Important News

I have some very important news... The Twilight Zone marathon started at 8:00 am this morning and ends at 4:30 am on January 2nd on the Sci-Fi Channel. Also, the Honeymooners marathon starts at tonight at midnight and ends tomorrow night at 7:30 pm on channel 11.

VH-1 + MTV = Horrible

Every time you turn on either of those channels they have a reality show on about... let's just say it... STUPID PEOPLE. Rock of Love Charm School, Real Chance at Love, Bromance!? Are you serious? That was only some of the shit that is on VH-1 & MTV. I think if you are on more than one reality show then you need some major league help or should be taken into the street and smacked. Whatever is easiest. I'd choose 'b' though. Who the fuck are all these people from 'The Hills'? What do they do? I just do not get it.

Plus, just cancel the Real World Brooklyn. That is an absolute disgrace. What's next? The Real World Compton? Then all the idiots from that show go on that other show where they all play children's games and win more money to inflate their huge egos. Those jackasses are winning tons of money for doing the egg toss and shit. Then they all get into fights with each other. I can cast a Real World right now. We need 1 midwestern white guy who doesn't know he is gay, 1 white girl who is a whore, 1 lesbian or bisexual, 1 minority who is angry, 1 minority who is actually cool & normal and 1 guy who thinks he is a player. There you go. We can start filming tomorrow.

2008 Concert Review

I saw a lot of shows this year. Here is the list...

1. DJ Shadow & Cut Chemist
2. Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood
4. Iron Maiden
4. Van Halen
5. The Black Keys
6. The Raconteurs
7. Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
8. Robert Randolph & the Family Band
9. The Black Keys
10. Zappa Plays Zappa
11. 2 Skinnee J's
12. Wilco
13. The Walkmen
14. The Fab Faux
15. Beck
16. The Hold Steady & Drive By Truckers
17. Phil Lesh & Friends
18. Neil Young

Not many duds at all. The DJ Shadow show was a bust though. Horrible crowd and I really couldn't get into the live mixing they were doing. I do respect it, but it just wasn't for me. I am mad that I had to miss Fleet Foxes. Well, I didn't have to miss it. I was sort of hung over. I was not well. The Raconteurs was one of the best shows I have seen in a long time. Overall I had a great time at all the shows. I only wish I had made it to Brooklyn sooner...

Huh?

I was watching NBC before I left for work and they had ground breaking news. Watching too many romantic comedies can actually be bad for you! I know what you are thinking, but try and stay calm for a second. The 'experts' say that they are not how real life is and that these movies can give a false sense of what love is? You mean a movie (that is fake) starring actors and not real people is not how true life or love can be? Shocking. I must have come down with the last drop of rain.

U2 is ridiculous for coming out with 5 different versions of their new album. Don't they know the economy is bad? I do not need a film by Anton Corbijn or some crappy book. How about tickets or passes for actual tickets start coming with these 'deluxe' editions. Or better yet have Bono & Larry come to my house and thank me for spending a stupid amount on a CD.

Sorry...

I have been under the weather, so I apologize for the delays in my postings. I cannot believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve. Time is flying. I still do not get what the news is talking about? The malls are packed! Everyplace is packed! I know I seem like a 'Bitter Barry' but I really dread going outside. I am becoming a hermit. Once the holidays pass I will be OK. Christmas is just different to me now. I love spending time with family and friends, but there are so many other things to worry about nowadays. Yes, I am a adult. I know I have more responsibilities, but man are things wonky out there. In '09 I am making a plan and sticking to it. No drama in '09. I got to worry about me, Scotty C & my family. That is most important. All the other shit doesn't matter. I got to stick to that mantra, especially since it is written here for all to see. If I do not stick to it feel free to smack me and say what the hell?!?! Just don't hit me hard. I am sensitive.

On another note, apparently we have a really good bottle of scotch and didn't even realize it? I can't wait to smell again so I can try it. Thanks Adam for buying it for us and thanks Dave for yelling at me to drink the damn thing already.

Also, in the new year let's hope Bret Michaels finds love. If that guy can't find true love in his third installment of a staged reality show what hope is there for anyone else?

