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Pitchfork's Top 50
Sunday, December 31, 2006

Well it has happened again, Pitchfork and I have made our top of for the year and had no shared releases. I almost added Sonic Youth's "Rather Ripped" which made Pitchfork's but cut it out at the last moment. The pretentious indie wankers over at Pitchfork had some good music selected but then there was some I just shook my head over. I have a number of the cds listed and some of them were very good but they didn't impress me enough to include them. If I would have made mine 50 albums then there might have been a few more. I do love poking fun at Pitchfork, if something sells more than 100 copies they trash it. Reading them reminds me that although I am a pretentious indie wanker to my friends, they are still light years ahead of me. Take a moment and see how many releases you have or have heard of below....

http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/article/feature/40007/Staff_List_Top_50_Albums_of_2006/page_1

Posted by mardenhill 12/31/2006 02:26:00 PM 6 comments  

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What's Coming In 2007 (Detroit)
Saturday, December 30, 2006


Here is a sketch of the new MGM Casino that should be finished late 2007. The Riverwalk between Hart Plaza and Belle Isle is close to completion and should be done next year. Upscale condos will be going up along the river starting in the summer. Campus Martius will be expanded and Rock Financial will move people downtown to the Compuware building to see if a downtown headquarters could work. The hotel portion of Motorcity Casino will be completed and work on the Greektown has started. The Cobo expansion may start next year and Metro airport's North Terminal is under construction and planned for a 2008 opening. Driving around town, more restaurants and bars have opened over the last year and the city is still clean after the pre SuperBowl pickup. There are other renovations in the works but most are still in the talking phase. Detroit has turned a corner and I can't wait for some of these projects to finish. Too bad we didn't have the hotels finished for the Superbowl but in 2008 we have the Final Four so there will be plenty of out of towners looking for a place to stay.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2006612290397

Posted by mardenhill 12/30/2006 10:50:00 AM 0 comments  

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Head On A Spike
Friday, December 29, 2006

The Bluetones just released the single "Head On A Spike" and you can find it on eMusic. The single is the same song from the cd and is only ok. Its the Bluetones trying to moderize their sound and ride the post punk wave. The 2nd track "Untitled #6" is an instrumental that sounds like a leftover track from the mid 90s. Its great but too bad its only 2:46 in length, it could really have been something. Track 3 "Surrendered" is an acoustic version and worth the download. Its a beautiful song to start with and the stripped down version gets your toe tapping and head bobbing. Had it been the mid 90s when digital downloads were unheard of, I would have been disappointed spending at least $10 on this. For the price of .75 cents on eMusic, I don't mind and it will be added to my collection.

Posted by mardenhill 12/29/2006 12:08:00 AM 0 comments  

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January 9th, 2007
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Mark you calendars, its time for another Mac Expo where Steve Jobs will give the Keynote address. What does that mean? Well it means that there will be new products hardware/software, updates to talk about. The rumors are flying, it could be a new iPod, a cell phone, a media hub, new laptops etc. As of now nothing is concrete but I will keep you posted with all the latest dirt as it surfaces...

Posted by mardenhill 12/28/2006 11:49:00 PM 1 comments  

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Endangered Species List
Wednesday, December 27, 2006


Polar bears to be listed on Endangered Species list
by Chris in Paris - 12/27/2006 12:27:00 PM

Thanks to legal action by a few environmental groups, the Bush administration is being pushed to accept facts, something which is often a challenge for them.

Northern latitudes are warming twice as rapidly as the rest of the globe, according to a 2004 scientific assessment, and by the end of the century annual ocean temperatures in the Arctic may rise an additional 13 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, researchers predict that summer sea ice, which polar bears use as a platform to hunt for ringed seals, will decline 50 to 100 percent. Just this month, researchers at the National Center for Atmospheric Research outlined a worst-case scenario in which summer sea ice could disappear by 2040.

By submitting the proposal today, the Interior Department is meeting a deadline under a legal settlement with three environmental advocacy groups -- the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council and Greenpeace -- that argue the government has not responded quickly enough to the polar bear's plight. The department has been examining the status of polar bears for more than two years.

NRDC senior attorney Andrew Wetzler, one of the lawyers who filed suit against the administration, welcomed the proposal for listing.

"It's such a loud recognition that global warming is real," Wetzler said. "It is rapidly threatening the polar bear and, in fact, an entire ecosystem with utter destruction."

http://www.americablog.blogspot.com/
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If it takes forcing Bush's hand with animals on the endangered species list to recognize global warming, then its a start and we are making progress. I am a member of the NRDC, its a great environmental group and I have supported them since the mid 90s. The NRDC doesn't stage protests, they take people to court and win. Its the only way you can get things accomplished these days.

