Air America - servers overloaded? Mirror site.

An interesting art exhibit, both online and on the street. (Courtesy Brett.)

Bubblewrap!

So congested. Everyone has it.

A very interesting interview with one of my best pals from the WCW days, Kevin Nash. He has a prominent role in "The Punisher", which is released on April 16. Kev's an articulate guy with a great sense of humor, and it comes across in this piece. I wish the best of success for him, a genuine good guy and friend.

You win some, you lose some. Although, the Massachusetts step is not a total loss; I guess it depends how you define your fight. Vermont was considered a victory at the time. (Courtesy Paul.)

At 8 AM this morning, I was released from the Billy Joel Clinic. I had checked myself in earlier this weekend, suffering from both earwig and brain rot. No more Matrix music for me, at least for a while.

A couple of quick hits: Air America debuts on March 31st in NY, SF, LA, and Chicago. Why no streaming audio? Because Prince is using up all available bandwidth in the known universe. I saw this distribution scheme coming years ago. The issue, however, is branding and notoriety. How would consumers know to go to the LoudBomb page, or some other equally obscure site, if there isn't a known catalog of work, or some level of celebrity, to draw people there?

This past weekend was pretty spectacular in the DC area - cherry blossoms! I have a cherry tree in my back yard, and it exploded within 12 hours - as did most of the rest of the city. The temperatures were pleasant, people were out and about, and Spring is definitely here.



Friday morning, headed out on the Bad Boy - first stop, the Apple Store, picked up an awesome new messenger bag. Next, Great Falls Park, spending the afternoon listening to waterfowl and rushing rapids, walking around the locks and bedrock. Back into town, some portable studio and wi-fi time with the Bad Girl in her new travel bag, iced coffee and people watching - peering over the screen, seeing many friends and neighbors preparing to enjoy their weekend break. A late dinner and drinks, a walk through the neighborhood.

Saturday, a so-so workout, not pushing too hard yet, still reeling from this head cold / allergy shuffle. Headed down to Eastern Market, met up with pals, a change of scenery down in Southeast, a pretty happening area. Checked out the other branch of my gym, a nice menu and all that...then back uptown to finish preparing for the night's festivities. And, as expected, another wild time at Blowoff. A hot time was had by all, I don't need to get too specific - but guest appearances by Jimbo, Clickboo, and Sassy Mark made it a blog-tastic time. Or, as Blowoff is now being referred to by some, the new Eagle. Hmmm...what happened to cause that comment? Maybe one of the DJs grew a beard or something?

Sunday, more coffee / brunch / simple living. Lots of outdoor time, working on my Circle tan, another blogger summit, and then back to the house. Rolling around on the floor in my Paul Frank camo nightshirt and Champion sweats, tangled up in wire, howling laughing horny happy, a short putt on the 18th green, sinks it, and at the end of this round, I am firmly perched on top of the leader board.

An interview with Throbbing Gristle. (Courtesy Charles)

Had a fun night last night, the same Thursday night as always, hanging with the guys at Green Lantern. If it weren't for this lousy head cold, I would have continued on to the Eagle (see the past 5 Thursdays for more details), but opted for more sleep.

For some reason, I'm hooked on "Extraordinary" by Liz Phair - a cotton candy cone of a tune swirled up by The Matrix. There's something about the sound of this track coming out of my TiBook speakers that totally works - it's as if it was constructed and mixed to sound good on dime-sized tweeters. Nothing deep, or if there is, it's not important to the first impression. Does this make me a bad person? Probably.

It's already 60 degrees here in DC, and is headed for 75 and sunny. See you Monday.

Meet your soulmate.

Alone from night to night you’ll find me,
Too weak to break the chains that bind me,
I need no shackles to remind me,
I’m just a prisoner of love!

For one command I stand and wait now,
From one who’s master of my fate now,
I can’t escape for it’s too late now,
I’m just a prisoner of love!

It's looking like a great day here in DC - time to enjoy!

Some interesting commentary from Gerald Casale. (Courtesy Paul.)

Check out two new Mission Of Burma songs.

If the first interview wasn't enough, here's another chat'n'chew with Mr. Shields. (Courtesy Philip.)

Here's a group worth checking out and / or supporting.

