Zoo Station

He's a motherfuckin' man of the motherfuckin' people.

2006-04-25T20:22:00.000-04:00

Samuel L. Jackson said a few words in Time Magazine about his upcoming snakes on a plane epic, Snakes on a Plane.

"It's kind of difficult to watch me in a movie and not hear me say motherfucker once. I wanted to say it in Star Wars, so I'm glad we got it in here."

- Samuel L. Jackson

God bless you, Samuel L. Jackson. God bless you.

How To Save SNL

2006-04-17T13:38:00.000-04:00

Okay, I've figured out a surefire way to save Saturday Night Live.

(That is, until we arrive and take over.)

FIRE EVERYBODY EXCEPT THE NEW GUYS.

Okay, not everybody. Keep Forte and Armisen, for sure. Pohler's cool too, maybe Dratch.

EVERYONE ELSE MUST GO.

Let's face it. They're old. They're tired. Some of them were never even that funny to begin with. (Finesse Mitchell, I'm looking at you.)

I mean, I like Parnell. I like Seth Meyers. Hell, I even liked Horatio and Darrel Hammond once upon a time. But the show has gotten stale, boring and worst of all...NOT FUNNY. Now, to be fair, most of the blame could be placed on Tina Fey, the head writer. And to be honest, I do place most of the blame on her. But I honestly think it's time to purge. It's happened before. It must happen again.

Keep the new guys. Lose the old (except the aforementioned...four). DON'T hire anybody else. Smaller casts work better, trust me. Next year, this should be the cast we're looking at:

(Don Pardo voice)
It's Saturday Night Live! STARRING:

FRED ARMISEN!
RACHEL DRATCH!
WILL FORTE!
BILL HADER!
AMY POHLER!
ANDY SAMBERG!
JASON SUDEIKIS!
KRISTIN WIIG!

I'd buy THAT for a dollar.

(At least until we take over.)
(Also, make one of those Lonely Island Boys head writer.)
(Also, get better hosts...Tom Hanks is good, but you need good hosts other than the obvious ones. Lindsay Lohan just doesn't cut it.)
(ALSO...you're musical acts this year have been OUTSTANDING. Keep that up.)

Thanks!

"What If We Are Real?"

2006-04-16T23:42:00.000-04:00

What If We Are Real

What if...
What if we're no different
What if we're the same
Would it make a difference?
Could you take the blame?

Graceless exits
Made so long ago
Our hearts on fire,
Melting snow

All we take with us
And all that we feel
And still we wonder
What if we are real?

What if...
What if we can't be saved
What if we've gone to far
Maybe we can float away
Float on to a different star
Come with me, it's not to far

Nodding heads
That still mean no
Illuminate smiles
That are just for show

All we take with us
And all that we feel
And still we wonder
Is any of this real?

All we take with us
And all that we feel
And still we wonder
Always wonder
What if we are real?

My Nostalgia

2006-04-16T20:13:00.000-04:00

I don't know what it is, but lately I've been feeling a little nostalgic.

Perhaps it's something in the air. Perhaps it's the blog entries made by Kate and Travis. Perhaps I'm dying of some foreign disease and don't realize it yet. Or, perhaps I'm just getting older.

Recent events have forced me to look back on my life, and the friendships I made along the way. You see, I recently ended my three years at Loyalist College, and it kind of revealed some things to me. The advertising class was not close at all. This was made even more apparent while watching my TV friends say goodbye to one and other. There was not a dry eye in the house...whereas we Advertisers were mostly indifferent. Sure, there were a few peeps I was gonna miss, but for the most part, we parted ways as easily as strangers.

Talking to Lex about it, she explained that the TV class was just exceptionally close - in fact, while she didn't have that many friends from high school, she loved everyone in TV.

That's when I realised that unlike her, all of my best friends were from high school, and although I'd made some good friends since then, I hadn't progressed much farther than that. And I have to say, I felt lucky. Lucky that my best friends were from a period of my life when we were just discovering ourselves. And there's nothing wrong with that.

I think everyone should try to reconnect to their past at some point. Whether it's that special someone you took for granted, or that friend who could say more with laughter than anyone else could say with words, we are who we are because of the people who shaped us.

And in the end, I honestly think I'd prefer it if my past were my present. Maybe you can never go back...but nobody said you couldn't take it with you.

(Editors Note: When reading the above entry, think of Zach Braff's voice when you do. Man, I could TOTALLY write for Scrubs.)

"Change of Heart"

2006-04-09T22:14:00.000-04:00

Change of Heart

Isn’t it wonderful
How the days seem to fly
How your life passes you by
How the sun always rains on your parade

And isn’t it wonderful
How the minutes tick away
How they never seem to stay
How twinkle in your eye begins to fade

Your future isn’t something you’re in charge of
The end will be here before you even start
In and out of tedium
Never more than medium
Always waiting for that change of heart

Isn’t it fantastic
Still waiting for that second chance
Living through this endless dance
Waiting for it all to finish soon

And isn’t it fantastic
The way you never get ahead
Your friends all think you’re dead
And maybe you wish you were too

Your future isn’t something you’re in charge of
The end will be here before you even start
In and out of tedium
Never more than medium
Always waiting for that change of heart

"Holiday In May"

2006-04-03T20:23:00.000-04:00

Holiday in May

I’d like to pack up and go
To a place without any snow
To a place with cinnamon seas
Tinfoil trees, all smiling at me

I’d like to take a flight out
To a place where everyone shouts
To a place where the blind always see
Cuts never bleed, there’s no disease
We’d all be free

Oh, what a day
Holiday in May
Oh, oh, oh
What a day
Holiday in May
I’d like to go

I’d like to drive in my car
To a place that’s not very far
To a place where everyone knows
My name and my clothes
My highs and my lows
Everyone knows

I’d like to ride in a boat
To a place where everyone floats
To a place where nobody frowns
They’d only drown, bob up and down
Waving goodbye to me

Oh, what a day
Holiday in May
Oh, oh, oh
What a day
Holiday in May
I’d like to go

I’d like to pack up and go
To a place I can call home
To a place where nobody knows
My name or my clothes
My highs or my lows
Nobody knows
Me.

Feeling: Confused and tired.

Hearing: Dani California by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

Viggo Mortenson would make a pretty girl.

2006-03-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

Janis and Ingrid leave. The brothers are left alone, beside the ferris wheel. Theo is munching on popcorn, while David sips on a beer. There is a long pause as they watch the girls leave. Then -

THEO: She loves me, you know.

DAVID: Who? Janis?

THEO: No. Ingrid.

DAVID: Oh. Okay.

The two are silent for a beat. David suddenly punches Theo, spilling his popcorn.

THEO: Hey! What was that for?

DAVID: For saying that she loves you. She doesn’t.

THEO: You spilled my popcorn. And does too.

DAVID: Then why aren’t you here with her?

THEO: Who says I’m not?

They turn to each other.

DAVID: But you came with Janis.

THEO: Janis came with me.

DAVID: Then who did I come with?

THEO: I’m sorry, David.

Theo picks up what's left of his popcorn and moves away. David slumps to the ground.

Today is the first day of the rest of my life.

2005-11-13T23:40:00.000-05:00

I have come to a conclusion tonight. An epiphany, if you will. (And whaddya wanna bet I didn't spell that right? Damn you, shoddy public school system!)

I have decided to apply to Clown College.

(Also known as Humber.)

Okay, so it's not Clown College. That'd just be silly. But it is Comedy Writing and Performing. Yeah. That's a thing. An actual college course. And I'm going to take it. (Or at least apply...apparently there's an audition, that can and will go horribly awry.)

But still, I'll try. After watching that SNL special on NBC tonight (all about the 80's...what a rough goddamn period of the show!) I've decided I want to go into comedy again. Ideally, I'd get my old crew back with me. Could you imagine SNL a year from now starring the likes of Mathew Cain, Travis Kinney, Jason Lang and Mark Ring? I can, and lemme tell ya...it's a hoot and a half!

So this be my destiny...Humber. Today, a comedy course at a community college, tomorrow...SNL!

(Hey, if Jimmy Fallon can make it on SNL, lord knows I can.)

Holy Schnikes! The Snakes Edition.

2005-10-23T22:01:00.000-04:00

I know, I know...it's been a while. Which must mean that something substantial has happened in my life, thus reluctantly forcing me back into the blogging game.

Well something substantial has happened. Something that may well change the world as we know it.

Snakes on a Plane. You read that right, folks. Snakes on a motherfuckin' Plane.

Somebody decided that the concept of Samuel L. Jackson fighting snakes on a fucking plane deserved an entire movie. And I for one agree with them.

On board a flight over the Pacific Ocean, an assassin, bent on killing a passenger who's a witness in protective custody, let loose a crate full of deadly snakes.

WHO WOULDN'T WANT TO SEE THAT?!?!

Even barring the synopsis, anyone who reads the title SNAKES ON A PLANE and doesn't want to see THAT movie should be shot in the face...with a snake.

Movie event of 2006. Mark my words.

Jackson: "You snakes is HISStory!"

And people say Hollywood has run out of ideas.

I really have nothing to say.

2005-09-12T23:38:00.000-04:00

Ever. Apparently.

So, to fill space...here's another patented list. Coz I likes to do 'em. And I have nothing else to say.

And I do loves me Oasis.

Ze Top 10 Oasis Songs of All Time. (According to me.)(Obviously.)

10. Let There Be Love (From the album Don't Believe The Truth.)
9. Acquiesce (From the album The Masterplan.)
8. Little By Little (From the album Heathen Chemistry.)
7. Morning Glory (From the album (What's The Story) Morning Glory?)
6. Whatever (From the single Whatever.)
5. Where Did It All Go Wrong? (From the album Standing on the Shoulders.)
4. Live Forever (From the album Definitely Maybe.)
3. The Masterplan (From the album The Masterplan.)
2. Talk Tonight (From the album The Masterplan.)
1. Wonderwall (From the album (What's The Story) Morning Glory?)

Honourable Mentions:
- Gas Panic (From the album Standing on the Shoulders.)
- Champagne Supernova (From the album (What's The Story) Morning Glory.)
- Don't Look Back In Anger (From the album (What's The Story) Morning Glory.)
- Sunday Morning Call (From the album Standing on the Shoulders.)
- Don't Go Away (From the album Be Here Now.)
- Fucking in the Bushes (From the album Standing on the Shoulders.)

Aw, hell...I'm gonna be here forever with these honourable mentions. Suffice to say...I like Oasis.

Why, this may be the best quiz ever!

2005-09-06T21:02:00.000-04:00

With or Without you - You are the hopeless romantic
whose sole purpose in life is to await love.
Your priorities always lay in finding the one
that you're destined to be with and sweeping
them off their feet with poetry and other
romantic gestures.

What U2 Song Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

And it's true, too.

"Putting On A Show"

2005-08-31T21:47:00.000-04:00

Putting On a Show

Can you read my smile?
Or is it time to go?
I just want to make sure you understand
I'm just putting on a show

I got a chip on my shoulder
And a good idea in my head
Another ace up my shirt sleeve
Another stranger in my bed

A smile for every stranger
And a hug for those I know
A wink for your discretion
Cuz I'm dying to let you know
I'm just putting on a show

Yeah, I'm just putting on a show
I'm just putting on a show

My voice echoes in the darkness
As I try to take my bow
I can say my lines with ernest
And I know you wonder how

So when the curtain closes
And the admirers have all gone home
I'll wink for your education
Cuz I want to let you know
That I'm just putting on a show.