Posted by mardenhill 12/27/2006 12:35:00 PM 0 comments  

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Weather & Wine
Tuesday, December 26, 2006


Here are a few more of my xmas presents. I got a very cool Weather Pro Center kit with a rain & wind gauge, display and optional computer connectivity. I setup the wind vane and rain collector outside in the backyard. I am still on the fence with the location of the units since the wind direction may be blocked a bit by my neighbor's shed. The display will give me inside/outside temps, humidity levels, wind direction/speed, wind chill, rain level, absolute barometric pressure and atomic time/date.

My other favorite present was a Riedel decanter and CO2 wine opener. The opener rocks, you stick it down into the cork and hit the C02 cartridge. I first saw these back in Napa and wanted one ever since. Its quick and easy and no broken corks. The Riedel decanter is currently holding a full 750ml bottle and has a glass stopper to keep air out.

Posted by mardenhill 12/26/2006 08:15:00 PM 0 comments  

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Zoo TV
Monday, December 25, 2006

Back in the winter of '91, a number of us were seniors in high school and one of the biggest bands were coming to town. Ticketmaster outlets had a rash of problems with camping out so they switched to the wristband method for the upcoming U2 show. All of us went to every Ticketmaster and got wristbands, they didn't care if you already had one so we had 3-4 each. Anyways, the day tickets went on sale we split up and figured out who had the best chances on getting them.

March 27th, 1992 rolled around and it was time to head to the Palace of Auburn Hills. This was the 1st leg of the Zoo TV tour and the best part. U2 would find their way back to Detroit but it was at the stadium level and seeing shows at the Pontiac Silverdome was not worth it. There were about 8 of us going to the show and due to ticket restrictions and multiple people buying them, we tended to be scattered around the arena. We didn't care tho, it was U2 and the Zoo TV tour. The Pixies opened and played what would be their last tour before breaking up.
U2 came out and blew the roof off the place, everyone was cheering and it was an amazing show. Bono connected with the audience and musically they were perfect. The stage show featured small cars hanging above the stage that moved up and down and video screens at every angle. I got the best concert shirt ever, it was a longsleeve black shirt with 3 symbols on the front. It said Achtung Baby down one sleeve but nowhere on it said U2. Ingenious marketing on their part and to this day one of my fav shirts. This show is in my top 3 concerts of all time and is probably my favorite ever. Achtung Baby is my favorite U2 CDs and what I feel was their best cd ever.
For xmas I got the U2 Zoo TV Live From Sidney DVD, a repackaged and remastered version of the VHS tape that had been around for years. I watched this DVD last night and it reminded me why U2 is one of the best bands ever. I don't listen to them all the time and think the last 2 CDs were a bit boring and contemporary adult but that doesn't mean that U2 sucks. I have racked my brain trying to come up with another band who has been around as long as U2, never broke up, never lost/replaced band members and still make music. I have come to the conclusion that there are no bands left except U2. The baby boomers had the Beatles but Generation X has U2. Take a moment and pull out the Achtung Baby CD, give it a listen and remember what life was like 15 years ago. After listening, buy this DVD and watch it. If you were lucky enough to have seen this tour it will bring back great memories. If not, well at least you can watch them on the TV.

Posted by mardenhill 12/25/2006 03:00:00 PM 0 comments  

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Portrait Of Excess and Greed
Friday, December 22, 2006

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- A federal appeals court on Friday cut in half a $5 billion jury award for punitive damages against Exxon Mobil Corp. in the 1989 Valdez oil spill that smeared black goo across roughly 1,500 miles of Alaskan coastline.

The case, one of the nation's longest-running, non-criminal legal disputes, stems from a 1994 decision by an Anchorage jury to award the punitive damages to 34,000 fishermen and other Alaskans. Their property and livelihoods were harmed when the Valdez oil tanker struck a charted reef, spilled 11 million gallons of crude oil.

In the third quarter of 2006, ExxonMobil reported earning about $10.5 billion in net income, and in the first nine months of 2006, it earned just under $30 billion.

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Remember the Exxon Valdez spill in '89 the one with the drunken captain that decimated the Alaskan coastline and destroyed the livelihoods of many people? Yep that one and since '89 Exxon has held up paying with litigation. From what I have read before, Exxon had put money aside for the settlement and since then has been collecting interest on it. Talk about screwing the American public and making money on a tragedy. Another reason why you should avoid any Exxon Mobil station when filling up your gas tank.

Posted by mardenhill 12/22/2006 01:24:00 PM 0 comments  

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Its Easy Being Green

I have no magazine subscriptions, I get whatever I need from work. I found this one the other day and was impressed. The magazine is called Plenty and is an enviro-rag about issues and eco-living. Its a bimonthly release and on their 13th publication.

