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The Wil Wheaton Post

I’ve already mentioned Tabletop on here recently and how they hit $1M on their Indiegogo campaign for the show, but after watching this video I realized just how many things have been going well for Mr. Wheaton and how exciting it has been watching everything fall into place.

It all started with a few recurring guest starring roles on the occasional tv show. (Well not really but going all the way back to the beginning of his career would take us too long). The most exciting for me was Big Bang Theory, because I used to watch the show religiously. In fact, every time Wil announces he’s making another appearance on the show it makes me wish I still watched it.

Around the same time that he started popping up on more tv shows, I also noticed him popping up on the Internet more (or maybe I was just paying closer attention). His appearances on the web series The Guild were some of the best episodes the show ever had (and I’ve loved that show from first episode to last). The tag team that is Felicia Day and Wil Wheaton seems pretty perfect to me, which is why it made sense that when Felicia started her YouTube channel, naturally Wil would have a part in it. Enter Tabletop, a show I at first avoided because of it’s lengthy videos, but eventually was too intriguing to avoid for long. I’m sorry I didn’t immediately jump on the bandwagon, because combing through the back catalog of episodes was harder than just watching the show when it “aired”. Now I make sure to set aside the time to play more games with Wil Wheaton and friends.

That brings us to today, where Tabletop is so successful it blew away their fundraising goal. Meanwhile, Wil has other projects floating around, most importantly his new show on SyFy Channel. Personally, I have had a long-standing boycott of said channel since it has gone downhill over the years (IMO). There were a few things that angered this young viewer, and I stuck to my guns right up until someone invited me to a viewing party for Sharknado (which I did more for the love of all things Asylum than anything). What can I say? I love a really good bad movie. I digress though…

What this post is really about is to say congratulations to Wil Wheaton for getting past his years as Wesley Crusher and surrounding himself with many wonderful successes. (Don’t get me wrong, I’m one of the few people who didn’t hate that character, but I also was about the same age when I first watched the series). I look forward to Tabletop S3 and the future RPG show. Hell, The Wil Wheaton Project sounds so good, I might just have to stop hating SyFy channel long enough to give your show a chance. In the meantime, while we’re waiting for the many eggs he’s juggling to be ready for consumption, remember to PLAY MORE GAMES and DON’T BE A DICK.

Via Audio – Natural Language

Via Audio - Natural Language coverAt first I wasn’t sure what I wanted to say about Via Audio’s most recent album, Natural Language, which was released March 25th of this year. I knew I liked it, but a review needs to be more than “me like-y, you buy now please”. While staring at the album cover it hit me… this album is prefect driving music for a road trip (or walking around music on a nice day). It’s got electronic sounds that somehow are both soothing and uplifting, which I can’t even describe how they achieve that bit of magnificence. That’s the problem I guess. See, I’m used to the kind of electronic/pop music that mentally places me at a dance club, not roaming around in nature. But that is what Natural Language achieves. I guess that just means the title fits… so take a break from the daily grind and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring with Via Audio.

Wood Spider – Decadence

As I’ve mentioned before, sometimes I get suggestions of things to review from my friends. Usually these are bands I have never heard of before, but I always keep an open mind and if I dig their music I’ll gladly do a review for them. This time it was a pleasant surprise to see a name cross my virtual desk that I had already heard before: Wood Spider. Not only had I heard of them before, I remember seeing them live once and being really impressed. It turns out they had a new album that just came out in February, and I was more than happy to review it and give them a shout.

The album, which is titled Decadence, starts off slow but it is simply an extended introduction which builds to a more energetic piece. That is a recurring theme in this album. Throughout its entirety the energy starts slow and gradually builds, only to come back down and start the cycle all over again. Some people might find some of the more drawn out parts a bit strange, but I find it unique. It creates a sense of intrigue that finds me actively listening and wondering where it all is leading to, instead of simply putting it on in the background and only hearing a blend of sounds.

My final conclusion: If you want something catchy but predictable, this might not be for you. If, however, you want something new and experimental then enjoy the ride that Decadence takes you on.