Yeah, I'm just putting on a show
I'm just putting on a show

Can you read my smile?
Or is it time to go?
I just want to make sure you understand
I'm just putting on a show
Yeah, just putting on a show.

"Who's To Say"

2005-08-29T23:28:00.000-04:00

Who's To Say

Writing words in blood and ink
Slowing down the world enough to think
Craving chaos in an orderly room
Humming along just to stay in tune

And it's all just a fading dream
I put my cash on the losing team
Bet it all on my success
Didn't know the odds were wrecked
Should I have expected any less?

Who's to say where we all go
Is it sin that holds us in?
Who's to say where we end up
Who's to say where we begin?

I'm at a loss for words to write
At a loss for a cause to fight
Raise my hands in stead defeat
Wave goodbye and take my seat

If you call while I'm still down
Don't expect to hear the sound
Of my voice on the other line
But don't worry, everything's just fine
I promise you, it's just fine

Who's to say where we all go
Is it sin that holds us in?
Who's to say where we end up
Who's to say where we begin?

Feeling: Okay, I guess.
Hearing: See the Sun by Oasis. (The Lost Tapes.)

The Gig

2005-08-27T23:28:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, Mark, Bobby and I come together for our first gig together...it should be something. Or perhaps nothing. But most likely something.

Anyways, here's the setlist...hopefully pictures will follow.

Mark and Jason:
1. Desire by U2.
2. Eleanor Rigby by the Beatles.
3. Lucky Man by the Verve.
4. Doesn't Remind Me by Audioslave.
5. Staring at the Sun by U2.

Bobby and Jason:
6. Disarm by the Smashing Pumpkins.
7. Hotel California by the Eagles (feat. Mark Ring on vocals.)
8. Everlong by the Foo Fighters.
9. Sour Girl by Stone Temple Pilots.
10. In My Life by the Beatles (feat. Mark Ring on vocals.)

Mark, Bobby and Jason:
11. Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd.
12. Crown of Love by the Arcade Fire.
13. The Scientist by Coldplay.

Anyways, should be a fun gig no matter what. Lates.

GIN Martini, Shaken, Not Stirred...

2005-08-22T17:36:00.000-04:00

Ha! I just had my first (and second, nad third, anf fourth) Gin Martini.

Take that, Jill quiz!

Survey says...

2005-08-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

Stole this from T's G.

Three names you go by: Jason, Jay, The Professor (no, not really.)
Three screen names you have had: sadisticpenguin, Jesus of Narnia and Max Zorin.
Three things you like about yourself: My sense of humour, my voice and my open-mindedness.
Three things you hate about yourself: My low self-esteem, my paranoia and my lack of focus (with certain things).
Three parts of your heritage: Scottish, Irish, and German. A veritable melting pot of cultures that are incessantly mocked by other cultures.
Three things that scare you: Spiders, being alone and sharks. Yes, that’s my number one fear. Being eaten by a shark. Yeah, I know.
Three of your everyday essentials: Wallet, keys, and a martini. What?
Three things you are wearing right now: I’m actually only wearing two things…well, I s’pose we can count my glasses. So, glasses, pajama pants, t-shirt.
Three of your favourite bands: U2, Oasis and Pearl Jam.
Three of your favourite songs at present: Currently? “City of Blinding Lights” by U2, “Fix You” by Coldplay and “Talk Tonight” by Oasis.
Three new things you want to try in the next twelve months: Hmmph…I dunno…open mic nights at the school, martinis made with gin and…I got nothin’.
Three things you want in a relationship, if love is a given: Loyalty, closeness, and her permission to play with her breasts 24 hours a day.
Three things about the gender that you are attracted to that appeal to you:
Physical things: Boobs, ass, and boobs. What? Oh. I mean, nice eyes, dark hair, and boobs. Personality: Sense of humour (doesn’t have to be funny…just has to find ME funny), open to new things and good taste in music.
Three things you just can't do: Play guitar (very well), drive standard and…touch my nose with my tongue. Stupid Derek.
Three of your favourite hobbies: Jamming, writing and listening to music.
Three things you want to do really badly right now: Jam, have a drink, and touch a boob. I joke, I joke…I don’t really want a drink. (All ready got one!)
Three careers you're considering: Advertising exec (boo!), musician (that’s right!) and actor.
Three places you want to go on vacation: Japan, Monte Carlo and Mexico.
Three kids names: (Girls) Emily, Samantha and Erica. (Boys) Connor, Jackson, and James.
Three things you want to do before you die: Discover the Fountain of Youth, and thus immortality! And not even you can stop me, Dr. Jones! Bwa ha ha ha ha!!!

Feeling: Tired. Just woke up. Stupid Sharon!
Hearing: Catching the Butterfly by the Verve.

The 2nd Gig!

2005-08-19T22:19:00.000-04:00

It's official. We have a Second Gig.

And by "we" I mean me and Mark and Bobby. Our little group is expanding.

We're still hammering out set list ideas, so stay tuned for more information!

Bond. You know the rest.

2005-08-15T09:56:00.000-04:00

This may be the most difficult list I've ever undertaken. But it must be done!

Without further adieu...the 20 James Bond Films...in order from WORST to BEST. (Or, more accurately, from MY favorite to least favorite.)

Enjoy.

20. The World Is Not Enough (Brosnan, 1999)
"You can't kill me. You'd miss me."
"I never miss."

19. A View To A Kill (Moore, 1985)
"This'll hurt him more than me."

18. Moonraker (Moore, 1979)
"You missed, Mr. Bond."
"Did I?"

17. Die Another Day (Brosnan, 2002)
"Just surviving, Mr. Chang. Just surviving."

16. Diamonds Are Forever (Connery, 1971)
"Thank you very much. I was just out walking my rat and seemed to have lost my way."

15. Live and Let Die (Moore, 1973)
"SECRET AGENT? On who's side?!?"

14. You Only Live Twice (Connery, 1967)
"That was stirred, not shaken, is that right?"
"Yes...perfect."

13. The Living Daylights (1987)
"We have nothing to declare!"
"Except a cello!"

12. Octopussy (Moore, 1983)
"Englishman. Likes eggs, preferably faberge...and dice, preferably loaded."

11. Tomorrow Never Dies (Brosnan, 1997)
"You were pretty good with that hook."
"Thanks. It comes with growing up in a rough neighbourhood. You were pretty good on that bike."
"Thanks. It comes from not growing up at all."

10. The Man With the Golden Gun (Moore, 1975)
"Ours is the lonliest profession, Mr. Bond."

9. Goldfinger (Connery, 1964)
"My name is Pussy Galore."
"I must be dreaming."

8. For Your Eyes Only (Moore, 1981)
"Now put your clothes back on and I'll buy you an ice cream."

7. Dr. No (Connery, 1962)
"I admire your courage, miss...?"
"Trench. Sylvia Trench. And I admire your luck, Mr...?
"Bond. James Bond."

6. Licence To Kill (Dalton, 1989)
"You could have had everything!"
"Don't you even want to know WHY?"

5. On Her Majesty's Secret Service (Lazenby, 1969)
"This never happend to the other fellow."

4. Goldeneye (Brosnan, 1995)
"For England, James?"
"No. For me."

3. From Russia With Love (Connery, 1962)
"I think my mouth is too big..."
"It's a perfect fit. For me, anyways."

2. The Spy Who Loved Me (Moore, 1977)
"But James, I need you!"
"So does England!"

1. Thunderball (Connery, 1965)
"I hope we didn't scare the fishes."

At this point, however, I feel I must point out that I truly do love them all. Just some more than others. A lot more.

Comic booking

2005-08-14T23:17:00.000-04:00

In honor of the news that Warren Beatty's planning a Dick Tracy sequel, here is another one of my patented top 10 lists....thist time....

Jason's Top Ten Favorite Comic Book Movies:

10. Superman, The Movie (1978)
"We all have our little faults. Mine's in California."

9. X-Men (2000)
"It's me!"
"Prove it."
"You're a dick."
"Okay."

8. Spider-Man (2002)
"Not everyone is meant to make a difference. But for me, the choice to lead an ordinary life is no longer an option."

7. Road to Perdition (2002)
"Natural law. Sons are put on this earth to trouble their fathers."

6. Batman (1989)
"Now comes the part where I relieve you, the little people, of the burden of your failed and useless lives. But remember, as my plastic surgeon always said....if you gotta go, go with a smile!"

5. Superman II (1980)
"We'd better talk."
"I'm in love with you."
"We'd REALLY better talk."

4. X2 - X-Men United (2003)
"Have you ever tried...not being a mutant?"

3. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
"Find him...or I'll peel the flesh from her bones."

2. Batman Begins (2005)
"I'm not going to kill you...but I don't have to save you."

1. Dick Tracy (1990)
"You get behind me, we all profit; you challenge me, we all go down! There was one Napoleon, one Washington, one me!"

HOLY SCHNIKEYS!!!!! Part Two

2005-08-14T15:28:00.000-04:00

So it turns out that Warren Beatty is fighting for the rights to Dick Tracy so he can finally make a sequel to the 1990 classic.

Keen! Go, Beatty, go!

(Though without Pacino it may be lacking. Still....keen!)

HOLY SCHNIKEYS!!!!

2005-08-14T13:44:00.000-04:00

http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/newsitem.cfm?NewsID=3889

My life seems disturbingly complete now.

Feeling: Unbelievably pleased.
Hearing: Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen.

Holy Bat, Bat Guy!

2005-08-11T21:04:00.000-04:00

Andrew accidently let a bat into the kitchen today.

Sometimes you can't help but thank God for allowing you those special moments that will become memories you can look back on and smile for the rest of your life.

Like the image of Trenton, Andrew and I chasing a bat around the dining room for a half hour with brooms at 6AM, while customers lined up outside to watch our shenanigans.

Good times. Good times.

(Of special note, the bat managed to elude us, as well as the trained Bat Guy we called in. As far as I know, he's still in the building somewhere.)

(The bat. Not the Bat Guy. He went home.)

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Happy!
Hearing: Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by U2.

"Marmalade"

2005-08-09T22:37:00.000-04:00

Oh, Travis. Whatever am I to do with you?

Marmalade

Faint and transparent
Like the smile of a ghost
Lay out in the sun
Till yer skin begins to roast
Try some marmalade
On yer toast,
Try some marmalade.

Make reasons to make noise
In the middle of the night
Signal a left turn
When everyone else is goin' right
Try some marmalade
Just a bite,
Try some marmalade.

What're you gonna be when you're all grown up?
When you need more money, is it ever enough?
What'cha gonna do when the world falls apart?
They say marmalade is good for yer heart, yeah
Marmalade is good for the heart

Get out of the city
Take a trip to the sea
Leave all your cares behind
It'll just be you and me
Try some marmalade
Would you please?
Try some marmalade

What're you gonna be when you're all grown up?
When you need more money, is it ever enough?
What'cha gonna do when the world falls apart?
They say marmalade is good for yer heart, yeah
Marmalade is good for the heart

Take yer jam
And throw it all away
Take yer margerine
It's had it's final say
Peanut butter
Sticks to my tongue
I said
Marmalade's the only one
I said
Marmalade's the only one.

What're you gonna be when you're all grown up?
When you need more money, is it ever enough?
What'cha gonna do when the world falls apart?
They say marmalade is good for yer heart, yeah
Marmalade is good for the heart
They say marmalade is good for yer heart, yeah
Marmalade is good for the heart

Antz.

