Beach Sloth

Beach Sloth - It doesn't matter what you look like on the outside it’s what’s on the internet that counts 11.0

2016-10-15T21:06:00.000-04:00

Among the masterpieces of the world Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection is the best. Other forms of art are stupid compared to what Beach Sloth has effortlessly accomplished in his debut poetry publication. Writers yearn to truly navigate the depths of the human soul the way an anonymous dad sloth does with absolute ease. Throughout the collection Beach Sloth goes from hilarious to tragic in mere fractions of an inch. Of course this may be due to the font size but it is a grand testament to Beach Sloth’s powers as a highly blogging entity that his work appears to be perfected within these hallowed pages.

Trees give their lives for books but usually those books are not as good as Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection. Few things can be. Beach Sloth has for years, nigh decades, supported people. His credo of “Support Each Other” can be felt throughout the surprising debut poetry collection. At times dark and touching Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection takes a different approach from his actual blogging material. Yes the playfulness is still there. Yet there is specific commentary on some of the people that Beach Sloth truly cares for both people he has encountered and people he grew up with. For limiting the collection to random strangers, while fitting his blog’s aesthetic, is thrown aside for a more personal approach.

What is most interesting about Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection is the dearth of sloths. Throughout the collection Beach Sloth fails to mention much in the way of actual sloths. Maybe this is because Beach Sloth feels it is too painful to reflect upon growing up in a human’s world as a mere sloth covered in algae hanging off of trees. Currently few are interested in the secret lives of sloths excluding the valiant efforts of a select few biochemists who realize that sloth algae could provide a plethora of life-extending and life-improving pharmaceuticals.

Until such time as scientists are able to cure common ailments using sloth back algae, there is Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection. Sure maybe Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection will be unable to cure the common cold but it can improve the spirit and isn’t that just as good, if not better? There is a lot of harshness in life a lot of people who feel like doing it alone. Life does not need to be that way. People are social creatures and with Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection people will feel closer together. And that is better than any medicine.

Go HERE to learn more about the importance of Beach Sloth’s debut poetry collection,how to order, and how to have a fun time in general.

Note for Book Price: While I have a 'pay what you want' feature I would say that the minimum suggested price for the book is $13 US/Canada, $18 International (I figure I am going to be sending a lot of stuff internationally).

Beach Sloth is creating Blogs

2016-07-27T23:22:00.000-04:00

Beach Sloth is a project I created officially on July 27^th, 2010. I love blogging about people. There is so much culture to explore and support. Ever since I began Beach Sloth I have not needed a TV for anything. My life has been fulfilled seeing what wonderful pieces of work made it online into my browsers, my emails, my PDFs, my videos, and my music. Honestly thanks to Beach Sloth I have been exposed to more culture than I could ever possibly wrap my arms around.

That is why I created a Patreon account. I could use a few sponsors to help me meet my monthly expenses which are pretty small. I live frugally. At this point I do not need much to survive since I have cut down what I consider my needs. What I do know that I need, what I am passionate about, is all the wonderful people I have reviewed on this blog. Countless individuals that I have been fortunate enough to meet have become incredibly close friends, the kinds of friends that I can confide in and treat just like those people I have met in person.

Financial support for Beach Sloth gives me a reason to spend a greater amount of time on auxiliary aspects of the project. Already I have released an e-book through Amazon, a chapbook I printed myself, an album free for download, an e-book released for free through Peanut Gallery Press (which has been favorably mentioned by Dennis Cooper), and a book through Dig That Book Co. So I try to keep Beach Sloth as active as I possibly can.

Everything I create for the blog shall continue to be free. I have great plans for Beach Sloth, including an eventual full-length book, another full-length album offered free of charge, and smaller e-books and chapbooks. People who feel like contributing money to me via Patreon can do so right

HERE!

I also understand a lot of my readership cannot afford to support me via Patreon. My presence on Patreon will not change anything about what I can for the blog. All it means is if someone wants to support me financially outside of the usual avenues of:

Merchandise

Chapbooks

And

pleasepaybeachsloth@gmail.com – my Paypal account, which has since become an MEME

Recently I have also decided to start a Fiverr account which basically expands what I do on a regular basis into new forms. If you are interested in my Fiverr work (want something written, shared, re-tweeted, etc.) you can go:

Here!

They can. It is that simple. Nothing else will change. I shall continue Beach Sloth, this passion project of mine, because I think that what I do is rewarding in ways outside of mere monetary concerns. My ultimate goal for Beach Sloth is to have it financially support me and a small group of writers I particularly like (I have people in mind for this). That is far away but with Patreon that can become considerably easier. Thank you for reading this and thank you for coming to my little corner of the universe.

Additionally I would like to thank everyone who has been able to support me on Patreon. It means more to me than I can possibly express.

Bongo Boy Records Backroom Blues Volume Three

2016-06-08T20:55:00.001-04:00

With a nice mixture of the blues and classic rock is the stylish sound of Topham McCarty’s “All Your Love”. Romantic to its very core Topham McCarty plays with tempo to great effect. Incredible guitar riffs abound throughout the piece showing off their impressive chops.

Plainfield Slim utilizes a playful approach with the giddy work of “The Ringing Phone”. A slight edge courtesy of the song’s lo-fi origins helps give the piece its wild free spirit. Vocals are the perfect mixture of flirtatious with a little growl.

