WedROCK was a total success Wednesday night. A packed house, a great space, good production, and the finest in entertainment, as presented by Josh Wood and John Cameron Mitchell. I arrived in NYC around 3 PM, checked into my hotel, and headed over to the venue. I arrived to see John and Margaret Cho rehearsing a duet version of "Origin Of Love". I had never met Margaret before, she's a wonderfully engaging and vibrant person; John and I go way back, so we spent a lot of time throughout the day and night catching up on our various travails. We rehearsed our version of Neutral Milk Hotel's "Two Headed Boy", which was to be dedicated to a close friend of John who had passed on last week. Great to see the Sleater-Kinney folks again, and I'd never met Le Tigre. Alan Cumming was pleasant (if scarce), Penny Arcade was both cordial and riotous; Sandra Bernhard and Lou Reed came in, did their things, and then moved on. Lady Bunny did a fine job of hosting. There were other folks I'm sure I'm omitting, like Moby, Ben Yalen, Gary Lucas, sometimes I couldn't tell (or remember) who was working and who was hanging out, it was a real scene.

My performance notes: I had written a new song a couple of days ago, finished it up on the train, and debuted it immediately. The working title is "Composure", and I think it turned out OK. It's sort of a wedding song, like the song you have in your head a few days before the actual event. Maybe my acoustic demeanor was too sedate for the festivities? I had fun with it. Also played "If I Can't Change Your Mind", which was more upbeat and well-received. Toward the end of the show, John and I played "Two Headed Boy", and then, the show closer was the "Origin Of Love" duet, complete with Margaret as Hedwig! People sure liked that. (Note: the show was recorded for eventual audio release. I believe Centaur Music, who also released Being Out Rocks, is the label.)

My favorite moment of the night: Margaret Cho's comment about The Passion Of The Christ and forgetting the safeword.

After the show, I was to DJ in the main room; that didn't happen, as the show had run late, and being a weeknight, people started to drift away sooner than the planners had hoped. No worries, I spent some quality time in the VIP reception area - met a lot of nice folks, cute neighborhood guys and gals, some good conversation and decompression time.

On another front, people who have been frequenting my commercial site will notice the bulletin board has been taken offline. I would encourage those who have not yet done so, to enter an e-mail address at the site, so as to be kept abreast of any future performances, speaking engagements, and product releases. Also, you can always come here, this is where the horse is.

Just got home, checking mail for the first time in a couple of days, and found this link (from Paul). Sheesh.

Longer post tomorrow, with plenty of details about the WedROCK event last night.

I'm off to catch the train. WedROCK tonight. Support the cause. Come have fun!

I was talking with a friend this past week, and the subject came around (naturally) to professional wrestling. We both watched a lot of wrestling in the 1980's, and were comparing notes on favorites, not-so-favorites, and (shyly, he admits) cute guys. We both concluded that one of the best (and hottest looking) workers of that era was the late Buzz Sawyer. Here's a few links to those unfamiliar with the man.

Buzz was reportedly a hard living guy, and, by some accounts, not the most honest of men. Regardless, he was a joy to watch as a performer; short, stocky, explosive, a solid amateur background, all combined with a truly unhinged persona, Sawyer really stood out from the pack. He died on February 7, 1992, in his front yard in rural California, of a drug overdose. He was 32.

A film of Beckham sleeping. I fall asleep during movies sometimes.

No more posts for a few days. I'm off to NYC early tomorrow for WedROCK, and will bring back a detailed report later this week. I want to get married! Maybe tomorrow night? Nah. But it'll be fun. I'm hoping to debut a new song tomorrow night, if I can remember all the words. It's a pretty one.

We try to find the balance
We try to keep it straight
We try to stay in tune
We modulate.

The WedROCK event (this Wednesday) received a lot of press this past weekend. There have been mentions in MetroWeekly, HX (cover), New York Blade, and Playbill. I spoke with John on Friday, and a great night is definitely in order.

