Urban Cowboy

  

 

:: U R B A N  D A D D Y  D O T  C O M ::

Giddy up, and then some.

As an Art Director, I feel the creative team for UrbanDaddy.com must have received a crystal clear creative brief: create demand for geo-specific products + services via uber provacative photography and whip-smart copy that appeals to time-starved, libido-influenced males. Bingo was this web site's name-o. Did they hit their mark? Oh Daddy, yes.

Better, I love UrbanDaddy as a consumer, despite not being their target demo. But damn, their over-the-top sexist site delivers with its content + approach regarding lifestyle offerings for the largest markets: NYC, LA, Chicago, Miami, and across the pond; yet w/smart nods to the fairer species.

Opt into your fave locales and receive city-specific eNewsletters that quickly become must reads vs must deletes. Also, download the newly launched UrbanDaddy iPhone app (deemed the "iPhone App You've been Craving") so you and your guy are good to go in any tony city your travels take you.


When I started to compile this playlist, I naturally gravitated towards some tried and true urban songs, and was happy to leave it at that until I played Snoop Dogg's My Medicine (link launches YouTube vid) in my library. It gave me pause. Much like jazz, country licks can be found at the root of many urban and current day indie + electronica tunes. So I challenged myself to post tunes that meet both the urban and cowboy criteria and man did I unearth some fab tunes: current, relevant, urban and edgy and all laced with country music. Yeehaw Dawg, or Beeotch, whichever fits your bad self. Enjoy. ;)

California Love
2Pac featuring Dr. Dre   (iTunes)
You may not know this, but I lived in Southern California from '99-04. (Okay, I hope you are laughing as when do I NOT mention I did time in So Cal...grin) But, those years effected me on myriad levels and this urban gang bang sound didn't elude me. I love this song as it brings back driving up the 405 to LA amidst the masses. Just felt right to kick off this playlist w/Dre + 2Pac (may he rest in peace) as it's the full monty: Urban AND Cowboy.

Ain't no rest for the Wicked
Cage The Elephant   (iTunes)
My Lollapalooza tix are coming next week. (They were to arrive in April. Whoops says Lolla.) But I am not complaining as I was one of the miniscule few who snagged the $60 3-day tickets. In fact, fermé ma bouche.

My point, all the big acts will be amazing and better, the lesser known bands are the diamonds in rough. I have high hopes for Cage the Elephant. And as you can see: they are as fresh as fresh can be, and are laying down some very country-esque sounds. So, stay tuned as we surely have not heard the last from them.

Talk of Indolence
The Avett Brothers   (iTunes)
I love this song. Just reaps of madness in its quasi rap-style account of one damn good time in New York amid a splendor of banjos. That, and I just plain love the chuckle at the very beginning.

Medicine Show
Big Audio Dynamite  (iTunes)
Here's a bit o urban cowboy served up UK punk style. Big Audio Dynamite is a late 80s band fronted by Mick Jones, the ex-guitarist + singer of The Clash. I appreciate this song as it's a 6:33 minute journey where we meet characters, hecklers, and hear the tried and true old western whistle amidst a bevvy of other sound effects. Rather epic for B.A.D., yet very good. 

Knock 'Em Out
Lilly Allen   (iTunes)
So where BAD left off, enter one Lilly Allen. She, without question, is our modern day Mae West. Can't you just see her swaggering through saloon doors with the opening piano melody? I can. So, suspend reality and simply replace "saloon" with each mention of "pub" in the song. It works, trust me. ;)

Don't Tell Me
Madonna   (iTunes)
Sure, this entire LP was cowboy inspired, but this song in particular shines as it's pure Madonna via the dramatic lyrics with a relevant, danceable groove and lush country undertones. Kudos, Madge, Lisa Douglas would be proud.

Knives Fighting Guns
Tommy Guerrero   (iTunes)
Man on man, what a find this artist is: much like designing + music go hand and hand, so does skateboarding and tunage. Tommy Guerrero is a skateboard legend hailing from team Bones Brigade circa 1985, as well as an accomplished musician (similar to Jack Johnson w/surfing + music, perhaps...) It's clear he's has a great ear for rhythm and the country tempo is ever present in this tune. Tommy G = me-likey.

Enjoy the Wait
Morcheeba   (iTunes)
For a 67 second song, this packs a whollup o twang. For this song to come from Morcheeba, who's reputation is uber trip hop + electronica, it's all the more 67 secs o' deelish.

Enjoy the Ride
Morcheeba   (iTunes)
I love Skye Edwards with Morcheeba, but Judy Tzuke breathes such a different life into this song as lead vocalist. Britt + Lisa: if you read this, know it's an hommage to you, your family, and your faith. 

6 Underground
Sneaker Pimps   (iTunes)
Agreed: this tune might be a stretch in this category. BUT, Sneaker Pimps tunes are very electronica yet this tune has an earthy vibe that feels country at its core. Sorry, my blog, my rules. Basically, I love the attitude and love the overlay of the acoustic guitars (starting at 1:20 secs). I hope you do as well.

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :
With the moonlight to guide you
Feel the joy of being alive
The day that you stop running
Is the day that you arrive

~ enjoy the ride

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

Cinco De Joy-O!

 

 ::  M I A M I   T H R O U G H   T H E   L E N S   O F   J A I M E  S A N T I L L A N   ::

This blog post has me fairly smitten as the elements came together so incredibly effortlessly. I've had this playlist theme for a while, but not until I was reviewing a photography portfolio of a close friend's did it all click. Yesterday, in fact.

The photographer is Jaime Santillán of Jamie Santillán Photography. The images above were taken a few weeks ago in Miami on assignment for Think Brand (more great friends of mine. It's good to be an F.O.J. Friend of Joy. Ha!) I love these shots in particular as they capture the colors and lifestyle of the Little Havana vibe so wonderfully. Please check out his entire portfolio-wonderfully diverse. Thank you, Jaime!

Enjoy this playlist: a fab latin-infused jazz explosion of sorts with succulent doses of tango, mambo, salsa + bossa nova. I had 30 songs in my original list but trimmed it down to these 16-which was damn near impossible. And you'll see I am not providing any commentary, per my usual posts. None needed in this case. Crazy madness. I love it so. How could you not–just look at the uplifting titles?!

This playlist is perfect for BBQ, beers, margaritas, or just chillaxin'. So however you choose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, celebrate well. Here's how I'll be celebrating mine:

Cinco de Mayo + Jamie's images + Hey Joy playlist = Cinco de Joy-O

Latazz
Funky Lowlives   (iTunes)

Soul Bossa Nova/N.A.S.A. Remix
Quincy Jones   (iTunes)

Le Spinner
Isabelle Antena   (iTunes)

Lilly
Pink Martini   (iTunes)

Sun Is Shining
Trippy Nova   (iTunes)

Feeling Good
The Quantic Soul Orchestra   (web site)

Nota Bossa
The Funky Lowlives

Latina Asscape
Brownout   (iTunes)

Pandajero
Cantoma    (iTunes)

Fela Brasil/Main Mix
Raw Artistic Soul   (iTunes)

So Tinha Que Ser Com Voce
Cosmonautics

This Is Not A Tango
The Juju Orchestra   (iTunes)

Luna Roja/Soul Mix
Soda Stereo   (iTunes)

O Caminho do Bem
Tim Maia

Tabu
Gustavo Cerati   (iTunes)

Tamacun
Rodrigo y Gabriela   (iTunes)

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : 
One day she passed him by
A twinkle in her eye
He said " she was meant for me!"
But when he turned around
He lost what he had found
Oh where can his Lilly be?

- lilly

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : 

Ghost in the Machine

 ::  A   B I L   Z E L M A N  O B S E R V A T I O N  ::

(Hahahahaha! Caught you off guard w/that one, didn't I?! The shot above is brilliant. And shot by a damn hilarious and out-of-this-world talented photographer, Bil Zelman of Zelman Studios in San Diego. He used to have a section on his site titled, "Hate Mail". Great dose of self-deprication.)

So, okay, no I don't hate blogs, but I strongly dislike Boxstr.com right now. They are the file storing service which been down for almost a WEEK thus rendering my yahoo player silent...BOOO. The fact that I chose them is NOT the point here, people.

Moving along... in light of this temporary set back (while I'm off choosing another service provider and relink my tunes for your listening pleasure) I'm gonna keep this post short and sweet with these audio visual substitutes.

I hope to be back up and running soon. Peace- Joy





Ankle Injuries by Fujiya & Miyagi    (iTunes)
This light and campy tune oddly conjurs up the scene in Stephen King's Misery when Kathy Bates just whacks the hell out of James Cann's. She's one intense mamma-jamma.




In the, "Man, Bjork IS unusual, huh?" category, here's our Icelandic Sweetie  discussing her love for her TV. I do love her analogy of the circuit boards/fuse/wires resembling a city. Oh, and her metallic colored tights. Nice touch. Trés Bjork.

