Farewell to Albert Hofmann, who at the age of 102 decided to take his last “trip”. The Swiss chemist was the father of LSD and biggest defender of lysergic acid diethylamide-25. He accidentally discovered LSD while working for a pharmaceutical firm back in 1938. Since 1966, when the drug was banned, he had been arguing for the legal use of LSD for medical research (which finally was allowed last year in Switzerland for psychotherapy). At an age of 102, I guess he was the best proof of the necessity of drugs for making life bearable.
I must admit that I haven't had much time for posting these days due to both Easter and my work (currently in Glasgow). So here's my Tune of the Day, coming from Yeasayer's debut album (from back in October 2007) with a very nice fan made video of 2080. The tune has been haunting me for the past few days actually, which is pretty cool (or spooky).
There has been quite some buzz around 15-year old singer/actress Miley Cyrus for some time now. The daughter of Billy Ray Cyrus and star of Disney’s Hannah Montana has taken America by storm (and especially the parents). With an upcoming movie and a successful tour behind her, it seems that the young star is cashing in on family values. At least until a few days ago, when Vanity Fair’s photographer Annie Leibovitz did a “provocative” shoot of her for June’s issue. Miley was wrapped in what appeared to be a bedsheet in an otherwise quite normal photoshoot. This has led to controversy especially amongst her “motherly” audience who found this too sexual for their children’s 15 year old idol. Although this led to Miley apologizing to her fans, she has definitely caught our attention (those of us that have never seen her teen series but wouldn’t mind seeing more of her in the near future). Are we (once again belated) discovering our new Lolita?
Soccer ex-superstar Ronaldo was involved in a "strange" incident yesterday (Monday 29th) in Rio de Janeiro. Ronaldo was planning on having a good time with three girls in a hotel downtown Rio. To his surprise (and our amusement) once back at the hotel he found out that his company were actually three transvestites (damn...how wasted was he??)
A few hours later (and after some rounds of extorsion) everything ended up in the police station (where the photographs from). A photo of one of the "girls" is also posted (damn he must have been on some good stuff to not have a clue). Reports say that the "girls" tried to excurse him for 50,000 reais (14,900 pounds) while he was counter-offering 1,000 reais (he may have been high but he wanted to get away with 500 pounds?? fit him right). No mention is made whether all this actually happened after he "paid" for his mistake or prior...
And for today’s Tune and (once again) Clip of the Day I will go back in time (from decades back to months back). The reference I made in my previous post on M.I.A. made me scan through YouTube for some of her tracks and stabled upon her 2007 cover song Jimmy. The original song is from a 1982 Bollywood movie called Disco Dancer, which included Parvati Khan’s Jimmy Jimmy Aaja Aaja. And if this wasn’t enough, of Montreal did a cover on M.I.A.’s cover at the end of January 2008.
I have to admit that I prefer the original Bollywood version over M.I.A.’s cover, but of Montreal’s take is something else. Enough said though, enjoy them (don’t miss the dramatic end of Khan’s video…”I hate you Jimmy, I hate you”)
Jimmy Jimmy Aaja Aaja by Parvati Khan M.I.A. covers Jimmy by Parvati Khan of Montreal cover Jimmy by M.I.A.
After recent comments by fellow blogger BLR regarding my (once again) belated attention to “old news” (to my defense I’ve always said I’ll post whatever comes in mind and not restrict myself to current news and events), here is a pre-release review.
Santogold is the self titled debut album scheduled for release on April 29. Santogold is basically Santi White with the addition of Jonh Hill. The album is a blend of indie rock, dance, ska, punk, reggae and electro (you get the point). So does all this work? The simple answer is YES. Santi produced an amazing debut album (at least for this project since she had previous albums under Stiffed) that is fresh, alternative and shows that indie rock is not only white territory.
You’ll find A Way, Lights Out and (her first single and track on the album) L.E.S Artistes are my favorite tracks. Once you hear the album names such as Noisettes, M.I.A. and especially Gossip will pop in your mind but definitely with a twist and the unique style of Santi.
For today’s Tune and also (introducing the new) Clip of the Day, I have included Arcade Fire. Arcade are just amazing live (one of the best groups I’ve seen on stage) and they are proving exactly this in their session at the Take-Away Shows, where they start up behind the scenes of their Paris concert, perform inside an elevator (Neon Bible) and then head off into the crowd (literally) for yet another amazing performance (Wake up). Just brilliant!!
More about the Take-Away Shows soon (once I finish enjoying all the wonderful sessions)
Throw Me the Statue are basically an one-man act, although some friends are contributing from time to time (or track to track). Scott Reitherman (the man behind the act) originates from San Francisco (or close to) and after some time in New York relocated to Seattle, which is quite evident in his sound.