This morning, I started thinking about Andy Warhol. I drifted to Glenn Gould. Then on to Asperger Syndrome. A few weeks ago, while out for an afternoon walk, two men behind me were having a conversation about Tourette's Syndrome. One of the men was working with multilingualists with Tourette's, and the discussion was centered on the unconscious choice of language in which the outburst would be uttered.

Is this not the sexiest machine on Earth? Click on "Features", and resume drooling. If you need something a little safer, but almost as sexy, you can always head to the Apple Store - new iBooks and iPod minis abound.

Day 4 of no caffeine has done wonders for my health, goodbye old friend, we had a hell of a run together, but it's so over right now. Allergies, on the other hand, are out of control. Everything is covered in orange dust. When the wind kicks up, I feel as if I'm standing in a snowstorm of pods and pollen. Last night's rain, and the damp cool Monday morning; at last, at least, a little relief.

A tragic story. Sometimes, celebrities and athletes involve themselves in situations to gather public approval; sometimes, they are bored; this time, I sense this man truly believed he was doing what was necessary.

Logan Circle brings Songs To Wear Pants To to my attention. What a cool site, and a prolific writer. This is certainly a way to keep writer's block at bay.

I'm taking it easy this weekend; I had plans to travel, but have decided against it - I've got the WedROCK event on Wednesday, and I want to be as strong as possible for what will be a long day's night.

This weekend, I'll try to think up something clever to write about for next week. Until then, here's one for the water cooler.

you are midnightblue #191970

Your dominant hue is blue, making you a good friend who people love and trust. You're good in social situations and want to fit in. Just be careful not to compromise who you are to make them happy. Your saturation level is higher than average - You know what you want, but sometimes know not to tell everyone. You value accomplishments and know you can get the job done, so don't be afraid to run out and make things happen. Your outlook on life is slightly darker than most people's. You try to see things for what they are and face situations honestly. You'd rather get to the point than look for what's good.

the spacefem.com html color quiz

I like midnight blue. It's about half right of an assessment. Saw this first at Waremouse's site.

This is a bizarre and sad story. I have been able to find nothing to substantiate the claims of this priest, in regard to this type of penance.

Another person who loves Michael Jackson. The part I find disturbing is that I'm not signed up for National Enquirer Wireless (bottom of page). How have I lived without it?

If you're looking for a new source for music, try Star Time Records. I've become a fan of many of the artists on this label; they also released a remix I did for VHS Or Beta.

I used to listen to this song a lot. I'm sure you have it somewhere in your collection.

My recuperative diet includes such items as Campbell's soup, Gatorade, Lindt chocolate, Skippy creamy peanut butter. Of course, I'm also eating my normal healthy way, but hey, that's the one thing about being sick, a little latitude in the diet. And, once I'm better, a little diet for the latitude.

Tired of the Drudge Report? Here's a site that'll leave you informed, and in stitches. (Courtesy Kenn)

A beautiful weather weekend here in DC, flu and aches notwithstanding. It's been in the 80's the last few days, and looks to approaching 90 degrees today.

Thursday night, the usual gang showed up at Green Lantern. Being under the weather, I wasn't my usual perky self, talked with a bunch of pals, but didn't think spreading the illness was a wise move. Stayed out of traffic, and didn't stay for long. It does seem that everyone in DC has some sort of cold / flu / bug, though.

Friday, I can barely remember what happened. I felt lousy all day; oh, I had coffee with Rich. That was fun, low stress activity. Mercury retrograde, so nearly everything I've said the past 12 days has either come out wrong, or totally misinterpreted. Received Saint Morrissey in the post, thank you very much, I'll start on it this week. Day 3 of antibiotics, finally starting to kick in - both the good and bad parts (side effects, tingly swelling in the hands and feet, nausea). I ended up feeling better as the night went on, maybe it's all the carbohydrates and chocolate I'm allowing myself, as an easy way to feel better.

