Manly Music (or) Songs Cleo Will Most Likely Hate

I'm done! I got through it! Whoo hooooooooo!!\

Every year the guys in my office rotate which Holiday we get to take off. One year half of us get Christmas off, the other half get Thanksgiving. That way no one is stuck at the office with an unreasonable burden. Except this year. THIS year, they decided..

"You know what, Chops is a pretty smart guy. I bet he could handle it if we all left him here by himself."

"I totally agree, I dont even think we need to bother asking him. I bet if we just all plan on taking the time off, he'll be fine as long as we tell him at the last minute."

"It's agreed then, Chops will handle everything while we all leave for Colorado!"

"Hey Chops! Your on your own this year! Dont call and ask for help, we'll be on the slopes!"

So I've been a little stressed out lately. But now I'm done. Everyone is coming back on Monday and the office is closed tomorrow. But it has been a harrowing week or two. During the week, after everyone had left for the day and I was alone in the office I started to break out my Blackberry and put on Pandora for the last couple of hours of data entry to help me relax. And she did not fail me. The following are a couple of my favorites that have popped up in the last couple of days that really helped keep me from plucking all my eyelashes out in frustration at the sheer volume of work I had to do.

So Cleo, hate all you want. When I needed it, these guys came through. I know, I know.... Its sleepy, and slow. But when all three lines on your phone are busy, you have hundreds of unanswered emails and you dont know what task to try and tackle next, it helps to have something to unwind to.

This is How I'm Feeling

Well, I have 119 unanswered emails in my inbox and 6 "Urgent" voicemails but Imogen Heap, Ginger and Cleo just convinced me to unplug. I listened to "Hide and Seek" 5 times straight and I can finally breathe again. Thanks Ginger, I should have sat down and listened to that a LONG time ago. I really mean it, thanks. I have been a crappy friend and I'm sorry. I'll try and do better. And thanks for not lettin me slip away.

I dont have much time to find anything deep or new, my commutes have been filled with phone calls and texts instead of Pandora's sweet, sweet musical nectar.

So all I can do is say I'm sorry again. And give you something that I hope you dont already have.

Try and overlook Mick's fantastically British dental work and enjoy.

Now turn it up... WAY up....

And once more, I'm sorry, and thanks for being better friends to me than I have been to you.

Lost...One Creepy Irish Bartender

If anyone has seen this man, please return him immediately to Songs For the Semi Sane so that he can once again grace us with his wit and humor.





I miss you Chops.

Love, Ginger

Joseph, Better You Than Me- THe KilLeRs

I love this one. I know I say that about all of them, but I think that Joseph's role is often overlooked. It must have been a very difficult decision for him to make. I think that Joseph was obvisouly a great man, he believed Mary and supported her in what I think would have been an outwardly shameful situation. The judgements from the people around them would have been awful to deal with. As usual, Brandon can say anything and make it poetic and lovely. I think the compassion and thoughtfulness for Joseph in this song are great. Throw in Elton John and Neil Tennant, and how can you go wrong?
Well, ya just can't.

This is how I'm feeling today...

Gingers Pick of the Week...Ingrid Michaelson

I'm loving this song right now. It's the old 'If you love something set it free' saying put to music. I think we put up with a lot of crap in the name of love and it can be hurtful. So, sometimes walking away or cutting ties can be very freeing.

People become selfish in relationships. When they see that someone is willing to give and give with no thought for themselves, it becomes easy to take and give nothing in return. So stop giving and being left unfulfilled. Let them see what they'll be missing out on when you walk away. And maybe...in the future...they'll come back. And if not, you deserve better anyway.

Ingrid Michaelson...Maybe...

A Great Big Sled- The Killers

OK So I am a liar.

Big friggin' deal.

Get over it.


I promised to post this on Monday, but I was a little busy with you know,

MY LIFE.

I really love this song. I know that it's kinda shocking seeing how I despise the Killers. I mean, I hate them. A lot. Brandon can't even sing worth crap. Seriously. The other guys aren't talented either.

WORST. BAND. EVER.




See- told ya I was a liar. You know my love is true. I can't live without my boys. I heart them to death. They are magnificent.


Here's some info about the song. It was recorded in mid-November 2006 with record producer Alan Moulder as the band's Christmas 2006 single. Moulder's wife Toni Halliday, the former lead vocalist of Curve, is featured on backing vocals.

