IDOL BLUES

Taylor Hicks Whomping Las Vegas? (Whatever the Hell That Means...)

2010-03-09T10:39:00.004-06:00

The rumor mills all aflutter with word out on the new Nick Mitchell/Las Vegas revue that may see Taylor Hicks as one of the show's participants. Seems, Nick Mitchell will have two past Idol winners on board with him for his City That Never Sleeps Tour (made that up myself).

Over at It's All Grey we were having a small discussion about this Las Vegas show as well as considering what the Hell does "Whomp" REALLY mean? And, can you whomp in Vegas or should that be relegated to ....which circles me back around to, really, where the Hell does one whomp? Is there a whomp and why would one want to whomp?

Taylor Hicks has not issued any comment about this Nick Mitchell venture, in fact, Hicks, just about a week ago, talked about how he's planning to spend down time after his Teen Angel flight over with "Grease" just chillin' back and maybe cutting another album. I'm thinking if he's offered this four month project in Viva Las Vegas he'll postpone that chillin'. I mean you can rest when you're dead, right? Right. (But...can you whomp when you're dead...?)

This guy never made mention of 'whomp' but he sure did sparkle, King of the Shiny: Elvis, "Viva Las Vegas".
Viva Las Vegas

Yeah, "Whomp" on Soulman.

The Taylor Hicks Interview Drinking Game: Questions We've All Heard Before, Again

2010-03-06T09:35:00.002-06:00

Taylor Hicks was interviewed by Kate McCaffrey regarding his current career prospects, past history and his on-going tour with "Grease". She praises Taylor Hicks' performance as the Teen Angel, saying, 'he put his heart and soul' into the show. Wait is she a member of the Soul Patrol?

Of course we've heard the term, "heart and soul" ad nauseum, directed at Mr. Hicks and hey, last week at Half Price Books, I saw a stack fifteen books high of his book, written with help by another writer, with similar title. And lest we forget, silly me, he has a song called, "Heart and Soul".
"Heart and Soul", Taylor Hicks, video taken on his 'Asian Tour' aka Shopping Mall Tour. Video courtesy of Gerry Alanguilan.

I'm hearing Las Vegas lounge act, especially at the ending. Interesting in Ms. McCaffrey's interview she refers to the Asian shopping malls as "Asian arenas" I must have lost something in the translation between 'mall' and 'arena' or I've been shopping at the StoneBriar Arena in Frisco... all this time. Who knew?

Ms. McCaffrey's piece opens with, "From Alabama bars to Asian arenas, mall Easter Bunny to Broadway, unknown to mocking "Saturday Night Live" skits,"

Wait, 'unknown to mocking Saturday Live Night skits' Shouldn't that read, 'known to have been mocked in Saturday Night Live skits', since he was during the show... ?

..."Taylor Hicks, that gray-haired, harmonica player of fickle "American Idol" fame, has had an unlikely ride."

Nothing like a nice trite introduction to get the interest fanned, especially the 'ride' part. No I've never heard 'ride' used to describe the course of one's life or career path, never. Well, at least she avoided the word, 'journey'. Too, in her third paragraph she refers to Gram Parsons, spells it correctly unlike that MTV hack, eliminating my need to rant as I previously did about the difference between Gram the musician and sweet crackers.

If we were playing the Taylor Hicks Interview Drinking Game devised at It's All Grey we'd be hammered soundly by the end of this one.

Example, first question, asked 9,900,900,900 times: " How many days out of the year are you on the road?" (that's worth a shot) That opens up the floor for Hicks to say, "Let's not talk days, let's talk years." (that's worth a beer)

Next question, "How does that affect your songwriting? blah, blah, blah," (that's another shot)
Hick's answer, "You have to be disciplined. You have to just, you know, find that creative outlet. And, to a certain degree, I've had a blast building the character of Teen Angel and the role. Thinking of things that could work and you know, just having the discipline to have a creative outlet." I'm thinking, 'darn he left out the Muse part' which would have been two shots...

His response was something similar to the rhetoric we hear from politicians on the campaign trail. Taking say, the border issue, and the manner in which Hicks answered that previous interview question, let's pretend we've asked Mr. Hicks his view on the Texas borders; likely we'd hear something like, "Borders, yes, the borders, isn't the Texas Valley beautiful in the Spring time? Have you ever had fresh grapefruit right off the trees? Incredible."

Evasive answer equals slamming two shots.

Kate then asks Mr. Hicks, "Performing in a musical like "Grease," does it take a different kind of discipline and stamina than performing with a band?"

Now considering this question's only been asked 900,900 times we can pass on it... but Taylor's response, "I spent two years of performing music for an hour and 45 minutes five nights a week.' earns us half a beer.

I'm feeling a little on the happy side at this point.

Question, "If five years ago, before you won "American Idol", if someone told you you'd be touring with "Grease", what would you have said?"
I took some editing liberties and moved the commas around a bit to make it more correct, but this answer gives us a full to the brim shot of Jack Daniels.

Skipping down a bit we come to the most asked question in the history of Taylor Hicks since "American Idol", "When were you the Easter Bunny?" Yes The Easter Bunny question, it's hugely worthy of a shot AND a beer.

Then the, "Will you do more in the future?", question regarding whether Hicks will or would become a serial Broadway musical actor, we get another beer.

The eternal, is there another album in future plan question, "Music wise, do you have anything new in the works?" (Two shots.)

And the answer worth a shot and another beer, "I do actually. I'm planning on working on a record during the Summer of this year. And hopefully releasing it soon." Meaning, he's not actually got anything working yet, but since you asked yes of course he's going to get around, one day to putting out more music. Of course.

Hiccup.

I must give Ms. McCaffrey props on coming up with a novel way to approach the 'lessons learned from time of American Idol' question so we'll pass on a drink here. That said, Taylor's answer, "To stay in the business, you know, work and tour as much as you can. ... Make sure you tour. That's the thing. You have to be out there and tour and be with the people. People want to know that you're tangible." "Tangible"? Okay, pass on the beverages again...

Then the last question from the interviewer, "So some people would say that participating in "American Idol" discredits musicians and their work. Do you think people take your music less seriously than they would have maybe had you not won "American Idol"?"

Hicks final response, "Um ... yeah, I think ... it does. ... The thing that I was always taught by older musicians is not how you get there, it's if you get there. And I think when you get there is ... the most important part is what you do with it when you get there. Does that make sense? And I think any way that you can get there is the way that you should get there. I think ... you gotta find a way to expose yourself. You can't just sit in your house and be a great musician. You have to get out there."

So, let's see, Yes, No, Yes, Maybe, just get there and who cares?

Aargh sound bite Tim Allen sound bites

And for my sitting here dissecting this interview and actually writing about it, let's just finish the bottle. Cheers.

Taylor Hicks Nings the Soul Patrol

2010-02-27T09:45:00.004-06:00

Taylor Hicks gives the Soul Patrol - and those other fans some face time. Face time via a live webcast, chat allowing the fans to ask him questions hoping for a real answer or two. Hoping the key as while he did answer a few odd questions, for the most part fans left still questioning.

I missed the original webcast as was out doing what I do in the Big Real, but many fans had time to tune in.

I've read several folks talking about Taylor Hicks' lip smacking while he webcasts. My Pops does the same thing when he speaks, it's a nervous habit of sorts that occurs when Pops is in a social situation with folks he's not familiar.

That said, for anyone critiquing Mr. Hicks' webcast form on his Ning site, let's talk participants' questions. Seriously folks, it's been snowing buckets, hell, truckloads throughout the Northeast and Eastern U.S. How in Hell can the man golf in snow? Oh wait, perhaps like this:

Then there was the posing in PlayGirl question. C'Mon people, can you really imagine Taylor Hicks sitting about like this?

Seriously? Hilarious and, well, let's not...

Taylor Hicks was in his usual rather cagey form, not letting out anything about plans that he may have for the future after "Grease". He's talked about one of his songs off The Distance, "Maybe You Should" being destined for recording by a mystery artist - for months. Thing is, on the ning-cast he sounds as if well, perhaps it's not already a done deal, that several folks might be interested, or perhaps his 'people' are simply still shopping out the song. Or perhaps he'd just like someone to do the tune and no one has actually stepped forward to sign on the line.

I'm speculating that if he had someone with an already established name take that tune, which by the way, one of the good ones off The Distance; he'd make more off of it than if he released it. Too if he did try to release it himself, the song did not get play on the radio - no one would pick it up and the tune a bit wasted regarding potential. It's simple math and common sense.
Maybe You Should

Oh and another thing, I've decided to reopen IDOL BLUES.

Taylor Hicks (Not New) DVD Pre-Sale Via Amazon.com

2010-01-02T08:47:00.013-06:00

Taylor Hicks' long promised DVD, "Whomp at the Warfield" that was filmed in San Francisco's famed Warfield Theater is up for pre-sale on Amazon.com - again.

"Whomp at the Warfield" has experienced several misfires in actually hitting the sales market in its storied past; previous promises have ended in frustration for fans declaring interest in purchasing this DVD. I recall, just last year, February,the disappointment expressed by many in the on-line community when once again the fabled concert footage was dangled on amazon.com only to get removed with just the explanation: "This item has been discontinued by the manufacturer".

I don't recall any reasons for the removal of the DVD from the amazon.com sales racks except that perhaps sales were not what they might have been desired. Speculation ranged from the fact that "Whomp at the Warfield" was initially viewed on the HDNet Concert Series back in October of 2007 and folks who watched it perhaps taped it.

Considering that footage was viewed almost two years previous from that February 2009 pull-date, I find that particular argument hard to swallow. Too, if you're one of the folks who recorded it on your TIVO or whatever device you may have for that sort of thing, many fans should realize that for the most part, DVDs come with those extra touches such as 'making of' and 'behind the scenes' footage.

Now I have a slight beef with the article tidbit posted in ainow.org promoting "Whomp at the Warfield" as reading slightly deceptively. Granted this DVD might seem 'new' to anyone who has not ridden the Soul Patrol choo-choo since 2006, but for those who had stepped aboard and still hanging in the passenger compartments or for many who have opted instead to sit in the scenery viewing dome cars know this DVD nor the footage involved not 'new'. I guess though, you could argue that "Whomp at the Warfield" being called, "new" could be somewhat comparable to purchasing a nice used car, that car is NEW to you.

Anyway, this time, I hope for the sake of those fans still riding aboard the Soul Patrol Express, that come this February, 2010, the fans are not disappointed reading, once again, "This item has been discontinued by the manufacturer". To pre-purchase this DVD, show your support for the man many attribute to being the engineer of the Soul Patrol train, visit amazon.com to reserve your copy. At least while they're still on sale.

IDOL BLUES to Close Shop

2009-12-27T10:07:00.005-06:00

Taylor Hicks I will bid thee farewell. Not in real life of course, rather on this blog. I am proud that this was one of the first blogs put together to focus on Hicks during his 2006 bid and win for the reality show, American Idol crown. Albeit put together by someone with quite limited experience on the web or with blogging or putting up a website...

And really it's not that momentus or stunning news considering the few posts that have been created here this year. It's just time to end this, move on with my other projects. I am still puttering around with an anniversary edition post to give this blog its final send off. It should be a good one.

Taylor Hicks 'Good-Bye' c/o soulindiane

My Home's in Alabama: Taylor Hicks

2009-12-08T07:11:00.005-06:00

My Home's in Alabama

The End.

Taylor Hicks Hollywood Week: "Ain't No Sunshine"

2009-11-10T09:53:00.006-06:00

It's understandable now why the show did not feature this footage during the 2006 season. He'd have been even more of a runaway frieght train.
Taylor Hicks delivering "Ain't No Sunshine"

That expression at the end of this performance what I use to watch for every week. He was so fierce. Taylor Hicks certainly created a real blue print on how to win the karaoke music reality show. He done it, won it in big style.

Check this, NPR lists Taylor Hicks in their "Decade Defined" section: Scroll down the page and listen.

Good job, Mr. Hicks.

Taylor Hicks at Workplay "Dust My Broom"

2009-09-29T12:19:00.004-05:00

Taylor Hicks does the Blues: "Dust My Broom"

Taylor Hicks sings "Dust My Broom" at Workplay, Birmingham from Diane on Vimeo.

Thanks to Diane for the video.

I was suppose to be there.

Goat Milker, Dog Whisperer, and Cattle Driver..John Henry move over...

2009-09-07T10:22:00.009-05:00

Taylor Hicks sent out a Twitter message on September 2, it read: "Goat Milker, Dog Whisperer, and Cattle Driver..John Henry move over..." Quite clever considering what he's been doing while in and around Ft. Worth and Dallas during his time here with the national touring production of "Grease".

Taylor Hicks has been saying in the local interviews how he loves Texas, and the appreciation seems to be reciprocated. He's been doing the interview circuits and the DFW media has been very kind to him. Well everyone with exception of one particular member of the audience as we can see in this upcoming video.

The Dog whisperer: 'Tough crowd' indeed. Yes, whispering and singing, and harmonica playing, but Burt the Basset hound mix can't be persuaded to move. Pooch looks rather like my basset mixed mutt, Cody. Energy is just not their thing.

"Seven Mile Breakdown" on FOX 4:

(He just can't stop singing about me.)

Channel 5 Interview with Bobbie Wygant:

View more news videos at: http://www.nbcdfw.com/video.

The Channel 11 CBS interview with Taylor Hicks.

Now regarding reference to the goat, apparently Mr. Hicks had some sort of appearance in Victory Park and there were goats involved; have not located footage on that as of yet. The Cattle Driver portion of his message on Twitter, an obvious reference to the daily cattle drive that takes place in the Ft. Worth stockyards.

That sums up the catching up I was able to do this morning on the whats, wheres of Taylor Hicks in Dallas. Still haven't heard back on that barbeque invitation. I guess perhaps next time. Happy Trails, Taylor Hicks.

Taylor Hicks Comes to Town

2009-09-03T08:48:00.008-05:00

Taylor Hicks headlining the national touring production of "Grease" skid into town this week. The show is being presented at the great Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth.

Gary Cogill, one of my favorite local entertainment reporters writes, "Bass Hall is the perfect place for shows like Grease. The big voices ring acoustically true to the top tier, especially the female cast members - they seem much more alive and together on stage, than the boys.

The sets are basic at best, but the ensemble dance numbers are staged beautifully, and bathed in bright colorful lights, hitting the hand jive at just the right level.

The leads, Sandy and Danny, are played-well by Broadway veterans Emily Padgett and Eric Schneider. He's less like Travolta, she's much more Sandra Dee.

Grease is being advertised with American Idol winner Taylor Hicks as the headliner, but don't be deceived, He sings one song in act two, and for a few brief minutes, it's a funny, well-placed parody of himself.

Grease is a ticket well-purchased, and stick around for the encore, you'll finally see more of Taylor Hicks."

Apparently, while I was out taking care of business, I missed Taylor Hicks' visit on Good Morning Texas. From what I understand the show aired from Victory Park and there was goat milking involved while Taylor blew harmonica. Now doesn't that sound entertaining? Damn, it's just not been the best week.

I asked my Darling Man if he had gone out and bought front row seating for "Grease" and his response was "*snort*". I took that as a 'no'. Now if Taylor Hicks had decided to do a pub-stop show while he's in town, either Darling would have had to accompany me, or I'd have had to haul someone else to the show.

Scrolling through the Google alerts on Mr. Hicks this title grabbed my attention, "Gay Panic in Fort Worth, Best Burgers and Taylor Hicks Defenders", posted in the Houston Press. At first, knowing Taylor was in Ft. Worth, it seemed the Gay community was somehow in a panic at his being there, then everyone settled down and went out for burgers. Seriously, look at that title.

What is the actual case, this posting simply a series of Houston Press commenters remarking on the Redneck cop situation in Cow Town. Apparently the local officers were going around and raiding the newly established Gay restaurant/bars that have recently opened.

You see, dear readers, Ft. Worth, or as we affectionately refer to it as Cow Town, is quite different than Dallas. Dallas is the shinier metropolitan haven for all things urban and modern, whereas Ft. Worth... well we don't call it Cow Town for nothing.

The burger reference had to do with an article from the tony Texas Monthly in which the writer seemed to think ambience trumps flavorful eats, which is absolute rubbish. The writer in the Houston Press winds up the article nicely with, "Atmosphere is in the mind of the beholder, but any way you score it, Rockwell's burgers blow away Texas Monthly's Houston burger choices. Don't take my word for it. Go eat a Rockwell Tavern burger and see for yourself." Now next trip down toward Houston I may have to do just that. Cypress is a little community just NE of Houston.

So to sum that up, the Gay community in Cow Town being upset has nothing to do with Taylor Hicks and the burgers were only eaten by Robb Walsh and friends. For entertainment value you might want to peruse this link just for the readers' comments. Now I'm hungry. Oh and hey, the other day I actually invited Mr. Hicks over for some Texas Bar-b-Que. Still haven't heard back. I guess he's busy.

Taylor Hicks, a song for you while you're hanging out here in my neck of Texas.

"Cow Town" George Straight

So We Have a New Taylor Hicks Official Site: New, Yes Improved?

2009-08-31T10:10:00.006-05:00

Taylor Hicks has opened a new site, he announced it on Twitter last week and it can be found at Taylorhicks.ning.com. He's incorporated his Twitter feed into a side panel and "Seven Mile Breakdown" video, front page.

Apparently there is to be some live chat activity as well with this message posted on August 29th:

Happy Saturday everyone!

Now that we're up and running with the new site, Taylor wants to become an active member. We'll be launching a live video chat with Taylor next week (exact time TBD). Taylor will be logged onto the site, reading questions from the chat board, and answering them live! Get those questions ready, and stay tuned for more info on the exact date/time.

-Team Taylor

This new Taylor Hicks site from what I'm understanding is to be a Social netowrking site, rather like some form of Taylor Hicks facebook; we'll see how this works with the way some of the members of his fan base tend to view one another and treat one another. Might be fun.

I went ahead and signed up but was having issues doing modifications to my personal site so I'll hit that again another time.

I did take a moment to hit chat to see what was shaking. Over 20 people were in the room but I didn't stick around. Time constraints today.

Taylor Hicks is in town this week, "Grease" playing in Ft. Worth. Am I going? Not at this point. Looking forward to B'Ham concert in the Fall, though.

Going to Disneyland. Wait, Actually "World", Again.

2009-08-26T05:54:00.009-05:00

Taylor Hicks returns to Disney World in Orlando, Florida this November. He's performing in the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and will be featured on November first and second.

This year, the 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, seventeen “Eat to the Beat” musical acts perform September 25 thru November 8. Acts showcase everything from rock to jazz, funk to pop. This is all taking place at the America Gardens Theatre stage, and the festival runs a lengthy 45 days. (That's a lot of food and vino!)

In the lineup of performers for this year's festival there are six new faces besides Taylor Hicks; Richard Marx, Better than Ezra, Vanessa Carlton, John Waite, Billy Ocean. Admission to the shows are included in your price of Epcot admission and there are scheduled three shows daily; 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. There is a notation the lineup can be subject to change.

Taylor Hicks at Smith's Olde Bar: 2006 Shadow Tour
"Hell of a Day"

Video c/o JenniJaco

Taylor Hicks' Vimeos from Smith's Olde Bar

2009-08-23T11:15:00.008-05:00

Taylor Hicks' performed in Atlanta, Georgia the weekend before this one at Smith's Olde Bar. There have been many enthusiastic replies regarding the performance he and his band gave the crowd so I've hit several of the videos to watch what the buzz is about.

This particular video, surprisingly is one of my favorite. I am not in love with the song presented on the latest Hicks' CD, "The Distance" but I do like this rendition. Hicks' playful delivery, the minimalist delivery with the acoustic guitars and harmonica really work well. I must add the videographer did a great job, there's fantastic audio, no camera shake.

Taylor Hicks' "Wedding Day Blues"

Wedding Day Blues - Smith's Olde Bar - RagsQueen from RagsQueen on Vimeo.