Generation X'ers have taken the environmental movement and turned it mainstream. With our disposable income and values, environmental products have moved from hippy hemp pants to affordable and good looking products. You will find articles/reviews on home furnishings, clothing, autos, travel, food etc. I am not a die hard enviro-consumer, some of the products are not what I am looking for or in my price range but I do my best to live lightly. If you are at the bookstore, look for this mag and check it out, I think you will find it very interesting.

Another good resource for eco-living is www.treehugger.com a blog and website devoted to the movement.

http://www.plentymag.com/

Posted by mardenhill 12/22/2006 10:58:00 AM 0 comments  

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Its Champagne Time

Actually everyday can be Champagne time but most people equate the wine with celebrations. With that in mind, I have selected 4 Champagnes/Sparklings for your New Years enjoyment. Before picking up a bottle of Asti or any other cheap carbonated beverage, remember this posting and treat yourself. Champagne can range from bone dry (my favorite) to sweet just look at the label. Blanc de Blancs are exclusively Chardonnay grapes and Blanc de Noirs are either or both Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Some blend all 3 and will not put a designation on the bottle. I won't bother rattling off the high end labels since none of us will drop that kind of cash but I will list some that are in all our our price ranges.

Moet & Chandon White Star: great champagne, dry, blend of all 3 grapes mentioned above and between $30-$40 a bottle. Classic style that is always good.
http://www.moet.com/

Veuve Clicqout: yellow bottle, can't miss it. this is a brut so expect it to be dry and is also a blend of all 3 grapes. Price wise, about $30-$35 a bottle.
http://www.veuve-clicquot.com/

Domaine Chandon: Sparkling from California. you can find both the Brut and Blanc de Noirs for about $12-$16 a bottle. The blanc being a bit sweeter. There is also the Riche which is extra dry for those of you who want a classic.
http://www.chandon.com/

Varicon & Clerc: Chardonny only, somewhat sweet with lots of tiny bubbles. It does not have a profound flavor like other champagnes but it is simple and enjoyable. This is about $13-$15 a bottle.

This is just the tip of the iceberg but its also bottles you can easily find at most stores. Don't think that all Bruts have no flavor, being dry still gives you a clean taste of fruit and greatness. If you decide you want a higher end bottle, google the name and do some research, there is nothing worse than spending $50+ on a bottle of wine that you will end up hating.

Champagne Sweetness


Residual Sugar G/L
Extra Brut (not dosed)0-6
(also called Brut Integral, Brut Nature)
Brut (Dry)3-15
Extra Sec (Off-Dry to Medium Dry)12-20
Sec (Medium-Dry)7-35
Demi-Sec. (Quite Sweet)35-50
Doux (Rich and Sweet)50 plus

Posted by mardenhill 12/22/2006 08:59:00 AM 1 comments  

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31 Is The Magic Number
Wednesday, December 20, 2006


Sitting alongside its Fetish sibling on the Venturi display at the Paris Motor Show is the self powered Venturi Eclectic. Touted as an autonomous energy vehicle, the Eclectic can be powered independently of any natural energy reserves. It’s powered by a small 22hp (16kW), 50Nm electric motor, and is normally charged up by the 2.5 square metres of solar cells on its roof.

Complete charge of the liquid cooled NIMH batteries provides a range of about 50km and allows the car to reach speeds of 50 km/h. Wind power alone can drive the car 15km after a full day of charging. If all else fails, owners can simply plug it into a mains unit at home. The four-seater Eclectic weighs just 350 kilograms and will go into production in June 2007 with a price tag of 24,000 euros. Initially, only 200 units will be made but if they prove popular a cheaper version will be produced starting from 2009.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/car-shows/wind-and-solar-powered-venturi-eclectic/
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Here's the breakdown, this car can run on pure renewables, there is a wind turbine for power generation along with solar panels on the roof. If you are in an area with neither you can always plug the car in. It can get 31 miles on a full charge, reach a speed of 31 mph and cost $31K. This is not a practical car for Michigan, I think the lack of windows and doors would be quite cold in the middle of January. I do think it would be a great summer car, just imagine cruising to work in one of these.

