GET UP, GET INSPIRED, GET INSPIRACY!!

Inspiracy Arts is one of the newer arts organization making a name for itself in the Central Valley. Based in Modesto, Inspiracy is dedicated to promoting, producing, and showcasing new theatre works by local playwrights. The wonderful thing about this organization is that many of its founders and board members are young people of all stripes and colors. However, don't be fooled; the myriad of actors, directors, and writers are not new to the craft by any means. Born out of former groups like Drama Ink and The Performaholics (both established at Modesto Junior College), Inspiracy Arts is the fully realized effort of precocious youngsters trying to do what they love real and, in the process, make the Central Valley a much cooler place to live.


Staging periodical events such as 24 Playfest, Inspiracy Arts is embarking upon their first theatre tour entitled: The Central Valley Playwrights Festival Caution: Hi-Jinx Ensues! This production will span three cities across the CV throughout a month's time. Previewing various pieces of the five comedies featured at local events and fundraisers, the tour officially kicks off this week at Modesto Junior College Recital Hall in Modesto. The show starts at 7pm and tickets are $12 at the door ($10 pre-sale/students/seniors). Below are a few links you can find out more about them:

Insipracy Arts' website, Facebook, and Myspace.

I finally found a reason....

Hello all! I can't believe it's been almost three months since my last entry. And I was doing so good keeping consistent, but alas, I fell off the wagon and deprived everyone of any great recommendations that only my unique perspective could offer. (Please, hold all outbursts of laughter until after you've finished reading.) A big reason for the lack of posts is due to the fact I've been so unsure as to exactly what I want to do with this blog. To be honest, I thought it would be me giving witty, insightful commentary on the world around me. However, I stumbled upon a big problem with that: I realized quickly I'm not one to share the trivialities of my life. Much of life can be so personal to me and I'm unable to nonchalantly post the stuff that both angers and makes me happy without going into too much detail and/or getting righteous. (It seems I have communication issues and this is something that surprises me--Mr. Just Won't Shut The Fuck UP--even as I'm typing these words.) Then, my second attempt was at something based on all things artistic that I like. But here again I ran into a problem: I lose focus so easily when I harp only on my pretentious, too-good-for-you taste. (But don't be deceived: my taste is superior, and this is something that I will steadfastly uphold even if I am wrong in so many ways--which I'm not usually.) So with some ample time and distance from the blog, I have finally decided what the hell I'm going to do with it. (Again, refrain from laughing until I'm finished.) I have been immersing myself heavily into the local arts scene here in the CV and I've realized quickly there's not much attention being paid to it. This is a shame! The reason most people feel the CV is an uncultured abyss full of farms and hicks is that most local events/organizations/artists are not given an ounce of attention outside the local newspaper. Ur, I think not!! So I'm looking to correct this slight conflagration by doing my part and using my blog for spotlighting the vast amount of arts' activity in the CV. (It's here everyone. And it's exciting stuff!!) I def won't abstain from interesting and awesome stuff from pop culture that I want to talk about, but def more focused on the local arts scene. Thanks everyone still reading this blog occasionally. I hope that you'll find it worth the visit next time you click on!

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Empire of the Sun "Walking On A Dream" (Jimmy2sox remix)

The week is here upon us again, and by now, we are well on our way into the thick of it. So I figure why not some great music to enjoy along the way. I've heard this song by Empire of the Sun for a couple of months now and I, frankly, did not think much of it at first. They look like characters out of a cheesy 80s' flick and remind me of another joke-band, like The Darkness. But that's always not a bad thing. Slowly this song has won me over and I've become a fan. Then comes along Jimmy2sox and I'm in love, playing this song non-stop for the last five days. Both the band and the remixer are from the land down under and I'm beginning to believe Australia has more going for it than kangaroos and Hugh Jackman. Don't believe me? The horn loop alone is worth the listen.

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Miami Horror "Don't Be On With Her"

Miami Horror is an Australian dance outfit intent on keeping the 80s revival going. And with songs as deliciously catchy as "Don't Be On With Her," fuck yeah!! This song aims to bring out only the best elements of 80s dance/synth music. Indeed many of the vocal effects remind me of the great freestyle classics of Lisa Lisa and Debbie Deb. However, what's remarkable about this track is that even amongst the many nods to era of big synths and obnoxious guitar solos (and this song has plenty of them) this song feels current and so appopriate at any real dance party happening today. Solid gold! And to prove it, check out the vid below. It's 80's fabulous. Enjoy!!

