SPONTANEOUS HUMAN THOUGHT

Osheaga 2012 Predictions

2012-02-15T20:22:00.003-05:00

I've compiled a list of predictions for the Osheaga music festival taking place on August 3rd-5th in Montréal. There are no rumors circulating the internet as of yet, so I decided to start a few of my own. I mostly just thought it would be fun to see how closely my list will resemble the official lineup. Please do not put much value in this list, as it was created simply to pass time and has little merit. The lists biggest flaw is that many of the band websites do not list any tour dates past spring or early summer, therefore I had no way to verify scheduling conflicts. None of the acts listed here have been rumored or confirmed to be playing at Osheaga this year.

The following is a list of the criteria I used to base my guesses:

Acts from Canada
Acts from Montreal
Acts who've played the Osheaga festival in the past
Acts playing other festivals this year (namely Coachella, Bonnaroo and Sasquatch)
Acts currently promoting new album releases
Acts actively touring
Acts who are reuniting
Acts heavily hyped and promoted by the media

Please visit http://www.osheaga.com/ for official details and announcements. The lineup is usually announced at the end of March.

http://consequenceofsound.net/festivaloutlook is an excellent site for festival rumors, so be sure to check it out as well.

New Albums You Should Hear (In Addition To Lana Del Rey's Born to Die)

2012-01-26T21:53:00.000-05:00

As many of you may already know if you follow my various social network incarnations, I am absolutely obsessed with Lana Del Rey. My fascination began as a profound appreciation for her music from the first time hearing "Video Games" roughly a year ago, then, upon seeing her photographs and music videos for the first time, developed into a full blown celebrity crush. Since then, and especially post her SNL appearance, I have dedicated many long hours defending Lana Del Rey's musicianship, a task which has become nearly impossible faced with a hungry pack of angry Del Rey haters.

Without this turning into a lengthy Del Rey rant, I now present you with 9 more new albums in no particular order that merit your attention, besides the obvious inclusion of "Born To Die".

Chairlift - Something (8/10)
An unexpected set of synthpop laden arrangements that garners the act new found resonance and marks a huge departure from their mild breakout hit, “Bruises”.

Cloud Nothings - Attack On Memory (8/10)
Post-punk revival that demands the attention of and appeases ears grown tired of cathartic music.

First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar (8/10)
Proof that the young duo has perfected their art to become a very important presence in modern folk.

Grimes - Visions (7/10)
While this blend of R&B/Electro via loops & pulsating rhythms excels, occasionally a stronger vocal would add weight.

Kathleen Edwards - Voyageur (7/10)
An effective and pleasant alt-country release by Canadian singer/songwriter, given an able assist by producer, Bon Iver.

Perfume Genius - Put Your Back N 2 It (9/10)
Melancholic and lethargic musings of tragedy, loneliness and heartache. A slow burning gem of the rarest kind.

Porcelain Raft - Strange Weekend (9/10)
Melodic soundscapes of relentless pop hooks buried beneath lush walls of noise. Don’t let this one slip by.

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour - Out Of Frequency (8/10)
Lively 60s throwback rife with B52s inspiration and a joyous energy that's simply irresistible.

The Maccabees – Given To The Wild (7/10)
Profoundly well composed songs executed with technical digress and a perfect opener for a massive venue.

Dizzle Beatz - Drink N Blaze (Featuring J. Charles)

2012-01-11T13:30:00.000-05:00

Here's yet another shameless plug for my favourite hometown rap artist. Please take a few minutes to give it a listen and if you like it, share with friends. More music and information can be found at

Anticipated Early 2012 Music Releases

2011-12-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

Kathleen Edwards - Voyageur (January 17th)

Cloud Nothings - Attack on Memory (January 24th)

Lana Del Rey - Born to Die (January 31st)

Air - Soundtrack for Le Voyage Dans La Lune (February 7th)

School of Seven Bells - Ghostory (February 28th)

the Magnetic Fields - Love at the Bottom of the Sea (March 6th)

Dizzle Beatz - Smoke Sessions Album Teaser

2011-12-15T23:17:00.002-05:00

Here's a song sampler for local artist, Dizzle Beatz, new LP "Smoke Sessions". The album will be released digitally on December 20th and will be available for purchase at their new website found at www.dizzlebeatz.com. I'm a big fan and responsible for the cover art.

My Favourite Albums of 2011

2011-12-15T12:37:00.001-05:00

The following are my favourite albums of 2011. This year proved to be a very difficult year to select my final 10. I was torn between creative merit and albums that I gave heavy play to. There weren't as many automatic top tier choices for me this year, and a hell of a lot of amazing front runners. I've had to eliminate some great albums, and have chosen to include some that, personally, for whatever reasons they may be, kept me coming back for more. This year I've included track highlights for each album which indicate my three favourite songs from each individual album.

