Tweet For An A

Australia's Griffith University has made twitter usage a requirement for journalism students. The university hopes to promote more "in depth" twitter usage by students by making the website part of their curriculum, preparing journalism majors for the future of "social media" in today's world. Students have had mixed feelings so far, some dubbing the class "a waste of time." The Mashable.com article goes on to say students don't know how "good they have it" with the new course.

In a few words, I find this idea to be absolute bullshit. Sure, I've come to accept the online universe as taking over the media. But this can only lead to one thing, and already has: inaccurate news. You might remember a few days ago outlets reporting that Kanye West was dead, when indeed the rapper was alive and well. This isn't the first time inaccurate deaths have been reported, nor will it be the last. Imagine a world where all our news is obtained from social networks? Twitter producing the most read headlines? Or will twitter die out like myspace? Only time will tell.

Back 2 Back

If you follow sports at all or live in Philadelphia, you may have heard "the phillies are back for seconds," or "fuck the yankees" several times in the past 2 hours. It's all about the broad street celebrations people, so let's do this again for the second year in a row.

WORK IT

Sick of the job hunt? Want a discount on Deep V's? AA's UPenn Community Store is holding open calls this Thursday from 12:30pm-4:30pm. Grab your tri blend and make sure to bring your resume with references to 3661 Walnut St. Can't make the call? Email AA's Beth Elsenheime for further employment info. Best of luck. Click here for the ad.

Vampire Weekend's Latest Track

Indie Ivy Leaguers Vampire Weekend unveil the first track off their forthcoming full length Contra. Not set to release until Jan. 2010, "Horchata" is available for download via the band's website. Click here to download or here for more deets.

Happy Birthday Kip!

Philly native Kip Berman (aka the twee-tastic frontman of the Pains Of Being Pure at Heart) turns 30! Celebrate with the masses tonight at FUC. Doors are at 8pm. Too tired to make the show? No worries, crank up the vid below.

Gone Too Far

Prior to his death, Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein had been working on a series with MTV about bringing adolescents and their families to terms with sobriety. After his fatality, it was uncertain as to whether or not the series would air. Goldstein's family has decided to allow the show's airing, in order to represent the man Adam really was. The series, Gone Too Far, begins airing on October 12th.

Flava Flav Turns Back Time

Flava Flav in my mind put VH1 reality dating shows on the map. Since then VH1 has created a slew of spin-off shows, none quite comparable to Flav's "charming" appeal. Well, he's back, this time, with a different agenda. Public Enemy's finest plans to go back to high school and get his diploma, having dropped out shortly after 10th grade.

On his return to, Flav says:
"I just want to show the world it's never too late to get your diploma, and show kids they should stay in school and not wait until you're old to get it," said Flav. "Everybody sees me as this big love mogul. Now I got a baby girl, I've been there and done that and now it's time for the next episode."

Despite my hatred for recent reality television, this just might get me back in the game. If Flav can do it, I can too! (And you.)

Jude Law Does Poker Face

Well, sort of. Watch the still sexy man-cougar recite "Poker Face" in poetic form below:

Guilty Pleasure To The Max

It's a gloomy, fall day in Philadelphia and about the only thing getting me through it is this little gem. Definite UPGRADE from the band's previous sound.

When We First Met

Softporn Tour 2009

Okay, so not really, it's just a 30second promo by Kanye West & Lady Gaga for their upcoming Fame Kills tour this fall. Truth be told I don't think it's either of them in the video, just an imitation. Regardless, don't let your boss catch you watching this at work.

And the message of this video is....

Fame Kills from kwest on Vimeo.

Want To See MGMT For Free? All You Need Is A Drivers License

WHO: Kia Soul Collective
WHAT/WHEN: Sept. 25-27, test drive a Kia Soul to get tickets to see MGMT Sunday.
WHERE: 23RD STREET ARMORY
22 South 23rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19103

TEST DRIVING BEGINS FRIDAY AT NOON UNTIL 8pm. GET YOUR ENGINES STARTED!

Patrick Joins The Ghosts

It is being reported that Patrick Swayze has passed away today, September 14th, 2009. The Ghost actor died at 57 years of age, losing his battle to cancer. One of the great actors of my time and yours, for sure.

This Is How It's Done

Love her or hate her, she sure knows how to bring a happy ending.

First Reading Rainbow, Now Philly's Libraries

It kills me that after 3 months of unemployment, I still haven't found a job. But what kills me more (if anything) is the above sign of information. Books...remember those things? Well I sure as hell do; they made up my childhood, transitioned into my adolescence, and made me the writer I am today. There is so much I could say (and will, in the future) on the closing of Philadelphia's free libraries but instead, I'll ask a favor.

Go to freelibrary.org.
Contact your elected officials (or just mine if you're not from Philly!).
DO SOMETHING.

Representatives say we cannot afford to keep the libraries open.
I say we can't afford to lose them.

LOVEQUEST 2000 COMING SOON

More deets tomorrow. In the meantime, enjoy the vid.

I LOVE TO RIDE MY BIKE... NAKED

Footage of Philly's first Naked Bike Ride compliments of City Paper. Vid by Neal Santos.