Popcorn Talk: Who's up for some good films???

So I've seen what all the hub-bub is about and I'm not disappointed. I finally saw The Wrestler today and I was left chocked up and emotionally stirred. Really, the last ten minutes of the movie is the shit. I know most of you have heard about what the film is about so I won't bore you, but talk about tragic. And Mickey Rourke's performance is every bit as powerful as you would expect with stakes this incredibly high. I'm impressed and I definitely recommend it to all who are still hesitant to watch it. GO SEE IT!!!!





Now Milk. This was the movie that I have been dying to see all winter. I can not tell you how much I have been wanting to it. Srsly. Like for real. For some reason, this movie has come to represent so much more to me than just a film. It's become a symbol of equality and hope. Real powerful stuff, like the man himself: Harvey Milk. Every group has their leaders and Harvey is ours. And the film has attained a higher significance because of the passage of Prop 8. I have never felt so indifferent and hurt aboud politics as I did the day after last November's historic elections. Every gay person I know was numb, angry, and disgusted that we can still live in a society that will openly legislate such discrimination. It was hurtful.

What I love the most about Milk is how the film is more than just Harvey Milk. It's about the difficult struggle for equality that gay men and women have been fighting for several decades in the face of fear and blind hatred. The story of Harvey's rise in San Francisco's political landscape is not about the ambition of one man, but the ambition of a whole group of people determined to have their voices heard. There's a unity behind that and I'm lucky to know what that unity means. It's no surprise that the first openly gay supervisor was elected in San Francisco. There's something special about the City, and I can attest to that magic. Anybody who really loves San Francisco understands what that magic is. And Milk does a great job capturing that which makes Harvey (and San Francisco) unique.

I'm Back!!!

Yes, everyone. I'm announcing officially my return to the blogosphere. WTF? you may be saying to yourself because a month and a half is not really a long time to be away, but it is. I started this whole blog business because I felt like I had SOOO much to say. And I do. But I'm not posting any of it anywhere. What is that about? I plan to renew my commitment to the Boomerang and indulge my readers (all two of you) with my insightful ruminations and witty banter. (Please agree with that!) So thanks for reading this (again, all two, maybe one, of you).

Eating in Eden Poster!

So Towela Sichinga has finally finished editing the short film I wrote last fall and here's the poster for it. Eating in Eden is the name of it and Towie directed and produced it. Actually, she did so much more, which is why I'm so proud of her and cannot wait for the film's official screening this Friday in the Lower Mission in San Francisco. There was a lot of hard work put into the making of this film and I'm already proud to say I was a part of this project. And to kick off the love fest for myself notice the bottom of the poster aknowledging me as the writer of the film (CAN YOU SEE IT????). Awesome!!! As for the future plans of the film, Towie is hoping to put the movie into the film festival circuit sometime this year. I will keep you guys updated about that. Until then, tell me what you guys think of the poster--I do believe it is still in the revision stages. Thanks y'all!!

TOP SONGS OF THE YEAR: 40-31

40. Pink "Who Knew"

If you haven't already figured out by looking at this list, I like pop music. And this year, I mean POP music. Personally, I blame Movement 97--a relatively new Bay Area station that plays a variety of songs mostly of the pop and dance persuasion--and that's ok. I happily turned on that dial day in and day out over the course of the year because the music was fun and lighthearted, and considering the pressure and stress I was under from school, my three jobs, an internship, and those pesky things called BILLS I eagerly indulged. Enter this Pink track. It's a perfect over the top, tear-falling-down-the-cheek song without being OMFG. Lyrically, the song is effective because it's unassuming, and I heart that earworm of a guitar line opening the track, instantly establishing the gravity of what's to come. However, in the end it's all about Pink's vocal chops leading the sing-along chorus with the conflicted fervor of a shell-shocked lover who has both a broken heart and a unrealistic tinge of hope. Awe...tear.

Video: Pink "Who Knew"


39. Roisin Murphy "Overpowered"

Someone needs to tell Roisin Murphy that her combination of funky electro, retro 80's synths, clever wordplay, and distinct voice fucking rock! (I guess I will: Srsly, Roisin. You do.) Most people will know her from her percussive-heavy, tribal days with Moloko, however, I personally became a fan of Roisin because of her first album, Ruby Blue. She has the ability to take genuinely interesting rhythms and musically layer them with electronic hiccups and groovy horns to become odd pop songs (check out 2005's extraordinary "If We're In Love"). "Overpowered" carries on in that same vein but this time there is no hesitation about its desire to shake your arse. And shake it does. For that let me say it again: Roisin, you fucking rock, girl! Srsly. I mean it.