His debut album Moonbeams is a mix of indie rock, twee and lo-fi. Catchy tunes, upbeat tracks with synths, drums, guitars and occasional brass all mixed together in a way that guarantees to bring a smile on your face. The influences from bands like the Shins and the Microphones to Pavement and (my personal favorite) Casiotone for the Painfully alone are quite evident. I didn’t expect much from this album but I was more than pleasantly surprised. Another unknown indie band with a strange name you may say; well, perhaps yes but they have certainly won me over and will recommend them to anyone seeking a fresh alternative.
About to Walk and Lolita are my favorite tracks from this. Check out the Lolita video from the Take-Away Shows session where Throw Me the Statue performed for this fabulous series (hint for an upcoming post on this).
Once again PhD comics bringing it home...You can put me down as the Casual Snapshot type (perhaps more than 3 hours though..including all the photoshop work)
Yesterday marked the release of the first album by The Last Shadow Puppets, a side project by Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Miles Kane (The Rascals). The album (produced in just 2 weeks) is entitled The Age of the Understatement, as is their first single released a number of weeks ago and earning our Tune of the Day.
We will be reviewing the full album soon (as soon as I get home to download it). If the rest of the album resembles their first single, we are looking at the return of epic rock (as epic as their Mother Russia video)
In my quest to find something to fill the gap left behind by Six Feet Under and Sopranos, I’ve zapped between a number of different TV series. This led up to last week when I decided to watch How I Met Your Mother and give comedy another chance.
The series has been referenced by some as yet another Friends substitute. Thank god this is not the case (who would want to suffer yet another season of the yuppie branch). The show is about Ted (Josh Radnor), who in the year 2030 narrates to his children the story of how he met their mother (or more precisely how he met all other girls except their mother…well at least during the first season). So, in the form of narrative flashbacks, we get into Ted’s world, where he lives with his best friend Marshall (Jason Segel), his fiancé Lily (Alyson Hannigan – American Pie but most importantly Willow from Buffy) and hangs out (usually down at McLarens’ bar) with legen-you know if you’ve seen the show-dary Barney (Neil Patrick Harris – yeap Doogie Howser/Harold & Kumar) and girl-of-his-dreams Robin (Cobie Smulders).
So, in brief, Ted is a hopeless romantic who is searching for his dream girl/wife to settle down. Marshall is still studying law and fully in love with his 9-year (and only) girlfriend/fiancé Lily. Robin is a news reporter for local media channel and Barney is the typical single successful womanizer (ironically Neil is gay in real life) friend.
While the show is not introducing anything really new in concept (another bunch of friends in NY) and the script is not always at its funniest (with some very cheesy jokes at some points) it has a number of good things going for it. Foremost, it is based on some solid character building and this does actually hook you into watching the next episode. The script also has a number of twists and at some points it actually does hit the right spot for laughs. It is also very easy to watch (I actually saw all 22 episodes of season 1 in just two days without even realizing it), and at the end, that’s what it’s all about; 20 minutes of entertainment without any other fuzz. I’ve already started Season 2 and I must say it does get even better (shame it won’t last me more than another week max). And the Barney character is just legen-you know if you've seen the show-dary and worth checking out the show only for that.
For today’s Tune of the Day (no it’s not going to be from Portishead) I’m including one of the latest and one of the first singles from electroclash wonders Ladytron. Black Cat is the first song from their latest album Velocifero and just to see how much (or not) they have progressed through the years, I’ve also included a single from their first EP back in 2000, Commodore Rock. Enjoy…
Portishead have made available today (April 21) their full album at Last.fm through free streaming (one week prior to its official release). I guess Radiohead have influenced a lot of bands and changed the landscape of music promotion and distribution.
However, the full album has been leaked across the internet for quite a few weeks now, so we are able to present a full review (well at least my short opinion).The Bristol based trip hop trio has finally decided to release new material after 11 years. In this Third album they provide 11 new tracks (as in all their previous albums) and definitely serve us something different. After a few takes on this album, I’m still not sure what to make of it. I guess this is really one of the best things about it; it requires more than a couple of takes before you can even make up your mind if you love it or hate it.
Portishead, to their benefit, have not gone the easy way (producing a nostalgic follow up of the same recipe from the old days). They have defiantly tried to progress their sound and experiment with this album. They mix styles and tempos and offer a different perspective in each track. In some cases this works brilliantly and in others it just leaves you indifferent.
Perhaps I’ve given them more time than I would to other records (but I guess we owe Portishead that after their first amazing albums).It has not been a waste of time, as I actually believe the album is good enough (for all those out there that want to hold on to their trip hop memories) but just nowhere close to their debut work (probably never will). Perhaps we have become too accustomed to Gibbons’ dark melancholic voice all these years to be truly moved and lured into her world after more than a decade.