2005-08-09T22:02:00.000-04:00

"ANTS!!!"

"What?"

"ANTS!!!"

"Oh. What?"

"I'LL BE IN THE BATHROOM."

"What?"

So I got covered in ants today.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Sick, little tired.
Hearing: Can't Change Me by Chris Cornell.

Essentially Funny

2005-08-08T20:30:00.000-04:00

In honor of our top 20 albums list, Travis and I have decided to follow that up with a second list...showcasing our first love. (Music being the second.)

Despite our current obsession with music (both the enjoyment and creation of) our first love, and gift, is and will always be comedy.

Here's my top 10 favorite comedy films, with a delicious quote from each. Should cheer ya up if you need it.

10. Duck Soup (1933)
"I got a good mind to join a club and beat you over the head with it."

9. Dirty Work (1998)
"I've never seen so many dead hookers in my life!"
"Lord knows I have."

8. Get Shorty (1995)
"Harry, look at me. You're trying to tell me you fucked up without sounding stupid, and that's hard to do. "

7. Shaun of the Dead (2004)
"Kill the Queen!"
"What?"
"The jukebox!"

6. The Jerk (1979)
"I was born a poor black child."

5. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
"I'm very important. I have many leather bound books, and my apartment smells of rich mahogany."

4. Wayne's World (1992)
"We're looking down on Wayne's basement. Only that's not Wayne's basement. Isn't that weird?"
"Yeah, that's weird man, that's weird. Garth! That was a haiku!"

3. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
"Anybody interested in grabbing a couple of burgers and hittin' the cemetary?"

2. Young Frankenstein (1974)
"Wait! Where are you going? I was going to make expresso!"

1. Ghostbusters (1984)
"Everything was going fine until dickless here shut off the power!"
"Is that true?"
"Yes, it's true. This man has no dick."

Yikes. That took a longer time than expected!

Top 20 (Personal) Best Albums.

2005-08-08T13:17:00.000-04:00

As per Travis' request, here are my Top 20 Personal Best Albums.

These are my ultimate essentials. I could not imagine life without them, nor can I imagine what life was like before them. Read on and bask in the glory of musical perfection. And, because I enjoy a slow burn, we shall begin at 20 and work up to 1.

20. Who's Next by the Who.
19. Streetcore by Joe Strummer and the Mescalaros.
18. Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin.
17. The Modern World/All Mod Cons by the Jam.
16. Euphoria Morning by Chris Cornell.
11. A Night at the Opera by Queen.
14. Goodbye, Yellow Brick Road by Elton John.
13. Purple by Stone Temple Pilots.
12. My Aim is True by Elvis Costello.
11. Nevermind by Nirvana.
10. Rubber Soul by The Beatles.
9. The Wall by Pink Floyd.
8. Hunky Dory by David Bowie.
7. Urban Hymns by The Verve.
6. Parachutes by Coldplay.
5. The Bends by Radiohead.
4. Vitalogy by Pearl Jam.
3. London Calling by the Clash.
2. Definitely Maybe by Oasis.
1. Achtung, Baby/ The Joshua Tree by U2.

Is it cheap to have two albums tied for number one? You bet it is! But I honestly can never decide between the two, and, depending on my mood, it does change.

So there it is. I'm sure I'm missing something huge, and it's (as always) subject to change. But currently, these are the albums you'll find me listening to the most.

The First Gig. (And Probably The Last.)

2005-08-03T22:22:00.000-04:00

So, the gig went off more or less without a hitch.

We actually flew through our "half-hour" block...we managed eight songs in about twenty minutes, with the odd chatter and talk between them. I was hella nervous, so the banter was at a minimum for most of the performance, though I did manage to get off a few "zingers".

Regardless...I dunno if you can tell in the pics, but I was pretty drunk. In order to calm my aforementioned nerves, I downed about half a bottle of red wine at Mark's before the show. Heh. However, that was nothing compared to after the show. Our buddy Adam went berserk in the drink department, buying us (and complete strangers) whatever we craved. Suffice to say...I was very rock starred by evening's end.

There were a few flubs, here and there, as expected...I screwed up a verse of Eleanor Rigby, most notably. But nothing to horrible.

Will we do it again? I'd like to think so, but I dunno when the oppurtunity will spring up again. Ah, well. Better keep practicing, either way.

Peace, love, understanding.
Feeling: Tired.
Hearing: Drowning Man by U2.

Rawk starz.

2005-08-03T16:07:00.000-04:00

Rockin' Wahoos.

(I'm gonna go ahead and assume this is during our opener, The Kids Are Alright, but I could be wrong.)

More later.

Peace, love, understanding.

Feeling: Tired.

Hearing: The Drugs Don't Work by the Verve.

Shameless Picture Posting, Part One.

2005-07-28T15:50:00.000-04:00

I have really nothing to say here, except that this is one of the coolest pics I've ever seen. Just phenomenol.

Good lord, I want to see one of the stadium shows so bad! I heard it cost a million bucks per night to put one of these on, and I believe it. I hope they release at least one on DVD. (If they do, it'll probably be Italy or Croke Park, or, BOTH.)

I think I had something else here to say here, but I can't imagine what. Oh well.

For another blog, then!

Love, Peace and Understanding.

Feeling: Tired.

Hearing: Who Feels Love by Oasis.

It's only rock and roll...

2005-07-27T23:31:00.000-04:00

This Sunday, my buddy Mark and I play our first gig.

There's like a "benefit concert" (though I have no idea what we're benefiting) at Wahoo's Cafe, and we're opening the show with a thirty minute acoustic set.

And I am TERRIFIED.

The worst part, for me, anyways, is that Mark told like EVERYBODY WE KNOW...including some "friends" who I'd just rather not be there at all. Oh well...we all gotta start somewhere, right? So, if we suck, at least we tried. And that's something. Right?

Still...I have this terrible stagefright that almost completely cripples my voice whenever I perform in front of people. Worse, when I get nervous, I forget shit. Like lyrics, for instance.

Gah.

Anyways, for anyone who's interested, here's our setlist (more or less).

1. The Kids Are Alright by the Who.
2. Live Forever by Oasis.
3. Yahweh by U2.
4. Eleanor Rigby by the Beatles.
5. Lucky Man by the Verve.
6. Fix You by Coldplay.
7. Doesn't Remind Me by Audioslave.
8. All I Want Is You/With Or Without You by U2.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Pissed. Damn enter key ruin my Oasis downloading! ARRGH!
Hearing: Rush And A Push And The Land Is Ours by the Smiths.

"Exactly As It Seems"

2005-07-20T22:38:00.000-04:00

Exactly as it Seems

Every morning starts the same
We're just playing different games
From opposite ends
Of the same bed

Staring through each other
Never think to bother
About trying to reply
Whenever someone cries

Has it come to this?
We cut each other's wrists
And still can only wish
That we finally see
Where we both are going

It's exactly as it seems
Do you know what I mean?
The worst parts of a bad dream
It's exactly as it seems
Exactly as it seems

Going through the motions
Devoid of all emotions
Lost in our own place
Never coming face to face

Has it come to this?
We cut each other's wrists
And still can only wish
That we finally see
Where we both are going

It's exactly as it seems
Do you know what I mean?
The worst parts of a bad dream
It's exactly as it seems
Exactly as it seems

"The Giving Up Blues"

2005-07-17T22:10:00.000-04:00

The Giving Up Blues

Ask me how I'm feeling
Go ahead, I dare you
Ask me if I'm treating
Myself the way I used to

I know I drink too much
And I'm smoking a lot more too
I know that I've lost my touch
I guess I got the giving up blues

It's just those goddamn giving up blues.

I used to wear cologne at night
Every time I went out
Now I don't put up a fight
Whenever I'm in doubt

My socks don't match
My hair isn't combed
I'm the worst of a bad batch
I'm a dog without a bone
I'm a nobody in blue jeans
A specter of a someone
A never was has been
I guess I better buy a gun

Washed up, left out
Hung up to dry
Put away, pushed aside
To drained to even cry

They say you gotta stick it out
Everybody pays their dues
I guess it's time they learned about
The giving up blues

I know I drink too much
And I'm smoking a lot more too
I know that I've lost my touch
I guess I got the giving up blues

It's just those goddamn, tired of them, giving up blues.

Crumbling.

2005-07-17T20:39:00.000-04:00

Annnnd here it comes. The inevitable "falling apart"...when everything, well....falls apart.

Ugh, I've been in such an ugly mood all week. Just really pissed all the fucking time. Any little thing goes wrong and I flip out. This morning while cooking breakfast, I dropped an egg. Rather than treat this small setback rationally, I instead flung the remaining egg I had into the sink, literally exploding the sucker. And that's me being calm. Lately.

See, I hate my job. It's long, hot, and I start at like 6am...so I'm usually really frigging tired. All I seem to have (had) going for me are my friends. And now that's...well. Falling apart.

Ever since Bobby and Anne Marie started secretly dating (like it's really that big of a fucking secret) they've spent every single moment together, and now I don't see either of them. Jade and Elicia seem to only call me when it suits them, and Mark...well, I don't know what's going on with Mark. But he's no longer Mark. He never wants to do anything anymore, and he's always depressed and pissy. Which now makes me depressed and pissy. So basically...I got nothing. I work 6am five days straight, and then on my wonderful two nights off I sit at home alone watching Shrek 2 (which, by the way, is a delight.)

The point is, I'm nothing without my friends. I'm like...what was that show where the hero found out that they were nothing without their freinds? Oh, wait...it was Buffy, wasn't it? Not that I...you know...watch that show...but it's a good example! Without Xander and Willow and Giles she fell apart! And that's how I am now, without my Xander and Willow and Giles! 'Cept it's Mark and Bobby and Anne Marie!

Dagnabbit.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: SEE ABOVE.
Hearing: Second Hand News by Fleetwood Mac.

Dream a little...NIGHTMARE.

2005-07-16T21:35:00.000-04:00

Welp, if my dreams are any indication of the state of my sanity...

Then I'm in a whole heap o' trouble.

I had a couple of doozys last night, but I won't bore you with the details of both...yet. I will say this, though. Both of them were very similar in nature, taking place in the exact same location with pretty much the exact same people...they were just different moods and storylines. Weird, no? One was frustrating, and one...the one I'm about to describe (as best I can) was terrifying.

Okay, here's the deal...both dreams took place at my work, The Yukon Galley (proof, I guess, that I spend way too much damn time there.) ANYWAYS...

So this first dream I had (the terrifying one) brought back one of my greatest childhood nightmares to me...that's right, Steven Speilberg's Rascally Raptors. Yeah, I found Jurassic Park scary as a kid. So what? I was ten! And c'mon...look at that fucker! >>>>>>>>>>

That's some scary shit.

Anywho, so I show up for my shift at the Galley...still in the back, working flight. And there's Theresa, and Pat, and Kristina who played a prominent role in both dreams. And no wonder. Girl's hot.

So I start my shift...but something's different. For starters, it's awfully dark. No lights. And, apparently, it's nightime. No biggie. Oh, but here's two more big differences. On the one side where the freezers should be is the Tyrannosaurus Pen. And near the bag, right beside the entrance to where I work, is a hatch in the floor, that leads to the basement. That's where we keep ther raptors, you see.

The odd thing about this dream, though (besides the obvious) was how nonchalant everyone else was about these dinosaurs living with us. I guess they were used to it by now, like it had become a part of their routine. They even started unlocking the raptor's hatch every once in a while just for fun, and to scare the new guy (me). And scare me it did. But the raptors hadn't tried to escape in years. Hell, they probably forgot the door was there. It gets left unlocked all the time! Big whoop.

