Culture Shock

Reminder and Pay it Forward

2011-10-13T15:49:00.002-04:00

Hi, everyone.... just a reminder that this blog has moved. For all the latest posts, please check the wordpress blog here. See y'all there for the pay it forward blogfest (tomorrow) and a guest post!

Head's Up

2011-10-09T17:53:00.000-04:00

For various reasons, I have decided that after several years on Blogger that it would be best to head over to WordPress. I hope that you will all join me over there and enjoy! I've got a bunch of stuff coming...

Wordpress will be where I post the pay it forward blogfest.... head on over to meet some great bloggers on October 14. I also have a really special interview coming soon I'm very excited about. Can't spill any details yet but it's gonna be cool :)

Besides that, there will be more blogfest posts, the 30 Day Song Challenge and much more! I also am very excited to annouce that Call of Poseidon is now available as a print book on Amazon.com. I hope y'all will check it out. It is also available for free on smashwords this week. Just use the coupon code TM36W. I guess that's about it for this post. Take care and see ya soon!

Alexz Johnson Look At Those Eyes Video Release (And Free Download Link)

2011-10-07T14:05:00.001-04:00

Look At Those Eyes is now online... check it out and comment back with your thoughts! Also be sure to check this page for info about a free download of the song and how it will help to stop bullying. I personally love this video and think it fits the spirit of the song well. It's also very fitting considering the cause that the song is going to help.

Monster Fest 2011

2011-10-06T10:30:00.000-04:00

I'm really excited to get to participate in another blog fest. This one is called Monster Fest and is headed by Sommer Leigh. There are not many rules for it, but she offers some things to inspire if you need them. I decided to focus on a specific monster from one of my favorite series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Drusilla was a sweet young girl, pure of heart and with psychic sight. This gift would haunt her, as it was frowned upon in her time (and to an extent, still is). She felt as though she was evil and tried to push aside these gifts, going so far as to enter a convent in order to try and rid herself of this evil gift. Unfortunately for her, she would not run far enough. A vampire named Angelus had set his sights on her and was determined to make her one of them. To corrupt the goodness he could see in her.

One night, after having stalked and harassed her, Angelus would go to that convent with another vampire named Darla and wreak havoc on Dru's peaceful new home. He killed everyone in there, triggering a psychotic break in Drusilla that would plague her the rest of her days as a vampire. She became just as cruel and dangerous as any other monster on the show, maybe even more so. She did, after all, have this innocence about her that made her seem less threatening at first to some. Once she spoke, however, she was terrifying. She still had the sight she tried to hard to run away from, but her psychosis forced the words out in an eerie way.

I think that's what makes her so interesting. She's far more unpredictable than Angelus or the other demons. She can be dancing and clapping with joy one moment and throwsing a massive fit the next. You never know what is going to set her off and when. Here is a link I found that shows her creepiest moment. So what do you think of Drusilla? Do you have a favorite monster or species of one? Comment back and let's talk about it!

Sherrie Austin Through the Grapevine

2011-10-06T10:00:00.001-04:00

Just got this last night and thought you all might be interested. Also, be sure to check the contest page for an e-book giveaway thanks to CP Bialois. Also, check back in a little bit for a blog fest post.

Country Music's Sherrié Austin

A "Circus Girl" Walking A Tightrope of Controversy

Nashville, TN (Oct. 5, 2011) Country Music's "Saucy Aussie" Sherrié Austin has had a VERY busy summer! After seven years away from the recording world, she has just completed work on her new release CIRCUS GIRL, a self written, self produced and self financed project that has placed her back up on the high wire of the entertainment industry.

After penning tunes for such country music heavy weights as George Strait, Tim McGraw and most recently a hilarious duet by CMA Male Artist of the Year Blake Shelton and Trace Adkins called "If I Was A Woman", she has decided to dust off the trapeze and get back on the other side of the microphone. Featuring 13 tracks, the diminutive brunette has filled her new music project with stories of strength, humor, irony and more than a touch of sass for the post modern woman.

With a return to her recording career also comes a surprise return to television for the former actress. Austin has just finished shooting a docu-series for Sundance Channel called "Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys" which could potentially shake up the traditionally conservative country music town of Nashville. The critically acclaimed show, now in its second season, celebrates and explores the relationships between straight women and their gay best friend and features Austin and her close friend and collaborator Shane Stevens; writer of the Lady Antebellum #1 hit song "American Honey". "This series definitely pushes some boundaries" says Austin with a grin, "and we just might loosen up the buckle of the Bible belt before we're done".

The show premiers November 18^th on Sundance Channel, coinciding with the release of CIRCUS GIRL on her own Circus Girl Records November 15th. "It feels great to be singing, writing and being on camera again, doing all the things I love to do. I'm also enjoying the freedom of the new indie business model that has allowed me to take control of my career again. The music business has changed a lot in the last few years, but so have I. I guess what doesn't kill ya' makes ya' stronger. I know I was born to do this and I feel like I'm just getting started".