Blisteringly hot is Mia Movaris with the Trevor Sewell Band’s “Work Me Baby”. A big brash band backs Mia Movaris’s strong voice as she belts out the lyrics with the right amount of passionate. Swinging behind her is a full, colorful band replete with glistening organ and a loose carefree rhythm.

Offering up a delightful kind of chaos is the distortion led work of Big Bone Daddy’s “Can You Tell Me”. As the lyrics are sung with a sense of confusion this is matched wonderfully with a harmonica played with a sense of demented glee. Throughout it all, the melody guides the way forward.

Stripping things down to the essentials is the intimate easy sound of C.C. Bronson’s “Must Be Somethin’ Going On”. An elegant, jazzy feel dominates throughout the song. C.C. Bronson’s voices acts as the heart and center of the piece with all else revolving around her.

Like a long-lost classic comes the defiant spirit of Alvin Madison feat. Plainfield Slim’s “Still The Same Young Man”. Nimble guitar work gives the song an almost funky sensibility. This, coupled with the fast-paced jaunty rhythm, result in a song that flies forward.

“Stuck To My Show” displays Lisa Coppola’s careful knack for storytelling. Throughout it all Lisa Coppola sings with a great deal of fury, rueing the useless people who keep on coming into her life. As the song progresses it becomes ever more beautiful as the lyrics seem resigned to the fate of dealing with such terrible hard to lose people.

Billy Hamilton & The Lowriders create a lush luxurious sound with “Pay Some Money”. A laid back rhythm anchors the song as the lyrics explore a call and response effect. Smart, stylish, and elegant, the group creates the sort of sound to get lost in.

Ending things on a high note is the swampy sound of “Moon Madness” by Blind Lemon Pledge. Smoky vocals define the piece as the poetic lyrics add a great deal of mystery to the proceedings. The spacious amorphous sound does wonders for the overall dreamy sense of the song.

Norwood - Notes To My Blood

2016-06-08T12:08:00.001-04:00

Norwood’s “Notes To My Blood” is valentine to the downtrodden and wanderers of the world. All their strengths, all their faults are laid bare. Small snapshots of people, little stories, are peppered throughout the album. Tying it together is Christopher Norwood’s passionate performance and impeccable arrangements. From the slow and steady to the absolute frenzied Norwood does it all and does it well.

“Prayer” opens the album up on a high note. With a prayer asking to be “as punk as fuck” delivered with true devotion the song feels like an ode to those left behind in the increasingly gentrified urban centers of the world, as the prim plastics depose the sense of community that once resided there. Full of energy is the incredible “Randolph Carter Rides Again” with particularly fine work on the violin courtesy of Hajnal Pivnick. Sung with a sense of hope is the deeply romantic “New Song”. Hushed in delivery is the intimate nature of “I Never Told You” with the whispered words working wonders, as if the song is simply an internal monologue. Easily the highlight of the album is the defiant “Middle Child”. Carefully building itself up it grows ever larger and more confident until its beautiful conclusion. Ending things with a slight slacker anthem is articulate highly detailed sound of “When The Time Comes”.

Urbane and elegant, Norwood’s “Notes To My Blood” feels like a perfect portrait of love with a hint of anxiety.

Sarantos - Hero Falls

2016-06-07T12:27:00.003-04:00

Lush and languid, Sarantos creates an introspective atmosphere with “Hero Falls”. Sensitive to its very core, “Hero Falls” explores what love can do with a person, of how it can carry a person forward. Through this strength a person is able to continue onwards, more powerful in knowing they are truly cared for, together with someone else. Perfectly framing this is a swirling epic sound, one that maintains a careful balance between rock and orchestral music. By letting these two styles merge Sarantos gives the song a sense of grandeur, as his story tells the tale of a hero, one who continues to fight with all their strength no matter what the odds.

The song begins with a great sweep of sound. Growing ever larger it comes to encompass all. From there Sarantos rich versatile voice enters into the mix as he begins his narrative. Broken up in several parts, it describes at first the difficulty in coming home after doing so much. Tired, what restores him is exactly how much he is truly appreciated. Upon resting and relaxing, the two form a perfect union, one that no amount of external events could ever shake. While they are comfortable together, at some point the rest must end and the next day (battle) must begin. For the reason to fight is for others, not simply for oneself.

A perfect love ballad, Sarantos truly succeeds with the infinitely catchy and unforgettable “Hero Falls” an ode to deep meaningful relationships everywhere.

Marissa Lauren - Now & Forever EP

2016-06-07T12:14:00.001-04:00

With a true twee sensibility is the satisfyingly sweet sound of Marissa Lauren’s “Now & Forever EP”. Light and airy the songs have a summery feel to them. Structurally sound Marissa Lauren explores a variety of different styles and settings throughout the EP, from the subdued to the bombastic. Throughout all of these many variations what serves as the heart and center of the EP are her crystal clear vocals. Lyrics are expressive of the difficultly of love, of relationships, and of trying to define oneself. By taking this particular approach Marissa Lauren is able to tie these many pieces together with a carefully constructed narrative that grows with each additional piece.

Starting things off on a high note is the giddy work of “Shut Me Off”. With gentle guitar work the piece grows ever more expressive with the passage of time. Two variations of “For Now” are presented, one with powerful percussion, almost anthemic in tone. The other version is purely with voice and piano giving it an intimate feeling. On “Girls Like Me” Marissa Lauren taps into the quirky style of Jon Brion’s arrangements as the song’s structure plays with the listener’s expectations, offering a sense of pure freedom. Easily the highlight of the collection, “Girls Like Me” is infinitely catchy showing off Marissa Lauren’s skill in exploring a more realistic portrayal of romance.

