Exploding Penguin

Hell Gate Brewing Co.

2011-01-08T13:12:00.006-05:00

You may or may not know this, but I personally love beer. Like, I really really love beer. From a cheap can of Genny Cream Ale to a glorious bottle of Dogfish Head's Miles Davis Bitches Brew, I love all beer. Well except horse piss like Corona or Bud Light. Fuck that. A while ago, my awesome brother bought me a home brewing kit for Christmas. Unfortunately, due to limited space and time in where I was living, I was never able to dive into it. Now that I have a much bigger apartment with my lady love, it was time to make some beer. The first batch was a light summery beer with some citrusy notes, moderate head retention, unfortunately almost no lacing and was unveiled a tad prematurely. However it was still a decent first beer and in September 2010, Hell Gate Brewing Co. was established with its inaugural batch the "Fuck Summer Ale".

After noting where I went wrong (well, where I can improve), the second batch will be bottled tomorrow. After a few weeks of carbonation and conditioning, the "Steinway Irish Stout" will make it's grand debut. Future brews will ensue as soon as the fermentation keg is cleared and will include the "Ditmars Roasted Marzen", "TriBoro TriHop IPA" and "Ravenswood Imperial Stout" as the next planned runs. Since the brewery is established and named for my lovely little area of Queens, all beers will continue to carry Astoria related titles.

To keep up with activity and the brew schedule, make sure to "Like" Hell Gate Brewing Co. on Facebook.

Top 10 Records of 2010

2010-12-24T10:16:00.006-05:00

Well here it is. The same self serving pretentious list every other shmuck with a keyboard and a Gmail account is posting this time of year. I guess the hardest thing was trying to think of 10 records I actually liked this year. I'm surprised I did. Oh well, take a read, and I guess try to agree with me.

10. Against Me - White Crosses

First off, I posted this album artwork because I fucking hate the ridiculous artwork they used on this record. It looks like some shit The Killers would use. I fucking hate that band, they're a buncha sassy turds in make up, fuck them. Other than that, I didn't want to like this record, I really didn't. I wrote it off the first time I heard it. It was as far from the Against Me! I'd know and loved as it had ever been. A few months after I let the "OH YER SO NOT PUNX NO MORE" wear off, I gave it a few spins. And fuck goddamn if this is not a great record. No, this is not the band that reminded you "baby, I'm an anarchist, and you're a spineless liberal". And, they make you aware of that in the song "Teenage Anarchist". Don't pretend like you don't agree. Are any of you over the age of 25 still trying to "fuck the system, man!" or smell like a pile of rotting vegan vomit? No, you're probably not. But it's cool man, you just grew up. Like Against Me! did and most people should. Bottom line, this is a solid record and just has shitty artwork. Plus, George from Hot Water Music played drums on it, gotta give em SOME punkpoints right?

9. RVIVR - RVIVR

After Shorebirds split, I was pretty bummed. Latterman + Jawbreaker = instant music boner for many folk. You disagree? Didn't think so... So what was one to do? Well after RVIVR (featuring Matt Canino from Shorebirds/Latterman) put out the Life Moves and Derailer 7"s, it was obvious he wasn't slowing down any time soon. Canino trades of vocals with Erica Freas (of Glue! and Hooky) and together they craft an affirmative, passionate but reflective breed of punk rock. It's brash and honest, but it's melodic and relaxing even. Not sure how they figured that out, but shit if I'm gonna tell em to stop doing it. All in all, I hope LP number 1 doesn't end up being LP number only, there is a lot of good that has and will come from this group of people and it would be a real shame for it to be cut short.

8. The State Lottery - When The Night Comes

The State Lottery really had my attention with their previous full length effort Cities We're Not From with their gouging perspective on the things we surround ourselves with, be it by choice or force of environment. The world isa cold and shitty place, anyone not living under the veil of financial support knows this. What I loved about The State Lottery, from the first LP and through this way is how they paint it. They show it for all it's ugliness and evil in a vivid presentation. But they offer comfort and recognition in that yes things can suck, but only if you allow that to be the path you work your life down. You can be aware and compassionate of the way we are more or less forced to go about our days and jobs and relations, but it doesn't have to be the end all-be all of who and what we are or what we do. The State Lottery looks at it, and says something about it. Something we should all listen to.

7. Off With Their Heads - In Desolation

Welp, Off With Their Heads done gone and signed to Epitaph Records. Not that I have anything against Epitaph really. They've put out several of my favorite releases in my lifetime. But then they spent a bunch of years signing some of the worst bullshit I've ever heard in my life. Like, worse than the band I used to shit years of my life away in. Anyway, Epitaph eventually didn't mean shit to me. So Off With Their Heads signing to them just felt kinda lame to me, especially coming off No Idea who can rarely do any wrong. Anyway, their last LP was fuckin marvelous. Angry, hateful, self loathing spills over simple songs that put the power in powerchords (fuck you). All of that is still here on In Desolation. I guess my only qualm is that it's all still there. Nothing new really. I'm not one to say change the formula when it works, but I feel like there's just something missing from this record. That being said, it's still one of the best records to come out in 2010, so word.

6. The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang

I know I know, it's just about as easy to get your hate on for Gaslight as it is for Against Me!, maybe even easier depending on how much of a miserable curmudgeon you are. But put yourself aside for a second and tell me there is NO WAY AT ALL you can enjoy anything about this record? Bullshit, you're full of filthy rotten bullshit if you say so. The Gaslight Anthem came up from the same hallowed New Jersey basements as any of us, they just found what they were good at (soulful rock n' roll) and figured out how to put themselves (Jersey punks) into it and not only have it make sense, but for it to be good as hell. Gaslight could be looked at as the Springsteen for punks if you wanna be cliche and discard all that is good and unique about the band. Or they can be looked at as a band with talent, composure and sense of self who's just doing what they're good at doing and taking what comes along with it.

5. The Menzingers - Chamberlain Waits

The Menzingers returned with their second LP, and a very focused effort with Chamberlain Waits. They took what was already beloved of their efforts: infectious melodies that married polar harmonies over simple yet mind catching instrumentation and arrangement that put them beyond being just another catchy punk band. Chamberlain Waits finds The Menzingers becoming comfortable in their own skin and not being afraid of it, but embracing it and allowing the band as a collective to unfold and show their true potential. I have a feeling their next LP is gonna slay.

4. Flogging Molly - Live at The Greek Theater

Flogging Molly is a band I have always loved dearly. Whether it be my love of folk music, my Irish heritage or maybe the fact that they've taken traditional Celtic folk music, saw what The Pogues were doing if decided "needs a fuckin electric guitar and louder drums!" that has drawn me to their music. I would say it's their live show, but I've seen them a good 40+ times after two years of the Vans Warped Tour alongside them, and we all know that aint the same. Or maybe it's all of these things. Maybe it's just Flogging Molly is that kinda band, that when it finds its place within a certain listener, it's going to remain there forever. Well I guess that'd be me. And this record presents their live show in all for what it is. They're a band of honesty and sincerity, a band of talent, a band of compassion, and most of all, a band of fun. If you don't hear this record and want to go see them play a show, there's a lot wrong with ya.

3. The Bouncing Souls - Ghosts On The Boardwalk

Ahhhh The Souls... You glorious bastards. The Bouncing Souls have been around since 1987. That's the year my girlfriend was born (I'm only 3 years older, I'm not a creep, dicks...) as well as my brother. Obviously I wasn't there since the beginning but I have been loving them for a good 13 years or so. Their recent albums have fallen under amounts of expected scrutiny from fans who've been around for longer than I have (fuck you guys, Lean on Sheena is an awesome song). But the fact is, The Souls are doing what any band who's been together for more than a decade (or two) does, try some other shit out! This record is a compilation of a series of 7" records the band released over the course of a year. Yeah, songs on here you would never have heard on Hopeless Romantic and vice versa. But The Souls put together a well rounded and appropriate record for where they are and who they are now. It reflects where they've been and looks forward to where they're going. In short, The Bouncing Souls rule. If you disagree, you're a very very unintelligent person and should probably be pissed on just because you deserve it in some way or another.