The Rip (with its smooth build up tempo) and Machine Gun (Joy Division meet Einstuerzende Neubauten) are my favorite tracks from this album. So enjoy the drum machine…
After last night's party, which included drinks, music and fire, I don't think I'm able to write too many posts. So I'll restrict myself to our favorite tune from yesterday, the incredible single Blind by Hercules and Love Affair (with Antony's voice). It is the new wonder from DFA records and will hopefully see them soon in Athens at Ejekt festival (although Antony is not joining them along their tour).
Possibly the single of the year (although still early)...
On another personal note, after the suggestion from yet another friend, I decided to post about France's Eurovision entry. The contest sucks big time and while our "great" star Kalomoira is only reconfirming my statement, here comes France with their first ever entry to be based on English lyrics to stir things up. Sébastien Tellier's Divine is a great pop song with a really matching video, well worthy of winning the competition (although I'm sure it's just too good to win over Europe's bad taste).
It was yesterday, driving back from work, that I was desperately trying to find which CD to put on to get me through the traffic jam. And once again, I found myself listening to Daft Punk's Homework, only to wander if I would ever find a true follower worthy of their funky French beats.
Digitalism I guess are one of the few answers out there. Punk, techno, disco and funky tunes all blend into one cool, heart-pumping beat that just makes you want to dance, jump and headbang at the same time. Definitely my tune of the day (again belated by a year or so...but who cares...I'm just looking forward to seeing them live...)
I was browsing through some of the old Saturday Night Live clips this morning at hulu (including some beloved Belushi clips) and stumbled upon the classic Natalie Portman gangsta rap. Although old, it still makes me laugh.
Back with the Tune of the Day theme. Today, a classic from Polly after the news of her upcoming concert in Athens in a couple of months. The track and artist require no further comments, so I’ll just dedicate this to friend blogger (who hasn’t posted here for weeks) Alfred Kinsey, after today’s chat.
Inspired by yesterday’s disappointing announcement of Roskilde’s lineup and this morning’s personal news in Facebook (BLR is attending PJ Harvey) I decided to check out the upcoming concerts in Athens for the next months (before they have a chance to cancel half of them!). There are a couple of interesting ones I must say; although the theme is once again “Memories”
Saturday 3 May JOSE GONZALEZ @ Gagarin 205 Swede best known for his cover song on Knife’s Heartbeats used for the bouncing balls commercial of Sony BRAVIA
Friday 16 May COCOROSIE + Berlin Brides @ Gagarin 205 Cocorosie are a real treat on stage, but it’s those Berlin Brides we want to see (missed them on Bios)
Sunday 18 May KISS @ Terra Vibe They are still alive?
Friday 23 May SPIRITUALIZED @ Gagarin 205 Back with a new album (Songs in A&E) and a new tour
Saturday, Sunday 24, 25 May MADRUGADA @ Gagarin 205 If I receive another friend request on Facebook from the event organizers I’ll go berzerk. May pay them a visit though (never seen them live actually..strange)
Tuesday 27 May EINSTURZENDE NEUBAUTEN @ Fuzz The germans are back after 2 years.
Friday 30 May HOOVERPHONIC @ Fuzz Not bad for a chillout concert on a Friday night. Saw the Belgians back in Ejekt festival at 2006 but don’t remember much…
Friday 30 May PAVLOV'S DOG @ Gagarin 205 More aged rockers…not my style…
Saturday 7 June DINOSAUR JR. + Absent Mindead @ Fuzz Club The original indie rockers are back with a new album after 10 years.
Saturday 7 June NICK CAVE & THE BAD SEEDS, Ed Kuepper & Jeffrey Wegener @ Lykavitos Theater Another Nick cave concert in his favorite place
Friday-Sunday 13-15 June SYNCH FESTIVAL (YO LA TENGO, HAPPY MONDAYS, LIARS, HOLY FUCK, STEREOLAB, ROISIN MURPHY) @ Technopolis I’ll only go for Stereolab…and the atmosphere of the event…
Thursday 19 June JAMES BLUNT @ Lykavitos Theater Can I throw up now?
Wednesday 25 June LINKIN PARK @ Terra Vibe At least they are young and famous…but I’ll pass…
Saturday 28 June EJEKT FESTIVAL (JAMES, UNKLE) @ Olympic Fencing Centre After last year’s fiasco, Ejekt is back with James and Unkle (both have been here in Athens numerous times). A destined to fail festival (which means I may be able to finally see James…)
Monday 30 June PJ HARVEY @ Badminton Theater I am so there…missed her so many times that I just have to see her live (even after all these years)
Tuesday 1 July DEF LEPPARD, WHITESNAKE @ Karaiskaki Stadium Hope none of them die on stage…
Tuesday-Thursday 8-10 July ROCKWAVE FESTIVAL (Offspring, Siouxsie, dues, Gossip, Judas Priest, Manu Chao, Patti Smith) @ Terra Vibe All the bands and artists you listened to 10 and 20 years ago…now live…a real joke..