“Now & Forever EP” shows off Marissa Lauren’s considerable skill at creating a unique kind of pop, one hopeful and welcoming.

Ajebota by Precious Okoyomon

2016-06-06T21:35:00.000-04:00

Precious Okoyomon’s “Ajebota” is a conversation with the reader. With such an intimate approach to language, this is how poetry should be. By fully engaging the reader she shares her vastly beautiful view of the world. Naturalistic, exploring the intersection of one’s origins with one’s current life, alongside what relationships can truly be, “Ajebota” is rather beautiful. Keeping things to the absolute essentials Precious Okoyomon explores what language means and how it is used. Some of these pieces are perfectly pared down to the way one would speak to a friend. Others go for a more expansive, expressive view, almost like an animated discussion. By taking on such a wide variety of styles Precious Okoyomon touches upon how people live and interact on a day to day basis.

Elements of the naturalistic involve the slow steady pace of the jellyfish, of how it floats in an almost embryonic ocean, left behind by evolution left to its own devices. On the other extreme of the spectrum is the lowly hamster, caged, kept for entertainment purposes. It simply exists. Mood does not vary much for a hamster it mostly rests in its own fear and anxiety like so many people. Through meaningless exercise it tries to find distractions for itself. Akin to people it feels stuck. Soft as an animal it survives by being cute. Other animals serve as a freeing image, one of horses simply looking on without any allegiance to anything. To date the only thing that gives this sort of freedom is not the day to day interaction with people, but the way the internet gives a sense of purpose. Devoid of any niceties people can choose to adhere to their own id, serving themselves, entertaining themselves.

The freest piece in “Ajebota” comes at the very end, where a text message is shared. Offering a different approach to the previous pieces, this one is a collaboration. With it Precious Okoyomon introduces a new voice into the proceedings. Excited by the possibilities of the world this feels akin to running through a person’s innermost hopes and dreams. Starting off on relationships, mentioning all the people on Tinder, it then shifts into something entirely different. As it grows it wonders aloud about how to break down order as their language does exactly that. Freeing itself from any poetic restrictions, it is downright gorgeous in its expressions for absolute togetherness, delivered to each other from such distance.

“Ajebota” rules. Precious Okoyomon both works with and against ideas of conventional poetry and the result is simply stunning.

The Shabby Doll Reader by Various Artists

2016-06-05T23:11:00.000-04:00

Like usual, Shabby Doll Reader starts with a pet. They all do. Every issue features a pet.

Scott McClanahan does his solid work with Daniel Johnston. What makes Scott McClanahan’s work particularly nice is his fondness of play and honesty. These typically tend to be distorted by other writers. By keeping it straightforward Scott McClanahan creates realistic portrayals of life. Most writers tend to edit the important stuff out leaving dry as leaves sort of work. Dealing with an artist as unique as Daniel Johnston, with his vast body of work and generally unique artistic outlook means that one has to be true to his music and worldview. There have been many pieces written about Daniel Johnston, documentaries, etc. Only this one refers to the fact that most of those piece tend to offer a cute perspective, not an accurate one. Upon finishing his discussion of his book, he goes on to talk about some of the hardest working people in poetry, Juliet Escoria, Sarah Jean Alexander, Mike Bushnell, etc. Additionally he also mentions his quite frankly bizarre readings. If anybody ever has a chance to see him read live they ought to.

Kristen Felicetti discusses her latest upcoming reading at Molasses Books. In direct reaction to the frankly awful poem published by The New Yorker (come on The New Yorker, come on) this will feature poets worth paying attention to.

Matthew Bookin and Rachelle Toarmino spend time with notoriously cranky Norwegian writer Karl Ove Knausgård. Like many, they are fans of the Norwegian’s work. They try to interact with him as best as is possible. Everything Karl says tends to be impossible to decipher. He speaks in abstractions. Small glimpses of joy, about talking about Stockholm, are misinterpreted. Things that are nice are too nice, like they are trying to fool the visitor. Such things tend to relatively normal to Karl who apparently derives little joy from the world but enjoys writing about it. Throughout it, the intrepid duo suffer a struggle of their own as they attempt to talk to him, to try and understand him as he is simply trying to eat a goat cheese and fig slice of pizza.

Precious Okoyomon recently came out with a fantastic book about her hamster among other things. Her hamster enjoys rather snobbish hamster food of British Tea Crackers and fine rosemary bread. Most hamsters eat food pellets and are happy to do so. Not Precious’s hamster, she requires the best kind of treatment. While the book is explored more fully, Precious’s time spent growing up in Nigeria is described as one being a fragile child. Additionally Precious also discusses America’s strangest state, Ohio, a state so sad they even hosted Drew Carey’s pathetic sitcom out of desperation.

Tours are hard. Greg Zorko knows this fact. His first book of poetry called “Ghost in the Club” is all about the supernatural entities unable to get into heaven and thus they go clubbing. Lots of spirits, once they have made peace by haunting clubs, are able to get into the afterlife. The foreword to the afterlife is life itself. Canadians tend to be really nice about art and poetry probably due to the bleak frozen wasteland they call home. Seriously though, Canada is a welcoming place full of good people who care deeply about poetry, like the Metatron crew for example.