2. Iron Chic - Not Like This

Well I guess it would be kinda obvious that this would make one of my top spots. As an avid lover of Latterman, their demise left me sad. But they all have gone on to great things. Matt had Shorebirds and then RVIVR (who made it to my list this year). Pat has Bridge & Tunnel, Stolen Parts and Daytrader all doing amazing things right now. And Phil got things moving with Lubrano of Small Arms Dealer and Explosivo! fame with a band called Iron Chic. Iron Chic takes everything you loved about those bands, and kinda turns it on it's head. The parts that would be so Explosivo! or Small Arms Dealer sound so Latterman. The parts that would be so Latterman sound so Explosivo! or Small Arms Dealer. And all of it, is just Iron Chic. It's straight and honest melodic punk rock. Rough vocals carry infectious melodies of simpler things that still aren't as simple as they could seem over a layer of driving and powerful punk rock accented by Phil's seemingly distaste for a single powerchord. It's a great package all wrapped up in a nice LP that really, everyone should have. Go forth little ones, ye shall be free.

1. The Flatliners - Cavalcade

Well, The Flatliners... Might I say, did you turn it up a notch or twenty with this record. I've always enjoyed and appreciated The Flatliners. They've provided a dosage of young, anthemic punk rock with a few sprinkles of snotty Clash-y reggae to make a human smile. But with Cavalcade, they've taken every single thing they are good at, and put it on hyper drive. The record blazes through breakneck speed punk rock songs to fists in the air sing along anthems without blinking and eye or thinking twice for a second. It is seamless in so many ways. The Flatliners take something that is dirty and turn it into something beautiful, in a simple manner. It has been a long time since a record has struck me the way this one has, and I anticipate it being a very long time until another one does. Well done gentlemen, well done indeed. I'd buy yas a case of Pabst if I could.

I HAVE RETURNED!

2010-12-18T11:30:00.005-05:00

I'm pleased to announce that I have returned to the blogging world. My life has changed significantly for the better since I last posted. The new incarnation of Exploding Penguin will focus less on me getting wasted alone in my small Brooklyn apartment and ranting on how much I hate shit. Version 3.0 of EP will now focus on my appreciation of fine beers (and cheap ones, here's lookin at you Rheingold), the comforting pint at an Irish pub, seeing your favorite punk rock band from over a decade ago still put on a hell of a show and the never ending quest for the greatest slice of pizza. So join me again friends, as we await our Flogging Molly tickets to arrive in the mail, enjoy a Guinness on the house at Shillelagh Tavern, measure out how much Cascade hops to add to this new batch of home brewed IPA and scour the streets of northern Queens for a slice.

Chic Fellows and Drug Trenches

2009-12-01T21:04:00.006-05:00

Awesome show alert. Every now and then you see the lineup for a show and you think to yourself "there's not a single band on this that I only kinda want to see, cuz I wanna see them as much as I want to see Taco Bell Day become a nationally recognized holiday". I'm not alone on that Taco Bell Day thing, right? Anyway. This Friday we have one of those shows. Hop on the ol' reliable G train and come on out to Tommy's Tavern and catch Iron Chic, Fellow Project, Whiskey Trench and Go Sell Drugs. Cheap show, cheep beers, great bands. Win, win and win. Whiskey Trench is in town from Canada so best see em while they're stateside! Bring some dollas to snag some shwag from them too (its tough times for touring bands!) All bands also have amazing records available from the fine folks at Dead Broke Rekerds. Go buy the hell out of them, especially Iron Chic's new 'Shitty Rambo' 7 inch EP. It's good as hell.

Show details below...

Iron Chic
Fellow Project
Whiskey Trench
Go Sell Drugs
at...
Tommy's Tavern
1041 Manhattan Ave - Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Friday, December 4th - 9pm $5

train to Greenpoint Ave (use the India St exit)

B61 and B43 buses to India St

Farewell Cheeky - This Weekend in Brooklyn

2009-11-26T12:40:00.013-05:00

Well Cheeky, you had a hell of a run. But as always, great bands usually break up with only a few releases out. They always have their reasons, and they're usually the right ones (or else they wouldn't be breaking up, right?) but ya never wanna see the really great ones go. Cheeky is one of those really great ones. They breathed a reviving breath into punk rock with straight forward, angsty and goddamn-catchy-as-hell songs that hadn't really been seen very often in recent years. Kate Eldridge belts out to the point choruses like "Get out of here! Leave me alone!" that need not go any further than that. Just get out of here, and leave her the hell alone. Simple. Far too many bands lately seem to try so hard to put more insightful or thoughtful meaning masked behind their lyrics, and it's getting fucking annoying (especially cause 90% of those bands are aweful). I think the chorus of that Cheeky song applies to those bands nicely.

Well now unfortunately, it's time to say goodbye to Cheeky. They've decided to wrap things up where they are and if that's the best thing for them, then so it is. That said, come say farewell to them this Saturday in Brooklyn at Death By Audio. Here's the show details:

Cheeky (last show ever!)
Slingshot Dakota
Zombie Dogs
Stupid Party
Shellshag

at Death By Audio
49 S. 2nd St - Brooklyn, NY
Saturday November 28th - $5 - 7pm - All Ages!

to Marcy Ave.

to Bedford Ave.

7" Of The Week: Get Bent - Demo E.P.

2009-05-14T22:21:00.006-04:00

Get Bent - Demo E.P.

Well it was nice while it lasted. Get Bent unfortunately is no more but they leave behind a handful of songs for us to enjoy and remember em by. This is their demo released on 7" format by the good folks at Long Island's Dead Broke Rekerds. Four songs of quirky and gritty pop punk. Dynamic guitars bounce around mid tempo shout along songs wrapped around raspy vocals belting out melodies that call for high fiving your nearest buddy. Get Bent, ye is gone far too soon. Don't worry, the dudes are all up to other projects which are just as great, nobody likes staying musically bored around these parts. Seriously how many people in the NYC/LI scene are in more than one band? I'm in three myself. If you supply an actual number I'll buy you a copy of this. Speaking of which, only 30 remain of the 500 pressed, so get on it before you're shit out of luck.

Purchase this 7" from Dead Broke Rekerds! ONLY 30 LEFT!
Purchase the TAPE from Dead Broke Rekerds! *includes bonus track "Barback Mountain"!
Download MP3 from If You Make It! *include bonus track "Ridgewood, Son"!

Leave Home ...and go to this

2009-05-10T22:28:00.004-04:00

Who likes art, bands, booze and cheap good times? Yeah, just about anyone I guess... Well if that kinda stuff is your cup of tea, head over to Death By Audio in Williamsbur on Friday evening for Leave Home, an art installation by Kate Wadkins, Lauren Denitzio, Cristy Road and Tamara Waite-Santibanez. There's also booze, usually courtesy of the guy in the back room slingin' cans of Busch from a cooler. Hurray beer! (feel free to throw some tall boys or 40s in your bag as well before heading over). And as if that all wasn't good enough, you'll be fortunate enough to have your ears loved by the sounds of the lovely Laura Stevenson and your face rocked by Brooklyn/New Brunswick's Little Lungs. More artists TBA, who will more than probably be great as well (why ruin a good thing?) Full details and all the what not can be found below:

Leave Home
A Collaborate Art Installation

Artists:
Lauren Denitzio / Black And Red Eye
Cristy Road
Kate Wadkins
Tamara Waite-santibanez / No Guts No Glory

Bands:
Little Lungs
Laura Stevenson
+ More Tba

at Death By Audio
89 S 2nd St in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
8PM - $5 donation

Purchase Little Lungs' 7" Hoist Me Up from Salinas Records.
Download Laura Stevenson's album A Record for free from Quote Unquote Records.

