Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Module 5: Where Is Baltimore Music Headed? & Research
Module 5: Where Next, Bmore?
By the look of it, Baltimore's music shops are surviving. Between some of the big guns like The Sound Garden, The True Vine, CD Depot and Dimensions in Music, their collections, vinyl included, are most certainly not going out of style.
"People will never stop buying vinyl," Al Shipley, music writer for Baltimore City Paper says. "Stores like The Sound Garden and The True Vine have a loyal fan base."
But that's not to say that Baltimore's music shops aren't changing. In late 2007, Towson-grown music chain Record and Tape Traders was purchased by Value Music Concepts. The sale wasn't unexpected, but the impact was apparent.
"It was immediate. Record and Tape [Traders] were closing their warehouse so they sent out a letter to all the local labels and bands on consignment to let them know to pick up their CDs," Shipley says. "Prices went up too."
This meant that Record and Tape Traders would no longer sell releases from local musicians, tightening their spectrum as a local music shop. With many locations in the greater Baltimore area, this was certainly a damper on local music distribution.
Back in the day, before digital music began to take the market by storm, local vinyl shops and labels ran the Baltimore Club market, creating a supply and demand for local DJs. When digital music started into the scene, these shops and labels began to see the results of the invasion. "A couple shops went out of business, and DJs started selling their vinyl to places like The True Vine," Evan Weinstein, a Baltimore Club promoter, says.
"It was a combination of the time and the market changing and technology," Shipley says. "Baltimore isn't a major city, it's a smaller place. Places like New York always have something going on, but here it may seem like things drop off for a bit. It takes a while for everything to gel back into place."
So what's next for Baltimore? When and how is the new phase going to take place? Maybe sooner that we thought. Popular musicians like Beach House and Dan Deacon are receiving exposure on the major indie rock markets and helping to solidify Baltimore as a impressive outlet for new music. Wham City, a collection of artists and their venues founded in 2004, are helping to harness the talent.
By the look of it, Baltimore's music shops are surviving. Between some of the big guns like The Sound Garden, The True Vine, CD Depot and Dimensions in Music, their collections, vinyl included, are most certainly not going out of style.
"People will never stop buying vinyl," Al Shipley, music writer for Baltimore City Paper says. "Stores like The Sound Garden and The True Vine have a loyal fan base."
But that's not to say that Baltimore's music shops aren't changing. In late 2007, Towson-grown music chain Record and Tape Traders was purchased by Value Music Concepts. The sale wasn't unexpected, but the impact was apparent.
"It was immediate. Record and Tape [Traders] were closing their warehouse so they sent out a letter to all the local labels and bands on consignment to let them know to pick up their CDs," Shipley says. "Prices went up too."
This meant that Record and Tape Traders would no longer sell releases from local musicians, tightening their spectrum as a local music shop. With many locations in the greater Baltimore area, this was certainly a damper on local music distribution.
Back in the day, before digital music began to take the market by storm, local vinyl shops and labels ran the Baltimore Club market, creating a supply and demand for local DJs. When digital music started into the scene, these shops and labels began to see the results of the invasion. "A couple shops went out of business, and DJs started selling their vinyl to places like The True Vine," Evan Weinstein, a Baltimore Club promoter, says.
"It was a combination of the time and the market changing and technology," Shipley says. "Baltimore isn't a major city, it's a smaller place. Places like New York always have something going on, but here it may seem like things drop off for a bit. It takes a while for everything to gel back into place."
So what's next for Baltimore? When and how is the new phase going to take place? Maybe sooner that we thought. Popular musicians like Beach House and Dan Deacon are receiving exposure on the major indie rock markets and helping to solidify Baltimore as a impressive outlet for new music. Wham City, a collection of artists and their venues founded in 2004, are helping to harness the talent.
Multimedia Package: Well Connected
Well Connected: Tracking Players in Telecommunications, Media and Technology
This multimedia package is from The Center for Public Integrity, "a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing original, responsible investigative journalism on issues of public concern." They are involved in issues both in the United States and around the world, all with a non-partisan viewpoint. The center is housed in Washington, D.C., and it has been running since 1990. They, along with this comprehensive multimedia package, publish investigative books and articles on the concerns of public issues. For example, The Center's website highlights projects titled "The Buying of the President 2008" and "The War Card: Orchestrated Deception on the Path of War".
In this specific multimedia package, Well Connected: Tracking Players in Telecommunications, Media and Technology, The Center for Public Integrity has created an interactive system to determine which corporations and companies own the media in your given zip code or city, the Media Tracker. On the introduction module of Well Connected, a site visitor can enter in their zip code or city and state to pull up a full list of businesses that own the major broadcast outlets like television and radio stations, cable communities, broadband providers and newspapers. Each result yields an area summary listing the broadcast owners and an interactive map. There are tabbed menu selections that further break down the summary into each type of broadcast.
Each summary also yields specific results about each corporation or business. For example, Well Connected breaks down the ownership summary of Clear Channel Communications, Inc., as well as listing its revenue and income, the company's corporate directors and executive officers, and a fully detailed breakdown of monetary contributions. Additionally, the package has sections called Latest Reports and Telecom Watch, which is presented in a blog format.
To sum up it's intended purpose, Well Connected aims to educate journalists, students and legislators. The information presented here is both full and detailed but easy enough to understand. Structurally, the project is easy to navigate. The Media Tracker, which is the package's main attraction, is incredibly simple to use. The sidebar provides all the links you would need outside of the Media Tracker, including a link to the homepage, FAQ's, a Methodology page, Archives, and a menu by industry. Navigation is done without any confusion, which is a strong point for the package.
However, the multimedia portion of the package is not as impressive as I would have liked. There are no photos or videos, and besides the interactive map given with each zip code, there isn't much else to entertain. This puts the main focus on the information, which is top notch for a mass communications student like myself. But, I imagine for someone who wasn't interested or in need of this information, this package would be rather boring. Nonetheless, the ease of use is certainly something that other packages should imitate, as well as the sheer amount of information. This package is an incredible resource.
Besides the lack of photos and videos, Well Connected could have improved their Latest Reports and Telecom Watch section with a primer that put the topic in context. I understand the full concept of the project, but it wouldn't hurt to have a small blurb explaining the weight of each article, sort of like a commentary from The Center Public Integrity.
Overall, I was impressed, but there is clear room for improvement. As an organization that specializes in the telecommunications, I'd expect a more technologically advanced presentation.
This multimedia package is from The Center for Public Integrity, "a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing original, responsible investigative journalism on issues of public concern." They are involved in issues both in the United States and around the world, all with a non-partisan viewpoint. The center is housed in Washington, D.C., and it has been running since 1990. They, along with this comprehensive multimedia package, publish investigative books and articles on the concerns of public issues. For example, The Center's website highlights projects titled "The Buying of the President 2008" and "The War Card: Orchestrated Deception on the Path of War".
In this specific multimedia package, Well Connected: Tracking Players in Telecommunications, Media and Technology, The Center for Public Integrity has created an interactive system to determine which corporations and companies own the media in your given zip code or city, the Media Tracker. On the introduction module of Well Connected, a site visitor can enter in their zip code or city and state to pull up a full list of businesses that own the major broadcast outlets like television and radio stations, cable communities, broadband providers and newspapers. Each result yields an area summary listing the broadcast owners and an interactive map. There are tabbed menu selections that further break down the summary into each type of broadcast.
Each summary also yields specific results about each corporation or business. For example, Well Connected breaks down the ownership summary of Clear Channel Communications, Inc., as well as listing its revenue and income, the company's corporate directors and executive officers, and a fully detailed breakdown of monetary contributions. Additionally, the package has sections called Latest Reports and Telecom Watch, which is presented in a blog format.
To sum up it's intended purpose, Well Connected aims to educate journalists, students and legislators. The information presented here is both full and detailed but easy enough to understand. Structurally, the project is easy to navigate. The Media Tracker, which is the package's main attraction, is incredibly simple to use. The sidebar provides all the links you would need outside of the Media Tracker, including a link to the homepage, FAQ's, a Methodology page, Archives, and a menu by industry. Navigation is done without any confusion, which is a strong point for the package.
However, the multimedia portion of the package is not as impressive as I would have liked. There are no photos or videos, and besides the interactive map given with each zip code, there isn't much else to entertain. This puts the main focus on the information, which is top notch for a mass communications student like myself. But, I imagine for someone who wasn't interested or in need of this information, this package would be rather boring. Nonetheless, the ease of use is certainly something that other packages should imitate, as well as the sheer amount of information. This package is an incredible resource.
Besides the lack of photos and videos, Well Connected could have improved their Latest Reports and Telecom Watch section with a primer that put the topic in context. I understand the full concept of the project, but it wouldn't hurt to have a small blurb explaining the weight of each article, sort of like a commentary from The Center Public Integrity.
Overall, I was impressed, but there is clear room for improvement. As an organization that specializes in the telecommunications, I'd expect a more technologically advanced presentation.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Research & Module 4
Excepts and important facts from interview with Beth Varden, manager at The Sound Garden.
- manager for two years, been in Baltimore since 1996
- two current locations for TSG: Syracuse & Baltimore
- TSG has been open since 1993
- plans to renovate, including larger section for vinyl
How has business been affected by the digital media revolution?
"We haven't really been affected by digital music. I'd even say that our business has increased. Not everyone wants digital files, and because we have the best prices, people come to us. Like, the people who don't have iPods or computers, they're still interested in buying music from a store."
"College-aged kids are really into vinyl as well, and we're the only place in Baltimore that you can buy new vinyl."
