "remixing" of the Public Service Announcements at Ebaum's World. They're pretty funny. But I've got to warn you: watching them will make you crave the old T.V. show.
One of those things, I'll admit, was G.I. Joe. For those of you who don't know, G.I. Joe was combination toy line/30 minute children's commercial that, along with Transformers, was unstoppable in the 80s. It was the ultimate in American pride, so it's only fitting that a web site devoted to such a subject be my July 4th site.
Storm Shadow, Roadblock (who always spoke in rhyme on the show), Sergeant Slaughter, Flint, and Duke. Oh, man, Duke was the hero of ALL heroes way back.
If you didn't grow up in my generation, none of this will apply to you. But, if you did play with G.I. Joes as a kid, Yo Joe will definitely drag you screaming down memory lane. Now, this site is dedicated mostly to the toys themselves, which is what I dug, so don't be afraid to look around for the cartoon stuff too.
There's a hilarious "remixing" of the Public Service Announcements at Ebaum's World. They're pretty funny. But I've got to warn you: watching them will make you crave the old T.V. show.
Clerks 2 Trailer
I don't want this blog to turn into a movie page, but I do want to point out that the Clerks 2 trailer is floating around, both on T.V. and the web, and if you haven't seen it you should. I've linked the main page here and on the Links Bar, so you'd have to be mentally challenged not to find it.
One of the cool things Kevin Smith has done with the web site is show the making of the film and the sound mixing(at George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch, of course). There's tons of information regarding the film and even links to the character's myspace pages. Check it out if you're a fan of Kevin Smith or the View Askewniverse.
One of the cool things Kevin Smith has done with the web site is show the making of the film and the sound mixing(at George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch, of course). There's tons of information regarding the film and even links to the character's myspace pages. Check it out if you're a fan of Kevin Smith or the View Askewniverse.
Eunuch Myth-Busting
I've always wondered to what extent Eunuchs are incapable of being sexual. It's not a fascination or anything, but something that I don't know much about. I learned tonight that it is a misconception that Eunuchs are incapable of getting aroused. They just can't reproduce. Actually, it's rumored that women in various dynasties and whatnot actually preferred them because they could last longer in bed, as they could not physically get there.
Talk about a plan backfiring.
It's not proper conversation, but I just had to reveal that I learned something not movie related today. Okay. Maybe you did too. The trick is seeing if you can squeeze it into conversation sometime soon. I dare you.
Funny side note:
One of the few pop culture references to eunuchs is in the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. Jack Sparrow calls Will Turner refers to Will Turner as a eunuch several times in the movie.
Talk about a plan backfiring.
It's not proper conversation, but I just had to reveal that I learned something not movie related today. Okay. Maybe you did too. The trick is seeing if you can squeeze it into conversation sometime soon. I dare you.
Funny side note:
One of the few pop culture references to eunuchs is in the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. Jack Sparrow calls Will Turner refers to Will Turner as a eunuch several times in the movie.
Jul 3, 2006
NM & DS Mini-Series
Apparently, several (actually eight) of Stephen King's short stories have been turned into a mini series call Nightmares & Dreamscapes. Not all of the films come from the actual book NM & DS. Some of them come from Everything's Eventual, etc. But they all seem to be well-produced, unlike some of SK's earlier compilation work.
They begin on July 12, 2006 at 9 p.m. on TNT.
The List of Stories:
Crouch End
Battleground (w/ William Hurt)
Umney's Last Case (w/ William H. Macy)
The End of the Whole Mess (w/ Ron Livingston)
The Road Virus Heads North (w/ Tom Berenger)
The Fifth Quarter
Autopsy Room Four
You Know They Got a Hell of a Band
All of the stories that were picked are pretty good. I've always wanted to see what 'Hell of a Band' would look like on film, and now I guess I get a shot. I've read most of the above stories more than once, so I'm pretty jacked about seeing all of them, starting in a few weeks. If you're a Stephen King fan, you won't be disappointed if you visit the web site.
They begin on July 12, 2006 at 9 p.m. on TNT.