I sort of passed over last weekend's activities, didn't I? Well, the quick update. My pal Mark stopped by for the weekend; I've been a fan of his writing for some time now, and we've done some road time together in the UK, so we know each other well. A fun Friday night at Annie's and the Eagle. Saturday, out all day in the sun, running into Blogsicle and other pals. Saturday night, Blowoff was a smash - double the normal attendance, the Baltimore bears were in full force (and early, too - I had to run in ahead of them and throw on some tunes - didn't want to be the bad host), the whole night was lots of fun. Tight as hell sets from yours truly, and I even managed to keep my shirt on until 11:45. Quote of the night: "Bob is the Sun, and we are his planets." Uhhh...OK...that's sexy...this weekend, I'm showing up shirtless. Sunday turned nasty ass cold, like 20 degree drops in an hour? Mark did tourist stuff, I did the coffee / gym / coffee drill, then we reconvened for a fine meal at Duplex. A good night of conversation, and Monday noon, back to normal.

I've gotten a few compliments on the LoudBomb mix I posted yesterday. I've got ideas.

Eric Clapton has a new CD available this week (translated by young'uns: weeks ago on Acquisition), a tribute to his musical hero, Robert Johnson. Clapton is making the media rounds, ending up this morning on The Today Show with Matt Lauer. There were two things I found interesting about the segment. One, Lauer's seemingly candid comment as the camera faded: "God, I love my job". Touching, in a TV moment kind of way. The second was Clapton's response to whether young listeners, specifically cited were fans of Outkast and other R&B/hiphop acts, would be able to find his music, and if so, find it interesting. His answer went along the lines of "it's terrible to get curmudgeonly about things as you get older". This started me thinking about that notion, of losing touch, becoming rigid and unable to relate to new ideas.

For me, it's a fun thing to think about. My general flaw, when it comes to appreciating or relating to new music, is a simple one: when I hear something new that is so clearly derivative of something I experienced as new and fresh 25 years ago, I tend to verbalize my perceived connection, and in doing so, date myself. An example would be, oh, something like "I liked Crazy Rhythms the first time around" ; it doesn't mean I think any more or less of The Strokes (remember them?), but the emotions they evoke, due to their sometimes uncanny resemblance in look and feel, are attached to my youth, and to the why and where of that original moment. It's the way we describe things, using comparison and reference, that speaks on our own personal experiences, the things we hold important and lasting.

The upside of this, I suppose, is that the art of storytelling never really changes; we simply repeat the things we hear that resonate, adding our own embellishments, the chinese whisper, the gossip, reverse the last two chords, change "she" to "he", speed it up a little bit. Sample, time stretch, stutter, filter. I think I still get it, most of the time.

Some live music from Kraftwerk this Wednesday. Listen, as a primer for their upcoming North American performances.

My cable was out for 4 days, so I might be the last person to have seen this TV ad. DSL trumps cable in my world.

Attention writers: if you're needing a little inspiration, here's a place to go. You may leave with a fresh new idea, or, more likely, totally humbled and awed. Here's some info on a writer who has always amazed me with his style and mastery.

(ADULT CONTENT) Adore-a-bull! He and his pal make a very handsome couple.

More later. I need to get my pal headed South to his next outpost.

This could be the 2004 summer song. Was conversing yesterday with PJ about it, and he agrees. Just trying to kick start your weekend, wherever you are. It shakes the asses every Saturday night at Blowoff, that's for certain.

And, in case you need your attitude adjusted a little more, try this guy on for size. Or, in a less cerebral sense, this guy - woof.

Gotta go!

Look at this aesthetically pleasing site. Good writing, too.

Here's a not-so-homo fun time in the big City, if you're headed that way for the Black Party this weekend.

Lots of fun feedback on my Wrestlemania synopsis. I feared the post would drive away all the indie rock hipsters, but it actually elicited more mail than anything I've written since "Transformer Part 3". Fantasy bookers abound.

Last night...well, it's the same Thursday night I've been having for weeks. The "Groundhog Day / I Got You Babe" thing in full effect, once again. Blogsicle and buds, gathering around the porta-bar upstairs at the Green Lantern, commiserating on life and love and roller coasters and anticipation and history and not pulling on the loose thread because the whole Sunday suit unravels and you're left exposed like the silly inquisitive child you are. I need to learn some basic sign language, so that I can say "thank you" and "have a good night" to the guy in the coat check booth. Why is tap beer free, but bottled water is three dollars? I'm not doing ecstasy, I don't even drink. A sharp shooting pain roaming through my torso hastened my exit from the Eagle - I was hurting, cold, wet, tired, and slightly saddened by the time I went to bed. It was worth it, though; we all look forward to Thursday night.