The song was released December 5, 2006 as a download from iTunes. All of the proceeds went to AIDS charities as part of Bono's RED campaign. A music video was released for the single, containing candid clips of the band members participating in various holiday celebrations.

Here ya go!

Don't Shoot Me Santa- The Killers

As promised, it's Monday and I am here with a killer Christmas song.

One thing that peeps in real life know about me is that I think there is NOTHING
sexier than a beautiful man that can make me laugh. Well, except maybe 4 of them.

I'm not talking only outside beauty here, either. I'm not that shallow. I love my boys. TONS. I think that their humor is priceless and diabolical. And I love dark humor.

Also- Somebody told me that this is a favorite in our home. All the pretty faces like it. Every time it comes on they smile, (and they smile like they mean it, too). Forget about what I said earlier, I love this song down to my bones. Read my mind and you'll see that it's always on my list of favorites. The Starmaker was right, Mr. Brightside is a friend of mine. He would never leave me crying in the cold wet dirt after a midnight show.

Without further adieu, I leave you with one of my favorite Christmas songs.

Where are you Christmas?

I am having an extremely difficult time getting into the holiday spirit this year. I've done all the usual stuff. Put out the decorations and tree, baked lots of fattening stuff, purchased an over abundance of Dove dark chocolate and peppermint bark candies, was nice to homeless people, put money in the jingle dudes kettle. You know...the normal stuff. But NOTHING. I'm Scrooge McDuck without the cool accent.

So, I got to thinking...What gives you joy Ginger? Not the fleeting kind that disappears when you get the credit card bill or step on the scale. But real, kick you in the crotch, joy. The answer was simple...sex.

Fortunately for you, this is a music blog, not a sex blog. So you get the second thing that came to mind. My top 5 all time favorite Christmas songs. And here they are...

#5 What's Christmas without John Denver...and alcohol. Not that my dad EVER passed out underneath our Christmas tree or anything. But you know, stuff happens. Especially around the holidays.



#4 This song makes me think of my Bumpa. He sounds EXACTLY like Jim Reeves when he sings. Also, this will help you take off a few of those holiday pounds. Put this bad boy on repeat for an hour and dance around the living room. Works every time.



#3 Ahhh...Best of both worlds. Sex and music all wrapped up in one beautiful man.



#2 I love love love this song. It makes me think of my momma. Who, by the way, is the coolest mom in the whole world. She rocks...Hard. One time we sat around and tried to name everyone by voice alone. She kicked all of our asses. She actually knew the name of the lead singer of Spandau Ballet. It's Tony Hadley, by the way.



#1 I don't care what you say this is the greatest Christmas song EVER. Poke fun if you want. I love it and I'm not ashamed.



She Won't Be Home

Keven | MySpace Video

Well, there they are. My top 5 favorite Christmas songs. I hope they give you as much joy as they do me. Happy Christmas.

This is how I'm feeling today....

Kelly Clarkson - New Music - More Music Videos

Gingers Pick With An Egregious Amount Of Profanity...

I'm just following in my much older BFF's footsteps. For those of you who are unawares Ms. Cleo will be the big 34 in 4 days. HOLLA!!!! I think she has been reflecting on her life after listening to her last post. Damn...Someone needs to take the woman out to a nice dinner or something. Get some new shoes. Maybe something from Brighton. Just sayin...

Not that this song has anything to do with Cleo or her birthday, except that it's almost as old as her, I just felt it could be pulled off after her song dropped the f bomb a bazillion times. So here it is...Dynamite Hack Boyz in the Hood.

Cleo's Pick o' the week

We all get discouraged sometimes, and quite often we need to know that we got peeps in the same boat ....

This one goes out to my girlies!


WARNING: There is a teeny tiny bit of profanity up in here. Ok, fine....there's a lot. If that offends you, I don't suggest you watch it.

Happy Birthday Guadalupe- The Killers

Here is the fourth annual Christmas song from my boyfriends. Thought ya might wanna take a listen. By the way- Every Monday until Christmas I will feature one of their songs. I'm always doing my part to spread a little Christmas Cheer!

We saw Mariachi El Bronx when they opened for The Killers. Pretty tough gig, if you ask me. The peeps weren't diggin' it.
The lead singer, full of beer and passion, said that it took "A lot of balls get up in front of you assholes and play Mariachi music." Amen brotha.

I kinda liked it. Their outfits were cool too.

So, one thing I love about my boys is that their Christmas songs are always unconventional, but they still grasp the meaning of the season.


What do y'all think about this one?