Tuesday 29 June LEONARD COHEN @ Lykavitos Theater The legend live…
Friday 1 August LENNY KRAVITZ @ Lykavitos Theater He’s still playing? Damn..
Saturday 2 August IRON MAIDEN @ Terra Vibe More rocking grandfathers…
Now that the list is over, I see that there is actually not a single new (by any sense) artist worth seeing live for the next 5 months in Athens. We are once again the official pension heaven of Rock.
There have been rumors that Rockwave organizers are trying to book Morrison and Cobain as headliners for next year
More than 100 new acts have been announced today for Roskilde only to dissapoint us (well at least me and BRL who have alredy booked tickets) with the amount of who-the-fuck-are-they bands they have listed. The only new names standing out are Cat Power, The Raveonettes, Gossip and Goldfrapp. Only Sigur Ros would save this for me, but still no word..
And continuing from the C64 Play on Tape theme, they also announced a band called The River Phoenix!!! And of course they suck big time, with songs like I'm USA You're Canada, Kittens in a Bag and 5 Wheel Drive. A real disgrace to the name...
I've decided to introduce a new theme in Athens66, the "Tune of the Day". It doesn't necessarily refer to new songs and it won't always be accompanied by lengthy introductions or supplementary reviews. It's just an insight to what I've been listening to most of the day (to help me pass these endless hours).
So for a start, an oldie from Mirah's second album Advisory Committee. I've been listening to the whole album most of this morning, but this live version of Mt. St. Helens is even better than the original track.
Although most homemade version of series finale uploaded on Youtube are usually crap (to say the least), I just came across one that combines two of my favorite TV series and was quite enjoyable.
After quite some searching and tweaking, I was able to test drive the new service from NBC Universal, hulu. The service is supposed to bring TV to the internet (how many times have we heard that before) through free and legal streaming of TV shows and movies. To be honest, after the crappy content offered by the likes of Joost I didn’t have high hopes. However, hulu is offering really quality content due to its agreement with providers such as FOX, MGM, Sony, Warner Bros and of course NBC Universal itself. In other words, you can actually see full episodes from series such as The Simpsons, The Office, Prison Brake, Saturday Night Live and hundreds more (really amazing collection). You can also watch full-length movies such as The Usual Suspects, Big Lebowski or classics such as The Amateur. I must say, the movie collection is still quite small but the episodes list is really impressive.
I have to admit, I’d love to have hulu working for outside US as well (the tweaking worked but with unavoidable delays due to the proxy usage). I know most just download their favorite series through torrents (who doesn’t), but some of these series offered by hulu are really hard to find. If you add the fact that you can just click and watch your favorite episode without waiting for 10GB to download only to realize that Buffy is dubbed in Polish (with Swedish subtitles), then you can understand why I found this service a real joy. And it’s all legal! (like anyone cares..)
A witty webcomic (of romance, sarcasm, math, and language) for passing time in the office on yet another boring Monday. For some strange reason, I accompanied the comic with Radiohead’s In Rainbows and was quite a matching combination. Be kind and pay a visit to XKCD for more strips.
Roskilde Festival has announced twelve new bands for the Pavilion Junior stage for new, promising Nordic acts. Amongst them, is Press Play on Tape, a band comprised of six Commodore 64 fans from the Department of Computer Science in Copenhagen.
Press Play on Tape create music which is based on the soundtracks that accompanied the games from the legendary computer platform C64. They have self produced (obviously) two CDs including music from games like Rambo: First Blood part II, Ghosts'n Goblins, Warhawk, Monty on the Run, Beyond the Ice Palace, Wizardry, Commando, Thing on a Spring, Aztec Challenge, Paperboy, Game Over, Krakout, Thrust, Master of Magic, Arkanoid, Comic Bakery, The Way of the Exploding Fist, Defender of the Crown and Wizball.
The CDs are entitled LOADING READY RUN and RUN/STOP RESTORE (how many endless hours have I spent with these words!). They have also played two concerts in England together with some of the original composers of the computer game tunes (how on earth did they find them?).
As much as I am nostalgic about the C64 games and the agonizing moments I’ve spent waiting for the damn cassettes to load the next level, I’m really glad that the band is only playing during the warm-up period of Roskilde, before the main festival begins and before we arrive there. Let’s just hope some real performances are announced soon or we’ll be touring Denmark at the start of July in search of something noteworthy.
Shen, Lawan, Zom and Nhi are destined for the big screen. Roy Lee and Steve Barnett have decided to produce a feature film of Ben Hibon's Codehunter short animation. The animation was produced for MTV Asia (originally for their weekly film show and then as the main theme of MTV’s Awards show) back in 2005. The seven-minute short animation film along with splendid artwork and cool wallpapers, which have already settled on my desktop, can be downloaded from the Codehunters website.