Vox Boxing

 

:: L I G H T B O X I N G  via  V E E R ::

Nov '08 Bout: "All is LOST for Adelle Charles + Donna Holesworth" 

In keeping with their mission of "Elements for Creativity", Veer hosts a wonderful lil creative shoot-out called Lightboxing ("One lightbox, Two Designers"). It's a brilliant mechanism to draw art directors to Veer's site (and products) and prove to the advertising and design world what can be accomplished within their image, illustration, and typographic portfolio.

As Veer deems it: "The rules are simple. Using only the images and type provided in a Veer lightbox, make something great. Crop. Cut. Paste. Fight dirty. Write copy. Make a knockout design. The voting public decides the winner. The prize? Bragging rights, and some sweet Veer swag." (ala the Lorem Ipsum Cuff I boasted about back in November's Heavy Metal post. Tres cool swag. Perfect for us design freaks)

The Lightboxing bouts have netted some industry heavy-hitters w/surprising results given the fact they are using all the same image assets (Check out the bout featured above). Kudos to Veer and Lightboxing for clevelry creating a relevant reminder that photoshoots are not the end-all-be-all for amazing conceptual design. A hard pill for many of us to swallow but with today's challenged budgets, a growing reality.

[ sidebar: Coudal Partners' Layer Tennis is pretty sweet too.  Just further evidence that the design community is competive as hell at the core.  ]

So, per this blog's manifesto, how does this design theme relate to music? Well, ya ever hear of a "Cover Song"? ;) Think about it: the same melody, same lyrics yet one song can be translated so many wonderful, or lackluster, ways. Often times the remake/redo/remix/mash-up surpasses the original song by breathing new life into the tune. But the beauty of it all is that the original was an inspirational catalyst for next generation artist or band.

Vox Boxing is my musical spin to Veer's Lightboxing. These tunes are some of the best remakes from my library and am eager for the debates to begin! I'd love to hear your fave remakes. Please, drop me a note.

For those readers who celebrate Easter, have a great one. A sense of renewal can never be a bad thing. For those that don't, may your weekend be special + fullfilling. Joy

Fell In Love With a Boy
Joss Stone   (iTunes)
While I love my boy Jack White and his gal Meg, Joss knocks it out of the park w/this remake in her own velvety way.

Some Velvet Morning
Slowdive   (Wikipedia)
In keeping w/Ms Stone's dreamy vibe, Some Velvet Morning envokes memories of a Southern California June Gloom. Just fluid, yet a bit murky. The kicker is, this is a Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood remake. I was pretty surprised when I discovered that fact. Hats off to team Sinatra/Hazlewood, as after hearing their version, it's clear Slowdive didn't deviate too far from the orig.

Feel Good Inc
Editors   (web site)
I'll be damned if these bloody brits didn't one up the Gorillaz on this tune. This acoustic version is a vast departure from orig pop tune yet demonstrates the strength of the orig tune (still love the orig vid, though. Quasi-anime and a wonderful nod of rockstar self-deprication.)

Gin and Juice
The Gourds    (iTunes)
This Snoop Dog remake is commonly attributed to Phish. A LOT. Just Google it...Poor Gourds. But to their steet cred, The Gourds' unique alt country touch to this song is pretty brilliant. From what I've read, Snoop approves. Word.

Lively Up Yourself
Charlie Hunter Trio    (iTunes)
So, how about this tasty treat from the Chas Hunter 3? Irie, Mon.

Guitar Man
Cake   (iTunes)
Cake contemporizing Bread's 'Guitar Man'. Could have been a train wreck but it's not. Totally works in my book. Stays true to the orig w/a healthy dose of some guitars + Cake's cake-ness. Yum.

I Will Survive
Cake   (iTunes)
Oddly enough, Cake does an angry woman well. Or at least John McCrea does an angry Gloria Gaynor well. I believe him when he says he "should have changed his effin lock..." It's so 'laid-back-indie-dude-channeling-scorned-disco-diva'. And it's soooo good.

(programming note: channeling my college music days here in this home stretch offering. Circa 1988. Ha!)

Temptation
Secret Machines   (web site)
I applaud any band that takes on a New Order tune. Hard to improve on perfection.

A Forest
Nouvelle Vague   (iTunes)
A Forest is in my Top 5 Fave Cure songs. Robert Smith's unique voice and look just mesmeriszed me back in the day. Nouvelle Vague's version of this song mesmeriszes me equally. Marina Celeste's voice is wonderfully layered over a bossa nova dappled tempo.

The Killing Moon
Pavement   (iTunes)
And now for an Echo and The Bunnymen Top 5 fave: The Killing Moon. The orig song was featured in the 2001 indie movie Donnie Darko ("Life is one long insane trip. Some people just have better directions"). The best part of this remake is the rambling, "Cucumber, cu-cu-cumber, ca-ca-ca-ca-cabbage". Love Pavement's nonsensical gloom + doom. ;)

Wonderwall
Ryan Adams   (iTunes)
The brothers of Oasis, Liam and Noel Gallagher, are talented indeed. But their brotherly feuds can be draining. Ryan Adams is equally fraught w/strife, but
what the hell, he's insanefully talented and does this song sweet justice.

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :
And I've never seen anyone quite like you before
No, I've never met anyone quite like you before
Bolts from above hurt the people down below
People in this world, we have no place to go

Oh, it's the last time
Oh, I've never met anyone quite like you before
Oh no, I've never met anyone quite like you before  

- temptation
: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

Poster Child

 :: T H E   A E S T H E T I C   A P P A R A T U S  ::

Test Print No. 176

This blog theme is so obvious it's ridiculous:

I love design.  I love music.  Enter: The Concert Poster.

And not just any old concert poster. Not the ones that if you Google, "Rock Poster Design" can be created in 3 lame-ass Photoshop filters (makes my blood boil, Jerry). I'm referring to posters that simply, yet highly conceptually, capture the essence of a tune/mood/vibe/show via four mere elements: typography, imagery, ink, paper.

Posters that make you want to go to the show.

Posters that reignite the full body experience you felt during the show.  Cigarette, please. ;)

The creations below are crafted by the Minneapolis masterminds at The Aesthetic Apparatus. There are a bevvy of studios I want to blog about when it comes to poster creation, but AA's concert posters aligned so naturally w/tunes I already had in my music library—making them a fitting partner for my initial foray into such rich subject matter. Their dialogue surrounding their work is worth reading as their insights are wonderfully entertaining, and definitely poignant.

Whether you are here to just read or just listen, enjoy. I am highly confident I did not disappoint w/this offering. At best, I hope this post entices you to reflect on some of your favorite concerts and rekindle that awesome yummy feeling you had when you were at the gig. Concerts are money well spent as memories last a lifetime.

Happy Spring! Joy

I'll Believe in Anything
Wolf Parade  (iTunes)
 Love this poster, love this band, and love this song-def in my top 20 tunes. Just the energy, the screetch, and the lyrics... Amazing lyrics:
"I need sunshine. Your blood, your bones, your voice, and your ghost..." Made me a believer, that's for sure.

As for this specific poster, I dig the overlapping silk-screened details. They are poetic, in a vertigo kind of way.

 

Underwater (You and Me)
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
As you've read in prior posts, I saw CYHSY at Lollapalooza and the live experience was incredible. They sounded amazing-my fear was their unique sound was studio produced. Quick sidebar: I am a water rat and love everything about water thus was drawn to this song. This poster's depictions of these bobblehead-esque shapes just jives w/the undulating tempo of the song. And a fab dose of orange. Always on my visual hit parade.


Do the Whirlwind
Architecture In Helsinki
On the same bill was AiH...surely an over-the-top high energy show. AiH is a pretty campy group, and this song is thematic of their style.

One More Hour
Sleater-Kinney    (iTunes)
Another act I caught at Lolla (06?) was Sleater-Kinney. It was high sun, high heat, and man, were they an angry duo just rockin it full blast. And, I can't stress "angry" enough which clearly Aesthetic Apparatus picked up on as that's one hissy fit of a kitten image, yes/no? This poster does the band justice: The use of fuschia is a sarcastic nod to a female band who'd never want to be aligned w/the stereotypical pink. A playful attention to detail. Bonus points.

The Seed
The Roots    (iTunes)
Late Night with Jimmy Fallon house band. Love it. Love this song. Just groovy. The vid does a fab job of capturing the Roots' essence, as does this poster. I mean, come on, if you walked passed this poster stapled to... a wall, ...a pole, ...in any city, ...of any size, you'd know right away the funk and groove this band was gonna put out. Strangely, I like to cook to this song. That is NOT a euphemism, btw. ;)

Revolutionary Kind
Gomez    (iTunes)
I like this song as I'd like to think I am the 'Revolutionary Kind'. Um, up for discussion. ;)  A few time codes to share as this song just strikes a chord w/me on these occasions: at 1:15 "Keep on in the jungle with your techno-cality..." (what does that mean?) and the tilt-a-whirl instrumental from 1:56-2:43, and then the finale w/the acoustic guitars starting at 2:46, me-likey. I like this poster as Gomez' music is like a tree in the forest. You can find your way, but it will take some introspective navigation. If you are lucky enough to be in Austin for SXSW Music, put them on our agenda. And, send me pics.