#1. The Weeknd - House of Balloons

The Weeknd - House of Balloons (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#2. PJ Harvey - Let England Shake

PJ Harvey - Let England Shake (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#3. St. Vincent - Strange Mercy

St. Vincent - Strange Mercy (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#4. Adele - 21

#5. Bon Iver - Bon Iver

Bon Iver - Bon Iver (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#6. Cults - Cults

Cults - Cults (Track Hightlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#7. Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost

Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#8. Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes

Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#9. Smith Westerns - Smith Westerns

Smith Westerns - Dye it Blonde (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

#10. Wu Lyf - Go Tell Fire to the Mountain

WU LYF - Go Tell Fire to the Mountain (Track Highlights) by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

Runners Up

Yuck - Self-Titled
Frank Ocean - Nostalgia/Ultra
SBTRKT - Self-Titled
Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
the Horrors - Skying
the War on Drugs - Slave Ambient
Wye Oak - Civilian
Real Estate - Days
Dum Dum Girls - Only in Dreams
Florence + the Machine - Ceremonials

My Favourite New Albums - 4th Quarter of 2011

2011-12-12T14:04:00.000-05:00


the Black Keys - El Camino

The Roots - Undun

Florence + the Machine - Ceremonials

Drake - Take Care


A$AP ROCKY - LIVE LOVE A$AP

Highly Recommended Runners Up:

Atlas Sound - Parrallax
Blouse - Blouse
Childish Gambino - Camp
Feist - Metals
Justice - Audio, Video, Disco
M83 - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
Modeselektor - Monkeytown
Real Estate - Days
Rustie - Glass Swords
Zola Jesus - Conatus

Favourite Music Videos of 2011

2011-12-08T22:30:00.001-05:00

As the popularity of the viral video grows, the chances you've seen some or all of these videos at some point this year has increased with it. Despite this, I've compiled a collection of the official music videos that most appealed to my senses these past twelve months. In more than a few cases I was tempted to include fan videos, as it has become quite obvious that the lines between official and fan videos have been blurring significantly. In any case, I hope you enjoy these powerful and imaginative clips as much as I have!

#1. Tyler, the Creator - Yonkers (Directed by Wolf Haley)

#2. St. Vincent - Cruel (Directed by Terri Timely)

#3. Youth Lagoon - Montana (Directed by Tyler T. Williams)

#4. Battles - My Machines (Directed by DANIELS)

#5. Woodkid - Iron (Directed by Yoann Lemoine)

#6. Is Tropical - The Greeks (Directed by MEGAFORCE)

#7. SBTRKT - Wildfire (Directed by Sam Pilling)

#8. Gotye - Somebody That I Used to Know (Directed by Natasha Pincus)

#9. the Black Keys - Lonely Boy (Directed by Jesse Dylan)

#10. Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math (Directed by DANIELS)

#11. No Age - Fever Dreaming (Directed by Patrick Daughters)

#12. tUnE-yArDs - Bizness (Directed by Mimi Cave)

#13. M83 - Midnight City (Directed by Fleur & Manu)

#14. Lykke Li - Sadness is a Blessing (Directed by Tarik Saleh)

Best Coast - Our Deal from sssnake on Vimeo.

#15. Best Coast - Our Deal (Directed by Drew Barrymore)

#16. Skrillex - First of the Year (Equinox) (Directed by Tony "Truand" Datis)

#17. Bon Iver - Holocene (Directed by NABIL)

#18. Modeselektor - Shipwreck (Directed by Tony "Truand" Datis)

#19. Cults - Go Outside (Directed by Isaiah Seret)

#20. Fleet Foxes - the Shrine/An Argument (Directed by Sean Pecknold)

Favourite Songs of 2011

2011-12-07T10:06:00.001-05:00

Today I happily share with you my favourite songs of 2011. This year I went with a very organic process of selection, choosing the most memorable and meaningful songs for me on a personal level. For those of you close to me, or those who read my blog, follow me on twitter or on fb, most of these song selections will not be a surprise. This year I've also made a point of not reading any other '11 publication lists. I'm quite curious to see how many websites and magazines are in agreement with me. I hope you enjoy the songs you may not have heard and enjoy revisiting those you love (or skipping those you hate). I can proudly say this is one of the most comprehensive songs lists I've compiled, and if you're musical tastes are at all similar to mine, I'm sure you will agree. I really appreciate feedback and would love to hear from you. It seems that many of you are hesitant to comment on items I share, but don't be. I am not judgmental and sincerely appreciate any opinions you may have. It would be great to see some of your own lists!