Saturday, spent some time in the Circle with friends. Lots of tourists out and about, thought about a long scooter ride, got discouraged by the traffic. Oh - been writing a lot of music lately, finished up a rough mix on a new song, working title "Overload", that I wanted to play Saturday night - but didn't. Blowoff was good, I was wobbly, Rich had two CD glitches his first set, the power went down momentarily during my second set - one of those nights. I would have cared more if I had felt better, or younger. Apparently, the city was doing utility work near the club, and managed to knock out a few surrounding blocks. Some friends stopped by. Went home early.

Sunday, a long scooter ride, about 65 miles in 2 hours. I now have the best farmer tan of my life. (FYI: I grew up in a farm town. I've done a lot of farm time.) Back to the Circle, lots of neighborhood folks out and about. Went home, fixed some dinner, settled in to watch the WWE pay-per-view, a rematch of the main event from Wrestlemania - but was either on the phone, or out with a pal for a late walk through the neighborhood. Even while feeling lousy, it's hard to stay inside when the weather is so beautiful.

A strange and sad story.

A very funny spoof.

A great place to visit.

Thanks to all who sent get well wishes - I've gone from 0% to 60% in the last 3 days, and hope to be kicking and screaming by the weekend. I miss working out.

Took an online test, found the link at Greengrl's blog. Here's what they tell me I am.

Your Political Philosophy

According to your answers, your political philosophy is on the border of left-liberal and libertarian.

Left-Liberals prefer self-government in personal matters and central decision-making on economics. They want government to serve the disadvantaged in the name of fairness. Leftists tolerate social diversity, but work for economic equality.

Libertarians are self-governors in both personal and economic matters. They believe government's only purpose is to protect people from coercion and violence. They value individual responsibility, and tolerate economic and social diversity.

Looks to be a great couple of days - no rain in sight, sunshine and warm temperatures. Thanks to everyone who wrote letters this week, it's given me a very good idea of the variety of people who read this blog.

Have a good weekend, wherever you are. I'm taking it easy, trying to shake this crud.

Why now, the flu? After 3 weeks of battling colds (and possible allergies), I'm at my wit's end. So today, I'd like to announce the addition of two new sidebar links.

The first is for MacWorld, a magazine / website that has kept my various computers running at peak efficiency for over a decade. I received a "how have you been, love the blog" note from Jason Snell, the Editor-In-Chief; he had mentioned my once-mighty 6100 in his publication years ago. It's always fun to get mail like that; reminds me of when the two guys on The Screen Savers were talking about alternative rock and some new MP3 player, and mentioned my 80's band. Stuff like that cracks me up. If you ever see anything like that, be sure to let me know.

WARNING: This blog contains explicit language, video, and audio. While not pornography, any American under 17 must have permission of parent or legal guardian to browse.
The second is, well, read at your own risk. I'm not sure I can describe it properly; it's not for the faint-at-heart. Some people find it base, misinformed, and controversial. I find it entertaining, informative, provocative - and, I think the man is sexy. In the past, through private correspondence, I've been taken to task for merely having a passing link to him on my site! So, if you have a problem with GeekSlut and his content, talk to him directly. I ain't got nothin' to do with it.

I know Easter has come and gone, but this is funny. (Courtesy Paul)

I've seen this dissertation before, and it was recently brought it back to my attention. When I read it, I wonder what "the boys" (wrestlers) would think about it. (Courtesy Chris)

Yesterday's NYTimes (registration probably necessary) had an interesting profile of Lizz Winstead, and her involvement in Air America Radio. I hope they're able to weather the storm - it's got to be tough when you have so few major market clearances.

A quick reminder on this weekend's OnceTwice Festival in Baltimore. I'm going to try to attend Friday's event, featuring Akufen and Matthew Dear. Then again, with the DC weather shaping up to be magnificent, I may simply lay in the sun all weekend, and rid myself of what's left of this flu.