Finally - he speaks! "Loveless" was one of the handful of records that changed the way I listened to music. I'm happy to see that things are going well for him, at last. Welcome back, Kevin.

I was talking with a friend last week, and he mentioned "coincidence theory". Very interesting....I need more information.

(ADULT CONTENT) I dunno, this one was speaking to me this morning. And this one, too.

If you're on the East Coast, here is a tour that might be of interest.

Today's doha.

OK - just one bit of wrestling today. My bud was asking whatever happened to "Exotic" Adrian Street - here is your answer. Watch the videos, if you dare!

Wrestlemania XX was positioned to be a "home run" show for the WWE. Did they succeed or fail? Here's my take on the event.

(If necessary, refer here for terminology.)

PLUSES

Clean finishes.
In the wrestling business, it's sometimes hard to get people to do what you envision. Put two guys in a match, one wins, one loses. The wrestler who loses is never thrilled about this; they all know it's part of the job (to do the JOB), but it always needs to be finessed. Some wrestlers lobby for a "finish" that creates the illusion that they didn't "really" lose - known as a "screwjob" finish. Outside interference, foreign objects, some nefarious means to the end. The loser somehow, in their own thinking, saves face. It's a way to advance a story line, but Wrestlemania is the blowoff show, so there should be none of that. Things are settled, unless they are to be carried along in the ensuing weeks. Fortunately, all but one match had clean finishes - and the one that didn't "turned" a character, and continues a storyline.

Re-education pays off.
For the past six months, the WWE has been toning down the style, eliminating dangerous "bumps", and re-emphasizing ring psychology and storytelling. It paid off huge here, the Eddie Guerrero v. Kurt Angle match in particular. 22 minutes, 15 of it slowly building the tension, and the last 7 being the payoff. People were coming unglued at the "false finishes", and a creative finish paid off at the end. This re-education allows the WWE to reset the baseline, so to speak; less pornography and unbelievable stunts, more emphasis on traditional storytelling. In the future, when they do something shocking, it will actually mean something, as opposed to the non-stop mind-numbing nonsense the business built itself on from 1997-2002.

Hall Of Fame ceremony.
A number of current and former employees were honored at the show. It was a nice gesture from a company who typically rewrites its' own history, and often attempts to erase or blur the contributions of those in the recent past.

MINUSES

Too much for one night.
At almost 5 hours, the show dragged in spots; I was very concerned that the final match was going to suffer from crowd burnout. It was not to be, but I would propose never going longer than 4 hours.

Meaningless matches.
It's nice that the company tried to showcase as many of the workers as possible. There were two matches, both of them involving 4 tag teams, for the respective titles, that meant absolutely nothing to anyone. In the business, there's a term called "popcorn match", and I guess both of these would fall into that category. 8 guys in each match, rushing through the allotted time, all trying to shine, get their best stuff in, and maybe make an impression - never works. I can barely remember who won; no storylines, titles (that should mean more) at stake, leaving no one caring much about the outcomes. Another match that should have meant more was a "cruiserweight gauntlet" match. I'm a big fan of the smaller guys, they are innovative, sudden, and there's never a dull moment. Unfortunately, rushing through 10 of them in an 11 minute time frame was like watching a car crash highlight film; at the end, you knew people were eliminated, but you couldn't really remember how.

Brock Lesnar publicly giving notice.
One of the biggest projects of last year was building Brock Lesnar up as an unstoppable wrestling monster machine. The company spent a lot of time and money on creating the aura, and when Lesnar went public last Wednesday with his imminent departure (to try out for the NFL), it tipped off all the fans to the conclusion that he was going to lose the match to Bill Goldberg. It was fairly well known that Goldberg was hightailing it as well, so the original outcome had to be reworked. Every fan in MSG knew the deal, and were so hostile toward both guys, there was no way the match could mean anything. A real shame, because so much energy was put into getting money out of this particular match, it was sort of a "dream match" for a lot of fans, and Lesnar killed it off by giving notice - everyone had to know the story would get out. As it turned out, Goldberg beat Lesnar, but Stone Cold Steve Austin (special referee / wet nurse / in-ring director) ended up hitting both guys with his finisher after the match. It was the logical thing to do, since he was the only one (of the three) showing up for work the next day. Sadly, I think he got tarnished as well, simply by being there.