Posted by mardenhill 12/20/2006 08:04:00 PM 1 comments  

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When Republicans Attack
Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Newt writes off Bush, blames Rove for failures, likely will not run in '08

You gotta love when Republicans lose elections they turn on each other. To be honest the Dems are guilty of this but don't wait for an election, they do it all the time. Its a problem for the party, too many ideas and not enough compromise and coalitions. The Repubs are great at being lemmings, one leader says walk this way and the rest of the party will follow suit. We have seen how this strategy only gets individuals in trouble and hence the great Democratic sweep of 2006. If you can't support your president and party, then say so, don't carry the water.
Getting back to the matter at hand, Newt has come out swinging against Karl Rove blaming him for the 06 defeat. Newt is right tho, Rove spent too much time inside Washington and looking at "The Numbers" to really see what was going on. I find myself agreeing with Newt on this one, something I thought I would never do. Rove is up against the wall, he is responsibile for Bush and his terrible numbers and will never work again. His tactics worked in the past but not anymore. It will take a long time for the Republicans to reclaim power, they abused what they had and screwed their chances for global domination. Am I upset, not at all, its been great watching the house of cards come crumbling down.
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Sources close to Mr. Gingrich said that, after having kept silent for more than a year, he has become openly critical of the administration, portraying the president as a weak man akin to Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter. The former House speaker has warned conservatives not to expect anything from the White House over the remaining two years and instead focus on building a base for leadership for 2008.

"Newt bit his tongue for months and now feels he has to tell his base the truth: the White House does not have the will or the power to promote any agenda," a source close to Mr. Gingrich said.

The sources said Mr. Gingrich, who refuses to commit to a presidential bid in 2008, blames White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove for Mr. Bush's mistakes, including the loss of Congress in 2006. They said Mr. Gingrich's criticism of the top Bush political adviser has been considered by the president and this could lead to Mr. Rove's early departure.
http://www.insightmag.com/Media/MediaManager/Gingrich3.htm

Posted by mardenhill 12/19/2006 10:19:00 PM 0 comments  

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1997 Chateau Potensac

1997 was not a good year for Bordeaux's but that doesn't mean all were bad. I had a 375ml bottle of Chateau Potensac from the Medoc region sitting in my basement for the last few years. I have debated about opening it over and over and finally gave in. Knowing that it could be crap wine (ok it won't be crap but not a Lafite Rothschild either) I decided why sit on a dud so I popped the cork. Upon opening, the cork was dark purple in color and when pouring I used a strainer just in case there was any sediment. The wine itself is very dark, a bit rust in color. Its not very fruity in flavor, there is more earth, cedar, black currant and leather coming out. The tannins are not very harsh, being almost 10 years old it has mellowed quite a bit. It does have a long finish that lingers with a bit of alcohol on your tongue. Below is a bit of information on the Chateau and the ratio of grapes.

"The vineyards of Potensac are located in Ordonnac in Médoc. The blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with approximately 40% Merlot and Cabernet Franc combined. Production from just over 120 acres of vineyard amounts to 25000 cases per year."

Posted by mardenhill 12/19/2006 09:35:00 PM 0 comments  

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Mount St. Helens

Looks like Mount St. Helens has started smoking again. Just a few years ago it started back up but went back to sleep. Lets hope this happens again, we don't need another natural disaster within the US. We are still recovering from Katrina and the current leadership in office would no doubt screw this one up also.

On the scientific side, this is fascinating since we are dealing with the "Ring Of Fire" and the possibilities for geological change are great. I just watched a special the other nite on volcanos, the earth's core, plate techtonics, the ocean currents, the merging and breaking up of the continents etc. Erika was bored out of her mind but I loved it.

SCIENCE ROCKS!!!!!!

Posted by mardenhill 12/19/2006 05:34:00 PM 0 comments  

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100 Million DRM Free
Saturday, December 16, 2006

eMusic crosses 100M mark

Thumbs up to eMusic, who've managed to pass the 100 Million download mark (all without DRM!) and congratulations to Michael Brennan, the lucky customer who downloaded that milestone track.

As promised earlier, the Barenaked Ladies will write and record a track all about Michael Brennan, which will then be packaged as a bonus track for the upcoming album, "Barenaked Ladies Are Men." The track will also be available as a free download for a period in January as part of eMusic's celebration.

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Way to go eMusic, I know its not 1 billion downloads that some other stores have reached but its a landmark. I have downloaded a variety of singles and full cds for a total of at least 900 tracks if not more. If I were to buy all the songs at iTunes I would be spending between $850-$900 since full cds are at $9.99 and may have more than 10 tracks. Instead I have spent $268 and have a great selection of music to show for it. I have been a member of eMusic since Sept 2004 and plan on keeping my subscription alive as long as they keep building their catalog.

The winner above receives a lifetime account with eMusic and will be the subject of a Bearnaked Ladies song. The 1st part I would love to have, the 2nd, well not as much.