Video: Roisin Murphy "Overpowered"


38. Ida Corr vs. Fedde Le Grand "Let Me Think About It"

If the beat from this delicious disco gem doesn't have you moving after the second listen then you are devoid of all rhythmic pleasure as we know it. Say it's too frenetic: you're right. Say it's too dance-y: right again. Say it's too gay: um, well...duh! But say it's not awesome: then you're absolutely, positively, most embarrassingly WRONG. "Let Me Think About It" revs up both the queens at Badlands and the hip-hop junkies at 98.3 KWIN. This song knows no boundaries. And nor should it. So make like my girls both in the Stro and in the impressive video and shimmy on down to the dance floor (or your living room carpet) and RRAAAHHHH!



Video: Ida Corr vs Fedde Le Grand "Let Me Think About It"



37. Friend "Secret"

I thank Pitchfork for this one. Their Forklist always has some interesting cuts that are either questionable or on point. Fortunately, they were right on with this one. Opening with a sample from one of my favorite songs of the year (Air France's "Collapsing On Your Doorstep"--a song whose most memorable moments are, ironically, snippets from birds, TV shows and little kids' voices) the track builds on a myriad of manipulated vocal excerpts before erupting into a hot Saturday night at Paradise Garage: blaring horns, writhing bass lines and all. Yeah, this song is that awesome. And it won't be before long that we'll all be grooving to the funky insanity that is Friend. Trust.

Myspace: Friend



36. Sean Kingston "Take You There"

Let me preface this blurb by saying I was not a fan at all of "Beautiful Girls"--that song is weak sauce, but it's catchy as hell. And so is this song. Although this track tows the line between juvenile hyperbole and faux-Miami Vice danger, it's youthful exuberance and manic enthusiasm is instantly endearing and addictive. Dare I say gay, too? Lets just say the infectious chorus has the ability to make some boys skip arm in arm all the way to the bars in the Stro from Doloros Park on Easter with tote bags and tight cardigans. Yep, I wish everyone can spend the holy day with a little Sean Kingston on their minds.



Video: Sean Kingston "Take You There"



35. Santogold "Shove It" (Switch Remix)

I have mixed opinions about Santogold. By now I've heard her obligatory backstory as a long-time industry vet finally coming into her own, hence, two albums chocked with either indie-leaning guitars akin to those worshiped and adored at Spin, or beat mash-ups with producer/DJ wunderkin Diplo. Hmm...sounds like the artistic beginnings of another beloved female extraordinaire.... In fact, I can't help but feel that Santi is just a second-hand MIA, but that would be unfair. And to be honest, some of her music warrants more than one listen, including this song remixed by MIA collaborator and pal, Switch. The reggae-like beat is hypnotic and the flow is potent and defiant. Santogold may not be MIA, but if this song is any indication, she might live up to the talent the press seems to believe she has.



Video: Santogold "Shove It" (Switch Remix)



34. Vega "All Too Vivid"

Dude, I've died and gone to 80s heaven. For real. But this song is way more than an 80s throwback I can assure you. I don't know who or what Vega is all about but this song fucking rocks! Like srsly. Built on a synth-heavy structure--not to mention a super rad lead guitar solo--the track takes one immediately through a flashback of all things 80s and cheesy (including the awesome video that feels like Xanadu for BMX owners). However, this song has more lasting merit than say an episode of Charles in Charge. Like the best house anthems today, "All Too Vivid" is big and bombastic, setting ablaze the dance floor with a beat that yearns to crush you while making you dance your ass off at the same time. Love it! Especially when that lead guitar screams its way onto the track. 80s heaven, man, I'm telling ya.



