chase in action

Warped Round Two

2010-07-04T12:57:00.001-07:00

I will be at the next two weeks of the Vans Warped Tour giving away download cards and stickers at our tent which we are sharing with the wonderful folks at Topshelf Records. You can purchase CDs, No Sleep Shirts and more! Below are the upcoming dates. Come say Hi and support two great labels putting out great music!

July 5: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - St. Louis, MO
July 6: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - Indianapolis, IN
July 7: First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown, PA
July 8: Time Warner Cable Amphitheater - Cleveland, OH
July 9: Arrow Hall - Toronto, ON
July 10: Parc Jean Drapeau - Montreal, QC
July 11: Comcast Theater - Hartford, CT
July 13: Comcast Center - Mansfield, MA
July 14: Darien Lake P.A.C. - Darien Center, NY
July 15: Toyota Pavilion - Scranton, PA
July 16: Susquenhanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
July 17: Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum - Uniondale, NY

Warped

2010-06-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Chris and I at the No Sleep Records tent at the Vans Warped Tour. After 3 days of not sleeping, sitting in the sun, making fun of haircut bands and breakdowns, I find myself playing mega catch up with my email and phone calls. I may be heading back out on Warped starting next week. Excited and dreading it at the same time.

tour(nerd) life.

France

2010-06-20T12:45:00.001-07:00

The first day off in over two weeks was filled with miles of walking, incredible crepes, beautiful architecture and wonderful company. Paris was great.

English Life

2010-06-17T14:35:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I wander into the woods in rural England and hang out on an iphone.

Spain

2010-06-13T03:27:00.000-07:00

I had a battle with a crawfish in Vidreres, Spain.

9-5

2010-06-08T15:56:00.000-07:00

My new office/desk at No Sleep. I’m excited to get back home and get things set up.

European Transmission Part III

2010-06-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't had much down time since the last update so I figured now would be a good time to knock out a post. We have some time sitting around while it rains for the 30th time, why not.

Following the day off in Lille with our buddy Jeff, we headed out to spend our next day off in Amsterdam. Last time around, Amsterdam was one of my favorite cities to explore. I know why others really enjoy their time in this city but as I don't indulge in said things, its more about the architecture, culture and exploration. Overall, a beautiful city. I had a fun time wandering and showing Evan around during the day. The Grown Ups guys seemed overwhelmed with what the city had to offer but in a good way. After this long day we shacked up in the van overnight alongside one of the canals near the city center. I spent the following morning exploring the city a bit more, union station and a few museums on my own and followed this with some breakfast with Evan. We also shot a little "take away" show with Evan sitting on a boat in the canal that will be featured on Rock Sound TV in the near future. Great day off.

Our next stop was Drachten, Netherlands, about 3 hours or so east of Amsterdam. Iduna was a neat venue filled with really nice and accommodating folks. Show didn't have the best turn out but hey, it was Drachten, Netherlands. We departed from the venue, grabbed some late night eats and hit our hotel for the evening. During this hotel stay, Evan and I made a bet on the Flyers/Blackhawks series and proceeded to stay awake to catch game one. Needless to say, a lot of trash talking was going on from our neighboring beds. Our bet has the winner getting a brand new pair of Fred Perry shoes purchased by the losing party. You should know, I have an addiction to my Perry kicks.

We hit the road nice and early after breakfast to make the long trip down to Rosswein, Germany. We had no idea what to expect from this show as it was put together fairly late and we had limited details. We arrived after a long drive through awful rain (a pretty standard occurrence through out the next few days) to one of the coolest venues of tour thus far. as well as some of the coolest and nicest guys and gals. Turns out the promoter and company had seen Grown Ups when attending This Is Ours Fest last year in the States. Pretty awesome to see Lion of The North t-shirts and hear Lautrec playing on the stereo while eating dinner. Reminders of how great home really is. The show ruled and the conversations were quite refreshing. Post show we headed about 10-15 minutes over to Döbeln to rest our heads. Another fairly small yet awesome village. We stayed with our new friends at their huge house/cafe/community space and ended the night with drinks and plenty of great hang outs.

We had yet another day off but this turned out to be for the best. We spent the day at the same house/cafe/community center as the night before. We napped, worked, explored, ate, watched movies and relaxed indoors while avoiding the rain. I think the highlight of this day off was the foosball/kicker/table soccer tournament we put together. We've seemed to develop a bit of an addiction. Always turns out to be a load of trash talking and fun times.

Next stop: Krakow, Poland. We had to do a bit of emailing and googling before hitting the road. I guess because of all the rain most of Poland and Krakow had flooded. After figuring out that the show was still on as planned and not cancelled, we hit the road. The weather and traffic extended the drive to about 9 hours and we finally arrived at Tom's home where we were greeted with a wonderful dinner prepared by Tom and his girlfriend, Agata. We were a bit late to the venue but were surprised to find a bunch of people awaiting the show. Evan's (IIOI) set was quite amazing. Not only did he sound great (as always) but the crowd loved him. They wouldn't allow him to unplug his guitar and forced him to play more songs than originally planned. An amazing sight to see. Proud of him. Grown Ups set was great as well. Crowd was moving around and really seemed to be enjoying themselves. We sold some merch, chatted it up with some very nice Polish folks and headed back to Tom's apartment. Evening ended with some partying and such before everyone finally passed out. Poland overall is a very depressing place but the people are very nice and seem to not be effected by the state of the country and economy. Its refreshing to see.

We awoke bright an early to head back to Germany for the show in Dresden. Another long and boring drive through Poland. We ended up stopping off at a McDonald's to grab a quick bite. Now, you would assume this is fairly boring or normal but alas this stop was not. We walked into a weird, grand opening celebration filled with an insane amount of employees, the Polish Ronald McDonald (Clowns freak me out.. big time) and balloons. Tons of balloons. Mind you, this is in the middle of nowhere. Kinda weird. Made for an interesting lunch stop nonetheless.

The show in Dresden was at this pretty neat venue called AZ Conni. Hospitality was great as always, show was solid and it was awesome getting to see our Rosswein/Döbeln friends again. I wish I had a bit more time to explore the city though. A lot of history in Dresden. We were located a bit away from the city center and were running on a tight schedule for our long trip down to Vienna.

I think this is a good place to stop for today. I have some emails and post cards to finish up before bed.

Transmission IV: Austria, Czech Republic, Germany and more

Currently Listening: Marnie Stern - This Is It...

European Transmission Part II

2010-05-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

Its been a few days since I've had the time to put together a full update and so far Europe has left me with a lack of internet to do so on any downtime we've had.

Lets begin:

Nottingham was one of my favorite stops during the Warship tour last year and I was quite excited to head back again. The city is fairly cool but its more so the events that take place here that end up making the time spent here all the better. Last year we stayed up drinking late into the evening at a 3 floor, weirdo dance party that played a ton of 80s hair metal before heading back to the van to grab our bags. Pete ended up passing out drunk in the front seat and so we left him in the van assuming he would wake up and find his way to our hotel. When we arose, Pete was nowhere to be found. Turns out he was locked in the van due to child safety locks or something. Lets just say, he had a rough morning. This trip to Nottingham was equally as wonderful as the last. The show was a success and I ended up meeting this lovely young lady who was working the bar in the venue that evening. Beautiful she was. After the show we headed back to the promoters house where the guys decided to stay in and have a more chill evening. I ended up heading back to town with the promoter and said lovely lady. Evening was filled with drinks, dancing and wonderful conversations with Holly. I ended up not being able to find the promoter as he vanished with some friends and left me unable to return to our place of rest. I pulled an all nighter with Holly and met up with the guys at the Warsaw Diner, which was the same American/Polish diner we ate at on the Warship tour last year. We followed up Nottingham with a trip to Kirk's parents house outside of Birmingham to grab a few beverages and do some relaxing. It was quite nice and they had a beautiful home. So welcoming.

Next stop was Cardiff, Wales. What a beautiful city. I've never had the chance to experience Cardiff as we played Newport, Wales the last time around. One of my favorite cities in the UK, hands down. Can you really beat the castle either? so awesome. The show was great too. Ceri put on a wonderful show with wonderful hospitality. The support bands were pretty damn good as well. We met up with Kat in Cardiff who ended up throwing us the house show in Swansea later that evening. The hour ride west was filled with group discussions about our favorite bands and records. Swansea house show was filled with drinks, acoustic guitars and plenty of yelling. After the sets we skipped out and crashed. Next morning included a nice full english breakfast, walk around Swansea and a short but totally rad beach trip.

Birmingham turned out to be my least favorite gig of the tour but it was really cool getting to know the Shapes dudes. So nice and one hell of a band. Can't wait to hear their new record. We crashed with a friend in the Birmingham City Centre that evening and enjoyed more conversations and some brews. I awoke to my air mattress completely airless on the kitchen floor. Never a fun experience. Walking around looking for a quick bite to eat in the morning gave us some time to check out the city a bit. So much history. After grabbing a quick bite we headed over to Ibanez/Laney to pick up another guitar for Evan and started our trek back to London.

The Social in London was our next and last destination in the UK for a few weeks. Super cool venue. Really tiny but worked out really great. It was a busy afternoon and evening filled with acoustic sessions, photo shoots, booking/press talks and overall socializing with friends I hadn't seen in awhile. We crashed with our buddy Lewis (from the great bands Colour and Meet Me In St. Louis) out side of London. He made us feel right at home and was a great host.

The next morning was hell for me. Woke up not being able to swallow and with the worst inner ear pain. Being sick on tour is the worst. We had to get up quite early so Lewis could get to work and so we could catch our ferry over to France. I ended up passing out in the van right away and awoke as we were arriving in Dover. We tried to head up to the castle atop the cliffs but alas, this cost money and we decided to go find ourselves breakfast instead. After boarding the ferry Kirk and I shacked up on some couches for a quick nap but awoke to about 100 little school children yelling and running around us. Another not so fun thing to wake up to. We gambled a bit and found another set of couches to catch a bit more sleep. After a 4 hour or so drive we arrived at La Cantine de Belleville in Paris. Such a cool venue. Looked like a little dungeon or cave. The rider only had enough food supplied for the band members so Kirk and I headed out to find something to eat. We settled for a little Chinese place about a block away from the venue. I was enjoying a good Pho soup before noticing (after eating) that said soup had animal intestine in it. Kirk ended up eating the rest of this intestine as we finished up and headed back through the rain to the venue. Show went well and the french folks bought a lot of vinyl. Seeing this makes me very happy. The best part of this gig was the load of Americans that came out to see the bands. It felt very much like home. Seeing Martin and Mike Cella made my night. Always nice to see a familiar face when so far away from home. We ended up staying at Mike's place for two nights. He was a great tour guide and host. We had the day off in Paris and decided to see as much as physically possible in one day. We made trips to Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Louvre and more. A breathtaking city filled with an incredible amount of history. I ended the evening with a fever and sore feet. We all ended up going to bed at a decent hour and sleeping in for the first time in a long while.