BEST MATCHES

Chris Benoit wins "World" (old WCW) title in 3-way match, over HHH (former champ) and Shawn Michaels. 30 minutes at the end of the show, these three pulled out all the stops. Great story, well-paced high spots (Benoit taking a double suplex through a table being the heaviest), the only use of blood on the show (Shawn hit a gusher, HHH bled hard as well), and the absolute right finish (Benoit making the champ tap out to his finisher, clean in the middle) made this one of the 5 best matches I've ever seen in person - and I've seen a lot.

Eddie Guerrero retains WWE title over Kurt Angle. A Japanese-style match, building to a unique finish: Angle using an ankle lock to try and submit Eddie, who had unlaced his boot just prior. The boot comes off, Angle does a "WTF" with boot in hand, Eddie sneaks behind and schoolboys Kurt for a "slide over" victory. That surprised everyone in the place, and leaves enough room for Angle to cry foul, and keeps the heat on for the rematch. (Angle is injured again, though - numbness in his hands, likely from the multiple broken necks he has suffered the past few years.)

OTHER NOTES

The company also tried to elevate two young talents. John Cena, who is looking like the real future of the WWE, defeated Big Show in the opening match - but beyond the visual of Cena hauling a 500-pound guy up and over two times, the match was flat. Cena has fire, and it always shows, but he needs a more seasoned opponent to carry him through the money matches. Randy Orton, a third generation wrestler, also has the "rocket up the ass", defeating legend Mick Foley in a 2-on-3 tag match (which included The Rock in a supporting role). Orton has the tools, but there's still a little something missing. I'm certain it will come with time, and he's as good a person as any for the company to invest in - his family's roots in the business is a big plus for him.

OK, I'll bet only 3 or 4 people have made it to the end of this ridiculously long and narrow post. Here's a cell phone photo from the end of the show, after Benoit wins the main event. 5 solid minutes of confetti - you can barely make out the ring. People were covered in it, walking away from the event.



No wrestling content is planned for tomorrow. Happy St. Patrick's Day, and don't eat the green snow.

On the train, returning to DC from a couple of great days in NYC.

Thursday night, the gang congregates at Green Lantern for the smell of free beer and shirtless men. Met an interesting fellow; it was a "do I recognize you" introduction, and after 10 minutes of very pleasant conversation, there was a moment where it seemed appropriate to mention my profession. It's an experience I've had for years - going out in a social setting, someone catches my eye, and at that moment, I become conflicted. Are they interested in meeting me, or are they interested in my work persona? Anyhow, this gentleman was very nice company and conversation, and made a typically fun night out that much more enjoyable. Thanks. Ended up at the Eagle with a bunch of pals. I'm starting to feel like Bill Murray in "Groundhog Day", waking up to Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" every morning, but in reverse - having the last drink of Thursday night to some old dance track at the Eagle.

Friday was a bit of a rollercoaster. I was anticipating the arrival of an out of town friend, but due to complications, the friend was unable to make the trip to DC. I made a brief appearance at Windows, where I was finally to spend a moment with Logan Circle, who has been one busy (and prolific) guy. Trudged it on home, and used the extra time to catch up on writing and listening to music.

Saturday was a cool clear day, and a long scooter ride. Somehow, I ended up on I-66, which wasn't so smart - the bike can do 65 mph, but there's not a whole lot holding me upright, particularly when a large vehicle flies by at 80 mph on a cool windy day. OK, I need to get off this fucking highway, and back into the District before I kill myself - I don't need that right now. A quick afternoon social visit with Waremouse, who was chilling in the 'hood, before departing that evening for Madrid. I hope everything goes well on his trip. Chatted with a bud who sent along a couple of tunes which fit perfectly into my sets; I had everything laid out, but once these new songs arrived, I quickly restructured the feel of the sets. Man, did it work. Blowoff was a total hoot, people were having a great time. It might have been the weather, it might have been the music, it might have been the shirts off earlier than normal bit, but people were having a blast! A bunch of new faces, mostly guys from Baltimore, big hunky guys, and I'm talking BIG here, yikes! The room seems so much more packed with these guys around - and I hear talk of them coming every week. Good sets all the way around, a fun time was had by all.