Don't You Evah
Spoon    (iTunes)
Mostly b/c I have no musical aptitude in my bones

what

so

evah,

I gravitate towards songs that provide a glimpse of reality, of honesty, or rawness to them. I love this intro...kinda like you are there in the studio w/Spoon. I mean if evah, I'd love to be that Roadie Gal saying, "Check check, One two, One two... Hello Cleveland". Rock star moment (note: not Rock Band 2 moment. Distinct difference.) As far as the poster, just love the frenetic visage and the stark two-color palette.

Extraordinary
Liz Phair    (iTunes)
I am not an angry female. But I do have a healthy appreciation for when Liz let's loose on her opinions regarding love + relationships. She and Juliana Hatfield came on my radar during my Witt days as being enlightened yet rather pissed off gals. Nice nod(s) to my alter ego, I suppose. Ha! I love how this poster captures that dynamic (sexy yet angry) via the hard-to-miss typographic treatment! Girl rule, boys drool, eh, Lizzy? ;)

Lake Michigan
Rogue Wave    (iTunes)
Guess I have Lollapalooza 2009 on my mind as every time I hear this tune I think about Chicago in the summer. I love Chicago and have had many good times there. And based on my ability to snag two elusive $60 3-day souvenir tix today, I will be at Lolla for another year. This poster, it's blue hues, and the teenie tiny postage stamp area that has the concert info speaks to Rogue Wave's success-tiny, but mighty. Give them a listen, please.

Sister Havana
Urge Overkill    (iTunes)
How awesome is this tune? Man, loads. Funny enough, my high school kin (Boardman High School, thank you very much) has taken to Facebook like a fish out of water in the past two weeks. I love this poster due to it's Class Ring inspiration. I never had a class ring, but def respect angst high school can conjur. Vote for Pedro!

Penelope
Pinback    (iTunes)
By most fans' accounts, this song is about a fish dying. We owned a fish once. Sharper Image made a case for their bookshelf circular fish tank... I guess. And then the fish stared to die. I cried. I felt so bad.... This song doesn't make me cry, but it does remind me that I should stick w/kids and dogs. That, I can handle. This poster... is it a fish?, or maybe a bunny?... wow, hard to say. But it does radiate a sense of higher being which this song brings forth for me.

If I were a runner, I'd def put this in my run playlist. Just seems like a great pace to do that runner like thing. Oddly, most folks I know run... I need to do some reconnaissance. Read: I'm a power walker, trampoline-er, yoga/pilates doer. Not a runner. Run Forest Run c'est moi.

Love Dog
TV on the Radio   (iTunes)
So this has been a long blog post. Thank you if you've stayed to this bitter end. My point: this last song is amazing and this poster-just proves the eloquence of simple design. The details across the wrist are the perfect touch to such a pristine and highly graphic design.


: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :
I am extraordinary, if you'd ever get to know me
I am extraordinary, I'm not your ordinary
average every day
sane psycho
super goddess
average every day
sane psycho

See me jump through hoops for you
You stand there watching me performing
What exactly do you do?
Have you ever thought it's you that's boring?
Who the hell are you?

-extraordinary
: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

Speechless

:: facebook ala web without words ::

I have been on a social networking frenzy as of late. And will admit, it's damn near exhausting. Between ordinary Google-ing (my fave verb); YouTubing (a made up word); Twittering (@HeyJoy) like mad—esp during the Super Bowl (which now seems rather sacreligious); getting my Facebook on w/my fantastic + inspiring peeps; and working on a new design for my esteemed colleague, Kirk Phillips' blog (brandStoke-new design launching soon), I'm spent. Not categorically, just short-term. I mean, I am a social beast-just part of my DNA and no way around it. But am relishing this blog post's nod to less is more when in comes to words.

Recognize the image above? Millions of people interact w/the page structure daily, hell, hourly. It's Facebook's user interface. And, while it might not be dead sexy to you (spoken in my best Mike Myers Scottish brogue), it's why FB works for the masses. Information Architecture and User Experience are the precise sciences of how users will interact w/a site. And I love that Web Without Words celebrates this craft. Their approach of taking the most popular mainstream sites, then displaying them distilled, stripped away from brand, graphics, the motion, is refreshing. They have great examples. Take some time to see if you can identify the sites they highlight. Fun stuff... er, for a geek like me. ;)

The tunes I've chosen below are from bands who's reputations are built on lyically-driven tracks. This offering showcases their lyrical hiatus, thus rendering me speechless. As always, enjoy. The play button, or player at the bottom, now await you.


The Air
Modest Mouse   (iTunes)
When I came across this tune, I was surprised it was by MM. From the band that brought you Float On, 3rd Planet, etc, they have an air of angst to them. Isaac Brock's vocal range and whit make it so. Thank you, Isaac.

I have a (bad?) habit of art directing music videos in my head when I listen to tunes. This one conjurs up some type of manufacturing, (ala the Rube Goldberg Honda TV spot), but much more darker, more sinister. Say, in the deep recesses of a castle. Hold that thought, and go darker. There. End scene.

Ricky's Theme
The Beastie Boys   (iTunes)
How much do I love the Beasties? Oh, stupid amounts. And while we all know their popular tunes, I love their lesser-known tunes. They are laced w/intrumental explorations (vs the overt rapping) that pull me in. Ricky's theme is a laid back, hazy kinda tune. A choice compliment to their portfolio.

I Heard You Looking
Yo La Tengo   (iTunes)
YLT has some of the best songwriters around. And the fact they are such strong musicians sometimes gets overlooked. Enter this gem: starts out slow and exaggerated, but wonderfully comes alive at 2:56 mark, and fullfills YLT's trademark of taking you on a journey for seven glorious, guitar-laiden, minutes.

Evil vs. Good
Clem Snide   (iTunes)
When I am melancholy, I love to listen to Clem Snide's Moment in the Sun. They master thoughts/emotions that help elevate my mood just so. I love this specfic tune for one– the title. I like the juxtaposition. And then– for the song itself as it's haunting, lingereing, embodying a contemplation of the dynamics of evil and good. Eef Barzelay's voice droning is perfect closure.

Inland Empire
Peter Bjorn and John
I saw Pete Yorn at Lollapalooza two years ago and he was telling a story of how earlier in the year, fans rushed the stage shouting, "Young Folks...Young Folks!". It wasn't until he got off stage that he and his manager realized the fans thought he sang the PB+J smash anthem, "Young Folks" due to how similar his name is w/the other bands'. Whoops. 

But "Young Folks" is what made PB+J famous. Which makes Inland Empire, from their instrumental album, Seaside Rock, such a find. The sound is quite different for them: moody. gritty. I hope they keep teetering between these two personas as it's a fab mix.

New York Skyline
Saint Etienne
Short and sweet, but I dig this piano compilation. I fell in love w/St. Etienne via "Lose that Girl" due to the 60's, Beatle-esque tempo and lyrics, and this mellow piano arrangement is very much in keeping with their feel good vibe.


:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
You're so evil
And I'm so good
I'll make it up to you someday

- evil vs good
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Unfinished Biz

::  G E T   R E A D Y   T O    C E L E B R A T E  ::

Her Party Dress & Crashing Hot Shoes, Del Mar    |   Jen Gray 

In the spirit of wrapping up some loose ends before 2008 comes to a close, below is a distilled offering of tunes from earlier posts. Or more correctly, my 'pre-streaming player' posts. I am just smitten that I have finally taken the time to upload these for you to experience as it's been on my to-do list for a while. That said, I have big plans for the blog next year: I will be switching over to WordPress (in the shape of www.heyjoy.com) which will have a 'comments' functionality. As I want to hear your feedback. I mean, we can always agree to disagree, right? Rawght.

2008 was a good year. Better yet, I am already optimistic about the new year. I am adopting the anthem Newman coined: "09 is Mine." I hope it's yours as well.

Sometime Around Midnight
The Airborne Toxic Event
When the clock strikes midnight Weds night, may at least one of your dreams begin to gain momentum.

As always, Cheers + Peace: Joy


from Lovely Libations   |   26 JUNE 2008

Arizona

Kings of Leon
I saw these guys @ Lollapolooza last year and they did not disappoint. This song just makes my skin crawl (in a good way) when he hits those drawn out screechy notes. Nice.

(programming note: have tix to the Jan 27th show @ the LC.  Nice.)

from Sum, Sum, Summertime!   |   03 JULY 2008

With Arms Outstretched

Rilo Kiley
The song is a dusk song, without question. The first 13 seconds sound like fireflies fluttering about. The way it crescendos with the group singing reminds me of being called home when you don't want the night to end...thinking you could never possibly have a day/night as wonderful as the one you just were blessed with. And if you listen closely, you will notice, yup: hand clapping. ;)

from Smoke + Mirrors?   |   19 JULY 2008

Time To Pretend

MGMT
Despite that vacation being over, I have Lollapalooza to look forward to. The two bands below will be there and are very much on my hit parade. These two tunes sum up Orange County for a lot of folks. For me? My jury is still out as it's just too easy to buy into stereotypes(although that typed: There was luncheon @ our hotel one day in which Obama was the guest of honor. It cost folks $55k to attend... that cost is not a type-o. ouch.)


from Show of Hands, please   |   23 JULY 2008

Something to do with My Hands

Her Space Holiday
After hearing this song like 4 times, I kept wondering what they meant by sucking "lama prints".