"Seven Mile Breakdown" another good vid and song that transfers well into this minimalist format. Watching Hicks carefully on that tambourine for pointers... I'm going to send this video out to the guys and see what they'd think about covering a version of it for the City concert coming up in the Fall. I think our singer, "R." could do it some justice.

Taylor Hicks, Smith's Olde Bar:

Seven Mile Breakdown - Smith's Olde Bar - RagsQueen from RagsQueen on Vimeo.

videos provided by the grace of RagsQueen

For anyone who is unable to view vimeo, hit this link Taylor Hicks on Youtube for a vast selection of vids from this concert.

Looking forward to B'Ham in September.

Taylor Hicks Cone Ranger: Saga of the Cone - Getting Soggy?

2009-08-16T12:23:00.013-05:00

Okay, so it was cute initially. Taylor Hicks selected to make a little fun about his time riding the large plastic ice cream cone prop in his current gig as Teen Angel singing "Beauty School Drop-Out" in the national touring company, "Grease". He's been tweeting out various flavors in his tweets on Twitter to the fans who have come to congregate on that site. Why Twitter? It's 140 characters of brevity and it it seems fans find more information on Twitter about him than almost anywhere. Wait - there is that Boogie site. If you dare go there. Understand treading into the land of Boogie you may get access to some information and videos, but word: best to just read or to see and be not heard.

Anyway so we have Twitter and Taylor Hicks with my focus on the subjects of Mr. Hicks' Twitter tweets. (Say that five times fast.) As we've gone along on Twitter, Mr. Hicks has journeyed from seldom to never posting to actually knocking out about a tweet a week. Does he actually talk to his fans like I see other musicians and celebrities do? Not so much. Instead he relegates his tweets increasingly to naming ice cream flavors. Yes, flavors, like Cookies and Cream or Boysenberry. Hilarious reading some of the responses who immediately start vowing that flavor their favorite, or they don't like it but what about another flavor; it goes on and on. Apparently, from what I'm reading, some fans are even imagining he's sending secret messages with his flavors. I imagine Mr. Hicks sends those flavored tweets out then sits back reading and laughing at the result. I know I would.

Again, granted in the beginning, Mr. Hicks' ice cream tweets were a witty little concept, the tweets had the flavor, from time to time of "Where in the World...", or a hint of what might be coming up next in the Hicks' ice cream career field. The thing is - that's about all he does - the ice Cream tweets. That or he's promoting his next show with dates and places. There are, occasionally, some vague references to where he might have dined that day... Frankly for me it's getting redundant and downright soggy. It would be different if he'd intersperse the tweets about ice cream flavors with tweets with concert pics, an occasional short video or say something actually TO the fans not AT the fans. There's a big difference in "To" and "At". One guy who talks 'to' his fans, Chris Daughtry. Now I'm not using Daughtry as a jab at Taylor or anything idiotically related to the asinine A.I. battle but rather as an example since they both hit mass public consciousness around the same time. Talking "to" your fans works to attain connection, talking "at" your fans embodies a rather superior feel, incorporating a Distance...

I for one am glad I've other interests on Twitter and other interests in my life, period. If I were one whose main interest on Twitter was a person who once a week shouted out "Strawberry pimping" or some such, I'd likely lose interest. If I were a potentially new fan I'd be thinking by now, 'What in the Hell?". Of course, the old diehard fans from the American Idol days won't be thwarted; if Taylor Hicks just tweeted odd noises such as "ARGH" or "PFFFT" or "GAAAH" they'd likely be as entertained, respond back in kind and have a happy-jolly laugh about it all.

Now I know some of you dear readers will say there I am trying to tell Taylor Hicks what to do, but if you read carefully I'm doing no such thing. Instead I'm writing about what I am finding swirling into a boring little soft served idea from what, if utilized with other Twitter tweets might actually be worthy of two scoops in a sugar cone. So to those who disagree with me on my thoughts about the ice cream pimping, PFFFTTT! Oh, and by the way, lately my favorite ice cream flavor is coffee.

Life and death of and Ice Cream Confection:

Captain Beefheart - Ice Cream for Crow (HIgh Resolution)

Taylor Hicks on FOX 5 "Seven Mile Breakdown"

2009-08-15T09:16:00.002-05:00

Taylor Hicks Pumping the Prime; HotLanta Give Away

2009-07-26T09:34:00.011-05:00

Taylor Hicks lands in the news outside of the entertainment and tabloid fronts and instead manages to score big coverage on the political front - in Canada.

Taylor Hicks is not exactly running for office, nor could he in Canada, obviously, but he is featured in The Globe and Mail political section in a feature by Jane Taber. The Canadian news source cites Mr. Hick giving the Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper and his young daughter and a pal face time in a special photo op after the show. Broadway World.com has the full set of pics snapped on this honorary type of occasion.

I must say I really love the vest ensemble, that Taylor Hicks is wearing, the shades of gray work very well on him. He's looking quite tan and fit as well. Following the Canadian performances of the National touring show of "Grease" he's heading South, far South actually to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida from what I understand.

Currently Mr. Hicks is advertising his August performance set for the 16th at one of his old stomping (whomping?) grounds, Smith's Olde Bar.

Taylor Hicks, through his official site and Twitter is offering a special ticket giveaway for the Smith's Olde Bar show. Details to be found on Taylor Hicks.com for all the necessary details should you want to try and score a few freebies. Oh, seems air and hotel not an inclusive in the win, so be aware you're on your own regarding how to actually get to Atlanta. "Grease" will also be an option for the avid fans, as the show will be in Atlanta August 11-16.

For "Grease" and of course, Taylor Hicks' full schedule "Grease" Facebook has the... word.

Twitter: e.harmony.com, Publisher's House and Marketing Venue

2009-07-23T08:08:00.018-05:00

Twitter is one social networking site that I've come to actually like. Well at least compared to Facebook which I've hopped on and off for the last few years and still not sure about. With Facebook, the whole idea of sharing your real life with other people ON THE INTERNET is sort of unnerving. Really. I mean, there are people I'd rather not ever find me, if you know what I mean. I've found myself opening up much more recently on-line, and it is bothering me just a little. My latest foray into Facebook will be a compilation of my real life and my on-line life. A place to share a part of me with some of my favorite on-line people yet retain a sense of privacy. Keep myself hovering under the radar, if you will.

I joined the Twitter family with my friends on It's All Grey to check out what Taylor Hicks might be communicating. At that time he was putting out few and far between tweets (as the 140 character posts are referred to) but he's upped his game and is putting out the wee posts on an increasingly regular basis. After a nice festive Happy Hour he gets quite witty. I love his beverage spiked tweets the most.

Since entering the world of Twitter I've made many new friends and am in the process of making some new potential business contacts. Several publishing firms of various impact have Direct Messaged me and I now follow them and their words of advice. I am also talking to a few right now regarding my "project". It certainly doesn't hurt to find out what other alternative options are available to a free-lancer like myself. I also applied to two writing positions that I'm waiting word on; who knows what might come out of joining this little world of tweets as an experimental follow up to my curiosity about the life and times of Mr. Hicks.

There have been some unusual fringe benefits as well. I have met several people, a few locally, whom I have made actual friends with - another nice surprise. Too, there are a few guy pals whom I really enjoy including two brave and fearless naughty boys sending me photos of themselves. Not just the nice, 'here's what I look like' rather,'here's what I REALLY look like'. I've tagged them my Boys in the Buff.

Initially when I opened the first centerfold type photo I was shocked. I quickly shut it but then had to reopen to peek again. (Curiosity is my center of gravity.) Second photo was of the same guy providing me a nice close up and it wasn't his face. Granted anyone shooting you photos like this might be some sort of sexual pervert, but the Libra I am, I must consider they are simply quite comfortable with themselves without clothing. I understand that considering my past and what I did to finance my education...

Before simply shutting them out from my Twitter feed I considered their tweets and Direct Messages to me. Outside of the whispered sweet nothings in my DM and e.mail boxes they both seem and sound relatively normal. One man might not be the neon bright crayon in the box of 96 but sometimes guys like that can just be easy to hang out with; you can let your self-editing side take the night off. He's a sort of a rough around the edges blue collar type guy. The other is actually quite intelligent. He writes professionally, has a few promising projects underway and outside of the revealing pictures comes across like an interesting person. Neither one of them need be shy about strutting their stuff without clothing. Before anyone asks, no I won't be sharing the little lovelies they send me or reveal who they are; can't peek and tell, you know.

Another interesting facet of this twitter thing, it seems to be a marketing format that may hold some real effectiveness. Products of all types and interests are out there being tweeted from one to another. Products not exclusive of certain herbal products legal only in parts of The Netherlands. Not that I would purchase any of that from an unknown individual on Twitter, but it is available. There are Twitter sites offering a variety of products from hand-made soaps, candles, concert tickets and one of my favorites because of the pretty things they find, UK site, Domestic Sluts; I also love their name.

My advice to one guy pal lamenting the challenges of meeting interesting single women: forget e.harmony.com, forget any of the other matchmaking venues, just hit twitter. It's free, it's easy and only 140 characters of your time.

Go Forth, meet, greet and tweet.

"Radar Love" Ministry

Taylor Hicks on blogtalkradio

2009-07-22T12:09:00.005-05:00

Taylor Talks on Blogtalk and the individual interviewing him almost puts he and anyone listening to sleep. She was really boring. My sympathies to Mr. Hicks for having to submit to these sort of situations.

Hit that link to listen and you too can commiserate with Mr. Hicks.

The Five Step Plan to Being a Fan: Things That Make me Go "Boom"!

2009-07-21T06:59:00.010-05:00

Taylor Hicks certainly attracts a share of female attention with a select crowd on-line. I've had instance to interact with most of them one way or another over the past several year, made a few friends, made a few "not-friends".

Taylor Hicks' fans have interested me over the years on several levels. Not only do so many of them retain a high level of complete adoration for him, but some seem unable to get off the topic of other Hicks' fans. It's really incredible the material I've read in the past, paragraphs written on how to be a good fan and what makes you suck as a fan. I had thought such a topic had been left dead and buried, but well, apparently it is still being flogged, I guess, just in case.

I must warn you, dear readers, this material posted in italics written by another blogger, could hold adverse effects. If you feel you can handle it, by all means read on, then we'll have a chuckle, I have Motrin on standby.

Away we go:

How to be a good Taylor Hicks fan. Is there really a 'how to' on that subject? No not really. Even though we have discussed to no end what each of us feels is right or wrong in regards to being a Taylor Hicks fan. What has guided me onto this subject is my daughter. She asked me if I had read a article about what a person needed to do be a fan and if that is why I had joined fan sites and such. I asked what on earth she was talking about and she had me read a article she had found on a web page. It can be found here http://www.ehow.com/how_2161130_be-a-fan.html.

Let me help out by linking that for you, dear readers: How to be a fan. Let's continue, it seems we have a 'Step' plan:

Step 1 We have that covered, we know who are idol of adulation is, it is of course Taylor Hicks.

Step 2 We all have all of Taylor's CDS and if it isn't on a CD we have downloaded it, Videos, live concerts, MP3s we have it all and we have made our own CDs and DVDs.

Step 3 We buy any magazines with info of Taylor Hicks

Step 4 We are members of several different fan sites, Myspace and subscribe to many different Taylor related blogs.

Step 5 Be loyal. A true fan will stick through thick and thin to its idol. No matter what the outcome.

Now this brilliant "Step" plan was not written by an eleven year old, no this comes from an adult. A person who has been an adult for a long while. At least in age related contextual perimeters.

That is one that some times some fans seem to have the most trouble with. I am a fan of Taylor Hicks because I enjoy his VOICE. I enjoy seeing him to no since lying about that.

I must stop to highlight this part "to no since lying about that" If I might edit one moment, pretend I have red pen: "too, no sense my lying about this issue", might sound a bit better but perhaps that's just me.

I may not like every song Taylor has sang but I love 99% of them. I did not become a fan of his because I thought oh man he will top the charts and I can be there and rub it into people.

Yes, really... whatever does that mean?

I became a fan when i heard him audition for idol. I stuck through each week and I stayed tuned in to see what else he would do and how it would touch me. I didn't even think he would win for awhile insert (sic) because I figured the young kids would vote someone like Ace or the country fans would vote for Kellie or Bucky, to be the the winner. But I was fan of Taylor Hicks from the audition on and I did not at the time even consider if he would be the most popular person of the radio.

Can we say still living in 2006? Yes, let's. She returns to the present year with this: I want to hear the new music, see the new videos, read about how Taylor touches people deep in their heart. Like the other day when he called a fan we all mostly know to give her some comfort the night before her surgery.

That is a true story, he did call a fan who goes by 'SallyannLady' as she was getting prepped for surgery. Very nice touch on his part.

I know Taylor will probably never be mainstream, I know radio seems to have something against playing Taylor's music. But I don't really care I am a fan for life through thick and thin. I am a fan of the man and the music not what the SO CALLED in crowd thinks.

Love the capitalization emphasis. Very dramatic. She carries on with:

One of the tips and warnings that hit home is this

Do not get into fights with opposing fans, as being a fan should be fun and not dangerous.

Yes, 'dangerous', whatever that might involve, I've no idea.

I want to have fun being a fan of Taylor Hicks. I ignore those who do not like him because their opinion means shit to me.

Inserting some passion with the word, "shit". Nice touch.

Ignore them and they will go away. The same is true with bloggers and online freelance writers who through...

Yes, once again (sic) word should be "throw" not "through" which involves entering something.

...in snide remarks about Taylor. They know Taylor's fan will come running to their site and defend him which in turn gets them page views and in many cases funds there income.

Red pen time; it's actually "their income" since it is intended in a personal possessive format. "There" intends a place. Just clarifying.

They are laughing their asses off because his fans run to their site to defend them and that helps with their paycheck. they purposely so this so we will come there. They know other people will come to read our comments and then post to our comments about how they just attracted the wrath of the Soul Patrol. They love it, they get paid for trashing Taylor because we give them page views. People often talk about diet pills I think we need an invention called Chill Pills, Ignore them that is the best thing to do.

First, I think she might need some sort of 'pill' and secondly it takes thousands of 'hits' on a web page to generate any sort of income from ads; too you have to have a site loaded with ads to begin with to even consider any payment. One does not generate income by just having a web page. Who pays for that? Exactly. Third, who are all these people laughing their collective asses off anyway? Fourth, what or where is there anything to be laughing those asses off to begin with? I am missing something here, I know.

Even those who claim to be fans of Taylor's but find any reason to find fault in what ever he does, ignore them also. Just have fun being a fan of Taylor Hicks. Enjoy the man, the music, the positive and ignore the negative.
Posted by Cindy Wright

Yeah, hell ignore anyone but the writer of that brilliant post and stick with her, or anyone she might refer you to; she's the definitive Taylor Hicks fan guru. Now you all go out and have fun today a just being a Taylor Hicks' fan. Toss confetti and shout "Soul Patrol" into the wind. Carry a balloon with his name on it, you know, what ever makes you feel fan-groovy.

I must add here Cindy Wright has always irritated my sensibilities. I know she means well, I know many of you readers might really like her. I imagine she is a nice person with loads of charm. She might be one of the best chocolate chip cookie bakers ever even, really. I'm not deriding her as a human being, it's the writing part that makes me cringe. Or toss back some Motrin. Or giggle.

"Boom Boom Out Goes the Lights: Pat Travers (decent guitarist)

Summer Time Blues Blogger Holiday

2009-07-13T11:27:00.006-05:00

I've been taking a blogger holiday.

"Summertime Blues" Charlie Dee and the Twisters

DMan and the band do this tune. In fact they do it quite well. Time being spent trying to kick recent Lupus flare up and working a website for the band.

Follow Taylor Hicks on Twitter, he's been quite the chatty one lately, up to 75 posts, and he and I were both hungover on the same day. It's kismet I tell you!

I'll be back soon.

The New Band Format? Technical Creativity

2009-07-07T10:22:00.006-05:00

Imagine Taylor Hicks blowing into his iPhone rather than the traditional metal and wooden mouth harp he normally uses. It could happen:

iPhone Harmonica application:

iPhone guitar and bands, what a fun concept. I especially love the guitar application idea. You could sound so great and not blister up your fingertips. Of course, it won't replace the real deal.

Distortion? Check.

This is The Mentalists, an all girl iPhone group - they're quite good.

Check out this bit of technical creativity, "Smokey Bubbles"

Really amazingly entertaining, fascinating to see what fun you can have with your phone. Who'd have thought?

Robert Pattinson: "Goodbye American Women"

2009-07-06T15:16:00.008-05:00

I don't think it matters which celebrity gossip site I attach, they all are saying same the same thing: Pattinson's over American women. At least the aggressive few hundred swarming him each day in New York City.

Apparently, Robert's fans are not content to just scream shrilly in his face, no now, according to the gossip sites, they are now practically tackling him on sight. He has been forced to walk with an entire crew of burly body guards, who have at least on one occasion, freaked themselves and allowed Pattinson to be clipped by a Big Apple taxi cab.

Now Robert must walk along with either sunglasses on or eyes averted and he's been warned, please, no waving at the hoards of salivating women or they may become spiked into a full-on stampede. Then what? Headlines will scoff at his near miss being run over by a cab and focus on his remains lying on the pavement with heel marks, articles of clothing scattered around complete with lipstick smears. It would be horrible.

It's hilarious yet sad how folks can become a complete mob under strange and mystifying circumstances; this situation for one. I mean, yes the man's gorgeous, he's talented and plays an emotional, sexy and sparkly vampire in the "Twilight" series but really, for fans to act and react as they're being portrayed in New York, it is astounding. I'm saying this, my fellow American Women, back off, calm down, take something for God's sake to squelch the hormones and let Robert Pattinson live. After all I've not been able to try my hand at tackling him yet...

"American Women" The Guess Who

An oldie but a goodie brought to us by bleckdackel

On the Road Again: Taylor Hicks Goes to Philly

2009-07-05T13:55:00.010-05:00

Taylor Hicks should be, if he isn't all ready there, on his way to Philadelphia, PA for another run at "Grease". Jonathan Takiff from philly.com wrote a glowing piece about Mr. Hicks that came out today, From stolen album to stolen hearts ... This Idol's in heaven. The article gives a nod to past history of Taylor's start up on Idol and the resulting circumstance of his career while providing a positive write up on the new album, "The Distance".

Where in the World is Taylor Hicks?

2009-07-04T06:49:00.025-05:00

Why last night, Taylor Hicks was in Riverside, CA groovin' it up with "Gonna Move". Hicks performed at the Red, White and Cruise Festival. Fortunately for the fans NOT in California, someone captured this for the Youtubers. Sound could be better but hey, man, beggars can't be chosers. Or something like that.
"Gonna Move" Taylor Hicks

Shortly before his appearance at this California gig he was seen in Mexico from what the TMZ.com folks say, "Where in the world is Taylor Hicks, why he's been in Mexico.". I have read some folks on the fansites say that isn't he, but I'd know those legs anyplace. His feet do look a bit small in the article photo.

Taylor Hicks has this chameleon ability to look differently depending how he's photographed. I have that same characteristic, as do many people. I mean, could you think this guy featured in the left photo the same guy as the one on the right?
He's quite The animal when it comes to bread, apparently.

Next stop for Mr. Hicks, he's on the road again as Grease resumes July 7th.

Jail. Not a Thrilling Word.

2009-07-01T07:22:00.008-05:00

Yesterday morning as I was attempting to log into IDOL BLUES I was met with messages. Not the "Hi, how are you" sort of messages rather this:

"This blog has been locked due to possible Blogger Terms of Service violations. You may not publish new posts until your blog is reviewed and unlocked.
This blog will be deleted within 20 days unless you request a review.
Your blog is marked as spam

Since you're an actual person reading this, your blog is probably not a spam blog. Automated spam detection is inherently fuzzy, and we sincerely apologize for this false positive."