Please visit my blog periodically over the next couple of weeks as I will be sharing other year end lists (Music Videos, Albums, TV and Films). Streams Courtesy of Grooveshark

Kurt Vile - Jesus Fever
PJ Harvey - the Words That Maketh Murder
Gotye (Feat. Kimbra) - Somebody That I Used To Know
Lana Del Rey - Blue Jeans
Blitzen Trapper - Love the Way You Walk Away
Girls - Honey Bunny
Wye Oak - Civilian
Wu Lyf - Spitting Blood
The Weeknd - the Birds Pt. 1
M83 - Midnight City
Niki and the Dove - the Fox
Jay-Z & Kanye West - Why I Love You
Katy B - Broken Record
SBTRKT - Wildfire
College (Feat. Electric Youth) - a Real Hero
Wise Blood - Loud Mouths
Dum Dum Girls - Bedroom Eyes
the Black Keys - Lonely Boy
Frank Ocean - Swim Good
the Horrors - Still Life
Justice - Audio, Video, Disco
Purity Ring - Belispeak
Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross (Feat. Karen O) - Immigrant Song
the-Dream - Body Work & Fuck My Brains Out
the Rapture - How Deep Is Your Love?
War On Drugs - Baby Missiles
Cults - Abducted
Nero - Promises
Future Islands - Before the Bridge
Adele - Rolling in the Deep
Childish Gambino - Bonfire
Austra - Lose It
Lykke Li - Get Some
Phantogram - Don't Move
araabMUZIK - Make It Happen
AWOLNATION - Sail
I Break Horses - Winter Beats
Toro Y Moi - All Alone
Charli XCX - Stay Away
Spank Rock (Feat. Santigold) - Car Song
Oh Land - White Nights
Drake - Headlines
Braid - Peach Wedding
Yelle - Safari Disco Club
Basement Jaxx Vs. Metropole Orkest - Where's Your Head At?
Battles (Feat. Matias Aguayo) - Ice Cream
Gang Gang Dance - Mindkilla
Yuck - Sunday
Foster the People - Helena Beat
Real Estate - Out of Tune

Favourite Songs of 2011 by Adam Rolland on Grooveshark

Fat Tracks! Volume Six - 12 Great Newish Tracks For Your Streaming Pleasure

2011-10-17T10:23:00.002-04:00

Streams courtesy of Grooveshark, Bios courtesy of Allmusic.

Justice - Newlands
Parisian dance production duo comprised of Gaspard Augé and Xavier de Rosnay.
AWOLNATION - Sail
A solo project of Aaron Bruno, AWOLNATION began as a creative outlet for the songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.
Miles Kane - Come Closer
An indie pop veteran by his early twenties, singer/songwriter and young Paul McCartney look-alike Miles Kane has played a key role in the late-noughties alternative scene, as both a member of three bands and a solo artist.
The Laurels - Black Cathedral
Spank Rock ft. Santigold - Car Song
Reflecting the party rap atmosphere of Baltimore's club scene, Spank Rock arrived as one of the best things to happen to both underground hip-hop and dirty rap, a pair of styles that rarely intermingle.
Childish Gambino - Bonfire
When he’s not busy writing for television, performing with his sketch group Derrick Comedy or acting on the NBC comedy Community, Donald Glover somehow finds the time to make beats and rap as his alter ego, Childish Gambino.
Terius Nash - Long Gone
R&B singer/songwriter and producer Terius Youngdell Nash, better known as the-Dream, was born in Rockingham, NC.
The Weeknd - Initiation
Allegedly “shrouded in mystery” despite social media presence (with accompanying photos) on Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook, Soundcloud, and YouTube, as well as major support from fellow Torontonian Drake, alternative R&B act the Weeknd -- a solo outlet for vocalist Abel Tesfaye -- surfaced in March 2011 with House of Balloons.
Phantogram - Don't Move
Phantogram is an electronic rock duo from upstate New York whose music incorporates psychedelic pop vocals, J Dilla-style hip-hop beats, and shoegazing sensibility. Founded in 2007 and based in Saratoga Springs, NY, the duo is comprised of longtime friends Josh Carter (guitar, vocals) and Sarah Barthel (keyboards, vocals).
Braids - Peach Wedding
Canadian indie rock/shoegaze ensemble Braids make noisy, somewhat experimental pop that owes a heavy debt to various shoegaze bands of the '90s.
Lana Del Rey - Blue Jeans
Vocalist Lana Del Rey makes atmospheric, orchestral retro-'60s-sounding pop that showcases her torchy image and sensuously husky singing style.
Zola Jesus - Avalanche
Zola Jesus is the project of Madison, Wisconsin’s Nika Roza Danilova, who crafts dark music dominated by her operatic vocals and keyboards.

Plumber's Nightmare - Leaks & Recent Releases

2011-10-14T12:52:00.000-04:00

Feist - Metals (October 3rd)
Bonnie Prince Billy - Wolfroy Goes to Town (October 4th)
Cuff the Duke - Morning Comes (October 4th)
Zola Jesus - Conatus (October 4th)
Dj Shadow - the Less You Know the Better (October 4th)
Andrew Bird - Norman OST (October 11th)
Bjork - Biophilia (October 11th)
Crooked Fingers - Breaks in the Armour (October 11th)
Field - Looping State of Mind (October 11th)
Future Islands - On the Water (October 11th)
High Places - Original Colors (October 11th)
Modeselektor - Monkeytown (October 11th)
Murs - Love + Rockets, Vol. 1: The Transformation (October 11th)
Real Estate - Days (October 17th)
Lana Del Rey - Video Games EP (October 18th)
My Brightest Diamond - All Things Will Unwind (October 18th)
Puscifer - Conditions of My Parole (October 18th)
Deer Tick - Divine Providence (October 25th)
Justice - Audio, Video, Disco (October 25th)
Buraka Som Sistema - Kombo (October 31st)