Sunday, I was able to score a couple tickets and VIP passes to Wrestlemania, so onto the train I jump. Ended up with two tickets; gave a quick call to a friend who was visiting (from London) as well, and he jumped at the opportunity to go to the big show. My lawyer does a lot of work for the WWE, so these seats were excellent! It was the first time I'd ever been to Wrestlemania - lots of fun. I've been to lots of big wrestling events, and had a hand in crafting some as well, but it was fun to sit and take it all in from the fan perspective. I did keep looking at my watch, though, force of habit when I watch - always sensitive to the time cues. I could go on and on about the show - maybe in a separate post. Had a lovely meal at elmo, a restaurant owned by some old friends in town. Stopped by my one of my favorite Chelsea spots, Rawhide, for a nightcap, and all was good.

Monday was lovely weather in the City, almost made it to 60 degrees, sunny, clear day. There's no place like New York on days like that; no other place on Earth comes close. Spent all day out on foot, hitting all the familiar places. Spent most of the afternoon at Rebel Rebel, and 200 dollars later, headed to Soho for books, magazines, crepes, man, did I fall off the diet wagon on Monday! Back up to Chelsea for some decompression time (I'm so out of NYC shape - feet swelling up from logging the miles on the pavement). The early evening flew by, in the best way possible; instead of dancing and dining in MePa, I happily settled for dinner and a nightcap near the hotel. Early train call and all.

This morning, the snow is coming down something fierce - I'm already to Trenton, and the ground is white white white - I'm so glad I didn't drive this weekend. I need to get to the gym, and back into my routine. There's lots of things that need to be finished up, and the time is now.

People ask me if I miss NYC. I always miss it when I'm there. It can still light a fire in me.

Still hanging in NYC. What a glorious day it was - 60 degrees, sunny, uh huh, New York. Be home tomorrow afternoon, with details.

There's a new Phoenix album any moment now. PJ mentioned this last week - and now that I've heard the single, "Everything Is Everything", I am very excited.

Also, I'm very excited to be debuting this kick ass riff tomorrow night at Blowoff.

Nenie.net has a good synopsis of storylines, and possible outcomes, for this weekend's Wrestlemania. I'm most intrigued by the Goldberg / Lesnar (with Austin as ref) match. Lots of possible finishes here. Nenie makes the case against the Austin heel turn; I don't think they'll go that (failed) road again. Lesnar gave his notice two days ago, Goldberg was on his way out anyway, so the only guy they can shine up from this is Austin. The rumored original finish was Lesnar going over, but if he truly gave notice, and it's not a locker work worked shoot, then Goldberg slides over, thanks to Austin. Who knows, it'll be interesting to see how they get out of this sticky situation. I know, none of that made sense to anyone but me and nenie, and 2 or 3 other wrestling geeks.

Add this to my list of things to do this Spring. Again, Matthew Dear.

OK, time for the weekend. See ya.

Why wasn't this guy available on the match.com personality test? 'Cause he's going to the Black Party!

Deep Space - Francois K. - keep hearing great things about it. I must check it out sometime.

I have to mention Haydn's blog - he has me linked three different ways. Thanks, man.

Need to keep hitting this one - awesome site, crazy city.

Today's doha. Be still, my foolish mouth. Listen to the hearts.

Man, I'm rethinking my diet after reading this. That's a lot of carbs - but maybe that's been my problem lately - I'm getting more vascular definition, but losing mass. I will not stand for it. Me want get big!

How did this disturbing story fly under the radar? Rock Star my ass, Rob Halford rules!

I'm totally digging the Matthew Dear right now. You should too.

OK, everyone's doing it. Here's my matches:



Here's a too-complete (and pretty accurate) .pdf of my results. That's the stalker alert you hear going off in the background.

I've already warned PJ, if we're in the same room, the claws are out! Jimbo, you're safe.

With Spring in the air and on the horizon, my mind starts to wander a little, thinking about places to go, people to see, events that might make me get on a plane. Here's my current wish list.