For those of you that haven't noticed it yet, Greek film production is generally marred with bad romantic comedies and would-be-art films, which completely disregard and more than frequently offend the taste and aesthetics of people that love cinema. So, after seeing the recently launched Istoria 52 / Tale 52, a very decent Greek film, I think that it is in order to make a short reference to a handful of other films from the local production of the current decade that are really worthwhile watching.
An atmospheric film, with great soundtrack and no conventional plot whatsoever, much along the lines of David Lynch's (non-)storytelling. The actors wander around Athens at night like pawns in a dream, without particularly meaningful intentions. It looks like the narrow and dirty downtown city streets themselves are making up the entire setting, mocking the people that step on them in daytime. Technically reminiscent of Touch of Evil, the 10min-long opening sequence sets the mood for the entire film and is something to watch out for. Although I suspect that many people won't like the movie because it does drag at times, I found it enjoyable, filled with playful twists and funny spots.
Trainspotting meets Tarantino in this great psychedelia about 2 underaged chicks that fall into drugs and prostitution so that they can pursue their life dream: money, love and glory. The plot is almost excellent and you rarely lose interest on what's happening on screen, even though there are more than a few non-action scenes. The girls are HOT (the guys too, for those interested) and as you can imagine there are some unrated scenes involving sex and violence, though not many. Directing, Photography, Soundtrack, Editing, Effects are all top notch. It is simply a must!
It was indeed 11th of April, and the promise had to be fulfilled. Having seen the trailer, I was just too compelled to rush out and see Tale 52 as soon as possible. And in contrary to all my previous recent experiences with Greek films on the big screen (which have been kept to a minimum for obvious reasons), Alexis Alexiou debut film was a real delight.
It is the story of Iasonas and Penelope or at least a story of someone noting a story very similar to that of Iasonas. Love, lust, envy and psychosis all blend in a spiral storyline of reoccurring days and set of events that gradually unfold what happened to the two lovers (or at least what could have happened). A phsychological thriller filmed with a mixture of tight close-ups, handheld sequences and dark atmospheric photography, mainly using natural light, shadows and claustrophobic settings.
Both actors (Giorgos Kakanakis and Serafita Grigoriadou) give noticeable performances and are able to get the viewer in the mentality of the characters. This is vastly assisted by Alexiou’s directing; mixing scenes, time and emotions through a modern way of filming, not usually seen in Greek films.
Overall, I really enjoyed the film, although it did fall into some clichés and had some references to cult directors such as Lynch (especially the ceiling mold). That however, is by no means a bad thing. Finally, we have a Greek film that we actually enjoyed, and for that, it is definitely the must-see movie of at least this month.
“Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn’t go away” Philip K. Dick
The new indie-rock band from former Band of Horses member Mat Brooke provides in their debut self-titled album a collection of mainly melodic rock/pop tracks. After a few listening, the record does live a cheerful, peaceful feeling, albeit not that distinctive. A generally good effort that may lead to something better in the future. “Miniature Birds” definitely my favorite song from the album.
Sons and Daughters - The Gift
Yet another favorite Scottish band (along with belle and arab strap) is back with their third album. The band has moved from their more melodic sound in their previous albums into more rock territory with fast guitar riffs and catchy rhythms. Catchy is the key phrase for this album, which could really push the band’s popularity. Scott Paterson has left the ground to Adele Bethel, leading vocals in almost all songs in this album (wise choice). Gift Complex and Split Lips are the opening tracks and also my favorites.
The Raveonettes - Lust Lust Lust
The Danish garage-rock duo is back with their new album (and hopefully will see them in Roskilde this summer). This time around they sound even noisier and darker than ever before and for that we are more than glad. They provide a solid album from start to end with seductive vocals, burst of raw guitar sessions and an end results that brings back memories of Sonic Youth (I said memories…not making comparinsons) and in some tracks blended with Mazzy Star (just listen to With my Eyes Closed) and even Julian Cruise (The Best Dies). Opening track Aly Walk with me and Dead Sound are my favorite from this album, which is a keeper.
Continuing on the things-to-do-this-weekend theme, today sees the opening of the 4th “Athens Video Art Festival”. The festival is held at Technopolis (Gazi) and hosts a mixture of digital art forms, obviously focusing on video art. In addition to the exhibitions, it will also host a number of concerts from the usual Greek suspects (Micro, Raining Pleasure, Rodes). Will try to pay a visit (but not too eager about it).
Projections start at 15:00, concerts at 21:00 and the daily tickets cost 7 euro
Our beloved Bayern (my beloved to be more precise) is back on track for the UEFA cup after a typical German win in Spain. You can never write-off the Germans and they proved that yesterday (twice). It was up to a French-man (Ribéry) on almost the last minute of regular time (89’) and an Italian (Toni) on the last minute (120’) of extra time to tie the game twice and get Bayern on the semi final round after a sizzling match against Spanish side Getafe.