VIDEODROME - The Best New Music Videos

2011-10-11T12:42:00.000-04:00

Niki & the Dove - the Drummer

the Horrors - I Can See Through You

Ty Seagall - Goodbye Bread

Unknown Mortal Orchestra - Ffunny Ffriends

Zola Jesus - Vessel

Beyonce - Countdown

Classical 2D Animation VS. 3D Computer Generated Animation

2011-10-09T11:01:00.001-04:00

Handrawn character designs of Mickey Mouse.

The evolution of animation is a topic I am very passionate about. Having been an animation enthusiast since infancy and dabbling in illustration myself, I have spent a lot of time with cartoons. I was even fortunate enough to have some formal education in Classical Animation in 2000. I gained a lot of respect for the craft and also learned that Animation is a field that requires both an impeccable attention to detail and an almost godlike patience. For those unfamiliar with animation, there can be up to 30 drawings required per second of cinematic quality animation. That's 1800 drawings in a minute! You must also keep in mind that what makes 1800 drawings even more tedious is that there is only the slightest alteration to each drawing to create the illusion of movement. It is a time consuming process. Animation has always been something very personal for me. When I watch one of my favourite animated films, the nostalgia and my appreciation for the workmanship and imagination that has gone into the picture creates in me a sense of humility, excitement and in essence, a rekindling of childhood sensations.

3D computer generated models from
Pixar's Monsters Inc.

While many of you have noticed that animation has evolved through the years with the advent of computer technology, you may not have noticed that something very sad had come out of this development. As studios began experimenting with computer generated effects in their animated films, they discovered a very affordable, dramatically less time consuming and arguably more effective process to create and animate their characters. With time, studios have begun to rely increasingly more on computer generated animation and as a result, the animation industry has begun to see a tragic decline in the number of Classically Animated films being produced each year.

The spectacular Wall-E.

First and foremost, I am a fan of all forms of Animation from stop-motion to motion-capture. When done properly, I'd even consider myself a huge fan of CG animation. Pixar has proven time and time again that the process works. Their body of films are not only some of the finest examples of Computer Animation but also possess an exceptional quality of storytelling that rivals even some of the best live action features being produced in Hollywood today. I am probably the biggest Pixar buff out there. That being said, it is unfortunate that all studios have adopted Computer Animation as their primary process for creating toons, and often to disastrous results that are nothing more than profitable ticket selling machines. Animation without heart is such an unfortunate example of the craft.

Are Animated films like Tintin too realistic?

Obviously, there is much to be said about Computer Animation from the audience's standpoint. The biggest benefit of the style being that there is a certain level of realism that can be achieved with the process that likely could not be achieved using a hand drawn style. But where can we draw the line? If cartoons become too realistic, than doesn't that contradict the purpose of the genre as a whole? I've always believed that cartoons work best as an exaggeration or distortion of reality as we see it in our daily lives. Why then, would we want animated films to be so realistic that the lines between animation and reality begin to blur? Why not animate every film? why not eliminate the dramatic actor entirely and let them lead their pampered and luxurious lives simply voicing Computer Generated Motion Captured versions of themselves on screen?

Quality Creature Effects in Del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth.

When computers were first utilized for animation, there was a sense that they could bring something unique to the table. They were used to enhance hand drawn worlds utilizing subtle effects. Some filmmakers still employ this method to great results. I feel a melding of Animation styles of this nature is the direction that studios should be taking. Directors like Guillermo Del Toro seem to understand that the best results can be achieved through this fusion. While he does utilize computers for his effects, he also comprehends that Animatronics and makeup effects can introduce a quality of plausibility that just cannot be obtained through straight computer generated effects. The 1999 Warner Bros. Animated Film, the Iron Giant, also employed a combination of both 2D and 3D animation to desirable effects. In it's case, the 3D techniques were employed as a framework for a 2D drawn exterior. I loved the effect. Since then, I've seen it used in a handful of other projects, such as FOX's Futurama, to equally desirable results.

3D films. The film industry's saving grace?

The worst development in film to occur in the past 3-4 years was the revival of the true digital 3D film experience. This serves as an insurance policy to ensure even more Cartoons would be developed in a CG style, as this dramatically simplifies the 3D film transition being that it is already in a digital format. Studios have exploited these 3D films to ensure that people will pack theatres in face of the digital piracy movement. It has worked. As seen recently, even some Classically Animated feature lengths, like the Lion King, re-released to cinemas with a 3D treatment, was rewarded with jaw-dropping success.