Video: Vega "All Too Vivid"



33. Arthur Russell "Habit Of You"

There's something special about Arthur Russell's music that I can not articulate very well. Heck, I might not even really know what it is exactly but I feel it so I know it's there. My first introduction to Russell was two years ago on Almostcool.org. The words for Russell were beyond kind--they exalted the man, and rightly so. Russell reminds me of the same genius that's slow to grasp as Nick Drake. Like Drake's work, his music may not sound much at first listen, but that's really our inability as the listener to fully appreciate the simple beauty these talented individuals are creating. "Habit Of You" is a simple song about the complexities of falling in love, and Russell nails it exactly. The exuberant 70s AM piano feels like rays of sun splashing down one at a time until the unhealthy obsession develops and that person becomes just as vital to one's survival as air. Sick maybe, but Russell understands it's part of the territory concerning the heart, and as frustrating as that is sometimes the best thing to do is to just give in and roll with the insanity that ensues.



Myspace: Arthur Russell



32. Mary J. Blige "Just Fine"

Finally, Mary--you done gone made a classic dance joint! And this shit bounces! For real. No sadness. No whining. No anger. Just pure and shameless fun. Every time this song came on in the clubs everybody recognized and shook a little, if only to pay respect to Miss Mary and her utter fabulousness at staying in the game this long and producing this stunner of a dance song. Much love and respect, Mary--I'm still shaking my little booty!




Video: Mary J. Blige "Just Fine"


31. Patrick Wolf "The Magic Position"

Mr. Wolf is an unusual man who makes unusual music. (I just wanna put that out there now.) But Mr. Wolf is also very talented and this song proves it. The track reminds me of another song on this countdown by Of Montreal, but that's not to say these two tracks are by any means reproductions of each other. That is simply not the case. "The Magic Position" has all the ingredients of an awesome song: exuberant children yelling, sweeping violins, dizzying keyboards climbing the walls, and, of course, a chorus everyone can sing along to. Jubilant tracks like these are not created everyday and it's unbelievable to me now how much I did not like this track when I first heard it. (Crazy, I know.) But after a few more listens it becomes undeniable and I am swept in Wolf's desire to put me in 'the magic position.' Brilliant stuff!!!



Video: Patrick Wolf "The Magic Position"

TOP SONGS OF THE YEAR

my music list of 2k8

So I'm doing this list thing again. As for those of you that know when I tried to attempt this in 2006, I never finished making it to the top ten. (I know I'm bad!) Thus, I'm embarking upon this list as a challenge--one, that in finishing, I hope will provoke discussion, downloading, or Youtube watching. I have divided the list in five installments. It makes it easier for me to post and, hopefully, easier for you to check it out. This year I have decided to extend my top songs to include fifty. An arbitrary decision to be sure (and maybe a tad long-winded) but whatev...all these songs rock and I could not NOT include them, you know? And so everyone can instantly hear them, I have tried to create a link for each song. I'm sorry I didn't post them for downloading but I'm not that tech-savy, yet. Plus, most of these songs have awesome videos that deserve to be viewed again and again and again and again.....Anywho, I'll shut up and list. Enjoy!!!


50. Janet Jackson "Rock With U"

Random choice? Maybe, considering the hot mess that Miss Janet has become of late (has anyone seen those concert pics of her lately? WTF!). However, this song has reaffirmed my love for Lady Jackson. Especially the music video. Set in a boarded-up garage--or the Bar on Castro--with dancing hipsters, the choreography is sexy and the attitude Miss J carries is fierce! Maybe it's just a silly dream to want to see Janet return to her former glory but as long as there are videos like these every now and again I won't mind whatever horrible outfits Janet decides to rock out on tour. Even if they look like costumes from the Lion King.

Video: Janet Jackson "Rock With U"


49. Alela Diane "Pieces of String"

This song--not to mention, artist--was another pleasant surprise I found on Gorrilla vs Bear this year (a site becoming just as beloved as Pitchfork for me). Immediately, Alela Diane's sound is simultaneously reminiscent of Cat Power circa You Are Free and Joanne Newsome. But she is no mere imitator. Yes, it's very folky and there are child-like voices singing in the background but it's also emotionally powerful, too. The sparse instrumentation and children back-up singers are just the frame for which her strong and imperfect voice can take center stage and effectively channel the loss of innocence...something that comforts and haunts me at once. The songstress is due to release her second album at the beginning of 2009 and I wouldn't doubt that more people will be talking about this talented musician in the coming year.

Video: Alela Diane "Pieces of String"


48. Rihanna "Don't Stop the Music"

Love her or hate her Riri is here to stay, y'all. And why shouldn't she? With hits like this and "Umbrella," Rihanna has proven herself to be a hit-making machine. Initially, I thought this song to be a cheap shot at a second hit, throwaway filler riding the coattails of Umbrella's success. However, after many listens on Movement 97 or in the BOC, I changed my mind. This song is made for the club and the fact that Michael Jackson is on the track only cements its status as pop gold. For real. Riri, you done did it again, girl!