Basically IDOL BLUES was locked erroneously into a Spam Jail. I could see her, I could read her but I could not post. It was sad, slightly distressing and well, made me a bit angry. I sent an email worded as carefully as I could to inquire what had prompted this travesty.

"Your site was flagged by a reader. At the top of your blog is a tool bar that readers, if they believe you've posted questionable material that may be in violation of blogger's terms of service, can notify we, at blogger, to investigate."

Now then, the email went on more about the terms of service, protocol and assurances that this could not be a tool used by spiteful people to squelch my freedom of expression, etc... To which I replied that obviously that was what had indeed occurred and I wanted to know Who would do such a thing. Of course, they could not tell me but reviewing the hits I'd received I proceeded to sleuth through motives, timeline and subject of material in question.

I was pleasantly surprised after much Nancy Drewing research I was wrong about the exact Who might have tried to hurt IDOL BLUES. (I mean they were threatening to delete her!) It seems it was one of my old "fans" from the looks of things from way back in the day...

This morning, I breathed a sigh of relief to see that blogger was so kind as to remit this apology which I will accept:

"On behalf of the robots, we apologize for locking your non-spam blog. Find out more about how Blogger is fighting spam blogs."

So all is right with the world of my IDOL BLUES - until the next time that someone decides to try and hurt me. I was also assured that this likely won't happen again, blogger claims they'll be on lookout for duplicate staging efforts to shut me down.

That leads me to the situation of this afternoon. My court date for excessive use of motorcycle is at 1:00 p.m. DMan has already told my Patrick and all the guys in the band he'd let them know at practice this evening if I was spending the night in the County facilities or not. Nice. Maybe I'll get more sunflowers.

I will admit, it wouldn't be the first time I hit Hotel County Jail.

Perhaps I'll get to do something like this:
(contains "Thriller" appropriate for the time)

it's dance, or get solitary confinement. Obviously they chose, 'dance'.

Calling 912: Is Stuart Heritage OK?

2009-06-29T21:45:00.011-05:00

My statcounter is BLOWN up with hits from the United Kingdom. Hitting posts I've written about or around Stuart Heritage over the past few months. It has me concerned. Man, with all the celebrity deaths, and other madness in this world, I'm having concerns whether Stuart Heritage is OK... I don't want to hear he's taken a tragic tumble off Big Ben or off one of those outrageous bridges that cross the Thames and is in some sort of serious way.

I mean people, you are concerning me. Man, if anyone knows him contact Someone. *grin* Perhaps we need a 912 number. You know like 911 only this one is 912 "Stuart is OK" or some shit. You know Mr. Heritage and I have had our differences but man, I Care. I just have to say, I'm in awe of the responses I'm seeing. (Taylor Hicks, baybee, apparently you are NOT Stuart Heritage.)

Conversely and taking the negative slant, being Libra and part Lioness (my moon sign) I have to look at all aspects, certainly IF anyone of you readers are thinking about stealing any of my asinine and mundane posts hit the road Jack, I'll hunt you down and like a good Texan, shoot you. It's how we roll, baby. But seriously, my statcounter is Freaking me the Hell out. I mean, WHO KNEW?

Stuart Heritage I hope you are fine (well, I know you ARE THAT) and dandy (and whatever that entails) but I hope the Hell these are not attorneys hot on Sunny's ass. Wouldn't THAT be Ironic.
Alanis Morisset "Isn't It Ironic" ( You regulars knew that was the song, right? )

Hadden Sayers Band

2009-06-29T07:58:00.009-05:00

Hadden Sayers is a Texan born in Nacogdoches, raised in Sugar Land. He started playing guitar as a teenager, and like many of us became immersed in live music. He attended Texas A&M University in College Station, TX, but music was his preference. He's hung out with Blues and Texas Music legends Gatemouth Brown, Joe Ely, Omar and the Howlers, Eric Johnson and the "The Ramones". Sayers did get a degree in Journalism, then moved to Austin, TX where he was fortunate to enter into a "blues internship" with legendary BB King rhythm section "Silent Partners".

Sayers then joined Bluesman Lucky Peterson’s touring band, followed by returning to Houston and hooking up with Miss Molly and the Whips making his recording and songwriting debut on her first 2 releases: “Miss Molly” (EFM 1992) and “In the Garden” (EFM 1993).

Sayers began work on his own album in late 1993 and the Hadden Sayers Band was born. In 2004 Sayers moved to Columbus, Ohio to re-invent and re-invigorate. After a two-year hiatus from relentless touring, Sayers has returned to the studio and stage with an armload of new songs that decidedly more "Texas" than the material he wrote while living in the state. "Its a classic case of absence making the heart grow fonder." "The material I'm writing today is directly linked to the dance halls and stages I frequented in my first groups.....blurring the line between Country, Rock and Blues". (excerpted from Hadden's bio on-line)

Our Saturday night "Garden Party" featured the Hadden Sayers Band, and until then,I'd not heard or seen them live. It was through one of DMan's band pals we had the treat to finally hear and experience them, live. "R." had seen them while on a trip to Houston. I was impressed with them, the night of our party there were just three of the band members present, but those three guys made some great sound. Apparently the size and number in the band varies depending on venue and availability.
Hadden Sayers Band, "End of the Road"

Now the lead singer, Hadden Sayers, doesn't have Taylor Hicks or Joe Cocker style of vocals, his vocal tonal sound remind me a little of Stevie Ray Vaughn, really, and he's certainly proficient on the guitar. The band had us dancing in the moonlight until our legal curfew. We've decided to make this an annual event and expand it yearly. It was like our own festival, kids running with lighted glow jewelry, running with sparklers, grills cooking a variety of things from corn on the cob to ribs. Margarita machines and home made brews. Tables were set up and down the long street that we had blocked off. Fireworks at dark (yes we know they're illegal). Next year, since this street is so long we're going for a band at each end. We definitely would want the Hadden Sayers Band to return.
Hadden Sayers Band, "Everybody's Talking"

We've also put in motion a group, band related trip, to New Orleans for Fall. Really digging the new band members DMan and his buddy, R., have compiled, especially love my new BFF, Patrick. He's a classically trained pianist and plays beautifully. He sent a bouquet of sunflowers through DMan last night because he was having thoughts his calling me an "Ass" right after we met might deserve flowers. DMan assured him, it was one of my favorite parts of the night, I found it so cool he was so uninhibited with me. The sunflowers though, nice touch.

The guys are are set to play more gigs throughout the Fall and have a New Year's Eve date to be excited about. Do I think they're going to be The Next Big Thing in Dallas music? No. Am I happy they're having such a great time together and DMan gets to keep playing? Yes, he loves performing.

Regarding the Hadden Sayers Band, if you'd like to explore their sound a little more, their complete discography can be found in that link.

We Went to a Garden Party

2009-06-28T10:44:00.006-05:00

Last night we went to the most incredibly enjoyable party. Darling Man won my forgiveness as well, but I'm still not doing his laundry this week nor cooking for him as a measure of reminder for his bad deed Friday night. As some of you readers know, Darling Man's in a band and they play small gigs around town. I met the new keyboardist for the group, Patrick. We hit it off immediately. One of the first things he said to me, "You're an Ass", after a comment I made. We looked at each other and laughed until tears came. Instant recognition it seems. He's right too.

Conversation turned from their next gigs to birthdays. Seems his birthday falls close to mine so now we're having a big birthday party to celebrate his 32nd and my...well we need not talk about it... What has endeared him to me for life, he could not believe how old I'm about to be, he absolutely freaked. Flattery will get you everywhere with me. I asked DMan if I could keep him. I'm taking photos of he and the guys, next open practice. He's gorgeous, handsome and completely hilarious. We walked to his house after the party and he and DMan played for us, they work really well together.

At the party, we had the Hadden Sayers Band perform - had a huge turn out with the street blocked off. This band has played with The Derek Trucks Band and The Blind Boys of Alabama as an opening. They also provided background for the 2007 International Auto Show commercial. (click to listen)
Hadden Sayers Band

"Someone" wrote a Post last Night...

2009-06-27T14:14:00.005-05:00

I fell asleep on the sofa and apparently left up my blog, etc. DMan had some fun so just excuse the previous post (now taken down) as a man's wacky humor and yes, he's in the dog house.
To Caryl, no I never danced with a boa, feather perhaps yes, but snake, never. I did exotic dance a looong time back when putting myself through school. DMan obviously, as he watched "Dusk til Dawn" and drooling over Hayek, found himself waxing whimsical and obviously day dreaming...
"Dog House Boogie" Seasick Steve

bow wow, wow.

Indiscriminate Act of Kindness: Taylor Hicks

2009-06-25T11:23:00.004-05:00

Thanks to .... so much! Squee! "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness" Taylor Hicks

Indiscriminate Act of Kindness from edjorg on Vimeo.

Teddy Bear Man, Comedy Writer

2009-06-25T10:54:00.006-05:00

Anyone who knows me understands I've taken a shine to that 140 character, social networking site, Twitter. It may be somewhat of a silly pursuit but it is a free, and how can you not like "free", format to talk to anyone in the world? Thinking of how the minutes would fly on my cell phone should I utilize it to talk to some of my on-line friends make it a perfect venue for our interest related conversations.

Should you want to hit me on Twitter, I'm Suns39. No, the numbers not an age related combination, more of a numerology thing, but I won't bore you with that aspect. I've met some new friends on the site and reconnected with a few old friends.

About two weeks ago this guy hit me as a "follow". Twitter name, 'eskimotuesday'; I was intrigued by his profile image, a lovely dark haired guy with really nice eyebrows, asleep, in bed. He had a small bear perched on his shoulder. Immediately I knew he was special. The guy, not the bear, of course, but I did like that bear. So I decided to keep him and follow him in return. To my pleasant surprise he began Direct Messaging me, which I've enjoyed. He refers to me "bear lover" because of my fascination with his teddy bear... He also has a curious aversion to capitalizing letters.

Teddy Bear guy's name is Blake J. Harris; a writer out of New York City. It seems he's started a production film company called Flying Penguins. He and his co-writers and partners have created a film called, "The Flying Scissors" under this production company.

It's a comedy, you can read some details on "The Flying Scissors" IMDb. The film has its own MySpace site, you can visit to find out more information, if you're curious - and you should be. The official website for the movie is at "The Flying Scissors" website.

Blake recently returned from a trip to Los Angeles but he's not divulged any details of what he was accomplishing while there, simply mentioned some meetings. He operates a blogspot called, Tyranny Rocks and has an adorable blog with teddy bear tales, Scheming Bears operated by perhaps his bear alias, Claude Bear. Complete with pictures and everything. It's lovely.

I suggest, dear readers, you check out my Twitter Bear man's movie - I have the trailer for you, right here so you can get an idea of what Blake does in his creative moments beside posting playground polls and talking through teddy bears.

"The Flying Scissors" trailer

Taylor Hicks Videos from the Magic Bag

2009-06-24T08:16:00.005-05:00

Taylor Hicks put on a show in Ferndale, MI at a club called the Magic Bag, Monday night. There was a video ban on the concert but this intrepid attendee managed to snare a few tunes. Sadly, no evidence of "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness".

Sounds as though Taylor put on a great show. Lucky attendees. See you in Birmingham in September, people.

"Maybe You Should" Taylor Hicks

"Once Upon a Lover of Mine" Taylor Hicks (gets cut prematurely)

"I Live on a Battlefield"

Taylor Hicks - I Live On A Battlefield - Magic Bag 6-22-09 from ForeverTaylor on Vimeo.

videos c/o Forever Taylor

Taylor Hicks - The Runaround - Magic Bag 6-22-09 from ForeverTaylor on Vimeo.

Taylor Hicks Acoustic at the Magic Bag

2009-06-22T22:50:00.005-05:00

Taylor Hicks' set list, The Distance, I Live on a Battlefield, The Runaround, What's Right is Right, Don't Let Me Down, The Deal, Nineteen, Gonna Move, Soul Serenade, Indiscriminate Act of Kindness, Maybe You Should, Seven Mile Breakdown, and Feeling All Right. There were a few I missed, but for the most part that's the list.

Man, I've wanted to hear him do this tune: "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness" Taylor Hicks

He sounds so good on this track.

More to come tomorrow.

Taylor Hicks Shadow Tours on the Calendar

2009-06-20T09:00:00.005-05:00

I've been remiss in not including the dates on upcoming after "Grease" concerts Taylor Hicks has lined up. Coming up this Monday night, June 22 Taylor is set to perform at The Magic Bag. Brian Less, keyboards and Josh Smith on guitar to join him.

Taylor is to play at Smith’s Olde Bar, in Atlanta when "Grease" hits town with the concert scheduled for August 16. Mr. Hicks is not a stranger to that venue, having played there back when he was on the 2006 American Idol tour.

Then, coming in September, Taylor Hicks returns to Birmingham and Workplay, Friday September 25th with now an additional night added, September 26. To purchase tickets hit this link Workplay.

The Workplay event happens to fall on my birthday weekend; likely I'll hit the Saturday show. Haven't been to Alabama in a while now so will be great to fly back and hang out for the weekend. Have friends at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa I can check in on while in town.

Here's a short clip from back in the Idol tour days. Taylor and some of the guys from the Idol tour were known to hit the bars and play together after the tour concerts. This clip is a chaotic mess with Elliott Yamin and Ace on stage with him. Note the drink waving; feel free to wave back.

video c/o WeAreNotNKSAnymore

Robert Pattinson Fans Chase Him Into Traffic, Bodyguards Scatter

2009-06-19T08:37:00.009-05:00

Robert Pattinson was literally chased into traffic on a New York City street. Hysterical and likely shrieking fans pounded the pavement in a stampede after spotting Rpattz. RadarOnLine.com featured the story yesterday, that Pattinson, while exiting a bookstore and surrounded by burly bodyguards, was nearly injured by a taxi cab.

RPattz, in his haste to escape the screaming hoard bearing down upon him, a hoard that may have been comparable to the fabled Harpies in Greek mythology, Pattinson apparently smacked into a Big Apple taxi. Perhaps he was reading too much into his hype from "Twilight", you know his skin was purportedly hard as diamonds and much more sparkly, feeling invincible, or likely just incredibly panicked he collided with the cab. He was fortunate this collision wasn't worse as anyone who has ever been to The Big Apple can attest to the mad driving skills of the city's taxi drivers...

Apparently after Pattinson's run-in with the cab, the bodyguards snapped to their senses, or perhaps embarrassed by their fear of the hoard, one of them shouted out, "You see what you did, you almost killed him!".

Pattinson being the trooper that he his, carried on and continued filming more scenes for his upcoming movie, "Remember Me", later that day. The taxi cab carried on - just another day in the life of almost mowing people down. The screaming hoard of ~~Harpies~~ fans? Who knows, my ADD kicked in and I lost interest after reading about Will Farrell gobbling reindeer eyeballs and sipping his own urine. Really.

"The Hangover" Just because it reminds me of an adventure I had once...

"Crazy Train" Ozzy (He never ate eyeballs nor drank his pee, that I know of, but there was that bat incident.)

Palin Forgives Letterman: Freedom of Speech the Key

2009-06-17T09:18:00.008-05:00

Yesterday I wrote a post about the situation between Alaska Governor Sarah Palin and late night talk show host, David Letterman. They were at an impasse over the joke Dave made regarding Alex Rodriguez and one of Palin's daughters. I mulled over my thoughts regarding whether it constitutes an issue of free speech or crossed the line because one of the daughters, the one that attended the baseball game inferred in the joke, was underage.

Well it seems everyone is kissing and making up now, news source Newsmax left me this article in my email inbox this morning. Palin's statement, "on behalf of all young women, like my daughters, who hope men who `joke' about public displays of sexual exploitation of girls will soon evolve." Something we'd love to see happen with all men I suppose, that march toward evolution.

In this case, though, unlike with my example of the Jamie Foxx vs Miley Cyrus, Letterman comes out on his show announcing publicly to his audience and television viewers his regrets for this unfortunate situation. That, to me, speaks that although Dave may have committed somewhat of a faux paux with dropping that joke, this man is not one who needs be beaten into an evolved state. Letterman's apology shows integrity, bravery and self-deprecating humor found in persons of an intelligent and evolved mind. According to Newsmax he took responsibility for anyone misconstruing which daughter the joke was directed toward. He said, "I'm sorry about it, and I'll try to do better in the future". Letterman added, ""The joke, really, in and of itself, can't be defended".

Any man who comes forth after doing a wrong, perceived or otherwise, and actually apologizes is to be commended. Many would rather put their head in the sand and just hope the situation goes away rather than risk some ill-conceived version of pride or embarrassment, or heaven forbid, admit they might have behaved badly.

Palin's statement issued late yesterday brought up the subject of Freedom of Speech. She said Letterman has the right to joke about whatever he wants to, and "...thankfully we have the right to express our reaction."

Invoking her Patriotic leanings and giving further sway to the thought process that indeed, this lady has plans to eventually campaign for President she issued this statement:

"This is all thanks to our U.S. military men and women putting their lives on the line for us to secure American's right to free speech," she said. "In this case, may that right be used to promote equality and respect."

Freedom of Speech was the issue that caught my focus when I wrote my post yesterday morning. Freedom of Speech entered the equation through Mrs. Palin yesterday afternoon. Freedom of Speech apparently what has sealed this riff between Governor Palin and Mr. Letterman. I guess the other Constitutional amendment, The Right to Bear Arms won't have to be invoked in this case.

Free Speech vs Comedy the Gray Area

2009-06-16T09:16:00.006-05:00

Sarah Palin at war with David Letterman? It seems so which makes me wonder as I read the multitude of stories on this subject who really is in error. Of course, being a mother, Palin would not want anyone hurting in any way one of her children. I know I'd likely express myself if anyone insulted mine. But, considering this issue involves a late night talk show host with comedic undertones, is this something that anyone involved in the public eye should recognize as something that will and can occur? Should it be taken with a grain of salt rather than made into a national issue to be fought in the public and media fronts?

Apparently,David Letterman has made an joke concerning one of the Alaskan governor's children. The joke concerned the Palin family's recent New York visit, inspiring Letterman to quip, "during the seventh inning, her daughter was knocked up by Alex Rodriguez."

Granted, the intended jab at humor was not in good taste, but it was not intended as a direct insult at the girl(s) in question. One of the main points seem to be concerning whether Mr. Letterman was referring to Bristol Palin, the 18 year old daughter who had a child out of wedlock during the Presidential election, or Willow, the 14 year old who actually attended the baseball game Letterman referred to in the joke.

Palin's spokeperson, Sharon Leighow said, "It doesn't matter whether he was talking about Willow or Bristol, what he said was unacceptable".

What hit me immediately was the simple premise of Freedom of Speech. You know, that pesky but held dear tenet in the U.S. Constitution. Palin, a politician sitting as Governor of Alaska is a professed Patriot, naturally. Word out has it likely she harbors considerations for running for the lead office of this country one day. That adds consideration whether that tenet any Patriot should hold dear includes talk about family, underage offspring and late night off-color comedy in relation to them.

Being completely real here for a moment, consider does Freedom of Speech actually include such matters or is it to be left just for political thought and practice? Of course there needs to be set boundaries on insults or lies or deceitful remarks directed at anyone, whether a celebrity, political aspirant or a regular ol' Joe in the crowd. We all have and need be able to set limitations on what we will accept according to our own personal base lines. But is the reaction fitting the moment, the weak joke in this case?

Jamie Foxx, back in April, on his Sirius satellite radio show The Foxxhole, mocked Miley Cyrus. Granted Cyrus is living life larger than her underage parameters should indicate, but Foxx said some incredibly crass comments, even if he'd been talking about someone much older.

Foxx's show referred to the 16-year-old as a "little white bitch". Foxx under some misguided possibly too-much-coffee induced rant advised young Miley something to the effect of, 'do some heroin, get an STD, make a sex tape and grow up'. Now take into consideration the man has a daughter in the same age bracket as Cyrus, that does nothing to lessen the vulgarity of the attack nor make it all okay.