The 2009 release, the Princess and the Frog, was a refreshing and surprising gift from Disney studios. At the time, it introduced the possibility of a revival of the Classical Animation genre. In a more recent development, Disney cancelled most if not all of their 2D feature length theatrical projects, stating that the Princess and the Frog just wasn't the success they'd hoped it could be. Obviously the numbers just can't compare. CG is much cheaper to produce and can garner the same ticket sales as a Classically Animated feature. Given the state of the film industry and the current economy, it only makes sense that a studio would want to produce cheaper and still make a profit.

A memorable scene from Miyazaki's Ponyo.

Fortunately for me, there remains one last filmmaker creating Classically Animated feature length film of the highest quality. Director Hayao Miyazaki, founder of Studio Ghibli, has been making beautiful animated films since the 70s. While he does employ some computer processes in his newer films (Princess Mononoke, Howl's Floating Castle, Ponyo, ETC.) it is only for some slight effects work and only used in moderation. His films remain to this day, definitive examples of Classical Animation.

Cell Animation is not the only form of artistry that has experienced a growing emphasis on computer technology in the past two decades. Creature effects, which at one point were developed using animatronics, puppetry and blue screens, have also been almost entirely replaced by Digital Technology. Actors now shoot their scenes alone and creatures are edited in during post production. I can't help feeling that something is lost in this process. Films from Henson studios, such as Labyrinth, where the cast was able to interact with physical embodiments of supernatural and mystical allies and foes was nothing short of magical. While CG effects in live film have definitely improved over the years, I still can't help feeling that there is something missing in these hollow, soulless creations. With no actor in a suit to bring them to life, they will always be in my opinion, creature effects of lesser worth.

A fusion of puppetry, animatronics and CG effects from
Where the Wild Things Are.

A recent film of note that made an attempt to revive Animatronics and Puppetry was the Spike Jonze directed Where the Wild Things Are. The film was as visually appealing as it was a heartfelt adaptation of the classic children's picture book. Alas, the film had a confusing and disappointing reception both critically and from audiences. Fortunately, the Muppets are about to be revived, and I have my fingers crossed that may achieve success.

There is an inherit sensation I experience when I watch a Classically Animated film. The quality of the movement, of the color pallets, of the intense labor that has gone into the production, is something that just cannot be replicated using computers. I am very saddened that, with the exception of the few classically animated series being produced for television, that 95% of the feature length cartoons that hit the box office are 100% Computer Generated. I miss the cartoons of my childhood.

Miyazaki and Ghibli may be the last hope
for Classical Animation.

On the bright side, despite the fact that we aren't likely to see many more Classically Animated feature length films, I can find solace knowing that, thanks to studios like Walt Disney and Studio Ghibli, there is an enchanting and impressive collection of films that I can visit time and time again. Films that will live on for decades.

Classical Animation is the most powerful and captivating example of Artistic Creation and I can only hope that enthusiasts, such as myself, will ensure it's legacy will be appreciated for decades to come.

The Greatest Classically Animated Films of All-Time (That I've Seen)

Akira
Aladdin
Alice in Wonderland
All Dogs Goto Heaven
Bambi
Beauty and the Beast
Castle in the Sky
Cinderella
Dumbo
Ghost in the Shell
Grave of Fireflies
Howl's Moving Castle
Kiki's Delivery Service
Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland
Metropolis
My Neighbor Totoro
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Ninja Scroll
Perfect Blue
Persepolis
Peter Pan
Pinnochio
Ponyo
Princess Mononoke
Robin Hood
Sleeping Beauty
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Spirited Away
the Iron Giant
The Jungle Book
The Land Before Time
The Last Unicorn
the Lion King
The Little Mermaid
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
The Princess and the Frog
the Secret of Kells
The Secret of NIMH
The Sword in the Stone
The Triplettes of Belleville
Tokyo Godfathers

Best Animated Feature Length Films (PERFECT 10)

2011-10-07T18:33:00.000-04:00

PERFECT 10 is a new SPONTANEOUS HUMAN THOUGHT feature comprised of lists of ten items reviewed in ten words.

The following films are, in my opinion, the 10 best animated feature length films of all-time.

#1 - SPIRITED AWAY (2001)

An enchanting and colorful exploration of youth and human imagination.

#2 - WALL-E (2008)

Poignant and moving film that breathes life into lifeless characters.

#3 - AKIRA (1988)

A violent cyber-punk post-apocalyptic nightmare that’s both visionary and groundbreaking.

#4 - THE IRON GIANT (1999)

Timeless tale of friendship and acceptance with an important message.

#5 - TOY STORY (1995)

Cutting-edge, side-splitting and highly creative story that broke the mold.

#6 - MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (1998)

Heartwarming and irresistibly adorable characters you’ll just have to love.

#7 - THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (1993)

Unlikely combination of themes and genres that’s stylish and satirical.

#8 - GRAVE OF FIREFLIES (1998)

Tragic tale of innocence lost and the bond between siblings.

#9 - THE LION KING (1994)

Visceral and powerful film full of worldly music and culture.