Osama Bin Laden <3s Whitney Houston

Sudanese novelist Kola Boof has revealed some disturbing information on Osama Bin Laden's preferences in Diary of a Lost Girl, an autobiography of her time held as Bin Laden's sex slave ten years ago. Here are just a few disturbing quotes from the book:

"He told me Whitney Houston was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. He spoke of someday spending vast amounts of money to go to America and try to arrange a meeting with the superstar. It didn't seem impossible to me. He said he wanted to give Whitney Houston a mansion that he owned in a suburb of Khartoum."

Aside from dreams of marrying Houston, Osama Bin Laden also detailed to Boof some of his favorite TV shows, including The Wonder Years.

Wonder what he thinks of Whitney's new album?

Philly's First Cupcake Truck!

Cleverly titled Buttercream, Philadelphia has turned a former postal-truck into the city's first cupcake truck. The truck debuted on August 28th, and will be continuing it's delicious run again tomorrow at noon in Love Park, its permanent spot. 2 bucks a pop is kind of harsh when you can get a slice of pizza for 50 cents less, but hey, some days only a heaping mouthful of frosting takes the cake.

You can learn more about the city's tasty edition here.

Marriage Equality

MarriageEquality has released a commercial in Ireland promoting the necessity for equal marriage rights. As the commercial states, imagine having to ask 4 million people if it was okay for you to marry? Watch it for yourselves.

This Sunday: Philly Rides Naked!

Kind of sad I'm missing this. How liberating! If you want to learn more, visit here.

Blink 182 Tribute to DJ AM

R.I.P. DJ AM

The New York Post is reporting DJ AM aka Adam Goldstein was found dead in his New York apartment just a couple of hours ago. Though the cause is not yet known, drug paraphernalia was found in his apartment by police alongside his body. Sadly enough, DJ AM was reportedly working with MTV at the time to help adolescents attain sobriety through an intervention show.

He left this message on his twitter three days ago:
"New york, new york. Big city of dreams, but everything in new york aint always what it seems."

I'm so shocked by this, seriously. No words, just a ton of respect for him and his family.

Phrequency, a Philly blog, conducted the last interview with DJ AM in print. Adam was born here, with a sister still residing in the city. Again, much respect to his family. You can read the interview here.

How You Love Me Now!

Today was ordinary. like any other rainy Friday. I was reading the boobs, when all of a sudden a screen name popped up I didn't recognize, asking me how I had been for the last six years. You see, six years ago, I ended my first "very serious" relationship because my then-boyfriend cheated on me. Since that time ~*the one who got away~* has become a drug addict, a felon, and a married man--which he equates to, "having someone to share the bills and getting laid on a regular basis." Lovely! So glad I let this dreamboat get away, right??? What possessed him to message me, I don't know, but here's the kicker. He claims just the other day he was surfing his computer when he "came across pics of us from back in the day." UM, WHAT KIND OF MARRIED LOSER KEEPS PICS OF A GF HE HAD SIX YEARS AGO???? But of course he brushed it off, saying he hadn't really thought about the situation "since then." Needless to say I told him I had erased those suckers from my mind ages ago and would continue on my merry man eating ways.

And to think, just the other day I was starting to feel down on all the things I have yet to accomplish. Today, I'm feeling pretty damn good!

Moral of the story: Don't keep the same screename for ten years. Don't go on the computer period. (Other than to read this blog, of course.)

R.I.P. Ted Kennedy

Senator Edward "Teddy" Kennedy passed away yesterday at 77 years of age, having suffered from a malignant brain tumor. He was the last of the famous Kennedy brother dynasty, and the second Kennedy to pass this summer.

All Is Love

Karen O has teamed up with the likes of Greg Kurstin, (The Bird and the Bee) Aaron Hemphill, (Liars) Bradford Cox (Deerhunter) and more to create a soundtrack for upcoming film Where The Wild Things Are. Collectively known as Karen O and The Kids, the group was enlisted by director Spike Jonze to "pour as much heart into the music as they possibly could." You can listen to the first single "All Is Love" on their official myspace, or wait until tomorrow when the official download for the track is released. O's vocals and the children's choir make it well worth the listen, and I can't wait to hear more.

The complete soundtrack debuts September 29th.

GUILTY PLEASURE

The Laramie Project Epilogue National Reading

Many of you may remember reading about the murder of Matthew Shepard, a gay man attending the University of Wyoming who was tormented and beaten for his sexual preference.

October 12th marks the ten year anniversary of Shepard's death, and The Laramie Project is encouraging the public to remember the tragic events that occurred that day by conducting readings across the country of an epilogue to the story, comprised of new interviews with Shepard's mother as well as his killer, Aaron McKinney. Though I have had many quarrels with my alma-matter, I admire them for being a partner in this project to make it happen. You can see if the readings will be taking place in your city here.

MIchael Vick Apologizes

Last week it was announced that NFL star Michael Vick would be joining the Eagles this season. Many fans were outraged, wondering why the team would sign a former participant in the gruesome sport known as "dog fighting." Well, Vick has issued an apology via blog form, and here it is:

"I'm sorry. That's the place where I need to begin. My feeling of remorse. I ain't never written a blog before, so putting my thoughts down on paper is a challenge - however it's a challenge I must face. I can look a 250 pound linebacker in his eyes at the line of scrimmage and have no fear. But expressing myself when I know that there are millions of people who are so angry with me, and rightfully so, is a challenge unlike any other I have faced before.