Day off number two landed us in Lille, France. We arrived mid afternoon and grabbed a beer at a local pub while waiting for Jeff, our host for the evening, to meet us. Jeff plays in this rad band you should check out called Heliport. We hit the market and picked up some pasta, beef and other fixings for a home cooked dinner. We followed this up with a short trip over the border into Belgium to pick up some cheap and delicious Belgian beer. 2 euros for a giant Duvel? yes please. Dinner and conversations were wonderful. Jeff and his girlfriend have a great home and again, awesome hosts.

Doyle has now walked into the room to head to bed. I assume I should do the same.

Transmission III: Netherlands, Germany, Poland and more

European Transmission Part I

2010-05-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

These blog posts are going to be a bit behind as we've been quite busy and during down time I find myself wanting to sleep more so than anything else. I landed in London after a shitty 10 hour flight and we headed up to Derby. One of the best shows of tour thus far with an incredible crowd full of good people. Following the show we loaded out and made our way over to a house where the bands played a second set at a couple of rad dudes flat. Basement was pretty tight, so Evan played in the living room for what would be one of the coolest sets of tour so far. Grown Ups packed into this tiny basement and blasted out a few songs not played earlier in the night and a few covers as well. I'm sure video has surfaced of this event by now.

Next stop was Leeds, A city I've never been to but heard would be a great time. After arriving at Matty's house we sucked down a few beers and rolled out to do some midday bowling. Its nice to not be running around all afternoon and be able to relax a bit pre show. After another great turn out we ended up back at Matty's for some talks and more beer. We ended up staying up until the sun arose before passing out on the couch.

Most of the photos above are from the drive to Manchester as well as our group photo out side the Dirty Otter house. Manchester is one of my favorite English cities and I always have a great time driving around and exploring. After another good gig at Tiger Lounge, we headed back and crashed pretty early. We followed our sleep with Curry Mile where I had some of the best Indian food of my life before hitting the road bound for Nottingham.

Thats all for now as I want to enjoy my coffee before we are head out to London for a busy day of interviews, meetings and the last UK show of the tour. More updates coming in the next day or so. Excuse the lack of details and grammatical errors.

Transmission II: Nottingham, Cardiff, Swansea, Birmingham and London.

Yaa I Get It

2010-05-15T21:13:00.000-07:00

I have a secret (not so secret) love for hip-hop and was nerd-ing out with a buddy of mine about some albums we've been listening to lately. He mentions this Canadian artist he's been into. He proceeded with a link. I heard one song and was sold on this man's skills. If you enjoy your hip-hop, this is an artist you shouldn't sleep on: Shad .

Currently Listening: Double Vision - D.I.Y. or Die Single

X

2010-05-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

Tour starts Monday and I still have so much to finish up before heading overseas. Its a bit overwhelming but no doubt a well needed trip. We will be hitting a good mix of bigger and smaller cities. I'm excited. It'll be nice to spend more time in places I've already been and really great to explore some new places I have yet to set foot in. I don't think I will ever get sick of exploring new places.

May 18 Derby, United Kingdom
May 19 Leeds, United Kingdom
May 20 Manchester, United Kingdom
May 21 Nottingham, United Kingdom
May 22 Cardiff, United Kingdom
May 23 Birmingham, United Kingdom
May 24 London, United Kingdom
May 25 Paris, France
May 26 Brussels, Belgium
May 27 Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 28 Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 29 Drachten, Netherlands
May 30 Rosswein, Germany
May 31 Warsaw, Poland
June 1 Krakow, Poland
June 2 Dresden, Germany
June 3 Vienna, Austria
June 4 Strakonice, Czech Republic
June 5 Wiesbaden, Germany
June 6 Strasbourg, France
June 7 Aachen, Germany
June 8 Dornbirn, Austria
June 9 Milan, Italy
June 10 Marseille, France
June 11 Vidreres, Spain
June 12 Bordeaux, France
June 13 Rennes, France
June 14 Southampton, United Kingdom
June 15 London, United Kingdom

Currently Listening: Dead To Me - African Elephants

2 Trees

2010-05-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

My roommate doesn't like leaving the house much. He's scared of everything.

Party Mathematics

2010-05-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

After about of year of preparing, Big Scary Monsters US has finally put out its first release. Noumenon's Party Mathematics was released today and can be found in just about every digital market place on the planet. You can also score the album with a "pay what you want" download at the band's Bandcamp page. Pay $100 or pay nothing, we just want everyone to be able to enjoy this incredible EP. This release means a lot to me. Not only are they my great friends but as a fan, I adore these songs. Hardworking, original bands deserve the support. Below are links to a few outlets to which you can purchase or download Party Mathematics. Hope you enjoy!

Bandcamp
iTunes (US, UK, EU, CA, JP, AU, NZ)
eMusic (US, UK, EU)
Napster (US, UK, CA, JP)
Rhapsody (US)
Amazon MP3 (US)
7 Digital (Worldwide)
Zune (US)
Spotify (UK, EU)

Beach

2010-04-30T14:20:00.000-07:00

How incredible is this new Mew video?

Home

2010-04-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

I'm getting the hang of this California lifestyle

Currently Listening: Tubelord - Our First American Friends

Story Time

2010-04-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

This man approached me randomly in an alley outside a venue in Canoga Park, CA. He came up to take a photo of my ears. After a few minutes of being asked awkward questions about my body modifications he, in his broken english, asked "can I ask questions for YouTube?". I instantly became super confused as he broke out this old cell phone with video capabilities. He asked what kind of show was going on and if this is what we did for a living. I said "uh..punk rock show and yes, kind of?" as I felt that was a broad enough way to explain things. His response was "please explain us what punk rock is". At this point Mitchell walked up and took this hilarious photo and I bailed, leaving Zach and Mitchell to entertain our alley guest. Guess you had to be there?

I really hope this shows up on YouTube at some point.

walk these streets

2010-04-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Morning burritos in San Francisco, CA

live large, a big house, 5 cars

2010-04-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have to take a picture with Cypress Hill in Berkeley California.

8x8

2010-04-22T23:30:00.000-07:00

So much fun was had this week.

Desert

2010-04-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

This is how I roll.

Desert, Birthday, Boat?

2010-04-18T13:42:00.001-07:00

The past few days in cell phone photos. fancy right? Deserts, photo shoots, Chinese food, boats, Spinderella, records, mid-day naps, house shows and birthday shenanigans. Good times.

Big Fucker

2010-04-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to the hell out of these Men demos for the past few months and in honor of them joining the BSM family, I figured I'd post one and a Pitchfork blurb about said track:

"Men think modern life is rubbish. This Norwich-based three-piece write songs that document the prosaic everyday horrors of the white-collar wage slave. Songs like "Re: Your Re-Branding", "Workin' in the Office", and "Texting the Internet" are so true-to-life, you can practically hear the low hum of the fluorescent lights and the incessant beep of the jammed printer. While most of Men's output deals in latent frustrations, "Big Fucker" is their giant middle finger extended in the direction of the corner office-- singling out the boss with the pointless meeting agendas, the "pretender… dressed for success in the boardroom." Probably no accident that the keyboard tone is eerily reminiscent of one of Patrick Bateman's favorites: Huey Lewis and the News. Though here the slickness is played for laughs, a signifier of the profit motive that drives esoteric jargon-speak and ridiculous motivational speeches. Yet despite Men's attempts to sugarcoat with sardonic humor, there's an unavoidably sad truth at the heart of their corporate tale: toil away in obscurity or risk becoming that fucking guy."

Men - Big Fucker

Busy Weeks

2010-04-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

So many things going on before the trip out of the country. Its a bit overwhelming yet, I'm excited. The photo above was taken on our last weekend trip to the Bay Area. We had a blast.

April 14th - Evan (Into It. Over It.) lands in Los Angeles
April 15th - IIOI w/We Are The Union, Such Gold at Cobalt Cafe
April 16th - Huntington Beach, CA hang outs w/Evan and Co.
April 17th - IIOI w/Boris Smile at GAPS Community
April 18th - IIOI music video/Rock Sound TV video/photoshoot
April 19th - IIOI w/The Sheds, The Braces at Dig In
April 20th - San Francisco trip with Evan, Mitch/Hanalei Photoshoot
April 21st - IIOI w/Hanalei at Mama Buzz - Oakland, CA
April 22nd - Evan leaves LA and Speck lands in LA
April 23rd - Tattoos and Good Old War, RX Bandits at Glasshouse
April 24th - Tattoos
April 25th - Tattoos
April 26th - Speck leaves LA
April 27th - May 7th: a ton of relaxing and sleeping
May 8th - Chicago Trip (Grown Ups Record Release Show)
May 9th - Chicago Trip
May 10th - Chicago Trip
May 11th - Leave for New York
May 12th - Brooklyn, NY
May 13th - Fly to London

Currently Listening: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Beat The Devil's..

Nerdz

2010-04-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

We are 12 years old.

Currently Listening: Liars - Sisterworld

Ordinary boys, happy knowing nothing

2010-04-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Happy being no one but themselves..

Weekdays

2010-04-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Proud evolution, Proud evolution. You should be careful.