7" Of The Week: Bridge & Tunnel / Young Livers split

2009-04-27T20:36:00.002-04:00

Bridge & Tunnel / Young Livers - Split Record

Unless you've been living under a big shitty rock, you're probably at least familiar with either of these bands by name. Bridge & Tunnel hail from the same place I like to call home and have been on a steady rise over the past year as word of their dynamic records and passionate live shows spreads amongst buddies. Young Livers offer up a rough and gritty breed of intense punk with gritty vocals and melody heavy songs that seems to becoming a popular thing. This split does a great job of showcasing what both bands do best on the one song contributed by each. Definitely recommended for anyone interested in seeing what either of these bands are all about. Pick it up for a measly $3 from the good folks at No Idea Records.

Metaphorically, that is the punk scene...

2009-04-24T23:37:00.002-04:00

The Fest 5 - Mostly Champagne from NationalUnderground on Vimeo.

This is an "interview" (i fucking hate people who make quotes with their hands) with Ryan from Off With Their Heads and Paddy from D4 at Fest 5. Two of my favorite bands doing what they do best (aside from music), be drunk and fuck around. If you're not terribly familiar with one or either of these bands, just watch this and imagine it becoming music.

Also I just remembered Off With Their Heads is playing Death By Audio here in Brooklyn the night I turn 25. Shit rules sometimes.

7" Of The Week: Pregnant - Wanna See My Gun?

2009-04-19T15:18:00.003-04:00

Pregnant - Wanna See My Gun?

Brooklyn's own Pregnant have been out and about for a while now hitting the NYC and NJ scenes with their Dischord-influenced brand of punk with all they got. They're currently working on a new LP that is due out this summer on Don Giovanni Records, but if you need some now (which you do) their 7" EP Wanna See My Gun? was released in February and is loaded with awesome. Get your hands on that shit from Don Giovanni Records mailorder. Expect a lot more great things from this band in the future.

Happy Record Store Day!

2009-04-18T10:38:00.003-04:00

Happy Record Store Day to all! Every year this day comes around and to celebrate, bands and record stores around the country team up and offer exclusive vinyl releases and in store performances. It's a day to celebrate, and if there's one place with a plentiful amount of record stores taking part in the today, it's NYC. Here's a list of the stores I'll be definitely hitting up today.

Academy Records
96 N 6th St. Brooklyn, NY

Generation Records
210 Thompson St. New York, NY

Bleecker Street Records
239 Bleecker St. New York, NY

Earwax Records
218 Bedford Ave. Brooklyn, NY

SoundFix Records
110 Bedford Ave. Brooklyn, NY

To find stores in your area head to the Record Store Day's list of participating venues. Get out and support your local record. Fuck Best Buy, fuck Target, fuck Walmart, fuck Circuit City... oh wait. Independent records stores care about the music they sell, they do it because they love it. So whether you buy vinyl or CDs, go out and show your appreciation to your local record stores.

Papacito's garden opens May 5th!

2009-03-07T15:31:00.003-05:00

Who likes Mexican street style food? You're a liar if you didn't raise your hand. Who likes beer? You fucking liars, get your hands up! Well good news for all, on May 5th Papacitos will open their beloved patio and beer garden! Along with the grand fiesta, Papacitos will be unveiling new nightly specials, a daily $1.50 taco special and $ Tecate special. Not to mention they also have a great new vegan menu! Yes, Papacitos caters to eaters of all walks, and everything is delicious.

Oh and did you know they deliver? Cause they do, TIL 5 AM starting May 5th! And they've just expanded their delivery zone to even include the lower parts of Long Island City. Check out their menu on their website, but honestly you're better off just stopping by, grabbing a 32oz Tecate and kickin back with a burrito that could beat up your dad. If your dad was also a burrito...

Papacitos Brooklyn
999 Manhattan Ave
Greenpoint - Brooklyn 11222

train to Greenpoint Ave

B43 and B61 buses to India St

Recommendations... Again Damnit

2009-03-02T22:43:00.003-05:00

Some more crap I like lately, you should like it too.

Iron Chic - Demo
I'm just gonna say it now, you need this. Just download it now. Remember Latterman? Yea me too, they fucking ruled and they're not a band anymore. Life sucks, move on, as they have. Iron Chic is another chapter of that featuring members of Latterman and the also awesome Small Arms Dealer. Shout along songs that are almost nostalgic in a sense but not in a cheesy way at all. It's just some great pop punk anthems. These guys are gonna make some great records in the future. Listen to the demo, and listen often. I love it more and more every time.

Download from If You Make It

Get Bent - Demo
Some killer dudes from Ridgewood, Queens (gotta support the locals). Some more rough catchy as hell pop punk with some interesting guitar work as well. Sing alongs like woah. Another band we'll hopefully see a lot more from in the future.

Download from If You Make It

These album downloads were once again made available from the awesome site If You Make It and the respective artists. Check out the Pink Couch Sessions on If You Make It for some great exclusive performances by some of the best artists out there right now. Support your local DIY music scene and go see these bands when they play. If they have shit, buy it.

Recommendations... Cause I Said So

2009-02-16T10:58:00.009-05:00

Some EPs/demos I've been digging on lately and you should dig too.

Thousandaires - Land Seal Demo
A mixup of members of Bridge & Tunnel, Halo Fauna and Get Bent. Usually listing this kinda information means shit, but not in this case. It pretty much sounds just like a melting pot of those bands, which is a great thing. Hope we see more music from this collective.

Download from In You Make It

Air Raid Barcelona - 4 Song EP
They're a band, then they're not a band. Then they're a band again. Somethin like that. Urgent, driving, catchy punk rock from New Paltz. Rough vocals which compliment the music in a delicious manner. Would be killer to see an LP by these guys one day in the next few years.

Download from If You Make It

The Brass - Demo
The Brass rip. Nuff said. Seriously they just rip hard and that's all you need to know. Listen to this band. People who miss On The Might of Princes will be stoked on this (as it features ex OTMOP, dur). Also features members of Latterman, Air Raid Barcelona and Potboiler. Get into it.

Download from If You Make It

All these albums are available to download for free* by the fine folks of If You Make It. Please support the site, bookmark it and check it daily, like you have anything better to do.

*that means when you go see these bands live, buy shit from them. ya greedy bastids.

Lucero - FINALLY returning to Brooklyn

2009-02-09T23:23:00.006-05:00

Well it's finally fuckin' happening. After the last few laps through NYC saw Lucero playing on boats or opening for The Black Keys at Terminal 5 (I'm aware of the Mercury Lounge date that happened after but I had my own drunk punk-country band to tend to), Lucero is finally playing a normal club show. And I cannot really complain about the location. On April 18th they will take the stage at the North Si... err, Music Hall of Williamsburg.

It's a Saturday night, that could not have been more perfectly planned. Why? Because the only way to see Lucero is by trying to out drink them throughout their set. A feat very few can tackle (this is Lucero people). If you're not familiar with Lucero, there is something wrong with you first off. Secondly you need to aquaint yourself with them. I can cite no specific record to dig into first (ok maybe That Much Further West) as they're all whiskey and beer soaked masterpieces. You cannot listen to them and not be affected somehow.

I cannot lie, one of my goals in life is to one day get drunk with Ben Nichols and start playin' songs. Yeah it'll probably never happen, but a guy can dream yeah? Tickets go on sale Friday at noon. Do not miss this. Show details can be found below:

Lucero
w/ Titus Andronicus
Music Hall of Williamsburg
66 N 6th St - Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Saturday April 18th - 8pm doors 18+

train to Bedford Ave.