Posted by mardenhill 12/16/2006 12:09:00 PM 0 comments  

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Hey Man, Pass Me A Grilled Cheese


Ex-Phish Frontman Anastasio Accused of DUI

Former Phish frontman Trey Anastasio was arrested in December 2006 by upstate New York cops for driving while intoxicated and illegal possession of a variety of medications (Xanax, Percocet, and Hydrocodone) prescribed in someone else's name. Anastasio, 42, whose real first name is Ernest, was nabbed by Whitehall police just miles from the Vermont border following a traffic stop. He was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, DWI-drugs, and driving without a license.
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At one time in my life I was a Phish fan. (It was those couple of years in college when the jam scene was going strong and people were looking for something after Jerry's death). I have seen them live and it was a good show but I cannot listen to their music anymore, its boring and does nothing for me. There are a few good bands still in that genre that I can tolerate but for the most part, its all crap. Maybe I have ADD and can't concentrate on songs longer than 5 minutes which would explain a lot.

Anyways, Trey got busted but it doesn't suprise me. This year has been ripe for actors and musicians getting caught while driving under the influence. Maybe its the internet and sites like The Smoking Gun that bring these things to light or more celebrities are just stupid.

If you are looking for about 20 minutes of early 90s fun, pull out Rusted Root's "When I Woke" and listen to the first 4 tracks. It will take you back to a time when things were easy and you had little responsibility. The world wasn't on the brink of chaos and Dubya wasn't president. The 90s were a great time to live, musically it had it ups and downs but for the most part it was a great decade.

Posted by mardenhill 12/16/2006 10:30:00 AM 1 comments  

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Top 20 Of 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006

Instead of the top 15, it became the top 20 since I found more cds that I liked this year. I decided not to rate them in order because it would take me too long to figure out and its a pain to move the artwork around. Below are my favorite releases of the year, feel free to comment and add your own. If I had to pick the best it would be a tie between The Kooks, The Pernice Brothers, The Black Heart Procession and Grant Lee Phillips. Its the first time Ryan Adams hasn't made my lineup in a number of years. I guess releasing 3 cds in one year can hurt your chances.


Grant Lee Phillips - NinteenEighties
Its a cover record but its covers of great 80s songs by bands like The Cure, REM, Echo & The Bunnymen, The Pixies and The Psychedelic Furs. If you had never heard the originals you would be convinced Grant Lee wrote them himself. Grant does a great job at interjecting his style and personality into these songs.


Golden Smog - Another Fine Day
The song "Corvette" is the best part of the cd, it may be my single of year its that good. Classic Alt County mixed with a bit of indie rock. Supergroup of sorts and all the usual suspects are present.


Mike Johnson - Gone Out Of Your Mind
Mike is the 3rd coolest musician (Mark Lanegan being 1st and Grant Lee being 2nd) and his music is dark, brooding and amazing. Mike makes you realize that even if you are at rock bottom, he is always a few steps below which automatically makes you feel better.


The Kooks - Inside In/Inside Out
The UK music scene has been suffering for the last few years with very little good music emerging. The Kooks caught me off guard and I fell in love with it. The Kooks are a perfect blend of jangle pop and attitude. Very little post punk going on which is why I love it.


The Flaming Lips - At War With The Mystics
Not as good as the previous cd but after seeing them live on this tour, it made me appreciate the music more.


Jarvis Cocker - Jarvis
Jarvis is well Jarvis, a quirky man who writes amazing songs that tell a story. He was the lead singer of Pulp, one of the best UK bands of the 90s. This cd is not Pulp and its not thin and weak like most solo releases.


Charlotte Gainsbourgh - 5:55
I like this cd since Air and Jarvis did most of the work on it. Charlotte does a great job with the breathy vocals plus you get to think of it as a new Air cd. Its a great release to have on in the background when you are reading.


Electric Six - Switzerland
Electric Six are a band from Detroit that writes crazy and obnoxious songs with lots of Fire references that makes you dance. This release diversifies their sound and really gets you going. Anyone who can write about Pink Flamingos in a western style gets an "A" in my book.


She Wants Revenge - She Wants Revenge
You can't hate Interpol but you can hate bands that rip off their sound. SWR takes the style but spins a dark synthpop into it making it an excellent late night listen. Its good mindless fun not to be taken seriously.


I Love You But I've Chosen Darkness - Fear Is On Our Side
Interpol influences here but its a bit more lush and they win for the best band name of the year. You have a bit of Shoegazer mixed with pretentious Indie Rock.


Beth Orton - Comfort In Strangers
Beth does great with whatever style she tries. There are no subtle electronic beats here but the organic sound does her well. Beautiful summer record to listen early on the weekends while doing yard work.


Badly Drawn Boy - Born In The UK
Badly Drawn Boy failed with me the last 2 cds but made up for it with this one. The single "Nothings Gonna To Change Your Mind " is my 2nd fav single of the year.


