Nice Home

I'm not one to lust after things I don't have, but I admit to fantasizing about living in this stunning home, near Sydney, Australia. Wow.

Home of the Hits

I only just learned that Home of the Hits, Buffalo's premier independent record store, closed its doors for good two years ago. Although I hadn't made the cross-border trip to HOTH in several years, I did spend many, many hours and dollars in that store, and was sad to hear it had come to an end. Here's the story on YouTube.

As an insane music junkie for the past 40 years, I've visited my share of small and large record stores, and really appreciated the unique ones that catered to true music fans. The thrill of discovering some obscure import vinyl, cassette or CD in a cool little wood-floored shop is an experience evaporating from our culture in a hurry.

Kids today, they don't...blah, blah...shut up old man.

Thurston Moore

Fairly brief, but interesting interview with Thurston Moore, following an in-store gig at Amoeba Records. Covered: his daughter's music buying habits, MP3s (he hates 'em), record and cassette collecting...and more.

Tiger or Brian?

Something I never expected to see - a debate over Tiger Woods and Brian Eno.

New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees has shrugged off criticism for losing a bidding war with Victoria to attract world number-one golfer Tiger Woods, saying he would rather have British musician Brian Eno in Sydney.

Bush

Very obscure music video for "Yonge Street Patty" by Bush, the largely unknown Canadian band who released one great album back in 1970.

All the band members went on to successful careers as hired guns following Bush's demise - the most notable being guitar legend Domenic Troiano, who passed away in 2005.

The album's been reissued on CD a couple times. Although not easy to find, it's worth tracking down.

Salt

Motoi Yamamoto creates incredible artwork consisting of finely detailed floor patterns made only of salt. Yes, salt. Must be seen.

A Distraction?

Barack Obama announces his plan to overturn Bush's insane limits on embryonic stem-cell research. This is nothing but positive and progressive. So, what does Republican Eric Cantor call this announcement? A "distraction".

My mind's boggled.

Goodbye Old Port

I was initially on the fence regarding the Port Dalhousie revitilization issue, but came to really love the relatively low-key vibe of the area after spending so much time down there over the last couple summers, putting me decidely on the "NO" side. Now that it looks like we're getting the big condo and commercial development, I remain open to the idea that this actually might be a good thing.

One thing's for sure - years from now, many people will miss the charm it has now, even if things work out wonderfully.

First Concert

Here's a ticket stub (not mine) from the very first concert I ever attended - Black Sabbath w/ Ted Nugent at the Niagara Falls Convention Center, Dec 10 1976.

The first time I'd ever smelled pot too, if I recall correctly.