Gingers Pick of the week....Unkle Bob

Okay...don't give me crap about my sad ass music. This is good stuff. Just read what this dude said...And don't give me crap about being to lazy to write my own blog post. I haven't slept much this weekend. I'm tired.


They’ve only sold 10,000 albums; they’ve only had 100,000 songs downloaded; their sublime Swans tune has only featured once in the climax to a Greys Anatomy storyline (thus inspiring hundreds of college kids to make their own Swans Youtube videos) - but they are still Unkle Bob and they are still one of the most gorgeous, uplifting, lonely and revealing bands on the planet. They self-released their debut album, Sugar and Spite, back in October 2006 to huge critical acclaim (yes, that old chestnut) and are now set to release Satellite/Bad Dream through iTunes and Amazon on April 6th 2009. Both songs are a gritty foretaste of the band’s second album, due for release early next year. In amongst the manufactured pop drivel, the excitable indier-than-thou new Smiths-elects and the R & B soundalikes you too may have had the good fortune to have stumbled upon something quite special. Phill Savidge

There you go. Unkle Bob. Waaayyy better than your Unkle Bob who gets drunk at family parties and tries to feel you up.

Wait...Is that just me too?

No Reason...Really.

So, I have to post this song...



Because it's the only way I can get away with posting these pictures on a music blog. And I need to share my boy with my friends.









Damn I love hockey season. Go Bruins!!!

Here by my Side, an Angel. Here by my Side, the Devil.

Just thought I'd bring a little Mathew Good lovin' to the fore front. See, I'm in love. Plus, this guy knows how to rock it. I'm super duper in love with this song. I think the lyrics are brilliant. Can someone be so good for you, yet so bad for you at the same time? You are Heaven, an Angel......yet it makes you a Weapon? Eeeeek! Hold tight folks! This is some dandy shiz right here! "Never turn your back on it." Great guitar solo at the end. *sigh*

Gingers Pick of the Week....Mandalay

I've had one of those months, or three, where you spend a lot of time listening to depressing music alone in the dark. It's very relaxing, although probably not one of my healthiest past times. As I was pondering one of my latest conundrums my last.fm station so kindly played this song for me. It struck right to the core of what I was thinking about. How much time do we spend talking a problem to death and getting no where? When do you finally say, "I'm done", cut your losses and walk away? Turning your back on everything you know.





"Is it all lost and gone? Could you give me some room? Room to be. Room to heal." Is it really possible to heal and find happiness again? Or are we just setting ourselves up for more disappointment?

People have a way of working their way into your life and heart. When you least expect it and whether you want them there or not. They get through the fortifications without you even realizing it. I think we all want to love and be loved. It's just hard to stand buck ass naked, as Ams so gracefully put it, in front of someone and say, "This is what you get. Is it going to be enough?"

Manly Music featuring Titus Andronicus

I swear this is not a joke. Nor is it intended to be ironic. I honestly REALLY like these guys. I know, I know.. theres no fluff, no lilting voices and no purty mouthes. But I LIKE it.

Pandora found em for me while I was doin data entry last night at work and it completely ruined my night. I was supposed to be slogging away but after they came on I couldnt concentrate and spent the last 30 minutes of work scouring the interwebs for everything I could find on them. And then I found their blog.. and I knew I was done working for a while. The lyricist/vocalist, Patrick Stickles wrote this about a show they performed on Halloween. Its long, but worth it. Go ahead and click the link and then come back. Go ahead, I'll wait here...

http://titusandronicustheband.blogspot.com/2009/11/vice-halloween-party-is-decadent-and.html

Tell me that was not freakin. He. Larry. Ass. What struck me the most was the juxtaposition of his obvious intellect exhibited in the telling of his all hallows eve and the raw, primal, simple energy in his music and lyrics. I think Patrick himself described this himself when he was asked by "www.Exclaim.ca" about the origin of their name.

As far as the name is concerned, it started out just as a cool-sounding name. I have found that when a person wants to be in a band, he or she spends a lot of time accumulating a mental file of words or phrases that would be cool band names. Titus Andronicus was, to my mind, the best one that I’d come across. As we came to cultivate our aesthetic a little more, and understand more about the play, it became more and more appropriate. Shakespeare obviously is a very classy entity, more or less the pinnacle of human achievement and excellence. At the same time, The Most Lamentable Romaine Tragedy of Titus Andronicus is not really all that far removed from, say, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre so it was an odd contradiction in the literary world – basically a generic slasher flick that happens to be the work of the greatest mind that ever walked the planet. That seemed like the kind of line that I wanted our band to straddle; that line between the more cerebral, thoughtful elements of the human condition and the part of us that just wants to see blood and brutality. If Titus Andronicus the play could have both those, I wanted Titus Andronicus the band to have them too.