Kelly Clarkson Turns the Tables ("What Doesn't Kill You" Review!)

2011-10-05T10:30:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that Kelly Clarkson doesn't like people leaking her music. This time, she has decided to turn the tables and leak a track herself! She posted a link to a new song from Stronger with a message saying she wanted fans to hear the real thing. The track is called "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)".

The song is fast paced and full of energy and I am very excited for the album after hearing these two tracks. Its dance beat mixes in an interesting way with Kelly's rough, rock-influenced vocals. I think the chorus is my favorite part of the whole song, extremely catchy...

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps feeling lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone

I'm also really glad to see that the lyrics so far look to be really solid and interesting. So what do you all think? Are you excited about this new project? Liking her old material better so far? Comment back and let's talk about it. Til next time...

Farewell to The Simpsons?

2011-10-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

If you haven’t heard, yesterday it was announced that The Simpsons is in danger of cancellation after over two decades on the air. The reason? Money issues. FOX says that the show can’t keep going under the current financial model and wants the actors to take a big pay cut. The actors are reportedly open to a smaller cut, but want a share of the profits in return. Check out the full story on yahoo.

I have to say that while I guess an almost 50 percent cut in pay is a bit high, I have a hard time feeling sorry for them when that would still be more than 4 million dollars a year, and this isn’t the first time they have almost caused a shut down over money. It’s also hard to feel sorry for FOX when they have such a bad track record for treating shows properly and I’m sure the CEOs are not taking cuts.

There really is no clear-cut side to take here, but I hope for the sake of the fans all parties are at the very least able to come together and make whatever sacrifices are needed to at least give to give The Simpsons a proper final season if a long-tern deal can’t be reached. The show has been a pop culture icon for so long and is one of a few shows that kept FOX from going the way of UPN and the WB early on. The series (and the fans) deserved that much respect. What do you all think? Have you picked a side? Don’t care? Comment back and let’s talk about it.

Levi Lowrey Tour Through the Grapevine

2011-10-04T11:53:00.001-04:00

Got this info and wanted to pass it along to everyone who is a fan of Levi. There is also an embed link to the song "No Dreaming Kind".

LEVI LOWREY ANNOUNCES NATIONAL TOUR IN SUPPORT OF DEBUT ALBUM, I CONFESS I WAS A FOOL

"In addition to pouring a melting pot's-worth of musical influences into his songwriting, he's an unusually colorful lyricist as well; presenting affecting and genuine stories in each of his songs... a fine debut which should mark him as a rising artist to watch." ~ Yahoo! Our Country

"This is pop-country as it should be and Levi Lowrey is no sell-out. Quality songwriting about regret and redemption, from a man unfettered by, but still steeped in tradition."

~ Pop Matters

"Succeeds with a satisfying balance of rugged, honest material and stirring delivery that stays just this side of too smooth." ~ Stomp and Stammer

"His style is a mix of the elements he is inspired by, lyrical genius and old southern eloquence. Playing fiddle since he was young, you can hear bits of bluegrass and country in his music tinged with stinging morsels of soul." ~ Country Music Pride

Levi Lowrey brings his years of experience from playing in bands and performing onstage and embarks on a national tour this fall in support of his debut album, I Confess I Was A Fool. After breaking out this year on his own as a singer/songwriter, Levi will be performing songs from his debut, which has received glowing praise and resonates with anyone who loves top-notch songwriting and keen musicianship. Word of his prodigious blend of talents continues to spread, and his live audiences continue to grow.

Levi Lowrey may be a guitar-toting troubadour today, but he began as a fiddle player, playing in the school orchestra, at bluegrass festivals, and in weekly jam sessions in his hometown of Dacula, Ga. As a high schooler he joined a band and Problem Thomas was the venue where Lowrey became comfortable onstage and grew into his role as a songwriter. As the band ran its course, Levi also led worship at his church. It's this core which now remains Lowrey's touring ensemble -- the Community House Band.

Levi began "writing stuff that was more derived from my roots and how I grew up, how I learned how to play," he recounts. "It's not North Georgia string band music; I wouldn't call it bluegrass. I don't think I'd even call it country, but it has all of those elements within it, it's just a melting pot of my influences." It's that honesty, and the skill with which it's conveyed, that sets Lowrey apart both as a performer and songwriter.

As Lowrey matured as a songwriter, his gifts were employed increasingly by others. He along with Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette, and Zac Brown Band member Coy Bowles wrote "Colder Weather" which became Zac Brown Band's seventh consecutive #1 single. Levi Lowrey has toured as a headliner and opened for notable artists including his label mates and the Zac Brown Band on the "Breaking Southern Ground Tour."