Big whoop indeed! Of course they escaped. Along with the T-Rex. Now, this is where it gets a little hazy...and I know that's a lot of buildup to just go nowhere. Suffice it to say, the dream continued for quite a bit, involving a runaway T-Rex and some raptors. I think at one point they sent people into the raptor hatch (me included) to make sure they hadn't escaped. Luckily for me (I guess) they had, and were no longer in the hatch. (Where I now was.) I remember vague snippets beyond that, but nothing concrete.

Did I survive? Who knows. I heard that if you die in your dreams, you die in real life, so I guess I made it out okay. But man...was it ever fucked up! I'll see about getting the second dream up sometime later.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Very pissed, and betrayed.
Hearing: I Won't Share You by the Smiths.

"Better Start Believing"

2005-07-11T23:08:00.000-04:00

Thank you, Travis.

Better Start Believing

Spring is here and love is in the air
Nevermind the rules I don't play fair
Everywhere I go, I'm a breath of fresh air
To everyone else but me

Take off your coats and stay awhile
I'll take you down the miracle mile
Just promise me we won't stay idle
There's too much left to see

You just better start believing
You just better start believing
You just better start believing in me.

I'll take you on the greatest cruise
You've ever been and then we'll choose
Another way to just hang loose
Just leave it all to me

We'll find our way back through the sun
we're playing with a loaded gun
You say when and I'll say done
You got it all for free

You just better start believing
You just better start believing
You just better start believing in me.

Fancy a trip to the moon and back
We're on our way, no time to pack
Patience is something I've always lacked
So you better start believing in me.

You just better start believing
You just better start believing
You just better start believing in me.

As the lights go down
And the stars hang low
I'll take you where you wanna go

You just better start believing in me.

Why Oasis is the best fookin' rock band in the world.

2005-07-11T22:33:00.000-04:00

This is kind of a continuation of my previous rant. Again, bear with me.

Oasis is the best fooking rock band in the world.

That's a pretty bold statement. Here's my backing:

In an era where it's uncool to be a rock and roll band, Oasis is a rock and roll band. There are very few rock and roll bands left in the world. There's the Stones, but they're a wee bit outdated. There's U2, but they try to be everything at once. Oasis just wants to be a rock band.

They have an image that hearkens back to the excess and antics of the '60s and '70s. They fight, they swear, they openly call out other bands....and they make catchy, explosive music. That's rock and roll. And it's becoming harder and harder to find.

But I'll take it over most of the crap out there any day. Go back and listen to "Definitely Maybe". Just turn on Rock And Roll Star, or Shakermaker and just fookin' rock out. Cuz you're not gonna see bands like this much anymore. It's just not considered cool.

(I find it hilariously ironic that indie folks criticize bands like Oasis or U2 for working to hard on their image, or trying to hard to be cool...when they're doing the same damn thing! They're so concerned about not having an image and not looking cool that that's their fucking image! Arrggh, indie music fans piss me off. And I fucking like indie music! Just without the pretentiousness, superiority and hatred of yourself and others thats become a hallmark of the Indie Music Fan. Fuck you, Indie Music Fan! You do have an image....and it's really, REALLY annoying! LIGHTEN UP AND HAVE SOME FOOKIN' FUN!!!)

Music to cut your wrists too.

2005-07-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

So, I'm bored, and I want to try out this new picture feature. Bear with me.

Anyways, I'm getting kind of sick and tired of sticking up for U2 with people. The issue is that the majority of the people I hang out with are really big into music...but their like indie freaks who don't like anything remotely mainstream. Musical snobs if you will. People who seem to have forgotten that music can be something more than just artistic or depressing (which is all they seem to listen to - in fact, the more depressing the better. Personally, I hate depressing music. It's just too....depressing.)

See, I like music to be everything. Spiritual, romantic, uplifting, important, and above all else fun. But, Jason...music's not fun! Fuck entertaining people! You're missing the point! Music is supposed to come from your heart, and express your feelings, and blah, blah, blah. And yeah, it is. And for me, it does. Totally. Where else is it going to come from? But just because it's supposed to represent you and your feelings doesn't mean it has to make people want to kill themselves. Why can't these people just enjoy music? Are they really so pretentious that they can only listen to music that elicits one emotion? Especially when that emotion is pain?

Give me Beautiful Day anytime. Anyone can write depressing songs. But to write one that fills you with joy? That's hard to do.

Love, peace, and understanding.
Feeling: Tired.
Hearing: Where The Streets Have No Name (Live from Slane) by U2.

Ahem...

2005-07-07T23:11:00.000-04:00

It would seem that I've once again been thwarted by my inability to read or correct html. Damn, you, numbers quiz!

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Bored and lonely.
Hearing: Indoor Fireworks by Elvis Costello.

Numb3rs

2005-07-07T19:15:00.000-04:00

Thought this was kind of neat...and chillingly accurate.

You Are the Enthusiast

7
You are outgoing and playful - always seeing the happy side to life.
You're enthusiastic and excitable. You love anything new.
Multi-talented, you do many things well... and find success easy.
You prefer to keep things light with others. Opening up is hard for you.

What number are you?

Stalling.

2005-07-01T20:52:00.000-04:00

I suppose we can all forget about the forthcoming Ottawa and Oasis posts. They've long passed, and I've all but forgotten about them.

Still, I have plenty to get down here, eventually (including a deliciously geeky top ten list that ranks the best movie villains of all time...in my opinion.)

But for now...Travis did a top 10 Modest Mouse songs a while back which was neat. I, however, have never been good at ranking songs...so rather, here is an unofficial Best of Radiohead (based on my preferences.) These are in no particular order, but, if you were new to the band, this is where I would suggest you start.

The Best of Radiohead
(According to Jason Lang)

1. Everything In It's Right Place (from the album "Kid A".)
2. High And Dry (from the album "The Bends".)
3. Fake Plastic Trees (from the album "The Bends".)
4. Creep (from the album "Pablo Honey".)
5. Karma Police (from the album "OK Computer".)
6. Just (from the album "The Bends".)
7. Knives Out (from the album "Amnesiac".)
8. 2+2=5 (The Lukewarm) (from the album "Hail To The Theif".)
9. You (from the album "Pablo Honey".)
10. Paranoid Android (from the album "OK Computer".)
11. Idioteque (from the album "Kid A".)
12. You And Whose Army (from the album "Amnesiac".)
13. The National Anthem (from the album "Kid A".)
14. Street Spirit (Fade Out) (from the album "The Bends".)

These are subject to change, I suppose. Ah, well.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Bored.
Hearing: You And Whose Army by Radiohead.

"And He Sings"

2005-06-19T21:17:00.000-04:00

Ottawa post, Oasis post, and more, still on the way.

But for now...THIS:

And He Sings

How can one soul affect so much
From the words like a prophet
To that Midas touch

If the objective was change
A chance to understand
Then the world was rearranged
By him and his band

And he sings
And he sings

Ashes and embers
Float all around
London is calling
So come on down
This fiery soul
That used to live here
Sets London a light...
And I live by the river.

And he sings
And he sings
And he still sings
He'll always sing.

"You Failed Yourself"

2005-06-12T13:59:00.000-04:00

Just got back from Ottawa which I'll post about later. For now, though, here's some lyrics...I gotta shower hardcore.

Also, I think it goes without saying, but all of these lyrics are "works in progress".

You Failed Yourself

Pack up your bags
With thoughts of good emotion
And intentions of devotion
And everything you'll need

Open the door
To a life that's always waiting
I'm sick of this debating
Have you ever wanted to be free?

This is not a test
This is not a test
This is not a test
Pencils down

Give in to your
Demands for more affection
And move in the direction
Of everything that you adore

Trade in your soul
For something you can use
And something you can lose
That's what a soul is for

This is not a test
This is not a test
This is not a test,
So put your pencil down
Put your pencil down

You failed yourself
You failed yourself
You failed yourself, that's all
You failed yourself
You failed yourself
You failed yourself and that's all that really matters.

"Goodbye, Cruel World"

2005-06-07T01:08:00.000-04:00

Very soon I think I'll have a real blog...because, really...I'm more than due.

Goodbye, Cruel World

Tracing back the lines of ageing
Forward thinking's lost
Evolution is all but over
Gone at such a cost

Backwards from the time we're born
Giving nothing back
Taking youth, exchanging vows
That never can be kept

And the way that we've all grown
Can we reap what we have sown?
Try to turn the pages back
If it's not too late for that
Goodbye, cruel world.

Nature got it's just rewards
It never did play fair
Nothing gained from quick surrender
Nothing comes from care

Living for the brightest payoff
The moments come and go
The planet's fallen from it's mantle
The curtains drawing closed
It's closing on our souls

And the way that we've all grown
Can we reap what we have sown?
Try to turn the pages back
If it's not too late for that
Goodbye, cruel world.

I assure you, when I'd initially started writing this, I had no intention of it being some Greenpeace anthem. Oh, well.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Tired.
Hearing: Lady With Spinning Head (Extended Dance Mix) by U2

"And It Goes"

2005-06-06T00:16:00.000-04:00

And It Goes

I wear my heart on my sleeve
With my head in my hands, yeah
I ignore the breeze on my neck
I'm watching life from the stands, yeah

I let the world pass me by
Like a stranger in the dark, yeah
I don't want to miss out
But life's just to damn hard, yeah

Is there life on other planets,
Is there life here on Earth?
We face a million questions
From our deaths to our birth
And it hurts
And it hurts
Yeah, yeah

I take a chance now and then
If I'm feeling like a different man
I couldn't face the path ahead of me
So I just turned and ran

If it's good to be king
Than it's gotta be great to be me
A king's got things to do, but
I don't have to do a single thing,
Not a thing, yeah

Is there life on other planets,
Is there life here on Earth?
We face a million questions
From our deaths to our birth
And it hurts
And it hurts
Yeah, yeah

The creator's in our minds
And he's telling us all where to go
He doesn't give a shit where we all end up
So it goes, and it goes
And it goes, yeah
And it goes
And it goes, yeah
And it goes
And it goes, and goes, and goes, and goes....

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Tired.
Hearing: Sonnet by the Verve.

"Is It Any Wonder?"

2005-06-05T15:11:00.000-04:00

This one needs mucho, mucho work, but I wanted to put it somewhere for now. So, here it is.

Is It Any Wonder

The lines have all been blurred
If there's one thing I have learned
No one can be everything
Everyday

The stars still shine, this I now know
No matter where your feelings need to go
They always end up twisted
Along the way

Is it any wonder
You're still the same
Is it any wonder
You're still to blame
Is it any wonder
You can't pick up the phone
Is it any wonder
That you're still alone

Giving up on life and love
Giving up on signs from above
You make your own path
Unless you stay

The stars still shine, this I now know
No matter where your feelings need to go
They always end up twisted
Along the way

Is it any wonder
You're still the same
Is it any wonder
You're still to blame
Is it any wonder
You can't pick up the phone
Is it any wonder
That you're still alone

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Down. Really down.
Hearing: Square One by Coldplay.