If Foxx had been going for the humor it was sorely amiss during that tasteless tirade toward Cyrus. He did, following a media meltdown over his remarks, issue an apology while on Leno. Of course his appearance in April, on Jay's show, was to promote his movie, "The Soloist", released April 24. Foxx said "I so apologize to Miley, and this is sincere. I am a comedian, and you guys know that whatever I say, I don't mean any of it."

So, returning to the topic of Letterman vs Palin, by being a comedian, cracking jokes about a person of interest, or anyone under the legal age of adulthood, is that crossing that Freedom of Speech line? Is there or should there even be a line when it comes to one of the values we American people tout as one of the most important social dividers between our country and other nations? Is this even an applicable issue, Freedom of Speech?

I was surprised to see how many articles being generated by this situation, none have any answers or even seem to question does Letterman have the right, does Foxx or any other comedian, in the name of trying to be funny have the right to target, as a punchline, underage children in their joke series?

In the quest for humor and comedy are there boundaries that should be sanctioned "off limits"? On this front, the whole celebrity meets comedian I'm not certain where the line should be drawn or the limits imposed. Certainly the Momma Bear has been awakened in Governor Palin against David Letterman, it may be in good form for him to remember she's not afraid to go moose hunting.

AT&T Live Streaming Bonnaroo

2009-06-13T15:21:00.006-05:00

I've been having a time getting away from the WebTV to go into The Big Real. Heard this band today for the first time and really like their sound.
"Heartless Bastards"

Grace Potter and The Nocturnals were also amazing. Looking forward to later in the day, Government Mule, Springsteen. We're planning to hit it next year.

Great music today c/o AT&T Link: Bonnaroo.

"The Hangover"

2009-06-12T08:57:00.005-05:00

No music in this post, unless you consider laughter music, some do, you know.
"The Hangover" Laughed until I cried watching this trailer. Must see it.

Another trailer:

Man, we're going tonight.

Meltdown Madness - I Embraced My Inner 14 Year Old

2009-06-11T11:19:00.018-05:00

Part of my mixing in the insanity bin part of my brain lately may have to do with a few issues I've been confronted with over the past several months. You know, Spring sprung, all the flowers blooming etc... mingled in with my emergence from a time of chronic and fierce daily pain.

Now Summer at hand, the hay on the fields nearby has been cut for first baling, turning amber, the heat here withering those little Spring flowers. I'm still pain free and loving that part of my life but I'm wondering at times if I've traded that pain for some sort of mental deficiency. Really chucking down the B vitamins lately...just in case.

What I think it, at least partially, comes down to is my seeing how quickly life is zipping past. I mean the hours rush by at full gallop and I now hit my hair with a bit of color care of Cindy at the Salon. I've fine lines under my eyes and my forehead recently had a nice little Botox injection. (It can be our secret.) Not that I'm particularly vain but I have been known to occasionally care about my presentation to the world. Granted, over the past five years I've not dwelt on it that much with the overwhelming physical aches and pains taking front seat in my consciousness. Priorities, you know.

I've always had a temper, it's one of my failings as a human being. I was One-of-Those children who could throw herself down in public and scream like a maniac. Poor Darling Man and the other men before him could attest I can throw random objects with precise speed and force when I'm sufficiently inspired. That said, I'm not an angry person, on the contrary I'm a normally laid back person with a wry sense of humor and have been known to roll around being ridiculously silly. Thing is, once inspired I can go on a roll, a tangent, rally into an obsessed red haze to see justice done in all of it's glory. Well, justice in so far I see its meaning. I would have made a great warrior Princess.

I recently, as some of you know, developed this strange fascination for someone I met on-line, which became fueled by late night talks and random comments. I have to clarify, I've met a lot of people on line, male, female but never felt this level of connection before, especially from the very start. Sadly there were a lot of odd issues at hand; he's quite a distance from me, current relationships and he's a bit younger than I am, ripe considerations that lead to misinterpretations all around.

Today an on-line cohort put up this article, lively written by Joan Raymond for Newsweek Pop Vox, titled, "Why Cougars Crave "Idol" Runner-Up Adam Lambert". Now don't go running off thinking it's Adam gLambert who is the person of point in my little fascination, no, but the point of the article fits. It fits quite well. It's that cougar moniker bothering me somewhat as well. Cougar. Man, is that what it is then when a lady becomes a certain age and discovers an attraction for someone younger? I guess so. Makes me cringe, really.

Anyway, in Ms. Raymond's article she relays her thoughts about gLambert's gorgeous Rolling Stone Magazine cover shoot, writing, "We love Adam, truly, madly, deeply, in a kind of weirdly Mrs. Robinson sexual way. And the reason doesn't just have to do with our past lives as professional groupies. It also has something to do with biology."

That phrase ticked for me like that bio-clock I've heard about...I thought yeah, it sums up my thoughts of late, how time is running by so quickly. I've found myself lately with my newly found pain free existence noticing more around me, feeling in tune with The Everything of Everything. It's been rather like taking a trip back in time; like this quote from sex therapist Laura Berman, director of the Berman Center in Chicago, "I think more women would be happier if they channeled their inner 14-year-old girls once in a while," It's exactly like what I've been experiencing - I have been embracing my inner 14 year old with wild abandon. Too wild at times and too much abandon.

Taking that article's theory, that the writer's (and her friend's) connection with Lambert may be a wake-up call to be more playful, to have more fun, exercise the right to be more confident, I completely relate. That has been my inner mantra now for months. I've almost been screaming to anyone who will listen, "I'm back, man, I'm embracing the Sunny I was before the pain, before I got sick!" I'm getting to the point I'm almost boring myself over it.

Darling Man has looked at me with an almost slight fear in his eyes since my 'emergence' as I think of it. He said he doesn't know if he can handle me being back like That again. I catch him trying to get me to slow down, to do the things I have for the past several years, be more sedate. I just can't, I'm absolutely exploding to be Out There. I know temperance and moderation the balance and key to a good life without being self-destructive to oneself; at one point I was relatively self-destructive, something I'm not proud of. Rather, this time around, what I am shooting for, at this point in my life - acknowledging I will be accepted - for me. Thing is, goal one, tempering that attitude with some semblance of grace. Obviously I fell off that descriptor (the graceful part) again the other night.

You see, I had things I wanted to say to SOMEONE who has affected me rather like the woman wrote feeling about young Adam. My issue, the man had decided to absolutely cut me out after we had an unfortunate argument. I'm not even sure what started some of our 'discussions' we've had. One minute everything is all nice and funny then it would get rather sexy then we'd have an argument. Certainly people argue, that last night I was angry with him too, but I get mad then I get over it. I may throw a plate or something, but then I'm done. Obviously he is not like me in that regard. Too, I think it was perhaps his way to justify and create a moment for this break; it had been discussed, considering everything going on, the most sensible plan for everyone involved. We knew each other a short time but things went spiraling out of control very quickly. It was odd, fascinating and well fascinating the best word for it.

Anyway, my combined inner self-destructive Diva came bursting out all over the place in a big gooey rage, the other night. I was ranting in frustrations over this person not wanting to see things my way. For this person not hearing me out or giving me at least the respect of a decent last conversation. The last one he and I had consisted of his relaying the painfulness of this association for him, how he'd been feeling physically affected by this and how he's not certain this a healthy thing for he or I. He was being wrecked with guilt, with feeling "like shit" for how this situation was conflicting with his personal life. How he felt miserable over what and how he was feeling and thinking about me.

I never got to have my say really. No, during the 'discussion' that last night, I became all adolescent reactions like I had braces and zits again. I did not get the opportunity to let him know how it had affected me; the pros and the cons. How absolutely wonderful I thought he was while understanding this wasn't a feasible thing. Instead we wound up virtually shouting and hanging up on each other and then, poof. He cuts me off. It was not dissimilar to being censored or driving a one-way highway to Hell. His version of Highway to Hell.

Following his then shutting me out of everyplace we had talked previously, my 14 year old inner adolescent was literally screaming to punish him for his transgressions of not putting the fight past us and at least parting on more amicable terms. It was the nature of the situation from the start, quite intense yet sad; a meeting of the minds over how we had ended just as oddly and intensely as we started. Intriguing yet almost scary to imagine what he and I would be like toward each other in person. It would have certainly been one for the books. In fact it is. Tentatively, currently, I'm titling it "Time and Place" and certainly this man will have an acknowledgment should everything work out. I just wish things could have been more like how I'm writing it and that we'd not come to such a violent end. I regret being unable to keep that 14 year old adolescent with braces and zits under control; I regret I lost my mind and my sense of grace. Regret has it's place, I'm just not ready to file it away yet. I'm thinking that is the Inner 14 year old talking, I really need get her under control.

"Lie to Me" Chris Isaak

Lyrics:
There is a woman, far over the sea.
Standing and waiting, praying for me.
Here I lie sleeping, a girl by my side.
Who am I hurting, each time I lie.

Lie to me, lie. Lie to me, lie.

There is a woman, trying hard to be brave.
The way that I hurt her, has made her afraid.
Things that I'm doing, are breaking her heart.
Still she's pretending, we'll never part.

Lie to me, lie. Lie to me, lie.

I don't care what people may say, I know everybody lies.
I'm not trying to hurt my love, I'm only trying to get by.

There is a woman, far over the sea.
Standing and waiting, praying for me.
Here I lie guilty, a girl by my side.
Who am I hurting, each time I lie.

Lie to me, lie. Lie to me, lie. Lie to me, lie. Lie to me, Lie.

Dairy Cones on Grease

2009-06-09T08:50:00.019-05:00

Riding inside an ice cream cone. It's all in a day's work really. Taylor Hicks rides almost daily inside a glittery, approximately nine foot tall dairy confection to emerge singing and harmonica playing, city to city to the tune of "Beauty School Drop Out".

It seems that Mr. Hicks is also fully embracing the inner cheese behind the entire "Grease" premise now that he's hit The Cheese State of Wisconsin. He's decided to pay tribute to all the cheesy goodness therein by adding a lovely Cheesehead crown to his sparkly Nudie suit ensemble. I think it's actually working, your thoughts dear readers? I say keep it, why not?

What initially began as a Summer stint on Broadway in the reality show driven latest spin off of "Grease" (The One That You Want...) has developed into a long term proposition for Mr. Hicks. He's been traveling with the national touring company of the originally Broadway production now for months and it seems contracts have been penned to have him continue with this production into 2010. Then what? Perhaps yet another contract to continue riding that ice cream into infinity and beyond.

Taylor Hicks, as written in another one of my rambling blog posts, has a presence on Twitter and so does his featured sidekick in his Dairy adventures. The sidekick is retaining an air of mystery regarding whom they might actually be; goes by the name, Dairy Cone. Claiming to be possibly a male version of a dairy treat behind their Snow Miser's image, they're proving to be entertaining to some of the current Taylor Hicks fans on the social networking site. For anyone yet not introduced to Dairy Cone, click that link and give 'em a big "howdy". We hope they'll stick around a while sharing their creamy observations of The Big Boss Man.

The Dairy Cone characterization reminds me of certain fishy characters that swam the boards when Mr. Hicks was on Idol. Anyone remember the "Goldfish Patrol" threads at the Official idolonfox.com boards? The fish, Ray and Lamont, provided "spoilers" for "Daddy's" fans - to jog anyone's memory or fill in for anyone not familiar just a quickie reminder from mj'sbigblog.

Speculation of who was actually running the Ray and Lamont storylines throughout the show's run brought some mystery but to hand it to the guy's behind the fish, it was effective interest-catching advertising for Mr. Hicks. Ray and Lamont even had their own accessories lines popping up with merchandise, still on-line. That lends me pause, perhaps Dairy Cone need consider the same thing eventually? A line of magnets, pins, t-shirts, visors. Well, it might be a tad early for that yet.

Now of course, as Dairy Cone refers to him, The Boss Man, has had some musical gigs promoting his relatively (taken in the context of time) recently released CD, "The Distance". He's done intimate venues such as Roxy's in LA and that coffee shop bar in San Francisco. He'll be heading back to California to do a July 4th gig for KFROG’s Red, White & Cruise Concert and Fireworks Extravaganza in Fontana. Now since I have to support Darling Man and his show here in Dallas, same day, no fly out to Fontana for me.

Well, perhaps we've someone new to add to the Taylor Hicks' cast of characters populating the man's career. Speaking of characters, let me serve up some Ice Cream for Crows.

Captain Beefheart

Robert Pattinson's New Name?

2009-06-08T10:05:00.008-05:00

This photo begs to have the 'Rpattz' monniker changed to 'Rpantz'. Seriously when have you ever seen a man who can pull this off... or is it On?

A vest paired with a sleeveless t-shirt, sweat pants and well, underpantz. Now that's a Monday morning image that certainly cheers the mood. I could look at that all day. In fact I've printed it out on glossy and it will hang above this computer desk. Forever. ha.

And, not to leave out mention, his hair is a perfect work of art. I had company last night, (found she may have gotten into a bit of mischief on my laptop while I was cooking...) we had the place to ourselves. DD was at a friend's house to spend the night and DMan was at band practice. We watched ...."Twilight". Jazz had never seen it yet and well, life's not complete in the Pop Culture world until you've seen it at least once. Needless to say she enjoyed it very much and took my DVD home to watch it again.

This video is chock full of giggily /fangurl Squee moments. Song, The Cure's "Pictures of You".

Robert Pattinson - Pictures of You
by foof76

Prince Turns 51 in The Purple Rain

2009-06-07T11:14:00.009-05:00

Prince turns 51 today and there is an actual video matching his song "Purple Rain" up on the Youtube. Being a long time lover of all things related to erotic guitars and strange men I have to post a video link. Actually I think renting "Purple Rain" might be in order. And cake. We have to have some cake.

Hit this link for "Purple Rain" in concert Time & Birthdays according to Prince. He certainly looks pretty all wet and sparkly.

Taylor Hicks' Twittering

2009-06-07T09:07:00.009-05:00

Taylor Hicks is on Twitter. Really who isn't these days? Oh well probably thousands, but still, it IS The Thing these days and really quite fun. Mr. Hicks is twittering much more than he did initially. Currently he's up all the way now to 39 updates. Stellar! Well not really when chatty Cathy's like myself are heading for the 1500 mark within a two month span.

It's really sort of a vanity endeavor when you consider this whole phenomenon; by twittering messages, songs, whatever strikes your fancy you are assuming other people even remotely care what you think, what interests you. Likely that is one of the biggest draws for Twitter, embrace your inner ego and let it rip. Take that a step further and I think it reflects on a person's self image to even go there and do it. That said it is a nice little way to stay in touch with on-line friends outside of blog posts. By the way, anyone not initiated to this little on-line phenom, an update is in effect a post.

The majority of Mr. Hicks' twitters, tweets or twits; whichever you want to refer to them as have been text messages. An occasional few from the man's computer. He keeps them short and normally refers to his time spent in the "Grease" ice cream cone prop. He's even dubbed himself as Cone Ranger.

One of my favorite updates he's hung out on twitter, "How does anyone watch the Bachelor. My bad.People watch it because the success rate is so high." Seriously how does anyone watch that show? I'd rather stab myself with a pencil than watch that tripe. I know, considering my past history with my sub intelligent devotion to American Idol, there must be some sort of deviated irony in my slamming ANY show as being tripe. I mean qualifications for judgment not really something I can own, you know - considering...

Last night Mr. Hicks updated with, "Cheesehead night in Wisconsin.Go Back to that Cheeseball in the Sky." Which naturally screamed Norman Greenbaum's tune - a fitting one for a Sunday morning.

"Spirit in the Sky" remake by DC Talk

(I'm fascinated with how they got this footage.)

Something in My Liberty

2009-06-07T08:53:00.005-05:00

The Verve "Lucky Man"

Lucky Man lyrics
"Happiness
More or less
It's just a change in me
Something in my liberty
Oh, my, my

Happiness
Coming and going
I watch you look at me
Watch my fever growing
I know just where I am

But how many corners do I have to turn?
How many times do I have to learn
All the love I have is in my mind?

Well, I'm a lucky man
With fire in my hands

Happiness
Something in my own place
I'm standing naked
Smiling, I feel no disgrace
With who I am

Happiness
Coming and going
I watch you look at me
Watch my fever growing
I know just who I am

But how many corners do I have to turn?
How many times do I have to learn
All the love I have is in my mind?

I hope you understand
I hope you understand

Gotta love that'll never die

It's just a change in me
Something in my liberty"

Really freaking nice little tune.

Vintage Bob Dylan, Sun Rising

2009-06-05T08:05:00.009-05:00

"Isis" Bob Dylan
"She was there in the meadow where the creek used to rise.
Blinded by sleep and in need of a bed,
I came in from the East with the Sun in my eyes.
I cursed her one time then I rode on ahead.

She said, "Where ya been?" I said, "No place special."
She said, "You look different." I said, "Well, not quite."
She said, "You been gone." I said, "That's only natural."
She said, "You gonna stay?" I said, "Yeah, I jes might."

Isis, oh, Isis, you mystical child.
What drives me to you is what drives me insane.
I still can remember the way that you smiled
On the fifth day of May in the drizzlin' rain"

Vintage tune.

I'm feeling much better today, thanks and love to all my friends.

"Idiot Wind" Bob Dylan

Lyrics on the tube site. Very nice. Very fitting.

Angels, Faeries and Truth

2009-06-02T17:45:00.011-05:00

I had a mad real discussion tonight with the man I live with. He's a guy I have known for many years, he's loved me, he's hated me, he's fought with me, but he continues to say I am the only woman he's ever known worth anything. I think that's validation.

"Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" James Morrison

Lyrics to Nothing Ever Hurt Like You
"Broken Strings"

Okay Who, put my man in such a turmoil, not to mention my heart? This gorgeously handsome man who likely will prove the insane death of Me. (He's Beautiful.)

Allman Brothers Tripping the Southern Rock

2009-06-01T22:16:00.010-05:00

Dreams lyrics
I'm hung up on dreams I'll never see...

cheers to Slowhandfender for the video

"Midnight Rider"

I'm on some sort of Allman Brothers trip or something. I'll work it out. Might be the vinyls I recently picked up. Certainly goes down well with a few Lone Star longnecks.

Gregg Allman, "Come and Go Blues"

2009-05-31T20:46:00.004-05:00

Likely one of the best acoustic tunes Allman's ever done. Really good.

Jersey Irish, I'm A Squeaky Ironing Board?

2009-05-31T11:37:00.004-05:00

In one of Jersey Irish's comments to me on the Spinshack she sort of inadvertently - compared me to her squeaky ironing board. Or did she?

My sweet friend wrote, "Spin, Too funny!!! My ironing board was squeaking really bad, hubby went and got the W-D and was like a mad man trying to get the squeak to stop, It finally stopped and the W-D went away for now.

JI" after reading my recent post regarding creative use of WD-40 and whatnot.

Now this is a creative use of ironing board if I've seen one.
"Ironing Board Blues" John Fuggle

Then there's always the Burn in Hell theory of thought. Likely more what the gentleman in question has in mind.

"Burn in Hell" Twisted Sister

I always get a giggle out of Twisted Sister.

Mystery Man Wrecking my Psyche?

2009-05-31T00:31:00.009-05:00

Story to come soon. For now an image. Or two.

Yes he's trying to grease the skids. Rife with unknown manifestations and ill behavior he resorts to the WD-40 to try and assauge the situation. Alas. That's not the remedy. I wanted flowers, yellow roses would have been nice.

He does have a nice ass.