WRESTLING / MMA

Of course, there's Wrestlemania XX this weekend, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This is the event of the year for most US wrestling fans; all the previous months' storylines are brought to a head, and this event is, in "carny", the big "blowoff" (not to be confused with Blowoff). In years past, there's typically one guy who gets elevated to the next level; my guess for this year would be John Cena, a Massachusetts guy who has really connected with the fans.

I've been waiting for this fight for a long time, and it should be a killer. I'm already arguing with my buds about the outcome, and we've got 4 weeks to go. I'm a big Chuck Liddell fan, and I cannot stand Tito Ortiz - he's an arrogant little prick who has backed away from this fight once already. Anyhow: this stuff is not predetermined, there's no cooperation, and the heat between the two is convincing. Any excuse for a trip to Las Vegas works for me. This is in early April.

I've been to the Cauliflower Alley convention twice, and had great fun both times. Being a lifelong fan and student, it's great to get together with other folks who appreciate the history of the business, and to meet some of the legends from eras past. I was fortunate to meet a lot of the legends who have since passed, and as I get older, I end up running into old friends and ex-WCW co-workers, and we always have a great time "talking shop". This event is in mid-April, again in Las Vegas.

MUSIC / ART

The Coachella Festival has a most excellent lineup this year. Typically, these types of festivals are best left to the Europeans; most times I've been around them in America, they are poorly run, and people are misbehaving / unpleasant. Not so with this event; the Goldenvoice folks know how to run a show, and I like at least half the acts on the bill this year. This is an early May trip, and so close to one of most favorite parts of the US - Palm Springs, California!

Waremouse brought this one to my attention. A few months ago, we were in Annapolis having coffee, and we both agreed that Throbbing Gristle were one of the heaviest groups we'd ever heard. When I was younger, a friend and I started a fanzine based on groups and artists on the Industrial label. The RE-TG Festival occurs in mid-May. The lineup is stellar, if you're a fan of this type of art / music / propaganda.

LIFESTYLE

I keep hearing about Fort Lauderdale being the new homo mecca. I have a good pal who just sold his place in the West Village, and is digging the lifestyle. There's also GeekSlut, another transplanted NooYawker, who appears to be in his element as well. Hmmm, I see a trend here.

I've only been to Provincetown twice, and enjoyed the vibe both times. Maybe this year, I'll break down and rent me a big house on the water. It's very peaceful, the bike trails are great, there's a handful of good restaurants, a decent gym, and a happening little coffee shop. Give me a place to sit and watch the parade, and that's enough for me.

Need anyone say more? Memorial Day weekend in Chicago.

Another fabulous weekend in my world. Spring is more than in the air, it's everywhere. Gosh, where to start? Very quickly, I suppose: Thursday night at Green Lantern was fun as always, and a bunch of us ended up at the Eagle for a nightcap.

Friday was 80 DEGREES, awesome weather, went up to hang with Rich to (try to) work. We did start on a cool idea, the summer dance floor anthem riff, but after 2 hours, gave it a rest. Headed to the Runway, a little coffee, then an appearance at Windows for the bear crowd happy hour. A fun bunch of guys, and the bar was woefully understaffed. Ran into a couple buds, one of whom started complaining of a hunger, and it got all three of us moaning about food - so off to the recently-remodeled Thai Chef we go, followed by more coffee. Ran into a bunch of folks, and everyone decided to head to the Eagle (again?). Pouring rain, scooter ride, get to the bar half-soaked, stand around, people come and go, Blogsicle finally rises from his extended disco nap - which shall now be referred to as the TRANCE NAP, and we finish the night in quiet style.

Saturday was a continuation of the nice weather. Got a late start, blew off the gym for a man-sized brunch at Annie's, then some quality cell phone time with a bud. Me standing in the middle of U Street for an hour, staring eastward at the largest full moon I've seen in ages. I could feel the particles of my brain rearranging in mischievous ways - I can only imagine how crazy I sounded on the other end of the line. I am a lunatic, so the full moon gets to me.