... then I found the lyrics.

Oh.    Ohhhhhhhhhhh. (snicker, snicker.)    GREAT lyrics.

Handjobs for the Holidays

Broken Social Scene
Wow, another BSS tune on the heels of my earlier post. All the same, great song. And I like the title for its shock value as the lyrics never fully bring the title full circle.

Take Five

Dave Brubeck Quartet
A must have for anyone's jazz collection. The local So Cal jazz radio station always had this song playing in the background of their Sunday Jazz Brunch promotions so when I hear it now it brings back a warm fuzzy (+salty) feeling of oceanside breakfast(s).

from Rest in Peace, Chef   |   11 AUGUST 2008 

Sugar Cinnamon
Portugal the Man
I was completely hooked w/in the first 5 secs of this tune-I love the driving beat... the alternating pitches in John Gourley's voice... the undulating tempo. This tune is a regular on my iPod for my workouts.

Breakfast with Abductees
Sven Van Hees
This is a fantastic tune to listen to when getting in a Sunday Brunch mind set. Whisking of egg will never seem quite the same. Bloody's anyone?

from Ike in Ohio   |   18 SEPTEMBER 2008

Through the Backyards

Au Reviore Simone
A splendid, haunting little ditty. Because we were sans electricity, this tune captures that primitive and adventurous feeling of sneaking about in your neighborhood in the dark.

Spill the Wine

War
This gem is chosen because I did just that: I spilled the wine. Oliver, our Golden, was cowering behind me while I was standing in Steve/Sarah's yard reviewing their damage and I tripped backwards over him. But have no fear, not much was spilled. Sign of a champ, eh? ;)

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But you know...
that she's watching
She's laughing, she's turning
she's holding her tonic like a crux
The room suddenly spinning
she walks up and asks how you are
so you can smell her perfume
you can see her lying naked in your arms...

You just have to see her (repeat x 5)

- sometime around midnight

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Cool Yule | Little Joys

With the holidays in full force and the state of the economy, what better time to approach the holidays via a simplistic lens? Although I do need to confess: I am a tad smitten w/myself as I feel incredibly control over this holiday season. And don't begrudge me: those that know me, know the past two years were quite the "humdingers" in personal loss. So there ya have it. And gracefully stepping off soapbox now...

But truly, the holidays are for 'little joys. Not big extravagant ways of giving. But of the more quiet, heartfelt one that express your respect and love. At least that's my approach this year. The image above is from Orange Beautiful (dubbed All Things Paper) and Emily, the proprietor, hand binds these gorgeous books steeped with any sentiments or images you want to add. Her entire line is just deelish and will speak volumes to your recipient about the care and thought you put into the gift.

Being that music is gift that transcends any season, please take a moment to soak these delights in. Sure, I could have gone the expected route of posting tried and true Holiday tunes, but figure so many other blogs are doing so (and doing so very well) that I'd stay true to my theme: the understanding and appreication of small gentle gestures of giving: Little Joys, if ever. Peace. Joy

A Jagged Gorgeous Winter
The Main Drag    (itunes)
How could you not love a song that not only embraces winter, but truly celebrates it?! The lyrics are fantastically benign. Much like when I see a great TV spot and wonder how the concept got pitched (let alone sold) I often wonder how songs are created. I envision the genesis of this song occurring over these bandmates WAY deep in beers on a most dreary of mid-February nights, when one musician challenged another, "This weather sucks. Bet you can't make a great song about that..." Ha! The lil shout at the beginning (@ 0.11secs) sets the infectious energy for the tune. The "drag it out" loop at the end is just a bittersweet zing to the whole concept of winter.

Children of December
The Slip   (itunes)
Another great December tune, that gingerly weaves in and out of the Christmas spirit. I love it mostly because Mister M loves Transformers and this song whismically gives a nod to the mighty "...autobots and the decepticons." For the record, Bumblebee is my fave Transformer.

Cold December
Matt Costa   (itunes)
However if you are a nay-sayer and hate winter, here's a tune for you, Ebenezer (lol!). Great ditty but def about a non-love for the colder months. Love Matt's voice when it shifts octaves here: "If only time could slow down..."

We Can Be Good
Via Audio   (itunes)
Playing off the naughty or nice theme: this is a nice, simple song. One that stays w/me hours after listening to it. Seems like a nice fit for my Little Joy theme here, yes/no? ;)

Be Thankful for what You've Got
Yo La Tengo
Clearly you all know by now that I love YLT. Their breadth of style(s) seem never-ending. I heard this tune and just loved how it bebopped along, as YLT isn't a bebop type of band--at all. Or so I thought. Still not sure, truth be told. The tune is light, the vibe is right, and the message for these times is worthy of repeating every day during your morning rituals. Give thanks, as it is so damn easy to do. No better way to kick off one's day, in my mind (+ heart).

Be Thankful for What You've Got (original)
Here is the original song YLT paid tribute. Equally simple.
William DeVaughn  (itunes)

Some Things come from Nothing
Super Furry Animals   (itunes)
Akin to the tone above, whatever your holiday gift-giving rituals are, consider focussing on the very small, non-material things, like your time, w/your friends and family. If you are reading this, you are def in this demographic of hyper-connected folks. Unplug and enjoy real time, real conversations, real moments and memories w/those you love. I am gonna give it a whirl myself in fact. (updates on my success will be posted on Twitter... jk!)

Linus And Lucy
Vince Guaraldi Trio   (itunes)

O Tannenbaum
Vince Guaraldi Trio  (itunes)

Nothing takes me back to my childhood at Christmas time like seeing/hearing A Charlie Brown Christmas. Just hits SO many emotional chords... Upon reflection, I wonder if listening VG3's soundtrack year after year was an early impetus for my love of jazz. Could be.

Next Time Around

Little Joy   (itunes) 

Pitchfork says it best regarding newcomers Little Joy led by Strokes' drummer Fabrizio Moretti, "Little Joy is not going to stop the world or change your life, but it's one of the sweetest, most listenable, consistently enjoyable records of the season." And man, I got a whole lotta love for these guys.

Brand New Start
Little Joy   (itunes)
Oh so twangy, those geeee-tars. Little Joy is on my hit parade big time. Granted, their namesake drew me in, but their songs made be a believer. If you are over the holidays, give them a listen as these two songs are a killer way to bring in the new year.

Get Your Shit Together for the Holidays
Deleted Scenes   (itunes)
Remember when I said I was going to keep my posts short for the holidays? Aye-yi-yi!

Lastly, if you are now in a wee bit of a frenzy regarding buying opulent gifts vs ones of a more heartfelt nature, just kick back, put on your headphones and listen to this tune: it's a blunt whammy melodically delivered. As come on... it's not like you didn't know December 25th was fast approaching. ;)

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'Cuz we are alone and we are together
(La da da da da)
Weak inside, our own heads
We can be like this for hours
And we can be good, yeah
If we try to be good, if we try
I know that we can be good

- we can be good

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Cool Yule | Part One

: :   T I S    T H E    S E A S O N   : :

As such, I will be keeping my posts short + sweet, yet marginally season-themed.

I love, love, L to the- O to the- V to the- E, greeting cards. In keeping w/annual tradition, I design and custom-assemble +250 Christmas cards (this year I am breaking out the sewing machine for the bindery... truly very nerdly excited about this!)

However, if purchasing, vs creating, your holiday cards is how you operate, then I have an equally creative option for you: Bald Guy Greetings. Their holiday cards are perfect for all your naughty + nice peeps. Wryly written w/the most wonderfully affable illustrations. The rest of their line is just as clever and snarky (although for a heavy dose of snark, hit Some eCards. Zingers to the hilt.) Bravo! See ya later, Hallmark.

In light of these funky cards, I present an all-star line up of funky tunes. Perfect way to get you in the groove for the weekend and better, the holiday season. Enjoy!

Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I'll Go Mine) (Mark Ronson Remix)
Bob Dylan
(itunes)

Windseeker
Mr. Quibble

Soul Thing
Tony Newman

Golddigger
Supreme Beings of Leisure
(itunes)

Slap That Bass (Miguel Migs Remix)
Ella Fitzgerald
(itunes)

Discotheque Dancing
Chris Joss
(itunes)

Confusion
Ivan Boogaloo Jones
(itunes)

Squeeze Me (A Skillz Remix)
Kraak + Smaak
(itunes)

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You say you love me
And you're thinkin' of me,
But you know you could be wrong.
You say you told me
That you wanna hold me,
But you know you're not that strong.
I just can't do what I done before,
I just can't beg you any more.
I'm gonna let you pass
And I'll go last.
Then time will tell just who fell
And who's been left behind,
When you go your way and I go mine.