Evenings

2010-04-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

I picked up five new albums and plan to sit back with some blogs and good conversations. I need a nice relaxing evening after the past few late nights. Not to mention, the upcoming weekend of party:

Friday:
- Former Thieves at McWorld
- Andrew WK / 2010 Warped Tour Kick-Off Party at Key Club
Saturday:
- Liars/Fol Chen at the El Rey Theatre

-----------------
Five albums:
- Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Beat The Devil's Tattoo (Vagrant)
- Broken Bells Broken Bells (Columbia)
- Four Tet There Is Love In You (Domino)
- Nice Nice Extra Wow (Warp)
- Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings I Learned The Hard Way (Daptone)

6

2010-04-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

If you haven't check out this band yet, I highly suggest doing so. Three Trapped Tigers (London) have been on constant repeat via my iPod these past few weeks. With every listen I find something new buried in the electronics and underneath the interesting time changes. The vinyl will hopefully see stateside release in the near future. Until then, watch the above video (incredible live set), the below video (new song), purchase the bands EPs and share them all your friends. They blow my mind every time I toss on my headphones. Hopefully they'll have the same effect on you.

Rooftops

2010-04-06T00:37:00.000-07:00

I spent two weeks in Silver Lake. The California sun cascading down my face..

One Big Night

2010-04-02T18:16:00.000-07:00

Big Scary Monsters Recording Company and Brick Gun Records will be teaming up for a split release of a record from one of my favorite songwriters, Brian Moss. I've been a big fan for many years and I'm sure I've mentioned how much I loved The Ghost at some point in this nerd journal. The new Hanalei record, One Big Night, is slated for a June 1st release in the United States and United Kingdom on CD/Digital formats. I can't wait for everyone to hear the wonderful songs on this album. Brian's best work so far. Below I posted an exclusive track (favorite track) off this new album as well as my favorite track off of Parts and Accessories (2006). Enjoy

Hanalei - Rats

Hanalei - MLK, You're OK

They've got us in a cage

2010-03-31T18:19:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to finally be able to share this release and artist with everyone. Noumenon has been slaying basements across the midwest and east coast for some time now but finally the band has slated its first formal release. Party Mathematics will released digitally via Big Scary Monsters Recording Company in both the US and UK on May 4th. Keep an eye out for some fun features, reviews and streams of the EP prior to its release date. You can check out a track for the EP below titled Algoresrhythm.

Freelance

2010-03-30T18:54:00.000-07:00

I feel like I've been in a music listening rut these past two months. I've really ventured away from the music that I truly find interesting. While going through a lot of changes with daily life, moving and just being overall distracted, I found myself only wanting to listen to records that didn't make me feel anything, that didn't take much thought to listen to. I think I'm finally pulling out of this phase and picked up some new albums I'm extremely excited to listen to spend time with. One of said records is from the above band, Freelance Whales. Another incredible new(er) band brought to you by Frenchkiss Records. I've been meaning to get into this band for months now and just neglected to do so.

Currently Listening: Fuck Buttons - Tarot Sport

Pimpin Anthropods

2010-03-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited about this limited run, split release we posted for pre-order today. Noumenon is a band that personally means a lot to me and Talons are one of the most talented new bands out right now. Teaming them up for this split was just brilliant. My ear drums hurt (in a good way) just thinking about these bands sharing a stage together in the future. The splits are limited to just 100 copies and will never be repressed or available for digital download. Get a copy while you still can!

Currently Listening - Talons - Pearl 7"

What I (Re)Built Last Night

2010-03-28T18:18:00.001-07:00

I can't focus when my work area/living space is a complete mess. Its one of my biggest pet peeves. After a long evening of show hopping, beer and whiskey consumption, free tacos and floor sleeping, I decided to head back to my place to catch up on work and relax. The first thing I noticed when walking in was the overall chaos that was my workspace. Stacks of vinyl, cds, paper and other crap. I used a few plastic bins to organize up all the clutter and now feel 100 times better. I'm a man of little personal items and I like my workspace to showcase this.

A list of the only items I keep on or around my desk:

- Extremely beat up Macbook
- Computer monitor
- iPod
- Blackberry
- Books I'm currently reading (Dead Emcee Scrolls/100 Years of Solitude)
- Computer speakers
- External hard drive
- Moleskine notebook
- Headphones
- Picture of Stephanie and I back in high school that I was given when I moved to California in 2008. Adorable and hilarious.
- Assorted pens and sharpies
- Flash drives
- Lamp
- First Grown Ups sticker design
- Two plastic bins filled with records, cds and assorted crap

Enough nerdy talk about my stupid desk or lack of personal items and lets talk about last night's Coathangers show. They sounded better than ever and played for a full, enthusiastic crowd. Its always nice spending time with the ladies. I mostly end up getting harassed (in a playful, fun way) and drinking way too much. This happened every night for a few weeks and now has been minimized to a few times a year. So glad to see them doing well. Check the band out if you haven't done so already.

Currently Listening: Castevet - The Echo & The Light

I can taste California

2010-03-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

This is my new roommate. He drools a lot but he is quite a rad dude. He likes to hang out with me while I work.

I think you should be on the look out for some fun new things from the band above, Atlantic/Pacific (ex Texas Is The Reason). The album is really beautiful and will be released in the near future.

Currently Listening: Saves The Day - Stay What You Are

Audio Geography

2010-03-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

United Kingdom, I'm coming back.

May 14: Great Escape Fesival @ Pav Tav - Brighton, UK
May 15: Goblets - Southampton, UK
May 16: Boileroom (matinee show) - Guildford, UK
May 16: The Fighting Cock (evening show) - Kingston, UK
May 17: TBA SPECIAL COVERS SET - London, UK
May 18: Big Blue Coffee Shop - Derby, UK
May 19: Royal Park Cellars - Leeds, UK
May 20: Tiger Lounge - Manchester, UK
May 21: The Chameleon Arts Cafe - Nottingham, UK
May 22: Clwb Ifor Bach - Cardiff, UK
May 23: The Flapper - Birmingham, UK
May 24: BSM Showcase @ The Social - London, UK
w/Grown Ups and Into It. Over It.

Currently Listening: Sundowner - Four One Five Two

Cold Nights

2010-03-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight I spend my last evening at the place I called "home" for the past 5 months. I really can't put into words the distaste I have for this place and the memories it holds. I can't wait to leave them all behind with very few reminders of what transpired here. We all have regrets and we all push on. I literally fit everything I own into 3 bags, all of which sit on the bed behind me. It really feels good to leave everything behind. To forget.

I'm sorry Chicago, I just can't handle you anymore. See you in May.

On a much more positive, less depressing note, I can't wait to catch these two Narrows shows in San Diego and Los Angeles this week.

March 24th: Radio Room - San Diego, CA
March 25th: The Smell - Los Angeles, CA w/Dangers

Currently Listening: Band of Horses - Everything All The Time

Saturday

2010-03-21T16:47:00.000-07:00

I spent a majority of my Saturday at Mastermind Ink with good friend and talented artist, Speck Osterhout. 5 or so hours were spent re-working and adding to my already in-process sleeve and so far, everything looks really great. I can't wait for the next session. So much more to add and finish up.

I HIGHLY recommend hitting up Speck for some work if you're in the Chicagoland area. You won't be disappointed.

Currently Listening: Hanalei - One Big Night

I left a lot of blood in California

2010-03-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

This week has been one filled with phone calls, emails, and planning hang outs before I move. I decided to abandon life here in Chicago and head back towards Los Angeles for the second time. These city streets continue to haunt me with the memories of past and present distress. It seems when things falls apart or I'm feeling depressed, I relocate and detach myself from everyone and everything I know. I may have been good at hiding this but for the past few months, life has been personally and emotionally grueling. We shall see how long this stint lasts. I made it 10 months the first time around and I don't plan on coming back to Chicago anytime soon. I guess you could say I'm starting to "see the light at the end of tunnel".

My list obsession will continue with this post. Below is the list of my plans for the rest of this week and early next:

- Friday: Chicago hang outs with Jeremy and others.

- Saturday: Tattoo session to expand my sleeve, daytime outing with Ryan, bars and hang outs with all my favorite people.

- Sunday: Former Thieves/Into It Over It/Castevet show and hang outs with Berto, Jaunice, William and Kate. I'm really looking forward to this. Just like the old days.

- Monday: getting new glasses, finishing up packing, catching up on some emails and saying final/special goodbyes.

- Tuesday: California bound.

- Wednesday: Narrows show and hangouts in San Diego, CA

- Thursday: Narrows/Dangers show and hangouts in Los Angeles, CA

April is going to be one busy yet fun month. I cant wait. My extreme optimism as of late is kind of scaring me. I think my usually negative, depressing self has been buried for awhile. Life is solid.

"everyone is sober and I am on my own now"

Currently Listening: Tangled Hair - First

Adventures

2010-03-08T18:35:00.000-08:00

The other day my good buddy Chris and I decided to head out on a little sightseeing adventure and snap a few photos. We ended up checking out the Baha'i Temple in Wilmette, Illinois. Its one of seven in the entire world. Its really a wonderful piece of architecture. Here, Chris snapped the first of the two photos above. The alley of trees leading up to the temple was a perfect backdrop. Location two was a bit harder to find. Especially with it being a race against the sun. We drove around looking for somewhere, anywhere to set up shop and finally found what we were looking for just before sun down. It was outside of this small airport down the street from my house. As you can see in photo two, the sunset really brought out some nice colors. I think everyone should check out Chris' work and hire him to do something for you. Band promos, documenting, anything. He's a talented, rad dude.

Chris Regalado's Flickr

Currently Listening: The Wonder Years - The Upsides

Not Necessarily The News

2010-03-06T22:35:00.000-08:00

Its Saturday evening and I decided to stay in and finish up some booking and random emailing rather than head out. During the course of said evening, as I was searching for records to listen to, I realized what a weird music faze I've been in lately. I noticed myself listening to a lot of my favorite records from high school. now, most of these releases have stuck with me and were tossed on at certain times here and there but lately its been a ton of the old punk records I loved and connected with for so many reasons, so many years ago. I don't know if this is because of the break up really putting me in this place where I can't focus the intricacies of the music I'm listening to or just me realizing how much these records meant to me and my musical development. I've even found myself in search of new bands that posses this similar feel. Its actually quite refreshing to go back to the basics.