JC Penny = Morons

Call me crazy, but in light of what happened at that Wal-Mart a few weeks ago I really do not think calling a Christmas sale a "Door Buster" is a good idea? Good Job JC Penny. Fucking morons.

Bad Weather = Drink

It is really bad out tonight, the roads are dangerous, people are fucking dumb and there is nothing good on TV. I suggest drinking. I know what your thinking. Your saying Scotty C, you always say that. My answer is yes, yes I do. However, that is neither here nor there. I think a nice Guinness or maybe a Full Moon will do just fine or if you are feeling frisky try a White Russian? Stay inside with the one you love and have a few cocktails. Scotty C said so. If you are up to it play the Big Lebowski drinking game. Go rent it or borrow it from a friend and drink every time someone says fuck. Another idea is drink every time you see a show that deals with forensic science or psychics.

Live Review: Neil Young 12/15/08 NYC

Wow! Neil Young did not disappoint last night at the first of 2 gigs at MSG. There were some "down" moments, but overall it was a great night. I did not see opener to the opener Everest and I missed one Wilco song (Via Chicago), but they were great. Nels Cline is a great guitar player. Impossible Germany is a different animal live. Jeff Tweedy sounded great and the whole band was tight and punchy. I definitely could have listened to them longer. Neil came right out of the box and killed everyone with the first 7 songs he played. Love and Only Love, Hey Hey My My, Everybody Knows This is Nowhere, Powderfinger, Spirit Road, Cortez the Killer and Cinnamon Girl. Having never seen him before and being a fan of that era of music, it did not get much better than that for me. The rest of the night was very good, a little slow in the middle when he played his new songs, but overall he was on point. Needle and the Damage Done, Old Man, Heart of Gold, Cowgirl in the Sand and Rocking in the Free World were all excellent. Too many highlights to count. I did learn a few things while at the show as well. Guinness is great and everyone in Neil's band stands back at least 10 feet from him because they do not want to get hurt or have their faces melted during his solos. Great show. 

As for the ticket prices, which a lot of people seem to think were high. I sat in section 405, I could see & hear everything. He played for 2  1/2 hours. Was it worth it? YES. Stop complaining. Tickets are always going to be a heated debate. I like seeing people like Neil or the Stones because they give you your moneys worth. Bands half their age play for an hour and call it a night. Neil was shredding on the guitar and singing great. He really gets into his playing and could teach all these new bands a thing or two.

Get Well Capt. Matt

I hope the Capt. is feeling well. He had surgery the other day and he is in all of our thoughts & good vibes.

Get well soon buddy.

Drink of the Day

Dr. J (Variations)

The Classic 'Dr. J'

Dr. Pepper

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

2 Skinnee J

Diet Dr. Pepper

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

PJ

Pepsi

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

JC

Coke

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

The Mullet

Mr. Pip

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

I would say 3 to 1 or so ratio carbonated beverage to whiskey. But as with any drink it is to your liking. I suggest starting slow though, these creep up on you.

Your Goal for the Night...

New section. I give you an idea for the night.

Your Goal for the Night...

Is to listen to side 'A' of Santana's 1972 album 'Caravanserai' and to have at least 2 or 3 drinks. Side 'A' is perfect. I prefer a little lighting, a comfy chair and just listen to notes of the music. This is one of my favorite album sides of all time.

Here is a little background on the album:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caravanserai_(album)

Don't have this album? I guess you can watch Whale Wars on Animal Planet or some crap?

Side note:

Two of Santana's band members who lit up the stage at Woodstock would eventually leave to form Journey.

Pic of the Day

Here is a picture I drew in college. I was very into stained glass for a while and I drew tons & tons of variations. I did them in different techniques, but most of the time I would scribble on the back on the page I was working on and use the bled through ink as a guide for my design. I then went over it with colored pencil, marker, pastels, crayons or whatever else I thought looked cool. This is one of my favorites. The only thing I do not like about it is that it is a small pic. I wish I had done it on a larger scale.