Do you think that physical music will ever become obsolete?
"Obsolete? No way, I don't believe it. When the CD came out, people said the same thing."
"People still buy it for its aesthetic value. And digital music is usually a downgrade in quality."
How is TSG important to Baltimore music?
- local music section
- consignment for local artists, don't need national distribution to be sold at TSG
- local artists like Dan Deacon, Beach House, Celebration all helped and supported
- in-store performances are usually reserved for national, touring bands but sometimes they'll feature local bands, like The Human Bell
- anyone can use their bulletin board to promote their band/show/venue
Slideshow for The Sound Garden w/ Audio
Text for Module 4:
The Sound Garden (full module here)
It's sort of like a scene from "Empire Records" or "High Fidelity". As you walk in the front doors of Fells Point's The Sound Garden, it's clear that there is one thing on everyone's mind: finding that golden treasure.
"Sound Garden is a freakin' mecca!" London Scalise, a self-proclaimed music junkie and vinyl collector exclaims. "You can't find everything you're looking for in those corporate stores. I'm there at least once a week."
When you walk in the front doors, the foyer is lined, layered and overwhelmed with concert posters and free magazines. There is almost always a line. In the heart of the store, CD shelves create rows and rows of mixed and matched album art. At Sound Garden, there are albums that you never knew you wanted until you found them at Sound Garden, the kind of albums that make a collection shine.
Beth Varden has been manager at The Sound Garden for two years now, but she's been shopping here for much longer, she says. Like many of The Sound Garden's customers, she believes that physical music will not lose it's importance and value in the face of digital music. "Not everyone wants digital files, and because we have the best prices, people come to us. Like, the people who don't have iPods or computers, they're still interested in buying music from a store."
The only place in Baltimore that carries new vinyl, The Sound Garden attracts both the dedicated old-timers roped into a record's high quality and the college student engaged by its aesthetic.
But not everyone likes vinyl. "You can buy two CDs here for the price of one at other places. Especially in the used section," longtime customer Tyler Miller explains.
To keep up with and support the Baltimore music scene, The Sound Garden offers consignment deals for local artists that aren't blessed with national distribution. There's a section dedicated only to Baltimore releases and the shop has even hosted in-store performances by local bands like The Human Bell. But that's nothing compared to the bulletin boards at the front of the store, which reads like an ultimate hub of Baltimore's up-and-coming happenings. If there ever is an epitome of Baltimore music, here is where is all exists.
Google Map of Baltimore Record Shops
View Larger Map
- manager for two years, been in Baltimore since 1996
- two current locations for TSG: Syracuse & Baltimore
- TSG has been open since 1993
- plans to renovate, including larger section for vinyl
How has business been affected by the digital media revolution?
"We haven't really been affected by digital music. I'd even say that our business has increased. Not everyone wants digital files, and because we have the best prices, people come to us. Like, the people who don't have iPods or computers, they're still interested in buying music from a store."
"College-aged kids are really into vinyl as well, and we're the only place in Baltimore that you can buy new vinyl."
Do you think that physical music will ever become obsolete?
"Obsolete? No way, I don't believe it. When the CD came out, people said the same thing."
"People still buy it for its aesthetic value. And digital music is usually a downgrade in quality."
How is TSG important to Baltimore music?
- local music section
- consignment for local artists, don't need national distribution to be sold at TSG
- local artists like Dan Deacon, Beach House, Celebration all helped and supported
- in-store performances are usually reserved for national, touring bands but sometimes they'll feature local bands, like The Human Bell
- anyone can use their bulletin board to promote their band/show/venue
Slideshow for The Sound Garden w/ Audio
Text for Module 4:
The Sound Garden (full module here)
It's sort of like a scene from "Empire Records" or "High Fidelity". As you walk in the front doors of Fells Point's The Sound Garden, it's clear that there is one thing on everyone's mind: finding that golden treasure.
"Sound Garden is a freakin' mecca!" London Scalise, a self-proclaimed music junkie and vinyl collector exclaims. "You can't find everything you're looking for in those corporate stores. I'm there at least once a week."
When you walk in the front doors, the foyer is lined, layered and overwhelmed with concert posters and free magazines. There is almost always a line. In the heart of the store, CD shelves create rows and rows of mixed and matched album art. At Sound Garden, there are albums that you never knew you wanted until you found them at Sound Garden, the kind of albums that make a collection shine.
Beth Varden has been manager at The Sound Garden for two years now, but she's been shopping here for much longer, she says. Like many of The Sound Garden's customers, she believes that physical music will not lose it's importance and value in the face of digital music. "Not everyone wants digital files, and because we have the best prices, people come to us. Like, the people who don't have iPods or computers, they're still interested in buying music from a store."
The only place in Baltimore that carries new vinyl, The Sound Garden attracts both the dedicated old-timers roped into a record's high quality and the college student engaged by its aesthetic.
But not everyone likes vinyl. "You can buy two CDs here for the price of one at other places. Especially in the used section," longtime customer Tyler Miller explains.
To keep up with and support the Baltimore music scene, The Sound Garden offers consignment deals for local artists that aren't blessed with national distribution. There's a section dedicated only to Baltimore releases and the shop has even hosted in-store performances by local bands like The Human Bell. But that's nothing compared to the bulletin boards at the front of the store, which reads like an ultimate hub of Baltimore's up-and-coming happenings. If there ever is an epitome of Baltimore music, here is where is all exists.
Google Map of Baltimore Record Shops
View Larger Map
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Research: Be More Indie - 04.09.08
Noteworthy excerpts from interview with London Scalise, mild vinyl collector and Baltimore music follower:
How often do you head to record shops around Baltimore?
At least once a week (laughs). Sound Garden and Record & Tape Traders are my two jams. I drop so much money there. Sound Garden is a freakin' mecca! You can't find everything you're looking for in those corporate stores... But Sound Garden... Whenever I go in there, I end up spending way too much money.
What about Record & Tape Traders? Can you find a good selection there?
You used to be able to. Well, you still can, but since it got bought out it's not the same. I'm not positive but I think the prices are going up too.
You collect vinyl too?
Yeah, but not as much as some of the Baltimore music kids do. I've seen some crazy mad collections.
Are Baltimore music fans different than other cities, like Philadelphia or New York City?
Uh, yes! We're so much more hardass. Ha, no really, I think that Baltimore kids are just really united. We all stick together and believe in the music we're making.
So how is the sound of Baltimore music different?
Man, that's a hard question. We're not stuck in one sound? Maybe. I feel like indie bands in Philly or New York get stuck in the sound of what's cool. Like, you know when a band is from Brookyln. Like Vampire Weekend. Baltimore is more about seeing what you can come up with.
Interviews Conducted:
- Employees at The Sound Garden
- Al Shipley of The City Paper
- London Scalise, Baltimore music fan
- Evan Weinstein, Baltimore Club promoter
- Employees at R&TT
More research:
About Record & Tape Trader Buyout ; Repercussions on Local Bands/Musicians
About Dimensions In Music
Music Liberated and It's Previous Role in Vinyl Pricing in Baltimore
Scottie B., Baltimore Club DJ, Selling All His Vinyl to The True Vine
Sounds N Da Hood - Baltimore Music Shop Moves to Atlanta
Set up Google Map of all the Baltimore indie record shops??
Noteworthy except from The programmer as journalist: a Q&A with Adrian Holovaty:
"Holovaty: The main value in understanding programming is the advantage of knowing what's possible, in terms of both data analysis and data presentation. It helps one think of journalism beyond the plain (and kind of boring) format of the news story."
How often do you head to record shops around Baltimore?
At least once a week (laughs). Sound Garden and Record & Tape Traders are my two jams. I drop so much money there. Sound Garden is a freakin' mecca! You can't find everything you're looking for in those corporate stores... But Sound Garden... Whenever I go in there, I end up spending way too much money.
What about Record & Tape Traders? Can you find a good selection there?
You used to be able to. Well, you still can, but since it got bought out it's not the same. I'm not positive but I think the prices are going up too.
You collect vinyl too?
Yeah, but not as much as some of the Baltimore music kids do. I've seen some crazy mad collections.
Are Baltimore music fans different than other cities, like Philadelphia or New York City?
Uh, yes! We're so much more hardass. Ha, no really, I think that Baltimore kids are just really united. We all stick together and believe in the music we're making.
So how is the sound of Baltimore music different?
Man, that's a hard question. We're not stuck in one sound? Maybe. I feel like indie bands in Philly or New York get stuck in the sound of what's cool. Like, you know when a band is from Brookyln. Like Vampire Weekend. Baltimore is more about seeing what you can come up with.
Interviews Conducted:
- Employees at The Sound Garden
- Al Shipley of The City Paper
- London Scalise, Baltimore music fan
- Evan Weinstein, Baltimore Club promoter
- Employees at R&TT
More research:
About Record & Tape Trader Buyout ; Repercussions on Local Bands/Musicians
About Dimensions In Music
Music Liberated and It's Previous Role in Vinyl Pricing in Baltimore
Scottie B., Baltimore Club DJ, Selling All His Vinyl to The True Vine
Sounds N Da Hood - Baltimore Music Shop Moves to Atlanta
Set up Google Map of all the Baltimore indie record shops??
Noteworthy except from The programmer as journalist: a Q&A with Adrian Holovaty:
"Holovaty: The main value in understanding programming is the advantage of knowing what's possible, in terms of both data analysis and data presentation. It helps one think of journalism beyond the plain (and kind of boring) format of the news story."