Now that a pointless back story was given, lets make a list of what albums I've been listening to lately. A large majority of which are related to the above ramblings but also features a few that are new(er) as well:

The Lawrence Arms - Apathy and Exhaustion
The Ghost - This Is A Hospital
Tuesday - Freewheelin'
Kid Dynamite - Shorter, Faster, Louder
Alkaline Trio - Alkaline Trio
Hanalei - We Are All Natural Disasters
The Honor System - Single File
The Broadways - Broken Van
O Pioneers!!! - Neon Creeps
Look Mexico - To Bed To Battle
Mountain Asleep - Hello Anxious
We Are The Union - The Gun Show Must Go On EP
Grown Ups - More Songs
The Menzingers - Hold On Dodge

(Sorry about the lack of content posts lately. My nerd journal has become a bit more personal and "wordy")

Currently Listening: The Broadways - Broken Van

Future

2010-02-24T18:20:00.000-08:00

If you've kept up with this blog you know how much I like making lists. I think it helps me get my thoughts in order and make educated decisions. Its also a lot of fun to make lists of your favorite books, music or whatever. The list I posted below is of potential cities to move to and spend an extended amount of time in. I've spent the last few years touring all over US as well as the UK and Europe and I feel like I have a pretty good hold on what cities appeal to me and my life. I made this list around January 17 but never really did much with it. I figured I'd post it and maybe edit things a little. Lets begin:

- Los Angeles, California: I hated LA when I was living there but as I spent time leaving, revisiting and thinking back on the 10 months or so I lived there, I realized that it was the quickest moving 10 months of my life. I worked hard, I hung out hard, made wonderful friends and spent time doing some crazy things in some great weather. I think at some point in the near future this may be called "home", again.

- Seattle, Washington: If you have ever spent time in Seattle you will know why this city is on my list. It really doesn't get much better. Beautiful scenery, good food, good bars, good record stores, good venues, good vibe, very liberal, modern and last but not least, filled with some of my favorite people on the planet. Some of my best friends, hands down. One of my favorite cities I've ever visited. So many wonderful memories and evenings spent in Seattle.

- Brooklyn, New York: There is something about Brooklyn that really interests me. Its intimidating in a weird way. I've had some amazing nights out with the guys as well as exploring restaurants and shops during the day. So much history to a place like this. Its very intriguing. I'd love to spend more than a month within New York City.

- Austin, Texas: I never would have thought an city within Texas would have made any sort of list. I really dislike Texas (sorry friends who live there or grew up there. I still love you). I always dread those 4 days on tour and that long west Texas, back road drives going out to New Mexico or Arizona. This being said, I love Austin. Fairly laid back, always warm, great music scene and amazing food. One of those cities I'm always excited to hit. Remember seeing Vinnie Paul from Pantera hanging out at the club? I do. Remember when Tim could barely put together words and almost got his ass kicked outside of Beauty Bar? There is always a story when we leave Austin. I live for these stories.

- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: So many friends, so much history. That pretty much sums it up. I want to go down to Lorenzo's and grab my favorite piece of pizza.

- Atlanta, Georgia: Every year when I was growing up my family and I would drive down to Atlanta to visit my grandparents who fled the Chicago winter. I hated this trip. I'd be smashed in the back seat with my sister who, to this day, I still don't get along with for around 14 hours and I would spend most of the trip indoors dealing with family and the boring suburbs outside of the city. When I started touring more often every trip to Atlanta became more interesting. After spending time in Atlanta with the Coathangers ladies, I realized what a great scene they have. They showed me how cool ATL indeed is. The music is thriving and people seem happy. It almost seems like more people should be moving here. It feels like a misplaced northern city. No idea if that makes any sense.

- San Francisco, California: Have you ever been here? Its beautiful. Everyone should spend time here. Top 3 American cities no doubt about it.

- London, England: I decided I want to spend a few months living here. I've spent a total of 3 days in and around London and another 6 or so touring the rest of UK. I think its something most people should do. Leave your comfort zone and dive into something like this. I have a few friends who have spent time living out in the UK and said they'd do it over again in heart beat. With all the work I've been doing with UK based bands, press, agents and friends, I'd love to dive in head first and learn as much as I can about how things work on the other side of the pound.

- Chicago, Illinois: This city will always be home. A place I can come back to and feel comfortable, familiar with. I was born here, I grew up here and spent 21 out of 23 years here. Everything from the music to the weather has had impact on me as a person. I may need a few more years to realize this fully but I think Chicago will be the place I go to settle down. I have this attachment. Its not the place for me at this moment but that doesn't mean it wont be in the future.

- Amsterdam, Netherlands: This is a place I want to spend time alone living in. Spending time with myself and my thoughts. There was something about those two days of exploring this city all by my lonesome that got me thinking. As everyone else split off and enjoyed each other's company, I went off solo. I was clear headed, comfortable, happy. I enjoyed a wonderful lunch at a little outdoor cafe while people watching. I enjoyed my walks along side the canals. It was just a great overall experience. During this tour I was feeling very down, sick and depressed. These two days pulled me out of that hole and I ended up enjoying the following 12 days so much more than the prior 10. I can't wait to go back in June. I may never come back from that next walk around Amsterdam.

- Gainesville, Florida: I deleted what this originally said. Out of all the cities I've posted this is only one I can't truely describe to anyone. I always enjoyed my trips there but will never again. I know I should have excluded this from my list but for the past month or so its been a city on my mind and has really intrigued me more than any other. Yes, it is the current US mecca of punk rock, thats for damn sure but thats not the reason why it made this list.

Currently Listening: The National - Boxer

MADLIB MEDICINE SHOW

2010-02-09T17:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, this is another post about the packaging of a record. Its been quite a nerdy hobby as of late. Not only are the limited edition, hand screened artwork and vinyl great but so is the overall project. Madlib Medicine Show is a one-a-month, 12 CD release which started back in January with the above vinyl/CD combination. So far I've heard No. 1 and its quite good. I really hope Madlib continues to satisfy because a record a month is quite a lot of material. You can purchase Madlib Medicine Show No. 1 and No. 2 now over at Stones Throw Records.

Stimulus Package

2010-02-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

As a CD/vinyl packaging geek, I love this. More artists need to be thinking about the packaging of the physical product. I understand that not every band, artist or label has the money to be spending on such elaborate packaging but at least keep it creative. Keep people interested in holding that physical product in their hands, holding that art. Hats off to designer Brent Rollins and to Rhymesayers for putting together a great piece of work. Freeway & Jake One Stimulus Package will be in my collection as soon as it comes out (Feb 16). You can pre-order the vinyl or CD here.

Currently Listening: 56: Valentine's Jams (Stones Throw All-Stars) Podcast - Mixed by PB Wolf, Mayer Hawthorne, J.Rocc, Dam-Funk and James Pants

Sleep

2010-02-06T17:01:00.000-08:00

Susannah, the lovely lady above, sent me a text message today asking if I could put together a little mix for her to fall asleep to and well, here it is. I gathered 22 tracks I thought she'd personally enjoy relaxing with. You can download it below if you feel so inclined.

Susannah Sleep Mix:
Eluvium - Indoor Swimming At The Space Station
Elliott - Carry On
Mono - A Heart Has Asked For The Pleasure
Múm - I Can't Feel My Hand Any More, It's Alright, Sleep Still
Mount Erie - Stone's Ode
Seaworthy - Map In Hand Pt. 1
Seaworthy - Ammunition 3
Sigur Rós - Hljomalind
Sigur Rós - Starálfur
Miaou - Hello World
Miaou - Scene Of The Sunrise
Brian Eno - The Big Ship
Charlotte Gainesbourg - 5:55
Bright Eyes - Lime Tree
Elvis Costello - When It Sings
Gas - 2 (Pop)
Jónsi and Alex - Indian Summer
José González - The Nest
Karen O and The Kids - Igloo
The Album Leaf - Summer Fog
The Appleseed Cast - Hello Dearest Love
Bon Iver - The Wolves (Act I and II)

Download

Currently Listening: Brother Ali - US

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

2010-01-25T22:52:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine turned me on to Holly Miranda tonight by sending over a cover of Jeff Buckley's Lover, You Should Have Come Over she did for Pitchfork: TV. I was instantly sold and did some searching of my own. I came across this wonderful video directed by the incredible Vincent Moon. I had chills throughout the entire 15+ minutes. What a beautiful voice.

World of Dosh

2010-01-21T18:49:00.000-08:00

If you haven't picked up a Dosh record yet, I highly recommend you do so. I love how he slowly builds and layers as things progress. The slow expansion of his band into the finale really takes things to a new place as well. Martin Dosh, you are an extremely talented man.

Martin Dosh and Friends:
JT Bates (drummage)
Andrew Bird (violin, whistles)
Andrew Broder (guitar)
Jel (sample taps)
Mike Lewis (sax...)
Adam Linz (bass)
Jeremy Ylvisaker (guitar)

Catamaran

2010-01-18T16:44:00.000-08:00

Anyone else really into Bear Vs. Shark back in '03, '04, '05? I was feeling nostalgic on this fine evening and remembered seeing them at the Fireside Bowl way back when (I believe that show's footage is in the above video). I'm a geek and decided to make this post.

over and out.

Currently Listening: Bear Vs. Shark - Terrorhawk

These Are Listed Buildings

2010-01-17T12:31:00.000-08:00

I added Los Campesinos! We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed to my ipod a few months back and neglected to listen. What a mistake I made and what great record it is. I'm really excited for the release of Romance Is Boring at the end of this month.

"We are but two atheists in lust, you know, we gotta make our own luck."

Currently Listening: A Sunny Day in Glasgow - Ashes Grammar

Army Arrangement

2010-01-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

Does it honestly get any better than this? I doubt it. I've been on a fairly big Afrobeat kick as of late and well, Fela Kuti is by far the best.

"One day go be one day! Those wey dey steal the money for government!"

Currently Listening: Fela Kuti - The Black President

The Streets - On The Edge Of A Cliff

2010-01-07T01:51:00.000-08:00

It's 3AM and I came across a song I love and haven't listened to in way too long. Mike Skinner is one of my favorite MCs and has created a few of my favorite hip-hop releases of the past 10 years. Something about his storytelling and the layering of his beats really grabs me.

"I slumped on the jut of the cliff
Just leave me alone, this is none of your business
I will, said the old man, but just one thing,
And what he said was so lovely it stunned me...."