After mentioning a bunch of things, Shabby Doll Reader calls it a day (or night, depending on their exact geographical locale). Life with Shabby Doll Reader is a beautiful one indeed.

Altamina - Tomorrow Morning Will Be Tonight

2016-06-04T12:09:00.003-04:00

With an airy approach to songcraft, Altamina’s “Tomorrow Morning Will Be Tonight” is like being immersed into a lovely dream. Brilliant color flows out of these pieces as their spacious reflects at a world so vast and unknowable. It is this contemplative spirit that comes to define the album. Altimina employ a sense of group play throughout the album letting each other bounce of the others resulting in a rich tapestry of sound. Whether it is Graham’s reassuring vocals, Miller’s steady bass work, Davis’s impeccable drumming or Gervais’s painterly approach to the guitar, the sound positively teems with life.

“Under The Black Sea” begins the album off on a high note almost narrative in its approach. As it gradually unfurls it reveals an impressive build, one where their patience proves to be one of their greatest strengths as the emotional impact of the piece increases with each additional twist and turn of the many interacting textures. Much more of a rush is the passionate sound of “Telescope”. Ambitious in scope is the post-rock spaghetti western influenced “Tonight”. Romantic to its very core the song is beautifully executed. Easily the highlight of the album is the shoegaze nature of “Liability”. Utilizing an almost classical approach to the result is something of gentle grandeur. “Solstice” ends the album on just the right note, neatly embodying all that came before it.

Deeply satisfying, Altamina’s “Tomorrow Morning Will Be Tonight” has a classic timeless sound to it.

Doug Cash - Singer Songwriter

2016-06-04T11:37:00.003-04:00

Doug Cash’s “Singer Songwriter” is a tasteful, timeless effort. Following in the proud tradition of the great 1970s singer songwriters like John Lennon, the songs are simple and effective. With “Singer Songwriter” Doug Cash keeps his songs to the absolute essentials by employing meticulous clean guitar work. By far the heart and soul of the album comes from Doug Cash’s highly articulate, almost poetic lyricism. This, once coupled with his versatile singing voice, results in a deeply moving piece of work. Stylistically, Doug Cash’s work ranges from the whispered acoustic to the anthemic electric guitar led choruses. Tying this all together are his arrangements, kept to the essentials with bright beautiful colors.

Beginning things on an intimate note is the tender work of “Locust”. Following this is the crystal clarity of “Sacramento” where Doug Cash shows off his nimble guitar work. Passionate in nature is the pleading “Emotional Treason”. Introducing a fuller sound is the big band approach of “Beyond V3” whose infectious melody and inviting lyrics make it one of the album highlights. Downright gorgeous is the heartfelt “With a Thrill” where Doug Cash’s vocals are quite strong. Easily the highlight of the album is the dreamy work of “Loneliest With You”. Akin to Jon Brion’s clever approach to song craft the song is simply stunning. Ending things on a contemplative note is the hushed tone of “You Wept for Yourself”.

“Singer Songwriter” presents a welcoming world courtesy of Doug Cash’s unique musical vision.

Best of all the entire album can be found right here.

His entire musical world can be found right here.

Tehon - Burning Alive

2016-06-04T09:54:00.002-04:00

With a sense of grandeur, Tehon’s “Burning Alive” is one that effortlessly weaves together elements of rap, hip-hop, and rock into a satisfying whole. Tehon’s flow is done just right as his lyrics emphasize a nightmarish atmosphere. Helping to further add to the mood is the gargantuan beat which keeps everything fully centered. Flourishes of sound come from the guitar work as it taps into a combination of funk with a hint of an industrial vessel. A grey harsh landscape is explored in full as the song grows in scope and size.

Samples of pure terror introduce the piece. As they are morphed and twisted, the song starts in earnest. By the time that the percussion comes into the mix the song grows ever more intense. Tehon’s maintains the hopelessness of getting too close to the terrible situation. When the wordless chorus enters in the entire thing feels truly doomed. After that Tehon’s delivery grows to be blistering, as he veers between a languid darkness and a concern about how hurt people hurt people. Such things guide the world, of the pain of a person being transferred on the ones they most care about. Over the course of friendships and relationships, this proves itself to be true. Tehon lets this worry, the self-doubt that all face about themselves to guide the song forward. For the song’s finale the synthesizer takes front and center stage bringing the sound to a climax of sorts.

Tehon’s “Burning Alive” offers cleverly crafted lyrics with an elegant ominous exectuion.

Two by Bob Schofield

2016-06-02T12:15:00.000-04:00

Earth speaks but nobody listens. This is the way it has been for years, since the first city was founded. Lots of voices come from the Earth of water of wind and they all try to make the best out of it. Disembodied choirs sing their songs forever changing the pitches only slightly as they erode the landscape away. With time everything calms down the edges are smoothed out. Beautiful erosion does this by taking what could potentially hurt someone and trying to make it safer and sweeter. Out of this huge terrain comes important little creatures, tiny creatures that build themselves up into bigger things. By setting down roots what one hopes for is a kind of underground, a form of support from the world. Not everybody finds support for what it is they do, rather they find themselves blown into the wind never to find any kind of salvation. Gone forever they try to make little ropes, try to tie themselves down with countless kinds of things but it is all simply temporary. Inevitably a creature will move, and find once again new land to settle wherever it may possibly be. Sometimes things can get stuck, a creature may feel trapped but this is never a forever moment there is always an escape in one way.