Blowoff was a hoot, the regular crowd was back! And, for the first time since moving to the new club, shirts off! It was warm, Rich comes up to me, "Dude, if we take our shirts off, people will stay longer. You go first." Always me, always first, whatever...at the end of the night, the bartendress (is that the right word?) says to me, "I turned around to pour a drink, and when I turned back around to serve it, everyone had their shirts off!". Think about it for a second...pretty cool, huh? Like a skit in "I Dream Of Jeannie" or something. Great sets, appearances by Waremouse and Sassy Mark. Dropped a few new gems on the crowd, including a new Blowoff staple, "Just Fuck" by Tom Neville. Listen by clicking on the third speaker icon. My bud dropped this one on me earlier in the evening, and it went over a storm. I can see this song causing all kinds of trouble next weekend.

Sunday was another gorgeous day, a little coffee and scooter ride, hit the gym, big brunch, and hung with the usual cast of characters in the Circle - where the neighborhood comes to socialize and gossip, never a dull moment. A bunch of us ended up at Lauriol Plaza for early dinner, then I retired for a lovely evening of conversation and beats programming. I had toyed with the idea of going to Lizard Lounge, but woke up this morning to find, in my mail box, a (rather negative, to put it mildly) synopsis of the activities. I'm glad I stayed in.

I love my fabulous life right now. Good energy everywhere I turn. Must stop pinching myself.

A nice editorial on gay marriage this morning in the SF Chronicle. A nice editorial on gay marriage yesterday by Geekslut. There - I can see both sides of the argument! HA!

Regarding Andrew Sullivan, and the wide range of emotions that surround him: in this day and age, and with this issue, any voice that supports the cause should be welcomed. I don't agree with a lot of his views, but he has been a consistent and reasoned voice on this issue. When you're in a political war, and a perceived "enemy sympathizer" brings credence to your cause, it might be prudent to embrace it - every little bit helps.

I find the use of WTC imagery in Bushman's ads to be highly questionable. It is consistent, however, with the undercurrent of fear this regime instills in its' citizens. The flag, mesmerizing when waved across tragedy; the tragedy, inappropriate when woven into campaign messages. Logan Circle Guy hits it pretty well.

The absurdity of this regime is staggering - I shudder to ponder what is next. What gall.

It's going to be 75 degrees here today - balmy sticky hot! Yeah! Now playing - a classic.

(Not adult content) Bad man! Have a great weekend. Mine started last night - I need a nap already.

The pro-gay marriage rally was a fun time last night. Everyone seemed in good spirits, except for the Fraser clone next to me; he kept yelling about the lead in the water, and other unrelated stuff. Someone shooshed him, and he started yelling at them, "Don't you know this is a rally? This is what we're supposed to do!" I thought it would be best if he stayed to the topic at hand, but that's just li'l ol' me being pragmatic. David Catania is cute and smart, and he essentially renounced his support for W. I think he meant the Bushman, and not the W Hotel.

Saw a good amount of friends and neighbors there; even saw Rich running down 17th Street toward the HRC building - I had already done my bit, and was heading to Cobalt with a friend. People seemed to be charged up, a combination of the rally and the weather, maybe? Something is in the air, this is for certain.

I'd been hoping for this for a while, it could be sort of cool.

Am I a good cook? I'd like to think so. These are some of my favorite recipes.

I needed to see Two Big Fags again, too. I used to sit on that pier all the time - lived a block from it. Having a flashback Thursday, I'm afraid. It's all good.

(Adult content) This guy is off the hook! What gives with the str8 bois?

First, a big welcome to Blogsicle, the newest addition to the family. I can guarantee the highest quality commentary, with wit to spare, from this dude. In a fair world, Blogsicle would be the most sought-after writer in Hollywood, but then we wouldn't have his studly and upbeat presence in DC - so maybe it's for the best, for the rest of us.

Steroids and baseball: no big surprise. I'm hearing that they want to keep the outside nutritionists and trainers away from the organizations. Having worked in pro wrestling for a short time, and knowing the firestorm the then-WWF went through in 1994, I'm not one bit shocked about the current problem - but the guys will find the dealers, regardless. This type of mandate is the way the league absolves itself from the problem, and does nothing to reduce the use. Drug testing is the next way they will try to control usage; the problem here is that the high-paid franchise players will always get a free pass, as they are the ones who put the cheeks in the seats. The drug testing is good for controlling players - because so many will test positive, it's simply a way to "have the goods" on someone who might be giving an owner fits about one thing or another.