What I did was horrendous. Awful. Inhumane. And I've no excuses for my actions. It makes my heart hurt now to think about what I've done. And I'm gonna be real honest, it took a while for me to get to this place.

Sitting in a prison cell didn't make me feel remorse. It was meeting so many animal lovers, speaking with them and looking them in their eyes. Staring at them. Looking so deep into their eyes that I began to feel their pain. Allowing that pain to enter into my body is when I started to understand how bad it really was. I have been trying hard to connect with people who feel this pain,because for my whole life I was disconnected from the suffering of animals. And you might say, "come on Mike, how could you do those things to those dogs?" And you're right...I
ask myself those questions every day. What kind of person does this? How does a human-being treat dogs or any animal with such pain and cruelty? And the hard part for me is the answer to these questions. Because the answer is ME. And I am trying so hard right now to become a better person, because who I was, I am ashamed of.

Cause see, my whole life has been numb. I was numb to the violence in my community...cause I saw it all the time, ever since I was a child. I mean, how does one grow up in a city that's nickname is Bad Newz? You can probably guess that from the jump, ya' know I've seen some bad things in my life. And football was the only way that I could escape. As a kid, I even used to go out fishing, and most of the times I wouldn't catch a darn thing, but just needed to get away from the chaos every once in a while. So, when the commissioner called my name as the #1 draft pick in the NFL - the first time a black quarterback had ever been chosen as the #1 pick, I thought my life was all good. But, what I didn't realize then, that I have begun to realize now, is that even though I had more money in my pocket, big cars and big houses, I was still numb. And when I say numb, I ain't talkin about not realizing the stuff that was going on around me, it was just like I was living life asleep. However, that is still no excuse for what I did. But let's not forget that there are still hundreds of thousands of young people growing in similar environments and seeing violence at a young age has severe consequences.

Now that I'm trying my best to wake up, I know I have a lot of work to do. And this isn't about trying to win a Super Bowl ring or a MVP trophy...this is about trying to save lives. I think back to when I use to play football and of course I use to see all those kids in the stands wearing #7 jerseys. And I would never want them to look up to the Michael Vick who did all of those terrible things to the dogs. I know where I need to do the most work is with all of the people around the world who continue to fight dogs. Let me be straight forward with y'all: What I did was wrong, and what you're doing is wrong. We must stop dog fighting, and I will do everything in my power to be a voice of someone who has finally woken up from the numbness, and knows just how bad it really is. My mission now is to be a source of service to save many animals. I am working very closely with The Humane Society and will be launching a new campaign shortly. If I had one hope in life, it would be that my actions will speak louder than my words. I know it will be hard to forgive me until you see my sincerity through my actions, but I promise you and I promise myself that that day will come.

Lastly, I accept this challenge, not of writing this blog, but of redeeming myself."

Publicity or real? You decide.

INTRVW WITH BELLS BELLS BELLS

^ Bells Bells Bells, Romick in white.

Psych Folk Philly style. The Big Ugly chats with Bells Bells Bells leading lady Amandah Romick about the band's new record, summer reads, and pills. Click here for their myspace, see below for the intrvw.

the Big Ugly: Rumor has it you’ve been in the studio recording new tracks. How’s the recording process treating you so far?

Amandah Romick: Recording is a wonderful and grueling process that is my favorite part about being in a band. It's all about time, keeping in it and preserving it. It's a way of defying mortality-preserving these few moments that will be repeated in some distant context of another human being's CD player, maybe miles and years away. It's literally the past imposing on the future. On a less metaphysical level, it is going well. Isaac Betesh always does an amazing job and this will be a great record if i can get over myself long enough to be content with it.

BU: Since “Throw Down Your Anchor” hit the shelves, how has your artistic vision for the band evolved?

AR: this record takes some of the ideas from throw down and takes pushes them farther. It’s darker, more nuanced and also, more fun. we really just went with what seemed a logical progression of musical maturity.

BU: Tell us about some of your new songs. What are they about? Are there any literary nuances or memoir-esque lines?

AR: Ha! Yes, one song was inspired by Marilyn Robinson's housekeeping. It’s about the danger of becoming to attached to normalcy, or the resistance to moving on. Another song was inspired by Melville's descriptions of the horizon in Moby Dick. As far as memoir-esque, the personal aspects of my lyrics are confined to my perspective and that's about it. I observe, but that's a lot. It’s probably exposes me more than if I wrote a song about my own experience or emotions.

BU: How’s your summer been so far? Any memorable moments?

AR: I've had such a great summer so far. I just got back from Los Angeles which was very fun. I needed a new perspective, some time away from my life. Saw some old friends, went hiking in the canyon. It’s made writing fun again.

BU: With the current economy and unemployment rate, has getting your music out to the masses gotten easier or harder?

AR: Harder, definitely. People aren't as willing to part with their money to see shows or buy CDs and our funds to travel are severely limited. But the only thing I can do is my best and hope it gets better?

BU: As a vocalist, do you feel that your voice has gotten stronger since your band’s full length debut?
AR: Yes and no. I went to college to study opera and dropped out. It's taken me a while to realize that my training and obsession with 'the voice as instrument' was really holding me back from expressing myself.

BU: With indie starlets like Jenny Lewis, Feist, and Zooey Deschanel, do you feel that the indie music scene does a better or worse job than the mainstream music scene when it comes to objectifying female artists?