Crying does a lot in planning an escape. When the crying stops the silence reigns. Introspection requires that nothing is ever said. The thing about cardboard is that it can create its own kind of crying, from what could have been a big beautiful tree. Waters rise up because that is all they know how to do, the seas cry because the songs they listen to are so sad the latest pop hits sung on countless lonely radios. Fur tries to comfort countless creatures who live inside it, to find a kind of warmth unique to them. By living in this fur creatures can hide carefully nestled in the perfect environment one that truly loves them. Ghosts reign supreme over the creatures of the world trying to show them what happens next. While not everyone believes in ghosts they do believe in lots of other things they don’t see like waves of sound, simply crashing on all the shores. Particles of light also carry waves, vast distances sometimes, just with the hope that one day they might be viewed favorably by the living.

Bongo Boy Rock n' Roll TV Show No. 1084

2016-06-02T12:11:00.002-04:00

Genya Ravan starts things off on a high note with a nod to classic rock. With lyrics that refer to rock’s illustrious history, the song feels particularly warm. Combined with an infectious rhythm the song glides by with a casual cool vibe.

The Nut Drivers explore a tasteful arrangement on the impeccable “Before You Condemn”. Preaching tolerance and understanding the welcoming spirit is undeniable. Sung with crystal clarity the story unfurls revealing how to treat others with the utmost of respect. Nicely weaving together elements of country and folk the piece is full of vibrant color.

Without wasting a moment, Danko Jones dives right into it with “Had Enough”. Powerful guitar riffs open the song up on a strong note. Vocals rise above the relentless rhythm. A sense of defiance helps to inform the focused lyricism.

“Time Won’t Let Me” shows off The Smithereens sense of play. Offering up a faithful edition of the The Outsiders song, the piece taps into a sense of a nostalgia. Perfectly done the song serves as the ultimate throwback to a perfectly tailored piece of pop.

A luxurious grand sound introduces Xavier Toscano’s “Apologies Wasted”. Lyrics describe the difficulties of maintaining a relationship, of all the things that can tear a person apart. Throughout it all Xavier Toscano tries to show how tricky trust can be as an element between two people. Anchored by a gargantuan beat the piece represents the best of EDM.

Pure pop perfection is what London Ellis offers with “London To LA”. A bouncing rhythm serves as the heart of the piece. Triumphant in spirit, London Ellis creates an ideal kind of party spirit with “London To LA”.

Ending things on a high not is Vernon Neilly’s “They Don’t Care”. Impressive guitar chops define the piece. Stylistically varied merging elements of rock, hip hop, alongside social justice the song reveals the many problems the world faces and the oftentimes overwhelming nature of them.

Shy Waston - A Mixtape by Luis Neer

2016-06-01T12:21:00.000-04:00

Jokes happen online. Offline nobody has a sense of humor. Emotions run high on the Internet due to its heavy usage of 4/20 references. Large amounts of time spent online rarely go well. Sadness has a strong social media presence. Also online are millions of people constantly bored seeking meaning. Usually they do not find it for it requires updating flash. Not everybody is ready for that level of commitment, of simply letting their computer their phone shut down for a while. Connection rests with the strength of a Wi-Fi network.

Ice cream has special distribution networks. Late night ice cream always feels better. The cream does better in the evening glow. Hair ends up getting in bad batches of ice cream but maybe those batches are being more honest. Blow ups occur regularly online it is part of how people function, by seeing exactly what they can do to aggravate others. Called trolling, this is a way of life for many. Plenty of time is spent trying to hone the just right kind of online presence, one that involves something off the beaten path, like eating glass and updating accounts with followers.

Bone marrow likes its followers. Called muscles, ligaments, etc. they come together brilliantly. Tears form from these elements. Sometimes the idea of no pain no gain results in a lot of pain for no discernible reason. Leaves come from the body of an autumnal person and they embody the idea of decay. Most people are autumnal in that they are constantly following the path of entropy, going from high to low energy with little effort. Avoidance of this essential truth means that people do bizarre insane things to stay young and vibrant. Honestly there is no way for that to ever happen, brains are flipped pages turned and it is always towards something, however unknowable.

Hands shape shift the air though the air is never seen, merely felt. At concerts this becomes particularly true as musicians try to bludgeon audiences into submission with vast quantities of volume. Life allows this kind of spectacle and encourages others to make spectacles of themselves. When a person practices what they preach they are a spectacles, a literal embodiment of their deeply held beliefs. Like a single drop in the ocean, they know that their actions may be insignificant yet there is comfort in such an unfathomable endless community.

Dubbs

2016-05-31T22:51:00.003-04:00

With thoughtful lyricism and irresistible hooks, Dubbs creates music that blends together a vast variety of styles. Stylistically his music runs the gamut from the absolute club banger like “Invited 2 Tha Club” to the tender “Thru Blind Eyes”. A sense of positivity permeates all of his songs as he looks towards the future with the utmost form of hope. Reminiscent of early Jay Z, the songs deserve to be played as loud as possible. Lots of energy comes out of the work both from Dubbs’ impressive flow to the hot unstoppable rhythms.