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Be More Indie Research; Reading Notes
Noteworthy transcript excerpts from Ian Nagoski, owner of The True Vine, interview:
What is the idea or moral behind The True Vine?
"The idea of shop was mainly to be able to provide. There's a lot of music out there, and there was a lot of stuff that we liked that wasn't presented cohesively in one place. The idea of the shop was the represent the stuff we liked."
Is there an all-encompassing idea behind the Baltimore music community?
"I moved here largely because of the music scene. The music scene seemed to be so free and open, so much vital stuff going on. It was real egalitarian. Real non-hierarchical."
"My theory was, at the time, it was completely impossible for anyone to get famous here. There are lots of great musicians from Baltimore, but they all got famous because they left. Anybody who stayed here never really made much of a mark. It seemed to be place you could be free because there wasn't any golden ring to capture you."
"That certainly has changed some. There are a lot of musicians that have moved here, particularly in the past two years. There still tends to be a really great reaction between subcultures and a lot of collaborative spirit."
How does an indie record shop fit into this idea?
"The idea of record store to me has always been a place where there would be an exchange of ideas, and a physical place for exploration. They would be able to dig through things and find things they wouldn't be able to find otherwise."
What are your thoughts on digital music?
"The main difference between music as a file and music as an object has something to do with permanence. I'm actually a 78 collector. The records I keep are mostly made of a combination of ground up stone and shellac. The music that I keep is stuff mostly from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. It's sort-of 60-90 years old. Those are actual memories of events that did happen. They did play this music in person, in realtime, and it's remembered by this object."
"With digital media, it's easily the most impermanent form that's come up. Each format that's come along is essentially more and more ephemeral so that we are getting back to a point where music is only there for a little while and then it's gone. The example I always use is, ask people how many computers they've owned in their life? How many files do you have left from the second computer you owned? Basically none."
"Baltimore Club began in 1993, and they were pressing tons and tons and tons of vinyl up until 2 or 3 years ago when it just stopped. So Baltimore Club is completely a digital genre. So the only way it's passed around is by digital files. So when the time comes that we go back, put it into context, research it and just look at it, after all the parties are over, they are going to have a really good record of what happened from 93 to 2003. But everything that happens from 2003 to 2008; there's no way to reconstruct who did what when, except by word of mouth. And a lot of that music is just going to be lost."
"There's going to be a lot of music that will come and go, and the cultural circumstance that surround them are going to be hard to archive and understand because there's no object."
Do you think that physical music will ever become obsolete?
"No. Maybe in the general culture sense, but as for people who are interested in exploration and interested in what has happened and the context of human creativity... it is going to remain permanently."
Modules:
1. Introduction/Welcome to Baltimore Music & It's Indie Record Shops
2. The True Vine
3. Sound Garden
4. Reptilian Records
5. Normals
6. The Impact of Digital Music on the Physical Music Lifespan
- Digital music sees sales double
- Music industry steps up search for digital revenue
- Digital Music Sales Explode, with Top Digital Track Besting Top Physical Album
7. But There's Hope: The Resurgence of Vinyl Sales
- Vinyl Frontier: Left-for-Dead Music Is Resurrected for the Digital Age
- U.K. Music Label Creates a Vinyl-MP3 Hybrid
- Vinyl May Be Final Nail in CD's Coffin
8. Conclusion - The Future of Baltimore Record Shops
On Briggs, Chp. 8 - Shooting and Managing Digital Photos
- Take as many pictures as possible
- Megapixel - one million pixels
- Resolution - "measurement of pixels that are available to the human eye"
- Lighting is important
- Fill the frame
- Capture moments
- Always edit copy, never original
What is the idea or moral behind The True Vine?
"The idea of shop was mainly to be able to provide. There's a lot of music out there, and there was a lot of stuff that we liked that wasn't presented cohesively in one place. The idea of the shop was the represent the stuff we liked."
Is there an all-encompassing idea behind the Baltimore music community?
"I moved here largely because of the music scene. The music scene seemed to be so free and open, so much vital stuff going on. It was real egalitarian. Real non-hierarchical."
"My theory was, at the time, it was completely impossible for anyone to get famous here. There are lots of great musicians from Baltimore, but they all got famous because they left. Anybody who stayed here never really made much of a mark. It seemed to be place you could be free because there wasn't any golden ring to capture you."
"That certainly has changed some. There are a lot of musicians that have moved here, particularly in the past two years. There still tends to be a really great reaction between subcultures and a lot of collaborative spirit."
How does an indie record shop fit into this idea?
"The idea of record store to me has always been a place where there would be an exchange of ideas, and a physical place for exploration. They would be able to dig through things and find things they wouldn't be able to find otherwise."
What are your thoughts on digital music?
"The main difference between music as a file and music as an object has something to do with permanence. I'm actually a 78 collector. The records I keep are mostly made of a combination of ground up stone and shellac. The music that I keep is stuff mostly from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. It's sort-of 60-90 years old. Those are actual memories of events that did happen. They did play this music in person, in realtime, and it's remembered by this object."
"With digital media, it's easily the most impermanent form that's come up. Each format that's come along is essentially more and more ephemeral so that we are getting back to a point where music is only there for a little while and then it's gone. The example I always use is, ask people how many computers they've owned in their life? How many files do you have left from the second computer you owned? Basically none."
"Baltimore Club began in 1993, and they were pressing tons and tons and tons of vinyl up until 2 or 3 years ago when it just stopped. So Baltimore Club is completely a digital genre. So the only way it's passed around is by digital files. So when the time comes that we go back, put it into context, research it and just look at it, after all the parties are over, they are going to have a really good record of what happened from 93 to 2003. But everything that happens from 2003 to 2008; there's no way to reconstruct who did what when, except by word of mouth. And a lot of that music is just going to be lost."
"There's going to be a lot of music that will come and go, and the cultural circumstance that surround them are going to be hard to archive and understand because there's no object."
Do you think that physical music will ever become obsolete?
"No. Maybe in the general culture sense, but as for people who are interested in exploration and interested in what has happened and the context of human creativity... it is going to remain permanently."
Modules:
1. Introduction/Welcome to Baltimore Music & It's Indie Record Shops
2. The True Vine
3. Sound Garden
4. Reptilian Records
5. Normals
6. The Impact of Digital Music on the Physical Music Lifespan
- Digital music sees sales double
- Music industry steps up search for digital revenue
- Digital Music Sales Explode, with Top Digital Track Besting Top Physical Album
7. But There's Hope: The Resurgence of Vinyl Sales
- Vinyl Frontier: Left-for-Dead Music Is Resurrected for the Digital Age
- U.K. Music Label Creates a Vinyl-MP3 Hybrid
- Vinyl May Be Final Nail in CD's Coffin
8. Conclusion - The Future of Baltimore Record Shops
On Briggs, Chp. 8 - Shooting and Managing Digital Photos
- Take as many pictures as possible
- Megapixel - one million pixels
- Resolution - "measurement of pixels that are available to the human eye"
- Lighting is important
- Fill the frame
- Capture moments
- Always edit copy, never original
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Talking Apes, Digital Audio and Module One
On Exploring Language: A Voluble Visit with Two Talking Apes...
by Jon Hamilton
This is the story of two Bonobo chimps, Panbanisha and Kanzi, and how "they use language in many of the same ways humans do." This multimedia package includes the audio storytelling (the main focus of the feature), a transcript of the audio portion, and pictures. It is also part of a greater multimedia series, Exploring Language. Placed next to the text of A Voluble Visit... is a interactive guide to this series. It is an effective way to direct listeners to similar topics and other broadcasts.
What I've Taken From This Story:
1) The importance of a title. NPR has always thought up smart, sometimes witty titles, and like this one, I am draw into the story from our list of options. "Two Talking Apes," I read and think ... I'd like to explore this further. It also rolls off the tongue with alliteration.
2) This audio story works like an exchange of dialogue in a print story. Narrator Jon Hamilton will speak of an action or point that he is trying to make, and Dr. Sue or Bill Field's commentary will reinforce or make a point. It's a trade-off between narration and commentary, and I think this story showcases a great balance between the two. The story is kept active, almost interactive within an interactive. You also see techniques like this in traditional news reporting, the use of quotes to acquire a element of the story. Additionally, Hamilton incorporates clips of the two chimps, which also supports this idea. For example, Hamilton says Panbanisha "celebrates by playing her drums" and will them cut to the sound of Panbanisha actually playing her drums. I think of this as a sort of call-and-response. When Hamilton says something like this, I think that that would like to actually hear what it sounds like when Panbanisha plays her drums. Hamilton then delivers.
3) In this case, the reporter is IN the story, and the story revolves around Hamilton's visit. The action is a reaction of Hamilton being there; this IS the story. The question is when does this work and when doesn't it?
4) The interviewee's voice can be very powerful. When Bill Fields talks about his missing finger, and the chimp's sympathy, he uses emotive language in the word "hurt." This is a texture that I don't think Hamilton could achieve. NPR is typically more formal than other podcasts I've heard, even more so than WNYC Radio Lab - no laughing, professional tone - and this is a good way to add texture and interest in a piece.
5) Speed and pronunciation are VERY important. In Living on a Dollar Day in Malawi, narrator Suzanna Marmion is very clear, but her interviews are very hard to understand. Their accents are heavy, and while it adds texture and complexity to the story, it proves almost useless if I can't comprehend what they are saying. In the Malawi case, there is not a full transcript to reference, which is unfortunate.
6) In Living on A Dollar..., along the right side of the page is a daily balance sheet for the Phiri family. Even though it is plain text, it is a great addition to the story and helps to define a perspective. This made me wonder if I can find a way to use statistics in my project.