For additional information on Levi Lowrey and a complete listing of tour dates, please visit LeviLowrey.com.

Levi Lowrey Tour Dates

Mon. 10/3 - Orlando, FL - Plaza Theatre (w/ Joshua James)
Tue. 10/4 - Jacksonville, FL - Jack Rabbit's (w/ Joshua James)
Thu. 10/6 - Raleigh, NC - The Pour House (w/ Joshua James)
Sat. 10/8 - Richmond, VA - The Camel (w/ Joshua James)
Mon. 10/10 - Charlottesville, VA - The Southern (w/ Joshua James)
Wed. 10/12 - Boston, MA - Cafe 939 (w/ Joshua James)
Thu. 10/13 - New York, NY - The Living Room (w/ Joshua James)
Fri. 10/14 - Vienna, VA - Jammin Java (w/ Joshua James)
Sun. 10/16 - Philadelphia, PA - Tin Angel (w/ Joshua James)
Tue. 10/18 - North Hampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall
Wed. 10/19 - Pittsburgh, PA - Club Cafe Live (w/ Joshua James)
Fri. 10/21 - Charleston, SC - Blackbaud Stadium
Sat. 10/22 - Indianapolis, IN - Radio Radio (w/ Joshua James)
Sun. 10/23 - Ann Arbor, MI - The Blind Pig (w/ Joshua James)
Tue. 10/25 - Chicago, IL - Schuba's (w/ Joshua James)
Wed. 10/26 - Milwaukee, WI - Shank Hall (w/ Joshua James)
Thu. 10/27 - Madison, WI - The Frequency Hall (w/ Joshua James)
Sat. 10/29 - Minneapolis, MN - Fine Line Music Cafe
Mon. 10/31 - Omaha, NE - The Waiting Room (w/ Joshua James)
Wed. 11/2 - Denver, CO - Soiled Dove (w/ Joshua James)
Thu. 11/3 - Aspen, CO - The Belly-Up (w/ Joshua James)
Fri. 11/4 - Salt Lake City, UT - State Room (w/ Joshua James)
Sun. 11/6 - Seattle, WA - Nectar Lounge (w/ Joshua James)
Thu. 11/10 - San Francisco, CA - Hotel Utah (w/ Joshua James)
Fri. 11/11 - Santa Barbara, CA - Soho (w/ Joshua James)
Sun. 11/13 - Los Angeles, CA - The Troubador (w/ Joshua James)
Sun. 11/20 - White River Junction, VT - Tupelo Music Hall
Mon. 11/21 - Londonberry, NH - Tupelo Music Hall

Wed. 11/23 - Fall River, MA - Narrows Center for Arts
Fri. 12/9 - Burlington, VT - Higher Ground
Sat. 12/10 - Boston, MA - Brighton Music Hall
Sun. 12/11 - Portland, ME - Port City Music Hall
Wed. 12/14 - Hoboken, NJ - Maxwells
Fri. 12/16 - Brooklyn, NY - Bell House
Sat. 12/17 - Buffalo, NY - Mohawk Place
Sun. 12/18 - Cleveland, OH - HOB Cambridge Room
Tue. 12/20 - Pittsburgh, PA - Alter Bar

Buy Levi Lowrey, I Confess I Was A Fool on iTunes & Amazon

Official Site | Southern Ground Artists | Myspace | Facebook | YouTube

No Good Dreaming Kind by 'stache media

Desperate Housewives, The Final Season- Ep 2

2011-10-03T13:21:00.001-04:00

So, we are two episodes into the final season of Desperate Housewives and I'm here to fill you in on the action in case you missed any of it! As usualy, I'm gonna go house by house...

Let's get the slightly annoying out of the way first- Susan. This weel she is on a mission to get herself into trouble because of her feelings of guilt over the big cover-up. It starts innocently enough, with Susan accidently stealing a case of soda from the grocery store. One of the security guards is going to let her off the hook, but Susan insists she must be made to pay for the soda immediately and seems glad to be punished. She spends the rest of the episode hogging free samples, smoking in a "no smoking" zone and other minor things. She eventually pulls into a "no parking" area and waits for a cop to see and come give her a ticket. When he is about to let her off with a warning, she knocks his bike over and gets hauled in. She calls Carlos to come get her and they bond a bit.

The Scavos spend most of this episode arguing over how to handle the kids in the midst of their seperation. The typical good parent/bad parent thing that isn't so unusual in their home. Lynette, in her usual scheming way, tries to get Tom to be the one to say no and ends up allowing their teenaage son to go to a party full of booze and other bad things. This, of course, does nothing to improve things between the two. You wonder if Lynette will ever learn...

Gabby and Carlos are having issues of their own their own this week. His continuing guilt over the death of Gabby's stepfather has had an effect on him in the bedroom. To try and spice things up, Gabby hires a stripper to teach her some pole and lap dancing skills. Nothing she tries works, though. Looks like Gabby is going to have to accept that Carlos needs to work through things in his own way and own time.