Two Part Songs for '09

In '09 I want to see more bands attempt long, two part songs. Everything is condensed nowadays. 2 minute songs with no meaningful lyrics. I want some depth! I want horn sections, drum solos!! How about something in the same vein as 'Layla'. The Darkness would have a cool band to attempt this, but they are no more. How about The Raconteurs or Wilco? I want to see more bands expand. Fuck radio! One song on your album with a piano interlude and 11 minute guitar solo couldn't hurt... could it? Or even cover some older long songs? How come no one covers the James Gang's 'The Bomber' or Grand Funk's 'Closer to Home'? Where's the 'Carouselambra' of today?? No one makes songs like the Stones 'Sway' today. Make songs longer, have sections, or suites if you will.  Expand!! I know a lot of jam bands do this, but I want studio cuts. Make it so.

Malls & Such

God I hate malls. I went to Roosevelt Field on Monday and the Source Mall today. I went for lunch both times, but The Source wasn't nearly as bad though. Actually, it is the people I can't stand. Plus  the worst drivers are in and around malls. These women in these huge trucks... come on!! If you can't see over the steering wheel you probably shouldn't be driving a Hummer or be trying to back into a spot you can't see. People also seem to forget to use their eyes when walking. I am very patient, but man the hordes of people get under my skin. I know they say the economy is bad, but I think the malls are more packed this year. Everyone wants a deal or some sort. Thank god for the internet and home shopping.

Want proof that the New York Post sucks? They had Coldplay's 'Viva La Vida' as their top album of '08 and Guns N' Roses 'Chinese Democracy' at #5? Are you serious? I guess I shouldn't suspect any less from a paper that gives the entertainment world the front page over most major world events. Don't even get me started on Rolling Stone's list of the year's best albums. The Jonas Bros. are ahead of The Raconteurs album? What kind of world are we living in? Seriously?

Random Thoughts 7

This weekend was pretty nice. Kim was sick, but we got to chill out a lot. I got our tree and put the lights up. SNL wasn't too bad, but John Malkovich is a strange bird. Why do NFL players always celebrate all the time? I can't stand it. The Cowboys are so overrated it is sickening. Joe Buck & Troy Aikman are the biggest fair weather commentators in the land. Is Stephon Marbury gone yet? A message to Jerome James, if your team is losing by 40 and you still do not get in the game... find another line of work. I want a Fender Jazzmaster guitar in the sea green color. Charlie Brown Christmas is on tonight. I think UPS Steve gave Scout a chocolate chip cookie? I hope not, it sure looked like one though. 

Random Thoughts 6

When you ask for well done bacon, why do you rarely receive it?

The Beauty of Lunch Guinness

It twas a cold & frothy December afternoon... Just kidding, I don't even know what that means? I do know that lunch Guinness is so good. I like Guinness anytime, but lunch Guinness is a different animal. Especially if it is icy cold. Let's take a moment to thank the fine folks at Runyon's for their fine establishment. I could have had one or 5 more of those. OJ is going to jail too. Shocker. He kills people & gets nothing, steals back some football cards & a jersey and gets the book thrown at him? Ahhh America. If he would have had a lunch Guinness, none of this would have ever have happened.

Explanation...

My good friend over at http://the-pea-green-boat.blogspot.com told me I should explain my photograph from yesterday a little. I was going to, but I forgot to give a little story behind it. So here it is... Kim & I went to Seattle for vacation last September. It truly is an amazing city. However, I do admit I was a little freaked out by the amount of homeless and junkies there were. The things you don't read about... Anyway, we visited the Seattle Center which features the Experience Music Project, Science Fiction Museum and Space Needle among other things. I took this photo outside of the EMP looking up between the EMP, a tree and the monorail. I am not a serious photographer by any means, but I love negative space and perspective of this shot. It is one of my favorite photos I have taken. Kim blew this up and framed it for our home.

Pic of the Day

Cheese Steaks

My wife & I love cheese steaks. We went to a place in the city last night called Shorty's. Really, really good cheese steaks. They have this deal where you get a Shorty cheese steak (which is 6 inches) and a pint for $8. I liked it a lot better than Tony Luke's which used to be in the same spot. 99 Miles to Philly is another good cheese steak stop. Awesome waffle fries & sauces there. Kim & I were lucky enough to stop at Geno's & Pat's this past summer to try the 'kings' of cheese steaks. Geno's was our favorite. One of our favorite local spots if Runyon's in East Meadow, NY. The put banana peppers on theirs. So good!! Damn, now I am hungry again. If anyone knows of any other places we can try... let us know!