Word to the Wise, man, I've walked through the Valley. I know what it feels like and I'm not going back.
"Hard Sun"

Pink, New Tune: "Please Don't Leave Me"

2009-05-30T18:19:00.004-05:00

"How did I become so obnoxious?
What is it with you that makes me act like this?
I've never been this nasty
Can't you tell that this is all just a contest?
The one that wins will be the one that hits the hardest
But baby I don't mean it
I mean it, I promise
You say I don't need you but it's always gonna come right back..."
Please don't leave me (live@4music) Pink

Just heard this for the first time on my way home this afternoon. I like it; she has a nice voice, really.

Taylor Hicks Likes the Sun? Of Course he does.

2009-05-30T07:40:00.007-05:00

Taylor Hicks has been up in Seattle, Washington since May 12, this the last date of the "Grease" tour with next stop Appleton, WI. Seattle is known for the rain, the cloud cover, but I do have relatives who reside in a nearby town, so I know it's not rain, rain everyday.

Isn't it special how Mr. Hicks incorporates mention of how much he likes the Sun? Yes, naturally I'm making it all about me.

I like this tune from Seattle, had the most harmonica out of the videos seen so far.
"Hide Nor Hair" Taylor Hicks

video c/o NJ4Taylor
Yeah, like that.
"Oh, I was lying in the bed with fever
And I was burning up inside
My baby walked in my bedroom..."
Lyrics

Seattle Experts on Facial Readings: Taylor Hicks Analyzed

2009-05-28T10:28:00.010-05:00

Seattle Weekly writer wrote: "Spotted: American Idol winner Taylor Hicks, who currently stars as Teen Angel in Grease at 5th Avenue Theatre, attempting to go incognito in a baseball cap while crossing the sidewalk at 5th and University. Fans shouted his name and a very pissed off looking Hicks gave a half wave and kept on walking. Damn, Taylor. Be a little friendlier with your fans. They're the reason you won Idol and got your current acting gig. Nobody likes an ungrateful tool."

Now naturally, Erika Hobart with this one sighting, has the line on Mr. Hicks. Interesting she can read his look as being 'pissed off' from third party conversations. That's some kind of gift into facial reading. Perhaps she should check this site: Face Perception. Writers can be tools as well.

Besides, he always looks like that; it's those dark eyes and full eyebrows. Man can't help but look intense.
"Seven Mile Breakdown" Taylor Hicks San Francisco, 2009

He's So Heavy

2009-05-28T08:25:00.006-05:00

All your weight falls on me, brings me down. Is it necessary to be that heavy?
"Heavy" Collective Soul

"Give me a word
Give me a sign
Show me where to look
Tell what will I find ( will I find )
Lay me on the ground
Fly me in the sky
Show me where to look
Tell me what will I find ( will I find )"
Let that light shine. Collective Soul

"She Said"

"She said that time is unfair
To a woman her age
Now that wisdom has come
Everything else fades
She said she realizes
She's seen her better days
She said she can't look back
To her days of youth
What she thought were lies
She later found was truth
She said her daddy had dreams
But he drank them away
And her mother's to blame
For the way she is today

Life's river shall rise
She Said
And only the strong shall survive
She Said
But I'm feeling quite weak
She Said
Will you comfort and forgive me
She Said

She said she's still searching
For salvation's light
She said she wishes all day
And she prays all night
She said she won't speak of love
Because love she's never known
She said it's moments like these
She hates to be alone

Forgive me
She Said
Forgive me
She Said"
(great lyrics really)

Chasing of the Cheese: What To Do Should You Visit the UK

2009-05-26T08:13:00.005-05:00

Story on Fox.
Chumbawamba - Tubthumping

My Sabbatical Adventure: Chasing a Unicorn

2009-05-24T12:49:00.009-05:00

Sweet dreams are made of these. The song that certainly fits what I'm about to tell you. I'm going to shine some focus on myself, as well as share a piece of magic. My post today might feel a little like 'So what did you do last Summer?' except it has nothing to do with Summer. It's more about what I have done for the past several years which apparently has lead to what has culminated in my focus the past several weeks. I've had the light shine down on an incredibly shiny someone; a person who is a definitive notch above the regular human animals found in the general populace. Well, at least that is how he seems to me.

Not many of you on-line readers or friends know that I have been sick these past several years. Last thing I ever want is for anyone to feel sorry for me or feel pity, my pride just could not stand it. I have a chronic condition called lupus. It's a disease that varies in symptoms from individual to individual, some have more severity and intensity of the manifestations that this disease is able to work on a body's systems, physically. It also carries a weight on your mental standings since this disease can turn on you in a moment, it can kill you. You have to live with that knowledge. On the flip side, this disease can suddenly decide to stop what havoc it may be wrecking on your physical being and go into a remission. Vanish like a ghost. Everyone with this disease hopes for that outcome.

I've seemingly been given a second chance. How long this second chance will last is unknown. It could last forever. I could be symptom free the rest of my life. Too, it could only last a short time. I've been in a state that has varied from extreme joy to fear thinking that it could come back. Life is looking so full I have to just run out and grab it every moment.

In the beginning of this illness my symptoms began manifesting during my pregnancy with my ten year old. I had massive swelling in my legs, ankles and feet. It was incredible. The OBGYN put blame on what I was eating, drinking, my sitting, I was put on bed rest for the last two months of the pregnancy. After her birth, that first six months, the pregnancy hormones began filtering out of my system. By the time she was seven months I knew something was wrong with me. I did not feel right.

Massive tests went on and on and I was screened for brain tumors, cancer, MS, you name it. Ending result was SLE, Systemic lupus erythematosus a chronic, multifaceted inflammatory disease capable of affecting every organ system of a person's body. Initially I was terrified; had never even heard of it.

I received medical treatment, put on a strict regimen of pharmaceuticals and things leveled out for me, but I did not return to my previous high energy self. Time passed and the condition worsened. My heart, lungs and my kidneys were affected. I was on more drugs, more trips to the hospital.

IDOL BLUES and my on-line situations with various cast members that make up the Taylor Hicks fan world became a separate entity for me. A true escape from the everyday issues I dealt with and lived with and sought to avoid. When not dealing with the real world and all that went with it, I escaped into my interesting childrens' lives and this almost fantasy on-line world. Focusing on me was just depressing, limiting and not a lot of fun. I was me but yet I wasn't me anymore, unable to do much of what I once loved doing. I had to avoid sunlight, I had to avoid getting too tired, which was all too easy. I had issues breathing much of the time, issues with horrible headaches, body and joint pain and general malaise. It damn sucked to be me.

Taylor Hicks provided me hours of entertainment with his musical career highs and lows. His American Idol experience was absolute fun. The whole fan world situation surrounding him has also provided me hours of entertainment - the doings of his fans and the fascinations with him and with each other.

Anyway, the past five years were the worst. I developed the heart inflammation issues, lung inflammation and kidney disorders. I've been on steroids, I hit chemo, name it I endured it. One other big escape for me was sleeping - I developed this whole other world in my dreams. I began writing them down and compiling a story of sorts from the dreams. Center in my story, a man. He was funny, sweet, kind, a best friend. He did not look like anyone I'd ever met.

He had lovely red-blonde hair, incredibly blue eyes. In my dreams I knew him as "Adam". Having him to go to in my sleep was amazing and comforting. Like some sort of imaginary friend. I actually was one of 'those kids', I had an imaginary friend. He went everywhere I did and was especially soothing while I underwent treatments for asthma or allergy shots. If I was lonely or scared he was there. Thing is, he was a horse who talked rather like Mr. Ed only he was chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail. I called him Hotspur, no idea where that name came from either. Yes, my parents thought I was strange when they found out about Hotspur, but then they always tell me I was an unusual child. He was with me from the time I was three years old, while relocating to the Phillipines I became so sick I had to be hospitalized upon arrival. That's when I first imagined Hotspur.

Now I'm married, have been married three times. Once to a musician - that marriage lasted under two years; I wound up leaving him for another musician for a brief spell that just wasn't meant to be. Second husband I met while on a trip, I use to travel all the time. I was down in Ixtapa, Mexico. I worked as a travel contractor for various wholesale travel companies securing them contracts for room space in hotels, on tours, etc. It was a fascinating job and while it wasn't high paying I was able to travel for free, all my expenses paid. I was carefree and open to all sorts of adventures, I was also quite good at negotiations and so that certainly helped. It was a gypsy lifestyle but I loved it.

Husband number two was vacationing, accompanied by two women. He was seated under one of the beach cabanas near mine; he rose to go to the oceanside bar and the sun hit his black, glossy hair. I was fascinated. He was tall, dark and handsome with deep dimples when he smiled. One look and I was devastated. One look and his two companions had no chance; I decided he was for me. The next night, like out of some torrid romance novel, we wound up together on the moonlit beach. He'd seen me leave the beachside restaurant with a bottle of wine. I was heading out for a walk but had flashed him a smile across the room. Needless to add, his companions were alone the rest of that trip. He relocated to my home base, Dallas. Our relationship lasted five years but I grew tired of his control issues. He did not want me working, he did not like my friends, family. It escalated to violence and control so severe I was not even allowed to leave the house while he was at work and never after dark. I was basically that man's prisoner. I got out.

I met Darling Man while taking some writing and art classes at a local university. He was in an accounting class I had decided to take on as well. The room had these high windows and the sunlight was shining through. As I entered the stadium type seating classroom and looked up, a beam of light hit him like a shimmering ray. Next thing he's sitting beside me, we're dating, then married. We had Darling Daughter, then I became sick.

This past January some sort of switch flipped in my body's system. I began feeling differently, physically. It has been similar to being awakened after a long sleep. By March I was making changes in myself, felt this incredible energy and feeling of transformation. I began riding my bike again. My head felt clear and my body was up to doing activities I loved before. It's been incredible. It's been a gift. I feel everyday I must push myself and go and do and live because I'm fearful the past several years of feeling not like myself will return and I don't want that to ever happen. Thing is, my dreams of that golden haired man stopped.

I've not been following the Taylor Hicks fans or Mr. Hicks much in the past month, that lead one of my favorite Hicks' friends to ask me, "Well, Spin..I was wondering where in the hell you went to..glad to see you back." after posting on her site the other day.

My response to her was, "I've been on 'sabbatical' chasing a fabled 'unicorn'. It's been quite a little adventure..." I've also been writing on my project - this 'unicorn' - this individual has been a heavy muse for me, he's been inadvertently feeding the creative juices and they've been intoxicatingly enjoyable.

I sort of fell into a state of limerance, you could say. I met someone whom I have talked with in quite a different way than I've ever talked to anyone else. This is in light of the fact I don't really know him, but he just felt familiar from my first 'finding' him. Interestingly perhaps I wandered into him while working on a post about - Taylor Hicks. So as it has seemed throughout my life finding those 'shiny' objects once again leads me onto paths I need tread, have experiences I must follow.

This man pulled me in with his spark, his fire, his insane humor. He absolutely blazes with a passion for life, connection, heart. Curiously he has red blonde hair and incredibly blue eyes. I have found myself wrongly and idiotically lovesick over this man I've never met in person. I've felt guilt over this attachment I developed considering my actual circumstances. I've also wondered if this newly awakened self of mine who had lay dormant for so long might be a manifestation of some sort of brain malfunction suffered while in my deepest part of my illness.

It's been exciting finding such a muse as he, yet hauntingly sad in ways I can't put my fingers on. It's been ridiculous yet I have enjoyed this time, however brief it might be, meeting this beautiful man. It's come to pass in obvious ways, this arrangement of ours might not be what's best for him. For me, meeting him felt like deja vu realized. For him, likely a confusing situation that has him possibly unhappy. Something I do not want for him, not at all. I mean, in the real world, people really don't meet like this do they? Especially when their real life situations are already set, complicated and the relationship seemingly one made of huge impossibilities. Too he's a loyal man who, in exhibiting disloyal behavior, being in a relationship, he's not happy with himself. That's an admirable quality.

One thing, coming out from my self-imposed sabbatical, I'm seeing a refueling for my project. This fascination of mine has provided an almost other worldly near mystical experience for me. The coming out from under the lupus, my incredible feelings of transformation and renewal, this communication or whatever it is with this man, has been not unlike discovering that yes, indeed in another time and place there really were unicorns. Unicorns running around under real rainbows with actual puppies and kittens complete with elves.

Thing is - real life - is there any place for unicorns? THAT is the question. It is turning out to be one fine story to write.

"Sweet Dreams' The Eurythmics

video thank you to fritz51312

A.I. 8 Final Two and the Introduction to Worst Winner Song Ever

2009-05-19T19:24:00.009-05:00

Ryan Seacrest tells us that this is a final showdown between The Acoustic Rocker vs glam Rocker, Conway vs California, Guy next door vs Guyliner. I'm thinking that must have taken loads of imagination. Absolute brain racking imagination.

Naturally being the Final competition show all the judges are dressed up more than usual. Simon in his yearly outing in a sort of suit, I like Pauler's satin green dress. Kara, well whatever, she doesn't get any compliments since she co-wrote the Idol winner's-worst-song-ever, Then there's Randy. Darling Daughter turns and asks me, "Why is Randy dressed like a clown?" I answer her, "Because he's Randy-the-Bo-Bo and that's how Bo Bo the clown dresses." She seemed satisfied with that response. Is it me, or does anyone else think it odd, but why in hell are the contestants wearing leather jackets? It's California. It's May.

Ryan introduces Adam and Kris and for some reason they both think it's off the hook clever to say, "Totally". Wasn't that word more current a few years back? "Totally".

Tonight's situation regarding the competition, they sing three songs. One, their favorite from the season, one Simon Fuller's pick and one the uber schlocky Kara dioTardi co-written song. When it was announced she was a co-writer of this song guaranteed it to be complete crap. Look how she hooked Taylor Hicks up on his eponymous album.

Adam's intro brought to light he was one of those babies. Like mine was. Colic most of the first year of life and lots and lots of screaming. Thing is, that one isn't a singer, somehow that theory lost credibility. I do like his owning up as a child he was a pain in the ass. Having been one myself, for my parents, I mentally high five him.

He wisely selects "Mad World" dressed in what Darling Man pegged as something out of HellRaiser. The smoke and lighting served to remind me rather of Harry Dresden. He's a character from the Dresden series written by Jim Butler. I do like Adam's hand glam.

Bo-Bo chirps in he's giving Adam an "A" for, well, Adam. Kara started her bubbly babbling and did she say 'changed the gay up' or 'changed the game up'? Like the first choice best. Pauler was 'so proud' and we all know what she's inferring here as well. Simon called Adam on the theatrical effects; he was feeling more of a "Phantom of the Opera" whereas Bo-Bo had to come back with "Twilight". Remember in the beginning of this show Bo-Bo compared Adam to Edward Cullun/Rob Pattinson? Yeah.

Seems Kris Allen didn't like to sing in front of family, they'd have to pay him a quarter. Eventually he broke out with coupons. Likely we'll be seeing that happen now in the Big Real.

Kris sings "Ain't No Sunshine" accompanies himself with piano. Nice soulful rendition, and man, you have to give props, he's a musician. He actually plays instruments and all that so I give him additional credit. Crowd gives him a Standing O.

Randy and Kara agreed that if there is someone out there who doesn't like it, there is something is wrong with them. Pauler said he Allen-ized it (please Kris don't do what Taylor Hicks' does and start talking about how you Allenize you music. Really, don't.) Simon retracts all the mean man things he's ever said about Kris. Ding, ding, ding, Simon calls this first one for Kris. I think it a tie.

Simon Fuller, perhaps with a slight nod toward Taylor Hicks, no wait, just writing that is wrong, picks "Change is Gonna Come" for gLambert. This has Bo-Bo saying, "Dude you can sing your face off", Kara declares it the Best Performance From beginning ever. Pauler incorporates her lasso move and Simon, of course, likes it.

Kris gets, "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye. He incorporates his Jason Mraz imitation and plays guitar. His mouth seems to have a preternatural ability, more so than usual to swing completely to the right on his face. Weird. It's a repetitive and boring arrangement.

Darling Daughter fixates on Randy again with saying, "Seriously Mom what IS Randy wearing?" She just can't get past his ensemble. Kara yapped up how Kris needs to do only socially conscious message songs that will uplift and change humanity. Or some such shit. Hate her and everything she says. Darling Man yells at the television, "You're an Idiot!". He hates her with me. Pauler says he 'tore it up' whereas Simon snaps back and says something about it being like three people in the bedroom strumming guitar. You may recall he's used this line before - with Jason Castro.

Simon says that round two goes to Adam, "One million per cent".

Flash to audience and the entire season's gang's all there even that guy with thos massive eyebrows. Can't remember half of those people's names. Not looking them up either.

Last song is the worst song ever penned for an Idol winner and smug-faced Kara is a co-writer. I believe I've already said how very much this song sucks donkeys. It is full of reaching for stars, riding through a hurricane, mountains, man, just string together as many freaking cliche's as you can, slap some strings to it and bham you have a Pop song. It's titled "No Boundaries" but the boundaries lie in the immensely horribleness of it. We need have some sort of musical border control to stop this from ever hitting my radio waves.

Randy thought Adam was pitchy, likely because Adam was holding back a grimace the entire time he was having to sing it. I don't know how he made it through that dreck. Kara loved it and is practically lolling around on the table over having partially created this monster crap song. Pauler said Adam was amazing. and Simon made me love him so hard, actually called that shit song the shit it was refusing to judge Adam since he had to sing it. He tells Adam that he's the best most original contestants they've ever had on the show, considers he'll be a world wide star. So he's basically wanting to hand the Idol crown to him right now, so you folks at home listen up.

Kris Allen actually fares somewhat better, seeming to really enjoy singing about all those hurricanes, tornadoes and whatever else might be found in a 1970's horror movie. (Poseidon Adventure hit my brain, no idea why.) I almost gack over the higher, deeper dreams and mountains within this there ain't no cliche' boundaries of a song.

Randy is very proud, Kara called him compelling but that folks need consider his body of work in the season. Pauler is pleasant but not very committal telling Kris he's where he should be in this competition. Simon compliments his parents. Note, no one compliments the singing portion of this song delivered by Kris.

Winner round three, for me, another tie.

DialIdol who has been wrong all season anyway, why I keep looking at it I have no idea, has them in a virtual tie.

Looks like a coin toss tonight.

Baby Ducks & Matters of the Heart

2009-05-15T05:11:00.012-05:00

Imprinting. Defined in noun form as: Animal Behavior, Psychology. Rapid learning that occurs during a brief receptive period, typically soon after birth or hatching, and establishes a long-lasting behavioral response to a specific individual or object, as attachment to parent, offspring, or site.

Obviously that definition in particular refers to the phenomenon witnessed in the animal kingdom and particularly true in the case of ducks and other fowl. It's a well documented occurrence the phenomenon of birds, upon hatching attaching themselves to the first being they may encounter. They also have the propensity to follow the next best thing should something happen to their initial focus of attention.
Puppy and Duckling:

Fan behavior is not that unlike 'imprinting'. Similar to the state of mind termed, 'limerance', which has been defined by psychologist Dorothy Tennov as an involuntary cognitive and emotional state. In other words, something or someone inadverdently flips a switch in your mind and that gray matter in your head reaches back to the primal instinct to attach. The person or thing of interest may remind you of someone in your past, or simply trigger a pleasant emotional response.

Being a natural and common condition no regular Joe is immune. It does show a marked intensity for persons with a propensity toward Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. So if you are one who must check your locks on the doors several times before retiring, or once you find an interest immerse yourself as deeply as possible, you my friend are more easily sucked in - well, at least until the novelty wears off.

Apparently, when in this state of 'limerance' the person affected can experience intense romantic desire or emotional attachment toward their interest. Studies have shown actual brain chemistry affected by the perceptions felt or idealized by the individual. That chemical alteration often sufficient to propel 'imprinted' emotions by inciting pleasurable electrical charges in the gray matter upstairs, creating what can be best described as a virtual dopamine drip. Reality can sometimes be impaired by the pleasure center of your mind, as your brain trips along on that feel good rush. Your actual moods affected, emotions triggered such as intense joy or extreme despair depending on the circumstance. Certainly it can be fun and interesting while it lasts.