Lord Newborn & The Magic Skulls

2010-01-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

After spending the day working and stressing out, I decided to decompress by going through one of my favorite label's catalog in search of some new releases. I came across a group I meant to check out a few months back, featuring the great Shawn Lee, called Lord Newborn & The Magic Skulls. The group also features Money Mark who's best known for his work with the Beastie Boys and Omar Rodriguez-Lopez. The self-titled album has a very '70s funk meets '60s psychedelia feel. Its pretty great!

Currently Listening: NOMO - Invisible Cities

2010-01-04T16:13:00.000-08:00

"That's all there is on this mission. You play and play and don't think about it too much. I have found that you can deplete yourself every night and still be able to get up and do it again. You have to keep rising. You can't have too much hanging off of you. The less you have, the less there is to separate you from the music. If you have too much on your mind with this way of living, it will be ripped away from you." - ROLLINS 4.12.84

Currently Listening: Black Flag - Slip It In

Albums of the Decade

2009-12-31T15:11:00.000-08:00

So, I decided to finally give in and try to put together a list of my favorite releases of the decade. This was super hard and I pretty much put the albums I listened to the most. Remember, half of this decade I spent in middle school/high school and a majority of these were purchased during that time period. A few post 2005 albums made the list as well. I probably forgot a few but hey, who cares.

There is no order to the list. Thats just how I roll.

Happy New Year!

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The Lawrence Arms - The Greatest Story Ever Told
The Lawrence Arms - Oh! Calcutta!
The Lawrence Arms - Ghost Stories
Alkaline Trio - Maybe I'll Catch Fire
Alkaline Trio - Alkaline Trio (i know this was a collection. don't care)
Colossal - Welcome The Problems
The Ghost - This Is A Hospital
The Ghost - This Pen Is A Weapon
Saves The Day - Stay What You Are
Owen - I Do Perceive
Modern Life is War - My Love, My Way
The Jealous Sound - Kill Them With Kindness
The Weakerthans - Left and Leaving
Daft Punk - Discovery
Cursive - Ugly Organ
Owls - Owls
At The Drive In - Relationship of Command
The Appleseed Cast - Two Conversations
Minus The Bear - Highly Refined Pirates
Converge - Jane Doe
Jimmy Eat World - Bleed American
Fugazi - The Argument
Brand New - Deja Entendu
Shellac - 1000 hurts
Godspeed You! Black Emperor - Lift Yr. Skinny Fists Like Antennas..
Botch - We Are The Romans
Death Cab For Cutie - Transatlanticism
Tegan & Sara - The Con
Bright Eyes - Lifted Or The Story Is In The Soil...
Aloha - Here Comes Everyone
Postal Service - Give Up
Spitalfield - Remember Right Now
Benton Falls - Fighting Starlight
Wilco - Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
The Honor System - Single File
This Town Needs Guns - This Town Needs Guns
RX Bandits - Resignation
Morrissey - You Are The Quarry
The Promise Ring - Wood/Water
The Rapture - Echoes
The Streets - A Grand Don't Come for Free
Atmosphere - Seven's Travels
These Arms Are Snakes - Oxeneers or the Lion Sleeps...
P.O.S. - Never Better
Sufjan Stevens - Come On Feel The Illinoise!
The Mars Volta - De-loused in the Comatorium
With Honor - Heart Means Everything
Torche - Meanderthal
Boards of Canada - Geogaddi
Bear Vs. Shark - Right Now, You're in the Best of Hands..
Anathallo - Sparrows
Propagandhi - Today's Empires, Tomorrow's Ashes

Currently Listening: Anathallo - Sparrows

Honorable Mentions/Forgotten Releases 2009

2009-12-30T15:39:00.000-08:00

These are my honorable mentions and albums I forgot to add to my year's end list. It was such a long year of listening to wonderful music that it was hard to keep track.

----------
Kylesa - Static Tensions
Lucero - 1372 Overton Park
Into It. Over It. - 52 Weeks
Shook Ones - The Unquoteable A.M.H.
Dear Landlord - Dream Homes
Cast Spells - Bright Works and Baton
Native - Wrestling Moves
The Menzingers - Hold On, Dodge
Lymbyc Systym - Shutter Release
Toe - So Long Tomorrow
Grown Ups - Songs
Paramore - Brand New Eyes
Chuck Ragan - Gold Country
The Thermals - Now We Can See
William Elliott Whitmore - Animals in the Dark
The King Khan & The BBQ Show - Invisible Girl
Daitro - Y

Currently Listening: Telefon Tel Aviv - Map Of What Is Effortless

Albums of 2009

2009-12-25T21:50:00.000-08:00

I started compiling a list about 3 months ago because well, I have no life. During the process I decided not to rank or list them in any order because all the albums stood out to me individually. I kept it simple and the list ended up being exactly 50. Sounds like a lot but if you know me personally, it really isn't. I have an addiction.

I'm sure there is a few I forgot as well but this happens. Its been a long year of music and everything below was so well written and individually a masterpiece. Support the music you love. Please.

----------
Mew - No More Stories Are Told...
Passion Pit - Manners
Pissed Jeans - King of the Jeans
Owen - New Leaves
P.O.S - Never Better
Jay - Z - The Blueprint 3
Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca
John Mayer - Battle Studies
Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion
Sonic Youth - The Eternal
Castevet - Summer Fences
Tegan & Sara - Sainthood
Telekinesis - Telekinesis
Converge - Axe To Fall
The Raveonettes - In and Out of Control
St. Vincent - Actor
Russian Circles - Geneva
Harlem Shakes - Technicolor Health
Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement
Manchester Orchestra - Mean Everything To Nothing
BLK JKS - After Robots
Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Wilco - Wilco (The Album)
Death Cab For Cutie - Open Door
Antony And The Johnsons - The Crying Light
Girls - Album
White Denim - Fits
Devendra Banhart - What Will We Be
Big Business - Mind The Drift
Volcano Choir - Unmap
The Dodos - Time To Die
Bygones - By
Pelican - What We All Come To Need
Narrows - New Distances
RX Bandits - Mandala
Crystal Antlers - Tentacles
Ben Gibbard & Jay Farrar - One Fast Move Or I'm Gone...
Telefon Tel Aviv - Immolate Yourself
Real Estate - Real Estateoly
The xx - The xx
Mount Eerie - Wind's Poem
The Lawrence Arms - Buttsweat and Tears
Brother Ali - Us
Fireworks - All I have to Offer Is My Own Confusion
Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx PT II
Morrissey - Year of Refusal
Jonsi & Alex - Riceboy Sleeps
Isis - Wavering Radiant
Lee Fields & The Expressions - My World
Felt - Felt 3: A Tribute to Rosie Perez

Songs of The Year: The Twilight Sad - I Became A Prostitute

2009-12-22T18:45:00.000-08:00

I've slacked on making posts the last few days and well, at first it was because of me having the flu but then quickly turned to just me being lazy. I'm back at it again and this time with a band from one of my favorite cities, Glasgow. I had a faze late last year, as winter approached, of really only listening to bands from Scotland. This included a lot of Mogwai and the wonderful band above,The Twilight Sad. I'm ashamed to say that I put off picking up this record until about 2 weeks ago. What a mistake that was. Forget The Night Ahead quickly worked its way up into my "Top Albums of 2009" list and the track I Became A Prostitute is just beautiful.

Currently Listening: The Promise Ring - Wood/Water

Songs of The Year: Phoenix - 1901

2009-12-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

I mentioned below that I would be posting another track off Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix and here it is. I decided to go with this les Concert à Emporter video to mix things up and stray away from a music video this time around. Plus, Vincent Moon is a incredible director. 1901 is a song I hear everywhere and still adore. This rarely happens. I really enjoy my pop music, can you tell?

Currently Listening: Patrick Watson - Close to Paradise

Songs of The Year: Morrissey - I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris

2009-12-15T18:11:00.000-08:00

All I have to say is Morrissey still writes a great song. One of my favorite artists of all time.

Currently Listening: Morrissey - Viva Hate

Songs of The Year: Sonic Youth - Sacred Trickster

2009-12-14T21:37:00.000-08:00

Today's track comes from one of my favorite bands of all time: Sonic Youth. The Eternal, the bands 16th release, was on of my favorite albums of the year and overall quite amazing. Sacred Trickster opens up the record and really starts things off with a bang. I also read somewhere recently that the band plans to start writing for another new record in 2010. This makes me a very happy boy.

Currently Listening: Big Black - Songs About Fucking

Songs of The Year: The Raveonettes - Last Dance

2009-12-13T17:18:00.000-08:00

I'd say as a whole, I enjoy the more blown out, distorted and darker effort that was Lust Lust Lust but In and Out of Control is still extremely catchy and overall pretty solid. I always end up having Last Dance stuck in my head for a few days after spinning the record.

Currently Listening: Devendra Banhart - What Will We Be

Songs of The Year: P.O.S - Goodbye

2009-12-12T14:10:00.000-08:00

I love my hip-hop and I always will. Goodbye was one of my favorite jams of 2009. I love the punk mentality P.O.S. brings to the table. Never Better is definitely my hip-hop record of the year.

Current Listening: P.O.S. - Never Better

Songs of The Year: Phoenix - Lisztomania

2009-12-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

I feel like Lisztomania was one of the catchiest songs I've heard in years. So well put together. Simple yet complex enough to keep you interested. It was truly the year of the Phoenix. You will probably see another song off of Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix in the next week or so.

Currently Listening: The xx - xx

Songs of The Year: St. Vincent - Marrow

2009-12-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

I've been head over heals in love with Annie Clark for the past two years. She has put out two incredible records, she totally shreds on guitar and well, she's beautiful. Actor is one of my top 5 records of 2009 and Marrow is definitely one of my favorite tracks of the 2009. Her use of the fuzz pedal is just incredible.

Currently Listening: Cap'n Jazz - Analphabetapolothology

Songs of The Year: White Denim - I Start To Run

2009-12-09T18:04:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite bands out right now hands down. White Denim's Workout Holiday LP was one of my favorite albums of 2008 and Fits is pretty high on my list for 2009 as well. The band and video are strange to say the least. I love it. I Start To Run is a straight up jam and I highly suggest grabbing both Fits and the Workout Holiday LP. You won't be disappointed.