Marbury

Please, please, please just get rid of him. You are already paying him his money. The more you send him away, the more time goes by. He is a bad teammate plain & simple. The Knicks gave him this ridiculous contract. Give him his money so he can go somewhere else and bother another team. He has had problems with every Knicks coach he has played for. Buyout his contract and end this mess. The longer it drags out the worse it makes the Knicks look.

Album Review: Chinese Democracy

Is this new album by Axl Rose & friends the complete train wreck everyone thinks it is? No.

Is it the best album I have ever heard in my life? No.

Is it horrible? Well, not exactly.

The songs have some very good parts, interesting solos and time changes. What the fuck is with all the samples, strings, horns and piano? How can a song called 'Prostitute' by a hard rock band have a piano outro? Come on fella! A few things need to be said first. Buckethead is an absolute kick ass guitarist. Even though it is hard to tell which solos are his? There was definitely a lot of cutting & pasting of material from all the various takes. I also prefer some of the demo versions of songs, such as Madagascar to their finished counterparts. I really wonder how many takes of songs Axl did? I am sure he and the producers only know for sure. Perhaps a boxed set eventually? Overall, I think this album sounds like a band recorded songs in one room and someone left the TV on loud in another and they put the two recordings together. A definite ego trip and an overproduced record. I would still check it out to see what all the hullabaloo is about and to check out Buckethead's work, but not at all a classic album.

Verdict: I give it 2 out of 5 Scouts.

Random Thoughts 5

Why do people feel the need to walk really slow and diagonally across a busy parking lot?

Why do players in the NFL, no matter the score is celebrate after every play? The guys on the Redskins were going nuts in the 4th quarter when they were losing 20 -7. Wow, you made a tackle? Probably should have some of those sooner.

Good riddance Stephon Marbury. I hope he is gone today. I do not like using this word, but he is a cancer. Look at every team he has been on.

The bird is indeed the word.

Turkey Day

Thanksgiving officially came & went. This year is going so damn fast! We saw a bunch of people this holiday and had a lot of fun, but I have to say I am disgusted by something. The tragedy that happened at the Wal-Mart in Valley Stream. All those people who trampled that poor security guard should be charged with murder. It's fucking Wal-Mart! What the hell could Wal-Mart possibly have that was so important that they do not have it the other 364 days of the year? Also, how can you NOT tell that you are walking over another human being? That is why I hate malls, chain stores and people like that. Completely mindless zombies and pathetic. The store did not crush that man, those people did. It doesn't matter how big or small a place is or how much security you have. If people are insane and disorderly like that there is nothing the store can do. People will over run it. I hope those assholes are happy with their Tickle Me Elmo's and their discount Wrangler jeans. People need to think of other people this season instead of what breaks they can get and where they can get them.

Scout

Drink of the Day

Since this is 'technically' a Friday for me I am going to post a new Drink of the Day. This one is a doozy, so please... drink in moderation.

The Dreaded Nacho Libre

Jose Cuervo Black Tequila

Coke

Some Ice

and a Glass

I would say 3 to 1 ratio or so of Coke to Tequila. But as with any drink it is to your liking. I suggest starting slow though, these creep up on you.

Here is a little test for these powerful drinks. Drink 3 Nacho Libre's... then stand up. Enjoy.

Some Positive Thoughts

I just looked at the Rolling Stone site and VH-1 site and I really might vomit. Kanye West, Britney Spears, Fall Out Boy... oh my god!! That shit is so horrible. Who the hell are all these people and where am I? They are all these magazines and sites talk about. They make no good music. and they are all train wrecks. The same 12 bands get all the attention. Seeing them on the covers of the magazines I read really ruins the magazine for me before I even read the damn things. I just do not get anything anymore? Also, who fucking cares about Madonna & A-Rod? If you do not want the attention or people asking you about your affairs then don't get caught together in all these fucking midnight encounters. Madonna, get rid of the guitar. We all know you can't play it. I think the 'devil horns' are played out. So are the words rock star. Everyone is a damn rock star. I ate 30 chicken wings.. your a rock star and blah, blah, blah! Just because you wear a Fall Out Boy t-shirt and black wrist bands does not make you a rock star. It makes you annoying.