-most likely you go your way (and i'll go mine)
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programming note: having problems w/the 'comments' capability not displaying. please continue to email me your comments meanwhile... many thanks!  joy

Heavy Metal

T A G L I N E :
Hot like your Mom, Tough like your Dad.

They had me at Hello.

Ryan Wither + Paul Lewin are the creative brainstrust behind Tivi, the intercourse between industrial materials and intelligent designs. I fell in LUV with this zebrawood cuff and shared the find w/Newman. She loved it too. Always a coveted endorsement. Congrats, Guys, you nailed it.

I love cuffs. I have a ton of them (always right wrist). Something empowering about donning a 1-3 inch accoutrement. My awareness to jewelry (more like adornment) was an output of attending an Art History course at Wittenberg University . Dr. Ann Terry's class had a notorious reputation: a million slides in a very dark room commandeered by the slightest of professors (in physicality) but one of ginormous intelligence, specifically on matters pertaining to early Christian and Byzantine art.

sfx: Click. Click. Click. vo: And on this next slide you will see... me: Serenity Now, Jerry!

Admittedly, I struggled to stay awake through the Byzantine period but something magical happened when Dr. Terry began the lectures re:The Egyptian era. Her enthusiasm and energy level detailing how the Egyptian women chose to adorn themselves, and how their behavior could be deep rooted in current day female DNA, fascinated me. Fashionistas of the Nile. Love it.

:: MORE METAL MANIA

Well-known by font aficionados: Lorem Ipsum Cuf by Veer. Simply Brilliant. Simply Veer.

For those 35mm-minded folks, check out re:visions Focus Cuff w/Ridges. An over the top stylish way to recycle anodised aluminium and rubber.

:: BUCKLE UP FOR... COOLNESS

Lastly, if inches of metal isn't how you roll, no worries. Perhaps a more kinder/gentler hardware adornment will be of your liking. Check out these handmade belt buckles by fellow Witt Alum and Evanston designer, Ginny Meenan. I love the materials and patterns she chose juxtaposed to the metal buckle encasement. They are kinda like an Angelina Jolie/Jennifer Aniston mix (read: naughty + nice). Ha! Take my word and go see what all the fuss is about.

And now, the tunes. I am really excited to present this metal-minded playlist as it captures an essence. Kinda like getting ready for a night out. You be the judge.

(reminder: round button = play)

Connection
by Elastica (itunes)
I recall first hearing this song and thinking it was unlike any song I heard for the time (circa 1995). It grinds. It wails and has withstood the test of time. Girl Power.

Mandinka
by Sinéad O'Connor (itunes)
Remember when MTV actually played videos? I do too. And loved Sinead's rebel approach pushing her music mainstream w/o selling out. Luck of the Irish? No way. Pure talent.

Volcano Girls
by Veruca Salt (itunes)
So... how about this rockin tune?! College radio really REALLY had an impression on me. Wittenberg's campus station WUSO 89.1 was my lifeline and then when I moved to Columbus, CD101 fit the bill. This gem from 1997 was an enormous hit on both airwaves. Bonus points if you know the origin of this band's name. Tweet me @HeyJoy.

Miss World
by Hole (itunes)
Kinda like how I like Kid Rock, I like Courtney Love. Yes, she's messed up, which is incredibly sad. But as far as this song goes, I love the riffs. Guilty as charged.

Paint A Vulgar Picture
by The Smiths
I wonder if Morrissey and Courtney Love know one another. Hmmm, quite toxic, I imagine. Regardless, Johnny Marr is the powerhouse behind The Smiths. I def 'hart' him. Clever, eh? ;)

Cannonball
by The Breeders
Ah, Rock Band. I am a wee bit addicted. Amazing it took this long for this type of roll-playing outlet to go mainstream. My comrades at CPV are more than forgiving of my enthusiasm. Rock Band Happy Hour at the agency is my fave. This song is on my wish list. My band: Rocco on drums, Ann on Bass, Jen on Electric, me on vocals (and tambourine!), and Kevin our manager. Outta our way, Kim Deal.

La La Love You
by Pixies (itunes)
One really can't blog about The Breeders w/o segueing into Pixies, or vice versa. This is such a great rock anthem and the hints of Dick Dale-esque surfer music pulls me in even more.

Springtime
by Imani Coppola (itunes)
So here's a modern day counterpart to the songstress' above...but w/a whole lot more anger, yes/no? The lyrics of this song are so bitter-perfect mates for the chords.

"Where'd you learn how to walk?

Must've been in the dead of winter in New York City
Only some honey who's got no money can look so pretty
Only somebody whose got no heat can act so sweet..."

Haven't we all seen this character in a large city somewhere in our travels and wondered what their story was? Or, is it just me? Sigh... forever the voyeur.

So if those tunes didn't meet your expectations of "Heavy Metal". Sorry: my blog, my rules. But hopefully you will hear their merit and do most def rock, if only in Joy's World.

These next two are balls-to-the-walls rockers by all standards. The type that make you turn your volume WAY up and just lose yourself and your inner rock star badness. Enjoy!

Club Foot
by Kasabian (itunes)

Guerilla Radio
by Rage Against the Machine (itunes)

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All i'm saying pretty baby

la la love you don't mean maybe
all i'm saying pretty baby

- la la love you

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Rock Your Vote

Vote Peace by Jason Hardy 

Ah, finally, back to some sweet, inspiration design. And fittingly, design regarding the Election. What a time for visual communicators! Graphic design/advertising, social networking and mobile media has come to the forefront to an audience previously oblivious to such channels. I am tired of this election-as a marketer- but am giddy over the progress made in these communication arenas. 

Check out Power to the Poster. They get it: great design breaks through the clutter. And when your message is passion-driven, the work is even stronger. And when you offer it for free to the masses-arguably, it is the strongest. 

Short + Sweet: Election Day is here. I don't discriminate. I respect how you sort out your own affairs. Below are a few delights to help you along your way. And if for some reason you are still undecided at the 11th hour, go to Glassbooth.org. Both Guy (@guykawasaki) and myself (@HeyJoy) posted Tweets regarding this site which promotes voting guidance based on your unique beliefs.

Strange Days
by Thievery Corporation

Killer Doors/Jim Morrison remix! Def captures the sentiments of many U.S citizens.

Anti Anti

by Snowden

Many a folk just want to put their heads down and not engage in this election. They state it's just too much. Well it IS too much because so much is riding on it. So, don't be that naysayer...the one who says, "Why should I vote?" Please, you ought to know better by now.

Jerk it Out
Caesars

So despite this being your inclination... do something other than, well.... (snicker snicker)

Do The Panic
by Phantom Wave
But unlike this funky punky song, don't panic. You/we have options.

Dropping Bombs on the White House
by Style Council

However, please note: this is not one of your options. 

Regret

by New Order
Get out and vote so you don't have a sense of malais when the results come it late Tuesday, or Weds... or next week, the next 4 years.

It Will Find You

by Maps

Because if you have remorse for not voting, or casting an ill-informed ballot, it will haunt you. The media is going to regurgitate every facet of the election results to ad nauseum, so be ready to wallow in your misery or flaunt your victory.

Pass The Hatchet
by Roger & The Gypsies

Get your groove on and get your ass out to the polls. For those that voted early, kudos. Me, I like the madness of the polling stations. And the donuts. Mmmmmm.

Lively Up Yourself

by Charlie Hunter Trio

And like Bob Marley and Charlie Hunter pontificate: take a deep breath, Mon. Then exhale. Then reflect on what is very good in this country, in your life, and in your very selves. Brighter days are ahead. When? I dare not make that forecast. But they are. Trust me.

One Chance

by Modest Mouse

Truly, we have one chance on Election Day '08. Go be a part of this historical day.

I am Joy Hart. And I approve this music. ;)

Peace.

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We have one chance

One chance to get everything right
We have one chance
One chance
And if we're lucky we might

My friends, my habits, my family
They mean so much to me
I just don't think that it's right
I've seen so many ships sail in
Just to head back out again

and go off

sinking...

- one chance 

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Ode to Oliver

(original image courtesy of the ever wonderful  + talented Obey the Pure Breed) 

For those pet owners; for those who have loved and lost; this post is for you. And for me. And for my family. Our almost 8 year old Golden, Oliver, suddenly passed away over the weekend, Sunday October 26th at 1:30, to be exact. For those who have never owned a pet, this surely seems like a blip on the radar. But for those who just read the 5 sentences above and now have a lump in your throat knowing the inexplicable void that losing a pet creates, you get it. Thank you.

Despite my grief right now, every one of Oliver's days were marked by unconditional love and fab memories. He was a fantastic pup. Named after the Naked Chef, Jamie Oliver. For the first few days, he was "Monroe", then for one day, "Jackson". Neither fit. As the credits rolled after a swell Naked Chef episode on Food Network, "Oliver" jumped out at me. Our Oliver was a lot like Jamie Oliver: likable to a fault- in a sweet fumbling, bumbling way.