How 'limerance' is often most appropriately described - an 'emotional affair'. Limerance cited relationships are by nature, chaste, physically unconsumed. Factors involved in these relationships remaining as established may include loyalty to preexisting relationships, distance, impracticality such as a business or working relationship, or just the pure enjoyment of a fantasy.

Romantically described as an 'affair of the heart', this attachment can sometimes be maintained simply by the pleasure obtained by verbal, mental and assimilative contact. I am researching this topic in relation to my 'project' I've in the works. Too, every time I step into one of my Taylor Hicks friends' websites I'm reminded of this phenomena. In the case of being a fan of a celebrity as one example, the fantasies themselves often sufficient to continue the momentum for continuing with the interest.

Examples of how, in the case of fandom, fantasy often sufficient to propel the brain dopamine drip can be witnessed in examples featured on such black humor driven websites such as IdleTard.com. Fan fiction, a commonplace topic on IdleTard.com, brought out as entertainment, reveals the imaginative workings of fans desiring to create a stimulating virtual world. Stories insert the writers into the real life of their obsession, therefore pumping the dopamine and assisting in the sensation of pleasure, reinforcing continued interest.

Savvy entertainers understand some of this process, perhaps not on a direct awareness level but more in an intrinsic, intuitive manner. It goes along with the primordial need lurking in the wrinkles in our brain to imprint, acknowledge that imprinting and to feel connected. Savvy entertainer like John Mayer comes to mind, he seems quite good at keeping his fingers on the pulse of his fanbase. He's also open and communicative with his fans.

It doesn't take much to make fans feel connected and that a celebrity cares. One celeb I follow, on the new "hot thing" twitter, Eddie Izzard. Been a fan of his for years. Mr. Izzard posts dry comments on the weather from where ever he may be sometimes with an aside about thoughts of the moment. I've taken it upon myself to respond in kind, limiting my responses back normally only when he mentions the sun or it being sunny. I am aware of the psychological nuance, but it's like this "thing" and actually increases my enjoyment and perception of the man. Small things, people.

Thing is, we as human animals will always carry that 'baby duck' primal thinking pattern. What we need recognize is the reality as it truly exists and the ability to determine what context it appropriately fits within our lives. Now back to my project.

"My Hero" Paramore

The Angels are Singing Cowboy Songs

2009-05-14T11:40:00.006-05:00

Have I just died? I just read that a new film is being created with both Hugh Jackman and Robert Pattinson. Together. With horses and chaps. Leather chaps. I am weak for cowboys to begin with, the boots, that leather smell mingled with the manly scent. I'm getting light headed thinking about it.

CinemaBlend.com says, "That means hats, chaps, tight jeans, attractively scruffy hair, and pretty much the best thing to happen to the Old West in decades.

This will all be happening thanks to Madeline Stowe, the actress who wrote the screenplay Unbound Captives back in the mid-90s, and turned down a $5 million offer from Fox because she wouldn't be allowed to star. A decade later, Variety reports that Stowe still won't be starring, and Rachel Weisz will take the role instead. But Stowe will make her directorial debut with the film."

Now to find out where this is filming. I can see it now, hiring on as the stable girl would work, I could wash the horses, tend to tack, feed and hell, I'd even muck the stalls. I have experience with that; *changing resume'. Too, I could rework my definition of "Heaven".

Heaven: [hev-uhn] Helping either Hugh Jackman or Robert Pattinson with mounting. Straightening their chaps, dusting them off between shoots. Especially the dusting off part. (You know Westerns are always dusty.)

Jackman is an excellent horseman already but Pattinson might require lessons. I could certainly be of help in presenting any educational instruction Pattinson might need...of course, that too for free.

Momma Just Wants to Chase Cowboys (renamed it)

I'll take DD, tell her it's Summer Camp. DMan, well, he will just have to understand. Giddyup.

*Note this intended in fun, for anyone who needs clarification.

Zombies: Brainless Wandering Ants?

2009-05-13T21:19:00.010-05:00

I understand fire ants can be a huge problem. Here in Texas it's an on-going battle to kill the little buggers. We've developed all sorts of kill remedies to sprinkle, spray and call the Orkin man about to annihilate them but they just keep on living, propogating and speading. Sure, the pesticide of choice might work - but it's a momentary lapse because somehow they eventually develop some sort of immunity and bounce right back.

It's amazing how after one rain fall, on your level lawn overnight, sprout the mounds of the fiery little pests. Anyone familiar with fire ants know these are not your usual busy beaver worker ants. No, they exist to conquer your garden and to conquer your yard and they will try to kill you while they do it. Stings from fire ants can cause allergic reactions in folks sensitive to their bite and even if you're not particularly sensitive you can get a nasty welt that will itch until you apply copious amounts of Benedryl cream or camomile lotion. Aloe Vera can work wonders if you happen to have some chilled in the refrigerator. I keep a bottle next to the milk ready at all times.

Anyway my point - today I read Bill Hanna's piece in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram about a new approach to offing the ants and saving our yards and our skin. Now this new remedy isn't going to kill all of the ants off, no rather it might be an effective population control device. Then maybe we can hit them with some sort of Amdro Nuke and then kill them all. What the brainy scientists have discovered is that the tiny phorid fly, (it must be really small) native to a region of South America come equipped with pathogens that attack fire ants to keep their population and movements under control. You see, the tiny little flies have come up with an effective method, now we're humbly learning from their achievements. Good on the little phorid flies.

Apparently they are so small they can "dive-bomb" the fire ants, laying eggs within the ant. The maggots that hatch have a hankering for some real brain food, and since fish isn't an option they head for the ant's ... head. The tiny maggots proceed to eat away at the ant's tiny brain. As anyone might imagine if you had something noshing on your brain, the ants begin to exhibit changes in their activities. Instead of staying within rank and grouping together they start roaming around on their own. They exhibit strange zombie-like behavior. Because basically, they are zombies.

The newly "zombied" ants mill aimlessly until their heads pops off. Yep, right off and the new fly emerges ready to lay eggs in a short time in more of the ants that have not been already infected. Sounds really gruesome and I certainly hope none of the Muslim terrorist groups ever hear of this because, well I just don't want anything eating what's left of my brain. Nor my head popping off, that wouldn't set well either.
(No not zombies, just our annual Halloween party at my sister's.)

So that's it for interesting things I read today in my spare moments between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
"Zombie" the brilliant Cranberries

Fights, Screams, Just Another Night on American Idol: Top Three

2009-05-12T21:20:00.013-05:00

The light is shining at the end of the tunnel...or is that merely a migraine coming on? Or death?

When Danny Gokey first found out about the song selection he said, 'I don't even know the words of the song'. Flashback to his hometown visit likely in his mind. Paula was his forever girl this week and selected "Dance Little Sister". Immediately I thought of Dwight Yokum, you know, like this:

But wait, that wasn't the song, it's Elvis Presley's "Little Sister" - which would have been amusing in a completely different way than the Terence Trent D'arby song that Abdul actually did pick. Hokey remembering his hometown visit and his hilarious attempt at being David Cook, obviously studied his notes, managed to recall all the words last night. Hokey Gokey hokey pokied all around the Idol stage while braying the song in his best Taylor Hicks/Joe Cocker imitation.

Randy articulated one of his twelve words, calling the performance, "dope". Kara wild eyed, and arm waving said the Hokester hit his 'money spot', Paula stammered out something like, 'I'm a choreographer...blah, blah, blah!' in defense of Hokey's never brilliant dancing. Simon, trying to maintain his right as the only sober one in the room, called Hokey out on the desperate prancing and that horrible tinny sax solo interspersed in the song like an out of tune after thought. "Toy sax", exactly.

At least viewers had a nice Pauler and Simon wrestling match to watch. I love when they get down and dirty. Ryan made funny with calling their antics that had to be taken off camera, 'going to second base or harassment'. Damn show could have at least let us see it considering we just sat through Danny.

Lucky Kris Allen had two mentors, Randy and Kara. They or Kara, rather, selected One Republic's "Apologize" in hopes of showing off Kris' 'big vocal range' and what a lovely dark beautiful song it is, dark like Kris, how he's the Dark Horse or some other nonsense.

Kris sat at piano and was actually... not bad.

Randy pointed obvious saying Kris was showing 'us' the type of artist he could be. Kara brought the contradictions saying he appeared confident but said he did not come out swinging. Which made me wonder - boxer or briefs? Anyway Pauler said he hit a loud bum note. Simon brought me some love saying Kara had copped out as she picked the song. Kara had to try and haul out her musical credentials asking my man Simon if he'd ever had to interpret a song in his life. As if she has... Loved it, you could feel the hate. Joy. Simon continued with telling the Randy-Kara team they should have helped him with the arrangement and a lovely massive four way brawl commenced. Now that's entertainment. Hair pulling would have made it better.

Adam had Simon, was given "One", by U2, one of my favorite songs in the world. Had to acquire permission from the band; apparently the return was it was their pleasure for gLambert to sing it... Adam looked lovely all blue light (again) and his emo hair. Wonder what I'd look like with black emo hair... He began the song slow built to a gospel sound then took it down again. Nice and theatrical. You know, so gLambert. I know there are many who think he shrieks, is too screechy but I like it. He lets it all out, it sounds so freeing, like having good sex. Yes, my mind went there. The emo hair must be doing something to me. Love how his Dad and Mom are tearful. *sniff*

Randy wrapped up his ramble with the obvious, Kara called him an amazing strategist (what?) fought a moment with Simon (yay!) Paula went on about Simon and her miserable life (what?) Simon simply looked smug. I understand Simon, it's always good to be right and it's always good when it's all about you. Yes.

Hokey returns with his Taylor Hicks act in place, he selects "You Are So Beautiful" and all I could think of, in the context of this show, how imitation is not always the best flattery. Checking Gokey out for a moment, he must have read my comments last week (who doesn't?) and kept the whiskers that I sort of liked. But really, Hokey, no emails or calls, my heart belongs to another.
Here's who he tried to imitate:

This is what we got: "Ewe Har So Beautiful to Meeee"

Melisma, melisma, melisma. Darling Man, sitting in the office with me, just said this song the worst shit ever. Last night Darling Daughter began booing him before he had out two lines. It's how they roll.

Hilarious how the judges loved that with Randy going in descriptive triplicate (you know because he only really, really, really knows twelve words). Kara said it was stunning, and I really, really, really would like to see someone hit her with a stun gun. Pauler squeed her pants/panites/whatever, Simon disappoints me claiming it a vocal masterclass. Masterclass my ass.

Kris Allen picked "Heartless" by Kanye (watery video, oh well)

He pulls acoustic with guitar and really does much better with it than Kanye, whom I hate anyway.

Randy agrees with me, so I like him now, saying this better than original. Kara whined about the guitar now, but not in her selection, (where is that stun gun?) Kara "Why didn't you do that with apologize?" She continues to annoy me for 40 more words then Pauler commended him for picking a song about Simon. Simon rising to the compliment actually praises Kris and pitches Kris into the Top Two. Another judge brawl ensues. Yay.

Adam gLambert bringing the humilation for Gokey last week, picked Aerosmith's, "Crying". GLambert saunters, sashays, swaggers and purrs and screams like a big ol' emo cat; incorporates his best Elvis snarl. Standing O.
"Crying" (watery video)

DMan threatens to leave room if I don't put on my headphones while I'm reviewing this video saying, "He's a little bitch." Not a fan you may note, but then he hates everyone I like. I wave. He leaves.

Randy loved it more than "One", Kara, "Who hits those notes?" Pauler calls for free frequent flier miles, (what?) Simon sends him through to Top Two, but brings the suspense; we can never tell what really might happen. Ooo foreboding. Love it.

We are almost there folks. One more week.

Sing to Me Daddy: Taylor Hicks, "Run Baby Run"

2009-05-12T20:37:00.006-05:00

Taylor Hicks does "Run Baby Run"

Man, I love that. Does something for me.

"Brand New Day" Sting

2009-05-11T23:03:00.004-05:00

"Brand New Day" Lyrics

I'm the rhythm in your tune
I'm the sun and you're the moon
I'm a bat and you're the cave
You're the beach and I'm the wave
I’m the plow and you’re the land
You're the glove and I'm the hand
I'm the train and you're the station
I'm a flagpole to your nation - yeah

Taylor Hicks and The Magic Harmonica

2009-05-11T10:05:00.005-05:00

Taylor Hicks spent the morning on the Rick and Bubba Show. I listened in while doing an assortment of other things, sorting through old photos in files, sorting through old vids linked, brushed dog, swept office, took pics, tossed in some laundry. Fielded calls from work, sent emails for work. You get the idea. Anyway an on-line pal who resides in New Orleans sent me the link.

Most of the interview was small talk with focus on such excitement as golf which to me is akin to watching paint dry, as well as some Pauler talk from American Idol. You know, how special she is especially when she's on drugs. Mr. Hicks' best story - Alice Cooper on the golfing circuit. Sounded somewhat Hunter S. Thompson-like. Mr. Cooper, while on this special golf outing located in a neighborhood like mine, took it upon himself to mingle with the locals.

Our neighborhood has a massive golf course than runs throughout our little community. Ironic we bought into this place because nobody in our household golfs. The course though is lovely to walk when the golfers are not out, very scenic, creeks, hills, trees, bunnies. Looks like a scene out of The Teletubbies. Houses back up to the golfing range and many of us have wrought iron fencing, or no fencing so as not to obstruct the view.

Anyway, it seems Mr. Cooper just strolled off of the course, picked a house having a nice barbeque shindig and proceeded to use their facilities and sample the spread. How much more can you love Alice after hearing that? He's absolutely swoon worthy right now. Damn, I'd have loved to serve him some smoked ham.

Taylor also did a few acoustic tunes, "Seven Mile Breakdown" and "Heart and Soul". Mr. Hicks sounded good, obviously relaxed, having visited this show several times in the past. The ending of the program was most special. Taylor Hicks had given an harmonica as a gift to this small boy. The boy suffered from some sort of pulmonary disease/lung condition that had him on a breathing assist program. It seems that with the kiddo taking up an interest in learning to play the mouth harp after hearing Taylor, he gave it a go. After some time playing he showed remarked improvement in his lung capacity and ability to breathe easier.

I had to google information on the possibility of this actually occurring and found that there is some real merit regarding playing the harmonica and lung processes. Harmonicamasterclass.com devotes a webpage discussing the merits of taking up the harmonica if you have such conditions as emphysema, asthma or any other pulmonary issues. Seems the harmonica works to strengthen the diaphragm and open the lungs. Just when I was about to go on a fun tale of Taylor saving mankind one harmonica at a time, I find this is an actual, factual, could possibly happen, situation. Drats, foiled again.

Taylor Hicks Seven Mile No Breakdown

2009-05-10T14:16:00.007-05:00

Taylor Hicks receives a decent write up about his newly released song to video, "Seven Mile Breakdown". Had to put this up since these sort of reviews are far and wide between for the man.

I'm feeling tired today but did make myself go ride the bike, as in bike you pedal, not the vroom, vroom one. Not in the mindset for snappy and witty so will keep this brief. Too, family issues running wild - just want to share this review from Blogcritics.org written by contributor, The Other Chad. Really a nice write up and done not in a fanboy way but as a stated matter of honest opinion. Hicks reviews and commentaries like this are rare.

Excerpt from the piece:
"The song's video debuted this week, and if there's any justice CMT is paying attention. The clip for "What's Right Is Right" was rather somber, with Hicks performing the song in a smokey club. While by no means poorly done, the argument could easily be made that it wasn't going to command the attention of a casual viewer. The "Seven Mile Breakdown" video seems geared toward winning some new fans. As simple as it is, with Hicks playing the song in an open field to a small gathering of fans, there is a sense of fun that compliments the song's mood.

Taylor Hicks is the greatest talent to come out of American Idol, but has struggled finding a wide audience. Plagued by ridiculously overwrought - and entirely unjustified - bad press, the more easily convinced sector of the public has bought into the bogus idea that his Idol victory was a "mistake." If releasing a country remix of "Seven Mile Breakdown" will help him gain wider exposure, ultimately leading to more quality music, then more power to him."

So there you have it. Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms. Go us.

GNR Last night, EDGEFEST today. In the rain.

2009-05-09T08:03:00.008-05:00

My friend Wade sent me on a Guns N Roses tick last night that's carried into this morning. This song fits right now.
"November Rain" GNR

"Knocking on Heaven's Door" Check Slash

Papa Roach will be there tonight. Hopefully without a tornado along for the ride.

Taking Back Sunday "Slowdance on the Inside" Love this one.

Blue October "Hate Me" My favorite.

Yeah, let the rain come down. I won't melt. "Into The Ocean"
EDGEFEST 19 today - rain, rain damn rain. Hell. The Edge
I'm off.

Taylor Hicks Gonna Move?

2009-05-08T09:06:00.004-05:00

Mr. Hicks sheds some acoustic light on the Paul Pena tune, "I'm Gonna Move". Now that's what I want on an album. In the event anyone cares.

Ron Pope: A Little 'Coffee house" ?

2009-05-08T08:43:00.006-05:00

But then I like coffee. Of course lately in and around town there seems to be a new big thing with acoustic singers at sandwich shops, malls and just everyplace.

My friend, 'Grey' introduced me to this guy, Ron Pope - he's laid back, nice sound to his vocals, he keeps it simple.

This is one of my favorites at the moment. Fits into a story line I'm working. Reminds me of someone as well - who is far away.
"I'm Yours" Ron Pope

Cage the Elephant - "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked"

2009-05-07T23:00:00.003-05:00

Found this yesterday evening while heading home, The Edge hit it spinning as a new tune:
"Ain't No Rest for the Wicked" Cage the Elephant

It's kinda catchy.

"Seven Mile Breakdown": Taylor Hicks Video

2009-05-07T08:04:00.003-05:00

Taylor Hicks' newest video, "Seven Mile Breakdown"

Slashing the Pop: AI 8 Top 4

2009-05-06T04:38:00.012-05:00

Well about damn time we had a decent episode of American Idol, it's been a long, cold, lonely season. Perhaps I'm just biased because of the smoking hot guest mentor, the rock format. I was pleasantly surprised at how easily Slash handled the show and the contestants. One wish, he'd have removed the shiny glasses but then Slash rarely removes the them. They're like Ritchie Sambora's trademark hat or Superman's cape.

It was obvious from the opening viewers were in for a different experience. One thing Ryan Seacrest was more subdued, reason for that - one of the large revolving American Idol stage tower fixtures tried to do away with itself and others by toppling over, injuring an unsuspecting stage manager. This act of random mechanical ~~violence~~ failure cost the show the usual pre-show rehearsal which, after watching last night, might be a good future move. The equipment speaks, producers listen or next week that other tower might decide to take a dive.

Adam Lambert, first up, selected Led Zepplin's 1970 hit, "Whole Lotta Love". Initially the surrealism tied into this song being performed on Idol clouded my judgment, I had to rewind to watch it again. gLambert did a good job with it - considering this a Robert Plant song, the level of difficulty. Loved his emo hair, the silvery leather and the chains, smoking hot; Adam brought the sex, the heat, he was beautiful.
"Whole Lotta Love" Adam gLambert

Paula thought Adam brought the 'whole lotta perfect' and Simon impulsively told Adam he would have the best performance of the night. Kara on the other hand once again sounded like the overly embellishing tool she is, calling Adam a "Rock God". He did a good job but obviously she has no idea what the hell "Rock God" means.

Allison Iraheta looked great too having her hair coifed by Adam's (naturally he would know the best) hair stylist. She rocked the triple hues and the cut. I've recently taken to smoothing my hair and wearing bangs, perhaps I need try coloring like that. Really liked it. Anyway back to song coverage, she chose wisely with Janis Joplin's "Cry Baby", the smokey Joplin vocals a good match for Allison's.