The List of Stories:
Crouch End
Battleground (w/ William Hurt)
Umney's Last Case (w/ William H. Macy)
The End of the Whole Mess (w/ Ron Livingston)
The Road Virus Heads North (w/ Tom Berenger)
The Fifth Quarter
Autopsy Room Four
You Know They Got a Hell of a Band
All of the stories that were picked are pretty good. I've always wanted to see what 'Hell of a Band' would look like on film, and now I guess I get a shot. I've read most of the above stories more than once, so I'm pretty jacked about seeing all of them, starting in a few weeks. If you're a Stephen King fan, you won't be disappointed if you visit the web site.
Inglorious Bastards - 6 Hours Long?
Everything Tarantino is reporting a rumor that the script for the new QT movie runs about six hours and may be broken into two (or three) parts, if necessary. Michael Madsen, one of the movie's stars, said that Inglorious Bastards, which is set during WWII, could be that long.
Wow.
Another marathon of a film from Tarantino. I'm lovin' it, but I wonder what most people think. This, of course, could be B.S., as rumors on movies like this often are, but what if it's true?
Currently, however, Tarantino is working on a movie called Grind House with Robert Rodriguez.
Wow.
Another marathon of a film from Tarantino. I'm lovin' it, but I wonder what most people think. This, of course, could be B.S., as rumors on movies like this often are, but what if it's true?
Currently, however, Tarantino is working on a movie called Grind House with Robert Rodriguez.
Time is Too Expensive
This holiday break has flown by, but I still have two days left to enjoy it. I hope you're all doing the same. I hate that I neglected you guys today, but I promise that tomorrow will be better.
Jul 1, 2006
Movie Quotes Quiz
As you can probably tell, I'm a big fan of the trivia. If you know me well enough, and most of you probably don't, then you should have no trouble figuring these out. There's one gimme that everyone should know on here, maybe two. Email your answers to me at t_blake_braddy@yahoo.com.
1. "I'm fuzzy on the whole good/bad thing. What do you mean "bad"?
2. "You ain't leading but two things right now: Jack and S**t. And Jack just left town."
3. "Mickey's a mouse, Donald's a duck, Pluto's a dog. What's Goofy?"
4. "You know what I just watched?"
"Me pulling a can off some moron's fist?"
5. "Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill!"
1. "I'm fuzzy on the whole good/bad thing. What do you mean "bad"?
2. "You ain't leading but two things right now: Jack and S**t. And Jack just left town."
3. "Mickey's a mouse, Donald's a duck, Pluto's a dog. What's Goofy?"
4. "You know what I just watched?"
"Me pulling a can off some moron's fist?"
5. "Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill!"
Horror Vacation
I'm officially on "vacation" for the July 4th holiday, and all I've done is watch horror movies and drink grape soda. And I've got to tell you...
It's awesome!
My latest video misadventure came in the form of the remake of The Hills Have Eyes.
Now, I've got to be honest: I liked the movie. As I have said many times - though probably never in the blog - Hollywood=homogeneity, so it can come as no surprise that one of the new trends in horror is to re-make "classic" flicks.
Some work (The Texas Chain Saw Massacre) and some do not (Amityville Horror).
I think that Hills does work overall. The pacing works because it is paced like the horror movies of yore, not some action teen movie disguised as a horror flick. The tension builds moodily(is that a word?) and the horror is extreme (Greg Nicotero is a SFX god).
But...
Some of the earlier exposition scenes are too long. I know, it sounds as if I'm contradicting my earlier pace praise, but I'm really not. Barring a few sequences, particularly the one directly after the crash, it's all right.
It's awesome!
My latest video misadventure came in the form of the remake of The Hills Have Eyes.
Now, I've got to be honest: I liked the movie. As I have said many times - though probably never in the blog - Hollywood=homogeneity, so it can come as no surprise that one of the new trends in horror is to re-make "classic" flicks.
Some work (The Texas Chain Saw Massacre) and some do not (Amityville Horror).
I think that Hills does work overall. The pacing works because it is paced like the horror movies of yore, not some action teen movie disguised as a horror flick. The tension builds moodily(is that a word?) and the horror is extreme (Greg Nicotero is a SFX god).
But...
Some of the earlier exposition scenes are too long. I know, it sounds as if I'm contradicting my earlier pace praise, but I'm really not. Barring a few sequences, particularly the one directly after the crash, it's all right.
Music Question
Just a quick trivia question for all you in the blogosphere out there:
Who was the first country singer to sell one million records? Just a hint: It was NOT Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, or Johnny Cash.