Even funnier is how we got Oliver. Living in sunny Southern California, B had just finished a successful
2001 Toshiba Classic Tournament and we found ourselves the following Saturday having a few afternoon pre-shopping cocktails at the luxe South Coast Plaza to celebrate the success. A good martini round or three in us, B stepped away to the loo, so I started reading the classifieds from the OC Register left on the bar. Long story short, I saw an ad for Golden pups...vodka in our veins, fast cash from the ATM, Corona California here we come (and no, not Corona del Mar which would have been 5 mins away, but Corona, as in the Inland Empire, (not the movie), but as in haul to get to.)

The breeder's grounds were so questionable that I called my parents in OHIO and told them where we were and if they didn't hear back from me in a hour to call the police. Kid you not. But the breeder was a likable gent and the pups were gorgeous. They lived in better conditions than that owner did. We had Oliver loaded in the car, were about to leave when I made small talk that I worked for marchFIRST in Irvine therefore I could go home and check on Oliver throughout the day. The most unexpected thing happened: the breeder ran, and I mean RAN into his home/trailer/construct and reappeared waiving papers at me. Here he was also ... dramatic pause... a day trader! And one who proceeded to ask ME (in a fairly high pitch that was scaring the dogs) if I knew if HE should sell or keep his stocks, and his clients'. Upon re-read, guess you had to be there. But it was surreal. Much like the demise of marchFIRST.

Strangely, all month I intended my last post for October to be about 'wolves', as the concept has a nice tie in w/Halloween coupled with the fact that I have an inexplicable amount of songs that are 'wolf' related-either in title, subject matter or band name. But instead of wolf, I am going the canine route. Oliver deserves first billing. It has taken me all week to compose this playlist... I will miss him beyond description. Where my Berner Jonah is my protector, Oliver was the Lover. The quintessential Golden: always at the ready to snuggle, to kiss, and just be where ever the family (or food!) was.

Mister M's reaction was golden (every pun intended). After he had a moment to digest the news, he paused, looked up at me and asked, "Mommy, will we have calling hours for Oliver?"It was nice to take a break from the tears and have a good belly laugh at that one.

Goddamn, I will miss you Oliver. You rest in peace, my pup.

My sister read/saw a saying about dogs many years ago and repeats it so often that we hold it as doctrine. While I can't recall the words verbatim, it essentially states 'never pass by your dog without petting him'. In our busy life, it is/was so easy to just breeze past the dogs onto wherever I needed to be. But more often than not, I am happy to report that I would put my ol self in reverse and go back to give a pat on the head, tummy, or a kiss, and say their names affectionately. I am glad I made the time to do so. If you have a pet, please make the time. You will never regret it.

N O T E: click on the square gray 'play' button next to song title to listen. Nice indeed.

Golden: Acoustic
by My Morning Jacket   (iTunes)
Since my boy was a Golden, this song came top of mind immediately. This live version is from the Startime Pavillion. While I love the studio version on iTunes (as the instrumentals just carry you away) Jim James' voice is more pure and equally equipped to take you on a personal journey in this live version.

Sunday Best
by Kind Hearts and Coronets
In honor of Oliver's faux british pedigree linked to Jamie Oliver, I post this gem from Kind Hearts and Coronets. I love the change in tempo @1:40. Rather light spirited, as was Oliver.

_____________________________________________________

The abrupt nature in which Oliver left is what I am struggling with. As the next two songs attest:

These Days
by People Press Play    (iTunes)
I love the haunting nature of these lyrics:
These days are moving fast ahead
And one more day like this
Could change everything...

Blindsided
by Bon Iver    (iTunes) 

Just a perfect summation: totally, utterly, painfuly blindsided.

_____________________________________________________

Forever My Friend
by Ray Lamontagne    (iTunes)

Great song. More incredible in this live version. Trust me. Just passion driven.

Old Turns
by David Vandervelde    (iTunes)

Man, love the piano in this song. Just sad, sappy, dripping lyrics. Feels like old school Loggins + Messina via the harmonies.

Weighty Ghost
by Wintersleep    (iTunes)
I am sure to post about this song again. The lyrics are pure: "Have you seen my ghost?" Oliver's enormous tufts of fur will be wonderfully ingrained in the fabric of our household for many more months  (literally-he shed a ton). And the lover of all things ice cubes... it will be hard to pull open our freezer drawer without expecting to see/hear him eager for a frozen delight.

The Trapeze Swinger
by Iron + Wine    (iTunes)
I have only listened to this song once. It was shared w/me on a day when a young family friend had just passed away so the lyrics, "Please remember me, happily" just struck a nerve which prevented me from listening to it ever again. However, I do know it's a beautiful song. The lyrics read so. And perfect for this tribute playlist.

Tiers of Joy
by Funki Porcini    (iTunes)
Oliver did spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Just hangin' out with the w/fam. As such he spent a lot of time listening to great music as I've stated in the past-we always have music playing in the kitchen. This gem is a twist on my feelings and perhaps a nod to Oliver's propensity for down tempo jazz. Cool pooch, huh?

Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
by Cannonball Adderly    (iTunes)
Ever the optimist, I will find good in this bad. I need to. Just that simple A classic like this one certainly  will help bolster me along. I love the vibe of this song. Makes you feel like you are there in the moment of the recording. Reminds me of La Cave in Costa Mesa. The would-be-a-dive-if-it-weren't-so-cool kind of restaurant in The OC that you could have a great steak, an insanely stiff pour, and still smoke (I don't, btw... but man, the smokers there lived it up large) and of course listen to some great jazz in the tiniest of spaces.

Feel So Free
by Ivy    (iTunes)
This song represents what I hope Oliver is experiencing now: a free feeling. At peace.

Hallelujah
by Helio Sequence    (iTunes) 

October 4th is the international day of the Blessing of Animals set forth by St. Francis, Patron Saint of Animals. We missed it. And truth be known, how and where we would have schlepped two 90 lbs dogs to get blessed would have been beyond my Google prowess. But I am pleased knowing there is a day where animals are held in sanctimonious regard. By some counts they are the closest thing we have to God as we accept them and they accept us without conditions.

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Please, remember me
At Halloween...

- the trapeze swinger

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Zoom Zoom

(Those that worked w/me @ marchFIRST will surely savor the irony of this entry's title! )

  

My blog is about design + music. And hopefully inspiring design +  music. But once in a while I am bound to break convention and subject you to the madness and insanity of my inner circle of buds-- as we most def are an odd lot. ;)

The delight above is an image taken by one of my most beloved partners in design crime, Dylan. He is a complex soul for which there could never be enough time or space to convey here. But the fact that he has a Flickr series devoted to this Telletubbie mounted to an RC Radio Shack quasi-Hummer was just too rich to pass up. His video of this day-in-life-of, is even better.

And if you find this not the least funny, then you certainly wouldn't appreciate Dylan's love (and many thousands of other web followers) of LOL Cats . But I digress...that fact that Dylan has time to "jack around" (a fave saying of my Father's, btw) w/this type of creative outlet amidst his workload is inspiring. Let's take one from Dylan's rule book and remember to get out there and live.

Okay, enough about Dylan. Let's get to the good stuff. I added a media player for your listening pleasure. While I do hope you support these amazing artists about which I rant (via real iTunes purchases), I realize you aren't gonna buy if you can listen to more than the 7 sec snippet iTunes provides. So, sit back. Put your headphones on. And let me rock your world.

I love to drive. Always have. Always the very first one to say, "I'll drive!" When B and I moved out to California, I was greatly dissappointed that our timing did not permit us to make that drive from Ohio. Regardless, driving songs always endear themselves to me. Here are a few dandies for you.

Stop Thinking
by The Mysteries of Life   (iTunes)
I think why I love driving so much is it is my "thinking time." The time where I sort out a lot of shit, to be frank. Be it work... life... driving just gives me time to figure out, and filter much of, the noise that populates my head into more pure, defined, thoughts and ideas.


Electricity
by The Avalanches   (iTunes)
Thus, I do not mind my commute. It fits nicely in with this 'think while driving' deelio of mine.

I play this song a lot on my drive as I LOVE glancing at the folks as I pass by. This tune lends itself ever so nicely to the car-jockeying that a morning commute fosters. This tune becomes the soundtrack for my fellow roadmates as I quickly witness them on the phone, applying makeup, eating/drinking, reading (sadly), and countless other things besides focusing on the wheel. Yikes. Stay off 315 S when in Columbus is the lesson here, eh?!


Caravan
by Fanfare Ciocarlia   (iTunes)
And for those days when the commute truly feels circus-like, this is a must have. The Moulin Rouge-feel is spot on.


Sleepdriving
by Grand Archives   (iTunes)
And for the remainder of Columbus morning commuters: Hello, Starbucks.


Where Would you Go?
by The Sweet Hurt     (iTunes)
So melodic... beautiful tapestry of lyrics.