I'm getting excited about the WedROCK event - it should be a really fun time. Selfishly, it will be a nice opportunity for me to see some old friends and acquaintances. I haven't seen the Sleater-Kinney folks since December 2002. We were all in Australia the same week, and had a lovely dinner together - very nice people. Sandra Bernhard and I used to work out the same time of day at a gym in NYC. (Side note: so did this guy. Grrrr.) Alan Cumming and Margaret Cho, I've never met either of them. John Cameron Mitchell and I go way back - I would often run into John and Stephen Trask outside the Jane Street Theater; me on my night time bike ride, those two heading home, or to Florent, after another night of Hedwig. I wonder if Judge Wedrock will make a special appearance....

More letters from yesterday's brouhaha....

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haha - As soon as I read your blog I thought "Oh boy - he's gonna get it now." Of course, you're also 100% correct. Nothing will ruin a half-naked-sweaty-boys-night-out faster than that.

I remember the glory days of the Lantern. Occasionally, we'd get women there on Thursdays. The difference being at 10:00 the few of them that were there would take their shirts off too! They also stayed tucked in a corner somewhere, where we wouldn't be crushed against them all night. You had to at least respect those women for participating, rather than just getting in the way. Unlike the women there this past Thursday.

And quite frankly, I don't think they should let guys upstairs with their shirts on either. It's crowded enough without folks coming to soak it all in without taking part. I had a great time though. First time there in months.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I totally got what you were saying in the Green Lantern passage. And I agree. I will say, though, that I winced when I read the "fag hags" part. Not because I think you're a misogynist, or because I didn't understand your point, or anything like that - it's just a really ugly term, in my opinion, so kind of an unfortunate choice of words.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I'm sensing that the term ("fag hag") I used Monday is not politically correct at the moment; for that, I am sorry to have offended anyone. The sentiment in which the comment appeared, nothing will convince me that I'm in the wrong on that front. The person who was initially offended might have been a better person to point this nomenclatural faux pas out to me, instead of throwing up both the misogynist flag and the women as 1980's AIDS caregivers anecdote. I suppose it's easier for some people to denigrate than to educate - makes for more hits? Such a funny world sometimes.

Two small words, so much mail. Understanding is overwhelming offended, by a large margin.

Hey Bob,

Had to throw in my $0.02 on the whole "fag hag" thing. When I was in college I used to have a large group of gay friends, and I used to go to the bar with them. There was one bar though, Numbers, where I would definitely not join them. It was a "man pit", and it was definitely not a scene where girls should be, or even want to be I wouldn't think. No offence taken, and I certainly didn't feel "oppressed" or discriminated against. It was just one of those places that was "for boys only".

Some people will be offended by anything. I certainly didn't see anything wrong with your comment, but then again, I understood it. I was at an all-women's seder last night for Passover, and one of the women there proposed that men should be allowed. There was a resounding "hell no" from the rest of us. Sometimes boys (or girls) just don't need to be there.

I love your blog, and your music!

Yours,
Bonnie

"Making someone cry is easy. An onion can make you cry. Show me the vegetable that can make you laugh." -- Tallulah Bankhead

I received some mail yesterday, mainly regarding my comments about Thursdays at Green Lantern. Naturally, I'll reprint the ONE negative letter:

Yes, in fact, it does make you a misogynist. Quite disappointing. I guess it was fine when all the "fag hags" were nursing their gay friends with AIDS, but that was so, like, 1985. Who needs those pesky girls around now, anyway? I mean, they, like smell and everything. Yeah, those guys think it's real cute to bring their female friends...as if they are really interested in talking to them or anything.

Signed,
A lesbian named Caryn with gay friends, but what they hell, use the pejorative fag hag

Even after I said "I love women and all that"? Even after planting my tongue firmly in cheek? Listen, it's odd, OK? I don't go to Womens' Flag Football night. Oh, shit, will I get heat for that, too? See, I'm a guy - and I go there to hang with other guys - for 1 hour a week, it's a big friggin' locker room. A man pit. Shirtless guys, packed in a stinky sweaty room, rubbing against each other. Is it too much to suggest that it's a little, well, awkward - and not only for me, but for most of the guys there?