Placebo - Meds
Placebo writes pretty lame lyrics but musically they are very cool. Something about them keeps me listening and I was very impressed with their latest. The sleaze factor is a bit lower on this one but its not innocent either.


Stereolab - Fab Four Suture
Stereolab is one of my favorite bands to see live and they are always pushing the envelope on music. They are not too avant guard where it hurts to listen. They are just right where its a breathe of fresh air when you are bored of whats popular.


Beck - The Information
I wasn't too impressed with Guero, it was a bit 1 dimensional and not up to the level I expect from Beck. The Information blew me away and I find new things to like about it every time I listen.


Kasabian - Empire
One of my favorite bands from the UK right now. With influences like Primal Scream (the late 90s era) and a kicked up sleaze factor, Empire is an amazing listen. Perfect blend of electronic and rock.


Mark Lanegan & Isobel Campbell - Ballad Of The Broken Seas
We have already covered that Mark is the coolest person on the planet so he deserves to be in my top 20. This duet with Isobel starts off as oil and water, gruff vocals mixed with angelic whispers. Its something you don't think goes together but somehow finds the perfect sweet spot for an excellent cd.


The Pernice Brothers - Live A Little
I love this cd, its full of sunshine pop and great indie rock. Its not pop like Elephant 6 releases which get on my nerves but more mature and thought out rhythms. Alt County and Indie Rock have a hidden commonplace and that is what the Pernice Brothers have found.


The Raconteurs - Broken Boy Soldier
You mix Jack White and Brendan Benson and a couple guys from the Greenhornes, you get the Raconteurs. There is no one person who overshadows the others and they have all come together to create a new sound different from their own individual work. Plus they are natives of Detroit so I have to include them.


The Black Heart Procession - The Spell
Who would have thought listening to a dirge mixed with some saloon rumblings would be good music? Well BHP has achieved that somehow and its addicting. Its brooding and melancholy, but also peaceful at the same time.

Posted by mardenhill 12/14/2006 12:27:00 PM 2 comments  

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The Power Of A Dyson


Last week we broke down and bought a Dyson vaccum and I spent the last hour vaccuming everything in sight. I tackled the stairs, walls, corners, vents, rugs, tile and any carpet we have in our house. It has an expandable hose where you can reach up to hit corners and along the baseboards. We have a long hair cat that sheds on everything so the animal model was perfect for us. I know I sound like an infomercial but this thing rocks and everyone should own one. This model is on clearance at Bed Bath & Beyond so you automatically save $50, take those 20% off coupons you get in the mail and save another $100.

http://www.dyson.com/

Posted by mardenhill 12/14/2006 11:21:00 AM 2 comments  

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Victory For The Comic Muse

While going thru releases of 2006 I stumbled across The Divine Comedy's "Victory For The Comic Muse" and although it doesn't make my top 15, it deserves a mention. If you are not familiar with The Divine Comedy, it is the work of Neil Hannon who has recorded 9 records under the name. Neil got his break back in '96 with the song "Something For The Weekend" off of Casanova. Its a bit of Baroque in its sound, lots of drama, orchestra and chamber pop. Neil succeeded with this sound since it was riding the last wave of Brit Pop before its implosion. Since then, Neil released a couple more records, wrote for other people and more or less laid low. In 2006, Neil released "Victory..." and I decided to give it another listen.

I am not a huge fan of this style, it reminds me of musicals and can be too sappy for me. With that bias in mind I decided to try once again to listen. After a few tracks the cd has started to grow on me, it may have strings but its not some Shakespearean score with minstrels dancing and clapping their hands. Ok, the Monty Python from last night is coming out but you get my drift. This cd is part of the "Quiet Revolution" (a term I read in a British music magazine) and is just as good as Damien Rice or James Blunt.

http://www.thedivinecomedy.com/

Posted by mardenhill 12/14/2006 09:23:00 AM 0 comments  

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Spamlot

Last nite Erika and I went and saw Spamalot at the Fisher Theatre in Detroit. For those of you who are not familiar with it, Spamalot is a musical based on the movie "Monty Python and the Holy Grail". Most of the major scenes were adapted for the stage and a few new ones were added. Overall the musical was very good, it was full of British humor which may be lost on some. If you have never seen the movie its like listening to an inside joke since the scenes are quirky and off the wall. There were a number of older people at the show and I wondered how many of them really understood or were just there because they have season tickets to the theatre. Its touring the country so if it ends up in your town, check it out, I don't think you will be disappointed.

This makes 2 musicals in one year for me, Avenue Q and now Spamalot. I am officially tapped out for a while, I can't be too cultured you know. I am already a pretentious wine and music snob, adding broadway to the mix would be too much (expecially since I really don't like musicals).