On Briggs, Chp. 7 - Digital Audio and Podcasting...
mp3 - most universal
wma - Windows Media
real - Real Audio
mpeg - Quicktime
mpeg-4 AAC - iTunes
- try to always use mp3
- record natural sound
- using Audacity
- vodcast - podcast with video
Be More Indie: Module One
by Jon Hamilton
This is the story of two Bonobo chimps, Panbanisha and Kanzi, and how "they use language in many of the same ways humans do." This multimedia package includes the audio storytelling (the main focus of the feature), a transcript of the audio portion, and pictures. It is also part of a greater multimedia series, Exploring Language. Placed next to the text of A Voluble Visit... is a interactive guide to this series. It is an effective way to direct listeners to similar topics and other broadcasts.
What I've Taken From This Story:
1) The importance of a title. NPR has always thought up smart, sometimes witty titles, and like this one, I am draw into the story from our list of options. "Two Talking Apes," I read and think ... I'd like to explore this further. It also rolls off the tongue with alliteration.
2) This audio story works like an exchange of dialogue in a print story. Narrator Jon Hamilton will speak of an action or point that he is trying to make, and Dr. Sue or Bill Field's commentary will reinforce or make a point. It's a trade-off between narration and commentary, and I think this story showcases a great balance between the two. The story is kept active, almost interactive within an interactive. You also see techniques like this in traditional news reporting, the use of quotes to acquire a element of the story. Additionally, Hamilton incorporates clips of the two chimps, which also supports this idea. For example, Hamilton says Panbanisha "celebrates by playing her drums" and will them cut to the sound of Panbanisha actually playing her drums. I think of this as a sort of call-and-response. When Hamilton says something like this, I think that that would like to actually hear what it sounds like when Panbanisha plays her drums. Hamilton then delivers.
3) In this case, the reporter is IN the story, and the story revolves around Hamilton's visit. The action is a reaction of Hamilton being there; this IS the story. The question is when does this work and when doesn't it?
4) The interviewee's voice can be very powerful. When Bill Fields talks about his missing finger, and the chimp's sympathy, he uses emotive language in the word "hurt." This is a texture that I don't think Hamilton could achieve. NPR is typically more formal than other podcasts I've heard, even more so than WNYC Radio Lab - no laughing, professional tone - and this is a good way to add texture and interest in a piece.
5) Speed and pronunciation are VERY important. In Living on a Dollar Day in Malawi, narrator Suzanna Marmion is very clear, but her interviews are very hard to understand. Their accents are heavy, and while it adds texture and complexity to the story, it proves almost useless if I can't comprehend what they are saying. In the Malawi case, there is not a full transcript to reference, which is unfortunate.
6) In Living on A Dollar..., along the right side of the page is a daily balance sheet for the Phiri family. Even though it is plain text, it is a great addition to the story and helps to define a perspective. This made me wonder if I can find a way to use statistics in my project.
On Briggs, Chp. 7 - Digital Audio and Podcasting...
mp3 - most universal
wma - Windows Media
real - Real Audio
mpeg - Quicktime
mpeg-4 AAC - iTunes
- try to always use mp3
- record natural sound
- using Audacity
- vodcast - podcast with video
Be More Indie: Module One
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Research CONT.
Potential Title: Be More Indie
Four record shops I will concentrate on, each with own module:
Sound Garden - called, redirected toward Adrian
True Vine - in-store interview set for 3/9 with owner Ian Nagoski
Normal's - call back tomorrow or Saturday
Record & Tape Traders - sent emails, waiting for response
- R&TT bought out by Value Music Concepts
Potential Modules - Reptilian Records: Blog, Label and Record Shop
Other interviews:
London Scalise (music fan, mild vinyl collector)
Music Fan 2 (Find someone with LARGE vinyl collection) MICA art students?
City Paper employee(2) (for "professional" opinion on inner workings of Baltimore indie)
*Update: Al Shipley @ City Paper - Also runs Government Names (contacted)
Venue owner - Craig from Ottobar? 8 x 10/Lofi Social Club (for "professional" opinion on inner workings of Baltimore indie)
Matt Davis from 98 Rock - Spokesperson on local music in Baltimore.
Topic of conversation:
Is vinyl making a comeback? (NPR Audio) (Article 2)
Making Room For Analog in a Digital World (NPR Audio)
Four record shops I will concentrate on, each with own module:
Sound Garden - called, redirected toward Adrian
True Vine - in-store interview set for 3/9 with owner Ian Nagoski
Normal's - call back tomorrow or Saturday
Record & Tape Traders - sent emails, waiting for response
- R&TT bought out by Value Music Concepts
Potential Modules - Reptilian Records: Blog, Label and Record Shop
Other interviews:
London Scalise (music fan, mild vinyl collector)
Music Fan 2 (Find someone with LARGE vinyl collection) MICA art students?
City Paper employee(2) (for "professional" opinion on inner workings of Baltimore indie)
*Update: Al Shipley @ City Paper - Also runs Government Names (contacted)
Venue owner - Craig from Ottobar? 8 x 10/Lofi Social Club (for "professional" opinion on inner workings of Baltimore indie)
Matt Davis from 98 Rock - Spokesperson on local music in Baltimore.
Topic of conversation:
Is vinyl making a comeback? (NPR Audio) (Article 2)
Making Room For Analog in a Digital World (NPR Audio)
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Baltimore's Empire Records & More SG Research
Sound Garden Storyboard
Best of Baltimore "Best CD Store" Awards
Customer reviews
3 Best Record Stores in Baltimore
Baltimore Musician: Dan Deacon | Article about Deacon
Article about Sound Garden and how it's affected by Black Friday
Article about Fells Point
Danity Kane Signing at Sound Garden - 9/29/07
**parallels to Empire Records
On Briggs - Chapter 8 (Shooting and Managing Digital Photos)...
- Pixels - PICTure ELement - visual representation of data
- Megapixel - one million pixels - measures power of digital camera
- 3 ways to shoot photo w/ light - natural light, flash only, flash and ambient light
- Important to remember: correct lighting, correct background, steady camera, automatic setting, fill frame, focus on one thing, get closer, go vertical, shoot action, resize, only edit copy of photo
- "Blogs without art are lame."
Best of Baltimore "Best CD Store" Awards
Customer reviews
3 Best Record Stores in Baltimore
Baltimore Musician: Dan Deacon | Article about Deacon
Article about Sound Garden and how it's affected by Black Friday
Article about Fells Point
Danity Kane Signing at Sound Garden - 9/29/07
**parallels to Empire Records
On Briggs - Chapter 8 (Shooting and Managing Digital Photos)...
- Pixels - PICTure ELement - visual representation of data
- Megapixel - one million pixels - measures power of digital camera
- 3 ways to shoot photo w/ light - natural light, flash only, flash and ambient light
- Important to remember: correct lighting, correct background, steady camera, automatic setting, fill frame, focus on one thing, get closer, go vertical, shoot action, resize, only edit copy of photo
- "Blogs without art are lame."
Friday, February 22, 2008
Multimedia Story Research Part 1
Sound Garden in Fells Point Baltimore
Questions to ask:
How do you stay a float?
How do you distinguish SG in this digital music age?
Do you notice a difference in traffic now since before the digital revolution?
Do you notice a different in traffic patterns (type of consumers, ages, quantities, etc)?
DVD sales vs. CD sales
Ideas to roll with:
Baltimore and its special indie record shop - staying afloat among the big players.
Record and Tape Traders just got bought out?
City Paper's Best of Baltimore 10 years running
Keeping vinyl alive; in-stores
Official Website | Myspace | Press
Regina Spektor Live @ Sound Garden
Robin Thicke Live @ Sound Garden
Ben Kweller Live @ Sound Garden
Questions to ask:
How do you stay a float?
How do you distinguish SG in this digital music age?
Do you notice a difference in traffic now since before the digital revolution?
Do you notice a different in traffic patterns (type of consumers, ages, quantities, etc)?
DVD sales vs. CD sales
Ideas to roll with:
Baltimore and its special indie record shop - staying afloat among the big players.
Record and Tape Traders just got bought out?
City Paper's Best of Baltimore 10 years running
Keeping vinyl alive; in-stores
Official Website | Myspace | Press
Regina Spektor Live @ Sound Garden
Robin Thicke Live @ Sound Garden
Ben Kweller Live @ Sound Garden
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Sputnik, Multimedia Packages & Storyboards
On Small Multimedia Package: Sputnik...
- The multimedia package is very involved for something so small, so it's interesting to see the planning (the storyboard) that is involved. You can really see how much work goes into a project like this.
- On the package itself, I thought it was very well done. The introduction - the old television screen playing the intro movie - was a great, innovative touch. It was immediately attractive to a first time "clicker" like myself. Also, even though it didn't have much purpose, the audio of the satellites was a clever way to keep the package interactive. There was a lot of text, more than I would have liked to see (example - the time line), but the creator still kept it interesting with moving graphics and a fresh layout. Overall, I enjoyed this multimedia packages.
On Ward - Online Research and Reporting - (Chapter 3)...
- "Bottom up" approach to online research
- Gathering & dissemination: two main tasks for online journalists
- Gathering: finding info, finding people, checking info, analyzing info
- Another category - CAR: computer assisted reporting - data capture and analysis
- URLs, bookmarking, domains (geography, purpose of organization) - examples: .uk, .org, .net, .int (international orgs), .mil (US Dept. of Defense), .ac.uk (UK higher ed.), .co.uk (UK commerical), etc...