In other games, Leverkusen got an away win at Zenit (1-0) only to lose on aggregate (2-4), Rangers scored twice inside Sproting’s ground (2-0) after the first leg’s scoreless tie, and Fiorentina also got an away win (2-0) at PSV to progress (3-1). On the semifinals Bayern clash with Zenit and Rangers go head-to-head with Fiorentina (first matches on the 24th of April).
I was speaking to a friend the other day about her new house, and how excited she was with it. The thing that she was most thrilled with, was of course her new Ikea 'floating shelves'(TM) that became the means to exhibit her fabled collection of martini glasses.
the shelves are not curved, it's a special effect! duh!
Imagine each glass holding a different, distinct martini coctail:
Dry martini (w.gin) - the classic
Vodka martini - Bond
Dirty martini - and kinky, if I may add
Tequini - current favourite
Muscatini - Christoph's new creation at POP
Appletini - Scrubs
Fleet Street - commie martini
aaah such is the joy of tasting all those! in a row!
The list goes on and on, please add more! I hear they also make chocolate martinis nowadays! *clapping with enthusiasm at the prospect*Oooh goody! I'd like to try that!
Finally, a Greek film that I’m eager to see (although it could just be yet another disappointment). Alexis Alexiou debut film Tale 52 opens in theaters across Athens today and will definitely be included in my weekend plans (followed by a proper review post). Until then, enjoy the trailer (a real teaser)…
Yesterday night I received an invitation to participate to yet another social-centric site, “Twine” (currently available in beta version thought invites only). It has been rumored as the next big-thing and the first Web 3.0 site (platform), combining semantic information through bookmarking and tagging in order to connect your interests with those of other people, providing “intelligent” browsing. Needless to say I signed up and created yet another profile.
While I try to cover-up my addiction to sign-up for any kind of social networking site with job related interests (IT freak), I don’t believe I’m convincing anyone (definitely not myself). Currently, my music preferences are recorded by Last.fm, my activities by Twitter and Facebook (not going further into Facebook territory; that’s a whole different subject which hopefully a fellow editor will post about pretty soon), my photos by Flickr, my futile artistic attempts by Humble Voice, my career by LinkedIn and my thoughts by Blogger. Big Brother is here and he definitely has our blessings and support (so far).
As the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate election continues it is now evident that this is a marathon (unlike the Republican sprint) until the end of August. It is in Denver at the Democratic National Convention held from 25th till 28th of August that the superdelegates - which are basically a set of elected officials including former democratic presidents, vice-presidents, senators etc. – will decide the next Democratic candidate that will face the aged and uninspiring (obviously I’m judgmental here) John McCain.
The idea that a set of official members and not the people, who have voted in dozens of states by the millions, will decide the “Democratic” candidate seems somewhat ironic. Once again, you may accuse me of being judgmental about the election process due to the fact that most polls (and elections so far) show Obama as the favorite of the people, while Clinton has the superdelegates on her side. But then again, if I have to choose between racist or sexist, I’ll prefer to be accused as sexist and vote Obama all the way to the White House – how racists is that? Regardless of the result, one thing is for sure, the presidential race has proven a real delight for a change.
Obviously, I’m no political analyst nor have I followed the election on a daily basis (with the exception when I’m abroad and have to suffer through either CNN or even worst FOX-news) but we all have the right to a personal view. Hopefully Obama will give the final blow in Pennsylvania in a couple of weeks time and put an end to his big-state syndrome. Will see..
No matter what you may say, I found Juno a real pleasure to watch (and hear)
As a tribute to the things that keep us alive in our day-to-day battle with misery in our narrow flats, please find below my translation of this incredible song by the greek reggae/latin band Locomondo... Enjoy!
I know what you are all thinking…
When are we going to leave this place? …go home, bring in the crew…and stage a Pro Evolution tournament…!
I think I’m the only one in Athens66 posting any kind of lists. I'm sure however that there are a lot of people out there (including myself) addicted to all kinds of “Greatest” lists showing up from place to place. It is the pure joy of reading down the list only to reject and mock at the choices of the editor (too ashamed to admit that you actually agree with some of them). From greatest music, best independent productions, greatest books, hippest fashion items of all time to most famous character, best kick-ass hero and most annoying politician ever, the lists are endless (including meta-sites concentrating only at best-of-lists).