Clearly, my use of the term "fag hag" offended (at least) one person. I never knew what it was until Anita, one of my best friends in college, explained it to me - and I wasn't even OUT then. And that was well before 1985. This letter is misguided. "Caryn" would only have to go once, and maybe she'd understand the spirit of the night, and of the "catty" comment I made. I'm entitled to my opinion, and no amount of condescending retort will make me see it differently. It has nothing to do with AIDS, or conversation; it's not that big an issue.

Sometimes, boys want to be boys. What is the problem?

I can't believe I spent five minutes on this...end of subject.

Fun! Maybe the bride? At least the DJ.

I hope everyone had a restful holiday weekend. I had originally planned to take a mini-road trip, but was still not completely over this head cold / flu / crud that had occupied the better part of my last 3 weeks. The wise move, as today, I finally feel like I'm operating closer to full efficiency. A word to those who might be coming down with this crud: DO NOT try to work out, or overexert yourself. I made the mistake, early on in the illness, and I think it set me back at least a week from recovery.

All right, the Monday post: what controversy, scandalous activity, who slept with who, did anyone overdose, who spent the night in jail? Not here. Generally, I'm not the kind of guy who likes to kiss and tell - but everyone wants to know the story. Oh, well. I'm in a silly mood this morning.

Thursday night, as usual, Green Lantern. A packed house, Spring is here, the men are out, and I have to ask, why in the hell are there always a couple of guys who think it's really really cute to bring their "fag hags" with them? Boys, it's a bummer, OK? Does that make me a misogynist? I have no interest in going into the Womens' locker room, I love women and all that, but please...one hour a week, can you not meet them later at another bar? Sorry, girls, just had to say it. Don't hate me for it.

Friday, a beautiful day; rode up to Takoma Park to have lunch and coffee with Rich, who has also been battling the crud. Talked about gay marriage, summer plans, work stuff. Headed back into town, sat outside and worked a while on new graphics for the blog (coming soon, I know!), and headed to Windows for a quick Happy Hour. Arrived early, only recognized a few people, turned back around and headed home. Not feeling it.

Saturday, a good workout. My sushi restaurant was having its' annual $30 All You Can Eat day, so I ended up there with a pal. We waited in line for an hour, which was fine, the weather was amazingly sunny and warm. We pigged out on all kinds of goodness, and slouched outside with coffee afterwards. Home to prepare for Blowoff, some new tunes from strange lands - and off we go.

A great turnout, very slow at first, my rock sets are keeping me interested - I wish there were more folks there at the beginning, but it's fine. A veritable Bloggers' Battle Royal - well, not really: Jimbo (who didn't have the crud after all), Clickboo, and many others made appearances; Rich and I were talking a little about blogs, and the impact they can have on things. It's hard sometimes, our words are a little flat, the nuance and subtlety of a facial gesture, the good-natured ribbing, sarcasm, self-deprecation, the components of interaction that get lost on the computer screen, you get the idea. We all need to cut each other a little slack - cuts down on the aneurysms. (I don't like drama in my house. I won't have it.)

What we did have in the hizzouse, though, was a good mix of folks. Some new younger guys, who seemed to be seriously digging the rock stuff; the alternabears are multiplying, as are the Eagle men. I chatted with a fellow DJ, Paul Ferrer, who spins the Sunday Beer Bust at the NYC Eagle. Apparently, this is the event that has replaced the old Sunday afternoon Dugout party in the West Village (now there was a wild time). Anyhow, we're talking, comparing notes, and he says, oh, there goes Anne Heche - and, indeed, it was her, leaving the room. I thought it was her, but I'm so bad with celebrity spottings, ugh, never the bride, that's me. Rich and I were all dolled up, because Time Out London is doing a feature on Blowoff, and they sent a photographer to shoot the festivities. Therefore, off with the shirts, and the paparazzi goes wild, absolutely flawless, well, maybe if I hadn't chosen the past week to begin my bulking up phase - 8 pounds in 7 days. Get in me belly!