AR: It's a different sort of objectification cultivated for a different audience. indie fans like their front women to be both delicate and strong, emotionally exposed. Mainstream fans want blatant sexuality and entertainment. But they both want to see their own idea of desirability represented in their front woman. Playing dress up and performing can be fun but eventually we're not going to be cute anymore and unfortunately that affects a band's popularity. That’s sad because some of the best male musicians really hit their stride later in life (like Lou Reed, Leonard Cohen, Scott Walker, etc), not as many women are given that opportunity. Marianne Faithful and PJ Harvey both put out amazing records within the past few years that hardly sold at all but were great.

BU: As you already know, one of my hugest vices is procrastination. What’s one of yours?
AR: I like pills.

BU: From what I recall, you’re a bit of a bookworm. Any recent reads we should check out?

AR: I am reading some heavy Early American Gothic texts for a research grant I received for the fall. Lippard, Rebecca Rush and Bird. They’re all based in Philadelphia and its fun to imagine our city inspiring these writers in the mid-19th century.

BU: Any major plans for the fall? If so, spill.

AR: hopefully finish this record and begin promoting it. play some shows here in Philly and NYC. Come see us! You'll dig the new record!

Perez Hilton Presents His First Tour

With the sponsorship of Neuro Products and Drinks, blogger Perez Hilton is putting together his very own tour. Tickets go on sale today at 10am, with acts Ida Maria, Ladyhawke, FrankMusik, Julian Peretta, Eric Hutchinson, Semi Precious Weapons, and Sliimy scheduled to perform. Personally, I don't think anyone here in the states really cares about any of those acts, except maybe SPW because they're from here. Perez lists Katy Perry and Lady Gaga as two of his best friends; couldn't he have enlisted some help from them? I think he might actually want to have some acts on his record label (besides Sliimy, who, again, no one cares about.) before putting together a tour. Kind of disappointing, Perez. Anyways, if you're interested, you can find out what cities the tour's stopping in and where to get your tickets here.

EDIT: He also has a fashion website now called Coco Perez, which he says will be "bigger than Vogue some day." Um, excuse me? It look EXACTLY like your regular site, and I've seen some of your style choices...I've stuck by you in the past, but your new "take over the world" persona is getting ridiculous.

• 
  

Thinking of You Geo!

An old professor of mine (who I will never forget, regardless of whether or not he forgets me) wrote an article about being unemployed and how not to get bent out of shape about it. I’ve been rather bent lately, and decided to copy some of the things he said to remind myself (and our readers) that life is free.

“I’m no money guru but there are three things I recommend for staying punk during the global economic downturn.

•••

First: Take control of your life.

If you have access to a computer and the Internet, you can be your own business and it will cost you absolutely nothing.

Create a blog using free web space. Design your own T-shirts and sell them through cafepress.com. You can have postcards and business cards printed for free on sites like clubflyers.com. You can design your own magazine and sell it via print-on-demand services. Even if you have a job, start prepping for life if the gig disappears.

It’s never been easier to have a voice. It’s never been easier to broadcast your thoughts and opinions. It may only earn you peanuts – or nothing at all, but it could catch on.

If you are mired in the workaday world, start planning your exit strategy. I did night classes for four years while working a job that wasn’t satisfying. It took my mind off the daily grind and it helped me land in a more comfortable place.

Second: Live modestly.

You don’t need that large automobile or that beautiful house. Don’t get trapped in the system, burdened by debt. If you can’t afford stuff, don’t buy it – everything from your morning coffee to concert tees.

I’ve been riding the same bicycle since I worked in York. I bought my winter coat in 1997. My puffy red couch was super cool when my father bought it in 1981, and it’s totally still comfy today.

Take advantage of your friends and share resources. Copy your friends’ music. Split a case of beer or bottle of wine at home rather than meet your pals at the bar. And be your own entertainment – tell stories, play games and enjoy each other.

Last year, I planted 10 tomato bushes, peppers, zucchini and a bunch of herbs. I ate homemade pasta sauce through Christmas and it only cost a few dollars for seedlings.

Remember: the less you owe, the more you control your own life.

Third: Get a dog.

Nothing has governed my finances more in recent years than my 15-pound shih tzu, Mookie. Unless he travels with me, I don’t go places. I rarely travel anymore. I don’t spend nights out partying. I’m completely satisfied by staying at home and throwing chew toys all night as he flops around.

Because he needs to walk several times every day, I get tons of exercise. He keeps me warm in the winter, sleeping beside me in bed. He provides unconditional love when I need it the most.

He’s way cheaper than a child and he has far fewer needs. Plus, his energy and excitement make me laugh. You can’t put a price tag on that.”

To Be Yourself Is To Be Someone Else

A re-touched Kelly Clarkson on Self Magazine:

Kelly Clarkson was chosen for the latest cover of Self Magazine, her second time debuting on the front of the mag since 2007. Both times, however, Clarkson has not appeared as herself, but an unrealistic, completely retouched image of a "slimmer" star. I don't blame Kelly Clarkson for this, as she is always one to step up and say when she's been photoshopped to death, and is okay with her figure at any size. (Which I actually believe, compared to other starlets.) But Editor-in-Chief of Self Lucy Danziger (not related to the beautiful Danzig, sadly.) says the photo was retouched to show Clarkson's "at her best." Well Miss Danziger, if you didn't think Kelly was her best untouched, then why the fuck did you choose her for the cover? Retouching to make her look her best would have been fixing a stray hair, or a pimple. Not her entire face and body shape. Self is a magazine that is supposed to make you feel good about your body, to help you manage a healthy lifestyle. If you aren't willing to show healthy girls for who they are on their cover, they you should be called "Self-Absorbed: How to look as good as the photoshopped image!" This kind of shit gets me fuming because body image is such a crucial topic across the world, and is perceived so inaccurately as to what one should look like. How about creating a magazine that shows curvier women who are healthy and feel great? "Fat chance," I guess.