Finally, Bree spends most of the episode obsessing over the note she received and keeping it from the others. She goes to visit Paul Young in prison to ask him who knew about the original note sent to Mary Alice back in Season 1. After her visit she finally tells Gabby about the note. Gabby realizes it is far too dangerous for Bree to dating someone in Law Enforcement and convinces Bree she needs to break up with him. Bree agrees and goes home planning to do that... unti she gets a call from Paul telling her that Chuck was made aware of Mary Alice's note after Paul turned himself in.

So there you have it Desperate Housewives, Season 8 Episode 2, in a nutshell! Did you enjoy the episode? Hate it? Are you indifferent at this point? Comment back and let's talk about it! In the meantime, here's a little promo for next week....

Weird Al's Alpocalypse Tour

2011-10-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

Weird Al has a new album out and a concert special to go with it! His Alpocalypse tour special is a fun journey through some of Al's hits as well as new material. The show opens with one of his trademark Polka medleys featuring some really fun choices. Poker Face (Lady Gaga), So What (Pink) and Need You Now (Lady Antebellum) were among the songs that got the Polka treatment. As amusing as Al's polka medleys are, he really shines when he's doing spoofs.

One of my favorites was his take on Taylor Swift's "You Belong with Me" called "TMZ". The spoof is all about how celebrities are unable to get away with any embarrassing behavior now because the papparazzi will be there to document the whole thing. He seems to be poking fun at both sides of the situation by talking about how the papparazzi are creepy and follow people around praying to catch some meltdown on film. Another highlight of the show was "Party in the CIA", his take on a Miley Cyrus hit. He sings about "staging a coup like yeah brainwashing moles like yeah" and how "we got our black ops all over the world from Kazakhstan to Bombay". He came onstage for this one dressed up in a suit and tie, looking like a secret service agent.

I can't talk about this special without mentioning another favorite that almost didn't make the record amidst a bunch of confusion over whether Lady Gaga was going to approve the song: "Perform This Way". If you haven't seen it yet, check out the video below:

I especially love the Madonna look-alike jumping out and referencing "Express Yourself".

He also throws some old hits into the mix like "Amish Paradise", "White and Nerdy" and "Fat". He wears crazy outfits like a peacock suit and has his music videos and animated sequences playing in the background to add to the show. He sounds pretty good and his band nails all the songs. Watching him perform really drives home how talented Weird Al and his band is- the guy writes some great lyrics and they nail every note. For more information and to get your own copy of the DVD, check out his official website.

Del McCoury "Old Memories" Through the Grapevine

2011-10-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

Got this info and wanted to share it with everyone.....

THE DEL McCOURY BAND RELEASES OLD MEMORIES

Legendary band records 16 tracks in tribute to Bill Monroe, "The Father of Bluegrass Music"

Vinyl + Digital Download also available.

Del McCoury is a bluegrass legend, and with Old Memories: The Songs of Bill Monroe, available digitally through McCoury Music today, Del and his band pay tribute to another bluegrass legend. September 13th would have marked Bill Monroe's 100th birthday, and although there have been plenty of tributes to the Father of Bluegrass Music, this album is particularly special due to Del's apprenticeship with Monroe. He served a life-changing year with Monroe's Blue Grass Boys from 1963-1964.

"Old Memories: The Songs of Bill Monroe": Listen to the album now

Behind The Scenes/"Making Of" | Video (approved for posting)

On this sixteen-track set, Del is backed, as always, by his ace Del McCoury Band-son Ronnie on the mandolin, son Rob on the banjo, long-time fiddler Jason Carter and veteran Alan Bartram on bass. Whether they're staples of the bluegrass repertoire or resurrected rarities, what each song has in common is an incomparable authenticity, bestowed in equal measure by Del McCoury's personal connection to Monroe and his music, and by his unalloyed musical integrity. And in the end, that makes Old Memories: The Songs Of Bill Monroe not just the tribute to Bill Monroe that it's intended to be, but a tribute, too, to the newest member of the Bluegrass Hall of Fame-Del McCoury.

Old Memories: The Songs of Bill Monroe track listing:

1. Watermelon on the Vine

2. Live and Let Live

3. Lonesome Truck Driver's Blues

4. Brakeman's Blues
5. Close By
6. In Despair
7. Girl in the Blue Velvet Band
8. John Henry
9. I'm Blue I'm Lonesome
10. Used to Be
11. Alabama Waltz
12. Lonesome Road Blues
13. Heavy Traffic Ahead
14. Train 45 (Heading South)
15. My Rose of Old Kentucky
16. Ya'll Come

Del McCoury Online: Website | Facebook

Old Memories: The Songs of Bill Monroe: Digital Download | LP + Digital Download*

*Digital download available immediately. LP available October 25th.