St Patrick’s Day Shenanigans

You know what they say, “Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day”…

Well, that’s bull-cookies, but that doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to have fun. Just don’t tell me that drinking Guinness and whiskey one day a year makes you Irish. I drink whiskey every day, so hush.

*ahem*

Sorry, back to the entertainment… With St. Pat’s just around the corner, there are plenty of fun things to do around the city. Here are a few on my list of potentials:

1) Tonight a friend of mine is DJing at what used to be my local bar – Project Parlor. If you don’t want to wait until the weekend to get your drunk on, this is the place to be. I’m sure there will be plenty of Irish punk songs to make your little Irish heart happy.

2) For all you Long Island kids, The Slackers are playing at 89 North in Patchogue. I know, they’re not Irish, but they’re fun. And since it’s the day before St. Pat’s they might do some covers fitting the occasion.

3) There are plenty of things happening on the actual day of celebration, even though it’s a Monday. There’s a cool show at Gramercy with the Shipwrecks, NonStop to Cairo, Beat Brigade, and Narkatta for one thing. If that’s not your scene and you just want a place to drink, Project Parlor will have specials all night for ya. Or try whatever your local bar is; I’m sure anywhere you go will be doing something for one of the biggest drinking days of the year.

4) For those of you who don’t want to be around a bunch of drunk strangers all night, try staying home with a bottle of whiskey, some friends, and The Boondock Saints. It’s one of my favorite movies ever, and definitely Irish enough for the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d46hgS4CVi4

So there you have it, a handful of real fun ideas to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day with, Just remember to be respectful to those around you. Don’t be a drunk asshole; Don’t be a dick; and especially DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE. Get your ass on the drunk train with the rest of us and stay safe, kids.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Pandora: Now Taking Submissions

I registered with this website called “Indie on the Move” a couple years ago when I started helping out with a band’s booking. I don’t work with them anymore (totally friendly terms, keep doing what you do guys), but I am close to multiple people in the industry who could find this a useful resource, so I still allow myself to get emails from them on occasion. A couple weeks ago I got one with a link to an article on how Pandora had changed their submission process and no longer required artists to send a physical CD for consideration. This is great news for those “little engine that could” local bands who are trying to get their music out to a wider audience. The submission process sounds easy enough.

  1. Go to their submission page and give them basic info (name, phone number, etc)
  2. Provide a link to your bio, a link to where you can purchase the CD, and a link to 2 songs they will use to review your submission

The only other requirements are that you already be signed up for Pandora, which is free to do if you haven’t already. The article also suggests you sign up with another free service, Sound Exchange, which helps you collect digital royalties when providers like Pandora stream your music. I don’t have any experience with the site myself, but it seems straightforward enough. Based on their website, it seems that they collect royalties on your behalf and then release them to you. They can only do this if you register with them, however, because otherwise they don’t know where to send your money to. Simple! That’s the name of the game though… In this day and age, the Internet has become a great tool for giving everyone a fair shot to get their name out there. You just need to know where to find these tools to help you succeed.

Things To Do This Weekend

Quick post to let you know about two really cool shows happening this weekend in the NYC area.

1) Lyzfest, otherwise known as my good friend over at Candy Apple Red’s birthday show. She always puts together a great night of music, but she goes all out for her big day. This year the night doubles as the kickoff to Tail Light Rebellion’s tour. They go on 1st at 8pm, right after the open bar that takes place 7-8. All this is happening at, (where else?), Trash Bar in Brooklyn. It’s a great way to start a great night for a great lady. Come on out and celebrate with us, folks.

2) The 2nd show I want to throw at you is for the often ignored Long Island kids. The Pandemics are opening for The Toasters over at 89 North. They’re calling it “The Ultimate Ska Party” and I have to agree that it looks like it might be. I’ve never been to the venue myself, but my boyfriend tells great stories of hanging out backstage with The Slackers last time he was there. I’m looking forward to seeing the place. Also looking forward to seeing The Toasters again since last time I saw them I started feeling sick halfway through their set. It would be nice to actually get to dance this time…

There you have it, two great shows to get you through the weekend. I know LI feels super far away and not worth it for most people, but there are some great shows you’re missing out on with that attitude. Take a chance and come dance with us, won’t you?