R is for Rhode Island, and Rehab!

In May 2009 a report on drug use statewide was released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of Department of Health and Human Services. (Ummm, I think they need to shorten their name if they want people to pay attention. Just sayin.') You can check out to see how your state did here by clicking on the map visual.

But here's something interesting:

Rhode Island scored highest in illicit drug use, marijuana use, and alcohol use.

Attention Lindsay Lohan, Pete Doherty, and Amy Winehouse! Why haven't you moved to RI yet?

Another Angel Has Passed

Eunice Kennedy Shriver has passed away today at 88 years of age. She held that famous Kennedy name, as sister to John and Robert, but she was much more than a name. She was the founder of the Special Olympics, earning her the Presidential Freedom Award in 1984. When I had first heard of her work in my high school years, it inspired me to go out and help these children, something I was a part of for four years, and hope to get back into. She made me realize how much joy these children can bring to life. Eunice Kennedy Shriver was greatly needed in this country, and her work will continue to live on for years to come.

CURSIVE AT FUC

Click through the pics /// Read the Review

Here's the setlist:

The Great Decay
Big Bang
Driftwood: A Fairy Tale
From the Hips
The Casualty
Butcher the Song
Dorothy At Forty
Mama, I’m Satan
The Recluse
Making Friends and Acquaintances
Mama, I’m Swollen
Art is Hard
Rise Up! Rise Up!
What Have I Done?
The Martyr
I Couldn’t Love You
The Love Cats (The Cure)
Some Red Handed Slight of Hand

STOP THE VIOLENCE

THE DEETS /// COMPLIMENTS OF FCBK

"On Saturday July 25, 2009 Dave Sale, 22 of Lansdale, PA attended a bachelor party at the Philadelphia Phillies VS St. Louis Cardinals baseball game. Later in the evening they attended McFadden's bar where a fight broke out which was then continued outside. Dave was "jumped" by three men until he was beat unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. This is only one of five murders that occurred that Saturday in the city, with a total of seven murders that weekend alone.

TONIGHT M.A.A.D. Management & Center Stage Promotions will be holding a benefit show at the Troc in memory of Dave Sale and those lost to the violence in the city of Brotherly Love. Show starts at 9pm with a $10 cover charge. All proceeds will be donated to Dave Sale's Family. The lineup features some of Philly's finest, including Sandman, Scholar, Deap, Adlib, Friascanb, Francis A.D., 2ew Gunn Ciz, Unique, Authentic, Young Reek, and more."

Korean Journalists Released

American journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee have been released from detention in Korea. The journalists were sentenced to 12 years of hard labor in Korea back in early June. With a recent visit from former president Bill Clinton, their release was secured.

Modest Mouse Done by Heath Ledger

The video for King Rat, filmed just prior to Heath Ledger's death.

Sixteen Candles to Heaven

Director John Hughes (famed for Sixteen Candles, Pretty in Pink, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, etc. has passed away at just 59 years of age. He'll certainly go down as one of my favorite directors.

Zooey's Favorite Fabric

The touch, the feel, the fabric of her life? Indie darling and Gibbard's girlie has a passion for fashion and cotton. I'm sure you've seen this vid already, but I can't get enough. I seriously think my girl crush on Jenny might be over. This just in, I'm in love with Deschanel.

Deerhoof Redux

^ Deerhoof @ the Starlight Ballroom Oct. 25 2008

Old News, Still rad. Here's an interview I did for City Paper back in the Fall with Deerhoof's Greg Saunier. Enjoy.

CP: What differences where there in your approach toward creating your most recent release, Offend Maggie, that varied from your earlier releases?

Greg Saunier: It’s always different — we don’t have this music-making thing down pat yet. All of our records are just the timid first steps of complete beginners.

CP: What sort of emotives are you trying to convey through Deerhoof’s music? Have they changed as your career’s progressed?

GS: I’m not sure what [vocalist/bassist] Satomi [Matsuzaki] or [guitarist] John [Dieterich] or [guitarist] Ed [Rodriguez] would say, but personally there’s no emotion I’m trying to convey. There’s music I’m trying to convey and it sounds very emotional to me. But that’s not quite the same thing. The musical ideas that come into my head are what they are, and I’m not trying to force them into any pre-planned emotions, like “I want our album to be happy” or “I want our album to be sad.” I always think that one of the wonders of music is that the same piece of music can sound happy or sad — or both at once, depending on how you feel when you listen to it.

CP: What are some major themes, images, messages that appear throughout the songs on your new album?

GS: Maybe a sort of overbearing or unhealthy masculinity runs through a lot of the lyrics and the sound of the music. One that is a bit flawed, or bruised, but that is overcome eventually. That’s how I hear it, anyway.

CP: It’s been awhile since you last played in Philly. How do you think your live set has evolved since then?