Kara once again does not disappoint presenting yet another inane, asinine comment, "you have no personality, but you adopt a personality when you sing." Allison gives them a little sass but that won't have any bearing on what happens tonight. The other judges prattled on.

Next, the first of the duets, Hokey and Kris were paired to sing "Renegade" by Styx. They do a passable job during the harmonizing moments. Kris held his own with Hokey who trickled a little soul sound into the tune. Simon winds up telling the Hokester he outsang Kris - this the first indication that Kris Allen may be singing "Come Together" tomorrow night.

Kris Allen did The Beatles' "Come Together", incorporated the styling of Jason Mraz. Thing is Allen is not a rock guy, he's Jason Castro 2.0 and it would be hilarious to see Castro try to rock out with any believability. Same here with Kris. He hasn't the vocal force to back it up. He did a passable job and he did have the balls to jam with Slash, because just holding a guitar near him might make you wet your pants. The judge panel was oblivious - his new name, Under-the-Bus Allen.

Randy's comment, "I wasn't blown away...the vocals were weak, but that's not your thing anyways." Simon compared Allen to eating ice for lunch. Kara told Kris it just wasn't great.
"Come Together" Kris Allen (video is like watching him in the shower through glass doors, but it'll do)

Hokey Karaoke Gokey (HKG) figured he'd "Dream On" and humorously interposed the lyrics about midway with some sort of improvisational, 'dodata tado datado" part that had Darling Daughter laughing. Love her. HKG then proceeds to screech like an emissary from Hell toward the end of the performance. Seriously. Hell.

"Last note was like watching a horror movie, like Friday the 13th. Where I think with Adam it kinda worked, with you it didn't work so much," Simon said.
To endure the entire thing, click HERE; good luck with that.

Allison and Adam are fittingly paired for "Slow Ride" by Foghat; they bonded over the same hair stylist and so it must come to pass they sing together. I have to say I hate this song. Hate. DMan went through this period of hounding flea markets and what not for old vinyls and came home with the album this tune is on. (yes, I have a turntable and I love it)Unfortunately for me, he became obsessed with the album and played it over and over again to the point I think I've developed an allergy. Interesting song choice because this isn't exactly a duet oriented tune. It's more like a repetitive tripping on acid, rock conglomeration consisting of few lyrics created for band mates immersed in a psilocibin manic trance. It's quite different than the Hokey and Under-The-Bus' duet as there's not a harmonizing component, instead Adam and Allison do this dueling banjo thing, sans banjos and insert vocals. So okay, maybe not like dueling banjos at all.
"Slow Ride" Allison and Adam do Foghat

Judge comments were pretty embarrassing, Randy YO-YO-YO'd, Kara called them Rock god and Goddess, Paula said they made a 'perfect marriage' and Simon gave Allison the nod she's through to top three.

Checking in with DialIdol, which has been pretty much wrong anyway all season, it seems Allison is tied with Kris for the bottom two. B-3 tonight should be everyone but Adam.

Robert Pattinson: You'll Do

2009-05-05T10:08:00.006-05:00

Article on the MyParkingMag.com site covered Robert Pattinson and his 'cheap date' history. Seems nothing better than a weekend in Cornwall (what?) naturally with complimentary train tickets. Well, true, 'free' is a good thing.

I loved Pattinson's entire thought process in this short piece - especially his admission he loved girls who "pick fights with me" - it's about time someone realize the benefits of a little healthy 'discussion', that underlying sexual tension. Makes a terrific appetizer to the main course if played correctly. He's brilliant.

Robert is also beautifully upfront in his approach to ladies he may have some attraction towards; favorite chat-up line, "Hi. You'll do."

No need to play games, say it like it is; where are men like that for the most part anyway? Direct approach, with humor of course, save misunderstandings about what exactly you're thinking about the person and where your thoughts lie in correlation to your attraction to them. Win, win for everyone. Life's short, grab those bulls by the 'horns'.

Love him./fangurl

Then there's this sort of approach: Hot too.
Foy Vance "Do You Want to Be With Me?"

"Seven Mile Breakdown" Premiers on AOL May 6

2009-05-05T08:49:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is the day, apparently, fans can see Mr. Hicks driving around in that hot red Corvette - Taylor Hicks' new video featuring the song he sang last week on American Idol, "Seven Mile Breakdown" hits AOL tomorrow, May 6. Fast work on Spencer Nicholson's part.

'Staff' posted information on Mr. Hicks' MySpazz site. To see other AOL Taylor Hicks' moments visit the The Taylor Hicks' Channel on AOL. That's what I'm calling it anyway.

Taylor Hicks, Spoonful of James and the Charlie Brown Dancers

2009-05-04T12:01:00.006-05:00

Cheersing all around! There are now a few golden old Taylor Hicks videos hitting the light of Youtube. Fans can see Hicks back when he had a steaming, thick, hot mess of hair. In this particular video Taylor Hicks performs with bar band pals, Spoonful of James, kindly they've invited the Charlie Brown dancers to help entertain. The Charlie Brown dancers join in the merriment at about 2:36. Priceless.
"Why Does Love Have to Be So Sad" Taylor Hicks

Robert Pattinson Made Me Cry

2009-05-04T11:20:00.005-05:00

Transworld News had the damning news; "New Moon" star Robert Pattinson recently turned down an offer to pose for his own calendar. What in the Hell is he thinking? Reason HotRpattz has given, "It’s not what I became an actor for."

Big whoop, irrelevant. When is he going to get with the program? You know, my program. That's just not selling out Mr. Pattinson!

Time will tell, we'll see what's up by the time he hits 30, all artists sell out eventually. Until then I have this and my imagination.

Stick a Needle in My Eye: AI 8 Top Four

2009-05-04T05:32:00.008-05:00

Initially when I heard the news, Hokey "Karaoke" Gokey was the decided VFTW pick for this week, I wanted to find a needle to stab in my eye. I held back to reconsider since, well, needles in the eye are painful. Dave's words on his VFTW blog, "... it's no jokey, vote for Karaoke Gokey." inspired a slight vomit reflex.

Now Hokey for the pick really is inevitable since well, VFTW has had a pathetic season with little to no opportunity for fun with the show. Most of the contestants have been white bread dull - even gLambert (such potential) has reined in his inner shiny Rainbow Bright. Positive thought, we only have a few more weeks until this karaoke extravaganza runs its course.

Don't get me wrong I have really had fun in years past with this reality program. This year though, I haven't even felt like participating on any of the boards to much degree. I've not even felt like getting into any mischief on the Idol boards. It's been that drab. Possible positive, the after show fan fall outs that we will be able to put up on IdleTard.com.

This week might be entertaining. Slash, of Velvet Revolver and formerly of Guns N Roses, will be on as a guest mentor. Seriously, who would ever even imagine that? Should be interesting to say the least. Considering Jamie Foxx busted out last Wednesday night with his ridiculous attempt at performance art; let's not kid and say he was being musical, redeeming situation, Slash will come out and do what he do with that crazy I-Bring-Death hat.

On Slash's MySpazz site, he wrote;
"Hey all, as you may or may not know, the producers for American Idol have asked me to be the mentor for "Rock Week" next week. I was reluctant at 1st, but they offered me the freedom to do it however I wanted.

More importantly, there are a few singers this year who are really impressive. Its the 1st time any AI line-up has really caught my attention.

The approach I'm taking is different than usual on the show, & I'm going to make this as Rock & Roll an American Idol as possible, wish me luck!"

Slash's fans are expressing mixed reactions, apparently some controversy about Velvet Revolver seeking new singer and some pushing Adam gLambert, also mixed results. I don't see gLambert hanging out regularly with Slash and co.

Dave's last line, "Danny surely has urned this honor for using a personal tragedy to try to jumpstart a singing career." saved my eye. I put the needle down.

"Urned". Dave you evil genius. I'm in.
Baaahhh

Sunday Morning: Magpies, Flutes

2009-05-03T06:57:00.013-05:00

I've been researching several different avenues of thought while working on my most recent "project". Thinking back to two weeks previous when I was ready to resign myself to letting this project slip, considering myself having had some sort of abnormality hit my ability to put cohesive ideas together, you know even a sentence was an elusive unattainable goal.

My circumstance had deteriorated to the point nothing short of resigning myself to failure seemed imminent. Here I am a short time further down the road to death, time capriciously dragging me along with its usual cold and unrelenting way, at a point of possible relief. I have found a new muse and that muse is working wonders for me. It's what it takes with me, finding that particular shiny thing that will make me tick, thrill with the stimulation. It's like this with me each time I find a new, real object of brilliance.

Sometimes I drive myself and everyone around me completely on the highway to crazy - please don't let me get blocked or I really swing off balance. Yes, and in reference to that highway to crazy, anyone who knows me understands that highway is simply one on-ramp ahead.

For my project research I've been wandering into an area that hits close to familial ties. My father is part Blackfoot, to clarify, and my new writing project has been taking me down the roads into that history. I knew that the Native Americans developed something quite similar to the Western Zodiac and the Chinese Zodiac - utilizing animals in nature as the assigned 'totem' of persons born with specific time periods. I simply had not ever looked into that - but with my new story it fit, will enliven the vibe.

Anyway, late last night while up hitting the keys I discovered this site that lays out individual animal totems. Of course I had to find out mine. Unsurprising to me, yet to my delight, I'm a Magpie. Anyone who knows me will completely understand this correlation. One of my long-time favorite descriptive words, shiny. It's how things that capture my attention and adoration appear to me. Hell it's how I seemingly find people, fall into adventures and wallow into interests. A light jumps out at me, I just 'know' - and I'm right more often than wrong. It may not mean that shiny thing is something of absolute greatness but they fit somehow, will bring things to me that will, in the scheme of the Big Real, work in positive ways.

Interesting for me, regardless of whether or not it has to do with anything, I also have an alarming amount of black and white apparel in my everyday wardrobe. My favorite store, White House Black Market.

According to the article I located:
Magpie symbolic meanings are numerous and varied. This stands to reason because the magpie herself is a varied creature. Her colorful character is a delight to observe with symbolic eyes because she is so unpredictable, high-spirited and expressive.
Among her many common attributes, here are a few magpie symbolic meanings:
* opportunistic
* intellect
* perceptive
* flashy
* refined
* communicative
* social
* deceptive
* illusion
* expressive
* willful

The magpie's speech is symbolic of communication and creative expression. When we hear the magpie speak it is a message to us that we might need to listen to what is being spoken to us - listen with more attention. The chatter of the magpie is also a symbolic message that we may need to speak our minds more clearly....speak up, express our opinions, be creative with our spoken words.

The magpie's obsession with shiny things is symbolic of our tendency to chase after false ideas or perceptions. (that's sort of freaky) When the magpie comes into our lives it is often a reminder that we may have to re-evaluate our priorities. Are we chasing after unsuitable desires? Are we serving a false ideal? Are we putting materialism ahead of matters of the soul?

The magpie builds its home in the thickest "V" of trees. Forks or V's in nature are symbolic of gateways or paths into the spirit realm. In this fashion, the magpie asks us about our level of spiritual perception. Specifically, the magpie asks to keep an open mind in matters of the spirit. She also asks us where our spiritual foundation is and encourages us to open the gateways of higher (spiritual) vision.

Her plumage is also symbolic. With striking colouration, the magpie is symbolic of flamboyance, expression, and glamour. When we see her, we do a double-take because her appearance commands our attention. This is a message for us to not hide ourselves away from the world. The magpie beckons us to reveal our brilliance (physical and otherwise) to the world. We are each composed of incredible beauty and grace - the magpie is a reminder that we must express these attributes outwardly in a glamorous display just as she does.

And just when we get to know the symbolic meaning of the magpie, she eludes us and leaves us guessing what she's all about. In nature she has been known to be shy and reclusive - yet in cities she is noted to be extremely sociable with humans. Typically, she is a scavenger...but she has also been witnessed taking down small birds and rodents - acting as a bird of prey (which is not her classification).

These and other oddities in her behavior are symbolic of illusion and perception. The magpie's message here is that not all things are what they appear to be, and we should not set our judgements in stone. Further, this aspect of the magpie is a message that we do not have to be bound to perceptions. In other words, we may want to consider departing from our habitual behaviors and avoid being type-caste into a specific role. In ancient European cultures the magpie is said to predict omens.

Magpie symbolic meanings take on a brighter note in the East, where the Chinese regard the magpie as a good luck symbol, joy, marital bliss, sexual happiness, and long lasting fortune. When the Chinese hear the cry of a magpie it is said to be an announcement of the arrival of friends and family.

The ancient Roman's viewed the magpie as a creature of high intellect and reasoning powers. She is also an attribute of Bacchus, the God of wine. (Now that's funny I bought this lovely bottle of Chilean merlot the other night, we had to drink the entire thing. I love good wine.)

In Native American animal lore, the magpie was also viewed as having intellect. However, more often than not she was faulted for trickery and her intelligence was typically used in deceptive schemes. She cannot be judged too harshly though because her tricks are always played out with a light-hearted, good-natured intention.

As you can see, the magpie symbolic meanings are as diverse and colorful as the magpie herself. Her messages are many, and she gives them to us with a free and happy heart.

Interesting - here is the website Magpie descriptor. To locate your animal totem if you're so inclined, Native American Animal Totems

I have a cousin who makes and plays High Spirit wooden flutes featured playing in the below video. There has always been someone in the family who has created them. My grandfather made archery bows that were wooden works of art. Certain things stay with you no matter how far you roam in this world from your family, your roots. I may resemble my Scandinavian mother a bit more than my father but there is something within me that vibrates to the sound of the wooden flutes.

A music video to fit the mood for this Sunday morning and my last night's writing. Now I'm off to go light some pinion in the Chiminea on the porch and have a cup of green tea. My idea of church.

My Torture and My Idiocy Never Stops

2009-05-02T02:00:00.007-05:00

"Sunshine of Your Love": Jimi Hendrix: hell yeah. It's lengthy but worth it.

Eric Clapton & Friends: Check Phil Collins. Really.

Really tight.

Song that's been in my head all day

2009-04-30T22:32:00.002-05:00

Your kiss, your lies, your lust, like the devil's in ya hand:

Yes, The Sun Shines on the Delta: Taylor Hicks Back on Idol

2009-04-29T22:27:00.006-05:00

Taylor Hicks performing his song, "Seven Mile Breakdown", last night on American Idol was absolutely fantastic. This fangurl within was in an absolute fantard high; by the way, did anyone besides me note the Shout out to The Sun? (me)

It's all in the backdrop dear readers - check the background video. Sunny loves you Taylor. Big kiss Mack Daddy. Love how he wore my favorite outfit too; made me creamy.
Taylor Hicks, "Seven Mile Breakdown"

Taylor Hicks returns to American Idol from Pat Boyers on Vimeo.

A.I. 8: Are We There Yet?

2009-04-29T05:52:00.009-05:00

That's how I felt watching last night. What an interminably long season this has seemed, yet we still have three more to ~~kill~~ vote off before Adam gLambert wins season eight. Even with Ryan's peppy deliveries, the judges' overly dramatic (see Kara dioTardi) verbal spewing and ~~Egomaniac~~ Jamie Foxx and his in-your-face coaching the evening, (was it only an hour?) toiled on. Thank all that is good and Science Fiction my Walter and "Fringe" is up next.

Kris Allen had a decent meet and greet session with Jamie Foxx who put on his acting shoes promising Kris they were cutting a record based on "The Way You Look Tonight". Foxx, who comes from this area of Texas can act, seen it in his movies and we certainly are seeing it here. Plus with his recent verbal diarrhea shot at little Miley Cyrus he is obviously working to increase his public approval ratings. He's already feeling the side-effect of his actions by Billy Ray's kid; you know 'Miley Cyrus can make or achy break you'.

Kris accompanied by a boisterous big band sound came out crooning making the Tweenie fans in the audience scream. I complete don't understand any of that whole 'heartthrob' thing being put on him. Some things I am simply not meant to understand and I'm okay with that.

Randy had to elaborate how his opinion was what he personally thought; considerate since likely a huge majority of avid viewers might need that definition. Bo-Bo claimed it was Kris' best effort 'to date'.

Kara waved her arms excitedly praising Kris' technical standards and impeccable phrasing giving him 'the Dark Horse' title, trotting out yet another cliche. The Kentucky Derby runs this weekend by the way - if anyone cares.

Paula cougar roared about his boy-next-door morphing into Sophisticated Gentleman (he was wearing a suit, after all).

Simon brought the real with calling his performance 'wet' which I interpreted as "all wet".

Allison Iraheta pleased me with having her hair two-toned red and black and she wore the most adorable fluffy black and white skirted dress. I think I saw that same dress at White House | Black Market last week. Her "Someone to Watch Over Me" sang ala Patsy Cline, was good but she needed more something-something to carry her further in this competition - especially in light of all the fan fraus and tweenies who will be dialing tonight.

Randy, whom I'll refer to as Yo-Yo-Yo, babbled something about her age being "mad young", credible considering she's just turned 17 apparently this week.

Kara proving she's reading all her negative press, obviously shooting for some sort of Good Witch of the North thing told Alli all sorts of good crap.

Paula said something misty-eyed like Allison's delivery was 'tender and alluring'.

Simon again put the crowd back on planet Earth telling the girl he thought she was in trouble this week. Considering how often she has sat in the bottom three, this season, that didn't take a man making more money imaginable by being an ass to come up with.

Matt Giraud has also been reading his press and likely seen the caricature up at the VFTW site. I did not think anyone could wear their hats that low and not have them fall completely into their face. Matt's began his game of hide the mole on his fce and succeeded last night in his endeavor. "My Funny Valentine" his song selection and he worked that song in his best Jazz class styling and pointed out how he pulled a 'B' in Jazz class in college. He tried to impart his best tonal and melodic techniques but came out sounding more I-work-in-a-piano bar than anything. VFTW curse may take effect tonight and send him home. I know I want to.

Yo-Yo-Yo called him pitchy, I called him a melismatic mess. (Is that a word?)

Kara, with her mind still on Matt's 'charms' said he was 'stiff'. Likely the way she prefers to imagine...

Paula gushed how she loved it, felt it and it was excellent. She has a far better imagination than I do.

Simon went South on me and called it the most believable performance of the night.

Perhaps I'm just in a mood but I didn't like it.

Hokey-Gokey did his time with The Foxx looking almost attractive, the whole partial beard thing, the appearance he just wandered out of bed wasn't... bad. Ego Foxx was feeling 'it' too and was all 'up in his grill'. Seriously who thought of that term associated with a person's mouth? The moment was broken, for me when Hokey came out to perform with his trademark goggles and sculpted goatee. He actually sounded much better than he has this entire season last night. That or his initial appearance was still hanging on my hormonal levels. The tune started a little too softly but his build was impressive. I really dug the trombone entry. He ignited the fan kids in the Tard pit into a screaming frenzy. Naturally, he made it was obvious he thought he deserved all that love.
Oh by the way he performed "Come Rain or Come Shine":

Yo-Yo-Yo yapped hip and faked his way by saying he could hear Hokey being able to actually make an album of standards. Basically calling him Michael Buble'.

Kara fully steamy gave a shout out to his "Rat Pack Swagger", deemed him most creative in arrangement, blah, blah, blah. Hate her.

Paula heaped on her Pauler-Love calling him 'stellar' and heading for the Finish Line.

Simon praised Rickey and the band and actually agreed with Kara (traitor!) that Hokey was swaggering. Here I was thinking it was a singing competition not the Swagger Awards. Stupid me.

Finally, finally, finally saving the best for last, Adam gLambert looking smoking hot in a white satiny suit and black shirt gave the show something to feel good about selecting the tune, "Feeling Good". Adored his moments with Ego Foxx, so much man hugging - love it when men are all over each other like that. Foxx was amazed that gLambert wasn't intimidated by him, saying "You don't care who I am at all!". Love Adam for that, Ego was needed a reality check.