#10 - MARY AND MAX (2009)

A humorous, mature and heartfelt story of unlikely international friends.

American Horror Story - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-06T09:05:00.000-04:00

(8/10)

Premise: American Horror Story follows the Harmon family, Ben (Dylan McDermott), Vivien (Connie Britton) and Violet (Taissa Farmiga), who move from Boston to Los Angeles after Vivien has a miscarriage and Ben has an affair with one of his students. The family moves to a decrepit mansion, unaware that the once noble home is haunted. Ben and Vivien try to rekindle their relationship while Violet suffers from depression.

There is a lot to be said about FX's new series, American Horror Story. I will attempt to dissect the series in this brief review, but like this cathartic episode, I am not confident that my ideas and opinions will be presented as clearly and logically as I'd like. To be honest, there is a lot to digest. I have a sneaking suspicion the series opener will require a second viewing.

The first episode is a very well assembled and an impressive pilot. We are quickly introduced to all the characters, who appear to be quite likable, yet slightly flawed. Then we are introduced to a cast of more supernatural beings. Who are definitely flawed, and might I add, creepy as hell.

The series is aptly titled, as the general premise of the series is a veritable culmination of popular American Horror films, all brought together to create something fantastically unique. Like all the best horror themed material, this one dabbles in all genres. It's as dark as it is satirical and humorous. Besides the obvious supernatural drama, we quickly learn that there is a lot of tension between our characters on a more personal level. I get the impression the house's various spirits will serve as a metaphor for the Harmon's relationships. This is a concept I very much like.

The visuals are absolutely to die for, the music is helpful in setting the tone, and all of the performances are of the highest quality you'd expect from an FX series.

I can also confirm that the pilot is quite eerie. It successfully fuses many dark themes touching on sexuality, infantile death, s&m and of course murder. There were quite a number of sequences that were unsettling and quite disturbing. The show utilizes both shock value and psychological terror to frighten.

I would not be hesitant to categorize this series alongside some of my other favorite cult series, such as Twin Peaks, Supernatural, True Blood, the Walking Dead, the X-Files and Carnivale, who's fans will assuredly find something of appeal here.

As would be expected, the series is very much so, over the top. It does play to stereotypes, similar to it's creator's other projects Glee and Nip/Tuck. This is as simultaneously annoying as it is effective. Like Glee, I feel the show may eventually succumb to repetition and mediocrity, but I'm sure that, for at least one season, American Horror Story will be one of the most entertaining series on television. I am very relieved the series is on FX. This both allows for the graphic nature this show will require to excel, and will also ensure it finds a less mainstream audience. It likely would have been short lived on the NBC/ABC/CBS' of the world.

There is nothing else on TV like American Horror Story. I dare you to not have fun.

My Favorite New Albums - 3rd Quarter of 2011

2011-10-05T13:46:00.000-04:00

St. Vincent - Strange Mercy

Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost

Dum Dum Girls - Only in Dreams

the Horrors - Skying

War on Drugs - Slave Ambient

Highly Recommended Runners Up:

Active Child's You Are All I See
aarabMUZIK's Electronic Dream
Beirut's the Rip Tide
Blitzen Trapper's American Goldwing
Bombay Bicycle Club's a Different Kind of Fix
the Cool Kid's When Fish Ride Bicycles
Cymbals Eat Guitar's Lenses Alien
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr's It's a Corporate World
the Drum's Portamento
Eleanor Friedberger's Last Summer
Ganglian's Still Living
Grouplove's Never Trust a Happy Song
I Break Horses' Hearts
Ladytron's Gravity the Seducer
Lindsey Buckingham's Seeds We Sow
Little Dragon's Ritual Union
Male Bonding's Endless Now
Memory Tape's Player Piano
Mister Heavenly's Out of Love
Neon Indian's Era Extrana
Nero's Welcome Reality
the Rapture's in the Grace of Your Love
Terius Nash's 1977
Washed Out's Within Without
the Weeknd's Thursday
Wilco's the Whole Love
Wild Flag's Self-Titled
Wiseblood's These Wings
Youth Lagoon's the Year of Hibernation

The Wolf Man (1941) - Shocktober '11 Reviews

2011-10-04T18:35:00.000-04:00

(6.5/10)

Premise: A practical man returns to his homeland, is attacked by a creature of folklore, and infected with a horrific disease his disciplined mind tells him can not possibly exist.

Tagline: His hideous howl a dirge of death!

Without once again going on about my shtick about having difficulties engaging myself with most black and white classic films, I'll simply state that the Wolf Man is a very functional and effective monster movie.

It's interesting to see how the Wolf Man creature was introduced in early cinema, and to compare it with how it is depicted today. The effects are quite well done for the time, and Chaney serves up a good performance as the Wolf Man.

The Wolf Man is an important film for horror enthusiasts, completests and film buffs.