Lulu and Alligators

2009-02-05T21:22:00.005-05:00

Lulu's changed to Lost & Found. No biggy. Lost & Found was an excellent neighborhood establishment in north Greenpoint. It offered a decent draft beer selection, cheap Black Label, PBR and High Life, Simpsons pinball, a photobooth, pool table, skeeball (yep, skeeball), free hot dogs and pretty much the coolest bartenders around. It was never packed unless there was a show going on upstairs. Which was fine because that's how I was introduced to one of my favorite bands right now (Bridge & Tunnel, dig em).

The one night, while severely drunk, they informed me that L&F would be closing soon for renovations due to new ownership. I was crushed. I was also shitfaced. So it wasn't too bad. Then they didn't close for a while, and I thought all was honky dory until the day I rode past on my bike, and saw the site we see documented to the left in that photo. There used to be a ferris wheel and it read "Lost & Found". Devistation.

Months go by, and finally it reopens with a new name. Now it's Alligator - Greenpoint. Owned by the same folks who own Crocodile Lounge in the city and Alligator Lounge in Williamsburg, the free hot dogs are gone, replaced by free pizza. Which I'm not against, cause its damn good. But there's so many places to get free pizza in north Brooklyn. I was drunk when I came in to check out the changes, but they were vast. All the cool stuff is gone from the walls. They cleaned off the graffiti in the bathroom. High Life prices went up, no more PBR/Black Label. All the games appear to be gone. New random seating areas. I dunno, it wasn't bad. But it wasn't great. Still the same bar staff though so I can/will enjoy that. I guess you'll just haveta see for yourself. If you're new to it, you'll probably like it. If you're used to Lulu's/Lost & Found, you'll be let down. But I'll give it a chance to grow on me.

Oh yea and they're still doing shows. Bridge & Tunnel on March 12th. Do it.

*Another notable change i realized: happy hour is now only $3 drafts from 3-6 when it used to be half priced til 8. Who the fuck can get there before 6 oclock? I do believe you've lost me now... RIP old friend.

113 Franklin St.
Greenpoint, Brooklyn
train to Greenpoint Ave

or just go somewhere better, like Tommy's or Goodman's ($1.50 Bud draft and nothin but metal).

Off With Their Fucking Heads

2009-01-22T01:11:00.005-05:00

I'd like to start by saying fuck the Kaiser Chiefs. Not only do you have one of the shittiest names ever, and really some of the shittiest music ever, but because you chose to title one of your crimes against music "Off With Their Heads" you are stealing Google search results from a band who people will actually like in another six months. I hope this band gets AIDS and dies in front of loved ones on their birthdays.

And now I'm kinda too drunk to remember why I was originally gonna post this. But seriously, fuck the Kaiser Chiefs. Stop making music that dipshit Manhattan hipsters think is putting them on another level. I'd actually love to see Ryan from Off With Their Heads drink a case of Bud, do a buncha meth and fight the singer of the Kaiser Chiefs. I have no idea what this turd looks like but I bet he needs his ass kicked.

I guess what I'm trying to say is go buy Off With Their Heads records. And drink beer. Then listen to those Off With Their Heads records. Then kill a hobo. Just because.

Ben Nichols gone solo

2009-01-11T12:38:00.002-05:00

You're probably familiar with Lucero. If not you goddamn better get yourself on it cause you are missing out on one of the best bands you'll ever hear. The heart of Lucero's whiskey soaked country-punk rock lies in the words and voice of frontman Ben Nichols. That signature gravely Memphis howl has been the backbone of their music and the more than perfect conduit for his tales of broken hearts-down on your luck-broke down truck nights at a bar with a broken jukebox and still have a bottle of Jack Daniels left in front of ya.
Next week, Ben Nichols will release his first solo album called "The Last Pale Light In The West". The seven song album was recorded in two days in Memphis and showcases Ben Nichols in a much more stripped down and intimate light than the crunching twang of Lucero. There's acoustic guitars, pedal steel, accordian and piano and that's all ya could really want on it. Just that and Ben's voice. The songs themselves are based on the novel "Blood Meridian" by Cormac McCarthy. If you've read this the record makes even more sense (and if you haven't read it, read it). The record's been available in digital form for quite a while actually, so I'm way late on this post. I tried to hold out til the album's physical release but I caved and pre-ordered yesterday and got my download with it. I'm also crossing my fingers for a vinyl pressing, but we'll see. Click here to pre-order the CD and receive and instant download. You'll be glad you did.

Listen to Bon Iver

2009-01-10T11:35:00.003-05:00

I am understanding his music more right now than I did when I first heard him. It's both painful and comforting. That is all.

Get Fucked Up in Brooklyn

2009-01-02T14:45:00.004-05:00

Who wants to go see Fucked Up? You'll say yes if you know what's good for you. Anybody who's been to a Fucked Up show knows what I'm talking about. Anybody who hasn't been to a Fucked Up show? It's time you found out what I'm talking about. On Tuesday January 20th they'll be playing at the Inauguration Day Hardcore Show at Danbro Studios Warehouse in Bushwick with Vivian Girls and Pissed Jeans. Both bands you should get to know as well if you don't already. Now I know I know, it's inauguration night for our newly elected president Barack Obama. I'm looking into set times and inauguration schedules as much as I can. This would be an ideal strategy: Drinks and inauguration at Duck Duck or Kings County, pizza at Roberta's, then go see Fucked Up. Sounds like good times, right? Check out the details below.

Tuesday January 20th - 8pm
Fucked Up, Pissed Jeans, Vivian Girls + secret guests TBA
Danbro Studios Warehouse
260 Meserole St
Bushwick, Brooklyn

by subway:
train to Montrose Ave
train to Broadway
trains to Hewes St or Flushing Ave

Bridge & Tunnel @ Generation Records

2008-12-30T20:59:00.009-05:00

The increasingly great (and my number 5 LP of the year!) Bridge & Tunnel will be making a special appearance at Generation Records in Greenwich Village next month. Generation shows are always awesome and special in some way, even when they get absurdly cramped and you can't see much (anybody catch the Fucked Up show there?). Cheeky will be opening the show which kicks off at 8pm on Wednesday Jan 28th. Free as long as you bring a can of food to donate (bring more than one if you're awesome).

Can't make this? Bridge & Tunnel will also be performing a month
later on Feb 28th at Matchless in scenic Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Cheap Pabst, Bridge & Tunnel and a 5 minute walk home? You bet I'll be there.

Details:
January 28th at Generation Records
210 Thompson Street
Greenwich Village, NYC
trains to West 4th St Station

February 28th at Bar Matchless
Manhattan Ave & Driggs Ave
Greenpoint, Brooklyn
train to Nassua Ave
train to Bedford Ave

Top Ten Records of 08

2008-12-21T12:26:00.014-05:00

Everyone loves to read end of the year top ten lists. And everyone loves to make end of year top ten lists and push their personal opinions upon others. So here we go, my Top Ten Records of 2008. My list is better than your list.

10.
H2O - Nothing To Prove
Bridge 9 Records

It was 7 years since the last new H2O record. Usually that amount of time between records causes people to forget about a band. But those kindsa people probably don't listen to bands like H20. No biggy, more for me. H2O returns as family men who are taking a look at the new state of "punk" bands, and they don't like it too much. Choice tracks like "Nothing To Prove" and "What Happened?" show that H2O hasn't forgotten who they are, but they kinda want to know: who the hell are you?

9.
This Is Hell - Misfortunes
Trustkill Records

On their second LP, This Is Hell stepped further into their shoes and goes for a little run. Distancing themselves a bit from American Nightmare stylings of Sundowning and drawing more metal influences, they've gifted us with a new, raw and refreshing hardcore album that's been a regular staple in my rotations this year.