On “A Man” Dubbs explores the responsibility that a person has in order to be a fully mature individual. Throughout “A Man” Dubbs emphasizes what comes to define a person, about the way that a person cannot be easily defined. Going for a heavier anthemic sound is the bombastic work of “i Love MY Vision”. Full of ambition the song expands out majestically. By letting the song soar the piece grows ever larger and larger. Almost symphonic in tone Dubbs celebrates the importance of belief in oneself. Pure joy emanates from “Invited 2 Tha Club”. Capturing the spirit of the night life the song bounces, with an insistent melody guiding the entire piece forward. Balancing its softer nature with a propulsive beat is “Thru Blind Eyes”. Gentle piano interacts wonderfully with the near physicality of the rhythm. Tying this together is Dubbs’ highly articulate lyricism which brings the song together.

Smart, sophisticated and stylish Dubbs has an impressive amount of versatility.

Oliver Mol: The Most Beautiful Story in the World

2016-05-31T12:42:00.000-04:00

Without the ugliness there is no beauty in the world. Together they make sense. Separated things seem unreal. A world full of beauty seems surreal like a dream of sorts. Pure ugliness does the opposite a nightmare a thing that cannot be believed. By balancing they keep the world honest. Everything belongs in an equilibrium of sorts shifting weight from one foot to the other, listening, observing, trying to decipher all of it. Usually there is a way of making sense of it but it is not an instant thing. Lots of products are instant but revelations never quite work out so linearly.

Relationships serve as microcosms to the world. People go through an awful lot of them over their lives. In a relationship people talk about their previous relationships. Those flaws that seemed insignificant become important things, the things that they did not anticipate changing them were the things that changed them. Many relationships take time to truly build. Beginning in different places, geographically and mentally, the two work themselves out until the distance thing works itself out. Lots of time passes as the two move closer together. Intimacy is so valuable because it requires a vast investment of time. Some might think that’s not worth it, may be afraid of living with another person, knowing everything about the person, but that can be one of the few things that change a life.

Pain of life does not need to be existential it is real. Migraines take over a single life. Lots of things contribute to them. Terrible vision, lots of stress, anxiety, these take over and over. Invaded by all of this a person gets overwhelmed. Surroundings can be too much especially in a city. Fragments of a person, which bag of chips they are going to pick, these are hugely important. Suddenly the people gazing becomes an actual sport with points. By seeing what people do when they feel totally free from judgement in honesty. With enough people the lies melt away leaving only the truth.

Cities stress. These things come from the expense of living inside of a city. Despite the stress there is a deep reward that comes from a city. People love living around each other people generally are social. When they don’t feel that way they drop out of the streams of humanity hiding out in big faceless towers. The reason cities end up being so popular is because people can be given many chances in a city, much more than whatever tiny freaking town they grow up in, or whatever city they originally lived in. Movement is a right, the ability to leave, start again, and have hope for the future.

Natalie Jean - Please Don’t

2016-05-31T12:22:00.003-04:00

Defiant in tone is the rebellious, independent-minded sound of Natalie Jean’s “Please Don’t”. Cleverly framed in a tragic story, the song expresses how exactly to overcome deep loss. Lyrics express exactly one becomes sick of a bad relationship, of how a bad relationship can poison a life. With lyrics cowritten by Natalie Jean and Michael Peloso the song moves forward in sync with the song’s overall message of moving on from terrible relationships. A sense of comfort comes from a relationship but as Natalie Jean sings, relationships can turn toxic.

Right from the beginning the song starts off with a dramatic melody. Spacious in sound the rhythm is as much emotional as it is a way of keeping time. Far off in the distance is a slight nod to shoegaze as the dreamy melody helps to keep the entire thing centered. Setting the mood for a little bit the piece simply rests in the air, waiting for Natalie Jean’s powerful voice. Introspective in sound the piece moves ever so gracefully. Things truly get started once the bass comes into the mix, like a full rich vibrant feeling. Lyrics focus on exactly what a bad relationship can do, of how it can destroy a person. Over the course of the song the lyrics explore how to find one’s own inner power to overcome the awfulness of others.

“Please Don’t” shows off Natalie Jean’s uncanny ability to fully capture what a bad relationship can do.

Natalie Jean - Now I See

2016-05-31T12:09:00.003-04:00

Sly and seductive, Natalie Jean’s “Now I See” offers a luxurious inviting sound, one perfect for the summer. With a dubstep affect to it the piece feels ever so clear. At times reminiscent of James Blake’s careful approach to song craft the piece positively shimmers in tone. Downright glorious the build of the song results in brilliant bold color. Melodically rich the song evolves ever so satisfyingly. Guiding the song forward is Natalie Jean’s soothing vocals and thoughtful lyricism.

Things start off with a slight whisper of sound. From there Natalie Jean’s voice enters the fray, at first quite quiet. Slight plucks of sound introduce the piece alongside glimmering keys. With each additional flourish of sound the piece expands and grows in size. A gentle melody serves as the anchor of the song as the lyrics explore exactly how a relationship can be quite difficult to fully establish, with misgivings and misconstrued intentions on both sides. Rhythms are playful in nature exploring elements of dub and dance in equal measure. Elements start to swirl around with the tiniest details offering a great deal of insight. By keeping the song so minimal in nature the lush tones that weave their way in and out of the mix feel real. Towards the end of the song everything comes together into a whirlwind of sound.

By balancing all of these together Natalie Jean creates a pristine perfect piece of pop, the sort of song that lingers long after its over.