- Deconstruct potential story & look at component parts - what data, info, opinion might I need? What sites can I find this on, and can they be trusted?
- Meta data - part of HTML code (dogpile.com, infind.com) - example: search for audio files to stream or download
- Specific subject search engines: findlaw.com, healthfounder.gov
- engine math: + (and)/- (not) symbols, quotations, * - all words with root or beginning of word
- search email address: bigfoot.com, worldemail.com, people.yahoo.com
- newsgroups & mailing lists
Storyboard: Now a Major Circuit: Local and Touring Bands Recognize Baltimore's Thriving Music Scene
--> to add to storyboard: talk about what it takes for underground bands to book tours (intro, perhaps?), how tough it is to book out-of-state shows, the basics of booking shows/tours
And here's three songs I adore (and listened to while posting this blog update), just for kicks:
Third Eye Blind - "Losing A Whole Year"
Andy Hull (of Manchester Orchestra) - "Badges and Badges"
Team Goldie - "Hairodynamics"
- The multimedia package is very involved for something so small, so it's interesting to see the planning (the storyboard) that is involved. You can really see how much work goes into a project like this.
- On the package itself, I thought it was very well done. The introduction - the old television screen playing the intro movie - was a great, innovative touch. It was immediately attractive to a first time "clicker" like myself. Also, even though it didn't have much purpose, the audio of the satellites was a clever way to keep the package interactive. There was a lot of text, more than I would have liked to see (example - the time line), but the creator still kept it interesting with moving graphics and a fresh layout. Overall, I enjoyed this multimedia packages.
On Ward - Online Research and Reporting - (Chapter 3)...
- "Bottom up" approach to online research
- Gathering & dissemination: two main tasks for online journalists
- Gathering: finding info, finding people, checking info, analyzing info
- Another category - CAR: computer assisted reporting - data capture and analysis
- URLs, bookmarking, domains (geography, purpose of organization) - examples: .uk, .org, .net, .int (international orgs), .mil (US Dept. of Defense), .ac.uk (UK higher ed.), .co.uk (UK commerical), etc...
- Deconstruct potential story & look at component parts - what data, info, opinion might I need? What sites can I find this on, and can they be trusted?
- Meta data - part of HTML code (dogpile.com, infind.com) - example: search for audio files to stream or download
- Specific subject search engines: findlaw.com, healthfounder.gov
- engine math: + (and)/- (not) symbols, quotations, * - all words with root or beginning of word
- search email address: bigfoot.com, worldemail.com, people.yahoo.com
- newsgroups & mailing lists
Storyboard: Now a Major Circuit: Local and Touring Bands Recognize Baltimore's Thriving Music Scene
--> to add to storyboard: talk about what it takes for underground bands to book tours (intro, perhaps?), how tough it is to book out-of-state shows, the basics of booking shows/tours
And here's three songs I adore (and listened to while posting this blog update), just for kicks:
Third Eye Blind - "Losing A Whole Year"
Andy Hull (of Manchester Orchestra) - "Badges and Badges"
Team Goldie - "Hairodynamics"
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Homework - 02.13.08 (Ira Glass' Storytelling)
On Ira Glass' storytelling...
Ira Glass proposes two building blocks for storytelling: the anecdote and the moment of reflection. Anecdotes are a series of actions - one thing follows another - and this is where the meat of your story exists. When you jump from one action to another, the story keeps up its momentum so much so that even a boring story can sound interesting. Glass makes a poignant statement when he says that even the most exciting story can't be interesting if you don't know how to maintain this momentum. Glass also notes that it's important to maintain this by raising a question, and it's through the suspense of the answer that your audience pays attentions or "the bait," as Glass calls it.
The second building block Glass uses is what he calls the moment of reflection, which is like the conclusion to your story. If not done well, a moment of reflection gets lost and the story goes from engaging and exciting to bland. This moment needs to be GOOD. Glass also mentions that a story can have a great anecdote but a horrible moment of reflection, and vice versa. It is with the success of both building blocks that you have a good story, and this is what needs to be remembered when embarking on the storytelling process.
But even with these building blocks, Glass mentions that finding great stories is also part of the process. Time must be set aside to find interesting stories, and you have to actively pursue this goal. Good stories aren't always going to come your way, and this is something I see in feature writing and my column for The Towerlight. When pursuing a story, be "ruthless" and only bring about the good parts. Boring or dull (but perhaps partially important) parts of this story should be left out. Storytelling isn't about detail, it's about engaging the audience.
Practice makes perfect, Glass says, and he suggests working on a story a week until you get to a point where your stories are good, and not trying to be good (which is some I understand completely). This was also a great point. Starting off, your stories aren't going to be good (even with hard work), but your own taste - a taste that is refined and interesting - knows this. I see this often in my writing, and I think it's a great example of how even the most gifted of students aren't the most gifted of professionals. It takes practice and time.
On multimedia storytelling...
Key Points:
- Text, while not overwhelming, should be kept clear and concise.
- Navigation, interactivity and organization are hugely important to keeping your audience interested.
- Pick and choose what pieces of the story you tell, and your execution of their pieces is what collects interest.
- Find a way to keep your story deep and complex.
- It's important to let your users make decisions.
On Briggs - Reporting for the Web - (Chp. 4 & 6)...
Key Points:
- Data is OK. In fact, you can make it "thrive."
- Alternative Story Form - like The Oregonian - keeps the momentum of storytelling.
- Crowdsourcing and a strong reader network - community or collaborative reporting - is a great resource, and can often create its own story. This trend is used on many different faucets on the Web. Briggs used a good example with Proctor & Gamble website InnoCentive. The Internet reaction from music fans to big news about a band or a label can be a story in its own (example).
- Also important: time stamps and good headlines.
On Ward - Writing & Online Story Construction - (Chp. 4 & 5)...
Key Points:
- Write directly.
- Specific instead of generalized word choice, but simple words that are easy to interpret.
- Structure/lead is important.
- Clearly identify important elements of story and present them in effective way.
- Intro is crucial. Good intro is even more crucial. Same with headlines.
- Non-linear storytelling, embrace this interactivity.
- Operate in chucks and segments.
- Two-way model lets the audience respond and improve. Three-way model lets users contribute content.
Ira Glass proposes two building blocks for storytelling: the anecdote and the moment of reflection. Anecdotes are a series of actions - one thing follows another - and this is where the meat of your story exists. When you jump from one action to another, the story keeps up its momentum so much so that even a boring story can sound interesting. Glass makes a poignant statement when he says that even the most exciting story can't be interesting if you don't know how to maintain this momentum. Glass also notes that it's important to maintain this by raising a question, and it's through the suspense of the answer that your audience pays attentions or "the bait," as Glass calls it.
The second building block Glass uses is what he calls the moment of reflection, which is like the conclusion to your story. If not done well, a moment of reflection gets lost and the story goes from engaging and exciting to bland. This moment needs to be GOOD. Glass also mentions that a story can have a great anecdote but a horrible moment of reflection, and vice versa. It is with the success of both building blocks that you have a good story, and this is what needs to be remembered when embarking on the storytelling process.
But even with these building blocks, Glass mentions that finding great stories is also part of the process. Time must be set aside to find interesting stories, and you have to actively pursue this goal. Good stories aren't always going to come your way, and this is something I see in feature writing and my column for The Towerlight. When pursuing a story, be "ruthless" and only bring about the good parts. Boring or dull (but perhaps partially important) parts of this story should be left out. Storytelling isn't about detail, it's about engaging the audience.
Practice makes perfect, Glass says, and he suggests working on a story a week until you get to a point where your stories are good, and not trying to be good (which is some I understand completely). This was also a great point. Starting off, your stories aren't going to be good (even with hard work), but your own taste - a taste that is refined and interesting - knows this. I see this often in my writing, and I think it's a great example of how even the most gifted of students aren't the most gifted of professionals. It takes practice and time.
On multimedia storytelling...
Key Points:
- Text, while not overwhelming, should be kept clear and concise.
- Navigation, interactivity and organization are hugely important to keeping your audience interested.
- Pick and choose what pieces of the story you tell, and your execution of their pieces is what collects interest.
- Find a way to keep your story deep and complex.
- It's important to let your users make decisions.
On Briggs - Reporting for the Web - (Chp. 4 & 6)...
Key Points:
- Data is OK. In fact, you can make it "thrive."
- Alternative Story Form - like The Oregonian - keeps the momentum of storytelling.
- Crowdsourcing and a strong reader network - community or collaborative reporting - is a great resource, and can often create its own story. This trend is used on many different faucets on the Web. Briggs used a good example with Proctor & Gamble website InnoCentive. The Internet reaction from music fans to big news about a band or a label can be a story in its own (example).
- Also important: time stamps and good headlines.
On Ward - Writing & Online Story Construction - (Chp. 4 & 5)...
Key Points:
- Write directly.
- Specific instead of generalized word choice, but simple words that are easy to interpret.
- Structure/lead is important.
- Clearly identify important elements of story and present them in effective way.
- Intro is crucial. Good intro is even more crucial. Same with headlines.
- Non-linear storytelling, embrace this interactivity.
- Operate in chucks and segments.
- Two-way model lets the audience respond and improve. Three-way model lets users contribute content.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Online Presentation of the Second Chechen War
Here we have two examples of online presentation: a Wikipedia article and a multimedia story. Both are well done - the Wikipedia article is stocked full of references and clean language, and the multimedia story is artistically sound - but both are spinning two different approaches to telling the Chechen War story.