"Before The Tide"

2005-05-31T23:00:00.000-04:00

Before the Tide

You face the night alone, and know
That no one will ever take you home
You're on your own
Your own

You try to cry but no tears come
Emotions tied have come undone
And she's still the one
Your one

Make a wish, and grant a lie
Try to find the where's and whys
The lights will guide you back through time
And you can say what's on your mind
All the words you never tried
Before the tide had turned

You turn around, retrace your path
From the end to the start at last
The beginning of your past
Your past

Make a wish, and grant a lie
Try to find the where's and whys
The lights will guide you back through time
And you can say what's on your mind
All the words you never tried
Before the tide had turned

What is dead is gone and buried
But you have a chance to change
Your mistakes have got you worried
But there's still time to rerarrange
Before the tide

Make a wish, and grant a lie
Try to find the where's and whys
The lights will guide you back through time
And you can say what's on your mind
All the words you never tried
Before the tide had turned

All the words you never tried
Before the tide had turned.

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Accomplished.
Hearing: Twisted Logic by Coldplay.

...and I, will fix you.

2005-05-31T22:37:00.000-04:00

Sweet Jesus, Coldplay is way too fucking brilliant. Honestly, it's disgusting.

I downloaded their highly anticipated third album today. (Don't worry, I plan to legally purchase it as well. That's how much I respect these dudes!)

Anyways, despite the intense media hype surrounding this album (usually a bad sign), Coldplay's latest may well be their best. (So far.) It's like U2...but with mad piano.

So far, my fave tracks are the opening number, Square One (sure to open all of their shows this year), Talk, Speed of Sound (the new single) and the unbelievable ballad Fix You.

Boys, you've outdone yourself...perhaps one day I'll achieve the level of creative and commercial success that Chris Martin and Co. have achieved. (And, of course, that Bono and Co. achieved before them...and continue to achieve.)

Peace, love and understanding.
Feeling: Pleased.
Hearing: Fix You by Coldplay.

One final though...

2005-05-26T23:47:00.000-04:00

If they can somehow find a way to fit Habib Marwan into the 24 game (which DOES feature the voices of Kiefer, Elish and Carlos Bernard so far!) then I'd just about be the happiest person EVER.

R.I.P. Jack Bauer...

2005-05-26T23:07:00.000-04:00

...and say hello to Miguel Sanchez!

Okay, so Jack's not really dead. But he is a Mexican. Well, in Mexico at least. Next season should be pretty interesting if they stick with this current storyline, and really screw with the formula. (Chances are though, by episode 2 Jack'll be back at CTU with Tony and Michelle and Chloe and Palmer somehow. Just like this season, when they supposedly "shook things up".)

Anywho, decent season ender, with a good lead into the next season of Jack Bauer Ass-Kickery (as long as they don't fuck it up), but I do have two gripes about this ender. And here they are:

1) Marwan's Death.

We all saw my tribute earlier to terrorist supreme Habib Marwan played by Arnold Vosloo (that's right, folks. The motherfucking mummy.) He was easily the baddest bad ass villain in 24's history, and third biggest badass character overall. (Third after Jack and Tony. Next comes Curtis, with Palmer rounding out the top five. Lee Castle woulda made the top five instead, but the idiot had to go and get himself killed in the last episode. I'd also like to point out that while Jack, Tony and Palmer have appeared in all four seasons, Marwan and Curtis have only been in one season. A tribute to how bad ass they truly are. You don't see that pussy Saunders or Ira Gaines on this list, hmmm?)

But I digress. A lot, actually. Anyways, the point is, Marwan was a really cool villain, and, not counting reacurring villains (Nina and Sherry mostly) he's appeared in more episodes than any previous 24 villain. So I felt that in this, the finale, a glorious death was well deserved. Unfortunately, the worst special effects work in 24 history would not let this be so.

I mean, you'd think that by now they would have perfected the ol' Villain Falls To His Death effect by now. But, no. Rather than Rickman it up (check out his death in the first Die Hard. Best Villain Falling To His Death scene EVER) they used crappy digital effects to make Marwan plummet to his death. It ended up looking as crappy as when The Joker died in Batman. And that was like 15 years ago.

Plus, I was really pulling for a Jack/Marwan one-on-one fight to the death. Not Marwan committing suicide. That just seems...cheap. But I suppose true to the character. He sure did believe in his cause. And at least Jack got to see him die AND yell a lot.

2) Anti Climax

Speaking of Marwan's poorly staged exit, what the hell was that all about? Wrapping up the season's main crisis in like the first ten minutes? Marwan dies, they conveniantly find his missile tracker thingy, upload it, and find out that Marwan's warhead's secret destination is - wait for it - LOS ANGELES....the EXACT PLACE THEY ARE NOW. So they blow that up. And then? There's still like forty minutes left! So we go back to the lame Chinese plot. And end the show with Jack faking his death and walking off into the sunrise (presumably towards Mexico) ala the Incredible Hulk. (Or the Littlest Hobo...take your pick.)

Anyways, regardless of my lame gripes, it was still as great end to a great season. And I've just found out...just now...that a 24 Video Game for the PS2 is in the works.

OH. MY. GAWD. With INTERROGATION LEVELS! AND AUTHENTIC JACK YELLING!

Sadly, my life now seems complete.

Feeling: Excited, now!
Hearing: Black Star by Radiohead.

"To the nuts!"

2005-05-17T23:49:00.000-04:00

Arrested Development has been renewed for another season.

You may live for another year, Fox Television.

Feeling: Pleased as punch.
Hearing: Shadow on the Sun by Audioslave.

OH, FER CHRISSAKES!

2005-05-13T22:04:00.000-04:00

As if things couldn't get worse!

Now I just found my five dollar gift certificate for Sam's! AND IT EXPIRES TODAY!

GODDAMMIT!!!!

Feeling: AAARRRGHHHH!!!!!
Hearing: Jail Guitar Doors by the Clash.

Nothing ever comes up Jason.

2005-05-13T21:22:00.000-04:00

I know that's a rather over-dramatic, and somewhat selfish statement, but hear me out on this one. This time my self pity and depression are justified!

I honestly feel like I may be the only truly dependable person left on this planet. Even little things it seems I can't count on anymore. For instance, Mark, Bob and I enjoy "jamming". Again, that phrase is in quotations because without a drummer, it's a sad state of affairs indeed. But I digress.

The issue is, that while we seem to enjoy "jamming", Mark and I are often left in the cold by Bobby, who somehow often finds better things to do with his time. Or, more often than not, is just not in the mood.

So here we have our latestet quandry. We may have found a drummer. A former associate of ours named Chris. We made tentative plans to jam on Saturday, tomorrow. I had to work. As did Bobby (but only till 2...I was working late.) Mark did not. Seems simple right? I lose my late shift at minor inconveniance to me, Bobby gets off at two, and Mark and I hook up with him to go to Chris'. So I get work off. And now I'm working Sunday, which I wasn't before. No big deal, I suppose.

Now here's where it heats up...Mark worked tonight but we made plans to hook up afterwards, work out, and then head to my mom's place (she's out of town) to drink, play music, write a bit, and just enjoy ourselves. Which is great for me, cuz I haven't been out of this house in forever...and my dad has a few drunk friends over playing country music, which is really awkward for a guy who hates country music. Still, I smile and clap along.

So, Mark calls me. Later than expected. He's tired. Whatever. Now the bad news. He has to work tomorrow. Tom asked him personally. And it really pisses me off. I took the damn day off for him and Bobby, and now he's working! He coulda just said no! So now he's off tomorrow, working Sunday (I'm the opposite) doesn't feel like going anywhere tonight, leaving me stuck at home with the country jamboree.

Goddammit! Nothing ever comes up Jason!

In fact, it always seems to do just the opposite!

Feeling: Just pissed. And looking back on what I wrote, it does seem rather small and childish. Not the end of the world, right? Ah, fuck it.
Hearing: Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash. (I guess I like some country.)

Politik

2005-05-11T11:33:00.000-04:00

Your Political Profile

Overall: 20% Conservative, 80% Liberal

Social Issues: 25% Conservative, 75% Liberal

Personal Responsibility: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal

Fiscal Issues: 25% Conservative, 75% Liberal

Ethics: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal

Defense and Crime: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal

How Liberal / Conservative Are You?

Oh, you cut right through me, internet quiz. You know me better than I know myself!

Feeling: Just woke up. Hooray!
Hearing: Indifference by Pearl Jam.

Deadwood!

2005-05-03T23:03:00.000-04:00

What a completely shocking episode of Deadwood tonight!

You know that level of surprise you achieve when you see something truly shocking for the first time? Something that just totally comes out of left field to fuck with your mind? Like the first time you saw The Sixth Sense? (Provided it wasn't ruined for you before hand.)

As far as I know, I've only ever hit that plateau on three occasions. Whether this is because I usually read spoilers before hand, or I've just become really jaded is questionable. But honestly, three times. (If I think of any more, I'll correct this.)

Once was the aforementioned Sixth Sense. The second, was during this season of 24, when Tony made his triumphant return. (Though that was more gleeful surprise than outright mind-numbing shock.)

The third time was tonight on Deadwood.

To be fair, I knew something bad was gonna happen, cause they do that Deadwoody-bad-shit-is-going-down move. The music goes all intense, and the continually cut to different shots of folks around the camp. Bullock in Swearengen's office with Ms. Isringhausen. Tolliver's goon outside the hardware store. Hostettler and the General trying to tame a wild horse. William Bullock and Steve waiting for Tom Nuttal. Nuttal on his bicycle.

I knew it was gonna be something with William, Steve and Nuttal. Nuttal was getting to friendly with William, and I was worried he'd get too friendly. (I like Nuttal...no need for him to be a child molester.) Then Steve showed up, and he's always seemed like a bit of a creep, so I figure...whooops, there's yer god damn child molester!

CUE THE SHOCKING TWIST!

That damn horse got away from Hostettler and starts tearing through the camp! Oh, no, Tom, I shout! He's gonna knock you and your bicycle over! But no! STEVE! GET WILLIAM OUT OF THE WAY! AIIIEEEEE!!!! BULLOCK! GET OUT THERE!!!

So they kill off the damn kid. At least, he looked dead. That horse hit him pretty damn hard. Boy, did that tiny body fly. Just when I was starting to like the little guy! And Steve seems to think that he broke his back too boot. Mind you, I've always seen Steve as being expendable.

But WILLIAM! Bullock was just starting to like him too. Yikes.

Feeling: Still pretty freaked. Weird that a TV show can effect you so much, eh?
Hearing: Plush (Acoustic) by Stone Temple Pilots.

Life CAN be kind.

2005-05-01T12:55:00.000-04:00

Case in point:

On September 14, I see U2 at the Air Canada Center.

On September 19, Pearl Jam will be playing there.

How frigging sweet is that?!?

In other U2 related news, seems they've opted to shoot their new DVD in Chicago and not Vancouver as previously rumoured. (Though they did shoot their new video there.) That kinda disappoints me. I mean, their last tour DVD was in an American city. It just woulda been nice to see them in a Canadian city this time around. I mean, ZooTV - Sydney, PopMart - Mexico City, Elevation - Boston, Vertigo - Vancouver. It just makes more sense to me. I suppose it's cuz there are four shows in Chicago as opposed to the two in Vancouver. But couldn't they have at least waited till Toronto then? THAT woulda been sweet.

In other music news (I haven't updated in a while, bear with me) I'm bracing myself for the onslaught of new material that I'm gonna have to buy soon. Oasis, Coldplay, Audioslave, Foo Fighters, Dave Mathews and apparently The White Stripes all have new shit coming out. The new Coldplay single, "The Speed of Sound" is pants, as is the new Audioslave song "Be Yourself". The Foo, Mathews and Oasis songs ("Best of You", "American Baby", and "Lyla") are all dece too, but fairly by-the-numbers. Not bad, but not wholly original either. (The Oasis one is especially frustrating...not only does it sound like every other Oasis song ever it has the stigma of a verse melody reminiscent of the Stones' "Street Fighting Man" to boot. And the Foo one just sounds like a Gatorade commercial.)