Let's Go Driving
by Barzin     (iTunes)
This is the type of tune to listen to when you just don't want to go home quite yet (in the best sense). Either the sunset is just right, or the road you are on is breathtaking, or the simple fact of being 'out' has lifted your spirits. This is the wind down for that type of high. Dreamy.


Driver's Seat
by Sniff 'n' The Tears    (iTunes)
The wayback machine lives on: I loved this song when I was 10 years old (I am guessing) and still love it. Just brings back memories of when cars were really large-able to hold a family of, say 8, nicely (I grew up in a very Catholic area so large cars and families ruled). Which also reminds me of that lost art of long family car trips... tender sweet memories built on togetherness and Slurpees® .


Title and Registration
by Death Cab for Cutie     (iTunes)
Ending this post with a bang! We caught these guys this past week @ the LC. Fantastic venue, paired with an indian summer night... Witnessing this song live was a treat. I listen to a lot of Death Cab and always wonder, "Who did these things to poor Ben Gibbard , to sing of such angst?"

This song has a fantastic dose of sadness and angst sprinkled with clever analogies that resonate with anyone who's been in love. And owned a car. ;)

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :
Because behind it's door
There's nothing to keep my fingers warm
And all I find are souvenirs from better times
Before the gleam of your taillights fading east
To find yourself a better life

- title + registration

Ike in Ohio

On Sunday afternoon, B and I took Mister M kite-flying. It was nice and windy. "Perfect conditions" I recall commenting.

Little did anyone know just how the rest of the day would unfold. Columbus experienced a mini-dose of Hurricane Ike's wrath, and it was enough to render many folks powerless for days-with a clean up on their hands that qualifies as 'catastrophic' by insurance standards.

Our neighborhood is heavily wooded. I stand corrected: WAS heavily wooded:

I was fascinated by all of it: the color of the sky, the power of the wind, the lack of rain. The sound was thunderous when the enormous limb pierced our sunroom roof (from a tree located on the other side of our home). The +80ft tree that toppled onto our neighbors 2nd floor master bathroom shook our home. The dogs and Mister M were troopers through it all, remarkably.

What did amaze me is how available every service personnel was: firemen, policemen, the plumber, the gas company, the structural engineer guy... arrived in incredibly reasonable time and attentive to everyone's needs. Thank you to all!

Our always gracious and culinary-gifted neighbors, Steve and Sarah, prepared a candlelit feast, as to not waste fresh meat and wine. It was a great culmination to the events of the day/night. And a means to reflect that homes can be fixed, people cannot. Not one neighbor, child, or pet was harmed.

À votre santé!

Had my iPod been charged this would have been the evening's soundtrack:

It's all Gonna Break
Broken Social Scene  (iTunes)
(Again... featuring another BSS tune?!?) But, that is in fact what I kept thinking again and again: Our house is going to break; the gas line is going to break; these trees are going to break; these windows are going to break. We have a lot of large glass windows and the fear of them all shattering had me beyond unnerved. This song captures the pace in which I was thinking these thoughts.

In Front of the House
Human Television   (iTunes)
The willow trees in the front of our home took a beating. Their limbs are twisted, splintered, but they are still standing. Whew- I love those trees.

Through the Backyards
Au Reviore Simone  (iTunes)
A splendid, haunting little ditty. Because we were sans electricity, this tune captures that primitive and adventurous feeling of sneaking about in your neighborhood in the dark.

Jump Around
House of Pain  (iTunes)
Ironically enough, the beloved trampoline (and hammock) remained unscathed. Go figure! Just love this thumpin', thug-lovin' tune. You should too.

Spill the Wine
War   (iTunes)
This gem is chosen because I did just that: I spilled the wine. Oliver, our Golden, was cowering behind me while I was standing in Steve/Sarah's yard reviewing their damage and I tripped backwards over him. But have no fear, not much was spilled. Sign of a champ, eh? ;)


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Then the moon swept down to greet us
It was warm and made of flowers
Into vines that barely reached us
Climbing higher than forever

Baby help me please
In knowing this
'Cause showing never tells
Was it just a breeze
Was it a kiss
Breathless, exquisite chills

- through the backyards

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Rest in Peace, Chef

Sad to report, but Isaac Hayes passed away. I remember the days of Shaft, but loved him most as Chef. And how could you not? His lines and songs are classic! Or more correctly, were classic. I encourage you to take a trip down memory lane via YouTube.

Good stuff, Children. 

Another Chef worth checking out, is Turbo Chef. In a saturated marketplace-where Wolf and Viking reign supreme- Turbo Chef breaks from the mold. The web site, The Oven Reinvented, was designed by Mono/Minneapolis and sets the stage for an immersive digital experience hosted by Master Chef Charlie Trotter (quite an endorsement in and of itself.) Most flash sites use of music and sound effects ruin the experience. Here they are seamless and purposeful. Whether you 'Explore' or 'Cook', you are sure to understand and appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity of this oven. It's pretty magical when a site experience can deliver upon the product promise. Kudos Mono. Finally, if you are curious about inspiration for this oven, check out this  Fast Company article.

Should our beloved Wolf oven ever die (which I highly doubt), a Turbo Chef (in orange, of course) is on deck.

If a highfalutin, fancy pants oven isn't your thing, then feast your eyes on this:  The Baja BBQ Firepack. This eco-friendly buddy is sure to help in a jiff when lighter fluid toxicity just won't do. ;)

In our home, standard operating procedure is that if someone's in the kitchen, great tunes are on. So, enjoy this little culinary-inspired offering I've cooked up for you (pun intended.)

Jake Coco:   Bleu for You

Well here's a heavy dose of angst for you delivered by one amazingly talented guy. Jake Coco is home grown favorite of mine and any of his songs are worth your ears and heart. 

Portugal the Man:    Sugar Cinnamon

I was completely hooked w/in the first 5 secs of this tune-I love the driving beat... the alternating pitches in John Gourley's voice... the undulating tempo. This tune is a regular on my iPod for my workouts.

Johnson Brothers:   Strawberry Letter 23

And now one from the Wayback Machine...

I remember this song from its hay day. Just smooth, mellow and never quite knew what the hell the lyrics meant. But it's all cool, Baby. This was a big roller skating party "couples" song. And if you are laughing, then you totally know what I mean. Remember: your mouth burning from too many fireballs and your crush by your side (maybe even a comb in your back pocket. lol) Good times.

Yo La Tengo:   Cherry Chapstick

Keeping w/teenage crush vibe, I present this gem from YLT. I had an insane obsession w/Bonnie Bell Lip Smackers back in the day (check out this ad from 1979!). Talk about brand awareness at a young age. BB made these lip balms that came tethered and permitted you to 'wear your Smackers' with pride. They were all the rage and I swore I couldn't get enough. Chapstick was never my thing and now I am def more of a Burt's Bees kinda girl.

This tune rocks. Love the intermittent distortion. I was introduced to YLT via their kinder gentler songs. When I heard this song, and when I saw them perform last year, I was shocked how they rocked. Who knew? Now you do. 

Sven Van Hees:   Breakfast with Abductees

This is a fantastic tune to listen to when getting in a Sunday Brunch mind set. Whisking of egg will never seem quite the same.  Bloody's anyone?

Kaki King:  Yellowcake

This song is so gorgeous. Fluid-like, if you will. Like cake batter? That might be a stretch, sorry. But if you are new to Kaki, take the plunge. Her music is most def deelish.

Hooverphonic:   Tuna (not avail on iTunes but many other mp3 sites)

The string arrangement gets me every time. While it's not a high-energy song, I will always run to this when it comes across my iPod. Great pace, great voice. Shades of Cocteau Twins. Dreamy.

Dean + Britta:   Ginger Snaps (not avail on iTunes. So, YouTube it)

Let's end on a dessert, shall we? Ah, that Dean Wareham... sigh. 

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :  

I'm a wayward Tom

I'm a silver streak

And the walls have ears

But the walls don't speak

We're gonna make it after all

- ginger snaps

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Show of Hands, please

( #240 by Scott Drake )

The beauty (and curse, I suppose) of the web is that it brings like-minded folks together. Who could have guessed there'd be a contingent of people who are into hand art--as in, artwork created upon their own paw-- and better, find a venue for displaying all of this work. Enter The Hand Collector. This site is not new by any means, but I frequent it every now and again to see if the movement is still strong. Some of the images submitted are simple doodles, but others have a care and purpose to them that you can't help wondering where this craft will lead some of these contributors. I am not qualified to comment on their destiny but applaud their pursuit.

I like hands. I feel they convey a lot about people. Sure eyes and facial expressions do, but hands... they just say more.  

The Raconteurs:  Hands

This song made me smile when I first heard it. Just love they chose to start w/hands over the other physicalities they list. I mean, there is a reason parents reach for their children's hands constantly: a silent symbol of love + security. I cannot wait to see them at Lolla next weekend.

Her Space Holiday:  Something to do with My Hands

After hearing this song like 4 times, I kept wondering what they meant by sucking "lama prints".

... then I found the lyrics. Oh.

Ohhhhhhhhhhh. (snicker, snicker.)

GREAT lyrics. 