Posted by mardenhill 12/14/2006 08:55:00 AM 1 comments  

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Grant Lee News
Wednesday, December 13, 2006

"About as soon as I stepped off the road from last summer’s Nineteeneightees tour, I began putting the final touches on a collection of recordings I’ve been working on over the last few years. With the help of drummer, Bill Rieflin, who currently records and tours with REM, the songs were given a healthy dose of fire. The resultant album is entitled STRANGELET and due out on Feb 27th . There’s a broad range of material on the album, including a return to the electric guitar, evident on songs such as Runaway, Soft Asylum, Chain Lightning and So Much. I chose, (well it just kind of turned out that way) to record and play about everything within my reach: guitars, piano, bass, organ, baritone ukulele, etc. "


http://www.grantleephillips.com/news.html
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One of my favorite musicians Grant Lee will have a new cd out next year and I can't wait. From his newsletter it sounds like it will be a bit more rockin than some of his previous releases. I was tooling around iTunes Music Store this morning and came across the "Ashes To Ashes" single and couldn't figure out where it came from. At that time I checked his website and got the goods on the new cd. The iTunes single is a cover of David Bowie but with an orchestra behind him. I will definitely download this song since Grant Lee is the best when it comes to covers. If you are interested in the song you may have to search under Grant-Lee and not Grant Lee. For some reason they have the hyphen in the name for the single and Grant has signed his newsletter the same way. I guess that means a bit of a name change for the lad. Grant's latest cd, NinteenEighties is within my top 3 for cds released in 2006. I am currently compiling my top 15, I can't do 10 since I always end up leaving things out. 20 is too many so 15 it is. I will have this list out before the end of the year, hopefully before the end of the week.

Posted by mardenhill 12/13/2006 08:55:00 AM 0 comments  

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Karly Zin
Tuesday, December 12, 2006


Its that time again, time to check out another Zinfandel from California. This one is from the Karly vineyard in Amador County, CA. This wine is young and has the characteristics of an obnoxious teenager. You have a great bouquet of fresh berries and a sweet and juicy beginning. After the 1st taste the wine turns dark and unleases some heavy tannins. The zin is both succulent and tart with a bit of spice finishing it all off. This wine is young and will no doubt smooth out with age but is also enjoyable at its current state. What most people like about Zin the peppery flavor and the in your face plumpness is all here. It does lack in the finish though but should improve in time. Pricewise you are looking at $13 a bottle which is pretty cheap when it comes to good Zin. As usual you can find this wine at Simply Wine in Birmingham.

http://www.karlywines.com/index.html

Posted by mardenhill 12/12/2006 09:06:00 PM 0 comments  

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TomDelay.Com

Remember the despicable scumbag in the House of Representatives known as "The Hammer"? Well Tom Delay hasn't stayed down for too long, he is back and with a vengeance. Tom has started a blog at http://www.tomdelay.com/ and was hit with a ton of negative comments. And like any other conservative blogger, he brought the site down for a while deleting all the negative ones. Upon return it was miraciously full of positive messages for him to keep up the good work. What makes this so funny is that Tom has admitted that he doesn't write the posts but yet he is a blogger now. He has the ideas and others write for him. Talk about lame, the guy censors his critics and can't even write the postings himself. Its sad that this worthless piece of trash held such a high position in govt but looking at the current president and now minority leaders, I guess its possible for anyone with a pulse to achieve leadership.

While I am on the topic of bashing Tom Delay, yeah its one of my favorite passions, he has entered a new phase of complete absurdity. Tom has now blamed the failure of Iraq on the left and the liberal media. Its not the fault of the current president and his leadership or the fact that not enough troops were sent or a plan to secure the peace was in place. Instead its because the left and the media were never onboard with the war and although they never made any of the decisions they are to blame because they were not good cheerleaders. I don't spend much time watching Fox News but Tom made these statements on Hannity & Colmes. I don't expect much from Colmes when it comes to the opposing viewpoint but he did stand up to Tom for a change. As usual Tom just ignored the reality and pushed his crackpot theories.

I don't mind Tom out there on the cable news circuit because he represents what is wrong with govt and the republican party but I expect shows to call him out when needed. Remember this is the guy who attacked the husband of Terri Shavio, called for judges to be taken out and tried to push the doctrine of the American Taliban down every Americans throat. If Tom wants a fight we on the left will be ready and will win hands down.......

http://movies.crooksandliars.com/HC-Delayblames-L.mov

Posted by mardenhill 12/12/2006 07:52:00 PM 0 comments  

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Editors Remixed


Editors to 'mix' it up
Band release download only remix EP

Editors, who are currently recording their second album in Ireland, have confirmed details of a new EP. Despite their recording duties, the group will release a selection of remixes based on tracks from debut album 'The Back Room'.