Erin Taylor - Two Poems

2016-05-30T09:51:00.001-04:00

Wanting a dog and having a dog are two different things. The difference is even bigger when it is a person and a dog. Dogs can have other dogs via being actual dogs. Ownership of an animal, that is a little tricky. Pets are just animals who tolerate humans, initially. A friendship can be created between the two creatures. No matter what the animals will always be a bit hesitant of their human. Humans are tricky creatures the trickiest on the entire planet. By working with a pet the human will be able to better show off their ability to care. On a macro level it can be infinitely difficult for an animal to trust humans, considering what humans have done to the planet.

Looking for another dog while owning a dog is tricky. The dog knows. Dogs blog. ABC has a show about how a dog can blog. If a dog can blog a dog definitely can understand texts, can look through internet browser history. Fooling a dog is a mean feat in that it is mean to fool a dog. Dogs usually like being straightforward with people. Part of a dog’s charm is how they tell no lies, since their language prevents dishonesty. Every dog can look their owner in the face and state, honestly, that they have not contributed to global warming that they do not believe in consumerism. Thus, to look for another dog while owning a dog can mean two totally different things. For one the dog could be getting a dog friend. The worse scenario is when the dog is about to be replaced.

Water creates wars. Already it has began between various water districts within California. Other parts of the United States have gotten to deal with perpetual drought. Beyond the United States people have started fighting over water. It will get worse. Yet there is no way of fully resolving this, of moving water from the drenched to the parched. Climates are becoming more and more imbalanced. With this imbalance there is a greater propensity for greater conflict. Humanity is a conflict ridden kind of group. Such fighting helps build strong research development agreements. Sadly conflict in the world tends to be the main motivating factor in creating new kinds of technology. A lot of funding goes towards conflict to reduce depression. Most of the world is based around feelings despite the usage of logic to try to govern things. Logic never wins.

The Black Six - God Save The Queen

2016-05-28T11:36:00.002-04:00

The Black Six’s “God Save The Queen” distills the essence of rock into a perfect whole. With a nice lo-fi sound the piece is full of brilliant color, from the dusty organ to the endless hypnotic rhythm of the guitar riffs. Intended to be played as loud as possible, there is almost a summery quality to the sound. An intense amount of heat is hinted upon as the energetic playful drumming and fuzzed out bass work wonders. Lyrics tie all of these elements together. Vocals are delivered with the right level of dreaminess and desire. Carefully balancing the two together the song feels like it could continue on forever. How the Black Six let the song unfurl ever so slowly and satisfyingly is incredible. The gradual bloom of the sound is completely earned with small elements coming to a cinematic crest for the song’s finale.

But it does not start that way. Rather the song builds on a fast moving, stripped down sound. Muscular the song veers from being guitar to organ to drum led, with each working to create a kaleidoscopic array of color. The Black Six’s lyrics are the right level of cryptic as they hint at a darkened present while looking for a brighter future. By the finale of the song every layer comes together brilliantly resulting in a full look at all the many shifting parts that drove the song forward.

With a sound reminiscent of the smokey effortless cool of the Doors, The Black Six’s “God Save The Queen” is an infectious timeless piece of pop.

Jessi Teich - JT

2016-05-27T13:55:00.003-04:00

Stylish and sophisticated, Jessi Teich’s “JT” is a bright beautiful collection. Her voice is the heart of the collection. Expressive and crystal clear her lyrics are poetic in nature. Arrangements work just right with her strong vocals. Multiple genres are explored throughout the collection showing off Jessi Teich’s impressive range. Running the gamut from EDM to indie rock to jazz Jessi Teich seemingly does it all and does it well.

Wasting no time Jessi Teich dives deep into a satisfying succinct sound with the propulsive “Wildfire”. Aptly named the song explores the concept of deep passionate love. Lyrics describe the best kind of relationship one where the attraction is irresistible. Fiery, Jessi Teich’s voice displays the absolute core of pure unbridled desire. Joined with a giddy rhythm the song glides by ever so gracefully. On “The Curtain Call” Jessi Teich lets things slow down a bit, letting the many layers of sound balance ever so gracefully. Introspective in execution the piece is quite elegant letting its slow build work wonders. Nimble in texture “Shade” taps into a late night EDM vibe. Lush sound courtesy of an unstoppable rhythm serves Jessi Teich’s voice well as she looks towards a greater degree of freedom. Ending things on a strong note is the gentle ballad of “We Are One”. Sung with great conviction the song’s cinematic structure is downright majestic.

Catchy and concise “JT” is a formidable collection, one that displays the undeniable talent of Jessi Teich and her highly articulate lyricism.

J’Moris - MorIs Better: The Hangover

2016-05-27T13:33:00.001-04:00

“MorIs Better: The Hangover” shows off J’Moris’s impressive lyrical flow and strong sense of storytelling. Throughout the collection J’Moris peppers the pieces with lots of pop culture references. Keeping this centered are little snapshots of a life, anxiety of parenthood, loving people, etc. By doing this he is able to go for a playful nimble style. Production is impressive with the deep grooves helping to anchor the grandeur of the sound. These are songs that deserve to be played as loud as possible in order to fully understood.