Doesnt that just rock!?! I mean, come on! The rest of the interview is just as interesting and can be found here..

http://www.exclaim.ca/articles/multiarticlesub.aspx?csid1=122&csid2=946&fid1=31628

I know what you ladies are going to say...

"But Chops, their hair is unkempt, their faces are quite dirty and their clothing is in dire need of repair. We thought these were qualities you found deeply offensive?"

You are correct in theory. However, I forgive them for the same reason I overlooked these flaws in such gentlemen as Gordon Gano and Douglas Colvin. Because they kick ass. And as I have stated before, asskickness trumps just about everything else.

I leave you with an excerpt from their Myspace page.

Titus Andronicus sometimes disagree on what is the right thing to do. Titus Andronicus like to scream and carry on at excessive volume. Titus Andronicus like songs which are fast more than songs which are slow. Titus Andronicus think slow songs are okay sometimes. Titus Andronicus never sing about love, only hate. Titus Andronicus have no hope for the future. Titus Andronicus believe only in nothingness. Everyone in Titus Andronicus was born to die. Titus Andronicus crave your approval but will settle for your utter disdain. Above all else, Titus Andronicus want to sleep on your floor.

Gentleman, if you are out there, and if you can hear this, I have abundant floor space and you are welcome to it. Just give me enough notice to hide the small children.

Cuz I wanna.....

My Friggin' Awesome Trip to Texas...Documented

I can't document it all cuz some things are better left unsaid. Mainly because I don't want to get Cleo in trouble. Anyway... for my birthday my peeps bought me tickets to see my boyfriend in concert. He was AMAZING. I love him. He sang just to me on many occasions. And I totally scored a set sheet that he sweated on. Also, because of Chops' mad skills with a gps and google maps we got there early enough that I could have run my fingers through his sweaty belly hair had I wanted to be pummeled by security. I didn't, cuz my hair looked fabulous, so I kept my hands to myself. I have a thing for chest hair. I can't help it. I think it's sexy. But anyway....

Ahhh yeah...That's Gary. Isn't he pretty? Even Cleo had to admit that the boy was HOT after seeing him perform. It just takes his hotness to a whole new level. Chops couldn't handle it, he had to go and sit in the lobby.

Cleo and I weren't very smart and forgot to eat before the concert. But Chops, being exceptionally sweet for a creepy Irish bartender, totally hooked us up with some tacos at the Jack in Box in the ghetto of Houston. We even got a special invite to the Pimps and Prostitute ball. Where bitch slappin' is not allowed unless yo ho be reckless eyeballin' some playa. Then you might have to represent. Said so on the invitation. But back to Gary...

About a week after the concert they released a new single which is fabulous. But I may be a little biased.

Okay...so I love it. Very dancy and bouncy and happy. But still has Gary's amazing lyrics. Even Cleo could find no fault when I sent it to her. That's saying something.

I just wanted to take a minute to tell Cleo and Chops how much I love them and how much fun I had. You guys are the best!!!

Oh, and Chops is the one with the chops in the pictures.

Whatcha think about this one????

Here's some scoop...

Influences:Yoko Ono, Elvis, David Bowie, Morrissey, Queen, Robert Smith, Robert Plant, Freddy Mercury, Prince, Rod Stewart, Thomas Dolby, Depeche Mode, The Faint, Radiohead, Beck, Franz Ferdinand, The Cure, Nine Inch Nails, Grace Slick & Jefferson Airplane, Queen, Led Zep, Pink Floyd, Nirvana, Talking Heads,The Scissor Sisters, The Dresden Dolls, Mika, She Wants Revenge, Janis Joplin, Jenny Lewis, Joy Division, New Order, The Killers, Justin Warfield, Chuck Berry, BuckCherry, Billy Idol, White Stripes, Strokes, Blondie, Pat Benetar, Rilo Kiley, Elton John, Jerry-Lee Lewis, John Lennon, The Beatles. Drag queens in general. Jimmy Choo. Hot Groupie chicks. Hairspray *not the musical. Black Eyeliner. Strippers. Sequins. D-I-S-C-O

Sounds Like: Gaga

Her Male Equivalents: elton john, freddy mercury, boy george,& john lennon in wig and fishnets at studio 54.