The Knicks, Hip-Hop and Food

I meant to post this on Saturday, but I forgot. OK, not sure how I feel about these moves they made. Yes, they do need to cut salaries and be able to make roster moves. I just do not know how I feel about them just shuffling players in and out based on salaries and contracts. They still have 2 long years before the big free agent boom. My wife said it best, it is going to be like they are renting players. Lebron isn't going to come to a team that is worse then the Cavs. Just because it is NY and they offer him more money doesn't mean anything. They need to build a base and then add complimentary players. I just hate when teams are bought and not groomed. Draft some players, sign some free agents and trade for some players. Don't just go out and buy a whole new roster. The Yankees were at their best when they did that. They had a few superstars, but Chad Curtis and Randy Velarde were the types of players who made that team go. I am curious to see how the rest of this season will go? If they are not giving up the season and/or just making room for possible free agents then they got a funny way of showing it. It seemed like they had a plan, but now the roster is all over the place. I do not see what they are going to do with the rotation and now they do not have any inside presence at all. Also, Marbury needs to go. Just get rid of him! He has refused to play several times now. A couple last year and now one this year. He is horrible, a quitter and needs to go. Sign David Lee & Nate to extensions. Regardless, it will be interesting the next few years. D'Antoni has his work cut out for him.

Hip-hop today sucks. I want to make a few things clear... Use a different beat once in a while for christ sake! That stupid click track sucks. Not original or even good. Also, those stupid synth vocals are horrible. I do not even know what anyone is saying half the time? And I got news for you... Just because you hold a guitar and occasionally strum it, does not mean you play the guitar. If your backing track is going to play make sure you play your fake guitar around the same time. Performing in unison does help.

Polish food kicks ass. We went to this awesome restaurant in Lindenhurst Saturday night and it was great. Also, Polish beer is awesome. Zywiec is great stuff. I recommend you go buy yourself some now.

Dio

Ronnie James Dio is an awesome singer. He also can make any words sound evil.

Drink of the Day

Dr. J

Dr. Pepper

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Some Ice

& a Glass

I would say 3 to 1 or so ratio Dr. Pepper to whiskey. But as with any drink it is to your liking. I suggest starting slow though, these creep up on you.

Random Thoughts 4

This is more on the Rolling Stone list of greatest singers. How can you have Art Garfunkel, but not Paul Simon? Also, no Levi Stubbs or Florence Ballard! Are you fucking serious?

Random Thoughts 3

I hate when people tailgate you, then pass you, almost hitting you, then get in front of you and then slow down? Why? Just seriously, why?

I do not like when people cannot order at a deli. It is a deli not a health food store. Get some damn bacon and move on. Do not order something and ask to see what the slice of this or that looks like. I know some deli's are more health food related, but if the deli is the size of a closet and the cook has tattoos... just order a bacon, egg & cheese and go!

Kona Longboard Lager rules! Thanks KC.

Random Thoughts 2

How can Rolling Stone magazine have a poll of the top singers in rock and put Christina Aguilera ahead of David Ruffin, Dion, Ronnie Spector and Wilson Pickett? Are they seriously fucking kidding me? They wonder why their credibility is going down hill. What a shit list.

Random Thoughts 1

Kayne West sucks.

Turkey, stuffing & mashed potatoes rule.

Drink of the Day

Ginger Bush

Bushmills Irish Whiskey

Ginger Ale

Some Ice

& a Glass

I would say about a 3 to 1 or so ratio ginger ale to whiskey. But as with any drink it is to your liking. I suggest starting slow though, these creep up on you.

Politics. Sort of...

I hate the fucking term Main Streeters. Every politician and his mom is using this damn term and I am sick of it. I live on fucking Norma Avenue. Not Main Street. Help Norma Avenue out and then talk to me.