8.
United Nations - United Nations
Eyeball Records

The hype and salivations by the masses for United Nations, a screamo supergroup has subsided. Everyone's gotten all their "best. album. ever.", "i dont get it" and "it just sounds like shitty Orchid" out of their systems, so maybe now we can just enjoy this record for what it is. I won't lie at first the hype almost turned me off to enjoying the band, but it's kinda just not possible. The album shreds, shreds real hard. Now if only Eyeball Records would send me the fucking vinyl copy I ordered almost two months ago and claims shipped. Seriously, I'm really pissed and if anyone knows someone at Eyeball, tell them to watch their backs.

7.
The Gaslight Anthem - The '59 Sound
SideOneDummy Records

The New Jersey success story of the year. Been a while since we had one of them hasn't it? Comprised of a strong match of NJ punk scene veterans, The Gaslight Anthem have been slowly but surely turning heads over the past few years since their first LP Sink or Swim came out guns blazing with a raw Social D meets Hot Water Music style. With The '59 Sound the guys turn down the distortion and roll their packs of smokes into their t shirt sleeves. This time it's all about the stories in the songs and polaroids you could imagine them being documented on. If Bruce Springsteen were to go punk, it'd sound like this.

6.
Thursday/Envy Split LP
Temporary Residence LTD

I was one of the few who were not disappointed in Thursday's A City By The Light Divided but I do this weird thing where I listen to bands I already know with an open mind and an understanding of them wanted to try new things. Crazy I know. Free from their contract with Island, Thursday really shows a return to form with some of their most creative material yet, including two instrumental tracks. Imagine Explosions In The Sky if they were a heavy band. Envy as always does not disappoint either with texture rich songs that make you wonder so much what they're singing about (cause its in Japanese). Releasing it only on vinyl? Also a glorious idea.

5.
Bridge & Tunnel - East/West
No Idea Records

I first heard Bridge & Tunnel a while back at my favorite bar Lost & Found (RIP) here in lovely Greenpoint Brooklyn. Normally I get kinda pissed when there's an unexpected show at L&F cause one of the bar's main draws in the relatively low music levels and never-packed-ness. But this time I figured whatever, a buncha friends are already here and I'm about 5 Miller High Life's deep, go with it. Bridge & Tunnel struck my attention right away. I felt as if they were reviving something, but I wasn't sure what. They reminded me of You & I expect not really at all. Cursive? Kinda. Hot Water Music? A bit. Regardless I was in love and bought their 7" on the spot. This summer they followed up with East/West and it picks up right where the 7" teased at. Dynamic guitars, split male/female lead vocals and observational songs about life in general. Get this record. And their 7". And their split with Young Livers.

4.
Chuck Ragan & Austin Lucas - Bristle Ridge
Ten Four Records

Ever since starting his own solo career, Chuck Ragan really has not slowed down one bit. From the 7" club releases with No Idea, one live LP, one studio LP and countless other 7" singles and splits it seems that if Chuck writes a song, he's gonna release it. This has got to be his most ambitious effort yet. Teaming up with natural born folk singer Austin Lucas they crafted some of both's finest songs yet. From rootsy bluegrass and folk to striped ballads and nonholy gospel, Ragan and Lucas riffle through their own songs, collaborations and some old standards and present them in a way only these two could together. Also featuring Chuck Ragan live show staples Digger Barnes and Jon Gaunt, and Austin's father Bob Lucas, who recorded the record in his rural Indiana home. It really doesn't matter what your music of preference is, you will love this record.

3.
Fucked Up - The Chemistry Of Common Life
Matador Records

Ah, Fucked Up. What will you do next. Never a band to take kindly to restrictions or boundaries many tend to place on hardcore music (I can barely even consider them a hardcore band), Fucked Up is at it again. Opening the record with a lone flute, it eventually unfolds into everything you love about Fucked Up. Songs of epic length and sonic mindfucks. Bizarre instrumentions dance around power chord heavy rhythm sections and Damien's signature growl on an even more ambitious effort than Hidden World, as if that were possible. See them next month in Brooklyn. It won't be another 12 hour show, but it'll be one to remember.

2.
Off With Their Heads - From The Bottom
No Idea Records

Something's got to really suck in this dude's life to sing the things he sings. I'd cite something specific but really, just listen and you'll see what I mean. Seriously, like I really hope playing the songs and touring is theraputic for him. Regardless, Off With Their Heads play the kind of gritty punk rock that is catchy as hell but doesn't compromise any substance. The vocals are harsh and gravely (a friend equated it to a drunk pirate) and really aren't for everyone. But if it is for you, odds are you already love the band. This record really resonates with all the energy and dont-give-a-fuck attitude that makes bands like this so great. They're on tour for the rest of their lives, so if they come through town definitely make it a point to see them, buy all their LPs, 7"s and a shirt. They deserve your love, and Taco Bell.

1.
Dillinger Four - C I V I L W A R
Fat Wreck Chords

Here it is folks, my favorite album of the year. This prestigeous honor goes to another band who's been taking their sweet ass time releasing a new record. Dillinger Four decided to make us wait 6 years since they released Situationist Comedy to grace us with another release. And well, it was goddamn worth it. This record is infectuous. Nothing new or ground breaking. No experimentation from D4. Nothing to validate the 6 year gap in records. But fuck it, this is all you need. Dillinger Four doing what they do best. Drinking beer and playing energetic four chord punk songs with absurd titles about pop culture and Jesus. And when they come through on tour you're gonna do what you're obligated to do as an American with civil duties, get drunk and go have an awesome time at the show. Get this record and all their others, it might make you a good person.

I have returned

2008-12-21T12:11:00.003-05:00

Well it's been a good three months or so since my last post. Sounds about right. Write for a few weeks, then disappear. Write another few weeks, disappear. Rinse, repeat. I'm going to try to stay more active here and also invite contributions from anyone else interested in yammering about things relating to non shitty music and cool stuff going on around Brooklyn.

I think to close out 2008 I'll opt for posting a top ten list of year. Maybe a few of them. Definitely a top 10 records of the year. Maybe top 10 bars? Top 10 shows? Did I even go to 1o shows this year? We'll see. You'll see.

Reviving more than just a tour

2008-09-16T22:31:00.007-04:00

Odds are you already know of The Revival Tour going on this fall featuring Chuck Ragan (Hot Water Music), Ben Nichols (Lucero) and Tim Barry (Avail). Odds are you know it's going to be an incredible show to experience as these three are some of the most influential song writers in contemporary punk music and what really is punk rock but folk music with fast drums and distorted powerchords?

Well the fine gents making up The Revival Tour figured it's not enough to just provide us all with a sure to be memorable performance, but we should have some music to take home with us. Chuck and his wife recently pressed a CD called "Revival Road" on their own Ten Four Records. The disc features songs from Chuck, Ben and Tim and will be available every night of the tour. Vinyl you ask? Duh of course vinyl is going to be available. Vinyl Collective and Side One Dummy will have the record available on vinyl and you'll also be able to grab it at the later dates of the tour. There are 500 pressed on brown vinyl with Kraft paper silkscreened jackets and 1,000 printed on white vinyl with black paper silkscreened jackets. You can currently pre-order either individually or a special package of both for $25 from the good folks at Vinyl Collective. Yea, I got the package of both. As if I had a choice? Details of the NYC date can be found below.