Not Your Usual Valentine’s Day Post

Valentine’s Day – the time we’re all supposed to show that special someone how much we love them… or so says Hallmark. Just because tradition tells you when to show these signs of affection though doesn’t mean they can tell you how to do it. That is why today I’m dedicating this post to sharing some non-traditional ways to spend your day. These can be for singles or couples, and shared with friends or lovers. The point is to have fun without doing the whole “dinner and a movie” thing that is your typical romantic evening. So, in no particular order, let’s get started…

  • Girls/guys night – I polled some folks and a popular thing seems to be getting together with a group of friends. One lady said she gets together with her sisterwives and puts on her fancy dress for a night with the ladies. Another fella said he was planning on spending the night playing D&D (that’s Dungeons & Dragons for you non-nerdy types) with his buddies. I like this idea, and it’s kinda similar to what I used to do in college, which brings me to my next point…
  • Stay in and watch a movie – This used to be my go-to for today. Usually I go for Boondock Saints or something equally violent. My boyfriend used to do similar, but with the addition of he’d use the day to clean his guns. (Note: we live on Long Island where this is perfectly legal and normal to own and maintain firearms). Obviously the second part is optional, but having a movie night, either by yourself or with your friends, is a great way to spend any evening, so why should tonight be any different?
  • Spend a night on the town – There are plenty of things to do besides go out to a fancy restaurant you can’t even really afford. Try going to your local bar, where you might see some familiar faces. My favorite watering hole is Project Parlor in Brooklyn. Tonight they’re having an event called “Everybody Gets Lei’d“. There will be a night full of DJs, good music, and of course lots of leis. This is where I’d be tonight if I didn’t have work. Which, I was going to suggest everyone come to the awesome burlesque show I’ll be at tonight after my shift, but I just got word about an hour ago that it is sold out. While I’m pleasantly surprised, I’m going to have to suggest you save the burlesque for tomorrow when D20 gives you their Villain-tines Day celebration. If you want a fancy dinner at fast food prices, try McDonald’s, which is offering candlelit service in certain locations. Perfect for the couple who likes eating off a white tablecloth, but can barely afford said cloth, forget the food it is served on.

I’m sure there are plenty of other fun things you could be doing this day without giving in to the hype and madness that tends to go along with it. Personally I’m going to work tonight, but spending tomorrow watching Warm Bodies, the romantic zombie movie, while devouring some discount chocolate I will likely pick up at 2am tonight when I finally stumble home from my job. What is everyone else doing? Send me your ideas and maybe they’ll be included in next year’s V-Day special here. Whatever you do today, don’t let the pressure (or annoyingly cute couples) get to you. Have fun and enjoy, today and every day.

RIP Phillip Seymour Hoffman

I’m sure we all heard the news yesterday as it swept the internet – Phillip Seymour Hoffman was found dead in his apartment in the West Village (NYC). He was 46 years old. The cause of death was suspected to be a drug overdose, heroin to be specific. He was found with the needle still in his arm.

I found this out because of several posts about it on Facebook, and it broke my heart. I didn’t know the man personally, and rarely ever get saddened by a famous person’s death, but this one was different for some reason. I’ve seen many of Hoffman’s movies, but the one that sticks out in my mind the most was his award-winning role in Capote. Let me preface this by saying I have had a copy of “In Cold Blood” sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time, but have never gotten around to reading it until recently. It was given to me by a friend who was moving and wanted to have less stuff that needed to be tucked away into boxes. I took it and a couple other items, but never got around to actually reading them.