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah:  Five Easy Pieces

A dear bud + I are a wee bit competitive when it comes to bragging rights on new music but it wasn't tough to admit defeat when he introduced me to CYHSY, as they are fantastic. Fantastically different. Newman and I saw them at Lolla last year and I was impressed w/how their sound stayed true in a live concert vs studio. Make a point to see them, if you get the chance.

This tune isn't one of their more popular songs but that's why I like it. I love the droning on and on, and if you put your earphones really, really close to your ears: the acoustic guitar and piano are simply haunting as they weave in and out of the tune. It's the type of song that compels me to put my hand out the window when driving and feel the aerodynamics. Up and down... up and down...

Neko Case:  Hold On, Hold 

This is a tune that I will post about repeatedly, so get used to it. I love Neko and I love this song. I feel like if Johnny Cash were a drag queen, this would be his encore song. lol All the same. It's big. It's robust. Conjurs up bar scenes akin to Urban Cowboy. Sorry Neko: praised you w/Johnny then slammed you w/Debra Winger (at least I didn't bring up Road House. Wait, I just did.... uh, moving on....)

Broken Social Scene:  Handjobs for Holidays

Wow, another BSS tune on the heels of my earlier post. All the same, great song. And I like the title for its shock value as the lyrics never fully bring the title full circle. 

Handshake Drugs:  Wilco

Yippee skippy: gonna see them @ Lolla w/Newman. It will be a treat seeing them w/her as she's a Chicagoan and drunk the kool-aid far before most folks did. B and I got to see them this past fall at the Wexner. Great show albeit we were roughly the oldest folks there (read: all ages show. No adult bevs. Note to self...)

Dave Brubeck Quartet:  Take Five

A must have for anyone's jazz collection. The local So Cal jazz radio station always had this song playing in the background of their Sunday Jazz Brunch promotions so when I hear it now it brings back a warm fuzzy (+salty) feeling of oceanside breakfast(s).

The Long Winters:   Ultimatum

Whoo-boey, this is a sad, sad song. But that's what I love about it. Helps me stay down when I am sad. And you all know what I mean. I've heard both versions of the song and I strongly suggest this acoustic version. More authentic. The power of the lyrics and instruments are better defined. 

In the spirit of full circles, I started w/hand art thus shall end with hand art.

Daft Hands: Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.

Clever. And viral has hell. Hard to pull off.

See... I told you I like hands. ;)

Smoke + Mirrors?

So there we were.

In the "O.C".

Orange County California.

land of:

_ glam + gods

_ sun + sin

_ disney + legoland (which rocked)

We used to live there, and Mister M most certainly tired of hearing B and I recite that fact at every landmark or friend we encountered. He, in his 5 year old-ness, frankly didn't give a rat's ass that, "this was were you were born; here was our old house; here's where we'd have pancakes every Sunday (make note: when in Laguna Beach, Madison Square + Garden Café is a morning must. Especially if you have dogs.)

All in all, a fantastic trip. I love it there. Will post more about the trip's specifics. But right now am reflecting on how thankful for my midwest upbringing. 

Despite that vacation being over, I have Lollapalooza to look forward to. The two bands below will be there and are very much on my hit parade. These two tunes sum up Orange County for a lot of folks. For me? My jury is still out as it's just too easy to buy into stereotypes (although that typed: There was luncheon @ our hotel one day in which Obama was the guest of honor. It cost folks $55k to attend... that cost is not a type-o. ouch.)

MGMT:   Time to Pretend

The National:  Fake Empire

Sum, Sum, Summertime!

One month. Two great birthdays: Our Country's + Mine.

As such, being a child of July, I love this month beyond reason. It's always been chock-full of pageantry and excitement for me.

Best of all, it's about being outside. The sting of a sunburn on your shoulders. About boating, water skiing and trampolines. Firework and fireflies. Convertibles and corn fields. Being waterlogged from pools, lake and sprinklers. And amazing thunderstorms you never want to end. All good.

Enjoy these. Enjoy your holiday. Enjoy your summer.

Galaxie 500:   Fourth of July

That Dean Wareham, what a great buttery voice. Sigh...

Broken Social Scene:  7/4 Shoreline

Just love these guys. Love the ensemble approach. I may be an 'n' of one, but I love Feist w/them more than her being a solo artist. More grit.

Electrelane:   On Parade

A good friend of mine shined me onto this band, and I am ever thankful. They have since disbanded, but that won't stop me from ranting about my love for them. 

Kid Rock:   All Summer Long

YES-Kid Rock. I like this bad boy. I am not ashamed to admit and I LOVE this song due to the video. Sure, I could do w/out all the blonde babes, but all the same, the video aligns w/my concept of summer: 100% pure fun spent outdoors. 

The Shaky Hands:  Summer's Life

Simple tune. And I am total sucker for tunes that have hand-clapping. Strange, agreed. In my mind, I 'see' this song taking place around 4pm... my favorite time of the day. 4pm to sundown. Just a fantastic lazy time of day, especially in the summer.

Rilo Kiley:   With Arms Outstretched

The song is a dusk song, without question. The first 13 seconds sound like fireflies fluttering about. The way it crescendos with the group singing reminds me of being called home when you don't want the night to end...thinking you could never possibly have a day/night as wonderful as the one you just were blessed with. And if you listen closely, you will notice, yup: hand clapping. ;)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Now some days, they last longer than others

But this day by the lake went too fast

And if you want me

You better speak up, I won't wait

So you better move fast

- with arms outstretched

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Lovely Libations

good grief... my last post was june 8th? OY. Wow, how time flies... ;)

Anyone who follows design, surely has seen this on TheDieLine.com. But for those of you who aren't as design-inclined, yet lovers of the 'vod-ker', will delight in this fantastic specimen, LoveJoy Vodka, designed by ID Branding.

I love the fact that the spirits industry has embraced design w/playfulness (ala Effen vodka, Screw Kappa Napa and Used Automotive Parts wine(s), to cite a few). This whimsical approach completely influences my purchase decision. I have had many a night w/B where we will sample a wine and not like it. Yet I am quick to state,"...but isn't the label design amazing?" And I'll proceed to point out every nuance in the graphics and/or wording. Somehow the coin dropped for these short-lived purchases doesn't seem like such a loss.  

Don't you feel the love for LoveJoy? Yeah, Baby, I sure do.

For your non-drinkers, here's another form of intoxication....

Howlin' Maggie (video):  Alcohol

Back in the day, B + I would go see this band and man,for a skinny front man, Happy Chinchester could command the audience. He projected pure, unadulterated, raw energy. He paraded around on stage in white angel wings far before those Victoria's Secret gals did. Kudos, Happy. I don't have the mp3 of this tune. iTunes has a 'new' video, which barely captures the energy of which I speak. So, the best I can say, is close your eyes and just listen... and feel.

The Why Store: Lack of Water

Columbus has been blessed w/some great local/regional talent. The Why Store hails from Indianapolis and geez louise, the sound and energy they create is simply a whole body experience. What can I say, I am a sucker for a great lead who commands an acoustic guitar (and it doesn't hurt that this lead dude, Chris (I think) looks somewhat like, um, er, oh, ... Jesus. Helps create a following. lol) I will def. post more tunes from them. Mister M loves them..."Mommy put on that water song..." Cute x a ton. 

Kings of Leon:  Arizona

I saw these guys @ Lollapolooza last year and they did not disappoint. This song just makes my skin crawl (in a good way) when he hits those drawn out screechy notes. Nice.

Avett Brothers:  Talk of Indolence

This song is emblematic of how my internal tickings go. On most days, this is the beat in which I operate:getting Mister M ready for the day, designing, working out... just an internal tempo I have been blessed with. When I heard this song and it's ridiculously fun lyrics I thought, "Do these guys know me?" Good times.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

"And I go

Stand up to a giant

Say that I'm a fighter

Too drunk to remember

Too drunk to..."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Cheers! A votre santé! Salut!

Lost In Space

My virgin voyage into blogging. Guess it's 'bout time: I activated this account in '06.

Early adopter of all things geeky + techno = me. Guilty as charged.
Voyeur of all things web related? Hell yes.

Yet previously reluctant to let the world wide web have a window into MY world.
After seeing so many friends + peers take this plunge successfully, I am now ready.
I mean, fair is fair, right?

Although, who am I kidding? At last inventory, the "Hey Joy" franchise encompassed
:: .mac mail
:: LinkedIn
:: Facebook
:: design:related
:: AIM/Twitter
:: MySpace
:: hype machine / muxtape / iTunes affiliate
:: heyjoy.com

Whether by design or fluke, "Hey Joy" worldwide (web) domination has begun.
If you bother to check out any of the above domains, you will see I have not done
jack w/most of 'em. Baby steps, ya know? ;)

So yes, I AM ready to take the plunge in shape of this blog and share the
madness that is me to the world wide web. God love ya if you read this drivel.
The only guarantee I can make is it will be me: 100%. Unfiltered. Joy.

Good Luck + good reading.
...................................................................................
"lost in space above all drifting..." Aimee Mann
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