Oh well...I'm sure I'll still buy those bitches, no matter what. I'm such a music whore.

Feeling: Tired...just woke up.
Hearing: Be Yourself by Audioslave.

A is for Advertising.

2005-04-22T00:09:00.000-04:00

God, I hate it.

Yet, I shall finish it out...even if it kills me. And it damn near has. I've been at the school all week until like three in the morning finishing various projects. Sigh. Oh well. It'll all be worth it when I get to come back next year and...do it all again...

Ich.

Meanwhile, on the geek front, I just heard that the Juggernaut'll be in the next X-Man movie. And played by Vinnie Jones to boot! I don't remember much about the Juggernaut, except that he was like 10 feet tall and had a magic helmut. And he used to rob banks by smashing into them.

So, should be fun.

Feeling: Worn the fuck out.
Hearing: Come As You Are by Nirvana.

Oh, Habib.

2005-04-11T22:53:00.000-04:00

Better get on that, Jack. More to the point, I absolutely adore 24, and, subsequently, Jack Bauer. But not in a gay way.

Well, maybe a little.

This season of 24 may well go down in history as the best, most ass-kicking season of this or any other show! It's that damn good! And for once (and despite his unsurpassable coolness) it's not all because of Jack Bauer. Because of course, a hero is only as good as his villain.

And this season, they gave us the motherfucking Mummy.

I swear, in the epic and grand panthenon of classic TV villains, Habib Marwan just about tops the list. (Let's face it - Al Swearengen and Luther Mahoney are never giving up their top spots.)

Still, he's a real heavyweight...and not just on the broad television landscape. I daresay that we're looking at the greatest 24 villain of all time. He's lasted longer than Victor Drazen, he's wilier than Saunders, and he's a lot more likeable than Sherry. (I know we were supposed to hate her, but, damn! She was a bitch!)

He totally anticipates and outhinks Jack at every turn. And he doesn't fall into any of those Stupid Villain Cliches. (Keeping the hero alive for no reason, revealing your diabolical plan, etc.) He's just a bad ass who's killed a lot of people in less than 24 hours...including the president's son! GO HABIB!

Also, apparently I need to get out more.

Feeling: Swamped...and tired.
Hearing: Bullet With Butterfly Wings by The Smashing Pumpkins.

School's out for summer...

2005-04-07T01:56:00.000-04:00

Or...not. But we're getting closer.

And on that note...I sure have been skipping a lot. Some might chalk that up to my naturally rebellious personality. Some might chalk it up to my thumbing-my-nose-at-the-establishment way of life. I, however, chalk it up to plain and simple boredome.

I'd often wondered why so many of my classmates skipped on a fairly regular basis, and now at last, I have my answer.

ADVERTISING IS FUCKING BORING.

And I swear our teachers are not even trying to make it interesting for us. It's like they're daring us not to show up. They themselves (they themselves? nice english, mate) barely show up, and when they do, it's only to reiterate last weeks lesson. Nothing new. Nothing insightful. And God knows never anything interesting.

Bah. Anyways...album, album....

Check out Yield by Pearl Jam. Possibly their best. Possibly not. I dunno. I'm too frustrated to decide. I love it, you love it, Eddie loves it, just listen to it. Given to Fly is like a kiss from heaven. That's right! Heaven!

Feeling: Frustrated at our backwards education system. Damn you, advertising! Why can't you be exciting?!?
Hearing: Faithful by Pearl Jam.

Hooray!....cocksuckers!

2005-03-30T16:59:00.000-05:00

Deadwood's been renewed for a third season!

My life is really unexciting.

Feeling: Perhaps the most tired yet!
Hearing: Owner of a Lonely Heart by Yes. Curse you, radio!

A man paints a picture, a moving picture...

2005-03-29T17:08:00.000-05:00

Welp, I got my U2 tickets. Oh, yes.

19th row, baby! FROM BEHIND THE STAGE.

However, after seeing a few pictures from their show last night in San Diego, I'm confident that this won't pose much of a problem. The stage is more or less a 360degree view (it even looks like the video screens face each direction) and Bono's in constant motion anyways. It's gonna be a great show, methinks..the setlist from last night looks like a lot of fun. (The Electric Co. and Zoo Station were nice touches, but where's Lemon? LEMON!)

Today's album? Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin. Now we're talking. You want a disgustingly over the top double album? You fucking got it! A convuluted masterpiece if ever there was one. (But then, aren't all double LPs convuluted and somewhat egotistical to the point of being semi-retarded? I thought so. But that's why we love 'em!)

I mean, you got Custard Pie, you got The Rover, and by God, you got Kashmir.

Listen, learn, and long live excess!

Feeling: Tired. Ah, that old chestnut.
Hearing: In My Time of Dying by Led Zeppelin.

Top o' the morning, to ya!

2005-03-17T00:05:00.000-05:00

It is officially St. Patrick's Day.

And, since the days' festivities (and subsequently, the nights) will most likely prevent me from posting tomorrow night (or Friday morning, for that matter) I've decided to do my Irish Shout-Out tonight. Now, I'm not entirely familiar with what St. Patty's Day is, (I'd always thought it had something to do with killing snakes) so hopefully some nice Irish blogger'll fill me in.

In honour of this holiday, the album I'm going to recommend is by, of course, an Irish artist, though probably not the one you're thinking of. Astral Weeks by Van Morrison is truly a work of art. Melodic, poetic, and unforgettable, it's his crowning achievment (though I profess I probably prefer Moondance). It's a great album to fall asleep to, so I think I might do that right now. Check it out, if you're ever so inclined.

Feeling: Tired, and Irish.
Hearing: Cyprus Avenue by Van Morrison.

Uno, dos, tres, catorce!

2005-03-14T23:27:00.000-05:00

Tonight, U2 is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

None other than the Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen will be doing the honours. (Which is fitting, as it was Bono who inducted Bruce.) Let's hear it for the boys.

And, in honour of this, (and because it was the classic album showcased on Classic Albums tonight, and also because this Thursday is St. Patrick's Day) today's album is, of course, The Joshua Tree. Relive one of the greatest albums of all time. You got the hits (Streets, With Or Without You, I Still Haven't Found) you got the fan favorites (Bullet the Blue Sky, Running to Stand Still, In God's Countrey) and you got the personal faves (Red Hill Mining Town, Exit). You got perhaps Bono's most poetic lyrics, the Edge's (with the help of Brian Eno) most inventive guitar work, and the unstoppable force that is Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jnr. In short, you have one hell of a great fucking album.

Feeling: Unhealthy.
Hearing: Red Hill Mining Town by U2.

A bluer kind of white.

2005-03-10T16:08:00.000-05:00

Rough week so far, and no signs of getting any better, either.

Doctor's appointments, blood tests, excruciatingly long classes, assignments up the ying and the yang, the flu, or whatever I had, and the first filler episode of 24 this season...yikes. Can't wait till it's over.

On the plus side, this week also brought me two new episodes of Arrested Development (and if Buster getting his hand bitten off by a renegade seal in a yellow bow tie doesn't bring a smile to your lips, nothin' will) season 1 of 24 (courtesy of FutreShop, where it was on for 30 bucks) and, of course, the season premiere of Deadwood. I'd actually missed it the first time around, which would have REALLY screwed up my week, but I managed to catch it again on Tuesday. Mark and Bobby watched with me, and we played an interesting new drinking game that I suggest to any other Deadwood watchers. Take a sip anytime somebody (and it'll usually be Swerengen or Calamity Jane) utters the word "cocksucker". You'll be drunk in no time.

Anywho, that's it for today, sports fans....except of course for the Album of the Day. Today's album is Zooropa by U2. It's kind of caught between Achtung Baby's and Pop's styles, and really unlike anything else they've ever done. Originally slated to be a five or six song EP during the ZooTV tour, it soon became a full album, and features some of the least known songs by the band. Check out the title track, Numb, Lemon, Stay, The First Time, Dirty Day, and The Wanderer featuring Johnny Cash on lead vocals.

Feeling: Tired.
Hearing: Stay (Faraway So Close) by U2.

Oh well, whatever, nevermind?

2005-03-03T22:17:00.000-05:00

I think I need more motivation in my life.

My head is literally teeming...TEEMING, I tells ya...with good ideas that are just begging to get out. The trick is, of course, to get them out there. Perhaps this journal will be my way of doing just that. I've often considered using this to just get shit out there, so maybe I will. Lyrics, poems, stories...why not?

On an unrelated note, for whatever reason I decided to throw Nevermind on. Forgot how frigging good it is. In fact, let's make that a daily thing (and by daily, I mean whenever I decide to update.) After each update I'll recommend an album that I think you (you being anyone who actually reads this) should go and listen to. (Whether or not my opinion means anything is a topic for another day's discussion.) Today's album is Nevermind. Feel free to revel in the emotion of Kurt's melodies, the power of Kris's basswork, and the un-Godly awesomeness that is Dave Fucking Grohl. Oh, yeah. That's the stuff.

Feeling: Blah. Is that a feeling?
Hearing: In Bloom by Nirvana.

He’s the one
He likes all our pretty songs
And he likes to sing along
And he likes to shoot his gun
But he don’t know what it means
Don’t know what it means.

Hooray for Hollywood.

2005-02-27T19:51:00.000-05:00

Welp, I got my Guinness, and I'm ready for some Oscar Madness.

Just quickly before they begin, my humble predictions:

Best Actor: Jamie Foxx, hands down.
Best Actress: Hilary Swank
Best Sup. Actor: Morgan Freeman
Best Sup. Actress: Cate Blanchett
Best Director: Clint Eastwood
Best Picture: Million Dollar Baby.

There. Sadly, I've seen only one of the Best Picture nominees - Ray - so I'm really only going on what I think the Acadamy would do, and not what they should do. Regardless, expect these predictions to come true.

Feeling: Hungry, dammit!
Hearing: Crumbs From Your Table by U2.

Spin the black circle, baby.

2005-02-26T12:25:00.000-05:00

Got back from Hamilton last night, and boy are my arms tired.

Seriously though, it was a decent trip. Bobby, Mark and I went up Thursday afternoon to spend the night at Bob's sister's house, where I passed out after ingesting over a litre and a half of wine. But it was all in good fun. Monica's (Bob's sister) house is in a perfect neighbourhood, too. There's a pancake house and like a 24 hour sandwhich hut (called Tally Ho's! no less!) within walking distance. Which is perfect when you're drunk/stoned/retarded. Nothing better than a steak sandwhich at 3AM.

Friday we went shopping, and I went vinyl crazy. They had some really sweet music stores downtown, I tell you what. For about forty bucks in total, I got:

"Tommy" (used) by the Who
"Quadrophenia" (mint) by the Who
"Rattle and Hum" (mint) by U2
"The Unforgettable Fire" (mint) by U2
"The Unforgettable Fire (mine LP)" (mint) by U2
"Under a Blood Red Sky" (mint) by U2
"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" (used) by the Beatles.

(They had a bunch of Beatles...including a really good edition of "Revolver"....for eighty bucks.

Anyways, all in all, it was a trip well worth taking...and I sure do miss my Tally, Ho's!.