GS: It’s funny, because actually I never get to see our live show. The best person to ask would be someone who came to our show the other day. The best I can do is talk about how our Philly audience has evolved. We had such a great time the other night, and it was all about the audience. Every time I looked up while we were playing, I saw grins and dancing, waving arms and mouths singing along. I saw people of all ages. I felt like everyone was there to listen, I mean, you could hear a pin drop in the quiet parts, and and that doesn’t always happen. It may have been the best audience we’ve seen on the whole tour.

CP: Favorite track on the new album?

GS: Ooh, not an easy question. Keith Richards always says it’s like choosing your favorite baby, but I think it’s worse than that even. More like a love-hate relationship. I can’t really listen to one of our songs and get a sense of what it actually sounds like unless I haven’t heard [it] in a LONG time. And obviously, our new record just came out a couple weeks ago and we’re playing the songs every night, so I’m in maximum confusion mode right now.

CP: Favorite things about being on tour?

GS: Being on tour is fun in all kinds of ways, but the one thing that consistently gives me a pleasant surprise is the audience while we’re playing. Their enthusiasm for Deerhoof is the reason we keep going.

CP: Anything crazy happen so far?

GS: Just last night, Jamie Stewart, singer of Xiu Xiu, came onstage for our last song (”Basket Ball Get Your Groove Back”) and sang along with Satomi. It sounded so amazing. But really there has been craziness/fun-ness on stage every single night. My bandmates always surprise me It has just been a wonderful tour.

DEVENDRA STRIKES AGAIN

Portman's ex boy toy, Devendra Banhart, splits from XL and signs to Warner. His follow up to '07's "Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon" is set to hit shelves in October. Recorded with the likes of Megapuss comrade Greg Rogove and more, Banhart's latest, "What We Will Be," most likely will cause listeners to swoon, sway, and blaze. For deets on the track listing, see below.

01 Can't Help but Smiling
02 Angelika
03 Baby
04 Goin' Back
05 First Song for B
06 Last Song for B
07 Chin Chin & Muck Muck
08 16th & Valencia Roxy Music
09 Rats
10 Maria Leonza
11 Brindo
12 Meet Me at the Lookout
13 Walilamzi
14 Foolin'

CRYSTAL CASTLES

Crystal Castles at All Points West. Jersey City, NJ.
Click here for more pics.

All Points West

We've been busy all week gearing up for the All Points West festival, the very place we'll be spending the next 3 days. If you're going/thinking of going, check out what's to offer.

MAY ANGELS LEAD YOU IN

Last night while flipping through the channels, the channel 6 news actually caught my attention. 22-year-old Dave Sale and fellow Landale native lost his life Saturday night to the sheer violence of two Fishtown Philly fans. I wasn't close with Dave but I have terribly vivid memories of seeing him laughing at Diners, VFW halls and shows. He was one of the many kids who along with myself took the r5 to see Taking Back Sunday's first major tour date at the Electric Factory. No other word but tragedy comes to mind when I think of how Dave passed. A foundation has been set up by friends to help the Sale family with the cost of laying their loved one to rest. If you can, give, and at the least, keep the Sale family in your prayers.

DAVE SALE MEMORIAL FUND

BLACK MOTH Q&A

My intrvw with Tobacco for Phawker.com. Check it:

PHAWKER: For all the late bloomers out there, give us a quick recap of how the band got started. Especially the how Black Moth Super Rainbow became your moniker.

TOBACCO: The live band came together in 2003 as a way to play out with the stuff I had been making at home. I worked at a grocery store and the name came to me one day because I wanted a band name that would sound like a classic cereal name.

PHAWKER: Each member of your band seems to have a stage name. Are these on-stage personas meant to create an enigma around your performance or is it solely an attempt to keep your private lives private?

TOBACCO: For me, it’s just trying to keep my private life and music life separate. It’s not even another persona to me. It’s just a name that isn’t my real one.

PHAWKER: Upon first listen Eating Us plays out smoother/more chilled out than your last release. Would you say that the fluidity of Eating Us is discernibly different from previous albums?

TOBACCO: Yeah, I wanted to have one album under my belt that was easy to digest, one that might not scare people off. Fridmann smoothed the edges on the actual sound, but I had also just come off of my fucked up friends record and wanted to something that wasn’t so wild.

PHAWKER: How’d the recording process work out this time around?

TOBACCO: Instead of making it at home and putting it out like that, I made it at home and brought my finished version to Fridmann’s studio to polish. So all the drums are real, and a lot of the bass is guitar instead of synth. It wasn’t supposed to be a synth record, even though they’re still all over the place.

PHAWKER: Who’s your lyricist?

TOBACCO: Me

PHAWKER: Would you consider the album’s content thematic in any way? Why or why not?

TOBACCO: No, I really wanted to stay away from themes and concepts with this one because I feel like the story overshadowed everything else last time around.

PHAWKER: The album art is pretty awesome. Who’s the mastermind behind it?

TOBACCO: Thanks. That’s me too.

PHAWKER: When writing a song, is it more of a collaborative effort, or does each band member contribute separately?

TOBACCO: It’s usually just me playing around until I stumble onto something. the difference with this one was with a few of the songs, once I had them as finished as I felt like finishing them, I sent the drafts to Ryan Graveface to add a guitar or even bass.