Who was the first country singer to sell one million records? Just a hint: It was NOT Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, or Johnny Cash.
Mac the Knife
My laptop freaked out on me tonight, and I'm having trouble deciding what is actually wrong with it.
For some unapparent reason, the thing just simply will not charge. I don't know if it's the battery (which is attached to the computer) or the AC Adapter (which is plugged in to the computer). Either way it means only one thing for me: MONEY.
And, as anyone who owns or has ever heard of Mac knows, it will consist of lots and lots and lots of money.
I know none of you probably care about any of that sort of thing, but I had to say SOMETHING. It's not every day that my computer breaks.
Also, The Exorcism of Emily Rose - Not a good movie. Save your time. Horror/courtroom/religious movies just plain don't work. If you watch it, you'll see what I mean. The movie becomes less about poor little Emily and more about a female lawyer and a priest. If they were to walk into a bar, at least we'd get a joke out of it.
For some unapparent reason, the thing just simply will not charge. I don't know if it's the battery (which is attached to the computer) or the AC Adapter (which is plugged in to the computer). Either way it means only one thing for me: MONEY.
And, as anyone who owns or has ever heard of Mac knows, it will consist of lots and lots and lots of money.
I know none of you probably care about any of that sort of thing, but I had to say SOMETHING. It's not every day that my computer breaks.
Also, The Exorcism of Emily Rose - Not a good movie. Save your time. Horror/courtroom/religious movies just plain don't work. If you watch it, you'll see what I mean. The movie becomes less about poor little Emily and more about a female lawyer and a priest. If they were to walk into a bar, at least we'd get a joke out of it.
Jun 30, 2006
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
I don't know. I'm watching The Exorcism of Emily Rose right now, and I don't think it's that scary(or interesting or compelling). It's watchable but I think that the disjointed structure of the film makes it difficult to be drawn into the story.
The movie begins with Emily Rose's death and, throughout the trial of the priest charged with negligence, Emily's "condition" is explored.
Blah.
Not that the movie was very well-received, but it is lacking. I mean, a valient effort, though it just doesn't make the grade. I need to stop. I feel like I'm kicking the unpopular kid.
It's also based on a true story...sort of. See if you can discern the real story in the mess that is this movie.
The movie begins with Emily Rose's death and, throughout the trial of the priest charged with negligence, Emily's "condition" is explored.
Blah.
Not that the movie was very well-received, but it is lacking. I mean, a valient effort, though it just doesn't make the grade. I need to stop. I feel like I'm kicking the unpopular kid.
It's also based on a true story...sort of. See if you can discern the real story in the mess that is this movie.
Jun 24, 2006
Here's a Question...
Every month in Playboy, the centerfold is asked to name the five albums(or artists, etc.) she could not live without. Since I am myself a music nut, I think about this on a constant basis (not to mention the centerfold).
What would your top five artists/albums/bands be? Say, if you went to a desert island and could only take five, what would you take? I'm still not sure, but here's a tentative list:
1) Creedence Clearwater Revival
Chronicle, Vol. 1
- This one is sort of a cop out, and it takes all of the difficulty out of it. Who would pick a single album of John Tesh's if he/she could just take the entire collection? Avoid Greatest Hits packages, if you can. Creedence is one of my favorite bands and I just can't pass this one up. Sorry. I think the Dude would agree with me on this one.
2) Metallica
...And Justice for All
- Justice and Master of Puppets are always battling for the top spot in my heart of hearts. On this day, ...Justice is the Maid Marian. Sorry, Puppets, maybe in another inconsequential poll of mine.
3) Bruce Springsteen
Nebraska
It took quite a long time to decide this one, and it may seem like an artsy-fartsy choice, but it's not. Nebraska is probably the Springsteen album I know the best. From the opening title track to Highway Patrolman to Reason to Believe, Nebraska is a haunting trip into the dark side of Springsteen. Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ would be right behind this one on the list however.
4) Nirvana
In Utero
Actually, no, let's just go with Nevermind.
5) Deltron 3030
Deltron 3030
This is my really selfish one. Produced by Dan the Automator and rapped by Del the Funky Homosapien, nothing in the rap world can touch it. I can listen to this one over and over. I think it's one of the five best hip hop records EVER made.
These are my choices. You don't have to agree with the, and most of you won't. But try to figure out your own. It's nearly impossible to come up with a list less than an hour.