Feeling: Tired...and hungry.
Hearing: Amazing Journey/Sparks by the Who.

Mmm, survey.

2005-02-23T11:12:00.000-05:00

Stole this offa Jen's journal. Now y'all know a little bit more about me!

First grade teacher's name: Well, we’re off to a good start. I honestly have no idea. I remember my second grade teacher’s name – Ms. Virgillio…but I don’t go back any further than that.
Last word you said: Again, my memory sucks. It was probably “Night, guys” or something to that effect.
Whats in your C.D. player: I’m actually listening to itunes, on random…currently, Blackhole Sun by Soundgarden is just ending. And now Don’t Look Back in Anger by Oasis has begun. In my CD player downstairs, but not on, is “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars” by David Bowie, and “A Night at the Opera” by Queen.
What color of socks are you wearing: I am not wearing socks.
Current annoyance: Feeling a bit hung over, otherwise fine.
Last C.D. you listened to: It would have been “A Night at the Opera”
Favorite place to be: Anywhere with friends.
If you could play an instrument, what would it be: I do play an instrument! Several, actually…just not very well. So if I could play an instrument well, it’d be piano. Or guitar.
How tall are you: About 6’
Current favorite word or saying: I like to say “cocksucker” when I’m pissed. And it’s all thanks to Deadwood! Yay, Al Swerengen!
Favorite book: The Hound of the Baskervilles
Where do you want to go: Europe…and hopefully in one year, I will!
How many kids do you want: I’m thinking between none and two.
What kind of a car will you have: I currently have a Nissan Sentra. Oooo! But God willing, one day I’ll have a BMW…or an Aston Martin!
Gotten in a fight with your dog/cat/fish/bird etc.: I’ve fought Tasha’s cat before.
Been to New York: Sure have. Best. Trip. Ever.
San Diego,Cali: No…and it’s honestly not on my short list of places to go, either.
Hawaii: No.
Florida: Yes.
Mexico: No.
China: No.
Canada: I…I live here. Damn you, American surveys!
What book are you reading now: The Davinci Code by Dan Brown. Gotta say, while enjoyable, I’m not really that impressed.
How many rings before you answer it: I’ve honestly never counted. Is that weird?
Are you left,righty,ambidextrous: Righty.
College plans: Finish Advertising (which is not my cup of tea, by the way) then hopefully jet to Europe for a while, to write music. Corny, I know, but it’s my life, dammit! Afterwards, probably more school…I really need to figure out what I want to do with my life.
Piercings: None.
Tattoo’s: None, but I would like one.
Do you do drugs: Occasionally, though I’m more of a booze man myself.
Do you drink: See above.
Kind of shampoo and conditioner you use: I dunno…Pantene, I think?
What clothes do you sleep in: Pajamay bottoms.
Are you timely or always late: I’m traditionally late.
Do you have a job: Yukon Galley, ho!
Do you volunteer: Never. My time is too precious for THAT!
Do you like being around people: Usually. I’m a people person.
Do you take a shower every day: At least once, yeah.
SCREENAME: Like, on msn? I’m The_Fly a blogspot.
NATURAL HAIR COLOR: Light brown.
CURRENT HAIR COLOR: Light brown…with highlights!
EYE COLOR: Hazely.
FAVORITES...
COLOR: Orange
DAY: Thursday, I guess.
MONTH: March
FOOD: Chicken parmesan and steak! Not together. Although…
SEASON: Fall or Spring. I don’t like the extreme seasons.
DRINK: Dr. Pepper.
CHOCOLATE MILK OR HOT CHOCOLATE: Chocolate milk
VANILLA OR CHOCOLATE: Chocolate.
IN THE LAST 24 HOURS…
CRIED: Nope
BOUGHT SOMETHING: I bought Revolver by the Beatles and Young Frankenstein yesterday.
GONE OUT FOR DINNER: No, but we ordered pizza.
WRITTEN A REAL LETTER: I don’t think I’ve EVER done this.
TALKED TO AN EX: Nope.
WRITTEN IN A JOURNAL: I’m doing that now!
HAD A SERIOUS TALK: No.
MISSED SOMEONE: I don’t think so.
FOUGHT WITH A FRIEND: Nope.

Feeling: Hung over. Damn you, wine!
Hearing: All Because of You (Alternate Version) by U2.

Smells Like Teen Spirit

2005-02-18T23:39:00.000-05:00

I just saw an interesting show on MuchMoreMusic.

Classic Albums did Nevermind, by Nirvana. What a fantastic record. And it was done by three self taught "nobodies" with more passion then talent.

Sounds familiar, that. Very inspiring.

Feeling: Inspired!....and very drunk.
Hearing: Mother by Pink Floyd

From the David Bowie part of my brain...

2005-02-16T22:19:00.000-05:00

Thought these were rather, er...neat.

A Day at the Races (The Sun Will Rise)

I'm a nothing in a twisted space

A sedative for the human race

A chance to learn from our mistakes

But reality doesn't know I'm fake

I'm a something in an endless sky

An extraordinary, every guy

Living proof that no one dies

And when I'm down the sun will rise
Again

And when I'm down the sun will rise

Again

.
I'm a day at the races

A day at the races

And when I'm down the sun will rise

Again

I'm a villain in a hero's tale

The perfect lie before a sale

A right idea that always fails

If you're the hammer, I'll be the nails

I'm redemption for the common man

A brilliant, thought out, perfect plan

If no one will, I know I can

And when I'm down the sun will rise again

And when I'm down the sun will rise

Again

I'm a day at the races

I'm a day at the races.

A smirk on the faces

A shoe without laces

In your good graces

Gone but not wasted

I'm a day at the races.

A day at the races.

(And when I'm down, the sun will rise)

A day at the races

(And when I'm down, the sun will rise)

A day at the races

(And when I'm down, the sun will rise)

Again.

A day at the races

What fun!

Feeling: Weird!

Hearing: Life on Mars by David Bowie

Great scott!

2005-02-15T19:23:00.000-05:00

Today, at Chumleigh's I stumbled across U2: Popmart, Live in Mexico City on VHS...for SIX BUCKS!

I can't tell you how long I've been looking for this! And then there it was! I actually gasped when I saw it. All shiny and Bono-fied as it is. I was literally trembling when I paid for it.

Now all I need to do is find U2: ZooTV, Live in Sydney and I'll be set. Or, how about this boys...JUST RELEASE THE DAMN THINGS ON DVD.

You'd have my 40 bucks, that's for damn sure! And while you're at it, how about the complete Red Rocks show as well? (I've actually been hearing rumours of box set featuring all of the U2 DVDs. Do it, boys! DO IT!....aaaaaaaaaaaand release a real real box set of music - no digital boxset nonsense. For those of us who have yet to give up on compact disc. Thank you.)

Feeling: My stomach hurts.
Hearing: Betterman (Live, Montreal - 10/04/00) by Pearl Jam.

Happy VD, everybody!

2005-02-14T22:41:00.000-05:00

Today is Valentine's Day.

I had planned to celebrate that fact by drinking beer, alone in the bathtub. However, that was not the case. Instead, I am just left pondering the purpose of this "holiday". People in relationships should not need a specific day of the year to prove their love for one and other. That's what anniversaries are for - hell, they should be doing that everyday regardless. No, that is not the purpose of this day; the purpose, is to brag, I think. To boast about love and happiness to those of us that are bitter and lonely. In fact, that'd make a whopper of a Hallmark card.

"Valentine's Day - because single people need to be reminded of how lonely and pathetic they really are."

I'd buy THAT for a dollar!

Feeling: A little down. VD...other things...it's a rollercoaster of emotions, it is by jove!
Hearing: God Only Knows by the Beach Boys.

Is there a difference between fan and fanatic?

2005-02-14T15:25:00.000-05:00

This is for Jen and anyone else who cares about this sort of thing.

My Ultimate U2 MegaMix Album (that is now being scrapped due to my failed inclusion of Zooropa) was not the complete U2 (which you can by for like 130$ off iTunes) but rather just a conglomeration of all of the U2 recordings I currently own. I'd always wanted to put all of these tracks on one CD, so that I could just pop it into my CD player, hit random, and not have to change it for like...well, ever.

So without further adieu, here's what was on it:

- All 11 studio albums (minus Zooropa. I have it, I'd just forgotten to upload it.)
- Under a Blood Red Sky
- Wide Awake In America (EP with four songs - two live tracks, and two b-sides.)
- The PopHeart EP (The single version of Please, as well as three live tracks from Rotterdam - Please, WTSHNN, Staring at the Sun - and one from Edmonton - With Or Without You.)
- Discotheque Single (basically just like nine remixes of the song. And Holy Joe!)
- Sweetest Thing Single (single version of Sweetest Thing, plus two live tracks from Red Rocks - Twilight and An Cat Dubh.)
- Elevation Single (Elevation Tomb Raider Mix, Don't Bring Your Guns To Town, and Last Night on Earth, live from Mexico City.)
- Vertigo Single (Vertigo, Neon Lights and Are You Gonna Wait Forever?)
- Best of 1980-1990 plus B-sides
- Best of 1990-2000 plus B-sides
- An entire concert from Irving Plaza, New York City in 2001.
- An entire concert from Tel Aviv, Israel in 1997.

All in all, not a bad little compilation. And, boy, does it ever make me look like a kook.

Oh well...rumours have it there will be four, count 'em, four dates in Toronto in the Fall. Will I be at all of them? I sure hope so!

Feeling: Hungry. Suppertime!
Hearing: City of Blinding Lights by U2.

A bluer kind of white.

2005-02-12T16:09:00.000-05:00

A while ago I got the bright idea to make an Ultimate U2 MegaMix Album.

And I'm just realising now that it is anything but as I'd left of an entire album!

And I call myself a U2 fan. How can any Ultimate U2 MegaMix Album be complete without the inclusion of Zooropa?

Oh well. Back to the old drawing board, I guess.

Feeling: Pretty good, except my face burns from shaving. What's up with that?!?
Hearing: I'm Only Sleeping by the Beatles.

Champagne supernova.

2005-02-12T10:17:00.000-05:00

Got my Oasis Tickets today. And, yeah, they kinda suck.

But at least they got Jet opening for them! Should be a great show. (Provided Liam doesn't fuck it up...as he's want to do from time to time. At least we can count on Jet being there...and I'm sure Noel'd take over should Liam decided not to show up. But then, it's not really Oasis without both Gallaghers, is it?)

Oh, and THIS is fun:

Pre-Hypnotized Peter

What Office Space character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Yep, that pretty much describes me to a T.

Feeling: Pleased that I'm seeing Oasis!
Hearing: Lost in the Supermarket by the Clash.

Gee-tar

2005-02-11T23:04:00.000-05:00

Today, (or, tonight, rather) I began the arduous process of learning scales.

May God have mercy on my soul.

(Though I've just about got the Major Scale memorized...my fingerwork needs a little...er, work, though.)

Feeling: Tired, and just about ready for bed. I gotta get up bright and early...to snag me some Oasis tix!
Hearing: Seconds by U2

Laughter, and other medicinal information.

2005-02-11T14:05:00.000-05:00

I think I'd like to be a standup comic.

I've often been told that I could do that, and I honestly think that those people are right - I could be a standup comic. I certainly have the material, the timing and the voice. Now if only I had the confidence...

Because, I mean...I do love to make people laugh. But on the other hand, I'm not sure if that's what I like to be associated with. Since it seems to be the only thing I'm ever associated with.