Also, I am sick of hearing about the foreclosures and loan crisis. Here is a tip to help some people: If you can't make a budget and make sure you can afford  your home... DO NOT BUY A  FOUR HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLAR HOUSE. Yes, there are crooked real estate agents and Wall Streeters and whatnot, but if you can't be positive you can afford it then pass. My wife made so many budgets I was about to go insane, but she was 100% right and did a great job. Because now we know when we are in the red area and when are OK. So know your shit first time home buyers.

Mitch Mitchell R.I.P.

He was my favorite drummer. Mitch Mitchell was Hendrix's rock and one of the best drummers of all-time in any genre. I got to see him play recently as part of the Experience Hendrix Tour. You could tell two things from watching him play. He was highly admired and he absolutely loved music. When great musicians past away it makes me sad, but it is great that we can listen to their music and we will always have that. 

Desert Island Disc's

This question pops up in one form or another everywhere! I am just going to go with my gut and list a few albums that I think are essential and would be good to take with you if you just so happened to be on said island. I am going off the beaten path a little...

Jeff Beck Group: Truth 

- Excellent debut from the JBG. Rod Stewart when he actually sang! Ronnie Wood on bass! Come on! What is not to love? Led Zeppelin before Led Zeppelin. Jimmy Page took a lot of notes on this album.

Grateful Dead: American Beauty

- I could listen to 'Box of Rain' over & over again. 'Attics of My Life' has some of the best harmonies ever.

Vince Guaraldi Trio: A Charlie Brown Christmas

- Brings back so many memories. Great music for any time. Not just for the holidays.

Underrated Musicians

Sirius satellite radio unveiled their Led Zeppelin channel last weekend and it got me thinking about underrated musicians. I think John Paul Jones is one of the most underrated musicians of all time. His contributions are so immense (especially the later years) and yet he seems to always be an after thought? Here is my list of some musicians who I think do not get their fair share:

Brian May

John Deacon

Joe Walsh

Alice Cooper

Phil Lynott

Those are just some. I am sure some more will pop into my head at random times. Let me know what you think.

Live Review: Beck 10/10/08 NYC

I didn't know what to expect when I arrived at the United Palace Theater on Friday night. I had seen Beck two previous times and both shows were spectacular. This night was a different sort of show. The United Palace Theater is an beautiful and towering presence. The intricate architecture inside is amazing. It was originally a Loew's Wonder Theater built in 1930 and claims to be the third biggest venue in NYC behind MSG and Radio City. It is a great place to see a show. Reminds me of the Beacon Theater with the same sort of seating & perspective from the upper lodge. It has that old New York sort of feel. They just do not make places like this anymore. Compared to the last time I saw Beck his stage setup was very minimal. Several spot lights and a video screen replaced the dinner table and giant boom-box from the October 2006 performance at the Hammerstein Ballroom. Beck & his 4 person backing band strolled out around 9:30 and played pretty much non-stop until 11. Overall it was an uneven performance. At times he seemed disinterested and other times he lit up the room. Some highlights for me were 'Profanity Prayers' (especially the instrumental intro), 'Minus', 'Chemtrails', & 'The Golden Age'. Spotty sound, a lame ass crowd (biggest ovations were for 'Loser' & 'Where it's At') and Beck's lackluster performance made this show good, but not great in my opinion. I don't know if he is in some sort of "Dylan-ish" phase where he is annoyed at playing his hits and just wants to be a folkie and wear strange hats and strum his Danelectro guitar? I don't know if this is sad or not, but a so so Beck show is still better than 85% of the music that is out there now. Should I be happy with that? You forget how many great songs he truly has and it is easy to expect great things from a great artist. But should I care when it seems like he didn't care?

Albums you should own, but don't.

I was thinking to myself this morning about going to Beck tomorrow night, then I was like Self! I don't own Sea Change or Mellow Gold. Beck is one of my favorite musicians and to not own those albums is a crime. After that I was thinking about other groups who have albums that I really should totally own, but don't. When I say own, I mean actually physical copies. Not digital. Here are some...

The Who: Quadrophenia

Red Hot Chili Peppers: Blood Sugar Sex Magik

The Beatles: All. The CD's I have are really my dad's

The Rolling Stones: I have Get Yer Ya Ya's Out and 2 others, but no Sticky Fingers which is my favorite!

What are some albums you should own?