Currently Listening: Telefon Tel Aviv - Immolate Yourself

Songs of The Year: Harlem Shakes - Strictly Game

2009-12-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

I love this song and this band. I randomly came across Technicolor Health a few months back and it quickly became a favorite album to listen to while driving out west. I'm very fond of percussion and the Harlem Shakes do it well. I really need to check this band out live. It took me a few seconds to realize these aren't still photos in the video. Clever and humorous.

Currently Listening: Harlem Shakes - Technicolor Health

Songs of The Year: Mayer Hawthorne - Maybe So, Maybe No

2009-12-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

Mayer Hawthorne has ruled my iPod for the past 4 months. I've posted about my enjoyment of Mr. Hawthorne on this nerd journal before and I blame Benjamin Smith for my addictions. Such a chill, soulful record and Maybe So, Maybe No is a serious jam. This video makes me miss living in Marina Del Rey/Venice, California.

Currently Listening: Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

Songs of The Year: Owen - Good Friends, Bad Habits

2009-12-06T15:43:00.000-08:00

Song number four comes from one of my favorite musicians of all time, Mike Kinsella (Owen). Cap'n Jazz, American Football, Owls, Joan of Arc all had a profound effect on me growing up in Chicago and well, still does. Good Friends, Bad Habits is high on my list of songs of 2009. Straight up beautiful song on a straight up beautiful record. Plus, the video features a few members of some great Chicago bands. New Leaves came out on Polyvinyl Records this year and I highly suggest you pick up either the vinyl or the "special offer" CD with the 24 page booklet.

"I have good friends with bad habits
what's a boy without a voice to do?
literary romantics
they fuck like Wilde
and they'll die like Hemingway"

Currently Listening: Toe - For Long Tomorrow

Songs of The Year: Telekinesis! - Awkward Kisser

2009-12-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

Telekinesis! put out one of my most listened to records of 2009. A well put together piece of work. Nothing complicated about it. Straight forward indie/pop tunes written, played and sung by Michael Lerner. I could have chosen a few songs off this record but I went with Awkward Kisser based on the video. The song is my third favorite on the album but still ranks amongst my favorite tracks of 2009. I highly recommend picking this up. I mean, Chris Walla produced this. Thats a selling point right there.

Currently Listening: Telekinesis! - Telekinesis

Songs of The Year: Passion Pit - To Kingdom Come

2009-12-04T15:40:00.000-08:00

I know that it looks like I posted two videos today but the post below was from late last night and figured I'd go with song number two before I go out for the evening.

I fell in love with this whole album this year. I'm sure the Good Old War guys want to kill me for those late night drives with Passion Pit blasting up front. I find every track on Manners individually amazing but To Kingdom Come really grabbed me. I love the video too. What a year for Frenchkiss Records. I picked up at least 4 records they put out. Nice work.

Currently Listening: Young Sun - Demos

Songs of The Year: The Dodos - Fables

2009-12-04T00:48:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite songs of 2009 hands down. The video is great too. Simple but works so well with the flow of the song.

I thought it might be fun to post my favorite songs of the year. I'm thinking one song a day? No order or anything, just songs I was really into that came out this year. Let's see how this goes.

Currently Listening: The Dodos - Time To Die

hallelujah

2009-12-02T20:31:00.000-08:00

Let's be honest here for a minute, will there ever be another artist quite like Jeff Buckley? I really don't think so.

"well, maybe there's a god above
but all i've ever learned from love
was how to shoot somebody who outdrew you
it's not a cry that you hear at night
it's not somebody who's seen the light
it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah"

Currently Listening: Nina Simone - Pastel Blues

nothing we can say sets the whole world free

2009-12-01T18:52:00.000-08:00

I came across this wonderful band from Copenhagen, Denmark called Marvins Revolt. Their sound is a bit hard to explain but I feel this quote pretty much sums it up:

"Pretentious, but not pompous; intelligent, yet intense; pop, yet progressive. In fact, this is the kind of band all those Mew apologists should be digging... ...All you people should be digging this band, the indie rockers, the math rockers, the emos, the post-hardcore crowd." - Lowcut (DK)

Patrolling The Heights has come out recently on a bunch of great indie labels across the world and I think you should give it a spin. You can stream the whole record here.

Enjoy

Currently Listening: The Mercury Program - All The Suits Began To Fall Off EP

Winter

2009-11-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of my wonderfully talented friend Abbie. We tend to make each other themed mixes but its been some time since we've done so. I believe last time we attempted to see who could create a better "sad" mix. I don't remember who won, but it was fun to share some new tunes regardless. This mix has a winter theme. I tossed together a few songs I tend to be playing around the winter season as well as some new songs that I will be enjoying as the cold and snow come rolling in. I also kept her tastes in mind while choosing the right songs. I'll be making a few other winter mixes that I will spend a bit more time on for her in the near future. Maybe I'll share them next time? Below is the track listing and link to download if you feel inclined to check it out.

Winter Mix 1:
Asobi Seksu - Breathe Into Glass
Owen - New Leaves
The Mercury Program - Tequesta
The Cinematic Orchestra - To Build A Home
Telefon Tel Aviv - When It Happens It Moves All By Itself
The Appleseed Cast - Icy Heavy Branches
Ben Gibbard & Jay Farrar - Willamine
Bon Iver - The Wolves (Act I and II)
Devendra Banhart - First Song For B
Mono - Follow The Map
Mew - Silas The Magic Car
This Town Needs Guns - Japanese Ultra-Violence in D-Minor
The Good Life - [December] Inmates
Elliott - Believe
Bright Eyes - Lime Tree

Download

Currently Listening: Seaworthy - 1897

don't forget about me

2009-11-27T00:47:00.000-08:00

Oceans- Boy Detective from Wade Rodgers on Vimeo.

What a great evening. Halloween, Noumenon, Native, Oceans, good friends and sweaty basement sing-a-longs. Doesn't get much better than this.

RIP Oceans

Currently Listening: The Mercury Program - Chez Viking

breathe into glass

2009-11-24T23:08:00.000-08:00

I recently picked up Asobi Seksu's Rewolf and wow, this is a gorgeous record. I know the songs are from the group's other albums but they were re-recorded at London's Olympic Studios (The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, The Who) which really gives the songs a whole new feel. The stripped down acoustic-driven new versions are perfect and I think this record will be in high rotation as the winter goes on. I highly recommend! Another great Polyvinyl Records release.

serious basement jams

2009-11-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

Basement shows with good friends. Doesn't get much better than this.

Currently Listening: The Jesus Lizard - Goat (Reissue)

Record Recommendations:

2009-11-11T21:02:00.000-08:00

Here we go. Week 2 features some new records and a few not so new. I've been in a weird mood when it comes to my listening. Nothing pleases me the way that it should. I'm becoming more picky and very, well, ADD with my music taste. I picked up about 10 + new albums since my last post. a few of which will be listed below

Bridge and Tunnel - East/West (No Idea)

All of my friends were talking bout how great Bridge and Tunnel were/are. I ignored it. Stupid move. Honestly a great band. Catchy punk pop hooks and they don't short you on the guitar end of things. I have a soft spot for sing-a-longs and twinkly guitar. This band has both of those elements. I'm excited to catch them live in the next few weeks.

Lymbyc Systym - Shutter Release (Mush)

Lymbyc Systym is nothing new. They've been around for some time and have put out 4+ records. Shutter Release is my favorite yet. Mixing elements of instrumental indie rock and electronica, this band creates some really solid tunes. There is always room for layers in my musical world. This new record has just that. Layers of electronic samples, keyboards, guitar and drums. Can't beat it. Really great record to sit back and relax with. I actually fell asleep listening to this a few times this week. Good stuff.

Bellini - Small Stones (Temporary Residence)

This is one of those "not so new" records I was speaking of earlier in this post. Small Stones came out in 2005 but didn't exist in my world until about a week ago. I love the dynamics here. Its punk, its rhythmic, its tight, its slow, its loud. Reminds me of female fronted Jesus Lizard. Bold statement, I know. Bellini also features members of Uzeda and Girls Against Boys, both really great Touch and Go Records bands that you should also be listening to. I know the band put out a record this year but I figured I'd go back a bit and start here and work my way forward. My final selling point on this record is that Temporary Residence put it out. Temp Res is one of my favorite labels and rarely lets me down.

This Town Needs Guns - Back Catalogue/This Town Needs Guns (BSM, Yellow Ghost, Rallye/Klee)

Another one of the "not so new" albums. This collection/EP is by far my favorite release from This Town Needs Guns. Animals is wonderful but for some reason this is the record I put on above all else. Its beautiful. Great headphones record too. I don't have much more to say. It is just that good.

Record Recommendations:

2009-11-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

I am going to give this a go every week or so and see how it goes over. Leave comments and let me know what you think. I always love discussing the albums I post.

Shawn Lee & Clutchy Hopkins - Clutch Of The Tiger (Ubiquity)

I've been listening to a lot of Clutch Hopkins over the past week. The mystery behind this fella intrigues me. The team up with Shawn Lee has produced a few great records and if you are into instrumental jazz/soul influenced hip-hop this record is for you.

Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement (Stones Throw)

Mayer Hawthorne is this damn good soul/R&B artist from Detroit, MI. A Strange Arrangement has some super chill, smooth jams and is great if you are looking for a record to bump at a laid back party or get together. What a great move Stones Throw made with this Signing. Madvillian,Omar Rodriguez Lopez, and Mayer Hawthorne. Peanut Butter Wolf knows what's up.

Earthless - Live At Roadburn (Tee Pee)

This record shreds HARD. We picked this up on the TAAS tour last month and listened a bunch on our long drives (big ups to Chris Pacifico for the hook up). Over an hour of live riffs. Its really a spectacular release. I'll be going to see them live next week here in Chicago. I can't wait.

Pyramids With Nadja - Pyramids With Nadja (Hydra Head)

This collaboration is as equally beautiful as it is terrifying. Its layered up so nicely and is a great mix of avant-garde metal and pure ambience. The track Another War even features the vocals of Chris Simpson (Mineral). Overall great release recommended by friend Mark.