"Do something funny!" they'll say, and I'll do my best to do just that. But sometimes I'll be tired. Or sad. Or hung over. Or just not in a funny mood. I can't just turn it on and off. So who knows? Could I do it? Do I have the balls?

Perhaps if I got drunk first. That usually seems to do the trick.

Feeling: Tired, and a little down. Not sure why, though.
Hearing: Beautiful Day (Live, Superbowl XXVI) by U2

What's my age again?

2005-02-09T16:20:00.000-05:00

You Are 22 Years Old

22

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

href="http://www.blogthings.com/whatagequiz/">What Age Do You Act?

Yep, that sounds about right.

Feeling: Tired, and a little stressed out.
Hearing: Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by U2

The Fabulous Adventure of the Missing Cat and His Capture

2005-02-07T23:21:00.000-05:00

We found him.

Mind you, I don't think I ever mentioned him missing. You see, Elliot is our cat. And by our cat, I mean my room mate's cat. And he went missing on Saturday. And today, Jeremy and I tracked him down.

Jack Bauer style.

(Okay, not really Jack Bauer style...in fact, I'm not entirely sure if he even has a style. If he did, I suppose it would just involve a lot of running around and yelling things like "Dammit!" and "There's no time!")

Anyways, it was quite a thrilling adventure...and ironically, it came on the Eve of Giving Up Hope. Jeremy and I had both agreed (independant from Tasha) that Elliot had either been killed, or been captured. Either way, our random walks around the neighbourhood were no longer going to cut it.

Or would they? Well, as it turns out...they would.

It's all thanks to that little jangly name thing on his coller. We did our traditional walk around the abandoned Belleville Theatre Guild (whether or not it's abandoned is up for debate; however, saying it's abandoned enhances the Scooby-Doo Mystery type atmosphere of the whole endeavour) and ended pausing between the Abandoned Guild and the last house on our street. (There's a small alley-way between these two buildings - this will come into play later in the narrative.)

We paused at this juncture to discuss our options. I, being the more pessimistic one, was convinced that our little kitty was deader than that thing I tripped over on the walk over. But Jeremy, ever the optimist was instead convinced that our little Elliot was trapped - inside the house at the end of the street. I told him it was too dark a cat to be Elliot, and besides...he was squashed on a freeway somewhere. Jeremy seemed to win in the end, and I reluctantly advanced on the house, all stealthy like (did somebody say Jack Bauer?) to get a closer look. And that's when we heard it. The ting-ting-a-ling of Elliot's jangly name thing. Recklessly charging into the alleyway, caught up in the heat of the moment, and heedless of Jeremy's warnings ("There's no time!") I plunged into the darkness only to come face to face with...nothing. More darkness, and...nothing.

Then, movment, out of the corner of my eye. A glare of teeth! A flash of fur! And I came face to face with what I can only assume was the leader of this ragtag bunch of roughneck strays that had claimed the Abandoned Guild a their own personal clubhouse. He was a a mean looking scruff, who barely even blinked when I met his steady gaze. (For future reference, we shall call this one Fagin. Ah, Oliver!)

And then he was off in a flurry of fur, diving into the inner sanctum that to us was the Abandoned Theatre Guild, but to him and his gang of cronies was no less than a utopian society of stray cats and runaways! And there, nestled in the thick of them, was our little Elliot. Jeremy grabbed him, and we got the hell out of there...satisfied that our quest was complete. And finally, finally, Elliot was home.

(Not bad, eh? Of course, the real adventure was no where near as thrilling as this makes it out to be...but occasionally, I do enjoy stretching my literary muscles. Also, as an order of business...I want to thank the nice person who posted condolences below. It may seem like a small gesture, but it was very kind of him. And he's a U2 fan - which shouldn't be too surprising. We're a great bunch of people.)

Peace.

Feeling: Perhaps the most tired yet.
Hearing: Drive My Car by the Beatles

Rest.

2005-02-03T18:41:00.000-05:00

I've never had anyone in my family (that I was close to) pass away before.

When my dad told me that my grandmother had died, it really hit me hard. I mean, I know she was sick...and God knows she was old, but still. It almost doesn't seem possible. It's like I just assumed she'd always be there.

I feel really guilty about not going to visit her these last couple of years or so. I'd always intended too, of course. But things would always come up, and I never thought much of it. I'll just go next month. Again, it never occurred to me that one day she'd be gone. I just took her for granted, I guess. And I never really got to say goodbye.

Understanding.

Woman...whoa, man!

2005-02-01T23:13:00.000-05:00

Would I be out of line if I said, I love you?

I've always wanted to be able to say things like that in real life (the above line sounds like it's from a movie, but I'm not sure. Is it? And if so, which?) I consider myself a fairly decent writer, so I can come up with these corny lines and banter that melt girls hearts. But I would never have the balls to ever say any of them. Perhaps that's (one of) my problem(s). I'm not sure though if this is a good thing or a bad thing. There's a guy in my class who's constantly "smooth" talking the ladies (despite he himself having a girlfriend) and it comes off as really...I dunno. Slimey. Little creepy. Very weasaly. At least, it does to me...and most people on the outside. But of course to the girls he's "working", it seems sincere and confident.

Ah, I dunno what I'm doing. Lemme ask you...do women enjoy being objectified and treated as objects? Because it certainly seems like that too me.

I'm worried that if I really want to hook up with a girl I'll have to stop respecting them, and treating them like people. Do I have that in me? Can I change so drastically?

Of course I can't.

Love.

Feeling: Drunk, lonely, and a little cold. I think I need a sweater!
Hearing: The Boy With the Thorn in His Side by The Smiths.

Jack Bauer Power Hour.

2005-01-31T22:57:00.000-05:00

Just when you've almost completely given up on TV...Jack Bauer shows up to kick ass and rape your mother.

24 kicked an all ready amazing (and controversial) season up another notch by bringing back Tony (surprise, surprise! He wasn't even credited!) to help Jack kick ass and rape mothers. I literally screamed like a girl when Tony showed up in the last few minutes, scaring the hell out of my two roomates who were watching with me. (This is their first introduction to 24 so they had no idea who Tony was, or why he's so fucking cool.)

He sure seemed pissed though. Moreso than usual. Also, I've all ready grown tired of the subplot featuring Driscoll and her Sick Daughter. They still have the annoying Kim-ish subplots but without the Hotness of Kim. And that was the only thing worthwhile about the Kim-Plots.

Oh well. TONY!!!

Peace.

Feeling: Elated (TONY!) mixed with tired, mixed with dread. (Assignment due tomorrow - haven't started.)
Hearing: Corduroy by Pearl Jam

Rock 'n roll star.

2005-01-30T14:41:00.000-05:00

I really think that I prefer not working too working.

How do you make a 5AM shift even worse? By not getting to bed until after one o'clock...and even then, by "getting to bed" I mean passing out upside down on your bed after consuming vast quantities of Coors Light(tm).

But it was all worth it, for another chance to "jam" with my "band". (If you're curious about the quotation marks, don't be - because I'm going to explain them in the next sentence.) The words "jam" and "band" are quotated because we are not, in fact, technically a band. We have no drummer. And we're very sloppy. But we're getting tighter - thanks in no part to the various songs we covered last night, to varying degrees of success.

Baba O'Riley by the Who
Keep on Rockin' In the Free World by Neil Young
Vertigo by U2
Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
and
Creep by Radiohead.

And they all sounded pretty good with only Bass, Guitar and Vocals. Should we ever find that coveted fourth member, I daresay we would be unstoppable.

And no, I'm not exaggerating.

Understanding.

Feeling: Again, very tired. Work's a killer.
Hearing: Man of the Hour by Pearl Jam.

Work and such.

2005-01-29T14:31:00.000-05:00

Today was long, but worth money, so I suppose it was necessary.

I think I'll take a nap soon. Waking up at 5 AM is not my cup of tea, but my work refuses to schedule me any later than that, so it seems I'll have to start getting used to it. If it weren't for my habits, I might be able to hold onto money longer. But it just seems that I can't say no to a well priced CD. Ah well.

Tonight should be fun, if all goes according to plan. Mark and Bob seem more pumped than usual to play (which is odd for Bobby) and I'm always more than willing. Hopefully we'll work out the kinks in "Baba O'Riley" and "Keep On Rockin' in the Free World".

Now all we need is a drummer. Always something.

Love.

Feeling: So very tired. Also, I missed my cat.
Hearing: High and Dry by Radiohead.

Hair today...

2005-01-28T22:24:00.000-05:00

My head feels like it's on fire. Must be the chemicals.

So here I sit, with a plastic bag covering my scalp, fiendish hair chemicals working their scientific wonders on my follicles. In an hour or so, I shall be blonde. Or, rather, blonde highlighted. The suspense (and chemical reaction) is killing me. Perhaps it will be worth it; more likely, however, no one will probably notice. At least I'll feel prettier.

(And that's really half the battle, isn't it?)

Peace.

Feeling: Tense about the science experiment that is my head.
Hearing: Patience by Guns 'n Roses

Down, but hopefully never out.

2005-01-28T02:32:00.000-05:00

They say that depression is a disease.

Now, I'm not exactly sure who "they" are, or even how "they" determine whether something is worthy enough to be classified as a "disease", but I think that "they" may in fact be on to something. And if in fact depression is a disease, than I am a very sick man indeed.

Regardless, I have come to the conclusion that alcohol is at best a temporary solution to this problem, and the bar may actually worsen the problem. Neither of these things will help me find that One Thing that's missing in my life...that golden pot at the end of the rainbow that will complete me. A Somebody for this Nobody...a true companion who I can share myself with without fear of rejection or judgement, or disappointment on either part.

Perhaps I should just buy a dog.

Understanding.

A problem.

2005-01-27T14:41:00.000-05:00

I think that I may have a crush on someone.

Poor me.

Love.

Class, and other distractions.

2005-01-27T09:35:00.000-05:00

So here I am in class...bored and unsure of what exactly it is we're supposed to be doing. Kranendonk has just reminded us of the ten thumbnails we have due tomorrow. It seems my plans to get drunk tonight and either a) go to Country Night or b) stay at home with Jeremy and a bevy of beautiful (and unfortunately, taken) girls have been put on hold. Perhaps I'll find a way to accomplish all three of these task.

Then again, I was never that good at problem solving.

Peace.

"These taste like the zoo!"

2005-01-26T23:18:00.000-05:00

And with that one line I have thus alienated myself from Belleville's Wahoo 2 (or Wahoo Squared), the sequel to the original Wahoo's in Trenton. Though the line was true (and very bizarre - does the zoo have a taste? I think so) I probably should not have said it so loudly. In my defense, however, Oz's complaints about the wings and service (or lack of) greatly outnumbered my single outburst. Oh well. Looks like it's back to the Winchester Arms next Wednesday.

(At least I got my Guinness.)

Understanding.

Return of The Fly

2005-01-26T20:28:00.000-05:00

I have finally returned after a short hiatus that was forced upon me - as I had forgotten my password. Rest assured that with my password back under my control, I will be posting here on a more (semi) regular basis. Perhaps even later tonight...after the customary Wednesday Night Wings. (Though I rarely order wings at these get togethers, I've yet to convince them to change the (un)official name to Wednesday Night Guinnesses. Stubborn, stubborn people.)

Love.

I hear these Blog's are this year's "it" thing...

2004-11-30T23:22:00.000-05:00

Just checking out how this thingy works. I'll write something later when I'm not HALF ASLEEP.

Peace.