Video: Rihanna "Don't Stop the Music"


47. Gang Gang Dance "House Jam"

How do I describe Gang Gang Dance? Well, just take a look at that album's cover art. It's as weird, exotic and interesting as their sound. The exceptional "House Jam" is no different. Built around electronic gurgles and shoegazer motifs, the track feels tribal. However, it also feels aesthetically like a punk record, ready to implode any minute. Yet, it never quite does, thanks to the tight structure (and there is one) the song adheres to. Don't be upset if you don't like "House Jam" immediately upon first listen. I was not an instant enthusiast about this record but after repeated listens I heart this track completely, and encourage all to get this track and the album, Saint Dymphna, it hails from.

Video: Gang Gang Dance "House Jam"

46. Nite Jewel "What Did He Say"

On Nite Jewel's Myspace headline read the words: Liquid Cool. I think that's a perfect description of "What Did He Say." The smooth keyboards and basic production provide a warm, after-hours ambiance and Ramona Gonzalez's voice, rather than sing, echoes in and out of the track, creating a haunting and sultry melody that lures one in with a finger and a wink. This single has been released by the Italians Do It Better label, and Nite Jewel has been aesthetically lumped in with the likes of Farah and Glass Candy. And on this song, that comparison couldn't be any truer. Like her name, "What Did He Say" is a gem to be cherished after the children have gone to bed and the wine is almost finished.

Myspace: Nite Jewel


45. Q-Tip "Gettin Up"

From the piano hook that opens the song to the buoyant chorus that demands we all be 'gettin up,' this track establishes itself as a classic. Hip hop with a message has been Tip's forte since his days with the Tribe but "Gettin Up" feels vaguely soaked in the sun Cali-style. It isn't hyphy or gangstafied, but cheery and bright like the Beach Boys. Production by the late J-Dilla, this song is hopeful and inspiring because of Tip's flow and the enthusiasm in which it's delivered. (I certainly believe it!) And hands down, this song is already proving to be my anthem of 09. "We gettin up, we gettin up, today is nice come on we gettin up..."

Video: Q-Tip "Gettin Up"


44. Pharrell "That Girl"

One of the biggest changes in my life this year has been the return to my parents house here in the CV (I know. Hard, right?!) Besides having the parental units as new roomies, I also get the chance to live with my little brother who is now seventeen, a jock, and deep into hip hop. Over the last couple of months, not only have I been reacquainted with this new version of my sibling, but lots and lots of music that has slipped between the cracks over the last two years. Fortunately, songs from The Young Gunz, The Game, and Lupe Fiasco have all become staples in my car and ipod lately. And this gem from Pharrell about two years ago has too. Pharrell has always been an amazing beat creator and this song reaffirms it. With Snoop Dogg in tow, "That Girl" just slides and grooves, never forcing itself on you. Definitely an indicator of the tastes my brother has... and I dig!
Video: Pharrell "That Girl"


43. The Twelves "Works For Me"

There are a number of amazing hybrid DJs/musicians out there doing their thing right now like Van She, Aeroplane, Crystal Castles, and CFCF. The Twelves belong in that phenomenal talent pool as well. I've been a huge fan of these Brazilian boys' work since I heard their fantastic remix last year of MIA's "Boyz." Their ability to make you move your ass while checking out the guy next to you is unmatched. "Works For Me" is a warm house joint that crushes on its listener, eyes meeting and inviting smiles playfully flirting in the dark. And if you don't want anything more, the boys will be alright with that. In other words, all fun and no expectations. Just the way I like it!

Video: The Twelves "Works For Me"


42. Vampire Weekend "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa"

I downloaded this song like over a year ago from Gorilla vs Bear (I think?!) but it wasn't until this year that I fully began to appreciate the beauty of this track. The guitar line has now become so ubiquitous in indie-dom that it's been remixed, covered and/or sampled by everyone from The Very Best to Lykke Li. Why? Because it's pop music at it's best. Forget the Ivy League pedigree of the band or the Paul Simon evocations in the music. Forget that it was like the perfect summer jam to be playing at barbeques or drinks at happy hour. Whether your chillin in the sun in Doloros Park or driving through the fields in the CV at dusk, it's gonna get you humming and singing. Why? Because it's pop music at it's best. Pure and simple.