Video Musings- Thoughts on Lady A, Ringer and CP Bialois' Call of Poseidon

2011-09-30T21:10:00.001-04:00

I promised a new video blog and here it is :) Enjoy and don't forget to comment back with your own thoughts on these topics! :)

Desperate Housewives Premiere

2011-09-29T21:03:00.000-04:00

Still working on getting a video blog done in between blogging and helping with a book release, so look out for it soon. In the meantime, it's been a busy day here. I'm helping my husband CP Bialois with the release of his book, Call of Poseidon. Should be up on Smashwords tomorrow and available tomorrow or shortly there after as a print version on Amazon. More info to come tomorrow. In the meantime... let's talk Housewives! I'll go ahead and give you the scoop on everyone family by (SPOILERS ahead)

The Scavos If you were following me before you know I am not a huge fan of them or their usual storylines. I am, however, enjoying what's up so far. If you need a little catch up, last season Tom and Lynette started having some issues based on the fact that Tom is a big shot exec now and Lynette is not enjoying being sent off to hang out with the wives while Tom and the guys talk shop. Things came to a head when Lynette pulled an embarrassing stunt at a conference and they began talking seperation. Since the break, Lynette has been finding every excuse possible not to tell the kids. Tom has been rushing back into the house every morning to pretend things are fine and he is not happy about it. It looked like they might actually work things out for a minute there when Lynette runs to Tom in weak moment, but the seperation is still on. Tom eventually realized that Lynette was just clinging to him out of fear and decided to tell the kids they were getting a divorce.

The Solises Carlos is experiencing massive guilt over having killed Gabby's step father. Gabby tries over and over to remind him that he was only protecting her but it doesn't work. She finally enlists a priest to help, but it doesn't work. Ricardo and Gabby have really come a long way over the course on this series. The scene where Gabby tells Carlos how he saved her was very sweet and moving.

Bree She is still dating the cop from last season and is the one who came up with the idea to bury Gabby's step father without telling anyone. She insists that Gabby and Carlos need their help and they have to stick together. Bree is really persuasive and has some classic moments in this episode. My favorite is when they run into Bree's cop boyfriend while trying to get rid of the Stepfather's car. He's driving them and Bree is trying to figure out how to get out of this when the cop gets out of the car a minute. Luckily, at that exact moment a car jacker comes up and orders Bree to leave the car. Delighted, she informs the guy that she could kiss him and he better hurry and get out of here with the car, as the guy standing down the street is a cop. The carjacker freaks and is about to take off when Bree lectures him to "follow through with what he's started". He does so and Bree and Gabby are saved. She just pretends that the "aunt" the car belongs to just happened to walk by and take it home.

Susan is perhaps having the worst time with the whole situation. The guilt is practically eating her up inside and she has a minor freak out at the school she's subbing in when she has to help the kids bury a dead class hamster. She considers telling Mike about the incident many times over the course of the episode, but is finally convinced it's best not to bring him into it. There's actually a really funny Juanita moment in the episode where Juanita reminds Susan that burying a pet usually involves digging a hole.

The episode ends with Bree receiving a note just like the one Mary Alice got in the premiere episode. There's also a new neighbor in town that Renee tries to hook up with. Unfortunately for her, he's not into it. Overall, it was a very well acted episode with several classic lines that have come to define the show and it's characters over the past eight years. What do you think? Comment back and let me know! I'll leave you with a little taste of next week's episode:

30 Day Song Challenge Hits the Road

2011-09-28T17:33:00.000-04:00

Today's topic for the 30 Day song Challenge asks "What's your favorite driving song?" This is an easy one. I chose SheDaisy's " I'm Taking the Wheel". It's a perfect song for heading out on a road trip. They're vocals are always great and the song is full of energy that will keep you going through a long drive. Enjoy! And don't forget to comment back with your own favorite....

Music Review: LeAnn Rimes, Lady and Gentlemen

2011-09-27T19:21:00.003-04:00

LeAnn Rimes released her 13th album today, titled Lady and Gentlemen. It's a covers record with a little bit of a twist: almost every song on the record was originally done by a man. LeAnn covered them with a female point of view. The only exceptions are a new version of her debut single "Blue" and two brand new songs.

This is mostly a departure from the sound most music fans know her by. Instead of the pop/rock influences of some of her biggest hits, she goes for a more traditional sound. This is especially obvious with her new version of "Blue". It manages to one up the original arrangement that people thought was too traditional to work on radio. The most interesting part is listening to the vocals and realizing that there is very little difference between the two. Her voice has stayed very consistant over the years while gaining a little bit of strength. Rather than go into every track on the album, I'll highlight a few of the best ones:

Swingin' I love this one. It's a fast paced track that you'll want to add to your workout routine. I actually prefer this to the original because of the quicker pace. I think it works a little better with the words.