What would your top five artists/albums/bands be? Say, if you went to a desert island and could only take five, what would you take? I'm still not sure, but here's a tentative list:
1) Creedence Clearwater Revival
Chronicle, Vol. 1
- This one is sort of a cop out, and it takes all of the difficulty out of it. Who would pick a single album of John Tesh's if he/she could just take the entire collection? Avoid Greatest Hits packages, if you can. Creedence is one of my favorite bands and I just can't pass this one up. Sorry. I think the Dude would agree with me on this one.
2) Metallica
...And Justice for All
- Justice and Master of Puppets are always battling for the top spot in my heart of hearts. On this day, ...Justice is the Maid Marian. Sorry, Puppets, maybe in another inconsequential poll of mine.
3) Bruce Springsteen
Nebraska
It took quite a long time to decide this one, and it may seem like an artsy-fartsy choice, but it's not. Nebraska is probably the Springsteen album I know the best. From the opening title track to Highway Patrolman to Reason to Believe, Nebraska is a haunting trip into the dark side of Springsteen. Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ would be right behind this one on the list however.
4) Nirvana
In Utero
Actually, no, let's just go with Nevermind.
5) Deltron 3030
Deltron 3030
This is my really selfish one. Produced by Dan the Automator and rapped by Del the Funky Homosapien, nothing in the rap world can touch it. I can listen to this one over and over. I think it's one of the five best hip hop records EVER made.
These are my choices. You don't have to agree with the, and most of you won't. But try to figure out your own. It's nearly impossible to come up with a list less than an hour.
Swingers Trivia
Swingers is such a great flick. And I'm sure that all of you have seen it several hundred times - especially if you're a guy - but I have a few things I want to challenge you with. It's not necessarily trivia, but hopefully it'll test you a little.
How many messages does Mike leave on Nikki's answering machine?
There are two prominent movie homages in Swingers. What are the two movies and what two scenes are depicted?
Three actors from Swingers also appear in PCU. Name those three actors.
After the debacle with Nikki, Rob(Ron Livingston) brings Mike something to cheer him up. What is it?
What does Trent's car tag read and what is significant about it? It's a movie reference but I won't necessarily call it an homage.
All right. That should do it right now. I hope you can answer these. If you can't, rewatch the movie. You'll get a kick out of it if nothing else.
How many messages does Mike leave on Nikki's answering machine?
There are two prominent movie homages in Swingers. What are the two movies and what two scenes are depicted?
Three actors from Swingers also appear in PCU. Name those three actors.
After the debacle with Nikki, Rob(Ron Livingston) brings Mike something to cheer him up. What is it?
What does Trent's car tag read and what is significant about it? It's a movie reference but I won't necessarily call it an homage.
All right. That should do it right now. I hope you can answer these. If you can't, rewatch the movie. You'll get a kick out of it if nothing else.
Jun 22, 2006
May 12, 2006
It's Friday
Hey guys and gals out there:
Nothing much going on up here in Athenstown, just workin' and chillin'. Though I do have a few new wounds to report. Because I got a PUNCHING BAG!!! No, not a single mom from a trailer park (though I AM in the market). It's really awesome, but I found out pretty quickly that I don't have a chance in hell of getting into a ring anytime soon. Even if I did, I would have to fight guys like Roy Jones, Jr. and Antonio Tarver. Sounds like fun, huh?
Other than that, I don't have much to report. I'm working on the second draft of my novel, and it's going well. Check for it on the Bestseller list sometime next Spring.
I'm reading The Fourth Book in the Dark Tower series. The third one is filled with riddles. One of the characters, a train named Blaine (I'm not kidding), really loved riddles. I thought, "Hey, I'd like to be a riddlemaster." Then I realized that I'm not any good at them, so dumb rock trivia questions will have to do for now, ho-kay?
Get these right and you're a champ. Next week, I'll have plenty more of them and they will not be so easy.
1. Who told Jimmy Page that his band - then called the New Yardbirds - would go over like a Led balloon, thus giving them their name?
2. Jimmy Page bought a castle once owned by a famous black magician from the nineteenth century. Name that magician.
3. What caused the big fight between Guns N Roses and Nirvana?
A. They told him they wanted to cover a Charlie Manson song.
B. The two bands went on tour together in Canada.
C. Axl told them he wanted them to help produce Chinese Democracy, and they thought it would be more valiant to try to kick him in the nuts than tell him that the record would never come out.