Video: Vampire Weekend "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwasaa"


41. Women "Black Rice"

Many a blog blew this song up over the course of this year--and rightfully so. First, the production is so fuzzy and analog-sounding--thanks to Chad VanGaalen (another new favorite of this year!). Really. The record feels as if a microphone was put in a basement and the guys were told to do their thing, echoes and all. But that melody...SUPERB! It's deceptively simple, yet, executed so meticulously. For the chorus alone, I'd recommend this track (I'm telling you that falsetto fucking rocks!). Still, I don't get the title: black rice? WTF!!

Myspace: Women

Big Ups to Cinema About THE CITY!

I can't describe how excited I become when I see movies filmed in and about neighborhoods/areas that I have lived in. And I mean LIVED in. Images on screen of my fave restaurant or hangout or street or bar or even fucking corner(and I do have one!) make me proud; it validates what I have chosen to incorporate in the life of Sal. Over the past couple of years I really inhabited certain parts of San Francisco: the Mission, the Castro, and Bernal Heights to name a few. I loved these neighborhoods...and still do. So over the break I got to see a great indie film about the Mission called Quality of Life (or Against the Wall if you get the film on Netflix). QOL is about two graffiti artists, who after being arrested for tagging, make very different choices where they want to go in life. The issues the film touches on are really pertinent to people in their early adulthood life, especially those that are working class. The shots of the Mission and Bernal hill were so exciting to see in this film because they filmed it exactly how it is with the types of people that really inhabit that world. Def a local film that does good by its neighborhood. Sucker Free City is a film I discovered a year and a half ago. Directed by Spike Lee (yes!), this film was actually supposed to be the pilot of a series of the same name on Showtime. However, it did not get picked up...and what a shame! SFC looks at the lives of youth coming from three different neighborhoods like Chinatown, Hunter's Point, and the Mission. The acting and writing is on point and the portrayal of real urban life is awesome--not to mention, how SF can really be. Many people may not see this as a real important work from Spike Lee but it is for San Francisco. The city has a real distinct character (like much of the Bay) and thats get passed over usually in favor of some picture-perfect backdrops or stereotypical hippie jabs. Trust, that shit is weak sauce! Anyone who lives (and loves) in the city deserve something more when they see their neighborhood on film. These films do that in their own way. So go see them!!!

P.S. Speaking of local films, I've just written a short movie with a friend of mine which is going to be filmed in the City this weekend so I want everyone to see it. Details of where and how you can find it will be announced in the future. In the meantime, one of the wonderful actresses in our movie just finished work on another movie, called A Choice of Weapons, about Bayview/Hunter's Point. Below is the trailer for it and folks I'm thoroughly impressed! Created by young adults from the neighborhood, the film really tackles the injustice and challenges people in that neighborhood face daily including poverty, gang-violence, environmental racism, and now evictions due to gentrification. Important stuff!

BITE INTO THIS: Glass Candy

I heart this group. I rlly do. This band has been doing their thang for awhile now but this is the year that I became a huge fan. Like HUGE! Their sound is part of the resurgent Italo-disco sound (like Sally Shapiro, Farah, and The Chromatics--also faves of mine) that has emerged in recent years which I don't hear often anywhere except on off-nights in hipster bars. Nevertheless, the sound is supposed to be dance music after dark (Ok?) or dark dance music. Whatev! The music is kick-ass with lots of synths and haunting female voices. Below are some videos by Glass Candy, The Chromatics and Miss Sally doing what they do best:

Glass Candy "Beautific"


Glass Candy "Geto Boys"


The Chromatics "In The City"


Sally Shapiro "Time To Let Go"

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Muppets Who Love to Fuck!

So I told you I was a YouTube whore and this is one gem proving it. Trust, I love Peaches' hit as much as the next indie/electro kid but this is just ridic! Finally, Miss Piggy has a proper forum to express all that pent-up sexual tension. Gotta love it.....

JOB HUNTING MALAISE: CRAIGSLIST, I'M SO OVER YOU!!!!