This one's for my girlie...




While quite polarizing by nature, Lady Gaga certainly keeps her fans and foes talking. Whether you like her or not, the girl has some wicked talent and creativity.

Manly Music Monday

I have a great boss. He and I talk about music all the time and he always seems to be about 2 1/2 steps ahead of me when it come to new stuff. Not only does he hear about stuff before I do but his taste in music is impecable. I like the stuff he recommends about 99.42% of the time. Those are good odds. Last week he told me to check out Owl City's new song, Fireflies and Julian Casablancas' newest release. I did, and I liked them both quite a bit. I was even planning on doing a post on Owl City. But then a relative for whom I feel nothing but disdain posted a gushing review for the very tune I intended to post. And because I'm immature and shallow I cant like something that someone I dont like likes. So you get no Fireflies. Which left me with Julian Casablancas. He is the front man for The Strokes. Here is his first solo single.

Not bad. Pretty good actually, right?

Then I found this as well.

What is wrong with that kid? Does he live in a hostel? Or an alley? Did his mother not teach him proper hygiene? And why does he seem so grumpy? He's getting paid gazillions of dollars to do what he LOVES and thats the attitude hes got?

So that got me thinking back to the good ole days. Sure, we had to put up with douchebags like Robert Smith and Morrissey but in return we got guys like David Byrne. Now there was a polite modern gentleman. Just look at his haircut.

And what a great outlook on life. I mean, sure, life is basically is a road to nowhere, but it's alright.

Talking Heads Road to Nowhere
by Celtiemama

All the creativity and uniqueness with none of the sass and nasty personal hygiene. Ah.... those were the days.

Crap I'm old.

Hmmm....

Ha Ha!!! You thought there was going to be C and C Music Factory, didn't you? Well, sorry to disappoint. I was just noticing that there was no Manly Music Monday yet again. So, I'm gonna post my newest most favoritest totally girly song. Love it.




Okay so it sounds a little bit like it belongs on the High School Musical soundtrack...BUT...it's just so cute. It makes me dance around my living room. And who needs a little happy more than me? NO ONE I TELL YOU!!!!!

This is how I'm feeling today...

Ahhh...The Beauty of Technology....

How many times have we heard a song on the radio and thought, Good Hell...How on Gods green earth did this person become famous? I do it all the time. Not that I'm bitter or anything about my own inevitable stardom being overlooked and given to those of a far less caliber. But whatever.

I am here to give us all back a little hope. We can all be famous, with no natural talent WHATSOEVER!!!! It's called an auto tuner people. And it's fantastico!!! Just look at what this dude did for Bill Nye the Science Guy.



In conclusion...The words of a truly talented, and one of my all time favorite men, Mr. Ben Folds..."I take the checks and face the facts, that some producer with computers fixes all my shitty tracks."

A White Demon Love Song

I have to do this. I have no choice.

Seeing that my boyfriend is in this band, you know that I am obligated to post this. I know I will get crap from certain blogmates, but I can take it. I'm tough.

Before I begin, I'd like to say a very special thank you to my great friend the Captain for hooking me up well in advance....

I must be honest with you. I'm not sure how I feel about this one. It's a real departure. Part of me likes it, and part of me just isn't quite sure what to think. So naturally, I come to the place where I know people will be honest. Whether I like it or not. I bring to the table the greatest gift that can be bestowed. 'Tis the gift of music, my good friends.

Listen carefully and cast your vote- Yea or Nay?

WEEEEEZZER!!!!!!!!

Seriously.... We have turned into gigantic lame-ass losers. In case anyone is wondering- it's November. The last post was in August. I'm not OK with that. So... without further adieu, I present New stuff from Weezer.

Please enjoy.