Grave Encounters (2011) - Shocktober '11 Reviews

2011-10-04T17:06:00.001-04:00

(5.5/10)

Premise: Lance Preston and the crew of "Grave Encounters", a ghost-hunting reality television show, are shooting an episode inside the abandoned Collingwood Psychiatric Hospital, where unexplained phenomena has been reported for years.

Tagline: They were searching for proof... they found it

The first half of Grave Encounters is absolutely atrocious. The setup for the film is ridiculous. I'm not just referring to the shooting of a mock ghost hunter type show in an old asylum, but more the manner in which the characters are introduced and how they interact 'off camera'. There was just something off putting about the whole thing. My biggest qualm was with the acting. I had no idea it was possible to act like you aren't acting, this badly.

Things do improve as the film proceeds and it is rendered tolerable. Most of it's merits can be accredited to the makeshift special effects, which I'm sure were achieved on a very limited budget. They are effective to a certain extent, and only border on silly in a couple of instants. There are some legitimate startling moments throughout Grave Encounters. Unfortunately when everything is said and done, Grave Encounters did little for me. I likely wouldn't recommend it, unless you're a fan of found footage type films, or a massive reality ghost hunter enthusiast.

Homeland - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-03T11:02:00.001-04:00

(8.5/10)

Premise: Based on the Israeli version of "Prisoners of War." A U.S. soldier who was thought to have been killed in Iraq over 10 years ago who is now being questioned as to whether he is a member of a sleeper cell sent to cause a terrorist attack. Claire Danes stars in this Showtime pilot as a CIA agent with bipolar disorder who comes to suspect that an Afghanistan war hero who has returned home after years as a POW might be part of a terrorist plot. Expect a psychological thriller with a strong focus on character development.

There's something undeniably appealing about a flawed protagonist. Shows that explore these types of grey characters are evidently some of television's best. Shows like Breaking Bad, Dexter, Weeds and Mad Men are among some of my favorite series. The exploration of morality, of wrong and right, good and bad, has become a formula which has proven successful since the Sopranos first established the template for shows of this nature in the late 90s. Perhaps the appeal of these characters lies in our ability to relate to the characters, in that we can recognize that we're all flawed, but our deep rooted desire to be in essence good abounds.

Showtime's new series, Homeland, starring Claire Danes and Damian Lewis, was among the shortlist of shows I most anticipated this fall. After viewing the pilot, I can confidently state that it is, by far, the best of the new series I've viewed. Working on many levels, Homeland will be a series rampant with character development and thought provoking subject matter. While terrorism seems to be a topic that has been touched upon often in recent years, you'll discover that Homeland's treatment is very unique. The series' meticulous pacing will serve to build suspense and tension. Claire Danes shines and will be an absolutely stunning lead, while Lewis, who I'm not very familiar with, seems to be a very understated actor, who I'd say has been perfectly cast in this complex role. I am very excited about this show!

Homeland is the first must-see pilot of the season.

We Are What We Are (2010) - Shocktober '11 Reviews

2011-10-02T13:21:00.000-04:00

(6.5/10)

Premise: When the patriarch of the family passes away, the teenage children must take responsibility for the family chores: the preparation of the rituals, the hunting and putting the all-important meat on the table. These newfound responsibilities are even more daunting, however, when you live in the city and happen to be a family of cannibals.

Tagline: Young. Wild. Hungry.

An interesting thought crossed my mind while watching Jorge Michel Grau's Spanish horror, We Are What We Are. I was immediately struck by the degree to which American film and television has sensationalized and impassioned Vampires, and even to some extent, serial murderers (as is the case with Showtime's popular Dexter). This film essentially features a group of not unattractive young characters, hunting and luring innocent people into their home, with the hopes of killing them and in this case, devouring them alive. When a vampire or serial killer commits a similar act in most popular American examples, it's the mysterious, dark and sexual allure of that sinister antagonist that keeps us engaged as an audience. Grau makes no attempt at sensationalizing his cannibals. Instead, he uses empathy to grab hold of and maintain our attention. We are lead to feel sorry for his characters, and to begin to feel that their murderous tendencies are a way of life and necessary to their survival. A lifestyle forced upon them by their upbringing and ultimately, by their parents. These children are, depending how you see it, victims of their surroundings.

The performances are very believable, and the film has a unique way of getting under your skin. I did however question some of the characters motives. For example, the mother's decision of how to proceed when dealing with a prostitute's corpse seemed inconsistent with her demands to conceal her family's true nature earlier on in the film.

The violence and gore remains subtle for the first half of the film, and only in it's last quarter are we treated to one particularly explicit scene. Which I must say, was very well executed, but not as over the top as some other recent films of the same genre.

We Are What We Are is a well made, thoughtful horror, that is, at least by horror standards, quite tasteful.

Free Agents - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-02T12:10:00.001-04:00

(6.5/10)

Premise: Alex is recently divorced, and Helen lost her fiance a year ago. They are not ready to date but end up in bed together, and they work together! They decide to stay friends and help each other find their way towards love again.