My second preface in this story is that a lot of the movies I watch have been sitting in my Netflix Instant queue for quite some time before they get viewed. Usually I finally get around to watching them because Netflix is about to take them off Instant. This was the case with Capote. I’m sorry I didn’t watched it sooner, because I believe it is one of the best films I have ever seen in my short little lifetime. This was thanks very largely to Hoffman’s chilling portrayal of the title character. After finishing the movie, I immediately picked up my copy of “In Cold Blood,” and have not been able to put it down since. I also looked up the other works that Hoffman has been in and realized I had seen quite a few of them already without realizing it (or at least without making the connection). Maybe I just never cared who he was until the Oscars, which is a shame because he is brilliant. This is the same reason it was sad to see him die so young. Whether the person is famous or not it’s always said to see a life ended too soon, but it’s even harder when you think about what they could have done with the time that was stolen from them. The fact that it was something like a drug overdose also makes me angry, because that means you let an addiction to a terrible thing control your life. I’m sorry to see him go, and I’m sorry for the reasons.

I had to keep myself off the internet for the rest of the day after hearing the news. This is my first time on in about 24 hours. I needed the time to process everything and also not let it get me down. I still can’t completely wrap my brain around it, but at least I hopefully spit out a coherent post. Sorry if it’s just a bunch of rambles. Equally sorry if it’s a bummer compared to my usually upbeat self, but it’s something I needed to do so I could move on without it hovering over me all day. Now I keep on living with the silent prayer for the family he left behind. They are the ones hurt most by this, and even though it is none of my business and outside of my control, I still am sorry anyone has to go through that, and I hope it gets better soon.

Music For Car Commercials

It’s been awhile since I’ve seen the Brooklyn-based indie rock band Libel, and I have to say they’ve grown a lot. One thing hasn’t changed though – from the moment I first saw them they immediately impressed me. The music was loud and fun and made me want to rock with them. This was something I could get behind.

The music itself wasn’t the only thing that hooked me in that initial meeting, it was also how much the band seemed to enjoy doing what they do. Clearly they have taken that to the next level with their album “Music For Car Commercials“. It has the usual pop/rock sound you would expect from an indie band, but it’s like they’ve taken that sound and decided to have fun with it. I talked to lead singer Gavin Dunaway and asked him exactly what he was trying to do with this album.

“We’re just trying to make music with no ulterior motives,” was his response. He went on to say, “I wanted to write songs about refusing to feel powerless in a world where control seems to constantly elude us.”

Based on our conversation I would say he was talking about commercialism and how sometimes a great band doesn’t get recognized until their song ends up in a car commercial or something similar. Pretty deep stuff, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a light-hearted side to things. Mostly he wanted to “prove there’s still some life left in rock and roll”… and “wanted to make an album that defied subgenres”.

“I was hoping Libel could sound like something people couldn’t put their finger on.”

That’s the statement that hit me the hardest, because I can honestly say I spent half the record trying to decide who they reminded me of and coming up empty-handed. Maybe that’s because Libel has a unique sound, something familiar that is really it’s own thing. And that’s ok too. Not everyone needs to be a carbon copy of any one band or use some generic formula. If that’s you’re thing, fine. If not, there’s Libel.

Of all the songs in the album, I think my favorite was “Tomorrow’s Children,” which coincidentally is the song chosen for their music video.

Gavin’s wife Michela Buttignol was the creator of said video, and in my opinion she did a fantastic job.

As I said in the opening, I have always been impressed with what Libel has to offer. It may have been awhile since that first time, but I look forward to seeing if their live show has evolved as much as their music has. We’ll all have a chance to see for ourselves, as they have a show coming up this Friday, January 17th at Radio Bushwick.

 

Shayfer James’ Red Room

New York local artist Shayfer James has released a 6-song album, “Red Room Vol 2,” which can be yours exclusively if you donate to his indiegogo campaign today. The album is filled with the hauntingly beautiful and piano driven music you would expect if you’ve heard James’ other works, including his last album, “Counterfeit Arcade,” which was released in 2011.

In his campaign, which is to fund his new album “Haunted Things,” he states that “Red Room Vol 2” was recorded in 8 hours, but that certainly doesn’t mean a lack of quality. Each song will leave some impression on you. If you’ve never heard of Shayfer James before, 1) I’m sorry; 2) you can hear samples of his work on his bandcamp page. After you’ve been wowed by the past, I hope you consider donating towards the future. I don’t have advanced knowledge, but I’m confident Haunted Things will live up to it’s name and haunt you in the best way possible.