100 Resolutions

2009-10-28T00:33:00.000-07:00

Well, tour with These Arms Are Snakes and DD/MM/YYYY has come to a close. I now find myself bumming around Chicago bars and venues blowing time until another tour offer comes up. Its been one hell of a year of traveling and it will be nice to spend some time kicking it with some good friends, seeing some great bands and just living a more normal life. Also, It was nice to round out the touring year with the Snakes. This trip was filled with some crazy events. From sleeping at the Discord House to Biloxi arrests of our tour mates to Steve's adventures with bathrooms, America's Next Top Model contestants and a strip club bound cowboy, there was never a dull moment.

I haven't posted anything in awhile and for some reason I'm at a loss for things to write about. I'm coming up on a great Halloween weekend that consists of The Ghost reunion show, Oceans last show and the Native CD release. I will post something from both nights I'm sure.

In honor of this touring year coming to an end, these lyrics seem fitting:

This year I'll try not to think too much.
This year I'll try to stand up for myself.
This year I'll live like I've never lived before
This is my year for sure...

I am dedicating this post to the pigeon we impaled with the side mirror of the van in Oregon. (I actually found a feather in my bag yesterday from that damn bird). RIP.

Currently Listening: The Lawrence Arms - Cocktails & Dreams

Do You?

2009-10-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

This video is awesome. Thats all I have to say.

Tour End: Denver l Tour Starts: Chicago

2009-09-22T10:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much time to blog lately and figured one post could sum up the rest of the tour. I posted a few random photos taken throughout the last few weeks in hopes that it will make up for my lack of posting (for the people who actually read and care).

I flew home from Denver last night to get some things in order and meet up with These Arms Are Snakes for another few weeks on the road. I had a blast this last time out with Good Old War/Honorary Title/Cory Branan and hope to be doing so again in the future. Great bands and great dudes. I will be hitting a few east coast cities that were not on the routing the past two tours which will be nice. The rest of the dates are right along the same path as the last tour. Excited to hit Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle again. Such wonderful cities. I'm just babbling now. I posted the upcoming tour dates below. Come hang out. I miss you all.

SEP 22 – Chicago IL, Subterranean +
SEP 23 – Pontiac MI, The Pike Room +
SEP 24 – Rochester NY, The Bug Jar +
SEP 25 - Brooklyn NY, Shea Stadium +
SEP 26 – New York NY, Mercury Lounge +
SEP 27 – Cambridge MA, TT the Bear’s +
SEP 28 – Philadelphia PA, Kung Fu Necktie +
SEP 29 – Washington DC, DC9 +
SEP 30 – Chapel Hill NC, Local 506 +
OCT 1 – Atlanta GA, Star Community Bar +
OCT 2 – Tallahassee FL, Club Downunder +
OCT 3 – Orlando FL, Will’s Pub +
OCT 5 – Baton Rouge LA, Spanish Moon +
OCT 6 – Austin TX, Red 7 +
OCT 7 - Denton, TX, Rubber Gloves +
OCT 9 - Plush @UC San Diego, Tuscon, AZ +
OCT 10 – Los Angeles CA, Knitting Factory +
OCT 11 – San Diego CA, The Casbah +
OCT 12 - The Smell, Los Angeles, CA +
OCT 13 – Visalia CA, Cellar Door +
OCT 14 – San Francisco CA, Bottom of the Hill +
OCT 16 – Portland OR, Rotture +
OCT 17 – Seattle WA, The Vera Project +

+ w/ dd/mm/yyyy

Currently Listening: Volcano Choir - Unmap

Virginia & Carolina

2009-08-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been fun. Shows in Charlotte and Columbia were a success and we moved on to Virgina Beach to play the ECSC Surfing Festival. It was a nice, relaxing day out at the beach. We have been spending a few nights down at Tim's parents place in Simpsonville, SC and it has been great.. What a wonderful thing to have while on tour. Great food, beds and good company. Can't beat it. I love the South.

Currently Watching: The Soloist (Jaime Foxx, Robert Downey Jr)

No More Stories

2009-08-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, I attended a James Earl Drones "show" at Bob's house in Chicago. Bob gets these bins full of CDs/Vinyl/DVDs from a friend. The albums have been reviewed or just tossed aside depending on the artist but at the end of the day they all end up in these mail bins. Well, Bob has about 30 bins at his apartment and after about an hour of going through them, I found the above item. I really enjoy the originality here. Columbia Records put this together nicely and put a new spin to the term "promo copy". Mew is a perfect band for this and the album is spectacular. No More Stories.. is a great dream pop/shoegaze record.

This is the inside of the book, which includes the information regarding the artist and the release.

Directly below the release information on the next page sits the CD. The rest of the book is blank white pages, No More Stories.. a great overall idea.

Currently Listening: Old Canes - Early Morning Hymns

Ogni Nuovo Inizio (official release of Nati da Altri Padri)

2009-08-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of Raein please check them out. Some incredible Italian screamo featuring members of La Quiete and Neil on Impression. The album is a bit hard to find in the U.S. and can, I'm sure, be purchased from the band's international labels. If not or in case you aren't looking to take a risk on something you haven't heard yet, I posted the download below. I usually don't do this so go buy the vinyl if you like what you hear. It looks great and is a collectors item for sure.

Tracklist:
1. 1 di 6
2. 2 di 6
3. 3 di 6
4. 4 di 6
5. 5 di 6
6. 6 di 6
Download

Don't Look Down

2009-08-10T01:25:00.000-07:00

I love this. I'm a huge Tortoise fan and I really like this rooftop performance series: Don't Look Down, Pitchfork.tv has been doing. I also enjoy the Crystal Antlers video from the series which I posted below.

Records, Records, Records

2009-08-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

These are the albums I've been listening to a lot of lately:

White Denim Workout Holiday (Downtown)

Japandroids Post-Nothing (Polyvinyl)

Wavves Wavvves
(Fat Possum)

Bygones by
(Sargent House)

Passion Pit Manners
(Frenchkiss)

ISIS Wavering Radiant
(Ipecac)

Tertia

2009-07-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone really reads this but you should go download the new Caspian album for free here. Everyone always downloads records for free via blogs and torrents anyways and this one was put up by the band for everyone to enjoy. So I say why not! Purchase the vinyl when it comes out but until then enjoy the download.

"In a scene distorted by trends and imposters, Caspian continues to shine. They have attained a strong foothold in the modern instrumental scene." - SONIC FRONTIERS

Hotlanta

2009-07-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

I spent all of last week in Atlanta with a few of my favorite ladies. I really enjoyed meeting new people and exploring a city I haven't spent much time in. My new friend J Trav took the above photo of Chris and I on our lunch outing with Stephanie. I'm also starting to realize that a lot of my friends are great photographers. Check out J Trav's work and read Chris' blog. It's hilarious, I promise. I'm really looking forward to spending more time in the dirty dirty.

Mr. Brainwash

2009-07-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

I must have this! The prints go on sale today at 2PM CST! The prints are hand torn into squares on textured archival art paper and each print is individually hand finished with spray paint, and unique. All 100 prints are signed and numbered, with thumb print on the back! Mr. Brainwash has become a favorite street artist of mine. When I was living in Los Angeles, I could go just about anywhere and see a piece he put up in the middle of the night. His artwork is a true statement. I remember seeing the Obama Superman murals on my way to work everyday.

Apartment Story

2009-07-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

I love The National. The focus should always be on the lyrics with this band. The video is simple but perfect for this song. If you don't have the Boxer album, please go purchase it. One of the best albums of the past few years.

Snakes

2009-07-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Heres a photo my good friend Joelle snapped during the These Arms Are Snakes show in Detroit, MI back in February. I found this while going through her flickr account. She takes wonderful photos. Also, TAAS is going back on tour. So make sure you catch a show, you'll regret it if you don't.

"I expect when I return, I return to some sort of order"

2009-07-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

I'm sad that I had decline tickets to P4K Festival this year because of being on tour. The above videos are of two bands I was really looking forward to seeing: The Jesus Lizard and Fucked Up. Props to Benjamin Smith up in the front row during Jesus Lizard getting his Nub on.

Day 8 - Day 13

2009-07-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Day 8: El Paso, TX

This posts starts with our day off in El Paso, TX. Joe Troy decided to stay behind in Tucson to hang out with his lady (who is extremely nice). With this decision Joe ended up hitching a ride with Good Old War and I took his place in the RX bus for the evening. I decided to head out of the bus around 8AM and this was the view from the hotel parking lot.

After a little nap and shower in the hotel room Roger, Choi, Sam and I walked up to this Mexican food joint. Food was alright. Roger enjoyed a mid day margarita.

Later on in the evening we walked in search of some food before bus call and were brutally attacked by these massive mosquitos or something. All 4 of us were attacked at some point. it was awful.

Joe arrived at the bus before bus call and Keith and I switched out for the ride to Dallas, TX. Tim, Dan and I stopped for some Taco Cabana before the drive was to begin. We split a margarita and I completed the 7ish hour drive from El Paso to Abilene in one evening. Crazy I know.

Day 9: Dallas, TX

Day 9 took place at the Granada Theater in Dallas, TX. Dan and I made a trip over to the fish restaurant across the street from the venue on Steve Choi's recommendation. I had some delicious deep fried catfish and french fries. Good eats.

Good Old War's set was killer as always and the addition of Matt Embree during Weak Man was awesome. The crowd knew a lot of the words which aided in an overall great set.

RX had these awesome projector screens on either side of the stage in Dallas. it looked so great. It was nice hanging out with John Clardy as well. I am sure there is a YouTube video of John and Tim playing with RX during Only For The Night

Day 10: Austin, TX

Austin was a fun time. I didn't snap any really good photos during this night. The above photos are from an art piece put together by Tim Old War. He was proud of this and tried to sell it with the other RX posters for $25 or so. He also autographed it. Legit price? I'd say so.

This is the worst photo of all. I was finishing up with merch as the kids were filtering out of the show and heard a familiar song being played live in the distance. Turns out Dirty Projectors were playing down the street at Red 7. I hurried over to catch a few songs, pick up some merch and head over to Beauty Bar to meet up with our tour party. As I was getting carded and paying for the show, a guy made a comment about my Sargent House t-shirt I happened to be wearing at the time. He asked if I worked at Sargent House and said he was good friends with the Russian Circles dudes. He then let me into the show for free and told me he was the manager of the club. Thanks for the shirt Cath! The empire is spreading! Oh and thanks dude for the free show.