Sunday - was that Easter? Oh, yeah. The gym was open, had some brunch, worked most of the day and night on new grooves. Sorta grey, gloomy, quiet day. Spirits were good, but the town was pretty empty. Talked to the Easter bunny, fixed a steak and salad, and here we are on Monday morning.

Here's an article talking about WedROCK, an event I'm honored to be part of, which takes place on April 28. Click the poster for tickets.

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning?

2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest.

3 Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.

4 In you our ancestors trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them.

5 To you they cried, and were saved; in you they trusted, and were not put to shame.

6 But I am a worm, and not human; scorned by others, and despised by the people.

7 All who see me mock at me; they make mouths at me, they shake their heads;

8 "Commit your cause to the LORD; let him deliver— let him rescue the one in whom he delights!"

9 Yet it was you who took me from the womb; you kept me safe on my mother's breast.

10 On you I was cast from my birth, and since my mother bore me you have been my God.

11 Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.

12 Many bulls encircle me, strong bulls of Bashan surround me;

13 they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion.

14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast;

15 my mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death.

16 For dogs are all around me; a company of evildoers encircles me. My hands and feet have shriveled;

17 I can count all my bones. They stare and gloat over me;

18 they divide my clothes among themselves, and for my clothing they cast lots.

19 But you, O LORD, do not be far away! O my help, come quickly to my aid!

20 Deliver my soul from the sword, my life from the power of the dog!

21 Save me from the mouth of the lion! From the horns of the wild oxen you have rescued me.

Two views, and an artist's rendition.

I am currently a non-practicing Catholic.

The sick count rises: Jimbo, Rich, Jocko, me, ugh, tired of being sick.

The dead count rises: a chilling portrait. (Courtesy Paul)

I'm making some headway with the blog redesign - hoping it'll soon have a new look and location. Yesterday was the formatting of new graphics, banners, etc. - the code work is next, call in the troops.

Here's a group worth listening to - a wonderful record. Buy one.

This is an interesting idea for a wrestling promotion. Check out the DVD trailer.

Feel like clowning around? Give this guy a call, he'll light up your life. Let him explain.

Neutering your dog can be a traumatic experience for you (never mind the dog). Here's a way for you and your guy to avoid those sad glances from other owners. And if your truck isn't butch enough, hang a set of these off your back bumper.

For something a little less bodacious, here's a neat online shop for fun gifts; I would recommend a new shower curtain. If your tastes lean to the high end, try this site.

If you work with large sample libraries, this piece of software is a real necessity. A small, portable piece of gear.

I thought we won the war in Iraq. How foolish of me to jump to conclusions.

While on hold with Travelocity this morning, I heard the Muzak version of "Special", originally written and performed by Garbage. One of my favorite songs, made even more special in Muzak form.

One of the things I appreciate about DC is the compact nature of the city - it is much smaller than one would think, given the rather large population. Here's an interesting diagram I came across a few days ago. It's why the scooter works so well - laid out with wide boulevards, long clear views - lots of sunlight to illuminate the architecture.

Origami for a rainy day. (Courtesy Paul)

I'm liking this book so far.

Not much to write about today - it's warm out, I need to ride.

I overslept this morning, but compared to George Michael, I don't feel so bad about it. A fun weekend here, the town was overrun with cherry blossom devotees. I played host to my friend Andy from Atlanta, and his traveling companion.

Friday night arrival, immediately off to Zaytinya, a cool Downtown mezze restaurant. Andy spotted Bob Woodward leaving as were arriving, celebrity politico alert! I was oblivious, as per usual when I am starving. A 90 minute wait was reduced to 30 seconds, it's all about connections, and man oh man, am I the fortunate one to have such a great friend to seat us. A fabulous meal, 3 complimentary desserts later, ready to roll out the door and directly into the (how did we luck out with getting a spot out front for the) car. Atlantans head to Chi-Cha, my pal and I sit and talk at the ranch, a fun night.