Manly Music Monday

I think I've told y'all about The Format before... pretty sure at least. Anywho, doesn't matter now cause they broke up (heartless bastards). But hope springs anew! Nate Ruess formed Fun. last year and released their first album on the 25th. And it kicks ass. Not just some ass, every ass within a 14 county radius. And every ass that has the misfortune of wondering within aforementioned radius. It is that good. Admittedly I am biased. I had a huge man crush on The Format and was quite sad when they went downhill. But Aim and Ignite is significantly more mature and, I believe, a better album than anything The Format did. Nate's previous work, while splendid, was somewhat one dimensional. Again, I was very fond of that dimension, but this album is so much more complex and robust it is astonishing. Nate and his new cohorts, Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff weave so many sounds and moods into their songs that if it wasn't for the cohesiveness of Nate lyrics and voice the album would seem scattered. Some of the songs feel very throw back, some as far back as the 60's and some only back to the 80's, but thru it all the trio keeps it sounding contemporary and.. well.. fun. In any case, I'll shut up now and let you listen. They self released this album so we probably wont be getting any videos any time soon, so you get still images with the music. Keep in mind as well that to avoid Cleo coming over and killing me while I sleep I only included a few songs. These are not my favorites. Well, they are when I picked them but there is not a single song on the album I don't love so please, PLEASE, go give Nate a leg up and buy the bad boy on iTunes and listen to the whole thing start to finish. I promise you wont be disappointed. Well, you may be. I'm not psychic. But you probably wont be disappointed. Unless you don't like good music, then you might be. But that's not my fault and I cant be held responsible for you lack of taste.

The Return of Manly Music Monday Part Deux...Them Crooked Vultures

Dave Grohl from Foo Fighters on drums. Josh Gromme from Queens of the Stone Age on vocals and guitar. And John Paul Jones from Zeppelin on bass and keyboards.





Playing all the British festivals right now. Hopefully in a pub near you soon!


Manly is back!!

The Return of Manly Music Monday

Walter Meego. A guitar, a synthesizer, and girls in bikinis and short shorts.

Manly is back.

Gingers Pick of the Week....Cyndi Lauper

So I had a couple of things that I wanted to post about, but after a long night with Amber I've decided to go with this one. I have already taken the liberty of posting my love for Pat. Now, I want to share probably one of the greatest chick singers of all time. And if you think you have to sit through a bunch of Madonna videos now, then you don't know me very well.

When I was in the 4th grade my dad gave me a silver walk man for my birthday. You know one of those old ones that only had fast forward, so if you wanted to rewind you had to pull the cassette out, flip it around, fast forward it then put it back in. Along with it was, Cyndi Laupers She's so Unusual. Yes, this was my very first ever cassette tape. Everyday when I got home from school I would put on my roller skates, pop that bad boy in the walk man and be gone until the street lights came on. We weren't allowed to play outside after the streetlights came on. For safety reasons, of course. I was absolutely in love with this song. I burnt out that fast forward button rewinding it.



As I got a little bit older my fascination with Cyndi didn't fade. While all of my friends were using sharpies to draw Madonna moles on their faces,I was using orange kool aid packets to dye my hair. I don't remember if the color took as I was being beat to a bloody pulp for ruining my mothers towels. Note to reader...Kool aid stains terry cloth. Just thought you should know.

Then one of the greatest movies of all time came out. Back before Sean Astin was a fat little hobbit...he was Mikey Walsh in The Goonies, and frankly, he was adorable. Best Line.."Oh, you idiot!!! You glued it on upside down. If God made us like that, we'd all be pissing in our faces." Classic..but back to the music. Cyndi and her wrestler friends made an appearance once again with "Good Enough".



You have to scroll in about 2 minutes to get past all the dialogue. And just for the record, I would have been smokin' hot with hair that color.


Now, I'm not going to pretend that she isn't kooky, because she is. But, I think that was part of the appeal for me. Plus, she's just fantastic. You will never hear another person and say..."WOW! She sounds just like Cyndi Lauper." I don't foresee that ever happening. Ever! So, one more song. Probably my most favorite. I can listen to it on repeat for days. Believe me, I've done it.



I think Jay Leno also got his hair inspiration from Cyndi. Just sayin...

Cleo's Pick o' the week - Sick Puppies "My World"

I like this one... It's a wee bit heavy, but I like it nonetheless. I was introduced to Sick Puppies by a coupla cool friends. (They're like totally obsessed. I would so never get all crazy over some band. Seriously. What a bunch of weirdos.) I must admit that while I'm old and must be in the mood for some of their stuff- I like the sounds these Sick Puppies make. And no one has ever feat=ured them on the blog before... so that pretty much makes me the coolest.

I will be totally shocked if Gingie doesn't like this. Chops- well, they aren't a bunch of lesbians singing folk songs, so the jury's out on him, but he just might surprise me. Mrs. McGee would love it though, of that I'm fairly certain. Amberd and Cdahle- well, it apprears that they have fallen off the face of the earth (which makes me sad, BTW) but I think Cdahle for sure would like it.