So, is there a point to all this gibberish about “Greatest” lists? Yes, although I’m not here to impose my own personal list but rather share my interest on the new IFC and Nerve “50 Greatest” list. After “The 50 Best Date Movies Ever”, which included classics such as Heathers [45], Run Lola Run [38], Kicking and Screaming [37], The Science of Sleep [33], High Fidelity [29], Manhattan [20], Chungking Express [19], The Graduate [13], Donnie Darko [11], Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind [8], Barbarella [5], Say Anything [3], Casablanca [2] and Some Like It Hot [1] (a bit too old-fashioned top-2 for my taste, in an otherwise interesting list) and the more popular “50 Greatest Sex Scenes in Cinema” with scenes including Ken Park [50], Sex, Lies, and Videotape [46], Breaking the Waves [45], Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! [43], Shortbus [38], The Last Seduction [33], Storytelling [31], 9 songs [29], Sex and Lucia [19], Y Tu Mama Tambien [13], Secretary [8], Risky Business [4], Mulholland Drive [3], A History of Violence [2] and Don't Look Now [1] (much better top-3 this time).
But once again, I’m just reproducing yesterday’s news, so here’s the new list (only a week old, which is quite fresh compared to my other posts): 50 Greatest Comedy Sketches. The list includes picks from some of my (and almost everyone’s ) favorite shows like Kids in the Hall, In Living Color, Chappelle's Show, The State, Second City Television and of course the classics that just fill most of the list, Saturday Night Live and Monty Python. Check out the list for some great laughs (I would personally put Saturday’s Night Live “The Olympia Restaurant” right at no.1 , with Belushi just plain hilarious).
And here are some of the best laughs out of the list. Best way to start the day…
Continuing with my retrospective blogging (and living I suppose), I just saw the series finale of Six Feet Under. Having watched numerous series and endless TV episodes, I just have to admit that SFU was probably the best one ever (with the exception of Twin Peaks). And the series finale was equally impressive, although two episodes back was the real dramatic climax for me. TV as it should be, from the genious screenwriter Alan Ball. And with an equally impressive soundtrack including tracks from the likes of Radiohead, Interpol, Death Cab for Cutie and (our beloved) Arcade Fire. I guess it's back to crap like Heroes and Prison Break now (as everyone else).
Sia Furler - Breathe Me (song from the final sequence...it's the music video not the series...wouldn't want to ruin that!)
As most posts on this blog, they are inspired by late night talks, drinking and sessions of pro evolution. This was also the case of yesterday’s Twee revival with fellow blogger BLR. After a couple of matches of pro (Chelsea crashed woeful Sweden for yet another time) I once again indorsed with my latest obsession (belated as always) of listening to Last.fm music stations. After quite some time, we realized the common tag on most of the tracks, none other than “Twee Pop”.
That was that. A quick reference back to the origins of Twee Pop history and I was once again on my way to another post of personal favorites and listening suggestions. I guess I’ve been into Twee Pop more than I realized (not necessarily a bad thing though).
It all dates back to mid ‘80s, when in the UK new bands started to emerge from the post-punk era. They were referred to as Indie Pop, obviously due to having a pop sound and signed to independent labels. However, Indie Pop was much more than that. It evolved from synth Pop to more guitar oriented Pop, with references to 60’s music and uplifting, innocent lyrics.
It was in 1986 when NME issued a tape (the now famous C86) with some of the (at the time) most promising bands of this movement, that Indie Pop distinctively deviated from indie rock. This also further evolved, and later became known as ‘C86’ or Twee, a genre characterized by the jangly pop sound.
Whether Twee Pop still continues as a musical movement itself (if it does I guess Sweden is its new home) is not known to me. One thing is for sure, it has influenced many of our favorite bands and continues to put a smile on my face (rarely as that may be).
And what a better way to get into Twee Pop than to listen to the music itself. I have to say, I really enjoyed finding and compiling these mix-tapes (something I haven’t done for decades). Of’ course, the tracklistings are from the original C86 tape and the compilation is a mix of suggestions by Nitsuh Abebe, from his article The Story of Indie Pop, and my own favorites. Enjoy…
Look up the following bands (in really bulk mode) for more Twee-ing
Acid House Kings; Architecture in Helsinki; Belle and Sebastian; Beat Happening; Blueboy; Boyracer; Camera Obscura; The Cardigans; Cub; The Fakrays; The Field Mice; Glo-Worm; Heavenly; The Hit Parade; Honeybunch; I'm from Barcelona; The Lucksmiths; Magnetic Fields; Merricks; The Nixons; The Orchids; The Pastels; Pipas; Rocketship; The Pipettes; The Pooh Sticks; The Radio Dept.; Saturday Looks Good to Me; The Sea Urchins; Small Factory; The Softies; Suburban Kids with Biblical Names; Talulah Gosh; Tambourine; Television Personalities; Tiger Trap; Tullycraft; The Vaselines; Velocity Girl; WolfieBlack
While listening to the Stars' newest release I got this very rare feeling - that I can lie on the bed like this for hours, holding you closely, looking up. I wouldn't have to turn my head to see you, because the half-lit ceiling is a mirror and I am staring right at you; we are shaking our heads in tune with the bittersweet electric dreams emanating In our Bedroom After the War...