The multimedia story is an emotional, more personal account of the Second Chechen War. Pictures and stories with young kids, kids that served the military during the war, kids that serve dramatic lines like "You become like a savage," create a touching, dramatic story. Audio clips and interviews, a somber music choice, and even the use of color (black, red and gray) create a full experience rather than a simple batch of information.
While both hold great amounts of information, Wikipedia is what it is, and that's a formal explanation of the Second Chechen War, and formal explanation that cannot always be considered a credible source. Separately, I think that neither Wikipedia or the multimedia story cover the full spectrum of this experience.
A multimedia story like this one provides a great supplement to the Wikipedia page because it stretches beyond the standard facts. This way, a student or party interested in learning about the Chechen War can read a factual account and internalize an emotional approach. To enter into a subject with an open mind is key, but this can only be achieved with an open mind. By only referencing the multimedia story, the audience risks trapping themselves too much in the emotional aspect of the presentation.
When I was in middle school, and fights with my little middle friends were everyday happenings, I'd reach out to my mother as a vent source. I'd rant and rave and tell her about my issues, and she would always say "Look at the situation from their shoes." This being said, a complete (or close enough to complete) understanding of a school subject, a hostile friend situation, or the Second Chechen War can only be reached if you explore several approaches.
This applies to different multimedia stories as well, even the ones that may not weigh in as heavy on the heart or mind. (Baltimore Sun German Bakery article vs. Baltimore Sun German Bakery slideshow)
Oh, and Moms are always right.
Projects I Am Interested In:
Well Connected
Supervolcano
Islam in Europe
The multimedia story is an emotional, more personal account of the Second Chechen War. Pictures and stories with young kids, kids that served the military during the war, kids that serve dramatic lines like "You become like a savage," create a touching, dramatic story. Audio clips and interviews, a somber music choice, and even the use of color (black, red and gray) create a full experience rather than a simple batch of information.
While both hold great amounts of information, Wikipedia is what it is, and that's a formal explanation of the Second Chechen War, and formal explanation that cannot always be considered a credible source. Separately, I think that neither Wikipedia or the multimedia story cover the full spectrum of this experience.
A multimedia story like this one provides a great supplement to the Wikipedia page because it stretches beyond the standard facts. This way, a student or party interested in learning about the Chechen War can read a factual account and internalize an emotional approach. To enter into a subject with an open mind is key, but this can only be achieved with an open mind. By only referencing the multimedia story, the audience risks trapping themselves too much in the emotional aspect of the presentation.
When I was in middle school, and fights with my little middle friends were everyday happenings, I'd reach out to my mother as a vent source. I'd rant and rave and tell her about my issues, and she would always say "Look at the situation from their shoes." This being said, a complete (or close enough to complete) understanding of a school subject, a hostile friend situation, or the Second Chechen War can only be reached if you explore several approaches.
This applies to different multimedia stories as well, even the ones that may not weigh in as heavy on the heart or mind. (Baltimore Sun German Bakery article vs. Baltimore Sun German Bakery slideshow)
Oh, and Moms are always right.
Projects I Am Interested In:
Well Connected
Supervolcano
Islam in Europe
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
VB 207 ... Kinda Like Home
This blog has officially been taken over by my Writing for New Media class. I'm OK with this though. It's not like I've been keeping up with this baby, anyway, even though I was doing well for awhile. Actually, I think it'll be nice to get this thing constant again. This blog is where I really house my thoughts.
I have some neat ideas for this class. Hope I follow through with them.
I have some neat ideas for this class. Hope I follow through with them.
Monday, January 7, 2008
I Can See The Candle Dripping
My cat is keeping my right leg warm, and his gentle breathing is hypnotizing me. I breath in sync with the simple taps of the keys on my laptop, earphones in and the TV muffling in the background.
Tonight a new friend and I went to get Indian food, which is by far my most favorite food (I lied ... maybe it's Greek food, now that I think about it), and a food that I haven't had in a very, very long time. I used to roll with crowds that loved Indian food, and now my friends are I are all about the rotating sushi bar. Luckily, Sarah and I could wolf down some naan and samosas and other perfect morsels of overseas temptations. It was golden. She's interesting to talk to, but so is anyone that's their own person. Do more than meet new people - analyze them. Internalize their reactions and react to those reactions. And go on more dinner hang-outs.
While we are on the topics of dinner parties, Jac, Sara, Katherine and I gathered our parents (and London along for the ride) for a jolly night of Guitar Hero, dips and margaritas. It was great to see my main Baltimore meeting my parents; it was really important to me, and I was thrilled to see that everyone had such a good time. Pictures soon.
Do you ever laugh because you're happy? Or laugh because you didn't think you'd get to that point of pure bliss, a kind that wasn't forced on by some sweet nectar or fine substance or pre-determined anticipation. That's what I've sought out, and that's what I rarely find, but when I do, I wish I could hold onto it until my knuckles are bloody and tired. And even then, it's never enough.
I wish it was raining. That's all I'm thinking right now.
Tonight a new friend and I went to get Indian food, which is by far my most favorite food (I lied ... maybe it's Greek food, now that I think about it), and a food that I haven't had in a very, very long time. I used to roll with crowds that loved Indian food, and now my friends are I are all about the rotating sushi bar. Luckily, Sarah and I could wolf down some naan and samosas and other perfect morsels of overseas temptations. It was golden. She's interesting to talk to, but so is anyone that's their own person. Do more than meet new people - analyze them. Internalize their reactions and react to those reactions. And go on more dinner hang-outs.
While we are on the topics of dinner parties, Jac, Sara, Katherine and I gathered our parents (and London along for the ride) for a jolly night of Guitar Hero, dips and margaritas. It was great to see my main Baltimore meeting my parents; it was really important to me, and I was thrilled to see that everyone had such a good time. Pictures soon.
Do you ever laugh because you're happy? Or laugh because you didn't think you'd get to that point of pure bliss, a kind that wasn't forced on by some sweet nectar or fine substance or pre-determined anticipation. That's what I've sought out, and that's what I rarely find, but when I do, I wish I could hold onto it until my knuckles are bloody and tired. And even then, it's never enough.
I wish it was raining. That's all I'm thinking right now.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
I Appreciate Gay Mashed Up Puppies
Sitting in the librarium, listening to mash-ups and NOT studying.
Here's a couple pictures for my thoughts - Sad puppies, and The Gay Blades are one of two incredible unsigned bands at the moments, the other one being The Appreciation Post.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Too Soon? Too Soon?
Saw Gwar tonight.
So here's the thing - I don't really listen to Gwar. I've done my preliminary research, but I didn't spend most of the show up front and collecting a rainbow of dye on my white t-shirt. I watched safely from the balcony. My jaw was loose; I think my mouth was agape for the entire hour and a half. I watched the metal mayhem (with a bit of grit punk) for what it was, and that was ridiculous. How anyone can listen to Gwar for more than ten minutes is beyond me, but I can easily see how they gather such fanatical tour stops. It was like a fucking tie-dye party!
Among the decapitations, giant strap-on cock and balls, rape and governmental cracks, and minion slaves wearing thongs, Gwar struck a giant sword through a T-rex, killed Don Vito and Little Man from Viva La Bam, Bush, Osama, Hitler, and zombie dude they referred to as Casey Calvert from Hawthorne Heights (Too soon? Probably considering it was at the same venue - 930 Club in DC - but it's Gwar and no one actually takes them seriously). And as for the last defiant note of theatrical shock rock, the "singer" hollered "Fuck the police! Fuck the government! You are OK! Gwar is OK!" and something else about world domination. I might've been watching the satanic Tony awards. GG Allin knew what stage he was shitting on, but Gwar's not looking for jail time. Their set was so over-the-top, so overdone, and so overly conscious of what it was trying to do that there is no way that I cannot appreciate and be entertained. It's amusing.
If you want fucked up shit, watch these. Or read Drugs Are Nice, and even that seems relatively calm compared to the oral history of GG Allin. That guy is a fucked up motherfucker, and that's why I find him exhilarating to learn about. Lisa Suck Dog was fucked up too. Her whole fictionalized zine life was like one huge acid trip. How do these people think?
Bastardized rock history is actually PG-rated. VH1 quivers in their boot knees at footage like this, but it's the only way to understand how real underground music exists - sometimes even in current manifests. You have to watch the full spectrum, all extremes, to grasp the griminess, which is really what rock is. GG Allin, well, he's just in his own category, but the derivatives are still deserving.
Heroin seemed like a glamorous, nearly right wing way to die, GG. I almost wish you had killed yourself on stage one of those Halloweens. That, however, I don't wish to see on YouTube.
Now I need to know if Lordi takes themselves seriously. Maybe it's like a Kiss situation? Entirely theatrical but entirely too genuine of an effort?
So here's the thing - I don't really listen to Gwar. I've done my preliminary research, but I didn't spend most of the show up front and collecting a rainbow of dye on my white t-shirt. I watched safely from the balcony. My jaw was loose; I think my mouth was agape for the entire hour and a half. I watched the metal mayhem (with a bit of grit punk) for what it was, and that was ridiculous. How anyone can listen to Gwar for more than ten minutes is beyond me, but I can easily see how they gather such fanatical tour stops. It was like a fucking tie-dye party!
Among the decapitations, giant strap-on cock and balls, rape and governmental cracks, and minion slaves wearing thongs, Gwar struck a giant sword through a T-rex, killed Don Vito and Little Man from Viva La Bam, Bush, Osama, Hitler, and zombie dude they referred to as Casey Calvert from Hawthorne Heights (Too soon? Probably considering it was at the same venue - 930 Club in DC - but it's Gwar and no one actually takes them seriously). And as for the last defiant note of theatrical shock rock, the "singer" hollered "Fuck the police! Fuck the government! You are OK! Gwar is OK!" and something else about world domination. I might've been watching the satanic Tony awards. GG Allin knew what stage he was shitting on, but Gwar's not looking for jail time. Their set was so over-the-top, so overdone, and so overly conscious of what it was trying to do that there is no way that I cannot appreciate and be entertained. It's amusing.