Anywoo- here ya go....

Oh and Captain- you should be plenty familiar with these Aussies, no?

Sick Puppies - New Music - More Music Videos

My musical tribute to John Hughes

Thanks for making a bunch of gawky pre-adolescent girls feel pretty.

Don't cry Captain.

She would change everything for a happy ever after...

A few weeks ago Cleo made a comment disparaging Chopsies "Ladies" play list on his ipod. I am here to redeem Chops' honor by saying that I have a similar play list on my ipod titled..."Da Boyz". Maybe redeem isn't the right word because in all honesty this could just make things worse for our poor Chops and myself because Cleo can be brutal!!!

I just need to put this out there in case you didn't know...I like men...a lot!! And if they can sing, well, that just bumps them higher up the list. A little vice I picked up in high school that I haven't quite been able to shake after all these years. It causes me to overlook certain character (Tyson Ritter not showering but twice a year), and cosmetic (Gary Lightbody's wretched teeth) flaws that I would normally find revolting.

Anyway...back to men. I scrolled through my play list about 5000 times and tried to narrow it down to my top 5. It was excruciating, but I'm feeling good about the results.

Okay...so I am already prepared for Cleos grief on this one, but I don't care. I love Damian Rice and I think he does an amazing job on this song. How many people sound this fantastic live? Love him, love him, love him!!!!



James Morrison is going to be representing my British boys today. Just take life as it comes. Sometimes you need a good storm to appreciate the calm. Please Don't Stop the Rain.



The first time I heard Mat Kearney sing I thought he was Adam Duritz from Counting Crows. This is his latest single Closer to Love. This song is a testament of how much we need people in our lives. We drift, we fall and a lot of times we suffer alone. It's an amazing thing to have someone you can always turn too.



I listened to this song on repeat for about a week and a half straight when I first heard it. So great. And unfortunately, so true. Jon McLaughlin...Beautiful Disaster.



And number 1...drum roll please... Jason Mraz. And I have to say that this was exceptionally difficult for me. I would like to post every note that has ever come out of the mans mouth, but we already have one exceptionally biased blogger, who may or may not, over post her favorite band.



And there they are...my top 5 favorite men folk. Next to Chops and cdahle, of course.

This is how Cleo's feelin'.... "Help, I'm Alive" by Metric

I've had a really crappy week. Like, super, duper crappy.
These song lyrics are perfect for me this week.

I tremble
They're gonna eat me alive
If I stumble
They're gonna eat me alive

Can you hear my heart beating like a hammer?
Beating like a hammer?
Help, I'm alive, my heart keeps beating like a hammer
Hard to be soft
Tough to be tender

Come take my pulse, the pace is on a runaway train
Help, I'm alive, my heart keeps beating like a hammer
Beating like a hammer





yeah, whatever.

Why I love Cleo....

Message sent on August 2, 09 @ 8:25 pm... "Tell me I can do this." Message received on Aug 2, 09 @ 9:07 pm..."I have total and complete faith in you. I always have. You are wonderful. You can do this. xoxo" She gives me hope.

After landing on her ass from a two story window and I ask the ridiculously stupid question of..."Did that hurt?" She stands up, brushes off her ass, smiles and says..."nope." She lied. But she makes me brave.

After an enormous amount of nagging on my part for some Jamocha Almond Fudge ice cream for my birthday party. Yeah...we weren't 12, this happened last week. "I ain't gonna judge you, but I am not going to enable you to make bad decisions." Alright, so she may not have been talking about just the ice cream. She helps me do the right thing, even when I don't want to.

Just because..."OH! HELL! NO! You are a triflin' fool and I will kick you in the throat for even suggesting that I be needin' some pink lemonade Metamucil. I take care o' my junk in da monin'. you show some RESPECT to ya eldas. Talk about some metamucil... shoooooot. And don't you be talkin' about some fried chicken. I will give you some fried chicken. Right upside yo head. Ummm-hmmm." And yes that is a direct quote. She makes me laugh with her uncanny impression of an angry black woman.



After 18 years the bonds of friendship are wound pretty tight. But never suffocating. When I feel like I just can't take it anymore, I always call Cleo because she knows exactly what I need to hear, oftentimes when I don't even know. There really aren't words to describe how precious her friendship is to me. I would strangle any one of you with hot pink snuggie and bury you in my back yard if she needed me too. I hope Josh can get the feeling across.

I love your FRICKIN guts girl!!!