The big difference between pro wrestling and baseball is the outcome - wrestling, predetermined; baseball, performance. In wrestling, there was a large emphasis placed on physique and personality; in baseball, it's mainly skill. The extra power one derives from steroid-enhanced training is the primary reason for the "home run derby" style of game - and that game has sold tickets, and kept the league alive for the past few years. It will be interesting to see how MLB handles this; the NFL has sort of given up, and there's very little advantage to NBA players bulking up - it's generally a game of speed and accuracy.

So you sports fans know: when someone goes down with torn quadriceps, triceps, etc., it's likely a result of steroid use. The ligament cannot grow to support the extra mass, and the muscle tears from the bone - ouch is right. Where is Serena?

Studio work with Brendan went very well. We've played together a few times, including last year's LoudBomb gig at the Black Cat. This week, we recorded two new songs for my "Body Of Song" record, which has been delayed more times than I care to think about. We also improvised for hours, which yielded excellent results. Great sounds abound - and a special thanks to Don, for allowing me the chance to work at his place.

Today is all about vehicles. Time to get my truck fixed (alternator), my mountain bike needs a tune-up, and the brakes on my scooter are a little loose. It's going to be another beautiful day here - so it'll be a challenge to stay on track.

There's a rally tonight, 6 PM, at the HRC building. Everyone is welcome, everyone is needed.

In response to feedback on yesterday's (adult content) link: another hot guy. Hey, I'm just giving the people what they want.

Scrambling busy today. No time to wax poetic (or body parts), but I heard snippets of the Bush-man on CNN, one year anniversary of Patriot Act, keep talking, while the rest of America has moved on to other topics like WHY am I still UNEMPLOYED with NO HEALTH INSURANCE, and now I have to provide for my PARENTS because there's NO MONEY? National security is part of the job, not the only part of the job. Make it stop - make the "play on my fear" stop.

People die in Iraq all the time. It's sad.

Another fine weekend in my world; 'round here, the weather was working in everyone's favor! Friday in Charlottesville was a fun time, Rich and I (and our bud Marc) had a hilarious time on the ride over, some bawdy conversation, some serious conversation, getting everybody in the festive weekend mood. The drive over seemed shorter, and we were sure we were on the wrong road, probably as a result of extended daylight (we've never really seen the scenery - we started this gig in November). C2 (the club) always feeds us well, and a high ladies' turnout guaranteed a solidly packed dance floor. Damn, those girls dance HARD! We invariably get the folks who aren't understanding the music we're playing: "Are you gonna play techno ALL night?", and I can only say yes, not wanting to take the time to explain that it's NOT techno. (Hit HOUSE, then FRENCH. This is where I start.) Rich drove the whole trip, with us two bums fading in and out on the return trip.

Saturday was very interesting - we're seeing a different mix of folks every week. I think there was a metrosexuals' convention in DC, and we were listed in the "things to do" guide! Lots of ladies dancing, didn't actually witness a "purse dance", but then again, I had my hands full with the decks. Also, lots of new homos, not the usual bears and cubs, but the new guys were seriously digging the music, which is all we can hope for. I'm interested to see if there will be a healthy interface when we finally get all the different contingents in the room at once - I think it'll be GREAT! Was it just me, or was everyone in a seriously feisty mood? IMHO, Rich had the best Blowoff set of the year, everyone dancing - forcing me to pull out the Jason Nevins RMX of Eminem's "Without Me". Oh boy, long summer ahead....

Sunday was recovery day, spending time with buds, in the great outdoors that is the 'hood. Ran with Paul and Waremouse all day, with the usual rotating cast of furry animals. When the weather gets nice, everyone resurfaces and mingles constantly. DC is a great place right now, at least for me - never a dull moment. Got myself home by dark, settled into my comfy clothes, and spent the night kicking back, getting caught up with the important people in my life. Big smile.

This is the one of the coolest songs in my life right now. Find it and buy it. When I play it, people either come running to ask what it is, or they simply glaze over and sing along with the chorus. I think about sex, I think about God, I think about money. What else is there? Love, and then life is essentially complete.

Off to the studio today, more "Body Of Song" work. My buddy Brendan is lending a hand the next few days, and I've got a few new ideas I want to throw around. It'll be fun.

I wonder: when people are Googling for Ann Coulter and Howard Dean, do you think they end up (adult link alert) here? Let's hope...