It's true. My patience is wearing thin and I'm becoming super-p.o.'d! Craigslist you suck major cock dude! Today's economy sucks. I understand this fact. I also understand the fact that I made the decision to move to the CV where job opportunities are limited. (Sidenote: In fact, two weeks after I moved MSN published an article announcing the worst cities in these united of states to find a job. Guess what y'all? Modesto, Stockton, Merced, and Fresno all came up. WTF does this all mean? Well, those are all the biggest cities surrounding me in little ol' Patterson. I know. I'm fucked!) But would it kill all those job-helping resources to actually do their job and help me find a job. Srsly! I mean I have only been actively searching Craigslist for a job in this area for about a month but all I get are annoying email responses that want me to upload my resume through another site (then why send you the resume in the first place?) or ask me to go to a credit score website where I can then post my credit card info and my social security number (are you fucking kidding me?). Come on, folks! Is this really the best you can do? Are we really so afraid of communicating or believing future employees that we'd rather dupe them into getting scammed rather than taking their word and judging for ourselves (which is why they have those little things called interviews, remember those? or has that gone out of fashion in the hiring process as well?) It's all so frustrating and I blame you Craigslist, you sonovabitch, you! You helped me in the past, remember? My last place was because of you (even if it was a tiny shithole, it was my tiny shithole!) You also helped me find my last job in the yay area. (Awe! The sweet blood bank!) But I move over here and this is the best you can offer me? I'm severely disappointed. And don't get me started with the staffing agencies. You guys suck equal cock too!!! (I'm feeling better already!) What is a boy to do? Idk. Do you? Have any ideas? Anyone. Someone. Let me know. I WILL find a way to browse the internet and be paid for it at the same time. Trust!!!

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Water Drops On Burning Rocks

So here we go with another Monday and instead of being really depressed because (for most of us) the real world has come back a knockin' I have decided to post the shiznik that makes me smile--and hopefully you'll agree!!!! Below is one of the most awesome scenes I have seen in film in a really long time. The clip is from Francois Ozon's film Water Drops on Burning Rocks and the movie rocks. I haven't really seen too many of Ozon's films but the two that I have (this one and the brilliantly mysterious Swimming Pool) are smart and very engaging. Building on top of great acting performances (with the consistently wonderful Ludivine Sagnier being one of them) Water Drops' characters explore issues of love, sex, and heartbreak with passion, comedy, and plenty of bedroom action. Never one to shy away from the ridiculous this hilarious dance sequence left me with the an ear-to-ear smile filled with unabashed stupid joy. Everything from the impossibly catchy disco song to Sagnier's adorable and contagious enthusiasm is perf. Enjoy!

Another One Bites The Dust...

Or at least that's exactly how I felt when I made the decision to move back home. After graduating from university earlier this year quite a few people I knew made the trek out of the city, most returning to the land where they were from before we all decided to embark on this strange and exhilarating journey known as COLLEGE. The only thing is that I never thought I would be one of the them. I didn't entertain any ideas coming back to the CV (Central Valley y'all). Why would I? The only thing waiting for me there is my family. Period. SuckaFree City is my home now. Mission was my hood (even though I lived in San Bruno). All my friends were in the city. I worked all my shit jobs in the city. I volunteered at the most amazing events and organizations in the city. I would graduate from university in the city. Why would I leave the city? Simple. Uh, well, not really. You see, in the middle of finishing my degree, partying with my friends, and trying to be the person I wanted to be I became tired and anxious and unhappy. When I first moved to SF, I used to bask in the enormity and newness of the city. Six years later there was no time to bask in anything except how to pay my bills without becoming homeless or having my car towed (yes, I had a car which was a totally bad experience thanks to those most dutiful ticket officers that seem to be on every street driving those stupid golf cars that annoy even non-car owners when they past by.) I guess I could say being constantly broke in the most expensive city in these united of states (is it any surprise everyone is moving to Austin or Portland) sucked. And as my generation's luck seemed to be only getting better ever since that dude from Texas ascended on the white house, the economy blows a huge load of (enter your noun here) in my face. Thanks, Bush! I always knew you were something special since no one voted for you and you still got the job. But as much as fun as it is to blame obvious nimrods like our former president (emphasis on the former...Obama baby!) more was at play. I felt stifled and trapped. And not just at work. In everything. I needed to get out. And suddenly moving home was more than just an option. It became the only option. An option to chillax and refocus. And here I am a month and a half later doing just that. This blog is the testament of that: a boomerang kid an increasing phenomena consisting of a son or daughter that returns home after being away at college for an extended period of time. I love that title because it is at once both ridiculous and cool. Holler to your mama, I'm out!