If you want fucked up shit, watch these. Or read Drugs Are Nice, and even that seems relatively calm compared to the oral history of GG Allin. That guy is a fucked up motherfucker, and that's why I find him exhilarating to learn about. Lisa Suck Dog was fucked up too. Her whole fictionalized zine life was like one huge acid trip. How do these people think?
Bastardized rock history is actually PG-rated. VH1 quivers in their boot knees at footage like this, but it's the only way to understand how real underground music exists - sometimes even in current manifests. You have to watch the full spectrum, all extremes, to grasp the griminess, which is really what rock is. GG Allin, well, he's just in his own category, but the derivatives are still deserving.
Heroin seemed like a glamorous, nearly right wing way to die, GG. I almost wish you had killed yourself on stage one of those Halloweens. That, however, I don't wish to see on YouTube.
Now I need to know if Lordi takes themselves seriously. Maybe it's like a Kiss situation? Entirely theatrical but entirely too genuine of an effort?
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Cool Story, Jeopardy Teen!
Let me wrap these thoughts into a readable package.
Prefacing ... My roommate and I have an incredible love for The Graduate. Obsession is a more accurate descriptor, actually. I stand by these convictions: they are one of the best new bands of 2007, and their full-length Anhedonia is in the top ten of the year EASILY. And I've been blessed with their friendship; these dudes are great great people, and anytime they come through Baltimore, the fun records itself in the history books.
And now I will try to collect all the happenings from Tuesday night's festivities. I do this because it was epic, and by epic I mean it was more fun than I've ever mustered at a show and after party. Yesterday was the Baltimore stop on the Spitalfield farewell tour (at Ottobar, of course) with The Grads, The Forecast and Attention. The Grads were supposed to come in really early Tuesday morning after their CT show and catch some Z's, but the weather was a bit testy. Instead, they picked me up from the apartment - I didn't want to drive 'cause I knew the night was going to be a drunk fest - strolled over to campus so we could kidnap Jac from her Stats class, and headed to Walmart for tour necessities (Corey needed a knife so he could whittle some wood, among other things). Daniel, their new GPS, took us to the Ottobar, but not before Jac and I invested new treatment for "Anhedonia" into their brains (Puppies, killing puppies, and then killer puppies?? Please, oh please let this become a reality).
Killing time before the doors opened, Jac and I chilled around, chatted around, and then gave Spitalfield our love poster collage creation to let them know how much we appreciate their music, past and present. Handing it over, we ranted things like "Oh my god, we feel really really lame right now" and "We've never done this before." But I think they appreciated it. I enjoy showing and proving how much I appreciate music, and I especially enjoy making someone's day a bit brighter. It's little things like this that give faith to human nature, and we should all do more of it. That and use less paper products. We also decorated the Grad's van with snowmen decal, red ballons and green streamers as a Max birthday/Christmas surprise. It was pretty damn cute.
The show started, Jac and I began drinking - we rarely go out anymore; school and work has been the death of our social graces so this was our time to live free - and our wonderful friends start to roll in like pleasant peas. The Graduate played a brutal set, but Ottobar has always magnified their excellence. Lullo and I chilled upstairs (2 for Tuesdays! Killer!) for a couple drinks to catch up before he took the stage with Spitalfield (he's filling in on guitar for this tour), and by this point, Rolling Rock pulsed through my veins in high voltage. By the time Spitalfield took the stage, nothing could bring me down. And nothing did. Jac and I even did the annoying drunk thing and screamed nonsense like "Don't break up!!" and "Reconsider!!"
After the show, the plan was to go to The Grad's favorite bar in Fells Point, Friends, to rightfully celebrate Max's 21st (which was really a couple date previous), but the rest of the bands were already wasted and gravitating towards upstairs (2 for Tuesdays! Undeniable!). We convinced Wegs and Jared, the token underagers, to try their skills at getting upstairs. BEST DECISION EVER. BEST BAR NIGHT EVER. THAT'S ALL THAT NEEDS TO BE SAID.
Turns out the guys in Spitalfield are as enthusiastic as T Bell as Jac and I, so there was a major campaign to get a fourth meal at the only TB in B-more open past two (apparently, they even called the store - and I thought WE were obsessed). So after last call, we all piled into the van (including Shannon from The Forecast ... love that girl) and headed off the the holy land (or holy drive-thru). But, of course, being the attention-lacked individual I am, I insisted we jump in and jump out of Spitalfield's van while we waited for our 20 soft tacos. And yes, I'm easily amused.
We finally got home around four in the morn (I have no clue where those two hours went, and I'm still trying to piece it all together), but this is where our night comes to an capitalized end. Jac and I had planned an entire Christmas/birthday celebration with gifts under the tree, and being that we were all drunk and high on life, it was received with a high level of excitement. Who knew that Jared actually loves Star Wars? I guess that light saber was an appropriate pick.
2 C BA FO?
Now I'm onto the next day, and it's been rough. But it's also been comforting to reflect. There are nights that you'll never forget but then you do, or at least parts of them. And then there are nights that you couldn't forget and not because you made an embarrassment of yourself. Because you were having so much fun there was nothing fogging the mind, nothing to strike a sentence as awkward, and nothing that made you in the least bit upset. It was one of those nights.
I suppose the reason why I write all of this is because I never thought I would get to this point. I've been circulating myself and jamming around this sort of music since before I could legally steer a wheel, and I always dreamed of what it would be like to enjoy the company of the band's I actually listened to. It seemed odd, an off-set irregularity that required me trying too hard and feeling really awkward about it. Awkwardness is my ultimate folding point. And I almost pat myself on the back for leaving the day-dreamin' high schooler behind because I'm finally at a stage where I don't scrutinize my own voice. I've always been very opinionated, and I've always had a knack for speed humps like public speaking, but I've always been very anxious. Knots twist in my stomachs like dangerous vines. I'm leaving these knots, and recognizing this release has been the biggest learning experience Baltimore awarded me.
My mom always told me that you never stop discovering yourself, and that even when you think you've got it ALL figured out, a curveball comes hurdling your way, throwing your comfortable assumptions into the lions den. I think I've battled the lions for now; I'm just waiting on the shark pit.
I want to be on tour. I will be on tour.
Today was the first major snow. I'd say four inches? Even though my feet were snow magnets, it was quite pretty. I NEED BOOTS.
Tomorrow Katherine and I are seeing GWAR. You DID read that correctly.
On Friday, Jac and I might head up to the NJ show. Matt left his SK here and someone else left their sleeping bag. And we miss them already, so I figure if the weather isn't so bad, seeing them one more time before who knows when is a good call. They are taking January off to write (and maybe visit Baltimore in between; let us cross fingers). It could be half a year before we see them again. I don't believe in tragedies. The Eyeball offices are 20 minutes away from the NJ venue - James and I have been throwing around plans for a Demo day invasion (basically, we get to listen to all the demos they get in and make fun of really bad bands), and the situation seems all too perfect. Let's hope for good circumstances. And boots, 'cause I really need them.
"The City That Reads"
Baltimore is quiet and cold
There's no ship in the bay to take me back home
In time for the holiday
So December never ends
You come here instead
I've got gifts and food and friends
Plenty of room in my bed
Oh, you can help me mend
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
And I can live without regret
Baltimore is quiet and cold
So I walk down to the bay
Where everyone's gone inside for the holiday
Oh, December never ends
So will you make up your mind
Over time I've found a piece of me
Somewhere on these empty streets
That I could never bring myself to leave
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
When I return to you at last
Surprise me in red and black
Oh no, you never ever give in
Never give in
When you smile there's a certain line
Of muscles strained from front to back
So I'll do anything to get me right back home
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
And I can live without regret
Prefacing ... My roommate and I have an incredible love for The Graduate. Obsession is a more accurate descriptor, actually. I stand by these convictions: they are one of the best new bands of 2007, and their full-length Anhedonia is in the top ten of the year EASILY. And I've been blessed with their friendship; these dudes are great great people, and anytime they come through Baltimore, the fun records itself in the history books.
And now I will try to collect all the happenings from Tuesday night's festivities. I do this because it was epic, and by epic I mean it was more fun than I've ever mustered at a show and after party. Yesterday was the Baltimore stop on the Spitalfield farewell tour (at Ottobar, of course) with The Grads, The Forecast and Attention. The Grads were supposed to come in really early Tuesday morning after their CT show and catch some Z's, but the weather was a bit testy. Instead, they picked me up from the apartment - I didn't want to drive 'cause I knew the night was going to be a drunk fest - strolled over to campus so we could kidnap Jac from her Stats class, and headed to Walmart for tour necessities (Corey needed a knife so he could whittle some wood, among other things). Daniel, their new GPS, took us to the Ottobar, but not before Jac and I invested new treatment for "Anhedonia" into their brains (Puppies, killing puppies, and then killer puppies?? Please, oh please let this become a reality).
Killing time before the doors opened, Jac and I chilled around, chatted around, and then gave Spitalfield our love poster collage creation to let them know how much we appreciate their music, past and present. Handing it over, we ranted things like "Oh my god, we feel really really lame right now" and "We've never done this before." But I think they appreciated it. I enjoy showing and proving how much I appreciate music, and I especially enjoy making someone's day a bit brighter. It's little things like this that give faith to human nature, and we should all do more of it. That and use less paper products. We also decorated the Grad's van with snowmen decal, red ballons and green streamers as a Max birthday/Christmas surprise. It was pretty damn cute.