For most people May 1st is though of as a celebration of labor and socialist movement. For others it’s just another excuse to celebrate a day off work (including myself). The same day however marks the birth of Sally Mann, an American photographer that has produced some of the most unique photographs during the past two decades and has also stirred substantial controversy due to her favorite subject (young children, including her own). I could start analyzing her work and the emotions she tries to invoke through her photographs, but I’m sure you can easily find this in other articles all over the web. Guess it was just another excuse to enjoy some of her work again and the opportunity to express my disgust on how narrow minded and plain stupid people can get in today’s modern-conservatism hypocritical society.
I've been working extra hard lately. Deadline fever has kicked in and is already chipping on my out-stressed brains and the rest of my shipwrecked insides. Then, I stumble upon this song that proves to be quite a shock for me.
Have you ever felt like walking through scattered question marks, growing like plants out of the ground? Remember of time lost, energy sacrificed? I took a glimpse of faces, some loved / some hated, I remembered hastily-enjoyed weekends. false hopes; silly childhood dreams still haunting the present day. It was all here for me, The big picture wrapped up in a small package with shiny paper and heavy synth.
I'm seeing these youngsters on this year's Roskilde festival. I will do my best not to pretend on that particular day when MGMT will actually put on a show for me, instead of the opposite...
In one of the best duets ever, Bjork and Antony Hegarty teamed up in Bjork's last album (Volta, 2007) to produce this amazing track. Never had the luck to see Bjork live but Antony was amazing on stage.
Not really news or anything, just happened to come across some new online independent productions recently and wanted to pay tribute to one of the most interesting and refreshing web-only series by Joe Swanberg. The lives and loves of young students seen through an improvised, amateur and sexually raw point of view. A must-see at www.youngamericanbodies.com (all videos hosted on Nerve Video site)
South Korean director Park Chan-wook is back after his acclaimed "Vengeance Trilogy" [Lady Vengeance (2005), Old Boy (2004), Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002)] with a romantic comedy. The story revolves around a young woman convinced of the idea that she’s a cyborg and a bunch of other inmates in a mental hospital. Park has produced a completely different theme in this movie, with punchy colors and an up-tempo mood, with the occasional gunshot scenes in some parts of the movie. As is the case with most Korean films, the movie is far from ordinary, with characters on crossing constantly the borderline of reality and fantasy. While defiantly not his best film, Cyborg is quite pleasant to watch, with a mix of comedy and emotional scenes and a really eye-catching cinematography. Neverthless, the idea of mentally disordered characters falling in love in their own world is not that original anymore [Benny & Joon (1993), The Princess and the Warrior (2000), Mozart and the Whale (2005)]. Special respect however for the beautiful “seven deadly sins for a Cyborg”, which are (in order of evil):
On yet another boring business trip (as most people nowdays), I made my usual stop on the airport's newsstand and got the latest copy of American Photo. Featured on the cover was Sheryl Nields' photo of Charlize Theron (as the mag's tribute to photography & the movies).
Reading through the mag, I discovered that the photo-shoot was for Esquire's annual "Sexiest Woman Alive" issue. Guess I was caught a bit off-guard, having missed this kind of information completely (as opposed to most people reading this). Needless to say, I did my surfing around Esquire's page and here are some of the most interesting photos of movie stars to appear recently in Esquire's pages.
Charlize Theron by Sheryl Nields
Scarlett Johansson by Cliff Watts
Christina Ricci by Matt Jones
Asia Argento by Jonathan Skow
Jeniffer Connelly by Gavin Bond
Kirsten Dunst by Marc Baptiste
Naomi Watts by Sheryl Nields
Rachel Weisz by James White
*For those (alike me) that haven't been up-to-date with Esquire's list, here are the past "Sexiest Women Alive": 2007 - Charlize Theron 2006 - Scarlett Johansson 2005 - Jessica Biel 2004 - Angelina Jolie
After the review of their latest album (Midnight Boom), I got hooked to The Kills' music (old and new). Makes no sense, but I just need to sing along and bounce around to their music, in the true punk spirit (if I ever possessed one)...
Did you get the real good ones? Did you get the good ones?
Athens66 started off as a common project by a bunch of friends but quickly turned into almost a personal blog (although some remains of previous posts can still be found). Currently, the Team has been narrowed down to two members, who besides being old friends and schoolmates share the same joy for Music, Movies, Alcohol and Pro Evolution sessions.
The sole purpose of this blog is to shout out whatever comes in mind about movies, music, reality, fantasy and all the rest. Nothing posted here is to be taken seriously, but then again what is? Since this blog is still quite fresh, we are definitely open to suggestions and directions (although most of them will just be ignored)
If you want to recommend us a new group, advertise on our blog or just bitch about the things we post, just send us an email at martdnv [at] gmail [dot] com and we'll get in contact with you!
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