D. They jokingly told him they wanted him to be the godfather of their child.
4. Cliff Burton was not the first bass player for Metallica. Name the first bassist to join the band.
5. Layne Staley (former lead singer of Alice-in-Chains) once did a side record with members of what band? Can you name the supergroup's record as well?
e-mail the answers to me at: t_blake_braddy@yahoo.com. There is no prize but the satisfaction of victory.
Nothing much going on up here in Athenstown, just workin' and chillin'. Though I do have a few new wounds to report. Because I got a PUNCHING BAG!!! No, not a single mom from a trailer park (though I AM in the market). It's really awesome, but I found out pretty quickly that I don't have a chance in hell of getting into a ring anytime soon. Even if I did, I would have to fight guys like Roy Jones, Jr. and Antonio Tarver. Sounds like fun, huh?
Other than that, I don't have much to report. I'm working on the second draft of my novel, and it's going well. Check for it on the Bestseller list sometime next Spring.
I'm reading The Fourth Book in the Dark Tower series. The third one is filled with riddles. One of the characters, a train named Blaine (I'm not kidding), really loved riddles. I thought, "Hey, I'd like to be a riddlemaster." Then I realized that I'm not any good at them, so dumb rock trivia questions will have to do for now, ho-kay?
Get these right and you're a champ. Next week, I'll have plenty more of them and they will not be so easy.
1. Who told Jimmy Page that his band - then called the New Yardbirds - would go over like a Led balloon, thus giving them their name?
2. Jimmy Page bought a castle once owned by a famous black magician from the nineteenth century. Name that magician.
3. What caused the big fight between Guns N Roses and Nirvana?
A. They told him they wanted to cover a Charlie Manson song.
B. The two bands went on tour together in Canada.
C. Axl told them he wanted them to help produce Chinese Democracy, and they thought it would be more valiant to try to kick him in the nuts than tell him that the record would never come out.
D. They jokingly told him they wanted him to be the godfather of their child.
4. Cliff Burton was not the first bass player for Metallica. Name the first bassist to join the band.
5. Layne Staley (former lead singer of Alice-in-Chains) once did a side record with members of what band? Can you name the supergroup's record as well?
e-mail the answers to me at: t_blake_braddy@yahoo.com. There is no prize but the satisfaction of victory.
May 5, 2006
Cinco de Mayo!
I'm making a definite effort to put some new stuff on my blog, but it's been hard lately. I worked a sixty hour week this past week (I feel like it should be followed by "to put food on your table" or something else Abusive-Fatherish), and I am wiped. But at least I got paid for the most part.
However,
it is Cinco de Mayo and I am all smiles. For all of you non-history buffs out there, Cinco de Mayo is a time for Mexicans and Mexicant's to celebrate the fifth of May, plain and simple. And it does seem like such a lovely time to have a celebration for a day.
I was going to publish this post in Spanish, but, truth be told, I only know dirty words and compliments in the language (imagine that).
Other than drinking Mexican beer and eating several baskets of Free - let me repeat, free - chips, I don't have anything to report in my life.
The Braves seem to be up to their old tricks, with losing every game they play and all. I love them and it's sort of nice to see Atlanta get back to its pre-1991 status as the worst professional sports city in the nation. There's not even really a hint of sarcasm in that statement - well, maybe a dash or a pinch but no more. The Falcons couldn't manage to put together two winning season in a row; the Hawks are, well, the Hawks; the Braves are heading straight for the cellar (though they always seem tos start out this way and win it all in the division); the Thrashers fell out of playoff contention with a week left to play; and I don't even have a clue how the other franchises are doing.
So, now that everything's all well and good with my sports, I can relax.
(Pause)
Sorry, I had to take a phone call. Anyway, everything's good and all. Bye.
I promise I'm not leaving you for a phone call. I promise.
Really.
Okay. Bye.
No, you hang up.
No, really, I don't mind.
Okay, I'll hang up.
Yeah. On three.
One.
Two.
Three.
(giggle)
Okay, for real this time.
Okay.
Okay bye.
I love you too.
Okay.
Okay bye.