Unfortunately, Free Agents seems destined to become "the one that got away" this season. Despite a great cast, strong writing out of the gate and a lot of funny stuff, I fear that it may already be too late for this show. Simply put, Agents is quite humorous and the characters are very likable. Both Azaria and Hahn steal the show, but the series is even stronger because of it's witty supporting cast. I'm going to blame the network for missing the boat on this one. I feel, of NBC's new series, this one has had the least promotion and buzz. I'll be sad if the series is cancelled prematurely, but it seems unlikely that it will sneak by, being three episodes into the game already. I feel there is a lot of potential here, and that Free Agents is probably one of the few watchable comedies this season.

Suburgatory - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-01T15:38:00.000-04:00

(5/10)

Premise: Writer Emily Kapnek, for the Parks and Recreation and Hung, is working on a new single-camera comedy project that features the perception of a typical suburban life through the eyes of a seasoned New Yorker.

Despite it's reuniting of HBO alumni (Curb Your Enthusiam's Cheryl Hines, Entourage's Rex Lee and Six Feet Under's Jeremy Sisto), Suburgatory is clearly this season's series that doesn't know what it wants to be. Screaming echoes of Desperate Housewives, a series that has, in my opinion, outstayed it's welcome, and combining that with every single dad sitcom ever devised, Suburgatory falls flat with almost every joke. Serving up little else but being a vehicle that proves that even the strongest of casts does not guarantee tv success. Forced to choose, I'd say it's obvious this one should head straight for the chopping block, condemned to the fiery hell's of television's justly cancelled shows.

the Secret Circle - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-01T15:17:00.000-04:00

(7.5/10)

Premise: The Secret Circle is based on a book trilogy by the author L.J. Smith (the Vampire Diaries); which, follows a normal teenager, Cassie Blake, who moves to a new town of Chance Harbor and discovers she is a witch and is part of a secret coven.

Without hesitation, and only a few minutes into the series, the Secret Circle was added to my blossoming roster of guilty pleasures. While the format of the show, from it's tone, to it's music and cinematography, is overused by both the CW and ABC Family, this type of series provides an effortless escape from the emotionally and conceptially complex premises of good TV (75% of HBO's series). With the exception of the last couple seasons of True Blood, it's been a while since dramatic television has visited witchcraft (Not since Charmed if my TV knowledge is correct.). It's a refreshing change from the Vampires and Werewolves we've had shoved in our faces for the last few years. There is a large enough cast to introduce many sub plots and the CW has also dropped hints how the series could be used in a crossover with their other popular supernatural high school series, the Vampire Diaries. Crossovers make the nerd in me very excited (ie. the Buffy/Angel crossovers of yore). While the show will certainly not change your life, I'm confident that if you keep an open mind, sit back and relax, that you'll find yourself as engaged with this series as any other teen drama currently on television.

Terra Nova - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-01T14:55:00.001-04:00

(6/10)

Premise: FOX Broadcasting has teamed with Steven Spielberg Peter Chernin, Brannon Braga, René Echevarria and Aaron Kaplan to bring a new series, Terra Nova. In the year 2149, the planet Earth is a disaster, and most of the plant and animal life has become extinct. Scientists can't reverse the damage, but have found a way to travel back to prehistoric times to save the human race.

I wanted to like Terra Nova. There is a serious lack of decent science fiction on television, aside from SyFy fare. There's an even bigger shortage of Dinosaur related series and having Spielberg in the mix should have been it's fail safe. Everything considered, Terra Nova should have worked.

The writing is strong and ambitious, and all of the cast serve their purpose. The biggest problem, as I'd anticipated, is with the show's CG generated dinosaur effects. The creatures are atrocious at best, even compared to those of Jurassic Park, which was released a decade ago. Obviously, a television budget is nothing compared to that of a big blockbuster film, but you'd think at this point, the improvements to CG effects would have allowed for an improved quality of animation at an affordable cost to television. The terrible dinosaur effects were the deal breaker for me and will make it excruciating for me to return to this series again, despite everything else about the show being essentially tolerable.

Pan Am - My Review (New Fall 2011 Series)

2011-10-01T14:30:00.002-04:00

(7.5/10)

Premise: Set in New York in the 1960s, at the height of the Pan Am Airlines' success, the lifestyles and many secrets of the pilots and flight attendants will be revealed.

Pan Am is a colourful, bubbly, fast paced period piece. The stronger of the handful of Mad Men influenced pilots being unveiled this fall. The cast is beautiful (Ricci, Robbie, Vanasse, Garner) and the series' energy and tone all show great promise. The pilot does a superb job at introducing it's characters quickly and effectively, primarily it's female leads. Pan Am also raises just the right amount of questions to make us yearn for more.

My singular concern with the series is that it's home, NBC, may not allow for the type of gritty and explicit scenes that HBO, Showtime or AMC, might have made possible. Without this, I'm not sure if the series has the ability to really go above and beyond. That's not to say it's impossible, network TV can be fairly racy if it's writers can hit upon the right degree of suggestiveness.