Adam entered his performance by regally sashaying down that pink lighted staircase as only he could have, all blue lights and sparkle. Full of brazen campy greatness, Adam strutted his stuff and made me wish I were a man. Just for a short while. He was beautiful- I love how he just throws back and lets it wail.

Yo-Yo-Yo admitted he sounded like a broken record, much like his sidekick Kara.

Kara was momentarily stunned which, thankfully, curtailed much of her overly lengthy blathering we've come to detest.

Paula beamed how gLambert was like Michael Phelps in the Olympics. Not really, but okay, we'll take that comment and add nothing more here...

Simon, begging to pop out with more Gay humor, says with the winning sound bite of the evening something to the effect how Adam is theatrical is like cows moo. Or something. The randomness of that comparison: cows mooing and theatrics, wins.

Best thing about Adam, he completely knocked the wrongness of my brief hormonal surge over Hokey looking 'dirtied up' out of my system, sang he and everyone else completely off the stage.

Down to four tonight and the Mack Daddy will be on to sing, "Seven Mile Breakdown". Big Yay all around. I pick Matt to go home, my personal choice.

Rob Pattinson Takes a New Lady

2009-04-28T08:17:00.009-05:00

Sadly it won't be me. In this photo of Pattinson he's supposedly hanging out at a Canadian pub and he certainly looks to have been enjoying a few adult beverages. I do love loaded hot men. Pattinson has agreed to take the lead role in “Remember Me,” which is yet another star-crossed lovers type of story without the undead, vampiric theme.

At least he won't be wanting to kill his next leading lady, whomever she might be.
His love interest has yet to be named but Allen Coulter, a six-time Emmy nominee (no wins) is in negotiations for the director spot. Perhaps with Pattinson as the lead he hopes to finally seal that nomination for a win.

Original script was penned by Will Fetters, currently undergoing a rewrite from "Rachel Getting Married" writer, Jenny Lumet. While he has a large fanbase due to his role in "Twilight," Pattinson hasn't moved on to other projects like "Twilight" co-star Kristen Stewart - she's up to play Joan Jett in the bio-movie, "The Runaways". Pattinson's had to contend with more than unruly hair, his scheduling conflicts have stymied his venturing outside the vampire franchise. "Memoirs"/"Remember Me" is also a Summit picture which should allow for him to work his schedule around filming his other projects.

Until this film is made, Pattinson will have to rely on two independent films he shot prior to his "Twilight" breakthrough to allow fans to see other alternative sides of Pattinson's acting abilities. "How to Be" is currently making the film festival circuits and May 8 the release date for his anticipated Salvador Dalí biopic "Little Ashes".

Robert Pattinson: I Can Haz Cheezburger:

"Love Songs That Kill Me" Cinema Bizarre

(love their hair)

Eddie Money - I Think I'm in Love

2009-04-27T22:15:00.004-05:00

Trying to rein it in, but man, I know me. Kryptonite: Colliding with my life. Someone Garlic... Crosses... exorcism... anything. lol

Eddie Money. Love him.

Cafe Du Nord "Hide Nor Hair"

2009-04-27T11:59:00.002-05:00

Taylor Hicks "Hide Nor Hair" Cafe du Nord

video c/o RobinAgain

Monday Morning Storm Watch

2009-04-27T11:47:00.003-05:00

This one of my recent favorite songs: Lifehouse, "Storm"

Hangover Blues: It's a band

2009-04-26T11:47:00.005-05:00

It's also my condition today.

Hicks: Teen Angel Isn't Shakespeare

2009-04-25T12:10:00.007-05:00

According to the article from the OC Register, the "Grease" gig Taylor Hicks has been working now for several months wasn't just a desperate move to continue to work in the entertainment industry.

In that article Paul Hodgens, after speaking with Taylor Hicks, wrote Hicks views the "Grease" Teen Angel role "as a character with training wheels". He continues by pointing out Mr. Hicks had apparently "wanted to ease from "American Idol" fame into musical theater" all along - without tackling "Shakespearean-sized challenges".

If that's what Mr. Hicks sought, it's what he got. No one, stretching their imagination even under the influence of recreational substances, could confuse Teen Angel with MacBeth. Regarding anything along the lines of Romeo, well with the Dating With the Stars episode on Regis and Kelly a short time ago, fans could see he's not ready for that part either. Rico Suave, not exactly.

Taylor Hicks related, "I'd been offered some roles previously, but I wanted to make sure the part was right for me". Hicks and the "Grease" entourage arrive in the OC next week, show opens Tuesday, Performing Arts Center, set for a two-week run. Hicks will perform every show except April 29, when he's slated to appear on "American Idol." Of course that may depend whether Obama doesn't carry on too long and kick the show off that night.

Hicks told Hodgens he plans on doing more musical theater, hoping for obtaining parts with increasing popularity and bigger audiences. "Broadway was one of the most amazing things I've ever done as a performer. But I think at some point I want to break into TV and film. I want to learn as much as I can first, though – start kind of small." So what might we find later on the Hicksian horizon? "Raiders of the Lost Harp"? "Soul Glow" tale of the vampiric harmonica player? "Lord of the Harp: Fellowship of the Soul Patrol"? "Fight Club: Tale of the Rabid Fans?" "Batman of Soul Forever" (with Bill Will added in the role of Robin)

Anyone who has followed Hicks for any length of time has heard and read Hicks say, "A career is a marathon, not a sprint. Every morning I get up and remember that the opportunities I've been given are a blessing."

Apparently Hicks is going to continue that marathon but it seems that his ideals and goals are more in-tune with being bitten by the acting bug than sludging through bars and clubs getting his music heard. Of course, I could be reading that all wrong. Right Henry?
Marathon - Rush

Rejection. Sadness.

2009-04-24T21:59:00.004-05:00

Wallowing in a sadness about something that I really should not even care about. It was a hard day all around. Beat me world, just beat the shit out of me.

One of the best songs ever; love Dave beating the hell out of that kit.
"Lithium" Nirvana

Ah fuck it.

Taylor Hicks On American Idol Wednesday April 29

2009-04-23T01:46:00.007-05:00

Taylor Hicks will perform his song, "Seven Mile Breakdown" on that reality show he conquered in 2006, on April the 29th.

"Seven Mile Breakdown" Taylor Hicks

vid c/o Robinagain
Ona's:
*warning first 12 secs look like someone's nostrils*

Reality Show Rocker Who Dissed Me

2009-04-23T00:41:00.005-05:00

Now this happened to me a while back, not a recent thing, just thought about him tonight. You see, I had an interview set up - I had contacted the guy through MySpazz, the place of bands and rocker wannabes. I fangurled out about his incredible voice and presence back on Rockstar Supernova (which I knew was doomed for Fail) and I requested an interview. He knew my name from an article I put out "pushing" him from blogcritics.org, so he knew I could at least spell rudimentary words. Too that piece went published in the Icelandic newspapers, was copy pasted on the Icelandic Tourist bureau for a short time.

Frankly I was flattered anyone wanted to read my fangurl prose so did not pursue the fact that other sites were benefiting from my words. I was pleased anyone thought I might have a way with cool wordage that would promote Magni. I really thought he was "It".

That's what made me brave. I actually contacted this man whom I thought the Sun rose with - it was incredibly challenging for me to even put the words together to write to him.

We set up a time to talk and... I was stood up. You see if the continents (he's Icelandic) were not in the way and I could have talked to him - face to face - he'd never done that. I still wonder what he's up to and still find him as intriguing as ever.
Magni Asgeirsson "Smells Like Teen Spirit"

Loved this tune:

But yeah, he might have been a "Creep" lol

Damn he was so gorgeous.
Then he did Bowie: "Heroes" I melted over that tune. ha.

Bowie again:

I was active to say the least on the Rockstar boards. I requested to Magni on his blog he do these tunes:
"Hush"

"Fire"

One of his best, "I Alone".

What's he doing these days? Not much that I can tell. He did finish fourth on that reality show.

A.I. Disco Night and Nobody Did Disco Duck: Fail

2009-04-22T09:57:00.015-05:00

I was not expecting anything in the way of actual good listening music and I was right. I was disappointed no none did Disco Duck (I kid). Nobody even wore a John Travolta suit. Maybe the group sing tonight?

Last night opened with Lil Rounds. Her hair gets longer each week. Like one of those Chrissie dolls whose hair keeps rolling out of her head with a twist of a button. Lil pulled a nice little karaoke outing with "I'm Every Woman". Lil's sadly missing the point, the show's evolved - you are never ever to perform the song the way it originally was done. That's so season four. Randy the Bo-Bo must have gotten worked up over those Lil rounds, he went right into "Party started!" shouting. Kara set Lil up for a lil let down with initially presenting she might actually say something nice. She opened with 'we've been waiting for you to do an artist like this' then went for the kill complete with bitchface, 'this just wasn't worth the wait'. Pauler pointed out Lil had been a lil sick, Simon did not give a care, copycatting his last week comment to her being a... copycat.

Kris Allen did his best Jason Castro impersonation. Tie some dreads on and wallah - you get the picture. Kris Castro-ised, Donna Summers "She Works Hard for Her Money". Natch the judges wanted to praise him as they've planned him to be one of the top four all along. Certainly the American voting public won't thwart their plans if they play their comments right; transparent as glass. Kara seems stuck on the whole, 'ready to make a record' thing. You know I read she's got her claws into Castro right now. Pauler insulted Carlos Santana saying she heard that in Kris' song. To that end, Darling Daughter had said, "It sounds like a Mexican song" meaning night at El Chico perhaps. Simon must have been bonused prior to show time, he gave Castro 2.0 good marks. Randy, who the Hell knows what he said. Or cares.

We had a lot of fun with Hokey Gokey last night. He was incredibly funny, made us all laugh even my Darling Daughter - in fact she laughed first. A nice sip of merlot completely left my mouth. Hate to waste good wine. The Hokster picked Earth, Wind and Fire's "September". Stuck to the same version as original and was more than a lil karaoke. He skipped about on the stage with an occasional lurching movement (that's what ended that sip of wine) looking earnest and sincere. Daughter asked if this was some sort of graduation song? How her mind works I have no clue. Oh, wait I do. Kara rambled incoherently about Simon wearing a plaid shirt blah blah, Pauler was by now slipping into the drugs and complimented Hokey's range. Range? Right. Last night the range went into screech. Simon thankfully brought some real and told Hoke, nope, no star presence, brought notice to the awkward. Finally.

"Hot Stuff" young Allison Iraheta came out bringing her version of disco which of course sounded rock because, well she is this season's designated rocker. Randy tried to act like Simon but was massive Fail calling this performance 'over-indulgent' then reverting back to Bo-Bo shouted out "You're the best singer in this competition!". Dawg, What? Anyway, Pauler called her edgy, Simon called her the brilliant Underdog. Go Allison.

Adam gLambert brought the soul to "If I Can't Have You", slowing it down, wearing his hot Elvis hair and a shiny lovely suit. He loves that blue lighting - it works, hey if it's not broke...Love when Pauler's moved to tears, she gave him a standing O, Randy said he was Major League, (he forgot Adam is not a sports enthusiast) Kara was inspired, Simon went with the Gay joke saying he'd have bet $10K Adam would have picked Donna Summers. He also added Adam's vocals were immaculate. Spot on, Simon.
Adam Lambert "If I Can't Have You" sadly this is a still but good sound. Damn show keeps killing off the good vids.

Matt G. aka Justin Timberlake light did "Staying Alive". I was thinking, dude you need that white suit and the moves to pull this off! He wasn't bad, Matt has a nice sounding voice, but the best part was the lyrics were really hysterical, "I'm going nowhere, somebody help me!". Perfect song for Matt. Subliminal cry for help, but will it save him? Randy the Bo-Bo hated the song choice, the subliminals flew right by Bo-Bo. Kara was wetting her pants praising him. Matt, seriously dude, hear the Cougar roar. Pauler yapped about bowling. Simon, hating himself for letting the others talk him into saving Matt hated it.

Anooop! wore a lovely gray suit with pink shirt and striped tie. He also grew some facial hair that made him much more masculine. I suppose that's what he was going for. He picked a dull and boring song called "Dim the Lights". I think this song might dim the lights for Anooop! if it wasn't for his very active and energetic fans. Kara thought it was radio friendly, by the way she was licking her lips her inner cougar wanted to pounce. Pauler's cougar radar was peaked - Anooop!'s flashing uber white teeth caught her attention. She likes shiny things too I see. Simon brought everyone back from the gleaming charms of this new Anooop! calling him mediocre at best. Translation, Simon is ready for him to go.

Chances are tonight will see Lil and toss up between Anooop! and Matt say goodbye I would completely be surprised if Kris went but not unhappy. Only one Jason Castro should advance to top four and he was last season. Hokey should hit bottom three if there is any form of fair play on this show.

Little Archies' back tonight. Later.

Portland's the Word: Taylor Hicks Just Out

2009-04-22T06:17:00.006-05:00

Opened the browser this morning and first up on the 'to do' reading list, Just Out a Portland area on-line site. Reviewer wrote a piece on "Grease" which has just opened in Portland. Seems they liked parts of it. Like Taylor Hicks.

"And what about Taylor Hicks, you ask? Hicks fans need to manage their expectations. He is not the star of the show. His one musical number appears in the second act; but here’s the good news, he’s well worth the wait. The trimmed down, quite handsome winner of season five of American Idol does a campy and ever-so-slightly gay number that brings a needed boost to the production. And, if you’re a Hicks fan, don’t be the first one out the door, there is a bonus musical number at the end of the staged performance.

And if you’re seriously a fan, Hicks will be in the lobby signing copies of his CD at the end of the evening."

Just Out happens to be an alternative lifestyle site, the kicker for me lay in their descriptor of Hicks' performance. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Taylor Hicks does like that sparkly outfit he's got goin' on.
"Grease"

vid c/o soulindiane

Nothing Says Family Gathering Like a Stripper Pole

2009-04-21T08:27:00.018-05:00

There I was thinking my familial unit is unusual. Down at Gokey Place seems the ideal evening a spin around the golden pole. Pole as in stripper pole. Complete with a camera in the top corner; you know, for those family album moments.

Interesting bonus to the recent 'inside information' from an anonymous 'source' concerning Gokey's religious affiliation, Faith Builders International Ministries. It seems this cult-principled manic-religious themed organization hit a recent peak, no longer just interesting for its potential grifter status (link takes a moment, from the TopIdol site). It gets better. Under super secret swears and oaths this organization touts their tenets as being able to resurrect the dead! Apparently it's like a modern day twist on Tales From the Crypt or a new religious themed Zombies Will Eat Your Brains. Just make sure you're tithing heavily.

"The raising the dead is part of the teaching they ascribe to from the Bible:

“Heal the sick, raise the dead,cleanse the lepers, cast out demons.” Matthew 10:8

Now, the raise the dead part they will TALK about. They’ll tell stories from the pulpit of Smith Wigglesworth kicking a dead baby and it coming back to life in the 1800’s. They’ll tell stories of people being raised from the dead in other countries. Pastor Jeff told us that we are not to discuss the church’s position on raising the dead or healing by faith with anyone especially as it relates to the Gokey situation. He said the devil is trying to bring attacks against the church by spreading lies and we are not to discuss things with outsiders."

Anyway perhaps beside waking the dead this church encourages a rousing workout ala "Zombie Strippers"

"Zombie Strippers"

Any wonder I steer clear of organized religions?

Even Though I'm In Love With Rob Pattinson I Still Love Dave Grohl - Call me Versatile

2009-04-19T22:51:00.005-05:00

Dave Grohl and... special guest Will Ferrell.

Then there's this side of Grohl - How Drummers Speak - Kill the Kits:

How Awesome Dave hauls in the cash: Nuclear Sex.

Yeah. My kind of man.

Mute Math - Musical Algebra

2009-04-18T09:57:00.007-05:00

To say that Mute Math possesses a different sound than the usual suspects found out on the Billboard top 100 charts is a gross understatement. They're eclectically and electrically charged with bits of alt rock, progressive and a heavy dollop of jazz fusion. I'm reminded of some of the rock icons past such as The Police or Radiohead, and a fave, The Alan Parsons Project. The band rolls with a cohesive, intricate sound that will light up your cerebral cortex - they absolutely jam.

Tunes such as "Chaos" or "Stare at the Sun" come across as borderline chaotic - the dummer, Darren King often seems at odds with the flow of the music coming from Paul Meany and his keyboard, yet it fits. I am fascinated with King, he's a dynamic creative percussionist with an obvious love for beating his kit into complete submission. Bass player, Roy Mitchell-Cardenas brings the stand up into the sound and on this song, "Stare at the Sun" alternates between the bass and assisting in percussion in a way that exemplify the true musically intelligent from the want to be poser. Crazy innovative fusion of jazz slash alternative rock.
"Stare at the Sun" Mute Math

Inspired, I wandered the Google highway and discovered they had been in a court battle with their label, Warner Brothers. Evil label, seems Warner Brothers had violated an agreement Mute Math had set with the label. The band did not want association with Word Records branding, a Christian imprint of Warner. Regardless of what agreement the band thought they had with Warner the "Word" logo, was still attached to their album release. This lawsuit wound its way for a few months, but did not stop Mute Math from touring. Incredibly they recorded and released during this chaos, another record which they marketed at concert merchandise tables. Their self-created disc was successful enough that it showed Warner the err of its way and the case resolved in the band's favor.

That action took a high amount of conviction in themselves to buck the system and toss caution to the wind against a label such as Warner. Especially in today's music scene when so many bands struggle to gain a label this group was essentially willing to throw it away on principal. I think that likely the reason for their success and the testament to their true originality. They really are all about the music. It's almost fairy tale ending amazing that this band's strength of conviction triumphed against some formidable potential repercussions.

I fell into adoration of the lead singer, Paul Meany almost immediately. Not because he's gorgeous, and he is, but rather because he's crazy enough to play a keytar. Seriously when has that instrument ever thought of being cool? Never. Meany not only makes it look geeky-freaky cool, he rocks that damn thing like he's Slash in Guns N Roses. The ensemble has an amazing and fierce energy that is addicting to listen to - the four guys responsible for the beauty that is Mute Math: Paul Meany (keyboards, vocals,) Greg Hill (guitars,) Roy Mitchell-Cardenas (bass) and Darren King (drum abuser).
"Typical" Mute Math

"Paper Darren"

For those who like a more traditional sound, Meany and company do "What I Say". Music kicks at about the minute mark, Meany's vocals activate 2:44.

Tea Parties, Texas Style

2009-04-16T10:07:00.009-05:00

(You go Papi!)

Rick Perry Having "Tea" in Austin

So Secession on the horizon? You know Texas has always been 'a whole 'nuther country'. "Texans know how to run Texas"... excellent sound bite from our Governor. Obambi keep your money we don't want any.

Locally, in and around Dallas we were having our own parties.

"We will be called haters, and we are. We are haters of big-spending politicians. We will be called racists, and we are – we are members of the human race," Dennis, a McKinney resident, said as silence turned to roars."

This was not a movement reserved for just Republicans or conservatives, we Libertarians were standing up as well, rallying against big government expansion, federal taxation and, ultimately the insidious form of Socialism being sold to the mass American public by our government. I'm certainly not wanting to be a part of the masses being steamrolled on debt, by our Democratic President Barack Obama. Folks wanted change, hell we certainly have been getting change, although not much in the way of change in our pockets.

Washington. i.e. the elected representatives that we currently have in our government halls need cut spending, taxes and reread the damn Constitution. The Texas slogan, 'Don't Mess With Texas' was seen on posters and signs lining the roadways as thousands turned out yesterday all over the metroplex to stand behind Governor Perry's decision to tell the U.S. government, thanks, but hell no, to the economic/socialist package program. It was a stimulating and exciting imagery seeing so many turning out with one thing in common. Very cool when people driving past honked and waved and shot Peace signs in agreement with the message. Very cool not a bleeding heart beggar for debt anywhere insight.

Word, just say NO to Big Brother. It was an interesting, incredible day.