However,
it is Cinco de Mayo and I am all smiles. For all of you non-history buffs out there, Cinco de Mayo is a time for Mexicans and Mexicant's to celebrate the fifth of May, plain and simple. And it does seem like such a lovely time to have a celebration for a day.
I was going to publish this post in Spanish, but, truth be told, I only know dirty words and compliments in the language (imagine that).
Other than drinking Mexican beer and eating several baskets of Free - let me repeat, free - chips, I don't have anything to report in my life.
The Braves seem to be up to their old tricks, with losing every game they play and all. I love them and it's sort of nice to see Atlanta get back to its pre-1991 status as the worst professional sports city in the nation. There's not even really a hint of sarcasm in that statement - well, maybe a dash or a pinch but no more. The Falcons couldn't manage to put together two winning season in a row; the Hawks are, well, the Hawks; the Braves are heading straight for the cellar (though they always seem tos start out this way and win it all in the division); the Thrashers fell out of playoff contention with a week left to play; and I don't even have a clue how the other franchises are doing.
So, now that everything's all well and good with my sports, I can relax.
(Pause)
Sorry, I had to take a phone call. Anyway, everything's good and all. Bye.
I promise I'm not leaving you for a phone call. I promise.
Really.
Okay. Bye.
No, you hang up.
No, really, I don't mind.
Okay, I'll hang up.
Yeah. On three.
One.
Two.
Three.
(giggle)
Okay, for real this time.
Okay.
Okay bye.
I love you too.
Okay.
Okay bye.
Apr 4, 2006
It's Baseball Season Again!
Yay! I have an excuse to lie on my couch and absently drink beer after beer without feeling like a complete alcoholic!!! I call it baseball season and - I don't know about you - I am excited. The Atlanta Braves are going for their 15th division title IN A ROW. They managed to win in a shootout against the LA Dodgers yesterday, so things are looking up. The weather's good, the baseball (so far) has been great, and there haven't been any allegations of rampant steroid use resulting in a complete investigation that may tarnish baseball's reputation forever*.
*A lie.
*A lie.
Mar 1, 2006
Hooray, it's Ash Wednesday.
It's March the first and I am utterly excited. Yesterday was Fat Tuesday and I completely forgot about the whole damn thing. I guess I'll just have to celebrate Ash Wednesday by being utterly and hopelessly depressed. It's not the sort of thing you relish, but I don't understand why they don't allow us to get presents on this holy day. It's been two whole months since I've received some arbitrary gift for a holiday I don't celebrate, so why not one now? Actually, I think I might make it "Ash" Wednesday and watch the entire Evil Dead trilogy while drinking the last of my Harp's Lager from this weekend. Is there anybody out there with me? Oh well, it's at least a thought.
I don't know that I've mentioned it, but I make beer in my spare time. Here's an idea. Okay, you've heard of blueberry beer, strawberry blondes, and jalapeno hot brew. What about RANCH beer? Okay, I can't even take credit for the idea, but I do know that I'm going to try it. If it doesn't work, maybe I'll make my million elsewhere. But just know this: Heinz had 56 recipes before they perfected that tangy sauce that can be slathered on everything, from ribs to hamburgers. Or was it WD, who had 39 of his own tries at lubricating metal and preventing squeaks? I can't remember.
Otherwise, I'm reading Jim Harrison's Wolf and, after tha, Graham Greene's The Third Man. Then I will read my deluxe, illustrated edition of 'Salem's Lot by Stephen King.
I know you're excited, but get your own damn books and stop reading my list. Oh, and to add another nerdy note to this already dorky post (Markie Post?), I've been listenig to books on TAPE. No, not CD, the relatively modern technology or MP3, the newer of the three, but CASSETTE TAPE. I can explain. It's a result of my having applied for a membership at the local ACC library. They have a wide selection of books - which I listen to while at work - though they only come on tape. Go figure. I look ancient and out of touch with society and feel about three times worse when I checkout. Even the lady behind the counter looks at me like I need to get with the program. That's my gut-check moment of the day. You try it and see how stupid you feel walking out of the library with "Timeline" and "Silence of the Lambs" under your arm, all old blocky and tapey.