The Revival Tour
f/ Chuck Ragan, Ben Nichols, Tim Barry and special guest Frank Turner
Monday Oct 13th
8:00
The Blender Theater at Gramercy
127 E 23rd St. Manhattan, NYC

subway:
6 train to 23rd St
R/W trains to 23rd St
L train to 3rd Ave

Extend your stay, amongst other things

2008-09-15T17:23:00.003-04:00

Came across this lovely video whilst boredly perusing the intrawebs. I've stayed at Extended Stay Hotels before, and while I must say it is comfy as hell, I didn't experience this high degree of "relaxation". Maybe they've got some killer new wings at the hotel bar? It might be time to plan another trip though, that's some impressive power.

NYC + Craft Beer = oh shit...

2008-09-13T19:01:00.002-04:00

Beer. Anyone who knows a damn thing about me knows how much I like beer of all dimensions and qualities. I will spend $10+ on a single 120z bottle of Dogfish Head 120 Minute IPA. I will also have no problem whatsoever riffling through all my pants for change to cough up $2.50 for a 40 of Colt 45.

It's NY Craft Beer Week and it couldn't have come at a better time of the year. Summer is ending. Fall is starting. The weather is becoming more and more bearable throughout the days and nights. So what better time to get some friends together for a good ol' fashion bar crawl?

It's a pretty simple idea. Purchase your $19 ticket for the night online (I assume you print it out?) and check out the event's website to see what bars in what neighborhoods are participating. Each bar has about 3 beers selected for the event week and will provide 8oz glasses (pictured above) to sample each one in. 8oz may seem small, but figure it's 3 beers per bar, and about 8 bars per neighborhood and you're not limited to just one neighborhood for the evening! Next weekend I'll be taking part in the Greenpoint bar crawl (excited to check out the Hop Obama from Sixpoint Brewery at Black Rabbit) which depending on how drunk we get, will trickle down to the Williamsburg bars participating as well. Check out the list of beers available at this week's celebration.

Greenpoint Bars participating:
The Mark Bar
1025 Manhattan Ave
t.b.d.
224 Franklin St
Van Gogh's Radio Lounge
147 Franklin St
Black Rabbit
91 Greenpoint Ave
The Diamond
43 Franklin St
The Gutter Bar
200 N 14th St

Sounds of the NYC underground

2008-09-12T13:13:00.002-04:00

For the past few weeks MSG Network has been broadcasting a show called NYC Sound Tracks which put 16 NYC subway musicians up against each other and based on viewer votes, they'd narrow it down to one finalist. I've seen a few episodes of it (now that I finally have cable at my apartment) and it's been a real cool show. I've even recognized some of the musicians (bearded flute dude, Boradway-Lafayette station on the B train, sup brother).

This weekend's episode will be the final for this season and it's been narrowed down to either Dorian Spencer or Gibran Soul to be crowned the official (according to MSG viewers atleast) Best NYC Subway Artist. It'll air at 8pm this Sunday on MSG Network. Here's a video with a snippet from the show.

Duuuuude I'm sooo...

2008-09-11T22:57:00.002-04:00

Fucked Up will giving a special performance tomorrow (9/12) evening in Manhattan at the ever excellent Generation Records. They'll go on at 8PM and if you wanna go you better email fuckedup@matadorrecords.com reaaaaaaaaaaaally fuckin' fast cause space is absurdly limited. It's at a record store people... I'll be there with camera in hand. Now if only my Mac was working so I could actually upload the photos... Regardless, if you live in New York and you happen to actually enjoy good music, I highly recommend you make an attempt to email that address with your name to ensure you'll get in. I ain't promising you will though (I'm all set so screw ya'll). Their next LP "The Chemistry Of Common Life" is due out next month on Matador Records.

deets:
Fucked Up
8pm
Generation Records
210 Thompson St
Greenwich Village, NYC

A, C, E, B, D, V or F trains to W 4th St.
1 or 2 trains to Houston St.
R or W trains to 8th St.
PATH train to 9th St.
fuck Manhattan buses...

To Serve, Protect and Beat The Shit Out Of You If We Feel Like It

2008-07-30T01:52:00.005-04:00

As a cyclist in this city, you put up with a lot. Joggers running against traffic in the BIKE lane, not many bike lanes to begin with, moronic and careless drivers who think bikes are supposed to ride on the sidewalk (it's ILLEGAL numbnuts) and occasionally yes, police officers with nothing better to do than give you a hard time (gawd forbid they go patrol some neighborhoods that need it). I've had my share of cops messing with me for stupid nonsense. But NOTHING I or anyone I know has ever experienced in NYC, Philly, Baltimore and wherever the hell else I or my friends have biked compares to what happened at Friday's Critical Mass in midtown Manhattan.

Nice little display of how much you care about serving and protecting there officer. And to top it off, the kid got arrested and the cop denied it all! Police drunk on power is a huge problem in this city and I really start to wonder what it's going to take before something is done about it. You'd think the Shawn Bell murder would have? But no, that just proved that you could blast 50+ rounds into an unarmed person and walk away if you have a badge. So really, what is it gonna take in this city?

Sonic Youth to close the show

2008-07-28T20:40:00.002-04:00

Well we all knew it was coming. This summer is the last year for JellyNYC pool parties and other concerts at McCarren Park Pool in Greenpoint (that's right, it's in Greenpoint, sorry Williamsburg). The pool parties have been the apple of our summer eyes for the past few years. Bands you want to see, for free? Shit where do I sign up? Nowhere, just show up. But it must come to an end (maybe), and who better but to ring out the last note but Sonic Youth? OK it's not the final JellyNYC pool party, but it will be the official last concert at McCarren. The last JellyNYC party will be on August 24th and the lineup will be announced soon. This summer has seen some great shows, and more to come. The Loved Ones showed me that I'll stand in the rain if I really like a band that much. And though I can't say I was particularly impressed with anyone's performance at the MGMT show yesterday, the $2 Sixpoint Sweet Action in the VIP area treated me nicely. Seriously who doesn't like cheap beer? While you must purchase tickets for the Sonic Youth show, that's not such a bad thing. Think of all the shows you're seen for free, it can't kill ya to pay for ONE. And it's SONIC YOUTH. You've heard of them right? Ok cool.

Sonic Youth - FINAL CONCERT AT MCCARREN EVER
Sat. August 30th
4PM Doors
get tickets
McCarren Park Pool
780 Lorimer St. Brooklyn, NY
L train to Bedford Ave or Lorimer St
G train to Metropolitan Ave or Nassua Ave

back again

2008-07-11T12:00:00.004-04:00

Well it seems I've once again taken a long absence from writing. Laziness? Maybe. Lack of events to write about? Hardly. Distraction from third parties? OK that's it. I wanted to write about Renegade Craft Fair, a review of The Loved Ones at McCarren Pool, NYC Bubble Battle and Brooklyn Kickball. But those things are long past. Well I suppose I can still do a overdue review of Renegade. And if you so please, here's some pictures from The Loved Ones at McCarren Pool. And I go to the kickball games every week so that's still fresh. Ok so I guess I was just lookin for an excuse there with that "long past" nonsense. But alas, ever onward. It's NYC, it's summer, things are happening and if I think it doesn't suck I'll have some words on it here. First thing's first...

Tomorrow night is indeed one of the most anticipated nights of this summer for myself and anyone else who knows a damn thing about good music. Hot Water Music, Thursday and Paint It Black (or as I like to call it, the Time Capsule Show) will be performing together at Terminal 5 in midtown Manhattan. Unusual location for a show of this type, but hey they have fresh (I wish free) empanadas on the third floor balcony and beers are actually sensibly priced for that part of the city. However also that night, Alkaline Trio is headlining Irving Plaza with American Steel and Dillinger 4 supporting. Now I used to love Alkaline Trio, I really did and still love all those records and have even found songs I can appreciate on Crimson and Good Mourning. But to say they're even a shadow of the band who released Goddamnit and Maybe I'll Catch Fire would be a goddamn lie. I propose Alkaline Trio's bus be stopped and searched at the Lincoln Tunnel. And held for several hours forcing them to miss load in and soundcheck. American Steel and Dillinger 4 will have no choice but to come up to Terminal 5 and join the Hot Water/Thursday/Paint It Black show. I think it's a great idea yes? No? Who wants to help make it happen? More importantly who else is gonna be Lost & Found in Greenpoint Bklyn before the show gettin the day started right?