PHAWKER: Hands down my fave track on the album is “Iron Lemonade.” What’s yours?

TOBACCO: “Twin of Myself.”

PHAWKER: Keeping with the tradition of accompanying your releases with awesome/bizarre packing, what was the inspiration for the fuzzy pouch that came with Eating Us? How do you think fans will put it to use?

TOBACCO: I think it’s important for us to incorporate more senses with our albums, because you can find the music for free anywhere. We had already done the scratch n’ sniff, so fur seemed like the next place to go.

PHAWKER: How do you feel about music reviewers constantly comparing your discography to acid and ’shroom trips?

TOBACCO: I think it’s getting pretty lazy. It’s become like the stock description for people who don’t want to take the time to understand it.

PHAWKER: Where were you/what were you doing when you found out Michael Jackson died? How did you react? Did you cry?

TOBACCO: I was working on a remix for Health. I stopped to watch the news for a second because I thought it was weird.

PHAWKER: Miley Cyrus vs. a werewolf. In your opinion, who would win?

TOBACCO: Somehow probably Pitchfork.

PHAWKER: Ever been to Eat ‘N Park? If so what’s your take?

TOBACCO: Yeah, I think Eat ‘N Park gets a bad rap with out-of-towners. I love it. I‘m there at least once a week.

PHAWKER: If applicable, what’s your favorite thing about being on tour?

TOBACCO: I don’t like being on tour, but it’s nice to kind of leave the worries at home.

PHAWKER: What will you miss most while on the road?

TOBACCO: MY TOTAL FREEDOM!

Also Today: X-mas in July

America Hates Obama

Okay, so maybe the people don't exactly hate the man. But today marks the first time the president's overall approval rating has ever fallen below 50 %. See how he scored on his health care plan, economic stimulus package, and more here. It ain't pretty.

Interview w/ Joe Stakun of I Love My Bicycle

Last month we mentioned the premiere of I Love My Bicycle: The Story of FBM Bikes at Philadelphia’s Bicycle Film Festival, being that it was the hometown of yours truly. However, this film’s popularity is far from ending. In fact, it’s just begun, with premieres everywhere from LA to Paris, and a DVD release within the next couple of months. Joe Stakun, the director of the film, sat down with The Big Ugly to explain the film’s appeal in detail.

[Above: Joe Stakun, the director of ILMB]

BU: Where did you grow up?

Joe Stakun: I grew up in Fairless Hills PA the first part of my childhood followed by Doylestown PA the second part. I’ve been in Philadelphia mostly the past 5 years.

BU: When did you become interested in BMX, how long have you been riding? Who were your inspirations growing up?

JS: I started riding BMX fairly late in my life when I was about 14, so I’ve been riding for almost 10 years now. I sort of lacked role models as a kid. I was always inspired by anyone doing their own thing especially if it was unique and original. I looked up to many different BMX icons as a kid, also I really looked up to Spike Jonze as a filmmaker since I was young. I am happy that many of those riders are in the film along with some photos that Spike shot.

BU: Is this your first experience with making a film?

JS: I have had smaller projects and films screen in film festivals starting in high school. Right after high school I made a short documentary on my grandfather, which went to a few festivals. I also really enjoy making music videos. I made one for Modest Mouse a couple years back and most recently one for Future Islands. This however is my first feature film.

BU: Why FBM? How did you get to know those guys?

JS: Growing up riding BMX I was familiar with FBM’s history and reputation. They seem to have such a unique and unbelievable story. I randomly met the owner Steve Crandall while staying at Woodward Camp one winter weekend and we got to talking about video stuff. He mentioned that somebody told him once that there should be a documentary on FBM. It instantly sounded like a great idea and I said I’d do it.


[Above: The early beginnings of FBM.]

BU: How were you able to nail access with so many riders? How long did it take you to put the whole thing together?

JS: I knew some of the folks and Steve got me in touch with the people I didn’t know. It is amazing how many people came together and contributed to the film. I think being an independent DIY film about a DIY company really helped with other like minded folks contributing and being a part of it.


[Above: Steve Crandall; owner of FBM bikes]

BU: What were you hoping to accomplish with this film?

JS: My main goal with the film was to make something that everyone in the BMX community could get behind and really take pride in as well as something anyone outside the community could really relate to and enjoy.

[Above: Joe Stakun]

BU: What cities will be premiering the film? Will you attend most of them?

JS: It is premiering in a bunch of cities around the world and more folks keep asking about more premiers. All the cities are listed on www.ilovemybicyclemovie.com

I can’t afford all of the travel however I plan on attending a few more of them. This month I aim to get to the Austin and LA premiers.

BU: How did you go about promoting the film, getting it to show in so many well-respected places?

JS: I just submitted it to some film festivals. The Bicycle Film Festival was pumped on the film and decided to screen it at about 25 of its festivals it throws around the World. As for promotion I just mail out advanced copies of the film and a zine to folks who are in the film and bicycle industry. I’ve also been getting stickers out there for kids to put on there bikes or bathroom walls or wherever.

BU: When will the DVD be coming out? Who will be selling it?

JS: I am still looking for distribution however I am fully ready to distribute the film myself. I am hoping to get the DVD out by November. It will be available through BMX mail orders and bike shops here and over seas. I hope to get it out to record shops and other retailers where I can.

BU: How has your life changed since the film?