I don't know that I've mentioned it, but I make beer in my spare time. Here's an idea. Okay, you've heard of blueberry beer, strawberry blondes, and jalapeno hot brew. What about RANCH beer? Okay, I can't even take credit for the idea, but I do know that I'm going to try it. If it doesn't work, maybe I'll make my million elsewhere. But just know this: Heinz had 56 recipes before they perfected that tangy sauce that can be slathered on everything, from ribs to hamburgers. Or was it WD, who had 39 of his own tries at lubricating metal and preventing squeaks? I can't remember.
Otherwise, I'm reading Jim Harrison's Wolf and, after tha, Graham Greene's The Third Man. Then I will read my deluxe, illustrated edition of 'Salem's Lot by Stephen King.
I know you're excited, but get your own damn books and stop reading my list. Oh, and to add another nerdy note to this already dorky post (Markie Post?), I've been listenig to books on TAPE. No, not CD, the relatively modern technology or MP3, the newer of the three, but CASSETTE TAPE. I can explain. It's a result of my having applied for a membership at the local ACC library. They have a wide selection of books - which I listen to while at work - though they only come on tape. Go figure. I look ancient and out of touch with society and feel about three times worse when I checkout. Even the lady behind the counter looks at me like I need to get with the program. That's my gut-check moment of the day. You try it and see how stupid you feel walking out of the library with "Timeline" and "Silence of the Lambs" under your arm, all old blocky and tapey.
A few thoughts on war. . .Thank you, Jim Harrison
I know that I said I wouldn't discuss war or politics in this blog, but something just caught my fancy. My roommate convinced me to read a Jim Harrison novel (actually, it's a false memoir, but who's splitting hairs here) and in one section he talks about the draft, which we all hope never rears its tumultuous and grizzly head ever again:
"I've always felt that the draft should begin with fifty-year-old men and descend in age. Give young men a chance to live a little, taste things, before they get their asses shot off in Asia. Also draft at least 25 per cent of Congress. Let them draw straws for front line duty. I suspect then that the vote for entering a war would be a trifle more cautious. Any fifty-year-old that can play eighteen holes of golf can certainly use his weak forefinger to pull a trigger and his chubby legs to hike through swamps" (Harrison, Wolf, p. 105).
Ha ha ha, right? What a funny, rude joke to be playing. I don't think so. It seems ridiculous to most people that the privileged should suffer a little too. Not to me. It's not ridiculous, just a little idealistic to think that the people who reap so much from these things in which we engage should have to give a little too. Just remember, kids: the term "eye for an eye" has nothing to do with vengeance. No, indeed, it is just a call for equality.
"I've always felt that the draft should begin with fifty-year-old men and descend in age. Give young men a chance to live a little, taste things, before they get their asses shot off in Asia. Also draft at least 25 per cent of Congress. Let them draw straws for front line duty. I suspect then that the vote for entering a war would be a trifle more cautious. Any fifty-year-old that can play eighteen holes of golf can certainly use his weak forefinger to pull a trigger and his chubby legs to hike through swamps" (Harrison, Wolf, p. 105).
Ha ha ha, right? What a funny, rude joke to be playing. I don't think so. It seems ridiculous to most people that the privileged should suffer a little too. Not to me. It's not ridiculous, just a little idealistic to think that the people who reap so much from these things in which we engage should have to give a little too. Just remember, kids: the term "eye for an eye" has nothing to do with vengeance. No, indeed, it is just a call for equality.
Feb 12, 2006
It's been a While, old friend. . .
Hey one, hey all. I know you've all been on the edge of your seats, waiting for me to get back to enrich your boring lives. Well, here goes, kids!
I'm in a new house and I can't reveal why I had to move (I won't say that a pewer line broke and a whole bunch of sPit covered the floors and ruined some of my stuff, but whatever). It's an old three bedroom house on South Milledge in Athens (Two words - Sorority Houses) and I really love it. Try your best not to stalk me now.
I've been writing a lot. I've sent plenty of stories out and am just waiting for correspondence. Keep your fingers crossed so you can see my name - and words, ya bums - in print. I've been rejected a few times and probably will a few hundred thousand times more, but hey, who's complaining? I'm also working on a novel, but that probably won't get finished, if you know my work habits.
I'm currently reading Black Cherry Blues by James Lee Burke. He's a fantastic crime writer who created a character named Dave Robicheaux, a cop in Louisiana. He's pretty damn awesome. He describes everything so well and the stories are so good. Burke makes everything seemm so easy, it should intimidate other authors.