Nicole Atkins & The East River

2008-06-06T11:09:00.002-04:00

Nicole Atkins plays pop music. Really great pop music. Not of the radio variety and not of the super pretentious variety. Just really great pop music taking hints from the greatest of the 60s pop and R&B singers and crafting it into a contemporary sound which isn't quite her own, but who cares because she does it so well. Her new album "Neptune City" on Columbia Records explores her varied influences while showcasing a strong songwriter coming into her own in this world of often vapid and redundant pop music. Catchy, upbeats tunes ("Brooklyn's On Fire") twirl around with torchy ballads ("The Way It Is") on this record with theatrical balance. So with all this knowledge, doesn't she sound like someone you'd like to see perform live? Perhaps even... for FREE? Well New York City, you can. She will be playing a free show at Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City, Queens on Tuesday June 17th at 7:30pm. Full details below.

Nicole Atkins (7:30)
Salt & Samovar (6:30)
Socrates Sculpture Park
32-01 Vernon Blvd (intersection of Vernon & Broadway)
Long Island City, NY 11106
N/W train to Broadway (in Queens, dur)

Just blow with a large group of strangers

2008-06-05T20:52:00.004-04:00

Summer is upon us and the good folks at Newmindspace are ready again to satiate your hunger for something ridiculous and fun in large numbers. They give to us once again, the NYC Bubble Battle. It feels like just yesterday that the NYC Pillow Fight occurred in Union Square (yeah that was in March... oh, spring 08 where hath thee gone?). But this is surely not to disappoint. No location has been announced just yet, though previously it's been held at Astor Place and I think that is quite the suitable battle ground. I expect to see some double barrel bubble guns and semi automatic sub-bubble assault rifles here. Full details have yet to be announced including info on an after party, but I'll be sure to post as soon as it does. But for now, jot this down:

Newmindspace presents:
NYC Bubble Battle
Saturday, Jun 21st
6:15pm - 7:15pm
Somewhere in Manhattan?

Add the event to your Facebook.

Get Loved at McCarren Pool this month

2008-06-03T19:56:00.006-04:00

Usually when someone writes about an upcoming show, it's because of the killer headliner (see three posts down...). And it's not that I don't dig The Hold Steady, they're a solid band. But this is all about The Loved Ones. They first caught my attention in the summer of 06 while I was in Baltimore with my old band recording an album with Brian McTernan, who recorded their first EP and LP. They stopped by the studio while coming through town on tour and were really killer guys. So I checked their tunes out and was super into it. It was that solid, catchy punk rock that while many bands do well, they just do much better. Gritty yet melodic vocals, hook laden guitars and driving drum beats. Nothing outrageous, just something concrete and excellently executed. Their second LP "Build And Burn" brought more of a pop and at times folky element to the songwriting and they really started to shine through with their full potential without sacrificing anything fans of the first two records loved about them. So why did I mention The Hold Steady at first? Oh yeah. Well, The Loved Ones will be opening for them at McCarren Park Pool on June 29th. Like I said, it's not that I don't dig The Hold Steady. I just think The Loved Ones are far better. There will also be a special song performed during The Loved Ones' set. What is it? Well, you'll just have to go to the show (hint: Chuck will be proud!). Details are below.

JellyNYC Presents:
The Hold Steady
The Loved Ones
J Roddy & The Business
Sun June 29 at 2pm
McCarren Park Pool
780 Lorimer St.
Brooklyn, NY 11222

L train to Bedford Ave or Lorimer St.
G train to Nassau Ave or Metropolitan Ave
also accessible from B61, B48 and B43 bus lines.

Another place to dispose of your paychecks...

2008-06-01T20:45:00.005-04:00

If there's one thing there will never be too many of in Brooklyn, or anywhere really, is record stores. Not CD stores, record stores where one can make purchases of the vinyl persuasion. While en route to Queens on Franklin Ave in Greenpoint the other week, a friend and I spotted this place, Permanent Records which we'd never noticed before (obviously cause it's pretty new). Immediately we spun our bikes around and popped in. And yes of course, we spent a good forty five minutes perusing through. I gotta say, impressive. Great selection of classic pop, rock and jazz records as well as more contemporary punk and indie stuff. And a great bin of seven inch records. It may not look like much at first glance, but you'll find yourself looking through every last record there and having to decide which ones to get and which to put back. Or maybe not? Everything is very modestly priced. I picked up 7"s from Minor Threat, The Cro(w)s and Wat Tyler and some new record cleaner for under $12. And did I mention that the guy working there (dunno if he was the owner?) was super nice and helpful? Yeah, I know. At a record store in Brooklyn, but believe me it happened. You could tell he really cares about and appreciates music. Give them a shot, you'll be happy. Then go celebrate your new favorite record shop and buy me drinks at Lost & Found as a token of thanks.

Permanent Records
181 Franklin St. (corner of Huron St.)
Brooklyn, NY 11222
718-383-4083

G train to Greenpoint Ave
B61, B43 buses to India St. & Manhattan Ave.

Death//Traitors doesnt wanna see you naked

2008-05-31T14:34:00.005-04:00

The summer line from Brooklyn t-shirt company Death/Traitors is now available and waiting for you to buy it. It's about to get real hot out, might as well look hot as well. I'm particularly happy to see the Doomsday artwork now on a t-shirt (it was a sweatshirt in the winter line). Stay posted on their website about upcoming concerts and DJ party nights around Brooklyn. I'm sure I'll write about it here as well. Purchase your shiny new D/T swag from the website or at these retail locations:

KCDC
90 N. 11th St
Brooklyn, NY 11211

Autumn Skateboard Shop
436 E. 9th St
New York, NY 10009

Division East (exclusive D/T/DE collab shirt avail here)
460 Bloomfield Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042

Rumors
404 N. Harrison St.
Richmond, VA 23220

1998 NJ basements come to 2008 NYC

2008-05-31T11:53:00.003-04:00

Hot Water Music. Thursday. Paint It Black. When was the last time you could have seen these three bands together? OK maybe Paint It Black woulda been Lifetime or Kid Dynamite, but you get the idea. On July 12th these three bands will be playing together at Terminal 5 here in NYC. After being disappointed by the lack of a Hot Water reunion show back in December when they started playing again, it can safely be said that this makes up for it tenfold. Missing this show should not even be an option. It's a Saturday night. It's reasonably priced. And well, Hot Water Music is playing. That right there is reason enough for anyone with ears to attend this. If somehow you're not familiar with these bands, check out their Myspace pages below:

Hot Water Music
Thursday
Paint It Black

=w=tf is everyone talking about?

2008-04-14T21:37:00.006-04:00

OK so you can hear a short clip of Weezer's new song "Pork & Beans" and everyone is goin nutso crazy saying how they're so excited that it sounds like Pinkerton. I want to know if these people own Pinkerton or just know they're supposed to say that's Weezer's best album. Sure, the guitar tones are thick and fuzzy and it's sounding more stripped down than the more recent albums, but the melody is severely lacking any resemblance to a Pinkerton era Weezer. Same with the lyrics, which I understand is going to be so since Rivers has much changed his outlook on songwriting. It sounds more like a Green album song so far but recorded the way they did the Blue album and Pinkerton. C'mon though, this only reminded me of Pinkerton for a split second. And there is so much of the song we are not hearing yet, the little bit of verse leading into this does not sound like something I want to have anything to do with. I guess I'm just pessimistic because their last three albums have gotten progressively worse and worse. We'll see, for now though I am very unimpressed.