Cleo's Pick o' the week... Redemption Song, Bob Marley

I've been a little under the weather this week so I'm feeling kinda mellow (I ask that you please enjoy it while you can)... If I had a great sense of humor (which I have been accused of having, I'll have you know) I'd post Enjoy the Silence, but Chopsie doesn't love DM anymore and I just don't wanna listen to him complain.


I love this dude. That's just all I can say about it. He's a freaking genius. Maybe excessive pot smoking does that to you. Not sure, but if you need me to do a little reasearch, well then I guess I could oblidge. I'm a loyal friend like that. If you could handle the greatness, that is.

I was at a dance to raise money for breast cancer research the other night and I was bouncing around like an idiot a younger version of moi, and it occurred to me (ok fine... someone mentioned how crazy I am) and I realized that the scary thing is, I haven't had a drink, or anything else for that matter, in like 14 years.

Anywhooo.... I love this song, and I'm chillin', so I thought I'd share. The video is almost 30 (WHAT THE HELL???!!!!SHUT UP!!!!!) years old, so bear with the imperfections.



This song of freedom is all I ever had....

This is how I'm feeling today...

We all have moments that we want to remember forever and even though we try to keep them close they fade. Then out of nowhere, you'll hear a song that will transport you right back to when they took place and bring them back as strong as if they weren't memories at all.

Some are great. Like being so overcome with happiness that you can't stop smiling. And when asked what you're smiling about the only thing you can say is, "nothing" because there aren't words to describe how you feel. Or the warmth of arms around you and breath on your neck; that makes you feel so safe you can't help but fall asleep no matter how hard you try to stay awake.

Others are painful. Having to smile while you say goodbye to someone then crumpling into a pathetic heap and sobbing for an hour because you don't know when you'll see them again. Or being so in love with someone, but knowing in your heart that they will never love you back.

Mostly, they are simple things. The smell of cologne, that even though you know it's not possible brings your head up anyway...just to be sure. The feel of the person you loves skin beneath your lips or a touch so gentle it gives you chills. A voice in your ear.

I love this song. It has nothing to do with my school girl like crush on Gary Lightbody, I assure you. It has everything to do with how someone can make you feel. Oftentimes without even knowing they are doing it. Sometimes without you even knowing they're doing it.



I'm not really sure what it is about us that makes us want to remember. Especially the painful things, but we do nonetheless. Sometimes I think it would be easier to forget,to be able to close down and walk away. But then I remember tickling and cheesy jokes and I can't help but smile. We're meant to remember. And feel. And love. And don't worry if those memories start to fade because then you'll hear a song...

Manly Music or Manly Music.. Monday

So Cleo broke her computer (for like the 3rd time) and came over last night for me to save her music collection and put it on her new IPod. Which is why this is late, so blame her. Also, the argument we got into is why you get extra music today so I guess it's a toss up as to whether you get mad at her or not. I don't care either way. (did ya see that? Indifference, very manly.) Anywho, I was gonna do a post on Essex Green, one of my new favorites. They have been around since '99 but didn't really start to get any play till '06 after they released their third album, Cannibal Sea. They have kinda a throw back sound that's reminiscent of some of the folk stuff from the '60s and '70s. And I dig it.

(Editors note: the original video that I posted was removed by Youtube, this is a replacement.)

Unfortunately, that is the only song I could find that would allow embedding. But some dude named "Nemesiskx" has taken the time to put almost everything Essex Green has on done on YouTube. So go check it out.

And that was all I had planned for today. But then as Cleo was looking at all the great new music she had on her IPod last night (she got all of my music plus hers) she gets all whiny and was all "Andrew WK? What the hell is Andrew WK ?" Never mind the fact that I had just hooked her up with gobs of tunes where she previously had none, she had NEVER HEARD OF ANDREW WK! I mean, sure he's old news, and kinda comes off as sorta a douchebag in his videos, but his music R O C K S. Andrew is a classically trained pianist who was in more than 12 bands from 1993 to 2000. In 2001 he released "I Get Wet" which proceeded to blow. the. hell. up. Songs from it were featured on several movies, countless commercials, numerous video games. And yet somehow little Mrs Cleo remained ignorant of his existence. So I filled her in and played a couple tracks for her. And guess what, she liked it. AND she thought it was manly. If I recall correctly, she said "More manly than anything you've ever posted.".....

So I leave it to you to decide. Which is more manly, stomping around in a dirty old shirt with greasy hair or.. me?