“Intro” opens the collection off on a high note with a glistening neon-hued sound, fanfare punctuating the piece. Clever sampling helps to give “Crazy” a fascinating sound one which grows increasingly more intricate as J’Moris lets the layers interact with his impressive lyricism. With a sense of anxiety is the tense work of “Long Night” which sprawls out exploring the power of community and friendship. By far the highlight of the collection is the luxurious sound of “Lesbian”. Gentle and glistening the song is tender in tone. Ending the collection on a sad note is the loss of “Foreva”. As the song progress it reminiscences about how a relationship can come to a terrible, tragic end. Breakups are dramatic, and how it leads up to it is particularly troubling: of how those great moments in life come back to haunt, reminding them of better times.

Smart, stylish imbued with great meaning, J’Moris creates a compelling collection with “MorIs Better: The Hangover”.

SakkieFTW - Experimental 1.3.2

2016-05-26T19:20:00.003-04:00

SakkieFTW’s “Experimental 1.3.2” takes the best pieces of EDM and dubstep transforming them into an irresistibly catchy whole. Energetic to its very core the songs are pure adrenaline. Moving at incredible speed SakkieFTW shows incredible skill at weaving together layer upon layer of sound. Rhythms are relentless with the melodies bouncing off of them iridescently. By taking an almost geometric approach to song craft SakkieFTW is able to explore a wide variety of textures. Throughout the collection the songs seem to positively teem with life, letting the works shift and veer around almost seemingly at random. Within these pieces though there is a strong structure, one that SakkieFTW plays around. Keeping the songs quite surprising in nature SakkieFTW offers a wide variety of approaches showing off his versatility.

Easily the highlight of the collection is the bombastic opener “Spiral”. Featuring the fine vocals of Kaeli McArter, SakkieFTW creates an amazing sound that swirls around Kaeli McArter’s surreal lyricism. Rock-edged the title track “Experimental 1.3.2” has a little bit of drum n’bass entering into the mix via the “Amen” break being used quite effectively. Absolutely chaotic in nature is the multi-edged sound of “Frogstep” which at times shows off a hint of reggae’s strong deep bass-led melody. Closing things on a physical note is the gargantuan sound of “In Chains”. Letting the distortion reign supreme SakkieFTW creates an amazing gritty piece of work.

Tapping into a visceral sound SakkieFTW’s “Experimental 1.3.2” is a pure joy.

Charles Wright - She Don’t Believe in Love

2016-05-26T19:01:00.003-04:00

Charles Wright brings the funk in “She Don’t Believe in Love”. With an absolutely infectious groove the song is so alive. Loose in nature the song keeps everything in check from Charles Wright’s vocal delivery to the song’s many flourishes. Anchoring everything is the nimble guitar work, whose sly approach feels just right. The song’s communal spirit is made complete with the smooth chorus that punctuates the piece at pivotal moments. Lyrics further emphasize this emotional state where a sense of hopelessness tends to pervade the piece. Physical with its sound Charles Wright lets the whole thing sprawl out ever so gracefully.

Absolutely no time is wasted in getting the sound rightly started. Charles Wright lets the groove fully establish itself before his voice enters into the mix. Layer upon layer of sound swirls about creating a song that positively teems with energy. Small details make the greatest amount of difference from the occasional fanfare to the light sound of the keyboards. Gradually these pieces interact to paint a portrait of sound as the entire thing starts to truly take off. About halfway through the piece the song gets even stronger in terms of total power, as Charles Wright’s voice drops out to allow for a truly funky bridge take over. By the final moments of the track Charles Wright has descended into a bluesy funky vibe.

With the perfect mix of pop and play, Charles Wright creates a neat infinitely catchy song with “She Don’t Believe in Love”.

A Beginner’s Guide to Horse Blogging by Steve Roggenbuck

2016-05-26T18:49:00.003-04:00

Horse blogging is real. Horses know. Every horse blogs. Without horse blogs what would horses even do? Life as a horse is rough of course of course. By blogging about horses one is taking a risk, a very serious risk to their health. Plenty of people find the mere idea of a horse to be offensive, mostly because they want to be centaurs. Long ago people were centaurs, galloping all fancy free being themselves having various Greek mythology focus on them. Over time they became humans and anything that becomes a human is doomed to be disappointed. The human condition is one of disappointment the tricky part is balancing that disappointment.

YouTube channels refuse to be disappointing. People live exciting lives doing their online things. While a blog can disappoint a YouTube channel never does. Every day when a person discovers a new YouTube channel another angel gets its wings. This is an absolute must. Such things are might to be ‘dug’ i.e. enjoyed by the general population. If it is online it can be experienced. If it is not online what is it even doing what is it about. Experience needs to be uploaded to the Internet for others to share, re-tweet and re-blog.

Vin Diesel and Tim Allen love cats. They love cats a lot. Yards deserve the power of Vin Diesel. With Vin Diesel a yard can truly get started. Across the suburbs of the world suburban settlers hope that Vin Diesel will bestow his blessed bounty upon them. Lush green yards that is what life is about. Lots of time, inordinate unreasonable periods of time, that is what lawn care is all about. Nobody said it would be easy. Most said it would be hard. Families come together to rally around themselves with a pocket full of lawn care products.

Babies fail to understand lawn care. Most of the time babies are unable to control their bladders. Parents try to peer pressure their kids, telling them that big kids are able to use toilets. The babies of the world know way better. Every time a baby is told to be a big kid a baby makes sure to defecate into their baby bag because that is simply the way they roll. Failure to roll well a baby might have 99 problems but a baby bag ain’t one. For life as a baby, that is one of majesty. Babies are afraid of nothing babies are fearless babies are trill.