Get on your bikes and ride

2008-04-13T17:45:00.005-04:00

I know I've been MIA since February. Whups. Anyway I wanted to share with all none of my readers the awesomeness of Great Used Bikes.com. I needed to upgrade from my old 3 speed cruiser (click that link, I'm selling it) to a more suitable bike for interborough travel. I ended up landing a lovely 10 speed Schwinn World Sport road bike for only $200 from GreatUsedBikes.com. I actually just got it this morning, and have been loving the hell outta it. I highly recommend them if you're looking for a good reliable bike at a good price. They are extremely helpful and informative and even deliver right to your apartment. Check out the site, great selection of road bikes and cruisers and all affordable. That being said, who's up for a ride to Coney Island?

Delta Spirit is coming to Brooklyn

2008-02-26T21:01:00.003-05:00

Well what good news that is. I was playing their album "Ode To Sunshine" this morning in the office and about halfway through the last song I started thinkin' "hmmm I wonder if they have new tour dates up?" Well sho' nuff, they do. And they're coming to Brooklyn. March 25th you can catch them at Union Hall in Park Slope. And three days after the pillow fight in Union Square? I gotta say I've really been crossing my fingers that Delta Spirit would be coming to New York City sooner than later. Much like Alberta Cross, they were recommended to me by my swell friend Meghan, and at first I was like "hmmm yea it's cool". A few months later I gave their EP another listen and while I was really enjoying it this time around, the song "People, Turn Around!" hit me in a way very songs have. You know the way I'm talking about. When you hear it you feel like this is the song you've been waiting to hear your whole life (until you hear the next song that does that to you, of course). But that's what this song did. So i got my hands on their full length album (they say a vinyl release is coming, where's the wax boys?) and there it was. I had fallen in love with this band. They'd redone "People, Turn Around!" and it sounds even better than before. Other songs like "Children" and "Trashcan" also quickly stole my soul and they can keep it. They deserve it. So I encourage all to venture to Union Hall that evening and grab a beer and sing along to one of the best bands making music right now.

NYC Pillow Fight 08!

2008-02-19T21:57:00.000-05:00

Yup, that's right. I'm sure you've seen it popping up on your news feed on Facebook. Maybe wondering what the hell it's all about? Well, it's simple. PILLOW FIGHT!!! Saturday March 22 is International Pillow Fight Day. Why is this awesome? Cause it's a pillow fight between you and thousands of other people. This year it is taking place in Boston, Budapest, Chicago, Copenhagen, London, Paris, Shanghai, Vancouver, Washington DC and of course right here in New York City (hosted here by Newmindspace). There's no reason for not attending this unless you don't have arms. Even then, just come and get whacked with pillows. It's happening on March 22nd, the first offical day of Spring in Union Sq from 3PM til 4PM. Grab a pillow, hop on the subway and come relive those carefree elementary school years with a bunch of strangers. For you fellow social network nerds you can check out the Facebook event listing here. Be there or be lame.

Better Makins in my cigarettes

2008-02-19T20:40:00.001-05:00

I don't really have much to say about this. Except Marolboro's sure do have some "better makins". I'm gonna have me a Marlboro now.

Also, did any of those football team characters seem just a leeeeeeeeetle bit racist at all?

Please, make this forever...

2008-02-18T11:44:00.000-05:00

The poor little G train. Often subject of ridicule and butt end of many jokes by NYC straphangers. He's the little engine that couldn't but damnit really wants to. Personally I love it. It runs very close to my apartment, it goes places I like going to (for the most part), and I don't ride during rush hours so I never have to deal with cramming into one it's four cars (average NYC subway train is 8-11 cars long). I don't mind having to do the G train sprint every now and then, I really don't.
The G train normally terminates at the Smith/9th St. station in Red Hook (by now it's been sharing track with the F train, which continues to Coney Island after here). This was frustrating when I lived on 4th ave in Greenwood Heights because if the G would have gone ONE more stop to 4th Ave it would have made getting to Ft. Greene, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Long Island City, ect so much easier. And now living in Ft. Greene it would make returning to the Park Slope/Greenwood Heights area such an easy thing.
This weekend til early Tuesday morning (as well as Feb 23-25 and Mar 1-3) there is some major changes to subway service in Brooklyn. No C trains will be running, F trains will be rerouted over the C line btw Jay St and Euclid Ave, and the G train will continue past Smith/9th St all the way to Coney Island. Which means... G service to Park Slope! I even rode a G train with 6 cars on it the other night, it was weeeeird man. This must be taken full advantage of. So many diners, bars, restaurants, record stores and more that I've missed from that neighborhood will be visited in these time frames allotted. There's constant talk of the G extending to Church Ave soon, but no dates are ever given. Come on now MTA, I've written you about this in the past. It'll be make many people happy riders.

Brooklyn Waterfalls?

2008-02-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

Well yes, there will be one. From July til October this year, a waterfall will be constructed on one of the towers of the Brooklyn Bridge. This will be one of four pieces of a public arts project by Olafur Eliasson (at a cost of about $15 million in private donations). The city seems to think this project will generate $55 million is tourist revenue. I think that's pretty high speculation but who am I to judge? Regardless it'll be pretty cool to see a waterfall under the Brooklyn Bridge. I'm gonna start taking bets now on how long it will be before some nutjob decides it's a fun idea to try to jump off the "Brooklyn Falls". With any luck they'll get sucked into the turbine water pumps at the base of the bridge.

*edit: Fuck you Brooklyn.com for taking down my crosslink. Sorry for trying to give you free advertising, ya bags of douche.

Tomorrow...

2008-02-04T23:00:00.000-05:00

Make the right choice...

Proof That Alberta Cross exists in the now

2008-02-02T17:43:00.000-05:00

Photos from Alberta Cross's performance at The Living Room last Tuesday have been posted on my Flickr page or click the Flickr link on the links section. I'll probably snap some more on Thursday night when I see them again.

P.S. random note for anyone looking for cheap drinks and eats in the Lower East Side on Tuesdays... Epstein's Bar (I know, I know) on the corner of Stanton and Allen has half priced drinks and meals from 7 til 11. I had a nice burger & fries and a giant mug (larger than a pint mind you) of delicious IPA for $6. Try to beat that.

FU, This Is Hell

2008-02-02T16:11:00.000-05:00

After a nice afternoon stroll down Myrtle Ave I stopped by the post office to pick up a record that somehow didn't fit in my mailbox, even though 7" records have fit before without any problem. That being said, I finally have my copy of "Cripplers" by This Is Hell. Six tracks of hardcore the way it should be played including 3 covers (The Beastie Boys, Civ and The Movielife). This is a nice little appetizer before their new LP "Misfortunes" comes out later this month. I'll be checking them out at The Music Hall Of Williamsburg (I still call it the North Six) this Friday night with Gallows and The Cancer Bats. I may or may not be taking pictures.

Alberta Cross next week @ The Living Room

2008-02-02T13:02:00.000-05:00

Alberta Cross is not like any band I've heard in quite some time. At first listen you'll refuse to believe they're a band from London putting out records in this day. My friend Meghan turned me on to them many months back and my initial reaction was "it's cool..." A few months after that I listened again and was somehow completely floored this time around. Now I view it as my mission to turn as many people on to this band as I can. That being said, they are playing The Living Room on Ludlow next Thursday night. I saw them there this Tuesday and it was more than I expected, I'll be posting pictures from that on my Flickr later today. This is not a show to be missed.

Godspeed you...

2008-02-02T11:14:00.000-05:00

I am about to go be a man and brave the mayhem of the Pratt Station post office for 11205. All for something they could have fit in my mailbox...