Day 11: Fredricksburg, TX & San Antonio, TX

Good Old War had a radio interview in Fredricksburg, TX earlier in the morning. The drive was a bit boring and slow due to the lack of highway. All back roads. The town was really neat and the interview seemed to go well.

We arrived at the venue a bit earlier than usual and after the RX soundcheck the guys all got together for a little jam session.

The merch area was outdoors and extremely hot. I stole Sam's hat for the evening and looked pretty dumb.Check out this fan's shirt above. La Dispute in the house! He was excited that I ended up knowing those guys. Said he checked them out at a basement show in southern Illinois.

I didn't take any photos during Good Old War's set in San Antonio but it was by far the best show of tour. The crowd knew all the words and showed them major love. The photo above is Tim Old War playing drums during Only For The Night with RX.

After the show and load out, everyone gathered around as GOW played some covers and originals in the parking lot. Sing a longs and laughs were shared by all.

After the jam session RX hit the road and we continued the jam inside the Dredg bus. Dan Old War was a bumble bee and Mark was a Storm Trooper. It was a night filled with laughs and good hangs. Perfect end to a short but great tour with RX and Dredg.

Day 12: Pensacola, FL

We spent our day off in Louisiana eating pizza and watching X-Men. The next morning we headed east to Pensacola, FL. The drive was filled with these crazy clouds. I really don't think I'll ever get sick of the scenery while on these drives.

During load in at Sluggo's, Keith bumped his head on a speaker and almost killed himself. Above he ices in the van. I believe he mentioned something about his nose hurting as I was taking this photo.

This is a perfect photo, Tim's face says it all. The show turned out okay at the end. After some issues with feeding back mics, the guys hit the floor for an acoustic set. The show ended and we searched for a hotel somewhere in between Pensacola and Atlanta but nothing was available on such short notice/so late at night.I contacted my good friend Emily in Atlanta to see if she could put us up for the day and from there we headed towards Hotlanta.

Day 13: Atlanta, GA

This is a photo taken just around our arrival to Emily's loft. 9am arrivals are brutal when no one really slept in the van. Tim went out for a swim and everyone else went to sleep until load in.

The show at The Masquerade was perfect. Every kid in the place knew the words. It was really something wonderful to watch.

GOW decided to hit the floor for a more personal approach to an encore. The picture above shows the crowd gathered around the guys. A perfect way to end the tour.

Day 3 - Day 7

2009-07-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

Lack of time thus far on tour has limited me from posting everyday but I am working on making this happen more often

Day 3: Anaheim, CA

After an extremely long drive and good nights rest at Sargent House, we headed out to Anaheim for load in and sound check. Before doors the show completely sold out. The photo above is Tim singing to Dan during set up.

RX Bandits killed it on opening night. I have seen the band play countless times back in the day but this was by far the best set I've seen yet. Incredible. So much energy. The sold out crowd at House of Blues loved it. I am really into all the drums RX are using on this tour.

Day 4: San Diego, CA

Another extremely large room down in San Diego. The weather was really great (what's new right?) and the show was really solid. Dredg played a great set. The sound was perfect. So bass heavy. I loved it.

Day 5: Tempe, AZ

After a late night drive through the mountains we arrived in Yuma, AZ and checked into our hotel. One of my favorite drives in all of the U.S. is from San Diego to Yuma. Really beautiful. The next morning we started our drive to Tempe. The night before it looked as if it were snowing moths. Disgusting. Keith had to use some serious elbow grease to get that crap off the window.

Driving into Tempe/Phoenix area. I neglected to snap any crappy blackberry photos while at the show. Overall a good time. So very hot. I have no idea how people actually live in Arizona through the summer months.

Day 6: Tucson, AZ

Show one of the two nights at Club Congress. I have actually seen a show here as a spectator. Back in March I saw Maps & Atlases with the These Arms Are Snakes guys. Interesting place. Awesome, haunted rooms upstairs above the venue. Pretty great, minus the lack of air conditioning. The photo above was taken during RX Bandits set.

Chase 1 throwing Tim out of the merch area after a wrestling match. No great photos came out during the epic battle, oh well.

Tim stealing beer from RX's bus. The start of an interesting evening to say the least.

Day 7: Tucson, AZ

Day 2 in Tucson started with a rude, hot awakening from the the sun and construction going on outside of our hotel windows. We decided to hit up a new hotel closer to the University of Arizona campus. Marriott hotels are nice and cold. Above is a photo of the bus and the back of Hotel Congress this morning.

We checked into the hotel and head out to pick up some lunch. We decided on the sushi place pictured above. Such a ridiculous name (FUKU) but good eats.

RX is playing as I write this and Chase 1 is probably working or something. Maybe looking at nude photos of guys or whatever he's into. Show/day two in Tucson has been good thus far.

Next: Dallas, Austin, San Antonio

Day 2: Colorado Springs and beyond..

2009-07-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

While on the These Arms Are Snakes tour back in February, I started posting pretty awful quality Blackberry photos on my previous blog to document the interesting moments throughout the 5 weeks. Well, now that I am back on the road with Good Old War, I've decided to give this another run.

We arrived in Colorado Springs after an interesting evening which included a good show, beers, _____ , and The Watchmen. The drive was nice and short and we spent some time relaxing in the parking lot pre show.

The view from the front of the venue was pretty great. Colorado Springs never lets me down. Scenic place full of extremely nice people. Can't beat that.

Tim plays gypsy tunes in the parking lot before soundcheck.

The view from my hole on the side of the stage where I tune Dan's guitars. Show was cool and the guys put on a good show.

After the show we had to start our 20 hour drive to Los Angeles. After a long evening of driving through the mountains we stopped at a rest area in the middle of nowhere Utah. Another awesome, scenic drive. The western United States is beautiful.

17 or so hours later we stopped off in Nevada to grab some gas and snag a bathroom break. This was the single, hottest moment of my life. The wind felt awful. Deserts are not that fun. Tim purchased a knife about 3 minutes after this photo was taken. Best watch yourself, he's dangerous.

We finished up the drive to L.A. and closed out evening with some drinks, conversation and pizza.

Next: Anaheim, CA

My Lonesome Only Friend

2009-07-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

Dang! Thats a big ass banner! This tour is going to be a blast. I'm extremely excited. The journey begins tomorrow morning!

Tour Tour Tour

2009-07-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

I will be heading out this weekend to start a long few months on the road with a great band called Good Old War. Come hang out and say hi.

July 5 - Marquise Theatre - Denver, CO #
July 6 - Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO #
July 8 - House of Blues - Anaheim, CA *
July 9 - SOMA - San Diego, CA *
July 10 - Marquee - Tempe, AZ *
July 11 - Club Congress - Tuscon, AZ *
July 12 - Club Congress - Tuscon, AZ *
July 14 - House Of Blues - Dallas, TX *
July 15 - Emo's - Austin, TX *
July 16 - The White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX *
July 18 - Sluggo's - Pensacola, FL #
July 19 - Masquerade Downstairs - Atlanta, GA #
July 24 - XPN Festival at Wiggins Park at Camden Waterfront - FREE
July 31 - Bowland Theatre @ Berkshire College - Pittsfield, MA #
Aug 26 - The Milestone - Charlotte, NC @
Aug 27 - New Brookland Tavern -W.Columbia, SC @
Sep 2 - Sticky Fingers - Little Rock, AR
Sep 5 - Marquee - Tulsa,OK @
Sep 6 - The Prophet Bar - Dallas, TX @
Sep 7 - 516 Soundstage - Shreveport, LA @
Sep 8 - Emo's - Austin, TX @
Sep 9 - Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM @
Sep 11 - Epicentre - San Diego, CA @
Sep 12 - Knitting Factory, Los Angeles, CA @
Sep 13 - Bottom of the Hill - San Francisco,CA @
Sep 14 - The Boardwalk - Orangevale, CA @
Sep 16 - Studio 7 - Seattle, WA @
Sep 18 - The Venue - Boise, ID @
Sep 20 - The Marquise -Denver, CO @
Sep 22 - The Bottleneck - Lawrence, KS @
Sep 24 - Triple Rock - Minneapolis, MN @
Sep 25 - House Cafe - Dekalb, IL @
Sep 26 - Reggie's - Chicago, IL @
Sep 27 - The Mad Hatter - Covington, KY @
Sep 29 - The Crofoot - Pontiac, MI @
Oct 1 - Whittaker Center - Harrisburg, PA @
Oct 3 - Harpers Ferry - Alston,MA @
Oct 4 - The Vibe Lounge - Rockville Center,NY @
Oct 6 - Maxwell's - Hoboken, NJ @

# = Good Old War Headline
* = w/ RX Bandits & Dredg
@ = w/ The Honorary Title & Cory Branan

Days In The Sun

2009-06-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I spent the evening with Hotel Ahead and The Appleseed Cast. A great show. It was nice getting to hang out with some friends I don't see often. I'm a Hotel Ahead fan, I really am. I think they write some catchy tunes and after they hash out some little things will be doing quite well for themselves. The Appleseed Cast was incredible. Every song was perfection. I'm a fan of about every album they've put out but I have to say, when those Two Conversations songs are played it hits me differently. Those songs are beautiful, catchy and I think overall had one of the better crowd reactions. Fight Song was my jam back in high school.
I figured I'd post a few ridiculous photos that were taken towards the end of the show. Justin, Ryan (another outrageous face and photo), Matt and Colin are all pictured above. Colin, I will be stealing your boots. It was also great seeing Stephanie, Ben, Brittany, Daniel, Will and others. Made the night much more entertaining. A wonderful evening filled with drinks, tunes and good company.

Hiccups

2009-06-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

I spent this afternoon at practice with my favorite Chicago band, Castevet. Its always great hanging out in an ultra hot practice space in the city. New songs are coming together wonderfully. I am excited to be releasing the new EP this Fall/Winter. Seriously going to blow minds. Good tunes created by good friends. Can't beat that.

I love this video and really wish I was in town to catch this set.