Wednesday, December 31, 2008

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.

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

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.

Monday, December 29, 2008

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...

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

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.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

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?

Saturday, December 20, 2008

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.

Friday, December 19, 2008

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.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

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.

Friday, December 12, 2008

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:

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.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

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.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

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?

Monday, December 8, 2008

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. 

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Random Thoughts 6

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

Friday, December 5, 2008

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.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

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.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

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!

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

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.

Monday, December 1, 2008

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.