JS: Hmmm. Really stuff hasn't changed too much since I am still working on the film prepping it for DVD and getting all of that stuff in order. I am excited about all the great press and good reviews the film has been receiving from folks. The DVD work is just getting underway and I’m already pumped on the how it’s going to turn out.

BU: What's next for you?

JS: I plan on doing some more music videos and working on my video installation work. Hopefully finding a neat job in the film industry somewhere for a bit. Who knows though we’ll see.

BU: Lastly, a question we ask all our interviewees. If you met a girl and fell in love, but she had really big feet. Would you still love her?

Yeah..I guess.

To find out when ILMB will be premiering in your city, visit http://www.ilovemybicyclemovie.com/.

Also, you can follow Joe and the film at twitter/ILoveMyBicycle.

(And if you've got some time on your hands, you can follow us too.)

Looking for something to do this weekend?

If you're in the Philly area, there is plenty to do this weekend. As we previously mentioned, tonight 500 days of Summer hits Philly theaters.



Tomorrow, Exit Skateshop premiers their new park at Pop's playground from 3-5pm.

POP's Skatepark Grand Opening 7/25/09 from Exit Philadelphia on Vimeo.

Also tomorrow night Black Moth Super Rainbow will be playing Johnny Brendas at 9pm. This should be awesome.

..and you thought there was nothing to do in this city.

First Look At Alice In Wonderland

Kat Von D, Ink Free

Kat Von D has paired up with Sephora to create a tattoo concealer. This may be helpful for wedding days, job interviews, or just a fresh look. Watch as she explains.

Chris "Beat Her Down" Brown Attempts To Apologize

A few things worth noting:

Brown says although he was advised by his attorney not to talk about the situation, he felt it was "the right time" to do so. Don't you think it's a little too late for that?

Brown is not supposed to be within 50 yards of Rihanna until his August 5th hearing, a hearing which was scheduled by request of Rhianna to "lessen the restrictions." All I have to ask is: Why does she still want to be around this douchebag?

I feel like people probably are sick of hearing about this by now, as am I. It just makes me infuriated to see domestic violence so easily pushed aside.

Free Monday Download

Emusic.com's free daily download today features the lovely Maria Taylor with "Time Lapse Lifeline," featured on her new solo record Ladyluck. You can download the track for FREE here. Enjoy; I do.

Vintage JFK Jr.

The 10th anniversary of his death passed two days ago. Sad. He was a charming man, even early on, as this photo shows.

Walter Cronkite Signs Off

After reports of American broadcaster Walter Cronkite being gravely ill, the NYTimes twitter has reported the legendary anchorman's death at 92 years of age. (Though no major news websites are confirming the death just yet.) Cronkite defined CBS news during the crucial dates of American history, including the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the impeachment of Richard Nixon. A part of journalism has been buried today; you will be missed sir, but certainly not forgotten for your impact in this world.

Slicin' Up Eyeballs! Oh oh oh!

For the past few months, my friends and I have enjoyed the taste of a delicious M&M McFlurry to beat the summer heat nearly every day. Well, my McFlurry train has come to an end after hearing about an incident in West Philadelphia that cost a man his eyesight.

Read Further, as told by CityPaper:

"Brandon Henderson lost his left eyeball over a McFlurry. On the evening of Feb. 15, authorities say, Khalif Lewis, an 18-year-old cashier at a West Philadelphia McDonald's, attacked the 35-year-old Henderson as he attempted to leave the restaurant after an argument over whether he could substitute a dessert item for french fries. Lewis punched him once in the eye with a key he placed between his fingers, authorities say. (Authorities have a surveillance tape of the incident.) Henderson's eye was ruined, and doctors removed it. Lewis was charged with aggravated assault and possession of an instrument of crime. Lewis has been released on bail and is awaiting trial, and despite having partially blinded a customer, is still working at the McDonald's.." writes City Paper's Mike Newall.

The bad part of me laughed, a lot, about this. The good part says, "That's fucked up!" Read the rest here.

Good Girl Gone Bad

Emma Watson, of Harry Potter fame, is scheduled to premiere in a darker version of Cinderella. The director? Marilyn Manson, of course! How these two got together and what they possibly could have talked about to get Watson to sign on, is unknown. Point blank, this should be awesome!

Amy & Blake Donezo?

We're talking miss Winehouse, here. It appears Amy and her former husband Blake Civil-Fielder have finalized their divorce today, after a mere 26-months of marriage. Civil-Fielder filed adultery claims against Winehouse. Does anyone care at this point? Hopefully Amy will return the focus to her career now that Blake is out of the picture.

Pops Skatepark Grand Opening

Finally. I saw this park when it was nothing but a pile of dirt. So proud.

POP's Skatepark Grand Opening 7/25/09 from Exit Philadelphia on Vimeo.

WHEN: July 25th, 3PM

WHERE: E Huntingdon St. & Trenton Ave. in Philly

WHO: Exit Skatepark presents Pop's Skatepark

GO GO GO!

Orenda Fink // Ask the Night

Birmingham native and FT Saddle Creeker Orenda Fink finally sets a date for her second solo release. The official follow up to '05's "Invisible Ones," Fink's forthcoming full length "Ask the Night" drops Oct. 6th. In the eyes of the Big Ugly, Orenda can do no wrong. Let's just hope that her new album is accompanied by a tour.