The 'Remix EP' is available exclusively to US iTunes users, and features remixes by producer Ghislain Porier (known for his work with Lady Sovereign), Sebastian (The Rapture and Annie), plus DJs Prince Language and P Nice.

The 'Remix EP' contains the following tracks:

'Camera' (Sebastian Remix)
'Munich' (Ghislain Porier Remix)
'All Sparks' (Prince Language Remix)
'Blood' (P Nice Remix)

Meanwhile, further Editors remixes which do not appear on the album by bands including Shy Child, Pase Rock and Rubber Bullets have surfaced around the web. Mixing things up even further, Editors US label FADER and AcidPlanet are giving fans the opportunity to remix the quartet's single 'Bullets'. Would-be mixers should send their submissions to Acidplanet.com by January 9. The best entries will feature on Editorsofficial.com.
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I am a fan of iTunes exclusives but when it comes to remixes I have been burned in the past. Another great band Interpol released an exclusive that turned out to be a waste of time. I love the Editors but they need to get back into the studio and stop messing around with remixes. They are my favorite band for covers as of late but I am hesitant to give them the remix honors. So far the 30 second previews on iTunes are not impressing me and I think I may save my $3.96.

Posted by mardenhill 12/12/2006 04:05:00 PM 0 comments  

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iBuzz The Latest Craze


Apple has now set its legal sites on a British company who has made a "massage" plug in for your ipod. The "messager" pulsates to the beat of your music and soothes your aching muscles. Anyways, Apple is not happy that the iBuzz is using the Silhouette ads made famous for their product and has threatened a lawsuit. Is it a valid charge, I don't know but it does stimulate freedom of speech and patent law. And people think that being a patent lawyer is boring......

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2005520728,00.html

Posted by mardenhill 12/12/2006 10:06:00 AM 1 comments  

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Gwen Stefani Sucks, Thats All There Is To Say
Monday, December 11, 2006



Gewn Stefani performed her new song "Wind It Up" on SNL this past weekend and it was one of the worst performances I have ever witnessed. It rivals Ashley Simpson's lipsyncing which I never thought could be outdone. Gwen's song is a rip off of the stupid Sound of Music and if that wasn't bad enough there is some lame Japanese school girl imagery going on. The official name for that starts with an "H" but I can't remember it. Anyways, Gwen sounds like crap and she officially wasted 3:30 minutes of my life by subjecting me to her so-called artistic ability. I have attached the video, feel free to watch it and judge for yourself.

Posted by mardenhill 12/11/2006 09:42:00 AM 3 comments  

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And I Thought 2007 Was Going To Be A Good Year
Saturday, December 09, 2006

Metallica talk about new album
They have 25 songs

Metallica are considering 25 songs for the follow up to 2003's 'St. Anger'.

The album will be the band's ninth studio effort and they hope to narrow the list of songs down to a single album of material when they begin recording in January with Red Hot Chilli Peppers producer Rick Rubin.

Drummer Lars Ulrich said that the new album's sound would hark back to 1986's 'Master Of Puppets'.

"What I hear sounds very lively, very spunky, got a lot of energy," he explained. "I think that the shows we played over the summer, we were definitely leaner and kind of in better shape than we've been in a long time."

The band rekindled their interest in that sound after playing the classic album in its entirety at several European shows.

"Having to deliver 'Master of Puppets' for three months this summer definitely revitalized some of that stuff in us," Ulrich told The Rock Radio. "It's been kind of fun having that in the back of our mind."
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Oh great, we now have the aging and internet hating geezers digging back into the 80s to try and salvage their sagging career. Give it up Metallica, you blew all the goodwill and somewhat fanbase when you attacked Napster and put out that crap you call "St Anger". I am not interested in a rehash of the 80s metal scene, if I was I would just pull out Megadeth's "Peace Sells...".

Posted by mardenhill 12/09/2006 11:38:00 AM 1 comments  

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Hey Man, Pass The Doritos
Friday, December 08, 2006

For all the white trash/burnout crowd, you now have an official xmas tree. Made from the containers which held the Nectar of the Gods, this tree glows green and bright. You can see pictures on the construction below. I do give the creators credit for their creativity, I just hope they didn't consume all the dew in a short period of time. Mountain Dew is probably the worst pop ever and it reminds me of those days back in highschool when you would go watch a fight at lunch while consuming the dew and a big grab bag of Doritos.

http://www.omwo.com/?p=12432

Posted by mardenhill 12/08/2006 06:53:00 PM 0 comments  

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