Saturday, hit the gym hard, ran around with a friend, coffee, crepes, antique doors, marble samples, burning discs for work. Night time, the 9:30 Club was hopping on all levels. Death Cab For Cutie, one of my favorite bands for years, sharing the bill upstairs with Ben Kweller (don't know anything about him). Downstairs, Blowoff. I snuck up to see the last half of DCFC, the place was sold out, a good energy in the room. Didn't see any of Ben Kweller, but my friends were saying good things. Blowoff was rather sedate this week, probably due to both DJs being under the weather (Rich more than I) with the creeping crud that's affecting all of the DC area. Good stuff, played a new Prince track, lots of filter French house, "Stars" by Cut Copy (courtesy PJ), and a Kiko remix of "It's About You" by Geyster (scroll down for tons of downloadable stuff - I am determined to break this band in the US). Here's a geeky photo of me and Ben Gibbard - yet another indie rock moment.



Sunday, brunch with friends. coffee time, shopping for Easter presents. (ADULT CONTENT ALERT) How awkward is it when you run into friends at the bookstore, and you have your hands full of, er, well, "personal reading"? Oh well - just have to laugh, I guess. It's not like I was walking home from a yard sale with a f**k bench.

Back home, guests are off to the airport, I need a new cordless phone in the worst way, in and out of sitting upright sleep, Bad Girl burning my lap, falling in love (again) with Green Acres, Biography is the new nonstop wrestling channel, I need to run, I will be late for my afternoon date.

Stud! Yes! The end result. Kick fuckin' ass!

Another evening of good clean fun (well, as clean as the law allows) at the Green Lantern. Lots of familiar faces, ran into an old pal I hadn't seen in months, a couple blog buddies, and a fair amount of beard scruffing, back rubbing, free beer, and expensive water. I think half of DC has this cold, which I am starting to suspect may be the flu. So, let's see: I ride downtown on the Bad Boy, in the cold rain, and stand around a smoky bar for two hours, rubbing elbows and beards with friends and strangers. Hmmm - I need my head examined.

A quick follow-up on yesterday's rather hasty statement on the music business: it is pretty much over, and there's less people buying music than last year, or the year before. When I said oldies and R&B, that's where the money is, for the industry. Reissues and catalog pieces have no major expenditures attached, and when I said R&B, I meant urban youth consumers, who might be less likely to have high-speed access to the Internet. I received a lot of letters from "old school" music fans - and I'm very aware that there are still some of us who support the artists by buying the official releases. I do think, however, that the days of traditional retail and packaging will be phased down and out in 10 years.

Try out Vokator, the next wave in voice manipulation / signal processing. I plan on using it all over everything I do in the next few months! Let Kinja collate your online blog life, sort and staple the pages, leaving them on your desk, first thing in the morning. (Courtesy Jocko.) I'm reminding everyone about Peplab and Neulander.

Have a great weekend - see you Monday.

If you're in Atlanta today, there's still plenty of seats available for MacHomer. I can't imagine what one should expect.

(ADULT CONTENT) Hot on the heels of yesterday's Obscene Interiors comes Lurid Digs, taking the notion of looking beyond the obvious to even tackier heights. New, improved, with running commentary! I need some new used furniture, eh? (Courtesy Citizenpep)

I've been listening sporadically to the Air America programming; it's funny stuff, sort of what you'd expect from the involved parties. (Michael Stipe has no comment about Clear Channel. Sure, whatever.) They need, and quick, to get frequencies secured in as many major markets as possible; it's the morning drive crowd that needs to hear the message. People like me, who listen on the internet, are already aware of many of the issues. I have money enough to keep the DSL service pumping information into my house. It does make me think about the great ethno-techno divide in this country.

EMI is "cost-cutting". Arista is "restructured". Too late, I would guess. The business is on life support. The internet has destroyed the distribution and retail model. The only people who actually spend money on music are those who are not internet savvy, or without access. Oldies, R&B.

If you have the time, try to search out "Rain", by Patty Griffin. It's hauntingly beautiful. I always love rain songs. Except now, I'm living the first verse of "Fixing A Hole" by The Beatles. The joys of home ownership.