16 Tons LeAnn didn't stray too far from the original arrangement here. It's got a very bluesy/jazz sound that I love. The only change I see is they added some very prominent horns and possibly slowed it down just a little. You can just picture this being played in a club in the 40s.

When I Call Your Name LeAnn said she was told by Vince Gill (the original artist as well as a producer on this record) to make it her own. He didn't want her to do it exactly as he did. They decided to go for an old 70s soul kind of sound that I think works very well.

Through the record, LeAnn's vocals are, for the most part, very toned down and I think she's done a good job of enunciating in this record (a complaint I've seen over the years from many a fan). I can't finish this review, however, without mentioning the other new song: "Crazy Women". Now this is the LeAnn I am used to. Lots of attitude, some big vocals and a more rock/pop sound. Overall, I think anyone who is a fan of LeAnn (or just good country) will like this one.

Kelly Clarkson Mr. Know it All Video Released

2011-09-26T16:05:00.000-04:00

Well, it's out! Kelly Clarkson has released her new music video for the single, "Mr. Know it All":

So what's the verdict? Comment below and let's talk about it....

Superheroes of Science Blogfest

2011-09-26T15:11:00.001-04:00

Hello again! I'm gonna get to Desperate Housewives' premiere soon, but today I'm really excited to be particpating in my first blog fest! The blogfest is being hosted by ClaudieA and I hope y'all will take the time to check out the other great blogs that are participating in this. It will be going on until the 30th. For anyone who hasn't seen this, all the bloggers participating were given several prompts they could use to write their post. Here is the one I chose:

Who is the most memorable scientist character to you? What's so special about him?

Really, there was only one answer I could give as a kid growing up in the 80s: Doc Brown. For anyone who may not know, he is the scientist from the Back to the Future films and played by Christopher Lloyd. Oddly enough, Lloyd wasn't the first choice, according to Wikipedia. The character was originally going to be played by John Lithgow. I'm personally glad that Lloyd ended up taking over the part... who else could pull it off like he did?

So what's so special about this character? His child-like enthusiasm for his craft, for one. His excitement when he manages to get something working right is infectious and entertaining to watch. Secondly, his absent-minded, naive nature. Yes, it's kind of annoying (not to mention potentially dangerous!) if he were a real person you had to deal with. As a character, however, you can't get enough of it!

I think one of the most interesting things about Doc Brown is that he ends up growing up over the course of the films and the experiences he has with the time machine. He actually starts to realize that there are possible dangerous consequences to his invention and actually feels regret over having made the machine to start with. He ends up getting some adult perspective about the whole thing and does the best he can with what he has to fix things. So who is your favorite scientist character? Comment back and let's talk about it! And once again, be sure to check out the other blogs participating in Superheroes of Science to see what prompts they used and what they have to say! Take care and see ya soon....

LeAnn Rimes and Jason Sturgeon Through the Grapevine

2011-09-23T13:19:00.000-04:00

Looking for some new music to listen to? I got this in my inbox and thought you'd be interested to check it out.... Speaking of new music, be sure to check LeAnn Rimes' official website. She's going to be having a 48-hour listening party for Lady and Gentlemen up in a couple of days you can sign up for via e-mail. She's also hosting some cool contests as well.

Jason Staurgeon Keeps it REAL with "The Cover"

Nashville, TN (Sept. 22, 2011) --Toolpusher recording artist Jason Sturgeon prides himself in “keeping it real.” On his current single “The Cover,” Jason shares a behind the scenes look into his life and himself.

The story behind the song is a real one. Several years ago Jason was in the process of moving from one home to another when he came across the Bible that his mother had given him when he was a teenager. Tucked inside it were childhood photos that took Jason down memory lane and gave him the idea for this homespun, autobiographical song.

The singer/songwriter takes great pride in the fact that his music is real. He draws his songwriting ideas and subject matter from real life experiences, so what better way to shoot the music video than taking the crew home to Petersburg, Indiana to shoot the footage?

The scenery is that of any small town, “hom town” landscape that we can all relate to.

“I was born and raised in this small town in Indiana. I grew up on a working farm. When things broke, we fixed them. And I still do that to this day. I’ve got grease under my fingernails right now from working on the engine of my tour bus. It’s just how I was raised,” comments Jason. “I really wanted the song to reflect my life and what you see is not always what you get. I might be a little rough around the edges and I might like to drink Jäger and play music in bars, but when it gets right down to it, I’m really just my mama’s small town boy inside,” comments Jason.

To quote the song, he’s “…the pages, not the cover, if you could look inside you’d see.”

Shot by awarding winning director, Flick Wilshire, “The Cover” world premieres on Yallwire today!! Check it out at www.yallwire.com!

It can also been seen on www.jasonsturgeonmusic.com and other video outlets and web sites soon!