I just finished The Dead Zone. It's not THE best Stephen King I've read, but it's not far from it. I would probably put it just below Dreamcatcher - which I really enjoyed - and maybe just above Cujo. It's an extremely good book.
There's an approaching ice storm and everybody - Maran, Johnny, and I - is hoping that we'll get work cancelled or something. Two of our friends live in New York and they've gotten over 26 in. so far (That's the most ever), so HA! Klyde and Tabitha, you guys are gonna freeze!
Dick Cheney shot someone yesterday. i can't wait to see the jokes on late night t.v.
I'm listening to Bruce Springsteen and have been for the last two weeks. Neither Johnny nor I can get 'Blinded by the Light' out of our heads - Manfred Mann did NOT write that song, by the way.
I'm in a new house and I can't reveal why I had to move (I won't say that a pewer line broke and a whole bunch of sPit covered the floors and ruined some of my stuff, but whatever). It's an old three bedroom house on South Milledge in Athens (Two words - Sorority Houses) and I really love it. Try your best not to stalk me now.
I've been writing a lot. I've sent plenty of stories out and am just waiting for correspondence. Keep your fingers crossed so you can see my name - and words, ya bums - in print. I've been rejected a few times and probably will a few hundred thousand times more, but hey, who's complaining? I'm also working on a novel, but that probably won't get finished, if you know my work habits.
I'm currently reading Black Cherry Blues by James Lee Burke. He's a fantastic crime writer who created a character named Dave Robicheaux, a cop in Louisiana. He's pretty damn awesome. He describes everything so well and the stories are so good. Burke makes everything seemm so easy, it should intimidate other authors.
I just finished The Dead Zone. It's not THE best Stephen King I've read, but it's not far from it. I would probably put it just below Dreamcatcher - which I really enjoyed - and maybe just above Cujo. It's an extremely good book.
There's an approaching ice storm and everybody - Maran, Johnny, and I - is hoping that we'll get work cancelled or something. Two of our friends live in New York and they've gotten over 26 in. so far (That's the most ever), so HA! Klyde and Tabitha, you guys are gonna freeze!
Dick Cheney shot someone yesterday. i can't wait to see the jokes on late night t.v.
I'm listening to Bruce Springsteen and have been for the last two weeks. Neither Johnny nor I can get 'Blinded by the Light' out of our heads - Manfred Mann did NOT write that song, by the way.
Dec 1, 2005
Book of Shadows
Hey one and two and all:
I haven't posted anything in quite awhile, but I have been busy with other stuff, so for that I apologize. I am currently in the process of finishing up my second degree at UGA, so in about two weeks you shouldn't hear me complain about not having any time to post anything.
The reason for this post is to suggest a record for you guys to check out. It's called Book of Shadows by Zakk Wylde (though it may also be placed under Black Label Society). It sounds really scary, I know, but it's a really good album. Zakk Wylde is the main guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne (see Black Sabbath), and he normally likes to rock out. However, Book of Shadows is a surprisingly mellow and heartfelt album. There's a lot of great acoustic guitar work on here and none of it seems insincere or cheesy.
It opens with "Between Heaven and Hell," a song akin to something the Allman Brothers might have done in the present day. The songs carry on with the same morose, and simultaneously intriguing, songwriting.
I give it a B+ overall. If you like acoustic Allman Bros. or Neil Young with a deeper voice and stronger guitar work, check out this album.
I haven't posted anything in quite awhile, but I have been busy with other stuff, so for that I apologize. I am currently in the process of finishing up my second degree at UGA, so in about two weeks you shouldn't hear me complain about not having any time to post anything.
The reason for this post is to suggest a record for you guys to check out. It's called Book of Shadows by Zakk Wylde (though it may also be placed under Black Label Society). It sounds really scary, I know, but it's a really good album. Zakk Wylde is the main guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne (see Black Sabbath), and he normally likes to rock out. However, Book of Shadows is a surprisingly mellow and heartfelt album. There's a lot of great acoustic guitar work on here and none of it seems insincere or cheesy.
It opens with "Between Heaven and Hell," a song akin to something the Allman Brothers might have done in the present day. The songs carry on with the same morose, and simultaneously intriguing, songwriting.
I give it a B+ overall. If you like acoustic Allman Bros. or Neil Young with a deeper voice and stronger guitar work, check out this album.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