The show started, Jac and I began drinking - we rarely go out anymore; school and work has been the death of our social graces so this was our time to live free - and our wonderful friends start to roll in like pleasant peas. The Graduate played a brutal set, but Ottobar has always magnified their excellence. Lullo and I chilled upstairs (2 for Tuesdays! Killer!) for a couple drinks to catch up before he took the stage with Spitalfield (he's filling in on guitar for this tour), and by this point, Rolling Rock pulsed through my veins in high voltage. By the time Spitalfield took the stage, nothing could bring me down. And nothing did. Jac and I even did the annoying drunk thing and screamed nonsense like "Don't break up!!" and "Reconsider!!"
After the show, the plan was to go to The Grad's favorite bar in Fells Point, Friends, to rightfully celebrate Max's 21st (which was really a couple date previous), but the rest of the bands were already wasted and gravitating towards upstairs (2 for Tuesdays! Undeniable!). We convinced Wegs and Jared, the token underagers, to try their skills at getting upstairs. BEST DECISION EVER. BEST BAR NIGHT EVER. THAT'S ALL THAT NEEDS TO BE SAID.
Turns out the guys in Spitalfield are as enthusiastic as T Bell as Jac and I, so there was a major campaign to get a fourth meal at the only TB in B-more open past two (apparently, they even called the store - and I thought WE were obsessed). So after last call, we all piled into the van (including Shannon from The Forecast ... love that girl) and headed off the the holy land (or holy drive-thru). But, of course, being the attention-lacked individual I am, I insisted we jump in and jump out of Spitalfield's van while we waited for our 20 soft tacos. And yes, I'm easily amused.
We finally got home around four in the morn (I have no clue where those two hours went, and I'm still trying to piece it all together), but this is where our night comes to an capitalized end. Jac and I had planned an entire Christmas/birthday celebration with gifts under the tree, and being that we were all drunk and high on life, it was received with a high level of excitement. Who knew that Jared actually loves Star Wars? I guess that light saber was an appropriate pick.
2 C BA FO?
Now I'm onto the next day, and it's been rough. But it's also been comforting to reflect. There are nights that you'll never forget but then you do, or at least parts of them. And then there are nights that you couldn't forget and not because you made an embarrassment of yourself. Because you were having so much fun there was nothing fogging the mind, nothing to strike a sentence as awkward, and nothing that made you in the least bit upset. It was one of those nights.
I suppose the reason why I write all of this is because I never thought I would get to this point. I've been circulating myself and jamming around this sort of music since before I could legally steer a wheel, and I always dreamed of what it would be like to enjoy the company of the band's I actually listened to. It seemed odd, an off-set irregularity that required me trying too hard and feeling really awkward about it. Awkwardness is my ultimate folding point. And I almost pat myself on the back for leaving the day-dreamin' high schooler behind because I'm finally at a stage where I don't scrutinize my own voice. I've always been very opinionated, and I've always had a knack for speed humps like public speaking, but I've always been very anxious. Knots twist in my stomachs like dangerous vines. I'm leaving these knots, and recognizing this release has been the biggest learning experience Baltimore awarded me.
My mom always told me that you never stop discovering yourself, and that even when you think you've got it ALL figured out, a curveball comes hurdling your way, throwing your comfortable assumptions into the lions den. I think I've battled the lions for now; I'm just waiting on the shark pit.
I want to be on tour. I will be on tour.
Today was the first major snow. I'd say four inches? Even though my feet were snow magnets, it was quite pretty. I NEED BOOTS.
Tomorrow Katherine and I are seeing GWAR. You DID read that correctly.
On Friday, Jac and I might head up to the NJ show. Matt left his SK here and someone else left their sleeping bag. And we miss them already, so I figure if the weather isn't so bad, seeing them one more time before who knows when is a good call. They are taking January off to write (and maybe visit Baltimore in between; let us cross fingers). It could be half a year before we see them again. I don't believe in tragedies. The Eyeball offices are 20 minutes away from the NJ venue - James and I have been throwing around plans for a Demo day invasion (basically, we get to listen to all the demos they get in and make fun of really bad bands), and the situation seems all too perfect. Let's hope for good circumstances. And boots, 'cause I really need them.
"The City That Reads"
Baltimore is quiet and cold
There's no ship in the bay to take me back home
In time for the holiday
So December never ends
You come here instead
I've got gifts and food and friends
Plenty of room in my bed
Oh, you can help me mend
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
And I can live without regret
Baltimore is quiet and cold
So I walk down to the bay
Where everyone's gone inside for the holiday
Oh, December never ends
So will you make up your mind
Over time I've found a piece of me
Somewhere on these empty streets
That I could never bring myself to leave
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
When I return to you at last
Surprise me in red and black
Oh no, you never ever give in
Never give in
When you smile there's a certain line
Of muscles strained from front to back
So I'll do anything to get me right back home
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
So here's to being alone
To anyone on their own
If anyone's listening
Think of me when I'm gone
It's not going to hurt for long
And you can just forget
And I can live without regret
Sunday, November 18, 2007
GWAR ... GWARRAWRRARRR
I am unsure if living in my Internet dream world is as satisfying as a real dream world. But maybe the two aren't really that different anyway?
I learned a few things that weekend. One - I have to keep my game top-notch. Two - Jeff Hurn's Revel is actually awesome, and not like a B-rated Taxlo. Three - Amanda Lynn is an incredible person. I have so much respect for her; I wish her the best in everything she does.
Katherine and I are going to see GWAR at 930 Club on December 6th. I just bought tickets. Do you understand the severity of this situation?? Because, according to my list of life goal, this is pretty up there. Now I just have to see Lordi, and I'll have mainstream shockrock in my back pocket.
I update my AP Blog way more than this one, but I am going to try to keep this gem up and running as much as possible.
Act tough, think big. Believe in monstrosities.
I learned a few things that weekend. One - I have to keep my game top-notch. Two - Jeff Hurn's Revel is actually awesome, and not like a B-rated Taxlo. Three - Amanda Lynn is an incredible person. I have so much respect for her; I wish her the best in everything she does.
Katherine and I are going to see GWAR at 930 Club on December 6th. I just bought tickets. Do you understand the severity of this situation?? Because, according to my list of life goal, this is pretty up there. Now I just have to see Lordi, and I'll have mainstream shockrock in my back pocket.
I update my AP Blog way more than this one, but I am going to try to keep this gem up and running as much as possible.
Act tough, think big. Believe in monstrosities.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Practice Breathing
My body is exhausted. My mind is too. I woke up as the morning sky was still kneading its sleepy eyes and drifted off to work. There I drank about five cups of iced coffee and three cups of iced black teas. I couldn't tell if I was thirsty or tired or sipping to give me something to do other than ponder. See, I get in these ruts where I think too much. I clam up like sweaty palms and crave pills. I stay awake until I can't stay awake any longer so I won't have to sit in the dark and be along with my thoughts. THAT scares the shit out of me when I'm wallowing in these gutter moods, and all I can do it wait for the tide to change on its own accord.
Instead of a gradual orbital switch, my email hit me with a brutal wave to the face. When I got home from work, hyped like an overhype, I realized that I had to conduct a phone interview with Chris Carrabba within the next two hours. Because my stomach wasn't already knotted and tense enough. Because higher forces could probably sense that only something that would force me out of my rut would force me out of my rut. And it did. The interview kept getting pushed earlier, and I kept pacing the space between my bed and my dresser, lips pursed. Interviews don't really make me nervous anymore, not like they used to. Interviews with men like Chris Carrabba, arguably one of the most important musicians to nestle into my CD case, do make me nervous.
But he was really nice.
And he was very well-spoken, articulate and ... I don't know ... soft?
And he said some really neat things that I can't wait to get up for the Internet world to buzz about.
I think this album is going to be similar to AMAMABAS. More organic, maybe? Keep watch for the 'view. "Thick as Thieves," "Little Bombs," and "Keep Watch For Mines" are all killer teasers, and I've been replaying them like I used to with those old Places and Swiss Army tracks of my youth. The Shade of Poison Trees is going to dominate Dusk and Summer, and I have never been so relieved. Maybe Chris can help me work on this rut too.
Instead of a gradual orbital switch, my email hit me with a brutal wave to the face. When I got home from work, hyped like an overhype, I realized that I had to conduct a phone interview with Chris Carrabba within the next two hours. Because my stomach wasn't already knotted and tense enough. Because higher forces could probably sense that only something that would force me out of my rut would force me out of my rut. And it did. The interview kept getting pushed earlier, and I kept pacing the space between my bed and my dresser, lips pursed. Interviews don't really make me nervous anymore, not like they used to. Interviews with men like Chris Carrabba, arguably one of the most important musicians to nestle into my CD case, do make me nervous.
But he was really nice.
And he was very well-spoken, articulate and ... I don't know ... soft?
And he said some really neat things that I can't wait to get up for the Internet world to buzz about.
I think this album is going to be similar to AMAMABAS. More organic, maybe? Keep watch for the 'view. "Thick as Thieves," "Little Bombs," and "Keep Watch For Mines" are all killer teasers, and I've been replaying them like I used to with those old Places and Swiss Army tracks of my youth. The Shade of Poison Trees is going to dominate Dusk and Summer, and I have never been so relieved. Maybe Chris can help me work on this rut too.
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