Two and a Half Men and 90210: When Backstage Drama Makes it Onscreen

2011-09-22T17:35:00.000-04:00

Now to be fair, I am going to preface this with a little disclaimer: I have not watched Two and a Half Men and only know what I read in multiple news articles that I couldn't help but check out after seeing the headlines. Here is one of those articles.

After reading it, I can't help but agree that it does sound as though the PTB decided to let some of their (admittedly justified) feelings to spill over into the writing of the show. I feel like if that is allowed to happen, it cheapens the writing and does a disservice to fans. I can't help but be reminded of the original recipe 90210 and the way the Brenda character was handled in her last two seasons.

In seasons 3 and 4, it seemed as though the writers were going out of their way to make Brenda as hated by everyone as possible (or ignored), forgetting that it isn't really true to the characters. Take, for example the Summer of Deception and the Brenda/Dylan breakup. Now, I am not saying that Brenda was the perfect clean angel in the whole situation. Still, Brenda never really let it go beyond a little flirting and maybe one brief kiss (she actually stood the guy up and chose to go home to Dylan rather than actually follow through on running off with Rick). Dylan, meanwhile, couldn't stop hitting on Kelly (Brenda's best friend) and kissing her. They even slept together during that summer. Who was worse? So why did everyone seem to think Brenda should completely get over it? Not even her own twin brother seems to be angry at the guy who cheated on his sister. He even makes a joke about them setting up a time share arrangement. Then there is this very odd scene where Dylan is being needlessly cruel while breaking the news.
Let's not forget the college years and the play incident. Most of the group was more than willing to believe that Brenda slept with a director for a part despite the fact Brenda had never even come close to doing something like that before. Steve was the worst, when you consider he was taking the word of a girl he barely knew who was competing with Brenda for a part. A girl who had once accused him of date rape no less. I think that, again, writers and producers have every right to be angry with an actor who was behaving badly on and off the set. Still.... don't let this shape how the characters relate to each other. Or how they treat a character once they're gone. It's unprofessional.

What do you all think? Comment back and let's talk about it!

REM is no more....

2011-09-22T16:01:00.000-04:00

It's the end of an era for a lot of fans out there. REM has announced that they are disbanding after 30 years of making music together. I guess it's both surprising news and not surprising. You figure they survived this long together they'd pretty much keep going til they literally can't anymore. Still, after several decades you can easily see them deciding they've done all they can do and going their seperate ways. I was more of a casual myself (actually Losing My Religion and Stand drove me nuts back when they first came out and later grew on me) but here is one I always liked:

So what about you? Were you a big fan or a casual one? What was your favorite song and what do you think about the end of the band? Comment back and let's talk about it...

Cool Stuff Through the Grapevine.....

2011-09-22T11:29:00.000-04:00

Got this in my inbox and had to share. Apparently, Trace Adkins' band teamed up with Jason Crabb to help a woman in need.... (Julie's the one in the middle with the pink shirt. Jason is next to her on the left and her husband is on her right)

Monday night September 19, GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING vocalist JASON CRABB enlisted the help of TRACE ADKINS' Band to help out a Gallatin, TN woman named JULIE CLINE. Julie was diagnosed recently with Encephalitis, a brain infection. She went to bed one night and woke up the next morning extremely sick. Medical costs are mounting and since Jason Crabb is a friend of the family, he teamed with his brother Adam Crabb and decided to hold a benefit concert. Trace Adkins band volunteered their time to make the concert extra special!

Over $10,000 was raised during the benefit concert held at Station Camp High School in Gallatin, TN. Donations may be made to any Fifth Third Bank under the name Julie Cline.

So, How did Trace Adkins band find out about Jason Crabb and know his songs?

Several months ago, Jason met the members of the band and they told him how they listened to his CD all the time on the bus, and that if he EVER needed them for anything they would love to play for him. They told Jason they were big "Jason Crabb Fans!" So Jason gave his band the night off and invited Trace's band to play with him. The band volunteered their time to give back to the community.

ABOUT JASON CRABB
Jason Crabb is known as one of the most respected and diverse vocalists in Christian music. His soulful, heartfelt vocals have made him a critics’ pick and a fan favorite on stages ranging from “The Grand Ole Opry” and the Brooklyn Tabernacle to the Gaither Homecoming arena platforms. With a string of number one hits and chart-topping singles, a tour schedule of over 200 dates annually, ongoing tv appearances, a book on the shelves and a new live DVD/CD, THE SONG LIVES ON, releasing October 18, this vocal powerhouse’s talent is topped only by his genuine personality and concern for others.

Heather Hildenbrand Strikes again....

2011-09-21T11:47:00.000-04:00

You may remember that I hosted a post from Heather a little bit back where she revealed the cover to her book, Dirty Blood. Well, she's got a new one coming out called Cold Blood and is giving a copy away. Check out the details below...

Wood Point Academy is not at all what I expected. For one thing, it looks like a cross between military school and Buckingham Palace. Everyone stares, the floors shine so bright you can see your reflection in them from a mile away, and no one smiles. Unless they're kicking your butt in the process. Which happens more often than not for the freshman. Lucky for them, my presence has just stolen the spotlight, and they get a break from the daily joys of hazing.

At least I've got plenty to take my mind off the fact that my psycho cousin, Miles De'Luca, keeps calling and declaring his love and promising to come for me just as soon as he's destroyed anyone standing in our way. Wes isn't going to like that idea.

So between Miles, Wood Point's evil welcoming commitee, and the drill sergeant hottie trainer from hell, I just keep asking myself, how did I end up here?

Cold Blood, Book 2 in the Dirty Blood series, is due out Fall 2011. If you haven't already read Dirty Blood, you can download it for your Kindle for just .99!

In honor of the cover reveal, Heather is hosting a giveaway on her blog, where you can enter to win a signed PAPERBACK of Dirty Blood, fresh off the press with its own new cover art. The winner of this giveaway will be receiving the very FIRST paperback with the new cover art! Second prize is a set of bookmarks, one with a special wolf charm, and the other signed by Heather.

To enter, visit Heather's site at www.heatherhildenbrand.blogspot.com

Beware Carrie Underwood? or Line, Please

2011-09-20T14:12:00.003-04:00

Yes, the boot has announced that Carrie has been listed as one of the most dangerous celebrities by an anti-virus company. They say don't worry too much, though. Her position on the list isn't that high. The article does fill you in on what celebrities you might wanna watch out for, though. It also shares some of Carrie's thoughts on social networking and technology.

Found something else while browsing TheBoot. It's a listing of the 8 worst lyric flubs. They include Will.I.Am checking his cell for his own lyrics and several mess ups on "The Star Spangled Banner". Apparently, the Anthem is pretty tricky stuff....

I'm really surprised at their choice for Jessica Simpson, considering the "9 to 5" performance that got so much attention, but I guess they didn't wanna go for the obvious choice. Kudos to that! Of all the flubs listed here, though, this is my personal favorite....

The randomness of those ad libs (his and the girl who flubbed it after him) is great. They kept going and that's what counts right? So what do you think of these? Are there other flubs out there you would have picked instead? Comment back and let me know! Til next time.

Aston Shepherd

2011-09-19T19:02:00.000-04:00

Found this in my inbox just now and wanted to share for any Ashton Shepherd fans out there:

Alexz Johnson: Voodoo Vs. Reloaded

2011-09-19T11:42:00.000-04:00

So, it's been awhile since I mentioned doing this but had a hard time getting my thoughts in order with this one. Anyway.... here is my take on Voodoo and Reloaded. Let me know which is your favorite! Feel free to share your favorite songs, too! Voodoo was an amazing record and one that I think most pop stars here would not even attempt to make. The lyrics are quirky, it sounds different than a lot of the songs out there and I think that's what made it great. It was a simple record where the production wasn't clearly geared towards hiding the singer's voice (or lack thereof). Instead it highlighted it.

I have to say my favorite off Voodoo is "LA Made Me". It's a midtempo song with kind of funky sound Alexz and Brendan wrote after dealing with losing another record deal. It's basically a commentary on the current state of the industry. "Trip Around the World" is another really great one that I could not get enough of when the album came out. It's a song that talks about taking some time out to relax and just have some fun. I love the lyrics and the positive message in them... not to mention the very quirky instrumentation. I can't help wanted to dance every time it comes on. Another great one was "Taker". I think it's a very haunting song and beautiful song. The lyrics are all about a person who is totally self destructive. She doesn't really want to hurt this guy but it's like she can't help herself. She's a taker and begging for another chance, while admitting she's probably not going to change. I also love "Mr Jones" which was originally called "The Affair". I guess you can tell what the song is about. It's a very moody, mysterious sounding song. Finally... I really have to mention "Look at those Eyes", which is going to be her next video. It's the most haunting song off the entire album and it's perfect for when you need to hear something that's a little sad to help you get out those emotions.

Now... Reloaded. When I first heard some of the previews I really enjoyed them. However, I do think that some of these songs really suffered from in the remix. "Taker" is one of the best examples I can think of as far as that goes. I don't know why the demolition crew decided to add those chants and military-like drum beats, but it's completely distracting. I also really don't like how they made "Superstition" so peppy with a dance sound. I think it ruins the mood of the entire song. But I have to say it wasn't all bad. I loved the "Voodoo" remix. I think the new version is more cheery sounding and fits the words and mood of the song so much better. "LA Made Me" was a fun remix, too and I think it worked overall. "Boogie Love" also worked better to me as the remix. I think the disco sound the demolition crew gave it fits the song more than the original instrumentation.